Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 29-01-2024

MONDAY 29th January, 2024

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Fiscal Enactments Bill to boost public investment, accelerate development VAT INCLUSIVE

No.107338

– Senior Finance Minister

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Sunny weather on a Sunday is perfect for a game of bat and ball in the National Park or simply taking in the cool breeze in the Botanical Gardens while enjoying a slice of pizza or hanging out with family and friends (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

Barriers hindering tremendous Figueira welcomes Electronic single trade opportunities for Caribbean, development 13 window for trade African states - President Ali in Region 10 PAGE

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–– calls for urgent action, says technological capability of both nations needs boost

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–– urges business community to invest

to go live in March

Fiscal Enactments Bill to boost public investment, accelerate development

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

– Senior Finance Minister

THE Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Bill 2024, which was recently introduced in Guyana’s National Assembly by Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, represents a crucial advancement in accelerating development and enhancing the delivery of essential services to the Guyanese populace.

This legislative move, focuses on amending the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act 2021 which sig-

nals the government’s intent to effectively leverage the country’s oil revenues for swift and comprehensive public infrastructure and social services development.

Central to the bill is the strategic modification of the NRF’s withdrawal rules and debt ceilings, aimed at boosting public investment funding.

These revisions, especially the updated withdrawal formula, are crafted to channel more resources

into vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development, thereby directly uplifting the lives of the citizens.

Underscoring the need for a flexible financing strategy in his Budget 2024 presentation, Dr. Singh highlighted the government’s ambitious agenda for development.

This includes an expanded Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) and fortified social safety nets,

thereby improving their access to technology, sports, and safety equipment.

The 2021 revision of the NRF’s governance structure, acclaimed by international bodies like the IMF for its transparency and accountability, includes the establishment of a Board of Directors and stringent revenue reporting regulations.

This ensures that the oil and gas sector’s management aligns with the public interest.

Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh

The Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Bill 2024 is a testament to the Guyanese government’s commitment to rapidly advancing national development. ensuring that the revised NRF rules provide the fiscal flexibility to meet evolving economic challenges and opportunities without impeding developmental projects.

Furthermore, the bill proposes pivotal amendments to key fiscal laws, including the Income Tax Act and the Value-Added Tax Act. These changes, such as raising the income tax threshold and eliminating VAT on essential goods, are targeted to alleviate the financial burden on citizens,

The Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Bill 2024 is a testament to the Guyanese government’s commitment to rapidly advancing national development.

By reforming the NRF and other fiscal legislation, the bill lays the groundwork for a more robust, transparent, and efficient utilisation of the country’s resources, not just managing wealth but transforming it into tangible, widespread benefits for every Guyanese, thereby speeding up the delivery of

development directly to the people.

Complementing this domestic initiative, global economic forecasts paint an optimistic picture for Guyana.

The World Bank Group’s “Global Economic Prospects” report projects significant growth for Caribbean economies, with Guyana’s economy expected to outperform its regional counterparts substantially.

The forecast predicts an astounding 38.2 per cent growth in 2024 and 15.2 per cent in 2025 for Guyana, the highest in the Caribbean.

This growth is underpinned by burgeoning oil production, anticipated to reach around 550,000 barrels per day with the Payara field’s operation.

Moreover, sectors like agriculture and construction are expected to bolster non-oil GDP growth, with the IMF estimating a 38.4 per cent GDP growth in 2023 and non-oil real GDP growth exceeding nine per cent.

Looking ahead, Guyana is poised for a robust growth trajectory, driven by private investments in oil, gas, and service industries, and substantial public capital spending, primarily funded by oil revenue transfers.

The IMF projects that

the economy will double by 2028, with sustained non-oil GDP growth at 5.5 per cent as the government continues addressing developmental needs.

Minister Singh in his presentation of the bill said that “the PPP/C Government will maintain its transparent and accountable management of the oil and gas sector and of the economy as a whole, including by maintaining strict fiscal discipline, strategic vision, and economic stewardship that will ensure that the funds will be used for financing investments that will reap high dividends for current and future generations.”

As such, the government’s expansionary fiscal policy, balanced by monetary policy, is deemed appropriate by the IMF, considering the nation’s developmental necessities.

This approach, coupled with measures introduced in 2022 and 2023, has contributed to a decline in the inflation rate, as noted in ECLAC’s Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2023 report.

Overall, Guyana’s economic landscape is set for continued expansion, forecasted to average 20 per cent growth annually from 2024 to 2028.

Barriers hindering tremendous trade opportunities for Caribbean, African states 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

–– President Ali

–– calls for urgent action, says technological capability of both nations needs boost

By Naomi Parris TRADE opportunities between Caribbean and African states are tremendous, but leaders must first examine existing trade barriers to further foster stronger collaborative ties.

This is according to Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, who on Saturday told hundreds of African leaders at the African Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana that there are vast, untapped opportunities that can help to stimulate advanced trade between the two regions.

But as of now, trade between the two continents are not ideal.

In fact, according to 2020 statistics, less than 0.1 per cent of Africa’s exports are destined for Caribbean countries. Exports from Africa to the Caribbean have been trending downwards since 2015.

“Trade between Africa and the Caribbean is highly concentrated around primary minerals; more than 40 per cent of the Caribbean exports to Africa are chemicals.

These are things we need to fix. The opportunities are there for massive increases in the trade between Africa and the Caribbean,” President

Ali said.

The Guyanese Head of State, who is also the current Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), suggested that leaders examine the existing trade barriers.

“We have to fix the issues of transport and logistics, we have to fix the rules between ourselves that will help to stimulate trade and advance trade between our countries. There are tremendous opportunities,” he said.

President Ali noted that while the Caribbean’s population might seem small, there is a massive market for trade.

For example he said: “Aquaculture, the size of the aquaculture market in the US [United States] alone is $4 billion annually and Guyana is among the most competitive country when it comes to aquaculture and the production of fish products for the United States market. What we can give is access to [a] market over 400 million people in which we have trade arrangement and trade agreement.”

He added: “You have the know-how, you have the technology, we gave the land, [and] we have the competitive advantage.” He then asked:

President, Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the African Prosperity Dialogues in Ghana “what if we merge?”

He noted that leaders now have to embrace new opportunities and look at the traditional areas.

Last November Guyana hosted the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum where the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) signalled its intention to support the Caribbean in its efforts to enhance its transport infrastructure.

Afreximbank’s President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Benedict Oramah, had said that the bank has already approved US$1.5 billion in funding to enable member states of CARICOM to ratify the Partnership Agreement with Afreximbank, enabling states to tap into the bank’s various financial instruments.

The financing institution at that time had begun the process of establishing its first re-

gional headquarters in Barbados, where the first AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum was held in 2022.

Afreximbank is also in the process of developing the Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre in Barbados and once fully established, regional trade between African and Caribbean nations is expected to grow exponentially.

With this major initiative already on the cards, President Ali reiterated that there is still massive opportunities that could be explored.

DIGITIZATION, AI, TECHNOLOGY Turning his attention to technology, President Ali noted that there is also a need for the regions to advance their technological capabilities.

“I want to recommend that we serious-

ly examine the issue of technology, AI, digitisation and robotics. These are going to be the challenges of the future … we cannot speak about prosperity if we do not start addressing these issues now.”

He noted that both the Caribbean and African regions have always been behind.

“We are always playing the catch-up game: when they went ahead with industrialisation, we catching up to become competitive … now the world is heading apace with digitisation and AI,” he said, before adding: “Unless we confront these challenges now, unless we are able to build the structures and institutions that allow us to confront these challenges, now, we will continue to play the catch-up game.”

The African Prosperity Dialogues is a three-

day conference. It concluded Saturday and was centred on the necessity of putting up specific recommendations that will enable Africans to achieve prosperity on the continent.

The event highlighted the special opportunity that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers Africa and the people to break free from the widespread perceptions of poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment with which the continent is so often associated.

It is organised in close collaboration with the AFCFTA Secretariat, which is based in Ghana’s capital, Accra.

