Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_01_18_2023

A budget for all Guyanese

— President Ali rebuffs Opposition Leader’s ‘friends-and-family’ claims regarding Budget 2023 — says every citizen is catered for under the umbrella of ‘One Guyana’

By Clestine Juan

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday dismissed claims made by Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, regarding

the 2023 Budget, noting that every Guyanese is his family and they all will benefit from the government’s fiscal plans.

“I’m just as shocked and surprised. But what

more can we expect? Where there is emptiness, there is a lot of noise,” the President said during a press conference at State House, on Tuesday. Norton, in his reaction

to Budget 2023 said: “This budget, in my opinion, is a marked failure. The most critical thing at this stage is inflation, and what inflation is doing to our country, and there are ab-

solutely no measures in this budget to deal with inflation.”

“In large measure, this budget is a very large budget that puts a lot of resources in the hands

of the PPP elites, their families, friends and favourites. This is not a budget for the people,” Norton said.

(Full story on page 3)

Adrian Narine photo

India interested in being longstanding partner of Guyana

By Shamar Meusa

FRESH off the heels of a seven-day official visit to India, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has said that working groups have been established and will begin work immediately to push the collaborative agenda in several areas discussed during the trip.

The Head of State made this announcement during a press conference he hosted at State House, on Tuesday, to provide an update on the outcomes of his visit to India.

“We have already written to the Government of India outlining the working group, the names that we are proposing to be part of that working group following the OAS model with the US and CARICOM,” he said.

To this end, he said the only difference is that this group will include the private sector from both India and Guyana, as there are lots of follow-up and collaborations required from both private sectors.

President Ali said: “So, the working group will commence work almost instantaneously to push

this agenda in Guyana.”

According to the President, India has shown a keen interest in investing and working along with Guyana in several areas, namely agriculture, technology, security and even on the oil and gas front.

During the seven days, he said that he met with Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and they discussed co-operation in several areas.

Dr. Ali related that the Prime Minister has shown an interest in visiting Guyana this year to be able to fast-track a lot of the planning in areas that they

have identified for collaboration.

Outside of engagements with Prime Minister Modi, Dr. Ali said there were also discussions with the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Puri on Guyana’s current auction process and the availability of 14 blocks.

As such, he mentioned that he encouraged the Indian Private sector to participate in this process.

He said: “But also we have made it clear that we’re examining government-to-government relationship also, and government-to-government op -

portunities for exploration and production.”

To this end, he said that there are blocks that are not auctioned and this remains something that India has a keen interest in and will be coming back to engage local authorities on.

Against this backdrop, he mentioned that there were specifically targeted discussions in the field of oil and gas, and the visit served as a great platform and opportunity to promote the said auctions of the oil blocks.

In addition to this, President Ali said that in a meeting with Prime Min-

ister Modi, they discussed the shared vision and commitment to various global topics which include climate change, food security, energy security, human resource development and building out a platform through which they can create a better global environment that supports peace and development.

He went on to add that in relation to agriculture and food production, that stood as a strong pillar that underpinned discussions, as this is a key element of Guyana’s development aspiration and a key element of the leadership that the country is providing in the region.

“There was tremendous interest in having close collaboration between the two governments on research and development, technology transfer, building out of our agri-food system, the ecosystem surrounding our food production and agriculture, and enhancing the productivity of our agricultural sector,” President Ali said.

Further, the transformation of Guyana’s healthcare system that is currently ongoing was

also discussed as ways in which India can collaborate with local authorities here, especially as the government intends to push the use of telemedicine here.

Those collaborations would also see training and advancement of the human-resource pool such as the nurses and laboratory technicians, among others.

Meanwhile, he mentioned that discussions were also held in relation to the security and defence sector.

India, Dr. Ali related, has a very strong investment in defence technology and as such, discussions surrounded this along with the training of Guyanese in this field.

He said that the two countries can collaborate in this regard to further the modernisation of the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force in terms of equipment transformation so as to have a defence capability that functions on an improved technological platform.

