Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 12-06-2023

Inclusivity, equity guaranteed for persons living with disabilities

–– President Ali affirms, as sod turned for $100M facility at Crane

–– seven new specialised school buses to be procured

THE United Arab Emirates (UAE) has partnered with Guyana to establish a $100 million state-of-the-art facility at Crane, West Coast Demerara.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, in his address at the sod-turning and tree-planting ceremony held at the construction site on Sunday, emphasised the significance of this landmark project and the urgent need to prioritise the well-being of persons living with disabilities

“What we’re seeing is a demonstration of the character of the UAE, and that is a character of concern, of care

One in which they see the value of every human being as a member of the human family,” President Ali said

Acknowledging the geographical and cultural differences that separate the two nations, President Ali added that the new facility is testimony to the unity achieved through acts of goodwill and service to humanity.

While addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable communities , particularly those persons living with disabilities , President Ali pledged to ensure equity in access for all

He praised the efforts Minister of Human Services, Dr Vindhya Persaud along with the Office of the First Lady, Arya Ali for their extensive work in assisting the elderly and people with disabilities

President Ali also stressed the importance of expanding initiatives to provide a comfortable and safe environment where persons with special needs could experience the joys of life

With an investment of

US$500,000 or GY$100 million, the UAE’s support for the new facility reinforces their commitment to humanity and the well - being of communities worldwide

In line with the focus on improving educational opportunities for children with disabilities , President Ali highlighted the need for additional special needs teachers

To address this requirement , the Government of Guyana is investing in creating training opportunities to attract more specialised educators who can provide vital support to these children and their families

INVESTMENTS BEING MADE

“One of the things that we ’ re in need of is more special needs teachers.

We’re investing and creating training opportunities so that we can get more special needs teachers to support our children and support these families,” the Head of State said

Recognising their invaluable role in providing tailored education and support to children with disabilities , the government is investing in training opportunities to attract and retain skilled professionals in the field

By expanding the pool of specialised educators, President Ali the government will enhance the educational experience and opportunities available to children living with disabilities.

Additionally , to facilitate transportation for students attending special needs schools, the government is in the process of procuring seven new specialised school buses

These buses will ensure that children have adequate means of reaching their schools comfortably and safely The connection between these buses and the new facility further reinforces the commitment to holistic support for individuals with disabilities, Dr Ali said

Those initiatives will add

to the $130 million state-ofthe-art call and business centre for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) being constructed at Palmyra, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The initiative for the business centre came from the First Lady, and upon comple-

tion, it will facilitate the manufacturing of products, and offer retail space, technical training, and therapy for persons living with disabilities The centre will have five workstations for production, a boardroom, a therapy room, a cafeteria , and washroom

facilities The commercial space ’ s goal is to provide PWDs with a platform to market the goods they produce

President Ali said that the Government has implemented several measures to assist persons with disabilities , including a $ 25,000 cash grant for training, equipment, hearing aid and other medical supplies, and entrepreneurial development

The government has also provided public assistance to approximately 8,000 Guyanese living with disabilities, and every child living with a permanent disability will receive a one-time cash grant of $100,000

The government is projecting that an additional 7,700 persons with disabilities will benefit from public assistance, which will provide them with a combined disposable income of approximately $646 million to improve their livelihoods.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali addresses the gathering at the sod-turning ceremony for a facility for persons living with disabilities at Crane, West Coast Demerara (Office of the President photo)

President, Dr Irfaan Ali; First Lady, Arya Ali and their son, Zayd, participated in a tree-planting ceremony held at the construction site for the new facility for persons living with disabilities (Office of the President photo)

Citizens decide on ‘local leaders’ today

- crucial elections set to shape the future of community development, effective governance

TODAY, Guyanese will head to the polls to exercise their franchise at the Local Government Elections (LGE).

town.

The local government system is an essential part of the country’s governance framework. The election is

primarily from Africans and Mixed.

The PPP/C has attracted racial crossover support in every LAA, including in

grassroots level.

As the country stands on the cusp of economic transformation, the upcoming LGE presents a crucial op-

coast, Guyana has attracted significant foreign investment and is poised to experience significant economic growth.

The LGEs, therefore, attracts more significance; it could pave the way for effective community-driven policies that align with the national development agenda.

The PPP/C has been making inroads in key districts that will play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the local elections.

GROWING POPULARITY

In Georgetown, the party's popularity has grown steadily, with residents embracing the PPP/C’s vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future.

The People’s National Congress-led APNU and its affiliates have been in charge of the Mayor & City Council City for over 50 years now and has been blamed for the continued mismanaged state of the capital city.

town, has also witnessed a groundswell of support for the PPP/C.

The party's commitment to addressing local concerns, such as improving healthcare facilities, enhancing education opportunities, and promoting small business growth, has struck a chord with the residents.

In Linden, a town known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the PPP/C has gained traction by emphasising its commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.

Promising to invest in infrastructure, foster job creation, and support local entrepreneurs, the PPP/C has garnered significant support from Linden's residents, who are hopeful that the upcoming elections will bring positive change to their community.

Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has advised that polling stations across the country will open promptly at 06:00 hrs.

The ballots for Georgetown and locations near the capital were expected to be transported early. Security measures have been put in place and the support, in this regard, will be rendered by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Members of the Disciplined Forces voted on June 2, 2023, separately from the general population because the Disciplined Services will have their hands full, ensuring law and order is maintained when the rest of Guyana votes.

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

contested by political parties, voluntary groups, and individuals who are desirous of winning seats on the councils of the NDCs and municipalities.

Opinion poll shows that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is way ahead of the opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). The tracking opinion survey is being undertaken by Dr Vishnu Bisram.

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

traditional PNC strongholds.

The PPP/C has also witnessed a surge in support, particularly in key districts such as Georgetown, New Amsterdam, and Linden, signalling a potential shift in local governance dynamics.

This year is shaping up to be a prosperous run for the governing party, which has already won by default in 13 of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs), and a combined 291 of the 610 constituencies within the LAAs.

Due to its growing numbers, the PPP/C is the only party that is able to contest in all 610 constituencies across the country. APNU is contesting in only 45 per cent of the 610 constituencies.

This election in Guyana has become increasingly significant in recent years. In 2016 and 2018, the PPP/C made significant gains, capturing a majority of local government seats and solidifying its presence at the

portunity for further development at the community level.

With the discovery of substantial oil reserves off its

The PPP/C has said that if given a chance to lead City Hall, it would increase accountability and transparency at the council, with special emphasis on improving infrastructure, social services, and economic opportunities.

New Amsterdam, the country's second-largest

The LGEs provide an opportunity for citizens to participate actively in shaping the future of their local areas and contribute to Guyana's overall progress.

With the PPP/C gaining ground in key districts like Georgetown, New Amsterdam, and Linden, these elections promise to be closely contested and pivotal in determining the direction of local governance in Guyana.

FLASHBACK: LGE 2018 in Lethem

PPP/C’s track record of progress already proven across the country

Dr. Jagdeo says; affirms development will continue across Guyana

GENERAL Secretary of the People ’ s Progressive Party ( PPP ), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has said that despite the outcome of today ’ s Local Government Elections (LGEs), the party already has a proven track record of development across the country.

Dr Jagdeo made those remarks during a live broadcast on Sunday afternoon, when he said that the party

has focused mainly on the development agenda for communities across the country

This, he said, has resonated well with citizens and as such the government will continue along this path

Dr Jagdeo mentioned that the party has a longterm future because they focus on all the people and moving Guyana forward holistically

Additionally , he also said that over time the PPP/C has already proven that it is the only party capable of reaching out to people of all races and religions , and even added that it is the only multi-ethnic party that Guyana has “So, that has been demonstrated and we could have done this earlier but APNU has always spread these rumours about the PPP and

racism and they are enabled by lots of other people,” Dr Jagdeo said He went on to say that the multitude of persons who have joined the PPP/C recently were welcomed as members and as part of the “family,” and, from the inside, they were able to see that it is all about development for all of Guyana.

