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THURSDAY 27th JANUARY, 2022

No. 106617

Landmark $552.9B Budget presented to House

SEE PAGES

3&5

- launches most rapid period of transformation, modernisation in Guyana’s history

- economy set to grow 47.5 per cent this year; Guyana expects US$957.6 million in oil revenues in 2022

QUICK OUTLOOK OF BUDGET 2022

Roads and Bridges: $76.7B Education: $74.4B

Security: $47.9B Energy Sector: $29.4B Agriculture: $22B

Budget measures

* Income Tax threshold increases from $65,000 to $75,000 * Loan ceiling for low-income earners moves from $12M to $15M * Old-Age Pension increases from $25,000 to $28,000

Health: $73.3B

Housing: $12.4B

* Public Assistance increases from $12,000 to $14,000 * Education cash grants increase from $19,000 to $30,000 * $420.5M to train 1,000 Guyanese for oil and gas sector

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Old-age pension increased to $28,000, public assistance to $14,000 AN additional $2.3 billion in disposable income will be placed in the hands of over 65,000 senior citizens when the old-age pension is increased from $25,000 to $28,000, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh announced on Wednesday. Dr. Singh was, at the time, speaking about the measures that have been included in the 2022 budget under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS). It was also announced to the National Assembly that another 18,000 persons are scheduled to benefit from $432 million in disposable income with the increase of public assistance from $12,000 to $14,000. Further, 300 Guyanese currently in need of life-

- slew of other measures under Human Services Ministry unveiled

saving dialysis are set to benefit from $180 million in assistance with the implementation of the newly created ‘Dialysis Support Programme’, under which every dialysis patient will receive up to $600,000 per annum for dialysis treatment. Currently in Guyana, dialysis costs approximately $12,000 per session with most patients needing at least two sessions per week. These new measures are expected to assist some of society’s most vulnerable groups and are among a slew of measures catered for under the MoHSSS. During his 2022 budget presentation, Dr. Singh stressed the importance of Guyana’s most vulnerable being catered for, particularly the senior citizens. “Our senior citizens remain a valuable institutional

resource to our society and must be afforded the opportunity for a good quality of life – safe, secure, good quality health care and opportunities for social engagements. We continue to take active steps to support our senior citizens,” he said as he announced the pension increase. A number of measures are also included to cater to the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and other special needs citizens. These include the creation of a national school for children with special needs through collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre. Works are also slated to continue on the Centre for Disability, while the construction of a new care centre at the Mahaica Hospital for

those children living with disabilities is also expected to commence. Two wheelchair buses are to be purchased to aid in the transport of residents from the Mahaica Hospital and Training Complex. “Government is concerned about the well-being of persons living with disabilities and is making a conscious effort to bring social services to all eligible persons,” Dr. Singh said. Further, the budget also contains a number of measures that cater to areas such as the empowerment of women and girls and the improvement of support for domestic violence victims. Regarding improvements to tackle domestic violence, $19.7 million has been allocated towards the construction of domestic violence shelters at Whim

and Onderneeming, while another $114.9 million is going towards the expansion of legal aid services to domestic violence victims. “Abuse of any form is unacceptable within our society and is a social issue that cannot be ignored. Our government continues to pursue initiatives to prevent domestic violence,” Dr. Singh noted. For women development, the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) Programme will be expanded, targeting more women, and offering additional and advanced courses in culinary arts and technical skills for solar farms, among others. “Empowerment of women is an imperative to achieving sustainable development. The development of women cannot be viewed in isolation, but as part of the substantial investments being undertaken

across both social and economic sectors. In addition to the numerous expenditure designed to benefit women, this government is committed to gender equality not only superficially but meaningfully,” he added. There are also measures that will help to cushion the rising cost of living. “Our Government regards the issue of cost of living as a matter of pressing concern. Given the complexity of the factors driving price increases and the limited policy instruments available to mitigate these increases, we intend to engage in further consultations with the communities. We have allocated a sum of $5 billion to meet the cost of the interventions to be implemented following these consultations,” Dr. Singh said.

$1.3B budgeted for national ICT development - hinterland communities, more public institutions to be targeted

A P P R O X I M AT E LY $1.3 billion has been allocated for the development of Guyana’s Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) sector, which will include a national ICT policy, the expansion of the government fibre optic cable

by an additional 115km, and grants for ICT hubs in 167 communities. The government is also working on developing data protection legislation and the establishment of a Guyana National Cyber Incident Response Team, and a related Security Op-

erations Centre, as measures geared at protecting the government’s eServices, including citizen data, from external threats such as phishing and other forms of cybercrime. These disclosures were made on Wednesday by Senior Minister in the

Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, who emphasised the government’s commitment to ICT development. He was, at the time, presenting the 2022 budget to the National Assembly. “Our government is

committed to improving ICT literacy such that the employability and productivity of our population are improved. In 2021 alone, over 1,300 young people benefitted from training in areas ranging from word processing to robotics, networking and programming, and we are targeting another 3,000 beneficiaries this year, including via such events as innovation and coding camps,” Dr. Singh shared. Dr. Singh noted that in 2021, the government’s network infrastructure was improved with the addition of 30km of fibre optic cable together with expanded LTE coverage across communities in the lower East Bank area and Bartica. Also in 2021, the government provided 451 new service connections to public institutions and increased the public WIFI bandwidth to 200mbps at 139 sites, while several hinterland communities benefitted from the installation of 35 IP phone services which provided free calls between villages, government agencies and

local landlines, for 16,300 persons. Grants were also released to 33 communities for the retrofitting/rehabilitation of facilities to accommodate ICT hubs. The government now plans to further build on and expand all of these initiatives in 2022. “Government will continue delivering on its promise to increase connectivity by providing 100 new service connections for additional schools, hospitals and other public institutions. Approximately 200 hinterland communities are expected to benefit from the deployment of VSAT equipment to facilitate connectivity, for the first time in many instances,” Dr. Singh said. The 167 communities slated to benefit from grants to create ICT hubs will also be getting 400 laptops to outfit those facilities. The 115km expansion of the government fibre optic cable network will deliver additional services to over 50 communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Landmark $552.9B Budget presented to House - launches most rapid period of transformation, modernisation in Guyana’s history, says Dr. Singh

By Navendra Seoraj THE year 2022 is set to go down in Guyana’s history as one of the most significant periods ever, with plans in place to inject some $552.9 billion into the economy through various initiatives that would rapidly transform and modernise the nation. This sum, which constitutes the government’s fiscal plan for this year, is some 44.3 per cent larger than Budget 2021 and 36.6 per cent above total expenditure last year, according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his presentation of Budget 2022 to the National Assembly, on Wednesday. “Even as we confront, head on, the formidable challenges before us, our government continues to work in earnest to advance the aggressive agenda for transformation that we had previously outlined. At this moment of unprecedented opportunity for our country, we seek now to convert the

bright prospects before us into realised national and individual well-being for all Guyanese. “In this regard, Budget 2022 has historic significance. Building on the foundation laid by the previous two budgets, Budget 2022 launches what will be the most rapid period of transformation and modernisation ever witnessed in our country’s entire history,” Dr. Singh affirmed. Supported by the robust institutional architecture that the government has established, Budget 2022 ensures that two complementary and critically important objectives are met: firstly, that the urgent development needs of the country are met in the shortest possible time, and that the long-term economic wellbeing of the country is protected and safeguarded at all times. In his view, this fiscal plan, which follows the theme: “Steadfast against all challenges, resolute in building our one Guyana,” sets Guyana on the path to realising the “bright future”

which the country has long awaited. It launches some of the most transformative projects which are critical to resolving the bugbears and bottlenecks the nation has long faced, whether it be adequate and affordable electricity, a transport network that is responsive to both productive opportunities and changing patterns of urbanisation or improved medical services for Guyanese. Budget 2022, according to Dr. Singh, also lays the foundation for the creation of thousands of jobs and caters for the training of Guyanese to take up those jobs. “This budget lays the basis for thousands of rewarding jobs to be created for Guyanese nationals, including by leveraging the local content opportunities that are now being created, and it provides for relevant training to ensure that the Guyanese workforce is suitably equipped. “This budget also lays the cornerstone for a visible leap in the coverage and quality of social services enjoyed by

our Guyanese brothers and sisters, including and especially the most vulnerable,” the senior minister related. Additionally, sums allocated in the budget also cater for massive investment in infrastructure that will change the face of Guyana forever, by opening vast new tracts of land for productive purposes, establishing entirely new communities while connecting others, and making thousands of Guyanese homeowners for the very first time. Speaking further about the plans outlined in the budget, Dr. Singh said it dramatically scales up investments in almost all sectors. He related: “It is important to emphasise that Budget 2022 is also cast within a framework that strikes a balance between meeting the immediate development needs of the country on the one hand, while investing for the future on the other hand. “Looking ahead, the future will be a period of strong economic growth which will moderate into the medium term. We will continue to be vigilant in our efforts to address supply side constraints in the near term, especially given the pre-existing presence of imported inflationary pressures.” At the same time, the senior minister said the government will remain focused on preserving and reinforcing fiscal and external sustainability for the long term; this will include prudent management of the resources earned from Guyana’s oil and gas sector. OIL FUNDS AND NO NEW TAXES Budget 2022 is the first budget that will benefit from financing from the proceeds of Guyana’s new and emerging oil and gas sector, following the historic passage of the Natural Resources Fund (NRF) Act, which addressed the most “offensive deficiencies” of the predecessor Act. Pursuant to the provisions set out in the new NRF Act, Budget 2022 projects a withdrawal from the NRF and transfer to the Consolidated Fund of $126.7 billion. “This ensures that the accelerated development agenda outlined in this budget, the critical investments proposed, as well as the measures still to be announced, can be financed without excessive borrowing

