Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 28-04-2023

Strategic policing pertinent to Guyana’s development

Defence Diplomacy Unit on the cards

OWING to the role the Guyana Police Force (GPF) plays both on the regional and global level, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Thursday , revealed that in the coming days , a Defence Diplomacy Unit will be launched.

Dr Ali made this announcement during his address at the opening of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces expressed satisfaction with the “outstanding work” that the Police Force has done within the past year, especially, in conquering social issues such as painting roadways, delivering hampers and building houses

“…Talking to every section of the Guyanese people is most admirable,” Dr Ali said, while commending the officers for their efforts

He added that the complexity of policing is above and beyond, so the true essence of the job is not about walking around with guns or

displaying a displeasing face, but instead showing one that represents trust and passion but yet upholds the sternness and the respect that the law requires

“You are not just officers representing the GPF, you are officers leading other ranks to deliver an environment that is secure, comfortable and one that offers a higher standard of living,” President Ali told the audience

Policing , in his view , should not only be based on and fueled by intelligence, but it must also encompass traits such as professionalism , openness , integrity , leadership and also, be community oriented

He then touched on one of the major areas of improvement in the national system , which is how men and women are utilised after the nation invested in their education and training for a number of years, but then releases them at the “ripe age of 55.”

According to the President, at 55 is when the members of the disciplined forces

depart but it is also “when they are at their prime.”

Owing to this, President Ali asserted that the nation stands to lose by allowing these qualified persons to leave

He further told those persons that when they depart the disciplined forces: “Your time does not come to an end.”

“A new Guyana will be looking at every officer ,” President Ali told the ranks, noting that the new platform will be driven and fueled by their performance and delivery

He then went on to say that much focus will be placed on strategic positioning, and this will be dealing with a lot of analytical capacity in advising policy makers on strategic partnerships

In addition to this , the President said that those ideas, concepts and theories require the reengineering of the power of thought, especially in this new era

Dr Ali then remarked that Guyana must be able to create a platform that proves

that the country has “thinkers and not reactors.”

He also said that this new vision for the next generation must be nation focused and people-centred through partnerships

In addition to this , Dr . Ali also said that focus must be placed on dismantling the bad traditions of the GPF and reorienting the Force with a tradition that is in line with what is constitutionally required

“ Policing is not isolat -

ed from development and development is not isolated from policing The security architecture of a country is a bedrock through which development, sustainability, resilience, and progress can be achieved ,” the Head of state pointed out

With over 2,000 officers already trained or in training, President Ali has challenged the GPF to overcome the many challenges in building a stronger and safer future for the country

To confront those challenges, President Ali emphasised the need for a proactive thinking organisation that can anticipate and address security issues, rather than a reactive and passive one.

He also called for a new standard of performance and professionalism within the force, emphasising the need for a force that is , “ driven by performance and fuelled by professionalism.”

Gov’t postpones sale of Marriott Hotel

WITH none of the bids put forward for the purchase of the Guyana Marriott Hotel finding favour with the government, authorities have decided that the property will remain in the government’s holding until such time that “an appropriate offer that merits the true value” of the facility is made

This was according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo during his weekly press conference, on Thursday.

He clarified that US$65 million which was the highest bid that the government received for the Hotel was still way off target “ When we went out to tender we were testing the market We believe in the government that none of the bids meet our price expectations and , therefore , we will not proceed with any of those bids The Marriott will remain in the public domain as part of the government

until we get an appropriate offer that merits the true value,” Jagdeo said

He added : “ We know what the true value will be in the current context So that matter should be put to rest that we will not proceed with any of the bids because we believe that they are too low based on the value of that asset and its capacity to earn.”

A total of six bidders had responded to a December 2022 advertisement from the government seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to purchase the government’s shares in Atlantic Hotel Inc ( AHI ), a special purpose company established to own the Marriott Hotel

The highest bid of US$65 million was put forward by investment group X, LLC, whose principal is an Egyptian-born businessman and entrepreneur, Ramy El-Batrawi

The second highest bid

of US $ 55.5 million came from local hotelier, Robert Badal, owner of the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, located a few doors down from the Marriott

Of the other bids , Integrated Group Guyana Limited, a local consortium headed by Ravindra Prashad offered US$55 million, and a US$50 million offer was submitted by Mustafa Eray Kanmaz, General Manager of Georgetown Investments and Management Services Inc .— the company that owns the Ramada Hotel, There was also a bid of US $ 33 million from NCB Capital Markets Limited, a Jamaican Company headed by Steve Gooding , while Muneshwers Limited, owned by Amarnauth Muneshwer had the lowest bid of US$25 million

Located in Kingston, the US$52 million Guyana Marriott, which opened in 2015, was funded through public

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr. Irfaan Ali expressed satisfaction with the “outstanding work” that the Police Force has done within the past year (Office of the President photo)

–– President Ali stresses reorientation of officers to better position the Guyana Police Force

Colonel Khan promoted to Brigadier, appointed new Army Chief of Staff

Brigadier Bess confirmed as 11th Chief of Staff

PRESIDENT and Commander - in - Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, promoted Colonel Omar Khan to the rank of Brigadier and appointed him Chief of

Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The two - part ceremony also saw the President confirming Brigadier Godfrey Bess as the 11th Chief of Staff of the GDF

A change of command parade will take place tomorrow, during which Brigadier Bess will officially hand over command to Brigadier Khan

The appointment of Brigadier Khan was made in keeping with the Head of State ’ s constitutional mandate of exercising his powers as Minister of Defence vested within the Defence Act

Khan currently heads the National Intelligence and Security Agency (N I S A).

The outgoing Chiefof - Staff had previously said that he is grateful for the memories and invaluable skills provided to him throughout his military career, adding that service to

his country afforded him the opportunity of being part of something greater than himself

“I look forward to the next chapter of my life and am excited about spending more time with my family, pursuing new challenges and hobbies , and exploring new opportunities I am proud to have served alongside the brave men and women of the Guyana Defence Force,” he said

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, during a two-part ceremony on Thursday, confirmed Brigadier Godfrey Bess as the 11th Chief of Staff of the GDF, and promoted Colonel Omar Khan to the rank of Brigadier and appointed him the new Chief of Staff (Office of the President photo)

President Ali sets record straight on NISA establishment

–– Attorney-General also addresses misconceptions over agency

DESPITE negative comments from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) regarding the establishment of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (N.I.S.A), President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that the agency has been in operation for over a decade, even during the five-year period when the APNU+AFC held office.

On the sidelines of an event on Wednesday, the Head of State set the record straight on a Bill which was tabled in the National Assembly by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C., last Monday.

The aim of the Bill is to essentially establish a legislative framework on how the agency will be structured and financed, and its responsibilities, among other things.

“The agency was created years ago. I came as the President and met NISA; the National Intelligence Agency was there before my presidency. This National Intelligence and Security Agency has been operating for a number of years; over a decade,” the President said.

Dr. Ali highlighted that the Agency was in operation since 2010 under then President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and under the David Granger-led APNU+AFC administration from 2015 until the elections in 2020.

He added that when he became President in 2020, the head of the agency was Brigadier Retired Bruce Lovell, who subsequently left, and Colonel Omar Khan was appointed.

“This agency existed; full stop!” the President said as he set the record straight.

In 2016, during his address in Parliament, Granger had promised to establish a new NISA to ensure better surveillance of our borders and coasts.

The following year, he

said the then government would be re-constructing the district, regional and central information architecture to guide the operations of NISA, but nothing ever materialised during the party’s five years in government.

However, the APNU’s current leader, Aubrey Norton is now objecting to the Bill, stating that it’s dictatorial.

During the airing of his Online programme, “Issues in the News”, the Attorney-General clarified misconceptions about the new Bill, and urged the public to familiarise themselves with it.

He added that the Agency will not operate as a law enforcement body, and will work alongside the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force to aid in the gathering of intelligence.

The new Bill seeks to establish NISA as an agency to further enhance the State’s defence and security policy, as stated in Article 197A of the Constitution, to provide for the Agency to be responsible

Assembly.

“ So, I am saying to you that for 13 years, this agency has been functioning, performing largely the same functions which are outlined in the Bill, but it had no governance structure. It had no statutory framework, and, apparently, people didn’t know about it.

for the coordination of the State’s defence, and law enforcement activities relating to national intelligence and security, and to provide national intelligence and security advice to the President, Cabinet, and entities in the security sector, and for connected matters.

Some of the Agency’s functions, he said, include collecting information of national intelligence and security interests that provide a basis for decision making and preventive actions. NISA will also provide a modern central platform for the collection of relevant information for diverse sources.

He also called out sections of the media and persons for peddling misinformation, calling the agency a “Spy Bill”.

The Attorney-General said that the Bill is available in the Official Gazette and Online for public consumption, and urged the public to familiarise themselves with it.

Nandlall said an annual report of the NISA’s work will be laid in the National

“Now, this Bill seeks to remove that cloak of apparent secrecy, and to bring a transparent legal structure into being, and to establish an accountable framework in respect of the agency itself, and those who will man and comprise the agency, and to say clearly how the agency will be funded. Once it is funded from public funds, its audited accounts are going to be laid in the National Assembly, and shall now become subject to parliamentary oversight,” he said.

The Attorney-General said that when the Agency was operating in an “ad hoc” manner while performing the same functions, there was not an ounce of criticism, especially when rules were being changed, and persons were being hired in secrecy.

He explained that NISA will also have a committee, which will consist of three members appointed by the President.

The members shall be: One person nominated by the President, another nominated by the Leader of the Opposition, and one person nominated by an organisation representing civil society.

The Committee will be responsible for revising the referred matter, and express its opinion on any questions, and make recommendations to the President.

Additionally, a clause under the Bill provides that the offence of obstruction or interference with officers of NISA in the

discharge of their function is liable, on a summary conviction, to a fine of $2 million.

Additionally, no civil or criminal proceeding for breach of confidentiality may be brought against any person who, in good faith, provides information to NISA.

Among other things, no suit may be brought against NISA’s director or officers for any lawful act done, or omission made in good faith in carrying out the provisions set out in the act.

“It is unfortunate that the Bill is coming this late; that should be the criticism. The criticism should be that the Bill is coming too late. We have border issues with Venezuela, and we still have some outstanding issues… We have a migration issue here because of the porous

nature of our borders, and that is presenting national security issues in this country. We have a large influx of persons here from all over and they enter or we don’t see them exiting,” Minister Nandlall said, adding:

“You have to act in the best interest of the nation. This country requires an agency of this type on firm legal footing, not an ad hoc agency.

A main bureaucratic administrative entity; our economy itself requires an agency like this, because more and more as the economy grows, national security and the capability of the State to protect its citizens, and to protect assets within the State must proportionately expand, and improved intelligence gathering has to become institutionalized.”

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney- General Anil Nandlall, S.C.

Talking Peace Talks

CHINA’S President, Xi Jinping and Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, on Wednesday, talked by phone, during which they exchanged views on bilateral ties and the Ukraine crisis.

President Xi said China has always been on the side of peace for Ukraine and its core position is facilitating peace talks and contributing to stopping hostilities and restoring peace.

China will send its special envoy on Eurasian Affairs for in-depth communications with countries and concerned parties on the political settlement of the crisis.

The Chinese President stressed dialogue and negotiation as the only way

out for the Ukraine crisis, and noting there is no winner in a nuclear war, he also urged that all parties concerned exercise restraint and maintain calmness on the nuclear issue and allowing joint efforts to manage the crisis for the benefit of humanity.

