Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 11-08-2023

- following swearing in of CoI members

- students affected by fire given option to continue secondary education on the coast - as gov’t mulls refurbishing primary tops, building new schools in affected communities

‘Stats’ SEE PAGE 4 SEE PAGE 9 SEE PAGE 9

SEE PAGE 8 SEE PAGE 10

for

A four-lane, $11 billion roadway will soon connect Crane, West Coast Demerara, and Schoonord, West Bank Demerara, Region Three. New roads and bridges have shortened travel times and improved traffic flow

‘Balanced, impartial, thorough’ examination of Mahdia tragedy anticipated

By Naomi Parris

THREE months after a devastating fire claimed the lives of 20 children who were housed at the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) to examine the circumstances around the incident was on Thursday officially established.

The CoI will be chaired by Retired Army Chief of Staff Major-General Joe Singh. He will be supported by the Chairman of the National Toshaos Council Derrick John and head of the University of Guyana’s Law Department, attorney-at-law Kim Kyte-Thomas.

The trio took their oath of office before acting Chief Magistrate, Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, in the presence of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Education Minister Priya Manickchand at the Office of the President.

Attorney Javed Shaddick has been appointed the Secretary of the Commission and took his oath of office also.

President Ali, during his remarks at the swearing-in ceremony, said that the CoI now marks a crucial step towards understanding the circumstances that led to the deadly fire and paves the way for healing.

“My intention as President is to ensure a balanced, impartial and thorough examination of the causes of the fire

and related issues.

“The CoI represents a crucial step towards understanding and healing, it is also intended to derive lessons to improve safety and ensure that such a tragedy never re-occurs,” the Head of State affirmed.

According to the President, the Terms of Reference (ToRs) crafted will guide the commissioners and give them the leeway to make recommendations on existing plans and policies established by the government in relation to facilities established for children, women and vulnerable groups.

Dr. Ali said: “The Terms of Reference bestowed upon this commission have been crafted with the intent of granting the latitude for a comprehensive examination, and for us also to look at lessons and to look at strategies as we move forward as a country.”

“I've consistently made clear that the Government of Guyana is accountable to the people of Guyana and everything must be in keeping with this commitment,” he added.

Acknowledging that the tragedy plunged the entire nation into mourning, President Ali said that it was imperative that those directly affected were given the time and space to grieve.

He said that the government saw it fit to not rush establishment of the CoI to avoid “aggravating” the existing trauma of those grieving and recovering.

- following swearing in of CoI members - students affected by fire given option to continue secondary education on the coast - as gov’t mulls refurbishing primary tops, building new schools in affected communities

“We recognised the need to give the affected families the time and space to grieve and heal; thus it was imperative to allow for a suitable period to elapse, considering the emotional impact on the families and the broader community.

“As such, I did not deem it necessary to rush headlong into an inquiry which can run the risk of aggravating the immediate trauma being experienced by the grieving families,” Dr. Ali said.

He related that the government has been providing constant care to the relatives of those who passed, and the survivors.

“We must understand that decision-making has a direct impact, psychological impact, emotional impact, economic impact; and you ought to make decisions that cross the multifaceted nature of the circumstance that you're making that decision to address, and I believe today there is a point where the commission can conduct this work in a much comfortable environment,” Dr. Ali said.

Meanwhile, in a direct charge to the commissioners, Dr. Ali recognised their valor in answering the call to work with the families.

“I know that it was a heavy task asked of you because you have to navigate through this very complex emotional issue, and deal with the families of all of those who are engaged.

“With your experi -

ence, with your confidence, your professionalism, your ability to be human, you will conduct yourselves and conduct this inquiry with diligence, experience, impartiality and integrity,” he added.

The commissioners will visit Region Eight as part of their inquiry;

five-year-old boy, who was the dorm mother's son, lost their lives in the fire. Additionally, a 20th student succumbed to injuries sustained in the fire a few days later.

struction of secondary schools in Chenapau and El Paso.

a traditional Patamona ceremony will also be held at the site where the inferno occurred before the CoI proceeds.

The devastating incident occurred on May 22, shortly before Guyana's Independence Day celebrations, when a fire engulfed the Mahdia Secondary School Female Dormitory.

The dorm housed children from various communities including Karisparu, El Paso, Micobie, and Chenapau.

Tragically, 18 girls from the dorm and a

In response to this heart-wrenching tragedy, President Ali committed to launching a CoI with the aim of thoroughly investigating the causes and circumstances of the deadly Mahdia fire.

MAJOR PLANS

Meanwhile, Education Minister Priya Manickchand, who spoke to reporters on the sidelines of the event, said that preliminary building plans and a design have already been created to build a secondary school in Micobie, and refurbish primary stop schools in the region.

The ministry is also mulling the con -

“The parents have been clear to us they want a dorm rebuilt at that location; notice I’m making a distinction at that location. I don’t know necessarily that we have a conclusive position on whether we would accept a dorm generally for the Mahdia Secondary School,” Manickchand said.

Meanwhile, students of the Mahdia Secondary School have been given the option to continue their secondary education at President’s College, in Region Four (Demerara- Mahaica).

“For this year all the children in grades nine, 10 and 11, all the girls will come to President’s College. It's not mandatory, it's an offer,” Minister Manickchand said.

Retired Army Chief of Staff, Major-General Joe Singh; Head of the University of Guyana’s Law Department, Attorney Kim Kyte-Thomas and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council, Derrick John took their Oaths of Office as Commissioners to serve on the CoI into the Mahdia dormitory fire in the presence of President Dr. Irfaan Ali (second from left) on Thursday (Office of the President photo)

2,000 houses to be built in Region Three next year - President Ali says

AS the government continues its aggressive housing drive, President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Thursday announced that by the end of 2024, some 2,000 houses will be built in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

The President made this announcement during his engagement with the residents of Uitvlugt and neighbouring communities on Thursday.

“So, we are going on an aggressive housing programme in Region Three; we are hoping that by the end of next year, we can construct another 2,000 units in Region Three, and we are moving to the model of home construction, because we have seen the economies of scale, and we are able to deliver a product;

a house to you at far less the cost,” Dr. Ali said.

The benefits were outlined at a time when 32 families received housing units in the areas of Anna Catherina to Leonora, with Uitvlugt included.

“So, really, the government is taking on this additional responsibility of building the homes, and making them accessible to you,” the Head of State said, noting that the cost of these homes are substantially lower when compared to the cost when individually done.

The President told the gathering, which also comprised contractors and commercial banks, that huge savings are being achieved when the construction is done in bulk.

He also said that the 32

families, who are in dire need of houses, will soon be able to move into the allotted housing units shortly.

President Ali further remarked: “So, that is what we bring. So, I want to tell you how pleased I am that you are participating in this process,” adding: “I want to wish you well, as you move towards homeownership. I want to assure you that the government stands committed to working with every single stakeholder; with all of you, to ensure that you live a more prosperous life; to ensure that you enjoy a higher and better quality of life. And that is what we want to do.”

The Head of State then went on to reflect on the number of infrastructural projects that are enhancing the landscape of ‘The West Side’, as the West Demerara is affectionately referred to these days.

“The infrastructural landscape of the region is also changing rapidly. We

have more roads being built; we are expanding the highways,” he related.

