Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-02-2023

Compensation necessary to support forest preservation, slow climate crisis

WITH Guyana demonstrating the importance that should be placed on forest conservation, Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jadgeo emphasised that those efforts must be well-compensated as part of the push to protect the earth from climate change.

Dr Jadgeo said this as he delivered the keynote address on Visionary Leadership for Mainstreaming Sustainable Development and Climate Resilience at the inaugural session of the World Sustainable Development Summit 2023 held in New Delhi, India on Wednesday.

He, warned that countries must avoid the extremes that often characterise global debate. According to him, nature should be preserved regardless of its impact on human beings but countries must be allowed to exploit their natural resources.

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VP Jagdeo tells India Summit

causes intensified disasters like rising sea-levels and flooding.

“I believe in the search for solutions somewhere in between those two extremes, there lies a lot of the solutions and answers that we are looking for,” Jadgeo said.

As such, he spent much of his presentation explaining how incentives can be provided to help countries sustainably develop their natural resources, particularly forests. This is important since forests are needed to help slow the ongoing climate crisis that

The Vice-President underscored that achieving 1.5-degree Celsius goal for global warming will never be achieved without bringing the forest as part of the mitigation solution. This is so, he said, because deforestation alone would cause about 15 to 18 per cent of global greenhouse gases with the largest emissions coming from the United States of America, China, India and Russia.

“Clearly, it’s important that we find the solution to this nature-based problem of deforestation. The forest can remove nearly 10 gigatons of (carbon dioxide) equivalent every year by 2050. It could provide more than 25 per cent of the solution to keep us on a 1.5 trajectory by 2030.

“So, clearly, the case

has been made that forests are important both for climate solutions leaving out even its impact on their biodiversity and ecosystem preservation.” he said.

Despite their importance, Dr Jadgeo stressed that until now, forests are not reflected in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change discussions “in a manner that will be advantageous” to those countries that have forests to preserve.

Further, the Vice President lamented the world still believes that the forest can be preserved by philanthropy, evidenced by the declaration that many countries signed on to end deforestation.

“The world believes that this could be achieved cheap (but) I believe you have the outcompete alternate use of the forests because forests are living beings, and people rely on them for livelihood.

“Countries rely on them for development, and the only way you can preserve them, in the long run, is to outcompete the alternate use of these forests. That means you have to create a system of incentives to do so,” the Vice-President explained.

GUYANA’S

LCDS

And according to him, Guyana already has a model that demonstrates how this can be done. That model is the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), a plan that was first implemented in 2009 when the Vice-President was Guyana’s President.

Now, the Irfaan Ali-led administrated updated and expanded the plan, allowing Guyana to sustainably leverage its natural re -

sources for national development. It also allows for Guyana to receive payments to keep protecting its forests through the sale of carbon credits.

Last December, the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions announced the issuance of 33.47 million TREES credit to Guyana for the five-year period from 2016 to 2020.

The Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) is a global initiative that seeks to certify the reduction of emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD), as well as restore forests and protect intact forests.

The Government of Guyana entered into an agreement with the Hess Corporation for the sale of carbon credits for a minimum of US$750 million between 2022 and 2032. The first payment from the Hess Corporation to Guyana for the sale of carbon credits has been made.

Initial receipts from the one carbon credit agreement completed to date will total US$150 million by the end of 2023 – with US$112.5 million already received and a further US$37.5 million to come in July 2023.

AMERINDIAN DEVELOPMENT

Further, this scheme resulted in the payment of US$22.5 million to Amerindian communities made from the first payment.

Since the government has committed 15 per cent of all carbon credit sales to Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples, he said continuous allocations to Amerindians will be made.

Those sums will be transferred to over 200 villages and communities for investment in village priorities, as outlined in

village plans put together by villages themselves. Ensuring a fair and equitable way to share these revenues across villages and communities was the topic of conversations between the National Toshaos’ Council and the government. Those discussions addressed considerations to achieve fairness across several factors were examined including size, tenure type, and population.

As a result of those conversations, a structure of equitable benefits sharing was determined as the best way forward to effectively reflect the development needs of villages with village population being the main determinant.

Beyond community development, as set out in the LCDS 2030 (Chapter Two), revenues from the sale of carbon credits will be invested through a combination of (i) national and multi-community projects and programmes; (ii) a dedicated 15 per cent of all revenues for investment in village plans, put together through village-led processes as set out in the LCDS 2030 (Chapter Two).

Dr. Jagdeo explained that the remaining monies will be used mainly to deal with climate adaptation and issues such as water management that impact the lives of Guyanese.

Overall, the Vice President believes that using those resources to tackle national development issues will help to better citizen’s lives. As such, he argued that more countries and global bodies should be supporting Guyana’s LCDS and similar plans.

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jadgeo

‘Development raging across Guyana’

- President Ali says gov’t committed to improving lives despite naysayers

AMID a torrential downpour at Brickdam, Georgetown, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali delivered stirring remarks ahead of Guyana’s 53rd anniversary as a Co-operative Republic, emphasising that development is ongoing rapidly throughout the country and his government has no intention of stopping or even stalling this progress.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and his family, and other officials and dignitaries for an event commemorating Guyana’s Republic Anniversary.

Before the cultural display, music from the marching bands and the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, President Ali stood before the gathering and voiced his unwavering

food producer and supplier and an industrial powerhouse- developments that are all happening as the country maintains its world-renowned environmental stewardship.

“Development is raging across our land while we protect and preserve the environment and the services which our varied ecosystem provides,” the Guyanese Head-of-State

In fact, he said developments in those sectors are just part of his government’s vision for development. What is also given much importance, he said, is the improvement of people’s lives and livelihoods. As such, he detailed efforts being made to deliver world-class healthcare services to people. Those efforts include the construction of new regional hospitals and countrywide upgrades. The President also said that emphasis is also placed on expanding access to education; as such, new schools are being built in regions across the country.

Even with the focus in these social sectors, he emphasised that there is no neglect of people’s security.

With the forthcoming Local Government Elections, the President also noted that local democracy is also being restored. And all of these efforts are being pursued as Guyana uses its updated Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) to keep it focused on sustainable development.

The area in front the Public Buildings, near the Stabroek Square, was transformed into a hive of patriotism as President Ali; First Lady Mrs. Arya Ali and their son, Zayd, joined

commitment to heralding Guyana’s new era of development.

That new era, he said, is underpinned by Guyana’s burgeoning position as an energy hub, a major

posited.

The expansion of the country’s productive sectors, however, are not the only noteworthy aspects of Guyana’s development, the President pointed out.

DEVELOPMENT DESPITE NAYSAYERS

Guyana, on Thursday, celebrates its 53 years since becoming a Cooperative Republic. The country made the decision to become a republic in 1970, just four years after it gained independence from British rule. And the President sought to ignite people’s patriotism as he spoke about the country’s future.

Though not averse to constructive criticism, Dr. Ali said naysayers will not daunt the government nor will they prevent the country from developing as rapidly as it is. Those naysayers, he said, have the propensity to “manufacture division and strife” but such efforts will not be tolerated.

“Our Republic is galloping into modernity, we

are laying the foundation for the post-2030 Guyana.

“One in which every child will have access to and benefit from quality education in classrooms that are safe, non-intimidating and equipped to bring out the best for him or her. One where every citizen will be able to walk

President highlighted. The country’s future, he said, also promises dignified lives for the country’s elderly and a harmonious future for every citizen under the ‘One Guyana’ umbrella. The ‘One Guyana’ initiative, the President said previously, is a new

into a regional hospital and receive expeditious treatment, and (one where) those who flout the law, will know [the] consequences to doing so,” the

movement that seeks to motivate Guyanese to work together for the upliftment of each other and the development of the country at large.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addressing Republic Anniversary event at the Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown

Dramatists hoist the Golden Arrowhead aboard the ‘One Guyana’ vessel

Cultural explosion! Dancers helped to usher in Guyana’s Republic Day anniversary on Wednesday night (Adrian Narine photos)

The Golden Arrowhead is hoisted to commemorate Guyana’s Republic Anniversary

‘We will expose, hold them accountable’

GUYANA has received an extension to submit its report on the country’s natural resources sector to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), President Dr Irfaan Ali said on Wednesday.