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh or the introduction of any new taxes,” Dr. Singh said in his more than four-hour long presentation. The people-centered budget, which has no new taxes, places heavy emphasis on ensuring that people have access to the highest standards of social services, including health care, water and sanitation, and that basic protection and support are offered to the most vulnerable in Guyana’s society, particularly the elderly and the young. On this note, in addition to a wide range of public investment projects and initiatives which will stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and thereby generate incomes, Budget 2022 proposes specific measures aimed at providing support to both businesses and households, with the same objectives of job creation and income generation and, ultimately, improving well-being. INCREASE IN INCOME THRESHOLD Among those measures is a planned increase in the monthly income tax threshold from $65,000 to $75,000 monthly, thereby releasing a total of $1.3 billion into the hands of current taxpayers both in the public and private sectors. Another significant measure which would benefit persons in the low-income bracket is the increase of the loan ceiling from $12 million to $15 million. This will make housing loans from commercial banks more affordable to borrowers within the low-income range, and help encourage persons who now have a house lot to proceed to borrow and build. The government will also increase old-age pension to $28,000, placing an additional $2.3 billion of dispos-

able income in the hands of 65,000 pensioners. Added to this, there are plans to increase the monthly public assistance payment from $12,000 to $14,000, benefiting 18,000 persons and providing an additional $432 million in disposable income to those individuals. Specifically on benefits for the youth, the government will increase the uniform voucher to $5,000 and increase the “Because We Care” cash grant to $25,000 per child. Another “cost of living measure” is the allocation of $5 billion to address rising commodity prices. The specific use of those funds will be identified following consultations with communities. To assist businesses, the government, among other things, plans to extend the reduction of import duties, excise taxes, and VAT charged on imported items. This measure was initially due to expire on January 31, 2021, but it will remain reduced until December 31, 2022 and cost approximately $6 billion. There are also plans to remove the 10 per cent excise tax and 14 per cent value added tax (VAT) from the importation of motor trucks, less than four years old, of any tonnage for the transport of goods. Further, in relation to the importation of new haulers for pulling containers or similar vehicles for pulling, authorities will remove the 14 per cent VAT, and for new double cab pickups below 2,000 cc, the government will remove the 10 per cent excise tax altogether. Additionally, for new double cab pickups between 2000 and 3000 cc, the government will reduce the excise tax from 110 per cent to 75 per cent.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$22 Billion to further accelerate agriculture development By Naomi Parris

WITH agriculture being one of Guyana’s most important and productive sectors, in excess of $22 billion has been allocated for the Ministry of Agriculture in the 2022 national budget. This was revealed by subject Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, following the presentation of the national budget on Wednesday evening by Senior Minister in the office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

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Budget highlights for the Agriculture Sector

* $13 Billion will be allocated to further upgrade drainage and irrigation * $6 Billion to support the Guyana Sugar Corporation * $887 million to further advance corn and soya bean production * $66 million to further expand the coconut industry * $100 million will be allocated to advance the recently launched agriculture and innovation entrepreneurship programme * $96.5 million to enhance agro-processing and packaging facilities * $977.3 million will be allocated for livestock development * $743.7 will be allocated to support the fisheries and aquaculture sectors Minister Mustapha, during an invited

comment to the Guyana Chronicle, dubbed the 2022 budget as ‘one of the best’ budgets the country has produced. “The total of the budget for agriculture is approximately $22 billion... it’s one of the best budgets I’ve ever heard, the budget will continue the projects that are in our manifesto, and it will see the economic transformation of Guyana.” “It is people-centred and it is focused on the continued transformation of our country,” Minister Mustapha reiterated. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Singh, during his presentation of the budget, said that Guyana is uniquely poised to take advantage of production and trade opportunities in food products across the Caribbean region. The minister stated that Guyana is committed to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Twenty-Five by 25 initiative which aims to cut the extra-regional food import bill by 2025. He added that the Government of Guyana is focused on ramping up

domestic production as well as agro-processing capabilities and is working with the region to remove all historic barriers and impediments to intra-regional trade and promoting more widely agri-business and complete transformation of regional food systems. On the domestic front, focus will be placed on both traditional crops as well as new and emerging ones. These commitments, he said, are “golden [opportunities] for Guyana to finally realise its potential as the breadbasket of the Caribbean.” The 2022 budget, the minister said, will see the government’s commitment to several subsectors of agriculture such as the sugar and rice industries, livestock development, fisheries and aquaculture, nontraditional crops, agroprocessing and the coconut industry. In addition, bearing in mind the effects of the 2021 floods and evolution of climate change to a climate crisis which the Minister highlighted was abundantly evidenced by the erratic and extreme climate patterns and weather Guyana has been experiencing; major investments are slated for the further advancement of Guyana’s drainage and irrigation sector. “ N o w m o re t h a n ever before, effective drainage and irrigation infrastructure design, construction and maintenance, are required to prevent perilous consequences… our government will continue to strengthen the drainage and irrigation network across all regions,” Minister Singh said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Economy set to grow 47.5 per cent this year - on account of oil, advancements in rice industry, gold mining, construction

DRIVEN by increased production in Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector and projected improvements in the performances of traditional mining and construction, Guyana’s economy is on course to growing by 47.5 per cent and 7.7 per cent in the non-oil economy, in 2022. This economic performance will follow growth rates of 19.9 per cent and 4.6 per cent recorded at the end of 2021, despite the persistence of COVID-19, as well as the impact of floods. With this rate of overall growth, Guyana is likely to be amongst the fastest growing economies worldwide in 2021. “The very creditable performance of the non-oil productive sector reflects the delicate and dynamic policy balance struck between aggressive containment of COVID-19 on the one hand and phased reopening of the economy on the other hand,” Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said during his presentation of Budget 2022 to the National Assembly, on Wednesday. He also credited the performance in 2021 to prompt and proactive flood mitigation measures, which helped limit the fallout in the agriculture sector and supported the sector in resuming activity in the shortest possible time. Additionally, the services sector recorded extraordinarily strong performances in response to a policy framework that has stimulated historic levels of demand for services and facilitated a commensurate response on the supply side. Based on Budget 2022, the government intends to maintain and even enhance its approach to stimulating growth in various economic sectors. Moving ahead, growth this year would be primarily driven by the operationalisation of ExxonMobil’s second floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, the Liza Unity. In 2021, a total of 42.7 million barrels of oil were produced compared with 27.2 million in 2020. Outside of oil, non-oil growth, this year, is expected to be driven mainly by

rebounds in rice growing and gold mining, and continued expansion in construction activity and wholesale and retail trade and repairs. The rice growing subsector is set to expand by 25.1 per cent in 2022, reflecting a reversal of the 20.5 per cent decline observed last year, largely on account of replanting efforts as well as the introduction of new high-yielding varieties. Also within the agriculture sector, the sugar growing sub-sector is projected to grow by 11.8 per cent, as the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) begins to recover from the onslaught of the 2021 floods, with the aim of producing almost 65,000 tonnes of sugar. Overall, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector is expected to expand by 8.9 per cent this year after contracting by 9.1 per cent in 2021. In the extractive industries, the mining and quarrying sector is projected to grow by 86 per cent, driven by expansion across all sub-

sectors, namely petroleum, gold, other mining and quarrying, and bauxite. Aside from oil and gas, the gold mining sub-sector is projected to grow by 12.2 per cent in 2022, on account of higher expected declarations from one large operator, and the small and medium scale miners. Bauxite, like many other productive sub-sectors which faced tremendous interruptions in 2021, is anticipated to recover in 2022 and grow by 25.4 per cent, with greater output expected from both large operators. Additionally, the other mining and quarrying subsector – which includes sand, stone, and diamonds – is also projected to grow by 8.4 per cent. Also in line for positive results this year is the construction sector, which will see heavy government investment in projects across all sectors coupled with major projects coming from private sector investment initiatives. “As a result, we project

Paddy being harvested

10.5 per cent growth in the construction sector in 2022, on top of the growth observed in the sector last year,” Dr. Singh related. The service sector, after facing significant challenges in 2020, began its recovery in 2021, on account of the phased reopening of Guyana’s economy and other measures put in place by the government to boost economic activity. In 2022, all of the service industries are projected to expand by 3.8 per cent. Notably, significant increases are expected for wholesale and retail trade

and repairs, transport and storage, financial and insurance activities, administrative and support services, and real estate activities, which will could grow by 6.5 per cent, 7.8 per cent, 3.9 per cent, 2.5 per cent and 2.3 per cent, respectively. “Looking ahead, the future will be a period of strong economic growth which will moderate into the medium term. We will continue to be vigilant in

our efforts to address supply side constraints in the near term, especially given the pre-existing presence of imported inflationary pressures,” Dr. Singh related, adding: “At the same time, we will remain focused on preserving and reinforcing fiscal and external sustainability for the long term, including by prudent management of the resources earned from our oil and gas sector.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