Owing to some complaints that the allocations are “far back”, the president

artville, Anna Catherina, Leonora, and Meten-MeerZorg, among other places, which will be “front lands”.

While outlining the connections that will

there is a whole new gasto-shore road service being constructed, going all the way to Wales. We will then expand that highway, from Crane going all the way

reminded the predominantly ‘West Side’ gathering that with the new highways being built in the region, there will be new houses at the Uitvlugt (new phase), Stew-

stretch across Region Three, President Ali said:

“We are doing the highway from Schoonord to Crane; that highway will be opened long before the end of the year, and then

to Parika; so, every single area will be interconnected to these two new highways. All these homes will be connected very easily to key and critical infrastructure.”

App being developed to improve access to contracts in O&G sector

GUYANA’S Local Content Secretariat (LCS) is looking to develop an app to connect Guyanese contractors and licencees, said Director Dr. Martin Pertab on August 10.

Pertab, speaking at the Ghana-Guyana Local Content Conference explained that accessing information on opportunities in the sector remains a central and recurring issue.

This has led to many Guyanese contractors missing out. And the app is intended to resolve this.

“So, this will bring locals even closer to contractors and licensees on one app; we will be able to access all contracts, information etc...,” he said, adding: “Because, even though we have to push for a competitive bidding process, not most of the locals manage to see

those RFIs (Requests for Information, and when they do, they already lost.”

This will add to the initiatives the LCS implements to capture and ensure a high level of Guyanese participation in the oil sector. The LCS already has in place the Local Content Portal to help streamline opportunities.

It carries a similar interface to the Local Content Registry of local companies and allows for the publishing of RFI’s and Requestions For Quotations

(RFQ) for a host of services relating to the sector.

These include Administrative Support

and Facilities Man -

agement Services, Catering Services, Construction Work for Buildings Onshore, Immigration Support Services, and Waste Management – Disposal and Waste Transport Services (Hazardous) among others.

Guyana’s Local Content Registry became operationalised in February last year. That portal compiles a list of suppliers from which goods and services may be procured,

as required by Guyana’s Local Content Act.

The First Schedule of the Act carves out 40 different services for Guyanese participation via the supply of goods and the provision of services which include: food supply, rental of office space, accommodation, insurance, accounting, and legal services. (Shikema Dey/OilNOW)

Director of the Local Content Secretariat Dr. Martin Pertab

Preserving Amazonia

GUYANA has reminded the world of its unwavering commitment to the protection of the Amazon Rainforest and its resources, including its indigenous populations and their endangered knowledge.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Tuesday called on states within the Amazon region to pursue a robust agenda to find viable solutions to combat the challenges affecting the world’s lungs.

He told fellow leaders attending the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) summit in Belem that if the current situation continues unabated, there would be no relief in near sight.

ACTO members are Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana,

Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela).

PM Phillips told fellow leaders gathered in the Brazilian Amazonian state, it’s in the interest of future generations that a concerted effort be made to arrest the situation today.

Underscoring the importance of the Amazon’s valuable role in the climate flight, he said illegal forest activities, deforestation and forest fires together threaten the delicate region’s equilibrium and the livelihoods of indigenous and other communities, and called on fellow governments to bear responsibility for safeguarding the region for the benefit of current and future generations.

He reiterated Guyana’s dedication to preserving and conserving the envi-

ronment and -- in keeping with its commitment to sustainable development -- pledged that Guyana as an emerging oil state will continue to diversify its energy portfolio to include renewables.

The leaders also heard Guyana’s renewed and continuing dedication to preserving and conserving the environment and it’s committment to fight climate change.

PM Phillips called on them to be resolute in combatting existing and growing threats and to ensure their initiatives, under ACTO, have a strong focus on the sustainable management of forests, forest preservation and forest conservation.

Echoing the calls by the Caribbean Organization of Indigenous Peoples (COIP) – to which

Four questions for Ms. Isabelle DeCaires

MS.

Moray House was the

home of Mr. David DeCaires, who, along with another MCC figure, Miles Fitzpatrick, founded the Stabroek News (SN). After Mr. DeCaires’ death, the house on Quamina Street was turned into a place to hold strictly functions of

Guyana also belongs – the PM iterated that indigenous people have shared a sacred relationship with the land and the forest, and he charged leaders to include them and their voices in the development process, saying it’s imperative that they continue to play an integral part in ACTO’s sustainable development mechanisms.

Indigenous communities have continued to play valuable roles in the protection and preservation of the Amazon region for generations, during which they’ve depended on the forest and its rivers for food, shelter, medicines and livelihoods, while their traditional knowledge continues to be of great value to Guyana and the region to this day.

The Prime Minister

urged the summit – the second of its type in 14 years – to respond to the current Amazon crisis as it did in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also urged development of strategic partnerships to ensure the commitments made in Belem are realized for mutual benefit, and to adopt strategies that can catalyse climate finance, information exchange, expertise-sharing and collective problem-solving and promote regional unity in addressing climate mitigation and adaptation goals.

The PM urged his Amazon colleagues to collectively pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous future, ensuring the preservation of their shared ecological heritage, seizing this historic

opportunity to demonstrate their determination and resolve in tackling the environmental challenges and forging a sustainable, equitable future for all.

Trillions are needed to reverse damage done and nations will not all agree on every recommendation from the Belem Summit.

But, starting on the eve of the International Day for Indigenous Peoples (August 9), the ACTO Summit underlined the great importance of inclusion of the protected region’s indigenous people in the continuing search for workable solutions; and surely laid the basis for undertaking agreed new and added restorative and preventative measures necessary to start preserving Amazonia.

the MCC elites, and host a weekly symposium on topics in Guyana.

Ms. DeCaires, who is of UK extraction and lives in the UK, has strong anti-government views on politics in Guyana. I would classify her politics

as MCC narratives that are not favourable to the PPP and the PPP-led government.

As I have written several times since the March 2020 elections, Ms. DeCaires has not featured in her symposium curricu -

lum, the caricatured rejection of the legal no-confidence vote in December 2018, and the five months of attempted rigging from March to July 2020.

Through the initiative of Ms. DeCaires, Dr. Alissa Trotz, another MCC

personality who lives in Canada, started a weekly column in SN named, “In The Diaspora (ITD)”. Now what ITD does is that it offers different Guyanese Diaspora persons to write the column. Since its

Isabelle Decaires of the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC), co-owner of the Stabroek News along with Editor-in-Chief Anand Persaud, administers the Moray House Trust.

Four questions for Ms. Isabelle...

FROM PAGE 6

birth, more than 10 years ago, ITD has not invited an independent academic, or someone whose views tend to be sympathetic to the Government of Guyana to do an analysis.

All the contributors the past 10 years come within the mode of anti-government critics, with some shocking, vulgar denunciations of the government. In one instance, D. Percy Hintzen (who has been living in the US) proclaimed in ITD that he is proud to be a Creole. He says his being is based on his Creole existence.

He remains, to date, the only member of the MCC to publicly declare he is comfortable, at the psychic level, being a Creole in the Guyanese context. Please Google my column on Hintzen for Friday, January 27, 2023, titled, “Sigmund Freud: Returning to class and colour one year after”.

Last Saturday, Ms. DeCaires held a symposium

on changing the capital of Guyana from Georgetown. As you would have guessed, no one from the government was on the panel.