The Head-of-State, during a live broadcast on Wednesday, disclosed that several circumstances had led to the delay of the submission and Guyana, along with several other countries, has requested an extension.

It was reported that the country had failed to submit

its report and had therefore been suspended from the EITI. But Dr Ali clarified that the suspension is temporary and will be withdrawn once the report is submitted within the extended deadline, which is now May 2023.

“Notwithstanding the fact that an extension was given by EITI Secretariat to May this year to have that report completed, we still should have been in a position to have that report submitted,” he stressed.

Doing so, he lamented, was stalled by members of the Multi-Stakeholder Group

(MSG) who are part of the reporting process.

“For four months,” President Ali bemoaned, “the Multi-Stakeholder Group, MSG, had the ToR [Terms of Reference] for this administra-

- President Ali warns those who stalled EITI report

- Guyana gets extension to submit key document

Now, after four months, the ToR has been agreed upon with two persons abstaining. This is unacceptable, to put a country’s reporting framework at stake, and to try and damage the government’s credibility is not being a good citizen.”

sures associated with the oil and gas sector.

tor on pause.

“They did not approve the ToR for the administrator. This begs the question whether there are persons in that group with ulterior motives.

Even though there were a number of issues which prevented the data-collection process for the report, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the flooding of Guyana’s forests and hinterland, the President posited that the suspension could have been avoided as an independent administrator was hired to complete the report that is now the subject of the suspension.

Dr Ali said the ToR now has full approval, and work can continue to complete the report which, he committed, will be done expeditiously, long in advance of the extended period that was approved by the EITI Secretariat.

A consultant from the United Kingdom (UK) will soon be arriving in Guyana to help complete the report. And President Ali believes that Guyana will maintain its credentials on transparency and accountability.

“Guyana stands committed to working with the EITI Secretariat to fulfil the mandate,” the President maintained, adding that Guyana will strengthen the MSG to ensure the credibility and work in relation to transparency and accountability of the country’s natural resource sector is not affected by ulterior motives or desires.

NO TOLERANCE FOR LAPSES

President Ali further reassured Guyanese that persons who were responsible for the delay will be held accountable.

“One or two persons cannot drag an entire country and its credibility,” he said.

“We will spare no effort in advancing transparency and accountability,” Dr Ali also maintained, going as far as to stress that Guyana is the first country to legislate mandatory jail sentence for non-disclo-

Meanwhile, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, at a press briefing held earlier in the day, told reporters that the data requested for the report was readily available. The delay, however, was a result of the MSG wanting to discuss administrative issues rather than policies.

“Further delay was created because the civil society company on the MSG wanted to discuss the director’s position as a preference over discussing the terms of reference for the independent administrator,” he explained.

In March of last of year, Dr Prem Misir was appointed director of the GY-EITI; however, members of the MSG expressed disapproval of Dr Misir’s appointment and would have delayed the process due to this.

Minister Bharrat explained that the previous director, Dr Rudy Jadoopat, who had been in the position for some years, had exceeded his contract.

But he too believes the work will now move ahead and Guyana will be able to submit the report. In fact, he related that all of the required data has been submitted by the reporting agencies, namely the Guyana Gold Board, Guyana Geology And Mines Commission, National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), the Ministry of Finance and other reporting agencies.

The EITI is a multi-stakeholder group, which comprises governments, companies and civil societies who work collectively to maintain high standards in the extractive industries. EITI countries disclose information along the extractive industry value chain, which includes how extraction rights are awarded to how revenues are channelled through government and how the public benefits. More than 50 countries are a part of the EITI.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat

‘Mash’ set to make a big return

AFTER a two-year hiatus, Guyana’s national celebration after hard work, Mashramani, is making a big return on Thursday after various bodies spent weeks getting ready for the holiday and arguably, its most anticipated feature: the road parade.

Mashramani is a national observance, commemorating Guyana’s decision to become a Cooperative Republic in 1970, just four years after the country gained its independence from British colonial rule. It is a holiday that unites Guyanese from all walks of life, whether it is through the highly anticipated road parade or the “Children’s Mash.”

Leading up to the big event, preparations were put in place by many, from folks preparing their vivid costumes to strut the roads, to Government Ministries launching their bands to keep up with tradition. In

fact, ahead of Thursday’s parade, the Guyana Chronicle observed vendors setting up on Wednesday for the road parade.

Days before, the Ministry of Housing and Water-Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) launched its band under the theme, “Bridging Communities, Transforming Lives, as a One Guyana" at the agency's Brickdam, Georgetown headquarters.

In an effort to continue motivating the ‘housing’ staff, Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, urged them to continue doing their best.

“We have the privilege of being able to interact with people on a daily basis and we have the power to be able to bring relief to those people, as long as we do our work and we ensure that we deliver for our people” she said.

Currently holding the title for the Best Decorated Non-Commercial Building, CHPA will be defending its crown. This agency is also the reigning champion for best full costume (small) and is aiming to come bigger and better in 2023 under the medium category.

This year's costumes, which are intended to portray Guyana's development through the housing sector, are designed by Randy Madray.

On the other hand, on Monday, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, launched their band under the theme, “Fusing as one, together we thrive” at the Ministry’s South Road office.

Recognizing the hard work of the Ministry’s staff, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, provided words of encouragement in her address.

Labelling Mashramani as a time not only to celebrate our culture but also each other, the Tourism Minister further went on to urge those who will be on

the band to showcase the many things Guyana has to offer, such as our diverse and excellent culture.

Aiming to foster unification, the Minister also

said to the staff that this provides an opportunity for them “to grow together, to work together and for us to really celebrate each other.”

Soesdyke-Linden farmers get $6M ‘agri’ support

Development Authority (GLDA) will assist vulnerable groups with several tools and other implements, such as Acoushi Ants bait, seeds, seedlings, and other inputs to develop their production.

He also committed

MINISTER of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday handed over agricultural inputs valued at more than $6 million for both the crops and livestock sub-sectors to farmers from 10 communities along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

Some of the items handed over to 10 groups included motorised tillers, pumps, acoushi ants’ bait, cutlasses, shovels, spray cans, seeds, chemicals, and more, totalling between $500,000 to $700,000 for each community.

“Last Friday I visited a number of communities in the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and farmers would have made requests that they need

some help and at those meetings I made the commitment that I will deliver today,” Minister Mustapha said.

He also expressed his hope that the support will help farmers in the communities to ramp up food production. Further, he promised to visit communities again shortly and hopes to make good on his promise of 100 black giant birds each to women in the Banakari women’s group.

James Williams, the Chairman of Tigerbone, said he is happy for the support. He explained that in the space of two years, their community has been progressing and he hopes to work alongside the government to continue development in

the agricultural sector.

Williams said that 400 residents are expected to benefit, but, 40 persons will directly benefit as they are involved in agriculture in the community.

Rohan Pillay, leader of the farmers’ association in Hauraruni, explained that they have been trying to do farming and agriculture for several years but they faced issues because of the sandy soil there. He commended the initiative because 16 farmers will now benefit from the items handed over.

During his visit to the villages last Friday, the Agriculture Minister had given assurances that the government will continue to promote the growth of agriculture.

According to a Facebook post on the ministry’s page, he informed farmers that agriculture is high on the government’s developmental agenda and urged cooperation to expand the sector within those communities.

Tools, farming equipment, and planting supplies were among the farming inputs that farmers asked for help with purchasing.

Farmers also requested assistance with Black Giant chicks and piglets to develop their communities’ poultry and swine industries.