Dr Jagdeo said: “We don ’ t conspire and sit

down at party headquarters to come up with new rumours to spread fear around here , every time we meet here, every group that I have met here… every time they come here, it’s about how we can change the lives of their communities … that ’ s what we ’ re focused on all the time , we are essentially a positive party that focuses on development.”

General Secretary of the PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

‘We could accomplish everything together’

–– President Ali tells Albouystown residents; persons hail development at Independence Boulevard

PRESIDENT , Dr Irfaan Ali has reiterated his government’s commitment to work closely with residents of Georgetown and, by extension , Guyana to further develop the country and take it to newer heights.

The Head of State stressed

the need to work together during a walkabout at the Albouystown Boulevard , where central government has made significant investments to create a modern recreational space and enhance archaic infrastructure, including roadways

Residents expressed their gratitude for the timely and much - needed works that have transformed the entire landscape of the community

The President , in response , related that this is only tip of the iceberg, as a lot more is in store

Draft NY State Law a ‘golden opportunity’ to ensure fair debt relief

for residents of Albouystown and other communities across the country

He was, however, adamant that development would best be achieved once there is togetherness and synergies among those in authority and residents.

PROPOSED legislation in New York State, in the northeast United States , could provide effective and fair relief for developing countries crippled by debt, two experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council said last Thursday Olivier de Schutter, Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights , and Attiya Waris, Independent Expert on foreign debt and human rights, have welcomed the proposed New York Taxpayer and International Debt Crises Prevention Act, which is currently under discussion

They urged lawmakers to adopt the draft bill, which compels private creditors to participate in international debt relief efforts on similar terms as public lenders.

FAIR FOR ALL

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and members of his Cabinet held discussions with the United Arab Emirates' Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy and her delegation at State House on Sunday. Prior to the meeting, he hosted a breakfast in honour of the visiting official, where they both spoke about the importance of enhancing relations between the two nations.

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, a number of other Cabinet Ministers, government officials, representatives from the private sector and members of the diplomatic community were also present. Minister Al Hashimy is on a one-day visit to Guyana. (Office of the President photo)

World Bank must drive private investment in climate transition, new chief says

THE World Bank must use “informed risk-taking” to encourage private investors to get more engaged in helping developing countries deal with climate change and leapfrog fossil-fuel energy sources, its new president Ajay Banga said on Sunday.

Banga told CNN’s ‘Fareed Zakaria GPS ’ program that efforts now underway to stretch the World Bank’s lending capacity and revamp its business model could potentially free up “tens of billions” of dollars, but not the estimated trillions of dollars needed to ensure a just energy transition

Private sector capital was critical since funds from governments,

philanthrophy , the World Bank and other multilateral development banks (MDBs) would never suffice to help poor countries adapt to and mitigate climate change, said Banga, a former Mastercard CEO who took office on June 2

“The only way forward is to find a way to get the private sector to believe that this is part of their future,” said Banga, who will visit Peru and Jamaica this week as part of a tour to visit countries in every region where the bank operates.

“What I think we have to do is to find ways in the MDB system to think of a different playbook - to take on the risks that they cannot take on,” he said

Private companies were bound to deliver returns for shareholders and could not take on the risks involved, but the bank could help, he said.

“That’s kind of a thing that we can do with informed risk-taking,” Banga said, noting that renewable energy was now cheaper in many cases than fossil fuels due to improvements in storage and duration

Affordable electricity was the key starting point for social and economic development in emerging economies, but new solutions were needed to avoid the “emissions-intensive growth model” followed by advanced economies, or there was no hope of curbing emissions by 2050, he added

The Indian-born executive was nominated by the U S for the job precisely because of his previous work in the private sector, and he has pledged to identify barriers for greater investment and find ways to maximise the bank’s impact

Banga told CNN he would also work closely with other multilateral lenders and development organisations , noting that he would be joined in his visits this week by Inter-American Development Bank President Ilan Golfajn.

“We need so much to be done We need all shoulders at the wheel,” he said. “What we don’t need is silos in this effort.” (Reuters)

New York State is home to New York City , the financial capital of the world. Some 60 per cent of developing countries debt is held by private creditors , and New York law governs 52 per cent of this global debt, according to the experts

“If taxpayers contribute to public debt relief, private creditors should be obliged to participate on the same terms ,” they said , adding : “Debt relief must be effective and fair for all, and its costs must be shared by private creditors as well.”

The proposed legislation means distressed low and middle - income countries would be able to protect the economic , social and cultural rights of their citizens , instead of paying “unsustainable” debt loads. (United Nations News)

Time to Decide

AS Guyanese citizens gear up to participate in the Local Government Elections today, the significance of this democratic exercise cannot be overstated.

These elections offer an opportunity for individuals to exercise their right to vote and choose representatives who will best represent their interests and protect their welfare at the local level.

The decisions made at the polls will shape the future trajectory of their communities and impact the lives of fellow Guyanese. It is a moment of great importance, where the power

of the people comes to the forefront, highlighting the value of active civic engagement.

Local government plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficient administration, service delivery, and community development.

It is at the local level where the daily issues that affect citizens' lives are addressed and resolved. From infrastructure development to environmental concerns, local representatives are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the interests of their constituents.

It is crucial for voters to thoroughly assess the can-

didates running for office and choose those who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to public service, a deep understanding of the issues facing their communities, and a track record of effective leadership. These individuals should possess the skills and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of governance and champion the needs and aspirations of the people they represent.

The Local Government Elections provide an opportunity for Guyanese to come together and transcend political divisions in the pursuit of common goals. It

is imperative that citizens evaluate candidates based on their ability to bridge gaps, promote inclusivity, and foster unity within their communities.

By choosing representatives who prioritise collaboration and dialogue, voters can contribute to the creation of an environment where diverse voices are heard, and decisions are made in the best interest of all.

Moreover, candidates should have a strong commitment to transparency and accountability. They must be willing to engage with their constituents, listen to

their concerns, and provide regular updates on their actions and decisions.

By upholding these principles, elected representatives can ensure that the trust placed in them is well-founded and that they remain responsive to the needs of their constituents.

The outcome of these elections will shape the future of local governance in Guyana. A responsible and competent local government can lay the foundation for progress, attracting investments, promoting economic development, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

It is vital for voters to recognise the power they hold and exercise it judiciously, placing their trust in those candidates who demonstrate a genuine commitment to the welfare of their communities. By selecting candidates who have proven themselves capable, dedicated, and responsive to the needs of the people, Guyanese can actively contribute to building a brighter future. Let us embrace this opportunity to safeguard our interests, foster unity, and pave the way for progress at the local level.

Make sure you vote early today for the candidate you think will serve your community best

Dear Editor VOTING is the single most important duty in public life, and we should not take the opportunity to do so lightly. Before 2020, it was difficult to fully convey to younger people in this country how decades of rigged elections had snuffed out this most elemental right of citizenship.

Regrettably, it took a five-month mega rigging effort to introduce young Guyanese to the culture of election-thievery of the PNC-led APNU, and their little brother, the AFC. Today, June 12, 2023, is the perfect opportunity to teach the APNU a lesson for attempted election heist by voting for the PPP/C and their constituency candidates.

The APNU offers Guy-

anese extraordinarily little, other than empty promises. APNU promises are never for the whole country. No, never. They are always about their own supporters. But even here, the APNU is so incompetent that they cannot deliver the goods to the people who do support them.

The party’s brass is too busy helping themselves to waterfront lands and other choice places like Millies Hideout in Linden where the ‘Chief Election Rigger’ got more than a hundred acres of land.

Here is a Kaieteur News (July 2, 2020) – “The APNU/AFC Government has come under severe fire for what some say was a “mad rush” to allocate prime State lands to key officials and alleged supporters of the coalition since the December

2018 no-confidence vote –the period after which the administration should have been in a caretaker status until a new government was elected.”

Kaieteur News also reported that “Mr. Lowenfield as our Chief Elections Officer, after the passage of the no-confidence vote…, became the beneficiary from the government that had fallen, of two acres of prime residential land in a village called Mocha, and 100-plus acres of land at a place in Region Ten called Millie’s Hideout…” (KN, 7/2/2020).