People-Centred Budget

THE 2022 National Budget Estimates were presented yesterday to the National Assembly by Senior Minister of Finance with Responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President. This was the third budget estimates presented and the largest and most impactful in terms of laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development. It was indeed a forwardlooking budget, one that is consistent with the visionary thinking of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and his PPP/C administration. The Budget Estimates provide a framework which will accelerate the developmental trajectory of the country within the overarching goal of providing a better quality of life for the Guyanese people. One of the main highlights of the budget is that of tackling the rising cost of living caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a known fact that the pandemic has an adverse impact not

only on global food production but also on the supply chain thereby resulting in increased costs of imported items, including food items. President Ali had already given an indication that the 2020 budget will include a sizeable allocation to address the issue of rising food prices. President Ali, in a prebudget virtual address to the nation on the budget, had this to say: “I am aware of the impact that cost of living is having and while we cannot address all of the issues surrounding the cost of living I have instructed that resources be set aside to address the issue.” This sizeable allocation, the President said, “will be used through consultation with communities across the county to identify specific ways and initiatives” to ease the burden on the population. The budget, according to the President, is all about removing burdens to Guyanese citizens and creating opportunities, reducing burdens, enhancing welfare, giving

back more to the population, enhancing livelihood, improving living conditions and improving the quality of life of the Guyanese people. In addition to addressing the pressing cost of living concerns of the Guyanese, the budget will also seek to create more business opportunities and to build entrepreneurial programmes, rewarding innovation and expand tourism through support for the private sector, enhanced local and international branding, training and development, small business support and through collaboration with major international chains who are investing to integrate closer with our local production system. The cumulative impact of these initiatives, in the words of President Ali, would result in “a positive incremental impact which would see more investment in people, more allocation to the vulnerable and a better quality of life for the Guyanese people.” In all of this, the con-

tribution of the oil and gas sector will be significant. According to President Ali, the passage of the Local Content Act would pave the way to reduce disparities that currently exist in the tax system that can undermine the competitiveness of local companies competing with foreign companies for business in the oil and gas sector under the local content framework. And, as promised by the President, the focus of the budget will be on economic expansion, growth while at the same time maintaining a low-tax environment. All of this will allow for higher levels of disposable income especially for lowincome earners, pensioners and vulnerable groups. Health, education and social services will continue to be high on the government’s national priorities as reflected in greater budgetary allocations. One key driver of the increase in the cost of living is the price of fuel, which the President said will be closely

monitored to ensure that it does not eat into the disposable income of consumers. In this regard, the PPP/C administration will continue to implement measures to reduce the cost of fuel and freight charges. The quality of life is conditional on a number of interacting variables including employment opportunities, access to quality education and health and home ownership. In this regard, specific measures will be put in place to reduce the cost of borrowing for home ownership, support for school children, teachers, elderly, and vulnerable groups including patients on dialysis. The sum total of all these budgetary interventions will be a higher standard of living, more disposable income and higher level of purchasing power by consumers. And to further increase the disposable income of workers, the President has asked the Finance Minister to look at the personal income tax of taxpayers and to make

the necessary adjustments in keeping with the budgetary framework and affordability. These are all the necessary elements for economic take-off within the framework of a people-centred development paradigm for which President Ali and his PPP/C administration must be given credit. The President has repeatedly committed his administration in the pursuit of a development path with a human face in which people are placed at the centre of all budgetary interventions. President Ali has made it clear that “notwithstanding what is happening globally, rising inflation, empty shelves, increase in food cost, imported inflation, I have made it very clear to the Minister of Finance that we will not, in any way, introduce any new burden or taxes on the Guyanese people.” These are all the defining characteristics of a President and administration that genuinely cares for the welfare and well-being of the Guyanese people.

I cannot support duplicity and selectivity of some people Dear Editor, A group of signatories made allegations against Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and called on the Guyana Government not to welcome him in Guyana. No other country has taken such a measure against the Brazilian leader. As a student of (and am recipient of PhD) International Relations and International Law and taught same, the Guyana Government would find it impossible to honour that request. In international relations, governments

don’t deal with leaders as private individuals but as government representative. Mr. Bolsonaro is the legitimate representative of our neighbor, Brazil, which is a superpower in the region. As the democratically elected leader of Brazil, no Guyana government (including Coalition) can ignore him. Guyana’s relationship with him is not in a private capacity but as the legal representative of Brazil. The voters of Brazil will determine his political faith later this year in elec-

tions. Indian and Amerindian Guyanese were victims of racism. Going by the logic of the letter writers, should those who tried to rig the Guyana 2020 elections and Guyanese racist leaders be banned from Brazil, America, and other nations? I object to the selective cherry-picking of groups by letter writers who would ban Bolsonaro from Guyana but remained mute when the same kinds of atrocities were committed in Guyana. Where were members of the group when Indians

and indigenous Guyanese (Amerindians) were sidelined in Guyana between 1966 and 1992 and between June 2015 and July 2020 and killed on Jan. 12, 1998 and various dates thereafter? As Freddie Kissoon asked, why didn’t members of the group express similar sentiments on racialised violence against Indians in West Berbice in September 2020, Agricola 2012, and in so many other cases that are well documented? Is it because of racial affinity and or political affinity? Where is/was the compassion,

justice, and compensation for Indians and Amerindians? Aren’t members of the group being hypocrites on the issue of racism? One must not condemn acts of injustice on account of race. We must be race and colour blind and fully support democracy. I empathise with all victims of injustice. Like Freddie, I cannot associate with people who remain silent over the blatant attempt to rig elections and who were also silent about the claim that 33 is not a majority of 65. I cannot support an oppor-

tunistic group who remained silent when the Constitution was repeatedly violated. I ask, did members of this group take a stand against human rights abuses in other countries? I support law and order. I abhor racism or discrimination of all kind but I cannot support duplicity and selectivity. We must be consistent and condemn all aspects of racism and racial violence, irrespective of the ethnicity of the perpetrators and victims. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Ideology guides governance and nation-building Dear Editor, To properly understand a political party’s programmes and policies that it intends to implement, one must have a good insight into the nature and scope of its ideology. In the case of the PPP/C, the various strands (warp and weft) have been pulled together and woven into an interesting ideological tapestry that covers and helps to explain its policies and programmes. It is this ideology that is also guiding the preparation of the “One Guyana Development Strategy”. Having developed this insight, it is noted that the PPP/C’s approach to good governance and nation building is guided by its ideology (referred to as GNB), and not by ‘ad hoc’ or ‘piecemeal’ measures. Though the PPP/C’s ideological framework has specific core values (like free and fair elections, freedom, Individual responsibility, separation of powers, limited government, less taxation, and competition as base for resource allocation and acquisition of political power, etc. ), it also allows for adaptations in response to changing needs (like technology, ICT, science, alternative sources of energy, etc.) of the society. While the PPP/C, like the PNC/R, had its origin in the first nationalist movement, the subsequent history of both parties has been diverse, controversial, divisive, depressing, and conflicting, while their ideology evolved

in different directions. In this analysis, however, references will be generally restricted to the decades of the 21st century (2000s) while focus is given to the PPP/C’s ideology relating to good governance. In the past (second ½ of 20th century), the PPP/C had relied upon Marxist principles to guide its approach to governance and nation building, while they subsequently watched, with trepidation, how the PNC assaulted democracy and nonchalantly installed a dictatorship. Despite the PNC’s belligerence and their trampling upon democracy, the PPP nevertheless rendered critical support in the 1970s for the PNC’s aggressive nationalisation campaign. Eventually, the PNC government captured and controlled 80 per cent of the country’s economy. Since the 1980s, however, the influence of the Soviet bloc had begun to whittle, and democratic values and capitalist ethos begun to rise. The PPP/C had to move away from their Marxist ideological posture and gradually embrace a new GNB ideology (based on a combination of the Westminster and the American model of democracy) of governance and nation building. Powered by this new GNB ideology, the PPP/C has continued pushing forth market reforms which were initially imposed on the country by the IMF in 1989 under the Presidency of Desmond Hoyte. I do not believe that there will be any reversal of this new GNB ideology.

The dialectics of the Guyana’s experience, combined with changing social reality, have allowed for the incorporation of core ideals, values, and principles, into the construction of the GNB ideology; one expression of which is the PPP/C’s manifesto. The intensive interactive process (between the PPP/C and civil society) in developing the manifesto, helped to strengthen several ideological elements (fiscal discipline, separation of powers, transparency and accountability, limited government, free enterprise, etc.). This civil society engagement has enabled the PPP/C to deem their manifesto as a ‘covenant’ (solemn agreement) with the people. On the question of governance, all the political parties say they want constitutional reform, but their level of commitment to this effort varies widely. In my opinion, the PPP/C does not necessarily view constitutional reform as ‘urgent’ and it is more concerned with constitutional compliance. For example, the Carter-Price formula for the appointment of the GECOM Chair that worked well for over 23 years was discarded by the PNC/R when they unilaterally appointed a Chair, contrary to the Constitution, only to be admonished by the Caribbean Court of Justice. If existing constitutional provisions cannot be observed, what sense does it make to infuse more provisions into the Constitution? Furthermore, it was under the PPP/C leadership, that

