Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-06-2023

‘We borrow to invest in things that matter’

Exxon’s liability insurance case: Appeal Court grants stay of High Court decision, orders US$2B to be lodged to alleviate ‘concerns’

By Clestine Juan

JUSTICE of Appeal Rishi

Persaud, on Thursday, granted a stay of a High Court order that required Esso Exploration and Production (Guyana) Limited (EEGPL), a local affiliate of ExxonMobil, to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee for its offshore oil operations.

He also mandated the company to lodge a US$2 billion guarantee, while the appeal against the lower court's decision is being heard and determined.

During the delivery of his judgment on Thursday regarding the merits of the appeal filed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Justice Persaud highlighted that the EPA's appeal has a good chance of success.

He emphasised that his order for Esso to provide

the guarantee, aims to alleviate any concerns or worries about potential adverse consequences.

Justice Persaud's decision seeks to strike a balance by granting a temporary stay on the requirement for an unlimited parent company guarantee while still ensuring that a substantial guarantee is in place to address any potential risks associated with the ongoing oil operations.

During his ruling at the Kingston-based court, Justice Persaud said that the court had the jurisdiction to hear the appeal.

In his ruling, the judge stressed that it seems on the face of the case that Justice Kissoon misconstrued the processes in relation to the acquisition of insurance here.

In this particular case, the judge said that the EPA can be considered an expert

body which ought to have prompted judicial restraint since the body is better placed to evaluate such complex legal matters within its expertise.

Having considered all

the above, the judge conceded that the appeal has the prospect of success.

Considering the interest of justice, the judge placed weight on Exxon's submission that the revenue loss to the permit holder and more importantly Guyana, may have serious implications and devastating consequences in the event of a permit suspension.

In an effort to allay any anxiety as to impending doom, as conceived by some and moreover, in the interest of justice, Justice Persaud ordered Esso to provide the guarantee in the sum of US$2 billion within 10 days or the stay would be dismissed.

On May 3, Justice Kissoon found that the oil giant “engaged in a disingenuous attempt” to dilute its obligations under its environmental permit for its Liza One project, by not fully meeting insurance requirements relating to environmental protections.

MISINTERPRETATIONS

Attorney Sanjeev Datadin had moved to the Appellate Court arguing that Justice Kissoon made an error in interpreting and applying two legal provisions related to an environmental permit issued to a company called Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd.

The first provision is Clause 14 of the Environmental Permit, which is a condition the company must comply with to operate in

Guyana.

The second provision is Section 31(2) of the Environmental Protection Act, which sets out requirements for financial assurances that companies must provide in relation to environmental permits.

“This is a simple issue of interpretation. The existence of insurance has never prevented something from happening. Insurance is to compensate when the event occurs. The insurance will only be applicable whenever the ill befall. All that the guarantee will try to do is make it right after the fact,” he said.

He further argued that Justice Kissoon made a mistake by considering “extraneous matters” in his decision, specifically referring to the “unlimited guarantee” requirement.

Datadin further submitted that the permit only mentions a “fixed sum” and not an unlimited guarantee, and that considering the guarantee as a protector of potential events is incorrect.

Additionally, he said that the respondents’ reliance on the contract imbalance between Exxon and the government is irrelevant to the current matter.

He pointed out that if someone is unhappy with the contract, there are other actions that can be taken, and it does not affect the issue at hand.

According to Datadin, the lower court made an error by implying an un -

limited guarantee that does not exist in the permit or the Environmental Protection Act.

He claimed that the court invented the concept of an unlimited guarantee and used it as a weapon against the defendants.

According to Datadin, Justice Kissoon overstepped the functions of the EPA, bypassing other available options by issuing a coercive order.

Meanwhile, Esso’s attorney, Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo, submitted that Condition 14 of the Environmental Permit does not require an unlimited guarantee.

He maintained that Justice Kissoon misinterpreted the clear language of the condition and that it only provides for an estimate of a finite sum based on a formula outlined in the permit.

Luckhoo rejected the characterisation of the absence of an unlimited guarantee as “self-serving” and emphasised that the interpretation of Condition 14 is solely a matter of law.

He argued that no evidence was presented to support Justice Kissoon’s conclusion that Esso is an asset-less subsidiary of ExxonMobil.

Luckhoo also pointed out that the 2017 permit did not include a requirement for financial assurance, and it was only introduced when the permit was renewed in 2022.

Attorney-at-law Sanjeev Datadin

Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo

Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud

‘We keep our word!’

they should be voted for.

The penultimate speaker of the evening, Dr. Jagdeo told the sizeable gathering that every commitment being made by the candidates will come to pass if the PPP/C is given a chance to lead Georgetown.

government level can be expected to filter down to the local government level.

“We are about progress. Every day you see us we are doing something,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

government that year. He said the difference between the PPP and the APNU are glaring.

THE People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), on Thursday, made another appeal to Georgetown residents for a chance to get their vote and lead the municipality, as General Secretary of the PPP, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, called on residents to trust in the party’s promises to develop the city.

As the Local Government Elections (LGEs) campaigning comes down the final stretch with just three days remaining until the country

heads to the polls, the PPP/C held two public meetings on Thursday evening, when residents of Georgetown were introduced to the various candidates who are the face of the party at this year’s LGEs.

Addressing the first meeting at the South Ruimveldt GWI well site, the various candidates, many of whom were Afro Guyanese, spoke about the different development plans for their respective constituencies and laid out their case for why

“I came here tonight to look every one of you in your faces and say the promises made by our candidates have the full support of the PPP. We take campaigning seriously when we say something, we mean it. We work very hard against all odds. We are a serious party and take our promises seriously,” Dr. Jagdeo related to his audience.

To make his case, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to the many commitments that were contained in the PPP/C’s manifesto, which was unveiled for the 2020 General and Regional Elections. The General Secretary also alluded to many of the promises that have already been fulfilled.

He said the same approach taken at the central

He contrasted the PPP/ C’s approach with that of the main political opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), led by the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R).

“We keep our word. We are not an elections only party like they are, they only show up at elections time. You will always have a sympathetic ear from us in the good times and in the bad. We love this country dearly we work for people of every race, every religion. You will

lic meeting was Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who called on the residents to allow the PPP/C to “take Georgetown to a higher place”.

“Every year we [central government] throw a lot of money at City Council and they can’t show us what they do with that money. Our candidates, they will bring a higher level of commitment, working overtime

Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that the APNU failed to implement many of its 2015 manifesto promises when the party took over central

see the difference between us and APNU. We keep faith with people and we keep our promises,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

Also speaking at the pub-

to improve the life and livelihood of all of us who live in Georgetown,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

‘We borrow to invest in things that matter’

THE General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday, addressed concerns regarding the government's borrowing practices, and countered ill-informed criticisms by highlighting that Guyana's national debt stands at a mere 12 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

Owing to its low debtGDP ratio, Guyana has one of the lowest rates worldwide compared to the past when the country was highly indebted.

In his response, Dr. Jagdeo emphasised the party's commitment to fiscal responsibility and highlighted the successful management of debt, underscoring the positive impact on the country's financial viability and development.

He said that Guyana's debt profile had significantly improved over the years. Referring to an affidavit by Carl Greenidge, a former Finance Minister, in the Green Mining Construction Arbitration, Dr. Jagdeo revealed that the debt-to-revenue ratio had dropped from 913 per cent to approximately 12 per cent of the country's GDP.

This figure represents one of the lowest debt ratios globally. Moreover, only seven-eight per cent of revenue is now allocated to servicing the debt.

To reinforce the government's prudent borrowing strat-

egy, Jagdeo pointed out that the majority of loans acquired were fixed-rate loans, reducing concerns about potential interest rate escalations.

He also related that the country had not taken any private variable interest loans but had instead secured two variable interest loans from multilateral financial institutions known as IFIs (International Financial Institutions).

Dr. Jagdeo stressed the significance of PPP/C’s historical debt management efforts, which had transformed Guyana from a financially struggling nation to one with considerable financial viability even before the discovery of oil and gas reserves.

“...If you look at our history, you will see one thing that the PPP has done, one of our greatest successes is that

- Dr. Jagdeo defends PPP/C government’s borrowing strategy; highlights party’s strong debt management abilities

stock and create opportunities for economic growth and job creation. Notably, borrowing was not used for consumptive purposes.

“When we borrow, we borrow to invest in things that matter. We can pay it back easily. We don't borrow to eat; we borrow to build the capital stock of this country. So, our

people can benefit, they can use that to create new industries and new jobs,” Dr. Jagdeo clarified.

He added that the borrowing was done strategically to foster economic development, create new industries, and improve the lives of the Guyanese people.

The International Mon -

etary Fund (IMF) projects a continued economic boom for Guyana, with 37.2 per cent GDP growth expected in 2023.

According to the IMF, the country’s GDP experienced unprecedented growth in 2022, reaching a record high of 62.3 per cent, with non-oil GDP expanding by 11.5 per cent.

we never speak enough about people, talk about the roads and water and stuff. We took a bankrupt country and restored it to financial viability, and this was even before oil and gas,” he said.

Jagdeo revealed that the debt-to-GDP ratio had declined from a staggering 913 per cent to around 45 per cent before the oil and gas era, far below the global average; this showcased the government's commitment to responsible fiscal practices.

Dr. Jagdeo also highlighted the purpose of the government's borrowing, stressing that investments were made in critical infrastructure, such as healthcare systems, roads, power plants, ports, and modern water systems.

The objective was to enhance the country's capital

PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo (Adrian Narine photo)

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips addresses a roaring crowd at South Ruimveldt (Delano Williams photo)

A section of the massive crowd at the South Ruimveldt GWI well site (Delano Williams photo)

- Dr. Jagdeo tells Georgetown residents the PPP/C is not an elections only party; says its track record of delivering speaks for itself

Norton’s attacks on First Lady a ‘new low’

- Dr. Jagdeo says

GENERAL Secretary for the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday, condemned attacks on the First Lady, Arya Ali, by the Opposition leader, Aubrey Norton.

Despite parading around with a mask of civility and honesty during their press conferences, the PPP General Secretary said the opposition is everything it claims it’s not, especially given the recent attack on the First Lady.

He said: “On the ground, their campaign, by the same individuals, often, it tells a different story and this has always been the duality of APNU.”

Dr. Jagdeo labelled the opposition’s campaigning of

disparaging persons’ character and spreading lies in communities as “downright vile.”

Instead of focusing on their campaign, according to the General Secretary, APNU members often decide to cast their sole focus on him and the President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, adding that the opposition is filled with malicious people.

“So, it's nothing new, but it took a new low when the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Norton, went after the First Lady in a vile way, knowing she would not be able to defend herself because she is not part of the politics and the campaign,”

Jagdeo remarked.

Calling it a “disgusting thing by a very small-minded

Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton

man,” the PPP General Secretary said he does not know if Norton just hates women or believes he can bully them, considering suspected past actions.