Highlighting that every Guyanese must benefit from the country’s resources, Minister Mustapha told farmers that the Guyana Livestock

to ensuring farmers benefit from improved extension services as the ministry is currently working to revamp its extension department to better serve farmers across the country.

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry Susan Rodrigues at the launch. (Ministry of Housing and Water-Central Housing and Planning Authority photo)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha delivers on his promise to farmers in communities along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

Strengthening Democracy

THE Minister of Local Government last week announced Local Government Elections for June 12. This is a welcome move after repeated efforts by the official APNU+AFC opposition to derail the process. The local elections were scheduled for March but were postponed after a court petition filed by the opposition, the opposition concerns were addressed and a date has been finalized. There should be no more delays in holding LGEs. Further postponement of LGEs will be an infringement of the rights of the people and an onslaught on democracy. The incumbent administration has tak-

en measures to enforce the public’s constitutional right to vote to elect their representatives.

Elections are critical for democracy and the pursuit of good governance as they serve as an avenue for discussion of public issues and participation as a measure of democracy. Local governments are very important as they allow communities to govern themselves – make key decisions relating to their neighbourhoods. They play an important role in providing services to communities.

LGEs and local councillors are integral to the smooth running of communities. They are responsible

for the proper functioning of key community facilities, amenities, and activities.

They are also responsible for the collection of garbage, overseeing local parks and sporting grounds and streetcleaning, among many other important roles. Local elections allow communities to choose their leaders who will address issues affecting their neighbourhoods.

The law stipulates that local government leaders be chosen every three years. The last elections were held in 2018 and were therefore due in 2021.

The LGEs were put off because the voters’ list was not ready, and there was no Chief Election Officer

(CEO) to prepare the country for a poll. The new CEO was appointed late 2021, and he began the process in earnest to prepare for LGEs. Update of the electoral list was not completed until the latter part of 2022 and a date was fixed for LGEs in March, 2023, but was put off to accommodate the opposition which filed a motion in court to delay the election.

A January opinion poll on the mood of the society showed that the opposition has a very poor approval rating among the public. While a local election may not impact national politics, its conduct is a barometer of public sentiment towards the parties.

People are not pleased with electoral delays. Any further delay in holding an election represents an unprecedented attack on democracy and the rule of law and poses a grave threat to future elections.

With the date now fixed, there should be no further court intervention. Preparation for LGEs 2023 should continue in earnest; these elections are a critical component in ensuring that everyone is allowed to choose their local leaders, giving them the power to change leaders if they so desire, and it also consolidates the nation’s democratic values.

The opposition may have devalued LGEs, but

the current administration has shown and demonstrated that it respects the peoples’ right to choose their leaders in an election and so far has indicated by its actions that it is in favour of holding elections as it has announced the date, June 12.

The conduct of the government and an announced date clearly demonstrate a concerted effort to hold the overdue elections, thus enfranchising the people.

These will be the first elections for adult voters to exercise their franchise since the troubled March 2, 2020 elections. The announced date for LGEs is welcome as an act to help strengthen democracy!

By his own admission, Lincoln Lewis believes that some humans are deserving of inhumane treatment

Dear Editor, Reference is made to the letter by Mr. Lincoln Lewis dated February 17, 2023 in response to a letter from Min Oneidge Walrond published under the caption “Lincoln Lewis continues to misrepresent the facts” (KN 2023-02-16).

While I am certain that the Minister will respond, as warranted there are a few issues that I would like to address for Mr. Lewis’ response is (characteristically) long on invective and short to non-existent in substance.

Challenged by the Minister to explain his innuendo of Vice President Jagdeo “squatting on the people’s interest”, Mr. Lewis’s response equates to “I’m going to repeat what I said he is squatting”. Similarly, when challenged to prove that Prime Minister Phillips does not perform the role of Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly Mr. Lewis’ response is that he doesn’t have to prove it because it is well known.

Editor, this is not someone who is capable of conducting a serious conversation.

The minister observed correctly that Mr. Lewis currently makes common cause with the political opposition. Any reasonable reader would interpret this as an invitation to take this fact into consideration in making their own evaluation of Mr. Lewis’ arguments. Mr. Lewis responded by creating two straw men which he proceeded to demolish. First he argued that alignment in thought with a political party did not necessarily imply right or wrong. This is a straw man since no such conclusion was asserted.

Secondly in response to this observation, Mr. Lewis’ proceeded to expound on his constitutional entitlements to freedom of speech, freedom of association and protection from discrimination, none of which were called into question. In so doing Mr. Lewis held forth extensively on constitutional provisions, citing Articles 146, 147 and

149 of the Constitution. Despite Mr. Lewis’ traversing the constitution at great length as he demolished the straw men of his own creation, he unsurprisingly failed to detour to cite (as he was invited to by the Minister) those articles that specify the functions that the constitution assigns to the First Vice-President which (imaginary) functions he argues that the Prime Minister is “not allowed” to discharge. He then goes on to re-assert the Prime Minister’s purported acquiescence in constitutional violations which he declines to prove. His real interest however is to perpetuate a particular caricature of the Prime Minister as an Afro-Guyanese in a PPP/C government and this caricature he is determined to perpetuate at all costs despite having the premises of the alleged constitutional violations cut from under his feet.

Moving on. Faced with his own words contradicting his assertion that the APNU+AFC government was

prepared to resolve the RUSAL matter on the eve of the 2020 election, Mr. Lewis offered a tepid statement made by then Minister Amna Ally reported in the Stabroek News of February 12, 2020 to wit “There are rules and laws that govern how we treat foreign companies and we are going to use those laws to address this”.

Mr. Lewis wants us to accept a statement made by a politician, days before a General Election as proof of the APNU+AFC’s commitment to resolve this issue.

Let us be clear Editor.

On February 8, 2020 after almost five full years in which the coalition government made no progress on the matter, Mr. Lewis’ position on that date was that no one other than President Ramotar had made any serious effort at resolving the Rusal issue. Today, in order to manufacture a contrast to fit a race narrative, Mr. Lewis tells us that his friends in the opposition were prepared to resolve the issue

and as proof of this resolve he refers us to the Stabroek News article of February 12, 2020 published four days after he had condemned the coalition as working in Rusal’s interest.

Editor, in the very article of February 12, that Mr. Lewis refers us to for the statement by then Minister Ally. Mr. Lewis himself is again reported by Stabroek News as expressing frustration with that administration’s lack of progress. The relevant excerpt reads “Lewis yesterday [February 11] told Stabroek News that the union is still waiting to hear from the government on what progress has been made in relations to talks with the management of BGCI.

“I have not heard from [the Department of] Labour and the issue remains the same. I had expected the government by now to do something. It is going on to four weeks now and it is time we get worried,” Lewis said.”

Mr. Lewis talks a lot. He should expect there to be a lot of his words around to mea-

sure him against.

Finally, in the opening sentence of a letter to the Editor published in Stabroek News on January 6 2023, Mr. Lewis described actions of the government in relation to squatters at Mocha as “acts of inhumanity”.

Obviously, the government does not agree with this characterization and has on many occasions described the extraordinary efforts it made to treat fairly and humanely with those citizens. However by his own words Mr. Lewis believes that these were “acts of inhumanity” and has clearly called for “acts of inhumanity” to be meted out to Mr. Jagdeo. A principled person would oppose inhumanity against any human.

Mr. Lewis obviously believes that some humans are deserving of inhumane treatment and this more than anything else illustrates to us the true measure of the man.

Yours respectfully, Alvin Hamilton.

From West Indian Colonialism to Caribbean Independence and Republicanism

GUYANA and Saint Lucia share many dates in common and succession, from general elections that saw results altered after the count in 1964, to Saint Lucia’s 44th Independence Day being February 22 and Guyana’s 53rd Republic Day on February 23, each today and tomorrow able to look back and forward at the roads from Colonialism to Independence to Republicanism.