Perpetrators of domestic violence need help Dear Editor, EVEN as the Ministry of Social Security is making progress in the easy accessibility of reporting domestic abuse, the abusers don’t seem to care. There is an increasing number of murders/suicides in domestic violence cases. One would assume that the abuser does not care much for life and living. The abuser seems to be fixated on “If I can’t have you, no one can” or “Is both ah we go die.” While I applaud the Ministry for wanting to protect victims and alleviate domestic violence, the real solution to this problem is helping the abuser. Yes, helping the

abuser! Emphasis should be placed on developing a Centre for Prevention of Abuse. It is worthy to note that most of the time the victims end up dead and all efforts to stop abuse by empowering victims go in vain. While it is important to set up and establish shelters for abused victims and equip them with the tools to be independent, we must also consider that not many of these victims actually survive abuse. The sooner we understand that the abuser is responsible for the abuse and ultimately is the only person who needs changing, the better off we would be in curbing domestic violence. One

victim may be able to get out alive but the abuser’s next victim may not be so fortunate. Programmes should be developed and made easily accessible to help abusers change. I admit that someone can change only if they want to change; however, increasing awareness and helping abusers identify that they can change will save lives. Victims will get to live, abusers will change and children will grow with parents. It is my hope that those in authority who can make a difference will consider all of our options in alleviating domestic violence. Best regards, I. Ram

some radical and fundamental constitutional changes were instituted in 2000s, such as the establishment of (i) the five Rights Commission, (ii) a new system of Parliamentary management that allows for inclusivity (e.g., the Chair of each sectoral committee is rotated between the PPP/C and PNC/R), (iii) and a significant reduction in the powers of the Presidency (e.g., restricting the incumbent to hold office for two terms). These and other

changes signalled a rupture with the Westminster model of democracy and an embrace of components of the American system of democracy, as reflected in the GNB ideology. Patching up the Constitution through the process of reform would not necessarily be a constructive use of public resources. It is better to re-write a new Constitution that reflects the existing social and economic conditions,

including advances in technology, science, exponential growth of social media, as well as to include stringent constitutional compliance/ penalties. If the purpose of constitutional reform is to institute executive powersharing that is hardly likely to be supported by the people, as it would eliminate a fundamental principle of good governance, that is, electoral competition. Yours sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$300M budgeted for replenishing Small Business Development Fund

TO further provide opportunities for Guyanese to grow their small businesses, government has announced that $300 million will be injected into the Small Business Development Fund. The Small Business Bureau (SBB) in 2021 distributed 746 small business development grants to the tune of $329 million, of which 61 were COVID-19 relief grants valued at $13.4 million. Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh,

announced the allocation during his presentation of the 2022 budget to the

National Assembly on Wednesday. He noted that the fund

is instrumental in building capacity in the local business community and serves to enhance the capacity of small business owners to effectively develop and manage their businesses. He said that in addition to the fund, government intends to provide training for small business owners in areas such as business management, record keeping and business plan writing. The plan, according to Dr. Singh, is to establish through the SBB, an ecommerce marketplace for small businesses to market goods and services which will, no doubt, support their resilience and help to maintain and increase revenue. Further, he noted that

government intends to bolster its small business support, through six small business ‘one stop shops,’ across Regions One, Five, Six, Seven, Eight and Nine, which are expected to target 500 persons. “We will also continue our efforts to improve the ease of doing business through the digitisation of the licensing process, in addition to development of an online platform for communication with the public and the provision of training to businesses in leveraging technology,” Dr. Singh added. Meanwhile, he noted that government intends to provide small business owners with easier access to the requisite knowledge on how to maximise business opportunities. In this

regard, government in 2022 will move to design an electronic single window for trade. According to Dr. Singh, the initiative will result in the development and deployment of a single-entry point to fulfil all import, export and transit-related regulatory requirements aimed at modernising and improving the efficiency of trade operations in Guyana, in support of increasing business activity. Alongside this, he said that there will be a comprehensive review of the business processes for all trade related agencies, as well as the acquisition of the necessary IT equipment to facilitate the roll out of the single window.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$74.4B for Education Sector in 2022 budget - includes $30,000 for each school child, $1.3B for GOAL scholarships , laptops for teachers

GOVERNMENT has allocated $74.4 billion for the education sector in the 2022 budget and among the initiatives it will cover is the increase in grants for school children, laptops for teachers, the expansion of the National School Feeding Programme and the cost of 4,500 GOAL scholarships. The allocation represented a 22.6 per cent increase from 2021, and accounts for

13.5 per cent of the overall $552.9 billion 2022 budget, which was unveiled by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, in the National Assembly. Of note is the increase of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant from $15,000 to $25,000 for each school child. Parents will also receive an extra $1,000 on the $4,000 school uniform

voucher which is distributed annually. The two sets of increases will place an additional $2.2 billion in disposable income into the pockets of parents. Additionally, $295.7 million has been set aside to purchase laptops and other devices for 425 teachers. Other measures included in the Ministry of Education’s budget allocation include $1.2 billion for the purchase of textbooks for

public school learners, over $20 million for the purchase of 2,000 micro-science kits, $3.5 billion for the University of Guyana (UG), $1.3 billion for an additional 4,500 scholarships under the Guyana Online Learning Academy (GOAL) programme, $2 billion for the National School Feeding Programme, which will benefit a total of 85,773 learners across 902 nursery and primary schools, and $6.6 billion for the construction, rehabilitation, extension, and maintenance of educational facilities. The $6.6 billion for works on educational facilities will include money for the commencement of construction of the long awaited Prospect Secondary School as well as the reconstruc-

tion of the North Ruimveldt and North West Secondary Schools, which were severely affected by fire in 2021. Also slated for construction works are the Hydronie, Haslington and Vryheid Lust Nursery Schools, and the Bamia/Amelia’s Ward, Kaikan, Karabairu, Zeelugt and Oronoque Primary Schools. Also under the ministry’s allocation, is money for the completion of dormitories at the Kato and the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) and the construction of several science and information technology laboratories, smart classrooms and the maintenance of other educational facilities. During his budget presentation, Dr. Singh explained that the 2022 budget for education is a reflection of

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision for the sector. “An education system that delivers a modern, model, and adaptive learning experience is an imperative to realising His Excellency’s vision of a world-class education for all. Improved access, quality, and relevance are essential to raising Guyana’s human capital to the levels needed to advance and sustain the imminent transformative economic and social development,” he said. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle after Dr. Singh’s presentation, Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand said she was elated to hear of all the measures for education that the government was able to include in this year’s budget.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Budget 2022 includes $76.7B for roads and bridges

IN keeping with its plans to develop and upgrade the infrastructure across the country, the government has allocated some $76.7 billion for roads and bridges under the Ministry of Public Works in the 2022 budget. This allocation, accord-

ing to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, will play a pivotal role in government’s plans to modernise the infrastructure and provide a more accessible commute to and from communities.

Of the $76.7 billion, $49.2 billion will be spent on roads, while the remaining $27.5 billion will go towards bridges. This year’s allocation for roads and bridges is a $55.6 billion increase over what was set aside and approved in 2021.

Among the major works expected to be undertaken by the Ministry of Public Works this year, is the construction of the new, fixed four-lane high span Demerara River Bridge at a cost of $21.1 billion. Minister Singh disclosed that some $946 million has been budgeted for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the existing floating bridge. He noted that significant monies were budgeted for bridges in hinterland communities including $4.1 billion for the re-construction of several bridges along the Kurupukari to Lethem corridor that will support the phased construction of the Linden-Lethem highway. Further, to address the critical needs of bridges across the country, another $173.9 million has been budgeted for the construction, rehabilitation and main-

tenance of bridges in areas such as Garden of Eden, Chateau Margot, Beterverwagting and Cemetery Road. ROADS Meanwhile, with regard to road works, the $49.2 billion that has been allocated will cover the $8.3 billion rehabilitation of the Corentyne Main Road from Palmyra to Crabwood Creek; the $6 billion construction of the Linden-Mabura Hill Road; $3.4 billion for hinterland roads; $2.6 billion for the rehabilitation of the entire Soesdyke-Linden Highway; $2.3 billion for the East Bank-East Coast Demerara Road linkage between Ogle and Eccles and $1.1 billion to complete the Sheriff Street – Mandela Road Network and Expansion Project. Additionally, some $15.2 billion will go towards the construction and rehabilitation of additional urban and

community roads. Further, works will also commence to widen and pave the East Bank Highway from Grove to Timehri for which $2.1 billion has been allocated. Dr. Singh noted that another extremely important intervention included in Budget 2022 is an allocation of $3.3 billion to finance improvement and enhancement of the aesthetics of the environment across the coastland, with a particular focus on the capital city. “It would be recalled that His Excellency, the President, spearheaded the launching of a major cleanup campaign in Georgetown just over a week ago. This programme will see a number of restoration projects and programmes being undertaken,” he stated.

OPPOSITION Leader Joseph Harmon, on Wednesday, officially submitted his resignation from that post to Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir. With that being done, it is now for the opposition political parties to elect a new Leader of the Opposition. Leader of the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), Lenox Shuman, who represents the joinder with A New and United Guyana (ANUG), has, however, indicated he is not interested in the process of electing a new Leader of the Opposition. The Opposition Leader is a constitutional post that is filled by an election of the elected members of the National Assembly who are not part of the government. House Speaker Nadir, before the reading of the 2022 Budget, said he re-

Joseph Harmon ceived the communication of the A Partnership for from Harmon earlier on National Unity + Alliance Wednesday. Speaker Nadir For Change (APNU+AFC) said a meeting of the opposi- to communicate their tion parties was convened, availability to the Speaker during which Shuman made for a meeting to be held to elect a new Opposition his position clear. It is now for members Leader.

