Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 14-02-2024

WEDNESDAY 14th February, 2024

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VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107354

US sees no indication of imminent hostilities with ‘small-scale’ –– White House official maintains work done with Guyanese partners is purely for defensive purposes Venezuelan military movement at Guyana border

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President Ali urges UN Security Council to address interconnected global challenges –– advocates for development on climate change, food insecurity and peace

–– as Guyana leads UN Security Council debate

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During the open debate of the United Nations Security Council in New York, President Dr. Irfaan Ali delivered a speech on Tuesday. In his remarks, he highlighted the significant correlations between climate change, food insecurity, and peace and security. He called for a comprehensive reconsideration of how these issues are dealt with on the international stage.

Gov’t will not allow citizens to be used as a ‘political tool’ –– President Ali says PAGE

–– new vehicles could have been bought with sums spent on repairs

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Toka village welcomes new Tourism initiative: 05 road projects ––Minister Todd ‘Journey through Pottery’

PAC finds: ‘David G’ Kitty residents ‘Holistic approach’ bus maintenance 09 needed to combat 10 in Region Six cost benefit from millions in 2019 04 over $149M in climate change, security PAGE

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Tree-planting programme for ‘Arts & the Environment’ today at UG 11 PAGE

Gov’t will not allow citizens to be used as a ‘political tool’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

-President Ali says

IN acknowledging the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s mission to enhance the lives of all Guyanese, including public servants, President Dr. Irfaan Ali asserted that the government will not tolerate the manipulation of people as a “political tool” by those who hinder progress.

Following the strike action that was orchestrated by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), Dr. Ali said that the government does not need anyone to “push” them to work assiduously to better the lives of citizens, as they are already on that path.

He said: “No one needs to push this government; we are committed to this task. I come from a family of more than 30 teachers now. No one needs to convince us about doing more

for our workers, farmers, teachers, nurses, doctors.

This is a commitment of this government.”

Dr. Ali then went on to say: “ But what is for sure is that we cannot allow and we will not allow people to be used as pawns, people to be used as a political tool,” adding that this is being witnessed as the recent events continue to unfold.

Moreover, he did not mince his words when pointing out the damning revelations of financial unaccountability at the GTU. The Auditor General’s Office has reported that around $2 billion, collected from teachers by the GTU, cannot be accounted for.

Commenting on this, the President remarked: “That is the situation now where this union that is totally unaccountable. This

President, Dr Irfaan Ali union has, what we read now, $2 billion of teachers’ money. $2 billion that could have been invested in teachers’ welfare.”

Furthermore, he did not shy away from expounding on the numerous initiatives that the government has rolled out that are focused on enhancing the lives of public servants. The President then said that by the end of the year, there will be more announcements of measures that

Last year, President Ali held consultations with several educators. During that engagement, the Minister of Education Priya Manickchand and Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh were present and heard the concerns of the teachers (Ministry of Education photo) will boost the lives of all.

According to the President, in September 2020, the government invested $700 million to correct the scales used to calculate teacher’s salaries and increases.

Additionally, an allowance of $10,000 was provided to all teachers with a university degree.

“Not only are we giving this allowance to trained teachers and trained graduates, but we are making the opportunities to teachers available in their school to earn that degree through the GOAL scholarship programme, through online teachers training programmes, through the associate degree programme,” President Ali said.

“Every teacher in the system now has a free opportunity. The government is investing on their behalf so they can upgrade their skills,” he added.

In addition to this, the government is giving $6,000 to every teacher with a postgraduate diploma and has granted a $20,000 allowance to all teachers with a master degree.

Meanwhile, an allowance of $30,000 for educators with a doctoral degree was also granted.

“All of these allowances are not just granted in an environment in which there is no opportunity to achieve all of these degrees and added qualifications.”

Other incentives to support educators who work and live in remote areas were increased by 100 per cent, moving from $9,000 to $20,000 per month.

“We went further, we had a provision of more than 3,800 scholarships to teachers…to qualify themselves and earn a higher salary. We are incentivising the system, giving teachers an opportunity to empower themselves, while at the same time incentivising them to do better for themselves, incentivising them to do better for the teaching system.”

He reminded the nation of the government’s support in seeing that every trained teacher becomes eligible to become a senior mistress/master after six years on the job.

This, he said, allows for an additional $20,000 to be added to those educators’ salaries.

“In the course of this year, in the coming years, it will get consistently better and at a more rapid pace.”

He spoke about the ongoing distribution of $3.1 billion in grants to make teaching easier.

Further, the stipend for teachers in training at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) was also increased from $10,000 to $90,000 per month.

According to President Ali, the Ministry of Education has been implementing initiatives to change the salary base of teachers by pushing more rapid promotions for educators.

In further outlining some of the initiatives undertaken by the government to support educators, President Ali highlighted ongoing discussions with commercial banks to establish a mechanism whereby teachers can access loans to support home ownership.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

President Ali urges UN security council to address interconnected global challenges –– advocates development on climate change, food insecurity, peace –– as Guyana leads UN-Security council debate

By Clestine Juan GIVEN the growing interconnectedness of global challenges, there is a pressing need for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to adapt its approach in order to uphold international peace and security.

During the country’s presidency of the UNSC in February, President Dr. Irfaan Ali made this call to action on Tuesday.

This development arises during Guyana’s ongoing twoyear tenure on the Council, which is one of the UN’s six principal organs dedicated to preserving international peace and security.

Addressing a pivotal open debate in New York, President Ali highlighted the critical intersections between climate change, food insecurity, and peace and security, advocating for a comprehensive revaluation of how these issues are addressed on the global stage.

The Head of State began his address by outlining the multifaceted crisis at the intersection of climate change, food insecurity, and conflict.

“The challenges to international peace and security continue to evolve. And our understanding and approach to these challenges must also continue to evolve and effectively address them,” President Ali stated, highlighting the dynamic nature of global threats and the necessity for adaptive strategies.

He presented stark statistics to the council, which painted a grim picture of the current state of food insecurity, exacerbated by climate change and conflict.

With an estimated 149 mil-

President Ali advocated for the Security Council to incorporate measures that address the effects of climate change and food insecurity in its procedures, emphasising the importance of a comprehensive analysis of these impacts.

This approach, according to President Ali, would ensure that humanitarian interests are safeguarded while addressing the broader consequences of conflict and war on food security and the climate.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the debate held at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York lion Africans facing acute food insecurity, up by 12 million from the previous year, and a significant portion of these individuals living in conflict-affected regions, the urgency of the situation was made clear.

The President pointed out that these crises often create a vicious cycle of instability, driving up the need for humanitarian assistance and further straining international resources.

THE COST OF CONFLICT President Ali also brought to the forefront the economic and environmental costs of conflict, citing the Africa Improved Foods (AIF) forecast that $5 billion is needed to eradicate hunger caused by war.

He explained that the impact of agricultural land taken out of production due to conflict was illustrated through

the example of Ukraine, where damages and losses for agricultural enterprises have reached almost $4 billion.

This reality, according to him, sends millions of families into poverty, a fact often overlooked in discussions of war’s consequences.

Furthermore, the President shed light on the broader impacts of conflict, including war-induced displacement and forced migration.

With the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees identifying at least 108 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, he said that the scale of the crisis has become evident.

Against this backdrop, President Ali stressed that these issues are not isolated but are deeply interconnected with the health of our planet, as seen in the 10 per cent increase in deforestation in conflict areas in 2020 and

the significant CO2 emissions resulting from military activities.

A CALL FOR A TARGETED APPROACH Throughout his address, President Ali called for a targeted approach by the UNSC to address these interconnected challenges.

He stressed the importance of recognising the role of climate change and food insecurity in exacerbating conflict and instability, arguing that these elements are often missing from the Security Council’s analysis.

“We have done very little because we do not see the interplay. And we do not place priority on these issues as a consequence of war and conflict,” Ali remarked, underscoring the need for a paradigm shift in how the international community approaches peace and security.

GUYANA’S LEADERSHIP ON THE GLOBAL STAGE Guyana’s stance was backed by the UNSE members, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, welcoming the open debate on the impact of climate change and food insecurity on international peace and security.

“To avoid mounting threats to international peace and security, we must step in and act now to break the deadly links between conflict, climate, and food insecurity,” Guterres said.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Beth Bechdol, told the council that scientific evidence and the policy direction are clear: climate change is compromising food security, and its impacts are a growing threat to international peace and security.

Similarly, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Simon Stiell said, “Climate change is contributing to food insecurity and to conflict. Rapid, sustained action to cut

greenhouse gas emissions and to increase resilience is needed now....”

By opting for Guyana, it has underscored the importance of integrating these challenges into the Council’s agenda.

This move, according to President Ali, reflects a broader recognition of the need for holistic solutions to global problems, acknowledging that peace and security are intrinsically linked to environmental and humanitarian concerns.

Guyana is actively working with other countries to address climate change, food security, and related issues. As the current President of the United Nations Security Council, Guyana has taken a leadership role in promoting global action on these critical issues.

Additionally, Guyana has been a longstanding advocate for climate action and has taken steps to adopt a low-carbon development model, as outlined in its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

The country’s commitment to ambitious climate action and its vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change have positioned it as an important voice in global efforts to combat climate change.

Furthermore, President Ali has always emphasised the need for a balanced approach to climate talks, advocating for a discourse that considers the interests of both oil and gas producers and environmental concerns.