The APNU’s little campaign for the 2023 LGEs has been based on three things, namely, (1) Afro-Guyanese votes belong to them like private property; (2) Georgetown City Council has been starved of funds; and their

trump card; (3) bad talk President Ali and Vice-President Jagdeo.

Regarding number one, we have seen that hundreds upon hundreds of traditional supporters of PNC-APNU forcefully reject the personal-ownership rhetoric.

The complaint that Georgetown has been starved by the Central Government for resources is a plain lie. The Minister of Finance, Ashni Singh, reported a few days ago that the City Council has received in excess of $10 billion dollars from the PPP/C led Government. This includes $678 million for drainage; $600 million for water; $510 million for Solid Waste Management; and $779 million to renovate a City Hall occupied by the PNC for more than five decades.

Minister Singh also raised the alarm about the PNC-controlled M&CC which took in $1.7 billion in (PAYE) taxes but did not remit to GRA as required by law; and that the PNC outfit owes $387 million in workers’ NIS contributions.

Finally, since the PPP/C has a robust policy agenda and there is little room for criticism, the APNU’s main line of attack is to attack President Irfaan Ali, and Vice-President Jagdeo. These swipes against Ali and Jagdeo have been met with quick dismissals, scorn, and even laughter.

At a public meeting at Success (ECD) last night, Jagdeo brought the audience to sustained laughter when he said that this is not a contest between crappos, but a contest between political

parties.

Some senior APNU people have been calling the PPP/C ‘Trench Crappos’ because the PPP/C has been ‘swimming into their strongholds.’ In a lighter moment Jagdeo intimated that if the PPP/C are ‘Trench Crappos’ then APNU are ‘House Crappos.’ And further “if this is a contest between Crappos, then the ‘House Crappos’ will win that contest. Better at croaking, no doubt.

Jokes aside, it is tremendously important for citizens to go out early and vote for the candidates of their choice. From what I can see, the PPP/C will create a massive Red Wave across the country.

Sincerely,

Dr. Randolph (Randy) Persaud

Norton could lose his position after LGEs as PPP attracts massive support

Dear Editor, THE Local Government Election (LGEs) may lead to the demise of the PNC, as predictions indicate that the PPP is headed for a major landslide victory.

The PNC was badly beaten in the last two LGEs, and seems poised to receive its worst beating at the hands of the PPP today Already, we have seen a higher participation rate at the early voting of the Disciplined Services. GECOM reported that turnout was just around 50 per cent for both the prison service and army.

While the PPP campaigns are filled with high energy, excitement, and multi-ethnic crowds, the PNC campaigns are sour and lack diversity.

Of course, the PPP seems to be awash in campaign resources and support, as it is the ruling government, compared to the PNC’s campaign. Given the leadership fissures within the PNC, a poor

showing by the PNC may well lead to calls for the resignation of the PNC/Opposition Leader.

He is likely to be blamed for the party’s poor showing and inability to compete in 13 Local Authority Areas already won by the PPP because of no opposition candidates.

My friend Suresh said the PPP has been able to attract quite a number of Afro-Guyanese supporters in many communities, signalling that the PPP’s outreaches may be bearing some good fruit.

Similarly, we have not seen such diversity at the PNC meetings, or any apparent attraction of cross-over voters.

Suresh said PNC people have realised that the grass is greener on the other side, and why should they stay on the PNC side which has nothing to offer them.

That, he said, is what is causing former PNC supporters to go over on the PPP side, as they have already seen roads and bridges being built, drains dug, have ob -

tained part-time jobs, and have seen overall improvement since the PPP assumed office in 2020.

Suresh said people want to see their communities improve now, and if it means voting for the PPP, they are willing to do that. “What is there to lose,” he said.

The PPP is betting on high turnout of its supporters to take them over the top in the prized areas of Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Linden, and Bartica. Indications are that with many crossover voters on their side, the PPP will win more seats in these areas, and may very well win outright.

While there may be disgruntlement about wages and salaries not going up as fast as they should, the PPP is poised to trounce the PNC which is seen as a worst possible alternative, given its record of electoral fraud throughout its history.

Many are in the “Never Again PNC” mode. Already, a PNC Member of GECOM

is alleging the disenfranchisement of some military personnel, but GECOM has debunked such claims.

The LGEs have attracted the largest number of election observers, so the PNC cannot spread fake stories of rigging, for which they had created the manual during its reign.

Following its elec -

toral fortunes at the LGEs, the PPP must set out to restructure and revamp the broken regional and local government system. Expectations are high, and people will hold them accountable for a fast track to promises made.

Many things need to be fixed in an ongoing, sustainable manner. Hopefully, all the

results will be known well before midnight on June 12, and we will be spared all the fiasco that took place at the 2020 elections. GECOM must provide a continuous feed of preliminary results quickly and efficiently.

Sincerely, Dr. Jerry

Jailall

Let us be a united force for real change

Dear Editor,

The persistence of race as the predominant factor in the Guyanese political process and the role which the country’s political leadership in the PPP/C is playing in healing the ethnic divide is bearing bountiful fruit, despite coalition miscreants’ attempts to exacerbate disunity in the nation.

If one reads our history and if one is aufait with the history of the colonisers, one would recognize that the predominant factor driving the power of the colonial elitists in every country they have occupied is a ‘divide and rule’ policy.

Whether they create eth-

nic cleavages, exacerbate religious intolerance, or cause political divides, it was their strategy to conquer and rule countries that they occupied, primarily for the extraction and appropriation of the wealth of occupied territories. Today, Haiti is still under siege by its former colonisers.

Guyana fell prey to this vicious strategy because the viability of the sugar estates under British rule was threatened subsequent to emancipation when freed African slaves refused to be subservient to the ‘massa’ anymore and preferred to pursue agricultural activities for survival.

When their demands for humane conditions of

employment were not met, the British plantocracy was forced to import indentured labourers from various sources, but all except Indians refused to be held hostage to the exploitative plantation owners; hence the pitting of one exploited race against another for pecuniary interests.

When a Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate the treatment of indentured labourers by the plantation owners, it was freed slaves who testified on behalf of the Indian labourers and forced concessionary measures that created some degree of alleviation in the ill-treatment, similar to what had been dealt to the slaves,

by the colonial elitists.

So, at human levels – in our country descendants of African slaves and Indian indentured labourers have always co-existed in harmony. However, when the oppressive governance of the colonials was threatened by the strident calls of Dr Cheddi Jagan and the PPP for independence, they invoked their ‘divide and rule’ policy and created rifts in Guyana’s first mass-based political party.

We have never recovered from the ensuing rancorous consequences in our nation, which have been exacerbated and exploited by opportunistic politicians whose only agenda is self-enrichment, self-em-

powerment and self-aggrandizement.

However, the leadership of the PPP/C has never wavered in its commitment to creating a united nation and today Guyanese are well on the way to becoming “One Guyana.”

Because finally we, individually and collectively, currently recognise and accept the reality that instead of consideration of issues, racebased politics will always leave this nation vulnerable to the exploitative strategies of neo-colonizers who covet our wealth and who are still using ‘divide and rule’ strategies to conquer us and appropriate our wealth, through various

strategic measures. But mainly by purchasing the favours of key players in the political divide, we will forever be held hostage to the manipulators of our destiny.

The PPP will always be the people’s party because the welfare of the people is the genesis on which the Party propelled its struggles to win independence and a democratic culture for this nation and so PPP/C leaders continue to urge all our people to come aboard with us and let us be a united force for real change in the socio-economic dynamics of this country.

Yours Sincerely, Alvin Hamilton

Georgetown benefits from over $10B in enhancement works

–– between 2020 and 2022 from central gov’t, Dr. Singh says

THE People ’ s Progressive Party / Civic (PPPC) government has spent over $10 billion on infrastructure and other works in the capital city, Georgetown, between 2020 and 2022, including $6 billion on the construction and rehabilitation of roads.