Dr. Ali was also bestowed with the Global Africa Leadership Award while in Ghana for his strong and transformational leadership since assuming the presidential office in 2020.

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Motorcyclist, 20 dies in Windsor Forest incident

POLICE are investigating a fatal incident which occurred at about 04:00hrs on Sunday on the public road at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, which resulted in the death of 20-yearold motorcyclist Brandon Henry.

Henry, of Lot 268 Crane Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara, was in control of motorcycle #CM 6508 at the time.

According to the police, enquiries disclosed that the motorcyclist was proceeding west along the southern lane of the road at a fast rate when he lost control of his motorcycle and ended up on the parapet, colliding with a GPL pole at the side of the road.

He was picked up in an unconscious state by public-spirited persons, and taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty who pronounced dead on arrival.

The body is at the Ezekiel Mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Wanted man arrested in Berbice

DENZIL Thomas, called ‘Eggie’, who was wanted by the police for questioning in connection with a series of alleged criminal offences, was arrested at about 06:00 hrs on Sunday at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice.

According to the police, he was wanted for simple larceny, larceny from the person, assault and breakand-enter-and-larceny.

“At about 06:00 hrs, ranks of the Anti-Crime Patrol, acting on information they received, went to Plastic

Bag Street, Rose Hall Town, where they saw Thomas lying in a yard.”

“The ranks approached Thomas, where he was told of the allegations and cautioned, but he resisted arrest.

As the ranks tried to escort Thomas out of the yard, he started behaving disorderly, abusing, pushing, and threatening the ranks. During the process, he attempted to relieve one of the ranks of his service firearm from his waist.”

“Thomas, who had a knife

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

in his possession, attacked one of the ranks who warned him of his behaviour to no avail. A round was discharged in the direction of Thomas, which hit his right side foot. Thomas fell to the ground, and the ranks managed to subdue him and take his knife away,” the police said.

The injured man was picked up in a conscious state by the ranks and es-

corted to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was medically examined and treated by a doctor on duty for his wound. The doctor indicated that the round had exited his foot.

Thomas was thereafter discharged from the Port Mourant Public Hospital, escorted to Whim Police Station, and placed into custody, the police said.

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65 graduate from American University of Peace Studies

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

A TOTAL of 65 persons graduated on Saturday evening from the American University of Peace Studies, 30 of whom are members of the Guyana Police Force.

The batch consists of Diploma, Degree, and Master’s graduates who would have completed programmes in Forensic, General and Clinical Psychology.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, who delivered the feature address, explained that the study of psychology is an emerging discipline in Guyana’s legal system, which has the potential to revolutionise the country’s approach to justice.

The study of psychology includes an examination of biological, social and environmental factors, and the ways in which these aspects of socialisation shape a person’s thoughts, ideals, principles and actions.

This microscopic view allows for a comprehensive analysis and understanding of a criminal’s motivations, as well as behaviours of aggression and violence.

The AG lamented that several constraints have prevented a thorough investment and education into the intricacies of psychology and its application in Guyana’s legal system.

“As a people, we have not paid the type of attention we should have to issues like psychology.

The reasons are manifold.

Paramount among them is the fact that we were not oriented that way; we were not educated that way.

The historical evolution of our people; the process that we have endured did not allow for the exposures to concepts like psychology,” he said, adding: “We are now economically and financially better than we were before, and

we now have greater access to learning.”

As a result of this, there are now multiple institutions and programmes that offer training in these areas, aside from the America University of Peace Studies. These include the University of Guyana, and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL).

“We have now reached the place where we have recognised the importance of psychology to the development of our society.

The science that studies the human mind and its behavioral pattern is a science of utmost importance. Courses such as psychology are being incorporated in our national life at every stage,” AG Nandlall pointed out.

The study of psychology also aims to address the root causes of many social issues, and this approach is one that is gradually

becoming a key facet of Guyana’s legal framework.

The AG pointed to the restorative justice programme, which will soon be rolled out countrywide as part of this transition.

He urged the graduates to continue upskilling themselves in the interest of personal development, noting that the field of psychology will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Guyana’s future.

“Our greatest asset is our people, particularly our young people, and if you are now qualified to shape and influence the lives of those young people, so that they can become the model citizen that we want to create, then the Government of Guyana will work with you to provide innumerable opportunities to allow you to achieve that objective,” he said. (DPI)

One of the graduates receiving her certificate from a lecturer at the American University of Peace Studies

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Diplomatic Discourse IN a pivotal diplomatic rendezvous in Brasilia, Brasil, the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Guyana and Venezuela have propelled the pursuit of peace and co-operation into the forefront of their bilateral agenda.

The recent continuation of discussions, stemmed from the meeting between Presidents Irfaan Ali and Nicolas Maduro in St. Vincent on December 14, 2023 which gave rise to a significant milestone in the form of the Argyle Declaration.

This declaration, encapsulating 11 critical points, serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of both nations to achieving a peaceful

resolution to the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.

In navigating the complexities of this controversy, Guyana’s steadfast dedication to the International Court of Justice reinforces the belief in the efficacy of established legal mechanisms for the resolution of critical issues such as the border controversy.

The impending decision on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, defining the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, adds a crucial layer to the diplomatic landscape.

Beyond the intricacies of the border controversy, what emerges from this diplomatic discourse is a

promising chapter of collaboration for mutual national development.

The acknowledgment of possible areas of co-operation between Guyana and Venezuela signifies a recognition of shared interests and a commitment to leveraging their diplomatic ties for the betterment of both nations.

This diplomatic initiative in Brazil, as embodied in the Argyle Declaration, showcases the power of dialogue in fostering not only peace but also the potential for collaborative progress. It illustrates that nations can navigate contentious issues while concurrently exploring avenues for

shared development.

The leaders’ ability to balance the pursuit of resolution with a forward-looking vision for co-operation sets a commendable precedent for diplomatic endeavours in the region.

In a world often marked by discord, the commitment to peace and collaboration between Guyana and Venezuela, as reflected in the recent ministerial discussions, stands as a beacon of hope.

It is a reminder that even in the face of complex geopolitical challenges, nations can choose a path of dialogue, co-operation, and shared prosperity.

Did the APNU+AFC have a ‘comprehensive agriculture plan’ when they were in government?

THIS year’s budgetary debate is quite an entertainment, especially from the opposition’s side of the house.

I sat there listening attentively to the parliamentarians on the opposition’s side and wondered to myself if this is the best we can muster as members of the opposition? If that is their attempt to dissect the budget presented by the Hon. Minister Ashni Singh, then my friends, we are in deep trouble.

Which brings me to the Hon. Vinceroy Jordan’s presentation. This “engineering technician” who worked at GWI speaking about agriculture and the developmental plan the agriculture

ministry has for the future and for the country is the joke of the century.

Jordan is telling the house that what is needed is a “comprehensive agriculture plan and programme” that will take into consideration every region in Guyana. But these people selectively choose not to remember when they were in office and what happened to agriculture then. Did they have a comprehensive agricultural plan? Did they cater or provide relief for small- and large-scale farmers? Did they check to see the “harsh reality on the ground” when they closed the sugar estates and sent thousands of sugar workers out

of jobs? Jordan wants to talk about the “harsh reality on the ground” as if Noel Holder, the former Agriculture Minister served any purpose during his tenure. In fact, agriculture was dead; there were no plans to catapult agriculture to what it is today.

He touched on food security and mentioned the hydroponics and shadehouse projects that benefit hundreds of youths. I would like for Mister Jordan to highlight what they did for youths, particularly in the area of agriculture.

He speaks of his party’s plan to extend agriculture to every region, but agriculture is already flourishing in every

region. I am convinced that these people do not have anything to criticise.

The APNU+AFC government had five years to show what could be done for agriculture.

It was an opportunity for them to develop the sector, but what did they do with it? Waste it! Standing in Parliament to criticise a budget that caters for every sector and sub-sector while making empty promises of what they will do if allowed to govern again, will not suffice.