Jagdeo was also disappointed by the women's Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)'s silence on the entire scenario.

“All of these women NGOs around the country… sometimes I'm disgusted by their behaviour because they are political. They say they

defend women's rights, but they just sit down and do nothing about it,” Jagdeo said.

The PPP General Secretary was confident that if the tables were turned and it was a PPP/C member who made any distasteful comment towards an APNU member, the NGOs would be quick to voice their opinions.

According to him: “Just imagine if one of us had said that in relation to an APNU person, the First Lady. You would have had now an outcry by some of the same cowards, the cowards who pretend.”

In a viral video, Opposition Leader, Norton, at a public meeting, decided to take ‘jabs,’ and make snarky remarks at the First Lady in an attempt to respond to the President’s recent exposure of APNU’s history of poor governance and lack of transparency and credibility.

RONDEL Anthony Douglas, a 30-year-old Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard lieutenant was, on Thursday, fatally shot during an alleged robbery at Cul-de-Sac Street, North Ruimveldt.

According to a police report, Douglas, a licensed firearm holder and resident of Bagotville, would usually use his motorcar, a Toyota Feilder wagon bearing registration # PZZ 703, to do part-time work as a taxi driver with Allading Taxi Service, which is located at La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

The owner of the taxi service told police that on the day in question, an identifiable male went to the taxi base and hired the victim to transport him.

According to a resident of Cul-de-Sac Street, at around 22:30 hours, he was at home when he heard a loud explosion suspected to be a gunshot which caused him to look out his window.

He reportedly saw a white Feilder Wagon motorcar heading out of the area at a fast rate of speed and a person lying on the ground,

in a pool of blood.

Two wounds were visible on his chest and head.

So far, CCTV footage has been retrieved, and police are looking for the suspects and the motorcar as investigations continue.

The GDF extended sincere condolences to the wife, family and friends of Lieutenant Douglas.

Douglas was enlisted into the Guyana Defence Force on February 15, 2012, and was a graduate of the Standard Officer Course 44. He was a first-year full-time student at the University of Guyana, pursuing a Degree in Computer Science.

Lt (CG) Douglas was a committed and dedicated officer who last served as Aide-de-Camp to the former Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess.

The Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force mourn with his wife, Candaceae Mc Lean–Douglas and their daughter, Adirah, and the other members of his immediate family.

GDF

fatally shot during alleged robbery

Cleopatra and the Little Mermaid: Notes on non-White racism

SECTIONS of the Egyptian society have rejected the Netflix production of Cleopatra because they said that the film did not portray the true skin colour of the ancient queen. The film has a Black woman as the star. Influential voices of Egyptian society argued that their ancient queen was white-skinned.

In China, Japan and South Korea, Disney’s film, The Little Mermaid failed miserably, hardly taking in any money. In all three countries, the vexation was over a Black star playing the underwater girl. They preferred a white-skinned mermaid.

The controversy over the dark complexion of the two lead actors has profound implications for understanding the role of skin colour in the evolution of the human race. In discussing racism, some points here need be noted.

The famous dark complexioned American media personality born in India, Fareed Zakaria, wrote that the worst forms of racism he encountered came from non-White people in the US. Zakaria did not offer any details, but I am assuming it came from three fronts. Latin Americans and Arabs who are very whitish in complexion and South Indians like light skinned Pakistanis and Indians.

Former Black President, Barack Obama, in support of the deportation of Haitians said he does not accept open borders.

This is coming from a man whose father was a migrant from Africa. Current Black Vice President, Kamala Harris went to the US border with Mexico and told the thousands waiting to cross to stay at home. There would have been no Kamala Harris if it wasn’t for her mother leaving India and father leaving Jamaica, both settling in the US.

In one of the most outstanding essays in international relation studies of recent times, Sankaran Krisna, professor at the University of Hawaii wrote this: “Obama found himself imprisoned – or imprison himself –in narratives that arguably produced (in the US) yet another white president rather than its first Black one.” Krisna did not spare Obama.

He continued: “With his bi-racial background, one would have expected him to deal with the world with more racial empathy. Obama

began to provincialise his understanding of the world so as to further ‘Americanize’ himself and to complete his journey to whiteness.”

(Source “Violence and International Relations in the Third World” (eds.), Randolph Persaud and Narendran Kumarakulasingham).

Some of the most Draconian anti-immigration laws have been pioneered by two East Indian women ministers in the UK- Priti Patel, former Home Affairs Minister and current Home Affairs, Suella Braverman. Ms. Braverman is considered by most liberal and leftists thinkers to be racist against immigrants and she has the backing of her boss, the Prime Minister who is East Indian.

In the US, an East Indian woman running for president next year, Nikki Haley is ragingly anti-immigrant. Susan Rice, a Black woman came into worldview when she was appointed as UN ambassador by Barack Obama. Her resignation last month as director of the US Domestic Policy Council was hailed by pro-immigrant organisations who consider Rice an anti-immigrant hardliner.

In India, when Rishi Sunak was selected as Prime Minister of the UK, there was widespread rejoicing because his parents are from India.

But last month, the Sunak government banned foreign students who are allowed to stay in the UK from bringing in their parents. The policy was directed at students from India who Ms. Braverman said used the sys-

tem too freely. On hearing of that policy, one wonders if the folks from India are still enamoured with Mr. Sunak.

Now, the irony of it all is that the Little Mermaid did very good at the box office in White countries. It just goes to show how complex is the human psyche. You would have thought that it would be White folks that would have objected to the fishy girl being made into a Black swimmer.

Non-white racism against non-white people is a reality that has been with civilization since time immemorial. Non-White people are fooling themselves if they think they would be better treated in non-White countries.

I doubt dark-skinned humans are welcomed in Lebanon. I doubt African people will be accepted in South Korea, Japan, China, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Caucasian folks, particularly White Americans, would definitely be favoured. It doesn’t matter to the Japanese that the US threw the atom bomb on them. It doesn’t matter to the Vietnamese that the US bombed the hell out of them.

About the reaction of Algerians to Black Americans, one should read the memoir of radical American communist, Elaine Mokhtefi. As the chaperon to the Black Panthers who sought exile in Algeria, Mokhtefi was scared that with their penchant for night club life, the Panthers would get a rude-awakening about Algerian racism. And they did.

Time for New Management

EVERY time it rains heavily, downtown Georgetown becomes a disaster zone where chaos dominates.

Unfortunately, citizens including shop owners and those single parent-mothers, who are on a hustle to provide for their children are left to suffer as a result of the poor performance of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

Over the last decade, the state of affairs in the city have deteriorated significantly. The only solution now, is a change of management.

Downtown Georgetown has always taken the brunt of City Hall’s incompetence. Almost every street is flooded. If they are not completely covered, the sides are. Oftentimes the dirty water

covers the pavements, which are there for the safety of pedestrians.

This situation has ripple effects. Pedestrians are unable to use the pavements to get to their respective destination and this forces them to walk on the roadway, sometimes in the middle of it to avoid their feet getting wet. Vehicles now have to dodge them.

Flooded streets is every driver’s nightmare. Motorists are forced to drive at snail’s pace to avoid damaging their vehicles and splashing water on pedestrians and cyclists.

Also, store owners have to consider closing their doors for the day while the vendors are unable to sell at all. This means that some families would be unable to

eat proper meals in the coming days or some parents may not have money to send their children to school.

When it rains, all the unwanted bottles, boxes and other garbage, float up and sometimes hey accumulate in the middle of the road.

Irresponsible citizens and the low lying feature of the coastline is often the excuse used by those in the authority to justify the continuous flooding of downtown Georgetown and other parts of the city.

Frankly speaking, these are trivial excuses that would be chewed up and spit out in any debate. These were the same excuses made 20 years ago, and they ought not to be accepted 23 years later.

We are living in changing

times, times where technology has revolutionised our way of life. There are measures we here in Guyana can adopt to deal with the disadvantages of our situation. Other countries have risen above their challenges and so can we.

The blame for the state of the city lies squarely at the feet of City Hall. There are legal measures in place to deal with those nasty citizens who love to throw their garbage all over the place, however, these are seldom used. So, that excuse holds no weight.

Unless City Hall sends a message that littering will not be tolerated, citizens will continue to dispose of their garbage in an irresponsible way. Their responsibility

does not absolve City Hall of blame as the buck stops there.

Urban planners, sanitation workers, engineers and the other key persons, have to work together to find the best solutions to the problems facing our city. These are problems that are fixable, but they require proper leadership and team work. The absence of one or both has led to the chaos we experience every time it rains too hard.

After an hour of heavy rain on Thursday, downtown Georgetown was in chaos. Imagine what can happen after 12 hours of rain.

The sad part of it all, is that it is known that May/ June is the rainy season; a period where the rainfall is heavier than usual. Yet, City Hall doesn’t take precaution-

ary measures to step up their game so as to prevent chaos.

Come Monday, residents of Georgetown will head to their respective polling stations to vote at the local government elections. Councillors and the mayor will be chosen through this voting process.

Citizens ought to look at the track record of the current M&CC as well as the ones before them, be honest with themselves and vote for those who want to bring about change.

It is time to choose leaders who can do well for the city. There is need for a change in management and this is the first step to addressing the many problems, including the chaos that the rain brings.

The PPP/C is all about honesty, humility and harmony

Dear Editor, GUYANESE at home and those abroad especially, are familiar with the terms “all-weather roads and all-weather tires.”

All-weather road may be defined as, “a road of sufficient construction and firmness for vehicles and equipment to traverse during normal inclement weather, including expected rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.”

All-weather road means a gravel or paved surface that can support a fully loaded pump truck in all seasons. All-weather tire may be construed as “a tire designed to handle the roads during any season.”

Combining the benefits of both all-season and snow tires, all-weather tires cover you throughout the year — meaning they meet the standard for winter use while still being usable for spring, summer, and autumn.

Recently, a leader booming and blooming with initiative, innovation and illustration, introduced the term, “all-weather government.” His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, an immaculate and impres-

sive man for all seasons, who is difficult to imitate and impersonate, is always investing and improvising.

The Head of State at a massive rally in Mahaicony, told the iconic red gathering: “This party is about improving the well-being of people. It is about investing in communities and investing in the lives of people. This is a party you can rely on. This is a party that sticks to its commitment. This is an all-weather party. We come in the sunshine and in rain.”

The applauding crowd went berserk with a standing ovation and flags flaying the faultless air, knowing that, even if Guyana is blessed with snow, the PPP/C will prevail and prevent any possible problems when it comes to protecting the people.

The PPP/C administration is a “government for all” according to Vice President, Dr. Bharat Jagdeo. President Ali has inculcated and introduced the concept of “One Guyana.”

This successful theme has been a selling point throughout Guyana and has knitted and molded the peoples of Guyana to forge a common identity and

truly propagate “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”

The PPP/C has broken all barriers and is the only party fully equipped to boast and brag that it comprises a combination of all ethnicities, with a large composition of young males and females.

