Issuu

wednesday 22nd june, 2022

No.106761

PM Phillips: Gov’t will support flood-affected communities

PAGE

Retired Justice, Stanley John, to chair CoI into 2020 elections PAGE

Retired Justice of Appeal Stanley John

Former Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Carl Singh OR CCH

VP Jagdeo: ‘They couldn't incriminate me in my 02 most unguarded moment' PAGE

–– says Vice News’ documentary failed to produce any evidence linking him to corruption

Former Chair and Chief Elections Commissioner of India, Dr S.Y. Quraishi

Former Attorney-General, High Court Judge and acting Justice of Appeal in the Eastern Caribbean, Godfrey P. Smith SC

Alignment being cut for Timehri to Bartica 19 Road PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

‘They couldn’t incriminate me in my most unguarded moment’ — VP Jagdeo says Vice News’ documentary failed to produce any evidence linking him to corruption

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

By Tamica Garnett RATHER than implicate him in an alleged web of corruption, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that a recent doc-

umentary by Vice News titled “Guyana for sale,” has instead vindicated him as being upright in his dealings with business officials, since the report produced no evidence

linking him to collecting bribes. Dr. Jagdeo sought to bring clarity to certain aspects of the recently released Vice News episode, Continued on page 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Retired Justice Stanley John to chair CoI into 2020 elections

I N V E S T I G AT I O N S will soon commence into the March 2, 2020, general and regional elections, as President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced the names of the persons who will constitute a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) for the elections inquest. The President announced, on Tuesday, that the CoI will be chaired by retired Justice of Appeal Stanley John, and will include former Attorney-General, High Court judge and acting Justice of Appeal in the Eastern Caribbean, Godfrey P. Smith, S.C.; Former Chair and Chief Elections Commissioner of India, Dr. S.Y. Quraishi, and, Former Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Carl Singh OR CCH. The members of the CoI are expected to examine

the post polling day period, when there were alleged attempts by the A Partnership for National Unity and

Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) to rig the March 2, 2020 elections. The inquiry is also antici-

pated to provide a foundation on which the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) could fix the electoral sys-

tem. Additionally, the findings will be used to hold persons accountable, especially if they are found to have been involved in illegal activities. “Those who subverted democracy, and those who cannot present their SoPs [Statements of Poll], and those who struggled against the will of the people, the CoI will set the truth free,” President Ali had said during the commemoration of the 74th Anniversary of the Enmore Martyrs at the monument site. To assist the commission with its work, Dr. Afari Jayan and Dr. Nasim Zaidi have been identified as resource personnel. “In the coming weeks, the intended Commissioners and resource personnel will review the reports and docu-

said before, they are never going to find anything of that nature,” Dr. Jagdeo said. He added: “That was the moment when this country saw me unguarded and with an international news agency trying to implicate me in a corruption scandal, when I didn’t know I was being taped and they saw what happened. I think it worked in my favour frankly speaking.” According to the Vice-President, while the Vice news report focuses on Chinese investors who claim to be getting favourable concessions on government projects, the Vice News associate was posing as an investor for a private investment opportunity that Su has for a hotel and casino in Guyana, and has nothing to do with government investment. Dr. Jagdeo explained that Su was among 12 interested parties who had submitted valid responses to the government’s public call for Expression of Interest for hotels since November 2020, and Su was issued one of a total of 12 standard Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

with the government. The Vice-President pointed out that mere fact that he could not be baited into accepting a bribe should’ve been an indication to Vice News that Su was simply leveraging his friendship to deceive them into thinking that he could get favourable deals through bribes. “You had to know you were being scammed at that time by somebody who was leveraging contact,” Dr. Jagdeo said. In light of this, however, the Vice-President reaffirmed that he plans to sue Su, given that the Chinese investor had earlier issued a statement that he never stated that he collects bribes on the Vice-President’s behalf. Dr. Jagdeo noted that he also plans to end his rental with Su. “I am looking for him to throw him out. I can’t find him so far but as soon as I find him that will happen,” the Vice-President said.

for what it was, given that their judgment was clouded with a pre-determined agenda to get Guyana embroiled in the geopolitical issue between China and the US. “I made it clear that as a small country we did not want to get involved in that. As you saw the framing of the report, it was precisely about that at the beginning. China’s growing presence in this hemisphere and growing concerns about this,” Dr. Jagdeo noted. He added: “From the framing of their report, one could clearly see that we’re vindicated when I spoke about us not wanting to become a geopolitical pawn. I made it clear that we are not going to participate in an anti-China hysteria. We will look out for our country and what’s best for our people.” The video, despite being only 15 minutes, stemmed from an almost two-hour long interview with the Vice-President back in January, and a covert operation in Guyana which lasted for almost six weeks. The Vice-President not-

ed that notwithstanding having extensively spoken about the issue during the two-hour interview, the reporter did not use any of his very lengthy responses on the matter. He released the full two-hour long interview earlier this year prior to the Vice News documentary. “… in the almost two-hour long interview, just about a minute of it was used in the final product. This country has had a chance to see the entire two hours. She even asked extensively about the Amerindian, our approach to Indigenous people and I spoke about that. Clearly none of that mattered. They had to come up with a narrative.” The Vice-President also reminded of several inconsistencies in the reporters line of questioning and in the story. Examples of those included her lack of knowledge about the existence of the country’s Integrity Commission, a claim that Su has a stake in the oil and gas sector, this is despite CNOOC being the only Chinese company involved in Guyana’s oil and gas sector. CNOOC is a part-

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

mentation, set out modalities, and commence work,” President Ali said in an official statement on Tuesday. On May 6, 2020, GECOM began a recount exercise, and, at the conclusion, it showed that the PPP/C had won the elections with a majority of the votes. In his inaugural speech as President, Dr. Ali had committed to reviewing the events relating to the protracted electoral process, which concluded on August 2, 2020, after Guyanese cast their votes on March 2 that same year. The citizenry had to endure an unimaginable wait for the results of the General and Regional Elections, as they witnessed unlawful acts and a slew of legal challenges.

ner in the Stabroek Block along with ExxonMobil and Hess. “It was my surprise when the report said that Su had a stake in the oil and gas sector. No other Chinese company had any stake in the oil and gas sector,” the Vice-President said. According to Dr. Jagdeo, the documentary fell way short of its aim, and while many, including the opposition, had expected the documentary to be an explosive expose, they were instead left with a lukewarm story. “I’ve seen some calls for resignation from APNU. They were hyping this interview as this would be the end of Jagdeo. I think they are majorly disappointed. I think they were hoping Vice would find a long range of issues with me. They didn’t find anything because as I made it clear, I don’t have any assets held abroad with any banks or properties. All my assets are here in Guyana and are declared to the Integrity Commission,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

‘They couldn’t incriminate me ... From on page 2

which featured a 15-minute segment on Guyana, and included several accusations but no evidence. During a press conference at the Office of the President, the Vice-President also sought to give better context to a section of the documentary where his colleague, Su Zi Rhong, visited his home with an undercover Vice News reporter who was posing as an investor, while being equipped with a hidden camera. Dr. Jagdeo said that while only a short clip from an interview with him was used in the documentary, in reality, the actual sit down lasted approximately 15-20 minutes. The Vice President noted that during the sit down, several attempts were made to implicate him in cases of corruption, but nothing could be found since nothing exists. “Vice came into my house with the sole purpose of catching me engaged in something illegal or taking a bribe and they couldn’t do that in my most unguarded moment. So, that is the key issue here. As I

PRE-DETERMINED AGENDA Dr. Jagdeo related that the Vice News reporter could not see the situation

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

City Hall called out for ‘neglect’ of Georgetown’s drainage structures –– several pumps, sluices without operators in the height of the rainy season, Agriculture Minister decries

MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Tuesday, reported that several key drainage structures across Georgetown were without operators, resulting in them being inoperable. Although the government has made several calls to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to ensure there is effective management of the city’s drainage structures, the City Council continues to

neglect its responsibility, thus resulting in instances of flooding in Georgetown, the minister said. According to a press release, Minister Mustapha related that it was beyond unacceptable, given that Guyana was currently in the height of the mid-year rainy period. He said that, being the capital, Georgetown is the hub for commercial activities and flooding tends to affect the effective func-

tioning of many businesses, schools, and other public and private institutions. “Today I received reports that the sluices at Ruimveldt south, La Penitence south, and Cowan Street in Kingston were not open. Also, the pumps at Cowan Street and Lamaha Street were not on even though the sluice was not open. There were no operators around. The pump at Ruimveldt south had to be turned on since the sluice Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and NDIA Chairman, Lionel Wordsworth, inspect a sluice station at Cowan Street in June 2021 operator was not there. The Liliendaal pumps were not on. “The gate was locked so the engineers couldn’t tell if the operator was present. The people at the City Council like to make excuses about fuel but the person responsible for delivering the fuel was on site and no one was there at the pumps at Cowan Street and Lamaha Street,” Minister Mustapha said. Around this time last year, the minister made similar calls to the M&CC after checks by engineers attached to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to several pumps and sluices around Georgetown, revealed that several structures including the Ruimveldt sluice were not operating because there was no operator present. Minister Mustapha said that while residents of Georgetown continue to fall victim to instances of flooding due to heavy rainfall, the time it takes for those floodwaters to recede is often a result of the ineffective management of the City’s pumps and sluices,

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which he noted fall under the control of the M&CC. “Although we monitor these structures, the M&CC is the body in charge of ensuring these structures function effectively. Time and time again we are seeing that this is not the case. It is a shame that in the height of the rainy season, despite the numerous calls made by the government on several occasions, the M&CC continues to operate in such a manner. “This blatant neglect is becoming a pattern and it is time for people living in Georgetown who continue to be affected by flooding when these structures are not managed effectively to hold the relevant authorities at the M&CC accountable,” Minister Mustapha said. The minister said that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority will continue to monitor the structures in Georgetown and across the country as the Hydrometeorology Department predicts more instances of extensive rainfall over the coming weeks.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

PM Phillips: Gov’t will support flood-affected communities — ministers to visit affected areas; food and sanitation hampers to be distributed to residents

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, has said that the government will roll out various interventions to support communities affected by flooding. During a virtual meeting with members of the National Taskforce on Flood Monitoring, the Prime Minister announced that the government will provide relief to all affected residents. Recent rainfall, particularly over the last 96 hours, has affected many regions throughout Guyana. Based on a comprehensive update provided by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), water is decreasing in certain areas but rising in

others. To this end, special atten-

IN an effort to better serve the Member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the CARICOM Secretariat is undergoing an extensive upgrade of its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) capacity. According to a press statement from the secretariat, this project is expected to lead to visible and measurable improvements in its service delivery to Member States and Regional Institutions. The CARICOM Secretariat Innovation and Digitisation Programme is a multi-year, multi-donor initiative which is expected to attract funding from the Region’s key International Development Partners (IDPs). Rollout of the Programme started in 2022 with funding from the Republic of Korea in the amount of just over US$460,000. The Korean-fund-

ed component will be implemented at the Secretariat over a period of 12 months, beginning this month, June 2022. The project funded by the Republic of Korea will strengthen ICT across the secretariat through the acquisition and installation of information technology infrastructure and equipment upgrades for enhanced capacity of its data centre and client systems. The project will support the secretariat’s ongoing efforts to update its document, knowledge and records management system. Training will also be provided for appropriate personnel in the use and maintenance of the equipment, and in digital document and records management. The Korean component of the Innovation and Digitisation Programme is being financed

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips

tion will be paid to Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), where many communities are flooded. Region Seven has a high level of water as a result of the overtopping of the Cuyuni River, and Chenapau in Region Eight is enduring a similar outcome due to the overtopping of rivers there. Reports from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) indicate that over 180 households and 15 farms have been impacted by flooding. Meanwhile, in Region 10, Rockstone and Speight-

land are also affected, while reports from Kwakwani indicate that the Berbice River is approximately two feet above the river bank, which has resulted in over 200 households being affected. Parts of Region One, Region Three (Canal Number One and Two), Region Five and Region Six are also affected. To alleviate the problems, the government, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and regional bodies have been clearing drains and canals; repairing and maintaining pumps and kokers, and relocating livestock.

