Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 17-03-2024

‘Certain forces within GTU want turmoil’

- Dr Jagdeo says ‘elements’ of the union blocking agreement

By Trina Williams

THE debacle between the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) continues and with another court action in motion, the country’s Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo believes that certain political forces within the union are opposed to an agreement and any peaceful resolution to the issue at hand.

These “elements” he said are fuelling hostility. Jagdeo’s comments come on the heels of the GTU abandoning a court-mandated discussion with the Education Ministry on salary increases and other issues affecting teachers.

During a press conference at the Office of the President on Thursday last, Dr Jagdeo said: “My own assessment of this, is that from the reports I get, is that there are elements within the Teachers’ Union delegation who are not interested, whose demeanor and tone at the meeting would demonstrate that they are not interested in an agreement.”

He added: “They want turmoil.” As the GTU continues to stand on a shaky foundation, especially with the recent revelations regarding the lack of transparency and

accountability, Dr Jagdeo spared no effort in highlighting the flagrant violations that have been taking place within the organisation.

“I've already pointed out that Coretta McDonald, based on their own union rules, should not be a Member of Parliament or she should resign as General Secretary of the Teachers’ Union. The rules of the Union prohibit a General Secretary from being in the Parliament. That's their own union rules...” the Vice President said.

The Union’s rules state: “Any person holding a Teachers Certificate acceptable to the Executive Council but who is not eligible for active membership, may become an associate member of the union by making application therefor to the Executive Council.”

Further, Clause C, Section II of the rules outline: “Associate members shall have the right to vote, but shall not be eligible to hold the office of the President or General Secretary… [this includes] teachers who leave the classroom to serve as Members of Parliament.”

Notably, McDonald was sworn in as an A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Parliamentarian in 2020,

and, using the union’s rule book, her stint as General Secretary of the GTU should have ended.

The rule book reads: “The annual conference may confer honorary associate membership without the levy of fees on any person who applies therefor and falls in any of the following categories:-… teachers who leave the classroom to serve as Members of Parliament; such membership to expire at the end of the individual’s term of office as a Member of Parliament.”

The Vice President then went on to say: “Anyone who has listened to Coretta McDonald would recognise that she has more political interests,” as he highlighted the concerning utterances that

the Opposition Parliamentarian has been making in the public domain recently.

He further added: “So, all of these things led me to believe that this is a very political issue... And I think there are many in the leadership who want to work to resolve this, [but] they get browbeaten. They get threatened implicitly, that they must not reach an agreement, that we must keep this hostile.”

‘NOT FEASIBLE’

The Vice President also spoke on the proposals made by the GTU, which in essence, wants the current government to compensate for what the previous coalition administration did not do.

Dr Jagdeo said that the proposals cannot be accommodated within the fiscal

framework. He said that despite having some misgivings about the court-ordered mediation, especially since it involved public policy, the government still agreed to talks with the GTU.

“There is a prohibition when there’s public policy involved, that the court should really not order mediation. In fact, in the rules, it says that explicitly, and wages and salaries are public policy matters. Two, we believe that there are established grievance or dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in the labour law and in contracts, therefore, the court should yield to those.

“Nevertheless, out of respect for the court, we participated in the mediation exercise, because we would like to see an end to this matter, too...”

President of the GTU Mark Lyte, on Thursday, said there will be no compromise on the part of the union to discuss only salary increases for 2024 with the Ministry of Education and insisted that negotiations must surround retroactive pay hikes for the period 2019 – 2023.

But the Vice President said this is not feasible since teachers were not in the classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“What the union wants

cannot be accommodated by the fiscal framework. They want us to sign a multi-year agreement retroactively; a multi-year agreement retroactive to 2019.

“So, if you reopen that for teachers, you have to, out of fairness; you have to ensure that every other category would get the same retroactive increase.”

The Vice President said that although the government cannot provide a retroactive increase, they are prepared to sign a three-year agreement, beginning from 2024.

As such, the GTU was asked to prepare a multiyear agreement within this framework to start negotiations. However, according to the Vice President, the GTU “walked out” of the meeting.

PSC backs President Ali’s call for removal of trade barriers within CARICOM

WITH President, Dr Irfaan Ali assiduously pursuing the goal of regional integration by removing any hindrances, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has levied its full support for there to be free movement of goods and services.

In an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, the Chairman of the PSC, Komal Singh, spoke extensively on how this action would bolster economic prosperity.

Trade barriers have long affected regional integration among Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states and, with that said, efforts are being

rolled out to allow the free movement of trade, goods and services.

According to the PSC Chairman: “...There are some trade barriers that [are] preventing trade within the CARICOM region and, as a private sector, we feel that movement of goods and services within the region should not have barriers...We have seen some of those barriers affect some of our manufacturing sectors here...”

Using the Gas-to-Energy project as an example, he said that although it presents enormous economic opportunities for Guyana’s manufacturing sector, trade barriers could

still present a hurdle to the overall success of the local manufacturing sector.

“With the Gas-to-Energy project coming on stream two years from now, our manufacturing sector in Guyana will see significant improvement

and development. If we continue to have some of those trade barriers, it will not be good for some of those goods and services that we've got to produce.

“As such, you know, the call by His Excellency, to all leaders within the re-

- reflects on Guyana’s rapid transformation

gion to remove those trade barriers, so to allow more free movement of goods and services within the region is one that we from the private sector support 100 per cent.”

For context, the project, which involves laying a 200km, 12-inch diameter pipeline, will channel natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Phase Two Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to a state-of-the-art power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility in Wales.

Meanwhile, the PSC Chairman reflected on how the nation’s image has undergone a remarkable

transformation and how the country’s economic growth serves as an advantage for both the ordinary Guyanese and the private sector.

“Guyana’s economic growth right now is a significant plus for the private sector and for the people of Guyana.

“Businesses will have an opportunity right now to develop way beyond [their] capability. As a result of that, it is very important that businesses find strategic business partners...who can work with them to develop themselves rapidly to meet the opportunities that exist right now in the marketplace.”

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

President of the GTU, Mark Lyte

PSC Chairman, Komal Singh

‘There’s no excuse’

- President Ali urges contractor to complete Schoonord-Crane four-lane highway on time

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan

Ali has spared no effort in reminding contractors that there will be consequences if the $11.8 billion four-lane highway from Schoonord to Crane, West Coast Demerara is delayed.

President Ali visited the site to inspect the ongoing works on Saturday.

“You’re not going past April with this, [you] know that right,” the President reminded the contractor.

As the contractor told the President that two sections are approximately 90-95 per cent complete, Dr Ali did not hesitate to remind him about his contractual obligations.

“There’s no excuse…You have to work 24 hours every

day,” President Ali said as he was informed of the works that are progressing.

The contractor also informed the President that works on the roundabout are advancing and two layers of asphalt have been placed along with the installation of concrete drains.

The $11.8 billion fourlane highway from Schoonord, West Bank Demerara to Crane, West Coast Demerara is expected to be completed by June 2024.

Contracts were awarded in September 2022 to several contractors by the Ministry of Housing and Water for the construction of a four-lane highway.

The contractors are VR

Construction Inc., Avinash Contracting & Scrap Metal Inc., L’Heureuse Construction and Services Inc., GuyAmerica Construction Inc., AJM Enterprise, Vals Construction, Puran Bros Disposal Inc., and JS Guyana Inc.

The project will see the construction of 4.1 kilometers (km) of a dual carriageway reinforced concrete road with an emergency lane as well as 2.4 km of road rehabilitation and upgrade.

It will also feature two roundabouts, 11 reinforced concrete box culverts, 36 pre-stressed bridges, and road signage and markings. A new roundabout will connect the West Coast Demerara Highway to the new Schoonord to Crane Highway.

To ease traffic congestion along the West Bank and West Coast of Demerara and with the speed of development in Region Three, President Ali, previously acknowledged the necessity of a new four-lane highway.

Owing to the rapid pace of development, this high -

way will precede the planned construction of a four-lane highway from Schoonord to Parika on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE).

This potential road link, President Ali said, will open

thousands of acres of land for housing, massive agriculture and agro-related projects, and tourism and other related activities.

The construction of this particular road, however, is merely a component of a broader plan to modernise the country’s infrastructure and create myriad alternative and more convenient linkages.

At the centre of those

plans is the intended construction of a new ‘fly-over’ Demerara Harbour Bridge, which will stretch from Nandy Park on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) to La Grange, WBD.

The new four-lane, high-span bridge, once completed, will replace the existing structure which was built in 1976, over four decades ago.

Works progressing along the Schoonord-Crane four-lane highway (Office of the President photo)

Bank of Guyana unveils $200 coin to commemorate Demerara Revolt

TO mark the 200th anniversary of the Demerara Revolt, the Bank of Guyana presented President Dr. Irfaan Ali with a $200 commemorative coin to honour those who rose up against slavery.

This presentation occurred on Saturday at State House, where the Bank's Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga gave the commemorative coin in the presence of Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr and members of the 1823 Revolt Committee.

Over 10,000 enslaved persons took part in the Demerara Revolt of 1823, which was the largest uprising against slavery in Guyana. The Revolt and the deaths of over 250 enslaved persons, as well as of an English priest who supported the uprising, brought slavery's dehumanising conditions to the attention of the English people and parliament.

This helped to pave the way for the Slavery Abolition Act and the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire in August 1834. The coin is a Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) struck in bronze alloy.

It bears the National Coat of Arms on the obverse side and the 1823 Demerara Revolt Monument on the reverse. The Monument features a bronze sculpture of an

enslaved man wielding a machete and a chain with a cross attached to the end.

The coin is minted

by the Osborne Mint in the USA and will be available at the Bank at a price of $5,000 each from tomorrow.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali; Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga (left); Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr (right) and members of the 1823 Revolt Committee (Office of the President photo)

The 'soul' of the nation

PRESIDENT, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has vowed to protect the 'soul' of Guyana. This statement was made when he addressed thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life at the 27th death anniversary of the late former President, Dr. Cheddi Jagan at Babu Jaan, Corentyne,Berbice.

This national ‘soul,’ according to the President, is embedded and found expression in our collective embrace of the foundational principles of justice, democracy and our shared commitment to national unity and social cohesion.

According to President Ali, anyone who deviates from such principles and anyone who seeks to spread

racial division is an enemy of this country and an enemy to themselves.

Significantly, these remarks were made at a time when the entire society is paying homage to someone who dedicated his entire life to the cause of a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Guyana. No wonder President Ali, in reflecting on the essence of the nation, underscored the importance of understanding the concept of the Guyanese 'soul,' which he said encompasses its fundamental values and aspirations.

He attributed the crafting of the Guyanese ‘soul’ to Dr Jagan and emphasised the need to nurture and protect it for the nation's advancement.