The people won’t be fooled twice.

Yours Sincerely, Fawaz A. Harry

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Response to Professor Brandli’s misguided views

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to Andre Brandli’s letters published in the Stabroek News editions of January 20, 2024 with the caption… “I have rarely read such sychophantic pamphlet praising a political leader in a country that considers itself a liberal democracy”, and on January 22, 2024 with the caption… “readers of SN and myself will appreciate clarification of these ten questions on the ‘Jagdeo Doctrine’”.

Prof. Brandli unleashed an unmannerly attack against Dr. Randy Persaud, a noted professor of international relations who is now Adviser on International Affairs in the Office of the President. Brandli takes issue with Professor Persaud’s characterisation of General Secretary Jagdeo’s call for a broadening of the base of the PPP. It is of paramount importance to establish at the outset that Brandli’s attempt to sublty and cleverly infer that the President, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo are misaligned is a misguided inference on his part. This is consistent with an observable strategy of the political opposition that they had attempted in the recent past, which failed simply because there is no truth to that notion.

The truth, however, is that Dr. Brandli et al are profoundly ignorant on the subject of the politics of the PPP/C as a political entity, and, by extension, the Guyanese political economy.

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is to President Ali what the late Dr. Roger Luncheon was to former President Bharrat Jagdeo. So, there is no misalignment or any defacto leader as Brandli wants readers to believe. In other words, the role of the Vice-President in the President Ali-led PPP/C Government is consistent with the politics of the PPP/C since 1992. Moreover, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is the current General Secretary of the PPP, and it was in this context that Dr. Persaud’s essay was framed, in respect of broadening the base of the PPP/C as a political institution. This was taken completely out of context by Brandli, and at the time of writing, V. Bisram, who joined the debate.

Be that as it may, there is absolutely nothing unusual about anyone highlighting the positives of a political leader in a praiseworthy manner, especially in a democratic system. In many societies, political leaders are revered, which is not unsual. In fact, there are volumes of literature, academic journals and books written about Guyanese politicians, namely: the late Dr. Cheddie B. Jagan (PPP/C), L.F.S Burnham, and Desmond Hoyte.

Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is indisputably the most accomplished politician in the region, and his track record of accomplishments, as illustrated hereunder, is incomparable. His Presidency of the Co-operative Republic of

Guyana was in an era whereby the challenges of that time were vastly different to those that characterise the current environment. Equally, President Ali, in just three years, has grown in popularity inexplicably rapidly, not only at home but globally. He has ascended to becoming a globally-recognised and revered leader in just three years into his presidency.

Indeed, his legacy and his accomplishments will be incomparable as well.

Turning now to his follow-up letter, Brandli posed ten questions to Dr. Randy Persaud, eight of which were inconsequential and nonsensical. Notwithstanding, two out of the ten questions, I would like to frontally address herein.

The first question I would like to address is (Q5) where he asked… “Could Dr. Randy Persaud identify five papers authored by Bharrat Jagdeo in economics, which were peer reviewed and published in journals of regional or international standing?” This question exposed Dr. Brandli’s fundamental illiteracy on these matters. In any profession, there are those who operate in academia and those who become practitioners. In this case, there are economists who are not practitioners, but work in academia, conducting research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and there are practitioners who actually work in policymaking. Dr. Jagdeo is not an academic economist, he is an accomplished practising economist of the highest order.

The second question I would like to address is (Q6) where he said: “It is common knowledge that the PPP continued the Hoyte/ Greenidge Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) after they took power in 1992. What are the differences between the ERP and the Jagdeo doctrine? Please explain to the readers.” Well, it is this author’s most esteemed privilege in taking the liberty to explain this to Brandli et.al., chiefly since there are some misconceptions about the ERP. Strictly speaking, Brandli asked the wrong question. The questions that Brandli should really ask are how and why did the ERP come about? The ERP was engineered, consequentially, owing to the fact that it was the PNC Government under the leadership of L.F.S Burnham who bankrupted the economy, attributed to egregious macroeconomic policies and management altogether.

Following his demise, he was succeeded by the late Desmond Hoyte, by which time the economy was already bankrupt and needed to be rescued. Hoyte then had no choice but to immediately engage the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist with a bailout package. The IMF then ochestrated the ERP programme, which was imposed upon the Hoyte administration as the only option for the “commencement of economic recovery”, not full recovery.

The PNC, along with their apologists

such as Brandli, have always hastened to take credit for the ERP. Nevertheless, the fact is that the ERP is nothing sophisticated or fantastic that requires exceptional brain power to put together. The ERP basically was a two-pronged strategy: (1) it imposed austerity measures, this was where the size of the public service shrank because that involved terminating public servants as part of the austerity measures (cutting costs).

Further, this explained why free university education was no longer free as it was part of the cost-cutting measures, inter alia, the ERP. And (2) the economy was a socially planned economy; more than 80 per cent of the economy was owned and controlled by the State, hence the privatization of State assets became necessary. In other words, liquidation of State assets aimed at generating liquidity, which aided the commencement of a long journey of economic recovery. As such, the ERP could not have singularly achieved full economic recovery and stability.

With respect to the obtainment of full economic recovery and stability, this was where the “Jagdeo doctrine”, as Brandli puts it, was birthed following the 1992 elections which was won by the PPP/C. As the finance minister at that time, Dr. Jagdeo was instrumental in negotiating debt forgiveness from many of the country’s creditors. This played a pivotal role in the journey of economic recovery.

In 1994, the PPP/C government embarked on the formulation of a national development strategy, which was finalized in 1996. This strategy’s incremental implementation commenced immediately thereafter in 1997 to the present PPP/C Government. It is public knowledge that the 1996 national development strategy was led by Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo as the finance minister, which was followed by the poverty reduction strategy, followed by the national competiveness strategy, followed by the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) (2009), to the current expanded version of LCDS, all of which were led by Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. So when Brandli asks Dr. Persaud to identify five peer reviewed academic papers, these were five (5) pragmatic policy papers, and implementable development strategies that were led by the Vice President, previously in his capacity as a former finance minister and former president.

By the time the former President Dr. Jagdeo completed his second term, the economy’s debt-to-GDP was reduced from 900 per cent (1992) to less than 50 per cent (2011), debt service to revenue ratio reduced from over 150 per cent to 30 per cent, inflation was reduced from 87 per cent (1992) to 2 per cent (2011), interest rates reduced from 30 per cent (1992) to 11 per cent (2011), exchange rates stablised at $200, foreign reserves stood at US$750 million representing 5 months import cover from zero in 1992, GDP moved from

US$300 million to US$3.7 billion (2011), per capita income increased from US$500, to US$4,900.

From inheriting a bankrupt economy with practically zero savings in the bank, the former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo exited Government leaving a total of G$101 billion liquid cash in the Government Deposit Accounts in the banking sector at the end of 2011. This amount, when adjusted for present value (PV) is worth G$150 billion in today’s money. Resultantly, the sum total held in the Government Deposit Accounts together with the foreign reserve balance of US$750 million, would give rise to a total of G$252.5 billion (2011 value), with a PV of $348.5 billion. Of key note, this remarkable achievement was accomplished with zero oil money and zero oil discovery more than a decade ago under the stewardship of former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. Furthermore, the political opposition consistently sought to destablise his government. To this end, a few key events of such were as follows: 1992–1997: there was a short period of street protests and violence having restored democracy, following which the economy took off (short period of stability).

1997–2001: prolonged street protests and disruption.

2002–2003: prison break, crime wave spiraled out of control and politically motivated disruptions.

2004–2008: unrests, politically motivated disruptions.

2008–2012: Lusignan, Lindo Creek, Bartica massacre, violence erupted when protestors blocked the Wismar Mckenzie bridge.

It is worth noting, too, that together with the foregoing political challenges, there was the adverse economic impact engendered by the 2005 floods (natural disaster) that resulted in a loss of 60% of GDP. Yet, inspite of all of the aforementioned challenges, former President Jagdeo managed to achieve all of the previously mentioned economic conditions and financial viability and stability.