G u y a n a ’s p ro a c t i v e stance on these critical global challenges has long showed its commitment to addressing the complex inter-linkages between climate, food, and peace.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

PAC finds: ‘David G’ bus maintenance in Region –– new vehicles could have been Six cost millions in 2019 bought with sums spent on repairs THE parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) delved into revelations from the Auditor General’s (AG) report of 2019 during its session on Monday, uncovering substantial expenditures related to the maintenance of vehicles in Region Six. Specifically, attention was drawn to the staggering costs associated with maintaining three ‘David G’ buses, amounting to millions of dollars.

As the committee examined the Auditor General’s report for 2019 for Region Six, the Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill enquired about the sum of approximately $54.29 million in maintenance costs on some 14 vehicles for that year as compared to a marginally lower sum in the previous year.

“What led to these significant costs because some of

the maintenance cost [sic] is actually more than the cost of the vehicle; for example, we had a bus… $10 million… that’s more than the cost of a new bus,” he questioned.

In response, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Narindra Persaud indicated that

the three buses identified in the report were those named the ‘David G’ buses and were pretty expensive to maintain, but were still maintained as they were still being used to transport children.

Persaud went on to add that when he subsequently

One of the ‘David G’ buses

took up the post of REO, those buses were put out of service as they recognised that they were costly to maintain, and new buses were purchased.

This led committee members to question the age of the buses given to the region to transport children.

Edghill indicated that whether or not these buses were imported, there would be a document that would indicate the manufacture date for the bus, which would determine if the vehicle should be acquired or not, as he added that spares go out after a certain time.

The REO noted that the regional officials did not have that document and were unaware of the age of the buses.

“So, we actually spent, in a year, just on the maintenance of a vehicle, more than the cost than if we had bought a new vehicle,” Edghill added.

The current Regional Executive Officer, Narindra Persaud (right) and the former Regional Executive Officer for Region Six before the PAC on Monday Added to that, the committee also discovered that millions were also spent on the maintenance of ambulances, and as such, further asked what problems were being experienced by those ambulances.

Persaud told the PAC that the extensive use of the ambulances travelling from New Amsterdam to Georgetown resulted in the need for them to be serviced more often.

At the end of 2020, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand said that

more than 50 per cent of the 21 school buses under the former ‘David G Five Bs” programme required repairs, and it would take millions to restore them to proper working condition.

At that time, Manickchand noted that there were five buses in Region Six, but only three were working.

Working with reports from the various regions, she said that some of the vehicles could be repaired, while others could not be repaired.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

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Toka village welcomes new Tourism initiative: ‘Journey through Pottery’ IN a significant move, the government, through the Guyana Tourism Authority, has successfully introduced its first tourism offering for the year, thereby amplifying the economic prospects of the sector and its role in fostering the country’s growth and development.

As a direct consequence, individuals assembled to commemorate the introduction of a one-of-a-kind pottery venture named ‘Journey through Pottery’, designed to offer an unparalleled tourist experience in Guyana.

The tourism product and guest house are located in the village of Toka, Region Nine, and will no doubt contribute to the economic activity in this remote and hinterland community.

Pottery on display

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, was happy to join other tourism stakeholders in Rupununi for the historical launch.

“Pottery in Toka, as an experience, would be the first experience, hosted by an indigenous community of its kind. So, that’s a one-ofa-kind experience,” Baksh stated as he delivered the feature address at the launching ceremony.

He also noted the combined effort of partners like Conservation International, Visit Rupununi, the Guyana Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, and the community, in creating the new experience.

“What this does is it diversifies the product portfolio

of the North Rupununi. North Rupununi, in my view is the most developed tourism circuit in the country. What this Toka experience is doing is strengthening that product even further. So, no longer will Toka be just a drive-by community, but persons are going to …venture to Toka… enjoy this very unique experience which is the pottery making…,” he stated.

He noted that expanding the products has been a priority for the GTA. Baksh asserts the importance and necessity of bolstering regional authorities like Visit Rupununi, enabling them to take charge of local product management and development.

This, he said, is being done in all other administra-

Kamrul Baksh and Regional Chairman Brian Allicock view pottery products on display tive regions. facilitating the marketing pottery making, hiking to the Pottery has been a sig- of pottery products across Taiwu Falls, swimming, star nificant part of the com- multiple locations and on- gazing, bonfire and storytellmunity for a long time; line platforms. ing, and ant eater spotting, nonetheless, the GTA has The GTA has also done among others. actively contributed to the familiarisation visits to the The initiative also retechnical training required village with local tour opera- ceived endorsement from for this craft. In due time, tors who are keen to add the Regional Chairman Brian training for packaging the experience to their itinerary. Allicock, who expressed his product will be concluded, A visit to Toka comprises support in his remarks.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Changing Business Landscape

GUYANA’S business landscape has experienced a significant transformation in recent years, thanks to the proactive initiatives of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government.

The latest report from the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority (DCRA) paints a picture of remarkable growth, with a surge in business registrations and revenue generation, signalling

a booming commercial sector.

The government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for business and investment is commendable. By embarking on legislative reforms, such as the overhaul of the Companies Act and the Securities Council Act, they are laying the groundwork for a modern, safe, and transparent business ecosystem.

Of particular sig-

nificance is the focus on developing a robust stock exchange market, with plans to emulate the success of leading markets in the Caribbean. Collaborating with Jamaica on this endeavour demonstrates a forward-thinking approach and a willingness to leverage regional expertise for mutual benefit.

Moreover, the government’s efforts to amend laws regarding contractual instruments as collateral for

financing are a step in the right direction.

By enhancing access to financing, entrepreneurs, and investors are provided with the necessary support to fuel growth and innovation.

These reforms are not just about regulatory compliance; they are about empowering individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to Guyana’s economic prosperity. By streamlining processes and enhancing security, the

government is sending a clear message: Guyana is open for business.

However, while these reforms are undoubtedly a positive development, there is still work to be done.

Ensuring the effective implementation and enforcement of these laws will be crucial in sustaining the momentum and building investor confidence.

Additionally, it is imperative that these reforms are inclusive

and prioritise the needs of all stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

By embracing transparency, innovation, and collaboration, Guyana has the potential to emerge as a leading destination for business and investment in the region. Let’s continue to support these efforts and ensure a bright and prosperous future for all.

Concerns mount over GTU’s noncompliance with financial regulations

Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) can hardly claim foul after revelations that they are in default of laws, rules, and regulations requiring the entity to file audited financial accounts periodically, for in 2018, the GTU was the subject of an investigation by the Office of the Auditor General; the GTU can hardly claim to be unaware that they stand in default.

The 2018 investigation was prompted by an anonymous letter to the Auditor General that stated, among other things: “I draw reference to that matter to re-emphasise that unions ought to always be held accountable for all actions, including those of a financial nature,” …based on the information provided, your office must intervene to review the financial practices of the GTU in accordance with the requirements of the law. Any findings that may be ad-

verse to the requirements of any Act, Rules, and/or Regulations of Guyana governing the functions of unions like that of GTU, I trust, would be handed over to the relevant authorities to be dealt with appropriately.” (Kaieteur News 30.08.2018) Six years have passed since this warning shot was fired across the bow of the union (who were also threatening to strike then) and it is instructive that the executive did not see it fit to take remedial action to

bring the union within the boundaries of the law. It will be interesting to see what justification is presented for the inaction.

On the matter of the current strike, it would seem that the union either believes the teachers should be placed on a different plane from other public sector workers, and despite being given higher salaries, more benefits, and, constantly improving working environments and conditions, they deserve to get all their demands met

before other categories of workers achieve parity, or this is a politically motivated strike to foster discontent in a sector that is improving all too rapidly. Everything I have witnessed so far points to the GTU being a politically compromised body that holds itself unaccountable for its membership and the laws that govern its operations and existence.

This may be a good place for the government to teach the hard lessons that are needed to move

our nation forward, including the derecognition of the GTU and forcing them to reapply for status after all lawful requirements are met and a gentle push into the private sector for those teachers who refuse to return to the classrooms, where they can earn what they truly deserve; as we say, “easy lesson good for dunce.”

Sincerely Robin Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Nigerian man jailed for three months over State House attack

FOR firing a gun at a Presidential guard during the attack on State House— the official residence of the President of Guyana—on December 15, 2022, a Nigerian man was sentenced to three months in jail and three years of supervised probation.

At the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, 26-year-old Bethel Chimezie of Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was on trial for the crime of intentionally discharging a loaded firearm at Policeman Quincy Cummings.

He did, however, decide to switch from a “not guilty” to a “guilty” plea on Monday. As a result, Senior Magistrate Leron Daly gave him the punishment. The magistrate took into account that Chimezie had been placed under remand since January 19, 2023, while imposing the punishment.

Police Headquarters released a statement saying, “The Court started the maximum sentencing guideline at fifteen months and took into consideration the time Chimeze spent on remand.”

One more case involving the convicted individual is documented in the court's

Jailed: Bethel Chimezie

records. In this particular occurrence, it is alleged that he unlawfully caused harm to Presidential Guard, Telon Perreira, on December 15, 2022, at Carmichael Street, Georgetown, with the intent to commit murder.

He has not been required to enter a plea to this indictable accusation, and a preliminary inquiry is being conducted to determine whether there is enough evidence for the High Court to hold a trial. Chimezie is being held on remand for this offence.

According to reports, on the day in question, at about 07:30 hours, Chimezie went to the south-eastern entrance

of State House and spoke with Perreira.

Chimezie indicated to Perreira that he wanted to see the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and had an appointment with him. Perreira directed the accused to the seating area while he attempted to confirm that he had an appointment.

