Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-06-2023

Expansion of part-time job programme imminent - Jagdeo affirms

DESPITE the malicious rumors being spread about the part-time job initiative, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has confirmed that not only will the programme continue but the government is in the process of expanding this initiative.

Dr. Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday, said: “On the campaign trail and even before that, a number of people have had misgivings about the part-

time programme.”

In his view, most of their doubts stemmed from the lies being peddled that the initiative was temporary and the workers will be sacked as soon as the elections are over.

Apart from clarifying that these “farfetched theories” are not true, Dr. Jagdeo said: “I want to assure the people, many of them in every part of the country, from Regions One-10, where we visited that we in-

tend to expand the programme.”

Special focus is being placed on the expansion of this initiative in the rural and hinterland areas, since persons in those areas usually encounter difficulties in sourcing regular jobs and generating income.

While reaffirming the original priority which is to get more women into the workforce, Dr. Jagdeo said that the expansion will be done to accommo -

date a larger number of persons.

He related: “The programme will be expanded to accommodate a number of people, and the focus here again is to ensure that more women get employment.”

In May of this year, persons residing in the hinterland regions benefitted from an additional 2,000 job opportunities with the introduction of the government’s part-time jobs initiative there.

The programme, which was launched in several coastal regions in 2022, is already being rolled out in Region One (BarimaWaini), and Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Dr. Jagdeo expressed his hope that individuals registered for the part-time programme will make use of the scholarship opportuni-

ties.

While on the campaign trail, he remarked that many people wanted to know how they could apply for the scholarships that were being offered.

Although many of the scholarships are advertised, the Vice-President said that since the government has an open-door policy, people can contact them for further information.

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

In order to generate more diverse opportunities for Guyana’s

youth, Dr. Jagdeo said that he had urged community groups to gather people who are interested in being taught in a variety of fields, such as welding, plumbing, and carpentry.

Apart from relating that this will be done across the country, the Vice-President said: “I’ve asked several community groups to pull together people who want to trained, particularly, in the tech [vocational] area... and I hope that they will get in touch with me soon.”

File on Dharamlall with DPP – Police

THE file concerning the alleged rape committed on a 16-year-old girl by Local Government Minister, Nigel Dharamlall, has been sent by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

In a press release issued on Thursday, the GPF confirmed that it had completed the investigation which began on June 19.

The file is currently with the DPP, Shalimar Ali-Hack, S.C. Minister Dharamlall,

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall

who is currently out on $1 million station bail, has denied the allegation and has proceeded on administrative leave.

He has retained the services of the Hughes, Fields & Stoby law firm to represent him and safeguard his interests.

$11B more to be ‘pumped’ into education sector

- President Ali announces at commissioning of newly constructed multimillion-dollar Abram Zuil Secondary School

- Education Minister recommits to ensuring that all schools are equipped to deliver ‘high quality’ education

By Cindy Parkinson

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan

Ali, on Thursday, announced that more funds will be injected into the education sector to enhance more institutions and make room for more advancements in this area.

The President revealed the government’s plan during a commission ceremony for the newly constructed stateof-the-art multimillion-dollar Abram Zuil Secondary School, in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

In his featured address to the gathering at the ceremony, President Ali said that his government considered a "very important" presentation during their recent Cabinet meeting; this included a review of the condition survey that was done in every facility that is related to education across the country, such as dorms, teachers living quarters, hostels, nursery, primary and secondary schools.

"Outside of the massive investments that we are already making in new facilities and the rehabilitation of existing facilities, it is estimated that to bring all of the facilities throughout Guyana, in every single region, to minimum standards,

retrofitting, maintenance, and renovation projects will be at a cost of 11 billion Guyana dollars for education alone.

"We considered this conditional survey and this assessment, and we have decided that notwithstanding the tremendous resources that we already have in the budget this year, we are going to go for supplementary provisions so that we can start an acceleration of this $ 11 billion dollars investment," Dr. Ali said.

The President also related that they have decided that they will separate the investment in a multi-year/ multi-programme agenda for education, so that they can accelerate the investments and get the facilities to the required standards.

An important part of this initiative is the fulfillment of a promise that teachers, wherever they are accommodated, they are given comfortable and decent accommodation.

Already impressed by the work delivered at Abram Zuil, the President said the physical structure of the secondary school will be ranked in the top 10 per cent of all the schools around the world.

He added that he is pleased with what he has seen and that goes to show

that they are continuing to invest and deliver in the best interest of the people of Guyana.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand said this school is just a symbol of love and compassion that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government has for Guyana’s children.

“When we say that we love children and when we say that we love you it must have meaning, you should look for that meaning and remember that words mean nothing by themselves. We brought back the cash grants and fed all the grade six pupils,” she said.

Minister Manickchand related that even though Abram Zuil Secondary School was physically in a bad state, they were still performing well, academically.

The Education Minister also commended the school for having the highest matriculation rate in Region Two.

Minister Manickchand said: "Abram Zuil and Anna Regina Multilateral have shown us, and I suspect that they will show us again this year, that if you stay in these regions, you can do well... these children have shown us that as long as we invest in them, show them the same love, and give them the same

attention and resources, they will stay in their regions and do well."

She also said that the Government of Guyana and her ministry's aim is to ensure that every school in Guyana, regardless of its location, is equipped to deliver a "high quality" of education through proper facilities and learning materials.

Minister Manickchand said the Essequibo Coast has "unique opportunities" for its

people, and it has been able to produce for Guyana, persons who have positions in almost every field throughout the country.

Considering this, she implored every schoolchild to make use of the opportunities that they are being given right now in their respective schools.

The Abram Zuil Secondary School was constructed at a cost of $585 million by Builders Hardware and

General Supplies, and has the capacity to house over 750 students.

The massive facility is equipped with 27 modern classrooms, three laboratories, and one smart classroom that is equipped with all the necessary learning materials. The facility also has an auditorium and modern restrooms. The teachers and students are expected to occupy their new school in September of this year.

Oil block auction extended further

THE government has once again extended the submission deadline for 14 offshore oil exploration blocks, as it continues to work on the regulatory framework and Petroleum Sharing Agreement (PSA) to support the country’s first competitive offshore oil-and-gas licensing round.

This was according to Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday, during his weekly press conference at the Office of the President.

“We plan to extend it [the auction], for another period. We will determine what period. It should not be for much of a time. But almost every one of the people who have indicated an interest so far in participating in the auction, they’ve been told and I think they appreciate

that we are sticking with our commitment to have the framework law in place and the new PSA before the bids come in,” Dr. Jagdeo said. The government, on Monday, released the draft Petroleum Activities Bill, and made it available for public consultations.

The Petroleum Activities Bill seeks to replace the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act 1986, and is part of efforts by the government to modernise the legal and regulatory framework related to the petroleum sector.

“We had a global firm

that worked on this with enormous experience in this sector. We looked at similar framework legislation globally and a lot of the issues addressed in those modern pieces of legislation where we were deficient in our laws have been addressed. A lot of the issues will be dealt [with] subsequently, after the passage of the bill, through regulations,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

It was last December that the government launched the first auction for the development of 14 new oil blocks, which includes 11 in shallow water, and the other three in deep water. The blocks being put up for auction range in acreages from 1,000 sq. km to 3,000 sq. km.

There is a participation fee of US$20,000 for the bidding process for each block. Over the past few

years, Guyana’s offshore basin has captured the attention of the global oil market participants and has been called a gateway to the world’s fastest-growing super basin.

Guyana’s offshore fields are estimated to have potential resources in excess of 25 billion barrels and estimated reserves in excess of 11 billion barrels.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, announced that more funds will be injected into the education sector to enhance more institutions and make room for more advancements in this area (Delano Williams photo)

The Media has unfettered access to President Ali

- Minister McCoy affirms, dismisses Stabroek News editorial

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, on Thursday, called out Stabroek News for its June 19, 2023, publication captioned “President Press Conferences,” noting that the news agency has once again sought to create hysteria over a subject matter already addressed ad nauseam by the government.

Minister McCoy said the Stabroek News seems to believe it has

the power to influence the policies of the Government.

“It would appear therefore that the editor and publisher of the Stabroek News have convinced themselves that they somehow hold sway in influencing policy in the Cabinet of the elected Government of Guyana, as they seem to have arrogated to themselves the right to determine how the president of the republic must comport himself, as regards matters of public communication,”

the minister said.

McCoy pointed out that the management of the Stabroek News seems to have decided that the consistent, unhindered accessibility which its news staff and the entire local press corps, without exception, have of the President at all public engagements, anywhere across the country, does not accord with its modus operandi of a preference for staged press conferences in the posh air-conditioned confines of the presidential secretariat, as was likewise adumbrated recently

by the president of the press association.

The minister said the media house’s disposition is disingenuous, especially considering that press engagements vary across the world including the Caribbean.

He echoed that no universal law mandates the way government should interact with the media while reminding them these engagements are at the discretion of government officials.

“They are well aware that while issues of press freedom and safety are accorded

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali universal coverage and safeguards, there exists no universal convention which stipulates or mandates how governments should approach engagements with the press. They are also fully aware that such protocols and conventions are entirely at the discretion of individual elected leaders and their governments by extension,” Minister McCoy said.

Since assuming office in 2020, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has held several formal press conferences and has never shied away from addressing questions from the Guyanese or international press.

The editorial's criticism of the president's community-based outreach exercise at Parika on the West Coast is also

mentioned, suggesting that the Stabroek News' preference for exclusivity and luxury does not align with the president's commitment to addressing the needs of the people.

Minister McCoy clarifies that there is no executive policy mandating the president's confinement to formal and scheduled press conferences. Instead, the president and his government remain accessible to the press through various means, including presidential and ministerial press conferences organised at their discretion. Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, is also available to address questions from the press.

Exxon’s Liability Insurance Case: AG says State should be added as a protective measure

THE Court of Appeal will soon rule on the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall's motion to be added as a party to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) appeal to overturn Justice Sandil Kissoon’s decision that the agency and oil giant ExxonMobil breached obligations relating to its oil spill insurance policy.

During a Zoom hearing, Chancellor (ag) of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud, Nandlall contended that the Attorney General is the guardian of the public interest in litigations and should be added as a party in the case.

In his submissions, the AG argued that Justice Kissoon's decision has a direct impact on, and adverse consequences for, the State's contractual rights in a Petroleum Agreement between the Government of Guyana and Esso Petroleum and Petroleum Guyana Limited (EEPGL) and co-venturers CNOOC Nexon Petroleum Limited and Hess Guyana Exploration Limited.

“Likewise, the decision which this Honourable Court is likely to make consequent upon the hearing and determination of the two appeals, will have a similar direct impact on, and adverse consequences for, the Government/ State's said contractual rights,” Nandlall said.

He added that Justice Kissoon’s ruling raises serious issues of grave public interest and importance, so much so that the judge himself said: “I find as a matter of law and fact that the issues canvassed by the applicants, the grounds of the challenge and the evidence placed before this court, raise as a matter of fundamental importance in the public interest with potential disastrous consequences to the environment, the citizens of Guyana and ultimately, the State.”

Nandlall pointed out that Justice Kissoon, having come to this conclusion, ought to have added the Attorney General as the legal representative of the Government and the State and the guardian of the public interest.

He pointed out that the provisions of Section 31 of the Environmental Protection Act and Clause 14.10 of the Environmental Permit aggregate to confer upon the Permit Holder a duty to provide financial assurance and indemnity to the State and the Government respectively.

This reality, he said, confers on the Attorney General, as legal representative of the Government and the State, a right to be heard and to participate in legal proceedings which essentially challenge the nature, purport and adequacy of this financial assurance and indemnity.

Among other things, he contended that indirectly, the Permit Holder, the EPA and

the Government of Guyana/ State are the three parties and therefore are required by the Environmental Protection Act to negotiate the terms and conditions of the financial assurance and indemnity.