As I read the announcement about the symposium from Moray House (it was done by Zoom; Ms. DeCaires does not live in Guyana), my mind immediately went to the report of the Commission of Enquiry into the March 2020 election.

Why would Ms. DeCaires not host a symposium on the report? It makes for disturbing reason, especially the section on the conduct of the Police Force. Since the report was made public, Dr. Trotz has not touched it either.

I guess you and I know why Ms. Decaires and Dr. Trotz have this attitude. But since Ms. DeCaires writes trenchantly against the government, I think, as both an opinion-maker and the co-owner of the SN, she needs to be accountable, and answer some

questions that the public would no doubt be interested in. Here are four:

1: In her paper of November 13, 2022, she signed a letter asking for the immediate stoppage of oil production. She said greenhouse gas harms civilisation which began in Africa. My question is: What was the relevance of mentioning where civilisation began?

2: In that letter, she stated that greenhouse gas kills people in Africa. Now, my limited knowledge of ecology tells me that greenhouse emissions kill people in general. Why the mention of African people only?

3: After the Natural Resource Fund legislation was completed, Ms. DeCaires, disagreeing on the nature of the legislation, referred to Guyana as a dysfunctional democracy. Can Ms. DeCaires tell us if she is willing to apply the same paradigm to her country, the UK? Mr. Rishi Sunak was not made Prime

Minister in an election by his parliamentary party, general membership of his party, or the electorate of his country.

My question is: Should there not have been an open election by the Conservative Party and let who wants to compete be allowed to do so? I would think you call such a process, “functioning

democracy”.

4: One of the Board Members of the SN, Mr. Timothy Jonas, told this columnist that he cannot recall the names of the Board Members except its editor. I called Mr. Persaud, and he refused to offer me any information. My question is: Does Ms. DeCaires believe that the public is en-

titled to such information about a newspaper? I stress the difference between a commercial company and a newspaper, because the latter seeks accountability and information from the State, so the public can be better informed. Should not the same standard apply to the media?

‘Stats’ show Guyana’s crime rate down

- but holistic approach needed to address issue of illegal firearms regionally, President Ali says

RECENT statistics produced by the local authorities in Guyana have shown a decline in serious crime, and this is credited to the government’s increased support for the Guyana Po -

lice Force (GPF) and community policing efforts.

In an invited comment to reporters on the sidelines of an event on

Last month, it was reported that the police recorded a 12.6 per cent decline for the first quarter of 2023.

“The statistics,

the president said in his response to comments on the crime situation by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)

tremendous decline,”

President Ali maintained.

He said that the travel advisory is nothing new, and Guyanese

for them too.”

However, he acknowledged that Guyana and the Caribbean are faced with their own challenges, and a holistic approach is needed to trace the source of the region's crime problem.

“In Guyana, one crime is too much for us, and we have made it clear to CARICOM that we have to address the guns in the region, and go to the source problem, as to where the guns are coming from,” the Head of State said.

Guyana has been working closely with the US in the area of crime and security, Dr. Ali said. “We are engaging the US and many stakeholders as important strategic partners. The US has been working with us on the issue of security, national security and the issue of drug trafficking.

Thursday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali said that the statistics are factual.

based on all the reports, shows that crime is on the decline in Guyana,”

and the United States (US) Embassy.

“There has been a

travelling to the US are also on the alert of the frequent occurrence of serious crimes there.

“One of the problems the US is faced with today is the massive shootings in public places; in schools, in malls… And a lot of people who are travelling to the US; even Guyanese, tell me sometimes that they are worried that they could be in the wrong place at the wrong time,” Dr. Ali said.

He added: “Many Guyanese have children in those schools, and sometimes I worry

“We have had massive collaborations; there has never been such an extensive collaboration between the US and Guyana in terms of our security sector.”

He continued: “We are working in a very holistic way; we are building out the infrastructure for the Police Force, and we are giving them more tools and equipment; more vehicles.”

The government, he added, has also been working to boost the manpower of the police, and modernise the way policing is done across the country.

$1B supplementary financing secured for rehabilitation of 153 health facilities

SOME 153 health facilities in the 10 administrative regions will undergo rehabilitation as the Committee of Supply approved $1 billion in supplementary funding for the Ministry of Health.

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony said that the $1.7 billion approved earlier this year has been exhausted, hence the need

for additional funds.

Utilising the $1.7 billion, 132 health facilities in the various regions were rehabilitated, Minister Anthony relayed.

With the $1 billion additional funds, eight facilities in Region One, 30 in Region Two, 16 in Region Three, 24 in Region Four, 19 in Region Five, 13 in Region Six, 11 in Region Seven, nine in

Region Eight and Region Nine respectively and 17 in Region 10 will be rehabilitated.

“Apart from fixing additional health centres across the different regions, we are also doing work to fix living quarters for doctors and nurses in these various regions. That’s what the additional billion will do,” Minister Anthony said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Housing and Water will be spending an additional $500 million to fast track infrastructural development in vulnerable communities in Region Three and along the East Bank of Demerara in Region Four.

Housing Minister Collin Croal pointed out that, “You will see there are a number of vulnerable

persons living along those banks or even in the communities that are considered irregular in the sense of where they are living. So, this is a specific fund that is intended to be expended both in Regions Three and Four as a starter, as I said $500 million is not much to address some of those persons.

“This is in addition to our normal housing pro-

gramme, which is being addressed through that same $50 billion, but not in a fast track way … it’s basically to address in a faster way,” Minister Croal added.

Government is seeking $61 billion in supplementary funds to fund additional infrastructural works in various parts of the country.

GOAL scholarship programme exceeds 20,000 target in less than three years

THE Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarship programme, which is allowing Guyanese to pursue their studies at various reputable institutions, has exceeded its target of 20,000 scholarships.

This was announced by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali on

workforce.

In collaboration with esteemed regional and international universities, GOAL offers an extensive array of academic and vocational programmes at various levels, encompassing Certificates, Diplomas, Bachelor’s, Post-Graduate, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees.

Minister Manickchand noted that approximately 1,500 teachers are currently engaged in an educational programme at the University of the West Indies (UWI), which equips them with advanced teaching methodologies, particularly in reading.

“We are not stopping here. It has really afforded

the sidelines of an event at Office of the President on Thursday morning.

“That was our commitment, 20,000 scholarships in five years…and in less than three years we surpass that,” the President said.

Launched in 2021, the GOAL scholarship programme stands as an integral component of the visionary agenda of the PPP/C government to nurture a highly educated and skilled

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand revealed that during the programme’s initial phase, individuals displayed a predominant interest in traditional areas of study.

However, she emphasised that the government has strategically focused on tailoring programmes to align with the nation’s specific needs, which include fields such as tourism, counselling, and teacher training.

persons who couldn’t imagine getting a chance to go to a university and a foreign university… its changing lives right before us,” she said.

The overarching aim of the GOAL initiative is to grant scholarships to Guyanese through a collaborative effort among the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Public Service, and the Ministry of Labour. (DPI)

Passage of milestone Petroleum Activities Bill enhances management of O&G sector

THE landmark Petroleum Activities Bill was passed by the National Assembly in the early hours of Thursday morning.