Xi also got all parties to reflect on the Ukraine crisis and jointly pursue an approach to ensure long-lasting peace in Europe.

On bilateral ties, Xi said no matter how the international situation evolves, China is ready to work with Ukraine to advance mutually beneficial co-operation between the two countries.

For his part, President Zelensky expressed his ap-

preciation to China for the humanitarian assistance it provided to Ukraine, and welcomed the Chinese side playing an important role in restoring peace and resolving the crisis through political means.

The very fact that the two leaders talked peace – after having met personally much earlier at a global summit – is a very welcome sign that must be neither overlooked nor underestimated.

The Ukraine leader’s preparedness to sit with China to talk about talking peace with Russia, is the most positive indication of late that peace talks are possible – which also means peace is also possible.

China’s 12-point peace

plan talks now welcomed by Ukraine’s President, supporters of peace everywhere are starting to breathe sighs of relief, exhaling in anxiety.

French President, Emmanuel Macron, during and after his recent visit to Beijing, has insisted the West cannot afford to try to isolate or punish China, but instead engage more with Beijing.

Brazil’s President Ignacio ‘Lula’ DaSilva also visited China last week and urged support for Beijing’s peace plan.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin welcomed the China peace plan from the outset and while Moscow says Kyiv and NATO aren’t showing signs of wanting peace, the Rus -

sian president willing go to the table with China as a mediator.

All wars end with talks and Ukraine’s is no different – and there’s no other alternative to a war that’s already cost Kyiv’s allies over US $40 billion in its first year, with no peace anywhere in near sight.

As with all peace negotiations, all sides involved in the fighting will have to agree to the starting points, such as venue, methodology and expectations, with no conditions that would derail dialogue.

Kyiv and Moscow have both kept fighting while talking about peace talks, but that’s par for the course in such situations, as what matters is where the talks are leading –

which, in this case, is to the table.

Peace negotiations to end wars today are no longer about stopping the beating of war drums and smoking peace pipes, flashing of mirrors or sending smoke signals.

Lines of instant communication have been established and messages are flowing between the capitals and leaders – and that’s the best start anyone can hope for currently.

The next-best hope is that points of disagreement disappear earlier than later, while the sides agree to disagree on intractable issues, so that the talks can also start sooner than later.

The world’s fingers remain crossed.

APNU’s campaign built on ‘lies’, ‘intimidation of people’

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Jagdeo says party continues to claim support without presenting proof

WITH the A Partnership of National Unity (APNU) yet to put forward any evidence debunking statistics that the party is contesting in less than 45 per cent of constituencies at the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE), General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo has accused the Opposition of executing a campaign built on “lies” and “intimidation of people”.

Addressing issues

arising with candidates and supporters of the PPP/C, Jagdeo accused APNU members of bullying and threatening candidates and backers of the PPP/C’s lists to remove their names, and denounce their support of the PPP/C.

“Their entire campaign is built around lies and intimidation of people in the communities; they have gone to the homes of the people, bullying them into signing forms. In one area, they have a single template printed

out, carrying it to people to say that they didn’t sign the list,” Jagdeo said.

He added: “People were intimidated to withdraw, because they were fearful for their lives. They say we live in a hostile community, and they will harass us. So, we chose to do this, but we are still very supportive.”

According to Jagdeo, the support for the PPP/C is evidenced by the party’s ability to attract enough candidates and backers to contest in all 610 constituencies at

the June 12 polls. However, he questioned the authenticity of the support the APNU continues to claim without putting forth proof.

Armed with spreadsheets outlining statistics showing the various constituencies and Local Authority Areas (LAAs) where APNU is not contesting, Jagdeo challenged APNU to show evidence to prove otherwise.

Notwithstanding the statistics, members of the APNU maintain that the party is contesting in

“practically all” of the constituencies and areas. Jagdeo said this couldn’t be further from the truth.

“How could you, up to today, lie to the people of this country? Who will believe such a party? How can a Leader of the Opposition go to a press conference and tell such a blatant lie, without fear of it being exposed. How are you going to PR it away?” Jagdeo said.

According to the General Secretary, APNU is still reeling from the shock of the massive sup-

port that was observed for the PPP/C on Nomination Day on April 17, particularly the significant support the PPP/C got in traditional APNU strongholds.

“They still can’t recover; it has taken a big toll on their psyche. Seeing a multi-ethnic party made up of people of every race in significant numbers that is their nightmare. So, across the country, they are engaged in intimidation tactics to scare people off,” Jagdeo said.

Girls in ICT: Digital skills for life

By Diane Quarless, Director of ECLAC’s Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean

YESTERDAY, April 27, people across the world marked Girls in ICT Day with the theme “Digital skills for life.”

This day was created to encourage and empower girls and young women to become users and creators in the digital world.

In the Caribbean, we have very little data on who is using digital technologies and the Internet. Sex-disaggregated data is only available for a few countries in the databases of the International Telecommunication Union, but we do not know if this is representative for the whole Caribbean.

At least for certain age groups, the countries for which we have data have achieved parity between men and women. This is promising but must be taken with caution, as globally, we see a large, and expanding, gender gap in internet use.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which increased inequality in societies across the world, is partly responsible for this widening gender gap. Digital and social inequality are inextricably linked, and as noted in the United Nations Secretary-General’s Roadmap for Digital Co-operation, “Digital divides reflect and amplify existing social, cultural and economic inequalities.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has had dis-

proportionately negative effects on women across the Americas, including on women’s quality of life. For example, in the Caribbean, more female-headed households have been going to bed hungry or eating less healthy as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and an increase in domestic violence towards women was also observed.

Both the economic situation and domestic violence correlate with a more limited access to and use of digital technologies and the Internet. As such, it is possible that the ability and freedom of women and girls in the Caribbean to access and use digital technologies has reduced since 2020. This is deeply concerning.

In addition to addressing gaps in access and use, we also need to consider the quality of the online experience for women and girls. Girls worldwide are growing up in, or seeking to enter, an online environment that is highly unfavourable to them.

Globally, we observed that gendered disinformation is on the rise, with women being targetted more often and more viciously than men. Outspoken women and girls, such as politicians, journalists or activists, or that have intersecting identities, have been shown to receive even more of these attacks.

This is also true in the Americas. Given the diverse racial and ethnic makeup of the Caribbean region, it

At a 2022 conference on the wellbeing of youth in Central America and the Caribbean, some research findings were presented demonstrating that while children in Trinidad and Tobago are aware of different risks of being online, they are not necessarily aware of what constitutes risky behaviour.

targets for cyber-violence, and online sexual exploitation and abuse.

will be important to monitor the quality of the online experience for Caribbean people, so that we can address this issue and provide support to those affected. This will require the collection of data disaggregated by sex, race or ethnicity, disability status, age, and more, and an intersectional analysis of this data.

A 2022 social media poll by the International Telecommunication Union found that being safe online was the second most important factor determining whether girls decide to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

However, at the moment, children appear to be a primary group of victims of cyber-violence, with girls experiencing more severe challenges than boys. Research from around the world show that they receive three times as many unwanted sexual messages from peers, are more likely to be targetted by groomers, and are featured in 93 per cent of sexual abuse imagery.

This is particularly concerning for girls, who, at least in the OECD, have been shown to have lower levels of digital skills than boys once they enter adolescence.

An additional concern is that girls tend to start out with equal or higher digital skills than boys in primary and lower secondary school, but have less confidence in their skill levels, receive less encouragement, and tend to avoid technology-related subjects and fields as they age.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which led to many more children being brought online, some for the first time, may have increased the number of vulnerable

Legal and policy interventions are needed to ensure a safe online environment where children can learn and thrive. These interventions must be human rights-based and intersectional, and must also recognise that the violence that women experience online is intertwined with the violence they experience offline, and address societal and cultural factors that perpetuate gender-based violence and ultimately impact the wellbeing of girls.

Part of the solution must also be targetted interventions to raise digital skill levels among marginalised groups, including women and girls, addressing also gendered attitudes and societal prejudices and stereotypes associated with women and technology.

Structural societal issues, including the exclusion of women from the digital realm and from technology-related professions, has led to many technologies

and platforms incorporating algorithmic bias against women, or dismissing women’s experiences or heightened risks online. Capacity-building courses must therefore also incorporate an intersectional approach that considers the unique risks faced by women and girls of multiple identities. We have a long way to go to ensure that digital technologies and the Internet empower and benefit all people, including girls. However, focusing on digital skills for life can help in ensuring that they can assess risks, protect themselves, participate in the creative processes taking place online, and empower them to use digital technologies in ways that will benefit them and the societies they live in. To get there, we must focus on digital inclusion, examining the whole society, the societal structures and barriers, and act with the most vulnerable or marginalised in mind. We owe this to them.

Dr. Singh lobbies for more attention on challenges of small, vulnerable nations

reaffirms Guyana’s commitment to advance implementation of Agenda 2030, during meeting with UN’s Deputy Secretary-General

SENIOR Finance Minister , Dr Ashni Singh , on Wednesday, met with the United Nation ’ s Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Amina J Mohammed, in Santiago, Chile.

During their discussion, Minister Singh reiterated the country’s appreciation of the role the UN played in safeguarding democracy in 2020 and updated the DSG on the economic developments and

prospects in Guyana

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advance implementation of Agenda 2030 aimed at achieving the SDGs , notwithstanding the challenging global economic context

Dr Singh is in Chile for the Sixth Meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable De-

velopment

During his presentation as part of the panel which addressed “ Strategies to Advance Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the Caribbean,” Dr Singh highlighted two pertinent strategies to advance the national and sub-regional agenda in a manner fully consistent with Agenda 2030, namely CARICOM’s ‘25 by 2025’

food security strategy being spearheaded by Guyana as well as its second-generation Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) which is a successor to the first LCDS

Guyana has demonstrated intellectual leadership and global advocacy in climate action The Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) sought to transition its development along a low carbon development trajectory, while simultaneously combatting climate change

In 2022, a major milestone was achieved for Guyana and forest countries in the world in the achievement of that vision – when the Architecture for REDD + Transactions Secretariat issued the world’s first jurisdiction-scale, market-ready carbon credits to Guyana

In total, almost 33.5 million credits were issued for the period 2016-2020, one of the biggest issuances of carbon anywhere in the world

A second major milestone was also achieved in 2022 , through the sale of a significant percentage of Guyana ’ s ART - TREES credits Under the agreement, Hess Corporation will buy 2.5 million credits per year for 2016 to 2030 to a total of 37.5 million credits for a minimum payment of US$750 million to be paid to Guyana between 2022 and 2032

Guyana also holds the portfolio for responsibility for Agriculture, Agricultural Diversification and Food Security in CARICOM, and is spearheading the regional efforts of reducing its food import bill

The strategy outlines specific actions that are required by each state in achieving the 25 by 2025 goal of reducing CARICOM’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025

Guyana is amongst the fastest growing economies in the world, with growth of 62.3 per cent recorded last year and medium-term average annual growth projected at 25 per cent for the period 2023 to 2026

It is now considered as a premier investment destination , attractive for investment in the oil and gas sector, infrastructure and the requisite support services

Recognising the importance of a strong diversified economic base, the Government of Guyana, placed the highest level of importance on a strong non-oil economy and its policies have been focused on modernising the traditional pillars of the economy, and catalysing a rapidly growing and highly competitive non - oil economy

Further, in this environment of rapid expansion , the administration has put

mechanisms in place to mitigate the impact of external shocks on the country ’ s economy

This is evidenced by Guyana ’ s non - oil economy growing by an estimated 11.5 per cent in 2022 , building on the 4.6 per cent growth recorded in 2021 , and over the medium-term is forecast to grow well above global levels

The Government of Guyana prioritises the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in its efforts to secure broadbased economic development, which is demonstrated in successive national budgets in recent years that are in close alignment with Agenda 2030 and national priorities

While meeting with the UN Deputy Secretary General, Dr Singh also used the opportunity to advocate for continued attention to the challenges being faced by the smallest and most vulnerable member states of the UN, particularly the small islands of the Caribbean Amina Mohamed first joined the United Nations in 2012 and led the process that resulted in global agreement around the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the creation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Wednesday, met with the United Nation’s Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Amina J Mohammed, in Santiago, Chile

ANSA Motors becomes authorised dealer of Hyundai construction equipment

–– parent company recommits to investing in development of Guyana’s economy, growth of infrastructure

ANSA Motors (Guyana)

Limited has announced that it is the authorised dealer for Hyundai Construction Equipment.