“One of the quintessential issues which the two appeals raises is the adequacy of the financial assurance and indemnity. The Attorney General as representative of the Government/ State, being one of the parties involved in negotiating the financial assurance, is entitled to be heard on this crucial issue,” he said in his submissions.

He assured the court that his addition as a party will neither delay the hearing of the appeals nor prejudice the rights of the applicants and respondents in the two appeals.

‘UNDOUBTED POWER’

On the grounds of the jurisdiction of the court of appeal to hear the case, Nandlall said that the court has the “undoubted” power to permit interventions which are catered for in the Judicial Review Act.

In further laying out his submissions, Nandlall said that it is not disputed that the Government of Guyana has a Petroleum Agreement with the Permit Holder and the co-venturers. It is from this agreement that the Government of Guyana earns 50 per cent of the profit oil and two per cent royalty of the operations from the exploration and production of petroleum conducted under a Petroleum Production Licence to which the Environmental Permit relates.

“The billions of dollars in revenue that the government receives, the intricate connection of this revenue stream to national development and private sector investments, and their cumulative effect on the public interest and public good, so elaborately set out in the Affidavit in support of our Notice of Motion, all flow from the aforesaid agreement.

“The decision of the Learned Hearing Judge that the Environmental Permit stands suspended unless an unlimited Parent Guarantee is furnished will not only result in a suspension of the operations of the Permit Holder but will halt the government's entitlement under the aforesaid contract and will indeed frustrate the performance of that contract. It is common

ground that interference with contractual relations is a tortious wrong and a person so wronged ought to be heard. It may well be that the wrong can be justified or is justifiable but same is not the basis to deny a hearing to a party likely to be affected,” the AG said in his submissions.

He further contended that by no means is this an “ordinary contract” since it is one which generates hundreds of billions of dollars, which the government uses in its budgetary allocations for the general development of Guyana and the public good, as provided in the Natural Resource Fund Act.

“This singular contact in this one sector has catapulted Guyana's economic growth rate from 5.4 per cent to over 62.5 per cent, making it by far the largest-growing economy in the world. The government's interest in this contract is therefore not merely contractual, but it is proprietary and pecuniary in nature,” he said.

However, Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam who represents the litigants (Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte) in the substantive case strongly objected to Nandlall's application and asked the court to reject same.

“You must set your collective faces against it,” the Trinidadian lawyer said as he told the court that the appeal could delay the proceedings.

After hearing the submissions, the Appeal Court judges reserved their judgements in the case. A date for the ruling is yet to be set.

Earlier this month, Justice Persaud granted a stay of Justice Kissoon’s order that required EEGPL, a local affiliate of ExxonMobil, to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee for its offshore oil operations.

He also mandated the company to lodge a US$2 billion guarantee, while the appeal against the lower court’s decision is being heard and deter-

mined.

In his ruling, the judge stressed that it seems on the face of the case that Justice Kissoon misconstrued the processes in relation to the acquisition of insurance here.

In this particular case, the judge said that the EPA can be considered an expert body which ought to have prompted judicial restraint since the body is better placed to evaluate such complex legal matters within its expertise.

On May 3, Justice Kissoon found that the oil giant “engaged in a disingenuous attempt” to dilute its obligations under its environmental permit for its Liza One project, by not fully meeting insurance requirements relating to environmental protections.

Attorney Sanjeev Datadin had moved to the Appellate Court arguing that Justice Kissoon made an error in interpreting and applying two legal provisions related to an environmental permit issued to a company called Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd.

The first provision is Clause 14 of the Environmental Permit, which is a condition the company must comply with to operate in Guyana.

The second provision is Section 31(2) of the Environmental Protection Act, which sets out requirements for financial assurances that companies must provide in relation to environmental permits

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam

A Holistic Education System

WITHIN the last two weeks, Guyana’s educational landscape has taken a dramatic turn for the better. The government of the day, through the Ministry of Education has no doubt given us hope that there is a bright future ahead for the nation’s children.

Over the past few years, the education sector has been plagued by unfortunate events, several of which were malicious in nature. These events caused a brief pause in the plans for the sector and also provided opportunities for all stakeholders to reflect not only on how students were and would be affected by the misfortunes, but also what is required to ensure that they get the top-notch education that is necessary for life after school.

Millions of dollars in contracts were recently signed to rebuild Christ Church Secondary School and the St. George’s Secondary School which were gutted by fire, displacing hundreds of students. The dilapidated St. Mary’s Secondary School on Brickdam will be also rebuilt at a cost of $560 million. The construction works for each school has a seven-month timeframe for completion.

The construction of the Abram Zuil Secondary School in Region Two was recently completed and students will soon begin to occupy the building.

However, what could be considered the sweetest accomplishment for the Education Ministry is the commissioning of the Good Hope Secondary School earlier this week.

The delays that marred the completion of this educational facility were unacceptable. The contract was signed in 2018, with a 15-month deadline for completion. Following the hiring of a new contractor, all of the outstanding works were recently completed. Its non-completion hampered hundreds of students who were forced to attend other schools, some of which were located far from their homes.

What is remarkable about the new Good Hope Secondary School which can accommodate 1,000 students and approximately 60 teachers, is the amenities it has.

It has a multi-purpose hall for large gatherings and indoor sports, a canteen, and fully-equipped Home Economics and Technical

and Vocational Educational Training (TVET) buildings for skills-based learning.

Additionally, it has chemistry, physics and biology laboratories, and an Allied Arts Department, which caters for the music and visual arts, as well as a dance studio.

The school has been outfitted with everything that is necessary to produce well-rounded students.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand has already revealed plans that would ensure that there are well-rounded students in the school system, which is all part of government’s vision to have better citizens and leaders.

This was reiterated by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali during the commissioning of the Good Hope Secondary School.

Using his own experience as a boy from a primary school in Region Three who was awestruck by the level of amenities present when he graduated to attending St Stanislaus College, one of the top secondary schools in the country, the President emphasised the importance of equitably distributed resources in a holistic education system.

For him and many other citizens, this equal access is the only way to create holistic citizens.

While it is commendable that state-of-the-art schools are being built around the country, Good Hope Secondary should serve as an example of what our schools ought to look like.

It’s not about having the best labs and a full complement of teachers. It doesn’t

stop there. The focus must be on the other aspects of education that builds resilience and character, and prepares students for adulthood and all the trials and tribulations that come with it.

Children living in remote regions must not have to attend a school in Georgetown to experience a good education.

The President has acknowledged that his story is one that was told across the country of where there were great disparities in equality and expenditure and where regions were left lagging behind.

The commissioning of the Good Hope Secondary is a step towards creating that holistic education system that we all desire.

PM Phillips’ comforting words did a lot for the parents of the Mahdia victims

Dear Editor,

MOST Guyanese both at home and in the diaspora would agree that former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF), Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips is an excellent choice for the position of Prime Minister.

One reason is that he cares about the welfare of the people, especially the poor and downtrodden and has always strived to solve their problems.

A second reason is that he is a keen listener and a very good communicator who would go to great

lengths to compromise and to make sure that everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or party affiliation, is treated fairly and equally and that no one is above the law.

Third, Brigadier Mark Phillips is honest, polite, courteous, and considerate, and is a first-rate administrator and policy maker who continues to push for the development of the country so that the lives of everyone is improved.

A strong supporter of the one Guyana vision, the former army chief is a steadfast believer in the unification and development of Guyana so that the living standards

could rise and lives of all especially the poor can be improved.

A month ago, the country was in deep mourning after it became known that a fire allegedly set by a student in the girls’ dormitory of the Mahdia Secondary School claimed the lives of some 20 children, leaving seven critically injured and numerous others hospitalised and traumatised.

With very short notice, and with bits and pieces of information, Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips led a team of Ministers to Mahdia in the wee hours of the morning to obtain firsthand

information of the causes of the terrible disaster.

During their immeasurable sorrow and shattered dreams, Brigadier Phillips offered solace, compassion, and unwavering support to the families of the deceased children.

It would have been very difficult if not impossible and perhaps heartbreaking for most of us to visit such a tragic site, but the Prime Minister met, sympathised with, and comfort the families affected and distressed following the fire at the dormitory.

He had the skills and wherewithal to help lessen

the pain felt by the families and restore whatever hope they had lost and confidence that was missing.

He reminded the family that the government would do everything in its power to make sure that corrective measures will be implemented to prevent any future tragedies and that counsellors will assist the families with coping.

His trip to Mahdia exhibited the kind of bravery known mostly among military personnel. It was the first time in the history of the country that 20 children perished in a fire and Prime Minister Phillips’ quick re-

sponse has validated and perhaps endorsed by the phrase "Fortune favours the brave" which is a Latin proverb written in 161 BC by the Roman Playwright Publius Terentius Afer, known as Terence for short.

The term which has been applied historically by people in the military can be referenced to Brigadier Phillips for his bravery to meet with the suffering parents and relatives of the deceased children in their anguish.

Their pain was deep, their hurt was unbearable, and their sorrow was pro-

Good Indian, good African and the myth of racial politics

Dear Editor,

NOT a day goes by without commentators like GHK Lall stirring up sentiments about racial politics. The truth is, Guyana, like so many countries around the world, is not without the racialisation of politics.

But what is not true is that all our politics can be reduced to race. Commentators like GHK Lall engage in this kind of racial reductionism as a matter of default. Yet, careful analysis of GHK Lall’s own writing shows that there is no guaranteed racial division, with Indians and Africans neatly lined up in their politics.

On the contrary, for GHK Lall there are essentially “good” Indians and bad Africans. Good Indians are simply those who openly oppose and attack the PPP/C. Unapproved Africans, are those who are part of the PPP/C, support the PPP/C, campaign for and with the PPP/C, publicly defend the PPP/C, and serve the PPP/C administration.

In the racialised political world of GHK Lall and others, the following are good, sensible, rational, and open-minded Indians - Dr Janette Bulkan, Melinda Janki,

Darsh Khusial, Joe Persaud, Dr. Ganga Ramdass, Mike Persaud, Charles Sugrim, Shirlena Najeer, Glenn Lall, Leyland Roopnarine, Arif Bulkan, Moses Nagamootoo, Gary Girdhari, Nazima Raghbuir, Khemraj Ramjattan, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Leila Jagroop, Amar Chinkan, Vidyartha Kissoon, Ganesh Mahipaul, Deonarine Ramsaroop, Alfred Bhulai, Dineshwar Jaipersaud, Anand Persaud, Kian Jabour, Ubraj Narine, Derek Basdeo, and Mike Singh, among others.

In GHK Lall’s racial universe, not all Africans are good by default. All the unapproved Africans are those with connections to the PPP/C.

There are, however, some stellar Africans in GHK Lall’s racial universe. They include – Dr. David Hinds, Roxanne Myers, Tacuma Ogunseye, Sherwood Lowe, Keith Lowenfield, Vinceroy Jordan, Richard Sinclair, Maureen Philadelphia, Jermaine Figueira, Flue-Bess, S.F.K. Holder, Amanza Walton-Desir, Clairmont Mingo, Sherod Duncan, Coretta McDonald, Cathy Hughes, Christopher Jones, Karen Cummings, T.J. Sarabo-Halley, Annette Ferguson, Lincoln Lewis, Vincent Alexander, David

Patterson Dr. Kenrick Hunte, Eusi Kwayana, Hamilton Green (AKA Elder), Paul Slowe, and Michael Carrington, among others.

In a recent column GHK Lall added another variable to his racial taxonomy. There are good PhD and JDs and bad PhDs and JDs. Good PhDs include Dr Janet Bulkan, Dr. David Hinds, Dr. Kenrick Hunte, among others.

How about the bad PhDs. Well, here GHK Lall in his own words – “I laud illustrious Guyanese with PhDs, JDs, MDs, DDs, who believe that it is their patriotic duty to run interference for

VP Jagdeo, as a matter of partisan or tribal honour. I also pity them. I don’t know what they say or write, or care what offense is taken at what I table publicly. It seems, however, there is this fascination, distinctive addiction (sic), with what I present to contemporaries, engrave for posterity” (KN, 2/22/23, emphasis added).