— working groups established to push bilateral collaboration in multiple areas

A budget for all Guyanese

By Clestine Juan

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday dismissed claims made by Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, regarding the 2023 Budget, noting that every Guyanese is his family and they all will benefit from the government’s fiscal plans.

“I’m just as shocked and surprised. But what more can we expect? Where there is emptiness, there is a lot of noise,” the President said during a press conference at State House, on Tuesday.

Norton, in his reaction to Budget 2023 said: “This budget, in my opinion, is a marked failure. The most critical thing at this stage is inflation, and what inflation is doing to our country, and there are absolutely no measures in this budget to deal with inflation.”

“In large measure, this budget is a very large budget that puts a lot of resources in the hands of the PPP elites, their families, friends and favourites. This is not a budget for the people,” Norton said.

According to the Opposition Leader, the budget was “anti-poor” and “anti-working class.”

However, the President said that the 2023 budget will pump billions of dollars into the economy through various initiatives that would rapidly transform and modernise the nation, while also bettering the lives of each Guyanese, something the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) had failed to do while in government for five years.

The Head of State, in dismissing Norton’s claims, said that the budget caters for the housing programme, which would allow some 25,000 Guyanese families to acquire their own homes.

“So that is 25,000 friends and family of the government. I take it, thank you. I take them as my friends and family because every Guyanese is my friend and family.

“So yes, yes Mr Norton, the 25,000 that will be getting their house lots under this government, is our friend and family. Because in your five years of government, you failed to give any of them anything,” Dr. Ali said.

He further highlighted that for the working class, the movement of the threshold from $75,000 to $85,000 will benefit tens of thousands of Guyanese.

For parents and guardians, the education grant will benefit 214,000 schoolchildren. The grant which stood at $25,000 will be increased to $40,000, thus releasing an additional $8.6 billion into the hands of parents for their children.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government had introduced the cash grant to parents of children attending school, to meet other expenses associated with their children’s attendance, but this initiative was discontinued by the former APNU+AFC regime.

“Tell the Opposition Leader thank you for understanding that you are my friends and family. That is why we are working for you. That is why we’re helping you. So, the 214,000 children that

are benefiting you are our friends and families,” the President said.

In outlining the other measures that will provide continued relief, the President said that thousands of consumers will benefit as a result of the reduction in freight costs.

He added that the budget also caters for the $3 billion salary adjustment that will benefit the 5,000 healthcare workers and 9,000 members of the disciplined forces.

WE ARE FAMILY

However, the President urged the public not to look at Norton’s remarks negatively, since “we all Guyanese are his friends and family” and will benefit from the budget.

“I’m not looking at it as a negative. You know your President. I don’t look at anything in a negative way. What the man was really saying was that Guyana and the delivery of Budget 2023 is for the entire Guyanese friends and family. He’s accepting the fact that the PPP government has embraced the entire Guyana community as our friend and family.

“This man has finally come to his realisation of the reality that this budget, that this government, is delivering to the friends and family of the PPP, who constitute the entire whole of the country,” Dr. Ali said.

According to the Head of State, the education

grant, the income-tax threshold adjustment, the salary adjustment, and the expansion of the part-time job programme are a part of the billions of dollars back into the pockets of people improving disposable income.

He added that while these grants were criticised by the Opposition, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) quarterly Caribbean economics report noted that Guyana was able to record low inflation rates due to direct action to keep prices from rising due to these same measures.

“The proof is in the numbers. Guyana is among the lowest tier of countries in the globe in terms of inflation rates and the passing on of inflation to consumers. That is not what I’m saying, that is what the stats are saying. You know why? Because of proper management, proper policies and showing that the economy does not overheat bringing the balance and that is what budget 2023 does,” the Head of State noted.

On Monday, after Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh’s presentation of the 2023 Budget, the President said that the massive $781.9 billion Budget 2023 will advance Guyana’s transformation

This year’s budget is approximately 41.4 per cent larger than Budget 2022 and brings in revenues from Guyana’s first carbon sale, which amounts to some $1.3 billion. The use of these funds will serve as part of

the transformative agenda of the government.