“This new partnership represents a significant milestone for ANSA Motors (Guyana) Limited, as it expands its portfolio of high-quality products and services to its customers,” the company said in a press release.

“We are thrilled to launch as an authorised dealer for Hyundai Con-

struction Equipment in Guyana.

“This partnership represents our commitment to providing the best products and services to our customers in the construction industry. We are excited to showcase our latest offerings and demonstrate our dedication to delivering high-quality products and services to the Guyanese market,” the company said.

ANSA Motors (Guyana) Limited is a mem -

ber of the ANSA McAL Group of Companies, a long-standing and respected business institution in the Caribbean.

“ANSA McAL Group of Companies is committed to investing in the development of Guyana’s economy, and the growth of the country’s infrastructure,” the company said, adding:

“ANSA Motors (Guyana) Limited is dedicated to providing superior customer service and

support, and this new partnership with Hyundai Construction Equipment is just one example of its commitment to excellence.”

ANSA Motors (Guyana) Limited has announced that it is the authorised dealer for Hyundai Construction Equipment (Adrian Narine photo)

ExxonMobil to proceed with US$12.7B Uaru project

after receiving gov’t approvals; company targets commencement of production by 2026

EXXONMOBIL made a final investment decision for the Uaru development offshore Guyana, after receiving the required government and regulatory approvals

According to a press release from the company , it expects Uaru , the fifth project on Guyana’s offshore Stabroek Block, to add approximately 250,000 barrels of daily capacity after a targetted startup in 2026

“ Our fifth , multi - billion - dollar investment in Guyana exemplifies ExxonMobil ’ s long - term commitment to the country ’ s sustained economic growth,” said Liam Mallon, President of the ExxonMobil Upstream Company

He added: “Our Guyana

investments and unrivalled development success continue to contribute to secure, reliable global energy supplies at this critical time.”

The US$12.7 billion project will include up to 10 drill centres , and 44 production and injection wells aimed at developing an estimated resource of more than 800 million barrels of oil MODEC is constructing the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel for the Uaru project, which will be called the Errea Wittu

ExxonMobil is utilising its diversified supplier base to help reduce costs and safely accelerate development in its Guyana operations

“The company’s diverse supplier base includes nearly

1,000 unique local Guyanese suppliers, exemplifying Guyana’s growing in-country supply chain capabilities ,” ExxonMobil said

Two FPSOs , the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity, are currently operating offshore Guyana and safely produced an average of 375,000 barrels of oil per day in the first quarter

A third FPSO, the Prosperity, is expected to be operational later this year, adding 220,000 barrels of daily capacity from the Payara development ExxonMobil made a final investment decision on the fourth offshore project, Yellowtail, last year

The company is targetting to have six FPSOs online by the end of 2027 , bringing Guyana’s production capac-

ity to more than 1.2 million barrels per day

ExxonMobil ’ s Guyana developments are generating around 30 per cent lower greenhouse gas intensity than the average of ExxonMobil’s upstream portfolio

According to the inde -

pendent research firm Rystad Energy, they are also among the best performing in the world with respect to emissions intensity, outpacing 75 per cent of global oil and gas producing assets

ExxonMobil affiliate , Esso Exploration and Pro-

duction Guyana Limited , is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.

APNU’s ‘bullying tactics’ an act of desperation

IN an act of desperation, sensing a loss in the upcoming Local Government Elections, the People’s National Congress Reform ( PNC / R )/ A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has resorted to bullying and intimidation of the

Elections However , there have been numerous reports of instances of intimidation by APNU agents

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) candidates, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. has said.

It was recently reported by this newspaper that the PPP/C was notified by several residents of Region Five ( Mahaica - Berbice ) that operatives of the PNC/ APNU, namely, Member of Parliament ( MP ) Vinceroy Jordan, Carol Smith-Joseph, and Darren Wade, have reportedly resorted to tactics of intimidation to influence persons to withdraw their names from lists submitted for the Local Government Elections (LGE).

The PPP/C, had said that there were reports that PNC members are visiting the homes of persons whose names appear on the PPP/C’s Backers ’ List and intimidating them , forcing them to withdraw their names by signing pre-prepared documents

During his online show, “Issues in the News,” Nandlall expressed confidence in his party, highlighting that the APNU is only contesting in 45 per cent of the 610 constituencies and 24 Local Authority Areas (LAAs).

The PPP/C is contesting in all 610 constituencies across the 80 LAA for the June 12 Local Government

“They have, in their areas that were traditionally the stronghold , been bullying people and making all types of allegations ,” Nandlall said

He said that a PPP / C candidate in Linden, who is also a school teacher , was intimidated by the APNU members from her district, who accused her of forging her backers’ signatures

“ The issue being highlighted by the APNU activist Linden about fraud is one that I have no knowledge of None of the persons highlighted in the polls have contacted me with any objections Everyone signed conscientiously,” the woman said in a letter that Nandlall read during his programme

According to Nandlall , after the woman submitted her backers ’ form , APNU officials took the form and went “masquerading” the list on Facebook, singling out her supporters

“...They are telling you that these names that they have circled are claiming that their names are placed here unlawfully They’re not bringing forward the people; they’re not taking the persons to the returning officer That is what they are doing It is an act of desperation ,” he said

Nandlall added that PPP/ C’s Afro-Guyanese supporters and candidates are being threatened and intimidated by the ANPU

“They (APNU) are threat-

ening those people! Threatening to burn their houses, threatening all manner of deception in order to intimidate those people, and they’re managing to get some of them to go and say that they didn’t sign, although those people did sign, but the people have to live in the community out of fear

“So, these people are telling you on the one hand that they respect people’s freedom of choice, that they are democratic , that they respect a person’s right to support a political party of his choice, and when an Afro-Guyanese does it and exercises that right and comes on the side of the PPP,

that Afro-Guyanese becomes “a stooge,” “a house slave,” and they are terrorised in their communities,” Nandlall said The Attorney General said that is one of the reasons why the PPP/C established the 592-700-8117 hotline so persons could report any acts of bullying by PNC/APNU

operatives

He urged residents across the country to be vigilant, and to resist any such further attempts, as the matter will engage the attention of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S C

ExxonMobil secures environmental permit for Uaru Development Project

- permit comprehensively addresses all safeguards reasonably necessary to protect human health, the environment, EPA says

The following is the full statement from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

THE EPA has approved the Uaru Petroleum Development Project. The agency granted a five-year Environmental Permit to Esso

Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to undertake the construction and operation of petroleum production facilities, within the Stabroek Block, Offshore Guyana.

The approval of the Environmental Impact Assess-

ment and granting of the Environmental Permit were done in keeping with the Environmental Protection Act Cap 20:05. The approval of the project comes after the EPA considered public inputs during all statutory periods for public consultations and

review.

The EPA also took into consideration the technical review and recommendations from a team of independent international experts, and the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB). The EAB reviewed and declared the

revised EIA acceptable and provided recommendations to the EPA for its consideration for inclusion in the Environmental Permit.

The Uaru Project is the fifth petroleum development project to have been permitted in the Stabroek Block. The permit granted, comprehensively addressed all environmental and social safeguards that are reasonably necessary to protect human health and the environment, including implied conditions as provided for in section 13 of the Environmental Protection Act.

KEY PROVISIONS IN THE PERMIT

Flaring - Like its predecessors, the Uaru Permit strictly prohibits routine flaring and venting, and specifies that flaring is only permissible during commissioning, startup and special circumstances. The permit also maintains payments in instances where flaring is conducted beyond permitted durations.

PRODUCED WATER

The permit requires the holder to ensure that the oil content specification of produced water to be discharged does not exceed 42 mg/L on a daily basis or 29 mg/L on a monthly average.

Further, the permit requires the holder to examine and develop a plan for a phased reduction of oil content specification of produced water to levels lower than the above standards and in keeping with good international petroleum industry practices.

LIABILITIES

Among the conditions in the permit which cater for liability are:

• The permit holder shall bear all costs of the restoration, rehabilitation and compensation required as a result of damage incurred due to an oil spill or other emergency resulting from the execution of the project. The costs herein referred to shall be independently assessed and evaluated by a third-party determined by the Agency. Nothing c ontained herein shall prejudice the right of public and private actors to pursue criminal and/or civil action against the permit holder.

• The permit holder is liable for all costs associated with clean up, restoration and compensation for any damages caused by any discharge of any contaminant, including the cost of all investigations into pollution incidents or discharge of contaminants, conducted at the instance of Agency.

• The permit holder shall compensate any person who suffers any loss or damage as a result of any contravention of section 19(1), in accordance with section 19(3)(e) of the Environmental Protection Act Cap. 20:05, Laws of Guyana.

• The permit holder, his Servants and/or agents shall be liable for any material or serious environmental harm caused by their pollu-

Executive Director of the EPA, Kemraj Parsram and ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge sign the environmental permit, clearing the way for the Uaru project

ExxonMobil secures...

tion of the environment in accordance with section 39 (2) and (4) of the Environmental Protection Act, Cap. 20:05, Laws of Guyana.

• The permit holder, his servants and/or agents shall be jointly and severally liable for any negligence or willful misconduct which causes harm to the environment, biodiversity, protected species and natural habitat.

• The permit holder, his servants and/or agents shall be liable jointly and/ or severally for any gross negligence or willful misconduct to the marine environment, biodiversity, protected species and natural habitat with respect to any release or discharge, spill, contaminant fluids, oil or lubricants any facilities permitted under this project.

• The permit holder, his servants and/or agents shall be liable jointly and/ or severally for environmental damage due to pollution from its activities within Guyana, its territorial waters, contiguous zones, continental margins continental shelf, and Exclusive Economic Zone, inclusive of damage to the marine environment, biodiversity, protected species and natural habitat with respect to any release or discharge, spill, or contamination which is attributable to the Permit holder and his agents or contractors. This is in accordance with Section 49 (1) of the Maritime Zones Act 2010 and is subject to any other existing or forthcoming laws, regulations and standards governing the protection of the marine environment.

FINANCIAL ASSURANCE

The permit covers Financial Assurance as follows:

The permit holder shall provide to the state, within a reasonable time of signing of this permit, a combination of the following forms of financial assurance to cover all its legitimate environmental liabilities under this permit. These shall include:

• Insurance in accordance with Condition 14.4, and shall cover Well control, and/or clean up and third-party liability on terms and in adequate amounts of coverage that are market standard for the type of In-

surance;

• The permit holder shall, each year, provide a written declaration of EEPGL's and its Co-Venturers' financial capability to fulfill all liabilities (including remediation, compensation, loss or damage etc.), as required by the Environmental Protection Act Cap 20:05 and this Permit. The required declaration shall be accompanied by EEPGL's and each Co-Venturers' statement of financial position for the preceding year indicating each Companies' assets, liabilities, equity, and such further financial information, as may be necessary.