Contrary to those efforts, the Mayor and City Council which is responsible for the City, as of 2023, owes the Guyana Power and Light Inc. $3.2 billion, owes the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) $1.7 billion in taxes for the period 2016 to 2023, representing outstanding PAYE which was deducted from employees but never remitted to the GRA, and also owes the National Insurance Scheme a further $387 million owed in employee contributions as at end of April 2023, jeopardising workers’ benefits

This was according to Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, who outlined myriad spending that central government has done in Georgetown

He highlighted the PPP/C government’s efforts in response to a previous letter by Georgetown Mayor, Ubraj Narine about the government owing City Hall

According to Dr Singh , for the period 2020 to 2022, central government spent $155 million to reconstruct and rehabilitate bridges, $1 billion to enhance the Old Railway Embankment, $1.6 billion on enhancement works along the Independence Boulevard , Cemetery Road , and internal roads in Albouystown, Georgetown

Another $250 million was spent on

See page 14

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPPC) government has spent over $10 billion on infrastructural and other works in the capital city, Georgetown, between 2020 and 2022, including $6 billion on the construction and rehabilitation of roads (Adrian Narine photos)

What is wrong with giving the PPP a chance at City Hall today?

PEOPLE vote for all types of reasons. The list includes ideology, ethnicity, personal gains, business connections, friendship, etc.... Depending on the circumstances at a particular time in a country, people can change the reason for their vote.

Why this switching comes about is because society is never static

and the dialectics act upon society to bring about social and philosophical waves humans cannot anticipate. The largest philosophical awakening of how the dialectics intrude on human action was the outbreak of the First World War.

The Communist International, based on Marxist class analysis had advised working

peoples of Europe not to participate in the war because it was an imperialist conflict driven by capitalist greed. But in the end the working classes of Europe ditched class solidarity and embraced nationalist sympathies, fighting for individual countries.

The prioritising of nationalist loyalty over class struggle resulted in the execution by the

German Government of perhaps two of the greatest liberation communists in world history – Rosa Luxemberg and Karl Liebknecht.

It remains a mystery why two of the most enduring leftist thinkers in the PPP – Donald Ramotar and Clement Rohee – have never named a reading room in the Dr. Cheddi Jagan Library in Red House after them.

White Americans chose not to use the ethnic option in 2012. They gravitated toward Barack Obama for ideological reasons. One was that they viewed Hilary Clinton as part of the Washington DC/ Wall Street connection.

Secondly, they felt that Clinton was prowar while Obama had voted against the invasion of Iraq as a senator. White folks switched from Obama in his second presidential bid, thus denying him a majority in the House and Senate that literally paralyzed his second-term presidency.

Indians in 2015 moved away from ethnic voting and chose ideology when they voted for the AFC. After the AFC invented the second most disastrous political crisis in Guyana’s history second only to the split in the PPP in the early 1950s, Indians went back to the PPP in 2020 thus contributing to the PPP’s victory.

In Trinidad, Africans in two marginal constituencies chose issues over ethnic sympathies when they voted for an Indian Prime Min -

ister, Kamla Bissessar. The next election, they switched back to ethnic balloting.

In Guyana this morning of Monday, June 12, a fluid situation exists. The PPP has never won the Georgetown municipality. Out of the 94 mayors, Georgetown has had, not one has come from the PPP. There are of course logical reasons for this: vast PNC constituencies outnumbering PPP urban enclaves have continued to this day.

Ethnic voting has denied the PPP the control of City Hall from early colonial times, with only two Indians – Rahman Gajraj and Lionel Luckhoo -- in the 1950s and 1960s becoming mayors but they did not contest on a PPP ticket. Since that era only two Indians have become mayors – Cecil Persaud and Ubraj Narine. The latter became mayor, 38 years after the last Indian mayor – Cecil Persaud in 1980.

In an appearance on the Freddie Kissoon-Gildharie Show two weeks ago, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton when asked if the PPP will win the City Council this time, he said it will be close. The reasons why it will be close today are because of demographics, the economy and pragmatism.

It is too early to dismiss ethnic voting today. The Georgetown electorate starts from Cummings Lodge and ends at Agricola. A demographic analysis would reveal that in the voting pattern

for the past eight decades, Georgetowners employed the race determinant and not the issue factor. But that could change today for three reasons.

One is that Guyana’s incredibly young population includes African-Guyanese who do not see politics the way their parents and grandparents saw it decades ago. There are many reasons for this, including the age of the internet and more ethnic mixing in schools and tertiary institutions.

Secondly, I don’t think young African Guyanese are enamoured of their leaders they way their elders were decades ago. The current crop of African leaders is poor and mediocre when it comes to strategizing. They believe that the methodology of mo fyaah/slo fyaah is productive.

It is in fact counter-productive. Today African youths will not take to the streets to senselessly burn and the security forces will not allow that.

African leaders also resort to barefaced deceptions in the hope that they can fool almost half of the population. A perfect example is the bankrupt, repeated sermon that the PNC won the March 2020 elections.

Finally, Guyana is a petro state with money available to fix Georgetown and fix it handsomely. African Guyanese know this is a new Guyana, and they may vote in a new way. I hope they do.

PPP/C rejects Granger’s ‘sanctimonious tone,’ lecture on ‘trust’

Mr. Granger did not give the sense that he wanted to stop these intrusions on our country's democratic structure with his detached and frequently aloof attitude in the face of these violations.

and ceremony” mattered more than the people of this country and their prosperity – the decision to spend billions on food and other forms of consumption at the expense of taxpayers.

er maintains use of the most expensive vehicle purchased in Guyana’s history for a public official because of the PPP/C administration,

out for their own elitist interests. After the December 2018 passage of the no-confidence motion, Guyanese were witness to a massive

The following is a full statement from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic

“FORMER President, former leader of the PNCR, former Chairman of the APNU, and the APNU+AFC Coalition, Mr. David Granger, emerged on June 11, 2023, seemingly emboldened by the misguided notion that the Guyanese people suffer from short-memories, to pontificate, shamelessly, on the issue of trust.

“At the 11th hour, Mr. Granger’s last-ditch effort to ramp up support among Guyanese at Local Government Elections, scheduled for Monday, June 12, 2023, [today], exposes the desperation of the PNCR-led APNU, which failed even in its ability to field candidates in more than half of the 610 constituencies and in 25 of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs) being contested.

“To wax lyrical about trust, while uttering barefaced untruths, in his familiar ‘sanctimonious’ tone, is characteristic of Mr. Granger and his stewardship as a leader.

“First, Mr. Granger’s attempt to credit

the former APNU+AFC Coalition with the return of Local Government Elections as a signal of the APNU’ commitment to democracy falls flat on the face of the brazen efforts of his administration to block the holding of constitutionally due General and Regional Elections, even after the passage of a no-confidence motion, as well as the blatant attempts to steal the elections after Guyanese went to the polls on March 2020.

“Secondly, his further efforts to claim that the PPP/C cannot be trusted because it ‘spurned the constitution’ is unbelievably barefaced.

“The biggest, most flagrant and persistent violations of our Constitution and laws since Guyana gained independence have marred Mr. Granger's record and that of his administration. Between May 2015 and March 2020, Mr. Granger and/or his ministers repeatedly disregarded the law, often with his knowledge, and violated our Constitution.

“There are more than 15 occasions where, under Mr. Granger’s watch, the Constitution of Guyana was violated.

“One of the most egregious and poignant memory [sic] of his constitutional violations is his unilateral appointment of a Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission. Following retired Justice Patterson’s appointment as Chairman, the matter was filed in the High Court, the Appeals Court and all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice.

“On June 18, 2019, the CCJ ruled that, “we have no choice but to conclude that the process that was followed in the appointment of Justice Patterson was flawed and in breach of Article 161(2)” Guyana’s Constitution.

“The Caribbean Court of Justice, on three significant occasions, had to intervene to reverse Mr. Granger’s unconstitutional actions.

“Thirdly, Mr. Granger ought to be aware that naming a new town or proclaiming a National Day of Villages – the only two substantive “achievements” he pointed to in his almost nine-minute spiel – does not evidence a commitment to local democracy or development.