Neither country fought a war for liberation, each getting independence on a silver platter from Buckingham Palace as part of London’s process of relinquishing its responsibilities to colonies it plundered for centuries in Africa, Asia, America, the Caribbean, Europe and the Pacific continental regions, including Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

In both cases too, constitutional independence was more of a political football than a national goal, used for partisan political advantage in young and divided two-party states in ways that forever affected how citizens viewed and related to these important political advancements in nations entering the developing world.

Guyana’s independence came at a time when the then ruling party was considered by the UK and the USA as a lesser of two evils, in a case where both were determined that British Guiana would not be granted independence under Dr. Cheddi Jagan, a declared communist, despite the fact that his People’s Progressive Party (PPP) enjoyed overwhelming political support and had won every election since 1953 when Guianese first got the right to vote.

In Saint Lucia’s case, Independence was tied to an election campaign and it came with premature birth pains on February 22, 1979, but the then ruling United Workers Party (UWP) would lose the next General Elections badly just five months later in July, as the opposition was able to galvanize more opposition to independence than the ruling party was able to explain why it so wanted to rush it before elections.

The phases leading to and after independence

across the Caribbean were basically the same, with parties that led former colonies into the realm of governance acted within the constraints of legal limits and political roadblocks enshrined in constitutions bequeathed by a Mother Country that doesn’t have one itself, that kept the newly-independent nations within the colonial realm through connections like the British Privy Council remaining as their Final Appellate Court and constitutional changes having to be approved only by a difficult two-thirds majority in a referendum.

Likewise, those Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations that have progressed from Independence to one form of Republicanism or another (Barbados, Dominica, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis and Trinidad & Tobago) have all done so and remained in The Commonwealth, the umbrella grouping of former British colonies on five continents that’s still a realm of the United Kingdom.

But in all cases of transitions between colonialism, independence and republicanism, Caribbean nations have been taken from one stage to another without the necessary levels of continuous public education and sensitisation as to what each change represents to each citizen and what’s expected from them.

Citizens have been left to define concepts like National Pride on their own, resulting in different relationships to and with national symbols, from not standing at attention when national anthems are playing to not caring about ensuring use of correct colors for national flags – like in saint Lucia where the Cerulean Blue was invented for the national flag, but because it’s necessarily rare, the regular (but wrong) blue is largely used, including on government buildings at independence, every year since 1979.

The lack of appropriate appreciation for the differences and similarities in and between independence and republicanism in the Caribbean also often results in lack of understanding of the difference between a national and a citizen, between

nationals with acquired citizenship and nationals of expatriate parenthood – and worse, unfortunate negative expressions of ultranationalism that amount to nothing less than Caribbean xenophobia, with CARICOM nationals often being reminded by bornand-bred citizens of other countries they adopt that “You weren’t born here…”

At a time when CARICOM is leading the world in calls for reparations from Europe for slavery and native genocide, when the Caribbean’s vote is being increasingly sought after at international fora and the region is starting to talk about energy and food security while selling an global carbon credits sale mechanism to the world, it’s necessary for CARICOM governments to again step up to the plate and provide the necessary levels of accelerated leadership commensurate with the region’s advancements already sealed in areas such as world sports and literature, economics and medicine, science and technology – and now food and energy.

With its record in the Non-Aligned Movement and support for the struggle against Apartheid in South Africa that eventually saw the release of Nelson Mandela and the election of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa in free and fair elections is now seeking the support of Africa and India to seek reparations for the descendants of enslaved and indentured laborers who came to the Caribbean on the same ships.

But it’s also important for the current generation of CARICOM leaders to take the baton and run with it, charged with the extra strength of the added wisdom of the veterans in their midst and their cabinets, who will in many ways and cases avoid or prevent wasteful attempts at rediscovery of the gubernatorial wheel.

No society is pure and no people are united in their understanding of everything, so there will always be those domestic factors that will delay progress, from those who stubbornly refuse to see beyond their boundaries and borders,

skies and horizons, to those whose only definition of progress seems to be to delay any progress is not led or guided, even dictated, by them, whether on political, academic or other reasons having to do with partisan political divisions and/or historical factors deliber-

ately frozen in time.

But, as Guyana and Saint Lucia today and tomorrow observe their Republic and Independence anniversaries, it is necessary that all CARICOM nations redouble their efforts to ensure that Caribbean citizens better

understand the transitions from colonialism to independence and republicanism so they can better fit into the societies being planned and shaped for them and in their name by the political directorates they voted for to govern and guard.

Modern $1.7B secondary school for Karasabai

STUDENTS in Karasabai and other surrounding communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are set to benefit from a new school and dorm facilities being constructed at the cost of $1.7 billion.

On Tuesday, a press release from the Ministry of Education related that a contract for the new facility was inked between the Ministry of Education and the contractor, Avinash Contracting in Karasabai.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, along with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Alfred King; and Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO) for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development, Marti DeSouza, travelled to the region to turn the sod for the construction of the school.

The project, which costs $1.7 billion, should be completed in two years’ time. The designs of the buildings were completed in November 2022 after a series of consultations.

“The modern school complex is fitted with ten buildings. These include the main teaching block and allied lecturing facilities, modern science laboratory for Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres, combined Home Economics and cafeteria area, teachers’ quarters and an outdoor sitting forecourt,” the release stated.

Further, it was noted that the facility will be instrumental in providing more educational opportunities for students in the region and will transform the quality of their lives.

Once completed, the facility will house 500 students in the classroom, and 250 students in the dormitories. This means students will no longer have to traverse rough terrain daily to

receive an education they rightly deserve. Students from Karasabai and all other neighbouring villages will have the opportunity

education or are being educated in primary tops, a secondary department in a primary school.

Delivering the feature address, Minister Manickchand stated that the construction of the school is one step closer towards achieving universal education in the region. She noted that the school is intended to deliver firstclass education to students in Region Nine.

“We are very certain that once we do that, you will see your children excel,” she said.

The Education Minister further noted that hinterland education delivery remains a top priority for the Ministry, and, by extension, the Government of Guyana. She highlighted that, for the first time, the Ministry appointed an officer with sole responsibility for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development.

And ACEO DeSouza added that the development in the education sector is no longer limited to the coastland. He highlighted that the Ministry of Education has been working assiduously to close the gap between the coast and hinterland, and to achieve universal secondary education across the country.

Meanwhile, Minister Dharamlall, in his remarks, noted that delivering education to the people of Region Nine has always been on the agenda for the People’s Progressive Party Government since it assumed office. He highlighted that, in 1992, there was one secondary school in the region, and it was in St Ignatius which is more than 48 miles away from Karasabi. To date, several secondary schools have been constructed in the region.

to pursue a sound secondary education.

Currently, it was noted that students in the Karasabai subdistrict from com-

munities such as Tiger Pond, Cracrana, Tsushima, Kokshebai and Yurong Paru are currently either not receiving a secondary

come a reality. The village Toshao, Elvis Edwards, expressed thanks to the ministers for listening to the needs of the people and delivering on their promise.

MORE SCHOOLS COMING

In addition to constructing the Karasabai Secondary School, it was noted that several other schools were being constructed across the country. These will be at Hosororo, Kwebana, and Waramuri in Region One (Barima -Waini). The North West Secondary School is currently being rebuilt after it was destroyed by arson.

In Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam), the Abram’s Zuil Secondary School will be completed soon. Two new schools are being built in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara).

In Region Four (Demerara- Mahaica), the Yarrowkabra Secondary School and the Good Hope Secondary School will be completed. Additionally, the North Ruimveldt Secondary School is being rebuilt in Georgetown with extensions being carried out at the St Winifred’s and the East Ruimveldt Secondary Schools.

A secondary school will be built in Orealla, Region Six (East Berbice- Corentyne). In Region Seven (Cuyuni- Mazaruni) there will be a school at Jawalla in the Upper Mazaruni. Finally, in Region Eight (Potaro- Siparuni), the dormitories at Paramakatoi and Kato will be extended.