• The permit holder shall provide one or more guarantee agreement(s) in which the Parent Company or Affiliate Companies of Permit holder and its Co-Venturers (“Affiliates”) shall undertake to promptly and within thirty (30) days, upon notice of default, provide adequate financial resources for the permit holder and its Co-Venturers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block, if the permit holder and/or its Co-Venturers fail to do so, and to so indemnify and keep indemnified the Agency and the Government of Guyana, against all such environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block.

One key condition for approval was the conclusion of negotiations on the parent/affiliate company guarantee referenced above. This is expected to be executed shortly with the signature of the guarantor and beneficiary.

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS MONITORING

In seeking to ensure EEPGL meets its obligations to prevent and mitigate environmental harm, the permit imposes comprehensive requirements for monitoring and management of any impacts affecting biological, physical, and socio-economic resources within the Area of Influence of the project.

The Permit also requires EEPGL to submit safety case information, including a risk assessment prior to drilling and development of wells.

The full text of the Uaru Permit is available for download on the EPA’s website at www.epaguyana. org.

Lack of legislative framework left NISA open to ‘weaponisation’

Jagdeo highlights, says Norton’s lack of knowledge a result of him being a junior functionary in the APNU+AFC administration

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Bharrat Jagdeo, has refuted Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton’s contention that the recently tabled National Intelligence and Security Bill is “retrogressive” and “dictatorial.”

Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday, attributed Norton’s criticism to his lack of knowledge about the National Intelligence and

Security Agency and its functions.

He said the Opposition Leader’s lack of knowledge is as a result of him being a junior functionary, operating on the periphery of policy making, in the APNU+AFC coalition administration.

“To have the leader of the opposition not know that, in the last government, there was a body like this that operated, is atrocious. It is Norton’s

lack of knowledge and his rush to criticise everything that he thinks it is about the PPP. If you’re playing in ‘big league’, you would have known this. That’s why I say that Norton was a junior functionary, operating on the periphery of policy making.

“Norton is led by newspaper articles. An opposition leader has to be more discerning,” the General Secretary said.

Jagdeo reiterated that

the agency has been in existence for over 10 years, and the legislation seeks to recognise and attach a statutory framework to its functions.

“It is not unusual for countries to have this.

Many countries in the world have similar agencies. It is a good thing to give it a legislative form, and to have the subventions from parliament voted directly to the agency and not through another agency’s

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Bharrat Jagdeo budget,” he said.

Further, he related that the agency’s lack of legislative foundation has left it vulnerable to weaponisation, and the Bill will bring greater accountability, as it subjects the body to parliamentary oversight, and provides that its audits be laid in the National Assembly.

Jagdeo revealed:

“This was the same agency that President [David] Granger used to spy on Harmon, Trotman, and all of the others by tapping their phones. It was the same agency and we didn’t know because it operated in the dark. Now

we’re bringing it to the light. We should be commended for this.”

The National Intelligence and Security Agency Bill was tabled in the National Assembly on Monday. It outlines the agency’s functions, which include the collection, storing, processing, and analysis of information that is relevant to national intelligence and security.

The Bill provides that the agency will collaborate with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in exercising its investigative functions.

‘Save Soil’ mural unveiled at the National Park -

to raise awareness on soil rejuvenation and conservation

IN an effort to raise public awareness of the importance of soil health, a Save Soil mural has been unveiled in the National Park of Guyana.

According to a press release, the idea was conceptualised in support of the Save Soil Movement, a global initiative to bring humanity together to keep the soil alive.

The beautiful artwork, created by talented local artists Sadia Vasquez, Bevan Allicock, and Eldon Allicock, serves as a powerful visual representation of the dependency of all life on healthy soil.

The mural also highlights the jaguar, a pro -

soil, Guyana’s commitment remains firm.

This mural was an initiative of local volunteers of the Save Soil Movement called Earth Buddies. The Save Soil Movement gained traction at the World Wildlife Fund Earth Hour Vigil on March 25, 2023.

Since then, many individuals have signed up, some volunteering their time and effort in various projects aimed at raising environmental awareness. The mural in the National Park is a direct result of these ongoing efforts.

“The local volunteers wish to acknowledge Torginol Paints for gen-

tected species in Guyana, as well as other local flora, fauna, and a human, symbolising the interconnectedness of our environment and humanity.

The Save Soil Movement, launched by international spiritual leader Sadhguru, has reached over four billion people, with the goal of addressing the catastrophic issue of soil degradation and depletion.

The movement is supported by leading institutions such as the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), UN Environment Program (UNEP), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World Food Programme (WFP).

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, had reaffirmed his commitment to rejuvenating the Earth's soil in a recent video. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and pledging 100 square kilometers of land toward the effort of restoring and safeguarding agricultural

erously donating all the paint for the mural and the Protected Areas Commission for granting the use of the wall across from the parking area in the National Park,” the local movement said.

Allicock was particularly passionate about the project, stating: "In the indigenous heritage, we believe that one cannot exist without the other, so it's very important to understand the purpose of everything around us, an ecosystem where we help each other."

The Save Soil mural in the National Park stands as a testament to the dedication of local volunteers working together to raise awareness and promote soil conservation.

This powerful visual reminder serves as a call to action for everyone to join in the efforts to preserve the Earth’s soils for generations to come. Visitors are encouraged to view the mural and learn more about the importance of saving soil.

‘Eating Papaw on the Seashore’ generates huge buzz

-producer Rae Wiltshire continues to make invaluable contributions to local film

By Faith Greene

FOR many Guyanese, ‘Eating Papaw on the Seashore’ is just a film, but for Rae Wiltshire, and everyone connected to it, it is so much more.

The locally produced film, which was written and directed by Rae, is one of the most impacting short films ever produced by a Guyanese film-maker.

It has been described as a “coming of age film” about two queer Guyanese boys who are navigating their feelings in a homophobic society. The film premiered in October 2022 and has attracted the attention of locals as well as film lovers abroad.

Rae recently spoke about the production of the film and the work he has been doing to grow the local film industry.

He began by explaining that it was his love for movies that sparked his interest in film production.

According to him, he realised that “something” was always missing from the movies he watched.

He later concluded that that “something” was Guyanese representation.

“I wasn’t seeing any Guyanese in movies. I wasn’t seeing our landscape in cinema. I wasn’t seeing our people on screens. So, I really wanted to change that because I feel like it’s good to see your society and your culture reflected on screen,” Rae disclosed.

When asked about his experience on the set of the abovementioned short film, he described it as a “good” experience, before conveying that he has learnt how to manage productions and what is expected for a production.

He said that there were certain things that needed to be taken into account when they were filming. The weather and the tidal waves coming in, were among several setbacks.

The film-maker explained that when it comes to production, one must start to anticipate everything that can go wrong on the film set.

“Obviously when you’re making a movie, you’re going to learn everything. You learn more about lighting, you learn more about sound. You try to be more efficient.”

He added that working on a set is one of the best ways to gain experience when filming.

“The more you practise, the more you do, the better you get.”

Moreover, Rae said that more people are needed in the local film industry. He expressed belief that the industry can grow only if it is valued and financial support is given.

In leaving words of inspiration for upcoming film makers, he said that no one has to wait to be involved in the creative process or filmmaking. He emphasised that there are available resources on the internet that one can utilise.

“That’s how I learnt. You can’t just don’t do it, regardless of if you have any money or not. I mean, you have a phone. If you have audio, you get at least two friends or one friend, go shoot something with them. That’s literally how you learn. You might think this is not important, or, oh, this is not good. It might not be. You might be right. But guess what? If you’re looking at this and you assessing it, you don’t realise it in that point in time, but you are learning how to make something by doing it. No one has to tell you to be involved,” Rae said.

He urged those who have a knack for or want to join the film industry, to put aside their fears and the expected challenges and just go for it.

“I would say just do it and definitely invest in yourself. Film school is expensive, but you can make your own film school. Invest in yourself, don’t expect anyone to invest in your dreams if you don’t believe in it. You got to spend your money. Just tell yourself that, listen, I am worth it, so let me do this. This is something worthy of my time and of my money. And if you fail, failure is fine. You fail and you can make another one.”

On the set of the short film, ‘Eating Papaw on the Seashore’

Rae Wiltshire

THE sixth edition of ‘A Treat for My Mother’ by Director/Producer Simone Dowding, through her Purple Arts Production company, will be on in another two weeks.

Not to be confused with the ‘Mother and Daughter Pageant’, the show will be held at the National Cultural Centre on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown, and promises to get going at 20:00 hours sharp on May 14, which is Mother’s Day.

This year’s show which would’ve been the eighth had it not been for the Coronavirus pandemic, is expected to be different as it will include performances by guitarist Herbert ‘Herbie’ Marshall and local poet Nikhil Sankar who will be showcasing his singing talent.

In an interview with Buzz, Dowding revealed that for the first time her show will feature an Amerindian dance which will be done by Mikhail Andrews.

Bonny Alves, Charmaine Blackman, Sheon Cadogan, Sean Bhola, Elon Nelson, Ronald Greene, Mosa Telford, Beverly Smith, Leona Walton, Barbara Lee, Mark Hall, among others, will also be performing.

The ‘Best Dressed’ mother in purple will walk away with a pair of gold earrings from L. Seepersaud Maraj and Sons, along with a piece of jewellery from Sunflower Jewellery.

“The genre of the show

Mother and Daughter Pageant slated for May 13

COME May 13, the National Cultural Centre will be filled with love and excitement as Supa Stylistic hosts the much-anticipated Mother and Daughter Pageant.

This year, the pageant will be held under the theme, ‘Year of the Pearl, our love is 30’.

This spectacular event will see 22 mother and daughter pairs vying for the crown in the junior, middle and senior categories.

The junior category will cater for daughters four to eight years old and their mothers, while the middle category will feature daughters nine to 14 years of age and their mothers, and daughters 15 years and older and their mothers will be in the senior category.

Additionally, there will be an all-inclusive red-carpet affair sponsored by Chung’s Global Inc. before the commencement of the pageant

This experience will allow patrons to have access to free food, drinks and samples

caters to the mature audiences. Come and be entertained, win door prizes; we have 15, and it would be a delightful evening of oldies sung by top Guyanese performers. Come and bask in the glow of songs of the 60s and 70s,” Dowding urged.

A fashion display is expected to be part of the show, along with a craft space for persons to display their products.

“This event can be used to bring families closer together. Also, the music will take mothers down memory lane. It’s clean fun for all of the family so come and bask in the glow of love!” Dowding had shared in a previous interview.

“I want it to be a pure, delightful evening for mothers and to bring back to them fond memories like when they were young, and probably encountered their first love,” she added.

Dowding, who has more than 30 years of theatre experience in Guyana, graduated from the Burrowes School of Arts and other institutions, ending up with a total of 13 certificates.

She’s also won Theatre Guild’s ‘Best Actress’ award in 2012 for the play “Old Story Times” and she works primarily with children through her production house.

In addition to the popular ‘Link Show’, Dowding has worked on ‘House of Pressure,’ ‘Miriamy,’ ‘Eleventh Finger,’ and ‘Jezebel,’ to name a few.

from various sponsors.

According to the pageant founders, Mrs. Ingrid Fung and her daughter Dr. Sulan Fung, this year’s pageant is a big milestone as it’s a celebration of the 30th production. The first one was held in 1990.

