Guyana Chronicle E-paper 08-07-2023

His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday received a courtesy visit from the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Maninder Sidhu at State House. Sidhu and his team were led by Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana HE Mark Berman (Office of the President photo)

Guyana’s building revolution in ‘take-off’ mode

– country will continue to witness physical transformation, PM says

By Cassandra Khan

EMPHASISING that Guyana's building revolution has not yet peaked, as it is currently in take-off mode, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret'd) Mark Phillips on Friday said that Guyana has a very bright future ahead of it.

He was at the time delivering an address at the launch of the Ministry of Housing and Water’s International Building Expo 2023 at the Amazonia Mall Courtyard.

This year’s ‘expo’ will be held under the theme, “Building For All: One Guyana, Many Opportunities”, and is expected to run from August 24, 2023 to August 27, 2023 at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

“In the months and years ahead, you will continue to witness the physical transformation of the country, including the country’s physical infrastructure,” PM Phillips noted.

The PM said that when the building exposition was being conceptualised, the intention was to provide options for persons involved in home, commercial, industrial or infrastructural construction.

“The ‘expo’ allowed exhibitors to showcase their diverse products and services, and facilitated those building with the opportunity to see what was available on the market, including that which were new and innovative,” he said.

The building construction sector is a diverse landscape, which, according to PM Phil-

lips, encompasses a variety of goods and services, including architectural, engineering, contracting, project management, building supplies and services, technology, logistics, landscaping, and a host of other services.

He explained that while people may say Guyana is experiencing a “building boom”, what he sees is a building revolution.

“A building boom is simply an increase in the construction of various types of physical structures within a country. We do have an exponential increase in construction taking place in our country, but what we have goes beyond a boom; it can be classified as a building revolution,” he said.

The prime minister further said that the building revolution is shaping Guyana’s future.

“We have persons and firms constructing hotels, homes, warehouses, commercial buildings, industrial facilities and, of course, various infrastructural facilities. We have apartment buildings, condominiums and factories being built,” he said.

Moreover, the prime minister related that the government is part of the building revolution, rolling out their infrastructural programme, which is being executed on a transformative scale.

He noted that Guyana’s building revolution has created opportunities such as providing employment opportunities for skilled Guyanese.

“The building revolution is making a difference in the lives of citizens; we must sustain it and fashion it to serve as evidence of transformation and progress. It is within this context that I

wish this year’s exposition to be viewed. Guyana is changing, and changing for the better; the building revolution is a part of that transformative process,” he said.

PM Phillips added that Guyana‘s transformation will be showcased during this year’s International Building Exposition.

Meanwhile, Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal said that this year, they are looking forward to showcasing the diversity of the housing sector.

“This national event will showcase innovation [and] new products critical to ensuring that the progress and the development trajectory continues rapidly,” he related.

Minister Croal noted that they do intend to ensure that interactions are results-driven, and that opportunities

for sales are fully explored. Ensuring that home builders fully benefit from interventions is also on the cards.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues, in her remarks related that last year, the ‘expo’ returned after an approximate seven-year hiatus.

She said that this year, the ministry is looking forward to building stronger partnerships with members of the private sector.

Additionally, Minister Rodrigues said that they will welcome their big corporate sponsors, as well as mediumand small-scale businesses, in that, essentially, the ‘expo’ is to give members of the private sector as well as new and young entrepreneurs an opportunity to put on exhibition their products and services and new technology

in the building sector.

Komal Singh, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) related that the PSC welcomes the building ‘expo’, since it allows businesses and the manufacturing sector to be under one roof, showcasing to the world what they have to offer.

Singh said that they cannot and should not stop giving praise and thanks to President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his Cabinet for “creating an enabling environment to allow the private sector to be the real engine of growth in this country.”

He urged everyone to work diligently, as a country, to create an environment where every Guyanese can contribute to its development, with a view to achieving President Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ vision.

Noting that the housing development programme, over the years, has created great opportunities to suppliers, the manufacturing sector, the labour market contractors and more, he said that the private sector will continue to work closely and diligently with the government and stakeholders to make sure there are more opportunities to develop the local workforce to meet the continuous demand in the sector.

“I want to take this opportunity to commit [the Private Sector Commission] here to support all initiatives taken by the government and central housing, and you have our 100 per cent support for Building Expo 2023,” he related.

Contracts signed for construction of secondary schools at Tuschen, Hosororo

IN an effort to enhance the learning experience of students across Guyana, the Ministry of Education (MoE) on Friday signed contracts for the construction of secondary schools at Hosororo in Region One (Barima-Waini), and Tuschen in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

The schools will cost $2.619 billion and $864.705 million, respectively.

The MoE disclosed in a press statement that the consultant on both projects is GR Engineering. Both

projects were divided into six lots to allow for an early completion date.

While the exact date was not mentioned, the schools are expected to be completed within seven to eight months.

The Minister of Education Priya Manickchand stated that the ministry is on a massive drive with secondary education. She said that these projects are important to the ministry, because the more students that remain in the system, the more space becomes an issue.

According to the release,

Minister Manickchand said that the Government of Guyana wants to ensure that children can be given the opportunity to have a sound secondary education.

She warned the contractors present at the contract signing that they cannot delay the projects, as it is expected that by September 2024, students can occupy the school.

She said: “You are going to change people’s lives; an entire generation will get a different and a better life because of what you do.”

She encouraged them to

be efficient, and to reach out to the ministry if they are experiencing difficulties, so that they can be resolved.

In Tuschen, more than 800 students will be accom-

modated within the reinforced concrete structure, with a combination of circular and cylindrical building outline that will be covered in a dome roof.

In addition to the 24 classrooms, the school will also have a science centre, which will be equipped with physics, chemistry and TURN

From left are: Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy; Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips; Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal; Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Water Andre Ally; Chairman of the Private Sector Commission Komal Singh, and others at the launch of the exposition on Friday (Adrian Narine photo)

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand (centre), flanked by contractors and other MoE officials (Shaniece Bamfield photo)

Bank loans, access to cheaper chickens for poultry farmers

- President Ali announces; says government committed to cushioning effects of ‘bird flu’, other industry challenges

By Naomi Parris

SMALL-SCALE poultry

farmers across Guyana

will now have easy access to bank loans following interventions by the government to offset massive losses that were reported by farmers due to a recent outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as ‘bird flu.’

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali on Friday led discussions at a symposium held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) where he told farmers that an agreement was made with Demerara Bank Limited to provide loans for farmers at an affordable interest rate.

Farmers who wish to access loans amounting to $500,000 or less, can do so at an interest rate of 3.5 per cent.

Loans $500,000 - $1 million can be accessed at a four per cent interest rate and loans between $1 million and $5 million are being offered at a 5.5 per cent interest rate.

In December 2022, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) had reported an outbreak of Avian influenza commonly known as ‘bird flu,’ following reports of chickens being

smuggled into the country.

‘Bird flu’ is a respiratory disease of birds caused by influenza A viruses.

Wild birds, such as ducks, gulls, and shorebirds can carry and spread these viruses but may show no signs of illness. However, avian influenza can kill domestic poultry such as chickens.

The GLDA subsequently issued a notice that Guyana will no longer allow the importation of poultry or poultry products due to “sanitary and other conditions.”

“I was able to complete negotiations with Demerara Bank, because one of the issues farmers raised with me was the whole issue of some low-cost financing to get back into production,” President Ali told the farmers.

In addition to this, farmers will be able to purchase healthier chickens from the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC) at a cheaper cost.

He also noted that the government will provide free vaccines to small and medi-

um-scale poultry farmers to help prevent the wider spread of the deadly poultry virus. These interventions were crafted to help farmers get back into production.

Meanwhile, as Guyana looks to achieve food security, President Ali told farmers that government will examine the sector’s value chain to increase its production and maintain its sustainability.

To achieve this, the government will examine the

Community (CARICOM) member states.

“If we can form ourselves in a consortium here -- we are the closest to Suriname -- the area that they have identified is very close to Guyana.

Let’s form ourselves into a consortium and go after the 75,000 acres of land also for the production of grains but, in this case, we’ll be producing that grain for the regional market,” he said.

Additionally, the govern-

capacity we can buy in the long term,” he said.

The aim is to have the industry increase its chicken production for stockpiles and the production of sausages and nuggets.

To see these initiatives to fruition, a project implementation unit, will be established to support the rollout of the poultry master plan.

President Ali indicated that technical experts from the International Institute for

AS the Ministry of Education continues to work to ensure that every child has the necessary resources to facilitate learning, the improved performance in Mathematics and Science at this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) has not gone unnoticed.

At a ceremony held on Friday to announce this year’s results, Senior Manager of the Examinations Administration and Security, Teddy Rajan spoke about the remarkable improvements in the various subject areas. Addressing the performance in Science, Rajan said that an upward trend is noted for 2023, and in this subject, just over 55 per cent of the pupils earned 50 per cent or more.

“The performance of 2023 must be applauded, as a mapping of zero score and full score has been reversed in a very significant way in 2023; 2023 represents the first year in a four-year pe-

riod where more candidates attained full marks compared to zero score marks in Science,” he said.

Regarding the ‘positive’ trend in Mathematics, he said that the results has shown

opening of 25,000 acres of land to cultivate rice as an input for the industry.

The President proposed that Guyana form a consortium with neighbouring Suriname, which has committed 75,000 acres of land for the cultivation of grains for Caribbean

ment will look to increase its storage capacity.

“That will help us in forward planning. When there is drought in the market, the poultry association can say this is an opportunity for us to forward buy for the next 12 months…if we have the

Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), will make up the unit.

Over the next week, consultations with poultry farmers are expected to continue.

a significant improvement in candidates obtaining full marks.

“Performance in Mathematics aligned better to 2020 in 2023, showing significant improvements over 2022,” Rajan stated, while disclosing that the reliability for the Mathematics exam was 0.91.

In English, he revealed that the percentage of candidates who got 50 per cent and above is still above 60 per cent, and this trend has been seen within the last four years.

“In 2023, there was a 64.47 per cent attainment. The reliability of English was established at 0.71,” he pointed out.

He then went on to say: “Looking at the trend of candidates obtaining zero remains relatively flat over

the last four years.”

On another note, Rajan commented that there was an overwhelming increase over 2022 with regard to students who obtained 100 per cent.

Turning the focus to Social Studies, he remarked that the overall performance at NGSA for this subject remains consistently over 50 per cent.

“Year on year, candidates earning 50 per cent or more remain consistently over 50 per cent of the performance; we see a decline of 0.3 per cent for 2023 over 2022,” he related.