These are profound words emanating from a President whose vision for Guyana is firmly grounded on the concept of One Guyana, in which there is peace, unity and shared prosperity for all regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.

President Ali, while highlighting the strong commitment to upholding the value system of the country, noted however that the 'soul' must not be tested by 'forces' that attempt to destroy our democracy. He reminded the audience of 'the evil and dark forces that tested the soul of our country once again when they attempted to steal the elections from the PPP/C in the March, 2020 General and Regional

elections.

“The ‘soul’ withstood that test because Dr. Jagan and the party he co-founded have in its citizens who are committed to the fundamental values of the soul of our country and will never allow the evil and dark forces to tamper with the ‘soul’ of our nation,” President Ali said.

Only recently, Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had cause to call out certain elements from the political opposition who seem bent on keeping the society divided by playing the race card and toying with the emotions of the Guyanese people. He alluded to several basic truths: firstly, that this country can never develop to its full

potential unless all the people benefit from the progress the country is making, something which the PPP/C administration fully understands and is slavishly pursuing.

Secondly, the PPP/C administration desires to provide the opportunity and space for every Guyanese to progress and live comfortably.

What the administration is doing, in effect, is to give life to the philosophy of Dr Jagan.

“We are very fortunate that Dr Jagan laid out a philosophy for our party and that successive leaders have embraced that philosophy and have acted consistent with its implementation, giving it life…we remain

true to Dr Cheddi Jagan's vision,” Dr Jagdeo told the thousands who gathered at Babu John.

In a deeply fundamental way, the life and work of Dr Jagan is worthy of celebration. His vision of a society in which there is social and economic justice, as observed by both President Ali and Vice-President Jagdeo continues to influence the thinking and policy orientation of the PPP/C administration which is pro-people and pro-working class.

Guyana and the Guyanese people owe a debt of gratitude to former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan for the role he played in the creation of an independent, prosperous and democratic Guyana.

The media, anonymous editorials, and the frail, lazy professors

Dear Editor, IN a Kaieteur News editorial dated March 15, 2024, the argument was put forward that the press is under attack. Specifically, reference was made to Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s weekly press conference where he consistently responds to distorted reports, misinformation, misinterpretation, and false reporting on subject matters of public interest.

Contrary to the editorial’s contentions, however, the government has a right to defend its policies, decisions, distortions, and false reporting in the press. This approach by the government cannot by any measure of ethical standard be equated to attacking the press that the afore-

said media entity would like its readers to believe. In fact, the media in general enjoys a free pass, to the extent that press freedom is prostituted in a way that some of the independent media entities are allowed to report all sorts of falsehoods without being held accountable. And, more so, they do not subject themselves to any form of accountability and/ or ethical standards altogether. For example, there are many instances where certain media entities do not, or rarely if at all, fact check reports before publishing, and often they do not publish responses/rebuttals to other writers whom they facilitate. Yet, some of these media entities believe that they are a sacrosanct fraternity (sarcasm intended), that no one should question and interrogate the veracity,

correctness, and authenticity of their reporting. Unfortunately, in the democratic world it does not work like that.

Another matter worth pointing out is that there is a growing acceptability of a new norm whereby the independent media facilitates editorials by anonymous guest editors, with the exception of a few media entities. If this is not an indication of cowardice on the part of the seemingly weakling anonymous authors, then what is. In other parts of the democratic world, the more upstanding and credible media entities publish the names and profiles of the authors who contribute to their “opinion editorials” (op-eds). So much for the credibility and integrity of the anonymous authors―and by extension the media entities, let

alone the merits and substance of the contents of itself.

Then there are the so-called professors, the likes of Dr. Thomas Singh et.al, exhibiting similar symptoms of weakness and insecurities in relation to their own supposedly scholarly/ academic work, and public commentaries on public policy.

There is a culture practiced by these professors who do not want to be challenged, let alone defend their positions and thesis.

It begs the question how they obtained their PhDs and professorships if they are reluctant to, and consistently fail to robustly defend their own supposedly scholarly/academic work (normally, you have to defend your PhD thesis before conferred with same), and they view any such challenge as being disrespectful

to them. Worse, they exhibit that sort of “below par mediocrity”, laziness and weakness in the classrooms that they lord over. Students complain that these professors do not like to be challenged neither are they accommodative of robust debates, because they feel disrespected. But it is not being disrespectful (on the part of the students), it is more a sign of weakness on the part of the so-called professors. How are they demonstrating scholarship to their students?

One has to appreciate that the delivery of tertiary education is very different from primary and secondary education. This unfortunate reality is consistent with the concerns raised by the Vice President, not so long ago, about the less than poor quality of tuition delivered at the uni-

versity, a reality that is tragically worrisome.

To that end, only recently this author had an encounter with Dr. Thomas Singh (via an email exchange) following a public (virtual) presentation that he had participated in, titled: “… assessing Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project (GtE)”. When asked to share his presentation, he was admittedly reluctant to do so. Notwithstanding his reluctance, he made the following conclusions:

That the use of Guyana’s significant gas resources for energy locks Guyana into a technology of the past;

That it fails to take advantage of learning opportunities to achieve economic diversifi-

The MCC versus the PPP: My prediction

I WOULD probably locate the period August 2020 to December 2023 as perhaps the richest moment in applying philosophy, Freudian analysis and class analysis to study Guyanese society. The difference between this period and other periods, especially the demands of the Mulatto/ Creole class (MCC) in the 1950s, is the exhibition of the Freudian mind.

From the 50s, the MCC did what it thought it had to do and it did it as part of the class dynamic in society. It advanced its reasons why it should inherit the post-colonial state after the colonials left. It felt it was more culturally equipped than Indian leadership and it advanced its argument in society.

Former Prime Minister Sam Hinds explained this class mentality based on cultural arguments when I interviewed him two weeks ago on the Freddie Kissoon/ Gildarie Show. He explained in 1990 when a middle-class, civil-society group was formed named GUARD to agitate for free and fair elec-

tions and he joined the leadership, 50 per cent of the people in GUARD hoped that when free elections came, the PPP would not win because its leadership was not culturally and racially eligible to administer a western Caribbean country.

See my column on what he said: Friday, March 8, 2024, “Shocking revelation by former Prime Minister Sam Hinds.” Guyana left the overt sociology of class demands after 1992 when the PPP won the first free and fair electoral contest since 1964. The PPP ruled Guyana from 1992 to 2015. By this time, the MCC had become less conspicuous because opposition to PPP rule was

dominated by the politics of violence of the PNC as the main opposition party.

The MCC through the working out of the dialectics became active through the instrumentality of the WPA. It was the WPA under the leadership of Rupert Roopnaraine and Clive Thomas that saw an opening for the WPA and the PNC to forge an alliance to win electoral power. Ravi Dev has written extensively on Roopnaraine’s efforts to prevent a total opposition alliance because Roopnaraine was not comfortable with Dev’s Indian organisation, ROAR.

The birth of the Alliance For Change (AFC) concretised the rebirth of the MCC

The media, anonymous editorials...

From page 6

cation;

That it seems to ignore the fact that carbon pricing is happening, and that Guyana’s exports produced from natural gas may attract border adjustments;

Guyana should not give up this opportunity to start a climate club of hydrocarbon developing countries that are embracing carbon pricing; and

That we should be re-thinking our economic philosophy, especially the size of government and its relation to the private sector and the freedom and agency individuals.

Based on the foregoing conclusions by Dr. Thomas Singh, this author then posed the following questions aimed at interrogating Dr. Singh’s positions, to which his response may never be forthcoming (taken verbatim from the email exchange):

When you say that the GtE locks Guyana into a technology of the past, what is the alternate technology we should be investing in for the future?

Have you done any analysis, based on the current market rates for carbon pricing, to ascertain what may be the impact on the financial feasibility of the GtE?

Have you considered that the global target for net-zero emissions is nowhere close to achieving those targets on time? There are major gaps thereto.

For example:

The Generation Gap. In recent years, backed by subsi-

dy schemes, tax credits, and a falling levelized cost of energy, the installation of renewable energy capacity has expanded tremendously. Globally, 1,282 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power capacity was added to the energy system between 2016 and 2021, and the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that an additional 2,400 GW of renewable capacity will be installed in 2022 and 2027. However, if the world is to reach net zero by 2050, capacity will have to grow to more than 27,000 GW―an eightfold increase from 2021 levels.

The Grid Gap. Over the past decade, the world has invested an average of $300 billion per year. According to the IEA, annual investments will need to rise to the range of US$560 billion to US$780 billion in the 2030s.

The Storage Gap. Renewable energy tends to be intermittent (the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow, while the demand for electricity is relatively constant and predictable). Hence, to have an orderly transition to a decarbonised grid, a significant amount of electricity storage capacity will be required, in the form of batteries or pumped hydropower schemes. Significant investments in grid-scale battery storage have been made. In 2022, globally, 16 GW of gridskill battery storage was added. According to the IEA, to get on track with the net-zero targets,

and under the leadership of David Granger, the PNC merged with the WPA and the AFC and power was achieved in 2015. It was a long journey by the MCC beginning in the 50s to have power when the British indicated that after World War 11, the time had come to leave the colonies.

The MCC in the form of the new political leader of the PNC and those in the WPA and AFC may have believed it had an anthropological right to govern a westernised Caribbean country but in power, the MCC showed it was administratively bankrupt. It knew nothing about

administering a government. Its track record in office was inferior to that of the PPP, maybe because of four reasons: the PPP’s long years in active politics in opposition; the PPP’s connection to the world of Indian business success in Guyana; the accu-

Continued on page 8

which would require a 143-fold increase by 2050, annual additions must pick up significantly to an average of more than 80 GW per year over the 2022 to 2030 period.

Altogether, the total funding gap needs to almost triple. To keep on track with net-zero emissions by 2050 goals, the IEA estimates that annual investment in clean energy will have to rise substantially from the projected 2023 level of US$1.8 trillion to US$4.6 trillion in 2030. With this in mind, bridging the energy transition gap is likely to remain a challenging task in meeting those targets to narrow the gap. Therefore, the global demand for fossil-fuel will continue to be strong for at least for the next three decades or another century.

Did you consider the foregoing factors, together with carbon pricing as you have indicated, the impact thereof, and perform a demand analysis to justify your position?

These are just few factors. There are many other variables to consider in the decision-making process, as opposed to a panel discussion on these issues in a very abstract manner.

I await Professor Thomas Singh’s defence of his thesis on the GtE project based on the aforementioned questions, which was posed to him by the undersigned via email.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Father of shooter found guilty

IT comes as no surprise that the father of a teenage school shooter was found guilty of four counts of involuntary manslaughter in a U.S. court last Thursday.