Note how GHK Lall racialises people with PhDs who defend Vice President Jagdeo and the PPP/C. In his universe, anyone who defends the PPP/C is doing it because they are “tribal.” Dr. Bulkan, Hunte, and Hinds, however, are not tribal. In

GHK Lall’s racial cartography, Bulkan (PhD), Hunte (PhD), and Hinds (PhD) are patriotic intellectuals.

For the record, I have decided to respond to GHK Lall for the simple reason that he does a daily hackjob on the PPP/C. He takes special pleasure in attacking Vice President Jagdeo. His columns and letters are primarily intended to ruin the prestige that Jagdeo has earned through the gift of intellect, and the demanding work he has put into Guyana for more than a quarter of a century. GHK Lall is where many have been before in attacking the PPP and Jagdeo,

in particular.

GHK Lall will fail for two reasons. Firstly, his use of race as a trump card will not yield the results he is hoping for. The APNU just found that out in the recently concluded LGEs. Further, as noted above, Lall’s own writings contradict his racial/political classification system. Secondly, he will fail because he does not understand the carefully configured working relationship between President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Jagdeo.

Yours sincerely, Randolph Persaud (PhD)

foundly felt throughout the Amerindian community and the entire country.

Even though as an experienced military personnel The Prime Minister may have witnessed many tragedies, but nothing could have prepared him for this painful experience, which will forever be etched in his mind.

Since becoming Prime Minister three years ago, Brigadier Phillips has engaged people throughout the country in times of natural disasters such as floods and

other manmade and natural misfortunes, but this was a completely different encounter for him, and he has handled it extremely well.

The Prime Minister should be complimented for his bravery and his comforting words of healing to the families of the deceased children. Most of us would agree that Brigadier Phillips is an extraordinary leader with the ability to deal with such ghastly occurrences.

Yours sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose

Spanish could become a compulsory subject in local schools - President Ali says

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan

Ali, said that his government was looking to enhance education throughout the varying levels to fit into the dynamic and changing nature of the country.

During the commissioning ceremony of the state-of-the-art Good Hope Secondary School on the East Coast of Demerara, on Wednesday, the President pointed to the need to augment the learning capacity of Guyanese students.

He said that the Government was aware of the trajectory of the country, the needs of its education system and the demands of the future.

Learning, he explained, must not be one-dimensional and systems must be in place to prepare the next generation for a multiplicity of careers.

“We understand the

direction the country is going, and we understand the nature of children in secondary schools. So, you have those who will be more inclined to technical education, and we have to start weaning this issue of dropouts from our system. We have to look at where that gap is and to see how we can catapult our system to take the interests of students into consideration and then stream them off to what they're interested in.”

SPANISH AS A COMPULSORY SUBJECT

The Head of State said that on the agenda was the possibility of making Spanish a compulsory subject in the school system.

He said that although Guyana is part of the Caribbean “by culture and design”, the country is also geographically part of South America, which

contains a number of Spanish-speaking countries.

“We now have to move to seriously consider making Spanish a compulsory language in our school system, because it is vital for

the young people coming up in this country and in this region,” Dr. Ali said. Of the 13 countries in South America, nine are Spanish-speaking.

EQUITABLE DELIVERY

With the commissioning of the new school, and others being constructed across the country, the Pres-

ident pointed out that for education to be delivered equitably, there must be even and impartial investments throughout Guyana to ensure that every child has the same opportunity.

In addition, the President spoke of the enhanced nature of modern schools with the ability to have indoor sport, such as table

tennis and badminton and about facilitating training programmes after school hours.

“We want to use these facilities optimally. So we're going to work with the management of these schools…to have these learning programmes done right here in the secondary schools in the evenings when the children are not there. So, we’ll have optimal use of the facility,” Dr. Ali said.

The President said that training programmes such as one recently launched for nurses, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme and other educational courses can be facilitated at schools.

He related: “Let us all work towards making a difference, building a stronger society, unifying our country and ensuring that we create the perfect platform through which these wonderful young people can have the best possible future.”

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, has said that his government is looking to enhance education throughout the varying levels to fit into the dynamic and changing nature of the country

The Dharamlall/Mahdia opportunity

GANESH Mahipaul asked me why I am not writing on the Dharamlall episode. I told him the matter is sub judice, but he rightfully pointed out to me that Mr. Dharamlall has not been charged, so it cannot be sub judice.

Mr. Mahipaul is an Opposition parliamentarian; he has a position to take which suits his agenda. Mr. Mahipaul is an anti-government personality; I am not anti-government, and I say that, unapologetically. Mahipaul’s political perspectives and political songbook have nothing in common with mine.

I see the Guyana Government as democratically elected, and operating with a democratic style that is more pronounced than many other democratic countries; those with a style of governance we in the Third World have been indoctrinated to believe is a pure form of democracy, whereas it is not.

Three examples before we return to the Dharamlall/Mahdia case studies.

(1) The current British Prime Minister did not face an election within his country, within his own party and from among his parliamentary colleagues.

The democratic thing to do was to allow a vote of party members or party parliamentarians for any person who wanted to become their party leader, including those who would have received just one vote; their own.

(2) The prosecution of Julian Assange is an assault on journalism.

(3) The US has a jail on the island of Guantanamo in Cuba, where prisoners have not been tried and sentenced for over 20 years. No doubt, there are terrorists among them. But if you arrest them for terrorism, then try them and jail them.

I am not anti-government, so there will be no propaganda from me about the Dharamlall case. My position is one that is commonsensical, and morally sound. A man has been accused; then, let the police do their work.

I have a wife and daughter, therefore, I believe crimes against women and children must be treated with urgent response, and there must be immediate legal processes.

As a human rights activist with over 55 years of experience, and as an academic since 1978, I believe society must accommodate differing viewpoints, and there must exist an environment where opposing political positions must be tolerated.

Just a quick diversion. Last Monday marked the one-year anniversary of the Freddie Kissoon/ Gildarie Show. Our guest was Mikhail Rodrigues, whose studio and social media platform the show uses, free of cost.

Rodrigues informed me on the programme that his platform provides

a show run by key figures in an opposition party named ANUG, and the hosts of the programme have been critical of him. I told Rodrigues, openly, that I hope he allows the ANUG show to continue.

In Guyana, there are those who use free speech to mask an anti-government agenda. But others must denounce that agenda, and I am prepared to do so. I see that Ouija board of conspiracy being played out with naked immorality with the Mahdia massacre.

The usual suspects; the lunatic fringe and all the opposition parties blamed the government for the Mahdia fire. Twenty victims of that inferno were used on the altar of anti-government hate.

The anti-government crusade wanted the 20 murder charges to be dropped and substituted with a mere arson charge, and for the alleged arsonist to be given psychological counselling, with access to her family at all times.

Just imagine, this person is accused of killing 20 very young humans. In dead Guyana, the family of the 20 victims did not even respond with a comment on this evil. In any other country, the usual suspects would have faced a violent confrontation.

The sharks came out, once the Dharamlall situation was made public. Please note that what Dharamlall is accused of

is terrible, but the sharks will ignore moral principles, and use their Ouija board to release jumbies on the government.

Vice-President Jagdeo said that the situation must not be tried in the court of social media. But mainstream journalism in Guyana could be as reckless, debauched and sadistic as social media.

The mainstream media was the conduit for the

manipulation of the Mahdia tragedy to weaken the government. The deification of the alleged arson came from letters from the usual suspects in the mainstream media.

It is happening in the Dharamlall scenario equally in the mainstream media, as in social media. Let me quote Eusi Kwayana in a letter in the mainstream media that is a barefaced politicisation

of the Dharamlall drama. He wrote, “…there is every sign of cover-up and official participation in this cover-up.”

This is coming from a man who lets the public know, often, that he cannot pronounce on things in Guyana, because he lives far away. On Wednesday, it was Mahdia. On Thursday, it is Dharamlall. There will be more.

Gov’t to update national HIV, AIDS workplace policy

THE government has been working aggressively towards updating the National Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno-deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Workplace Policy to a more comprehensive one.

As part of the critical undertaking, employers and employees must be thoroughly educated on the importance of the current policy.

In an effort to advance this agenda, the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) along with the Ministry of Labour and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) held a one-day consultation on Thursday, at Marriott Hotel, Kingston Georgetown.

NAPS’ Programme Man-

ager, Dr. Tariq Jagnarine said Guyana plans to join forces with the Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026, an ambitious framework that has a detailed roadmap for ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Having received recent reports of persons with HIV and AIDS being denied jobs in Guyana, Dr. Jagnarine argued that this is erroneous and that everyone deserves a place in the working world.

“We have a unique opportunity to foster a supportive environment that promotes prevention, care, and inclusivity, by integrating the updated guidelines from the ILO (International Labour Organisation) and global best practices,” Dr. Jagnarine said.

He noted that the stigma

and discrimination need to be expelled from organisations, and advocated that more comprehensive workplace policies be implemented.

The programme manager added that employers should consider a working environment supporting everyone.

“We have good treatment in Guyana, free of cost. People can live healthy and long lives,” the emphasised.

Recently, the ministry has introduced prep-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which targets persons who may feel that they are at a higher risk of becoming infected, along with self-testing.

Additionally, with Guyana’s infected population at approximately 9,700, the health ministry has been

making massive strides in ensuring that care and treatment are sourced to all 10 administrative regions.

Meanwhile, Senior Officer of the labour ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health Department (OSH), Gweneth King noted that there are regulations put in

place years ago that safeguard the well-being of infected persons.

“These regulations make provision for the workplace policies. In fact, regulation three states that every workplace at which more than five workers are regularly employed shall have a

written policy on HIV and AIDS, that is developed by employers, in consultation with employees,” stressed King.

She noted that checks for the HIV and AIDS policy are usually made by OSH officers. However, more needs to be done and stricter policies will be implemented.

As the government aims to eradicate AIDS by 2030, and as the consultation progresses throughout the day, the various organisations and other stakeholders will review the National HIV and AIDS workplace policy that currently exists, where recommendations, proposed amendments and additions will be made. (DPI)

Programme Manager of NAPS, Dr. Tariq Jagnarine

Rum industry makes substantial economic contributions to the region

- PM Phillips says benefits range from job creation to domestic taxes

ACKNOWLEDGING the rich history and strong contributions of the West Indian rum industry to the Caribbean region’s economy, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips maintains that Guyana will continue to embrace the sector as it grows and thrives.

He made this commitment during his address at the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA)’s Annual General Meeting on Wednesday evening.

Prime Minister Phillips said: “The Caribbean rum industry has made substantial economic contributions to the region. The industry continues to be a generator of employment, both direct and indirect. The industry is an earner of foreign exchange, a major contributor to do -

mestic taxes, and supports other sectors of our economy, including tourism.”

While underscoring Guyana’s continuous and steady support to the rum industry, he remarked: “The Government of Guyana remains committed to supporting the region’s rum industry. WIRSPA can count on the support of the government to promote and protect the regional rum industry.”

The meeting, which was chaired by Komal Samaroo, Chairman of regional conglomerate Demerara Distillers Limited, was held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

Prime Minister Phillips addressed some of the sector’s challenges, emphasising the fact that although competition is beneficial, it can gamble with the re -

gion’s image of quality and authenticity when lower-cost producers enter the market.

He, therefore, advised regional rum makers to adapt in order to remain lucrative and competitive in a diversifying market.

“Let us continue to innovate; invest in research and development, and find new ways to maintain our competitive edge. We must remain proactive in safeguarding the integrity of our regional rums and spirits, ensuring that they continue to be synonymous with excellence and unmatched craftsmanship,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

He also lobbied for further cooperation to uphold the industry's high standards, which he referred to as, “The hallmark of the industry”.

The Prime Minister also

lauded the WIRSPA for its efforts in marketing and safeguarding Caribbean rum, as well as for partnering with regional stakeholders and governments to realign the industry with greater branded production and exports.