However, Chimezie became annoyed, got up from the seating area, and attempted to walk through the security hut into the compound of State House.

Perreira attempted to block Chimezie, but the man pulled out a knife from his shoulder bag and stabbed him five times. The men ended up in a scuffle, and a female presidential guard came to Perreira’s rescue.

She took out her service revolver, but Chimezie disarmed her.

Cummings, who was at the south-eastern entrance, intervened, but Chimezie discharged three rounds in his direction. Chimezie then attempted to flee on foot.

However, Cummings pulled out his service weapon and discharged a round in his direction, hitting him in the right leg. He fell to

No work, no pay— anywhere in the world!

Dear Editor

I KNOW of no arrangement where workers are paid to be on strike. The GTU and its supporters in the opposition APNU+AFC, plus their so-called civil society comrades, are delusional on this score.

In Guyana, we have the extraordinary situation where some teachers are engaged in a politically motivated strike and yet want to be paid. The strike is clearly political. A senior member of the union confirmed this by leaking that there is a “corporate

sponsor” for what is clearly illegal.

The nation should know that GTU represents only about 32% of all teachers in the country. A substantial number of these are concentrated in a few urban areas and are card-carrying members and activists for the APNU+AFC. Put differently, most teachers in Guyana do not support the GTU. It is that simple.

Politically, I am deeply invested in the professional welfare of teachers. I have been in the classroom for 38 years and I engaged in one of

the longest strikes in Canadian history (York University, Spring 1997), during which time no striker received a dime in regular pay. We received strike pay from our union, but that was it.

Strikers never receive their pay from their employers, anywhere in the world. The GoG is on solid ground and should not reward those who are hell bent on being disruptive.

Sincerely Dr. Randy Persaud

the ground and was arrested.

Perreira and Chimezie were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Cor-

poration (GPHC) where they both underwent surgery. Following the attack, Perreira, a Constable, was

promoted to the rank of Corporal for his courage.

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Martin Carter: The MI-5 files on Guyana

GOVERNMENTS are required by law to release state documents after a period of time -from 30 years onwards.

Based on the nature of the contents, the 30year period can be postponed to 50 years and onwards.

When the 50-year period is adhered to, people

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

go to their graves without knowing what their friends and relatives did.

If a foreign government was spying on Country A, if the prime minister at the time was 65, he will go to his grave without knowing that his Chief of Staff was an informant for a foreign power because after the

release of the documents, the prime minister would have been long gone.

The case of Martin Carter, a former high-ranking executive of the original Jagan/ Burnham PPP of the 1950s, is a perfect example of how leaders can go to their graves without knowing the true char- acters of their intimate comrades.

Cheddi and Janet Jagan were lifelong friends of Martin Carter. Both Jagans became president of Guyana and enjoyed a healthy friendship with Carter. When Carter died, President Janet Jagan made the decision to have his body interred at the Seven Ponds in the Botanic Gardens. Cheddi Jagan died in 1997 and Janet Jagan died in 2008.

The British spy agency MI-5 released its documents on the PPP of the 1950s, in 2011. That is 61 years after the PPP was born. Only Ashton Chase, of that original PPP leadership, was alive in Guyana when the MI-5 documents were made public. Both Jagans were not around to read what MI-5 was doing in Guyana from the time of the formation of the PPP and how MI-5 was spying on PPP leaders.

Even after 61 years, some of the MI-5 papers are redacted. The papers named a certain person in the PPP leadership that was the conduit inside the PPP’s hierarchy for MI-5. His code name was “Lascar.” We will never know who Lascar was because his real name has forever been lost because it was redacted.

I travelled up a long staircase to interview the only surviving member of the 1950 PPP party, Ashton Chase. Mr. Chase agreed that MI-5 was spying on the PPP leader-

ship but said he could not point to anyone and he did not read the files on Lascar. The consensus of people I have spoken to is that Forbes Burnham was Lascar.

I don’t believe that.

Circumstantial evidence points to Martin Carter. When the Iranian government hanged its deputy defence minister for spying for Britain, questions swirled around his life after he left the job. These included an expensive lifestyle, a huge bank account in the UK, the ease with which he obtained British citizenship and his frequent trips to Western capitals.

The Iranians asked the question – why would the UK be so nice to a former defence minister, not Education Minister or Culture Minister, but one with the portfolio of defence?

A similar situation existed in British Guiana.

Carter picketed the visit of Queen Elizabeth’s sister, proclaimed himself a Stalinist and was expelled from the PPP for ultra-communist activities. Soon after his removal from the PPP, Carter turned up as a highly placed officer in the British Office, which was the term used at that time for British High Commission.

Why the British Government would employ a Guyanese politician that insulted a visiting relative of Queen Elizabeth and a self-proclaimed

Stalinist? That is a fairytale story you only find in comic books. Then he turned up as a senior employee of the Bookers Group of companies where he enjoyed an elite life.

For a man that the PPP expelled for being a wild communist, the Colonial Office in London and Bookers found him to be good company to have. Does it make any sense that there were far less ideological politicians in Guyana that were more educated than Carter, but yet Carter was chosen to work in the British Office where he would have had access to sensitive information?

In British Guiana, someone with the communist label as Carter had would have been victimised or ostracised by colonial society. The British and Bookers would not have touched him with a 10-foot poll.

Carter became famous as a poet long after he stopped being an informant for MI-5.

He achieved national status as the nation’s poet and won the respect of the nation.

But I think he became lonely and depressed in later years because of regrets for his role in the 1950s. The release of the MI-5 documents and the code name of Lascar should invite scholars to reassess the legacy of Martin Carter.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Kitty residents benefit from over $149M in road projects

WITH the completion of the rehabilitation of 13 important roads in Kitty, Georgetown the Ministry of Public Works has significantly enhanced the infrastructure for the residents and commuters in the area.

The project, with a value exceeding $149 million, showcases the government’s dedication and significant financial contribution to improving transportation infrastructure in the community.

The initiative is a result of a commitment made by His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali, during a recent community engagement, highlighting the government’s dedication to enhanc-

ing infrastructure nationwide.

The community project began on January 10, 2024, and was efficiently completed on January 29, 2024, by the Special Project Unit of the ministry.

Spanning a total distance of 6.510 kilometres, the project includes essential undertakings focused on improving the longevity and excellence of the road surfaces.

This involves the thorough cleaning and priming of existing surfaces to ensure optimal conditions for the application of asphaltic concrete.

In total, 2862 tons of asphalt were put to use.

The impact of the road

works is significant, as they cover key thoroughfares within Kitty such as Alexander Street, Queen Street, Lamaha Street, Barr Street, Shell Road, Stanley Place, Pike Street, Gordon Street, Thomas Street, Pere Street, Station Street, Railway Street, and Dowding Street.

The completion of works on these vital routes not only enhances the infrastructure but also contributes to the overall development and prosperity by providing smoother and safer passage for residents and road users.

The project has brought about considerable relief and enhanced connectivity to the area.

Aerial shot of works done in Kitty, Georgetown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

‘Holistic approach’ needed to combat climate change, security –– Minister Todd

By Clestine Juan

IN a stirring call to global leaders, Guyana has championed the dire need for a unified approach to the intertwined challenges of climate change, food insecurity, and international conflict, setting the stage for a critical debate on global security.

This is according to Foreign Minister Hugh Todd, who spoke to the media before heading into the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) high-level open debate on “the impact of climate change and food insecurity on the maintenance of international peace and security,” which was chaired by President Dr Irfaan Ali in New York.

Guyana currently holds the presidency of the UNSC for the month of February.

M i n i s t e r To d d w a s accompanied by UNSC members who are part of the Joint Pledges concerning Climate, Peace, and Security, emphasising the pressing necessity for a comprehensive approach to tackle these interconnected challenges.

“We are concerned that the increasing occurrences of extreme climate events are severely impacting access to vital resources, such as water and agricultural lands, and are battling inter-communal conflicts, especially in the most vulnerable regions of the world,” Todd stated, pointing to the pressing need for strategic

action to combat these issues.

He reflected on the growing consensus on the importance of addressing climate change, food insecurity, and conflict as interconnected phenomena that pose significant threats to global stability.

Minister Todd highlighted the compelling evidence of the interrelationship between climate change, food insecurity, and conflict, which directly and indirectly impact international order.

“The science is compelling, and we have a strong view that this issue requires a systematic and strategic approach by the council,” he asserted, calling for comprehensive

Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Hilton Todd (centre) is joined by UNSC members who are part of the Joint Pledges related to Climate, Peace, and Security. risk assessments and daWith a focus on the tions Security Council for ta-driven strategies to build most vulnerable com- the 2024–2025 term. The resilience. munities, Todd stressed country’s candidacy was that minor food-insecure, uncontested, and it is the low-income, fragile, and sole candidate for the seat conflict-affected countries of the Latin America and and communities are at the Caribbean region. highest risk.

The country’s parThe adverse effects ticipation in the Security of climate change, such Council will allow it to as unpredictable rainfall engage in discussions and patterns, severe droughts, decision-making on various floods, sea-level rise, and global security issues, inchanging agricultural pat- cluding, but not limited to, terns, were underscored as conflicts, peacekeeping opkey factors driving conflict erations, and the impact of and violence. climate change on security.

In his call to action, The Security Council Todd urged the Security has been exploring how Council and the wider mul- climate change affects the tilateral system to adopt a capacity of United Nations long-term strategy that rec- peacekeeping and special ognises the adverse effects political missions to imof climate change on stabil- plement their mandates, as ity, as noted in resolutions well as how climate action on peacekeeping operations can provide entry points for and political missions. conflict prevention, resolu“We know that the tion, and peacebuilding.