Regional Chairman of Region Nine, Mr Bryan Allicock, stated the construction of the secondary school in Karasabai has been on the agenda and is proud to see the project be-

At a previous event, Minister Manickchand explained that population growth was, in part, fuelling the construction of more schools. The government’s commitment to improving education access by building more schools is another reason for the forthcoming schools.

Officials turn the sod for the construction of a $1.7 billion school at Karasabai, Region Nine (Ministry of Education photo)

The contract for the project was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Alfred King (seated at right) and an official of the company (Ministry of Education photo)

Learners gathered in Karasabai, Region Nine, on Tuesday (Ministry of Education photo

‘Do good to each other’

— Ash Wednesday serves as a timely reminder for Christians

SERVING as a reminder to do good onto each other, Ash Wednesday was observed by numerous members of the Christian community and other Guyanese hailing from other walks of life.

Ash Wednesday signals the commencement of the period of Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to the less fortunate. Lent is also said to be a period of preparation that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Easter.

Many worshippers gathered at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception at Brickdam, Georgetown on Wednesday. This was one of the many places of worship where persons were able to pray and receive ashes.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, the Cathedral’s Bishop, Francis Alleyne, expressed his delight at seeing the large congregation that attended the mass.

“Ash Wednesday and the Lent season are very important on the Christian

and Catholic calendar. It is an important part of biblical teaching to just be mindful of the things that are not of the Lord in our lives,” he explained.

He added, “The whole theme of Lent is simple: just to make everything right and in accordance with what is good for ourselves and each other. I would also like to say that I am looking at the hype and interest in the favourable economic times in Guyana.

“And as much as a lot of people’s attention is going to that, I would still like to encourage a level of maturity, responsibility and accountability to really allow that blessing to touch the hearts and lives of people.”

The bishop also asked that the people of Guyana use this opportunity to show love and kindness to each other. He said even though the COVID-19 pandemic is not fully over, the cathedral is presently accommodating more people.

“This is the first time since the pandemic that we can freely gather and worship. Covid is not entirely over, but we are more relaxed and we are still taking the necessary precautions,” said Bishop Alleyne.

Cynthia (only name given), a member of the congregation, was one person who was delighted to observe Ash Wednesday and participate in the Cathedral’s Mass.

“Even though I don’t come to church every Sun-

day, I am happy to be here today. It is a day of prayer and giving your soul a spiritual cleanse. Even though we are busy with Mashramani, I still make sure that I make time for God.

“I would like to encourage all Guyanese to make time for the Lord. It doesn’t matter what faith you have; just make sure that you pray. Pray for yourself, your family, your friends, and even your enemies,” she said.

Bishop Francis Alleyne giving communion to a member of the congregation. (Adrian Narine photos)

Bishop Francis Alleyne

Congregation at Brickdam Cathedral

Some members of the congregation after receiving the ash on their foreheads

More charges for riotous behaviour- AG warns

IN the wake of several riotous activities in recent times, ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C, said more charges will be laid for persons, including political leaders, who engage in those actions.

AG Nandlall on Tuesday during his weekly Facebook programme, Issues in the News, addressed the situation involving several riotous behaviours around Guyana. The AG said that such behaviours from political leaders who incite such behaviours must not be condoned when they attempt to convert these issues into political and ethnic ones by manufacturing scandals.

And importantly, he warned that more charges will be laid for persons who engage in riotous behaviour in a law-abiding society.

During that programme,

the AG also called out the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton for promoting ethnic strife and supporting acts of terrorism in Guyana.

Last week, Norton during a public meeting in North Ruimveldt said that the People’s National Congress Reform-led A Partnership for National Unity (PNC/R-APNU) party will be supporting the 12 men who are wanted for terrorism crimes over their alleged involvement in the violent robbery of Mon Repos market vendors during a protest action along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) corridor last year.

“They [are] now describing them as terrorists. We will support them. We will do everything to deal with it. But let me say this cannot continue,” Norton told his supporters.

Norton made this disclo-

Demerara Harbour Bridge to close 24 hours for emergency repairs

sure hours after the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued the wanted bulletins. Thus far, nine out of the 12 men were hauled before the court and charged with acts of terrorism. The men are currently out on $300,000 bail each, while the hunt is still on for the latter.

“We simply cannot as a society countenance and condone this type of lawlessness… This has nothing to do with politics and politicians must be condemned when they attempt to convert these matters into political issues. These are matters of law and

order. They are not matters of politics” Nandlall said.

He explained that the state will not tolerate mayhem being unleashed on segments of the population because a person is aggrieved by the behavioural conduct of any state agency, including the police.

Nandlall added that when such issues manifest themselves it is the duty of the state to enforce the law and to do so swiftly and condignly.

The Attorney General also reflected on the “horrendous death” of teen cousins,

Joel and Isaiah Henry, whose mutilated bodies were found aback Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice in 2020.

Nandlall said during that time persons of a “political nature” encouraged rioters to block the roads, blaming the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) supporters for the atrocities committed against the teens.

“As it turned out, it had nothing to do with politics. But they were fanning that dangerous flame against an entire village. Claiming that villagers from that village, Cotton Tree, Berbice, were

Anil Nandlall

responsible for the Henry boys’ brutal murder.

“And as it turned out, nothing was further from the truth. Investigations done by the police led to the arrests of several persons, none of them from that particular village; they came from other parts of the country,” he said.

THE Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), which spans across the Demerara River and connects Regions

Three and Four, will be closed for a 24-hour period starting midnight Saturday to facilitate emergency repairs on Span Eight.

According to a release from the Ministry of Public Works, the closure will take place from 03:00hrs on Sunday, February 26 to 03:00hrs on Monday, February 27. It other words, the closure starts at midnight Saturday and ends

at midnight Sunday.

“These works have become critical after the Panama-registered oil tanker, MV Tradewind Passion crashed into the bridge in October last year, and rendered it inoperable for several days.

“Citizens are assured that this inconvenience is absolutely necessary at this time to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge, for the safety of everyone crossing,” the release stated.

The Maritime Administration Depart -

Continued on page 16

— Speedboats to operate throughout downtime

The Demerara Harbour Bridge

Attorney-General

Chinese Medical Brigade offers minimally invasive gynaecological surgery training

WEST Demerara Regional Hospital’s medical practitioners recently received training from the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade on minimally invasive gynaecological surgery.

Minimally invasive gynaecological surgery includes laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery. Its characteristics include small surgical trauma, no obvious surgical scars after surgery, and fast postoperative recovery for patients.

The Chinese Medical Brigade gave a lecture based on the invitation of Regional Health Officer (RHO) Dr. Erica Forte and Medical Su-

perintendent and Obstetrics and Gynecology Chief, Dr. Judy Hung.

Dr. Jiang Yuan, the Obstetrician Gynaecologist (OBGYN) of the 18th Medical Brigade, lectured about minimally invasive gynaecological surgery and presented multiple complex minimally invasive surgeries recently performed at Georgetown Public Hospital.

This allowed the local medical staff to gain a more comprehensive and intuitive understanding of laparoscopic and hysteroscopic techniques. After the lecture, Dr. Jiang Yuan had a lively discussion and exchange with

the medical staff on relevant issues.

Everyone expressed their gratitude for the lecture.

Meanwhile, Medical Superintendent and Gynaecology Chief, Dr. Judy Hung, thanked the Chinese Medical Brigade, which broadened the vision of the medical staff, and enhanced their understanding of minimally invasive gynaecological technology.

She also invited the medical team to provide more training about laparoscopic techniques in the future.

Dr. Jiang Yuan said, “The Chinese medical team assisting Guyana has al -

ways been committed to improving Guyana’s overall medical level. Obstetrics and gynaecology patients are all women, so when performing surgical treatment, we need to consider the treatment effect and pay more attention to surgical trauma. Minimally invasive techniques can reduce surgical scars and even achieve scarless surgery, meeting women’s needs for beauty. In the future, we will promote the national operation training of minimally invasive techniques to improve Guyana’s minimally invasive level and benefit the people of Guyana.”