It is the only party that portrays a true representation to reflect Guyana’s sons and daughters. President Ali broadcasted, “We have some young candidates and they are fully prepared and they are ready to work for you. They are ready to bring development to all the NDCs….”

No wonder it is the only party which is contesting in all the constituencies in all the regions at the upcoming Local Government Elections.

While in Region One, Dr. Ali said: “We believe that all of us as Guyanese are equal and all of us must equally benefit from the transformation of the country.”

The PPP/C Government has dramatically demonstrated that it is a government which will primarily serve all the people of Guyana in a peaceful, pro-

gressive and prosperous manner with priority.

From inception on its indoctrination on August 5, 2020, President Ali swore allegiance to provide for the people of Guyana and remove all obstacles and obstructions which the PNC administration had implemented to impede the growth of Guyana and Guyanese because of so many road blocks, pit-falls and encumbrances.

President Ali said in Region Two: “We came back into government and removed all those increases.”

All those evil taxes implemented by the PNC Government during 2015 to 2020 to hurt the agriculture industry and the farmers and thus, the entire nation because of its cyclic effect, were immediately removed to create relief.

The PPP/C Party is all about giving and not taking. When the legal and legitimate PPP/C Party took office in 2020, it did not give itself salary increases like the PNC Party did when they assumed office in 2015.

But the PPP/C Party announced the restoration of Christmas bonuses for all the

military men, something which the PNC Government had taken away.

President Irfaan Ali declared, “Ensuring that we put back more money in the pockets of people is what this government is about: giving to the people, empowering the people of our country.”

In 2021, the PPP/C Government reintroduced the “Because We Care” cash grant which was maliciously taken away from the innocent children by the devious PNC former administration.

Each child from nursery, primary and secondary public and private schools can once again enjoy the $35,000 cash grant plus $5,000 for school uniform and school supplies.

The PPP/C is all about “honesty, humility and harmony.”

When the PPP/C demitted office in 2015, it handed the PNC Party a GDP per capita of US $5,580. That Party over a five year period was only able to extend the purchasing power parity level to $6,863 when they lost the election in 2020.

With the PPP/C Government at the helm, in 2021 the GDP per capita rose by 45.69% to $9,999,

without the input of oil revenue!

Currently, it is $60,648. The Natural Resource Fund held at the New York Federal Reserve Bank has over US$1.4 billion.

All revenues reserved must be declared by the Finance Minister and published in the gazette. There are various control mechanism factored in order to manage the funds. The PNC did hide the US$18 million signing bonus and failed to publicly declare it.

The President and his Cabinet members have continuously visited all the regions and made themselves into cleaners in order to protect and care for the environment, something the PNC Party has never contributed to.

Notwithstanding, President Ali shakes hands with all, even with Norton, the Opposition Leader, who refuses to shake hands.

It is only the PPP/C that has all the necessary ingredients enveloped in a one package that can formulate the success of the nation to garner peace, progress and prosperity because, it is an all-party, people and policy participant!

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Change and Development: Vote for issues, not race

Dear Editor,

AS a young and responsible citizen, I would like to urge every Guyanese, who is empowered to vote in the June 12, 2023 elections, to cast their ballots taking into account “issues” as opposed to “race.”

For too long, Guyanese have given in to the temptations and lure of voting according to which party “looks like you,” and would presumably advance “your interests.” We, as Guyanese, fail to take into consideration the ‘issues’ that are affecting our areas, communities, and our local democratic organs.

We sometimes forget that these large parties and their candidates have not done what they said they would do for us, and we give them a free pass or entertain the garbage they spew when they come to us for our votes.

We fall in love with them again not learning from our mistakes and holding them accountable or transparent

for the state of roads, drainage and irrigation, community social and health services, and other plans that they are supposed to see to fruition.

We live in the same flooded communities and traverse the same deplorable roads. Our community centres are falling apart and buildings like health posts and recreational centres are in a state of disrepair.

I have seen them use us, discard us, and throw the promises they made to us in the bin. Once they get to hold Office as a municipal councillor, town councillor or local government councillor, they then do the same old thing that they are known for – politics, grandstanding, and holding back progress.

Yet, we, still vote for the same party that has failed our communities because it is safe and easy to vote ‘race’.

I want to plead with you to break the generational curse or trend that has seen us voting for race in our

community or area. It has not done a thing for us since independence. For example, Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam, Bartica and Mahdia are still facing the same issues and are still underdeveloped when one looks at the full potential of those areas to transform Guyana since 1966.

You can blindly blame the ruling PPP/C but the APNU+AFC came to power in 2015 to August 2020 and did absolutely nothing of consequence in Georgetown, Linden and New Amsterdam to name a few towns. At least, those towns that are managed properly by the PPP/C have seen rapid development and positive change albeit minor setbacks in certain areas.

Communities along the East Coast and East Bank Demerara and much of the country that put their trust in the PPP/C have all been transformed at the local level compared with the ones that are aligned to the PNC/

APNU+AFC that have been fighting against the tide of development and change that is taking place in Guyana.

They were voting race in the past but this year, I want to urge all citizens to look at the party’s track record and promises to make an informed decision that could result in change, progress and development, or the same status quo continuing well into the next election.

In order to feel the importance of the power of a ballot, one has to think with the heart, mind and consciousness leaving the eyes and other physical inclinations behind. You cannot be bought or influenced to change your loyalty for one party unless you consider the truth, facts, and state of your community.

And the fact is Guyana is developing and changing drastically for the better because it has a very workable, realistic and grassroots plan. It also has a political party that is concerned about its people and wants to be given a chance at managing at the community level for the first time.

Break the cycle and cre-

ate change for your community, roads and enhancement!

I think the General Secretary and President of Guyana have realised this very point and have been making inroads and gains in the communities across the country which are seen as Afro-Guyanese or APNU/PNC.

They want development to reach every Guyanese community regardless of the geopolitics or race that serves as a barrier in seeing the dream of realising ‘One Guyana’.

For young people, the ball is in your court as well. I dare say these are the group of people that can impact the future of their communities and areas, by just not paying attention to the tales and political philosophy of their parents and looking in depth at the policies and issues of change and development that are before them now.

They have to break the cycle and vote according to who can do it, and who has the 21st-century mindset that can transform their lives and communities.

I doubt that that is the APNU/PNC politicians at the local level, and am more

inclined to believe that it is the youths and adults that the PPP/C have on their slate this time around. Just look at the campaigns and you will see.

The PPP/C is talking about progress and development, while the APNU is regressive in terms of policy issues.

Finally, if one puts makeup and cosmetics on a pig, it is still a pig. If one dresses a sloth as a roadrunner or cheetah, it will still move slowly and not fast. The lesson is to take risks and choose change, progress and development, and break the cycle of race voting in your community and by extension Guyana.

On Monday, June 12, 2023, vote for progress, change and continued development. Vote for safer communities, safer homes and community enhancements.

Vote wisely. Nobody owns you or your vote in these elections. You are not property or machinery that is programmed to vote a certain way. You are a thinker and must be responsible in the decision-making process. Vote PPP/C, if it pleases you.

Yours truly, Michael Younge

All pumps operable!

By Naomi Parris

HEAVY rainfall and the negligence of the A

C)-led City Hall, on Thursday morning, left several sections of Georgetown inundated,

Despite the situation, Mustapha affirmed that all pumps were operable, but floodwaters did not

“We had approximately four inches of rainfall over the three hours’ time that I went out… at that time, a number of areas were under water but although the pumps were operable, they were not able to drain off all the water at the said time because of the amount of water that we had,” Mustapha said following an inspection of several city pumps.

Sluices were opened to assist with additional drainage, however, several clogged drains left many areas underwater.

“The drains are a matter for the City Council and they have not been doing it… sometimes the big canals are low and the water in the drains are not meeting the main current because the City Council has not been cleaning these areas. As a result of that, some of these areas we are now looking to clear it,” Mustapha said.

He added that engineers attached to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) were assigned to ensure all 13 pumps in George-

town were operable. Mustapha further appealed to residents to avoid littering and to ensure they take the necessary precautions and also to pay attention to the weather forecast which is available on the Hydromet Department’s website and social media pages.

Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica) were significantly affected.

According to the Civil Defence Commission

TURN TOP PAGE 10

Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AF -

according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.

recede rapidly because of the high intensity of rainfall.

- Minister Mustapha affirms, after City Hall’s negligence leads to flooding around Georgetown

Several city pumps were operable (Japheth Savory photos)

All pumps...

merara-Upper Berbice) were also affected.

At the time of this report, water was receding in Regions seven and 10, while no reports of damage to infrastructure or property were made.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s Hydrometeorological Service recently reported that Guyana can expect below average rainfall from July 2023.

Typically, continuous wetness (often accompanied by localised flooding) persists to the end of July in many regions.

and inland rivers across all regions are expected to remain adequate until the end of June and decrease thereafter. Additionally, the potential for flash floods due to heavy rainfall remains high for June, with the highest amounts of rainfall expected in Regions Seven and northern Eight.

All of Guyana could expect warmer than usual (above-normal) day and

night-time temperatures over the coming months.

Temperatures are expected to be warmer when compared to the same period of previous years (and recent months). Dry days will be significantly warmer than wet days.

The Hydrometeorological Service recommends that rain-fed agriculture and large-scale water users harvest rainwater during the latter

part of June to compensate for deficiencies in the coming months.

As heat and dust will be of concern in late July, it is recommended that shelter be provided for animals, while citizens should stay hydrated and, where possible; outdoor activities should be limited during the mid-day hours.

FROM PAGE 9

However, these conditions, in general, are not expected to persist beyond the end of June. The country is expected to begin transitioning into dry conditions by mid- July because of the influence of El Niño. At this stage, it is expected that El Niño will be the main driver of local weather for the remainder of the year.

Water supply in conservancies, reservoirs,

(CDC), Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Re-

gion Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo) and Region 10 (Upper De -

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha inspecting a city pump (MoA photo)

A flooded Norton Street, Georgetown (Japheth Savory photos)

PPP/C heading for avalanche victory at LGEs

(LGEs).

This is the latest finding of an ongoing opinion tracking poll to determine the outcome and support of voting in the 80 local authority areas (LAAs) that are divided into 10 municipalities and 70 neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs).

demographics of the population.

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is a rolling political avalanche, overpowering the opposition APNU (PNC)

and its partner affiliates and other political outfits and independents ahead of Monday’s Local Government Elections

The tracking opinion survey is being undertaken by Dr Vishnu Bisram, who has been conducting surveys in Guyana and the Caribbean since the 1980s.

The ongoing opinion tracking poll is based on the views of some 2,200 respondents to reflect the

The findings have been analysed at a 95 per cent confidence level and a margin of error of four per cent was found, meaning support varies by four per cent.