“It does remind, however, that Mr. Granger presided over a period where “pomp

“Mr. Granger would have probably been better served if he, having finally emerged back into the public eye, could have defended or at least attempted a defence of his administration’s imposition of hardships on our people; the institution of over 200 taxes and fees; the firing of almost 2,000 Amerindians – who were the first of our people to be targeted by his administration; the firing of thousands in the sugar industry; the massive loss of jobs in the forestry, mining, construction and retail sectors; the removal of the “Because We Care” cash grant from our children; the removal of the one-month bonus for our Joint Services, and the list goes on.

“Fourthly, Mr. Granger’s lecture to Guyanese on the issue of trust warrants underscoring that if anyone should trust the PPP/C it is Mr. Granger. Despite his vindictiveness in taking action to remove access to medical care for former presidents, he was fully supported by the PPP/C government during his difficulties and enjoyed the luxury of having his medical expenses fully covered by the state.

“To date, Mr. Grang-

which refused to lower itself to the level of his APNU+AFC Coalition administration and graciously allowed him to do so.

“Finally, Mr. Granger is correct in one respect, and one respect only, that local representation is based on trust and the PPP/C stands confident that all right-minded Guyanese trust that; the PPP/C is the only party they can trust to deliver on their promises; the PPP/C is the only party that has matched its words to its actions; the PPP/C is the only party that has worked, and continues to work assiduously to bring our people together, and further the advancement of our nation for our collective progress and prosperity.

“The only thing Guyanese can “trust the APNU” to do is to look

land grab that benefited [sic] the ministers, their relatives and their elite cronies.

“This all took place in the face of a shameful lack of focus on meeting the housing needs of average Guyanese.

“The fact that Mr. Granger has no track record to stand on is clear, given his misrepresentation of what took place in Guyana before 2015 – a return to the old arsenal, which is nothing but a menu of lies, half-truths and excuses.

“This is the only ‘Kool-Aid’ that Guyanese should avoid.

Come Monday, Guyanese are urged to support the only party that has a proven track record to stand on; the only party that can be trusted.”

Former President David Granger

- says former President has ‘no track record’ to stand on; party has always matched its words to its actions

Environmental training for Indigenous people, new UG programmes

- among opportunities that could be created locally by reputable Canadian company, ECO Canada

Recent discussions were held with government officials, the University of Guyana (UG) and the National Toshaos Council (NTC).

According to Chaudhry, the Caribbean region is facing significant environmental challenges, including those related to climate change and unsustainable use of natural

workforce is [the] first starting point.”

To address gaps in the environmental workforce, training programmes will be offered across several hinterland communities.

“One of our very successful programmes in Canada has been training and employment opportunities for

sector. Eighty per cent of the participants are meaningfully employed,” Chaudhry underscored.

He anticipates that a local partnership with Guyana will see the country’s environmental workforce being strengthened, further meeting the growing demand for sustainability and environmental

opportunities for Indigenous participants too for them to acquire those skills and work in the local projects,” Chaudhry said.

He went on to say: “One of the challenges that we hear from our industry is that students are graduating, but they lack skills and they often say that the stu-

ENVIRONMENTAL training for Indigenous people and the introduction of new bachelors and masters programmes at the University of Guyana (UG) are among the key ideas put forward by ECO Canada and several Guyanese partners.

According to its website, ECO Canada is an online resource for environmental jobs, certification and training, established in 1992 as part of Canada's sector-council initiative.

Dr. Yogendra Chaudhry, Vice-President of Professional Services at ECO Canada, in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle shared the company’s plans to expand its environmental certification and training programmes to several Caribbean nations, with Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago being the first.

“We realised there are so many potentials and so many

similarities between Canada and many Caribbean countries, especially regarding the environmental issues and the climate change,” Chaudhry said.

With over 30 years of experience providing environmental workforce development solutions, Chaudhry says ECO Canada will bring with it a host of expertise and knowledge to the Caribbean market.

“We identify competency gaps and we develop those competency requirements and identify industry trends, and we develop those resources which can be used by governments to support their economy,” he related.

Chaudhry oversees the development and delivery of professional services. He provides strategic insight and technical support for environmental and sustainability programmes.

resources, and the need for trained individuals to tackle these issues.

Reflecting on discussions with local officials on those topics, he related: “We got really positive responses and we emphasised like for any country’s growing economy a sound and well prepared

Indigenous community members. In the last 30 years, we have graduated over 45,000 from more than 200 communities and most of these programmes are focused on providing the experience from learning and providing the students to be able to find a job in the environmental

stewardship internationally.

“We realise and understand that there is a need for strong values and focus between the environment and responsible development, and in order to help any industry grow we need a sound workforce… and that is where we see a lot of

dents are not work-ready yet. So, we work with the local universities to make sure that the programmes offered comes in line with the labour market needs and so when students graduate they can meet the employer’s expectation.”

Dr. Yogendra Chaudhry, Vice-President of Professional Services at ECO Canada

Kevin Nilsen, President and CEO of ECO Canada (first from left), along with other stakeholders

Georgetown benefits from ...

enhancement works along the Kingston Seawall

Between 2021 and 2022 , government spent $678 million to operate and maintain the main drainage system in the municipality, $600 million to upgrade the water transmission lines in Georgetown , $ 510 million on Solid Waste Management that benefitted the citizens of Georgetown, and has committed $779 million to the current restoration of the iconic City Hall building

“The lack of accountability by M&CC necessitated these interventions be undertaken directly by Central Government, as it was clear that resources for these developments would have otherwise been squandered and mismanaged by the Mayor and his team,” Dr Singh related

He also rejected a claim by Narine that he wrote the Auditor General (AG) annual requesting annual audits Dr Singh pointed to excerpts from the annual Audit Report concerning City Hall

“The Auditor General would have informed the Town Clerk (ag.) of the status of the audits

The 2021 Auditor General’s (AG) report, on page 95, states that the last time financial statements were audited for the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown was in 2004. The Auditor General also highlighted that he has not received financial statements for a number of years, including 2020 and 2021,” Dr Singh said

In addition, the Special Audit Report of the Auditor General for the years 2019 and 2020, sent on 28 April 2022 to Ms Candace Nelson -Town Clerk (ag), states: “Financial statements were submitted for the year 2018 and 2019. However, they were subsequently returned to M&CC on 27 August 2021 for non-compliance with

International Accounting Standards.”

“It must be noted that these periods directly relate to Ubraj Narine’s tenure as Mayor How can one reasonably expect the Auditor General to perform his duties if the M&CC fails to supply the information necessary to carry out the audit?” Dr Singh asked

He said that the Mayor is attempting to mislead the people of Guyana through deliberate misrepresentation of facts pertaining to the management and accountability of the Georgetown MCC

“In his letter to the press, the Mayor made the outlandish claim that central government has provided paltry sums of money to maintain the capital city

This is farthest from the truth In fact, the PPP/C government has provided significant support to the citizens of Georgetown,” Dr Singh said

He also chastised Narine for his call for a valuation to be done to increase rates and taxes, at a time when Narine’s party , the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has accused the PPP/C of wanting to raise taxes

“This is the nature of APNU/AFC, to repeatedly claim that they will cut taxes when, to the contrary, as has been demonstrated in their previous term in office, they instead did the opposite and imposed over 200 taxes and fees, including taxes on electricity, water, medical supplies, education services, and construction materials and equipment

“We should not be surprised at the dishonesty of Ubraj Narine and the APNU/AFC, who have demonstrated their blatant disregard for the principles of transparency and accountability, pillars upon which democratic governance in modern societies are based,” Dr. Singh said.

Chandan-Edmond: ‘Hinds’ paternalistic, chauvinist comments will not silence me’

time we turn those guns in the right direction it is over.”

This utterance has landed him before the court for attempting to incite racial hostility in Guyana.

He also called for a day of “National Resistance” on June 12, which was set aside for the holding of the Local Government Elections (LGEs).

remain relevant in the political landscape.