Brandli’s attack on Dr. Persaud was unfortunate. He (Brandli) may have inadvertently set aside his supposedly scholastic faculties of thinking, failing to reflect for a moment that in so doing, he has exposed his inherent idiosyncratic weaknesses. Most ludicrously, nine out of every ten letters authored by Dr. Brandli, he dedicates at least two elongated paragraphs about his academic credentials and experience.

Only an inordinately insecure academic of Dr. Brandli’s stature would inadvertently diminish his academic standing to self agrandizement, to the extent of vehemently craving validation of some sort from the powers that be.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

The usual suspects have unusually dwindled

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I HAVE lived in Guyana and studied Guyanese society for a long time now, so much so that I can make predictions about political behaviour.

The title of my commentary for Wednesday, August 30, 2023 was “Remember this column after the Mahdia report.”

In that article, I made the point that the usual suspects (TUS) were silent on the April 2023 release of the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the March 2020 national elections. It has

become one of the most important commission reports in the history of both colonial British Guiana and independent Guyana.

It is a scary document about collusion between elements in GECOM, the police force and the two main opposition parties – PNC and AFC- to undermine the legitimate results of the election, a conspiracy that lasted five months and catapulted Guyana onto the world stage. In no democracy in the modern world, results take five

months (not five days or five weeks) to be announced.

Any civil society group that wanted respect from the society could not have failed to alert society to the contents of that report. Not one civil society organisation even uttered one word about the report.

Included in the list are organisations that basic decency would demand that they address the society on the contents of that report. Some of these are Transparency Institute Guyana, Guy-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

ana Human Rights Association (GHRA) and Red Thread.

There is this gentleman of Guyanese birth, Dr. Bertrand Ramcharran, who has become a columnist with the Stabroek News. He once worked in the Human Rights Commission of the UN. He wrote me to advise that I should temper my criticism of the GHRA. I responded by telling him things and I am absolutely sure he is aware that the GHRA was absent in the fight for free and fair elections in 2020. Dr. Ramcharran has to know that the GHRA has not pronounced on the contents of the 2020 election report.

In that column of August last year cited above, I predicted that as soon as the Mahdia report was out, the TUS would rush to condemn it and Guyanese will see a damning letter in the Stabroek News.

Here is what I wrote back then: “If after 2 weeks there is no such letter, I will stop writing for the Chronicle because it meant I didn’t know these people at all.

I will win. I know them at a very deep analytical level.”

So I don’t have to

stop writing because I won the moral bet. In less than two weeks after publication of the Mahdia report, TUS have published a letter chastising the Commission’s work. But there is a comical dimension to the letter. It has only 11 signatures. Always the missives from TUS have between 20 to 40 signatures.

There wasn’t only the diminution of numbers but new inclusions which are interesting. The list includes politician, Dr. Vincent Adams, who sits on the executive committee of the Alliance For Change. In March, 2024, it will be four years since the attempts to rig the 2020 general elections and Adams is still to comment.

Added to the list is GHK Lall. The less said of him the better.

But rumours have been swirling around since 2022 that GHK Lall and Glen Lall will enter a third party in the 2025 election. Something is not right within the fortress of TUS. From 40 to 11 is a terrible decline.

Before we comment on the possible reason for the diminishing numbers let us see who is missing in action.

Some essential mem-

bers of the Mulatto/Creole class are not there.

Among them: Dr. Nigel Westmaas, Dr. A. Trotz, Dr. Percy Hintzen, Isabelle DeCaires, Simone Mangat-Jolly, Karen De Souza. A friend of mine, Gerald Perreira told me that I can go public with his withdrawal of his name from a letter by TUS on November 13, 2020 in the Stabroek News which called for the cessation of oil production.

Gerald said up to this day, he does not know how his name got onto the list of signatures. I keep reminding readers and Guyanese at large about that particular missive of TUS. In its advocacy for the stoppage of oil production TUS stated quite clearly that greenhouse emissions kill African people. That was the only race of people that was specifically mentioned.

So why the sharp decline in signatures? Credibility of course. Many of them know they have lost credibility in and out of Guyana. Guyanese think they are an extremist, hate-filled, anti-government bandwagon.

When people see this picture of you, they know who you are and your message fails.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Budget 2024 affirms PPP/C 's commitment –– MP Pearson to Amerindian development BUDGET 2024 stands as a true testament to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to Amerindian development and the overall prosperity of Guyanese citizens with sustainable development and inclusivity at the forefront of its agenda.

This is according to PPP/C parliamentarian Yvonne Pearson who made a spirited contribution to the National Budget Debate 2024 last week.

In her fiery presentation, she highlighted the transformative changes taking place under the PPP/C administration and dispelled misconceptions about the treatment of indigenous communities.

Pearson began by acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the PPP/C-led government in crafting Budget 2024, aptly themed: “Staying the course, building prosperity for all.”

She expressed gratitude to the Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and his team for their contributions in shaping this pivotal budget.

The parliamentarian used a portion of her presentation to remind her colleagues in the opposition of the challenging circumstances the PPP/C government inherited in 2020. She described the state of the country at that time as one of “destruction.”

Pearson, who is the Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Region Two, outlined the government’s strategic approach to recovery and steadfastly facing all challenges in the years to come.

She emphasised the importance of unity in achieving President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s “One Guyana” vision.

Pearson also addressed concerns raised by opposition members regarding the welfare of indigenous peoples, particularly their shocking claim of high poverty rates.

In response, she chal-

PPP/C Parliamentarian Yvonne Pearson lenged the opposition to explain their own efforts to alleviate the alleged indigenous poverty during their party’s tenure in office.

“We are in the front line, and we will operate as though we are in the front line. We have a voice, people listen to us, but we must come with facts and the truth,” Pearson asserted.

She criticised the mishandling of funds from carbon sales during the previous administration, stressing that these funds were meant to be invested in economic opportunities for indigenous communities to enhance development, create jobs and ensure food security.

Pearson urged the opposition to educate themselves on the Amerindian Act, which grants indigenous communities the right to govern their villages and manage their affairs.

Pearson also corrected misinformation regarding the stipends received by toshaos (indigenous village leaders), emphasising that the figures presented by the opposition were inaccurate.

Turning her attention to the budget’s content, Pearson highlighted the significant strides made in agriculture, particularly in the Pomeroon area.

She cited successful initiatives, including drainage and irrigation projects, the

cultivation of high-value crops, and the establishment of cage fishing in

several indigenous villages.

She also took the opportunity to commend the efforts of young women who are actively involved in these projects and mentioned the positive impact on the communities.

Furthermore, Pearson lauded the government’s initiatives in education, health, and access to electricity through solar panels, underscoring the improvements made in the healthcare system and the supply of medicines to indigenous communities.

Pearson expressed her confidence in Budget 2024, stating that it represents a testament of the PPP/C government’s commitment to Amerindian development and the prosperity of all

Guyanese citizens.

She reaffirmed that the foundation had been set, and the government was resolutely staying the course to build a better future for the nation.

To secure the ongoing benefits of strategic programmes and infrastructural development for Amerindians in 2024, an allocation of $9 billion has been set aside in this year’s budget to fulfil these commitments.

These funds are designated for economic projects, the Presidential Grants (PG) programme, support for the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, and land titling efforts.

Furthermore, the government plans to provide skills training for over

2,600 Community Service Officers (CSOs) across Guyana’s regions to enhance their effectiveness in serving the people.

The carbon credit programme will also inject an additional $2.7 billion into indigenous communities, promoting various projects and contributing to their economic growth.

A total of $4.7 billion from these funds was invested in 242 communities in 2023, and this investment will continue in 2024.

In 2023, approximately $8.9 billion was allocated and expended on various development projects in Guyana’s hinterland, remote areas, riverine settlements, and Amerindian communities.