Based on the findings of the survey, the PPP/C is projected to garner some 72 per cent support and the opposition APNU, 19 per cent, all others will attract four per cent, and five per

cent unknown, undecided and unwilling to reveal their choices.

The findings revealed that voters are polarised along ethnic lines. Almost all Indians are voting PPP/C, with hardly any voting for APNU whose support comes primarily from Africans and Mixed.

The PPP/C is attracting racial crossover support in every LAA including in traditional PNC strong-

holds.

In addition, the findings of the survey suggest that the PNC has been losing momentum while PPP has been gaining ground among those who plan to vote. Campaigners for the PNC have gone quiet while those of PPP have been very active.

There does not seem to be much PNC presence on the ground, not even in campaign paraphernalia

TURN TO PAGE 12

Dr. Vishnu Bisram

PPP/C heading for avalanche...

FROM PAGE 11

(posters and the like). The campaign has become a shell of what it was in 2016 and 2018.

The PNC supporters say it appears that the party or its leadership seems incapable of defending its interest in too many LAAs, and are querying why likeable political figures are not on the campaign trail or not seen publicly.

The PPP/C is the only political party contesting all seats and all LAAs. The party is not facing a contest in over half of the seats, including in Lethem where the PNC had a vibrant pres-

ence in 2018.

The PPP/C has won 13 LAAs through default. No contests will impact on the total number as well as percentage of votes garnered by the PPP/C.

Based on the findings of the survey, the PPP/C has been making voter gains in every LAA and in every constituency. The PPP/C is projected to wrest seats (and LAAs) held by the APNU in 2016 and or in 2018.

The APNU is not projected to capture any seat (or LAA) won by the PPP in 2016 or 2018. Gains made by the APNU+AFC

coalition in 2016 and 2018 are being reversed with voters complaining about a lack of PNC campaign presence; AFC is not contesting this election.

Voters complain they have not been seeing an active public presence of well-known figures like Roysdale Forde, Christopher Jones, Amanda Walton-Desir, Volda Lawrence, Ganesh Mahipal, Ubraj Narine, among others, that could have boosted the status and support of the party.

The PPP/C is making gains because of its “performance” and the popular-

ity of its two leading political leaders, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo as well as Civic leader, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips.

The APNU (PNC) has lost ground to the PPP/C primarily because of what supporters say is uninspiring leadership.

They say a new leader in the form o f Roysdale Forde/Amanza Walton-Desir/Volda Lawrence would have stemmed and or recovered losses. They have very high approval ratings in the base. In addition, Forde has wide racial crossover appeal.

Based on the findings of voter support, the PPP/C is projected to retain the five municipalities it won

in 2018. Bartica, held by the PNC, has become a toss-up. PPP/C is also making gains in votes in Linden and seats in New Amsterdam and Georgetown.

New Amsterdam is a close fight with PNC ahead; Mahdia is also a close contest with the arson tragedy inserting uncertainty in the outcome. The PPP is also putting up a stiff contest in Georgetown where the PNC is fighting hard to stem losses.

Voters in Georgetown, like elsewhere, complain about unsuitable leadership and poor choice of candidates that is also negatively impacting party support nationwide.

The newly formed In-

dependent Citizens for Progress (led by media personality Bobby Vieira) is attracting votes from PNC and could win seats in Georgetown.

In Constituency 13, for example, Jamal Adams is doing quite well against Winston Harding with the PPP candidate trailing way behind. Harding’s name is embroiled in a controversy that has hurt the electoral fortune of himself and the party.

Aside from the municipalities, PPP has also made gains in votes and seats in several NDCs held by APNU. The PPP is on course to winning over 80 per cent of the seats – an unprecedented victory in the history of the nation.

‘Hydromet’ head first Guyanese on Executive Council of World Meteorological Organisation

DURING the recently concluded 19th World Meteorological Congress in Geneva, Switzerland, Guyana’s Chief Hydrometeorological Officer, Dr. Garvin Cummings was

teorological Organization (IMO-WMO) was formed some 150 years ago, that a Guyanese has been elected to serve on the Council.

The Executive Council is the highest

Executive Council.

The congress was held from May 22 to June 2, 2023, and saw officials from Member States and territories assembling to discuss and determine the stra-

marked the 150th anniversary since the organisation of the International Meteorological Organization and the WMO (IMO-WMO) was formed.

Director of the Argentine Meteorological Institute, Professor Celeste Saulo, was also elected to serve as the Secretary-General of

the WMO.

Dr. Saulo is the first female to be elected as Secretary General after previously serving in various capacities within the WMO framework and governance structure, and will be tasked with leading the Secretariat of the WMO for the next financial period, 2024-2027.

The congress also elected representatives to manage the organisation over the next four years including its President, three Vice Presidents, and its Executive Council. The WMO comprises 193 Member States and Territories.

elected to serve on the Executive Council of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

This is the first time, since the International Meteorological Organization/World Me -

decision-making body of the WMO, outside of the World Meteorological Congress.

Some 27 directors of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) were elected to serve on the

tegic direction of the organisation for the next four years.

The 19th congress was considered a significant milestone in the history of the global hydrometeorological community, as it also

Chief Hydrometeorological Officer, Dr. Garvin Cummings, with the recently elected 1st female Secretary-General of the WMO, Professor Celeste Saulo of Argentina

Region Two residents impressed with fast pace of development

- laud PPP/C gov’t for consistency

THOUSANDS of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) residents are benefitting from a better quality of life thanks to the efforts of the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), which has repaired the damage done by the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) from 20152020, residents have said.

Following a recent pub-

lating, jobs weren’t circulating… financially, people were suffering.”

The Airy Hall resident then called out the opposition for feeding the people of Region Two “empty promises and lies.”

“They [APNU+AFC] promised us a lot of things and we couldn’t see none of the manifesto [promises] being successful,” she said.

The same views were shared by a number of other

lic meeting held at the Supenaam Waterfront, President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, assured citizens that even though their lives have already been transformed within just three years of the PPP/C being in office, much more was in store for the Cinderella County.

After speaking with several locals, the Guyana Chronicle ascertained how those developments have enhanced the region’s capacity and outlook.

Shanta Sankar, a resident of Airy Hall, related that since the PPP/C was elected to office, her family’s life has transformed significantly.

According to Sankar, when the APNU+AFC was in power, the hardships that the people of Essequibo faced were unbelievable.

She remarked: “We had a lot of losses in our businesses… more than what we buy, we throw away.”

Sankar added that numerous businesses across the region endured immense sufferings during the coalition’s tenure owing to harsh taxes, among other “thoughtless” implementations.

Sankar then went on to say: “Money wasn’t circu-

locals, including parents who praised the Because We Care cash grant.

Additionally, PPP/C Local Government Elections candidates shared similar views, emphasising the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s unwavering dedication to improving the standard of living for all Guyanese, especially with Guyana now experiencing advancements under his governance.

Additionally, Seelochnie of Good Hope, who is also a PPP/C LGE PR candidate, said that because of the government’s outstanding work, she wants to aid in spreading progress.

Highlighting that despite President Ali’s fight to destroy racism, it is lingering in some backdoors.

Seelochnie, however, said: “We do everything for everyone here and we always live in love and unity,” adding that the people of the Pomeroon-Supenaam are gathered under the President’s “One Guyana” initiative to continue fighting for all.

“I think their [APNU+AFC] vulgarity is so much that their own people [are] turning against them,” she added.

Shanta Sankar

Iwokrama, NTC partner to push community development, biodiversity conservation

- other initiatives, after signing Memorandum of Understanding

THE Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development (Iwokrama) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) to collaborate

pare their Village Sustainability Outline Plans (VSPs) under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.

The simple signing ceremony held at the NTC’s Hadfield Street Secretariat was attended by Vice Chairwoman,

natural resources management and preserving Indigenous languages and culture, among other things.

He further related that Iwokrama has a long-standing Collaborative Management Agreement (CMA) with

on initiatives relating to community development, biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods and climate change, including, but not limited to research, training, capacity development, and education and awareness, to advance national development.

According to a press release, the MoU also allows Iwokrama and the NTC to make joint funding proposals and to collaborate on project implementation.

In April this year, Iwokrama supported the NTC’s mentorship of Indigenous villages and communities in South Central & Deep South-Rupununi to pre-

Toshao Sonia Latchman; Iwokrama’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dane Gobin; Director for Resource Management and Training, Dr. Raquel Thomas, and Iwokrama Special Projects and Certification Coordinator, Anne-Marie Ford and Executive Members of the NTC.

Gobin, in brief remarks, said that he was pleased to have engaged formally with the NTC which, he said, will widen the scope for collaboration between the two entities in order to support activities under the LCDS 2030.

These activities will include but not be limited to collaborative research, sustainable

the North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB), which represents the communities of the North Rupununi. Latchman said that she was happy to have engaged Iwokrama, and the NTC looks forward to a fruitful relationship as they move forward with development plans for the villages and communities in Guyana. She thanked Iwokrama for the recent support in which an NTC Executive, Toshao Michael Thomas, assisted the villages and satellites in South Central and Deep South Rupununi to develop their village outline plans.

Iwokrama’s CEO, Dane Gobin and Vice Chairwoman of the NTC, Sonia Latchman, after the signing of the MoU, along with other representatives of the NTC and Iwokrama

Simone Dowding’s 10th children’s drama workshop to begin July 8

PURPLE Arts Productions, led by longstanding member of the local entertainment industry, Simone Dowding, will be

presenting its 10th Children’s Drama Workshop from July 8 to September 2, which aims to teach young minds the funda-

mental aspects of drama.

Children's drama therapy, stage breathing, stage geography, and how to master the art of listening,

are just some of the topics on the agenda for Dowding, who usually conducts the workshop at the Theatre Guild Playhouse in Kingston.

She aims to attract about 25 students each year, ages 9 to 16, so that she can be able to give them the attention they need to master the art of costume and stage management, playwriting, directing, and acting.

Dowding told Buzz this week that, by means of the workshop, she helps the children to build a good foundation in terms of their skills, confidence and self-esteem.

“They come with their talent; I just nurture it,” she said.

So far, she’s been seeing that the workshop has been providing positive results. About four of the children now act in Merun-

doi, and about six are doing plays, advertisements and movies.

Just recently, the Ministry of Health sought Dowding’s help in securing five children for an advertisement.

“They called and said that they were able to finish the ‘ad’ within an hour because of the children’s knowledge of cameras and stage and so forth,” Dowding proudly reflected.

“It’s going to be mostly practical because you don’t want to burden the children with literature. You just want them to enjoy themselves,” Dowding said about the workshop, which will be held on Saturdays, from 10:00 hours

Continued on page 17

How to master the art of costume and stage management, playwriting, directing, and acting are the main components of the workshop

Simone Dowding with some of the children who were participating in one of her workshops

Guyanese/St. Lucian entertainer making a name for himself

the people over here. People debate whether I’m a Guyanese or a St. Lucian and whom it is I am representing. But Guyana is where I was

born and I am a proud Guyanese,” he continued.