James Crumbley, whose wife was found guilty of the same charge last month, faces a possible 15-year prison term in this landmark case, where parents were found criminally responsible for their son's deadly actions.

Their 15-year-old son, Ethan, is already serving a life sentence in prison with no possibility of parole, after pleading guilty to fatally shooting four students and injuring seven others at his high school in November 2021.

The Prosecutor, Karen McDonald, pointed out that Crumbley was not on trial for what his son did, but for what he failed to do, which amounted to

gross negligence. Having bought the weapon for his son, he did not store it properly, allowing his son easy access.

Evidence was also produced to show that both parents ignored their son's pleas for help after experiencing hallucinations. The young man allegedly complained to his friends that his father was not getting him any treatment, even after he spoke of seeing demons in their home.

James Crumbley was accused of ignoring these warning signs as well as violent drawings found on his son's mathematics test on the morning of the shooting.

In a press briefing, Prosecutor McDonald said, "There were egregious facts in this case. These parents could have prevented this tragedy, it was foreseeable, with just the smallest of efforts".

Indeed, the trials of Crumbley and his wife have brought into sharp focus the whole issue of mental illness in young people and adolescents and how it can result in violent acts committed on school grounds.

the danger of ignoring mental health challenges in our children, Violence does not necessarily have to involve the use of a gun and can be just as deadly if some other weapon, such as a knife is used. While the

It also serves as a warning to parents that they can be held responsible for violence perpetrated by their children, but, more importantly, shows mulation of administrative knowledge by the PPP of decades of organising Hindu and Muslim events and the PPP’s intimate relation with Guyana’s largest union, GAWU.

body count is likely to be higher during a shooting, which most often occurs in the United States, no violent act on school grounds should be tolerated, particularly when parents become involved.

When it comes to their child's mental health, researchers tell us that "... parents sometimes do not recognise the warning signs,” but in other instances worry that their child might be labelled as 'crazy' if they attempt to get help.

Research also shows that the risk of suicide increases if a mental health problem goes untreated and that mental health disorder underlies most suicide attempts by teenagers.

In an article published earlier this month on teen mental health, Amy Morin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), stated "Sometimes parents struggle to acknowledge the suspicion that their teen may have a mental health illness. But ignoring the problem isn't likely to make it go away. In fact, without treatment, your teenager's mental health is likely to get worse.”

She added that without proper treatment teens might be tempted to "self-medicate,” using drugs, alcohol or even food and this "...only adds more problems to your teen's life versus taking them away.”

The MCC versus the PPP...

From page 7

After the loss of power in 2020, the MCC has battled the PPP even more tempestuously than the official opposition parties. One has to remember that the mental energy the MCC has exhibited since 2020 has never been seen before in Guyanese history because there was no fatalist mind of the MCC from the 50s onwards.

The MCC from the 1950s

until 1992 never felt it had to fight to survive. So, it never possessed a pessimistic instinct. After 1992, the fatalist mind was not there because the MCC always felt through its symbiotic relationship with African Guyanese that African Guyanese activism could bring it back to power and so said, so done in 2015, with the famous declaration of David Granger to Raphael Trotman: “Raphael, this is Nassau.”

After 2020, the MCC has been waging a tempestuous opposition to the PPP government through the Stabroek News, certain women organisations, certain civil-society organisations

and well-placed individuals, including known MCC academics. What we have seen since 2020 is a class confrontation in which the African working-class organisation, the PNC, has been sidelined. It is the MCC versus the PPP. In Marxist theory, this is called “class warfare.”

Read the Stabroek News, read what the MCC academics say, and look at what the MCC civil society groups are doing. From here on it is class and colour versus the PPP. Irfaan Ali will defeat the MCC in 2025 and definitely by a long way. Can the MCC survive after 2025?

Breaking Barriers: Celebrating women in Oil and Gas

THE oil and gas industry has long been a cornerstone, vital for energy production and economic development. This sector, traditionally dominated by male participation has been undergoing a transformative change globally and in Guyana this is no different. As such, in the commemoration of International Women’s Day, it is an opportune moment to reflect and celebrate the significant contributions and roles of women in oil and gas.

Historically, the involvement of women in oil and gas has been very limited. Traditionally, the industry has been perceived as a bastion of male dominance, with women often relegated to peripheral roles. Howe-

ver, the narrative began to shift as pioneering women broke through barriers that paved the way for the future. Vicki Hollub made history in 2016 by becoming the first female Chief Executive Officer of a major U.S. oil company, Occidental Petroleum Corporation.

In Guyana, the oil and gas industry has witnessed a promising increase in female representation. Onecia Johnson, in the early days of the sector’s development in Guyana, joined SBM Offshore as its first employee and now serves as its Human Resource Manager. She plays a key role in fostering programmes that attract, train and develop more local talent for the company. Grace Hutson, a Guyanese figure in the oil and gas

industry, is one of the eight Caribbean women featured in the book “A Different Energy” by Celeste Mohammed, a Trinidadian author. Representing the strength and resilience of women in this sector, Hutson’s story unfolds as one of empowerment and influence amidst the challenges of a maledominated field. Her initial reservation about joining the energy sector transformed into a commitment to leverage and transfer her skills. Geoscientist, Ashlika Persaud was instrumental in the Tilapia, Tripletail and Pinktail discoveries at the Stabroek Block. In a previous interview she recounted how she began her career with ExxonMobil working on seismic modelling on the West-Africa opportunities

team, after which she joined the Guyana exploration team as the lead geoscientist evaluating multiple oil prospects.

Exxon continues to be at the forefront of fostering diversity, with women occupying roles across various levels, from technical and operational positions to that of leadership. Currently, 52 percent of the oil giant’s workforce in-country are women, setting the precedence high for other companies in the sector. Additionally, more than 1,500 women support oil and gas operations for the company and its prime contractors.

The experiences of successful women in Guyana’s oil and gas sector are both inspiring and reflective of the changing industry lands-

cape. Sispro Inc. stood out as the lone Guyanese company among bidders in the most recent oil block auction. Apart from being the sole Guyanese group bidding, the company was founded by four local women who recognised the need for more women-owned and operated businesses to be embedded in the oil and gas sector.

Looking forward, the prospects for women in Guyana's oil and gas industry are bright, with continuing development and expansion projects offering new opportunities for more involvement and leadership. The ongoing efforts to address and dismantle the systemic barriers that hinder women's full participation will be pivotal in ensuring that the industry not only

benefits from but also contributes to gender equality.

The achievements and contributions of women in the oil and gas field are not just milestones to be celebrated on International Women’s Day but are indicative of the transformative power of diversity and inclusion. The oil companies’ commitment to these principles in Guyana serves as a beacon, illuminating the path toward a more equitable, innovative, and prosperous future for the industry.

In embracing this shift, the sector not only enhances its operational performance but also contributes to the broader societal goal of gender equality, setting a precedent for industries worldwide.

Ow Laad! Since when has the PNC loved democracy?

By Dr. Randolph Persaud Professor Emeritus

THE following sentence by Norman Browne is so unbelievable that I did something I had never done. I asked ChatGPT for assistance in composing my narrative. Here is Browne – “The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has long prided itself on its commitment to democratic values and adherence to its constitution” (KN, 12/9/2023). I had to check with AI what is meant by “democratic values”. I wanted a neutral source to respond to Browne. I submit that the PNCR does not now, nor has ever satisfied any of the 10 points of democracy listed by ChatGPT.

Below are the 10 points listed by ChatGPT with my own response as to whether the PNCR has ever met them:

ChatGPT - Popular Sovereignty: In a democracy, the ultimate authority and power reside with the people. They have the right to make deci-

sions about their government and its policies.

Response – No PNCR government has ever allowed “the people” to have a meaningful say in how government is run. Instead of popular sovereignty, the PNC gave the people a slogan –“The Small Man is the Real Man” and supplemented that with KSIs.

Political Equality: All citizens have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the political process. This includes the right to vote, run for office, and express their opinions freely.

Response - The PNCR has facilitated election rigging for most of its history. APNU picked up from where the old PNC left off. The younger PNC folks in APNU seem to be more election-rigging zealots than their older comrades. Winston Murray or Deryck Bernard never tried to abscond with the Parliamentary Mace.

Rule of Law: A democratic system is bound by a set of laws that apply equally to all citizens, including those in positions of power.

This ensures that no one is above the law.

Response – During the 28 years of dictatorship the PNC as a party was not only above the law, but also above the constitution. Party Paramountcy, remember.

Civil Liberties and Human Rights: Democracies prioritize the protection of individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, assembly, religion, and the right to a fair trial.

Response – PNCR don’t qualify for this one. Newsprint was banned; opposition people were beaten up for speaking; there was no freedom of assembly because the police and Rabbi Washington regularly broke up meetings. I personally saw the goons break up PPP meetings, and later meetings by such groups as GUARD.

Free and Fair Elections: Elections are a fundamental component of democracy. They provide a mechanism for citizens to choose their representatives and leaders through a fair and transparent process.

Response – this one is

obvious. The PNCR (later with the APNU family) have rigged or attempted to rig every election they ever participated in, including some of their own party elections. I witnessed the army carting off ballot boxes in the 1973 elections.

Accountability and Transparency: Elected officials are accountable to the people for their actions and decisions. This requires transparency in government activities, allowing citizens to be informed about the workings of their government.

Response – In the words of Owen Arthur – “I have never seen such a transparent effort to alter an election result.” The Hon. Mr. Arthur was referring to the PNCRAFC attempt to rig the 2020 elections. The AFC took a short course on election rigging but graduated with distinction.

Checks and Balances: The branches of government are designed to oversee and limit each other's powers, ensuring that no single branch can dominate the others.

Response – The PNCR created a few other branches – the Party, National Service, YSM, New Nation. PNC operatives were placed at every government agency to spy on staff.

Military: In a democracy, the military is subordinate to civilian authority. This prevents the military from becoming a political force.

Response – Under President the military and police and the PNC party were different sides of the same coin. Some of the skullduggery continued after 1992 as pointed out by PPP General Secretary at the recent funeral of Dr. Roger Luncheon, former HPS.

Political Participation and Engagement: A democratic society encourages active citizen participation beyond just voting, including activities like joining political parties, attending public meetings, and engaging in civic organizations.

Response – Numerous opposition activists were assassinated. GAWU was punished for years simply because the sugar workers were

not part of the PNC. Under PNC rule, active citizens who fought for democracy lost their jobs, were demoted, or deported to the interior.

Peaceful Transfer of

Power: In a democracy, leaders are chosen through periodic, free, and fair elections. This allows for the peaceful transition of power from one government to the next.

Response – easily the worse transgression of the PNCR and their comrades in the AFC. We will know in 2025 what the AFC learnt. To help steal an election, or to take ChatGPT seriously.