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‘No basis for comparison with PPP/C’s transparent governance’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

––– AG says; lambasts former APNU+AFC government for ‘nepotism, corruption’

ATTORNEY-GENERAL Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, has called out the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) for alleged nepotism and corruption, laying damning claims of alleged fiscal irresponsibility and constitutional violations whilst in government.

During his address to the National Assembly last week, Nandlall provided an in-depth analysis of the previous administration’s governance, which he said is starkly different from the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s approach.

To support his claims of wrongdoings by the former APNU+AFC government, he referenced the $72.2 million

motion scales contract case involving NevPro Realization Limited of Jamaica and former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, over a breach of contract for three scales that were purchased almost five years ago but were never delivered.

Nandlall said that this matter represents a gross financial mismanagement.

“I can point to a parking meter contract for which [we] are being sued for US $100 million,” he said, referencing the case brought by Smart City Solutions (SCS).

The case involves a legal dispute between the Government of Guyana and SCS over the non-implementation of a parking meter system in Georgetown under the APNU+AFC government.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) while in opposition had argued against the awarding of the contract and rolling out of the parking meter system.

Eventually, the project which faced a public backlash was suspended and has led to ongoing international legal proceedings before the International Centre for Settlement of Investments Disputes (ICSID).

Nandlall also spoke of ministers who allegedly “gifted themselves and their children’s scholarships,” pointing to a pattern of nepotism under the previous government.

During the debate, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton had revealed to the National Assembly that the APNU+AFC administration had spent a large amount of taxpayers’ dollars on scholarships for former ministers and relatives of a former minister.

He said the total amount of money spent on scholarships for four coalition ministers and the family of one minister amounted to some $90.8 million.

MISMANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS The Attorney-General delved deeper into the financial irregularities and the mismanagement of public funds.

He criticised the APNU+AFC for questionable

transactions involving prime properties, suggesting systemic misappropriation of public funds.

“You can point to hundreds of transactions where prime waterfront and commercial properties were gifted to friends, families, and cronies without any public process and in many instances where a dollar was not paid,” Nandlall stated.

Nandlall highlighted several instances of questionable expenditures by the APNU+AFC. “You can see Durban Park which right now accommodates 12 donkeys, 10 horses, and 13 vagrants…you [APNU+AFC) spent over $2 billion to build that and $600 million cannot be accounted for,” he said, illustrating a specific case of fiscal irresponsibility.

The AG did not mince words when it came to the fiscal irresponsibility he attributed to the former government.

“This singular budget is as large as the combined five budgets passed by the APNU+AFC from 2015 to 2018,” Nandlall noted, stressing the magnitude of the current budget in comparison to the cumulative budgets of the previous administration.

He questioned the efficacy of the APNU+AFC’s financial strategy, particularly in light of the significant spending that appeared to yield little in terms of development or improvement for the Guyanese people.

PPP/C’S APPROACH TO GOVERNANCE In contrast to the APNU+AFC’s tenure, Nandlall highlighted the PPP/C government’s commitment to transparent and responsible governance.

He detailed the current administration’s ambitious projects and initiatives, portraying them as evidence of a government working towards tangible development and improvement in the lives of its citizens.

Nandlall then outlined the PPP/C’s efforts in infrastructure and social welfare.

He cited the construction of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, the Gas-

to-Shore project, and the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport as evidence of the current government’s commitment to infrastructural development.

He also emphasised the transformation of Albion Sugar Estate, the construction of multiple hospitals, schools, housing schemes, courthouses, water treatment plants, major highways, and community roads.

Regarding social welfare, Nandlall mentioned the GOAL scholarship programme, cash grants, uniform vouchers for school children, and increases in old-age pensions and subsidies for medical treatments, including spectacles.

DEMOCRATIC PROCESS AND JUDICIARY RULINGS The Attorney-General during his presentation accused the APNU+AFC of attempting to subvert the democratic process, particularly following the 2020 elections.

He referenced the judiciary’s rulings against former President David Granger and the APNU+AFC for its alleged constitutional violations.

“They tried and they tried, and they failed, and they failed, and in the end, the ballots of the people prevailed,” Nandlall declared.

Nandlall responded to the opposition Members of Parliament’s criticism of the PPP/C’s initiatives, arguing that their objections to various development projects, including the construction of schools, hospitals, sports facilities, and housing schemes, were indicative of a gap in vision and competence.

He explained that his detailed account paints a picture of two distinct political eras in Guyana, each with its own approach to governance and development.

As such, he said that there is clearly a lack of tangible outcomes from the APNU+AFC’s tenure compared to the visible projects under the PPP/C. “There is simply nothing of worth that one can point to show for it,” he said.

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Gov’t eyes 99 per cent potable water access by end of 2025

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

CRITICAL investments and the implementation of new policies have led to a significant increase in access to potable water across the country, Housing and Water Minster Collin Croal has said.

Minister Croal during his contribution to the 2024 budget debate during the 76th sitting of the National Assembly last week, disclosed that access to potable water supply for coastal and

Additionally, more than 60 wells were drilled with a significant portion located in the hinterland and riverain communities, while tenders are out for the construction of water-treatment plants in several regions.

“We have started the construction of seven new water-treatment plants.

Tenders for the construction of new water-treatment plants at Maria’s Delight, Wakenaam, Leguan, Bath Settlement and

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal hinterland communities has increased significantly.

“We had to upgrade and replace old distribution mains in Georgetown and modernise the sewerage and wastewater infrastructure…access to potable water supply to the hinterland population increased from 46 per cent in 2020 to 82 per cent at the end of 2023.”

He further revealed that water losses were reduced from 69 per cent in 2020 to 62 per cent in 2023.

Meanwhile, meter coverage moved from 53 per cent in 2020 to 67 per cent at the end of 2023.

“We installed more than 55,000 meters to consumers, and this has helped tremendously to increase water conservation and reduce non-revenue water,” the minister said.

Adventure are out. This massive intervention will provide more than 60,000 improved water quality that meets WHO’s [World Health Organisation’s] guidelines and reduce water losses in these areas,” Croal said.

With these works, Guyana, he said, is well on its way to achieving a 99 per cent population access to potable water supply by the end 2025.

“We are committed to achieving increased access to potable water supply in the hinterland and riverain communities by the end of 2025.

Achieving this target will produce the desired impact and outcomes at the national level.”

In the 2024 fiscal package, some $22.5 billion is budgeted for further advancements of water and sanitation projects.

“The successes we

have had in Housing and Water far outweigh the challenges that have

come up. We are confident that like before, we will be excellent stew-

ards of our budgetary allocation and that we will continue to make

the dreams of owning homes by our citizens come true, “he added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Electronic single window for trade to go live in March

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

–– Tourism Minister RECOGNISING the many hurdles that entrepreneurs face when starting up and managing a small business in Guyana, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce will bring on stream an electronic single-window system for trade transactions.

This was last week disclosed by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, who during the 2024 budget debates told the National Assembly that the new initiative is a part of several policies outlined in the fiscal package to support small business owners across the country.

“These various developments have not come by chance they have come because we have a vision and we are putting in the work to realise this day in and day out,” Walrond said.

She further disclosed that works on the electronic single-window for trade transactions is in its advance stages and it is projected to go live in March this year.

“The electronic single-window for trade will to a large extent automate the process for clearing items for import and export, delivering a substantial decrease in the time and expenses associated with the trade related process.”

A sum of $600 million has been budgeted for this initiative.

Meanwhile, a new legislation will be tabled to the National Assembly to assist small business owners to capitalise on their assets.

“This year we intend to bring to the house the security interest and immoveable, property bill, one of the principle objectives of this bill is to enable small business owners to capitalise movable property so as to gain access to finance.”

“For example, a small business owner can move more readily to use let’s say an excavator or other piece of machinery at collateral for a loan,” she said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

in January 2021 announced that the central government will be undertaking modernisation of the institutional and legislative infrastructure to establish a single-window approval system for building permits and construction permits, a project which has been already commenced by the Central Housing & Planning Authority and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.