So his plan is to come home and network with certain promoters and DJs

so that the audience here can see and appreciate his work as well. He also has the opening of a business here in mind.

JEMAUL Richmond, a Guyanese entertainer based in Saint Lucia, has been doing great things for himself, racking up the admiration and love of the people there and even landing a few international collaborations.

The Linden-born songwriter, singer, and performer left Guyana when he was just about two years old. He was raised in Saint Lucia.

When he was 15, though, he returned to Guyana and spent five years before leaving again.

In an interview with Buzz this week, Jemaul said he has always been back and forth between Guyana and

Saint Lucia. Even though he spent most of his years on the island, Guyana is still very close to his heart.

“I’m always in Guyana,” he said.

Seeing himself as the “frontrunner for Dancehall for Saint Lucia,” Jemaul said he does “hardcore dancehall,” while he shares his time as a businessman with his clothing and footwear store called Popular Trends.

He started writing music in 2012 but began doing it professionally in 2021 when things started looking up for him in St. Lucia with his well-received song ‘Dawg Life.’

“After the video shoot for this song, a few snippets were leaked and it made headlines here. Since then, I have just been releasing tracks and holding my position as the frontrunner for dancehall in St. Lucia,” he shared.

Even as his career has taken off in St. Lucia, Jemaul never forgets where it all started. The first time he recorded a song was in Guyana.

“That’s where my career actually started. Only when I returned to Saint Lucia I started taking it seriously,” he recalled.

While he totally appreciates the love he is receiving from the folks where he is, Jemaul said he’d love if the Guyanese audience can feel the same way.

“The hardest part of it is to know I am the frontrunner for dancehall in Saint. Lucia and my people (in Guyana) are yet to catch on to that. I realised I have to come back home and put in a lot more work.

“I get a lot of love from

Simone Dowding’s 10th...

From page 16

to midday.

The workshop usually culminates in a grand show called ‘Emerge’, which features the participants.

Explaining how the workshop all got started, Dowding recalled that she wanted to do something in theatre after being trained for many years. She eventually formed her company with the introduction of the

children’s workshop.

Children pay a small tuition fee, but even those who cannot afford the money are taken in by Dowding, who said she has a fondness for children.

Having graduated from the E.R Burrowes School of Art and other institutions, she ended up with a total of 13 certificates and won Theatre Guild’s Best Actress Award in 2012 for the play ‘Old Story Times’.

Through her company, Dowding works primarily with children and seeks to provide them with opportunities that she never enjoyed as a child.

Having worked on the popular production ‘Link Show’ over the years, Dowding has produced ‘House of Pressure’, ‘Miriamy’, ‘Eleventh Finger’, and ‘Jezebel’, among other shows.

Guyanese/St. Lucian entertainer Jemaul Richmond

Jemaul who is a Lindenborn songwriter, singer, and performer, is the frontrunner for dancehall music in Saint Lucia

FumaCon - Guyana’s first anime and comic convention

By Akola Thompson

IN 2021, Rafaela Oviedo and Juliana Lopes had a conversation about creating an anime and comic convention.

At the time, there was only one cosplay event hosted in Guyana by a large company, and though Guyana has

an avid entertainment scene, events involving the realm of fandom would’ve never been touched before as an industry. It was in recognising this gap that Oviedo, CEO of Seishonen, envisioned events by which avenues for the youth would be provided so they could express their creative interests and showcase

commerce and talent, such as was seen in the development of its signature event, FumaCon.

“During the pandemic, FumaCon was initially created to bring back some optimism and freedom to our youth that they might have missed due to social distancing. Community is essential

for young people and having a safe place for youth to congregate is essential for their development," said the team.

Besides the event being an anime and comic convention, they want young people to feel passionate about pursuing their passions and as such, partnered with Watchroom Technologies Inc.

"Watchroom is a community platform based on voice where people come to discuss anime and react to the latest episodes. The developers behind Watchroom are young award-winning and Emmy-nominated founders with backgrounds in tech, entertainment, and video and animation-based innovation. With this collaboration, we were able to create a temporary, free FumaCon x Watchroom server for Guyanese to discuss their favourite shows and manga,” said the team.

“Promoting Guyanese culture is another vision behind FumaCon’s branding.

Most notably, our logo features one of Guyana’s most popular birds, the Kisadee. We’ve also paid homage to Indigenous culture by including its linguistic heritage in our event named “FumaCon.” Fuma meaning “Fire,” is derived from one of our Indigenous people's languages, Arawak.”

Their vision was realised with their first FumaCon event being held in 2022, making it the first of its kind in Guyana to host almost 2,000 young persons, from ages six to 30+ to cosplay as their favourite characters, support local businesses and cultivate friendships.

Lopes noted that many of FumaCon’s exhibitors were youth-led businesses between the ages of 18-25 years old.

“Our team considers this a major accomplishment since we want to develop FumaCon into a fun, commercial hub for a variety of businesses. Since our team

comprises small business owners, we were happy to create a space for retail businesses to sell their products/ services," she said.

"In our planning and logistics phase, FumaCon provided part-time employment for 20 young people. It was important for our team to hire experienced youth to create our designs, contract development etc."

It was incredibly important to them to create a space for young people to earn, as access to finance remains a major hurdle for many young persons, and has been a challenge for the organisers and the execution of their event. A Cultural and Creative Industries grant from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in 2022 helped them to execute their vision.

FumaCon 2023 takes place on October 14 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. (Loop Entertainment)

Silver for Konshens’

Bruck

KEYBOARDIST and music producer Christopher Birch says predicting a hit song isn't always possible. His main focus is creating songs that stand the test of time.

"For me, it's all about making music and having fun with it. Things happen and sometimes they don't happen. Sometimes you put in the marketing and the effort and it doesn't work. But I'm not disappointed when it doesn't work. So, in a nutshell, we always have to be surprised

off Yuh Back

and give thanks at the same time," Birch shared in an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Tuesday.

Last Friday, one of Birch's productions, Bruck off Yuh Back by Konshens was certified silver in the United Kingdom for sales exceeding 200,000 units.

Bruck Off Yuh Back, released in late 2015, was a massive hit for the Duhaney Park-raised Konshens.

The song was recorded at his Subkonshus Records

Konshens

Continued on page 19

FumaCon is the first cosplay event in Guyana.

Silver for Konshens’ ...

From page 18

studio in Kingston. Said Birch: "I started a project and voiced two artistes. The rhythm was sent to Konshens and two days later he sent back the song. It was at my studio. I was the one who built the rhythm."

Birch is quite upbeat about the certification for Bruck Off Yuh Back which was issued by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI).

"I'm giving thanks. Silver, gold or platinum, the sky's the limit. Let's go!"

This is the first British-certified single for Konshens. He earned a gold certification in Belgium and Germany as well as a platinum certification in the Netherlands for the hit 2015 single Policeman with Dutch singer Eva Simons.

Policeman was produced by Sidney Samson with former Campion College alum, Grammy-nominated Rodney Hill working on the marketing side.

The song topped charts in Suriname, Israel, and Belgium. It also made charts in Austria, France, the Netherlands, and Germany.

Birch who has worked on several albums by Shaggy, earned certificaions for his co-production of the song Hey

Sexy Lady, which had been released in 2002 and features on Shaggy's Lucky Day album. The song has been certified platinum in Canada and Australia and gold in Belgium. It also features Brian and Tony Gold.

It peaked at #10 in the United Kingdom and #97 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart.

In France, Hey Sexy Lady has sold in excess of 300,000 units.

Birch, a former member of Shaggy's band, started out with the SANE Band. He also worked with several bands on the hotel cabaret circuit and later ventured into music production.

He came to the fore with the Thrilla rhythm, released in 2004 on his Echo label. It spawned Macka Diamond's breakthrough hit Done Already, Exit Sign by Voice Mail, Get On Up and Dance by Elephant Man, Solid as a Rock by T.O.K., and Stand Firm by Bounty Killer, among others.

He has toured with several acts through the years, including Buju Banton, Marcia Griffiths, Tony Rebel, Wayne Wonder, Mutabruka, and Diana King.

(Jamaica Observer)

Tupac honoured with posthumous star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

AWARD-WINNING rapper, activist and actor, Tupac Shakur, received a posthumous star on Wednesday on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where his sister and fellow rappers spoke of the musician's legacy around the world.

“Tupac knew deep down that he was always meant for something great,” Sekyiwa Shakur said amid the crowd of around 100 people. “As his little sister, I had the privilege to watch that greatness unfold.”

Shakur rose from a childhood of poverty in Harlem to become one of the best-selling musical artistes with over 75 million records sold worldwide.

“From the first time he stepped foot on the stage of the Apollo Theater at 13 years old, before anyone recognised his name, he knew he had the dream to have a star here on the Walk

of Fame,” she said.

Shakur was killed in 1996 at age 25 in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas that has never been solved.

Fellow members of the late rapper's music

group Outlawz, Malcom Greenidge, known by his stage name, E.D.I. Mean, and hip-hop legend David Marvin, known as DJ Quik, also attended the ceremony.

E.D.I Mean recounted

the legacy of the “California Love” artiste and said his impact was “etched in stone.”

One of Tupac’s most well-known credits includes the song “Dear Mama,” which was dedicated to his mom, Afeni Shakur.

“You see those murals of him in Africa, Asia, South America and Europe,” said Allen Hughes, director of a recent Hulu documentary about Shakur titled "Dear Mama."

"Then one day it hit me. Tupac Amaru Shakur has become a global symbol of rebellion. A symbol is visible and important as Malcolm X and Che Guevara and an inspiration for activists today," Hughes said. (Reuters)

Sekyiwa 'Set' Shakur and Director Allen Hughes pose with the star of Rapper Tupac Shakur during its posthumous unveiling ceremony on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, California, U.S. on June 7, 2023 (REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni)

RACING TIPS

Race 1 Galvaston

Race 2 Secret Storm Race 3 Ghoul

Race 4 Raging Bear

Race 5 Big Executive Race 6 Four Aces High Race 7 Coach Abernaty

2023 World Cup fixtures to be released 'as soon as we possibly can'-ICC

ICC INTENDS

The ICC intends to publish a full schedule for the men's 2023 ODI World Cup "as soon as we possibly can," according to their chief executive, Geoff Allardice. The tournament hosted by India is expected to start in four months' time, with venues and fixtures still unconfirmed.

The schedule for the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales was released on April 26, 2018, 13 months before the opening game, while the schedule for

the 2015 tournament in Australia and New Zealand was released on July 30, 2013 - a full 18 months before the first match.

The fixtures for this year's World Cup, however, remain unknown. ESPNcricinfo reported in March that the tournament is expected to run from October 5 to November 19, but the ICC has not publicly confirmed any dates.

Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, had recently said that the schedule would be unveiled during the ongoing World Test Championship

NBA Finals:

(WTC) final at The Oval, but Allardice did not commit to that timeline during an interview on the BBC's Test Match Special; and ESPNcricinfo understands the fixtures may not be made

Denver Nuggets beat Miami Heat 109-94 to take 2-1 lead

built for these moments.

"Jamal is a guy that thrives, lives and excels in the moment - never afraid of it. And you can't say that for a lot of players."

Jimmy Butler scored 28 points and Bam Adebayo claimed 22 points and 17 rebounds for the Heat, who at one stage trailed by 21 in front of a crowd containing five-time NBA champion Magic Johnson, footballers Neymar and Paul Pogba and singer Shakira.

NIKOLA Jokic and Jamal Murray starred as the Denver Nuggets beat the Miami Heat 109-94 to take a 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals.

Jokic scored 32 points, becoming the first player to record 30 points, 20 rebounds and 10 assists in the Finals.

Murray finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists to complete his own triple-double in the final seconds.

The best-of-seven series resumes at the same venue, Kaseya Center in Miami, on Friday (01:30 BST Saturday).

Jokic and Murray are the first team-mates to post triple-doubles in the same Finals game, and the first to post 30-point triple-doubles in the same game at any stage of the season.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone described it as "by

far their greatest performance as a duo in their seven years together".

"Nothing he does surprises me, ever," Malone said of Jokic. "The guy has shown over and over again that he's

The Nuggets - beaten 111-108 in Denver on Sunday - have never won the NBA Championship, while the Heat are hoping to become the first eighth seeds to triumph.(BBC Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday June 09, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) WI won by 78 runs

(2) Johnson Charles (WI)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the WI opening stand in the second ODI of the ongoing series versus UAE?

(2) What was the UAE opening partnership of the second game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

public until next week.

"I think even today (Wednesday) we might be receiving the schedule from the hosts, and we've just got a bit of consultation to do with all the participating

teams and the broadcasters. Then we'll be publishing that as soon as we possibly can," Allardice said.

"When we put on events, we very much work hand in hand with the hosts.

"And in some places, there's a lot of consultation that needs to take place, both within the cricket system and with governments, etc. There's a lot of responsibility on a host to deliver a good event, and they've got to go through the right checks and balances."

Allardice was asked whether Pakistan's willingness to play in India had any bearing on the apparent delay in the fixtures being

announced, but he declined to elaborate.

"Until I see the schedule… I'm waiting, and I'm hoping that I'll see something in the next day or two on that," he said. "Our events team is very experienced at putting on cricket events in all different countries, and you control what you control.

"And I think that's the approach that our team is taking, and they're working on the things that they can progress for the event. The moment we have that information, we'll be pushing on it at a rate of knots."(BBC Sport)

Four months out from the 2023 World Cup, and fans don't know the fixtures yet • Peter Summers/Getty Images

Nikola Jokic (left) and Jamal Murray combined for 66 points in the 109-94 win by the Nuggets

Seamers build on Smith's ton to give Australia control

AUSTRALIA's bowlers showed India just where they had gone wrong on day one; their quicks settling into the perfect length on a still helpful Oval pitch as their side took control of the World Test Championship (WTC) final. By stumps on day two, Australia had reduced India to 151 for 5 in reply to their first-innings total of 469.

The fast bowlers did the bulk of the damage, but there was also a wicket for Nathan Lyon, off a dipping, turning off-break that had Ravindra Jadeja, India's top-scorer, nicking to first slip some 15 minutes from stumps, to end a 71-run fifth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane.

The wicket, and the manner it came, may have added more fuel to the debate surrounding India's selection, and the exclusion of R Ashwin against an Australian line-up heavy on left-hand batters.

(Scores:India 151 for 5 (Jadeja 48, Boland 1-29, Lyon 1-4) trail Australia 469 (Head 163, Smith 121, Siraj 4-108) by 318 runs

For all that, India's major issues came about not because they picked four quicks but because of how they bowled. On a pitch bouncier than the typical Indian surface, they needed to pitch the ball fuller than the traditional good length to challenge the stumps consistently and bring all modes of dismissal into play.

They didn't do this consistently enough, and even though their bowlers fought back through the first half of day two to take 7 for 142, it perhaps came a little too late, because they had let Australia run away to 327 for 3 on day one.

Bowled out almost exactly halfway into the day's play, Australia's fast bowlers came out and showed how it's done, on a pitch that was now beginning to sport cracks all over its surface.

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins overpitched frequently at the start of their new-ball spells, and Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill got off to a breezy start, but

it seemed a matter of time before the quicks figured out the ideal length - full but not driveable.

Cummins hit this length with the last ball of the sixth over, nipping it in and trapping the half-forward Rohit in front. Then Scott Boland, a bowler seemingly designed in a lab to bowl in these conditions, bowled a wicked in-dipper - to follow nine probing dot balls to the two openers - that Gill fatally shouldered arms to.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli then put on 20 either side of tea, looking in good touch but always wary of the seam movement and occasional inconsistent bounce that characterised this surface, before Cameron Green produced a replica of the Boland ball that had bowled Gill. Pujara produced a replica of Gill's response, and India were 50 for 3, all of their top three either bowled or lbw.

It became 71 for 4 when the returning Starc joined the party with a vicious delivery to Kohli, slanted across from left-arm over and taking off from a length. Kohli, pressing onto the front foot, was in no position to negotiate it safely; all he could do was glove the ball to second slip.

Rahane could have fallen soon after, had Cummins not overstepped when he bowled a peach that straightened from that perfect fullish length to beat his outside edge and hit his back pad roughly in front of off stump. Rahane reviewed after being given out on the field, and replays picked up the no-ball; ball-tracking showed two reds and an umpire's call verdict on the line of impact.

Batting against the old Dukes ball has been significantly easier than it has been against the new one over the last two English summers, with Nos. 5 and 6 averaging a world-leading 53.08 here since the start of 2022, while Nos. 1 to 4 average 31.28 - they've only done worse in the West Indies (31.00) in this period. After a nervy early period that included that close lbw call and a pair of leading edges from Jadeja, India's fifth-wicket pair certainly looked in a lot

more comfort than their top-order counterparts.

Jadeja, who profited from Australia's bowlers - Starc in particular - overpitching frequently to him, rattled along at close to a run a ball, while Rahane, returning to Test cricket for the first time since January 2022, ticked over more sedately while looking just as fluent. India would have hoped their partnership extended to stumps; Lyon punctured those hopes, striking with his ninth ball of the match.

The day had dawned clear and sunny with Steven Smith five short of his 31st Test hundred and Travis Head four short of 150.

They raced past their respective milestones quickly, with Mohammed Siraj offering Smith a pair of straight half-volleys in the first over of the morning to start the day on an ominous note for India.

Things improved, though, with a sustained short-ball attack at Head's body finally yielding success when the left-hander gloved Siraj down the leg side on 163. Mohammed Shami then produced a beauty to send back the No. 6 Green, slanting a full ball in from wide of the crease to draw a loose drive away from the body.

Smith was next to go, pushing away from his body at an innocuous Shardul Thakur away-curler to play on for 121. India had struck three times before Australia reached 400, and may have hoped to wrap up their innings not too long after, but a counterattacking 48 from Alex Carey carried the score past 450. Carey rode his luck - particularly against Umesh Yadav who beat his bat repeatedly in a short spell after lunch - before he fell in familiar fashion, lbw attempting a reverse-sweep against a stumpto-stump delivery from Jadeja.

That was the only Australian wicket to fall to spin; Siraj ended as India's most successful bowler, finishing with figures of 4 for 108, while Shami and Thakur bagged two apiece. (Cricinfo)

Mitchell Starc celebrates after dismissing Virat Kohli• (Getty Images)

Muchova to face Swiatek in French Open women’s final after stunning Shabalenka

Czech player Karolina Muchova became one of the lowest ranked players to reach the French Open women's final as she edged a thriller against Belarusian second seed Aryna Sabalenka.

Ranked 43rd in the world, Muchova won 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (57) 7-5 after saving a match point at 5-2 in the decider.

Muchova, 26, will play Polish top seed Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final.

Defending champion Swiatek, 22, won 6-2 7-6 (9-7) against Brazilian 14th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia later on Thursday.

Sabalenka's exit means Swiatek will remain world number one, a position she has held for 62 consecutive weeks, after she beat 27-year-old Haddad Maia.

Sabalenka, 25, served for the match in the decider but was overcome with tension as Muchova kept her composure to win an epic in three hours 13 minutes.

"I don't really know what happened," said Muchova, who is the fourth lowest-ranked woman to reach the final after Swiatek, Jelena Ostapenko and Renata Tomanova.

"It is unbelievable. I tried to keep fighting and it worked. I'm so happy."

Muchova covered her face with a towel as she sat and contemplated the magnitude of her achievement, a stark contrast to when she sobbed on her chair at Roland Garros last year after having to retire injured from her

third-round match.

Swiatek will be the overwhelming favourite to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen for a third time, having reached the final without losing a set and only dropping 23 games in her six matches.

Against 27-year-old Haddad Maia, the 2020 and 2022 champion faced moments of uncertainty but ultimately had enough quality to come through her toughest test yet.

After losing serve to love in the opening game, Swiatek quickly recovered to break back and won the final four games to wrap up the first set.

Haddad Maia, playing in her first major semi-final after never previously going past the third round, moved 3-1 ahead in the second set and pushed Swiatek with her consistent returning.

While Swiatek broke back for 3-3, Haddad Maia's level remained high and it needed a

tie-break to separate them.

Haddad Maia saved a match point with a winner down the line, but was powerless to stop the second which sparked a manic celebration from the relieved Swiatek.

On reaching a third final in four years, she said: "It's really amazing."

Muchova keeps nerve as Sabalenka loses hers

Before play started on women's semi-finals day, many expected Swiatek would be trying to set up another final against Sabalenka when she walked out on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The pair have been the two dominant players in the world this year, already contested the Stuttgart and Madrid finals on clay, and both moved serenely through the draw to the last four.

But, in an unexpected twist, Australian Open champion Sabalenka came unstuck against the unheralded Muchova, who

fell down the rankings after being ravaged by injuries.

Muchova reached the Australian Open semi-finals in 2021 before the physical problems stalled her progress, but has reminded everyone at Roland Garros of her undoubted talent.

Playing with her usual nous and variety, Muchova posed questions for Sabalenka throughout and showed her resilience to hang in when it looked as though she was heading towards defeat

Sabalenka had started stronger in the decider, Muchova fighting off four break points for 1-1 before the Czech lost serve to trail 4-2.

Knowing two holds of serve would be enough to see her through, Sabalenka moved 5-2 ahead but was unable to close out victory when Muchova saved a match point with a crunching forehand.

But, serving for the set, Sabalenka became tight - an old failing that resurfaced at the worst possible time as she aimed to reach back-to-back Grand Slam finals.