COLLABORATION The Prime Minister bemoaned the flood situation in Georgetown and again spoke to the Mayor, Ubraj Narine, about the situation. During the engagement, it was agreed that the government will work with the City Council to improve the management and monitoring of sluices and pumps. In keeping with the Prime Minister’s directive, the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall will continue to render further assistance to the City Council in the forms of human resources (to

improve monitoring of sluice gates) and fuel (to ensure all pumps are working). Prime Minister Phillips also announced that from Wednesday, ministers of government will be visiting many other flood-affected areas. Along with assessing the affected communities, the government through its respective agencies will deliver food hampers, sanitation hampers, purification tablets, and collapsible one-gallon bottles, while the Ministry of Health officials will be available to deal with any flood-related or water-borne disease.

from the CARICOM-RoK Cooperation Fund, established by CARICOM and the RoK in 2021. Since the inception, CARICOM has received support from the RoK through this fund of just over US$ 1,000,000. In addition to the funding to improve ICT at the secretariat, CARICOM Member States also benefitted from approximately US$540,000 in support for the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) to assist in the coordination of the regional fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.

In a recent engagement with the Republic of Korea, Ambassador Moon-up Sung, Government of Korea’s Representative to CARICOM, indicated that the partnership between the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Korea could be further expanded in the coming years. In welcoming this statement, Dr. Armstrong Alexis, Deputy Secretary-General, said that the RoK was an important partner and friend to CARICOM and that the region looks forward to strengthening part-

nership. This bodes well for the continued enhancement of the relationship between the

governments and peoples of the Republic of Korea and CARICOM.

CARICOM Secretariat undergoes major technological upgrade

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Engaging the citizenry

THERE is no greater comfort than a listening ear, especially in the context of governance, where leaders devise solutions to sociological and economic issues after engaging the citizenry and understanding their plight. As simple as it may seem, consulting the people of a nation forms an integral part of good and efficient governance. The importance of this exercise is extended even further, when leaders go beyond just listening to concerns, to including citizens in the decision-making process. Citizen participation in national development has been a key component of the model of governance adopted by the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). And this is evidenced by the myriad outreaches to various communities across the country within the past two years. Government officials, from the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, to agency heads have been ditching their offices for tents in various communities, where they take public services to the people and listen keenly to every legitimate concern raised by persons from all walks of life. Both President Ali and Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, have been leading those community engagements and, when and where possible, have been offering on-thespot solutions to problems that might have

been affecting residents for years. The engagements and subsequent measures have benefitted residents of many communities, including those that are known strongholds of the opposition, A Partnership For National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), which, on the contrary, had taken a high-handed approach to governance during its tenure in office. It was only after the coalition administration was toppled by a no-confidence motion in 2018 that its officials attempted to engage citizens through outreaches that evidently bore no fruit. Unlike the coalition administration, an analysis of the PPP/C Government’s two years in office would show that it has upheld the tenets of good governance. While there is no internationally agreed definition of good governance, the United Nations in an overview of this theory, has said that it may span full respect of human rights, the rule of law, effective participation, multi-actor partnerships, political pluralism, transparent and accountable processes and institutions, an efficient and effective public sector, legitimacy, access to knowledge, information and education, political empowerment of people, equity, sustainability, and attitudes and values that foster responsibility, solidarity and tolerance.

Any individual who objectively analyses the PPP/C government’s budgets, policies, projects and even outreaches would not only by able to recognise the presence of good governance, but would also be in a position to effectively dismiss US Congressman, Hakeem Jeffries’ recent comment: “… not everyone in Guyana is treated consistent with the principles of equal protection under the law.” Outside of the unfettered access to free primary healthcare and free education from nursery to secondary school, authorities have invested billions of dollars into initiatives ranging from COVID-19 relief and the education grants, to the removal and reduction of taxes that benefit everyone regardless of their political persuasion, race, ethnicity or distinct feature. And considering the government’s direct engagement with persons from every region across Guyana, there is little room for the exemption of anyone from the country’s development. President Ali was quoted recently in sections of the media as saying: “The leaders of this government, we’re not hiding in a room and having a meeting with 10 people. We are going to the communities in the open, inviting everyone. Those meetings are then televised, streamed live on Facebook. We’re not hiding comments from anyone.

“Any issue they have can be brought up in this big tent approach, where every single person is involved. Decisions are made on the ground, with consultation with the people. Their ideas, views are all brought in the open on one table, not behind some closed door. That is not how we operate.” The President said too: “We understand how good governance is important for the developmental trajectory of our country, how it is important for investors’ confidence in our country, and I cannot allow the misgivings of those who consider themselves the virtues of good governance to continue.” Vice-President Jagdeo has also affirmed that the government is working to significantly improve the standard of living of all Guyanese by making available more opportunities to residents throughout Guyana by investing in long-term projects in education, healthcare and public infrastructure. He even assured Guyanese that they would benefit from the burgeoning oil and gas sector, saying: “We are intent on ensuring that the industry that we worked so hard under the PPP to bring to that point that that industry benefits Guyanese and the returns are shared equitably across our country that all of our people, regardless of who they voted for, their race, their religion, they must share in [the] oil- and-gas proceeds. That is important for us.”

Guyana’s champion cannot be prosecuted on hearsay and conjecture Dear Editor PERMIT me to lend my voice to the so called revelation that Vice News recently broadcasted. I looked and listened with some intrigue at the musings of the Vice News and their conjecture et al. News media are the fourth estate and meant to keep the government in check. Sometimes, their uses are to manipulate the masses to some end especially in nations in conflict. Those who control the media tend to win the war as it controls the narrative and sway public opinion to influence the kind of change that some are looking for in the backrooms.

Guyana is the country that recently came of age. The new kid on the block that seems to be generating a tremendous amount of energy and buzz! It is the only country on this side of the hemisphere that is slated for double digit GDP growth. Imagine the threat that poses to some who do not have their claws in Guyana or those whose wealth a growing Guyana has the potential to upset; or, those who do not think that Guyana and Guyanese are deserving of our own future. It reeks of ulterior motives. To paint the Vice-President as corrupt obviously paints the country as corrupt and begs the question as to the motivations behind Vice News. I may not agree with the Vice-President on many things.

We stand on opposite sides of the House and opposing political parties. We also contested the 2020 elections leading our respective parties to the final current dispensation and sometimes have different, not necessarily opposing views on a variety of issues. Despite these opposing political positions, the Vice-President enjoys my eminent respect. Having hailed from Unity Village, Mahaica, a village where I spent a significant amount of my childhood days, his father used to have his clock repaired at my uncle’s place, Suideen Ragbeer on coconut walk. The then VP was a timid and humble young man who later became the leader of Guyana. Having toppled the sitting government

despite the full force of all the institutions against their party, he managed to muster the gusto to rebuild a party that suffered defeat in 2015, and is now supporting His Excellency and his team in building Guyana into a regional economic superpower. I think that there are those who can better pronounce on his achievements than I, but I can say that I have known the VP longer than he may realise, and I can say the same humble young man that I once knew, has become a brilliant tactician in a country that otherwise would have been relegated to a dictatorship had it not been see page 7

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Vice News’ agenda was clearly not factually based or substantiated Dear Editor, THE Vice News reporter, Isobel Yeung, frames her “Guyana for Sale” video by saying: “As China expands into South America, the US (United States of America) sees their growing presence as a threat. This is a region where America has long held political and regional dominance.” Inserts of comments by US President, Joe Biden, saying: “China has an overall goal to become the wealthiest country in the world and the most powerful country in the world. That’s not going to happen on my watch” and China’s influence via its Belt and Road initiative was also given prominence in the publication. However, Vice News’ agenda was clearly not factually based or substantiated. Yeung made claims that China approved a $1.5 billion loan to Guyana. The fact is that in examining the last three national budgets,

2020 to 2022, Guyana has not borrowed a $1.5 billion loan from China. Secondly, Yeung, in referring to the planned Amaila Falls Hydropower Project said: “This is where they’re building a massive hydroelectric power plant… the Chinese state-backed Corporation has just won the bid to pick up that project and that deal is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. And what we’ve heard is that the only reason they won that project is because of a very sizable bribe.” A deal for the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), as reportedly widely, has not been awarded by the Government of Guyana. The government was in negotiations with China Railway Group Limited for the completion of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Plant based on a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model. Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to develop the AFHP, either on the basis of a 20-year

Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) concession or on a Design-Build-Finance (DBF) basis were invited in 2021. A total of four companies submitted proposals. China Railway Group Limited was identified as the most “capable partner” by the Evaluation Committee after a rigorous evaluation process, following which the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) submitted the relevant recommendation to Cabinet for “no objection.” Under the BOOT model, the company would supply electricity to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc. at a cost averaging US$0.07737 per KWH over the 20-year BOOT period. However, the China Railway Group Limited indicated that the BOOT model was not feasible, so negotiations ended. The government is now considering going back out to tender for the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project.