Harmon ‘taps out’ as Opposition Leader

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$3.1 billion allocated to improve livelihood of Amerindians By Naomi Parris

UNDER the theme “Steadfast Against All Challenges, Resolute in Building Our One Guyana”, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has announced that in excess of $3.1B will be injected into the development of projects in Amerindian and Hinterland communities across the country. Delivering the budget speech at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Dr Ashni Singh said that the government is committed to ensuring that all Guyanese participate fully in the economic transformation that is currently unfolding in Guyana. He added that the government is cognisant of the unique challenges faced by the indigenous peoples, particularly those residing in remote communities. Budget 2022 will be addressing many of those challenges. “We are committed to ensuring that Amerindian and hinterland villages are economically empowered, first and foremost through the land titling programme and secondly through development of the village economy,” the Finance Minister said, adding: “We are also committed to ensuring that

all of the country’s best educational and training opportunities are as available to our hinterland brothers and sisters as they are to those on the coast. And we are committed to ensuring that the quality of social services delivered to all villages is improved markedly.” In 2021, a total of five demarcations were completed. The Certificates of Title for these demarcations are currently being issued, and persons who reside within the Capoey Village would have been the first of these five villages to receive their Certificates of Title. In 2022, the government will continue to support the rights of indigenous peoples by accelerating the land titling programme at a cost of $561.6 million that has been allocated in the budget; this will a target a total of 20 Certificates of Title. Meanwhile, to support sustainable livelihoods of hinterland communities, in 2021, the government had expended $673 million for tractors, implements and economic projects aimed at enhancing the development of agriculture, tourism, women and youth. That saw 112 tractors and trailers, along with implements distributed to Amerindian communities, to help promote village agriculture as well as for use

in transport. In 2022, $411.2 million will be allocated to see an additional 71 communities benefitting similarly. HINTERLAND ROADS Additionally, to improve connectivity, a sum of $3.4 billion is budgeted for the hinterland roads programme. In 2021, $666.5 million was expended on stipends to engage 2,000 Community Service Officers (CSOs) under the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme, and a further sum of $115.6 million was expended towards the training of 420 CSOs in areas such as ICT, tractor driving, licensing and maintenance; and solar panel installation and maintenance. In 2022, the number of CSOs will be increased to 2,500, creating an additional 500 jobs for young persons in Amerindian villages and a sum of $60 million will be spent on training 650 CSOs to serve in 220 communities within all 10 administrative regions in areas such as: tourism and hospitality; development of business plans; food safety pre-requisites; good manufacturing practices; ATV and outboard engine repairs and licensing; as well as garment construction. “Through these inter-

An ICT hub that was constructed ventions, this administration will continue to drive employment and opportunities for our Amerindian youth,” the Finance Minister said. To improve the access to education and skills in Amerindian communities, a sum of $93.3 million is budgeted towards the hin-

terland scholarship programme which will see 805 students benefitting extensively. The minister also revealed that with other students countrywide, 31,295 hinterland students are expected to benefit this year from the “Because We Care” cash grants to

students. The minister noted that the sum allocated to the ministry along with other major investments slated for 2022 will set the stage for the rapid improvement and wellbeing of Amerindian and hinterland villages across the country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$12.4B to enhance housing infrastructure

- low-income housing loans increase from $12M to $15M - $4.9 billion to improve water sector

Government has been developing affordable housing stock for first-time middle and low-income homeowners By Rabindra Rooplall SOME $12.4 billion has been allocated to the housing sector and, among other things, will see the upgrading of 45.5km of roads in 31 existing housing areas as well as the construction of drains, structures and the installation of LED street lamps. This was revealed by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during the presentation of the 2022 National Budget at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal, Georgetown. Government, Dr Singh said, aims to complete the construction of the electricity distribution networks in the existing housing areas and complete the procurement of electrical hardware for new housing areas.

In 2022, he noted that government will construct 100 core homes at La Parfaite Harmonie and Sophia Housing areas with an additional 125 core homes to be constructed in areas to be identified. “Mr. Speaker, the PPP/C Government gave its commitment to provide affordable housing to the people of Guyana. We are duty bound to meet that promise and we will deliver on that promise. To meet this obligation, we are working on several tracks. On the one hand, we have been making servicedhouse lots available for allocation, targeting young professionals, individuals with immediate needs, persons who have disposable income to commence construction and plots for private housing developers,” Dr. Singh said. At the same time, he said government has been devel-

oping affordable housing stock for first-time middle and low-income homeowners. These, he said include one- and two-bedroom flats and elevated properties in numerous housing schemes nationwide. In addition, he added that negotiations with commercial banks to reduce the mortgage interest rates were successful, as bold steps are also being taken to keep building material costs as low as possible. “Mr. Speaker, since we assumed office, we announced two increases in the ceiling on low income loans that may be obtained through commercial banks under the low-income housing loans programme supported by government. First was from $8 million to $10 million and the second from $10 million to $12 million. I now wish to

announce a further increase in the ceiling from $12 million to $15 million. This will make housing loans from commercial banks more affordable to borrowers within that range and help encourage persons who now have a house lot to proceed to borrow and build,” he disclosed. ON TRACK Moreover, he said “we are well on track to achieve our target of providing 50,000 house lots by 2025 through our “Dreams Realised” housing drive across the country. Since the PPP/C Government took office in August 2020, a total of 10,063 house lots were allocated to persons, many of whom had applied decades ago.” He continued: “Our commitment is not only to distribute house lots, but also to ensure that persons become homeowners by constructing their own homes. In 2021, real estate loans issued by commercial banks totalled $95.6 billion, an increase of $5 billion over the previous year, and this amount is expected to increase further.” Government, he said has distributed 1,266 land titles and transports in 2021, and plans to target 6,000 appli-

cants in 2022. Meanwhile, in the areas of water and sanitation, some $4.9 billion has been allocated to continue improvement of the water sector. Dr. Singh noted that the drilling of the new wells located at Chesney and Parika will be completed during the first half of 2022. In 2022, he added that $394.5M is budgeted under the Hinterland Water Supply Programme which will make provision for new water supply systems to be installed at Phillipai, Isseneru, Warwatta and Tasserene in Region Seven; Itabac in Region Eight, as well as Yakarinta and Katoka in Region nine. “Mr. Speaker, it is estimated that 70 per cent of the hinterland communities will have access to potable water by the end of 2022 compared to 56 per cent currently,” he stated. INCREASE IN COVERAGE Given the interventions planned for 2022, the Finance Minister said it is estimated that potable water coverage for the coastland will increase from 96 per cent to 98 per cent. The Senior Minister noted that a total of 15,340 water metres were installed

in 2021 to new and existing service connections to reduce non-revenue water and 20,000 metres planned for installation in 2022 will reduce water losses from 67 per cent to 64 per cent by the end of the year. Further, he said the upgrading of the transmission lines between Shelterbelt and Lamaha Street, Kitty, was completed, including the transfer of 284 service connections from the old network to the new network, as well as the reinstatement of the carriageway to the benefit of approximately 40,000 residents. Moreover, he explained that the old existing cast iron transmission main will be replaced with new high density polyethylene pipes between Shelterbelt and Water Street to benefit approximately 100,000 persons. Additionally, he stated that this year $1.4 billion is allocated to improve sanitary and environmental conditions through infrastructural development across the country. This includes, he said, the sum of $105 million for the design and construction of a gas management system and storm water ponds for Haags Bosch.

GuySuCo to get $6B for field, factory operations

By Naomi Parris

THE Government of Guyana has allocated some $6B to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) in the 2022 budget for the continued development of the industry. This was announced by Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, during the presentation of the 2022 budget, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. The Finance Minister, during his speech, stated that the government’s commitment to the sugar industry remains unwavering despite the deplorable state of the estates following their closure. In 2017, the Wales, Skeldon, Rose Hall, and Enmore sugar estates were closed and saw over 7,000 sugar workers being severed. “Since resuming office,

our government has been proactive in focusing on: reopening and recapitalising the closed estates; rationalising cost structures; diversifying the sugar sales mix to maximise earnings; re-engaging previously displaced workers; and repositioning the industry on a sustainable path to profitability,” Dr Singh said. The government, since taking office in August in 2020, has been focused on the rehabilitation of assets and retooling of the estates. One of the first decisions the government took, after being elected to office, was to reopen the shuttered estates and factories, breathing life into communities that had become depressed after their closure. The minister revealed that over 1,300 persons have since been reemployed and over 5,000 workers who were severed in 2016 and

2017 have each received cash grants of $250,000 in 2021. Operations have since commenced at the Enmore, Skeldon and Rosehall estates. The Wales Sugar Estate, however, has remained closed due to the factory being defunct because of poor management. Nevertheless, Dr Ashni assured that, in 2022, strategic investments will be made at Albion, Blairmont, and Uitvlugt, to upgrade and mechanise where appropriate to see improved field operations and expansion of packaging capabilities to produce more value-added products for domestic and international markets. According to the minister, these investments are being undertaken in anticipation of improved production levels at GuySuCo. He further explained that the sugar corporation will be concentrating its marketing

The famous Demerara Gold being packaged at the Blairmont Sugar Estate (Adrian Narine photo) efforts on shifting from the 64 per cent of total produc- field and factory operations, Minister Singh said low-value bulk-sugar markets tion in 2022. to more bagged and packaged Aside from the $6 bil- the government will consugar products. To this end, lion that has been allocated tinue to engage private these products will increase to the industry to support investors’ interest in the from 34 per cent in 2020 to its ongoing investment in sugar estates.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$47.9 billion allocated to security sector - more CCTV cameras; satellite phones, body cameras for cops - $400M allocated for new Brickdam Police Station

By Rabindra Rooplall A sum of $47.9 billion has been allocated in 2022 to ensure the preservation of law and order at all levels in society. This sum will enable widespread connection of CCTV cameras and equipping of police ranks with satellite phones and body cameras. During his 2022 Budget presentation, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said in 2021, $1.8 billion was expended to improve the physical infrastructure and operational capability of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Of this, he stated $795M was expended to complete construction of police stations at Albion, Whim, Mahdia, and Wismar, among others. Additionally, works commenced on the reconstruction of Mabaruma, Ruimveldt, Providence and Yarakita police stations. Also during 2021, he explained that 50 double cabs vehicles were handed over to the force to improve their response time and bolster public confidence as well as crime-fighting capabilities. Additionally, he said given the state of the operational fleet of the Force, a further 50 vehicles were procured with delivery scheduled for