The General Secretary said that this is an important message, as it highlights the need for political parties to evolve with the times and adapt to the changing needs and values of their constituents.

PEOPLE’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) member, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, has condemned “paternalistic” and “Chauvinist” remarks made against her by Working People’s Alliance (WPA), David Hinds.

Hinds, during the June 9 streaming of the Gildharie and Freddie Show, said that he citicised Chandan-Edmond for speaking out against racially incendiary remarks made by his fellow WPA member, Tacuma Ogunseye, in March.

He said that he had to make the Indo-Guyanese PNCR-member “an example” by calling her a “slaver catcher,” since she had “put her mouth into something when she should have shup-up.”

Hinds had previously said that the PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members were only there to attract Indo-Guyanese voters.

However, Chandan-Edmond in a letter said that she will not be moved by Hinds and will speak out against any inflammatory statements that can threaten the peace and security of Guyana.

“Although I am in

the Opposition realm, my commitment to country is paramount and where I see a need to speak out on issues to preserve our Republic, I shall not hesitate to do so. Dr. Hinds' paternalistic and chauvinist calls for me to 'shut up', will not affect the sacred commitment to country.

“Regardless of one's ethnic origins, the peace and unity of Guyana is everyone's business, and no one should have their tongues tied in these affairs due to tribal and ethnic restrictions,” Chandan-Edmond said in her letter.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that during a public meeting at Buxton, Ogunseye made incendiary remarks about Guyana’s Indo-Guyanese and called for the Disciplined Services “to turn their guns on the State.”

Ogunseye, during a gathering at Buxton on the East Coast Demerara said: “I don’t understand how people complain that they are oppressed, and they are holding guns in their hands. They are the majority in the army, in the police and they say they are oppressed. And they still say our problem is our own making. Any-

Since the utterance of those statements, numerous persons and groups have called out and condemned the remarks as racist and inciting.

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton is yet to distance himself from those problematic remarks.

Instead of publicly condemning Ogunseye’s incendiary remarks, the Leader of the Opposition said that he did not agree with Ogunseye’s choice of words, though he supports the freedom of speech of the WPA.

The General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had called out the PNC/R for its discrimination against its Indo-Guyanese members.

The General Secretary said that Aubrey Norton has been the Leader of the Opposition for over a year and already the party has changed two Indo-Guyanese general secretaries and a treasurer.

Jagdeo reasoned that such a philosophy is not in line with the values of a modern, democratic society, and that the PNC/R needs to embrace a more inclusive and progressive approach if it hopes to

- says will continue to speak out against ‘inflammatory statements’ that threaten peace, security of Guyana

WPA executive member, David Hinds

PNC/R member, Geeta Chandan-Edmond

Food standards save lives

-FAO, WHO highlight role food standards play in protecting human health, transforming global agri-food systems

FOOD standards save lives by playing a crucial role in preventing food borne illnesses – that was the main message at a high-level hybrid event organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to celebrate the fifth edition of World Food Safety Day.

More than 1 in 10 people fall sick each year from contaminated food, and 420,000 die. The young and the vulnerable are disproportionately affected by the 200 different food-borne diseases that result from unsafe food, most of which are preventable.

The event was opened by the Directors-General of FAO, QU Dongyu, and WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and brought together ministers and experts to discuss the use and impact of Codex standards and the role of science in setting food safety standards and transforming our agri-

has been building such a food code,” QU Dongyu said, addressing the audience virtually.

“FAO recognises the crucial role of food standards to ensure food safety, to help protect human health, and to facilitate fair practices in food trade, especially as food trade continues to grow. Food can only be safe if every person involved in its production, distribution and preparation ensures its safety.”

The Codex Alimentarius has an impact on everyone – from consumers, food producers and processors to national food control agencies. Codex is also the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) benchmark standards for food safety.

Deputy Minister for Agriculture of Albania and José Emilio Esteban, Undersecretary for Food Safety, Department of Agriculture of the United States of America participated in the panel virtually to describe the impact of Codex food standards in their countries.

Corinna Hawkes, FAO’s Director of Food Systems and Food Safety Division, moderated a second expert panel on the role science plays in creating these standards and the impact they have on agri-food systems transformation.

food systems to ensure sufficient, safe, nutritious, and sustainably produced food for every person.

CODEX STANDARDS

The theme of this year’s event was chosen to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the Codex Alimentarius (Latin for food code) Commission, established by FAO and WHO, that sets international standards for food safety and quality, to protect consumer health and promote fair practices in food trade.

“We need a common understanding on the identity, quality, and safety of our food. The FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission

Through the Codex Secretariat, FAO and WHO provide the 189 Members who are part of it with science-based safety standards, like those for food additives, pesticides residues or guidelines for dealing with food-borne antimicrobial resistance.

WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who recorded a video message for the occasion reiterated his organisation’s commitment to working with FAO to make sure everybody consumes safe and healthy food.

EXPERT PANELS

The work done by Codex and the difference it is making on the ground was highlighted during a high-level panel moderated by FAO’s Deputy Director-General, Maria Helena Semedo.

Francisco Gamboa Soto, Minister for Economy, Industry and Commerce of Costa Rica; Enio Civici,

Also, to mark World Food Safety Day 2023, FAO launched a toolbox designed to help all those operating in the food sector adhere to international food hygiene standards.

The toolbox is based on Codex standards and provides a set of guidelines and norms via an FAO website to help those in the food business better engage with local food safety authorities to produce, process and distribute safe food.

FAO and WHO cover a range of issues to support global food safety and protect consumers’ health. FAO addresses food safety issues along the food production chain, while WHO oversees and maintains strong relationships with the public health sector.

World Food Safety Day has been celebrated annually by the United Nations since 2019 and aims to draw attention and inspire action to help prevent, detect, and manage foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, and sustainable development. (FAO)

A wholesale vegetable market in Chile

Open-field wheat trials to begin in August

–Agriculture Minister says

IN advancing efforts to enhance food security, Guyana will soon begin open-field trials for wheat production in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

In a recent invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, related that the open-field trial for wheat is scheduled to com-

the trial is successful, we will be going to produce our own wheat because we can’t depend too much on imports… As a country, we have to ensure that we produce our own food and be self-sufficient.”

Mustapha acknowledged that the pandemic played a major role in influencing the government to explore this project.

mence in August, at Santa Fe, North Rupununi.

The trial was previously scheduled to begin in September of 2022. However, due to torrential rainfall the trial was delayed.

“We are looking at a number of varieties and we are working with EMBRAPA [Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation] and that will be decided based on the condition of the area,” Mustapha said.

Once completed and successful, the ministry will move to produce wheat on a larger scale.

Back in May 2022, Guyana received 49 lines of wheat from the Government of Mexico to start a trial phase. The indoor trial, which explored several varieties, was completed at the Burma Rice Station in Mahaicony, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

Addressing the objective of the wheat trials in a previous interview, Minister Mustapha said the aim is to have Guyana become self-sufficient by removing dependence on imports.

He said: “We are very determined! And as long as

“We can have all the money in the world and we would have seen, during the pandemic, how many countries were suffering to get food because there was a scarcity,” Mustapha said, noting: “And in Guyana, we are very fortunate that we produce most of the food that we consume.”

Prices for wheat had skyrocketed globally due to the Russia-Ukraine war. Russia and Ukraine account for approximately 30 per cent of the world’s traded wheat.

To ease the negative economic impact felt locally, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, in March, had announced that Guyana was exploring the possibility of sourcing a variety of wheat for local production.

“Soon, we are going to work to see whether we can find a variety of wheat that we can plant in Guyana, so that we can fulfill even our local requirement,” President Ali had said last year.

He added: “We are learning important lessons now that we must not leave unanswered for future generations.”

Spoelstra remains confident as Heat travels to Denver for Game Five

(NBA) - Heat coach

Erik Spoelstra remained both confident about his team's chances and defiant that his group would respond following a 108-95 loss to the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday night. Despite the fact that his team is now down 3-1, and facing a mustwin Game 5 on Monday night in Denver, Spoelstra remained steadfast in the belief that his team was

"built for this", and would respond the same way it has so many times throughout the post-season in the wake of adverse circumstances.