Thirdly, Yeung attempted to link firms working in Guyana to the Chinese “Communist” Party and said: “It does imply very much that the Beijing authorities know exactly what’s going on.” The fact remains, however, that Guyana formally established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China on June 27, 1972, under the leadership of former President, the late Arthur Chung. It is unfortunate that Vice News saw it fit to only use Guyana to pursue their geopolitical agenda; in face of our country’s regional leadership on issues like food security and our country’s international leadership on issues like the plan to allow developing countries to transition to a low carbon economy – that is the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. Yours respectfully, Brian Azore

Guyana’s champion cannot be prosecuted ... from page 6

for his efforts. He is financially sound, enjoys a Presidential pension, a Vice-President’s salary and benefits, a significant degree of state security as a past President, and unabated freedom of movement globally. He is sought after to represent global agendas on economic and environmentally responsible growth amongst a variety of other demands on his time.

Mr Su and Vice-News offered no evidence to support any of their claims or allegations. I have not seen a clip where Vice News asked Mr Su for supporting evidence nor did I see any being offered. In the absence of any evidence, it is important that we do not prosecute our nation’s champion, VP Jagdeo on hearsay and conjecture. Put in perspective, the above and what does it say of

us as a society when we are so quick to prosecute our country’s champion so easily and quickly? To be critical is one thing; however, to publicly prosecute on opinion is complete an absolutely more sinister thing. If we are to pronounce on the guilt of any person on hearsay and conjecture, why have a court at all? Should we go down such a path, then we are a nation

that is deserving of being imprisoned as there is conjecture that can prosecute every one of us. The Vice-President not only enjoys my eminent respect and support, I stand by him against the maligned. Most respectfully, Hon. Lenox R. O. Shuman, MP Deputy Speaker

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Dr. Jagdeo’s life as President was like an open book to us

Dear Editor,

FOR quite some time, I did not get involved in political discourse or make public my views on current, topical, or controversial issues. However, I feel compelled to air my views on this Vice News report where certain allegations are made concerning Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. Let me state from the outset that I totally agree with the analysis of Dr Tara Singh on this matter and will not delve on those issues he raised about Vice News, suf-

fice to say that it’s very easy to sling mud on a successful political leader in the stature of Dr Jagdeo. Guyana has a lot of con men, who would get things done for people and then demand a reward for the favours received. As a former public servant, I can enumerate several instances. Therefore, Mr. Su’s comments can be seen in that light, if he persists or is accurately reported, particularly since the VP has vehemently denied accepting any monies from him for any expedition of services to him or his friends

or associates. The Vice-President’s denial of ever accepting consideration for facilitating any project should be given due credence. I served as the Permanent Secretary in the office of the President under the Jagdeo Presidency for in excess of five years, being Head of the Public Service and also sitting on every Sub Committee of Cabinet, the Central Intelligence Committee, the Defence Board and Cabinet. Along with Dr. Luncheon, we were closely associated with the inner workings and functions of

the President. I can attest nothing but hard work, integrity and impatience for procrastination on work to be undertaken in government, on the part of Dr. Jagdeo. At the spur of the moment, he would intervene to bring an issue to head or finality, once it was brought to his attention that there were delays especially when the issue was of importance to national development. There were many such issues and he intervened and promptly resolved them. Therefore, he was honest when he said that he would

have facilitated many investors that come here and have their projects languishing at some point in the government system. Let me give you one example. Mr. Robin Walter Persaud bought eight acres of land that was tendered out by GuySuCo at Farm, East Bank Demerara, for the purpose of building a hotel and other housing development. He was experiencing some delays at the privatisation unit and became frustrated, booked his flight and was on his way to the airport when I learnt of this development. The President had just finished a meeting and I was still in his office. I told him that the developer was frustrated and was leaving and may not carry through with the project. He asked me to call Mr. Persaud which I did and passed the phone over to him. He found out what the problem was and asked Robin to return to Georgetown and he gave the assurance that the matter was going to be resolved the very next day. The matter was indeed resolved the next day and so Park View Hotel became a reality and the flooded abandoned cane fields were also developed and became prime lands for executive houses. When the President acted then he hardly knew who Mr. Robin Persaud was. There were many instances where the late Pandit Prakash Gossai, Khemat Budhu or myself, all of us working at OP during that period, would receive complaints over delays in government leaving persons frustrated and when those were brought to the attention of President Jagdeo, he dealt with them, giving satisfaction to those aggrieved; this was his trait then and I am aware that he continues in that vein up to today. He is in a hurry to see Guyana develop and flourish.

It is for these reasons that we refer to him as the architect of modern-day Guyana. With respect to his integrity returns I can also vouch with a few of his secretariat staff then over his yearly compliance. We knew of his salary and other emoluments, his savings account, his assets, and even some of his daily financial arrangements. The late Vic Persaud even had control of his cheque book. He insisted on many occasions when his house was being built and we ordered materials when he was overseas that those should be paid for from his cheques and would demand to see the receipts. There was an occasion when he misplaced his transport and wanted the details to ensure the accuracy of his returns and he ensured we secured a copy from the Deed’s Registry. His life as President was like an open book to us. We were like his close family to him. His answer, therefore, that he facilitated persons’ projects is indeed a testimony of who Bharrat Jagdeo really is. His accountability to the integrity commission over these years reflects the true state of his financial standings. Those of us who were his close staff can attest to that. Some of us aided in the preparation of his returns and our hand writings would be there on some of those documents. The current Vice-President needs no distraction at this time but should be allowed to use his gifted energies and knowledge towards the development and prosperity of our country. With President Irfaan Ali, the Prime Minister and the Vice-President, along with their team, Guyana will prosper and soar to greater heights. Yours sincerely, Nanda K. Gopaul

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Mitchell vs Mitchell Will Grenada’s next PM be a Doctor or a Lawyer?

By Earl Bousquet GENERAL Elections take place tomorrow in Grenada with the two major parties both claiming to have majority support and both claiming they’ll win, but none actually showing how. Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell’s ruling New National Party (NNP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by lawyer Dickon Mitchell are the two major parties in the contest and whichever wins, the next Prime Minister will have the same surname as his opponent. Prime Minister Mitchell, at 75, is contesting what he has promised will be his last general elections and he wants the NNP to be elected one more time, to allow him a graceful exit after being successfully re-elected five times since 1983. But the NDC’s younger Mitchell, at 44, says it’s time for change, after the NNP won all 15 seats in the last two general elections in 2013 and 2018. The NDC has been pulling apparently bigger crowds than the NNP in the last days leading to Thursday’s national poll, but in a region and country where pre-election polls are rare and rarely accurate and many voters often hide their actual intentions, which party will win the race remains uncertain. The NNP is not expected to win all seats for a third consecutive time in 2022, but the NDC will also have a high mountain to climb to ensure it can win at least eight seats to earn a parliamentary majority. Like in most Caribbean islands, there are few reliably unattached sources in the local Grenada media; and commentators are all known to support one side or another, with hardly anyone considered independent enough to be quoted as a reliable election weather vane. But like everywhere else too, the government and ruling party have had to face and handle the results of the COVID-19 pandemic for the past two years, the resulting supply chain

problems that have caused serious shortages and the further effects of the war in Ukraine on food and fuel prices, which continue to rise. Prime Minister Mitchell is hoping that late pre-election decisions to pay pensions to pensioners and promises of better service after winning what he promises will be his last election will influence those to benefit from the promised payments assured for 2022, but after the elections. He has also promised that while he’ll pay pensioners already at home this year in the 2022-2023 Budget that hasn’t been presented and promises to after the elections (if re-elected). But if crowd attendance at meetings is a good yardstick, the call for change is loud and there’s much evidence that Mitchel and the NNP might very well have expectedly lost some support to the NDC. There’s also the role traditionally played by overseas-based Grenadians returning home to vote, which always helps influence the outcome of elections in the usual race between the two major parties. Hundreds of voters have flown home from the USA, UK and from other Caribbean islands in the past week for Thursday’s elections and they are being heavily (even secretly) canvassed, before leaving their adopted overseas homes and on arrival at the airport, by agents of both major parties. Less than 75,000 registered voters will qualify to vote, but it’s expected there’ll be a heavier turnout this election due to the number of young people registering to cast their first vote – and the NNP and the NDC having gone all-out in the past month to win as many new voters as possible. The NDC’s Mitchell has been campaigning on promoting change, accusing the NNP of recycling the “same old” characters to head government bodies, election after election. The NNP is credited with keeping the country stable, but the after-effects of COVID and the Ukraine War may eat into its support

base, which is still strong, not having lost any seats in the last two polls in the ‘first-past-the-post’ election that can result in a party not winning any seats, but commanding a greater level of support not reflected in the number of seats won, but in the number of votes cast. There was a high 73.6 per cent turnout in the March 13, 2018 elections and all signs are that there may be another high turnout on Thursday, given the high level of interest manifested during one of Grenada’s hottest election campaigns of the eight held since the US-led invasion in 1983 that ended the four-anda-half years of the 1979 Grenada Revolution. The current voters list has 87,994 for 2022 and there were only 78,122 registered for the 2018 elections, but it is expected the turnout will be high enough, forcing all the contesting parties to aim at influencing new voters, as traditional party supporters hardly change their minds from election to election. Predictions are wild, as the wind of change is blowing strongly in Grenada, but the NNP’s 15-seat majority enables it to start-off with that clear advantage, with most quiet pundits only prepared to suggest NDC might win enough seats to provide a powerful opposition to a future NNP during what PM Mitchell has promised would be his last term. The fact that PM Mitchell is banking so much on winning sympathetic votes and attracting the support of retirees and government pensioners is also being interpreted as his acceptance that the youth vote, new voters and votes from

overseas-based Grenadians might be enough to embolden and strengthen the NDC’s support on Thursday. There are at least four other parties registered to contest the elections, but none has had enough support in the last three elections to win any seat, leaving the battle again this time to the NNP and the NDC. Some 41 candidates will contest Thursday’s poll for the 15 seats, but the race boils down – again – between the NNP and the NDC – and between two party leaders with the same surname, but very opposite positions on where the country stands now and where it should be heading

in the current regional and global situation. Therefore, when Grenadians go to their respective polling stations to cast their votes on June 23, the only assurance all will have is that the next Prime Minister on Friday morning will be a Mitchell, leaving which one to be decided after all the votes are counted Thursday night. Meanwhile, another assurance is that neither of the two main parties will forego China as a longstanding Grenada ally. The NNP has remained supportive of China and the NDC, under the new leader, hasn’t stated any public position on the issue.

The NDC’s Mitchell has evaded addressing the issue during the campaign, as Foreign Affairs is never an issue in domestic politics ahead of Caribbean elections. But when last in office, the NDC maintained inherited ties with China; and a source close to the current leader tells me the current opposition party, if it wins, “will maintain existing ties with all countries that currently recognise Grenada and will respect our sovereignty.” Grenada established diplomatic ties with China following the 1979 Revolution and there’s been no change since then.