I hope Norman Browne takes a good look at the key points of democracy. He should recognize that appealing to his party to honor its “democratic values” is a torturous proposal because there is no such tradition. He should hand over these points to the lengthy list of names at the end of his letter to the editor cited above. Why not being with Amanza Walton-Desir?

(Dr. Randy Persaud is an Adviser, Office of the President, Guyana)

APNU/AFC ‘foot on neck’ economics

RECENTLY, the main opposition, APNU/AFC and its agents in the labour and trade unions have teamed up against the ruling PPP/C Government.

They are claiming, among other things, that the government is mismanaging the country’s oil and gas resources, and the people are not feeling the benefits of the projects and policies that are included in this national budget.

In addition to this, the opposition is taking the government to task by saying, each opportunity it gets, that the cost of living in this country is spiralling out of control. It also accused the government of not doing enough to control the people.

For these reasons, coupled with the allegations that there is corruption and lack of transparency, the opposition parties are up in arms and livid with the government. This is presumably why the opposition, led by Aubrey Norton and Khemraj Ramjat-

tan are constantly nagging at the government.

On the other hand, some of the labour and trade unions are already crying out t00 that the government is not allegedly engaging in collective bargaining and not dealing fairly with the workers. So, the Guyana Public Service Union and the Guyana Teachers’ Union have sought to give the government ultimatums and have moved briskly to the courts, asking for various orders and reliefs to be granted.

Additionally, the Guyana Trade Unions Congress does not want to feel left out of the action. So, it is joining court action and fanning the flames of widespread protest against this government.

The bottom line in each case, is money and political power.

The APNU/AFC and its agents in the labour and trade unions want to bring the government down, stop the progress and development, and empty out the treasury

through the backdoor using ‘foot on neck’ economics, blatant lies, and ethnic division.

Make no mistake about all that has occurred since this year began, the APNU/AFC is taking itself out of the limelight and is putting a sharp focus on the government. It has gone into the darkness where it is doing all the manipulation and causing the political confusion. It is also pushing and pulling the trade unions and the labour unions, which have allowed itself to become consumed with talking about money and not what is fair and practical.

This is all a shame. The opposition is launching their campaign, to attain the win at the next election, right before our eyes. The intensity and sharp focus on the government is not because the of the allegations of corruption and mismanagement, it is because the opposition is using some of the most gullible and innocent people in the war with the government.

It is clear to all and sundry, that this is no longer about the innocent people that the opposition parties claim to be representing and allegedly love, this is politics of collat-

eral damage and opportunism.

If the government does not become more effective and efficient at its public relations and communications, it might not survive the constant and undue attacks politically from the opposition. The General Secretary of the PPP/C is fighting admirably every day and Thursday to be exact but he cannot do it alone. The party must come up with skillful PR and communications gurus to handle Norton and his constant lies. They must use social media and weaponize it against the opposition in the same way that they do it every day.

The only difference is that the facts and truth will reach many people who are not readers of the news and are not in the normal news world. They need to get influences and bold young people to carry those narratives of the PPP/C. The party must have an effective social media and communication arm to rebuff the opposition narratives about what the government is doing, projects, oil and gas matters, and governance matters.

All of this is in addition to the commendable job that the government through the minister responsible Kwame McCoy, state newspapers, Guyana Chronicle, Department of Public Information, and the PRs are doing.

Added to that, a concerted effort must be made to talk sense into the teachers and public servants that they are being used, and when they serve their purpose to APNU/ AFC, they will be discarded until the next election cycle. They are using the issue of economics and financial matters, which no doubt must be addressed, to cause labour stoppages and create interruptions in Guyana’s thriving economy.

They do not care that the cost of what they are asking for is unfathomable and not realistic but they are holding strong to their demands, and the courts are now involved in their political shenanigans. Teachers and public servants must wash themselves of these labour and trade unions because they are not representing their interests.

What do teachers have to show for their strike? Nothing but a bunch of politicians who

sit as union representatives who can not negotiate. Let the government negotiate with a team of experts on behalf of teachers or public servants themselves or with teachers.

The issues about money, what is fair and working conditions must be taken in the context of the financial realities that exist. Guyana can ill afford to spend so much billions of dollars now and in the long run, not be in a position to sustain.

If Guyana wants to continue along the pathway of development and socioeconomic growth, practical decisions will have to be made. This means prudent economic and financial management so that the people of the country can have financial sustainability.

Finally, turning back the attention on the opposition, Norton and his party have not properly addressed the business of the scandals and corruption that is brewing right at Congress Place, Sophia.

While he and his close circle are away, a plot is taking shape right under their noses. The schemes and thug of war to get him out are occurring right in Congress Place and within the bosom of the AFC. Khemraj Ramjattan could be scheming with his party members to get him out at the next congress of the party.

Also, Norton is bluffing the nation that APNU/AFC has a plan. He is doing what Granger did in 2011 – 2015 - fool the public about having a six-point plan and a development strategy for this and that. When Granger got power, there were no plans in place and the country’s government was left to function on autopilot.

None of their allegations of racial discrimination and corruption are sticking, that is why Norton and opposition politicians have become political grasshoppers. Jumping from one issue to another without achieving anything substantial.

The government does not look like will take the bullish attitudes of APNU/AFC politicians or the political shenanigans of the labour and trade unions.

APNU/AFC’s ‘foot on neck’ economics will not work. It is not allowing the people, more particularly the teachers and public servants to breathe freely and negotiate sensibly with the government.

The GTU, GTUC and GPSU and their executives are growing desperate for the oil and gas resources and money. If you look closely, one would see the veil lifted and the real instigator is the APNU/AFC, prowling for more victims to be used.

‘PPP/C only political party that has ever been committed to the Guyanese people’ — Foreign Affairs Minister

WITH the People’s Progres sive Party/Civic (PPP/C) standing as a bulwark against attempts by detractors of de velopment, Minister of For eign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd says the party is the only one that has ever been committed to the Guyanese people.

He made these remarks during his speech at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, East Berbi ce-Corentyne, last Sunday when he joined hundreds of people to pay tribute to the founding leader of the PPP/C, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

Labelling Dr Jagan as “com mitted” and “selfless,” the For eign Minister pointed out how the founding leader paved the way for Guyana’s development.

Todd said that Dr Jagan was a “stalwart who gave his entire life to the service of this country” and was dedicated to uplifting every citizen regardless of their ethnicity, level of education, social status or where they resided.

“He united this country. He fought against imperialism,” the Foreign Minister said.

According to reports, Dr Jagan's lineage bore a rich heritage from India. He was born

county of Berbice, into a family of sugar workers in the muchloved village of Port Mourant.

Dr Jagan rose from poverty to president in a nation that was rich in natural resources, exploited by colonialism, plagued by slavery and indentureship, compounded with economic disadvantages, divided by racism, infused with class discrimination, permeated by cultural suppression, among other oppressions.

According to Minister Todd, Dr Jagan’s commitment to Guyana resulted in him not only

being respected in local and regional communities but also internationally.

“His legacy remains intact,” the minister said.

He then went on to say: “When you fast forward several decades, this political party... your People’s Progressive Party/Civic has remained true to the values and principles of the founding father of the only political party that has ever been committed to the people of this country.”

According to Todd, the PPP/ C's founding leader was the one who pointed out that development is "people-centred, people-driven, and people-focused" rather than just rooted in foreign investments and capital.

“He taught us that we should invest in our human resources, building human capital with the requisite skills to move a Guyana that is independent, free and committed to the development of every single Guyanese,” Todd firmly remarked.

He continued by applauding President Dr. Irfaan Ali for his outstanding leadership, which has put Guyana on the fast track of progress.

“...With continuity with His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan

Ali, he is now leading the first industrial revolution of this country, remaining true to the values and principles of the founding father of this political party and I dare say, the father of this nation,” he stated.

Todd further remarked:

“And we’re here today [last Sunday] united, committed and fully organised to continue to move forward, forgetting about all the distractions, the naysayers... we can show the world, we can show the rest of the country, that we are the only political

party that can unite this nation and take this nation forward.”

“Let us continue to remain resolute, let us continue to remain focused,” the Foreign Minister urged the mammoth crowd.

GGI extends support for technical education to Leonora, Mahaicony Technical Institutes

Greater Guyana

(GGI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), and the Council for Technical and Vocational Education Training (C-TVET) con-

tinues to enhance technical and vocational training across the country.

On March 15, a ceremony was hosted to celebrate the GGI -TVET programme partnership, which

was established to enhance the quality and standard of technical education across Guyana, while creating an enabling environment that fosters a safety culture.

Phase 1, which com -

menced in 2019 at the Linden and New Amsterdam Technical Institutes, included infrastructural upgrades, renovations, and upgrades to the electrical and welding workshops.

Curriculum packages were also developed in alignment with the require-

Joseph Hamilton, in his address to the attendees advocated that technical education and vocational training must be made as prominent as academic learning.

To this end, he emphasised that “long-term projects must revolutionise learning and education in the country, ensuring that children have the aptitude to be technical, giving them the same counsel and guidance and facilities.”

ments from the Caribbean Association of National Training Authorities (CANTA) and National Centre for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), along with the roll out of a Basic Industrial Safety Training (BIST) Programme – across all TVET locations.

The project is now extended to include the Leonora and Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centres, and is enhancing the electrical and welding programmes, while introducing safety programmes and professional development for instructors and students.

Additionally, the institutes will benefit from upgrades to existing infrastructure and the provision of new equipment and training materials.

President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Alistair Routledge, highlighted the importance of investing in human resources for future development and reiterated TEVT's motto, “skill is wealth.”

He noted that projects of this nature are improving the opportunities for people in Guyana by helping them to become skilled professionals, thereby improving their earnings and quality of life.

"We are delighted that projects like [sic] these are raising the standards of institutions and bringing them up to the international standards, because that’s what will be required to be internationally competitive,” Routledge said.

In expressing his commitment towards the project, Routledge mentioned that the GGI is delighted to see that its investments are not only making a difference, but also that its collaborations are driving prosperity for a sustainable future.

Minister of Labour,

GGI’s long-term commitment to capacity building to propel sustainable development in Guyana was acknowledged by Dr Ritesh Tularam, Deputy Chief Education Officer – Technical, and representative of the Ministry of Education.

In his remarks, he underscored the importance of the GGI, MoE, and CTVET partnership and its benefits to the education sector, particularly to TVET.

He encouraged students and instructors to make full use of the facilities provided, citing that technical/ vocational programmes of this nature are instrumental in enhancing the standards of technical education and training in Guyana.