2022. POLICE FORCE In 2022, Dr. Singh said $4.9 billion has been allocated to strengthen the assets of the Force. In this regard, works will commence on a multi-storey building to consolidate the operations of the Brickdam Police Station which was gutted by fire in October 2021, and for which over $400 million is allocated. This year, he explained that $2.5 billion has been allocated to expand the Safe City Programme beyond the boundaries of Georgetown. This investment, he added will see the entire country being connected to CCTV cameras monitored centrally as well as at Regional Command Centres to be established across the country. “To support the efforts of the GPF, in 2021, we promised to resuscitate community policing groups, nationally. Mr. Speaker, 176 groups were active at the end of 2021 while another 175 are targeted for 2022. To this end, we allocated $99 million to support these groups who have proven to be effective across many rural and hinterland communities,” Dr. Singh said. H e c o n t i n u e d : “ M r. Speaker, training also remains a key strategic imperative of the Guyana Police

Force. To this end, a sum of $120 million is budgeted in 2022 towards the training of ranks while additional ranks will be added to ensure greater coverage across communities. Furthermore, training in the areas of crime and traffic management will continue to be facilitated both locally as well as with international institutions.” PRISONS Meanwhile, for the Guyana Prison Service, the Senior Minister said penal institutions are being transformed into correctional facilities that reform the mindset of inmates. During 2021, he explained that over $2 billion was expended mainly to complete the first block of the Mazuruni prison and to commence construction of three prison blocks at Lusignan. In 2022, he added a further $2.3 billion is budgeted towards enhancing prison infrastructure. “Works will continue on the Lusignan Prison which will be transformed into a modern facility to house both male and female prisoners including a vocational school, an infirmary annex, prison headquarters and command centre. Additionally, works are ongoing at Mazaruni Prison on a second prison block. We will

also invest in the training of 1,400 inmates in areas such as anger management, literacy and numeracy, tailoring, among others, at a budgeted sum of $88.9 million in an effort to reduce recidivism,” Dr. Singh said. FIRE SERVICE Further, he said in 2021, the operational capabilities of the Guyana Fire Service were severely challenged. “Our government reviewed the situation and took concerted action to identify interventions to arrest this challenge. In 2021, over $140 million was allocated for installation of 139 new fire hydrants in housing areas and for repairs to 51 fire hydrants. This year, $100 million is allocated for additional installations in order to ensure adequate water supplies in the event of a fire,” he noted. To augment the capability of the fire service, the Finance Minister said especially at time when Guyana’s landscape is changing towards modern, high rise buildings, $255M will be invested to procure a hydraulic platform to bolster the firefighting capabilities. Additionally, he said water bowsers, ambulances and an all-terrain firefighting vehicle will be procured in 2022. “Mr. Speaker, $614 mil-

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh lion will be expended to relocate the Fire Service headquarters to a less congested area to ensure improved response times. In 2022, $508 million is allocated to continue works on the new Headquarters at Durban Park, a fire station at Ogle, as well as the construction of a fire station at Wales and facilities at New Amsterdam. Further, a sum of $49.1 million is also allocated towards the repairs and maintenance of fire stations countrywide,” he stated. Notably, the Finance Minister said government’s vision for public safety and security is to create an enabling environment for citizens, business community, investors and visitors alike to feel confident that they and their property are protected, and that they are dwelling in a safe, orderly and peaceful environment.

“Mr. Speaker, our law enforcement agencies will continue to work to preserve public trust and to uphold the rule of law. Initiatives such as strengthening community engagements and partnerships, increasing and improving the deployment of resources in all Police Regional Divisions, enhanced leadership, professional development and performance of staff, heightened crime-fighting capabilities, and improved investigative and forensic capabilities are key structural and operational issues that must guide our security personnel. Concomitantly, technology will be developed and applied to buttress intelligencegathering and information sharing to improve diagnostic competencies by law enforcement agencies,” he explained.

$73 Billion for modern health sector, national COVID response, among others GUYANA’S health sector will see a $73 Billion injection for 2022, according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, on Wednesday evening, as he outlined government’s policies and programmes for the fiscal year. Dr Singh plugged government’s drive to build a modern, world-class healthcare system in Guyana. The intention, he said, is not only to ensure the country’s health system meets the needs of Guyanese, but also to transform health into an export service through medical tourism. COVID-19, Other Communicable diseases High on government’s agenda is the national response to the deadly COV-

ID-19 pandemic as the national response to the virus has received a $6.8 Billion allocation. With significant progress already made in outfitting Guyana’s emergency facilities for COVID-19 management and population vaccination, this year’s allocation is less compared to the $8.4 Billion budgeted in 2021. The Senior Minister said the allocation will be used in part to purchase an additional 260,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine to ensure vaccination of persons who have not yet received their jabs, and booster shots for those who have. On malaria management, government has budgeted $142.4 million to procure over 112,000 nets in 2022 in preparation for a 2023 distribution cycle which will

benefit over 158,000 persons. Facilities and Equipment Turning his attention to the infrastructure of Guyana’s health system, Dr Singh stated that $16.1 billion was budgeted for the expansion of facilities. “$12.4 billion will be used for the design and construction of a state-of-theart paediatric and maternal hospital, upgrading of the West Demerara and Bartica regional hospitals, and the construction of six modern regional hospitals at Anna Regina, Tuschen, Diamond, Enmore, Bath and No. 75 Village, Corentyne,” he explained. Additionally, investment will be made to improve the facilities of regional hospitals across Guyana, which will ultimately ease the pressure currently felt by the George-

town Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). $1 billion has been allocated to upgrade health centres across Guyana with an additional $2 billion budgeted for medical and nonmedical equipment. Mental Health Government will, this year, table the much-anticipated amendment to Guyana’s mental health law, which was first passed in 1930, according to Dr Singh. This step, however, will be followed by a series of consultations on the subject. Alongside improvements to the mental health legislation, government will plug $39 million into the expansion of the mental health ward at the national referral hospital. “We have also budgeted $50 million for training, in-

cluding in specialty areas such as addiction and rehabilitation,” Dr Singh added. Adolescent Health On adolescent health, government will pursue the “safe-space” initiative in schools to facilitate peer interaction and counselling as well as partner with local medical teams and community organisations to address comprehensive education in schools, Dr Singh explained. He said another initiative that will help to reduce unplanned pregnancy is the expansion of the contraceptive programme, which will see an allocation of $154 million in 2022. “In support of adolescent health,” Dr Singh continued, “$50 million has been budgeted for advancement of the programme led by the Office of the First Lady on the pro-

motion of menstrual hygiene and will benefit over 30,000 adolescent girls.” Drugs and Medical Supplies Considering the blundering of the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government in managing the procurement system for government drugs, Dr Singh said it is his government’s intention to eradicate drug shortages by 2023. “To that end, $17.9 billion has been budgeted to procure such supplies for the health sector in 2022.” Dr Singh said. Additionally, government will push this year for reforms in the supply chain management system across the sector which will include data-driven quantification and strengthened

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

$29.4B allocated to energy sector in 2022 budget IN a bid to rapidly accelerate Guyana’s transition to cleaner sources of energy, while boosting the capacity to meet the growing demand for affordable and stable electricity over the next five years, the government has allocated some $29.4 billion to the energy sector in its 2022 budget. The budget was read to the National Assembly, on Wednesday, by Senior Minister in the Office of the

President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, who noted that “inadequate, unreliable, costly, and environmentally unfriendly energy has been the bane of Guyana’s industrial development.” Included in the allocation is $20.8 billion for the gasto-energy project and $1.4 billion for the 33 megawatts (MWs) solar farms for Berbice, Essequibo and Linden. In September 2021, following a public expression of interest, the government issued an advertisement for the pre-qualification of firms interested in the transformational gas-to-energy project, recognising the potential of natural gas as a transition fuel. The project, according to Dr. Singh, will allow the government to phase out the use of expensive and carbonintensive heavy fuel oil. He noted that this project, which encompasses the establishment of a power plant to generate 300 megawatts (MWs) of power as well as a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) plant, will cover domestic demand and enable the government to reduce costs substantially, below the current levels. The project also includes the construction of a 225 km 12” pipeline to transport the guaranteed minimum of 50 mmcfd of natural gas from offshore Guyana to the Wales Development Authority. Minister Singh noted that currently, ongoing geotechnical and geophysical works for both offshore and onshore operations are advancing with several portions already completed. By the second quarter of 2022, an environmental and social impact assessment is expected to be completed. Construction on the power plant and NGL is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2022, with an estimated completion timeline by the fourth quarter of 2024. Additionally, Minister Singh noted that significant finance from the budget is going towards several additional projects which are expected to improve citizens’ access to reliable, affordable, and clean energy. For 2022, $1.6 billion has been budgeted for the construction of a parallel transmission line linking the Kingston and the new Sophia substations, the upgrade of the existing L5 transmission line. This project is aimed at reducing transmission losses and maintain-

ing desired system voltage levels. Additionally, $1.1 billion of the sector’s budget is earmarked for solar farm interventions in 2022. These include the completion of the 1.5 MW solar farm at Bartica, 0.75 MW at Wakenaam, and the 1.0 MW at Lethem. It is also government’s intention to tender for a 0.6 MW solar farm at Leguan and a 0.65 MW farm at Mahdia later this year, the National Assembly was told. Further, Minister Singh said that several hinterland areas can expect to benefit significantly from the 2022 budget as over $450 million has been budgeted for the expansion and upgrading of the hinterland electrification and power generation capacity through the purchase of generators and the expansion of distribution lines. Minister Singh disclosed that Region Nine, in particular, is set to see increased energy production. “We have also advanced the process for the construction of a 1.5 MW hydropower plant at Kumu, and rehabilitation and upgrade to 700 KW capacity of the defunct Moco Moco hydropower plant in Region Nine. Over $600M is budgeted for the construction of both projects in 2022,” he said. Additionally, over $170 million has been budgeted for the completion of the 150KW hydropower scheme at Kato and 30,000 photovoltaic home systems for hinterland and riverine areas. Minister Singh noted that this solar mini-grid and off-grid solutions are the country’s most viable options to ensure unserved and underserved hinterland regions are energised. Meanwhile, he disclosed that throughout 2022, there will be free distribution and installation of over 22,000 LED bulbs and over 12,000 LED tubes in homes, businesses, and government buildings at Bartica, Linden, Leguan, and Wakenaam. The initiative which is anticipated to remove over 500 tons of carbon dioxide emissions from the environment, is part of the government’s plans to reduce the country’s carbon footprint. Minster Singh also noted that government will pilot the installation of fast-charging stations for electric vehicles, in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), and Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Woman set alight by common-law husband battling for life GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