According to the Ministry of Natural Resource, this momentous development heralds a new era for the nation's petroleum sector, characterised by modernised regulations, and transparent governance.

The new legislation repeals and replaces the outdated Petroleum Exploration and Production Act of 1986, positioning Guyana on the path towards responsible, accountable, and modern petroleum management.

A key highlight of the new Act is the provision for cross-border unitisation. This innovative measure empowers the minister with responsibility for petroleum, following consultation with the Cabinet, to engage in constructive discussions with neighbouring States regarding petroleum reservoirs that extend into their territories.

This collaborative approach ensures the efficient and equitable development of shared petroleum resources, while strengthening diplomatic ties.

With a strong commitment to environmental protection, the

Act also introduces the provision for licensees to apply for a geological storage licence for carbon dioxide.

This forward-thinking inclusion empowers licensees to explore potential carbon dioxide storage sites specified in their licences, develop underground storage facilities, and undertake operations incidental to carbon dioxide storage.

This vital addition is a significant stride towards sustainable energy practices that address climate change concerns.

In alignment with the principles of transparency and accountability upheld by the People’s

Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, the legislation prohibits government officials, Members of Parliament and their family members from acquiring or holding any legal, equitable, or beneficial interest in a petroleum licence granted under the new Act.

This prohibition is a crucial step towards preventing conflicts of interest, and fostering a level playing field for all stakeholders.

During the Bill's de-

consultations since we took office in August of 2020. A robust regulatory framework is essential to ensure the prudent and sustainable management of our country's petroleum sector.

“The Petroleum Activities Bill, a modern piece of legislation, is a testament to our commitment to judiciously manage the sector for the benefit of this generation and the generations to come, and is entirely in alignment with good governance mechanisms outlined in the PPP/C's Manifesto."

ues to garner substantial regional and global interest, underscoring Guyana's emergence as a key player in the international petroleum arena.

The accompanying model Production Sharing Agreements (PSA), documents that were publicly published earlier this year, will feature enhanced fiscal terms that strike a balance between government revenue and contractor interests.

liberations, a document which was passed in full, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat remarked: "This Bill underwent rigorous

Importantly, too, this new legislation will synergise with the 2022 Guyana Licensing Round, which offers 14 oil blocks for an open and competitive auction, and which contin-

This approach retains Guyana's competitive edge, while promoting fair revenue sharing. The passage of the Petroleum Activities Bill marks a defining moment in Guyana's journey towards a responsible and sustainable petroleum sector.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat

24 Peace Corps volunteers to lend support in seven regions

THE United States Peace Corps Guyana recently hosted the swearing-in ceremony for its 34th group of volunteers, who concluded an intensive 10-week pre-service training and will serve in seven regions across Guyana, partnering to address early childhood literacy, adolescent health, and environmental stewardship.

According to a press release from the US Embassy, widespread placement of volunteers is possible for the first time since the pandemic.

Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Adrienne Galanek, administered the oath of service and Peace Corps pledge to the group on behalf of the Peace Corps.

Chargé Galanek remarked: “I have always admired the extraordinary commitment and compassion that Peace Corps Volunteers bring to strengthening nations one community at a time. I think that the best part—the essence of why volunteers are here— is the friendships and

strong bonds that develop with host families, local counterparts, supervisors, and community leaders.”

Peace Corps Guyana Acting Country Director, Jennifer Goette, highlighted the important work of Peace Corps Volunteers and their local community partners in building a sustainable future for Guyana.

She commended host families, partner schools, and the Government of Guyana for their support of Peace Corps’ work.

Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Adviser to the Minister of Health, delivered remarks on behalf of Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony.

He highlighted the instrumental role that his Peace Corps teacher played in his decision to pursue medicine as a career.

Ms. Volika Jaikishun, Deputy Chief Education Officer-Development gave brief congratulatory remarks on behalf of Education Minister, Priya Manickchand.

Peace Corps first served the people and Government of Guy -

ana from 1966 to 1971, and returned in 1995, with more than 1,400 volunteers supporting Guyana’s communities through service, relationships, and partnerships for a sustainable future.

Peace Corps Guyana 34th swearing-in ceremony

Guyanese Nala: Shemina Peroune ‘cops’ Miss Caribbean Culture Queen

AT the 15th edition of the Caribbean Culture Queen pageant held in St Kitts and Nevis, Guyana’s Shemina Peroune emerged as the Queen of the prestigious franchise.

Peroune’s win has been dubbed historical as it is the first time Guyana has won the title. The young woman who

is an aeronautical engineer, not only walked away with the crown, but with other titles such as Miss Photogenic and best-interviewed delegate.

Peroune captivated many with her performances at the local pageant that was held recently in Guyana and at the regional pageant held on

August 7.

But it was her answer to an ‘extremely demanding’ question about humanity that secured her win.

Miss Guyana was asked, “Considering the present issues of poverty and poor democracy occurring in Haiti, do you think that Haitians who migrate illegally to other

countries should be deported or granted asylum?”

To which she gave an excellent reply, hence winning the hearts of the audience as well as the judges:

“I strongly believe there are many ways that we can mitigate certain problems like that, as poverty is something that is quite prevalent

in Haiti, and the means that they are seeking to mitigate it would be the way that they best know how to, which would be to just go trying to migrate illegally. Now I stand here to say I believe in inclusivity and I believe in making decisions according to your situation, and I also believe that, as a nation, we should

be able to help these persons and allow them to have better opportunities. With that being said, I think they should neither be in an asylum nor be dealt with in another manner, but I believe there are many ways we can deal with this, and neither of those options is best suitable.”

Na Shava Thompson crowned 2023 Emancipation Queen

— hopes to empower Afro-Guyanese through a mental health platform birthed from the pageant

By Faith Greene

SEVEN delegates stepped into the limelight on Saturday last and, believe it or not, they had the entire National Cultural Centre (NCC) glued to their seats, waiting to see who would be crowned, Miss Emancipation Queen, 2023.

This year, the pageant was held under the theme ‘Afrocentric intelligence’ and saw Tryanna Anderson, Na Shava Thompson, Alisa McKenzie, O’Neilka Bacchus, Jayda Overton, Deneita Fredericks and Aaliyah McKoy vying for the crown.

When the curtains were drawn, revealing the delegates for this year’s pageant, the audience was enthralled.

It was a ‘stiff’ competition and the judges were tasked with making some very difficult decisions.

Although there were some minor hiccups, the programme proceeded well, as each delegate brought something invaluable to the table.

The pageant consisted of a number of segments, which included an introduction segment, the business wear segment, followed by a project presentation, and, finally, the question-and-answer segment where a series of questions were asked to assess the knowledge the delegates would have attained during preliminary challenges and academic courses held months prior to the pageant.

After a series of outstanding performances, Na Shava Thompson emerged as the Miss Emancipation Queen while four other delegates joined her ‘court’ as runners-up.

The first runner-up was Aaliyah Mckoy, who was able to ‘cop’

the prizes for the people's choice winner and the best stem project.

Second runner-up, was Deneita Fredricks; third runner-up was O’Neilka Bacchus and Alisa McKenzie secured her place in the ‘court’ as the fourth runner-up due to a tie.

Meanwhile, Thompson, in addition to being crowned the Queen, was also declared the winner of five prizes. These prizes were presented to her for having the best smile, best-spoken word, best evening gown; miss congeniality and best African history presentation.