New quarry operation for Region Three

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his presentation of Budget 2023 last week, said, “…latest estimates show that the construction sector grew by a very strong 26.3 per cent in 2022.

As was the case in 2021, this expansion is supported

by intensified activity in the public and private sectors.â€

Driven by further plans to invest heavily in the establishment and maintenance of critical infrastructure across the country, Dr. Singh also highlighted that the local construction industry is projected to expand even further this year.

This growth, the Fi -

nance Minister said, can be linked to massive government investments in new and improved roads and bridges, housing developments, educational and health facilities, agricultural infrastructure, and private sector investment in the oil and gas and hospitality industries.

ESSEQUIBO Quarry Inc., a company geared to fulfill the increasing demands for construction materials in the local market, has plans to start a new quarry operation at Look Out, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), on 1.538 acres of land.

According to a project summary submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for review, the surrounding area of the project is sparsely populated with the closest residents located approximately 100 meters south of the project, which includes approximately 10 to 15 houses.

The developers’ main business objective is the stockpiling of quarriable materials including sand, loam, stone, and laterite.

“The company plans to stock pile on site one or two barge loads of sand, loam and laterite. However, this may increase depending on demand from customers,†the project summary stated.

In a description of the project, the company stated that quarry materials and sand will be excavated from Lakeram Harridat Quarry and transported to the storage area via the 2000-ton barge. It was previously reported that Harridat was pursing the establishment of an US$11 million quarry on the bank of the Essequibo River.

At the new site, a total of eight workers will be employed. This is, however, expected to increase in the years to come.

At the project site, some of the facilities to be

constructed are a generator room, equipment bond, fuel storage bond, workers’ quarters, toilet facilities, and more.

“Personal protective gears will be provided to all employees. These are inclusive of safety boots, helmets, earmuffs and visibility vests, etc. as per job description of each employee. First Aid Kits will also be on site along with trained personnel in the event of an accident,†the company stated.

Essequibo Quarry Inc. believes this new project will enable it to meet some of the local demand.

Building on the progress made in 2022 through increased public and private investments, Guyana’s vibrant construction industry is expected to expand even further this year.

Obstetrician Gynaecologist, Dr. Jiang Yuan, explains his topic and shared slides with the West Demerara Regional Hospital’s medical practitioners

Demerara Harbour Bridge to close 24 hours ...

ment (MARAD) announced that Demerara water taxis (commonly

called speedboats) will be allowed to operate throughout the bridge’s

downtime so that commuters will still be able to travel.

“Commuters are assured of an uninterrupted water taxi service

from Vreed-en-Hoop to Stabroek during this period. Please be advised

From page 11

that the fare for this service remains at $100. Commuters are reminded to securely wear life vests when travelling on the water,” MARAD said in a release.

THE INCIDENT

At approximately 02:00hrs on October 8, 2022, the MV Tradewind Passion, a ship consigned by GuyOil to transport fuel, which also carries a Panamanian flag, crashed into the bridge with its side. The ship, which was supposed to sail in a southern direction to pass through the opening of the bridge, instead sailed in a south-easterly direction and hit Spans Nine and 10 with its front and rear.

This resulted in the two spans of the bridge shifting some 45 degrees out of alignment. The ship was the fifth vessel to pass through the bridge for the morning.

Since this bridge serves as a crucial link between the two regions, repairs were almost immediately done. Those repairs, however, cost in excess of $1 billion. The government has been pursuing compensation for the damage and the DHB had made a requisition for the arrest of the vessel. Legal proceedings were filed, followed by several court hearings, but in November, it was reported that the vessel left Guyana without any record.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, however, emphasised that Guyana can be assured that the government will continue to “vigorously” pursue claims to ensure that the DHB is justly compensated for the damage which was caused by the Tradewind Passion.

Football regulator: UK government confirms new independent body

(BBC) - Blocking clubs from joining a breakaway European Super League will be among the powers held by English football's new independent regulator.

The plan for a regulator, recommended by a fan-led review last year, has been confirmed by the UK government.

Preventing historic clubs going out of business is one of the aims, as well as giving fans greater input and a new owners' and directors' test.

The significant move aims to protect English football's cultural heritage.

The main purposes of the proposed new regulator will be:

Stopping English clubs from joining closed-shop competitions, which are judged to harm the domestic game

Preventing a repeat of financial failings seen at numerous clubs, notably the collapses of Bury and Mac-

clesfield

Introducing a more stringent owners' and directors' test to protect clubs and fans

Giving fans power to stop owners changing a club's name, badge and traditional kit colours

Ensuring a fair distribution of money filtered down the English football pyramid from the Premier League

"The English game remains one of the UK's greatest cultural exports, with clubs and leagues around the world modelling themselves on its success," the government said before its white paper on football governance - a policy document which outlines the proposed legislation - is released on Thursday.

"That is why the government is today taking the necessary and targeted steps to ensure that continues for generations."

The Premier League was understood to be wary of a

regulatory body when the proposals were announced in April last year.

The league says it is "vital" a regulator does not lead to any "unintended consequences" that could affect its global appeal and success.

European breakaway leagues

Six English clubs - Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham - were among a dozen from across the continent that announced plans to form a European Super League in a shock move in April 2021.

It sparked a tumultuous few days in English and European football.

Fans quickly demonstrated their anger at the plan outside English clubs' stadium - with similarly vitriolic protests taking place across Europe - forcing the Premier League clubs to back down and apologise.

Despite the U-turn, the

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debate over the future of top-level European football has continued.

"The regulator will have the power to prevent English clubs from joining new competitions that do not meet a predetermined criteria, in consultation with the FA and fans," said the government.

"That criteria could include measures to stop clubs participating in closed-shop breakaway competitions which harm the domestic game, such as the European

Super League."

Financial stability and fans' input

A new licensing system will require every club - from the Premier League to the National League - to prove it has a sustainable business model implemented by responsible custodians as part of an application process.

If clubs are not granted a licence by the regulator, they will not be allowed to compete.

Another key power of the

regulator will be ensuring fans have a greater say in their club's strategic decisions.

Moves by owners which may prove controversialfor example, changing the name, badge and traditional kit colours, or moving stadium - will not be allowed to be made before consulting fans.

It will "put fans back at the heart of how football is run", says the government.

Anderson at number one test bowler ranking

(ESPNCRICINFO) -

James Anderson has overhauled Australia's captain Pat Cummins to become the No.1 Test bowler in the ICC rankings, off the back of his role in England's 267-run win against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui last week.

At the age of 40 years and 207 days, Anderson is also the oldest player to top the rankings since Clarrie Grimmett, the Australian leg-spinner, in 1936, having played an integral part in the recent success of England's Test team,

which has now won ten of its past 11 matches.

It is the sixth time that Anderson has gone to the top of the rankings in a career that began against Zimbabwe at Lord's in May 2003, and has now spanned 178 Test appearances and 682 wickets, placing him third on the all-time list behind the spin duo of Muthiah Muralidaran (800) and Shane Warne (708).

In May 2016, Anderson went past his long-time team-mate Stuart Broad, as well as India's R Ashwin, to top the rankings for the first time, and most recently he held the top spot for five months in 2018 before being displaced by South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada.

It has the potential to be a short return to the top, however. With a total of 866 ranking points, Anderson is just two points ahead

of Ashwin in second place, who also delivered a strong showing in India's most recent Test win over Australia in Delhi last week.

Cummins is now third on 858, but could himself regain top billing with two Tests to come against India in the next fortnight, despite flying home this week to address a health issue in the family.

Nevertheless, the achievement is further proof of Anderson's remarkable longevity. In the course of his seven wickets at Mount Maunganui, he brought his overall Test average down below 26 for the first time since his maiden series in 2003, but the sense that he is improving with age is backed up by his form in the last five years of his career.