Further, the budget also sees the addition of some $208.9 billion to be transferred from the country’s Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

According to the President: “Budget 2023 will see the low-income ceiling for loans for the housing sector, increasing from $15 million to $20 million, so a young professional now would have that ability to borrow within that low-income ceiling, moving from $15 million to $20 million at low-interest costs.”

These are among many measures addressed in this year’s budget to further improve on various sectors that have seen a tremendous transformation over the past two years.

President Ali said during his live address that throughout the week, he will continue to highlight areas in which Budget 2023 will deliver a higher quality, more productive and sustainable life for all Guyanese.

— President Ali rebuffs Opposition Leader’s ‘friends-and-family’ claims regarding Budget 2023 — says every citizen is catered for under the umbrella of ‘One Guyana’

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton

Care home for seniors, day and night centres on the cards

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has been allotted $40.4 billion in Budget 2023, the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, announced during his presentation of the government’s fiscal plan to the National Assembly, on Monday.

The Finance Minister said that the government remains steadfast and committed to the health, well-being, and welfare of the country’s citizens, and evidence of this commitment is the $100 million allocation for the construction of a new care home for senior citizens.

Additionally, as was reported, old-age pensions will increase from $28,000 to $33,000 this year.

Last year, pensioners benefitted from a one-off cash-grant of $28,000 and 28,450 pensioners benefitted from subsidized water charges in 2022. Further, several initiatives were implemented in 2022 to ensure that women and girls as well as men and boys could participate fully in development of the country.

“Our government expanded the Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme from 2,170 beneficiaries in 2021 to

6,193 in 2022… provision is made in 2023 for the continuation of this programme, targeting an additional 6,000 women,” Dr. Singh said.

To further support women and men while at work, 444 essential workers received $15,000 per month for three months for childcare services, and

60 day-care facilities benefitted from the disbursement of a one-off $50,000 for the improvement of their facilities in 2022.

In 2023, $100 million has been budgeted for the construction of day and night-care centres to benefit women and men in need of child-care services while at work.

Dr. Singh said that the Government of Guyana recognises that addressing social issues, such as the scourge of child abuse, requires a whole-of-society approach, and an amount of $103.9 million was allocated to child advocacy centres to ensure vulnerable children in all 10 regions are reached.

Additionally, in 2022, the launch of Men on Mission (MoM) by President Ali, invited menfolk to provide coaching, mentoring, and direction.

“Building role models for boys to emulate so that they enter adult life as responsible and respectful citizens will bode well for gender relations and development as a whole,” Minister Singh said.

Key interventions in 2023 include the development of gender focal

points to advocate against gender inequality; the introduction of a Gender Equality Seal Programme to advance gender mainstreaming in the workplace; the launch of a Share Responsibility at Home Campaign to reverse and eliminate persistent gender stereotyping, negative cultural attitudes and other practices which discriminate against women; and training of 2,500 national and community leaders on gender and social inclusion and development of gender mainstreaming into decision-making processes.

For persons with disabilities (PWDs), the government’s aim is to ensure that transportation is available at all institutions representing those persons.

Dr Singh said the government remains committed to delivering social services to all eligible persons, as their manifesto promised through better facilities, services, and jobs.

There are plans to open two domestic violence shelters this year to provide needed refuge for women and children fleeing violence. Further, a sum of $56 million is allocated to support Help and Shelter.

Additionally, a draft of the Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill has been created and is being reviewed by stakeholders.

In 2023, an additional $114.9 million is allocated for the continued government contribution towards legal aid services required by victims.

Norton’s statements about Budget 2023 flawed

— financial analyst says

FINANCIAL Analyst Joel Bhagwandin has rubbished claims made by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton that Budget 2023 contains nothing for the manufacturing sector or the rising cost of living.

Bhagwandin during an interview with Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d), Mark Phillips, and several ministers, said that one of the major projects for the manufacturing sector is the Wales gas-to-energy project.