He said: “By diversifying into more branded products, the region's rum industry has been able to adapt and survive. But this adaptability also demonstrated the exceptional leadership with which the region’s rum industry is blessed. I want to commend the leadership of the industry for the role it has played in safeguarding regional rums and spirits.”

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips among other dignitaries (Office of the Prime Minister photos)

APNU+AFC’s incompetence exposed -

judge orders GRDB to pay $US 77,000 over flawed Panama rice deal

A recent High Court ruling, ordering the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) to pay Vilvoorden Investment Inc $US 77,000 ($16.2 million) for unpaid rice exports to Panama, has shed light on the flawed deal struck by the APNU+AFC administration in 2018. The consequences of this ill-fated agreement have now come to the fore, exposing the negligence and lack of due diligence on the part of the former government.

Under the APNU+AFC administration, a trade agreement was made with the Panamanian government, encompassing the supply of approximately

9,000 tonnes of rice through the GRDB. However, this deal has proven to be deeply flawed, leading to financial turmoil and legal battles for the GRDB.

The key issue arising from the agreement was the failure to establish robust payment terms and safeguards. As the recent court case highlighted,

the GRDB contended that it could not pay Vilvoorden Investment Inc for the rice as it had not received payment from Panama. They cited a "pay-when-paid" clause in the contract as a justification for their non-payment.

However, Justice Gino Persaud, in his ruling, deemed this clause to be unspecific and ambiguous. Justice Persaud ruled in favour of Vilvoorden Investment Inc, ordering GRDB to pay a sum of $US 77,000 ($16.2M).

Justice Persaud, while delivering the verdict, highlighted the complex nature of the case, terming it a classic "Heller's Catch-22 situation."

He noted that the ongoing imbroglio had left Vilvoorden Investment Inc unpaid due to GRDB's own non-payment predicament. The GRDB had received and exported the rice to Panama for sale, but unfortunately, payment was not received.

Currently, the Panamanian government owes the GRDB over $1 billion for rice purchases and there is uncertainty surrounding the outstanding payments. Guyana has already expressed its intention to seek recourse through the International Chamber of Arbitration in France to recover the money it is owed.

“The respondent cannot rely on the pay-when-paid

clause since the clause is unspecific and ambiguous. Moreover, the applicant completed its obligation under the contract four years ago. Thus, the applicant is entitled to be paid within a reasonable time for the rice supplied.

“The pay-when-paid clause did not absolve the respondent’s liability to pay the applicant even if it had not been paid. This, therefore, defeats the Respondent’s contention that its duty to pay the applicant had not yet arisen,” the judge said in his ruling.

Based on the foregoing, Justice Persaud granted judgment in favour of the applicant in the sum of USD $77,000.20 or its equivalent together with interest on that sum. Additionally, the GRDB was directed to cover the costs of the legal proceedings, totalling $1 million, within six weeks.

Upon assumption of office, the People’s Progressive Party

Civic (PPP/C) government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, committed to recovering the monies owed and has already tried several avenues, including through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation. However, these have been unsuccessful.

Rice millers have filed legal proceedings in the High Court against the GRDB to have the agency pay monies for the rice sold to the Panamanian government.

“These are farmers who delivered their rice to the rice board as instructed by the government of the day; the government of the day boasted that they secured a new market for rice, sold and delivered the rice farmers’ rice and the millers’ rice on credit and never attempted to recover any payment,” Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., had said.

The following is the full message from Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag on the occasion of Public Service Day 2023:

“GLOBAL survival relies on the sustainability of ser-

present and future public servants of the world, especially the Guyanese men and women who continue to go above and beyond to build our country.

The Government of Guyana has recognised that the happiness and comprehensive wellbeing of our public servants are critical to national development. As a result, the Dr. Irfaan Aliled administration will continue to provide public servants with all that they need to thrive, not only in their workspaces, but in their homes and within their families as well.

Minister of Public Service Sonia Parag

vices necessary for human life: Access to clean water, healthy foods, proper healthcare, housing and education, just to name a few.

Notably, public servants are the ones tasked with ensuring the sustainable advancement of each of these sectors and many more.

From the Head of State of a country to the trainee clerks and cleaners, public servants are truly the unsung heroes of the world; the backbone of any civilised society.

Today, June 23, 2023, we join our colleagues in the United Nations to salute the past,

We hope to achieve personal, community and national prosperity by investing heavily in the things that matter most: Better infrastructure, improved access to housing and water, proper healthcare, and many opportunities for academic advancement and capacity-building.

As a people, and as employees of the public service, we have much to achieve. Our successes will be many; it will be collective, and it will be equitable.

The journey to a prosperous life, as a One Guyana, has only just begun.

A blessed Public Service Day to you all.”

Happiness, comprehensive well-being of public servants

critical to national development

Justice Gino Persaud

Over 700 small business owners to soon receive grants

OVER 700 small business owners from across the 10 Administrative Regions will soon receive grants from the Small Business Bureau (SBB), to help grow their enterprises and achieve sustainability.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during an interview streamed live on Facebook on Wednesday, said that during the PPP/C administration’s campaign trail leading up to the Local Government Elections (LGEs), it was discovered

that many persons who had applied and met the qualification did not receive the grants.

During the campaign, the administration also took the opportunity to engage with citizens on issues affecting them and this was one of the most common issues raised by citizens.

“We resolved to ensure that every single person who applied to the Small Business Bureau will get some assistance and that would be given to them

shortly. These are legitimate people … every region in the country from Region One to Ten,” the Vice President said. Additionally, farmers in Port Kaituma, Region One will be receiving assistance from the government to aid in agriculture.

“Already I am looking at sending in a team to the area to look at planting material and establishing a nursery there. An afro-Guyanese group doing agriculture from the Covent Area

and I have asked the Minister of Agriculture to go on Friday to meet with that group to extend that help” he said.

Dr Jagdeo reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving every issue that was brought to its attention.

“I want to assure people that we’re back at the core task of government, which is getting more jobs, advancing our programmes on health and education,” the Vice President added.

Over 95% of school-aged children received education cash grants

- second round of distribution exercises to commence soon, gov’t to explore direct deposit of funds

By Naomi Parris

SOME 95 per cent of Guyana’s school-aged population have benefitted from the recently distributed “Because We Care” cash grant and uniform vouchers, Education Minister Priya Manickchand has said. Manickchand, during

hiccups were recorded and with the ministry establishing more distribution centres, this year’s exercise was smooth and efficient.

“We have always had live auditing by the auditor general’s office because it’s not just about distributing, but it also about mak-

welfare measures introduced by the government to put more disposable income into the hands of parents and increase school attendance of learners, particularly those disadvantaged because their parents could not always afford the basic necessities.

an interview on the sidelines of an event, told the Guyana Chronicle that systems will be established to ensure that those parents who were unable to uplift the education grants receive those funds during the second distribution exercise, which will commence soon.

“People have different reasons, legitimate reasons that they can’t make that scheduled date, so we usually give another opportunity for people to come and have a second go to receive their grant for the first time,” Minister Manickchand said.

This year, the ministry identified 214,000 children from public and private schools, who were eligible for the $40,000 education grant.

This amounts to some $8.6 billion in disposable income being made available to families nationwide.

Commenting on the process, Minister Manickchand said that no major

ing sure we can answer all the queries on whether we stayed accountable to our process. I am very pleased to say that we are and we haven’t had any major hiccups,” she said.

The Education Ministry has also considered the option of direct deposits of funds to bank accounts; however, a fraction of the population may not have access to this service and this will also be taken into consideration for future distribution exercises.

“All in all, it was very smoothly done; it was very quietly done… we would like to move to a place where we could have their grants in their accounts, but as you know most of the population don’t have access to accounts and people choose overwhelmingly to receive this in person,” Manickchand said. She added: “We have to pay some mind to what the people want, that is democracy.”

The “Because We Care” cash grant and uniform vouchers are part of

In its manifesto, the government promised that by 2025 each child will receive $50,000.

The “Because We Care” project started in 2014 under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government and saw parents receiving cash grants of $10,000 per child in the public school system.

However, when the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) assumed office in 2015, it discontinued the grant. When the PPP/C returned to government in 2020, they fulfilled their promise by restoring the grant and increasing it.

This year, $94.4 billion was allocated to the sector to further boost access to quality education. The government has made significant progress in the last three years, proving its dedication to improve access to education opportunities at every level.

Construction of Wismar Bridge to begin before year end

CONSTRUCTION of the new four-lane bridge across the Demerara River in Wismar, Linden, Region Ten is expected to commence before the end of this year.

This is according to Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who was at the time speaking at a press conference at the Office of the President on Thursday.

“We are at a stage where we’re ready to start the negotiations. We have had three offers, and when the details emerge, you will see that the offers that we have received are very competitive,” Dr Jagdeo said.

The bridge is expected to cost some US$35 million, and will connect Wismar to Mackenzie.

The bridge is set to significantly reduce traffic congestion, as the current one only has a one-vehicle lane.

The government is engaging China Railway Construction Limited for the project.

This is the company that has also been tasked with the construction of the Demerara River

Crossing, at a cost of some US$260 million.

Recently, the government inked a US$150 million loan agreement with the Saudi Arabian government to expand housing development in several regions, as well as to build the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge in Linden.

“This loan will allow us to accelerate our

housing programme. You will recall that we said we wanted to do 50,000 house lots in our fiveyear term, and we are at about 30, 000 now. $100 million will go immediately to developing the housing programme,” the Vice-President noted.

Meanwhile, the VP said that the government has already selected the

consultants for the Soesdyke-Linden Highway project.

“They have prequalified the contractors, and the consultants have to do a review of the design, so we anticipate starting paving the Soesdyke-Linden Highway before the end of the year,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

Tagman Technology partners with Ingram Micro to propel Guyana’s digital transformation

TAGMAN Technology, a leading provider of innovative digital solutions in Guyana, has announced that it has joined forces with Ingram Micro, a renowned global leader in technology distribution and supply chain solutions.

According to a press release, through this partnership, Tagman Technology and Ingram Micro bring together their extensive knowledge, expertise, and resources to propel digital transformation and deliver state-of-the-art solutions to organisations in Guyana.

“This collaboration combines the unique strengths of both companies, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the technology landscape,” the

company said. Tagman Technology, born out of the merger between Tagman Media Inc. and Housty Designs, is dedicated to implementing innovative and sustainable digital solutions that enhance industry operations.

With the support of Ingram Micro's global distribution network and profound expertise in IT, Tagman Technology is poised to enhance its service offerings and expand its capabilities to better serve clients' evolving needs.

This collaboration brings several key benefits, including an expanded product portfolio featuring renowned vendors like Microsoft, Adobe, Google, Dell, Apple, and Cisco.

“With enhanced logis -

tics and support powered by Ingram Micro's robust supply chain capabilities, Tagman Technology ensures efficient product delivery and exceptional post-sales assistance,” the company said.

It added: “Leveraging Ingram Micro's extensive distribution network spanning over 160 countries, Tagman Technology gains a global presence, opening doors to new market opportunities. By combining their expertise, Tagman Technology and Ingram Micro accelerate clients' digital transformation initiatives, unlocking efficiencies, enhancing agility, and providing a competitive edge.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tagman Technology, Alex Graham, said:

"We are proud to announce our partnership with Ingram Micro. This collaboration represents a powerful synergy between two industry leaders committed to driving digital transformation in Guyana. Through our

expanded capabilities and access to a broader range of transformative technology solutions, we are confident in our ability to deliver exceptional value and help our clients achieve their digital objectives."

Tagman Technology and Ingram Micro are poised to reshape Guyana’s digital landscape, providing cutting-edge solutions and unparalleled service to propel organisations into the future.

Four prison officers among six persons released on bail for ‘Smallie’ escape

AFTER spending almost a month on remand, six persons, including four prison officers, were released on $750,000 bail each, for their alleged involvement in the escape of death row inmate and convicted mass murderer, Mark Royden Williams called ‘Smallie’.