Since turning 35 in July 2017, Anderson has now taken 202 wickets in 56 subsequent games, at an average of 20.56. At Mount Maunganui; he and Broad also overhauled the Test record for most wickets taken as a bowling partnership, which previously stood at 1001 between Australia's Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne.

"They're the GOATs, aren't they? I can't see that record being broken for a very long time," Ben Stokes, England's captain, said after the first Test win.

"Warne and McGrath were an unbelievable

combination, but I think the way in which Test cricket is going now with everything else to players, I can't see that record being broken any time soon. I can't ever see it being broken."

Elsewhere in the rankings, New Zealand's pairing Tom Blundell (11th) and Devon Conway (17th) have risen to career-high positions, as have England's trio of Ollie Pope (23rd), Harry Brook (31st) and Ben Duckett (38th).

India's players also received a boost following their emphatic victory over Australia, with Ravindra Jadeja moving up seven places to ninth following his seven-wicket haul in the second innings, and Axar Patel - who is the second leading run-scorer for the series so far with 158 runs - moving up two places to fifth on the latest Test all-rounder rankings.

In the T20I bowling rankings, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga has leapfrogged Afghanistan's Rashid Khan to the top, as a consequence of Rashid taking only four wickets in three matches against UAE last week.

For UAE, Muhammad Waseem rose six places to seventh in the T20I batting list, after scoring 199 runs at an average of 66.33 in the three games.

James Anderson claimed his 250th overseas Test wicket with the dismissal of Scott Kuggeleijn • AFP/Getty Images

City draw RB Leipzig in Champions League last sixteen

(BBC) - Manchester

City paid the price for failing to make the most of their first-half dominance as they were held to a draw by RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

The away side were in complete control in the first 45 minutes and got the breakthrough midway through the half when Ilkay Gundogan pounced on a mistake in defence and fed Riyad Mahrez to drive into the back of the net.

But RB Leipzig came out in the second half with more ambition and twice went close to equalising early on through Benjamin Henrichs, who first headed just over before sweeping wide with just Ederson to beat.

The Manchester City goalkeeper was called upon again to deny Andre Silva at his near post but the hosts were finally rewarded for their mounting pressure when Josko Gvardiol headed in following a short corner.

Janis Blaswich denied Gundogan from restoring the visitors' lead moments later with a reflex save from close range, while City had a penalty shout denied late on when Henrichs appeared to handle inside the area, but Leipzig held on to secure a draw.

City, bidding to end their wait for a first Champions League trophy, will look to get the job done in the return leg on Tuesday, 14 March.

City frustrated again

An away draw in the knockout stage of Europe should be considered a very decent result, but City boss Pep Guardiola will likely be frustrated that his side failed

to once again make their first-half dominance count.

They had gone into the game looking to respond after they were held by Nottingham Forest at the weekend, once again conceding in the second half after scoring before the break.

They controlled proceedings in the early stages of this game as Leipzig rarely ventured beyond their own half and once Mahrez scored, it seemed only a question of how many more goals City would score.

But despite their possessional dominance, City found it hard to create too many chances, not helped by the absence of Kevin de Bruyne through illness.

Erling Haaland struggled to make an impact on his return to Germany, but really should have scored with one of his few chances in the second half, racing forward before dragging his shot well wide.

But while City may be frustrated not to have come away with a win, they will be confident of getting the job done back at the Etihad where they won 17 of 19 games there this season.

Should City have had a penalty?

Leipzig will rightly be happy with securing a draw considering the vast improvement in their attacking play in the second half, but City will feel aggrieved they did not have the chance to snatch a lastgasp winner.

With seconds left, Mahrez sent the ball into the box following a short corner and as the ball was headed towards goal by Rodri, Henrichs appeared to push it away with his hands.

There was no indication of a VAR check before the whistle was blown for full-time. Riyad Mahrez scored his 12th goal of the season for Manchester City

Four Guyanese Youth Players in CWI Under-19 Encampment

FOUR Guyanese youth players are currently in Antigua to go through player development and assessment exercises in preparation for Cricket West Indies (CWI) participation in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Under-19 World

Cup, scheduled for Sri Lanka in 2024.

The Guyanese players who are amongst the regional pool of players selected by CWI to demonstrate their competencies and readiness to represent West Indies in this upcoming and prestigious ICC Un-

der-19 World Cup 2024, are fast bowler Isaiah Thorne, top-order batters Rampertab Ramnauth, Mavindra Dindyal, and left-arm spinner Golcharran Chulai. These and other potential West Indies players assembled in Antigua on Sunday, February 19, 2023, and will

be engaged in High-Performance exercises over a period of approximately three weeks.

This encampment is one of several ongoing events being implemented by CWI to ensure the regional pool of Under-19 players is provided with the best op -

portunities to realize their optimal potential. It is trusted that the planned CWI High-performance activities for these Under-19 players will adequately prepare them for the competitive settings that are expected of the ICC U-19 World Cup 2024.

When the Tournament begins in 2024, Sri Lanka will join New Zealand as the only two countries to host the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup on three occasions, having previously hosted the same in 2000 and 2006.

Mohamed Rizwan hundred overcomes Pollard, Brathwaite muted performances

CMC – A career-best, undefeated 110 from Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan overshadowed muted performances from former West Indies captains Kieron Pollard

and Carlos Brathwaite to lead Multan Sultans to a nailbiting three-run win over Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League on Wednesday.

Pollard faced only two

balls and was not out on two in the Sultans’ innings, which was dominated by Rizwan’s hundred, a 64-ball blitz that included 10 fours and four sixes and paved the way for the Sultans’ 196 for two from

GCB Reminds players

about

NOC requirements

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) would like to remind cricketers who have been invited to play for clubs/teams overseas that they must apply for a No-objection Certificate (NOC) which must be approved and issued by the GCB as an extension of their contractual obligations to the Board.

The requisite application must state the club/

team the player intends to join, the competition (and whether approved by the local Board) and the period of their playing obligation.

The GCB would then be in a position to assess whether players would be involved in the standard of cricket overseas that would be of benefit to their cricket development.

Players are further reminded that to be eligible

for selection to the senior national team, they must participate in GCB franchise cricket and premier competitions including the 4-day, Super50 and T20 inter-county tournaments.

The selectors have been apprised of this dispensation and will engage in the selection process accordingly.

their 20 overs.

Brathwaite had a rare off day with the ball, conceding 19 in his only over with the new ball, and the Kings made the Sultans sweat when James Vince hit 75 from 34 balls and Imad Wasim 46 not out from 26 balls, and almost got them over the finish line in the match at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

The Kings launched their attempt to overhaul the target with a 72-run opening stand between Vince and Australia international, Matthew Wade.

When Wade was lbw to Usama Mir in the seventh over, Vince continued to carry the momentum until he was run out in the 10th over with the Kings needing 92 from 61 balls.

Wasim came to the crease in the 12th over with 84 needed, when Haider Ali was

caught behind off Khushdil Shah for 12.

But the Sultans held their nerve, especially in the final over, bowled by Abbas Afridi, who had Australian Ben Cutting caught by Pollard at long-off for 12 going for the potential match-winning maximum.

Kings needed five to win off the final ball, but Wasim, the Kings captain, could only slam the ball to Pollard on the boundary for a single.

The result gave Sultans their fourth win in five matches and kept them on top of the standings with eight points, while Kings slumped to their fourth loss in five matches and they are fourth on only two points.

Earlier, Sultans were put in to bat, and Rizwan blossomed in the second half of the innings after fellow open-

er Shan Masood cracked 51 from 33 balls and dominated their first wicket stand of 85.

Rizwan had scored half-centuries in three of the first four matches of the tournament and had remained not out in the other, but he remained until the end to fashion his maiden PSL hundred in front of the home crowd.

After Masood was caught at deep backward square-leg off Shoaib Malik’s off-spin in the 11th over, South African Rilee Roussouw laboured for 21 balls over 29, but Rizwan was flowing at this stage, and kept the scoring tempo going in their 109-run stand.