He further noted that the Ministry of Education is happy to partner with institutions to propel Guyana’s education development. Other speakers echoed those sentiments, including Floyd Scott, Chairman of CTVET, and Director of CTVET, Patrick Chinedu Onwuzirke,

In sharing her testimonial, Jada Daniels, a student at the Linden Technical Institute, applauded the initiative, and shared that “It's not merely about learning skills, but immersing ourselves in a professional environment, where excellence is the standard.”

The Greater Guyana Initiative is a US$100 million, 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block co-venturers – ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited.

It is geared towards developing the local workforce, building human capacity, enhancing education, and improving healthcare, aimed at promoting sustainable economic diversification in Guyana.

THE

Initiative

Demonstration of the Augmented Reality Welding Simulation System facilitated by an instructor and student

Representatives of the Greater Guyana Initiative and the Ministry of Education, along with the Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton at the launch of the TVET enhancement initiative

Ramandan Village fosters unity

…President Ali says as scores of people attend

AS the Holy Month of Ramadan continues, hundreds of Muslim and non-Muslim Guyanese flocked the first-ever National Ramadan Village hosted on the lawns of the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO) on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Present at the Ramadan Village on Friday was President Dr. Irfaan Ali who joined in prayers and the breaking of fast with other Muslims. In an invited comment to the Sunday Chronicle, President Ali said it serves as an opportunity for every Guyanese to experience what Ramadan is and the elegance of Ramadan.

The Head of State said that the village fosters community spirit and community involvement, while also bringing people together,

ultimately allowing Guyanese to unite in a greater way.

He also noted that it also allows for families to find a safe space where they can enjoy Ramadan and share among themselves.

According to President Ali, “I think that makes it very unique and makes it very Guyanese; bringing out people in a culturally and religiously diverse society. So this allows that diversity to be shared, and the elements of the diversity to be understood.”

The Director of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Sheik Moeen Ul-Hack recently said that the event is set to foster an understanding and promote Islamic heritage and cultural appreciation. The village is an open-air

concept and offers a unique opportunity for Guyanese to experience the spiritual ambience of Ramadan.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts for 29 to 30, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.

The Ramadan Village is also an opportunity for business owners to gather for networking purposes and welcoming the public in their many booths filled with fashion, books, food and services.

It should be noted that the village will be opened every weekend during Ramadan, from Friday to Sunday from 17:00 hours pm until 22:00 hours.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali during prayers at the Ramadan Village (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali touring booths at the Ramadan Village on Friday

Kaieteur News forced to apologise to Gov’t, GPL for false publication

ONCE again, Kaieteur News has landed itself in hot water, this time, for attempting to connect Guyana to the recent oil spill that occurred in Trinidad and Tobago.

With the newspaper publishing this major accusation without any solid evidence, the Kaieteur News, after being called out by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, was forced to issue a retraction and an apology in its Saturday, March 16 edition.

The newspaper wrote: “Kaieteur News retracts a letter published under the caption, ‘Will the businessmen behind oil spill be sanctioned’. Kaieteur News further apologised to all parties affected by the publication of this letter.”

PM Phillips, in a letter to the editor, not only called out the newspaper for these “gross inaccuracies” and “misleading” statements but also set the

The retraction and apology from the Kaieteur News

record straight as it relates to the credibility of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government and the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL). While responding to Kaieteur News’ letter column of Wednesday, March 13, 2024, under the caption, “Will the businessmen behind oil spill be sanctioned?” the prime minister stated: “It appeared across the country in the printed copies cementing the rep-

rehensible damage done in unjustly tarnishing the reputation of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc., the company’s executives and by extension, the Government of Guyana.”

He added: “The decision by Kaieteur News to publish this letter reflects a shocking lack of editorial oversight and a blatant disregard for the principles of responsible journalism. This act is also dangerous, fueling misinformation and potentially inciting unwar-

ranted public alarm and international condemnation.”

In an effort to duly educate Guyanese, he said that the insinuation that GPL has engaged in illegal activities by purchasing oil from a sanctioned state is categorically “false and baseless.”

In the letter, the Prime Minister said that the Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) procurement by GPL has been conducted through a transparent process of national competitive bidding, adhering to all international standards and regulations.

He also disclosed that the contract for the supply and delivery of HFO was awarded to Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. and a joint venture between Rapid Results Inc. and Osher International Holdings LLC, after a rigorous evaluation process.

“This procurement process is a matter of public record, and at no point has

GPL been notified of any issues related to the delivery of this fuel that would suggest any deviation from our stringent procurement protocols,” the letter further read.

Additionally, the Prime Minister said that Kaieteur News’ attempt to link GPL and the Government with the unfortunate oil spill off the coast of Trinidad and Tobago is “not only erroneous but also maliciously intended to sow discord and mistrust among the Guyanese populace and our regional neighbors.”

Phillips then said: “GPL has unequivocally stated that the company is not related to this incident, and any claims to the contrary are simply unfounded. The portrayal of the Government of Guyana and its agencies, including GPL, as defiant or indifferent to international norms and sanctions is a gross misrepresentation.”

The Prime Minister further noted that the Government of Guyana remains committed to upholding the highest standards of governance and international compliance.

There have been consistent efforts by Kaieteur News to discredit the government and moreover, the publisher Glen Lall, has been accused of using the newspaper as a propaganda machinery to advance his known political ambitions

Also, there have been instances where persons have been forced to file lawsuits against the newspaper for false publications.

Furthermore, on several occasions, Vice President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, called out Kaieteur News for its frequent “distortion” of facts.

Mahdia resident nabbed with marijuana

DURING a cordon and search exercise at Mahdia Arcade on Thursday night, police ranks arrested a 30-year-old miner with 13.8 grammes of marijuana in his possession. Police said Julian Hodge called “Gully” was stopped and searched, along with a one-strap Polo bag he had around his waist.

According to the police, the bag contained two bulky plastic bags containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. As such, he was cautioned, arrested, and escorted to Mahdia Police Station along with the suspected narcotics, which later tested positive for cannabis.

On arrival at the Mahdia Police Station, the marijuana was weighed in his presence and amounted to 13.8 grammes. The suspect remains in custody and is slated to be charged in the new week.

Julian Hodge The marijuana that was confiscated

Cops under close arrest for shooting at police sergeant during robbery/murder probe

FIVE ranks of the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Special Branch are under investigation following a shooting incident committed on their colleague and it is believed to be a case of mistaken identity.

The incident, which occurred at around 22:10 hrs on March 11 at Republic Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD), involved Sergeant Ronald Payne, who is stationed at the Providence Police Station, EBD.

That day, Sergeant Payne was driving home from work in a dark-coloured Toyota Rumion, a vehicle that unfortunately matched the description of one used by suspects in a recent robbery and murder case

under investigation by the Special Branch.

The officers, comprising a Sergeant, a Corporal, a Lance Corporal, and two Constables, were collaborating with Regional Division #3 ranks to apprehend the suspects.

At approximately 22:10 hrs, the Special Branch team, operating under the belief that they had located the suspects' vehicle, initiated a stop. In an attempt to enforce compliance, they discharged their firearms into the air, a move that understandably terrified Sergeant Payne.

Unaware of the identities of the individuals attempting to pull him over and fearing

for his safety, Sergeant Payne decided to drive to the Providence Police Station for refuge, the Police Force noted in a press release.

Upon the Special Branch team's arrival at the station, they were promptly placed under closed arrest following the revelation of their identities and the nature of their mistake.

Their firearms were confiscated, and the scene of the initial encounter was thoroughly investigated by crime scene technicians, who recovered several spent shells. These shells, along with the firearms, are currently undergoing examination by the Police Ballistics Department.

“Remarkably, no one was injured and there was no damage to property. The GPF’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has taken up the case, signalling the start of thorough inquiry into the events leading up to the confrontation and the operational procedures followed by the officers involved,” the police report noted.

Sky High Dominicana opens first office in Georgetown

SKY High Dominicana Airlines has officially opened its new office in Georgetown at Lot 58 David Street, Kitty, Georgetown, just weeks after its inaugural flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

As stated in Guyana’s 2024 budget, the government aims to address one of the many constraints in the local tourism sector: the volume and cost of airlift in Guyana.

During this year’s bud-

get presentation, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh mentioned that to ensure the expansion of airline routes and seat volumes, the government has maintained efforts to improve the connection between Guyana and the rest of the world with new services and routes.

Sky High will do just that, by operating three flights weekly on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. The opening of the airline’s office locally solidifies these efforts by the

government, by bringing additional connectivity between Guyana, the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States respectively.

Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond attended the opening ceremony and said that these developments will increase airlift and it coincides with some 2000 hotel rooms that will open up by 2025/2026.

She explained that the opening up of the new hotels

will increase the government’s feasibility for doing conferences, meetings and expos as part of their vision, and part of their strategy for the building out of the tourism sector.

“We’re going to be having the International Cricket played in Guyana, and all of that is part of the strategy to continue to bring visitors here in Guyana.

“The tourism product is so diversified that visitors are always coming to Guyana. The strategy is that by 2027, we should be having over two million visitors, coming to Guyana, experiencing Guyana, coming to and forth. Not necessarily living in Guyana but coming to and forth for

different reasons, for different meetings,” the Tourism Minister stated.

She expressed that this will be a long-lasting and productive relationship between the Government of Guyana, Sky High Dominicana and other Dominican Republic investors.

Meanwhile, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra told those gathered that the opening of direct flights between Georgetown and Santo Domingo is one of the most significant moments in the history of bilateral relations.

“And precisely, the potential to foster a more dynamic exchange in trade and

tourism, as well as, all areas of official co-operation. It is once again a time for discovery…for all Guyanese to discover why the DR is the most visited destination in the entire Caribbean, and for Dominicans to fall in love, just like we have done, with this amazing country full of natural wonders, cultural diversity and some of the warmest and coolest people in the entire world.”

The ambassador emphasised his embassy’s unyielding and unconditional support for this initiative and wished Sky High Domincana well on their new journey.

Sky High’s representative, Lili Foo in her remarks said that the airline has been connecting the Caribbean for more than 12 years.

“They have been committed to increasing their destination to have a wider scope within the Caribbean and other countries…They are committed to serving Guyana with a high standard and connectivity, opening for the first time, this gap that was between Guyana and the Dominican Republic.”

Inside the new airline’s office (Photo: News Room)

From L-R: Sky High Chief Executive Officer, Edmondo Gill; Minister of Tourism, Oneidge Walrond; Sky High Representative, Lili Foo, and Ambassador Ernesto Pereyra (Photo: News Room)

Negotiations ongoing with CARICOM countries for over 2,000 Guyanese ‘prefab’ timber houses

AS the government continues to work to transform the forestry sector while at the same time increasing the country’s value-based productive capacity, Pres-

the official opening of the $1.2 billion Republic Bank Williamsburg Branch at Rose Hall, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) last week where he told resi -

fab homes,” President Ali remarked.