In celebrating this milestone, patrons can look forward to a grand opening called “The Entrance of the Pearl”.

It was disclosed that this entrance is one that will have everyone in awe.

The pageant aims to bring mothers and daughters together in love.

Dr. Fung stated that the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport will once again be on board along with Chung’s Global, Team Mohammed, Igloo and other entities.

Everyone is encouraged to purchase their tickets early to enjoy this remarkable family event Tickets are on sale at the National Cultural Centre ticket booth and cost $6000, $5500 and $5000.

Bollywood’s Abhijeet will perform at ‘Everest’ on May 7

ABHIJEET Bhattacharya, better known mononymously as Abhijeet will be performing live in Guyana, for the first time, on May 7, at the Everest Cricket Club in Georgetown.

“This is going to be my first concert in Guyana. I have heard a lot about the beautiful country…I believe we will rock – you and me,” Abhijeet said in a promotional video that has been circulating on social media.

“I will sing all your favourites; I will sing all the evergreen hits…You have been loving me for so long. I am very fortunate that I am coming to perform for you there,” he expressed.

The promoters out of Trinidad, who are bringing Abhijeet to Guyana, had taken him to Trinidad three times in the past, and have been in the show business for some 25 years, taking some of the biggest names in Bollywood to Trinidad.

One of the Trinidadian promoters told BUZZ that patrons can expect to be “entertained by a magnificent artiste who is renowned around the world. People love him with his song and music. Everyone is excited in Trinidad; they’re going to hear all their favourite hits from the movies.”

In Trinidad, the same promoters have, in the past, hosted shows with Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, Udit Narine, Atif Aslam, and other big names in Bollywood.

There may be some surprises regarding other artistes to perform at the show on May 7, but what’s for sure is that popular Guyanese performers will be on hand to entertain the crowd before Abhijeet is brought on stage.

Brahma ‘Brahm’ Prasad, Chief Executive Officer of National Television Network (NTN), is not a promoter of this show, but he has lots of experience in the business having himself brought some big names to Guyana in the past. He’s assisting the Trinidadian promoters with the show.

“Abhijeet is coming directly from India with his own orchestra. We don’t know which female singer he has on the show; that will be a surprise,” Brahm told Buzz this week at his NTN office on Brickdam.

He’s surprised that the VVIP tickets are almost sold out given that there are many other activities that are being held

that weekend.

Showtime is 18:00 hours and the plan is to have extra tents set up out of the seating area in case rain falls.

Parking will not be a problem at the ground. Drivers will be required to use the entrance on Carifesta Avenue (opposite the National Park). Persons will also be on hand to assist drivers with parking, Brahm shared.

According to him, the show could not be hosted at the Guyana National Stadium as other events are slated to be held there around that time.

Director/Producer Simone Dowding

Simone Dowding and team getting ready for ‘A Treat for My Mother 6’

Founders of the Mother and Daughter Pageant, Mrs. Ingrid Fung and Dr. Sulan Fung

Abhijeet (right) with the Trinidadian promoter

Applications open for Miss Jamzone Guyana 2023

THE search is on for the next Miss Jamzone Guyana as the application process for those interested in competing for the coveted crown has opened.

Hits and Jams Entertainment recently opened the portal for young women to

submit their applications. In the initial announcement, the company stated that interested applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 26, must not be married, had a marriage annulled, or have given birth to or parented a child.

Those interested in vying for the title must be at least five feet, four inches (5’4”) tall, have a performing talent and must not have a criminal record.

The deadline for the submission of applications is May 1, 2023.

Miss Jamzone Guyana and the popular Jamzone Summer Break returned last year after a hiatus.

According to previous reports, the pageant aims to create opportunities for tourism, promote societal connections and encourage self-confidence among young women.

Seven finalists competed in the last competition, with Amel Griffith copping the title. She later went on to represent Guyana at the Miss Cricket Carnival competition.

Miss Guyana Culture Queen delegates sashed

THE ten women who were selected to compete for the Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023 crown were officially sashed, on Saturday evening, at the Umana Yana.

Denica Henry, Tamia Dodson, Siani Archer, Kayla King, Tamasha Oxford, Jasmine Assanah, Quissieana Odle, Keri Duncan, Shemina Peroune and Lisa Hassan strutted down the runway in Randy Madray and Michelle Cole-Wagner designs, much to the delight of the audience.

Attendees witnessed first-hand, the beauty and grace of the delegates and were clearly impressed.

Gabriella Chapman, the pageant’s PR Coordinator, said that each delegate stood

out with her intelligence. She said that the ambitious women were the “best of the best”.

Among the highlights of the night was the display of the 2023 crown by Arian Dahlia Richmond, the first runner-up in the Miss Caribbean Culture Queen 2019 pageant. She represented Guyana.

Titled, ‘Roar of the jaguar’, the crown was made to suit and celebrate the strength of Guyana.

The pageant is set for June 24, 2023, at the National Cultural Centre. The winner will represent Guyana in the Miss Caribbean Culture Queen pageant which will be held in St. Kitts and Nevis in August

Miss Jamzone 2022, Amel Griffith

The 10 Miss Guyana Culture Queen delegates at the recently held sashing event (Photo sourced from the Miss Guyana Culture Queen Facebook page)

Shaggy, Rik Rok upbeat as ‘It Wasn’t

Me’ certified 4x platinum in UK

SOME 23 years after it was released, ‘cheaters anthem’ It Wasn’t Me, by Shaggy and Ricardo “Rik Rok” Ducent, was last Friday certified 4x platinum in the United Kingdom by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI).

The certification commemorates streaming and sales equivalent exceeding 2.4 million units.

Singer Rik Rok, who resides overseas, said he did not envisage such global success.

“I feel incredibly grateful that this song we wrote over two decades ago still resonates with listeners. I had no idea this song that made us chuckle after every line we came up with would have had the global impact that it has had,” Rik Rok said in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

It Wasn’t Me was co-written by Shaggy, while Shaun “Sting International” Pizzonia is the producer.

For Shaggy, there was something special about the song from the beginning.

“I couldn’t predict how huge it would’ve been, but I knew it was a special record,” Shaggy responded to an Observer query.

It Wasn’t Me almost wasn’t released as a single. The song, which is included on Shaggy’s Hot Shot album released in August 2000, was preceded by two singles which — although they made some impact at radio — failed to chart.

Those songs were Luv Me, Luv Me (which was featured on the How Stella Got Her Groove Back movie soundtrack) and the double-sided Dance and Shout/Hope.

Label executives at MCA Records were at first not enthused about It Wasn’t Me. But, according to Shaggy, after the song started to move numbers, the label came on board.

“Pure numbers. We were selling half a million a week at one point; that’s gold every week,” Shaggy reasoned.

The success of It Wasn’t Me, according to Shaggy, changed the course of his life.

“Everything changed! We became a mainstream household brand around the world.”

Meanwhile, Robert Livingston, Shaggy’s former manager who served as executive producer for the Hot Shot album, said Shaggy always believed It Wasn’t Me would have been a hit

“Rik Rok did the demo after the song was written. The song was given to Tanto

Metro and Devonte to record. I was telling Shaggy to do the song from day one. He always thought it was a big song. I never thought it was a big song at the time he wanted us to release it. And if we did at the time, I don’t think it would’ve been as big as it was at the time that it came out. That song wasn’t released because we had two singles. We knew Angel was going to be a hit, but we couldn’t release Angel until we had some momentum,” Livingston disclosed.

“Every hit record changes the dynamics of an artiste’s career. Oh Carolina did, Boombastic did, and It Wasn’t Me did. So, its impact was very good for us at the time, because we left Virgin Records with an album that didn’t hit, and we went to MCA Records and hit with an album. So it was a very good energy for Shaggy and myself to know that we left a label and went to another label and got a hit record,” Livingston continued.

It Wasn’t Me first picked up steam in Hawaii and then it gained momentum at pop and urban radio stateside. It was then released in November 2000 and, by the end of December, it was the number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The boom of It Wasn’t Me saw a surge in the accompanying album Hot Shot, which went on to hit number one on the Billboard 200 albums chart, number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, while making the top 10 on charts in Switzerland, Sweden, Scotland, New Zealand, Portugal, Ireland, Germany, Finland, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, and Australia.

It was the second best-selling album of 2001 in the United States and the best-selling album of 2001 in the United Kingdom and Canada.

Hot Shot has been certified 8x platinum in the United States, while the single It Wasn’t Me has so far racked up gold certifications in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Denmark, Austria. It has been certified 3x platinum in Australia and platinum in Belgium, France, Netherland, Norway and Sweden.

Said Livingston: “I feel very good to know that, after so long, the sales on It Wasn’t Me are constantly growing. It’s one of dem records that’s gonna constantly keep growing .” (Jamaica Observer)

Shaggy (left) onstage with Rik Rok performing It Wasn’t Me

USA Boxing barred...

FROM BACK PAGE

of the IBA boxing family."

McAtee accused the IBA of failing to uphold the principles of its constitution and to respect the Olympic charter and movement.

Article content

"USA Boxing is committed to work tirelessly with World Boxing, like-minded national federations and worldwide Olympic-style boxing community to earn the privilege to be part of the Olympic Movement now and in the years to come," he added.

Swiss-registered

World Boxing was set up this month by countries, including the United States and Britain, concerned about the troubled sport's Olympic future.

The IBA, led by Russian Umar Kremlev and suspended by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2019, has denounced World Boxing as a "rogue" organisation.

Formerly AIBA, it filed an official complaint to the Boxing Independent Integrity Unit on Wednesday against the individuals and entities involved in the breakaway.

Boxing's place in the

Rain halts McKenzie’s...

FROM BACK PAGE

Olympics after next year's Paris Games remains uncertain, with the sport not on the initial programme for Los Angeles 2028, pending reforms demanded by the IOC.

USA Boxing is certified by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee as the national governing body for Olympic-Style boxing in the United States.

The U.S. has won 117 Olympic boxing medals, including 50 golds, since 1904 but boycotted recent IBA women's world championships in New Delhi.

Poole to participate in IBA...

FROM BACK PAGE

the world as well as to broaden the knowledge of coaches, doctors, and physiotherapists about hand wrapping techniques and facial injury care of the athletes,” the correspondence stated.

The course is only eligible for officials affiliated with the national federation and who are already registered for the impending Men’s World Championship in the capacities of team coaches, doctors and/or physiotherapists.

With the removal of head guards, IBA states that the importance of experienced cut-men to assist boxers cannot be understated.

Thus, the world governing body has crafted a course that will train and equip cut-men with the requisite aptitudes to prepare combatants before, during, and after fights.

The programme will comprise one theoretical section and extensive practical segments, which

will be followed by respective assessments.

Blake, who is part of a small cadre of three-star coaches in the Caribbean, is the first-ever Guyanese to participate in and successfully complete the programme, which occurred at the Women’s World Championship in New Delhi, India from March 15-31. Blake scored in the 90th percentile.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “This is the development of our human capital, and this is how you cultivate the dis-

cipline from a personnel perspective. The advancement of the sport, and by extension, the athletes can only occur if the teachers, essentially the trainers and coaches, possess the requisite and ever-evolving knowledge to impart to their students. We envisage creating an assembly line of qualified and knowledgeable coaches.

That is the vision of the GBA. We anticipate as in the historic case with Blake, similar success for Poole which is to the benefit of the overall boxing eco-system.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday April 28, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) KKR (2) CSK

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who was voted Man of the Match in the 2012 IPL final?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Tournament in IPL 2012?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Simmons and Windward Islands Volcanoes batsman Ackeem Auguste for seven and 21 respectively, and had the Academy wobbling on 59 for two.