“In the budget, we have in excess of $40 billion allocated to get that project going, which we understand is scheduled to be completed within the timeframe and once the project is materialised, the people of Guyana, the manufacturing sector, at the household level as well, are expected to benefit from that 50 per cent reduction,” he said.

PM Phillips, an interviewee, said that the gas-to-energy project is by far one of the biggest in the history of Guyana and it is expected to reduce the cost of electricity for households and the commercial sector.

The timeline for the completion of the project is December 2024.

“By December 2024, we will have electricity from this gas-to-energy project; electricity that is far cheaper than what we are paying for today. We are paying …25 cents per kilowatt today and by our initial projection we will be able to supply and sell electricity for less than half of that to the business sector and to the households,” the Prime Minister explained.

He added: “It means that whatever manufacturing the businesses enter into today, in another two years after the completion of this project, they will be able to do so at a far cheaper cost.”

He noted that government is not waiting until the project comes on stream, as they are expecting growth continuation in the business sector. Additionally, 50 megawatts of electricity will be invested in the short term, to ensure that the needs of the growing electricity demand by citizens are satisfied.

The Prime Minister said that there are many unserved and underserved areas demanding electricity supply to households, new housing schemes, and squatting schemes that are being regularised, so, in the short term, they will provide electricity for the growing demand.

“That itself, will have a positive effect on economic growth in Guyana because more investors will come now, more Guyanese and foreign investors, because electricity will be cheap in

Guyana,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), commended the Government of Guyana for Budget 2023.

“The proposed fiscal and other related measures aimed at striking a balance between Guyana’s current and future needs are lauded as progressive and visionary by the association in harnessing Guyana’s true potential to attain unprecedented growth,” the GMSA said in a press statement.

The GMSA said it is pleased with the government’s strategic measures that forecast diversified economic activities while grappling with concurrent challenges that continue to threaten global economic

stability.

“A government that effectively harnesses the resources of the country to gain adequate revenues for sustainable growth and development must be commended. The utilisation of revenues from the first carbon credit sale in the amount of $31.3 billion, in conjunction with the transfer of Guyana’s oil profits in the amount of $208.9 billion from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), without imposing new taxes, is evidence that Budget 2023 is people-centred and pro-developmental,” the GMSA said.

Measures that are key to advancing the growth within the manufacturing and services sector include $2 billion in agricultural development which includes the establishment of a regional food hub with cold storage, manufacturing, and processing capabilities, along with $300 million in rice development which includes the provision of two new drying floors in Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

The GMSA noted that there will also be a $150 million investment in soya

bean cultivation which includes the construction of a wharf in the Tacama area to further push Guyana’s targets of food security within the region, as well as, new facilities in Crabwood Creek and Orealla and new cold storage in Bartica.

More measures to support the manufacturing sector is included in $584.2 million allocation for small business support, along with the removal of the 14 per cent VAT concerning the sale of residential properties, which will also further reduce the cost of home ownership.

Additionally, the GMSA recognises the allocation of $43.3 billion to facilitate the construction of the integrated natural gas liquids plant and the 300 MW combined cycle gas turbine power plant within the Wales Development Zone and associated facilities. This project will directly cut emissions by 70 per cent, as well as trigger a series of major economic development initiatives in Guyana as energy

costs.

“The measures above represent the move towards Guyana building on the trajectory which the government is placing on the transformation of our economy. Though these efforts signal the thrust which is needed to drive our economy, the GMSA is still hopeful for other additional measures to be extended to benefit the manufacturing sector,” the statement said.

The GMSA added: “The direct reduction in the cost of electricity as well as a reduction and removal of taxes on support services to manufacturing will greatly impact the sector, drive production and increase the GDP of our economy.”

The GMSA related that it remains open and committed to working with the government to address and improve priority areas to aid Guyana’s development while strengthening and diversifying the non-oil industries.

Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d), Mark Phillips

Joel Bhagwandin

A Budget For All

THE 2023 national budget presented by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, under the theme: “Improving Lives Today; Building Prosperity for Tomorrow,” contains all the elements of sustained economic growth and human development.