He added: “Negotiations are ongoing for the building of more than 2,000 Guyanese prefab timber homes

ident, Dr Irfaan Ali says negotiations are ongoing with several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries for the construction of over 2,000 Guyanese pre-fabricated timber houses.

Dr Ali said this during

dents that there is a massive transformation taking place across the country.

“For the first time in the history of our country, we’re in negotiations with many countries around CARICOM for the building of Guyanese timber pre-

and I think we ought to be very, very proud of this. That tells you about the investment that has been made, the technology that has been transferred and the innovation that has been occurring within the forestry sector.”

The head of state said that it was the kind of advance that the government had been doing to ensure that the country has a value-based productive capacity.

Notably, on January 20, 2023, the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines signed a six million EC loan arrangement with Demerara Bank Ltd (Guyana) for the purchase of 50 ‘prefab’ houses.

In February 2023, the first 1,000 modular timber homes by DuraVilla at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara were launched.

The President said then that the developments were another dimension of the country’s housing drive, as it is now positioning itself as an export industry.

“It is now positioning

itself as an export industry, earning foreign exchange, enhancing Guyana’s reputation as a reliable and qualified supplier of housing products and a supplier of prefabricated houses.”

Dr. Ali reiterated that housing exports could become a major foreign exchange earner for Guyana, so the government intends to give the necessary support to facilitate the expansion of the vision and expansion of the market in CARICOM.

This support will include bringing the financial institutions on board to support the housing programme locally and in the region.

“I said before that the Guyana market is no longer Guyana, Guyana’s market is the world market. We don’t only have wood, we have

the best quality wood in the world,” President Ali said.

This is one of the reasons why the investment made by DuraVilla is so important, he reasoned.

He noted that the timber houses meet all the international requirements that countries like Barbados need in order to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes.

“That is no easy accomplishment, and everything is engineered locally,” President Ali said.

The Head of State added that Guyana must position the prefabricated housing industry to respond to natural disasters. As such, he noted that if natural disasters are to wipe out hundreds of houses, Guyana should have the prefab homes ready for deployment.

Guyana’s public security plan directly connected to attainment of national prosperity —

GUYANA’S comprehensive public-security strategy is intricately tied to its broader plan for national development and prosperity, according to Gerry Gouveia, the National Security Adviser to President, Dr Irfaan Ali.

He made the revelation during a panel discussion last week that was hosted by the University of Guyana's (UG) Institute for Human Resiliency, Strategic Security, and the Future (IHRSSF), in collaboration with the Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies in Washington, DC.

“Our defence and security architecture and strat-

egy are based on national security being directly connected to the attainment of national prosperity and national development,” said Gouveia, a former military officer, veteran airline transport-rated pilot and businessman.

Central to Guyana's national-security strategy, he noted, is the recognition of interconnectedness between security and development.

The presidential adviser acknowledged that a stable and secure environment is indispensable for economic growth, social cohesion, and prosperity.

Gouveia explained: “So, everything we do in the

national security, it is not disengaged from what is happening in the economy, in national development and

so... We are very aware that national prosperity is not about money; it’s not about being wealthy.”

He added, “It’s about taking the money and creating an environment where every citizen can experience and enjoy social justice, social cohesion. Every citizen must have equal access to opportunities and the issue of creating jobs in the private sector, creating the enabling environment.”

According to Gouveia, embracing democratic principles, strengthening governance structures, and international relations are not only moral imperatives, but are also pragmatic strat-

Gouveia tells panel discussion

egies for securing national prosperity and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

“When we get those things right, and national prosperity becomes a reality... then the hard-core issue of national security, the police and the army and the prison...then those jobs become easy for us.”

Speaking at UG’s award ceremony last Wednesday, when the institution received the 2023 Perry Center for Hemispheric Studies award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education, President Ali emphasised the significance of having personnel capa-

ble of conducting strategic analyses to identify threats, particularly internal ones, considering the security environment of the nation.

In this regard, he disclosed that UG will serve as the home of the National Defence Institute, a "subset" of the National Defense University of the United States. Serving the Caribbean and other regional partners such as Brazil and even Venezuela, is the institute's goal. The institute is expected to be established by the government by the first half of 2024.

National Security Adviser

Gerry Gouveia

Businessman arrested after putting illegal gun in woman’s handbag

A 30-year-old businessman from New Road, Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD) was arrested on Friday with an unlicensed firearm and several rounds of ammunition.

He has been identified as Dylan Walker.

Police headquarters, in a press release, noted that on the day in question at around 17:00 hrs, a Chief Inspector, leading a Police Anti-Crime Patrol at Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), in the vicinity of Jimbo Bridge, observed a Toyota Tacoma vehicle driving recklessly and promptly intervened.

The vehicle, bearing registration number PYY 9229, was stopped by patrol ranks, and the driver, Walker was instructed to proceed to the Grove Police Station under escort due to the observed traffic violation.

Accompanying Walker were three other occupants, including Subrina Rhema, a 26-year-old from Plaisance, East Coast Demerara. Upon conducting a search of the vehicle, no illegal items were discovered. However, ranks’ attention turned to a black handbag in possession of Rhema.

Upon inspection, law enforcement officers uncovered a black .32 Taurus Pistol and a magazine loaded with 11

rounds of .32 ammunition. Rhema was questioned about her possession of the firearm and whether she held a valid firearm license, to which she admitted she did not possess one.

She was subsequently arrested and cautioned, during which she implicated Walker by stating that he had placed the firearm in her bag.

“Dylan put it in my bag,” she told the police.

Further interrogation at the Grove Police Station involved a separate video and audio interviews with both Rhema and Walker.

During these interviews, Walker admitted to being in possession of the firearm and ammunition at the time of the vehicle being stopped.

He confessed to intentionally placing the firearm in Rhema's bag while enroute to the police station, thereby accepting full responsibility for the possession of the illegal items. Rhema's account corroborated Walker's confession, claiming that she was under the impression that Walker was a licensed firearm holder.

However, investigations revealed that neither Walker nor Rhema held valid licenses for the firearm in question.

Walker is expected to appear in court this week on gun-related charges.

Dylan Walker and the illegal items found

Guyana Harpy Eagles...

FROM BACK PAGE

token resistance from the rest of the batting.

King, a white-ball specialist for West Indies over the past three years, gave further

proof about the different dimensions to his batting with 65 that included only five boundaries from 127 balls in almost four hours at the crease to be the rock of a successful chase of 234 by the Scorpions against the CWI Academy at Sabina Park.

He defied a top order batting meltdown triggered by Barbadian eft-arm spinner Joshua Bishop, whose four for 79 from 34 overs gave him match figures of 10 for 130 and had the Scorpions reeling on 96 for six.

King shared 92 for the seventh wicket with Abhijai Mansingh to get the chase back on track for the Scorpi-

ons, but they still required 46 when he was bowled by leftarm spinner Ashmead Nedd, who ended with three for 95 from 35 overs.

A combination Mansingh, Derval Green, and Jeavor Royal enabled Scorpions to reach their target about 45 minutes before the scheduled close.

The tournament continues this coming Wednesday when Harpy Eagles face Volcanoes at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, Red Force host Pride at Queen’s Park Oval, Marooners welcome CWI Academy at Frank Worrell Field, and Scorpions host Hurricanes at Sabina Park.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Sunday March 17, 2024)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Zaheer Abbas-118 & Mishin Khan-117 (PAK vs IND, Multan, 1982)

(2) Viv Richards-149 & Gordon Greenidge-115 (WI vs IND, Jamshedpur, 1983)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the first batsman to be dismissed with the first ball in an ODI game?

(2) Who is the first WI to suffer this fate?

09:15 hrs

09:50 hrs

10:25 hrs Haiti Couleurs

11:00 hrs Sedge Wren

11:35 hrs Knowsley Road

12:10 hrs Fulgurix

12:45 hrs Oak Grove

HUNTINGDON

09:32 hrs Superstylin

10:07 hrs No Way Pedro

10:42 hrs Reccovango

11:17 hrs Regarde

11:52 hrs Wise Guy

13:27 hrs Hello Cello

Sri Lanka appoints former Pakistan pacer as fast-bowling coach

SRI LANKA Cricket

confirmed the appointment of former Pakistan pace bowler Aaqib Javed as the national team’s fast bowl-

test matches for Pakistan, picking 236 international wickets. Javed was also a member of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup-winning team.

ing coach on Saturday, March 16.

Javed will start in his new role with immediate effect and work until the end of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA in June 2024.

Sri Lanka’s newly appointed coach has played 163 ODIs and 22

The CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, Ashley De Silva, expressed Javed’s experience will help their bowlers get ‘into good shape’ ahead of the highly-anticipated T20 World Cup.

“We warmly welcome Aaqib and believe that his immense international experience, both in playing and coaching, will

help our bowlers come into good shape ahead of the upcoming major international competitions, such as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” said De Silva.

Javed has previously worked for several national teams in different coaching capacities, including bowling coach of the Pakistan national team, serving as the UAE national team coach, and working with the Afghanistan national team in a development role.

He coached the Pakistan U19 team to victory in the 2004 U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup and was the bowling coach during Pakistan's triumph in the 2009 T20 World Cup in England.

Javed also played a pivotal role during his coaching tenure with the UAE National Team when they obtained ODI and T20I status, reaching the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2015 and featuring in the qualifiers for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2014.

(ICC Media)

Vinicius Junior scores twice as Real moves 10 points clear

VINICIUS Junior scored twice as Real Madrid moved 10 points clear at the top of La Liga, with victory over Osasuna.

The Brazilian put Real ahead after just four minutes, but Ante Budimir levelled for Osasuna shortly after.

Dani Carvajal made it

2-1 to Real, finishing into the top left corner, and Brahim Diaz met Federico Valverde's through ball to score a third.

Vinicius got his second before Iker Munoz fired through the legs of Andriy Lunin for Osasuna's second.

Real are on course for

their second La Liga title under Ancelotti, who recorded his 200th win in all competitions with the club.

They are still in the Champions League, where they have drawn holders Manchester City at the quarter-final stage. (BBC Sport)

(SLC)

Former Pakistan pacer, Aaqib Javed

Vinicius Junior has now scored five goals in nine La Liga appearances against Osasuna

GDF edge Alphas to move to top spot in DVA senior clubs’ volleyball league

THE Guyana Defence Force volleyball club had to bring out their A-game to oust Alphas when action in the Demerara Volleyball Association Senior Club League continued on Friday at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

The Soliders were led by Omari Joseph who dropped 21 points as they won a close first set 25-21.

Joseph has been outstanding for his team with 37 points in total to lead the individual standing.