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Prison Service introduces yoga to women inmates THE Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. KJ Srinivasa, on Tuesday, facilitated a yoga programme for women inmates of the New Amsterdam Prison. The session was conducted by founder of the Namaste Yoga Studio and yoga teacher, Agnela Patil, who skillfully led the participants through a series of postures and relaxation techniques. Meanwhile, the Indian High Commissioner said that, given the benefits to one’s mental and physical well-being, efforts are being made to make yoga popular among the prison population. “Yoga is the art and science of well-being, which is a traditional practice from India. Over the years, efforts have been made to share yoga with people globally since it is good for not only your mental well-being, but also physical well-being. It helps also in your spiritual upliftment,” he said. Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, said in a society where the importance of human rights is acknowledged, the Prison Service has a duty to rehabilitate the people incarcerated, and expose inmates to a variety of programmes to effect positive change in their life. “The use of yoga in prisons is a promising tactic to help reduce recidivism rates

and improve relationships within a prison environment,” Elliot said. He added: “By helping prisoners to better deal with their restricted surroundings, heal from past traumas, recover from addiction, and increase their emotional intelligence, yoga can be a component in creating better outcomes both for the prisoners personally, and for society as a whole.” The officer in charge of Prisoners’ Welfare and Corrections, Mrs. Marielle Bristol Grant, participated in the exercise and encouraged the inmates to take advantage of the opportunities afforded to them. She reiterated that she was committed to ensuring that there was a programme of interest to all of the inmates. The Prison Director expressed gratitude to the visiting team, adding that the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) was looking forward to continued goodwill, friendship and co-operation. The United Nations, in December 2014, proclaimed June 21, every year, to be International Day of Yoga. The concept of such a day was first proposed by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This year is the eighth International Day of Yoga.

Women prisoners engaging in yoga

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Relief supplies dispatched to flood-affected Mahdia By Tamica Garnett

THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has dispatched a quantity of relief supplies to Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), where heavy rainfall has resulted in severe flooding.

Director-General (ag) of the CDC, Major Loring Benons, told the Guyana Chronicle that the CDC is working along with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to deliver the supplies which range from food items to detergent and other cleaning supplies.

“The situation was reported directly to me by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs [Pauline Sukhai]. She is currently putting systems in place to actually go to Region Eight and, as such, on the flight that will be going to Region Eight

Relief supplies being packed to be taken to Mahdia, Region Eight, for distribution to flood-affected households (CDC Photo)

today [Tuesday], some relief supplies will be sent, enough to reach all the households in the affected area,” Major Benons said on Tuesday. He added: “As we speak, the minister just sent me a message about the approval of the flight for today, so our supplies are already at Ogle [Airport] to be boarded. We’re sending food and cleaning and sanitation hampers. That’s the intervention we are currently working on until the minister gets on the ground and if there’s any other intervention she will tell us if they need anything further.” According to available statistics, approximately 20 households were affected by the situation in Mahdia, where as much as three feet of water was registered in some areas. Major Benons noted that

the flooding was specific to an area which is a “valley community,” and as such, it would continually experience unavoidable flooding from time to time, given the low lying state of the locale. Mayor of Mahdia, David Adams, in a telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle, related that he was in Georgetown, when he got reports of the flooding. However, he too said that due to the nature of the community, the flooding was unavoidable. “It had heavy rains last night [Monday] into this morning and it’s an area in Mahdia that when it rains like that the valley just becomes flooded out, it will last for a few hours until the water runs off. There is hardly anything you can do to stop it because the water keeps coming down there,

it’s a valley,” Adams related. He added: “Once the rain stops falling it runs off very quickly. But the flooding doesn’t happen regularly, it’s not an area that floods out regularly, sometimes its once a year. The last time this happen was around 2018, this is only happening because of the May/June rains.” The Mayor noted there were attempts to get the residents to relocate from the area, but this proved futile as the residents were firm on their decision to remain and deal with any flooding that comes. “It’s a few residents that are occupying the low lands there; we did try to give them house lots on higher ground and advised them to occupy it, and they refused to do so,” Adams said.

Health Minister participating in UNAIDS meeting in Geneva

GUYANA’S Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, is currently in Geneva, Switzerland, participating in the 50th meeting of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) Programme Coordinating Board (PCB). The Ministry of Health, in making this disclosure, said that the meeting be-

gan on Tuesday and will end on Friday. Guyana is a member state and the Caribbean’s representative on the PCB. During the meeting, the summary report from the previous PCB on the outcome of the thematic segment, “What do the regional and country-level data tell us, are we listening and how can we leverage those data-related

technology to meet our 2025 and 2030 goals?” is expected to be discussed. Other topics and issues are on the agenda for discussion. Additionally, on the final day there will be a thematic segment under the heading, “Positive learning: Harnessing the power of education to end HIV-related stigma and discrimination and

empower young people living with HIV.” According to the ministry, Minister Anthony, while in Switzerland, is expected to meet with a number of key officials from UNAIDS and the Global Fund and key PCB participants. Some 22 member states are to participate in the meeting which is being held at the WHO Auditorium in Geneva, Switzerland.

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, in Geneva, Switzerland (Ministry of Health photo)

The PCB meeting in progress at the WHO Auditorium in Geneva, Switzerland (Ministry of Health photo)

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

‘Cow’ pleads guilty to killing wife

FIVE years after the brutal killing of Gomattie Ramsingh at her Number 58 Village, Corentyne home, her reputed husband, on Tuesday, confessed to the crime. Raywatram Mooloo, also known as ‘Adesh’ and ‘Cow’ appeared before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall at the Berbice High Court for the capital offence of murder. However, he opted

to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter which alleged that, on May 26, 2017, he unlawfully killed the 34-year-old woman. The state’s case was presented by prosecutor Nafeeza Baig, while attorney-at-law Surihya Sabsook is on record for Mooloo. The matter has been adjourned until July 12, 2022, for the presentation of a probation report and sentencing.

According to court records, Ramsingh died after being badly beaten the day before by her reputed husband. Mooloo, reports state, repeatedly struck the woman with an iron bar causing several injuries, including a broken pelvis and a fractured spine, which rendered her immobile. The woman died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) while receiving treatment.

Jury empanelled for retrial into Sophia bread vendor murder A MIXED 12-member jury was, on Tuesday, empanelled before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, at the Demerara High Court, for the retrial of Neville Forde, who is accused of murdering Sophia bread vendor, Andre Melroy Alexander, in 2017. Forde pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that, on May 5, 2017, in the County of Demerara, he murdered Alexander in the course or furtherance of a robbery. The trial is expected to commence on Monday, June 27, 2022. In 2019, Forde was tried for the capital offence alongside former co-accused Shaquelle Grant called

MURDER ACCUSED: Neville Forde ‘Soldier Man,’ before Justice Navindra Singh. However, Grant was freed after the judge upheld a no-case submission in his favour. The jury was unable to arrive at a verdict

DEAD: Andre Melroy Alexander against Forde. Reports are that, on the said date, Alexander was at his bread stand at Dennis Street, Sophia, when two men rode up on a motorcycle. The pillion rider requested three loaves of bread and paid with a $5,000 note. While Alexander was in the process of making the change, the same pillion rider whipped out a gun and demanded cash. When the man put up a fight, the robber discharged two rounds, one of which struck him (Alexander) in the stomach. The robbers relieved Alexander of his cash and also escaped with the three loaves of bread. Alexander died the very night during surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Raywatram Mooloo and the late Gomattie Ramsingh

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

President Ali leads team to Rwanda for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali, First Lady Mrs Arya Ali and a team of government officials left Guyana, on Tuesday, to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda. President Ali will join Commonwealth leaders in Rwanda under the theme

“Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, Transforming,” to reaffirm their common values and agree on actions and policies to improve the lives of their citizens. Decisions taken at the CHOGM will also guide the work programme of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Although engagements

are carded for the entire week, including a Commonwealth Business Forum and a climate change event, the official opening of the CHOGM will take place on Friday, June 24. This will be followed by the main high-level meetings of Heads on Friday and Saturday. The Commonwealth meeting was

initially scheduled to take place in June of 2020 but was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Accompanying the President are the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Foreign Affairs and International Coopera-

tion, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper. Following the CHOGM in Kigali, President Ali and the First Lady will be travelling to Suriname to participate in the Suriname Energy Oil & Gas Summit & Exhibition (SEOGS) 2022 in Paramaribo, from June 27 to June 28.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

UN reps hail China’s Global Development Initiative as accelerator to achieving 2030 Agenda

By Zhang Hui and Zhao Juecheng

A GLOBAL development report released on Monday put forward policy recommendations to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in eight aspects. This was an important move for China to implement the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and the China proposed GDI was hailed by many UN representatives and ambassadors who believed the initiative is an accelerator to achieving the UN develop-

ment goals. The Global Development Report, published by the Centre for International Knowledge on Development, analysed the progress and challenges in implementing the 2030 Agenda including deteriorating global food security and the rise in extreme poverty, explained the core concepts, fundamental principles, implementation pathways and early harvests of the GDI, and offered policy recommendations for building a global community of development.

For example, in addressing the challenges of digital transformation, the report said automated production lines and intelligent robots could replace a large number of workers, which may lead to the disappearance of traditional labor-intensive occupations, and it is estimated that between 2020 and 2025, around 850 million jobs will be replaced by machines. Focusing on the severe challenges facing the world, especially the developing countries, the report sought to renew focus on development

issues, build international consensus, and explore pathways for practical cooperation. At the launch of the report on Monday, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that the GDI provided an “accelerator” for implementing the 2030 Agenda, paved a fast track for development and offered an effective platform for all parties to align their development policies and deepen practical co-operation. Chinese President Xi Jin-

ping will host the High-level Dialogue on Global Development in Beijing this week, where he and leaders of emerging markets and developing countries will discuss ways to promote global development and make a new start in international development co-operation, Wang said. The GDI, proposed by President Xi at the General Debate of the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly in 2021, tackles the most urgent challenges in global development and focuses on eight priority areas: poverty reduction, food security, COVID-19 and vaccines, financing for development, climate change and green development, industrialisation, digital economy and connectivity, the report said. It stressed that the GDI is not intended to replace existing international development agenda or to dilute the 2030 Agenda or cherry-pick the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but to re-commit to the SDGs, to revitalise global partnerships and to reactivate international development co-operation. The GDI has received warm responses from the international community, with more than 100 countries expressing their support. Carlos Watson, the Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of

the United Nations (FAO) in China, said the China-proposed GDI is welcomed by the international community and by UN agencies because it’s an accelerator to reach to the 2030 agenda. The GDI is the first initiative that has the main objective of accelerating the achievement of the SDGs, which unfortunately are offtrack, Watson said. “If we don’t act now, we will probably not reach our common goal,” he said. The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Representative to China Stephen Bainous Kargbo said that the GDI is open to bringing in partners, and it’s a very privileged opportunity for the government of China to have invited UNIDO to be part of the formulation of the GDI to bring in what the UN believes are setting norms and standards. He said China is significant, open and inclusive in promoting the UN 2030 agenda. In January 2022, the Group of Friends of the GDI was launched at the UN, and more than 50 countries have joined the group so far. Egyptian Ambassador to China Mohamed Elbadri told the Global Times that Egypt is among the friends of the GDI at the UN, and is looking forward to working see page 19