In addition to focusing on enhancing businesses’ ability to guarantee that competitive goods and services are produced locally and to support a contemporary, practical business environment, the ministry is exploring methods to promote entrepreneurship and simplify doing business in Guyana.

A sum of $450 million has been set aside in Budget 2024 for the replenishment of the Small Business Development Fund and $331 million to the Small Business Bureau for initiatives that will contribute to small and micro business development and the promotion of entrepreneurship.

In addition to building business incubators, the government is offering comprehensive coaching, mentoring, and training programs at every stage of the company value chain.

In order to increase capacity and boost business competitiveness, over 3,500 small business owners benefitted from training in 2023 in subjects like small business management, financial management and record keeping, business plan writing, WhatsApp for Business, and Guyanese business toolkit, among others.

In order to stimulate entrepreneurship in various regions, 2,800 more business owners will be trained in specialised business development programmes in five important sectors by 2024: apiculture, farming, livestock husbandry, poultry rearing, and microenterprise.

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Several bills for vulnerable population to be laid in Parliament this year

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud has said that the government will bring several bills to the National Assembly this year, which according to her will bring relief to vulnerable persons.

The minister made these remarks as part of her presentation during the recent 2024 National Budget debate.

According to Dr Persaud, under the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration several pieces of legislation have been laid before the National As-

sembly and passed for the benefit of the people of the country.

This year, she noted that the government will be putting a number of bills on the floor that include the Family Violence Bill, which the minister noted has benefitted from extensive consultation and will provide relief to those persons who seek protection under the justice system.

Added to this, there is also the Harassment bill, which will have policies similar to the Family Violence Bill.

The Human Services Minister went on to add

that the draft of the gender violence policy is also expected to be completed this year which will see a referral system created to integrate all of the agencies across the ministry.

This will ensure that there is a cohesive and competent response.

She said: “There is also going to be a policy that will be done this year on gender inclusion and there are many more policies and legislation that will be coming to the floor of the house.”

Earlier this month, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, said

that Guyana’s legislative framework is currently experiencing significant changes as more than 70 pieces of legislation have been introduced since the PPP/C assumed office in 2020.

At that time, she indicated that the government has been bringing pieces of legislation that are transformational and that are modernising the legal framework of the country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud

Figueira welcomes -urges development business community in Region 10 to invest OPPOSITION Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, welcomed the current expansion and development taking place in Region 10 and is calling on the business community to come on board and invest in the region.

Figueira made these remarks during his contribution to last week’s budget debate, during which he added that he hopes that the region will be a destination for commerce, trade and tourism, among other things.

He noted that citizens of Region 10 welcome the expansion with the new Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge and the building of the Linden to Lethem Highway which he added is equally important to the people of the region for the enormous potential that it can harness for growth and development.

With this expansion, Figueira said that the people of the region must benefit from owning lands along the corridor for the establishment of businesses as the expansion continues.

“Region 10 is best suited to become a commercial and heavy cargo transhipment hub. Mr Speaker we will no longer accept just being a gateway to the interior and to Brazil where people and businesses pass through to other destinations,” he said.

It was then that he added that they want the region to be a destination for trade, tourism and entertainment as no other region in the country is more connected to

Opposition MP Jermaine Figueira Guyana than Region 10.

The Opposition Member of Parliament said that Budget 2024 could help the region to be the transshipment commercial hub among other things.

He called for the establishment of an industrial duty-free zone, container terminals, warehouses and hotels, among other things.

He added, “It is in this regard we invite the business community to come on board and invest in our town and region… Mr Speaker Region 10 needs deliberate investment.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

New medi-spa and salon opened in Georgetown

By Faith Green

IN her quest to bring out the beauty in one’s skin and promote graceful aging, Aliyah Hamid on Saturday opened the doors to her medi-spa and salon, which is located on the ground floor of the Royal Orchid Garden Hotel and Mall on Mandela Avenue.

‘Aliyah’s Medi Spa and Salon’ caters to the skin and hair needs of both men and women. Facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing, massages, threading, and hair styling are among the services being provided.

Hamid embarked on this latest venture with overwhelming support from family, close friends, and won-

derful customers who have stuck with her for the last three years.

As with any new business, the challenges were many, but she persevered and did not give up.

Speaking during the simple opening ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, congratulated Hamid, and told her and everyone there, that government will continue to create an environment where women can be successful, and be their own person.

She said that the young woman was an inspiration to her and many other women, adding that she can’t imagine what it takes to open a business as a young woman

Local Government Minister Sonia Parag (left) and Medical Aesthetician, Aliyah Hamid cutting the ribbon to officially open Aliyah’s Medi Spa and Salon (Japheth Savory photo)

entrepreneur, and for the business to look and feel the way it does.

In a heartfelt speech to those gathered to show support and love for her, Aliyah expressed that she had felt as though something was missing. It was in that moment of realisation that she knew she needed to return to Guyana.

She said: “I wanted to be able to help my people. I always wanted to come back home.”

Hamid added that she has poured all of her love and commitment into helping each of her clients through their skin-care stages.

The businesswoman noted that she is overwhelmed with gratitude for having a medi-spa and salon that serves her clients with love

and care, in a luxurious and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Subsequently, in an invited comment she told this publication that she believes that she has changed skin care in Guyana since her return in 2021.

Known under the business name ‘Rejuvenate by Aliyah,’ Hamid, who is the holder of a medical aesthetician diploma, opened her first spa in Toronto, Canada, prior to her return to Guyana.

To know more about the services, persons can contact the establishment on 592 632-3333, or visit the website, Aliyahmedispa. com, Facebook at Rejuvinatebyaliyah and Instagram at aliyahs_medispa_and_ salon.

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First batch of homes under the Lethem Housing Support Programme handed over

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

EIGHTEEN families from the border town of Lethem, Region Nine received the keys to their homes under the Lethem Housing Support Programme.

The beneficiaries received their keys following a simple ceremony early Saturday morning, which was held in the compound of the Regional Housing Office.

On the occasion, Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal was joined

by Mayor of Lethem John Macedo, Regional Chairman Brian Allicock, Regional Executive Officer Carl Singh and other regional representatives.

Minister Croal, in his address to the beneficiaries, noted his govern-

ment’s commitment to ensuring affordable houses for all Guyanese.

He added that these and other investments in Region Nine should be seen as investments in improving the quality of life for hinterland families.

Additionally, the reference was also made to the spin-off benefits these investments bring to the region.

“These investments also aid in building and strengthening village economies. We use labour from the communities and villages such as Kwatamang, Shulinab, Shea, Moco Moco, St. Ignatius, and Surama to provide the clay bricks and timber.”

The combined total of the investment made

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal, joined by other officials, issued the beneficiaries their keys under the Lethem Housing Support Programme

on the homes that were handed over today stands at $53M. Each home is valued at approximately $3M, of which $1M is support in the form of clay bricks and timber, given by the Ministry and $2M through a partnership with

financial institutions.

The units measure 550 square ft. and feature two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a lavatory area.

Meanwhile, the regional representatives all lauded the initiative, noting

their satisfaction at seeing the initiative to this final stage.

Additionally, as the programme continues, contracts have been signed for another 40 housing units to be constructed in the Tract CHPA Housing

Scheme.

This programme is the brainchild of His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who some time ago announced the heavily subsidised initiative for some 600 low-income families.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

Pandemonium at the Gabba!

–– Joseph ends two-decade test drought

(ESPNCRICINFO) SHAMAR Joseph defied his injured toe and sprinted around the Gabba in jubilation after his remarkable seven-wicket haul powered West Indies to a monumental upset of Australia in a pulsating eight-run victory in the second Test.

Shortly after dinner, Joseph knocked over Josh Hazlewod to cap his he-

roic performance and end West Indies’ two-decade Test drought against Australia.

Steven Smith was the only batter who was able to thwart Joseph and struck his first half-century as an opener to finish unbeaten on 91 not out. He had a riveting battle with Joseph, who summoned speeds around 150kmh and bowled 11.5 overs straight before and after dinner.