It was also said that the reliability for social studies was 0.97.

Furthermore, the females’ performance when compared to 2022, has been corrected, and in fact, 17 candidates

have been able to achieve full marks.

“As in English, the girls continue to outperform the boys year on year in Social Studies,” he said, adding:

“More groups show an upwards trend in 2023 over 2022, which is encouraging.”

He labelled the remarkable performance by this year’s students as “historical.”

A slightly higher number of males compared to females wrote the assessment this year. The highest number of entries came from Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and Georgetown.

President Ali addressing poultry farmers on Friday (Delano Williams photos)

Farmers gathered at the ACCC

Education Ministry applauds improved performance in NGSA maths, science

Senior Manager of the Examinations Administration and Security, Teddy Rajan (Japheth Yohan Savory photo)

Contracts signed for construction of secondary schools...

biology ‘labs’, while the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Centre will have industrial and home economics laboratories. Moreover, the outdoor space will include a recreational facility for basketball, cricket and other sports, the release added.

The contracts awarded for the construction of the secondary school at Tuschen are as follows: Lot 1 Sub-Structure Works was awarded to S&K Construction at a cost of $285,101,936; Lot-2 Super-Structure Works will be done by AS Construction at a cost of $179,100,000; Lot-3 Plumbing Works was awarded to the VG Group Guyana Inc., and will cost $29,212,549; Lot -4 Electrical Works will be done by N Balgobin & Sons at a cost of $72,467,910; Lot-5 Finishing

Works was awarded to K&S General Construction at a cost of $137,833,000; and Lot -6 External Works also went to AS Construction at a cost of $160,990,000.

Meanwhile, the Hosororo Secondary School will have 29 classrooms, which will accommodate over 500 students.

According to the ministry, the science centre will feature physics, chemistry and biology laboratories. The TVET centre will have both industrial and home economics laboratories. A student dormitory and visiting area will also be constructed to accommodate 200 students, while the teachers' duplex living quarters will accommodate 20 teachers.

Much like the school that will be constructed in Tuschen, sanitary blocks will also be built for both students and teachers, and

fire prevention features such as fire escape exits, escape doors, fire alarms, extinguishers, limited timber usage, metal ceilings and fire-retardant panels will be included. The outdoor space will accommodate several sporting disciplines.

The contracts award -

ed for the construction of the Hosororo Secondary School are as follows: Lot

-1 Site Development Works was awarded to International Imports & Supplies at a cost of $280,204,731; Lot-2 Sub-Structure Works, School Building also went to International

Imports & Supplies and will cost $303,837,015; Lot -3 Sub-Structure Works, Dormitory will be executed by Supreme Contracting & Supplies at a cost of $196,319,040; Lot4 Sub-Structure Works, Teachers Quarters was awarded to International

Imports & Supplies for $180,402,585; Lot-5 Super-Structure Works & Electrical went to the VG Group Guyana at a cost of $1,411,400,917; and Lot-6 Plumbing Works was also awarded to VG Group Guyana and will cost $247,043,973.

An artist’s impression of one of the schools (Ministry of Education photo)

‘Bauxite has a guaranteed future in Guyana’

PRESIDENT , Dr . Mohamed Irfaan Ali has reiterated that the mining town of Linden in Region 10 is poised for massive development under the leadership of the People ’ s Progressive Party / Civic administration.

The head of state was speaking on Friday at the commissioning ceremony for BOSAI Minerals ’ Kiln # 15 , and the US$115 million Maz Project in Linden

The new Kiln #15 is expected to bring about higher efficiency and lower production costs, while the Maz Project is set to promote countless job opportunities for Lindeners, crafted

with a view to achieving mass production of metallurgical-grade bauxite

Bauxite is used in the production of aluminum and despite the challenges faced by the global bauxite industry over the last few years, BOSAI ’ s completion of Kiln #15 and commencement of the Maz Project speaks volumes about the positive outlook for Linden’s bauxite landscape

Added to this, President Ali said his administration is strategically utilising oil and gas resources to promote sustainability , especially in the natural resources sector.

“ We are not ne -

glecting the traditional sectors of the economy We are investing in industries and sectors, hoping to add value to their production , so that they can earn more money That is why the aluminum plants are critical to the modernisation and transformation of our country We hope the necessary investments will move bauxite production higher up the value chain Bauxite has a guaranteed future in Guyana

“ Our government has a sound track record of supporting the ailing industry for more than a decade. We also intensified private ownership , and participa -

tion in bauxite-mining, which allowed the recapitalisation and continued operations,” the president underscored.

Meanwhile , highlighting that Linden is not left out of the country’s rapid development , the president reminded that the government has embarked on a massive housing and infrastructural drive to expand the opportunities for investment in the region , as well as significantly enhance the living conditions of residents

President Ali said as part of the agenda for accelerated infrastructural development, the contract for the Wismar Bridge connecting Wis-

mar to Mackenzie will be signed before the end of the year

He noted that the continued private-sector investments in Guyana ’ s economy speak to his administration ’ s prudent and strategic management, providing the enabling environment for investment

Persons in attendance were also reminded of the Linden Economic Advancement Programme ( LEAP ) also being spearheaded by the government , which outlines the government ’ s continued efforts to bring prosperity to the mining town and its environs. (DPI)

President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, senior government officials, the Ambassador of the Republic of china, and a Bosai representative cut the ribbon

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali; Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and a Bosai representative touring the facility

No Substance and Vision

THE recent actions of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in national policy-making discussions have once again highlighted their shallow approach to governance. As the opposition continues its incessant heckling, it becomes clear that their criticisms are nothing more than a smokescreen to cover up their own shortcomings.

The track record of APNU is abysmal, and the current government has to clean up the mess they created. It seems they are even too embarrassed to address their past failures, and when they do speak up, their words only expose the hollowness of their arguments.

While the opposition members are quick to criticize, they never provide any construc -

tive recommendations. This is evident in their absence from the National Assembly during deliberations on the National Resources Fund (NRF) Act. The previous NRF Act, which was passed after the successful "no confidence" motion against the APNU+AFC Coalition, had mismanaged the sovereign wealth fund.

During their time in opposition, the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had expressed concerns about various aspects of the NRF Act, particularly the need for transparent management of resources. The new Act addresses these concerns by significantly enhancing accountability and transparency in fund withdrawals.

However, instead of engaging in meaningful discussions and offering alternative solu-

tions, APNU resorts to antics and gimmicks to divert attention from the truth. It is clear that they lack any substantial positions on these matters.

Another example of their silence on matters of national interest is the Data Protection Bill 2023. This bill is crucial for aligning Guyana with international standards on data protection and privacy, as well as regulating implementation of the electronic identification card system. Surprisingly, the main opposition provided no input on this critical issue.

When it comes to the Petroleum Activities Bill, APNU's commentary lacks substance. They demonstrate a lack of technical skills and fail to provide any constructive suggestions to the government. The Petroleum Bill is

a modern and comprehensive replacement for the outdated Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act (1986), and the concerns raised by the opposition have already been addressed elsewhere.

In contrast, while in opposition, the PPP consistently emphasized its commitment to assisting the government with measures that would benefit the people. Unfortunately, the APNU+AFC coalition will be remembered as one of the worst-performing governments of the 21st century. Despite campaigning on job creation, their tenure witnessed more job losses than job creation. Former President, David Granger's dismissive response to questions about the promised job opportunities, suggesting that individuals should sell

plantain chips and cookup rice, further highlights their lack of seriousness.

Adding insult to injury, the APNU+AFC coalition left Guyana in dire financial straits upon leaving office in 2020. The once-healthy gold reserves, which stood at $15 billion when they assumed power, had dwindled to less than $1 billion by May 2020. Such mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility are unacceptable.

Moreover, the APNU+AFC administration's actions have exacerbated racial tensions in Guyana, hindering the healing process from years of segregation and acrimony. Despite campaigning on the principles of racial inclusion and unity, their divisive moves only

served to further divide the people.

It is evident that APNU lacks a clear vision for themselves and the country. Their shameless criticism of all developmental efforts under the PPP government, which aims to uplift all Guyanese and eradicate poverty through President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali's “One Guyana” initiative only demonstrates their desperation and lack of substantial ideas.

It is time for APNU to reflect on their actions, put forward constructive recommendations, and genuinely contribute to the betterment of Guyana. Merely heckling from the sidelines and resorting to shallow tactics will not benefit the nation or its people.

Social media influencers failed accuser in Dharamlall case

Dear Editor, "ARE You Not Entertained?

Are You Not Entertained? Is This Not Why You Are Here?"

the words from the movie, Gladiator, delivered by Maximus came readily to mind very early in the Dharamlall rape allegation, for our social media influencers and followers were behaving much like the mob in that movie, that wanted nothing more than bloodshed and death, a show to distract them from the emptiness of reality. Can we now in sober reality examine these behaviours and how much they affected the child who made the allegations, the system designed to assist and protect victims, and the justice system that must serve all, accuser and accused, equally.

We can begin with the ‘Influencers,’ usually a term used to denote someone who has built a large social media following based on niche expertise, but in the Guyana context is usually someone who connects with humour, empathy, or entertainment; it is through this medium that Guyanese learned of the rape allegations.

Screenshots of text detailing the content of a letter (the actual letter is yet to be seen) were posted on Facebook by Melly Fackin Mel, a foreign-based

influencer. The description of the alleged rape was detailed and graphic; the baying for blood began instantaneously. I am yet to discern how the use of this medium/method assisted the alleged victim in any way.

The Ministry of Education was first to act and the Chief Education Officer was tasked with fact-finding: did the person making the allegation exist? If so, was she a student, and were the claims hers? This is something done regularly by the CEO as hundreds of claims are made annually.

The CEO duly made contact and as is his mandate, he made public funds available to the child for travel to Georgetown to make a formal complaint. The child never travelled to Georgetown; instead, she ventured to a police station and distanced herself from the claims. In a departure from the norm, it was a senior officer who took the statement instead of a rank. Social media was again in an uproar as the sum of $10M was reportedly paid to the family of the girl in return for her recanting and this time the Ministry of Human Services entered the fray via formal complaint by the subject minister.

Under current policy, it is not the Child Care and Protection Agency that is tasked with

conducting forensic interviews with children. However, this is outsourced to two NGOs, Blossom Inc. and Childlink Guyana. Based on the NGO interview, Dharamlall was invited to the police station for an interview and released on station bail, no charge was laid.