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Alignment being cut for Timehri to Bartica Road

WORK is expected to commence soon on the road linking Timehri Region Four (East Bank Demerara) and Bartica Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill. The minister, in making this announcement at the recent commissioning of the DCSN Manufacturing Inc. concrete batching plant, said that the cutting of the alignment of the road from Sand Hills to Bartica is currently ongoing; this is a major step that is taken before the work on the road begins. Minister Edghill said the project would improve the commute between the coast and the hinterland, by significantly reducing travel time, since commuters would no longer have to travel to Parika, then journey to Bartica, and vice versa. The Public Works Minister, during a visit to the Timehri section of the proposed route, said: “The possibility of a road from Bartica to Timehri is no longer an idea, it is something that is doable.” He related that the project would supplement a

similar road link to be done from Bartica to Parika, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). That link will eventually see a network stretching from Parika to Goshen and onwards to Bartica. Likewise, citizens will not have to travel to Linden, then to Rockstone, through to Sherima Crossing for a barge, and then make their way to Bartica. The minister added that the project also ties into other major infrastructural works such as the Schoonord to Parika alignment. Like the other major roadworks, the Bartica-Timehri route will open up new lands, leading to an increase in agriculture, trade, housing, and tourism opportunities. In outlining the plan, Minister Edghill had said: “We will go to the drawing board with the coordinates. We will look at all of the practicalities and of course, the shortest possible route is what we will be examining. We will probably have to get a geologist to do some soil testing to ensure that

UN reps hail China’s Global Development Initiative as accelerator ... from page 18 with other friends in pushing forward the initiative. Elbadri said he hopes a synergy could be established between GDI and the 27th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 27) to the UNFCCC, in Egypt in November, as COP 27 is an integral part of the sustainable development. Several foreign representatives said China has played a responsible leading role in addressing many acute challenges facing the world, such as global poverty, food security and public health. Pierre Krähenbühl, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross’s Regional Delegation for East Asia, told the Global Times that China has shown leadership in the COVID-19 response, and the ICRC will work with China on the equitable distribution of vaccines, among other health issues. He listed China’s contribution in Afghanistan, where China built two hospitals and the ICRC benefitted from Chinese perspectives and Chinese experiences. The report said the GDI is being translated from concept to reality, with concrete results from co-operation projects in the eight priority areas. For example, in February, the China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Action Co-operation Centre was inaugurated to support relevant countries in enhancing their capacity to cope with climate change and carry out relevant studies.

we have materials in the closest proximity for the building of that road.” Further, he said the ministry will later decide on the best option to facilitate barge crossings where the road terminates at both the Timehri and

Bartica sections. Minister Edghill noted that this massive road link is in keeping with the government’s vision of enhancing accessibility across the country. In keeping with its plans to develop and up-

grade the infrastructure across the country, the government has allocated some $76.7 billion for roads and bridges under the Ministry of Public Works in the 2022 budget. Of the $76.7 billion,

$49.2 billion will be spent on roads, while the remaining $27.5 billion will go towards bridges. This year’s allocation for roads and bridges is a $55.6 billion increase over what was set aside and approved in 2021.

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

Commonwealth places spotlight on ending violence against women, girls By Rabindra Rooplall in Kigali, Rwanda

UNDER the theme, “Delivering a Common Future: Transforming for Gender Equality,” the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) week of activities, kicked off on Monday with a forum that addressed women in leadership, women’s economic empowerment, and engaging men and boys, as well as different generations, in ending violence against women and girls. The opening of the Commonwealth Women’s Forum (CWF) in Rwanda was attended by Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary-General; H.E. Jeannette Kagame, First Lady of Rwanda, and over 600 participants. The Rwandan First Lady officially opened the forum. Mrs. Kagame said the role played by women in peace-building has been the cornerstone of Rwanda’s development. She said: “The 2022 Kigali CHOGM Women’s Forum does not just occur in a country that consistently pushes for the emergence and recognition of women in leadership. It occurs in a country where rape was

used barely three decades ago as a weapon of war. Today, Rwanda is ranked by the World Economic Forum as the seventh country in the world for closing the gender gap.” Mrs. Kagame said that the world today is faced with a multitude of crises, which only serve to further widen the gender gap and deepen the economic divide, adding to the challenges women and girls are already facing. She added that the situation has already been exacerbated by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, which, among other things has increased inflation, disrupted trade and led to an increase in the cost of debt. Meanwhile, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, used the opportunity to call for closer co-operation among the 54 member states to achieve gender equality and women empowerment. “This Women’s Forum and this CHOGM is our opportunity to build on our Commonwealth advantage. Our similar systems of democratic governance, of common law, of common language, of compatible institutions, drive progress for which we all hun-

ger and thirst,” Baroness Scotland said. She saluted Rwanda as a champion of gender equality and women’s empowerment, adding that the country was a fitting host for Africa’s first-ever Commonwealth Women’s Forum. At the CWF meeting, discussions surrounding the Economic Cost of Violence Against Women and Girls Guidelines, which utilises a new framework to determine the cost of violence for various economic and state sectors, was launched. The 2022 Women’s Forum attracted a record number of participants from across the Commonwealth with over 600 registered. The forum continued Tuesday with panel discussions on climate change, human capital development and women and peace-building before it concluded with a special session on conquering cervical cancer. Further, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd are expected to arrive on Wednesday evening ahead of three days of packed agendas. After being postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rwanda is finally host-

Rwanda’s First Lady, Jeannette Kagame (left) and Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Baroness Patricia Scotland, during the opening of the Commonwealth Women’s Forum ing the meeting in Kigali from Monday, June 20 to Sunday, June 26, 2022. P r e c e d e d b y s e veral fora, the central high-level meetings of the Heads of Government are set for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. FINDING SOLUTIONS Meanwhile, building on the previous day’s momentum, the second day of the Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF) saw more than 350 young people working on a Youth Declaration that will be handed to Commonwealth Heads for consideration at their summit later this week. Monday’s meeting also saw the launch of the A4HPV – a taskforce under the Commonwealth Youth Health Network focused on advocating for action toward cervical cancer elimination. Additionally, the Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) commenced on Tuesday and brought together government leaders, captains of industry and business executives, leaders of global and regional development institutions,

young entrepreneurs and representatives of trade and investment organisations from across the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Business Forum is the first and largest in-person gathering for governments and businesses across the Commonwealth since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing together over 1,500 delegates from Commonwealth member states. Throughout the three days of the forum, participants will explore topics such as financing future growth, trade and regional integration, sustainability, inclusive and resilient food systems and the future of work. There will be several sessions with discussions that shape agendas, generate insights, and share best practice knowledge on strategies businesses in the Commonwealth can apply as they build back post pandemic. Speaking about the forum, Clare Akamanzi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board, said: “We welcome all our delegates to the Commonwealth Business Forum. The wait is over. Now is the

time to discuss together the big ideas and tangible solutions that will drive the global reset after the pandemic but also shape a Commonwealth that is equitable, sustainable and resilient.” Lord Marland, Chair of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, said: “Rwanda is a fantastic host for CBF 2022. Together, we have been able to convene experts and business leaders from every region of the Commonwealth and delegates representing a cross-section of critical Commonwealth sectors. CBF 2022 will showcase the immense opportunities across the Commonwealth to a global business audience and provide a valuable opportunity to connect.” At least 40 Heads of State and Government from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas, the Caribbean and the Pacific will convene to discuss this year’s theme. At the end of the meeting, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame is expected to take over from UK’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, as the chair of the Commonwealth for the next two years.

guyana CHRONICLE wednesday, june 22, 2022

India contributes to enhancement of Guyana’s rice industry OWING to scholarships from the Government of India, many scientists at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) have been able to acquire knowledge that is being used to increase rice yields and improve other crops. This was according to India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Dr. Srinivasa said that most scientists have done their Masters and PhDs through fully paid scholarships from the Government of India. “They have been able to contribute to increasing the rice yield which was below I think two tonnes per hectare; now it is almost eight tonnes per hectare,” he related. Guyana’s rice industry has been performing exceptionally and this was evidenced by the period January to March 2022, when the industry raked in approximately US$37,022,500, an equivalent of more than G$7.7 billion in export earnings. Those earnings were derived from the exportation of approximately 49,304 tonnes of rice and rice products during the first quarter of 2022. Importantly, export revenues from rice are expected to grow even more, since many farmers across the country are still harvesting paddy from the year’s first rice crop, which commenced with countrywide sowing in November 2021. At that time, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) had projected a bumper harvest, with most

of the rice-producing regions being on target with their sowing. National sowing projections for the current crop were pegged at an overall target of 227,240 acres. Last year, even with massive floods, the rice industry was still able to remain afloat, earning export revenues totalling G$42.2 billion, an equivalent of US$201 million, resulting from the exportation of approximately 434,535 tonnes of rice, paddy, and its by-products. Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, had previously said that ongoing developments in the rice industry signal an even wider space for industry growth in 2022. “We now have close to about 42 countries where we are exporting rice and we are looking to improve on that,” Minister Mustapha had previously told the government’s Department of Public Information. Although the May 2021 floods devastated thousands of households and destroyed hundreds of hectares of farmlands, the government’s $7.8 billion flood-relief programme was enough to enable the majority of affected rice farmers to return to their fields and resume production. In January of this year, as part of the government’s landmark $552.9 billion budget, additional recovery mechanisms and measures were included, and these are expected to serve as a springboard for further advancement of Guyana’s rice industry. For 2022 alone, the rice industry is projected to ‘cop’ earnings in the vicinity of US$288.6 million, an equivalent of more than G$60.3 billion.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Ministers Ramson, Manickchand praise GCB/Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ Schools cricket launch — GCB boss hails President Ali for unwavering support of cricket By Clifton Ross

MINISTERS of Sport and Education respectively, Charles Ramson Jr. and Priya Manickchand, on Tuesday, welcomed the launching of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ Schools cricket tournament, both citing the move as monumental and groundbreaking. The event was held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) and featured a number of local and overseas cricketers, such as West Indies legend Courtney Walsh who was on hand. Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, executives of the GCB, media, but importantly, students from a number of schools across the country were also present. Minister Ramson, who eloquently gave the feature address alongside his fellow Minister, Manickchand, during his time at the podium, pointed out a num-