Security Council has recThe Council has also ognised the adverse ef- been urged to support fects of climate change on the development of a stability... However, the collaborative and recouncil must endeavour to sponsive approach to adopt a long-term strategy climate change, peace, based on comprehensive and security and to tarrisk assessments, utilising get and tailor climate data and analytics to build action to complement its resilience,” he said. responsibility to mainThe minister concluded tain international peace with a commitment from and security.

Guyana and its allies to In 2023, the AU Peace advance a systematic, in- and Security Council adoptclusive, and evidence-based ed a common position on approach to tackling the climate change and peace nexus of climate change, and security in Africa, ofpeace, and security. fering a possible model for This, he said, under- the UN to do something scores the critical need for similar. international cooperation African member and strategic planning to states have played a leadaddress one of the most ing role in integrating pressing challenges of our climate change into peace time. work, and there is scope Guyana has been elect- to build on this and bring ed as a non-permanent in new evidence from the member of the United Na- African continent.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Tree planting programme for ‘Arts & the Environment’ today at UG

AS part of its commitment to mitigating the escalating global climate change, the Rupununi Music & Arts Festival will carry out its tree planting programme today ( We d n e s d a y ) c o m mencing at 9:00 hours.

The event will be held at the University of Guyana (UG), Turkeyen Campus, Georgetown.

The distinguished guest speaker at today’s event is Jane Miller, the British High Commissioner to Guyana.

As part of the festival’s “Arts & the Environment” programme,

this project aims to plant 1,000 trees throughout 2024, making a significant contribution to the fight against deforestation and environmental degradation.

The festival acknowledges the pressing necessity to counter the profound repercussions of deforestation, especially in nearby Brazil, where extensive areas of crucial rainforests face peril.

The project highlights the critical role that trees play in mitigating the effects of the global climate crisis. Trees act as carbon

sinks, absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen, playing a crucial role in combating climate change.

With the destruction of countless trees in neighbouring Brazil, this initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding the rich biodiversity and ecological balance of the Guyanese environment.

The festival encourages the active participation of young people in this project. Engaging the youth is paramount in fostering environmental stewardship and ensuring a sustainable

The tree-planting initiative was launched in Lethem last May

The Rupununi Music and Arts Festival team and British High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller

future.

“Join us in making a tangible impact on the environment and supporting Guyana’s Low

Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) in fostering a sustainable future for generations to come,” organisers of the

festival said.

Further information can be obtained from Luke Johnson on 6269014 or 663-2949.

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Minister McCoy extols radio’s role in Guyana’s history, future

MINISTER Kwame McCoy, minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, joins the global community on Tuesday in celebrating World Radio Day, recognising the pivotal role radio plays in communication and the dissemination of information.

Eleven years since UNESCO proclaimed Feb-

ruary 13 as World Radio Day, the occasion serves to highlight the significance of this timeless medium and reaffirm trust in its ability to connect people across diverse landscapes, both urban and remote.

This year’s theme, “Radio and TRUST,” underscores the importance of trust in radio journalism, content quality, audience care, and the viability of

radio stations, particularly amidst financial challenges.

Minister McCoy emphasises the critical role radio has played in Guyana’s history, dating back to the founding of Radio Demerara in 1951 and the British Guiana Broadcasting Service in 1958.

Throughout the years, radio has evolved into a competitive, dynamic, and

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

trusted source of news, education, entertainment, and information across the length and breadth of Guyana. Minister McCoy acknowledges the contributions of broadcast journalists, announcers, disk jockeys, entertainers, engineers, operators, and ancillary staff who uphold the integrity and vitality of the radio industry.

The Government of Guyana, in collaboration with stakeholders in the communication and broadcast sectors, has worked tirelessly to enhance radio’s viability.

Efforts include providing more spectrum frequencies, fostering an enabling environment for both public service and commercial radio, and supporting capacity building and networking opportunities.

Minister McCoy reaffirms the government’s unwavering commitment to radio’s role in underpinning the social fabric of Guyanese society, including its impact on the nation’s children. He emphasises radio’s enduring appeal, ability to inform, and dynamic entertainment value for people of

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy all ages and backgrounds.

On this World Radio Day, Minister McCoy calls upon all Guyanese to reaffirm their trust in this invaluable medium and to celebrate the dedication of its gatekeepers and the countless values it brings to our lives.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Labour Minister engages West Coast Demerara communities, outlines Government’s vision

MINISTER of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, immersed himself in dialogue with residents of Anna Catherina, Stewartville, and Cornelia Ida communities on the West Coast of Demerara, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) on Monday, casting light on the government's comprehensive work agenda for 2024.

Accompanied by Mr. Julius Faerber, Chairman of the Local Government Commission (LGC), and a cohort of regional officials, Minister Hamilton seized the moment to apprise residents of the recently passed $1.146 trillion budget. Within this discussion, he underscored the dedication of the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration to serving its people since assuming office in August 2020.

Minister Hamilton accentuated the government's achievements, notably its success in meeting over 60 per cent of legal demands, encompassing substantial salary increases and duty-free concessions as outlined in the multi-year agreement. He issued a call to action for both teachers and students, urging their return to the classroom while emphasising the profound influence educators have on shaping students' lives.

Addressing ongoing strike actions, Minister Ham-

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton

ilton reiterated the government's position, denouncing the strikes as illegal and politically motivated hindrances to the country's progress.

"We (the) PPP/C Government made several commitments to our citizens, and, so far, we have been doing that and will continue to deliver on all of our promises, with many more to come," affirmed Minister Hamilton.

Continuing his outreach efforts, Minister Hamilton is slated to engage with residents in Wakenaam, Region Three, on Tuesday, further demonstrating the government's commitment to fostering dialogue with its constituents.

The Region has been allocated a substantial $5 billion budget for the year, indicative of government’s commitment to regional development and progress.

Furthermore, Minister Hamilton underscored the government's ambitious plans for national development, including the construction of the New Demerara River Bridge, which promises to significantly reduce travel time and alleviate traffic congestion. He emphasised the transformative potential of such infrastructural projects, enabling greater flexibility and accessibility for commuters.

The minister also reiter-

A section of the gathering at one of the West Coast Demerara community outreaches

ated the government's commitment to providing free university education by 2025, with efforts already underway to address outstanding university loans. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing human resource development and

expanding access to education across Guyana.

In the realm of healthcare, Minister Hamilton highlighted significant strides, including the construction of a state-of-theart hospital in the region and the introduction of

MRI and CT scan services.

Additionally, addressing security concerns, the government has committed to illuminating all streets with street lights by 2025, further enhancing safety and security for communities across the nation.

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Two new experiential tours unveiled in Region Nine

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

THE Tourism Sector is witnessing expansion through the introduction of two new experiential tours in the Rupununi, Region Nine.

The launch event for the new products took place on Monday at Cashew Grove Park in Lethem, Region Nine, organised by the Guyana Tourism Authority under the leadership of Kamrul Baksh, in collaboration with Rupununi Adventures, Tara’s Choices & Tours, and Bushcow Eco Trails.

Rupununi Adventures and Tara’s Choices & Tours have collaborated for the ‘Explore Lethem’ tour which promises an immersive journey. The tour also features guided tours to Matapee Falls, paddle boarding, and kayaking experiences at Manari Creek and the town of Lethem.

Meanwhile, the ‘Indigenous Exploration: Kanuku & Rupununi Trekking and River Adventure’ tour launched

by Bushcow Eco Trails, will take guests on an adventure deep into the heart of Guyana’s rich indigenous heritage with an unforgettable blend of nature and culture amidst the awe-inspiring Kanuku Mountains.

While delivering the feature remarks at the launching ceremony, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, commended the operators for their efforts in creating products that appeal to tourists.

He noted that one such

scale of tours being developed, persons going out and doing assessments and putting itineraries together in such a short time,” while highlighting that over the last four years, there were 50 new tours developed in Guyana.

He noted that a lot is

Local tour operators on a tour of Lethem example of an outstanding tour operator was Guy Fredericks of Bush Cow Eco Trails.

“He launched earlier, and as he mentioned, the guests wanted something more.

They wanted not only a hiking experience exclusively but they wanted that jungle plus river. So, he recognised and then retrofitted the tour to cater for the market, and that’s exemplary because it’s responding to the needs of the market which is demand-based, and that approach, you can’t lose,” Baksh noted.

He also commended the proprietors of Rupununi

Adventures, Tara’s Choices & Tours for their collaboration, noting that it is timely, especially in the context of the Rupununi Rodeo which is coming up.

“I like that experience because it draws on the main elements of the Lethem district and just on the periphery and packaging that in a day experience. A lot of people are interested in doing that first flight in from Ogle, spending just a few hours and then flying back out,” he said.

Baksh said too that he “think for the very first time in this industry’s history, we are seeing such

Tour Operators on a familiarisation trip, take part in paddle boarding and kayaking activity in the Manari Creek as part of the Explore Lethem Tour

being done through partnerships, and the momentum must be kept.

“We just want to continue to work on raising the standards within this industry and encourage each of you to enroll in the HSSE programme.

So, the Guyana Tour-

ism Authority is working closely with the Centre for Local Business Development in having you guys complete your HSSE training and manual which will go a long way into ensuring that the safety standards for your respective tours are on par,” he stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 14, 2024

US sees no indication of imminent hostilities with ‘small-scale’ Venezuelan military movement at Guyana border –– White House official maintains work done with Guyanese partners is purely for defensive purposes

White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby

By Clestine Juan WHITE House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby has said that the United States has been “monitoring closely,” the Venezuelan military movements along Guyana’s border.