The Buzz was able to chat with the Emancipation Queen earlier this week on her journey to the crown, and this is what she had to say: “There were two reasons behind my interest in the pageant, and that's because I wanted to learn

Aside from the glamorous aspect of the pageant, Thompson was able to launch a website ‘Mind Over Massa’, a platform which she hopes will empower young Afro-Guyanese and address mental health issues in the community.

“It's called Mind Over Massa and it's a play on the phrase ‘mind over matter’”, she explained. “Since we're looking at persons within

the African community, I used the term ‘Massa’, meaning the slave drivers and slave owners and it basically is looking at the mental health of persons within the African community.”

The website, she said, is available to anyone who wants to access it.

“You know, a lot of times in the African community we don't play, we don't pay great importance to our mental health. We are overworking ourselves. And we're

thinking, ok, we cannot rest because if we do, something bad is going to happen. Basically, it's what our ancestors would have been through.”

She credited the launch of her website to the pageant and shared plans to expand it.

She expressed her gratitude to her sponsor SAC Packaging and Courier Services INC, which she said had been a great help to her throughout the many challenges she faced in her pageant journey.

more about my roots and where I would have come from. I know being a part of the pageant would have exposed me to those sorts of things.”

By participating in the pageant, the young woman said she has learned how to be more confident, specifically when performing and speaking publicly.

On the night of the pageant, Thompson recalled that she was excited: “I was just a ball of energy backstage. I was excited to just go out and you know, give it my best and now here we are.”

Her positive attitude is what she believed helped her to win the best smile and the coveted crown. “I toned down the laughter and just radiated and smiled,” the Queen said.

Na Shava Thompson (centre), moments after she was crowned, Miss Emancipation 2023.

Photo by: Miss Emancipation/Facebook

Tory Lanez: Rapper jailed for 10 years for shooting Megan Thee Stallion

CANADIAN rapper, Tory Lanez, has been sentenced to 10 years for shooting fellow musician, Megan Thee Stallion.

Lanez shot Grammy winner Megan Thee Stallion in the feet during an argument between the pair after a party in 2020.

He was found guilty on three gun-related charges in December and has been held in jail since.

The shooting, which polarised the music world, left Megan Thee Stallion needing surgery to remove bullet fragments from her foot.

The LA District Attorney, George Gascón, said after the verdict that her fame "has brought an

important spotlight on the issue of violence against women".

The shooting occurred during the journey home from a pool party hosted at reality star Kylie Jenner's Hollywood mansion.

Prosecutors had asked

the judge for a 13-year prison sentence. They said Lanez, 31, deserved a lengthy sentence for shooting a "vulnerable victim" on a quiet residential street, and for waging "a campaign to humiliate and re-traumatise her" after the

attack.

Lanez, real name Daystar Peterson, has had seven US top 10 albums in the past seven years.

He was convicted of three felonies: assault with a semi-automatic firearm; having a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle; and discharging a firearm with gross negligence.

His lawyers argued he should get probation and time in a drug treatment programme. It is unclear if Lanez is now facing deportation to Canada.

Jose Baez said his client planned to appeal due to "significant issues" with the trial.

Outside court on Tuesday, he cited a lack of DNA evidence against Lanez in relation to the shooting, adding that the rapper's DNA was not found on the gun used. Mr Baez added that he believed Lanez did not receive a fair trial.

'I did wrong that night' Lanez himself read a statement to the court before the sentencing.

While he has maintained his innocence during and since the trial, he said on Tuesday that he accept-

career. She said she demanded to be let out of the vehicle, at which point Lanez started shooting at the ground and shouted at her to "dance".

During the trial, Lanez's lawyers suggested Megan's friend Kelsey Harris, who was in the vehicle, might have shot her friend out of jealousy. She denied that.

In a victim impact statement that was read in court on Monday, Megan said: "Since I was viciously shot by the defendant [Lanez], I have not experienced a single day of peace.

"Slowly but surely, I'm healing and coming back, but I will never be the same."

HIP-HOP STARS TAKE SIDES

ed "responsibility" for what "I did wrong that night", without saying exactly what he was referring to.

"There's been this misconception about me being this monster or not having remorse, that's just not true," the star told the court, according to the Press Association.

"That night was a night that everyone was drunk... I said some very immature things. If I could turn back the series of events... I would, but I can't.

"But to think that I am some sort of callous individual is not the case. The victim was my friend... [and] she still is to this day.

"I did wrong that night and I take full responsibility and culpability for it."

'I will never be the same'

The shooting happened when the pair left Jenner's home with two other people in an SUV in the early hours of July 12, 2020.

Megan, real name Megan Pete, told the court she got into an argument with Lanez over their previous sexual relationship. The row escalated and led to the pair insulting each other's

Other witnesses who spoke on Monday included Lanez's father, who talked emotionally about the effect on his son of the death of his mother when he was 11, and a prison chaplain who said Lanez had been leading daily prayer groups.

The judge said he had received more than 70 letters in support of Lanez from his family and friends, including rapper Iggy Azalea, who called for a sentence that would be "transformative, not life-destroying".

Following the shooting, other famous names in the hip-hop world also took sides about who was telling the truth.

Rapper 50 Cent apologised to Megan for suggesting she lied about being shot by Lanez, while Drake appeared to reference the shooting in his lyrics.

After the sentencing, Tanishia Wright, director of victim services at the District Attorney's office, told reporters: "Violence against black women and girls is a long standing national epidemic that has long been overlooked and under-reported.

"Women of colour more times than not do not come forward to report victimisation due to the fear they will not be believed."

(BBC Entertainment)

Megan Thee Stallion (Getty Images)

Canadian rapper, Tory Lanez (Getty Images)

Lilly Singh's Prem For Rocky Aur Rani Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh React

and Alia Bhatt. Thank you for this gem."

The film, directed by Karan Johar, features Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh in titular roles and Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Dhar-

mendra, Tota Roy Choudhury, Namit Das, Churni Ganguly, Aamir Bashir, Kshitee Jog and Anjali Anand in supporting roles.

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, directed by Karan

Johar and also produced by him, released in theatres on July 28. (NDTV-Movies, Entertainment News)

LILLY Singh's Prem For Rocky Aur Rani Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh React New Delhi: YouTuber

Lilly Singh's post for Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is definitely worth a read. Lilly Singh summed up her relationship with Bollywood films, what she thought of the film and more. She also clarified in her post that it is not an advertisement and that she is "not being paid to post this or talk about the movie." Also, Lilly's post got a whole lot of love from both Rocky and Rani as well as the creator of their prem kahaani - Karan Johar. Alia Bhatt commented on the post, "Lilly, thank you so much! You and your love really hit the spot pink. You go Rani." Ranveer Singh commented, "Thank you Lilly! With all our heart. This is so lovely." Karan Johar added, "This means so much to me and all of us! Thank you for your generosity...Truly humbled."

Lilly Singh began the post with these words, "Last night, after about 15 years, I watched a Bollywood movie in the theatre: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. It's no secret I love Bollywood. In fact for a period of my childhood, I exclusively watched Hindi and Punjabi cinema (so much so that I often don't know a staple North American movie my friends are referencing). But

as an adult, my relationship with Bollywood has been bittersweet. Because I love the drama, music, dancing, theatrics and feeling of nostalgia."