McKenzie was just getting into the swing of things in the company of Anderson, sharing 30 unbroken for the third wicket, when the rain halted play about half-hour before tea.

Earlier, Guyana Harpy Eagles off-spinner Kevin Sinclair advertised his batting prowess, but he became the third Team Weekes batsman to fall short of the century mark, after they continued from their overnight total of 365 for seven.

Sinclair was bowled for a career-best 86 to become one of two wickets that left-arm Barbados Pride pacer Ramon Simmonds took off successive balls to bring the Team Weekes first innings to a close.

Not out on 52 overnight, Sinclair struck 12 fours and three sixes from 125 balls in 2-1/2 hours of batting, and he dominated

a ninth wicket stand of 36 with pace bowling Harpy Eagles teammate Niall Smith that carried Team Weekes past 400 before Simmonds ended the fun.

According to a news brief from Cricket West Indies, Simmonds replaced hometown pacer Kelvin Pitman, who was injured

on Wednesday and ruled out of the remainder of the match.

CWI indicated Pitman was under the care of their medical staff, and the swapping of the two players was in keeping with first-class playing rules and got the approval of the match officials.

1-55, 2-82, 3-83, 4-218, 5-257, 6-331, 7-354, 8-365, 9-401.

Clarke 17-2-105-3 (nb14); Pitman 4-0-29-0; Young 27-6-91-3 (nb1), Bishop 20-7-76-0; Nedd 22-8-39-0; Wickham 6-1-34-1; McKenzie

Simmonds 1.2-0-4-2.

Anderson not out

(b4)

(2 wkts, 29.3 overs) 89

Imlach, K. Wickham, *N. Young, J. Bishop, A. Nedd, R. Simmonds, M. Clarke to bat.

Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-59.

Bowling: Smith 9-3-18-0; Drakes 8-1-30-0; McAllister 8-1-21-2; Sinclair

2.3-1-8-0; Permaul 2-1-8-0.

WI Academy trail by 312 with eight first innings wickets standing.

NBA play-offs:

Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns progress, Atlanta Hawks keep series alive

THE Denver Nuggets and the Phoenix Suns have sealed their spots in the Western Conference semi-finals.

The Nuggets won 112109 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Suns beat the Los Angeles Clippers 136-130 as both clinched 4-1 series wins.

The Nuggets and Suns will now face each other for a conference final spot, with the first match in Denver on Saturday.

In the Eastern Conference, the Atlanta Hawks beat the Boston Celtics 119117 to keep their series alive.

Reigning NBA Most

Valuable Player Nikola Jokic was once again the inspiration for the Nuggets as

he scored 28 points with 17 rebounds and 12 assists.

Jamal Murray added 35 points for the Western Conference top seeds, who are

through to the semi-finals for the fourth time in five seasons.

In Phoenix, Devin Booker top-scored with 47 points

Royals surge to top of IPL after blistering batting against Super Kings

YASHASHAVI Jaiswal and Adam Zampa led Rajasthan Royals to the top of the Indian Premier League with a sensational knock in a 32-run win over Chennai Super Kings.

Jaiswal plundered 77 from 43 deliveries to propel the Royals to 202-5 from their 20 overs on Thursday.

The Royals opener finally succumbed to Tushar Deshpande in the 14th over, though the damage had been done, with Rajasthan having

reached 132 at that stage.

Jos Buttler scored 27 as he helped mount an opening-wicket partnership of 86 with Jaiswal, who also saw Sanju Samson come and go.

Dhruv Jurel added 34 from 15 balls and Devdutt

ed by the brilliant Zampa in the 10th over, who took 3-22.

Shivam Dube's 52 handed Chennai hope, yet with Zampa sending Moeen Ali packing, the Super Kings were battling against the odds.

In the end they just did not have enough, Dube's dismissal in the final over capping off a fine win for the Royals.

IPL first for the Royals

No team had surpassed the 200 milestone in an IPL match played in Jaipur until now, with the Royals holding that unique record.

They are onto 10 points and sit top of the pile.

Jaiswal the star of the show

for the Suns, who recovered from an opening game defeat against the Clippers to reel off four straight wins.

The Clippers, without the injured Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, led by 10 points at the start of the second half but Booker scored 25 of his points in the third quarter as the Suns overcame that deficit to progress.

"Those guys don't stop fighting," Booker said of the Clippers afterwards.

"That's been the story of the whole series. Even though they were down men, we knew they were going to bring it."

In Boston, Trae Young scored a three-pointer with just 1.8 seconds remaining to seal a dramatic victory for the Hawks and keep their series against the Celt-

ics alive.

The Celtics had looked to be easing to victory after dominating much of the second half, and led by 13 points halfway through the fourth quarter before the Hawks rallied late on.

Young finished with 38 points, 13 assists and four rebounds as the Hawks forced a game six in Atlanta on yesterday with Boston leading the series 3-2.

"We were tough-minded," said Hawks coach Quin Snyder. "It's tough to be down through the whole game. We were hanging in there and hanging in there. We just didn't capitulate."(BBC Sport)’

Afcon 2027: Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda mount joint bid for tournament

KENYA, Tanzania and Uganda are set to bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.The three East African neighbours have submitted a joint expression of interest with the Confederation of African Football (Caf), the governing body that organises the biennial tournament.

Three other nations have also registered interest - Algeria, Botswana and Egypt.

Egypt hosted Afcon as recently as 2019, while earlier this year Algeria hosted the African Nations Championship (Chan) - the pan-continental tournament for locally-based playersmeaning those two countries are unlikely to struggle when it comes to infrastructure requirements.

The next edition of Afcon takes place in Ivory Coast at the beginning of next year but no decision has yet been made for 2025

Kenya has just one stadium approved for international games by Caf, the Nyayo National Stadium in its capital Nairobi.

the prospects of Kenyan football".

Padikkal tallied up an unbeaten 27 from 13 to nudge the Royals over the 200 mark.

Despite Ruturaj Gaikwad's 47, the Super Kings lacked the pace needed in the chase, and his stand was end-

While Zampa impressed with the ball, it was Jaiswal's knock that really put the Royals in command.

The opener struck 12 boundaries, including four sixes, with his 77 coming at a strike rate of 179.06. (Sportsmax).

However, it is unclear how much investment will be needed to allow either Botswana's or the joint East African bid to succeed.

Until last week, Botswana's bid was also due to be a joint one, but Namibia dropped out at the last minute, citing financial concerns.

The country was stripped of the right to host the 2018 Chan just four months before the finals because several venues were not ready.

In December, the Kenyan government released a statement about its prospective 2027 bid revealing its cabinet had "sanctioned the revitalisation of football as a key cog of our nation's social fabric" in a bid "to revive

"This national effort will encompass the rebuilding of the national men's team and women's team," the statement added.

The four bids now have until 23 May to submit final official plans before inspection visits in June and July.

CAF is yet to make a decision on who will host the 2025 Afcon, having stripped Guinea of the right in October due to insufficient preparation.

Adam Zampa celebrates one of his three wickets

(Photo: BCCI)

The Phoenix Suns scored 18 unanswered points in the third quarter to take control against the LA Clippers

Mendis, Madushka double-tons give Sri Lanka a chance to push for victory Angelo Mathews also tonned up before Ramesh Mendis and Prabath Jayasuriya put Ireland two wickets down

DAY four was the day in which Sri Lanka put themselves in a position to push hard for victory, in a match in which Ireland might have hoped they'd made themselves safe, with a first-innings score of 492. On day five, Ireland will start two wickets down, with 159 still to get to make Sri Lanka bat again.

As the hosts racked up a gargantuan 704 for 3 declared, giving themselves a lead of 212, major batting milestones were reached, obviously. Here are the most salient among them:

-(Scores: Ireland 492 and 54 for 2 (Moor 19, Balbirnie 18*, Ramesh 1-17) trail Sri Lanka 704 for 3 dec (Kusal 245, Madushka 205, Mathews 100*, Hume 1-87) by 158 runs

Nishan Madushka completed a maiden double-century in just his fourth Test innings. His high score in his previous three knocks was 39.

- Kusal Mendis hit his own maiden double-hundred, progressing to 245 off 291 balls. He'd been out twice in the 190s before.

- Through the course of this rapid innings, Mendis also struck 11 sixes - a record for Sri Lanka, beating the eight sixes Kumar Sangakkara had hit against Bangladesh in 2014.

- Angelo Mathews also com-

pleted a 15th Test century, off 114 balls.

No batters were out before completing a hundred, though Dinesh Chandimal did retire hurt on 13 after seemingly dislocating his shoulder after diving into his crease.

This was a monumental score, but not quite a historic one - Sri Lanka have once scored more for just the loss of three wickets, against Zimbabwe. And West Indies had once put on 790 for 3 against Pakistan, way back in 1958.

Having delayed the declaration to allow Mathews to get his hundred, Sri Lanka bowled 22 overs at Ireland, and claimed

two wickets within them. Ramesh Mendis spun his second delivery hard, pitched it well outside off, turned it more than James McCollum expected, took the glove, and had it deflect into off stump - almost a dream offbreak to start.

Mathews then took an outstanding catch at short cover to send Peter Moor back, diving forward and to his right to pluck a leading edge up, centimetres before it hit the turf. This was off the bowling of Prabath Jayasuriya, who was spinning plenty past the bat late in the day.

At the crease at stumps were captain Andy Balbirnie, who had hit a tone-setting 95 in the

England quick Archer has fresh round of elbow surgery

WITH the opening match of the Ashes little more than seven weeks away, England quick Jofra Archer has reportedly gone under the knife for a procedure on his troublesome right elbow.

According to reports in the UK, Archer briefly left the Indian Premier League this month to visit a specialist in Belgium.

The England paceman has been conspicuous by his absence for Mumbai Indians, featuring in his side's season-opener on April 2 but missing their next four matches before returning to action on Saturday.

Concerns were heightened by the revelation Archer was experiencing discomfort in a joint that required a couple of operations and contributed to him spending much of the past two years on the sidelines.

The Telegraph reported Archer flew to Belgium to see his specialist during his near three-week absence for Mumbai and had minor surgery before returning to India.

The England pace spearhead Jofra Archer reportedly had a minor operation in Belgium

Archer returned to the fray at the weekend and bowled his full four-over allocation, reaching speeds of 145kph against Punjab Kings, suggesting the issue is not another dramatic step back for him.

He was rested for Tuesday's loss to the Gujarat Titans but could come back into the reckoning when Mumbai take

first innings, and Harry Tector, who had batted nicely in the first Test. Ireland's middle order had been excellent in the first innings. But can they do it on a fifth day surface, having toiled 151 overs in the field in the first innings? Either way, they were 54 for 2 by stumps.

All up, Sri Lanka maintained a run rate of 4.68 across the 74 overs they faced on day four. Madushka got to his 150 off the third ball of the day, then cut his next ball for four - one of his favourite scoring strokes. He and Mendis warmed up for a few overs, but by midway through the morning, Mendis had brought his ninth Test hundred up off 131 deliveries (he'd started the day on 83), and Madushka was marching towards a double

Knowing a declaration was probably coming, even while Sri Lanka were still in arrears, Mendis warmed up for a six-hitting spree with a strike over deep midwicket, off a Ben White half-tracker. The pair largely relied on frequent runs into the outfield to keep the run-rate brisk, however . Madushka reached his double-hundred off the penultimate over of the morning session, indulging in only measured celebrations. Soon after lunch,

he was lbw to Andy McBrine, who reviewed a not out decision successfully.