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Charles Ramson Jr, during his feature address

ber of great avenues which will be derived all from this new, ground-shaking launch. Ramson added that it is the hope of the venture that more youths will be involved in cricket. He said the previous initiatives by the government, some of which included the $200M community grounds restoration project, will continue to play big part in development, as the government is expected to up

their spending with regards to community development, by pumping an additional $250M this year, going forward. Traits such as teamwork, respect, discipline and collective cooperative efforts were among some of the areas Minister Ramson believed will be top areas of focus when the project gets underway. The Sports Minister also pointed out that all current plans to develop sports or in this aspect, cricket, is all courtesy of President Irfaan Ali, who has shown his full support for the growth of the sport while hoping that the country can advance together as we celebrate our rich sports culture. Also, Minister Ramson added that the CASH will undergo a whopping $130M restoration project soon, something he said will play a key role especially with other international venues earmarked for construction in the near future locally. Giving more insight into the logistics of incorporating

academics with sports, the Education Minister Priya Manickchand said she was extremely happy to see the youths having much emphasis placed on their development, especially through sport. The Minister revealed that coming from a family fond of cricket, it was easier to have a more genuine affection for sports. Minister Manickchand noted that the current goal is to produce wholesome, healthy students especially coming off the back of COVID-19 and its restrictions. She believes that this program will allow kids to have more affinity for academics, while it allows them to properly hone in on the necessary skills they want to equip the next generation with. Learning at least one foreign language, knowing how to play at least one musical instrument, are just a few of the plans the Minister said will be incorporated into the overall development of our students. Meanwhile, GCB boss,

Bissondyal Singh during his speech, credited President Ali for his continued, unwavering support of cricket. Singh thanked Republic Bank for their support and financial assistance while highlighting that training for teachers in Physical Education (PE) among other areas is a big part of equipping those with the necessary tools. Last summer in St. Lucia, the first trial run of the ‘Five for Fun’ got underway and according to Ms. Karen Tom Yew, Republic Bank’s General Manager, it’s great to have such a scope to help bring up new talents. Also, Stephen Grell, the bank’s Managing Director, echoed similar sentiments but was more excited about the prospect of Guyana being the next territory to break this allnew ground for sports and academics. M e a n w h i l e , t h e p ro gramme is set to bowl off from September and will target over 75 schools from across Guyana.

Guyana’s MMA fighters begin quest for... (Compliments of Team Mohamed’s, GYMMAF, & National Sports Commission)

From page 32

The team, which is made up of members of the Guyana Police Force, will see Shenese Bobb (Lightweight), Trevlon Clarke

(Welterweight), and Carl Ramsay (Heavyweight) being tasked with securing the country’s first medals at their second IMMAF event. Ijaz Cave, the other member of the team, was not cleared by IMMAF officials upon his arrival in Mexico, following his ‘TKO’ defeat to Sweden’s Robin Enontekio in quarterfinals of Men’s Light Heavyweight division at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Jiu-Jitsu Arena in January. Cave and Corwin D’Anjou were the two athletes representing the Land of Many Waters at the IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi, and while they both failed to make it past their first fight, the Traffic Policeman had an unfortunate ending to his campaign. The Swedish fighter hit Cave so hard, that the knockout prompted IM-

MAF officials to keep the Guyanese overnight at a hospital in Abu Dhabi for observance under their concussion protocol. The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GYMMAF) said it was regrettably unfortunate that Cave, who is the most experienced athlete on the squad was unable to participate due to a thorough and detailed review done by Guyana’s lone neurosurgeon Dr Amarnauth Dukhi. According to the GYMMAF, Dr Dukhi’s assessment of Cave was crosschecked by the IMMAF medical commission which has outlined their acceptance of the document sent by the Guyanese doctor. The evaluation was verified by medical charity Safe MMA. The IMMAF has partnered with Safe MMA, which independently controls the clearance of athletes prior to their

participation in sanctioned competition, maintains medical records and provides medical advice to competitors. Safe MMA’s panel comprises numerous medical professionals, who are non-partisan and mandated to prioritise the health of athletes. Thought not certain why the GYMMAF, despite Dr Dukhi’s review went ahead and selected Cave, president, Gavin Singh, said they’re disappointed that Cave will not be able to compete, especially since he would’ve worked hard and dedicated his time to compete in the tournament. Singh said, “however, health is more important, and we can’t put a price on health and that is why IMMAF has these health safety protocols and regulations. What we will be looking at is for him to give moral support and encouragement to the team, as he

will be there for the duration of the tournament.” Meanwhile, Bobb will become the first female to represent Guyana at an IMMAF event with one of three fighters in her division. Both Carl Ramsay and Trevlon Clarke will be making their respective MMA debuts in Monterrey. Clarke competed at a Kempo Karate Open held in Barbados in 2018 and won three medals. As for Ramsay, he will enter a five-man heavyweight division against some tough opposition in search of gold. Mohamed’s Enterprise and KFC Guyana are the two major sponsors for the team, while exclusive coverage in Chronicle Sport and on NCN Sports was made possible by Team Mohamed’s, the National Sports Commission and the GYMMAF.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Djokovic top men’s seed for Wimbledon in absence of Medvedev, Zverev

(REUTERS)-Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic will head into next week’s tournament as the men’s top seed with Russian world number one Daniil Medvedev banned from taking part while Germany’s second-ranked Alexander Zverev is out injured. Organisers of the grasscourt Grand Slam have banned players from Russia and Belarus from playing at this year’s Wimbledon following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, which Russia calls a ‘special operation’. Zverev had surgery on torn ligaments in his right ankle this month after he was forced to retire from his French Open semi-final against Rafael Nadal. Djokovic, who was unable to defend his 2021 Australian Open title and the 2,000 ranking points he earned due to his non-vaccinated status against COVID-19, recently lost his world number one spot to Medvedev. The Serbian, who has won the last three editions of

Novak Djokovic has won the last three editions of Wimbledon

the grasscourt major, will slip further down the rankings after Wimbledon as he will lose another 2,000 points with the ATP and WTA stripping the tournament of points. The absence of Medvedev and Zverev means Nadal, who is halfway through a possible calendar year Slam after winning the Australian and French Open titles, to be seeded second. It also results in Djokovic and Nadal finding themselves in different halves of the draw and they cannot face each other until the men’s final on July 10. The duo met in this year’s Roland Garros quarter-final where the Spaniard triumphed.

Britain has two players in the top 10 seeds at their home major with Cameron Norrie ninth while U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu is 10th in the absence of Belarussian Aryna Sabalenka. Poland’s world number one Iga Swiatek will be the women’s top seed with Estonian Annett Kontaveit the number two. Wimbledon organisers had previously used a computer-based system favouring results on grasscourts in the previous two years to determine the seedings but from the 2021 edition seedings mirror the world rankings.

Matthew Nandu continues fine form in Kaieteur’s victory

KAIETEUR continued their winning ways, registering their third successive victory in as many weekends when the Brampton-Etobicoke & District Cricket League (BEDCL) 2022 season continued last Saturday. Playing at the Laurel Creek Park on Saturday, Kaiteur defeated Canadian Eagles by 130 runs in a lop-sided affair in the Premier League Conference A fixture. Led by a brilliant 75, which was decorated by six fours and a six off 78 balls from Guyana and West Indies Under-19 batsman Matthew Nandu and supporting knocks from openers Mahendra Jaipersaud, who slammed

Marcel (left) and Matthew Nandu after last Saturday’s game

a fine 51 (58 balls) with four fours and 47, with three fours, from Miguel Nandu, Kaiteur reached a challenging 252 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. Pritiipal Sandhu was Canadian Eagles best bowler with four for 48 from nine overs.

Canadian Eagles, in reply, struggled throughout their innings with only Parmpreet Sandhu putting up a fight, with a defiant 42 off 40 balls, laced with seven fours as Marcel Nandu captured four for 31 and Praveeth Jhappan two for 30.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Asalanka fashions Sri Lanka’s first ODI series win over Australia in 30 years

IN what turned out to be a last-ball finish, Sri Lanka held their nerve to seal a thrilling four-run win at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, thereby completing a first ODI series win

over Australia in 30 years. After Charith Asalanka’s maiden ODI century gave Sri Lanka 258 on the board, the hosts threw 43 overs of spin at their opponents and emerged victorious despite some

late hiccups. The tourists needed 19 off the last over with only one wicket in hand. But Kuhnemann gave Sri Lanka a scare by showcasing some improvisation. The No.10 batter

Charith Asalanka recorded his first ODI century for Sri Lanka sliced Dasun Shanaka for a boundary off the second ball, and followed it up by lapping and lofting the Sri Lanka captain to bring the equation down to five off one ball. Shanaka then used the slower ball and pitched it around back of a length, with Kuhnemann spooning a catch to the fielder at cover. The wicket led to wild celebrations in the Sri Lankan camp as well as fans in the stands. For a large part of Australia’s innings, David Warner (99 runs) had kept his side in the hunt by blending rotation of strike with aggressive batting. The opener lost his batting partner, Aaron Finch, in the third over when he was trapped in front by the incoming delivery from Chamika Karunaratne. Warner then decided to take the attack to the opposition bowlers by cracking a couple of boundaries through the cover-region off Maheesh Theekshana in the fourth over. He continued to take advantage of Theekshana’s tendency to bowl

short and added one more boundary to his tally in the sixth over. Warner then brought out the sweep and reverse sweep to counter the Sri Lanka spearhead Wanindu Hasaranga. Mitchell Marsh, who isn’t exactly renowned for employing the reverse sweep, also used the stroke in the 10th over. With Warner and Marsh stitching a fifty plus stand, Australia seemed to be edging ahead. But they were pegged back when Dunith Wellalage induced Marsh to edge one to the slip fielder. Marnus Labuschagne, who replaced Marsh at the crease, struggled to gauge the conditions and soon fell LBW to Jeffrey Vandersay. Alex Carey was the next man to be dismissed, losing his wicket to Hasaranga. With Australia in a spot of bother, Travis Head gave Warner the required support as the pair strung together a partnership of 58. Both batters played a few fluent drives to put the pressure on the opposition. Just when Australia again seemed to be taking ascendancy, Sri Lanka were able to make the

incision, with Dhananjaya de Silva removing Head. The dangerous Glenn Maxwell then fell LBW Theekshana’s off-break. Initially, the loud appeal was turned down but Sri Lanka got it overturned via the review. Dhananjaya then bagged the prized scalp of Warner one short of his 19th ODI ton by dragging the southpaw out of the crease with a delivery that turned enough. Niroshan Dickwella duly whipped the bails off. The lower order tried to take the side past the finishing line but to no avail. Earlier, Charith Asalanka had cracked his maiden ODI hundred as Sri Lanka finished with a competitive score. The hosts, who were inserted into bat, found themselves in early trouble as Niroshan Dickwella, Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka were dismissed within the first 10 overs. With Sri Lanka in a precarious position, Dhananjaya and Asalanka joined forces to prop up the innings with a stand of 101.Eventually, Dhananjaya was dismissed attempting a pull shot off Mitchell Marsh. Despite losing his batting partner, Asalanka continued to play with a calm head on his shoulders and found an able ally in Wellalage. Kuhnemann broke the promising stand by removing Wellalage and followed it up by sending Chamika Karunaratne back to the hut. At that stage, Hasaranga collected a couple of boundaries off Kuhnemann in the 45th over to keep the scorecard moving. In the same over, Aslanka completed his first ODI century with a single. The southpaw fell to Cummins’s cutter in the 48th over. In the very next over, Sri Lanka lost their last two wickets to run outs and were bowled out. (Cricbuzz)