The police sent the investigation file to the DPP for recommendations as is the norm. Social media again went into a spin as the influencers sought rapid action by the DPP and leaked transcripts of the child’s interview to stoke the fires; it became a two-edged sword as it also made the complaint political and introduced different pressures into the equation.

The DPP snapped back at those urging swift decision and then sent the file back to the police for ‘further investigation.’ The police requested an interview with the child but were told that she had made a request of ‘No further action’ and under protocols, there could be no further contact. Without a virtual complainant, the case (such as it existed) against Dharamlall collapsed and the DPP advised that no charges could be brought. It is an unsatisfactory conclusion for the accuser and accused; justice was denied on both counts, one left a victim forever and the other with an indelible stain on

character. The social media chorus wailed and gnashed teeth at the ‘failure of the system’ whilst completely absolving themselves of any blame in the process.

President Ali issued a statement within a few hours of the DPP’s recommendation of no charge in which he said Dharamlall had offered his resignation and that it was accepted. Social media outrage followed and the prevalent opinion among the pack was that Dharamlall should have been fired and not allowed to resign. The resignation is a recognition by Dharamlall that he could no longer function as a public official with a target painted on his chest. All it would take is for someone to rip their clothes and run out of his office screaming rape for the rest of his life to be spent behind bars on a false allegation. Discretion is the better part of valor.

We can examine a few aspects of the system under question, was Dharamlall given preferential treatment? From all accounts, it would seem to be mid-range, better than some, worse than others. Station bail was unusually high but four hours detention for questioning is lenient. Was Blossom Inc. experienced and competent to handle such a high-profile case?

The interview with the claimant revealed that the letter was

written by a Facebook person who had made previous claims against Dharamlall. There are noticeable discrepancies in facts and tone but enough to lay a charge under current laws.

The interview was leaked to the influencers. Blossom Inc. which was charged with the care of the child and the conduct of interviews seems to have placed undue pressure on the child and led to her request of no further action. The system did not completely fail; it was put on a social media clock that ticked incessantly in the ear of the claimant. Every aspect of this case must be independently reviewed as a matter of urgency.

Others failed the claimant. Based on her statement, the claimant did not know the ‘letter’ was out (on social media), and it was never sent to the President as we were led to believe, so who then released the letter and why? The writer and the influencers circulated the letter; there was no consideration of how this would affect the claimant and her right to make claims in her own time, for while there is no statute of limitation, it would be difficult to resurrect this credibly. Was the claimant used as a pawn in a revenge scheme and further abused for the ‘likes’, popular acclaim, and political agendas by the influencers? They failed

the claimant collectively, as did a public who put emotion and expediency above justice.

Editor, we seem to be at a crossroads as a nation, when senior lawyers are demanding lynching without trial, when a second-hand account of rape differs significantly from the actual claim, but the second-hand is the one that is given credence because its graphic language appeals to the visceral at the expense of the logical. When we decry a system for failure because it did not lead to the emotive result, nor did it work fast enough to keep up with the daily dose of ‘influence’, then we are indeed headed back to settling disputes with swords (or cutlass) in hand, rumshop style. It is here we should pause and remember why Maximus was angry with the mob; it is because he (Maximus) is a soldier, not a merciless killer who kills for fun. This separates him from the gladiators as one who fights for his county rather than one who fights for the show.

Guyanese need to pick roles best suited to their intellect and leadership capabilities, soldier, Gladiator, or a number of the senseless mob when the next show starts.

Sincerely,

Robin Singh

A picture paints a thousand words

Dear Editor, THE lyricist David Gates wrote a beautiful song, “If a picture paints a thousand words,” and, many singers have rivalled the stage to reflect the desire of painting a portrait expressing feelings of emotion. Perhaps, Petula Clark romantically vocalized the sweetness, softness and sentiments of this song with her compassionate voice to out-charm the charisma of Bread, who soothingly also caressed the tenderness of this melody with his enchanting rendition.

Back in 1921, an advertiser, Frederick R. Bernard, coined the phrase, “A picture paints a thousand words,” articulating the impression to convincingly discuss the usage of drawn and photographic images in advertising in a trade journal, ‘Printers Inc.,’ for the promotion of ads appearing on the sides of street cars. Incidentally, he attributed this expression to a ‘Japanese philosopher!’

A leading newspaper carried a “telling” picture on Friday, depicting a pensive mood, to accurately capture the timeliness of a much conclusive meeting between the honourable United States Secretary of State, Mr. Anthony Blinken and the honourable Opposition Leader, Mr. Aubrey Norton. It is also said that “a picture do [sic] not lie,” and indeed, this Kodak moment tells it all to sum up, “the train has left the station.”

The dossier handed over to the second visiting US Secretary of State can only contain an open secret of tantrums, cajoling the prankishness of a mischievous junior schoolboy up to his regular

tricks and hoping that the victim will fall for the perpetrator’s known ruse. Is this “leader” deceiving himself, knowing fully well that the famous lady, Sarah Ann-Lynch, is still very much in Guyana and she is on top of all the activities underscored by the government and undermined by the opposition? Ambassador Sarah Ann-Lynch may be outgoing but she is still the staunch pillar of foundation, defending democracy in this country to the very end of her stint in Guyana and ready, willing and culpable to represent the dignity of truth and not to shun honesty. Permanent interests and not friends do make a difference in seeing through the likes of a corrupted regime and makes it easier not to side with riggers of any electoral process!

The US knows that any political party who chooses to not present their SoPs has something to hide and prefers to bluff their way to deceit. Only the PNC party qualifies for such an action in Guyana. No wonder former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo asked the PNC’s ‘sanctimonious gangster’ to step aside. As part of the ABCE, it was Mr. Blinken’s country who ensured that no loser should be installed to govern Guyana in 2020, but the legal and legitimate winner, the PPP/C party should be inaugurated to administrate the country. The US was there to ensure that all the attempts by the PNC to get their party back into power through the back door, failed.

The world continues to laugh at the PNC’s feeble claim of practised “apartheid” in Guyana and the US would certainly not entertain any such development in a

thriving country with mutual investments. The US is the most powerful nation in the UN. The policies and principles of the United Nations do not condone any iota of apartheid in any part of the world. Would the US not have condemned any such spark right under its nose under the watchful eyes of the meticulous Ambassador Sarah Lynch?

Even a circus of jokers will find the absurd allegation of “marginalization of people here,” poor for jokes with a bitter taste! The PPP/C government has an open policy for equitable distribution for all assigned grants, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, political affiliation or domicile. Citizens now enjoy an unprecedented allocation of house lots and the many areas of help to construct their houses, including easily available mortgages with low interest and the supply of materials also. Agriculture is on the path of making Guyana the Caribbean’s “Bread Basket” once again.

The government is reaching out to all farmers to ensure that they get the necessary requisite help to achieve maximum production at low cost with the help of free fertilizers and equipment. No one can complain about free scholarships through GOAL and other programmes in the field of education. Parents are rejoicing and are ever thankful for the $40,000 cash grant given freely per child in any school, be it private or public. The “Because We Care” programme was stopped by the PNC government, and children, especially those needy ones, were denied this privilege by those who are

fronting “marginalization!”

The health services have drastically improved with the PPP/C government with so many new technologies implemented to align itself with top-class treatment with the rest of the world. Imagine, the PNC party never dreamed about giving out $600,000 to dialysis patients, a baby project by the PPP/C government.

Let’s not even broach the topic of massive economic development projects instituted by this government to change the entire landscape of this country overnight. The changing infrastructure through the construction of houses, offices, buildings, schools, hospitals, police stations, streets, roads, highways, bridges, playgrounds, parks, community centres, airports, harbours, etc., are too numerous to recollect and mention, all of which

ensure that employment is guaranteed and generated for every Guyanese who wants to work. In fact, employers are complaining that they have to import workers from overseas in order to fill the vacancies because Guyanese are unwilling to work. This article will not attempt to traverse the implications and significance of the oil and gas industry and other proposed energy alternative proposals. Who in their right mind will tolerate the conversation of “marginalization of people here?” Certainly not the US. Members of the diplomatic corps are certainly bemused with this bit of amusement.

Mr. Blinken was here to conduct serious business. President Ali has just returned from the CARICOM HoG meeting. He wasn’t shunned as a leader who practises partisan politics!

President Dr. Irfaan Ali will chair CARICOM in 2024. Rome was not built in a day and the PPP/C government cannot in five years undo all the monstrous wrongs committed by the PNC in their 33 years of damaging reign. Mr. Blinken is a frank, fair and famous figure-head in the US government and cannot be fooled. His picture with his facial expression and open hands is pleading for the realization of rationalizing or reasoning or remedying? Mr. Norton is a lame, lost and lone leader. His pitiful posture portrays the repertoire of regret, remorse and repentance, with his sad, sorrowful and scruple face, hands closed in surrender! The lens of the camera can be bought but cannot be bribed!

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Secretary Blinken’s visit was a major success

Dear Editor, THE visit to Guyana by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was a major success. To make sense of Mr. Blinken’s la visite-éclair, we need to appreciate that diplomacy is full of subtleties, most of which cannot be picked up by ‘the naked eye.’ In what follows, I shed some light on what might be best characterized as the performative dimensions of Blinken’s visit. I also point to some excesses in the Stabroek News editorial of July 7, and some elementary errors in GHK Lall’s column under the title, “Goodbye Secretary Blinken: was nice while the visit lasted (KN, July 7, 2023).” Let’s get to work.

It is best that we begin with the big geopolitical issues, since these are matters of raison d’état. China is a good place to start, and this not least because of the anxieties over that country’s determined prosecution of what it claims to be anti-hegemonic diplomacy. More than two decades ago I labelled the push back against Western dominance as “structural counterhegemony.” See

my book “Counter-Hegemony and Foreign Policy” (SUNY Press, 2001).

Secretary Blinken’s visit to Trinidad (for the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting) and then Guyana, must necessarily have involved discussions related to China’s gambit in Latin America and the Caribbean. But, what else should you expect? The US is a global power, and at one time the Monroe Doctrine was the pillar of American policy in this region. The collapse of the USSR put Monroe on the back burner. But China’s Belt and Road Initiative has given Washington cause and occasion to rekindle aspects of one of its oldest strategic doctrines. What about Guyana?

Stabroek News appears to be upset that President Ali acknowledged China as a development partner, and as a country with common values. Now, while the point on democracy is understood, there are numerous historical and contemporary things that Guyana shares with the Chinese. Stabroek News must refresh its memory that Chinese indentured servants

arrived here since the 1850s. But more than that, Guyana and China have had an enduring sense of South-South cooperation. It appears that the Moray House elitists cannot handle the fact that President Ali was forthright in his statement that while American businesses had ignored us, the Chinese were here fully engaged. Guyana is not a little pip-squeak, and it should not behave like one!