Lilly stated in her post that one of her favourite factors about the film is that it reverses gender roles, questions patriarchal norms, among other things. "But I'm also a fierce advocate for women and it's not lost on me how extremely sexist and patriarchal a lot of it can be (especially some of my classic favs). I've accepted that two things can be true at once: 1) Bollywood can be really meaningful to me and 2) I can also be frustrated with it sometimes. However, yesterday while watching Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, I couldn't help feel some major resolve. It beautifully addresses so many important issues including sexism, body positivity, gender norms and homophobia in a way I've never seen before, while being entertaining as hell," an excerpt from Lilly's post read.

Lilly Singh clarified that she wasn't paid to review the film and that she genuinely loved it. She added, "This isn't an ad. I'm not being paid to post this or talk about the movie. I just believe in supporting the things you want to see more of. And I definitely want to see more

female characters like Rani who stand up for themselves and take no disrespect. And I think it's so important to see male characters like Rocky who are willing to break gender norms and demonstrate a willingness to change their minds/attitudes."

"Progress isn't perfect," wrote Lilly, citing the example of the song Tum Kya Mile from the film, in which Alia Bhatt had to shoot in the snow dressed in what else but chiffon sarees. "I can admit that as a young girl, I grew up daydreaming about my wedding. Why? Because it was the goal, ambition or destination of every female character in Hindi movies. I'm so happy that young girls today have more examples of what women can achieve, so their daydreams can be about themselves and their goals, not just about a union to someone else. Progress isn't perfect. After all, poor Rani still had to rock a saree in the snow (a part of the glass ceiling that just won't break ). But this film was a major win for me and I cannot recommend it enough," Lilly Singh wrote in her caption.

Also, the YouTuber mentioned that her outfit was inspired by Ranveer Singh's onscreen character Rocky Randhawa. "Chose this picture because I feel like Rocky would wear it. Congrats Karan Johar, Ranveer Singh

Lilly Singh/Instagram

Indian star Shaw smashes 244 in one-day county game

Young opener hits his second List A double ton and the sixth highest score in the format

PRITHVI Shaw has smashed an astonishing 244, the sixth-highest one-day innings in history, for his county side Northamptonshire.

The brilliant Indian's innings came from just 153 balls, including 28 fours and 11 sixes, as he helped his side climb to a mammoth total of 8-415 in their 87-run victory over Somerset in the One-Day Cup tie at Northampton on Wednesday.

It was the second-biggest List A one-day innings ever recorded in England, after Alistair Brown's 268 for Surrey against Glamorgan at The Oval in 2002.

Highest individual scores in List A matches

277 Narayan Jagadeesan (Tamil Nadu v

Arunachal, 2022)

268 Alistair Brown (Surrey v Glamorgan,

2002)

264 Rohit Sharma (India v Sri Lanka, 2014)

257 D'Arcy Short (Western Australia v Queensland, 2018)

248 Shikhar Dhawan (India A v South Africa A, 2013)

244 Prithvi Shaw (Northamptonshire v Somerset, 2023)

Somerset faced an uphill task in reply and, despite half-centuries from Andrew Umeed (77) and captain Sean Dickson (52) they failed to lay a glove on Northamptonshire's total as they were bowled out for 328 in the group B match.

The 23-year-old Shaw, a prodigy who once scored 546 in a single innings as a 14-year-old and who made a Test century on debut at

18, hasn't ever quite lived up to the expectations. But he's still enjoyed extraordinary days like this one, as he went past Northants' limited-overs record score of 172 not out by Wayne Larkins, made in a 40-over match in 1983. It was Shaw's second double century in 50-over cricket, having made 227 not out for Mumbai in February 2021, not long after he was dropped from the Test side in Australia. In all he has played 12 matches for India across the three formats, though he hasn't appeared in the national side since July 2021. (PA Sport).

Harry Kane transfer news: Bayern Munich agree deal in principle with Tottenham for striker

By Simon Stone

Bayern Munich and Tottenham have agreed a deal in principle for England captain Harry Kane worth more than 100m euros (£86.4m).

Kane, 30, has one year left on his contract with Spurs and must now make a decision about whether or not to leave.

The forward is Tottenham's all-time top scorer with 280 goals in 435 ap -

pearances.

Kane was linked with Manchester United earlier this summer before Bayern made him their main target.

The striker's future in London has been uncertain for several seasons while a number of Bayern bids were rejected earlier this summer.

Most recently, Spurs turned down an offer on Monday and the Bundesliga champions suggested on that occasion an unsuccessful bid would force them to move on

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

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to other targets.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has repelled interest in Kane numerous times over the years, including in 2021 when Premier League champions Manchester City tried to sign the striker.

It was also unclear whether Levy would have been willing to sell Kane to another Premier League team, suggesting earlier this year he would not do business with either of the Manchester clubs.

RACING TIPS

But with Kane unwilling to sign a new deal with Spurs, it seems Levy has decided selling now is the best option for the club rather than losing him for free next year.

Kane, who came through Spurs' academy, has played for the club during pre-season while negotiations with Bayern took place, with his last appearance coming against Shakhtar Donetsk on Sunday.

New Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou had promised to sell Kane his "vision"

for the club following his appointment this summer, saying he wanted the striker to stay in north London.

Kane has won the Premier League Golden Boot three times - in 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2020-21 - since making his debut for the club in 2012.

With 213 goals from 320 Premier League games, Kane needs just 48 more to break Alan Shearer's scoring record.

Yet England's all-time

leading scorer - with 58 international goals - has never won a major trophy with club or country.

Bayern, on the other hand, are regular silverware winners in Germany.

Thomas Tuchel's side claimed their 33rd Bundesliga title last season - an 11th in a row - and have won the Champions League six times and German Cup on 20 occasions.

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Race

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Young opener Prithvi Shaw

T&T’s Nicholas Paul claims historic silver medal at UCI World Championships

Hefty prize money for record-breakers

BUDAPEST, Hungary, (CMC) – Athletes setting world records at the World Athletics Championships, starting on Saturday, August 19 in Budapest, Hungary, will be handsomely rewarded for their efforts.

The sport’s world governing body, World Athletics, announced on Wednesday that athletes setting new marks in their disciplines will be eligible for a special award of U.S. $100,000, subject to the usual ratification process.

“The performance must be an improvement on the existing World Athletics world record,” a news release from the world body stated. “Performances that equal the existing world record will not be eligible for a world record award.”

Hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone of the United States, and pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis of Sweden are two of the most recent recipients of a world record award, following their performances at the World Athletics Championships two years ago in the American city of Eugene in the state of Oregon.

Trinidad and Tobago's Nicholas Paul made history on Monday by winning the silver medal in the men's sprint final at the UCI World Championships. Paul, 24, became the most decorated cyclist in his country's history with the achievement, surpassing the previous

record of one silver medal set by Roger Gibbon in 1967. Paul lost the final to Olympic champion Harrie Lavreysen of the Netherlands in two consecutive rides. In the first ride, Paul started from the front and made an early move, but Lavreysen was able to come back and

edge him out at the line. The second ride was not as close, as Paul made a slight mistake that allowed Lavreysen to pull away and win comfortably.