Mandolall, Ramoutar among outstanding performers …as OSCL season continues

THE Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) 2022 season continued over the last weekend with several players recording outstanding performances and defending champions Mercenary maintaining their unbeaten run in the 20-over affairs. Former Guyana Under-19 batsman, Essequibian Rovendra Mandolall slammed a belligerent 86 off 48 balls, an innings that contained three fours and nine sixes as Carr Tec made light work of Essequibo Coast at the Ashtonbee Number 3 ground while Better Hope’s Rakesh Ramoutar turned in a fine all-round performance as his team thrashed Ramblers by 90 runs at Dean Park. Winning the toss, and electing to take first strike, Carr Tec reached an imposing 199 for one in their allotted 20 overs. Apart from Mandolall, opener Parbhu Balkaran hit an undefeated 67 with eight fours and two sixes while former Guyana Under-19 player Eion Katchay was

left unbeaten on 34 (19 balls) when the overs expired. Katchay struck two fours and three sixes. Essequibo Coast were bundled out for a paltry 60 in 14.3 overs with Katchay returning to claim three for eight, Munesh Bhopaul took three for 11 and Rudy Bhopaul two for 12. Over at Dean Park, openers Ramoutar and Amit Arjun both hit 51 as Better Hope made a challenging 170 for three in 20 versus Ramblers with Rafel Bodhu taking two for 21. Ramblers were shut out for 80 in 17.1 overs with Ramoutar returning to bag five for seven in his four overs while Shameer Latiff ended with two for 15. Mercenary enjoyed another terrific weekend with easy wins on both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, they defeated Caribbean Sensation by a whopping 114 runs while Enmore were beaten by 114 runs on Sunday.

Led by 52 from Zaheer Allard, which included two fours and three sixes and 40 from Kristopher Karran (one four and three sixes), Mercenary hit 189 for five in their 20 overs. Terrence Van Sertima took three for 39. Caribbean Sensation were left high and dry on 85 for nine when their 20 overs ended with Bholanauth Sukhu claiming four for 13 in four overs. On Sunday, Mercenary again batted first and got to 155 for seven in 20 overs with Shaun Deonandan slamming one four and six sixes in a top score of 51 while opener Avish Rukhram hit 38 with four fours and a six. Skipper Shiv Persaud took two for 13 in his four overs.a Enmore were sent packing for 41 in 11.5 overs with Mahendranauth “Bobby” Parasnauth bagging three for five, Rabindranuth Diaram two for four and Sukhu two for 12 (Frederick Halley)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

England’s Overton twins Craig and Jamie hope for slice of history at Headingley

THE last time the Overton twins shared a field it ended up with elder brother Craig nursing a concussion, but he and Jamie are hoping to make happier memories, and a slice of history, at Headingley this week. The 6ft 5in seamers are standing by should England decide to rotate their pace attack during the third and final LV= Insurance Test against New Zealand, with the series already secure and a one-off clash against India following close at hand. For the uncapped Jamie, who is the younger sibling by three minutes, it is uncharted territory, while Craig is hoping to add to his eight previous caps. The duo have played together numerous times over the years, with North Devon, Somerset and England Under-19s, but came head to head in first-class cricket for the first time just a matter of days ago. Jamie, who left Taunton for Surrey in 2020, struck his brother on the helmet with a rapid bouncer during a county championship match last week leading to a delayed concussion diagnosis. Craig was substituted out of the match and had to pass return-to-play protocols on Tuesday morning before taking part in England’s training session.

“I think any sibling rivalry is always going to have a bit of extra spice and me and Craig are probably even spicier than most people,” said Jamie. “It’s always gonna heat up a little bit when we play each other, but that competitive edge is a nice thing. The family obviously didn’t like seeing Craig on the floor but I think they would have told us off it we weren’t giving our all; if we didn’t, Dad would definitely tell us off.” Craig is quick to claim he was beaten for “lack of pace” and was simply too early on the pull, but also admits Jamie is the fastest bowler he has faced this season. Despite their physical similarities, they have become very different bowlers with Jamie more unpredictable, appreciably quicker and more injury prone. Craig, meanwhile, has settled for a less explo-

M AN C H ES TE R , England, (Reuters) Soccer’s world governing body FIFA has moved to help protect foreign players affected by the conflict in Ukraine by allowing them to suspend their contracts until June 2023. Earlier this month, Andriy Pavelko, president of Ukraine’s football federation, revealed

details of discussions with the heads of FIFA and UEFA about resuming men’s and women’s matches in the country in a safe manner in August. Foreign players contracted to Ukrainian clubs have mostly fled since Russia invaded the country back in February, with it remaining uncertain as to whether they will return, should

Craig (left) and Jamie Overton have played together numerous times over the years (Martin Rickett/PA)

sive style that has seen him become a more prolific wicket-taker and, until now, higher achiever. “I think you can see with Craig’s first-class stats, he doesn’t really miss a length very often. I might be a bit more wayward, but potentially with a few more magic balls in there,” Jamie added Craig, meanwhile, is content with his role as the more-reliable option. He said: “I’m not the one who can bowl at 90 miles per hour, that’s not me, so I’ve always been that person who bowls steadily. “I haven’t had that x-factor that you sometimes need, but I know I can hit line and length pretty well and try to use my skills a bit more than brute force and brute pace. “As I’ve got older I’ve understood that a bit more. I’ve tried to do the basics, not go for many runs and let

him hit people in the head.” If it does come down to one place between two Overtons in Leeds, there will no hard feelings, with the same question having come up plenty of times before. “It’s been like that since we were 16 years old. My first game of first-class cricket we were competing for the same spot and I ended up playing,” recalled Craig. “We’d both said to each other ‘whatever happens, we’ll be supportive’ and we’ve always been like that. We want what’s best for the team and if that means one of us misses out, that’s the way it is.” Jamie also remembers selection going for and against him at different times, but having yet to make his Test debut he is eager to get the nod. “I remember him playing west of England before me, then I got through to the under-19s before Craig but then he got into the main squad before me,” he said. “It’s always worked that one has been ahead of the other and the other’s caught up. It sounds horrible but if this means I catch up and go one step ahead of him here, that would be amazing.”(PA Sport)

FIFA move to protect foreign players affected by Ukraine conflict the league begin again in two months time. As a result, FIFA will now allow players and coaches to take the decision to delay their return, and their contracts will remain in place. The relaxing of the rules is also an attempt to further punish Russia. Should clubs affiliated to the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) or the Football

Union of Russia (FUR) not reach a mutual agreement with their re s p e c t i v e f o re i g n players and coaches before or on 30 June 2022, and unless otherwise agreed in writing, these players and coaches will have the right to suspend their employment contracts with their clubs until 30 June 2023, a FIFA statement read.

Coleman, Richardson headline top at U.S. championships By Amy Tennery

(REUTERS) - Christian Coleman and Sha’Carri Richardson will battle to stake their claims as the king and queen of American track in Eugene, Oregon this week, as the 100 metres specialists headline the U.S. championships. The top three finishers in the meeting who meet certain qualifying standards and reigning global title-holders advance to the first world championships ever held in the United States at the same Oregon track starting on July 15. Returning world champion Coleman, who came back to action in January after serving an 18-month suspension for breaching anti-doping whereabouts rules, said he was “the same guy” he was when he grabbed the 2019 global title in 9.76 seconds. “I feel like it’s there,” Coleman told reporters after winning last week’s NYC Grand Prix 100m in 9.92. “When you have a long layoff, obviously it’s going to affect you in some kind of way, so this whole season to me is a learning experience.” He will be closely challenged by Olympic silver medallist Fred Kerley and U.S. Olympic trials champion Trayvon Bromell in one of the highlights of the meeting, which begins on Thursday. Kerley won the distance in 9.92 at the Rome Diamond League meet earlier this month, while Bromell produced a wind-aided 9.75 at the UNF Invitational in April. The ebullient fan-favourite Richardson, whose Olympic dreams ended early due to a 30-day suspension for a positive cannabis test, has declared for both the 100m and 200m. The 22-year-old finished a hundredth of a second off her personal best to win the 100m earlier this month in Florida in a wind-aided 10.73. “I feel phenomenal,” Richardson told reporters after producing a 10.85 to finish second behind compatriot Aleia Hobbs at the NYC Grand Prix. The meeting will also feature the last U.S. championship appearance by retiring Allyson Felix, the most decorated American athlete, in the 400m, and four-times world champion and twice Olympic triple jump gold medallist Christian Taylor, on a comeback mission after missing the Tokyo Games due to an injury.