The prison officers are head of security of the Mazaruni Prison, Alexander Hopkinson, Omar Whitherspoon, Conroy Hosannah, and Oldfield Romulus. Meanwhile, Frangeliz Jugandry Flores Perez of Alexander Street, Kitty and businessman Rajmohan Autar called ‘Chico’ were also charged.

When the defendants made their second court appearance before Magis -

trate Christel Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, several attorneys, including Bernard DaSilva who is on record for Hopkinson, made an application for bail.

The Magistrate later released them on $750,000 bail each and the matter was adjourned until July 18, 2023.

They are accused of conspiring with each other and persons unknown to assist Williams to escape on May 19.

Williams escaped from the prison around 14:30 hours with the assistance of heavily armed men in a speedboat.

According to the Prison Service, Williams was returning to the Sibley Hall prison on an ATV and was

in shackles, after receiving a visit from a female, when the escorting ranks came under gunfire. It is alleged that the ranks dismounted their ATV and returned fire at the assailants.

It is further alleged by the Prison Service that one of the boat occupants came to shore and continued to

discharge several rounds towards the prison officers. Williams managed to run towards the riverbank before jumping into the river, the Prison Service claimed.

The gunmen assisted him into the speedboat which headed upstream past Itaballi Landing, while prison guards and police undertook

pursuit. No prison officer was injured during the ordeal.

In February 2017, Williams was sentenced to death when a jury found him guilty of eight counts of murder in relation to the 2008 Bartica massacre, in which a dozen persons, including three police officers, were shot dead.

Several months later, in July 2017, Williams escaped from the prison at Camp Street, Georgetown, during a riot. It is believed that he was the mastermind.

However, he was nabbed on October 9, 2017, at Weldaad, West Coast Berbice (WCB), while travelling in a public minibus.

In 2013, Williams was acquitted after a 12-member jury found him not guilty of the charges against him in relation to the 2008 Lusignan massacre, which claimed the lives of 11 persons, including five children.

Last year, he was sentenced to death for the 2008 murder of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officer Ivor Williams.

The Tagman Technology Team at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston Texas, USA

Get your taste buds ready — Restaurant Week begins today

THE diverse menus being offered by the 17 restaurants participating in this year’s edition of Guyana Restaurant Week (GRW), are expected to tease one’s palate.

At a simple launch ceremony held earlier this week at the Bistro Wine and Champagne Bar, newly-elected president of the Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Omodelle George, urged patrons to show their support as local chefs, mixologists and other gastronomic experts showcase their talents.

“Discover the new gems, the hidden gems, savour the fusion of cultures on your plate and allow your taste buds to embark on a journey of culinary exploration. I encourage everyone to fully immerse themselves in the flavors, [and] aromas the GRW has to offer,” George said.

While reflecting on the growth of the annual event, George said the hospitality industry has proven its resilience through adversity in recent years.

Additionally, she said that the

key stakeholders and players within the industry have also proven their resilience which is evident in the continued service that is being offered.

Challenging the experts, George urged local restaurateurs to forge stronger partnerships to further advance the sector and further promote Guyana’s culinary world.

GRW over the years has become a well-known event on THAG’s calendar and, this year, THAG is celebrating its 16th edition.

The event was first curated by officials of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and THAG to promote Guyana’s culinary community as a tourism product. It gives ‘foodies’ a chance to explore the culinary world in a fine dining atmosphere at a fixed price.

The event will run until July 2.

Meanwhile, GTA’s Director, Kamrul Baksh, in his remarks noted that different menus have been put together for this year’s edition.

He said that the GTA previously

conducted surveys and tested menus in an effort to improve the GRW experiences and satisfy the demands of the public.

Baksh said the GTA, in collaboration with THAG, will continue to do this as well as work along with several local influencers to promote more sector integration as well as to improve on its services.

This year’s edition will see a newcomer, Lazeez Fusion, which offers Indian/Thai options at its Amazona Mall, East Bank Demerara location.

The other participating restaurants are Aagman Indian Restaurant, Bistro Café & Bar, Bistro Wine and Champagne Bar, Bottle Restaurant

at Cara Lodge, Eco Garden International Vegetarian Restaurant, Hard Rock Café, Heliconia Restaurant & Lounge, Hibiscus Restaurant, Java Coffee Bar & Bistro, Jaxx International Grill at Movie Towne, Mango Walk Restaurant & Lounge, OMG! Arawak Steak House, RS53 Resto Bar and Lounge, Terra Mare Restaurant (Guyana Marriott), Aracari Resort, and The Flame Restaurant and Grill.

Prefixed menus for lunch and dinner range from $3,000 to $8,000. More information including the various menus can be found at https://www.thag.co/grw/restaurants

A teaser of the culinary excitement that is expected to tantalise taste buds at this year’s edition of GRW (DPI photos)

GTT’s Fibre 150k fete for Marriott Car Park today

GTTGuyana is hosting a massive party today in the Marriott Hotel Car Park to celebrate its “Fibre 150K Fete.”

“One hundred and fifty thousand homes and businesses now have access to GTT fibre. Join us this month as we mark this milestone together because we could not have done it without you!”

GTT expressed on its Facebook page recently.

According to the telecommunication company, it will be a night filled with music, prizes, and non-stop excitement. “GTT’s Fibre 150k fete just got even better! It’s FREEEEEEEEE,” the company announced.

Performing live will be Teddyson John, Shal Marshall, King Bubba, Calvin Burnett, Steven Ramphal and Vanita Willie. “Get ready to keep them talking as we fete this Friday at Marriott Car

Park to celebrate GTT 150K!”

Gates will be opened at 16:00 hours and tickets could be sourced online at bit.ly/gtt-freezone. However, the tickets are

limited.

GTT has noted that it has established itself as a progressive full service telephone company which continuously seeks to

‘Miss Emancipation’ to light up Bartica Community Centre on July 31

provide state-of-the-art technology in keeping with international standards.

Meanwhile, as the company celebrates reaching the milestone of 150,000 homes and businesses getting access to its high speed Fibre solution, several members of its management team conducted an outreach to New Amsterdam, Berbice last Friday.

The team met with Deputy Mayor of the Town, Wayneright McIntosh and many vendors and businesses within the market area that commended the company for reaching two in every three homes and businesses with the “superfast” service.

A special visit was also made to the pupils of Learners Academy.

“The school is connected

to GTT’s Fibre and students benefit from enhanced curriculum delivery as a result of the super-fast internet connection,” GTT shared.

Among the members of GTT’s team were Chief Commercial Officer, Kerchelle Jn Charles and Regional Manager of Business Development, Carolyn Sawyer.

THE Miss Bartica Emancipation Committee is gearing up to hold its 2023 pageant in the Region Seven community on July 31 when seven beauties will vie for the title.

The Bartica Community Centre will come alive for the event during which the delegates will be competing in segments such as talent, African casual and African evening wear.

Below is a glimpse of each delegate:

Tytheon Jones, 16

Career: Aspiring psychotherapist

Hobbies: Playing football and dancing

Favourite quote: “I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed towards the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could

not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.”

- Nelson Mandela

Ilantie Prowell, 19

Career: Therapist Hobbies: Engaging with children and reading novels

Inspirational quote: “Tough times never last, but tough people do.” - Robert H. Schuller

Denika Marshall, 20

Career: Professional athlete

Hobbies: Reading, singing and athletics

Inspirational quote: “Live for the moment.”

Martina Richardson, 16, Hobbies: Playing football, dancing, meeting new people and encouraging young women like herself.

Favourite quote: “Dream big, stay focused and make it happen.”

Waynecia Pollydore, 22

Career: Teacher and first year student of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) Hobbies: Travelling and experimenting in the kitchen Food for thought: “How would you know you don’t like it if you’ve never tried it?”

Takeisa Caesar, 23

Career: Special Education Teacher and aspiring Social Worker

She is committed to ‘GirlstoWomen’, a small group of young women she has recruited to build a platform and community where they can connect and empower each other to do what they’re passionate about and become the women they were created to be.

Jadeia Washington, 17, She loves to mingle and meet new people to keep herself motivated. She lives by the quote, “It takes one moment in time to change your life.”

These performers are expected to light up the stage at the GTT event

The seven beauties vying for the title of Miss Bartica Emancipation 2023

Positive attitude ‘bags’ pageant title for mother-daughter duo

By Faith Greene

LEANNE Hernandez and Ja’Nae had the National

Cul-

tural Centre on lockdown with their dynamic performance and positive attitude on May 13 when this year’s Mother

and Daughter Pageant was held.

A ginormous lotus prop was set on stage, and Ja’Nae came

out of it in a magenta dress with green ruffles at the end, to mark the beginning of their stage performance.

This week our publication caught up with Leanne, who shared her experiences.

The happy mother described the evening as one that will continue to live on in her memory. She said the experiences she had during her pageant journey were all good.

The glamorous outfits she and her daughter wore were designed by Quinton Pearson of House of Pearson.

Leanne recalled that it was Pearson’s idea for them to centre their routine on the lotus flower.

On the night of the pageant, Leanne said that while they forgot a part of their performance, they were able to get back on track in the most adorable way. In the end, the crowd and the

judges were pleased with their performance.

“Ja’Nae was described as her mother’s biggest supporter behind the scenes, especially when it came to performing.

“She was the one who even helped me even though at one point I was getting nervous and she was like, ‘mommy, no, do not get nervous. Just breathe in, breathe out.’ And she would tell me, this is the step, walk like this.”

Leanne said that the night before the pageant, she was so nervous during rehearsals that her feet shook. However, on pageant night, that nervousness was replaced with excitement.

According to the proud mother, she received an overwhelming amount of support from the time she entered the pageant.

She said that she was happy

to be a part of the 30th edition of the pageant

“It really did something for me. I feel so loved from this pageant. I really loved it. So much support. I just feel as though all these people were looking forward to seeing me bringing home this crown. I know I have to go there and do my best. And I did.”

When they announced that she and her daughter had won, Leanne recalled that she stood there in silence for a brief moment.

She said that from the moment she entered the pageant she felt like a winner.

“When I entered this project, I just had this positive feeling and I went with it. I've never had a doubt. It wasn't a big surprise for me,” she said.

St Lucian poet showcases work at esteemed Paris Poetry Market

O’Brian attended the 40th edition of the Paris Poetry Market, which was held in

Paris, France, from June 7-10, where she shared her work with poets and publishers from around the world.

She was the only St Lucian selected among 10 young poets from the Ca -

ribbean.

The poetry market is one of the most important literary events in France and Europe. Through a programme of activities, including public

ANGELLA O’Brian of Belle Vue, Vieux-Fort, has made a big step in her poetic journey.

Winners of the Junior Category, Leanne Hernandez and her daughter Ja’Nae (Delano Williams photo)

Angella O’Brian with her book of poems

Maxi Priest talks about career, collaboration, new music

top 10 hit.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer on the weekend, Maxi Priest, who was born in London to Jamaican immigrants, spoke about the hit song that forever changed the course of his life.

"It's hard to believe it has been 35 years since my cover of Wild World became a breakthrough hit in America. Funny enough, I didn't initially like the song. My manager, Erskine Thompson, brought it to me when I was a young, rebellious artist. It wasn't until I entered the

studio with Sly and Robbie and Willy Lindo that they encouraged me to give it a try. Reluctantly, I sang the song, and now I'm truly grateful that I did. It taught me the importance of being open-minded and receptive to advice and wisdom from those who came before me. I must give a big shout-out to Cat Stevens for writing such an awesome song. Thank you," said the artiste. Wild World, he said, gave him a significant career boost as well as facilitated much personal development.