THREE weeks after being allegedly burnt by her common-law husband, a 42-year-old woman is battling for her life at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Tavita Lall called “Natasha”, of Number 64 Village, East Berbice, Corentyne, is currently a patient at the Burn Care Unit of the GPHC. She is suffering burns to most parts of her body and has thus undergone at least two surgeries. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday, the victim’s mother, Bamela Lall, 60, said her daughter is in a critical condition and was given a 50/50 chance of survival. “They do a surgery to take out both her breast and

she have to do more surgeries. She ah punishes ah lot; yesterday meh heart pain to see her. Meh couldn’t even stand up when I come from hospital,” Bamela said. “Natasha” works as a cleaner at the Tagore Memorial Secondary School and is a mother of four, ages 22, 19, 18 and 10. On the day in question, she was preparing dinner when her husband doused her with kerosene and set her alight. Her mother explained that the day prior to the incident, a relative of Natasha’s daughter-in-law fell ill and was hospitalised. Natasha had left home to inquire of the wellbeing of the children of the sick relative and when she returned home, her husband began to

Bandit shoot boat captain, escape with $14,000

The house where the robbery/shooting occurred F I F T Y- F O U R - y e a r- Her husband was at the old, Edward Ramroop, time sitting in the verana boat captain and a dah in the lower flat of the shop owner of Lot 1015 house when the bandits Glasgow New Housing entered their yard and Scheme, East Bank Ber- shot him. bice, is nursing a gunBibi was inside the shot wound to his right house and heard a loud arm after he was shot sound like a gunshot during a robbery at his and within seconds she residence on Tuesday was confronted by a male evening. armed with a knife. The He remains a patient other robber was armed at the New Amsterdam with a gun. Hospital and his condition The robber, who was is listed as stable. inside the house, placed According to his wife, the knife to her neck and Bibi Zulika Ramroop, 57, demanded that she hand at approximately 20:10 over the “money and US hours, two bandits, who dollars”. were armed with a gun At the time, she had and knife respectively already closed the shop. and were fully masked, “When he drop to the entered their house and floor, one rush in to me demanded cash and valu- and say money! Money! ables. And ask for US; I say She operates a grocery ‘how I gon get US, this shop at their residence. TURN TO PAGE 17

verbally abuse her and even accused her of cheating. The argument between the two went on into the night. On Friday, January 14, Natasha visited her mother and told her that she was fed up of the constant abuse and wanted to leave her husband. “Wha meh nah do meh nah gon accept,” she told her mother. The woman collected something to cook from her mother and left to go home. It was while she was preparing dinner, her husband committed the act. It is alleged that, while she was on fire, her husband, Dipnarine Seelall, 49, locked her in the house and sat in the verandah. Neighbours, who heard her pleas for help, came to her rescue. They had to break the door to gain access to the

injured woman. Her husband escaped from the scene but police managed to apprehend him the said night and days later he was charged and remanded to prison for attempted murder. Meanwhile, although Natasha’s mother is willing to visit her regularly, she is not able to do so due to financial constraints. According to the mother, since the couple has been together two years ago, her daughter has suffered, and, when she decided to leave the abusive relationship, she was burnt from face to her toes. Persons desirous of assisting Natasha can contact her on telephone number 644-2035.

Tavita Lall called “Natasha”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

‘Murray’ gets 20 years for manslaughter, assault HIGH Court Judge JoAnn Barlow, on Wednesday, sentenced 23-yearold Ryan Albert, called ‘Murray’, to a total of 20 years’ imprisonment for fatally stabbing a 19-year-old miner with a pair of scissors, and assaulting another man. In November 2021, Albert, formerly of Yarakita, North West District (NWD), was arraigned at

the Demerara High Court, where he admitted that on March 29, 2016 he unlawfully killed Dalton Emanuel. He also admitted to assaulting Mark Edwards, so as to cause him actual bodily harm on the same date and at Yakarita, NWD, where the murder had occurred. The state was represented by prosecutor Lati-

fah Elliot, while attorneyat-law Ravindra Mohabir was on record for the accused. On Wednesday, Prosecutor Elliot, in disclosing the facts in court, said that the parties involved were friends. According to Elliot, on the day in question at around 22:00 hours, the men were consuming “high wine” when an

argument ensued between Albert and Emanuel. During the course of the argument, Albert not only stabbed Emanuel in the chest with a pair of scissors, but also turned the weapon on Edwards. Emanuel was taken to the Mabaruma Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Mohabir, during a plea of mitigation, asked the

Ryan Albert, called ‘Murray’ court to consider that his client was only 18-yearsold when he committed the crime. He further told the court that his client is remorseful and is pleading for a second chance. Meanwhile, Albert during his address to the

court said, “ I never had the intention to do these things… I’m very sorry.” In delivering her sentence, the judge said she considered the aggravating factors of the case, and the age of the defendant at the time. The judge sentenced Grant to 16 years. She ordered that the prison deduct one-third of the sentence for his early guilty plea to manslaughter. She also ordered the prison authorities to deduct the time Albert spent in pre-trial custody from the sentence. On the assault indictment, Albert was sentenced to four years with no deduction being made. The sentences will run concurrently.

Repeat offender charged for robbing woman at gunpoint

A 30-year-old unemployed man, who is no stranger to the court, was, on Wednesday, remanded to prison for robbing a woman at gunpoint of over $4.5 million in jewellery, cash and cellphones. Andrew Ridley called “Orin” of Campbell Street, Albouystown was arraigned before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. He denied that, on January 24, 2022, at Callender and James Streets, Albouystown, while being armed with a gun, he robbed Carla Stevenson of three cell phones, $200,000 cash and a quantity of gold jewellery totalling $4,569,500. The court prosecutor objected to the defendant being released on bail and told the court that Ridley is no stranger to the law since he was recently released from prison after serving time for similar offences. The magistrate remanded Ridley to prison until February 16. Last year, he was arraigned before the same court for breaking into a woman’s West Ruimveldt,

Andrew Ridley called “Orin” Georgetown home on August 11,2021, and stealing over $70,000 in items. He is currently out on bail for that matter. Meanwhile, in 2019, he was sentenced by Magistrate Singh on two robbery charges and two counts of assault committed on two police officers during his arrest for that robbery. He was sentenced to a total of three years in prison and was released from prison in June 2021.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Jamaican arrested on ganja farm with shotgun, ‘ammo’

RANKS from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), on Tuesday, arrested a 46-year-old Jamaican man following the discovery of a cannabis farm, a shotgun and a quantity of ammunition at Nabaclis Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Winston Thompson, of

Victoria Village, ECD is currently in custody and is expected to be arraigned before a magistrate soon for a series of criminal offences. According to a release from CANU, ranks, acting on information, conducted the anti- narcotics operation during which they discovered a camp on a half-acre

Winston Thompson

Bandit shoot boat...

FROM PAGE 15 is a lil business I does do and all that I have is in the draw’ and I beg them nah do meh nothing, tek all that is there,” the woman related. She added that her sixyear-old granddaughter, who was downstairs at the time, began to cry and begged the perpetrators not to kill or shoot her grandfather. She said after the men collected the cash, which amounted to $14,000, they quickly made good their escape. Her husband was then taken to the New

Amsterdam Hospital. Two other persons who were at home during the ordeal remained in the upper flat of the house. Bibi said that about 15 years ago, bandits had attacked her family and escaped with cash and a quantity of jewellery. Both incidents have left her family traumatised. She is hoping that the police can intensify patrol in her community. An investigation into the robbery is ongoing. No arrest has been made so far.

plot of land. The ranks seized a total of 4000 -5000 cannabis plants and seedlings, processed cannabis, one kilogramme of mixed seeds, one shotgun, one crossbow with several arrows and several types of live ammunition, which were at the camp, the release added.