During a press briefing on Monday, Kirby addressed concerns regarding satellite imagery that showed Venezuelan military assets moving along the border with Guyana.

He, however, noted that any military movements by Venezuela were considered minor.

“Our assessment is that whatever military movements there have been by Venezuela have been of a very — of a small nature and size and scale and scope.

We see no indication that there’s about to be hostilities or that the Venezuelan military would be capable of conducting any significant military activities there,” Kirby stated, underscoring the U.S. stance on urging for a peaceful resolution to the situation.

Venezuela, last year, had increased claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s Essequibo region.

This area is known for its wealth in oil, timber, and other natural resources, drawing attention and contention from both sides.

In response to these claims, Guyana has been bolstering its defence and diplomatic efforts with the help of international partners, including the United States, aiming to counter security threats while promoting regional stability.

Despite these preparations, Guyanese officials have reiterated their focus on defence rather than offence.

Following Venezuela’s

reaction to the docking of the British offshore patrol vessel, HMS Trent, in Guyanese waters, President Dr. Irfaan Ali clarified the nation’s defensive posture, indicating no intent to initiate conflict with Venezuela.

Amid these tensions, a significant diplomatic effort led by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines culminated in a peaceful ‘Argyle declaration’ between Guyana and Venezuela.

This agreement, reached during a historic meeting on December 14, 2023, pledged both countries to avoid the use of force, advocating for dialogue and co-operation to prevent tensions.

The longstanding border controversy, originating from the 1899 Arbitral Award, continues to be a point of contention.

Guyana’s decision to take the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2018 marked a pivotal move towards seeking a legal affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

With the support of CARICOM, the Commonwealth, and international partners, Guyana stands firm in its legal battle, which remains under the ICJ’s consideration.

Kirby’s remarks reflect a broader international call for diplomatic resolution and stability in the region, as he concluded: “And, obviously, we’re going to continue to watch it closely. You know, I would remind you that anything that we’re doing down in Guyana or in that area is done purely for defensive purposes.”

The United States, along with the global community, continues to advocate for peace and dialogue over conflict, monitoring the situation closely as developments unfold.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Best using teachers’ protest to bolster his image while avoiding lingering criticisms over Jude Bentley’s death —Superbike competitor John Bennett says

PNC-R Executive Member, Gary Best

SUPERBIKE competitor, John Bennett, has blasted People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) Executive Member, Gary Best, for attempting to use the ongoing strike action by teachers to advance his political ambitions.

He said that such was being done even as Best is overlooking his own transgressions, specifically as it relates to the death of businessman and former national cyclist, Jude Bentley.

Bentley died after he was struck down by a vehicle driven

by Best on February 8, 2020. A police report of the incident at the time stated that Bentley was riding along the Rupert Craig Highway near the Russian Embassy when he was hit by Best and dragged several feet from the point of impact.

Best was arrested at the scene, and two breathalyser tests were administered. Both tests reportedly revealed that he was way above the legally-prescribed alcohol limit.

He was later charged for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while under the influence of alcohol.

However, these charges were later dismissed by a City Magistrate due to insufficient evidence. During Best court hearings, the family and friends of the dead biker would protest outside of the court seeking justice, which they never got.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had moved to the Court of Appeal to overturn the magistrate’s decision to dismiss the case against Bess.

In recent times, Best has played a prominent role in the protest action orchestrated by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in collaboration with his opposition counterparts.

“It’s disheartening to witness Gary Best, a former Chiefof-Staff of the GDF [Guyana Defence Force] and now a member of the PNC-R, attempting to leverage the teachers’ strike to advance his political ambitions,”

Deceased businessman and former national cyclist, Jude Bentley

Bennett, a member of the Sonic Hunters motorcyclist club, wrote on his Meta Facebook page.

Notably, during the strike action, the PNC-R Executive Member while on the picket line said: “Those who think that it [strike action] is being politicised, it is being politicised,” while giving his rationale behind the view and stating that it is because the government is a “political entity.”

This statement was a stark contrast to what the GTU has been claiming since the commencement of the strike.

Additionally, even though protesters were yelling, “we ain’t playing politics,” Best later gave media operatives a different message, last Wednesday.

Adding to this, Bennett highlighted Best’s call for immediate intervention for teachers and said that the PNC-R Executive Member must not forget his past and instead own up to his actions.

“When faced with the consequences of your actions, you sought time for reflection and support from friends and family after the tragic incident involving Jude Bentley. It’s a stark contrast to your current demands for swift action,” Bennett wrote.

In the blunt post, Bennett further deemed it outright “unacceptable” for Best to possess such a prominent role within the political arena given his previous actions.

“Your involvement in the teachers’ strike feels disingenuous, especially considering the lack of accountability for your past actions. Using the plight of educators to bolster your image while avoiding the repercussions of your own behaviour is shameful,” the superbike competitor bluntly stated.

Furthermore, he implored the public to ensure that any indication of double standard exhibited by the Executive Member of the PNC-R is not left unaddressed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Remorseful uncle admits to fatally — Sentenced to seven-year prison term strangling nephew

By Feona Morrison

JUSTICE Priya Sewnarine-Beharry of the Demerara High Court has sentenced a 58-yearold man to seven years in prison for the death of his nephew, whom he admitted to strangling.

Last month, Ganesh Per-

saud Lall, though indicted for the capital offence of murder, opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter in connection with the July 2018 killing.

He confessed to killing his nephew, 30-year-old Jason Rajendra Paul Hira, between July 15 and 16, 2018.

Lall’s sentencing hear-

ing was postponed by the judge until Monday so that victim impact statements and reports on probation and jail behaviour could be heard.

State Counsel Joy Williams and State Counsel Caressa Henry prosecuted the case. Khemraj Ramjattan, an attorney at law, was Ga-

Jailed: Ganesh Persaud Lall

nesh Persaud Lall’s lawyer.

Justice Sewnarine-Beharry mandated that the Prison Service deduct Lall’s time spent in pre-trial imprisonment from the seven-year custodial term. In 2018, Lall was admitted to jail. The judge further mandated that Lall participate in programmes designed to support his rehabilitation.

Hira had lived at Anna Catherina with Lall and his grandparents.

Hira was known to routinely demand money from his grandparents, Lall’s parents, and other community members in order to support his smoking of illicit drugs and binge drinking habits, Continued on page 21

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Remorseful uncle admits to fatally strangling..

From page 20

according to information presented during Lall’s sentencing hearing on Monday.

And he would physically and verbally abuse them if they refused to give him money.

In his statement before the court, Lall said that, on July 15, 2018, he heard his nephew fighting with his grandparents over money when he got home late. Lall further said that he got into a confrontation with his nephew and strangled him.

Hira was found unconscious in the bathroom by his grandmother somewhere around 06:00 hours the next day. According to the police, his neck bore marks of violence. His cause of death was listed as neck compression injuries leading to asphyxiation.

According to information revealed in court, Hira, and his uncle occasionally disagreed over his lifestyle.

Hira has run afoul of the law multiple times for minor infractions.

In a plea of mitigation, Lall’s attorney referred to Hira’s passing as a sad circumstance. Ramjattan said that despite Hira being a “bright person,” he exhibited challenging behaviour.

Lall’s family members offered the court impact statements in which they asked the court to forgive Lall for the terrible event that broke their family up.

They admitted they did not like Hira’s lifestyle of delinquency and that they tried to help him, but he refused.

Hira was compelled to return to Guyana after being arrested in the USA for stalking women. Lall’s sister, Hira’s mother, pleaded with the judge to allow her brother to return to society so that he could take care of their sick mother, describing her brother as kind and caring.

In her testimony, Hira’s mother said that her now-deceased son had previously attacked her with a knife and choked her. She said that, as a result, she was forced to get a protection order against him. The

mother shared that although her son was smart, he was “influenced by his wealthy friends while in school.”

Hira went to one of the top public secondary schools in Guyana.

In her remarks, Prosecutor Joy Williams made reference to the frequency of unlawful killings in society while pleading with the judge to take the seriousness of the offence into account when determining a sentence.

Williams submitted that Hira, who was just 30 at the Dead: Jason Rajendra Paul Hira

time, had been denied the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life, pointing out that Lall had strangled his nephew and left him on the bathroom floor. The prosecutor maintained that the goal of sentencing should always be to discourage offenders and future offenders.

Lall, in the meantime, expressed his regret for his actions and told the judge he was sorry for what had happened. “I am pleading with you for forgiveness,” said the man, who appeared to be regretful. Before this sad event, Lall’s criminal record was spotless.

The judge started with a base of 18 years to determine an appropriate sentence, deducting one-third (six years) for Lall’s early guilty plea. The judge then subtracted five years for mitigating reasons from the remaining 12 years, leaving seven years.

This offender has to be credited for time spent in pre-trial custody.

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Ben Stokes not interested in milestones as he prepares for 100th Test

By Stephan Shemilt, Chief cricket writer in Rajkot

CAPTAIN Ben Stokes says his 100th cap is "just a number" as he prepares to become the 16th man to reach a century of Tests for England.

Stokes, 32, will reach the milestone when he leads England in the third Test against India in Rajkot tomorrow.

"Every Test is just as important as the next one," said Stokes. "Then there's the next one, which will be 101 - it's just one more.

"It's a sign of longevity, but 99, 100 or 101 doesn't make much difference."