When the PPP/C took office on October 1992, then President, Dr Cheddi Jagan, made it clear that the PPP/C will pursue a developmental path with a “human face.” This has become the defining characteristic of all budgets presented by the PPP/C ever since.

Such an approach to development where the main emphasis is on people, has become part of the PPP/C’s DNA and is based on a governance philosophy which takes as its point of departure that development is about people and their material, cultural and spiritual development.

In other words, it is not possible to speak of development unless and until it impacts positively on the quality of life of the broad masses of the Guyanese people.

It is in the above context that the 2023 budget has to be seen and understood. As noted by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, there is a direct relationship between the policy measures announced in the budget and the improvement of the lives of the Guyanese people.

The 2023 budget is by far the largest, both in financial and in real terms. It is 41.4 per cent larger than the previous year’s budget and draws substantially from oil revenues, and, for the first time, carbon sales, which amounted to some $208.9 billion. These are significant sums of money which will be utilised to stabilise the economy, strengthen systems

and focus on people’s priorities.

As the President said, it is one with a difference that points to the future aspirations of the country, laying the bedrock and framework for an economy that is sustainable in a world 2023 and beyond. The budget is an instrument used annually to give effect to the country’s longer- term strategic objectives of a low-carbon development trajectory.

The fact is that there is a dynamic and interactive relationship between the budget and the local economy. A bigger national income means that more money will be pumped into the economy which, apart from enhancing disposable incomes, will also have what economists refer to as a “multiplier effect,” which in turn will result in accelerated growth of the community, and by extension, the national economy.

This budget takes into consideration two mutually reinforcing outcomes, namely the sustained acceleration of economic growth and enhancement of the material and cultural well-being of the Guyanese people, especially the more vulnerable segment of the population.

The human face of the budgetary allocations can be seen in the several initiatives contained in the budget, including a significant increase in old-age pension which has now jumped to $33,000 per month.

This is reflective of a commitment by the PPP/C administration to continue to make life easier for our senior citizens. This increase, when seen together with water and electricity subsidies, will certainly make a difference in the quality of life of our pensioners and the more vulnerable in our society.

This budget is indeed a budget for all. There is hardly anyone whose life will not be positively touched by the policy measures and the accompanying financial allocations contained in the budget.

Among the several beneficiaries will be our nurses, members of the disciplined forces, working people as a whole, home and vehicle owners, members of the business community, parents/guardians of schoolchildren.

In short, all Guyanese will benefit, especially young professionals who are in the process of owning their homes and vehicles.

The budget is forward-looking and will build on previous efforts to fast-track the economy as the country advances along the path of modernization and transformation.

These are very exciting times and the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Cabinet ministers and the entire PPP/C administration are deserving of commendation for putting together a budget that is aligned to the aspirations of the Guyanese people.

A special commendation to Dr Singh and his team of technical officers for the hard work they have done over the past months to put the pieces together into a meaningful, well-coordinated and coherent whole.

As to be expected, the political opposition will seek to find ways to be critical of the budget, especially during the budget debate. This, however, will not, and cannot in any way diminish the benefits that will accrue to this nation and its people through the operationalization and implementation of this historic budget.

Growth with human development is signature of Budget 2023

Dear Editor

IN a nearly six-hour-long speech to the Parliament of Guyana on Monday evening, Dr Ashni Singh presented the largest budget in the history of the country. The $781.9 billion is “fully financed with no new taxes.”

More than that, it is a document of transformative proportions, meaning that when fully implemented, it will help underwrite the movement of Guyana from a structurally dependent economy, to one that is both self-reliant and sustainable.

But economic change is not easy, nor does it work independently of other social

structures and institutions in society. This much has been well established in the academic literature on development.

In 1973, Charles K. Wilber, then Chair of the Department of Economics at the University of Notre Dame, made some observations that are germane to where Guyana stands today in terms of its development trajectory.

In the preface to part seven of The Political Economy of Development and Underdevelopment, Wilber noted that “[e]conomic development is not a smooth evolutionary process of change. Rather, it is a painful process, which involves breaking up established ways of life

and hurting many strongly entrenched vested interests” (C.K. Wilber 1973/1979).