“I told the guys, feel whatever you want to feel tonight,” Spoelstra said. “It's fine. You probably shouldn't sleep tonight any amount of time; I don't think anybody will. We have an incredibly competitive group. We've done everything the hard way,

and that's the way it's going to have to be done right now, again. All we are going to focus on is getting this thing back to the 305; get this thing back to Miami. And things can shift very quickly.”

The Heat became just the second No. 8 seed in NBA history to advance to the Finals after defeating the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals, but now they face a similar fate as the New York Knicks, who

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday June 12, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) AUST vs IND (The Oval, London)

(2) Pat Cummins & Rohit Sharma

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is scheduled to be the WI first opponent in the upcoming WC Qualifier games?

(2) Who are the other members of Group A?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

12:13 hrs The Abbey

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American Racing Tips

Finger Lakes

Race 1 Keepmyeyeontheboys Race 2 March Madnez

Party Race 3 Dee's Wiseguy

Race 4 Go Get The Bag

Race 5 Clingman

Race 6 Pajama Jam

Race 7 Nobodyridesforfree

were the first No. 8 seed to make the Finals but ultimately lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games in 1999. Spoelstra remains firm in his conviction, because he has watched his tough-minded group find ways to win no matter what adversity it has faced.

“It's going to be a gnarly game in Den -

ver that is built for the competitors that we have in our locker room,” Spoelstra said.

“By the time we are getting on that plane, all we're thinking about is get this thing back to Miami.

“We get an opportunity to play a super competitive game in a great environment. That's going to be an

awesome environment. Our guys are built for that. They love that ... We understand what the narrative will be, but that's the way it is with our team.”

Heat star Jimmy Butler echoed that confidence while reiterating his own belief that the group will find a way to extend the series.

GCB Cricket Academy bowls off new frontier in Moruca

MORUCA became the latest addition to the long list of growing communities across the country, as the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) new frontier Cricket Academy continues to reach newer heights.

The GCB team continued to venture into uncharted parts of Guyana, this time making the prestigious Amerindian settlement This academy follows those in couth Essequibo, north Essequibo, Leguan, Wakenaam, and Pomeroon, which bowled off their camps within the past two months

The team also took a different dynamic , adding Guyana Harpy Eagles National Head Coach Ryan Hercules to the core , alongside Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) President Deleep Singh and his executive crew and coaches from the Cinderella County

Moruca Cricket Board

President Earl Richards , ECB Competitions Chairman Kumar Das , Chairman of Selectors in Essequibo Dinesh Joseph and others also featured in part of the groundbreaking venture, held at the Damion Marvin Recreational Ground

During his feature remarks, Mr Singh, a Director at Cricket West Indies (CWI) told the residents that this specific visit was geared towards finding and developing some of Region One ( Barima - Waini )’ s immense talent, something he said will be a focal point , as Moruca, undoubtedly, remains one of the premier zones in Essequibo

He said the uprising of Essequibo cricket is a huge part of the overall structure of building for the future , because a

number of top talents , the likes of Ronsford Beaton , Keemo Paul , Anthony Adams and other Guyana and West Indies players hail from Essequibo As a result , it is crucial to keep producing athletes from what can be described as a premier reservoir for cricket.

Richards, the Moruca Cricket Board President immediately thanked the GCB and President Bissondyal Singh and his team for putting Moruca in a position to progress as a community , and as a way of keeping their youths further engaged in sports , but noted that cricket plays a huge role

in the daily lives of the younger generation of Morucans

Hercules ’ inclusion was part of a new initiative to give Academy members who are primarily between the ages of seven to 17 early exposure to elite coaching Young cricketers, although shy, manage to open up and eventually exhibit immense talent on the pitch

During his interaction with the students, Hercules , a Level 3 Coach and former player , acknowledged the natural athletic build and raw physical talent which is a hallmark of the youths from the region.

The coach proclaimed

es in Essequibo recently completed their Level 1/2 course , which was held at the Guyana National Stadium a few weeks ago.

The Eagles coach called on the instructors and players to focus on working hand - in - hand , and practising discipline when it comes to training, being timely for weekly sessions, and when on the cricket field Moruca ’ s Tushao , Stavros Stanley called the

tasked with overseeing the weekly progression of the academy , and , speaking on behalf of their plans, Ernesto DeMattos, Head Coach of the Region, told his teammates that the task ahead will be grueling, but it’s up to them to ensure that the academy and the players reach their peak.

Meanwhile, some students and residents of the area thanked both Boards for making such a historic move , while bringing cricket gear to their community . The turnout by young women in the area was by far the largest of the academies launched , with more than 15 girls present during last Saturday ’ s launch

Closing off the opening , Navika Narine , the ECB Public Relations Officer , thanked the young women and the community for being involved , more specifically the young ladies who showed a huge interest in becoming the next batch of women cricketers

that Region One has, arguably , one of the highest concentrations of talent as it relates to cricket, and he ’ s pleased to witness such a massive turnout by the players who hail from the various satellite villages like Kabukalli and St Peters Hall

Hercules , who was born in Region Two ( Pomeroon - Supenaam ), said that it’s important to have proper coaching for students who are filled with potential but lack the necessary guidance in order to unlock their true potential

Calling on the local coaches to continue their hard work , especially after most of the coach-

moment “a ground-breaking day for Santa Rosa”, and asked for a real cricket pitch for the sport; a facility which will go a long way

“I know we have potential in Moruca, because sports is the way to go , and we have developed more than before ,” he said, adding:

“Essequibo leads the way in academies being launched; it has been a historic and important exercise for the ECB and GCB I know a lot of talent is here in the community, with a lot of talented players.”

A few of the coaches from the area , both male and female, will be

Speaking on the progression of the Academies across Essequibo , and those to be launched in other zones like Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Ten ( Upper Demerara-Berbice), GCB President Bissondyal Singh said he was thrilled to see that cricket had been developing rapidly outside of the common areas

The GCB President believes that the GCB could continue to churn out top talents from across these hidden zones, as they are more sports-oriented and natural athletes with a high drive for cricket Singh, who, too, is a CWI Director, said the academies in Essequibo will play an integral part in the future of Guyana’s cricket.

Another demonstration from Guyana Harpy Eagles Coach Ryan Hercules

ECB President Deleep Singh

GHE Head Coach Ryan Hercules Tuschao Stavros Stanley

Australia closes off India in fine style for WTC trophy

(ICC) - Australia are World Test Champions after completing a 209-run win over India in the WTC Final at The Oval.

Superb first-innings centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith gave Australia control of the Test early on, but India responded well to force the match to a fifth day, falling short of what would have been an all-time record chase to win a Test as they were bowled out for 234.

Scott Boland got the ball rolling with two early dismissals in the day, with Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc also among the wickets as Australia rattled through India to win the World Test Championship title.

Australia was the dominant team during the WTC cycle, finishing top of the

standings to qualify for the showpiece final against India, thanks to 11 wins from 19 matches.

Nathan Lyon ended this Test Championship campaign as the world’s highest wicket-taker.

And four of the top six run-scorers in the WTC cycle were Australian, with only Joe Root scoring more than Usman Khawaja (1621) and Marnus Labuschagne (1576), and the first innings heroes Head and Smith scoring 1407 and 1389 runs respectively in the Championship.

India and Australia stars, including Virat Kohli and Pat Cummins in a tribute to redball cricket ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final

India’s strong finish to their campaign saw them bag

the second spot in the standings, and qualify for the final against Australia in south London.

But defeat means that India have now lost each of the two WTC Finals to have been held since the conception of the tournament.

India batter Virat Kohli has been a fan favourite throughout his illustrious career, and reveals the impact crowds can have on all players during the ICC World Test Championship Final.

Day Five of this 2023 Final had resumed with all results still possible, with Australia requiring seven wickets to win, and India needing 280 more runs at the start of play.

With Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten overnight, there was still some hope for India that they

could pull a record fourth-innings chase.

But Boland got the ball rolling in the first hour.