A poor game allowed Muchova to restore parity, more nerves creeping in for Sabalenka when she served for a 6-5 lead.

Last year, Sabalenka used a psychologist in a bid to rectify the issue of producing costly double faults and, after stopping working with a specialist in pre-season because she wanted to "take responsibility" herself, had stemmed the flow in a successful year.

(BBC Sport)

Charles backs Sammy to make positive impact

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) – Johnson Charles has praised Darren Sammy’s inspirational leadership and believes he will prove a positive impact on the entire white-ball squad.

Sammy, a two-time T20 World Cup winning captain, was last month appointed head coach of the One-Day International and T20 squads, and began his tenure with a series win over United Arab Emirates on Tuesday.

Charles, who played in both the 2012 and 2016 T20 World Cup finals under Sammy, said his fellow St Lucian’s presence was always influential.

“Not just mine (performance), it has a positive impact on everybody’s performance because he’s an inspirational leader,” Charles said here after scoring a Manof-the-Match 63, to fire West

Moeen Ali added to England Ashes squad after Jack Leach injury

All-rounder Moeen Ali has come out of Test retirement to join the England squad for the first two of the five Ashes Tests against Australia.

Moeen replaces spinner Jack Leach, who misses the series after suffering a stress fracture in his back.

He reversed his decision after being approached by England captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.

The 35-year-old said he found the Test format "really difficult to get into" when he retired in September 2021.

Rob Key, managing director of England men's cricket, said: "We reached out to Mo early this week about returning to Test cricket. Having had a couple of days to reflect, Mo is excited to join the squad and play Test cricket again. His vast experience, along with his allround ability, will benefit our Ashes campaign.

"We wish Mo and the rest of the squad well for the Ashes campaign."

West Indies took all their opposition seriously.

“People can say what they want and people make their judgements. It’s fair enough,” the 34-year-old said.

“But we’ve learnt that you never take any opposition for granted, so in saying that, it’s very nice we came out with a series win – two out of two so far.

'Moeen return the best move England could make'

Moeen, who will turn 36 during the first Test at Edgbaston, has played 64 Tests for England, scoring 2,914 runs and taking 195 wickets.

Ben Stokes (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood. 'Short lived but demonstrates seriousness of situation' - analysis Jonathan Agnew, BBC cricket correspondent It demonstrates the seriousness of the situation that England have reached out to a player that hasn't appeared in first-class cricket for two years.

Indies to a 78-run victory over UAE in the second ODI here Tuesday.

“So,, I think that positiveness will definitely run down on the other guys and it will push us to bring out our best.”

He added: “Positiveness is definitely up there as number one [among Sammy’s qualities, along with] inspirational. These are the two main things about his coaching I

could highlight right now.”

West Indies won the opening ODI by seven wickets last Sunday and returned to take the series with another convincing win, to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

With the Caribbean side ranked seventh in the ICC charts and UAE languishing at 19th, the series was anticipated to be a lopsided affair, but Charles said it was critical

“I find that the team is gelling very well. We have been playing as a unit, we have been playing to our strengths and working on that, and how we want to play in the World Cup qualifiers and going forward.

“I think that we’ve played well, we’ve definitely not taken them for granted, so that’s a good thing.”

West Indies will contest the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe later this month.

The off-spinner has a mixed record against Australia, taking 20 wickets in 11 Tests, at an average of 64.65, and scoring 476 runs, at 25.05.

Moeen may come straight into the team for Leach, and will add depth to England's batting, with him likely to bat at eight.

Stokes and McCullum also have the option of going with an all-pace attack for Edgbaston, with the Test beginning on 16 June.

England squad for first two Ashes Tests:

He's committed to franchise cricket. Moeen will be part of England's World Cup squad in the autumn but any return to the Test squad seems short-lived.

This is the situation that England find themselves in and Moeen's return must dent the hopes of Surrey's Will Jacks, Hampshire's Liam Dawson and Leicestershire's Rehan Ahmed.

It also suggests that Moeen, who will strengthen the batting, will play at Edgbaston with England reluctant to go into the game with an unbalanced four-man pace attack.(BBC Sport)

Karolina Muchova's win means there is a first-time Grand Slam singles finalist playing in the French Open women's final for a fifth successive year

West Indies white-ball head coach, Darren Sammy

Moeen Ali replaces Jack Leach who misses the Ashes series through injury

BCB president visits Whim Cricket Club as outreach programme continues

-Orealla benefits from historic coaching sessions

Football in Senegal suspended after deadly protests

THE Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) says it has suspended domestic football until further notice because of deadly protests in the West African nation sparked by the prosecution of an opposition leader.

The move comes amid tensions in Senegal following last week's sentencing of Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison.

Police said the death toll since Thursday had risen to 16, making the protests among the deadliest in recent decades. Two members of the security forces were among those killed, according to the presidency.

THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is forging ahead with its developmental programme and club president, Hilbert Foster, has launched visits to member clubs of the very active cricket board.

Foster, who is known for his constant visits to all parts of the county, visited the Whim Cricket Club to meet with members to bring them up to date on plans of his administration and to listen to any concerns they make have.

The BCB president informed the Whim membership of the progress made over the last six years under his leadership and unveil plans for the future.

Foster explained that the BCB is currently donating batting cages and bowling machines to zones across the county in an effort to make practice sessions more professional for the youths. He also announced that the county was benefitting from an aggressive coaching programme directed at youths with the assistance of Local

Government Minister, Nigel Dharamlall.

Clubs will also benefit from donations of cricket balls to assist them to fulfill their mandates while the BCB is the only cricket board in Guyana to host cricket tournaments at both the primary and secondary school levels. Foster stated that his board is using the first half of the year to play junior and female cricket. He disclosed that during the summer holidays, the BCB would be hosting an historic Under -11 tournament, along with an Under -13, as the effort to unearth new talents continues. The board will use the second half of the year to host second and first division tournaments for senior players.

Foster, who was first elected in 2018, used his influence to resolve some problems affecting the club and its membership. He urged the executives to be more committed and to focus on the development of new talents. He reassured members that he was always available to

meet with them concerning cricket matters.

The BCB president handed over cricket items worth over one hundred and twenty thousand dollars to the club. The items included a practice net, catching crib, scorebook, helmet, a box of cricket balls, wicket-keeping gloves and inners, protective gear and coaching manual.

Foster is committed to assisting the Whim Club with another box of balls and trophies for a fund raising tournament. The tournament, which has been approved by the board, will be used to raise funds to purchase pitch covers. Foster assisted in getting three other clubs to participate.

Whim will, on Sunday, play in a BCB grassroot tournament at the Port Mourant ground sponsored by Arjune Nandu, along with the home team and the Tain Campus of the University of Guyana. Members of the club, at the conclusion of the successful meeting expressed thanks to the BCB President and reassured him that they

would work hard to develop their club .

Meanwhile, the Amerindian community of Orealla benefitted from two days of cricket coaching as the BCB works to promote cricket across the ancient county. Twenty youths in the area were last weekend involved in sessions conducted by BCB Coach Junior Blair.

Emphasis was placed on improving the youths’ abilities in batting, bowling, wicket-keeping and also on the rules of the game. The event was organised with the co-operation of the Orealla Village Council, the management of the Orealla Secondary School and Sir Ikie Henry.

Hilbert Foster said he has committed the board to assist with some cricket gear for the area and also to seek ways to get Orealla to play in junior cricket. Coach Blair has expressed delight at the interest of the youths and their passion for the game.

"All football competitions are suspended until further notice throughout the national territory," the FSF said in a statement, adding that the decision was the result of a government order.

Reigning African champions the Teranga Lions, who have already qualified for next year's Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast, are unaffected by this as they are away to Group L bottom side Benin on 17 June in their qualifying fixture. With five rounds of matches remaining in the Senegalese top tier, table toppers AS Académie Génération Foot are four points ahead of second place Diambars.

Other affected competitions include men's, women's and youth FA Cup fixtures, with knock out stages initially scheduled for 21 to 25 June.

Stars call for peace

The violent situation in Senegal is in stark contrast to the February 2022 celebration when hundreds of thousands of ecstatic fans greeted the football team's return to the capital Dakar after winning the Africa Cup of Nations.

National team captain Kalidou Koulibaly and talisman Sadio Mane are among the country's top footballers who have taken to social media to appeal for peace.

"Over the past two years we have been experiencing episodes of unprecedented violence that have caused many victims," Chelsea defender Koulibaly posted on Instagram, where he has 2.6 million followers.(BBC Sport)

Confident McKenzie hoping to build on Bangladesh form

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Opener Kirk

McKenzie believes confidence was key to his exciting form on West Indies A’s recent tour of Bangladesh, and said he was now focussed on building on those performances.

The 22-year-old lefthander scored 209 runs at an average of 41 in the three four-day “Tests”, hitting 86 in the drawn opener last month before following up with 91 in the second game which

the touring side won by three wickets in Sylhet.

“It was similar conditions to the pitches here in Antigua, so it was an easy adjustment for me,” McKenzie said.

“I just used the form that I had here [during the Headley-Weekes Trophy] and carried it over.”

He continued: “I was just really confident. The ball was coming onto the bat nicely, I was in good positions and it just happened I was scoring fast. I just took that and

tried to make the most of it.”

McKenzie was in great nick during the Headley-Weekes Tri-Series last month, hitting a monumental 221 for West Indies Academy against Team Weekes at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

He faced 386 balls in nearly 8-1/2 hours and struck 26 fours and a six.

The knock cemented his place on the Bangladesh tour, where the Joshua Da Silva-led West Indies A dominated to come away with a 1-0 win.

McKenzie said the trip had been a vital one for him, especially rubbing shoulders with senior players who already had international experience.

“That was really good. There was a lot of Test players and white ball players,” McKenzie explained.

“And I think the professionalism the coaches brought and the skipper brought really helped us going over the line.

“I’m just looking to continue doing the right things,

not to slacken off but keep building on what I have so far.”

He added: “Always making the A-team was always a goal going into the first class series but I didn’t really have the first class season I wanted.

“I still made the A-team so that’s a plus for me. Looking from the start of the year, I didn’t see myself right here now but God has done it for me so far, it’s just for me to continue pushing on.”

Orealla youths pose with BCB coach, Junior Blair, after a session

BCB president, Hilbert Foster, hands over donation to the members of the Whim Cricket Club

Left-hander batter, Kirk McKenzie

Steve Smith warns England over trying to Bazball Australia

Steve Smith warned England they have "not come up against us yet" after Australia's pace attack ripped through India on day two of the World Test Championship final.

India were reduced to 151-5 in reply to Australia's 469 at The Oval a week before the Ashes series begins.

England have won 11 of their past 13 Tests in buccaneering fashion.

"I've enjoyed watching how they've played," said Smith. "We'll wait and see how it comes off against us."

England's spectacular form under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum is a stark contrast to their previous run of one win in 17 Tests, including a 4-0 defeat in the last Ashes in Australia.