Mr. Blinken’s stopover here could not have gone unnoticed by Beijing. In my own view that is for the two Great Powers to work out.

Another matter of high politics concerned Venezuela. On this score, something rather dramatic happened. The Secretary of State of the United States of America called for free and fair elections WHILE ON GUYANESE SOIL. That is of immense importance from the performative side of things. More than anything else Mr. Blinken’s Venezuela statement had two immediate effects, namely (1) it categorically affirmed Guyana as a true democracy; and (b) it sent a message to Venezuela that the

US and Guyana have shared interests at the level of national and regional security. The self-hating, permanently colonized among us can’t see any of this. One of them described Guyana as a “shanty town.” The same genius, however, determined that this same shanty town “…is now of supreme importance to America.” GHK Lall makes the most bizarre recommendation ever offered in the history of Kaieteur News columns. He wants President Ali to do what dictators such as Ferdinand Marcos did for the Philippines at Subic Bay, and what General Musharraf did for Pakistan during the War on Terror. If you do not know, Marcos was paid a stipend for maintaining his military dictatorship. According to Amnesty International, “…70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured and over 3,200 people were killed in the nine years after Mr. Marcos imposed martial law.” Marcos’ wife, Imelda Marcos, had 888 handbags, and 3000 pairs of shoes, and 500 evening gowns. Nice stipend! For his part, Musharraf helped

to hide Osama bin Laden at Abbottabad, even while he was receiving [GHK recommended style] foreign aid from the United States. In 2019, General Musharraf was found guilty of high treason for suspending Pakistan’s constitution. What an extraordinary example of brutish betrayal Mr. GHK Lall wants us to follow!

Secretary Blinken could have easily headed back to Washington after the 45th sitting of the CARICOM Heads of Government (50th Anniversary) which he attended. Think about it, President Ali was in Trinidad and the two of them no doubt interacted. So why bother to come down to Georgetown? The short answer is that the trip was simply a signalling event, a communications ‘spectacle’ yes, but only for those who understand these things.

In case you doubt the place of ‘spectacle’ in diplomacy let me take you back to a meeting between Napoleon and the Austrian Foreign Minister, Prince Klemens von Metternich, at Dresden in June 1813. Metternich was a crafty statesman

and, in anticipation of a major war, wanted some concessions from France. Napoleon wanted to test Austria’s resolve and his own capacity for hegemonic leadership. He decided to drop his hat. By established protocol then in place, Metternich should have picked up the hat and given it to Napoleon. The Austrian statesman refused, and as the historians would have it, Napoleon knew then that his game was over. In closing, and without getting too academic (yes, there is such a thing) I should state that what we commonly know as a ‘spectacle’ is more technically a ‘play of signs.’ A sign in linguistics is when something stands in for something else, much the same way in which a red rose might signal ‘love.’ Secretary Blinken’s visit here was a brilliant play of signs, an event signalling far more than what appeared to have happened. Congratulations are in order for the fine staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sincerely,

Dr. Randolph Persaud

Infamy: Part 3

THERE is a group of nasty-minded people boiling over with class hatred and ethnic contempt. The ugly psychology of this group had its genesis in the 2020 election defeat of certain class forces and ethnic associations. This group of people did not want the return of the PPP. Because of their relationships over the decades with the WPA, AFC, the connections with certain Mulatto/Creole elites in the PNC, the loss of power in 2020 was a huge psychological devastation.

This cabal since March 2020 could be found in a certain civil society groupings, women organisations and sections of the private media. They are in a state of permanent rage over the existence of the PPP in power. Their race hatred and political poison are extremely morbid. This cabal feels because of its reach in the private media and its sycophantic relations with the ABCEU diplomatic missions, it can intimidate society in Guyana.

They have a mob-like mentality and through their obsession with skin colour, middle class status, and pomposity, they feel they can dictate to an elected government. Since March 2020, they have been on a rampage. Their modus operandi is to find the government culpable when anything happens in Guyana.

Be assured that a government official does not have to commit an indiscretion for these people to pick on the PPP leadership. They will invent things to blame the government. Remember this column as the weather gets really hot in August, September and October. They are going to blame the government for the heat.

They have not succeeded and the Guyanese people know that their only pursuit is to create infamy in Guyana so that the government can be weakened. Their inventions are absurd, surreal and comical thus they have been laughed at and ignored in Guyanese society. But more importantly, Guyanese know that many of them come from wealthy backgrounds and enjoy comfortable lives in the developed world.

Guyanese people are not as stupid as these people think. Which Guyanese in and out of this country would take seriously a clique that penned an advocacy in the newspaper demanding the government put an immediate moratorium on oil and gas production. No government on Planet Earth that has a fossil fuel industry has put an immediate stop to oil production. Any rationally thinking person will tell you that only an asinine mind will make such a suggestion.

Guyana will instantly become a complete pariah in the world if it does that.

No government would want a relation with us. No foreign investor would ever come here in another hundred years, and there may be sanctions on Guyana that could cause the death of this nation. Again I repeat: is there a sane mind that would have the stupid mentality to tell its government that it must immediately cease oil production?

But these people have. I call these dangerous clowns – the usual suspects (TUS). Here is a brief list of the asininities and infamies of TUS and we will conclude with the Mahdia inferno and the Dharamlall scandal. Just after the 2020 election, they denounced the visit of then Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo. They argued his visit threatened the status of the Caribbean as a zone of peace.

They remonstrated with President Ali over the visit of President Bolsonaro. They claimed Brazil mistreats its African citizens. But they are still to write a letter in the newspaper about the country many of them live in and to which they have multi-entry visas - the USA – whose military aid to Israel secures Israel’s stranglehold over the Palestinians that Israel mistreats on a daily basis.

They demanded the Guyana government rescind its visa requirement for Haitians because Haiti is in CARICOM. They said the gov -

ernment did that to Haitians because they are Africans. These people are immoral with sick minds. The imposition of visa requirement was a joint implementation by CARICOM. Now you are not going to believe what I will reveal in the next few lines. I repeat; you are not going to believe it. They penned a letter in the newspaper that they

own, demanding government stop oil production immediately because the fossil fuel industry kills African people. No other nationality was mentioned. Am I exaggerating? Well go to the Stabroek News of November 13, 2022, and you will see those words.

TUS, allegedly, harassed Nirvan Singh, the son of former chancellor, Carl Singh,

over allegations that he spat on a Black woman. Mob rule succeed in Guyana. Mob rule succeeded again with Charrandass Persaud. Mob rule failed with the Mahdia inferno and the Dharamlall scandal. The infamies of TUS will go on. But Guyanese will keep laughing at these MCC cl owns.

PPP’s LGEs candidates to continue party’s ‘clean agenda’ - Jagdeo

GENERAL Secretary of the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has emphasised that the Party will not only continue to focus on fulfilling the promises it made during the recently concluded local government elections (LGEs), but the appointed candidates will portray commendable traits during their tenure.

These remarks were made by Jagdeo on Thursday during a live interview on his Facebook page,

where he confidently expounded that because of the PPP’s clean campaign and commitments, his Party was able to win the polls “overwhelmingly”.

He also said that despite the number of false narratives being peddled by the Opposition, along with other social-media trolls, the Party and its candidates and supporters will not be discouraged and will continue to be on the ground to hear the people’s concerns.

Moreover, while addressing the constant heck-

ling by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) that the PPP is on a malicious agenda to control all of Guyana, and their massive victories is a loss for Guyana, the VP remarked that the local government polls were a blatant recognition of the people rejecting APNU, their poor track record, and their use of racism and divisive politics.

“We work very hard; our candidates work very hard,” Jagdeo said, underscoring that the PPP did not bully people to vote for them, but

instead the populace recognised the Party’s positive message of development.

He further stated: “It was a free election; people had the freedom of choice, and they willingly chose the PPP overwhelmingly in many of these communities.”

Jagdeo then went on to speak about his Party’s selection process for those who will be sitting on the constituencies that were won.

“The process of selecting who represent us in the NDCs and the towns had to be an inclusive process...,” the PPP General Secretary added.

He then said that unlike the Opposition, their selection was done in a fair manner and not one representing a dictatorship. In fact, he stressed that the PPP was bent on engaging the people.

Noting that there are some contentious areas, where residents would have voiced concerns about how their communities are being run, he remarked that what was observed is that within some of these Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) there is infighting.

Referring to the Better Hope/LBI NDC, he said that he invited not only the council members but also

the candidates to Freedom House to relate the PPP’s expectations.

“We have emphasised about behaviour and attitude in response to residents’ concerns,” Jagdeo said before adding that poor attitude from PPP candidates will not be tolerated.

He stressed that community engagements, transparency and accountability of funds are at the top of the list of expectations.

The PPP came out of LGEs 2023 as the big winner, since they won 66 of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs), including seven of 10 municipalities, and 906 of the 1,206 local government seats.

The PPP won 83 per cent of the LAAs, 75 per cent of all seats available and more than 70 per cent of all

votes cast. The PPP not only strengthened its hold on its traditional strongholds, but it has made massive inroads in areas where the PNC has won almost 100 per cent of the votes in the past.

It is at the LGEs that Guyanese are given the opportunity to vote for the councillors who will represent their Local Authority Areas (LAAs). Guyana has 70 NDCs and 10 municipalities, inclusive of Georgetown.

The local government system is an essential part of the country’s governance framework. The election is contested by political parties, voluntary groups, and individuals who are desirous of winning seats on the councils of the NDCs and municipalities.

General Secretary of the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Three-way tie for NGSA top spot

By Cindy Parkinson

THREE pupils from separate schools for the second consecutive year have secured identical marks to be awarded the top position at the Na-

tional Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

At a ceremony held at the New Pegasus Corporate Centre in Kingston, Georgetown, Education Minister Priya Manick-

TURN TO PAGE 14

Minister Manickchand, Ministry officials, and the national top 10 performers (Japheth Yohan Savory photo)

The three pupils who tied for the top spot

By Clestine Juan GUYANA’S

upcoming Exercise Tradewinds 2023 , which is scheduled to take place from July 14 to 28, will prioritise humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, particularly in combatting flooding in Kwakwani and oil spills.

Major Jaime Castello of the Guyana Defence Force ( GDF ), who is the lead planner for the exercise, on Friday revealed that this year will see a shift from the traditional security-type training to the incorporating of vital aspects of crisis response

Tradewinds is a multinational Caribbean security exercise sponsored by the United States Southern Command It aims to bolster the region’s capabilities

develop their protocols and response

Other officers will also be involved in a flood response exercise in Kwakwani in Region 10 ( Upper Demerara-Berbice).