In Mathews' company, Mendis started to free his shoulders, the sixes coming fast now that Sri Lanka had moved into the lead. All but one of his big hits came over deep midwicket, the only outlier sailing into the sightscreen, off the bowling of White. Mostly these were pull shots, but some were slog sweeps. All told, Mendis scored 133 of his runs in the arc between backward square leg and cow corner.

Mathews struck huge legside blows too, but early in his

innings, let Mendis make the big moves. He settled into a rhythm, picked off the singles, and waited for the truly bad balls to put away. Mendis, who had twice previously fallen trying to get to his double-hundred with sixes, got to the milestone with a single behind square leg this time, off the 263rd delivery he faced. He continued to attack after that, and when he fell, Mathews picked up the scoring rate.

Sri Lanka's only worrying moment on day four was when Chandimal dived into his crease after being turned back for an ill-advised single, and essentially failed to get up, so seriously did he appear to have hurt his shoulder. He hobbled off the field, and was not seen thereafter. Mathews raced to his century, and Sri Lanka declared.

Ireland's bowlers just couldn't find a way to build pressure. Andy McBrine bowled a herculean 57 overs, and had the figures of 1 for 191 to show for it. Legspinner White bowled only 37 overs, but went at almost six, and conceded 203 for no wicket. Curtis Campher conceded 101 as well, and debutant Matthew Humphreys was used only for two overs on day four. (Cricinfo)

on Rajasthan Royals on Sunday England's medical team have been working closely with their counterparts at the franchise, with Archer still only a few months into his comeback following stress fractures to his elbow and then his back.

He put in some encouraging performances on his England return in the whiteball tours of South Africa and Bangladesh, leading to suggestions he could have a starring role in the upcoming Ashes series

Sussex indicated ahead of the county season that Archer may not play any first-class cricket for them before the Ashes, and the difference in workload between T20 and Test cricket is stark.

Archer, who has not featured in a first-class match since May 2021, has been keen to play down expectations and said during England's Bangladesh tour: "If I can play one (Ashes) game this summer, I'll be happy.

"If I play more than one, that's just a bonus."

Ashes 2023: Australia trying ‘Bazball’ will help England - Stuart Broad

STUART Broad says "it would be great" if Australia tried to mirror England's 'Bazball' tactics during this summer's Ashes series.

Under coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, England have adopted an ultra-attacking approach, winning 10 out of 12 Tests.

They will look to regain the Ashes in a five-Test series starting on 16 June.

"I think it would be great for us if Australia try to take us on at our own game," Broad, 36, told the Daily Mail.

"If we can get them playing in a slightly different style they could make mistakes and that would be brilliant for us."

Australia batter Steve Smith scored 774 runs at an average of 110.57 in the last Ashes series in England, a 2-2 draw in 2019.

Australia have held the Ashes since 2018 but have not

won a series in England since 2001, although they swept England aside in the most recent series Down Under.

"Nothing was harsher than the last Ashes series," said Broad.

"But in my mind I don't class that as a real Ashes. The definition of Ashes cricket is elite sport with lots of passion and players at the top of their game.

"Nothing about that series was high-level performance because of the Covid restrictions.

"The training facilities, the travel, not being able to socialise. I've written it off as a void series."

Before McCullum and Stokes took over, England had won just one of their previous 17 Tests - including a 4-0 series loss in Australia in 2021/22.

But under the new regime they chased 299 in just 50 overs to beat New Zealand in June 2022 at Trent Bridge and followed up by pursuing 378an England record - to defeat India at Edgbaston.

In December, they blitzed 506-4 on day one of the first Test against Pakistan on the way to a 3-0 series victory, the first time a visiting team had secured a clean sweep in Pakistan. (BBC Sport).

Kusal Mendis and Nishan Madushka both scored their maiden Test doublecenturies • AFP/Getty Images

Angelo Mathews scored his 15th Test century•AFP/Getty Images

Stuart Broad has taken 576 Test wickets in 161 matches

Fakhar Zaman hundred helps Pakistan ace 289 chase

PAKISTAN cruised to a comfortable win against New Zealand in the first ODI of the five-match series at Rawalpindi. Daryl Mitchell starred with the bat for New Zealand, scoring an imperious hundred, aided by a belligerent 86 by Will Young.

However, New Zealand failed to get the final impetus to get past the 300 mark. Pakistan, in response, eased to the target, with the help of their in-form top order.

Earlier, Pakistan had won the toss and asked New Zealand to bat, and the Kiwis started off sedately, but a 102-run stand between Daryl Mitchell (113) and Will Young (86), set things up nicely.

Will Young was the first to go, but the untimely wicket of Mitchell in the 47th over, and regular wickets in

the slog overs prevented the Kiwis to get past the 300-run mark. Naseem Shah was the pick of the bowlers, conceding only 29 runs and picking up 2 wickets in his spell of ten overs.

Brief Scores: New Zealand 288-7 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 113, Will Young 86, Naseem Shah 2-29, Shaheen Afridi 2-63) lost to Pakistan

291-5 in 50 overs(Fakhar Zaman 117, Imam-ul-Haq 60, Adam Milne 2-60) by 5 w Pakistan started the chase of 289 solidly, despite the Zaman edge that went unnoticed off Milne in the second over. The left-handed pair of Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman creamed the bowlers all around the park in a century stand, with each of

Surrey pacemen on top against faltering Bears in Birmingham

REIGNING county champions Surrey had the better of a rain-hit day against 2021 winners Warwickshire at Edgbaston.

After winning the toss, Surrey skipper Rory Burns inserted the Bears and was

Surrey chose to bowl on such a cloudy morning and Roach had already had near misses when he bagged his first wicket, Rob Yates, a centurion in both the Bears' previous two home Championship games, with only his eighth

out in his two previous innings this season.

Ed Barnard came in to help Mousley put on 45 for the fifth wicket. But Worrall again made use of Ollie Pope at second slip to remove Barnard and, in the next over, 34-year-old Roach dived low to take an excellent return catch off Michael Burgess for a sixth-ball duck.

Chris Woakes, having his first bat since England's third Test against the West Indies in Grenada in March 2022, helped Mousley add a further 48, either side of an hourlong rain break.

West Indies pacer Kemar Roach took his season’s wicket haul to nine in three matches

rewarded with five wickets from his two overseas pacemen.

West Indian Kemar Roach took 3-31, while Australian Dan Worrall weighed in with 2-33 after both had looked good in an impressive new-ball morning burst.

Dan Mousley hit an unbeaten 55 as the Bears struggled to 143-8 off 51 overs. It was no surprise that

delivery.

Yates went caught at second slip, as was Bears skipper Will Rhodes, off Worrall. And, when Alex Davies top edged an attempted hook off Roach, England keeper Ben Foakes took the catch to leave the hosts 23-3.

Tom Lawes then got the big wicket of Sam Hain for 10, to end the England hopeful's run of tons, after scoring 119 and 165 not

the batters getting individual fifties in quick time.

Imam was eventually trapped by the wrist spin of Sodhi for 60, but New Zealand had stepped out of the frying pan and into the fireBabar Azam had walked out to the middle after a 124-run opening stand, and stroked the bowlers with utmost ease all around the park.

Babar nicked behind for a fluent 49, falling just short of a well-deserved fifty, but Pakistan were well on their

way, with Zaman continuing to milk the bowlers with ease. Shan Masood was the only one who had a laborious stay at the crease, before falling to Adam Milne, bringing in Mohammad Rizwan to the crease, who looked like he was in a hurry. Rizwan targeted the spin of Rachin Ravindra to get a move on, and looked positive, before a brief period of panic at the other end...

Zaman had fallen for 117 to Rachin Ravindra, and

Agha Salman fell soon after, bringing in Mohammad Nawaz. However, Rizwan remained positive and steady at the other end, ensuring victory by sweeping Rachin Ravindra for the winning boundary to deep midwicket. The facile win ensured Pakistan went 1-0 up the five-match ODI series, the second of which will be played at the same venue, Rawalpindi, on Saturday (April 29). (Cricbuzz)

Tottenham fight back to draw against Man Utd

SON Heung-min scored a 79th-minute equaliser to complete a fine Tottenham comeback against Manchester United in Ryan Mason's first game back as interim boss.

United looked to be coasting to a fourth straight Premier League win after goals by Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford put them in a commanding position at half-time.

Pedro Porro launched the fightback before Bruno Fernandes hit the bar for United when he should have scored.

Son equalised from close range after good work by Harry Kane to leave home fans, who had earlier called for chairman Daniel Levy to go, celebrating.

When Spurs did get a clear sight of goal they found David de Gea in fine form as the United goalkeeper produced two excellent saves to keep out Ivan Perisic.

Levy looked on stern faced from the directors' box after Rashford's goal but Porro's finish with the outside of his right foot - after Kane had a shot blocked - gave home fans

problems that need manager Erik ten Hag's attention this summer.

They have a six-point cushion and two games in hand on fifth-placed Spurs but Ten Hag will have expected his players to close the game out at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Despite last Sunday's energy-sapping FA Cup semi-final victory over Brighton, which went to

But, in the final over before bad light intervened, Woakes and Hasan Ali, first ball, both perished leg before wicket to Jordan Clark.

And, although Chris Rushworth survived the hat-trick ball, with the floodlights already on, it was then that Peter Hartley and Nigel Llong made the decision to come off before abandoning play for the day 35 minutes later.(BBC Sport).

Mason was back in charge two years after his first spell as interim head coach and four days after the horrific 6-1 thrashing by Newcastle that brought Cristian Stellini's own stint as interim boss to an abrupt end.

Spurs were supposedly low on confidence but their spirited second-half response will give Mason and his players confidence they can yet finish the season on a positive note before the next permanent manager is appointed.

United took control after Sancho fired them into a seventh-minute lead before Porro was denied an equaliser when Luke Shaw intercepted Richarlison's pass.

hope.

The hosts threatened an equaliser and came close when Eric Dier headed a golden chance wide, but they were not to be denied and Son's equaliser was no more than they deserved for a much-improved performance in the second period.

United let commanding position slip

United remain well placed to finish in the top four but the sloppy manner in which they conceded a 2-0 lead showed there are

extra time and penalties, the United boss made just one change - Sancho coming in for Anthony Martial.

Sancho marked his return with a lovely finish and it looked like it was United's night when Rashford scored his 16th Premier League goal of the season.

Yet having won their previous three league games without conceding, they were unable to secure all three points.

(BBC Sport)

Fakhar Zaman celebrates after scoring a century • (PCB photo)

Manchester United had taken the lead through Jadon Sancho

Regal, Trophy Stall to clash in opening match of Speaker’s Softball Cup

AS the Parliament of Guyana continues to observe its 70th anniversary this year, a 10team softball cricket tournament has been organised as part of the celebrations and will be bowled off on Saturday April 29 in the city.

The tournament, dubbed the ‘Speaker’s Cup’ is organised by the Everest Cricket Club where matches will be played including the finals on Labour Day -- Monday May 1.

The tournament has attracted 10 of the country’s best softball teams where the stalwarts of the country’s indigenous game will showcase their talents in two categories: Legends and Masters. The Masters category will have players 40 years and older while the Legends category is for players 50 years and older or for the guys who are seen as the true pioneers of softball cricket.

The Masters category will see fierce competition among Regal Masters, East Coast Titans, Success Masters, Ariel Masters and Fisherman Masters while the Legends category will feature Regal Legends, Trophy Stall Lions, Essequibo Legends, Parika Defenders and Vapes

Guyana.