While rapid modernization of the economic structure may be disruptive in the short term, the costs of maintaining the old economic order are worse, and this especially for the poor and the powerless. Thus, for Wilber, “[c]continued underdevelopment in bringing untold suffering to millions of people” (Ibid).

Budget 2023 is structured around two temporal rhythms. The first, and more easily understandable, are to be found in the new measures which, as is widely known, are intended to deal with problems in the short-

term, or even consumption needs that must be addressed immediately. On this score, Budget 2023 offers a list of substantive “interventions.”

Chief among them are –the tax threshold is moving from $75,000 to $85,000; Because We Care Grants increases from $25,000 to $35,000; the school uniform grant stays in place, bringing total disbursements to students, to $40,000; the zero excise tax on fuel stays in place, amounting to a significant subsidy for gasoline; the extension of freight relief to the tune of $6 billion is intact; $10 billion is slated for the Part-time Jobs Programme; Old-Age Pension goes from $28,000 to

$33, 000, benefitting 73,000 persons; Public Assistance moves to $16,000, and the removal of the 14 percent VAT on new all-electric motor vehicles is a massive cost-saving measure for consumers.

Then there is the “increase in the writing down allowance applicable to all-electric motor vehicles to 50 per cent annually, in support of business’ investment decision to switch to more environmentally friendly vehicles;” this is combined with a decrease from 45 per cent to 35 per cent on duty for new, imported vehicle 1500 CC and under; and not least, is the $800,000 flat tax on imported, used vehicles under 1500CC. There is an

additional $5 billion in measures aimed at countering cost-of-living pressures.

While the budgetary measures are for immediate human-security needs, allocations in health, education, housing and water, human services, and agriculture account for 48 per cent of the $781.9 billion budget.

This means that more than half of the budget is aimed at direct human development to be realized within the next 12 months, or before the next budgetary allocations are put into action.

Put differently, the budget has significant expenditures that are a mixture of the investment and consumption

Growth with human...

functions.

This model is within the historical development paradigm of what A.G. Frank and Barry K. Gills once labelled as “humano-centric” and “ecocentric”, the latter, of course, alluding to development that is mindful of the natural ecosystems and environmental security.

The long-term capital outlays of the budget fit within the classic PPP approach to development, which, as Minister Singh noted, are built on the principles of continuity, consistency, and credibility.

Even a cursory historical reflection would remind readers of long-term investments by PPP administrations that turned out to be monumentally important for the quality of life of the Guyanese people. Think of the establishment of UG by Cheddi Jagan in 1963, or the building of the Hope Canal or Berbice Bridge under President Bharrat Jagdeo. The PNC under F Burnham also made long-term investments that still have value. The Demerara Harbour Bridge and the Soesdyke-Linden Highway were excellent long-term projects that continue to yield benefits daily. The attacks on longterm capital investments are

FROM PAGE 6

not only uncalled for, but lack basic economic rationality.

Budget 2023 makes good on key infrastructural projects. Chief among these, is the NGL, Gas-to-Shore plant to be constructed at Wales on the West Bank of Demerara. The investment of a little over $40 billion in this project will provide immeasurable benefits to consumers when completed.

Electricity cost is expected to be cut by half, and cooking gas is likely to drop by around 75 per cent. As a transitional energy source, there are also important environmental benefits to be derived. Thousands of high-paying jobs will be created. The same benefits will accrue when the oil refinery in Berbice is finally completed.

Over $136 billion will be spent on roads. The Opposition is fond of saying that people cannot eat roads. While this is nominally correct, it is foolish in terms of economic development where human-centred development is the priority.

A proper road, river, and air transportation network is critical to farm-to-market cost reduction, food security, reduction of travelling cost to work and school, access

to tourist/leisure facilities, access to health care, and the reduction of lost labour hours due to traffic delays. Better roads will also contribute to a reduction in traffic accidents and fatalities.