In 2021, the Region Ten authorities had declared that the community of Kwakwani was in a “severe state”, since floodwaters had risen above 15 feet, completely covering several homes

Major Castello said that the exercise in Kwakwani will create a flooding scenario to build capabilities to handle such cases, especially with the involvement of regional and international partners

Castello explained that this Tradewinds 2023 is different , since they will be doing the same traditional security-type training, as well as incorporating humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations

“The training objectives for Exercise Tradewinds

assistance, and disaster response

Exercise Tradewinds to focus heavily on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations

Major Castello said there is no doubt that the exercise will be fruitful, since Guyana, in 2021, hosted a successful Tradewinds Exercise amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

He explained that not only did the security forces benefit from training covering the areas in terms of land, sea and air training, but Guyana also benefitted economically since the supplies and resources required for the exercise were sourced right here

Major Castello said that for Tradewinds 2023 , they anticipate the attendance of 21 countries and more than 1,500 participants

The annual exercise , which has been held since 1984 , aims to enhance the region’s ability to handle and respond to crises , improve training capacity and cooperation among participating countries , develop and re -

in various areas With the participation of 17 partner nations, three allied nations, and several regional organisations, the exercise seeks to enhance joint operations, strengthen partnerships, and counter external influences

This year, officers will be involved in an oil - spill response exercise led by Guyana ’ s Civil Defence Commission ( CDC ) in the Berbice River , which oil companies ExxonMobil and CGX are supporting

“They’ll be doing two activities: One is the shoreline clean-up assessment likely to be done at 63 Beach, and for the Berbice River We are looking to do a practical oilspill deployment exercise,” Major Castello said

He explained that last year , the CDC conducted an oil-spill practical in the Demerara River , and this new exercise will help them

2023 are to expand the Caribbean region ’ s capability to mitigate , plan for , and respond to crisis, strengthen partnerships and counter influences, increase regional training capacity and readiness for all participating courses; increase inter agency integration in the Caribbean specifically with special operation forces; regional organisations and co-ordination courses…and to promote human rights, women and peace in security and principles and adhere to shared international norms and values”

Castello said as he explained the objectives of the training programme

Each of the training exercises at the various locations will provide opportunities to conduct joint, inter-agency capacity building opportunities for the partner nations, with a focus on regional co - operation, humanitarian

fine operating procedures , strengthen defence of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ), increase readiness, promote human rights and adherence to international norms, ensure gender inclusivity in the armed forces , and enhance awareness of maritime activities to combat illegal fishing

The participating regional organisations include the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Regional Security System (RSS), the Implementation Agency for Crime and Security ( IMPACS ), and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).

The regional security cooperation exercise focuses on maritime interdiction, ground security, and multinational staff training , all of which support the campaign plan of the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

Major Jaime Castello

GDF ranks participating in Tradewinds 2021 (Adrian Narine photos)

‘Sharky’ gets ‘life’ for clothes vendor murder

JUSTICE Sandil Kissoon on Friday sentenced Wayne Anthony Chester, called ‘Sharky’ to serve life imprisonment for the murder of Purcell Moore Jr ., who was gunned down during a robbery at Craig Old Road, East Bank Demerara ( EBD ) in 2017.

Chester , 27 , of Section C, Block Y, Diamond Housing Scheme , EBD , will become eligible for parole after serving 30 years

Last month, a 12-member jury found Chester guilty of killing 40-yearold Moore during the course of a robbery , on December 20, 2017

In 2021, two men Selwin Dawson , 27 , called “ Crack Skull ,” formerly of First Field, Kaneville, EBD, and Kevin Persaud, called “ Boyce ,” 28 , formerly of 14th Avenue , Diamond, EBD, were sentenced to life imprison -

ment with the possibility of parole after serving 15 years for the crime

The men were also sentenced by Justice Sandil Kissoon for the capital offence of murder

However , they have since moved to the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn their conviction and sentence.

According to statements presented in court,

Moore was returning home from a shop when Chester, who was armed with a handgun, confronted him An argument reportedly ‘erupted’ between the men

That escalated into a scuffle , during which several rounds were discharged at Moore He was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was pronounced dead on arrival

Construction worker remanded for murder of reputed wife

SHIVNANAND Hen -

ry called ‘ Sunny ’, a 29 - year - old construction worker of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, on Friday appeared before the Leonora Magistrate ’ s Court on a murder charge and was remanded to prison.

Henry was not required to plead to the charge which was read to him by Magistrate Zamilla Ali-Seepaul

It is alleged that he murdered Bibi Naseefa Baksh , a 48 - year - old housewife, at their home on July 2

The case was adjourned to August 25 for report

Police had said , in a press release, that on the day in question, between 04:30hours and 05:30hours , while imbibing, Baksh and Henry had an argument during

which “the suspect (Henry) began beating Baksh, kicking her down [the]

12-year-old daughter assisted Baksh back into the house

The woman was taken to her room and helped onto the bed A short while after , she was observed to be motionless

Chester is currently serving a total of 14 years and six months behind

bars for a series of offences, including armed robbery, possession of an

illegal gun and ammunition, and discharging a loaded firearm.

wooden stairs and dragging her to the roadway, where he dealt her several kicks and lashes with a piece of wood about her body.”

After the beating, the suspect and the victim’s

“The suspect left the home in an unknown direction. Public-spirited persons subsequently informed the police as the victim’s 12-year-old daughter raised an alarm On arrival , police observed the woman lying motionless in the bedroom What appears to be abrasions were seen on the woman ’ s forehead, shoulder, arms and knees ,” the police had disclosed She was later pronounced dead at the Leonora Cottage Hospital Henry fled the scene but was later arrested.

Wayne Chester called ‘Sharky’

DEAD: Purcell Moore Jr

Shivnanand Henry called ‘Sunny’ (Guyana Police Force photo)

Three-way tie for NGSA top...

chand announced that Glasford Archer of Leonora Primary School, Ritisha Gobin of the Academy of Excellence, and Anaya Jagnandan of the New Guyana School each received a score of 506.7 out of a possible 507.7.

Minister Manickchand during her presentation, announced the top performers in each of the 11 education districts. This was followed by the top 10 national performers.

Because several pupils shared the same marks, a total of 12 were identified as the nation’s top 10 performers.

In addition to the abovementioned trio, the top 10 included Savanna Mc Intosh of Green Acres Primary, Aradhya Ramjag of Mae’s Under 12, Relance Marcus of Green Acres Primary, Samara James and Arianna Samad of Mae’s Under 12, who all secured 505.8 marks to share the fourth position.

Reyad Baksh of Saraswat Primary, Rhea Jaiserrisingh of New Guyana School, Afeerah Ali of Chateau Margot Primary and Jada Pike of Winfer Gardens Primary, were each awarded the ninth position with a score of 505.7 marks each.

Meanwhile, with regard to the regional performances, for Region One, Sashana Henry’s outstanding performance has earned her a place at The Bishop's High School. For Region Two, the top performer Avron Doodnauth was awarded a place at Queen’s College.

Archer and Gobin tied for the top spot for Region Three and they too will be heading to Queen’s College when the new academic year begins in September.

The top pupil for Region Four, which does not include Georgetown is Afreerah Ali of Château Margot Primary School, who was awarded a place at Queen's College.

For Region Five, the top performer Diana Hariprashad of the Cotton Tree Primary School was awarded a place at Queen's College, while for Region Six, Jade Archibald, Aaron Anamayah, and Annalisa Siriram tied for first place and will all be heading to Queen’s College as well.

Aresia Cornelius, a pupil of Karrau Creek Primary School, won the highest honour for Region Seven and was awarded a place at The Bishop's High School.

For Region Eight, Kyle Mark of Paramakatoi Primary School, was awarded a place at the St. Joseph High School and is the region’s top performer.

The top spot for Region Nine went to Makeda Johnson who has earned herself a place at St. Stanislaus College.

Selah Erskine, a pupil of the Regma Primary School, is Region 10’s top performer and she was placed at Queen's College

For Georgetown, Anaya Jagnandan of the New Guyana School is the top performer and she has secured a spot at Queen's College.

Minister Manickchand in her remarks pointed out that more students from public schools had earned positions in the top five national schools.

Among the 868 pupils who have secured places at Queen's College, The Bishop's High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose's High, and St. Joseph High, 499 came from public schools, while the remaining 369 came from private schools.

EQUAL EDUCATION

Although top performers usually receive a lot of attention, Minister Manickchand emphasised once more that her ministry is focused on providing equal education at all schools.

Along with a concentration on the arts, technical and vocational education, and sound academic support, this includes physical education, foreign languages, and volunteerism.

In her presentation, Minister Manickchand explained that she is extremely proud of all the pupils who wrote the 2023 NGSA as it must be remembered that this batch was at a critical point in their education journey when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

"We don’t talk about COVID anymore...we have forgotten about COVID, but the children who wrote these exams were in Grades Three when we asked them to stay home. An important foundation year for literacy, numeracy concepts, for important concepts in science and social studies, and for concepts that we found extremely difficult to teach online or through packages because they were so young at that time.

Grade Three is just out of the early childhood phase where it is very hard to keep their attention online. And so, we had to craft ways of making sure that we caught up with the learning lost and engaged our children meaningfully," she explained.

While Minister Manickchand said that she is pleased with this year’s results, she emphasised that "being pleased doesn’t mean we're stopping."

BoI recommends psychological support for GDF ranks to prevent tragedies

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is expected to implement psychological counselling for its ranks, following the fatal shooting of Private Tevon Daymon at Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri.

The decision comes after a Board of Inquiry (BoI) concluded its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the June 12 incident.

This was disclosed by GDF’s Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan on the sidelines of a media engagement on Friday at Base Camp Ayanganna.

Brigadier Khan related that the BoI had submitted a series of recommendations, one of which was the need for a psychologist.

By implementing this recommendation, the Force aims to address any underlying issues, promote better conflict resolution

techniques, and foster a healthier and more resilient workforce.

The Chief of Staff expressed the Force's dedication to acting on the recommenda -

again.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Daymon and his alleged killer Private Brian Morrison had a disagreement when a fight ensued.

“Enquiries revealed that the victim and the suspect became involved in an argument, and the victim allegedly removed the magazine from the rifle he was carrying and hit the suspect to his head, causing him to receive injuries before running away.

where he was pronounced dead. Morrison was handed over to the police, and was later charged for the capital offence. He is currently on remand.

tions, and confirmed that steps have already been taken to implement some of them.