"Wild World has opened countless doors for me. It's hard to fully explain the multitude of paths it has paved. It has connected me with people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. It has provided a livelihood for my family and others. It has allowed me to travel the world, meet incredible individuals, and learn from different cultures. It has created numerous opportunities and continues to do so. It's truly remarkable how this song, along with many other songs have become synonymous

with my name like House Call with Shabba Ranks, Close to You, Just a Little Bit Longer, to name a few. I hope these songs are recognised for opening doors for others as well," the singer disclosed. He signed with Virgin Records for the release of his self-titled album, which contained Wild World as well as the hit cover of Some Guys Have All The Luck and the collaboration How Can We Ease the Pain with Beres Hammond. (Jamaica Gleaner)

REGGAE singer Maxi Priest scored his breakthrough hit in America 35 years ago with Wild World, a song originally written and recorded by English

singer-songwriter Cat Stevens.

The song made its way to number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number five on the UK Singles chart, his first

St Lucian poet showcases ...

From page 18

readings of their poems, meetings with publishers and exchanges between authors, young Caribbean poets will be able to expand their professional opportunities and strengthen their networks with key players on the European literacy scene.

“It was definitely an honour to be part of the experience. Paris was amazing. We interacted with lots of publishers and poets. It was amazing to be among other Caribbean poets,” O'Brian told Loop News.

According to a UNESCO release, "Featuring poetry as a reflection of the region’s cultural richness and diversity, the literary event presented the Caribbean as “guest of honour region” for the first time through the work of its emerging poets, selected from among 256 candidates, through an open call for applications.

This initiative resulted from a collaboration between the UNESCO Transcultura programme and the Centre for Information, Research, Creation and Artistic, Literary, Scientific and Technical Studies (CIRCÉ), which

organises the Poetry Market, aimed at promoting access to new markets for young creators from the Caribbean."

O’Brian lamented that poetry is usually on the back burner culturally and that people find that they do not make money from poetry.

“Things like music, fashion are always on the forefront,” she said.

According to O’Brian, she recently accomplished the writing of a book of poems called 'Poetic Keepsafe', which comprises 29 poems, written in both Creole and English.

“Many persons have reached out to me and told me that they are ready and willing to buy the books, which will be soon launched. The response is great,” she said.

When asked who inspired her to go into poetry, she replied: ‘I inspired myself. I started writing as a teen. The first poem I wrote was out of rage and from then I just started writing and could not stop. I have had different experiences, and have been able to better express it in writing.”

(Loop News)

Maxi Priest

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday June 23, 2023)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Jack Hobbs-12 centuries (41 Tests) (2) Don Bradman-19 hundreds (37 Tests)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What are the best Test match figures by an English bowler versus AUST to date?

(2) What are the best Test match figures by an Australian bowler against ENG to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

RACING TIPS

English Racing Tips

Ascot

09:30 hrs Porta Fortuna

10:05 hrs Little Big Bear

10:40 hrs Teumessias Fox

11:20 hrs Tahiyra

12:00 hrs Marksman Queen

12:35 hrs King Of Steel

13:10 hrs Frankness

Goodwood

12:12 hrs Rainyniteingeorgia

12:47 hrs Alba Longa

13:22 hrs La Pulga

13:55 hrs Spartan Arrow

14:30 hrs Another Run

15:05 hrs Halla Dubai

Newmarket

12:20 hrs Winforglory

12:55 hrs Faayzah

13:30 hrs Shadow Of War

14:05 hrs Never Ending

14:40 hrs Harlem Nights

15:10 hrs Via Corone

15:45 hrs Mary Of Modena

Irish Racing Tips

Down Royal

11:50 hrs Sturlasson

12:25 hrs Coco Hill

13:00 hrs Collective Power

SCOREBOARD

13:35 hrs Maria Branwell

14:10 hrs Taipan

14:45 hrs State’s Evidence

15:15 hrs Epaulawn

American Racing Tips

Belmont

Race 1 Cara’s Time

Race 2 Catch That Party

Race 3 Hollywoodland

Race 4 Chasing Daylight

Race 5 Antonio Of Venice

Race 6 Orange Freeze

Race 7 Volkert

Canadian Racing Tips

Woodbine

Race 1 Speedy River

Race 2 Papa’s Place

Race 3 Wahrer Schatz

Race 4 Allen Diggs

Race 5 Midnight Ramblin

Race 6 Dreaming Of Audrey Race 7 Katchy Name

South Africa

08:25 hrs Jaeger Moon

09:00 hrs And We Danced

09:40 hrs Opera Swing 10:15 hrs Cool Winter

not out 16

K. Paul b Rajbanshi 1

Extras (b2, lb4, w6, nb1) 13

TOTAL (7 wkts, 50 overs) 339

R. Chase, A. Joseph, A. Hosein did not bat. Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-9, 3-55, 4-271, 5-310, 6-335, 7-339.

Bowling: Rajbanshi 10-0-52-3; Karan KC 10-1-81-1 (w4); Gulsan Jha 8-0-64-1 (nb1, w2); Lamichhane 101-51-1; Airee 7-0-45-1; Aarif Sheikh 4-0-33-0; Malla 1-0-8-0.

NEPAL

K. Bhurtel b Joseph 5

+Aasif Sheikh c Mayers b Paul 28

B. Sharki c wk Hope b Holder 2

R. Paudel c (sub) Carty b Holder 30

Aarif Sheikh c Pooran b Joseph 63

K. Malla c (sub) Carty b Hosein 2

D. Singh Airee c Chase b Hosein 29

Gulsan Jha c wk Hope b Paul 42

S. Lamichhane c Joseph b Holder 1

Karan KC c and b Mayers 28

L. Rajbanshi not out 0

Extras (lb1, w10, nb3) 14

TOTAL (all out, 49.4 overs) 238

Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-23, 3-48, 4-81, 5-92, 6-129, 7-197, 8-204, 9-212.

Bowling: Holder 10-0-34-3 (w2); Joseph 10-0-45-2 (w4); Mayers 6.4-0-37-1 (w1); Paul 10-1-63-2 (nb3, w3); Hosein 10-1-49-2; Chase 3-0-9-0.

Result: West Indies won by 101 runs.

Points: West Indies 2, Nepal 0.

Toss: Nepal.

Player of the Match: S. Hope (West Indies).

Labuschagne's reign as world's best Test batter ends

Marnus Labuschagne has been backed to respond after his rare double-failure at Edgbaston cost him top spot in the ICC's Test batter rankings.

Labuschagne reign as the world's best Test batter came to an end on Wednesday with Joe Root overtaking the Queenslander to claim back the No.1 spot.

Australia's historic stranglehold on the top three positions in the rankings lasted only one Test, after Steve Smith and Travis Head also dropped down the pecking order.

Labuschagne's scores of 0 and 13 resulted in him falling from first to third, while Smith has taken the biggest drop from second to sixth.

Travis Head also from third to fourth, after making scores of 50 and 16 in Australia's thrilling two-wicket win over England at Edgbaston.

Labuschagne had held the No.1 ranking for the past six months after dislodging Root last December, which followed

a previous stint at the top from December 2021 to June 2022.

But Root's first-innings 118 not out – his 30th Test century – has catapulted him up the rankings from sixth and he looms as the key man standing in Australia's way of a first Ashes series win in England since 2001.

Labuschagne and Smith endured their worst Test match together in the Ashes opener,

with the batting maestros managing 35 runs between them, but it mattered little as Australia won a nail-biting first Test by two wickets.

Labuschagne in particular was beaten by Stuart Broad's outswinger, drawn into pushing at the right-armer twice before edging behind.

But Australia can see positives from the fact they were

New PCB chairman to be elected on June 27

as head of cricket in the country

THE election for the next PCB chairman will be held on June 27, with Zaka Ashraf expected to make a comeback as head of cricket in the country.

In a press release, Ahmed Shehzad Farooq Rana, the PCB election commissioner and acting chairman, said: "The election of the PCB Chair will be held in a fair and transparent manner whilst adopting due process and ensuring completion of all legal formalities… on Tuesday, 27 June, at the PCB headquarters in Lahore. The election schedule will be issued after receiving nominations from the departments/service organisations."

The PCB's board will comprise ten members: four regional representatives, four representatives of services organisations and the two members nominated by the patron/prime minister. All board members, including the chairman, will be appointed for three years.

Earlier this week, Ashraf, along with Supreme Court lawyer Mustafa Ramday, joined the board after being nominated by the prime minister. In Pakistan, a prime minister appointee usually goes on to become the board

chairman.

This follows Najam Sethi, who was heading the interim management committee that ran the PCB till June 20, withdrawing from the race to become the chairman. The Sethi-led management committee was given the mandate to revive the 2014 PCB constitution and form the board of governors after Ramiz Raja was removed as chairman and the 2019 constitution was scrapped.

However, Sethi's list of nominees for the board stirred a legal complication as four regions - Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Rawalpindi - were named out of the rotation.

In the press release, Rana

rejected Sethi's nominations and replaced them with representatives of Larkana, Dera Murad Jamali, Bahawalpur and Hyderabad. The four departments included are National Bank of Pakistan, State Bank of Pakistan, Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited and Sui Southern Gas Company.

It was Sethi who had ended Ashraf's first stint as PCB chairman in 2014. At that time, the pair was involved in a legal battle for the chairmanship, with the position switching hands several times. Eventually, then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif settled the issue by ousting Ashraf and bringing in Sethi. (Cricinfo).

able to secure victory without their two best batters scoring runs, giving them confidence they have the depth to pile on big scores through the series.

"I genuinely just expect him to score a hundred next game," Usman Khawaja said of his fellow Queenslander in Labuschagne.

"We had potentially our two best batsmen not score runs this game, it's very unlikely, doesn't happen very often.

"In my opinion, the greatest batsman of my era in Test cricket, Steve Smith, not very often he misses out twice.

"We've still got four Ashes Tests. Might be a good thing for us, they have some runs in the bank."

Khawaja, who was named player of the match following scores of 141 and 65, gained two places in the ICC rankings to a new career-best rating of 836 and seventh place overall.

Meanwhile, Australia captain Pat Cummins dropped one spot to fourth in the Test bowler rankings despite his 4-63 helping restrict England to 273 in their second innings. (AAP &Cricket .com.au)

Marnus Labuschagne's rare double-failure at Edgbaston has cost him No.1 spot in the ICC rankings

…Zaka Ashraf is expected to make a comeback

Zaka Ashraf arrives at the PCB office

Ghana's record goal-scorer retires from football

ASAMOAH Gyan

shaved the number three into his hair as a tribute to the shirt number he wore for Ghana.

Ghana's record goal-scorer Asamoah Gyan has announced his retirement from football.

The 37-year-old fought back tears as he revealed his decision while on stage with for-

mer Ivory Coast striker

Didier Drogba in the Ghanaian capital, Accra.

"It's time to tell everybody. It's a very, very difficult moment," said the former striker who scored 51 goals in 109 games for his country.

Gyan later took to social media to explain why he was calling time on his 20-year career.

"It is time," he wrote, "to hang the jersey and boots in glory as I retire officially from active football.

"A stage that is difficult in every footballer's career, a moment all footballers do not wish but when nature dawns that this voice will keep echoing into the ears."

The 2010 BBC African Footballer of the Year made his international debut in 2003 as a 17-year-old, coming on as a substitute in a World Cup qualifier against Somalia. He made his final appearance for the Black Stars in 2019.

He played in seven Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, helping Ghana finish third in 2008 and as runners-up in the 2010 and 2015 editions.

The Confederation of African Football described him as "an absolute legend of the game" and "one of the best to ever do it.

Gyan's World Cup adventures

As well as being his country's leading scorer, Gyan is also Africa's top scorer at World Cups.

The first of his six goals came after just 68 seconds of the 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in a group game at the 2006 tournament in Germany.

He scored three goals in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa as Ghana reached the quarter-finals, but missed a crucial penalty at the end of extra time that would have seen his nation become the first African side ever to reach

the last four.

The penalty was awarded after Uruguay's Luis Suarez handled the ball on the goalline, a moment that has become legendary when placed alongside Gyan's ensuing miss from the spot.