All-rounder Stokes made his Test debut against Australia in Adelaide in 2013.

He has gone on to have one of the most storied and successful careers in English cricketing history.

"It's just a number," said the Durham man. "I don't want it to sound like I'm not thankful for the opportunities

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I've had, but with milestones, it's not done until it's done."

Stokes announced his arrival in Test cricket with a century in only against his second match, against an Australia attack spearheaded

by Mitchell Johnson on a spiteful pitch in Perth.

Other highlights include an all-round performance to help defeat New Zealand at Lord's in 2015, and an astonishing 258 from 198 balls against South Africa in Cape Town in 2016.

Stokes' crowning glory in Test cricket came in the Headingley Ashes Test of 2019, when his unbeaten 135 dragged England to one of their greatest wins.

Stokes, who also starred in two World Cup final wins in white-ball cricket, became Test captain in 2022, and has revolutionised the England team, leading them to 14 wins from 20 games since he took charge.

"There will be a time when I can reflect a bit

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England all-rounder Ben Stokes more," said Stokes.

"Whilst I'm still playing and wanting to achieve a lot, then driving the team, giving individuals the best platform for them to be successful is where all my thoughts are at the moment."

Stokes' 128 sixes is the most any batter has hit in Test cricket.

With 6,251 Test runs and 197 wickets, Stokes is on the brink of becoming only the third man to do the double of 6,000 runs and 200 wickets after greats of the game Jacques Kallis and Sir Garfield Sobers.

However, a chronic knee injury has hampered Stokes'

bowling and he managed only four Test wickets in 2023.

He had surgery in November and will not bowl during the series in India, but is bowling in training in the hope he can play a full role as an all-rounder in the home summer.

On Tuesday he said he bowled three overs at roughly "70% intensity".

"It's little and often now," said Stokes. "We don't have a plan with where I go with my intensity. It's just how I feel at the time, but also not getting too far ahead.

"The rest of my body has to get up to speed with bowling and this was another step forward."

Stokes confirmed England have named a 12-man squad for the third Test, with pace bowler Mark Wood added to the XI beaten in the second Test in Visakhapatnam.

England named only one specialist seamer in each of

the first two Tests, but the Rajkot pitch looks to have a covering of green grass.

Wood could come in to partner James Anderson, with one of spin trio Shoaib Bashir, Rehan Ahmed or Tom Hartley making way.

The five-match series is poised at 1-1 with three

matches remaining as England look to become the first team since 2012 to win a Test series in this country.

"It sets it up for a good series," said Stokes. "If we play cricket to the best of our ability then we know the results will look after themselves."(BBC Sport).

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday February 14, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Gudakesh Motie-3/28 (Sydney) (2) Xavier Bartlett-4/17 (Melbourne) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many dismissals WI,Shai Hope, effected in the recent ODI series against AUST? (2) How many dismissals the AUST keeper, Josh Inglis, effected?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

De Swardt resists after Ravindra’s triple strike in second Test

A FIGHTING half-century from Ruan de Swardt revived South Africa on the opening day of the second Test against New Zealand after Rachin Ravindra’s triple strike put them in trouble.

The visitors came up with a shoddy batting performance yet again, and were reeling at 101/5 at

one stage before going into stumps at 220/6.

Opting to bat first, South Africa made a poor start when Clyde Fortuin drove away from his body the first ball, only to get an edge as Glenn Phillips took a stunning one-handed catch. That did not deter Raynard van Tonder from driving his first ball for a

boundary to get going. After a brief resistance, South Africa lost skipper Neil Brand, as the debutant William O’ Rourke managed to pick up his first wicket in just his third over.

While the likes of Van Tonder and Zubayr Hamza got starts, they failed to capitalise and put up a substantial score. Van Tonder

Rachin Ravindra got among the wickets after starting with four maidens•AFP/Getty Images

from the spinner straight to the short-leg fielder.

However, any hopes of running through the lower order were squashed as de Swardt held firm at one end. He had Shaun von Berg for company at the other end, as the duo batted through the rest of the day.

Ravindra’s return to the bowling crease could not break the partnership either, as New Zealand wasted no time in taking the second new ball. While Tim Southee found the outside edge immediately, the ball flew for a boundary before de Swardt brought up his fifty with a drive through the covers. South Africa will now heavily rely on this pair to drag them past 300 on the second day. (Cricbuzz).

chased a wide short delivery from Neil Wagner to hand a catch to the fielder at gully, whereas Hamza became Ravindra ‘s first victim.

The left-arm spinner began his spell with four straight maiden overs, and conceded only a single in his next over before opening his account. Keegan Petersen failed to get his eye in as he edged Ravin-

dra behind to the slip fielder that reduced the visitors to 101/5.

A 49-run stand between de Swardt and David Bedingham kept South Africa afloat for a while.

But Ravindra got the huge wicket of Bedingham, who had already smashed two fours in the over, only to get a bit unlucky as he jammed a yorker-length delivery

Q U E E N S , N e w Yo r k , (CMC) – Guyanese trainer Naipaul Chatterpaul notched a single winner on Sunday’s nine-race card at Aqueduct when his sixyear-old chestnut gelding, Centavo, produced a solid score in the US$55 000 Race Four.

Going a mile and eighth for the four-year-olds and upward, Centavo, the longest shot in the field at odds of 14-1, overcame a fractious start where he almost tossed jockey Gokhan Kocakaya, to stalk the leaders.

Favourite Night Effect logged the early fractions with 24.77 seconds for the quarter, and 49.41 for the half, with 8-1 bet Jungfrau running in second, and 3-1 chance Proven Hope and Centavo battling for fourth.

Guyanese trainer Naipaul Chatterpaul Kocakaya roused Cen- ing on the nine-race card, tavo at the five-sixteenth Chatterpaul watched as his pole, and the gelding made 6-1 bet Extra Dirty finished excellent headway into the third in the $32 000 Race stretch to grab the lead inside One over six furlongs for the three-year-old maiden fillies. the three-sixteenth.

Chatterpaul has won However, he was under threat from Night Effect and three times in 15 starts Proven Hope, until getting for the season, which got clear in the final stages. underway New Year’s Day, In his only other out- and wraps March 30.

Chatterpaul seals win on Aqueduct card

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Volcanoes on top heading into round two of … Three teams make West Indies Championship today changes to squad

THE Windward Islands Volcanoes are sitting atop the points table at the end of Round 1 of the West Indies Championship, after their 9-wicket victory over the Jamaica Scorpions at Sabina Park.

With a total of 21.4 points, 9.4 of which came from bowling points, as they picked up 3 points for surpassing 300 runs in the first innings and then bowling the Scorpions out in both innings.

Not far behind are the Barbados Pride with 19 points, having picked up 3 batting points and 4 bowling points.

The West Indies Academy victory over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes have them sitting third on the table, while the rest of the table reads as follows Guyana Harpy Eagles with 5.5 points, Jamaica Scorpions 4.4, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force 3 and Combined Campuses and Colleges at eighth with 3 points.

Three teams have made player changes to their teams heading into Round 2 which starts today.

Guyana Harpy Eagles have replaced Ronsford Beaton with Isai Thorne who returned from competing with the West Indies Men’s Under 19 team at the recently concluded ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup in South

Jamaica Scorpions opener Chadwick Walton getting bowled by Shermon Lewis during the round one 2024 West Indies Championship fixture between the Jamaica Scorpions and Windward Islands Volcanoes at Sabina Park Gilson Tyson will replace Africa. Beaton was suspended for an illegal bowling action Shermon Lewis in the Windin his team’s first round clash ward Islands Volcanoes team, with the Trinidad and Tobago as Lewis has been ruled out Red Force at Conaree Cricket of the next two rounds of the competition due to injury. KaCentre.

The West Indies Academy vem Hodge who also returned have made two changes with from Test and ODI duties with to their squad with Jordan the West Indies Senior Men’s Johnson and Teddy Bishop team in Australia, will replace replacing Kelvin Pitman and Keron Cottoy.

Guyana Harpy Eagles and Ramon Simmonds.

Johnson returned from Trinidad and Tobago Red Force competing with the West Indies had their first-round match at Men’s Under 19 team at the the Conaree Cricket Centre end recently concluded ICC Men’s with no result due to seepage of Under-19 World Cup in South water onto the pitch from a 24Africa, and Bishop returned hour persistent rainfall. Jamaifrom Australia where he was ca Scorpions, Leeward Islands a member of the West Indies Hurricanes and Combined Men’s Senior team for the ODI Campuses and Colleges all suffered defeats to the Windward series against Australia.

Islands Volcanoes, the West Indies Academy and Barbados Pride respectively.

Round 2 starts today, 14 February-17 February in Jamaica at Sabina Park and Kensington Cricket Club and in St. Kitts at Warner Park and Conaree Cricket Centre. All matches start at 10am local time.

E v e r y We s t I n d i e s Championship match will be streamed live on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel.