The men’s 200m will be

Athletics - World Athletics Indoor Championships - Stark Arena, Belgrade, Serbia - March 20, 2022 Men’s 60 meters silver medallist Christian Coleman of the U.S. poses on the podium during the medal ceremony REUTERS/Aleksandra Szmigiel

Tokyo bronze medallist Noah Lyles’ sole focus, and Gabrielle Thomas, who collected bronze on the women’s side at the Games and is the third-fastest woman in the distance, will battle against Abby Steiner, who produced a season-leading 21.80 earlier this month. The women’s 400m hurdles will offer an epic rivalry between Sydney McLaughlin, who won gold in Tokyo in a world-record 51.46, and reigning World Champion Dalilah Muhammad. An intriguing rivalry also is taking shape in the men’s 110m hurdles, with world champion Grant Holloway’s title under threat from Devon Allen. The Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver beat Holloway in New York earlier this month in an all-time third-fastest 12.84 and is brimming with confidence ahead of Eugene, where he ran at college. “I would say I am just a great athlete. I bet that if I had played tennis 15 years ago, I would be a pro tennis player or golf, whatever,” he told reporters after winning the Oslo Diamond League meet. “I enjoy doing a lot of sports. It is really hard to be great at anything on this level.” Another Oregon favourite, world shot put record holder Ryan Crouser will face world champion Joe Kovacs, with Tokyo silver medallist Raven Saunders up against world indoor silver medallist Chase Ealey on the women’s side.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Serena makes winning return to tennis with doubles victory

SERENA Williams made a winning return to tennis after almost a year out as she teamed up with Ons Jabeur at Eastbourne. The 23-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive match since retiring after six games of her first-round match at Wimbledon last summer, an absence that has seen her slip down to 1204th in the singles rankings. Williams and Jabeur had to come from a set down before winning a super tiebreak to secure a 2-6 6-3 13-11 victory over Sara Sorribes Tormo and Marie Bouzkova in the opening round of the women’s doubles. The pair will be in quarter-final action on Thursday, when they play Shuko Aoya-

Serena Williams (right) teamed up with Ons Jabeur in her doubles match

ma and Chan Hao-ching. With Wimbledon less than a week away, Williams will be keen to get as much match practice as possible on the Eastbourne grass, ahead of her singles return at the All England Club. The 40-yearold has received a wildcard into the main draw. “It was great out there

and so fun to play with Ons - we had a lot of fun,” Williams said after the match. “Our opponents played amazing and we were happy to stay in there.” Williams remains one Grand Slam behind Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24, as the American has been for more than five years. Since

winning number 23, at the Australian Open in 2017 with victory over her sister Venus in the final, Williams has been beaten in four finals, including two at Wimbledon. Last year’s retirement resulted in just her second ever opening round defeat at a Grand Slam, across 79 tournaments, though she will be more vulnerable this time as an unseeded player. One opponent Williams will be keen to avoid in the early rounds is Iga Swiatek, the all-conquering world number one who has won her last 35 matches. The 21-year-old is looking to become the first female player to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year since Williams did so in 2015.(Yahoo Sport)

Head coach praises says `unique’ Brathwaite growing in captaincy

N O RT H S O U N D , Antigua, (CMC) –West Indies Head Coach Phil Simmons has said Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite is growing as a leader. He made the observation as he also praised the skipper for his determination in the opening Test against Bangladesh, which the Caribbean side won by seven wickets at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Sunday. The head coach had high praise for captain and opener Kraigg Brathwaite and fast bowler Kemar Roach. “He seems to be growing in the role as we go along,” Simmons said of the opening batsman who was named permanent captain in March last year. Brathwaite was a key factor in Sunday’s victory. Although missing out on his 11th Test hundred, he put the highest score on the board for the entire match – 94 – which he made from 268 balls over a total of 400 minutes.

Pollard ruled out of rest of Vitality Blast after knee surgery SURREY, England, (CMC) – Former West Indies white-ball captain Kieron Pollard is out for the rest of the Vitality Blast after having surgery for a knee injury. Kieron Pollard Pollard, the Surrey County Cricket Club’s overseas star, had sustained the injury early on in the side’s campaign in the Twenty20 competition, and the club said in a statement on Tuesday that despite treatment, “he has failed to improve significantly and therefore a decision was taken to gain a surgical opinion”. “He has undergone successful surgery this morning which will keep him out of action for the next four to six weeks whilst

he rehabilitates,” the statement said. Pollard said the development was “hugely frustrating as we have been a dominant force and I felt I was part of something special”. “But I wish the lads all the best for the rest of the campaign whilst I get myself fit and firing again,” he added. Surrey have five games remaining in the Group stages of the professional T20 cricket competition for English and Welsh firstclass counties. “We are disappointed to lose a player of Kieron’s quality and wish him a speedy recovery,” said Alec Stewart, Director of Cricket at Surrey County Cricket Club.

Former West Indies white-ball captain Kieron Pollard

The head coach had high praise for captain and opener Kraigg Brathwaite and fast bowler Kemar Roach

“I think everybody’s seen his determination and unique style. He doesn’t have a problem doing his job for five days, which is unique because a lot of batsmen nowadays like to play shots and be done with it,” Simmons said. “From his point of view, he wants to be there for the team. That rolls into the captaincy. He’s not loud but the players know what he wants. He

makes them understand in his unique way.” The head coach also praised fast bowler Kemar Roach – who passed a fitness test at the last minute to make the squad – for not only his performance in the first Test but for guiding the younger players. He said the 33-yearold who finished on 7 for 74 and was adjudged Player of the Match “has

taken things to the next level”. Roach is now tied with West Indies legend Michael Holding on 249 Test wickets. “ I n t h e d re s s i n g room, he is always leading the youngsters. He has played 70 Tests, so he educates them. It is great to have him in the dressing room,” Simmons said.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday June 22, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD -83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 64 (2) 19 Tests Today’s Quiz: (1) Who delivered the first ball of the recent first Test between the WI & Bangladesh? (2) Who faced it? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Guyana crush Leewards to book semi-final spot Regional Women’s Super50

THE four semi-finalists for the CG United Women’s Super50 Cup were confirmed Tuesday after Guyana defeated the Leeward Islands by eight wickets in the final group stage match at the Guyana National Stadium. The home’s emphatic win was set up by a terrific four-wicket haul with the new ball by Tremayne Smartt, the former West Indies player. MATCH SUMMARY: Leeward Islands 76 all out from 29.5 overs (Terez Parker 22; Tremayne Smartt 4-12, Cherry-Ann Fraser 3-19) vs Guyana 77-2 from 14.3 overs (Shemaine Campbelle 30*, Katana Mentore 16, Shabika Gajnabi 14*; Shawnisha Hector 1-7) Terez Parker was the lone Leewards batter to reach

going with a brisk 16 off 21, which included three boundaries. Leewards skipper Shawnisha Hector was the lone bowler to get a wicket, finishing with 3-0-7-1. The semi-finals will have some intriguing match-ups. Defending champions Barbados will face Trinidad & Tobago in the first contest on Tremayne Smart in action for Guyana

double figures and she struck a hard-fought 22 off 64 balls which included three boundaries, but her side slipped to 76 all out in 29.5 overs. Veteran seam bowler, Smartt cleaned up the Leewards batters with excellent figures of 10-2-12-4. This was followed by Cherry-Ann Fraser who was also accurate with her seam bowling to snatch 3-19 off eight overs. Guyana made light work

of the run-chase as skipper Shemaine Campbelle made a stylish 30 not out, which came off 35 balls and included four boundaries. At the other end Shabika Gajnabi chipped in with 14 not out off 12 balls with two fours to take their team to victory in 14.3 overs. The pair added an unbroken third-wicket stand of 36. Earlier, Katana Mentore got the home team innings

Martin Braithwaite arrives today for historic GFF/Denmark FA announcements

MARTIN Braithwaite, one of Denmark and Barcelona’s most recognisable players, will arrive in Guyana today for his June 22 – 24 visit on behalf of his country’s football federation and the Guyana Football Federation. Braithwaite, 31, is the son of a Guyanese and had longed spoke of his intention of return to his father’s country of birth and former home. Today, following his arrival, Braithwaite, will be introduced to the media as the Goodwill Ambassador of the Denmark/GFF partnership, where details of the two country’s collaboration will be given. Tomorrow, Braithwaite will visit tourist attractions in Georgetown, and pay a courtesy call on Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. He will also visit the proposed D’Urban Park site which will host the GFF’s planned national football stadium, before rounding off the day with a novelty futsal match at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. On June 24, the Barcelona forward will visit the place of his father’s birth in Charlestown and participate in the launch of the UEFA Assist/ DBU Women’s Development

Martin Braithwaite in action for Barcelona

League at the OFF National Training Centre. Before heading home to Europe, Braithwaite will also take time out to visit a grassroots football tournament and watch the GFF-Blue Water UIS Girls’ Development League at the GFF National Training Centre. GFF president, Wayne Forde, said the visit of a player of Braithwaite’s calibre and standing underlines the significance of the partnership

between the Denmark Football Association and his Federation, “and the importance that both organisations place on delivering real impact on the ground to develop football in Guyana.” According to Forde, the GFF is “extremely excited to welcome Martin to Guyana and we look forward to working with him in the future as we continue to build on this strong, close relationship with our Danish partners.”

Wednesday. Jamaica, who won the T20 Blaze, will continue their pursuit of the “double” when they face the home side on Thursday. Both matches start at 9:30 hours Eastern Caribbean (8:30 hours Jamaica Time). SEMI-FINAL MATCH SCHEDULE – CG United

Super50 Cup Semifinal 1: Wednesday, June 22 – Barbados vs Trinidad & Tobago (9:30 hours Eastern Caribbean/8:30 hours Jamaica Time) Semifinal 2: Thursday, June 23 – Jamaica vs Guyana (9:30 hours Eastern Caribbean/8:30 hours Jamaica Time)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Ministers Ramson, Manickchand praise GCB/Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ Schools cricket launch Story on page 26

-GCB boss hails President Ali for unwavering support of cricket

Organisers, sponsors, members and executives of the GCB, Ministers Priya Manickchand and Charles Ramson Jr, students and their coaches pose at Tuesday’s `Five for Fun’ schools cricket launch (Adrian Narine photos)

Guyana’s MMA fighters begin quest for MILO Schools U18 today at Pan Am Championships Football double-header medals (Compliments of Team Mohamed’s, GYMMAF, & National Sports Commission) on today, tomorrow MATCHES in the Milo Schools U18 football tournament will continue this afternoon at the Ministry of Education ground Carifesta Avenue. Sunday’s matches were shifted on account of the inclement weather with two matches on today and two more on tomorrow. In the first of the double-header from 17:00 hours, Ann’s Grove will play Uitvlught in an East vs West battle while at 18:30 hours, North Ruimveldt battle their East Ruimveldt counterparts. Tomorrow, Golden Grove Secondary will play Buxton Secondary from 17:00 hours while Saturday’s winners Dolphin Secondary and Charlestown will clash from 18:30 hours. The tournament, which was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic normally takes a round robin phase; however, for this year only, the competition will feature a straight knockout format. $300,000 will be awarded to the tournament’s winner which will go towards a school project. Second to fourth place will be awarded $200,000, $100,000 and $75,000 respectively, along with individual prizes for top performers.

Guyana’s MMA team in Monterrey, Mexico, ahead of the June 22 – 24 IMMAF Pan American Championship

AFTER months of preparation, Guyana’s (amateur) Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters will enter

the Octagon in Monterrey, Mexico today, where they will compete in this year’s International Mixed Mar-

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tial Arts (IMMAF) Pan American Championships. The event runs until June 24. Continued onpage 26

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22, 2022