Scott Boland draws the edge from Virat Kohli as India lose their first wicket on the final day.

A tempter that moved away from Virat Kohli lured the Indian talisman into a risky drive, and Smith held on brilliantly in the cordon as the ball flew off the edge.

And Boland struck again, two balls later, sending down a peach that left Ravindra Jadeja just enough to find the edge, with Alex Carey the grateful recipient behind the stumps.

It was a matter of when, not if, when Mitchell Starc removed Ajinkya Rahane, and wickets tumbled throughout the remainder of the morning

Australia get their hands on the Test mace, and the party begins•Jun 11, 2023•Getty Images

session, with Australia wrapping it up before lunch.

Lyon got in on the action, trapping Shardul Thakur in front, and then helping clean up the tail.

A fiery delivery from Starc did for Umesh Yadav, with Carey taking a superb catch above his head. And Lyon bagged the last two wickets for fall, picking up the scalps of KS Bharat and

India will rue the display on Day One, which left them behind the eighth ball for the remainder of the match, while for Australia this WTC Final victory adds the one piece of major ICC silverware that the nation had been missing from its trophy cabinet.

(BBC) - Novak Djokovic says it is not down to him to decide if he is the greatest player of all time after he won a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title.

Serbia's Djokovic won the French Open on Sunday, moving him one clear of Rafael Nadal in terms of men's majors.

He is level with Serena Williams on 23, and could equal Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 at Wimbledon in July.

“I don't want to enter in these discussions; I'm writing my own history,” Djokovic, 36, said.

“I don't want to say I am the greatest; I leave those discussions to someone else.”

In the past several years, Djokovic has been locked in an engaging battle with Nadal and Roger Federer, who retired last year with 20 major titles to finish with the most men's Grand Slams.

By beating Norway's Casper Ruud at Roland Garros, Djokovic has moved clear of his longtime rivals for the first time.

On this evidence, Djokovic looks a good bet to extend the gap further, especially with the injured Nadal planning to retire in 2024, and 41-year-old Federer already retired.

“It's amazing to know that I'm ahead of both of them in Grand Slams, but at the same time, everyone writes their own history,” said Djokovic, who also regained the World Number One ranking in Paris.

“I feel like each great champion of his own generation has

left a huge mark and a legacy.

“I have huge faith, confidence and belief in myself and everything that I am, who I am and what I am capable of doing.

“This trophy is another confirmation of the quality of tennis that I'm still able to produce.”

How many more Slams can Djokovic win?

Djokovic will attempt to tie Court's record at Wimbledon, a place where he has already won seven times, and will be the favourite to equal Federer's record tally of men's titles.

“Grand Slams are the biggest priorities on the checklist, not just this season but any season, especially at this stage of my career,” Djokovic said.

“The journey is still not over. If I'm winning Slams, why even think about ending the career that already has been going for 20 years?

“I still feel motivated and inspired to play the best tennis

Cricnation592 Store to be sole distributor for E4 cricket products

BERBICE'S premier cricket equipment store, the Cricnation592 Store has signed a major deal to be the sole distributor of E4 cricket gear in Guyana. The E4 brand originated from Ravi Etwaroo at Cricket Zone USA, and is used by international and national cricketers around the globe.

in these tournaments.

“These are the ones that count the most in the history of our sport.”

Djokovic has cut back his schedule at tour level in recent years in a bid to peak at the right time for the four majors.

That strategy is clearly working, with Djokovic now having won six of the past eight majors he has played.

“He has this software in his head that he can switch when a Grand Slam comes,” Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic's long-time coach, said.

“The day we arrived here [in Paris], he was better. He was more motivated; he was more hungry.

“It's fascinating to see, because sometimes you think 'OK, now you have 23'.

“But he's going to find some kind of motivation to win 24, maybe 25 - who knows where is the end?”

Guyana Amazon Warriors opener Chandrapaul Hemraj has been using the E4 cricket kit and has tasted success, while Guyana Harpy Eagles batsmen Tevin Imlach and Matthew Nandu are also brand ambassadors. Jamaican Kennar Lewis, Navin Stewart and a host of players in the United States of America are E4 users.

"We [Cricket Zone USA] have been in business for 17 years. We thought it was the right time to launch the brand. After looking at several names, I decided to use my last name (Etwaroo), and four brothers, which is where E4 formed.

"Currently, we have many players using our brand, starting with Chandrapaul Hemraj, Matthew Nandu, Tevin Imlach, Kennar Lewis, Odean Williams and Navin Stewart.

"We are happy to have you on board at Cricnation592, and you will be exclusively carrying the brand in Guyana," Etwaroo said.

E4 products should be available at Cricnation592 Store by July 2023.

Cricnation592 Store started

operation in October 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic and has provided quality cricket gear for players in the Berbice area.

This premier cricket equipment store in Berbice, Cricnation592 Store, founded by JournalistCorlette, has added a touch of international flavour to local cricketers. Players are exposed to quality cricket gear, mostly from India and the United Kingdom.

The Cricnation592 Store is located at Lot 11 B Ulverston Village, Corentyne, Berbice. This store provides a unique feature, with delivery services throughout Guyana. Under the management team, Cricnation592 aims to expand and continue the quest of providing quality cricket gear to cricketers in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Cricket Zone

USA is North America's largest cricket equipment store. The store was originally founded in 2006 to serve the cricketers in the New York Metropolitan area.

However, Cricket Zone USA has expanded services to online customers across the United States, Canada and other parts of the world using www.cricketzoneusa. com.

Cricket Zone USA aims to provide top-quality products and satisfactory service in a friendly atmosphere. The wide range of products at Cricket Zone USA and competitive prices have made the store one of the fastest-growing sport equipment stores in the United States.

CricketZoneUSA is located at 1656 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx, NY.

Mohammed Siraj to finish with 4/41.

‘I’m writing my own history’ -Djokovic

Novak Djokovic’s victory at the French Open broke the tie with Rafael Nadal for the most men’s Grand Slam titles

Founder of Cricket Zone USA Ravi Etwaroo and Founder of Cricnation592 Store Brandon Corlette

Waramuri into both finals

- Girls to play President’s College; Boys to face Bartica

REGION One’s

Waramuri Top are into both finals of the 2023 ExxonMobil boys and girls U-14 schools football tournament after yesterday’s semi-finals.

The out-of-town side has disposed of all their competition thus far, and made light work of semi-finalists Bartica, 3-1.

Jada La Cruz’s double (4th and 6th minute), along with Mnemosyne Peters 32nd minute strike ensured that the Region One (Barima-Waini) side will have its first shot at the female title.

It took a Kimona Edwards double to ensure that President’s College was the other team in the Finals of the girls’ division.

Her 1st and 15th minute strikes ensured that come June 17, they have a shot at the title.

Meanwhile, in other matches of the day, Marian Academy 2 beat Ann’s Grove 1, thanks to Kaitlyn La Rose (19th) and Kaegh Todd (27th), while Anns Grove had Glenise Tony (31st) on target.

New Central were also winners on the day,

through two goals from Aaliyah De Freitas (54th and 60th).

On the boys’ end of things, both games went down to penalties.

A goal-less stalemate between Bartica and Bush Lot meant that penalties were the order of the day, with the Bartica side advancing 4-3.

New Central and Waramuri were able to

get goals off of Trevor Gordon (36th) and Bradley Williams (22nd), respectively, but at the end of regulation, there was nothing to separate them.

It took sudden-death penalties to separate the two sides, and when the dust settled, it was Waramuri that came out on top.

Meanwhile, CWSS beat Chase Academy,

4-2, thanks to goals from Zidanne Benn (2nd), Travis Cooke (5th), Pharez Noble (7th) and Jaden Damon (18th).

Chase had Tyrell Walcott (26th), and Danny Yaw (33rd) on target.

Westminster also beat Patentia, 4-0, thanks to goals from Michael Singh (17th, 30th and 38th), and Jamal Anthony (47th).

Action on the semi-final day of the ExxonMobil boys and girls U-14 schools football tournament (Adrian Narine Photo)