Fans can follow every game from their mobile devices, computers, or connected TVs, including access to live ball-by-ball scoring on the Windiescricket.com live match center.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE West Indies Championship 2024 Round 1 7 to 10 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Sabina Park, Jamaica- Volcanoes won by 9 wickets CCC vs Barbados Pride Chedwin Park, Jamaica- Pride won by 9 wickets Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs West Indies Academy - Warner Park, St. Kitts- Academy won by 5 wickets Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force - Conaree Cricket Centre, St. Kitts- No Result

Round 2 14 to 17 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs CCC Sabina Park, Jamaica Barbados Pride vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Warner Park, St. Kitts Trinidad &Tobago Red Force vs West Indies Academy Conaree Cricket Centre, St. Kitts Round 3 21 to 24 February: Jamaica Scorpions vs Barbados Pride - Sabina Park, Jamaica Windward Islands Volcanoes vs CCC - Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force Warner Park, St. Kitts West Indies Academy vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), Antigua Round 4 13 to 16 March: Trinidad &Tobago Red Force vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad CCC vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes - Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Barbados Pride - Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground at UWI Spec (UWI SPEC), Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Ja-

maica Scorpions - CCG, Antigua Round 5 20 March to 23 March: Trinidad &Tobago Red Force vs Barbados Pride - Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Jamaica Scorpions - Diego Martin Regional Complex, Trinidad Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs CCC - CCG, Antigua Round 6 10 to 13 April: Jamaica Scorpions vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force - Chedwin Park, Jamaica Leeward Hurricanes vs Barbados Pride - UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - CCG, Antigua Round 7 17 to 20 April: Jamaica Scorpions vs Trinidad &Tobago Red Force - Sabina Park, Jamaica CCC vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - Kensington Cricket Club, Jamaica Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Windward Islands Volcanoes UWI SPEC, Trinidad West Indies Academy vs Barbados Pride - CCG, Antigua

Anita Kallicharran and friends contribute to Project Cricket Gear

AKEEM Persaud, the 14-yearold old all-rounder who bats left-handed and bowls rightarm leg spin, is the latest young cricketer to benefit from Project Cricket Gear for young cricketers, a joint initiative between Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) executive Anil Beharry and Kishan Das of the USA. Anita Kallicharran, wife of former West Indies ‘B’ team all-rounder Derek Kallicharran, Powan, of DX Sports, and Ramjit Singh, all of the USA, were the contributors to Persaud who was the recipient of one cricket gear bag, one pair of batting pads, one pair of batting gloves, one pair of cricket shoes and one bat.

Persaud is a member of Malteenoes Sports Club, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, and attends Annandale Secondary School. Receiving the gear on his behalf was his mother, Farida Gayadin, who thanked Anita, her husband Derek and friends for the kind gesture.

Kallicharran, his wife and friends continue to promote young cricketers in Guyana by giving back to their country of birth. The Kallicharrans, DX Sports, and Ramjit Singh are delighted to be part of youth development in Guyana, and encouraged young Persaud and others to focus on their game and studies at the same time.

The joint initiative is proud to be part of this gesture.

The initiative wished him well, and encouraged him to continue his education to the highest levels.

Total cricket-related items received or purchased so far: $370 000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, two trophies, 18 pairs of cricket boots, 31pairs of batting pads, 33 cricket bats, 29 pairs of batting gloves, 24 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 10 cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one fiberglass bat and 10 boxes of white cricket balls.

In addition to the foregoing items, more than $600,000 worth of gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wicket- keeper/batsman.

All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.

To date, 71 young players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 30 bats, three boxes, six helmets, 27 pairs of cricket shoes, 18 pairs of batting pads, 24 thigh pads, one bat grip, 31 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads, and three pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.

In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area received two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also collected one box of red cricket balls each, Cold Fusion Cricket Club 13 coloured uniforms, while RHCCCC received three boxes of balls, 15

Derek Kallicharran, right, hands over gear to Farida Gayadin on behalf of Akeem Khan

white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, and a

set of stumps and bails. Other beneficiaries are the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of

Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, No. 65 Young Titans with 30 T-Shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk and Shamar Apple.

Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients.

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

Distribution will continue.

Anyone interested in contributing to the project can contact Anil Beharry on 6236875 or Kishan Das on 1 718664- 0896.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Victor Wembanyama makes 10 blocks in stunning triple-double as San Antonio Spurs beat Toronto Raptors

By Sam Drury BBC Sport

VICTOR Wembanyama posted a remarkable triple-double of 27 points, 14 rebounds and 10 blocks as the San Antonio Spurs beat the Toronto Raptors 122-99.

The 20-year-old rookie had the most blocks by any NBA player since Clint Capela in January 2021.

Wembanyama is just the fifth player in NBA history with at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 blocks in a game.

He joins legends Hakeem Olajuwon, Ralph Sampson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and

former Spurs star David Robinson on that list.

"It's getting harder to block shots - I had to make an extra effort because less and less people go at me," Wembanyama said.

"Intimidation, I can see it happening."

The 7ft 4in Frenchman, who was the number one pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, also made five assists in a dominant performance while team-mate Devin Vassell scored 25 points as San Antonio ended a seven-game losing streak.

Gradey Dick, another first-year player, top-scored for Toronto with 18 points.

Elsewhere, the Minnesota

Victor Wembanyama became just the fifth player with at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 blocks in a game in NBA history Timberwolves beat the Los Angeles Clippers 121-100 in crunch game at the top of the Western Conference.

Karl-Anthony Towns scored 24 points and Anthony Edwards 23 as the

conference leaders claimed a convincing win in California.

Injury-hit defending champions the Denver Nuggets lost 112-95 at the Milwaukee Bucks with two-time NBA Most Valuable Play-

er Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 36 points and securing 18 rebounds.

The Philadelphia 76ers ended the Cleveland Cavaliers' winning streak at nine games with a dramatic 123121 win that saw Kelly Oubre score 24 points and with one second remaining block Donovan Mitchell's lay-up, which would have sent the game into overtime.

The New York Knicks suffered a painful defeat by the Houston Rockets after a foul by Jalen Brunson with 0.3 seconds left gave Aaron Holiday three free-throws to win the game. He hit the first two to put the hosts 105-103 up and intentionally missed

the third to use up the remaining time.

Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors to a 129-107 win at the Utah Jazz. Luka Doncic's 26-point triple-double helped the Dallas Mavericks beat the Washington Wizards 112-104, while the Charlotte Hornets triumphed 111-102 over the Indiana Pacers.

The Chicago Bulls' DeMar DeRozan and Ayo Dosunmu each scored 29 points in their 136-126 victory at the Atlanta Hawks and the New Orleans Pelicans won 96-87 at the Memphis Grizzlies.

Najmul Hossain Shanto appointed Bangladesh captain for all formats

BANGLADESH Cricket Board on Monday appointed Najmul Hossain Shanto as the captain across all three formats for the next one year.

BCB president Nazmul Hasan made the announcement after the board directors meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. He informed the media that the decision to go Najmul was due to the lack of clarity surrounding Shakib al Hasan's availability due to his eye problem.

"We have decided to appoint Najmul Hossain Shanto across all formats. He will serve the national team as skipper this year," Nazmul told reporters following the meeting.

"I have talked to Shakib. His eye issue is still causing prob-

lems. There is some uncertainty regarding his participation in Sri Lanka. The World Cup is very

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, (CMC) – West Indies all-rounder Nathan Edward has been named in the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s team-of-the-tournament for the just-concluded Under-19 World Cup here.

He is the only player from the Caribbean side named in the 12-man squad headed by captain Hugh Weibgen, who led Australia to victory over India in Sunday’s final in

Benoni.

Edward averaged 50 with the bat, and snared 11 wickets at 17 apiece with his left-arm seam.

He produced an outstanding performance against England in their final Group Stage game, snatching three wickets and then returning with a level-headed unbeaten 49 to see West Indies to a two-wicket win in Potchefstroom.

Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead Bangladesh in all formats

near. So we didn't want to take any chance," he said.

"We are not sure about

Shakib's availability and that is why we picked Shanto (Najmul) for all three formats," he added.

Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha had earlier said that he felt it was time to give long-term captaincy to Najmul after being impressed by him in the recent past when he had led the side in absence of Shakib. The star all-rounder had also recently insisted that he is not sure about his future as captain.

Meanwhile, the BCB also brought changes to the national selection panel by appointing former national captain Gazi Ashraf Hossain, who worked in different capacities, as the chief selector for the next two years.

Cricbuzz had earlier reported that Minhajul Abedin and

Edward named in ICCU-19 World Cup team-of-the-tournament West Indies qualified for the Super Six second stage, but missed out on the semi-finals when rain forced an abandonment in their do-ordie final game against the Australians.

There was no room for West Indies wicketkeeper Jewel Andrew, who struck a hundred in West Indies’ opening game against South Africa, as he finished with 207 runs, at an average of 69, to

spearhead his side’s batting.

Weibgen is one of three Australians included in the squad, along with Harry Dixon (309 runs) and seamer Callum Vidler (14 wickets), while losing finalists India have gained four spots, courtesy of Musheer Khan (360 runs), Uday Saharan (397 runs), Sachin Dhas (303 runs), and left-arm spinner Saumy Pandey (18 wickets).

Habibul Bashar are unlikely to retain their post in the selection panel. Nazmul said that only Abdur Razzak was retained from the previous selection panel.

Joining Hossain and Razzak in the selectors' panel will be former cricketer Hannan Sarkar.

"After all the discussion, we have selected Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu as the chief selector...

Usually the contract is for two years. Khan Abdur Razzak and Hannan Sarkar will be the other two selectors," said Nazmul adding that Minhajul and Bashar will continue work with the Board in different capacities.

Senior batter Tamim Iqbal isn't part of the central contracts released by the BCB after he had requested for the same.

The veteran, who retired from

T20Is in 2022, had announced his retirement from international cricket last year before reversing the decision within a week. ` Cricbuzz earlier reported that Taskin Ahmed had asked BCB not to consider him for Tests. As a response to the request, the fast bowler hasn't been included in the national contract for longer-version cricket. Young stars Towrid Hridoy and Tanzim Sakib have got contracts in the shorter formats while Mosaddek Hossain loses his spot.