The illicit items seized during the anti-narcotics operation at Nabaclis

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

England first team to reach Super League semi-finals … Zimbabwe win in Plate competition

A BLISTERING display with the bat by Jacob Bethell helped England advance to the semi-finals of the Super League in a six-wicket win over South Africa. Bethell was one of the bowlers to restrict South Africa to 209 all out before hitting 88 to see England set up a clash with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan. South Africa endured a slow start having won the toss and chosen to bat, their first boundary came off the final ball of the fourth over, before Joshua Boyden dismissed Valentine Kitime off the next delivery. Boyden claimed his 12th wicket of the tournament to send the other opener EthanJohn Cunningham back to the hutch and reduce South Africa to 21 for two. Dewald Brevis and Gerhardus Maree combined to

Jacob Bethell steady the South African ship, adding 55 runs to the total before Bethell dismissed Maree as he played and missed. Brevis remained a familiar stronghold for South Africa as he brought up his fourth fifty-plus score in a row eventually falling just short of a century on 97.

His dismissal brought about a batting collapse for South Africa as three wickets fell for one run. as the batters went in search of boundaries, but only found the grateful hands of fielders with Rehan Ahmed claiming figures of four for 48. The final-wicket partnership of Matthew Boast

and Asakhe Tsaka frustrated England adding 40 as South Africa ended on 209 all out. Bethell came out all guns blazing in England’s chase, hitting the fourth fastest half-century of the tournament, reaching fifty off just 20 balls, as Young Lions went at over 10 an over. South Africa finally struck as Bethell went for one heave too many, but not before he had put on 88 from 42 deliveries to place England as overwhelming favourites. That tag was backed up by good partnerships in the top order, before William Luxton came in at five to strike 47 from 41 balls and get England into the semi-finals with a six. After seeing his opening partner Emmanuel Bawa fall for three runs, Matthew Welch added 32 runs for the second wicket alongside

Panashe Taruvinga, with Taruvinga contributing just three runs before being dismissed by Jack Jarvis. Welch then advanced passed fifty, as did Brian Bennett whose 54 off 58 balls helped Zimbabwe reach 155 in the 31st over. Bennett was then forced to go, bowled lbw by Lyle Robertson as he was replaced in the middle by another Bennett, David, who worked with Welch to move Zimbabwe closer to 200, before Welch fell for 78. Jarvis then swung the game back in Scotland’s favour taking two wickets in two balls to reduce Zimbabwe to 221 for seven and remove the dangerous Rogan Wolhuter. His hat-trick ball came in his next over and while he could not get the scalp of Tendekai Mataranyika he soon bowled Connor Mitchell

to send Zimbabwe reeling. Alex Falao was the final wicket to fall as Zimbabwe ended on 248 all out, meaning Scotland had to post their highest score of the tournament to win. In reply, Scotland were restricted by good bowling from Zimbabwe, Charlie Tear was first to go bowled lbw by Mcgini Dube before Bennett and Bawa got in on the act. Left-arm spinner Mitchell then picked up the next three wickets as Scotland slumped to 105 for six with 26 overs remaining. Scotland’s collapse continued as Bennett also claimed a three-for including the final wicket of Ruaridh McIntyre to bowl out Scotland for a 108-run win and to advance to the Plate League semi-finals. (ICC Media)

Nandu heroics get West Indies U19 into Plate semis (2-34) all claiming wickets. Aue Oru (27) and Peter Karoho (21) were the only ones to pass 20 as PNG never found themselves in the hunt, especially after slumping to 65 for five in the 18th over. The best stand of the innings was a 37-run, sixth-wicket partnership between Oru and Patrick Nou (15) but once they were separated, the last five wickets

Matthew Nandu gathers runs through the off-side during his hundred yesterday

(CMC) – Matthew Nandu’s hundred propelled West Indies into the Plate semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup, as the hosts clobbered Papua New Guinea (PNG) by 169 runs here yesterday. In their Plate quarter-final at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex, the left-hander gathered 128 off 134 deliveries as Rising Stars piled up an imposing 317 for six off their

tumbled for 46 runs. Nandu had earlier taken centre stage, stroking 15 fours and two sixes as he dominated with Parris who counted eight fours and two sixes. Leading the side for the match, Nandu reached his fifty from 62 balls with a boundary in the 23rd over before raising triple figures off 115 deliveries in the 42nd

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50 over after being sent in. Nandu posted 155 for the first wicket with Shaqkere Parris who struck 64 off 89 deliveries, while Kevin Wickham followed up his fifty against Sri Lanka with a stunning unbeaten 61 off 48 balls. In reply, PNG were bundled out for 148 in the 38th over, with spinner Nandu (214) and seamers Isai Thorne (2-30) and McKenny Clarke

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) ENG won by 1 run (2) Moen Ali (ENG) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many teams have now played Test cricket to date? (2)Who were the first two teams to contest a Test match? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

over with another four. Once Parris fell in the 29th over, Nandu and Wickham, who smashed three fours and four sixes, combined to plunder 107 for the

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022

Newly formed A.K. Galaxy aims to join Bartica Football Association

IMMAF president hails Guyana’s participation at Abu Dhabi World Championships … pledges Federation’s support for MMA development locally

Marcia Seeram (third from right) along with the other executive members of A.K. Galaxy Football Club

ALMANAC Kings (A.K.) Galaxy Football Club was recently formed and its aim is to gain the necessary compliance to fall under the umbrella of the Bartica Football Club (BFA). Marica Seeram will serve as president and Mario Perreira as its vice-president. The other executives are Lisa Perreira (secretary), Patrina Perreira (treasurer), Melvin Seeram (assistant secretary/treasurer) and Committee members Ryan Andries and Ashberg Hohenkirk. According to a release, the club will now apply to

the BFA to become a Provisional Member and acquire the opportunity to participate in the programme of the association, with limited membership rights, until it is accepted as a full member by the General Council, following a period of probation. The BFA assured the new club of full support from the association, which will include the formation of a Satellite Academy Training Centre at Karrau Village. Should A.K. Galaxy become a full member, it will join the other eight clubs that function under the BFA.

Guyana Police Force congratulates Hercules on coaching appointment Guyana Harpy Eagles assistant coach Ryan Hercules (Photo: Brandon Corlette)

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), through Commissioner (ag) Nigel Hoppie, has congratulated Ryan Hercules on his ascension to the Manager/Assistant Coach role of the Guyana Harpy Eagles cricket team. Hercules, who also coaches the Force’s cricket team, was confirmed in the national job late last year, and his first task will be the Regional Four-Day Championship next month. The head coach is Esaun Crandon. A release from the GPF indicated Hercules started his journey as a teenage cricketer at the Parika/Salem Sports Club and represented

Essequibo for a number of years before playing in England and Australia. After returning to Guyana, he served as assistant coach of the Guyana Senior Female and Guyana Under-15 teams and is currently on the pathway to Level III accreditation, which is understood to be among the highest accredited level. According to the release, Hercules in his new role plans to work hard with players to help them achieve team goals and personal goals, bring success to the franchise, and keep intact the development of players going into a West Indies setup.

Kerrith Brown

By Rawle Toney in Abu Dhabi (Compliments of Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation/National Sports Commission) KERRITH Brown, president of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), was full of praises for the Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GYMMAF), following the participation of Corwin D’Anjou and Ijaz Cave, at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi. D’Anjou competed in the Welterweight category, while Cave featured in the Light Heavyweight division. Both fighters have sinse exited the tournament which will conclude tomorrow in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. This year’s championships is the largest for the IMMAF in its 10-year history, as over 450 athletes from 57 countries, gathered to compete for a chance to be crowned the best in the world in their respective categories. It is also the first World Championships since the advent of COVID-19 in 2020. The IMMAF was founded in Sweden by former athletes and presidents of the Swedish MMA Federation, August Wallén and George Sallfeldt, with support from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Headed by Gavin Singh, the GYMMA only recently

received their accreditation to the IMMAF, officially registering Guyana as an affiliate to the Mixed Martial Arts’ (MMA) international governing body. “The first time being here, especially at this level as well, shows the development that you guys have got the federation to where it is. We’re proud of the fact that you’ve come and participated and it shows the development of the sport,” Brown told Chronicle Sport in an exclusive interview at the UAE Ju-jitsu Arena. Representing England in Judo, Brown won bronze at the 1984 Olympics and bronze at the 1987 World Championships. In 2015, Brown was unanimously voted in as president of the IMMAF, replacing France’s Bertrand Amoussou. He has been credited with, among other notable things, pushing the IMMAF to achieving its WADA Code signatory status by the World Anti-Doping Agency, becoming the first organisation to do so under the revised Policy for Acceptance of New Signatories that came into effect at the beginning of 2021. With none of the Guyanese fighters advancing, since D’Anjou was eliminated in the first round of his division and Cave came out at the quarterfinals, Brown said it is part of the learning phase. “What you have to realise is, in terms of the national federation, the job is that you’re learning in all aspects. You are learning the different processes that are put in place to run a competition at this level, so when you go back to develop the national federation, the clubs, referees, judges, the coaches; everything that’s happening in Abu Dhabi, we want the federation to value and adopt,” Brown said. He admitted that for the IMMAF’s ultimate goal, apart from showcasing some

Ijaz Cave in action against Sweden’s Robin Enontekio at the IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi

of the best MMA amateur talent globally, is youth development. According to the former British Judo Federation Chairman, “It’s about giving the youths the opportunity to come through, provide the pathway, in terms of the development for the top athletes who will eventually transition from amateur to pro.” Brown said he was impressed with the skillset

shown by the Guyanese fighters and hoped that under the guidance of Gavin Singh and his GYMMA executives, the country will be a mainstay at other IMMAF global events. He also pledged the IMMAF’s support in ensuring that the Guyanese Federation continues to operate within the confines of the International Federation’s guidelines for MMA and push the agenda of youth development.

Corwin D’Anjou in action against Ireland’s Adam McEnroe at the IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 27, 2022