Gyan scored two more goals at the 2014 World Cup in Brazilagainst Germany and Portugal - before announcing his retirement from international football in 2019, although he did attempt a late, and unsuccessful, comeback before last year's tournament in Qatar.

Gyan's domestic career took him to 11 clubs in eight countries including Udinese in Italy, Rennes in France and Sunderland in England, plus Abu Dhabi, China Turkey and India, before a return to Ghana in 2020

Retirement tips from another African legend Gyan's choice of location for the announcement of his retirement was slightly unusual, coming as it did at a banking conference.

Just before revealing his decision, Gyan turned to Drogba, who retired in 2018, and asked how he felt after stepping away from football.

"When your career is coming to an end it is very difficult," said the former Ivory Coast and Chelsea man.

"You stop waking up to go to training, nobody is there to clean your boots, nobody is there to carry your bags and there is no manager behind you saying 'come on you have to perform today.'

"If you are not strong enough here [points to head], and if you are not smart, you will go down."

Struggling to hold back his tears, Gyan then interrupted and said: "It's been echoing in my mind for the last year and a half. Sometimes people would ask me, 'Have you retired?' I still think I have something to offer but I have been contemplating it and I want to use this platform to tell everybody that it's time."

After an initial pause, the audience then rose to give a standing ovation.

But Gyan's Twitter post made it clear that he will not be leaving football entirely.

"I will put my experience and knowledge to use in the field of coaching, football business and scouting," he wrote. (BBC Sport)

Asamoah Gyan (centre) scored 51 goals in his 20 years representing Ghana

GAPLF express sympathy as Powerlifting fraternity loses another colleague in Rawndel ‘Bear’ Clementson

NOT fully recovered from the loss of Nigel Phillips just under one month ago, the powerlifting fraternity lost another competitor and national record holder, Rawndel "What Jesus Wud Say" Clementson.

The 44-year-old RipHit Strength and Conditioning System Gym founding member passed away on Tuesday morning at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre after he was taken there following complaints of not feeling well during the wee hours of the morning. He worked up to Monday, plying his trade as a taxi driver.

President of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), Franklin Wilson, on behalf of his Executive and the powerlifting fraternity, extended sincere condolences to his wife, Oslyn Clementson, and two children, Oslyn and

Annastacia.

“This is truly a shocker not only to Clementson’s immediate family but to all and sundry. It’s a stark reminder of the fragile nature of life. I’ve known Rawndel who was also known as ‘Bear’ for some time now and am aware of his exploits on the competition platform. He, like Phillips, possessed the quality to represent Guyana but never had the opportunity.

It’s a tough time for his family, but as a fraternity, we send out our love and strength to them in this time of need and ask Almighty God to surround and protect them at this time of need. May his soul rest in peace.”

Clementson’s long-time Coach and training buddy, Martin Webster, reminisced that in 2012, he was asked by Clementson to join him at Flex gym for some train-

ing due to the fact that he was diagnosed as hypertensive.

“At this time I never knew he was a former Kingsrow Barbell Club lifter in the 198lb category, after one year of training he told me that then President of GAPLF, Peter Green, met him on the road and told him he should return to powerlifting; it was that moment I switched from being a strength coach to a powerlifting coach.”

Webster also recounted that when Clementson competed at the Senior National Championships in 2013, the Federation did not have classic lifting at the time.

“But that didn't sway Dwayne (call name) from giving it his all without a belt, without a squat suit, and without knee wraps, as he squatted 606lbs on his second attempt. His battle

cry before every lift was, "What Jesus Wud Say".

His other amazing feat was to actually get me to step on the platform where I competed many times alongside him, and the nickname "Bear" was given to him by Andrea Smith because of his lovable, cudable size and also because one time he amazed everyone at Buddy's Gym by doing CrossFit, "The Bear" complex.”

The late Rawndel Clementson, during his career, established the following records which still stand. Current National Records: 120+ Men's Open Classic; Squat 260.0kg; Bench 152.5kg; Deadlift 280.0kg; Total 692.5kg. Equipped; Squat 272.5 (done without suit, belt, or knee wraps).

'Back it up': Ponting hits back at Robinson

A fired-up Ricky Ponting has hit back at Ollie Robinson after the former Australia captain's name had been dragged into an Ashes sledging debate that lit a fuse under the first Test at Edgbaston.

Ponting suggested Robinson needs to walk the talk after the England paceman defended his send-off of Usman Khawaja by saying: "We've all seen Ricky Ponting and other Aussies do the same to us, and just because the shoe is on the other foot it's not received well."

Khawaja later played down the first-innings incident, admitting he had not heard Robinson's words for him after he had been dismissed for 141 on day three, while the opener labelled a run-in with the paceman on day five as "friendly banter".

But Ponting, who commentated on the thrilling

clash for Sky Sports, took aim at Robinson after the Test.

"As I said after Ollie Robinson said what he said, this England cricket team hasn't played against Australia and they'll find out pretty quickly what playing Ashes cricket and playing against a good Australian cricket team is all about," Ponting told the ICC Review podcast.

And if Ollie Robinson hasn't learned that already after last week, then he's a slow learner.

"Some of the things he had to say – I mean he even brought my name into it, which I felt was a little bit unusual, but for me it's water off a duck's back.

"If he is sitting back thinking about me, then no wonder he bowled like the way that he did in that game, if he's worried about what I did 15 years ago.

"He'll learn pretty quickly that if you're going to talk to Australian cricketers in an Ashes series, then you want to be able to back it up with your skills."

Robinson, who has taken 71 wickets at 21.15 in his first 17 Tests, had five victims for the match including the key scalps of David Warner and Cameron Green in the Aussies' second innings.

While the 29-year-old's words to Khawaja and his justification for it has riled up Australian fans, both teams commended the spirit the first Test was played in.

The ICC handed down sanctions for slow over-rates and for a drying agent used on Moeen Ali's finger, but none for bad behaviour.

"Two competitive teams going at it and desperate to

try and get a performance for their countries, so you're always going to get a little bit of a boil-over of emotions," said England coach Brendon McCullum.

"I don't think it crossed the line, from what the match referees were saying, they were pretty content with it as far as I'm aware.

"But I'm sure it'll be a hotly contested series right throughout and it won't be the last time we're probably talking about it."

Ponting also questioned England on their insistence they are not a "results-driven" team.

Ben Stokes made a point of stressing his aversion to losing such a close match after the two-wicket loss on Tuesday, but repeated his assertion that he wants his team to play entertaining cricket, "We are not a re -

sults-driven team, but we are absolutely devastated," Stokes said after England went 0-1 down in the series. "The lads are in pieces up there. But if that's not attracting people to the game we love then I don't know what will.

But Ponting said: "I've heard them say that before, that they're not 'results driven', but I don't believe that for a second.

"This is an Ashes series, this is the biggest challenge that Ben Stokes has had in his career as a captain.

"I'm not copping that.

"I mean, if they're not results driven, they wouldn't be disappointed at all about losing. And it seemed to me, and he said it, that all his players were in pieces at the end of that game.

"So that means to me that they do care about losing, and you should.

The former Australia Test captain, Rickey Ponting

Rawndel Clementson dead at 44

CWI Senior Manager, Roland Holder, describes India as `peculiar’ in making arrangements

...says they’ve yet to confirm arrival date for Caribbean tour

Senior Manager for Cricket West Indies (CWI), Roland Holder, has described India as “very peculiar in making their arrangements” after confirming that they have yet to confirm when they will arrive for their tour of the West Indies set to start on July 12 with the first Test at Windsor Park in Dominica.

The tourists will first fly to Barbados before being chartered to Dominica for the first Test. The series will consist of two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is from July 12 to August 13.

Holder, speaking on the Mason & Guest radio show on Tuesday night, said India has yet to confirm when they will be arriving for the tour.

“They are still working through their flight options but they are anticipating arriving on July 1,” said Hold-

er.

“It varies from country to country,” he said about teams communicating their plans for tours quickly.

“India are very peculiar in making their arrangements and things are subject to change with them very often. You don’t always get the confirmations you need in your time; you probably get it in

their time,” he added.

The former West Indies batter said the original plan was for India to arrive on July 1 and play a four-day warm-up game at a later date but the Indians had other ideas.

There’s usually a discussion between both countries as to what they want to happen. The FTP has India arriving on July 1 and there was to be a four-day warm-up game. They subsequently said they don’t necessarily want that so they’ll confirm when they will arrive,” Holder said.

“They didn’t confirm so we couldn’t confirm when they will arrive. In the last few days, they have come back with some options which have reverted to arriving potentially on June 30th or July 1, which I’ve communicated to the relevant

parties,” he added.

Holder added that their lack of confirmation means important logistical matters like booking charter flights and hotels are delayed.

“Potentially, we have them arriving in Dominica on July 7th, but I’m waiting on confirmation from them. Without that confirmation, we have them booked for July 9.

“Until they can confirm when they want to go to Dominica, I can’t necessarily go to the hotel and the charter airline companies and say I need a flight for this day or I need a room for this day. While I can alert them, I can’t confirm. We are working all those options so we can swiftly put plans in place once we know what is happening,” he said. (Sportsmax).

Blake hails Reggae Boyz squad for Gold Cup

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – No. 1 goalkeeper and captain Andre Blake said the current Jamaica Reggae Boyz squad for the group stage of the Concacaf Gold Cup in the United States was one of the most talented assembled.

Blake said his side will still have to prove it on the field when they start their campaign in the tournament against defending champions and hosts United States on Saturday at Soldier Field in the city of Chicago in the state of Illinois.

The Reggaze Boyz have a squad that includes English Premier League regulars such as Leon Bailey, Michail Antonio, Demarai Gray, Ethon Pinnock, and Bobby Reid, and they will be hunting their first win in seven matches under head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson.

“The players are very motivated,” Blake told the Jamaica Gleaner newspaper. “I don’t have any concerns.

Venus Williams, Elina Svitolina handed Wimbledon wild cards

It is not all about winning, but don’t mistake that for not wanting to win. But if you focus on doing the right things consistently, everything will take care of itself.

“We have a very talented group. I have been to a few of these tournaments before. I have been to two finals, and I can confidently say this is the most talented group we are going to have going into the Gold Cup.”

Bailey and Reid each had two goals in the Concacaf Nations League that act as a

qualifier for the Gold Cup, while Antonio proved he was a threat from anywhere on the field, having scored a world-class goal in World Cup qualifying for Qatar 2022 against the Americans.

“I am also experienced enough to know that talent or names on paper do not win this tournament,” Blake added. “This is Concacaf, and it takes a lot of running, fighting, commitment, so if we can get all the players to do the dirty work without the ball, I have no doubt because

we have the talent to be really good with the ball.

“So it is going to come down to how much are we willing to suffer without the ball because this is a tournament, and it’s about surviving and advancing.

“It doesn’t need to be pretty if at the end of the 90 minutes you are moving forward or you win the trophy, nobody will ever care how you played.”

Jamaica, the No. 2 side in the Caribbean Football Union and the Concacaf No. 7, will also face CFU No. 3 and Concacaf No. 11 Trinidad & Tobago Soca Warriors on June 28 at City Park in St Louis, Missouri in the group stage of the Gold Cup.

The Reggae Boyz will close the group stage against the CFU No. 12 and Concacaf No. 21 St Kitts & Nevis Sugar Boyz on July 2 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

FIVE-time Wimbledon singles champion, Venus Williams, has been given a wild card and will feature at the upcoming Wimbledon 2023 Championships.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion is one of the seven players to be named in the wild card list that was released on Wednesday. The list also includes British players Katie Boulter and Heather Watson along with Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina for the women’s draw.

Williams was in action at a grass-court event in the Netherlands and the 43-year-old upset 48th-ranked Camile Giorgi 7-6 (5), 4-6, 7-6 (6) after more than three hours at the Birmingham Classic for her first victory over a player in the top 50 in nearly four years.