Alphas volleyball team didn’t renege as they showed their worth with powerful strikes and agility from Paul Welcome who picked up 18 points and Geno Caroll with 11 points as they rebounded

Uncapped Farzana and 15-year-old Nishita in Bangladesh’s ODI squad

Shamima Sultana has been let go; Lata Mondal and Shorifa Khatun added among reserves

UNCAPPED wicketkeeper

to take the second and third sets 25-17 and 25-18.

The GDF’s side was forced to up its level against a surging Alphas who were now up 2 sets to 1.

The GDF team pulled out the stops to find another gear as they worked their way back into the game to claim the fourth set 26-24 to force a decider in the fifth set.

In the finals GDF, led by Mark Stanley with 10 points and Steffon Norah 9 points was able to close it out in the final set, 15-12 for the victory.

The win sees them taking the top spot in the league with 5 points after their second win; they beat Premier Eagles volleyball club earlier in the week to be on 5 points.

Alphas, despite the loss, share the top spot with GDF with 5 points after 1 win and loss with Castrol Strikers third with 4 points.

The league which served off on Monday last, runs until July and is set to continue from the 25th to the 29th of March with games from Monday through Friday.

The tournament is played every other week and features 7 teams in total.

The teams are Castrol Strikers, GDF, Alphas, Classic Ball Blasters, Premier Eagles, Vanguard and Venguy.

The tournament is sponsored by the DVA with cash prizes and trophies up for grabs at the end of the league.

On this day in 2004: Steve Harmison takes seven for 12 against West Indies

Farzana Akter has booked a place in Bangladesh's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. Fifteenyear-old Nishita Akter Nishi, who played two ODIs against Pakistan last year, is also in.

South Africa, have been listed as standby players, along with Fariha Trisna, who was part of the reserves in South Africa as well.

All the three ODIs are day games, to be played at

ten-team table.

Bangladesh have had wins against India, Pakistan and South Africa in their last three ODI series. Bangladesh tied a game with India in July - it did not go to a Super Over, because the extra time available had elapsed by before the match had ended - and won one in a 1-1 series draw. They did win a Super Over against Pakistan in an ODI in Mirpur in November, and pulled off a 119-run win in East London the following month.

Bangladesh have never hosted Australia previously. This tour will also comprise three T20Is - also day games in Mirpur - which follow the ODIs.

STEVE Harmison took seven wickets for 12 runs as England bowled West Indies out for 47 on March 14, 2004.

A damaging spell saw Harmison almost single-handedly knock over West Indies at Sabina Park on their way to a 10-wicket victory in the first Test.

It took just 11.3 overs for the then 25-year-old to pick up his seven wickets, conceding only 12 runs in the process and setting up an emphatic victory for England, who were on their way to a first Test series win in the Caribbean since 1968.

chael Vaughan, lined up eight fielders in the slips and Harmison did the rest as a young West Indies side wilted under a fearsome assault.

“To be honest, I’m ab-

Shamima Sultana, also a keeper-batter, makes way for Farzana. Lata Mondal and Shorifa Khatun, who had been part of Bangladesh's squad during their tour to

the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. They are part of the ICC Women's Championship, of which Australia are the current table-toppers with ten wins in 15 games. Bangladesh have won four of their 15 games and are placed seventh on the

Bangladesh squad: Nigar Sultana (capt), Nahida Akter (vice-capt), Fargana Hoque, Murshida Khatun, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Sultana Khatun, Fahima Khatun, Marufa Akter, Disha Biswas, Sumaiya Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi, Farzana Akter, Rabeya Khan. (Cricinfo)

Before the series, 6ft 4in right-armer Harmison had shown lots of potential with his combination of pace and swing but struggled for consistency, while a back injury during the winter had also affected him.

The first innings of the match offered no sign of what was to come as the West Indies racked up 311, but everything changed on the fourth day.

England captain, Mi -

Harmison’s form continued into the rest of the series, with the Durham man achieving figures of six for 61 in the second Test.

England pacer Steve Harmison

solutely speechless,” said Harmison afterwards.

“If you bowl the ball consistently in a good area, you often get a bit of luck. It’s just one of those days and I’m pleased for myself, but I’m not going to get too carried away by it.”

It was the beginning of the best spell of Harmison’s career. A year later he played a key role in England’s famous Ashes triumph over Australia, but injuries limited his impact thereafter and his international career ended in 2009.

GDF’s Steffon Norah effecting a block against Alphas

Bangladesh have had wins against India, Pakistan and South Africa in their last three ODI series • (Gallo Images)

FIBA to gift Guyana 3x3 basketball court this year

…CBC championship likely for June/July in Jamaica

THE Guyana Basketball Federation’s (GBF’s) efforts are set to be boosted further this year with the addition of a fully set up 3x3 basketball court compliments of the world governing body FIBA, according to president of the Guyana Basketball Federation, Michael Singh.

Singh said the move was one of the highlights emanating from Guyana’s participation at the Central American and Caribbean Basketball Confederation CONCENCABA and Caribbean Basketball Confederation assemblies held in Aruba recently.

He told Chronicle Sport it’s a major move for the growth of the game locally. ‘Our ability to host will be boosted …..We had applied for a 3x3 basketball court and this entails backboard and floor. A few of our CBC partners have already benefitted from this programme..”

He said it’s part of FIBA

plans for the popularisation of the format in the region. “What FIBA is trying to do is basically standardize the playing area, giving each region and country an opportunity to expand and run a high quality programme”.

He also noted that the area championship was one of the talking points of the assembly.

THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has mandated the use of stop-clocks in between overs in limited-overs international matches, approved the playing conditions for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and announced the qualification process for the 2026 edition.

The decisions were taken on Friday, following the ICC’s annual Board meetings. The stop-clock is set to become permanent in all ODIs and T20Is from June 2024, starting with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA.

In December 2023, ICC introduced the stop clock on a trial basis in men’s limited-overs international matches. The trial was supposed to run until April 2024, but the experiment has already yielded results in terms of timely completion of matches. Results presented to the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) demonstrated that approximately 20 minutes had been saved per ODI match.

The feature has now been added as a mandatory playing condition in all Full Member ODI and T20I matches from June 1 2024.

As per stop clock rule that was trialled in men’s white-ball cricket, the fielding side is expected to start a new over within 60 seconds of the completion of the previous over.

An electronic clock, count-

“Coming out of the meetings, our main focus for the year would be the CBC (Caribbean Basketball Confederation) championship which has a tentative host in Jamaica and is estimated to be around June/July”.

He said another focus of the meeting from a regional stand point was the hosting of more

ing down from 60 to zero, will be displayed on the ground, with the onus on the third umpire to determine the start of the clock.

The failure of the fielding side to be ready to bowl the first ball of their next over within the stipulated 60 seconds of the previous over being completed attracts two warnings. Subsequent breaches would lead to a five-run penalty per incident.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, and the clock, if already started, can be cancelled in certain situations. These include: - When a new batter comes

to the wicket between overs

- An official drinks interval has been called

- The umpires have approved the onfield treatment of an injury to a batter or fielder

- The time lost is for any circumstances beyond the control of the fielding side

It was also confirmed during the meetings that ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 would have reserve days scheduled for the semi-finals and final.

Furthermore, a minimum of five overs will need to be bowled to the team batting second to constitute a game in the group stages and the Super Eight stages. However, in the knockout matches, a minimum of 10 overs need to be bowled in the second innings to constitute a match.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 qualification process has also been approved.

The 20-team tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and will have a total of 12 automatic qualifiers.

The top eight teams in the 2024 edition will join India and Sri Lanka as automatic qualifiers, with the remaining spots (between two and four, depending on host finishing positions) taken up by the next best-ranked sides in the ICC Men’s T20I rankings table as of June 30, 2024.

The remaining eight positions will be filled through the Regional Qualifiers. (ICC)

grass roots programmes and the pushing of the 3x3 game which is a shortened version of the traditional 5- aside basketball game and is played on half court instead of a full court.

The GBF president also

THE inaugural “ONE GUYANA Inter Region Ten10 Softball Cricket Cup” is set to bowl off today, with Panko Steel Fabrication maintaining its promise towards the tournament, taking over as official title sponsors.

The tournament, organised by Roraima Community Developers (RCD), is being played in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, and is scheduled to climax on Sunday, March 31. It will be branded the “Panko Steel Fabrication One Guyana Inter-Region Ten10 Softball Cricket Cup”.

CEO of Panko Steel Fabrication, Panko, believes the tournament is a grassroot one that will help in bringing Guyanese together through sports. He expressed the hope that the tournament will see people put their differences aside, and come together to ensure its success.

Panko disclosed that his company is supporting the tournament, because it brings the young and old together at the village level.

The CEO pointed out that his company is very pleased to see the number of teams participating, and implored the organisers to ensure that the tournament runs smoothly, and within the confines of the rules that govern local softball cricket.

Panko thanked the RCD for reaching out to his entity,

announced that they have agreed with Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname to explore the setting up of a league starting next year and will have further talks in the coming months.

The Guyana delegation was

and giving it the opportunity to be part of this historic event as the regions come together as one through sports. He also promised that as long as the tournament is run successfully, the company will continue its sponsorship for the second edition. Panko Steel Fabrication wishes all the teams the best, and encourages them to play the game to the best of their abilities.

The RCD was overjoyed with the company for keeping its promise towards being onboard, and assured the sponsors that the tournament will be played in a friendly atmosphere, and with the highest standard. The tournament will be played in an open category (age group), with round-arm bowling and one-game knock format.

The RCD has teamed up with the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) in running off the tournament, which will see basic softball cricket rules applied. Some 64 teams across regions have indicated their interest by registering

led by President Michael Singh and included vice president Jermaine slater.

GBF general secretary, Patrick Haynes, who was also present is also the president of CONCENCABA.

before today’s opening.

The tournament will see regional winners pocketing a cash prize of $80 000 and trophies, while there will also be incentive prizes for the runners-up, the best bowler/batsman and player of the final.

According to the RCD, over $500 000 in cash and prizes will be given out in the playoffs to the winners, runners-up, third place, player of the series, player of the final, best bowler and best batsman, while playerof-the-match incentives will be given out for each game.

The RCD pointed out that the tournament is a grassroot one, and the aim is to return softball to the village level, and to bring people together as one.

Roraima Community Developers can also be contacted on telephone or Whatsapp on 657-5612,or via email developersroraima@gmail.com for further details.

The tournament has so far received sponsorship from West Central Mall, Singh Brothers Contracting Services, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Balgobin Electrical and Construction Services, Blue Spring Water, Khan’s Transportation and Construction Svs, Terminex Pest Control, Amaya Milk Company and Money Tree Trading.