England's turnaround has seen them score their runs at 4.85 an over, a whole run more than any other team in Test cricket in the same period.

But their 'Bazball' style has not come up against an attack with the quality of Australia, who put in a devastating display against the Indians.

On a pitch offering plenty of bounce and movement, each of Scott Boland, Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc produced magical deliveries to take wickets, while the India batters were

pinned with a number of blows to the body.

"I said when Bazball started that I'm intrigued to see how it goes against our bowlers, I've said that all along," said former Australia captain Smith, 34.

"It will be difficult on this kind of pitch, which is up and down and seaming around. It's not easy to defend, let alone come out and swing.

"They've done well against some other attacks, but they haven't come up against us yet. We'll wait and see how it comes off against us."

Smith completed his 31st Test century on the second morning, eventually falling

for 121. Though Australia lost their last seven wickets for 108 runs, their bowlers ensured they remain on course to be crowned world champions.

On his debut series in the last Ashes, right-armer Boland destroyed England with 18 wickets in three Tests.

The 34-year-old had not played a red-ball match in the UK before the final, but needed only two overs to make an impact.

The nip-backer he produced to bowl Shubman Gill, who was playing no shot, reinforced the theory that Boland has the qualities to succeed in English conditions.

However, in order to

Grave rubbishes reports of host change for next year’s T20 World Cup

force his way into the Australia attack alongside captain Pat Cummins, he would have displace one of the two other members of the 'big three': Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

"I know from having faced Scotty in the nets recently he's bowling very nicely," said Smith. "The angles he provides, his ability to hit the stumps from a slightly shorter length than our other bowlers is a big plus.

"The skills he possesses are magnificent. Whether he is leaving any of the big three out, I don't know the answer to that, but he's certainly a quality prospect. (BBC Sport).

Cricket West Indies(CWI) has rubbished reports about the International Cricket Council (ICC) possibly asking England to step in and hist next year’s ICC T20 World Cup, originally scheduled to take place in the West Indies and the USA.

A number of media outlets including CricTracker, Sportskeeda and the Daily Mirror have reported that the venue shift is being considered due to a lack of infrastructure in the USA but CEO of Cricket West Indies, Johnny Grave, denied these claims and questioned the source of the information.

“No!” was Grave’s answer when asked about the validity of the claims being reported.

“I don’t know where that’s coming from. I’m in London for the World Test Championship final and I’ll be here again for the ICC Annual General Meeting (AGM) in a few weeks’ time so who knows what the agenda is. There’s no truth to it,” Grave added.

The West Indies previously hosted the ICC T20 World Cup in 2010. (Sortsmax).

PCB might postpone West Indies series in 2024 to avoid clash with PSL

The PCB is weighing up options to postpone the home series against West Indies, slated for February and March in 2024, which is clashing with the next edition of PSL. The PCB has also requested the Emirates Cricket Board to pull back their ILT20 league by ten days to avoid overlapping Pakistan, according to ICC's FTP, are scheduled to host West Indies for two Tests and three T20Is early next

year, which has also been the window for conducting the PSL since 2016. In the last PSL governing council meeting, it was affirmed that the PCB can "sacrifice" the home series. The board has opened up discussions with several stakeholders now in a bid to have a clear window for the next PSL.

If the PCB conducts the West Indies series after Ramzan, which is after the second week of April, they

could face another challenge.

With the IPL scheduled for April-May, several West Indies players might be unavailable for the bilateral series in Pakistan. The PCB hasn't said anything on when the series could be rescheduled but there were discussions on the possibility of playing the home series during the month of Ramadan - March to April. However, playing Tests during that month will pose serious

challenges with players observing fasting. That said, the PCB had conducted a limited-overs series against New Zealand during the month of Ramadan this year, where the five-match T20I series was played at night and the five ODIs were conducted postRamzan.

With regards to the PSL, the six-team tournament now runs for 34 days. Due to Ramzan, its window is restricted from February 12 to

March 10. With the ILT20 scheduled for January 13 to February 12 in 2024, the PCB has requested the UAE board for a ten-day concession. It's likely that the PCB might also release its players to sign a contract with the ILT20, a move floated as a bargain after the Pakistan board had turned down NOCs for a batch of Pakistan players for the league in the inaugural edition.

Meanwhile, the PCB

is also planning to introduce two more franchises in the PSL, possibly extending the window by ten days. The PSL and finance departments are currently forming a proposal on the financial distribution model, scheduling, and the commercial aspect to try and convince the existing six teams for the expansion, which is facing a few roadblocks including its window.(Cricinfo)

Cricket West Indies CEO Johnny Grave

Test century No. 31 for Steven Smith•ICC via Getty Images

Charles to replace Motie for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup qualifier

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC )– Johnson Charles will replace Gudakesh Motie in the West Indies 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup qualifier, starting on Sunday, June 18, in Zimbabwe.

According to a Cricket West Indies news release, left-arm spinner Motie has not recovered from a back injury that forced him to miss the final two matches of the West Indies A team tour of Bangladesh that ended this past Friday.

Charles, 34, made his return to the ODI squad during the ongoing One-day International series against the United Arab Emirates in

Sharjah, replacing suspended fellow batsman Devon Thomas, who was charged under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code , including “contriving to fix” matches.

St Lucian Charles scored 63 in the second ODI against the Emiratis in his 50th ODI appearance and was named Player of the Match.

“We want to wish Motie all the best as he continues his rehabilitation,” West Indies lead selector, Desmond Haynes said. “He is one of the players who we expect to feature in West Indies cricket going forward, so we want to see him recover fully so he can participate when called upon.

“When we discussed

the replacement player, we looked at the possibility of another spinner in the squad. However, we felt it was better to go with Charles.

“He is experienced at the international level, he will

GCB inter-county T20 female U-19 Tournament

Berbice beat Essequibo by 8 wickets at Port Mourant

A handful of spectators, mostly parents, watched in sunny conditions as Berbice beat Essequibo by eight wickets yesterday at the Port Mourant ground in Corentyne, Berbice in the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) U-19 female T20 tournament.

The home team rattled up 109-2 in 11.2 overs replying to the 109-9 for 20 overs made by Essequibo on a good pitch and an outfield which was a bit soggy on the boundary edges.

At 77-1, Lavina Ragobeer trapped Tia Issacs for 22 (4x4s) then bowled Lakshmi Mahadeo for a five-ball duck at 82-2. Skipper Ashmini Munisar then joined the well set Realeanna Grimmond. Grimmond continued her good form from St Kitts, with a 31-ball unbeaten 37 with four fours and the only six of the game while Munisar reached the boundary once in her undefeated 13 in an unfinished 27-run stand.

Ragobeer finished with 2-28 from her three overs for Essequibo, whose total was helped by an astounding 61 extras, including 52 wides. They reached 108-9 as Laurene Williams, who hit three fours in her 20, reached double figures.

Grimmond returned with the ball to take 3-19 to earn

the player-of-the-match award. Issacs (2-22) and Crystal Durant (2-16) supported Grimmond with the ball.

The tournament comes to a climax today with a double header with Essequibo playing Demerara at 9:30AM and Demerara facing Berbice from 2:00 PM. (Sean Devers)

add value to the team for what will be a very important tournament. He also has knowledge of the Zimbabwe conditions having played ODI matches there before, so we see him as the right man

for the job at this stage.”

West Indies arrive on Saturday in the Zimbabwe capital of Harare from Sharjah, and they will prepare for the 10-team tournament, where they have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Zimbabwe, Nepal, Netherlands and the United States.

Shai Hope’s side face the American in the opening match on Sunday, June 18, at Takashinga Cricket Club, then Nepal on Thursday, June 22 at the Harare Sports Club, where they also face the Zimbabweans on Saturday, June 24, and the Netherlands on Monday, June 26.

Each side will play the other teams in their group once with the top three from

Blake among the Caribbean starters in French capital

PARIS, (CMC) – Yohan Blake of Jamaica will be one of the athletes carrying the English-speaking Caribbean interest in the fourth World Athletics Diamond League meet for the year on Friday in the capital of France.

The former men’s 100 metres world champion will be among the starters for that event in the Meeting de Paris at the Stade Sébastien Charléty, and he will be looking to improve on his season’s time of 10.05 seconds.

Blake, 34, has been nowhere near the form that carried him to the world title 12 years ago, but he is listed among the runners to watch for the 100 dash, where the favourite is Olympic champion Marcell Jacobs of Italy.

Injury prevented Jacobs from opening his season on May 28 in the Morocco capital of Rabat and then last Friday on home soil in Florence, but he is hoping to get his campaign started in a significant way in this race.

World 200m champion Noah Lyles of the United States will be tough to beat, so too, African record-holder Ferdinand Omanyala of Kenya.

the groups progressing to the Super Six stage from Thursday, June 29, to Friday, July 7.

The teams each play three Super Six matches against the sides they did not meet in the group stage.

All points won in the groups will be carried over to the Super Six stage apart from those gained against the bottom two from each group.

The final between the top two sides after the Super Six stage will be played on Sunday, July 9, at the Harare Sports Club, and the two teams will also progress to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 India.

Candice MacLeod of Jamaica is also set to start the women’s 400 metres, but she is unlikely to feature prominently with Olympic and world 400m hurdles champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone set to battle out with Marileidy Paulino from the Dominican Republic.McLaughlin-Levrone, the World Female Athlete-of-the-Year, last ran in a Diamond League race four years ago, and she will be seeking to make a triumphant return to the circuit.

Her personal best for the 400 hurdles of 50.68 seconds is faster than the 400m flat season’s bests of all but two of the entrants for this race.

Paulino, the world and Olympic silver medallist, is undefeated in nine races across a range of distances this year, and she recently reduced her 400m PB to 48.98 secs to win at a meeting in the American city of Los Angeles.

Two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands will face the in-form C.J. Allen, Abderrahman Samba of Qatar, world bronze medallist Trevor Bassitt, and Frenchman Wilfried Happio in the men’s 400m hurdles.

Natoya Goule of Jamaica will contest the women’s 800m, where she will face European champion and Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson, world indoor champion Ajee Wilson, along with 2019 world champion Halima Nakaayi, Olympic bronze medallist Raevyn Rogers, and Australia’s in-form Catriona Bisset.

Numerous global champions – many from the United States –will highlight the field events, but 2019 world silver medallist Danniel Thomas-Dodd of Jamaica will be hoping to make her mark in the women’s shot putt.

She will face world champion Chase Ealey of the United States, world indoor champion Auriol Dongmo of Portugal, and Commonwealth champion Sarah Mitton of Canada.

St Lucian Johnson Charles scored 63 in the second ODI against the Emiratis in his 50th ODI appearance and was named Player of the Match

GCB’s Anthony D’Andrade(left) presents Realeanna Grimmond with her MVP award at the Port Mourant ground, yesterday

Former men’s 100 metres world champion Yohan Blake