Despite the loss, Paul's silver medal is a major accomplishment for the young cyclist. He is now the

only person from Trinidad and Tobago to have won a medal at the UCI World Championships, and he is one of only a handful of riders from the Caribbean to have achieved the feat. (Sportsmax)

McLaughlin-Levrone improved her own world 400 metres hurdles record to an awe-inspiring 50.68 seconds, while Duplantis took the pole vault to another level again, clearing 6.21 metres.

About 2000 athletes from around 200 teams will descend on the new National Athletics Centre in the Hungarian capital for nine days of thrilling competition at this year’s championships.

FL Sport gets international accreditation

GUYANESE

sport-streaming company, FL Sport created history during the West Indies versus India T20 international matches at Providence by providing technical expertise for radio commentary.

Rights holders for radio commentary for the all-format series in the Caribbean, Cut and Drive Network, contracted FL Sport to provide technical support which was expertly done from the international venue and shared to radio stations around the Caribbean and Cricket West Indies official YouTube channel.

At the start of the Test series, FL Sport received the rights to air the radio commentary on their website, www.flsport.gy which was also done for the ODIs and the T20Is.

There have been a shift from traditional radio to online radio and FL Sport

became the first website to provide coverage of international cricket in Guyana.

Andrew Mason of Cut and Drive Network congratulated the technical

team at Providence for the excellent job done for the second and third matches of the Kuhl Stylish Fans T20 International Series powered by Black and White

which afforded fans across the Region the opportunity to follow the action live from Providence. Mason said it was the first time that an online company was

engaged and he sees the collaboration being extended for a long time to come.

Chief Executive Officer of FL Sport, John Ramsingh welcomed the

move and was proud to play such a pivotal role for fans around the world.

The production over the two days, August 6 and 8 respectively, saw the return of a designated scorer for radio commentary. On-air presenters included Jermaine Neblett, Naim Chan, Matthew Kissoon, Anthony Khemraj and Ramsingh. The technical team was led by Deodat Singh and included Sunil Ramlall and Lakeram Ramotar while Seon Bovell was the statistician.

FL Sport is the local go-to company for the production of quality live stream of events such as swimming, field hockey, football and cricket while on the Regional front, they have executed productions for Cricket West Indies including Men’s Regional Four-Day, Women’s Super50 and T20s.

The FL Sport crew (CEO John Ramsingh is at centre)

Nationals cancelled due to unavailability of suitable venue

Archibald & Abrams to attend World Championships in Hungary

By Sean Devers

THE Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) yesterday held a press conference at the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue to explain why the governing body for Athletics in Guyana was forced to cancel the National Senior and National Junior Athletics Championships.

The National seniors were slated for June and the Juniors for July, but the AAG, which had begun preparations for the two events since April, were forced to cancel both events due to the unavailability of an ‘appropriate venue’ after all options proved fruitless.

According to head of the AAG’s Organising Committee, Tyrone Smith, the dates for the Championships had to be rescheduled to a later date in July due to the ongoing works at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC) at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

“Another option was the

Guyana National Stadium at Providence. However, preparations were being done for International Cricket.

In addition, the track there is 300 meters which is not approved by World Athletics (WA), so we pushed back the Championships to August 11-13 with both the Seniors and Juniors to

be merged into one big event at the Eve Leary ground” informed Smith.

The Guyana Police Force celebrated it’s 184th anniversary during the month of July and some of the anniversary activities, including the Gymkhana, were held at the Eve Leary ground which was named after

the daughter of the plantation owners. She committed suicide in the late 1960s.

“During the Gymkhana, the horses jumped through loops with fire and parts of the track was burnt. When we visited there last Friday for an inspection, a section of the ground was in a soggy condition and

the venue would not have been ready in time.

Some have asked about Linden. But while the track has been fully completed other facilities like the stands and washrooms were not yet finished and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has not yet approved the Venue,” continued Smith.

“We had no choice but to cancel the Championships since it could not be held at a later time because that would be during the off-season when the athletes start their pre-season training for the 2024 season,” concluded the President of the AAG’s Organising Committee.

It was disclosed that National Athletes, Emanuel Archibald (Male) and Aliyah Abrams (female), will be participating at the World Championship from August 19-28 in Hungary.

The 26-year-old Abrams became the first Guyanese to qualify for the World Championships in Track and Field after her 50.77 seconds-run in the Women’s 400m at the Tom Jones

Memorial Invitational last April.

The AAG sent best wishes to the Guyana team at the Junior Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and congratulated Tianna Springer for winning Guyana’ first ‘Gold’ after the 16-year-old produced an impressive run in the women’s 400m final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.

Springer, who also won gold at this year’s CARIFTA Games and South American U-20 Championships, finished with a personal best of 53.55 seconds.

On the local front, a 5k and 10k Road Race is planned for the first Sunday in November around the East Coast Corridor while the National Schools Championships is set for November and is scheduled for the NTFC, which will be ready for that event

The AAG was represented by it’s President (Ag) Sheryl Hermonstyne; General Secretary James Cole; Competitions Secretary, Kenisha Headley, and Vice-Presidents Niall Stanton and Keith Campbell.

Intrigue surrounds BCA presidency

BRIDGETOWN,

Barbados, (CMC) – A shake-up in the leadership of one of West Indies cricket’s most influential territorial boards appears to be in the making.

No nominees were received for the post of president of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) by the deadline for submission of nominations on July 26.

It is the first time since the BCA amended its rules 20 years ago and established a special meeting of members to elect directors that there have been no nominations for the post.

Under the rules, nominations for the post can be taken at the special meeting this coming Monday at Kensington Oval, and it is expected that incumbent president and outspoken Cricket West Indies (CWI) director Conde Riley will once again step

forward.

Riley, 70, has held the post since he was swept to power six years ago, replacing former Barbados and West Indies fast bowler Joel Garner, and he has turned back challengers on two of the three occasions he has faced elections.

He beat two other challengers – former CWI director Deighton Smith, and former Barbados wicketkeeper and retired director of the National Sports Council Erskine King – on the first occasion, fought off Garner for the position on the second occasion four years ago, and went unchallenged two years ago.

If Riley fails to step forward, it appears there are others waiting “in the slips” to take on the role, including secretary and government senator, Gregory Nicholls.

He appeared likely to

be nominated at the special meeting after he wrote members on Wednesday asking “for your vote of confidence”.

Reports indicate that vice-president and former CWI director Calvin Hope also has an interest in taking the most visible job in Barbadian sport.

Hope, a former tourism marketing officer turned attorney-at-law, rose to the post of vice-president when Riley took over the

BCA, and he previously unsuccessfully challenged Garner for the position.

Nicholls, an attorney-at-law, is in second stint as secretary, having held the post for six years from 2007, and from 2017 to now, and he has already been nominated unopposed to retain his post of secretary.

If he is elected president, it is likely a vote to replace him will be

triggered at the special meeting of members.

Nicholls said in his memo to members that cricket in Barbados needed “to recalibrate” and the time had come in the life of the association “when change can no longer be resisted”.

“The BCA is now at this critical juncture,” he stated in the memo. “We can choose either to ignore the truth and continue on the current path for two more years, or we can recalibrate our focus and embrace the value proposition that the modern game of cricket presents.