Australia resumed after dinner at 187 for 8 and still 29 runs short. In the first over after the resumption, Alzarri Joseph dropped Nathan Lyon in his follow through only to produce a thin edge off the next delivery to put West Indies on the brink of a famous victory.

With the field spread, a nerveless Smith unfurled an outrageous scoop for six that

THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has cited as impressive the 2024 $4.6B budget allocation for the sport sector.

In a statement recently, GRFU through President Ryan Dey said, ‘the budget on a whole is very impressive, the amount of good that it would do cannot be overstated. Kudos to the Government of Guyana. When it come specifically to the budget for sports the union thinks saying it’s well needed and deserved, with the budget being almost doubled for 2024. We now can have a more positive outlook on the year ahead.’

For the union we were able to make it to the Rug-

by Americas North under nineteen championships and the senior men were able to make the Grenada international sevens championships, approximately 90 per cent of our funds came from the National Sports Commission through the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports and the union looks forward for the continued support that the Ministry is giving to Rugby.’

‘The new budgetary allocation coupled with my Union’s current relationship with the National Sports Commission speak volumes in-terms of the commitment to our union and other sports associations. To meet any of the top brass in the NSC is easy

as a phone call away and they always welcoming to listen to our issues, and the union hopes that this continues especially now that they have a more than enough to spend in helping sport’s development in the country.’

‘The direction that the union wants to see sports heading is the exact direction we are going.

From the sports academy for children and teens to the high performance centers for the elite senior sports men and women, our country will be on the map not only with oil and our eco-tourism but as one of the best sporting countries in this part of the world.’

GRFU cites ‘impressive’ sport sector allocation

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday January 29, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville,Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Walter Keeton (ENG) (2) Dennis Smith (NZ vs ENG, Christchurch, 1933)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the second Test of the just-concluded WI/AUST series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

was more reminiscent of T20 cricket and reduced Australia’s target to 14 runs. But Joseph proved unstoppable as he finished his all-time great performance in style and with the figures of 7 for 68.

It meant the series finished 1-1 and brought the curtains down on the Australian Test summer with the hosts surprisingly challenged by inexperienced Pakistan and West Indies teams on tough surfaces with none of the five matches going into the fifth day.

Australia tasted defeat on home soil for the first time since losing to India at the Gabba in January 2021.

Like Pakistan earlier in the summer, a youthful West Indies became a crowd favourite through their en-

tertaining style of play and vivaciousness led by Joseph, who single-handedly hauled his team back in the contest.

Australia appeared to be cruising towards the target of 216 at 113 for 2 until Joseph turned the match on its head with the wickets of Cameron Green and Travis Head in consecutive balls.

He then dismissed Mitchell Marsh and Alex Carey as Australia lost 4 for 23 and were still 80 runs short of victory.

Joseph claimed his second five-wicket haul in as many matches by dismissing Mitchell Starc, who had briefly counterattacked, just before dinner as he sunk to his knees with his head on the ground.

But he pushed through

the pain barrier and exhaustion to nick off Pat Cummins.

There had been grave doubt over whether Joseph could bowl after he was struck on the toe by an inswinging delivery by Starc late on day three that forced him to retire hurt.

But he was cleared of a fracture and produced a spell in overcast and humid conditions that rocked Australia and set up a grandstand finish after dinner.

There were fears of the day’s play being majorly interrupted after heavy showers lashed Brisbane overnight and in the morning.

But the bad weather cleared and play resumed on schedule with Australia resuming at 60 for 2 and needing a further 156 runs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

England pulls off miracle at Hyderabad (ESPNCRICINFO) - England pulled off one of their greatest Test wins in front of the raucous Barmy Army and a stunned home crowd in Hyderabad. Of all the ways you envisage winning a Test in India, falling behind by 190 in the first innings - a deficit never before reversed by a visiting team in India - is not one.

Yet, England did the unthinkable with their most experienced spinner injured, half their side gone before scores were levelled, and did so emphatically, even though a hilarious last-wicket stand took India to within 29 runs of their target.

The highest lead India have lost from is 192, in Galle back in 2015. That Sri Lankan win was fashioned by a sweep-filled, adventur-

ous, once-in-a-generation knock from Dinesh Chandimal. Ollie Pope played that role for England, scoring 196 runs full of sweeps, reverse sweeps and reverse Dilscoops, messing up with the lengths of the Indian spinners as if they were match predictions after two days of cricket. The other hero was Tom Hartley, the debutant left-arm spinner who was hit for two sixes in his first over in Test cricket and consigned to one of the costliest analysis for a debutant, who ended up with seven wickets in the second innings.

Starting the day 126 ahead with just four wickets in hand, Pope added 48 to his overnight 148 with crucial assistance from Rehan Ahmed and Hartley. Only five times has 230 or more

been chased down successfully in India, but the hosts would have had cause for optimism. Jack Leach, the experienced spinner, was at best hobbling. Hartley, the other left-arm spinner, had been punished for 63 runs in his first nine-over spell in the first innings. Ahmed had been so inconsistent and Mark Wood so unsuited to the conditions that Joe Root had been their best bowler until then.

However, fourth-innings chases follow their own rhythms. Ben Stokes, who captained like a millionaire in the first innings to buy wickets, knew he just needed in-out fields here. Root, Hartley and Leach rose to the occasion despite obvious limitations. And India, unlike England, provided them stationary target, let-

ting them bowl good length over and over again, a luxury not afforded to India’s spinners.

You can imagine Pope, Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley spent two weeks in Abu Dhabi just practising the various sweeps more than their front-foot defence against spin. They took those chances in the second innings after having got out playing defensively in the first. Pope’s execution lasted the longest. Some of the shots were sensational, like his repeat of the reverse Dilscoop off Ravindra Jadeja from Saturday.

It is an indictment of the spinners - world-beaters and two of the greatest of all time - that Jasprit Bumrah was India’s best bowler.

He got Ahmed early with a reverse-swinging outswing-

er, and also ended Pope’s innings with a slower ball.

Between that, though, Hartley and Pope added 80 for the eighth wicket. During that partnership, with Ashwin and Jadeja bowling, India struggled to hold their lengths and the field settings allowed singles everywhere.

It might not be unfair to say that India didn’t have a response for the time when unorthodox methods worked against them. Pope needed some luck all right, 72 false responses, which is the second-highest for any innings since 2003, but he did do his bit in getting rid of catching men, which reduces the potency of mistakes bowlers induce.

Pope could do what he did because that is the philosophy of Bazball: rather get out reverse-scooping

than defending as he did in the first innings. For if he reverse-sweeps, he is playing what he has practised and prepared for. That England had nothing to lose after falling behind by 190 freed him further.

India had none of these liberties. Firstly, they are not natural sweepers, forget reverse-sweepers. They also had a home Test to lose, which they rarely do, and never after taking that kind of first-innings lead.

Stokes, who had looked to manufacture wickets in the first innings with attacking fields, could now fall back on the conventional method: attack with the ball, defend with the fields. Two catchers at the wicket, two at cover and midwicket, but others protecting runs.

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GCB U-15 Inter-County 50-over cricket …

Lewis, Ram score tons as Demerara beat Select XI

By Sean Dever

IN sweltering heat in the city, Demerara, led by centuries from skipper Emmanual Lewis and Parmeshwar Ram, beat the Select X1 at the Guyana Cricket Board U-15 Inter-county tournament.

The tournament which got underway on Sunday, also saw a useful all-round performance from Arif Khan who led Berbice to victory over Essequibo at the Malteenoes ground.

At QC, Demerara amassed a record 407-3 against an innoxious Select X1 attack as Lewis and Ram featured in a 244-run second wicket stand after joining forces when Kush Seegobin (20) departed at 89-1.

Lewis reached the bound-

ary 14 times and cleared it 10 times in 54 ball 160 before he was LBW to Gilbert Griffith at 333-2 while Ram smashed 11 fours and two sixes in his 117 from 81 balls before he was also removed by Griffth three runs later.