BCB said that they have already received the recommendations from the special committee formed by the board to assess the disappointing performance in the World Cup. (Cricbuzz)

All-rounder Nathan Edward

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

GCB Senior Women 50-overs inter-county cricket…

Berbice beat Demerara by seven wickets for 15th consecutive title

Berbice retained the GCB Women’s senior 50-over Inter -county title for the 15th successive time

By Sean Devers OVERNIGHT and early morning showers at the Malteenoes ground delayed the start of the final round of the GCB’s Senior Women 50-overs inter-county cricket tournament between defending champions Berbice and home team Demerara by 108 minutes and caused a reduction from 50 to 37 overs.

Demerara elected to bat on a still fast outfield and good pitch and were bowled out for a disappointing 76 in 29 overs before Berbice, despite losing three wickets,

strolled to 77-3 in 14 overs to win their fifteenth consecutive 50-over title.

West Indies batter Mandy Mangru and Naiomi Barkoye provided the home team a solid start in overcast conditions with a strong Atlantic breeze blowing across the ground.

The tall right-handed Barkoye, was the aggressor on her home ground with fluent extra cover drives for boundaries while the correct Mangu, the leading scorer in the tournament, added 27 with Barkoye in eight overs.

Mangru, who made 81 against Essequibo in the first

round, was looking set for another good score when she was lured down the track by experienced off-spinner Plaffiana Millington and neatly stumped by West Indies Keeper Shamaine Campbell for 12.

Tilleya Madramootoo (1) was lbw to medium pacer Tricia Hardat and 34-2 before West Indies fast bowling all-rounder Cherry-Ann Fraser, who made an unbeaten 68 against Essequibo, only managed a single yesterday before she edged one that spun away from the left-hander to Campbell behind the stumps as Millington struck at 36-3.

Demerara’s Mandy Mangru finished with the most runs in the tournament Hardat trapped Kaycia Shultz (1) lbw two runs later and when Barkoye, with four boundaries to her name in her 67-ball 24, was run out for the second time in the tournament as the QC student again had problems with her running between the wickets.

Only Niya Latchman with 16 of the other batters reached double figures much to disappointment of the large contingent of Demerara supporters which included the Essequibo team who are staying at the GCB’s LBI facility for T20 format which starts tomorrow at Malteenoes.

Player-of-the-Match Ashmini Munisar

Player-of-the-Match Ashmini Munisar 3-6, Millington 2-7, Hardat 2-14 and Shenita Grimmond 2-14 did the damage for Berbice who began their reply with the sun back in all its glory.

Realanna Grimmond ondrove the lively Fraser for four in the first over before stroking off-spinner Litesha Jordon, who opened the bowling, for consecutive boundaries to rush into the teens. She deposited Jordon over mid-on in her next but the off-spinner had the last laugh when Grimmond top-edged a sweep to short square-leg after making 18

at 23-1.

Christal Durant (11) was bowled by leg-spinner Latchman and with victory 10 runs away, Skipper Campbell (8) was lbw to Shultz before Tiea Issac (1) joined West Indies batter Shabika Gajnabi who hit two fours in her unbeaten 24.

Mangru, who has now turned wicket-keeper, scored 93 runs while fours bowlers (Millington, Hardat Munisar and Jordon) five with five wickets from two matches.

Berbice and Essequibo face-off tomorrow in the T20 match at Malteenoes from 1:30 PM.

Regal Stationery & Computer Centre supports GCB Youth Development REGAL Stationery and Computer Centre/ Regal Sports recently threw their support behind the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) as they plan to play a huge role in the development of the county's youth players.

The entity, which is a subsidiary of the Regal

Business group located in Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, is among the longest serving sponsors of cricket in Guyana.

With a franchise softball team, which has won a number of titles and a history of playing a crucial role in the on-and-off field

development of cricket, the company will now shift focus to Guyana’s future as it relates to providing financial support to the GCB. Regal Sports also caters for beginners and professionals in every sporting discipline, with quality and trusted brands of sporting equipment at affordable

prices, further marrying the new relationship between the two entities as it relates to cricket development and that of its athletes.

Also, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre is the exclusive sponsor of champion softball and hardball cricket teams in Guyana.

Ian John of Regal presents the donation to GCB’s Anil Beharry

40

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Russell, Rutherford seal consolation win for West Indies

PERTH, Australia, (CMC) – Superstar Andre Russell blasted a Man-of-the-Match half-century and Sherfane Rutherford notched a maiden one, as West Indies wrapped up an otherwise disappointing tour of Australia with a 37-run victory in the final Twenty20 International here Tuesday.

Choosing to bat first at Perth Stadium, West Indies roared to 220 for six off their 20 overs with Russell top-scoring with 71 off just 29 balls and Rutherford belting an unbeaten 67 off 40 balls.

Off-spinning all-rounder Roston Chase chipped in with a 20-ball 37 and then returned to snatch two for 19 from four stingy overs, to limit Australia 183 for five off their 20.

Veteran left-hander David Warner spearheaded the run chase with 81 off 49 deliveries while Tim David lashed a 19-ball 41 but Australia found themselves stalled just past the

half-way stage of the innings when West Indies limited them to just 17 runs from five overs.

Australia had already wrapped up the three-match series with wins in the first two games in Hobart and Adelaide.

“Obviously we had two losses up front, and we said we wanted to make a promise to ourselves to not leave here without a win, so that was the challenge for us,” Chase said afterwards.

“And the guys came out after having a bit of a rough start and tried to get a good score. I thought that Russell and Rutherford really played well in the end to get us to that 210-plus score that we were looking for.”

Not for the first time in the white-ball phase of the tour, new-ball seamer Xavier Bartlett (2-37) made his presence felt early, striking twice as West Indies stumbled to 17 for three in the third over.

Johnson Charles (4) nicked

a heave at Bartlett to fall to a catch behind off the sixth ball of the game, left-hander Nicholas Pooran (1) edged seamer Jason Behrendorff low to first slip while Kayle Mayers chopped on for 11.

Chase arrived to revive the innings, hitting three fours and a brace of sixes as he put on 55 for the fourth wicket with Powell who made 21 from 14 balls.

When both fell in successive overs to leave West Indies tottering again on 79 for five in the ninth, Russell and Rutherford came together in a record sixth wicket partnership of 139 to propel the Caribbean side to their eventual total.

Russell bludgeoned four fours and seven sixes in racing to his third T20I fifty off 25 balls in the penultimate over which gushed 28 runs, before perishing in the final over.

Rutherford, meanwhile, smashed five fours and five

Andre Russell acknowledges his 25-ball 50 against Australia on Tuesday, as he is congratulated by partner Sherfane Rutherford sixes, bringing up his landmark off 33 deliveries in the 17th over with a boundary to third man.

Facing a stiff asking rate of just over 11 runs per over, Australia were handed a flying start

by Warner who put on 68 off 39 balls for the first wicket with captain Mitchell Marsh (17) and a further 46 for the second

wicket with Aaron Hardie (16).

Warner struck nine fours and three sixes but was one of two wickets to fall in the 14th over from Chase, holing out to deep mid-wicket, as Australia lost three wickets for as many runs in the space of 10 balls.

Struggling on 117 for four at the end of the 14th and with the asking rate having climbed to

nearly 17-½ runs per over, the home side never found their way back into the contest.

David struck two fours and four sixes as he posted 35 for the fifth wicket with Glenn Maxwell (12) and 31 for the sixth with Matthew Wade (seven not out), but by then the damage was irreparable.

Everest names northern end after new Life Member Shamar Joseph

Everest Cricket Club has made a bold statement in its support for West Indies' new Test sensation, Shamar Joseph.

On Tuesday, Club President and Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir announced that upon completing the ongoing upgrade works to host practice during Men’s World T20 in June, they would rename the northern end of the ground the ‘Shamar Joseph End.’ Additionally, the club continued its tradition of honouring its West Indian players, and they conferred Joseph with Life Membership.

Furthermore, Club captain Dwayne Adams and Public Relations Officer John

From left: Everest member Robin Bharat, President Manzoor Nadir, Shamar Joseph, John Ramsingh, Dwayne Adams and Satyendra Khemraj after honouring the West Indies pacer on Tuesday Ramsingh also commended Joseph for a superb debut series that has reignited fans' support for men in maroon

worldwide.

Joseph, from Baracara, East Berbice, joined the city club last year with his brother

and has represented them at the First Division level in Georgetown.

Humbled over the recog-

nition from one of the most long-standing cricket clubs in the city, the 24-year-old expressed it was duly an honour to become a life member, but having his name placed to an is even more inspiration as he hopes other young players can use it as a motivator for success.

Joseph said he plans on making full use of the improved facilities at the club when he is in the city to develop his skills further, as he admitted there is more to learn about cricket.

Meanwhile, former Executive Member and current Managing Director of The New Doctor’s Clinic, Satyendra Khemraj, continued another tradition as he gifted Joseph a 14-karat gold chain

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with a cricket bat pendant.

Khemraj exuded joy seeing a fellow Guyanese reap such tremendous success on the international stage and felt privileged to honour the promising fast bowler with a unique token.

Joseph made his West Indies debut in the drawn series against Australia, dismissing Steven Smith with his first ball in Test cricket in a match West Indies lost in Adelaide.

He became a worldwide phenomenon when he took a seven-wicket haul in the final innings despite an injured foot to give West Indies a dramatic eight-run win at the Gabba in the second Test.

It was West Indies’ first Test win in Australia since 1997.

| WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2024