“I have previously said to you that there is a correlation between high quality performances on the field of play and the governance in the boardroom. The world of cricket has changed in a dramatic fashion since the BCA embraced the cricket development plan concep-

tualised … in 2006.”

He added: “Our centre of excellence is far too outdated, too low-tech, and too ill-equipped for our young cricketers to have any special advantage as they go forward.

“Too much of the budget is spent on food, not critical areas like sports science, not data analytics, not strength and conditioning, and not high performance training. These things can no longer be dismissed as ‘talking nonsense’.”

At the same time, five others are seeking to fill three slots of elected directors. They are former West Indies Women’s manager Pat Greenidge, 2019 Chevening scholarship awardee and management specialist Kamal Springer, and automobile dealer Andrew Lythcott; as well as incumbents, Winston Stafford and Hendy Wallace.

From left: Tyrone Smith, Kenisha Headley, Niall Stanton, Sheryl Hermonstine, James Cole, Keith Campbell

BCA president Condey Riley

Guyana sets new 4x400m Mixed Relay record to end Commonwealth Youth Games

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

and Guyana brought the curtains down on the Commonwealth Youth Games in fine style, with the latter establishing one of three new records on Thursday’s final day of the six-day spectacle in Trinidad and Tobago.

While the twin island republic won a few medals to improve their tally and finish seventh on the medal table as the highest ranked Caribbean nation, Guyana’s record-breaking feat, handed them a second gold medal which saw them end 11th on the standing.

Trinidad’s 15 medals, includes four gold, five silver and six bronze, with Guyana tally- ing two gold, one silver and

‘Cricket for Charity’ match at

One Guyana

T10

one bronze. Cayman Islands was 10th with two gold, one silver and three bronze, while Jamaica, which had no competitor on the final day, placed 13th with their two gold and two bronze.

The Guyanese team of Malachi Austin, Narissa McPherson, Javon Roberts and Tianna Springer Guyana topped the 4X400m Mixed Relay in 3:22.07. That bettered the previous Commonwealth Youth Games Record of 3:25.08, set by Australia in 2017. They won ahead of England (3:22.29s) and Australia (3:26.23). (SportsMax)

Comeback Kings, Carmel, shock DC Caesar

Fox to book Digicel Final against St. Ignatius

Through sheer willpower and determination, Carmel produced one of the most stunning comebacks in the tournament’s history to book their final spot by beating DC Caesar Fox on penalties (3-2) after fulltime and extra time failed to produce a winner. Playing in front of a massive crowd at the Ministry of Education ground, on Wednesday afternoon, Carmel went down 3-0 in the first half with Carrington Isaacs (20’), Robaldo Johnson (22’) and Bevon Jones (24’) netting for DC Caesar Fox.

It looked as though their Championship journey was over but Carmel rallied in the second half with Shem James scoring twice (55’ & 59’) in the space of five minutes to make it 3-2. With 19 minutes to go, Anthonio Isaacs (71’) made it 4-2 to all but seal the deal for DC Caesar Fox. However, James then completed his hat-trick in the 80th minute then Carmel’s young star, Ian Daniels (85’) pulled the scores level to the delight of the fans.

Robaldo Johnson netted just 4 minutes into the first half of

extra time to send DC Caesar Fox 5-4 up. Four minutes from the final whistle, Daniels completed his brace to level it again as Carmel tied the game to send it to penalties. DC Caesar Fox’s first two penalties were cleanly taken as were Carmel’s but the following two were off target, with a final spot at stake, young Omarion Atkinson stepped up and calmly slotted home to send the Carmel fans into a frenzy.

Meanwhile, in semi-final two, St. Ignatius eased to a comfortable 3-1 win over Waramuri

Primary Top to confirm the final match-up. The first half was a battle of the midfield with neither side gaining any clear advantage and the scoreline remained 0-0 by the half-time whistle. As has been the trend of recent, the second half provided a flurry of action, as St. Ignatius finally wore down Waramuri’s defence to go 2-0 up through Romel Ernest (52’) and Morgan Toruma (55’).

Not to be undone, Waramuri pulled one back in the 68th minute (through Danesh Williams) to make things interesting. Ernest scored another in the 75th minute to restore St. Ignatius’

two goal cushion which saw the game through.

The final, originally slated for the Leonora Track & Field Centre Ground, has been shifted to the Ministry of Education ground following concerns from stakeholders which the organisers and sponsor, the Petra Organisa-

tion and Digicel, respectively, paid heed to. The date for the final is August 13 (Sunday) with the third-place playoff between DC Caesar Fox and Waramuri set to begin at 5:00 pm. The Grand finale which will see Carmel face St. Ignatius Secondary, will kick-off at 7:00 pm.

THE Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast finals head to the National Stadium, Providence, on Saturday, August 12, from 14:00 hrs.

The final is set for 20:00 hrs.

Apart from the championship match, the charity match, dubbed ‘Cricket for Charity,’ has attracted growing interest since the organisers initially announced some persons set to compete.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the tournament’s patron, is set to showcase his Tapeball skills against members of the Private Sector.

President Ali, who has a blazing tapeball hundred against members of disciplined services, is expected to lead several government officials on the field to face business community members, all in a noble effort to raise funds for charity.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., Devendra Bishoo. Rawle Ferguson, Kerwin Bollers, and cricket legends Ramneresh Sarwan, Lennox Cush, Devindra Bissoo and Steven Jacobs and other officials are confirmed to play.

President Ali and Lennox Cush will captain the teams.

The charity match is scheduled to start at 18:00 hrs, and the organisers have staked G$200,000 for the winning side to donate to Charity.

President Ali, one of the first to support the tournament, noted the event would bring many people together from various communities under the ‘One Guyana’ banner.

Meanwhile, the first semi-final pits the rampant Eccles All-Stars against Team

Corruption from 14:00 hrs, followed by V-Net Vipers, who ousted Village Rams, against Tarmac Titans from 16:00 hrs.

Many players are ecstatic about the chance to play Tapeball at Guyana’s premier sporting facility and under lights. Banks DIH also reaffirmed their commitment to hosting the free ‘Kidz Zone’ at the National Stadium, aback the Green Stand.

The children will enjoy free rides in the child-friendly zone, including a bouncy castle and free ice cream, soda, snacks, and water.

Only the Green Stand will be open for usage, but the Red Stand will be open if there is an overfill.

Below the Green Stand will host the Corporate Village and have all amenities such as food and drinks for the fans.

The first-ever champions will pocket G$1M, while the losing finalist will collect G$300,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will walk away with G$100,000 each. There will also be prizes for outstanding individual performances.

The Most Valuable Player of the tournament will get a motorbike valued over G$250,000, compliments of Assuria Insurance.

Finals Schedule:

Match 29 – Eccles AllStars v Team Corruption – 14:00 hrs

Match 30 – V-Net Vipers v Tarmac Titans – 16:00 hrs

Match 31 – Charity

Match – 18:00 hrs

Match 32 – Final -20:00 hrs

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (right) will have Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. as his partner again as the two play in the Cricket for Charity match on August 12

Action between St. Ignatius (Purple Kit) and Waramuri (Orange Kit

(From left) Malachi Austin, Narissa McPherson, Tianna Springer and Javon Roberts share a photo opportunity with coach Julian Edmonds after setting a new 4x400m Mixed Relays record at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday (SportsMax)