He said that one of the main focuses is to ensure that such an incident does not occur

“The suspect, who was armed with an AK rifle and 30 matching rounds, discharged 27 rounds from his rifle in the victim’s direction, causing the victim to receive injuries and fall to the ground,” the Guyana Police Force said in an official release.

The victim was escorted to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre,

Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan (Adrian Narine photo)

DEAD: Tevon Daymon

Minister Benn engages affected vendors, assesses damage

HOME Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Friday visited the Charity Market in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), where dozens of stalls were destroyed by fire, to assess the damage, and met with the affected vendors.

According to a press release from the Guyana Fire Service, during the engage-

release said.

It was also disclosed that the vendors decried the state of the market, highlighting silted-up drainage in the area, which made it difficult for firefighters to gain access to additional water.

Information was gathered, and measures will be put in place to assist those affected by the fire.

At approximately 19:20 hours on Thursday, the GFS received a call, and was alerted to a fire at the market.

Water tenders #77 and #88, along with their crews from the Anna Regina Fire Station, were immediately dispatched to the scene.

The structure involved was a one-flat wooden-and-concrete building

severely damaged by the fire, while 11 suffered water damage, due to firefighting efforts.

Three people were injured at the scene, including Station Officer Springer and two firemen. They were all taken to the hospital, where they were treated and sent away.

Two jets working from WT#77, one jet from Light Pump #86, and two jets from WT#88 were used to extinguish the fire, the release said, adding that investigations are underway by Fire Prevention Officers, and the Government Electrical Inspectorate to ascertain what caused the fire.

‘WE NEED HELP’

When the Guyana Chronicle visited the market on Friday, some of the affected vendors were at the scene contemplating their next move.

Many of them related that they have suffered huge losses, and will require assistance to get back on their feet.

ment with vendors at the site, Minister Benn made note of fire safety issues within the structure, and encumbrances that contributed to the fire and hindered firefighting efforts.

“He suggested that a new market be constructed that is fully equipped with wet riser systems and other means of protection against fires,” the

The minister was accompanied by Station Officer Courtney Springer; Region Two Commander Khemraj Shivbaran; Government Electrical Inspectorate Region Two, Nazir Khan; NDC Chairman Chandrawattie Coomal; Overseer of the Charity Amazon Market Rameez Baksh, and other officials.

owned by the Neighbourhood Democratic Council, and occupied as a market, which housed some 83 stalls.

The release said that firefighting efforts resulted in the fire being contained to the central portion of the market, and the damage being minimised to just about 40 per cent of the building.

In total, 29 stalls were

The losses suffered amount to millions of dollars, and for many, they have lost their main source of income.

The section that was burnt housed boutiques, a marine store, a salon, a hardware store, and other vendors selling clothing, fabric and other items.

Among those who suffered huge losses were members of the Imamudeen and Singh families, who have been operating in the market for several decades.

Stall owner Chandroutie Imamudeen, who has been vending since the 80s, said that she occupies 21 tables, and sells school items. She said that her son and daughter-in-law also vend there and have suffered losses as a result of the fire.

The woman said that she is very sad, since she has lost millions of dollars.

Shatrughan Singh, called ‘Bobby’, sold brand name clothing, sunglasses and footwear.

He said he has been selling at that location for over 35 years and over the years he had expanded his business to satisfy his customers’ needs.

Singh said that he is still coming to grips with the tragedy, and estimates his losses to be more than $20 million.

Meanwhile, Sharon Da Silva, who owns three bou-

tiques, estimated her losses to be in the vicinity of $30 million. She recently returned from overseas, where she had bought some of the items that were destroyed in the blaze.

Delicia Daniels, who owns a salon, said that everything in her stall was destroyed. She estimated her losses to be around $2 million. Daniels also pointed out that the persons she had working for her are now unemployed.

Leela Sookhoo, who is

from the Charity Ursara NDC provided support to the firefighters on Thursday night.

Divisional Commander for the Anna Regina Fire Station Andrew Holder was also at the market when this publication visited. According to him, his unit responded immediately after being informed about the fire. He said that 32 officers diligently worked as a team to extinguished the flames. However, three firemen were injured.

A gutted section of the market

a seamstress, said that she has been sewing for over 20 years. She said that her all her fabric was burnt.

Like many of the affected vendors, she is hoping that the government sets in and provides some assistance.

Guyana Chronicle understands that councillors

Holder related that one of them received injuries after coming into contact with a live wire, while a falling beam struck another on his head. The third fireman had to be treated at the hospital for smoke inhalation.

(Indrawattie Natram)

Some of the affected vendors

Fire officials provide Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn with an update during his visit on Friday (Guyana Fire Service photo)

An aerial view of the Charity Market after the fire was extinguished (Guyana Fire Service photo)

Guyanese doctor returns as neurosurgery expert after training in Cuba

DR. ASIF Subhan, M.D., is coming back to Guyana next week to add to the corps of medical personnel trained in Cuba.

As a result of a scholarship provided by the Government of Guyana, he recently became a Neurosurgeon after graduating from the University of Havana School of Medicine, University Hospital General Calixto Garcia.

Neurosurgery is the field of medicine that diagnoses and treats diseases of the human nervous system that require surgical intervention such as tumors of the brain and spinal cord, head and spinal cord trauma, degenerative conditions of the brain and spine, epilepsy, and hydrocephaly, among others.

Like so many Guyanese medical students, Dr. Subhan comes from a humble background. He grew up in Craig Village on the East Bank of Demerara and attended Craig Nursery and Primary Schools, then later St. Joseph’s High School.

In 2006, Dr. Subhan was awarded a Government of Guyana Scholarship to pursue an undergraduate degree in Cuba in Human Medicine.

In 2013, he graduated from the Latin Ameri -

can School of Medicine (ELAM), as an MD and upon returning to Guyana, he worked at the Kitty and Industry Health Centres, the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

In 2018, Dr. Subhan returned to Cuba to pursue a post-graduate degree in Neurosurgery.

During his Residency he rotated in some of the most prestigious medical institutions in Cuba such as the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery (INN), Center for Medical and Surgical Research

(CIMEQ), Juan Manual Márquez Children’s Hospital, National Center for Minimal Access Surgery (Luis de la Puente Uceda Hospital) and the Hermanos Ameijeiras Medical-Surgical Hospital where he was able to obtain invaluable knowledge about diseases pertaining to neurosurgery from some of the best Professors in the world.

Dr. Subhan said that he would like to thank Almighty Allah for His guidance and sustenance during his journey to becoming a neurosurgeon; his wife, Dr. Ayesha Wilburg-Subhan for her love and encouragement; his family and friends for their support; his mentor, Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi, for introducing him to medical world of Neurosurgery; and Mr. Nazar Mohamed of Mohamed’s Enterprise for his assistance in enabling him to start his post-graduate journey.

Dr. Subhan has also expressed his deepest gratitude to the Government of Guyana, the Government and People of Cuba, his Professors, and Ambassador Halim Majeed and the staff of the Embassy of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Cuba for their continued support during his time in Cuba.

Dr. Asif Subhan is discussing with Ambassador Majeed some aspects of his medical studies and, at the same time, making suggestions to the Ambassador about what can further be done to assist Guyanese students who will be coming to Cuba in the future to study Medicine

Dr. Asif Subhan

West Indies women take 2-0 lead

(CWI) - The West Indies Women took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the threematch T20 International series when they defeated Ireland Women by 8 wickets at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on Thursday night.

half-century before being dismissed on exactly 50 off 39 deliveries. Shabika Gajnabi played a supporting role to Matthews and eventually Chinelle Henry who smashed a full toss for six and three boundaries to finish on 22 off 12 while Gajnabi was not

went out with the intent to chase down the runs quicker. What really helped us today was the fielding, the catches and run outs we were able to take, kudos to the overall team for the bowling performance they put on and the fielders for backing them up.”

The teams will meet on Saturday July 8th for the final T20I. First ball is at 5:00pm local time (4:00pm Jamaica time).

Winning the toss and batting first, Ireland posted 113/7 in their 20 overs. Amy Hunter led the scoring with 33 from 35 deliveries, skipper Laura Delany was next best with 20. Cherry-Ann Fraser led the West Indies bowlers, finishing with figures of 4-0-16-1 and Hayley Matthews 4-0-24-1, with special mention to Ashmini Munisar who had the most economical spell of 4-0-14-0.

Hayley Matthews once again led the run-chase, bringing up her eighth T20I

out on 17, as the West Indies Women reached the 114-run target in 16.4 overs.

Speaking after the match, skipper Hayley Matthews said, “I think we’re pretty happy with the result. Coming into this tour we wanted to be able to take home both series, so just very happy that we were able to go out there and win convincingly today and secure the T20I series. We had more intent going out today and we noticed early on that the wicket was a bit better on today and we

Match tickets are available online from the Windies Tickets service, presented by Mastercard - Tickets.windiescricket.com - at a discount price of US$6/EC$16 (USS3/ EC$7.50 children and seniors) with tickets available on the day at the box office at a price of US$7.50/EC$20 (US$3.75/EC$10 for children and seniors).

For fans unable to get to the games in St. Lucia, the CG United ODI Series will be exclusively live on RUSH Sports in the Caribbean and on BT Sport in the UK & Ireland. The matches will also be shown around the world on FanCode (India), ESPN+ (USA), Sky NZ (NZ), SuperSport (sub-Saharan Africa) and in all other countries on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel.

English Racing Tips

11:07 hrs Overactive

11:42 hrs Al Muzn

12:17 hrs Annie Law

12:50 hrs Graffiti

American Racing Tips

Belmont

Race 1 Exhilarate

Race 2 Drink The Wind

Race 3 Party Is Over

Race 4 Leddy

Race 5 Charge It

Race 6 Weekend Rags

Race 7 Vittorio

Race 8 Prerequisite

Canadian Racing Tips

Woodbine

Race 1 Uncle Bull

Race 2 Crimson Night

Race 3 Poulin In O T

Race 4 Cadafael

Race 5 You Be The Judge

Race 6 Foolish Games

Race 7 Hot Cargo

Irish Racing Tips

Naas

09:10 hrs Clarita

09:45 hrs Buyin Buyin

10:20 hrs Amanirenas

10:55 hrs Talia

11:30 hrs Mariner

12:05 hrs Vernet

12:40 hrs Water Mint

South Africa Racing Tips

Turffontein

08:25 hrs Black Egret

09:00 hrs Trident King

09:35 hrs Captain Of Grit

10:10 hrs Queen Of Shadows

10:45 hrs Save The Queen

Shabika Gajnabi

Australia retain slender advantage on day three

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Australia retained their slender advantage in the third Test at Headingley on another day of Ashes cricket in fast-forward. They were not at their clinical best in Leeds against a flagging England side, yet could still clinch the urn this weekend.