From (left to right) GBF President Michael Singh, GBF General Secretary Patrick Haynes Jermaine Slaterg GBF Vice-president

CONCENCABA President, Patrick Haynes and FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis CONCENCABA Assembly 2024

Sammy to assign bowling roles to match batting prowess

HAVING already identified a powerhouse batting line-up, West Indies whiteball Head coach Darren Sammy says the only task left is to assign specific roles for bowlers to be fully prepared for this year’s ICC Men's Twenty20 (T20) World Cup at home in June.

Cricket’s shortest format remains a strong suit for West Indies, who won both their T20 World Cup titles in 2012 and 2016 under Sammy’s captaincy.

The regional side again showcased their prowess when they won T20 series against South Africa, India and England in 2023, and posted three successive 200-plus scores in Australia earlier this year, despite losing that series 2-1. Those results have left Sammy upbeat about the prospects, as they look ahead to the

global showpiece to be hosted jointly in the West Indies and United States.

“The way my batters batted, I think it’s the first time a team had scored over 200 three-consecutive times whether batting first or chasing, and it speaks volumes of the power that we have

in that squad. It sends a strong message to the world from our batting group that West Indies is a dangerous force,” Sammy said in a recent Cricket West Indies interview.

“I’ve said it before to my guys. I said to them, ‘I’ve seen this team before, this

type of power, the explosiveness’. It was a team that I captained before, so to see it eight years since I left the game... man, it’s exciting times for us in the World Cup coming in June," he added.

Still, death-overs bowling remains an issue with the team, and as such, Sammy pointed out that they are in the process of finalising candidates for various bowling roles.

Rising fast bowler Shamar Joseph is on Sammy’s radar for the World Cup, especially after the 24-year-old’s headline-grabbing debut in the Australia Test series earlier this year.

Joseph’s exploits were widely celebrated across the region and Sammy believes winning the World Cup on home soil would help sustain that interest in the game.

“When West Indies do well, there’s a buzz. You saw

- in hunt for T20 World Cup triumph

Shamar Joseph’s exploits in Australia and how it created a buzz in the Caribbean. So, for us, and for me as a coach, to lift the silverware, it will mean everything," Sammy declared.

“But, obviously, we need to tinker and work on some different bowling roles, and that myself, James Franklin and the captain [Rovman Powell] have been speaking to various persons that we want to execute different roles.

“I’ve been speaking and working diligently with our analysts looking at grounds, different venues we’re going to have [for the T20 World Cup] and the different dimensions and different conditions in the surface and making sure we have the right personnel to fill in those key roles," he shared.

Rovman Powell and his men will begin their World

Cup campaign with a Group C contest against Papua New Guinea in Provi¬dence, Guyana, on June 2.

However, until then, Sammy said the focus is on their preparation to ensure efficient execution when game time comes.

“The preparation both on and off the field is going good. Leading up closer to the World Cup, I think a few of my boys will be in the IPL playing. We have a series probably just before the World Cup – three matches against South Africa – so building up to that, we’ll be ready," Sammy explained.

“And again, we’re at home, we know the conditions, it’s not about adapting. It’s just about making sure we execute well when the day comes," he ended. (Sportsmax)

GFF president urges Golden Jaguars players to seize the opportunity

GUYANA Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, on Friday afternoon, met with the Golden Jaguars team travelling to Saudi Arabia to take part in the inaugural FIFA Series to wish them well.

At the brief meeting at the Federation’s headquarters in Georgetown, the top football official also took the moment to reinforce the importance of abiding by the regulations of the Middle Eastern nation and tournament.

He encouraged players to seize the opportunity “to show the world the level of talent we have in Guyana, while being respectful of the customs of the host nation.”

Head Coach, Jamaal

Shabazz, echoed the importance of maintaining focus throughout the tournament and “staying focused throughout the competition because you are representing Guyana on an international stage.”

The Golden Jaguars will play two international friendlies in the Middle East country, with the first showdown set for March 21 against Cabo Verde (Cape Verde). This will be followed by another match on March 26, facing off against Cambodia.

The historic matches are scheduled to take place in the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah.

Introduced in 2023, this groundbreaking initiative paves the way for interna-

erations.

It

tional friendlies every other year across all six confed-

offers national players a prestigious global stage

to exhibit their talents. Guyana is grouped with Cabo Verde, Cambodia, and Equatorial Guinea.

Sri Lanka from March 18 to 26.

The GFF urges fans to rally behind the Golden Jaguars.

Darren Sammy

President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, addresses members of the local contingent (Photo: Courtesy of the : News Room)

Goolie, Da Silva propel Red Force past Volcanoes; Guyana Harpy Eagles better gritty Barbados Pride

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Left-hander Jyd

Goolie missed out on his third first-class hundred because of injury, but he shared a match-winning, century fifth-wicket partnership with his captain Joshua Da Silva that propelled hosts Trinidad & Tobago Red Force to a four-wicket victory against runaway leaders Windward Islands Volcanoes in the West Indies Championship on Saturday.

Goolie pulled up lame going for a single and was forced to retire hurt on 90, but Da Silva, the West Indies Test wicketkeeper-batsman, remained calm under pressure with an unbeaten 53, and Red Force successfully chased 185 to win on the rain-affected final day of the feature match in the fourth round of the West

Indies four-day, first-class tournament.

The result for Red Force – their third in succession against this opponent at Queen’s Park Oval – was part of a full house with all four matches producing a winner, which is bound to upset the standings.

Half-centuries from the West Indies pair of Keacy Carty and Justin Greaves anchored second-placed Leeward Islands Hurricanes to a three-wicket win against hosts Combined Campuses & Colleges Marooners; Guyana Harpy Eagles defied half-centuries from Zachary McCaskie and Jason Holder to claim a 32-run win against Barbados Pride; and newly installed captain Brandon King proved his class with a second half-century that set

up a two-wicket win for hosts Jamaica Scorpions against the Cricket West Indies Academy.

Red Force resumed from their overnight total of 10 for two, and pacer Ryan John struck in the first half-hour when he got Bryan Charles for four and had the home team reeling on 21 for three.

Lewis named ambassador for world meet in the Bahamas

NASSAU, Bahamas, (CMC)

– World Athletics announced, on Friday, that American track and field icon, Carl Lewis, will be an ambassador for the World Relays Bahamas 2024.

The 62-year-old will now be trackside as the sport’s current stars look to secure Olympic places on May 4 and 5 in the Bahamian capital of Nassau.

Lewis, a nine-time Olympic and eight-time world gold medallist, claimed five global 4 x 100 metres titles during his illustrious career, and he said the World Relays promises to deliver plenty of excitement.

“The thrill of relay competition is like nothing else, and I’m looking forward to watching the world’s best in their bid to qualify for the Olympic Games in Paris,” he said on the World Athletics website.

“I was in The Bahamas for the 2017 edition of the World

agreed to the role and hoped his presence inspires the present crop of athletes at the meet.

“Carl is one of the greatest relay runners of all time, and it’s brilliant to have him on board with World Athletics,” Ridgeon said.

“He has inspired so many in the No. 1 Olympic sport, and his presence at the World Relays is hugely significant as athletes look to emulate him as they race for places in Paris later this year.”

Relays, and it’s great to be going back, this time as a World Athletics ambassador for the event where I aim to promote the competition and showcase the sport.”

World Athletics chief executive officer, Jon Ridgeon, said he was honoured that Lewis

With less than 50 days to go until the relay festival, several of the world’s top sprinters from more than 50 countries are preparing for the two-day, Olympic qualifying meet – including Bahamian stars Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner.

Teams will race in the women’s and men’s 4 x 100, and the women’s, men’s and mixed 4 x 400.

Long-serving batsman Jason Mohammed settled Red Force nerves when he shared exactly 50 with Goolie, but off-spinner Darel Cyrus bowled him for 15 in the final half-hour before Red Force reached lunch on 92 for four.

Red Force were 99 for four when rain stopped play two overs after the interval and kept the players off the field for about 40 minutes, and the left-handed Goolie reached his 50 from 156 balls when he dabbed pacer Ryan John into backward point for a single.

He continued to inch Red Force closer to the target with Da Silva, defying a break on play to repair the bowlers’ runup at the Brian Lara Pavilion End of the ground before his injury prompted his departure with 10 required.

Da Silva hastened the end with two boundaries in three balls off the uncomplicated left-arm spin of West Indies Test teammate Kavem Hodge and formalised the result with a single to point about halfhour before the rescheduled tea break.

About 15 kilometres east, Carty and Greaves hit contrasting knocks of 61 that spurred Hurricanes to their target of 316 against Marooners at Frank Worrell Field on the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies.

After the visitors resumed

from their bedtime total of 15 without loss, they lost openers Kieran Powell and Mikyle Louis cheaply in the first halfhour, and they were reeling on 30 for two.

Greaves came to the crease, and he anchored two crucial stands of 107 for the third wicket with Carty, and 59 for the fourth wicket with wicketkeeper-batsman Jahmar Hamilton before giving a return catch to teenaged leg-spinner Zishan Motara.

Hurricanes were 196 for four, and the outcome of the chase still looked uncertain, but Hamilton made 28, and a bit of enterprise and defiance from their burly captain Rahkeem Cornwall, not out on 42 that included three fours and two sixes off 56 balls, got them over the finish line.

Cornwall put on 40 for the seventh wicket with Louis, but his unbroken eighth wicket stand of 56 with Hayden Walsh Jr was the heartbreaker for the Marooners and formalised the result about 10 minutes before the scheduled close; Louis made 30, and Walsh was not out on 19.

Pacer Niall Smith ended with four for 87 from 13.5 overs, and the left-arm spin bowling duo of Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie finish with three wickets apiece and bowled the defending champions, Harpy

Eagles to a morale-boosting win against their long-standing rivals at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

McCaskie hit the top score of 87, and Holder supported with 76, but Pride, chasing 341 to win, could only get to within sight of the promised land before the fell short about 15 minutes before the scheduled close.

After starting the day on 31 without loss, Pride got a solid foundation when their captain Kraigg Brathwaite, the West Indies Test captain, extended his opening stand with McCaskie to 85 before he was one of three wickets to Permaul in a span of 14 balls that set them back.

Pride were 89 for three, and familiarity bred some success when left-hander Raymon Reifer, a former member of the Harpy Eagles unit, added 54 for the fourth wicket with McCaskie before he was caught behind off Motie.

McCaskie had long cleared the half-century mark and carried Pride to 164 for four at lunch with Holder before falling in third over after the interval.

Holder got a bit of support from Shane Dowrich with 26 and Jomel Warrican was not out on 40, and he helped push Pride past 300, but once he was lbw to Smith, there was

America legend Carl Lewis named Ambassador for World Relays Bahamas 2024

Red Force batsman Jyd Goolie retired hurt on 9I for Red Force

Guyana Harpy Eagles Pacer Niall Smith ended with four for 87 from 13.5 overs