Williams was out for six months because of a hamstring injury sustained in Auckland in the first week of the year. The seven-time Grand Slam champion next plays Jelena Ostapenko at the Wimbledon warm-up event.

Williams’ younger sister Serena is a seven-time Wimbledon champion. Serena lost in the first round at last year’s tournament and soon after announced her decision to step away from tennis.

In the men’s singles, Belgian David Goffin, the world no 124, who reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 2019 and 2022, was among the men to receive wild card entry.

Along with Goffin, Ryan Peniston has received a wild card along with fellow British players Arthur Fery, Jan Choinski and George Loffhagen. Ten singles wild cards have been handed to British male and female players as one more women’s singles and two men’s singles wild cards are yet to be announced.

The championships 2023 begins on July 3.

CWI Senior Manager Roland Holder

Reggae Boyz goalkeeper Andre Blake

Williams is a five-time Wimbledon singles champion

THE International Olympic Committee (IOC) has voted to strip the International Boxing Association (IBA) of its status as the sport’s world governing body.

The IOC’s executive board recommended the move earlier in June after the IBA failed to meet set reforms following its 2019 suspension over governance issues and alleged corruption. Of 70 valid votes on Thursday, 69 voted in favour of the recommendation.

In April, the World Boxing Association – a breakaway international federation – was formed.

Boxing at Tokyo 2020 was organised by the IOC amid concerns over the IBA’s finance, governance, ethics, refereeing and judging, and the Olympic body will be in charge again for Paris 2024. The sport had been left

off the initial programme for Los Angeles 2028 but, speaking during the IOC’s 140th session in which the vote was held, IOC director general Christophe de Kepper said he “guarantees” boxing will be on the programme in five years’ time.

The programme for those Games will be finalised by the IOC in October.

Before the vote, IOC president Thomas Bach said: “We do not have a problem with boxing. We do not have a problem with boxers.

“The boxers fully deserve to be governed by an international federation with integrity and transparency.”

The Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected an appeal by the IBA against the recommendation on Tuesday.

At the time of the executive board’s recommendation, the IBA said it was a “truly

abhorrent and purely political” move.

What is the background?

In 2022, an independent investigation said boxing needed to take action on ethical issues to secure its Olympic future, having found a “historical culture of bout manipulation” – including at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

In his final report, Profes-

sor Richard McLaren detailed decades of financial mismanagement and deception, rule breaking in the ring, and inadequate training and education programmes for referees, judges and officials.

In October, the IBA –which counts Russian statebacked energy giant Gazprom among its chief sponsors –lifted its ban on Russian and Belarusian boxers.

Multiple nations including Great Britain boycotted the men’s and women’s World Championships held earlier this year after the IBA allowed Russian and Belarusian boxers to compete under their countries’ flags, contravening IOC guidance.

Russian Umar Kremlev, the IBA’s president, said those boycotting the championships were “worse than hyenas and jackals” because of their violation of the “integrity of sport and culture”.

Kremlev has been IBA president since 2020 and was re-elected unopposed in May 2022 after Dutch boxing federation president Boris van der Vorst was declared ineligible.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in June that Van der Vorst was wrongly

Women’s Ashes series

IOC strips IBA of recognition as governing body Australia's Ellyse Perry hits 99 but England's Sophie Ecclestone hits back

By Ffion Wynne

ENGLAND spinner Sophie

Ecclestone's three wickets left the one-off Test against Australia evenly poised after the first day at Trent Bridge.

After winning the toss, Australia were in control at 226-3 before losing three wickets for 12 runs in the space of 24 balls, including all-rounder Ellyse Perry for 99, as England pulled it back on the opening day of the multi-format Women's Ashes series.

Ecclestone took two wickets in three balls, bowling captain Alyssa Healy for a duck, before debutant

Lauren Filer dismissed Perry with a sharp 76mph delivery.

A seventh-wicket partnership of 77 between Ash Gardner (40) and Annabel Sutherland (39 not out) then steadied Australia's progress as they finished on 328-7, after Gardner fell to Lauren Bell late in the day.

England seamer Kate

Cross took the first wicket of the series as Phoebe Litchfield fell for 23 on Test debut, before Filer had opener Beth Mooney caught at slip for 33 for her first international wicket.

Perry, who was dropped on 10, and Tahlia McGrath added 119 for the third wicket as England's seamers toiled on a flat pitch in the afternoon session.

Ecclestone (3-71) was the only bowler to offer captain Heather Knight control, bowling a mammoth 31 overs at an economy rate of 2.29 runs per over, while the four seamers combined went at 4.34.

The five-day Test is worth four points in the multi-format series, and is followed by three Twenty20 internationals and three one-day internationals.

Meet Lauren Filer - England's Ashes debutant

Ecclestone proves her class again

Perry and McGrath's partnership had an ominous air

about it, the pair looking immovable and scoring effortlessly all around the ground as the ball and a flat pitch offered England's seamers very little.

But when England are in a crisis, Knight turns to Ecclestone, and so often she delivers.

From nowhere, McGrath was bowled by a beautiful flighted delivery that drifted through her defence to break the shackles, and breathe life back into a flagging England side.

A short rain delay then revived England, and Ecclestone struck again in the 56th over.

Jess Jonassen was caught off the glove at short leg after a smart review by Knight, before a perfectly executed quicker ball bowled wicketkeeper Healy - standing in as captain for the absent Meg Lanning - for her third consecutive duck in Ashes Test matches.

Ecclestone executed her role perfectly for Knight,

prevented from standing but a proposal to stage a new election was rejected by IBA delegates.

The IOC said it was “extremely concerned” by the result, while Van der Vorst told BBC Sport he feared for the sport’s Olympic future.

World Boxing will seek IOC recognition – though this could take up to two years for a body created just three months ago.

Among five pledges it made, the new organisation said it will “keep boxing at the heart of the Olympic movement” and “ensure the interests of boxers are put first”.

It is led by an interim board made up of representatives from Great Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Sweden and the United States. (BBC Sport).

twirling away at one end while the captain rotated her tired seamers at the other, but despite the Lancashire slow left-armer's brilliance, England must be cautious.

In the Test against India at Bristol in 2021, Ecclestone bowled 64 overs and subsequently struggled with her shoulder for the rest of the summer.

England need her fit and firing if they are to compete with world champions Australia for another six Ashes matches after this Test.

Filer's pace shows early promise

England’s head coach Jon Lewis described Fi0ler as a "point of difference bowler" in his pre-match news conference, and it took her only one ball to prove it.

Perry was initially given out lbw, and while it was overturned on review after replays showed a big inside edge, Filer's pace and her unknown factor was immediately clear.

Australia's star all-round-

er now averages an incredible 71.09 against England in Tests, and was granted another life after Tammy Beaumont spilled a chance at short leg.

Somerset quick Filer did not have to wait much longer to strike though, her pace and bounce drawing an edge from Mooney, before Perry's patience combined with run-scoring elegance blunted England's attack.

Filer bravely tested Australia out with the short ball, and her quickest delivery accounted for Perry, whose one loose shot of the day was well taken by Nat Sciver-Brunt at backward point as the ball flew off the bat at head height.

The debutant was relatively expensive - conceding 65 runs in 14 overs - but after the international retirement of pace spearhead

Katherine Sciver-Brunt earlier this year, the early signs will excite England and Lewis for the future.

(BBC Sport)

Russian Umar Kremlev is the IBA president

Australian Ellyse Perry is the fourth women to be dismissed for 99 in Tests

ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier

Hope and Pooran centuries headline Windies rout of Nepal

HARARE, Zimbabwe, (CMC) – Hundreds from current captain, Shai Hope, and past captain, Nicholas Pooran, set up West Indies for a convincing, 101-run win against Nepal in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier on Thursday in Zimbabwe.

Hope cracked 132 and left-hander Pooran slammed 115, and they shared a double-hundred, fourth wicket stand to help the Caribbean side reach 339 for seven from their allocation of 50 overs after a shaky start in their second Group A match at the Harare Sports Club.

Hope and Pooran nursed West Indies back to good health with a stand of 216 after the Caribbean side slumped to 55 for three.

Overhauling such a total was always beyond the capacity of the Nepalese, and though they got a top score of 63 from Aarif Sheikh, they were never going to stop West Indies from claiming their second win in a row and move ahead of hosts Zimbabwe on net run rate at the top of the standings in the group.

Kyle Mayers formalised the result when he held a sharp return catch to send Karan Khatri Chhetri packing for 28 with two balls remaining in the Nepal chase.

“We were put on the

back foot there,” Hope said. “The key was absorbing as much pressure as possible and then find a way to transfer that pressure in the back end.

“Pooran made it a lot easier for me. The aim was to take it as deep as possible [to] give us the best chance towards the end.”

The Caribbean side could confirm their place in the Super Six stage of the Qualifier with a third win in a row against the Zimbabweans on Saturday at the same venue.

Sent in to bat, West Indies were rocking on nine for two in the fifth over after Kyle Mayers was caught at mid-wicket for one off

Karan, and fellow pacer Gulsan Jha got Johnson Charles caught behind for a duck.

Opener Brandon King was just beginning to find his flow and started the repair effort with Hope before leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane bowled him for 32, and the Caribbean side stumbled to 55 for three.

Pooran came together with Hope in the 16th over and enjoyed a huge slice of good fortune in the next over when wicketkeeper Aasif Sheikh dropped him, on three, off left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi.

This appeared to energise Pooran, and he cel -

ebrated the reprieve with the first of his four sixes and continued to indulge himself, but Hope was no slouch, and they both reached the milestone in the 40th over.

Hope clipped the third ball of the over from Gulsan through square leg for two runs to complete his 15th ODI hundred before Pooran carved the last ball to the backward point boundary to arrive at his second ODI hundred – four years after scoring his first.

“I don’t think I hit the targets where I wanted to, but I’m happy to just bat as deep as I possibly could there,” Hope said. “The team really needed me.

“They [Nepal] bowled well, and I must commend their bowlers, especially their spinners, they stuck to their task well. We batted well in that period to overcome their spin threat. There’s obviously room for improvement, so we need to make sure we are ticking those boxes going into the next game.”

Pooran offered a return catch to off-spinner Dipendra Singh Airee with six overs remaining, and West Indies thrashed a further 68 from them for the loss of three wickets.

Rajbanshi claimed Hope and all-rounder Keemo Paul in the final over and ended with three for 52 from 10 overs, making him the most successful Nepal bowler.

Pacer Alzarri Joseph, bowling aggressively and sharing the new ball with Jason Holder, set back the Nepalese early when he bowled Kushal Bhurtel for five in the second over.

Holder pushed Nepal back further when he got Bhim Sharki caught behind for two in the fifth over, and they laboured to 42 for two at the end of the Power Play.

West Indies fielded a bit raggedly, and Nepalese tried to rebuild with their captain Rohit Paudel scoring 30 and Aasif Sheikh

getting 28, but they were a few flashes of brilliance from substitute fielder Keacy Carty, and this stemmed any real momentum.

West Indies had Nepal on the back-foot on 114 for five at the halfway mark of the chase, but

Aarif provided the most resistance and put on 68 for the seventh wicket with Gulsan that brought respectability to the total.

West Indies claimed the last four Nepalese wickets for 41 in 38 balls – including Gulsan for 42 and Aarif – with Joseph, leftarm spinner Akeal Hosein, and pacer Keemo Paul all taking two wickets.

In the other match, the Netherlands bounced back from a narrow defeat against Zimbabwe when they beat the United States by five wickets at the Takashinga Cricket Club.

The Dutch captain Scott Edwards led from the front with an unbeaten 67 to carry his side over the finish line after the American made 211 for eight batting first.

The qualifiers continue today with Group B leaders Oman chasing a third win in a row against Sri Lanka at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, where Scotland face United Arab Emirates at the Bulawayo Athletic Club.

West Indies ODI captain, Shai Hope (left) and senior batter, Nicholas Pooran, added 216 runs for the fourth wicket : Hope hitting 132 and Pooran 115 (ICC via Getty Images)