This was a day that highlighted the brilliance of the two captains. Pat Cummins, who took two wickets on the first evening, added four more to complete his first five-wicket haul on English soil, finishing with 6 for 91, while Ben Stokes produced his second superhuman innings in six days.

Stokes had resumed after lunch unbeaten on 27 as England struggled to find a middle ground between attack and defence, losing four wickets in the morning - three of them to aggressive shots, despite their slowest-scoring session of the series.

But Stokes and England shifted gears after the break, adding 95 runs in 62 balls for the loss of their final three wickets, in a frenzied hour in the Leeds sunshine.

Stokes was the last man out, looking to hit Todd Murphy for his sixth six, but his 80

dragged England to a deficit of only 26.

Stuart Broad struck early for England, removing David Warner for the second time in the match, third time in the series and 17th in Test cricket, before Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne restored some calm, adding 55 for the second wicket.

Then Labuschagne and Steven Smith fell in quick succession to Moeen Ali -- Smith was his 200th Test wicket -- and when Khawaja edged Chris Woakes behind, England sensed an opening.

Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh took them through to the close, leading by 142 and with the game just about in their control.

Cummins struck with the second ball of the day, dismissing Joe Root for the 10th time. He found some extra bounce from just short of a good length, with a tight enough line to draw Root into a shot, tentatively steering to Warner at slip.

It was a good ball, yes, but a tame end -- one which further vindicated the intent behind the reverse-scoop that he attempted at the start of the fourth morning of the first Test in Birmingham.

Jonny Bairstow followed

soon after, chasing a wide half-volley from Mitchell Starc and flashing to second slip.

Stokes played within himself, clearly struggling with an apparent hip injury for which he received treatment, but dug deep in defence. Moeen kept him company during a partnership worth 44, but his dismissal -- caught in the deep after a second successive top-edged hook -- exposed a familiar failing against the short ball.

Woakes fell to the same sh ot, top-edging a pull through to Alex Carey in the final over before lunch having earlier swiped Cummins over midwicket for six. England scored at 3.19 an over across the morning session, adding 74 runs for the loss of four wickets. Headingley was subdued.

Mark Wood soon woke the crowd up. He swiped the first three balls after lunch for six, four and six off Starc, then swung Cummins for six more. His innings of 24 off 8 was nothing more than a cameo, yet somehow changed the course of the day as Australia persisted with a short-ball ploy.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday July 08, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Clive Lloyd - 2344 runs (28 Tests)

(2) Sunil Gavaskar - 2749 runs (27 Tests)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI bowler has taken most Test wickets versus IND to date?

(2) Which IND bowler has claimed most Test wickets against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Carty sparks brightly but Sri Lanka send Windies packing

CMC – A resolute 87 from Keacy Carty was the only bright spark for West Indies when they ended their miserable run in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier with a chastening, eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka on Friday in Zimbabwe.

Carty hit six fours and one six from 96 balls and was the rock upon which the Caribbean side built their total of 243 before

they were bowled out in 48.1 overs after being put in to bat in the final match of the Super Six stage of the tournament at the Harare Sports Club.

West Indies were again poor in the field, and the Sri Lankans, led by a third One-day International hundred of 104 from Pathum Nissanka and 83 from fellow opener Dimuth Karunaratne, easily chased down their target for their fifth win

in a row in the Super Six. The result meant West Indies officially bowed out of contention for a place in the World Cup to be played later this year in India, and Sri Lanka remained unbeaten in the Qualifier and formally secured their berth in the global showpiece.

The Shai Hope-led, Daren Sammy-coached West Indies were fifth in the Super Six on only two points from a seven-wicket win against

Oman this past Wednesday at the same venue after previous defeats in the tournament against hosts Zimbabwe, the Netherlands, and Scotland.

The Netherlands earned the second qualifying place for the World Cup to be played from

overs.

The Caribbean side stumbled to 55 for two at the end of the Power Play after Theekshana bowled opener Brandon King for 10 in his second over, and Shamarh Brooks was caught behind for two in his third over.

West Indies ran into

to 122 for five in the company of left-handed all-rounder Kyle Mayers before two wickets in the span of four balls rocked them again.

Mayers was bowled by off-spinner Sahan Arachchige for 18 in the 28th over, and Roston Chase was lbw to

October 5 to November 19 with a memorable win against the Scots on Thursday at Queens Sports Club in Bulaway, and will face Sri Lanka in the final of the Qualifier on Sunday at Harare Sports Club.

“Just leave this behind,” Hope said when asked about what his side could take away from the tournament. “Look forward. Communication is the key. We are already at the bottom, we have to find ways to get back up.”

West Indies started strongly before off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana undermined their batting with a spell of four for 34 from his allotted 10

further trouble on 62 for four when Theekshana pinned Hope lbw for two in his fourth over, and opener Johnson Charles was also lbw to pacer Matheesha Pathirana for 39 in the 12th over.

Former white-ball captain Nicholas Pooran was just getting into the swing of things with Carty before leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha got him caught at deep mid-wicket from a longhop in the 17th over, and the Caribbean side were 81 for five.

Carty was dropped, on nine, at deep fine leg off Pathirana in the next over and kept the scoreboard ticking over and dragged West Indies

Hemantha for one in the next over.

Carty then pushed the Caribbean side closer to 250 in two tidy stands of 32 with Romario Shepherd and 63 with Kevin Sinclair before he was the last man out trying to push for his hundred.

Shepherd made 26 before Theekshana bowled him in the 35th over, and Sinclair added 25 before he fell in the 45th over.

West Indies were never able to get on top of the Sri Lankans, and once Nissanka and Karunaratne bedded down for an opening stand of 190, it was only a matter of time before they gave up the fight.

Keacy Carty drives into the off side •Jul 07, 2023 (ICC via Getty Images)

E-net South Dakota Grand Prix

Superstock and Street Bike to ignite fans with two-wheel action

The adrenaline-fueled local riders are gearing up for an exciting showdown at the upcoming South Dakota Grand Prix powered by Enet this Sunday.

Riders from across the country are set to compete in various classes, but eyes will be specifically set on the street bikes and super stock classes. As the championship race intensifies, let’s look at the top contenders and their prospects for success.

Street Bike Class

In the street bike class, Nicholas Boodhram currently holds the championship lead. Boodhram’s

consistent performances and exceptional skills on the track have propelled him to the top of the standings. However, he cannot afford to rest on his laurels, as Dowayne Caesar trails closely behind in second place.

Caesar has showcased incredible determination and talent, making him a formidable opponent for Boodhram. And to be noticed is John Bennett, currently in third place, who has shown great potential throughout the sea-

son. The street bike class promises to deliver highspeed action and fierce battles for supremacy.

Super Stock Class

The super stock class boasts a line-up of renowned riders vying for glory. At the forefront is Stephen Vieira, a seasoned competitor who has dominated the series so far with an impressive 68 points. Vieira’s unmatched speed and exceptional race-craft has made him a force to be reckoned with. However, the competition is fierce, and Stephon Boodhram, with 45 points, is hot on Vieira’s heels. Boodh -

Digicel Schools Football 2023…

ram’s consistent podium finishes have kept him within striking distance of the championship lead. Following closely behind are Matthew Vieira with 43 points and Kevin Persaud with 42 points, both hungry for victory. Shem Chattersingh, currently on 20 points, will also aim to make his presence felt on the track.

As the South Dakota Grand Prix powered by Enet approaches, anticipation has reached fever pitch. The event promises an action-packed spectacle with motorcycle racing enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The

skill, bravery, and determination of these riders will leave fans in awe. While the focus may be on the championship contenders, it’s essential to acknowledge the dedication and talent of all the riders participating in the South Dakota Grand Prix. Each competitor brings his unique style and passion for the sport, making the event a celebration of motorcycle racing. Action starts at 10:00hrs on Sunday. Tickets cost $2000 for adults, $1000 for children and $5000 for clubhouse entry.

Santa Rosa take Region One title; Mahaicony win Region Five

SANTA ROSA and Mahaicony Technical Institute were the respective winners of Regions One and Five districts of the 2023 edition of the Digicel Schools Football tournament.

In the Region One final, it took a well-oiled Santa Rosa machine to beat Port Kaituma at Mabaruma.

Santa Rosa got on the offensive early through Rockwell Harris in the 2nd minute and Roy Vansluytman in the 9th minute and from there controlled the game.

Port Kaituma pulled one back through Anthony Sears in the 62nd min. but time expired and their comeback never got going.

Over in Region Five, it was easy pickings for

the Technical Institute as Belladrum’s own goal was the first on the sheet.

Odeal Mingo (60th) and Jemo Williams (69th) nailed the coffin shut on that encounter.

In Region Six, Berbice Education Institute beat Tutorial 3-1 in their semi-final at Scotts ground.

Berbice Educational had Floyd Chester (5th), Colisi Scipio (8th) and T`Jon Reid (16th) while Tutorial had Dane Singh (22nd).

Meanwhile, matches continue today at venues across the country.

In Georgetown, Queens College plays Dolphin Secondary at the Ministry of Education Ground from 13:30hrs after which St. Roses

will oppose Carmel from 15:00hrs.

Marian Academy and St.Winefrides Secondary clash from 13:00hrs at NIS Ground while West

Ruimveldt and Brickdam play from 14:30hrs at the same venue with the Richard Ishmael vs Charlestown encounter set for 16:00hrs.

There is also the East Bank of Demerara finals set for the Ministry of Education ground from 16:30hrs when Soesdyke meets Friendship.

The Region eight finals between Kato and Paramakatoi is also set for today in Mahdia from 15:30hrs.

Mahaicony Technical Institute were winners of the Region Five district

Kevin Persaud leads Matthew Vieira at a previous meet (Ackeem Thomas photo)

Chanderpaul in West Indies squad for first test

- Athanaze; McKenzie uncapped

(CWI) - The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Men’s Selection Panel today announced the squad for the first match of the Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Series, powered by Yes Bank, against India. The Panel named 13 squad members and two travelling reserve players for the match which will be played at Windsor Park in Dominica from the 12th to 16th July.