Each team will face the other teams in their category in a round-robin league format on Saturday and Sunday after which the table leaders and second placed teams will contest a final on Monday to see who will lift the towering and impressive Speaker’s Cup.

In the opening round in the legends category at Everest CC, pre-tournament favourite Regal Legends will be challenged by Trophy Stall Lions, a team that has been known for upsetting Regal in various competitions in and out of Guyana. While in the Masters category, arch rivals Success Masters take on East Coast Titans in the opening round at the Queen’s College school ground. These two teams have been at each other in the recent past and both will be hunting the opening win and two crucial points.

All matches in the league stage in the masters category will be played at the Queen’s College school ground while the legends will do battle at Everest CC except on Saturday afternoon when the action will switch to the Guyana Defence Force Base Camp Ayan-

ganna ground for two rounds. This switch is necessary as Everest Masters take on an overseas-based side in a feature Over-50 hardball match from 12 noon.

The league matches are 15 overs per side while the finals will be 20 overs per side on the final day of the historic 3-day tournament. The finals will also be live streamed on FL Sport on their YouTube channel.

The winners will also get $250,000 while the runner-up will take home $100,000. The batsman with the most runs in each category will get $25,000 while the top wicket-taker in both categories will also pocket $25,000 each.

In February this year, there was a feature football match between Parliament and the Diplomatic Community which ended in favour of the Diplomats also at Everest CC.

Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir is the patron of the tournament and will be doing the ceremonial bowl off on Saturday at the Everest CC where he is also the president.

It is the hope of the planning committee headed by Tourna-

ment Director, John Ramsingh that the tournament will become another permanent fixture on the calendar of events for softball cricket following the Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup which is played towards the end of the year among teams in and out of Guyana.

Sponsors of Speaker’s Cup are V-Net Communications, Raj Ace Auto Plus,

Coss Cutter Supermarkets, MMD Hollow Blocks and Pavers, ACS Auto Parts, The New Doctor’s Clinic, Rohan Bhojraj, Lisa Gulamoidin, Power Producers and Distributors Inc, Colin Talbot Contracting Services, New Dimension Services, Vishal’s Auto Toy Store, We Care Health Supplies, Friends of Ever-

est Masters, Movements Family, Imtiaz Sadik, M.S. Imports, General Marine Company, JSB Bumpers, Clermont Cricket Team, Mike’s Pharmacy, Two Brothers Gas Station, Right Aid Pharmaceutical, Guybiz Establishment, Rohan Auto Spares, FL Sport, Windjammer International Cuisine and Comfort Inn.

All systems in place for Inter-school Kayaking competition at Watooka Guest House on Sunday

...top GT Secondary Schools to challenge Linden’s best for honours

By Joe Chapman

AS a huge 53rd birthday present to the mining town of Linden, come Sunday, there will be the second Annual Inter-School Kayaking Competition where Linden, and by extension Region 10 (Upper Demerara /Upper Berbice), will face the might of five of the nation’s top secondary schools from 10.00hrs behind the Watooka Guest House on the Demerara River.

There, residents, members of the Diaspora and visitors from all across Guyana will converge for this annual spectacle, following last year’s inaugural championship, the first of its kind in Guyana and the Caribbean region, where the home team Harmony Secondary School reigned supreme.

Reached yesterday for a comment, Chief Organiser, Dr. Deon Anderson noted, “We got some surprises and Courts has

come on board to give tablets and bag packs of school supplies to each and every student who wins overall, the winning team will get bag packs and food supplies and tablets for all the students.”

Based on Dr. Anderson’s expectation, some cash vouchers are likely to be up for grabs also from another sponsor where second and third place winners can expect to collect additional surprise prizes that will be redeemable for school supplies.

Dr. Anderson said the activity this year will be catering for the youngest to the oldest patrons because there will be a kids zone, and novelty games, while adults will have jet skiing rides available during intervals in between and flat screen television showing everything live throughout the day’s events and following the races from start to finish.

Dr. Deon Anderson, who spearheads the Elite Kayaking

Last year’s winner: Harmony Secondary (from left) Lexi Pulimyre, Ezekiel Persaud, Randy Ali and Jeremiah McDonald

& Nature Tours, a certified tour operator by the Guyana Tourism Authority), informed Chronicle Sport that it is once again ready to host its second annual inter school kayaking competitions.

In fact, Dr. Anderson related: “The feedback from this inaugural event was phenomenal and extremely gratifying not only for each district but for Guyana as a whole. Such an event endorses the ideals of One Guyana, further strengthening the bond between the three sectors of Education,

Tourism and Sports as students, teachers and families around the country can celebrate together with a new sport that sets a unique precedence which is different from the traditional sports in Guyana.”

Further, the Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours are doing this event in collaboration with the Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani Sports Committee (UDKSC), which is an experienced committee whose members have been integrally involved in

officiating sports events at the National inter-school athletics competitions for many years. By virtue of this, Dr. Anderson reported that Sunday’s competition will be executed using the same format and rules implemented at the National Inter Schools Athletics, with the same level of professionalism, safety and oversight.

All the secondary schools in Region 10, along with the Top 5 National schools in the country as guests, should allow for an interesting show of healthy competition and rivalry to see who is the best kayaking school in this year’s competition.

A total of twelve schools are carded to contest Sunday’s championship, namely Queen’s College (QC), Bishops’ High (BHS), St. Stanislaus College, St. Roses High, St. Joseph’s High (SJH), Mackenzie High (MHS), Christianburg/Wismar Secondary. (CWSS), Wisburg Secondary. (WSS), New Silvercity Secondary. (NSS), Harmony Secondary. (HSS), Linden Foundation Secondary. (LFS) and Kwakwani Second-

ary. (KSS).

Each team will comprise eight (8) participants along with two (2) substitutes/ additional to bring the total team members to ten (10) participants: 5 males and 5 females. The team members will participate in a total of seven (7) races.

The Long Distance Single categories will be from Rigby’s Boat Landing to the Watooka Guest House (a distance of approx. 2 km).

The long distance categories are: 1. Long Distance

Male single: 1 person

2. Long Distance Female single: 1 person

3. Male relay (sprint and double kayaking): 3 persons

4. Female relay (sprint and double kayaking): 3 persons.

The other short distance kayaking races will take place in front of the Watooka Guest House over a distance of approximately 400m And they races are 1.

Male single: 1 person, 2. Female single: 1 person

3. Mixed Team (double kayaking): 2 persons

Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir (centre) poses with the winner’s trophy and representatives of the competing teams and tournament director, John Ramsingh (left)

USA Boxing barred from IBA events after formal withdrawal

(Reuters) - USA Boxing's withdrawal from IBA to join a breakaway world body will hurt its members as well as depriving others of opportunities, the Russian-led association said on Thursday.

USA Boxing, representing the most successful country in the sport's Olympic history, announced on Wednesday it had left the International Boxing Association (IBA) with immediate effect and was set to join the break-

away World Boxing.

Mike McAtee, chief executive of USA Boxing, wrote in a letter to members that the board had approved unanimously a resolution to terminate membership.

IBA said in a statement that all U.S. boxers, officials and coaches were now automatically barred from involvement in any IBA competitions.

"Not only did the USA Boxing's decision hurt all their affiliates who will

now not be able to take part in IBA’s or affiliated member competitions, but it also deprives the boxing community as a whole from competing together and increasing the level of the talent within the boxing family," it said.

"The IBA remains committed to protecting the organization and its member national federations from any harm caused by individuals or entities within or outside

Rain halts McKenzie’s flow in Tri-Series contest

STJOHN’S, (CMC) –Opener Kirk McKenzie made hay while the sun shone and cracked an even, unbeaten half-century for West Indies Academy before rain brought an early close against Team Weekes in the second match of the Headley-Weekes Tri-Series on Thursday in Antigua.

The left-hander was on 50 not out and Kevin Anderson, a century-maker in the first match, was not out on seven, and the Academy were 89 for two, replying to Team Weekes first innings total of 401,

Poole to participate in IBA Cut Technician Course in

Uzbekistan

before rain stopped play on the second day of the four-day, first-class match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

McKenzie has struck eight fours from 80 balls in a shade over two hours at the crease and gave a bit of stability to the Academy top order in the face of Barbados Pride pacer Jair McAllister taking two for 21 from eight overs to set them back early.

McAllister bowled both Trinidad & Tobago Red Force opener Keagan

FOLLOWING the historic completion of the International Boxing Association (IBA) Cut Technician Course by three-star tactician, Sebert Blake, Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Technical Director Terrence Poole will be the second Guyanese to participate in the significant programme, which will be conducted at the Men’s World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from May 1-14.

The official invitational missive from IBA,

West Indies Fullbore Shooting Championships 2023

which was signed by Development Officer Chris Roberts, OBE, stated that the primary aim of the

course is the development of the Cut-man Technician in each national programme, which will provide the pugilists with the essential treatment to avert and manage injuries such as hematomas, lacerations, and nose bleeds.

It will also diminish hand injuries with the mastery of hand-wrapping techniques.

“The main objective of the course is to help develop our Cut Technicians and increase the pool of specialists around

Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc. sponsors two GuyanaNRA members

WITH just over a week before the targets are pulled and the usual announcement, “Five minutes to message one,” rings out, the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) was further boosted yesterday when Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc. handed over sponsorship for two more shooters.

On hand to receive the timely contribution, which will further boost the confidence of Team Guyana, was Fullbore Captain, Dylan Fields and the two sponsored shooters, reigning West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council In-

dividual champion, Lennox Braithwaite, and emerging young shooter, Roberto Tiwari.

Denzel Hopkinson, Secure Innovation and Concepts Inc. Aviation Security Manager, in handing over the cheque to Fields, reminded him that the company has for many years been very supportive of the GuyanaNRA Fullbore and Smallbore shooters.

“We are well aware of the exploits of our shooters in the Caribbean and beyond for many years now, so it was not a difficult decision to make with regards to supporting you

once again. We know that Mr. Braithwaite will go and do his best to defend his individual crown and we are also aware of the talent

that Mr. Tiwari, still a young shooter, possesses.”

Hopkinson took the opportunity to wish the entire team every success in An-

tigua and Barbuda where this year’s championships would be hosted from May 7-14, next at the Crabbs Rifle Range.

Given that Antigua does not have a Long Range, only the Short-range Championship, along with the Individual competition will be held. Guyana will be going all out to recapture this prestigious trophy having narrowly lost to Jamaica in the ‘Land of Wood and Water’ last year.

Captain Fields, in expressing the gratitude of the GuyanaNRA to Mr. Hopkinson, posited that Secure Innovations and Concepts has

been a wonderful partner in shooting over the years, and has made and continues to make a sterling contribution to the sport.

“We are very thankful for this continued relationship with your company which we know is very strong. It’s our intention to continue to be the best shooting nation in the Caribbean and this has not been done by ourselves alone; it is with the committed support of companies like yours that have propelled us to being the best. We assure you that your continued commitment is well appreciated.”

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Boxing, Men’s Lightweight Final: Kokugikan Arena, Tokyo, Japan - August 8, 2021. Keyshawn Davis of the United States in action against Andy Cruz of Cuba. (Pool via REUTERS/Buda Mendes)

Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Technical Director Terrence Poole

Kevin Sinclair hit a career-best 86 for Team Weekes

SIC Inc. Aviation Security Manager, Mr. Denzel Hopkinson (2nd left) hands over the cheque to Captain Dylan Fields in the presence of Lennox Brathwaite (left) and Roberto Tiwari