The strength of Budget 2023 is that it is human centred, and well-grounded in the political economy of environmental sustainability. Moreover, the budget avoids the decidedly irresponsible bias of those like Lincoln Lewis, Opposition Leader Norton, and the increasingly elliptical AFC, who all want the Government of Guyana to become an ATM for all. The debates on these and other matters will no doubt begin in earnest come next Monday.

Finally, I was in Parliament for the entire budget speech, and would like to commend Dr Singh for keeping up his suave demeanour despite a stubborn cold. Praise must also be extended to the opposition parties whose members’ persistent banter notwithstanding, demonstrated good discipline and even better spirit of democratic engagement.

Yours sincerely, Dr Randolph Persaud

Applications open for 2024 US professional fellows programme

We are well on our way to becoming a sustainable and economic giant

Dear Editor,

THE 2023 budget, the largest budget in the history of Guyana, has left me with no doubt that we are well on our way to becoming a sustainable and economic giant that other countries will follow.

The budget’s consideration for the working class is indeed admirable. We are on the pathway to becoming a very inclusive society.

Though I laud the measures that are centred on development of the country’s infrastructure, the measures announced that are directly targeting the working- and middle-class citizens are the ones that are most welcome.

The “Because We Care” cash grant being increased to a substantial $40,000 is one of, if not the most exciting measures for the working class, which is set to benefit over 214,000 school- children. It is unbelievable that the APNU+AFC administration ceased the distribution of this grant during their tenure.

Additionally, I see the announcement of increasing the income tax threshold from $75,000 to $85,000 as the foundation for many more tax adjustments to be implemented.

The focus of the 2023 budget’s on education, with a whopping $94.4 bil-

lion allocation is truly in a league of its own and these measures ought not to be overlooked.

With its focus on improving infrastructure, school feeding programmes and acquisition of textbooks, I see a bright and firm education sector for our youths as we progress. Not forgetting that the GOAL scholarship programme has received a well-allocated 1.8 billion.

The Government of Guyana is working for its people and this is clearly demonstrated through the 2023 budget.

THE United States (U.S.) Embassy has announced the opening of the application period for the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI)’s Professional Fellows Programme.

According to the embassy, YLAI applications are now being accepted at https://ylai.state.gov. The application period for the 2024 YLAI Fellowship Programme runs from January 18 – February 15, 2023.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, YLAI brings promising leaders representing 37 countries from

Latin America, Canada, and the Caribbean to the United States to expand their leadership and entrepreneurial skills, and network through skills-building workshops and opportunities to learn from and exchange with U.S. counterparts. The programme will take place in the United States from March – April 2024.

This programme is open to young entrepreneurs 25-35 years of age with a demonstrated track record of successfully growing their own business or social venture for at least two years. Applicants

must be current residents and citizens of Guyana.

The YLAI Fellowship Programme is part of the United States’ continued commitment to the prosperity of Guyana and the region. The YLAI Fellowship Programme supports and connects young entrepreneurs across the Western Hemisphere to take on leadership roles that benefit their communities and strengthen their economies.

To date, 21 young Guyanese entrepreneurs were selected to participate in the YLAI Professional Fellows Programme.

Yours truly, Alvin Hamilton

Budget 2023 will take Guyana into the future

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said Budget 2023 will be used to fund strategic projects and will mirror the accelerated development projected by President, Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C administration.

The Prime Minister, during a special NCN Budget 2023 programme on Monday evening, said that Guyana is “on a trajectory of development” and that the investments in these mega projects will help to advance the country.

“This is the budget that will take Guyana forward,” Prime Minister Phillips said, highlighting several positives of

the budget, including the energy sector.

When asked to elaborate on the Gas to Shore project, he stated that the project aims to reduce energy costs across the board.

He said this strategic move will have a positive effect on the economic growth of Guyana and will help to bring more investors to its shore.

“In the short term, we have the 50 megawatts that will provide electricity for the growing demand and the gas to shore will come on stream, and that will provide electricity that is not only reliable, but is far cheaper than what we pay for now. And it

means that all the business sector, all the households, will benefit from that,” the Prime Minister

said.