Roussouw was caught at extra cover off the thirdlast ball of the innings from Mohammad Umar, bringing Pollard to the crease to keep out the last two deliveries.

Mavendra Dindyal Rampertab Ramnauth Golcharran Chulai

Isai Thorne

Narayan Ramdhani cops another gold in Canada

GUYANA’s top Badminton player, Narayan Ramdhani, won gold in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Badminton Championship (Provincials) and earned the ACAC All Conference Award and the ACAC Men’s Singles Player-of-the-Year Award 2023 in Canada.

The Provincials were contested last weekend in the Auditorium of the Concordia University of Edmonton, with players competing the individual and team segments.

In the Team Tournament, Ramdhani assisted the King’s University

Badminton Team (TKU Eagles) to win gold at the Provincial Team Championship for the second time in a row when he won the Men’s Singles and went undefeated in Singles and Mixed in the four tournaments this season.

At a Banquet held on Saturday, Ramdhani was awarded one of the five ACAC Men’s All Conference Award and captured the coveted Men’s Singles Player-of-the-Year Award.

This is the third time Ramdhani has won the Provincial Individual Championships in Men’s Singles in his university career.

Seeded number one, Ramdhani gained a bye to the quarter-final in the Men’s Singles and defeated Shepherd Dow 21-14. He then got the better of Jason Chiu 21-14, 21-9 in the semi-final, before topping Sanskar Chopra 17-21, 2114, 21-4 in the final.

Ramdhani will next represent the Kings University and the province of Alberta at the Canadian Collegiate Athletics Association (Nationals) Badminton Tournament to be held in the Province of Nova Scotia on March 7-12.

He will compete in the Men’s Singles category.

Bent Street and Back circle square off for top honors

THE battle lines have been drawn and the respective captains have exuded confidence in emerging victorious on Saturday evening as Bent Street battles Back Circle in the final of the inaugural Rocks Auto Trans and Spare Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal Championship at the National Gymnasium.

Colin Nelson, captain of Bent Street, during a prematch press conference yesterday at the company’s Charlotte Street headquarters said, “Bent Street is a confident team and we are accustomed to this type of environment and we are confident of emerging victorious.”

According to Nelson, this is a festive period and football is part of that culture and he hopes that everyone comes out and supports their respective team in the final.

On the other hand, Selwyn Williams, skipper of Back Circle stated that he hopes everyone comes out and supports the competing teams which will add to the spectacle, adding that his charges are prepared for the fixture

despite Bent Street acquiring the services of notable players such as Ryan Hackett.

He explained, “I need everyone to come out and support Back Circle, I also want persons to come out and support Bent Street, and we are looking forward to a competitive match and clean match.

I have heard that Bent Street has strengthened their team by acquiring Ryan Hackett, but we are ready for the match.”

Bent Street stormed their way into the finale after crushing Tiger Bay 7-2 in the semi-final section. Similarly, Back Circle thrashed Sparta Boss 5-1 in the second

semi-final affair.

Meanwhile, Yolanda Ross, Managing Director of Rocks Auto Trans and Spare Parts, stated that the entity is happy with support that has been afforded to the tournament, adding that the company is already looking to the 2024 edition given the accomplish-

ment of the maiden championship.

She further said, “I would like to thank our sponsors for supporting the event and may the best team win.”

The winner of the tournament will pocket $500,000 and the championship trophy. On the other hand, the second,

third, and fourth-place finishers will receive $250,000, $150,000, and $100,000 respectively.

On the individual side, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) will receive one motorcycle. Similarly, a patron will receive one motorcycle on the night of the final.

Yolanda Ross (2nd from left), Managing Director of Rocks Auto Trans and Spare Parts, posing alongside Bent Street captain, Colin Nelson (1st from left); Back Circle, leader Selwyn Williams (1st from right) and tournament co-ordinator Wayne ‘Harry’ Griffith at the pre-final press conference

Colin Nelson (left), captain of Bent Street, posing alongside Back Circle skipper, Selwyn Williams (right) with the two motorcycles that will be up for grabs for the MVP and a lucky patron on the final night of the inaugural Rocks Auto Trans and Spare Parts ‘Legendary Cup’ Futsal Championship at the National Gymnasium.

Guyana’s top Badminton player, Narayan Ramdhani

Jordan and Chase lead Windies bowling against SA Invitational XI

CMC – WEST Indies were kept on their toes before pace bowling newcomer Akeem Jordan and off-spin bowling compatriot, Roston Chase enabled them to bowl out the South Africa Invitational XI in their tour match on Wednesday.

Jordan, 26, ended with 3-34 from 11.5 overs, Chase grabbed 3-98 from 19 overs, and fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 2-45 from 10 overs, and the Invitational XI were dismissed for 317 shortly after the scheduled close on the second day of the three-day match at Willowmoore Park for a lead of 34.

After the Caribbean side declared overnight on 283 for nine in their first innings to give their bowlers a full run-out, Invitational XI captain Wiaan Lubbe hit the top score of 72 and teenaged prospect Dewald Brevis supported with an even 50 to lead solid batting down the order for the hosts.

The West Indies bowlers, however, made timely interventions throughout the Invitational XI’s innings, but Ruan de Swardt made 37, Daniel Smith got 33, Corbin Bosch was not out on 31, Evan Jones scored 27, and Bryce Parsons and Jiveshan Pillay added 25 apiece, putting the visitors on notice about the penetration of their bowling.

After a fruitless toil during the first hour, Gabriel made the breakthrough for West Indies when he acro -

batically held a return catch to dismiss lefthander Parsons from miscued a pull at a short delivery in the second over after the morning’s refreshment break.

But the Caribbean side had no further success before lunch, and the Invitational XI reached 95 for one at the interval.

In the fifth over after lunch, a short delivery

from Jordan was dispatched by Lubbe to the mid-wicket boundary for four to carry the left-handed opener to his 50 from 88 balls. Next over, left-arm pacer Raymon Reifer got Smith caught at backward point for 33, slicing a loose drive at a delivery that bounced a bit awkwardly on the left-hander before the Invitational XI went on to reach 139 for two at

Joshua da Silva.

The final over before tea, from Chase, proved eventful when Brevis swept the first delivery to deep backward square leg for a single to reach his 50 before he tried to clear long-off with the final ball and was caught a few yards inside the boundary without addition to his score. He hit eight fours and one six from 63 balls, and the Invitational XI were 189 for four at tea.

After the break, West Indies met a brief period of resistance before they claimed two wickets in six balls to take a firm grip on the match before they allowed things to slip in the final hour-and-ahalf.

Jordan added the scalp of Wandile Makewetu caught behind for 12, sparring at a delivery outside the off-stump, and Chase got Pillay caught behind from a top-edged sweep in the next over, and the Invitational XI sunk to 218 for six.

But an attempt from West Indies to get a second crack at batting on the day were frustrated when de Swardt anchored a 40-run, seventh-wicket stand with Jones and a 57-run, eighth-wicket stand with Bosch to frustrate.

Chase got Evan Jones caught at mid-wicket from a mistimed pull, and de Swardt was caught behind chasing a wide delivery off the uncomplicated off-spin of West Indies vice-captain Jermaine Blackwood in the final hour.

Jordan returned and mopped up the last two wickets when he got Codi Yusuf caught behind for a duck, and Thandi Ntini, son of former South Africa fast bowler Makhaya Ntini, bowled for a duck too.

The match is the only outing for West Indies before the first of two Tests against hosts South Africa, starting next Tuesday at SuperSport Park in Centurion.

the afternoon refreshments break.

Gabriel struck again in the third over after the break when Lubbe was caught behind, edging a back-foot drive at a delivery angled across his body. He struck nine fours and one six from 131 balls and became the first of five batsmen dismissed in the innings to catches to West Indies wicketkeeper