Trilok Nanan, who brought up the 400 in the final over with a boundary off Rivaldo Perreira, clobbered five fours and three sixes in his unbeaten 46.

Griffith had 2-51 for the Select X1 who were bowled out for 137 in 43 overs.

Perriera top scored with 31 while Vivik Seegobin made 23 as Lewis returned with the ball the claim 3-11 and the Manof-the-Match award.

Over at Malteenoes, Berbice, led by Khan’s unbeaten 37 from 23 balls

with five fours and six and Kumalchan Ramnarace’s 20 from 22 balls with two fours and a six, got Berbice to 137 all out in 35 overs on good track good looking outfield.

Skipper Adrain Hetmyer, arguably the best batter in the tournament, was caught low down by the Keeper for four from 16 balls off Deniss Crossman at 20-2.

Khan and Ravin Boodram (3) then added 49 for the ninth wicket to take the score to 137-9 after coming together 86-8.

Jatniel Nurse had 3-9, Eron Benjamin 3-22 and Crossman 2-15 for Essequibo who fell for 125.

Justin Dowlin, who favored the pulls, hit four fours and two sixes in his 78 ball

45 before he was removed by Ramnarace.

The left-handed Dowlin added 40 for the third wicket with Boomesh Lall who hit two fours and six in 23 before he was caught and bowled by Khan.

Dowlin and Nurse (8) provided hope for the team from Guyana’s largest County with a 49-run fifth wicket stand once Dowlin was caught at cover at 117-7, the last four wickets tumbled for eight runs.

Man-of-the-Match Khan had 3-26 while Ramnarace took 3-18.

The second round is set for tomorrow at DCC and Malteenoes with Demerara facing Essequibo at DCC and Berbice playing the Select X1 at MSC.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 29, 2024

GBA’s Senior Development Tournament

Sancho named best Elite boxer, Allicock’s win highlights final night

By Sean Devers

OLYMPIAN Keevin Allicock’s victory over his Forgotten Youths Foundation (FYF) Gym mate Septon Barton, highlighted the final night of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Senior Development Tournament at the National Gymnasium on Saturday.

When the tournament concluded at just after 11:20 hours, a fair size gathering saw Welterweight Champion Emmanuel Sancho from the Police Boxing Gym, being adjudged the best boxer of the second boxing card for the year staged by the GBA. Police, under the coaching of active professional Boxer Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques, won three Gold and two Silver Medals from the 10 bouts on Saturday night.

In the youth finals, Morlando Cameron beat his RHTJ (Rose Hall Town Jammers) Gym mate Raheem Peters in the 61-635 kg final while RHTJ’s Jahshawn Williamson beat Daniel Dehnert of BBG (Bailey’s Boxing Gym) in the 64-67 kg final.

In the Elites’ final, (Guyana Defence Force) GDF’s Ronaldo Sutton got the better Richard Subratee in the Mininumweight final while Jason Clarke beat fellow Police boxer Kevin Isaacs in the Bantamweight final.

The Jackman sisters (Abiola and Alesha) who partici-

Abiola Jackman (left) during an exhibition match at the National Gymnasium on Saturday night (Sean Devers photo) pated in the Women’s World Championships in Delhi, India, matched gloves in an exhibition match.

The Lightweight clash between 24-year-old Keevin Allicock who attended the 2020 Olympics and fellow FYF pugilist Septon Barton had the fans in the stands on their feet.

Despite being dominated

by Allicock, who won Gold Medals at Caribbean Champions in 2017 in St Lucia, 2018 at home and 2019 in Barbados, Barton put up a great fight and went the full distance of three rounds.

Barton seemed to have

been saved by the bell in the final round when a brutal left hook wobbled him seconds before the entertaining contest ended.

In the opening round, the lightning-fast Allicock threw more punches but Barton fought back with some good shots of his own and was not afraid to go toe-to-toe with the skilful fighter from Albouystown.

The FYF pair traded shots but Allicock, who easily evaded most of them, was caught with a good left jab to his head before retaliating with a fourshot flurry.

The second round started with both boxers moving forward, but a left/right combination followed by an uppercut to the body stopped Barton in his tracks.

The fast-paced round continued and a powerful body shot sent Barton to the canvas.

But he was back on his feet and seemed willing to exchange punches with Guyana’s most accomplished armature boxer presently.

A double left jab followed by a right hook resulted in Barton receiving a standing 8 count in the closing stages of the second stanza.

Emmanuel Sancho of the Police Boxing Gym was named the best Elite boxer In the last round, Allicock searched for that knock-out punch as Barton rallied to the end.

In the other bouts, GDF’s Colin Lewis got a walkover from RHTJ’s Joel Williamson who could not leave Berbice due to a medical emergency with a family member.

Sancho again showed his excellent boxing skills and dominated Ronald Captain of GDF before the Welterweight bout was stopped in 1:36 seconds of the second round.

Clinton Captain of GDF defeated FYF’s Mark Crawford in a close encounter in the light Middleweight final before Police won their third Gold medal when Hullman Bovell beat Solider Quincy Boyce in their Cruiserweight final.

In the final bout of the night the towering Troy Glasgow of GDF abandoned his Super Heavyweight final against Winston Pompey Boxing Gym’s Emmanuel Pompey in the second round after being ahead on points.

Breeding industry is the answer ... as horse racing legislation looms

RECOGNISING that a breeding industry is the future for horse racing’s smooth continuance in Guyana.

Promoters of the sports have embarked on a development program to establish a breeding industry, which will provide the future’s stars for the industry.

They have started an ambitious program with the purchase of twenty-one (21) horses from the recently concluded Mixed Winter Sale held at Ocala, Florida. While an additional four horses were bought from Trinidad to enhance, build confidence that the breeding industry.

This vision of the industry’s promoters was born out of

the need to sustain a constant supply of stock in trade for the industry. These horses are scheduled to be shipped to Guyana next month.

The spokesperson for the promoters advised, “History is a great teacher, and we have to respect, and learn from it.

Trinidad is the main supplier of horses to Guyana, They are now experiencing a ‘frightening’ decline in their breeding industry, and their horse racing population. We are on the same pathway as Trinidad in terms of enjoying an oil boom.

Trinidad, a twin island state with Tobago once showcased the most competitive races staged at their four race tracks, inter islands horse racing rivalry with Barbados, Jamaica,

and Guyana for several decades peaked the interest of country and horsemen. That is only a memory now. The oil rich Trinidad was seen as the USA of the Caribbean at that time. Now Guyana is seen as the Caribbean Dubai because of our oil revenue. So we have to prepare a proper foundation to sustain our racing industry, and this could only be done with proper studies, planning foresight.

He revealed, “This program will create new opportunities for breeders. As Guyana is the fastest developing country in the world right now. The horse racing is growing, and the Government have recognised this, and the Act to govern the

Horse owners will embark on breeding industry programme in Guyana sport will be tabled in Parliament shortly for the sport to be regulated, we have to prepare for change in the sport. Hence the reason why we need a breeding industry

to facilitate the demand for horses. We believe that we are now on the right track, and we have to get everyone aboard.”

Last year over thirty

(30) horses comprising of mares and broodmares in utero (in foal) were bought from Trinidad by Fazal Habibulla to kick off the breeding industry.

Alex Carey has his off stump knocked back by Shamar Joseph•Jan 28, 2024 • Cricket Australia/ Getty Images

Player-of-the-Match Shamar Joseph takes a bow • Jan 28, 2024 • Getty Images

Pandemonium at the Gabba Gabba!!

–– Joseph ends two-decade test drought see story on page 21

GBA’s Senior Development Tournament

Sancho named best Elite boxer,, boxer Allicock’’s Allicock see story win on page 23 highlights final night

Keevin Allicock lands an uppercut to the chin of his FYF Gym mate Septon Barton (Sean Devers photo)

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GCB U-15 Inter-County 50-over cricket …

Lewis, Ram score tons as Demerara beat Select XI see story on page 22

MONDAY, JANUARY 29, 2024