There is a first-time callup for left-handed batter Kirk McKenzie, while fellow lefthander Alick Athanaze is the other uncapped player in the squad. There are recalls for all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall, who played his last Test in November 2021, and left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican, who was in the squad which toured Zimbabwe but missed the last tour of South Africa in February.

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie is unavailable for selection as he is undergoing rehabilitation from injury.

“We were very impressed with the approach to batsmanship of McKenzie and Athanaze on the recent ‘A’ Team tour of Bangla -

desh. These are two young players who got good scores and played with great maturity, and we believe they deserve an opportunity,” said Lead Selector, The Most Hon. Dr Desmond Haynes.

“We are without Motie, who is doing his rehabilitation, and this has created an opportunity for Warrican and Cornwall in the spin bowling department. They have both played at Test match level before and are capable of doing the job.”

Haynes added: “We had Jayden Seales here in the camp and he has made good progress during his rehab from surgery. However, we felt he is not yet quite ready to return, and we don’t want to risk him at this stage. Kyle Mayers was also considered but he has some niggles, and the precaution is not to have him in the rigors of a fiveday match at this stage.

“Looking ahead to the series we know it will be a challenging one as we start the new cycle of the ICC Test Match Championship. We want to build and improve and strive to move up the ladder.”

West Indies squad will travel to Dominica on Sunday following their ongoing pre-series camp at Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua. They will have training sessions on Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning in the build-up to the match.

The Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Series powered by Yes Bank will be the first fixtures for both West Indies and India in the new 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. The first match bowls off on Wednesday at 10:00am (9:00am Jamaica/7:30pm India). The second Test on 20th to 24th July at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad will be historic – marking the 100th Test match between West Indies and India.

FULL SQUAD: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice Captain), Alick Athanaze, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kirk McKenzie, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach, Jomel Warrican,

Traveling Reserves: Tevin Imlach, Akeem Jordan

FULL MATCH

SCHEDULE:

Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Series powered by Yes Bank

12-16 July: 1st Cycle

Pure Agarbathi Test Match, Windsor Park, Dominica

20-24 July: 2nd Cycle

Pure Agarbathi Test Match, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad

• start at 10:00am local time (9:00am Jamaica/7:30pm India)

CG United ODI Series powered by Yes Bank

27 July: 1st CG United ODI, Kensington Oval, Barbados

29 July: 2nd CG United ODI, Kensington Oval, Barbados

1 August: 3rd CG United ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad

• start time at 9:30am (8:30am Jamaica/7:00pm India)

T20 Internationals

3 August: 1st T20I, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad

6 August: 2nd T20I, National Stadium, Guyana

8 August: 3rd T20I, National Stadium Guyana

12 August: 4th T20I, Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida

13 August: 5th T20I, Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida

• start time at: 10:30am (9:30am Jamaica/8:00pm India)

Two more youngsters benefit from cricket donation project

FEMALE player Jade

Campbell and her teammate, Enrique Mickle, were the latest young cricketers to benefit from ‘Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana.’

The initiative is a joint project between Anil Beharry and Kishan Das.

Both players are products of Rose Hall Community Centre CC.

Thirteen-year-old Campbell, a student of New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School, is a fast bowler and was the only female cricketer to be selected in the Berbice 2022 under-13 male squad.

Mickle, a student of Canje Secondary School, is a left arm orthodox spinner, who represented Berbice last year at the U-15 level.

He was in the Select 11 for the 2023 tournament.

Both players received one pair of batting gloves each.

The young striving cricketers were very thankful for the gesture.

Total cricket-related items received/purchased so far include $370,000 in cash, thirteen colored cricket uniforms, two trophies, seventeen pairs of cricket boots, thirty pairs of batting pads, thirty-one cricket bats, twenty-eight pairs of batting gloves, twenty-one thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, four arm guards, two boxes, nine cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets and one softball cricket bat.

In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wicket-keeper/batsman.

All cash collected is being used to purchase needed

cricket gear.

To date, sixty-three young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from the programme.

Cricket-related items,

used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana.

Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the re -

cipients.

Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify talent. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth

programme will also benefit.

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

Brian Lara (centre) with Kirk McKenzie (left) and Alick Athanaze

Jade Campbell (left) collects her gear from Balram Samaroo who presented on behalf of the project Enrique Mickle collects his gear

Vishok and Danny to challenge Ramchand for SI&C Inc Group 3 C/Ship

The competition is heating up as the Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc. (SI&C Inc) Group 3 Championship gears up for Round 2, which is set to take place tomorrow at the Timehri Race track for the South Dakota Grand Prix, powered by ENet.

Following a thrilling opening round, fans eagerly anticipate the return of two top contenders: Vishok Persaud, in his Lotus, and Danny Persaud, in the Miata, both of whom missed

Round 1.

Currently leading the championship is the tal -

ented Anand Ramchand, who will face stiff competition as several formidable

competitors make their much-anticipated comeback.

After missing out on the first round, Vishok will look to make up for lost ground.

Piloting his Lotus, he has showcased remarkable skill and determination in previous championships. Also making his return to competition is Danny, who will once again be behind the wheel of his powerful Miata. Known for his aggressive driving style and ability to push his car to its limits, Danny Persaud is a force to be reckoned with on the race track.

Though he missed Round 1, like Vishok, his past performances have made him a formidable contender.

Anand Ramchand leads the SI&C Inc. Group 3 Championship. He will undoubtedly aim to extend his lead and further solidify his position as the championship favourite. However, with the return of Vishok and Danny Persaud, he cannot afford to rest, as the competition promises to be fierce.

De Sinco Limited National Junior Chess Qualifiers set for this weekend

THE battle to crown the National Junior Chess Champion for the title begins today at the National Stadium, Providence, with the Junior Qualifying Event.

The tournament, which will be sponsored by De Sinco Trading, will run for four consecutive days at the commencing from today to July 11, 2023.

It is the same venue where current Junior

Champion, Ricardo Narine, earned his title last year by fighting through the qualifiers into a gruelling nine-round championship resulting in a playoff.

As the reigning champion, Narine automatically qualifies for this year’s Championship event.

Any number of Guyanese chess players age 19 and younger on January 1st, 2023, can compete in the 7-round qualifying

tournament where the top nine players will advance to the Championship.

From there, Narine will defend his title in a round-robin tournament set to commence from July 14th to July 19th.

Last year’s event showcased intense rivalry amongst the young players when the tournament returned after a two-year hiatus owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guinness Nat Senior Squash C/Ships…

Nicolette Fernandes

By Sean Devers

THE third night of the Guinness National Senior Championships was another night of compelling Squash at the Georgetown (GT) Club as Jonathan Antczak created a major upset.

Playing on Court 2, Antczak, sporting a Blue Bandanna, produced his best Squash to beat the much-touted Ben Mekdeci 3-2 in an exhilarating fivegame match.

Favorite Mekdeci began

according to plan and took the first game 11-7 before losing the second 5-11 as both players played some astounding shots.

Long Rallies were many times followed up by well executed drop shots while the pair matched each other with immaculate cross court shots as Antczak won the third game 11-9.

Mekdeci trailed 2-1.

Mekdeci took the fourth game 12-10 to take the match into a deciding fifth stanza.

The pumped up Antczak raced to a big lead and Mek-

This year’s event is expected to be even more exciting, with participation and competitiveness steadily increasing in every youth tournament since.

Registration is $1000 for junior members of the Guyana Chess Federation and $2000 for non-members. Registration will be done only online on guyanachess.gy and closes on July 7th at 20:00hrs.

The 4-day event, spon-

sored by DeSinco Ltd, is set to attract chess players from various schools in the regions.

Seven rounds of classical matches will be played on a time control of 90 minutes with 30-second increments after each move from 9:00hrs daily.

Additional information can be found on the GCF's new website, guyanachess. gy.

The Guyana Chess

Federation is thrilled once again to have DeSinco Ltd partnering to provide this opportunity to the young and eager Guyanese chess players who will challenge for the title.

The GCF would also like to express gratitude to the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Sport for again providing the use of the National Stadium for this annual event.

victorious, Antczak upsets Mekdeci

deci, who seemed exhausted from playing five games, was beaten 11-2.

The very fit Nicolette Fernandes, who celebrated her 40th birthday last month, demonstrated why she has six Caribbean tittles with excellent use of the Court and an array of powerful backhand drives against the much younger Larrissa Wiltshire.

Larrissa, despite not getting too many points, displayed some skilful shots which had Fernandes applauding her less experienced opponent for successful points.

The eventual scores of 11-4, 11-6, 11-2 to Fernandes was not a true indication of how well Larrissa played.

Playing against Guyana’s most acclaimed female Squash player, even at Fernandes’ age, would have been a learning experience for the youngest sibling of three talented Squash players and the daughter of former Southern Caribbean Champion, Garfield Wiltshire.

Other results:

Women’s Veterans: Michelle Low beat Tian Edwards 11-3, 11-8, 11-6.

Women’s National Draw: Mary Fung-a-Fat beat Ashley De Groot 11-7, 11-6, 117; Taylor Fernandes-Henry beat Akeila Wiltshire 12-10, 11-5, 4-11, 11-6; Avery Arjoon beat Emily Fung-a-Fat 11-2,11-2, 11-1.

Men’s National draw: Deje Dias beat Regan Pollard 13-11, 11-8, 11-2; Alex Arjoon beat Jerazeno Bell 11-7, 11-3, 11-6; Louis Da Silva beat Peter De Groot 11-9, 11-5, 6-11, 11-7.

Jason Ray Khalil beat Nicholas Verwey 11-6, 11-2, 11-3; Chad De Abreu beat Miguel Wong 11-7, 6-11,

11-8, 11-3; Demetrius De Abreu beat Avinash Oditt 11-8, 9-11, 11-9, 11-7; Samuel Ince-Carvalhal beat Steven Xavier 11-6,11-4, 11-6; Mohryan Baksh beat Jason Van Dijk 11-9, 7-11, 11-4, 11-3; Josh Verwey beat Dane Pereira 10-12, 11-5; Shomari Wiltshire beat Michael Alphonso 10-12, 11-5, 11-8, 11-9; Lee Fung-a-Fat beat Richard Rodrigues 10-12, 11-3,11-2, 11-3.

Men’s Veteran Over 50: Brian Edwards beat Lloyd Fung-a-Fat 11-7, 7-11, 117, 11-5.

Vishok Persaud in his Lotus Exige (Ackeem Thomas photo)

Region One winners, Santa Rosa

Nicolette Fernandes (right) beat a ‘game’ Larrissa Wiltshire 11-4, 11-5, 11-2 at the Georgetown Club (Sean Devers photo)