Additionally, he reminded listeners that the government’s objective is to transition to renewable energy sources.

“From a strategic standpoint, we are working towards not only investing in transitional energy, but also being more transformative in moving away from non-renewable to greater use of renewable energy. And that is enshrined in our Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, whereby by 2030, 60 per cent of the energy that we are using will be from renewable sources,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

Notably, $1.8 billion has been budgeted for the hinterland project, which will provide solar PV lighting systems to 30,000 households in the hinterland and riverine areas.

“So, we are bridging the ICT divide. We are bridging the energy divide, we are bridging the

infrastructural divide. We bridge the education divide in the regions, the health divide, as it pertains to life on the coastline and life in the hinterland,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

He also addressed the allocations to Amerindian communities, which saw a whopping $4.7 billion from Budget 2023 allocated for development programmes in the hinterland.

In addition, he reminded his audience that 15 per cent of the proceeds from the sale of carbon credits will go to Amerindian communities.

SECURITY

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of security in the 2023 budget and explained that a “sizable amount of money” has been allocated to not only improve the security sector, but also to enhance the country’s prisons and the way we respond to

natural disasters.

“We are improving the way we deal with our prisoners. We are improving the installation and the facilities and the resources that go to firefighting; we are improving the police force in terms of the equipment that they need to respond to whenever there is crime, the Civil Defence Commission, we are improving the manner in which they respond to times of disaster,” the Prime Minister said.

He was joined by the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill; the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony; the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai; the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud and Member Of Parliament, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, on the special budget programme. (Office of the Prime Minister)

— PM Phillips says

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill; Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony; Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai; Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, and Member Of Parliament, Dr Bheri Ramsaran

Guyana: world’s first jurisdictional, REDD+ forestry carbon credit recipient

By Cindy Parkinson

GUYANA has been issued $33.47 million in forest carbon credits from the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART), The REDD+ Environmental Excellence Standard, (TREES) for the five years between 2016 and 2020, after the conclusion of an independent validation and verification process and approval by the ART Board.

These serialized credits are available to buyers on the international carbon market. Airlines can use them to comply with CORSIA, the International Civil Aviation Organization’s global emission-reduction programme, and to fulfil voluntarily made corporate climate commitments. They are listed on ART’s public registry.

Guyana’s successful

The Vice-President emphasized that if the peoples of forest countries designed their course ahead, so that action on forests aided their legitimate development ambitions, ambitious success was possible—in Guyana and worldwide.

“The people of Guyana continue to be willing to play their part—but we also need international standards that keep pace with what science tells us is needed to safeguard the world’s vital tropical forests. So, we are pleased that ART-TREES was created to help accelerate global climate action. By recognizing what forested countries such Guyana have long called for: the time for small-scale pilots and projects is long past, the world needs jurisdiction-scale action to make the required im-

high-forest and low-deforestation (HFLD) jurisdictions to benefit from carbon-market finance.

The HFLD crediting strategy in TREES acknowledges that in order to prevent deforestation and degradation, HFLD jurisdictions must continue to actively protect forests, and that carbon-market finance can be a potent incentive to do so.

On ART’s public registry, each and every HFLD credit is identified as such.

Historically, areas with significant rates of defor -

estation have been the main focus of carbon markets.

With the issuance of the first TREES credits

to Guyana, this is already beginning to change.

(This is part of a weekly series on LCDS)

The author can be contacted at cparkinson0206@ gmail.com

completion of the ART procedure opens the door for other governments seeking to benefit from carbon-market financing, for their efforts to protect and restore forests successfully.

Currently, 14 additional nations and sizeable sub-national entities are working toward issuing their own TREES credits.

The achievement highlights the nation’s progress in safeguarding its forests, and Frances Seymour, the chair of the ART Board, praised the Government of Guyana and the numerous domestic stakeholder groups that contributed to it.

“Guyana is the first country to finish the ART process for producing high-integrity, Paris Agreement-aligned carbon credits, which will enable the nation to continue utilizing market-based financing to carry out forest-stewardship plans,” he had noted. “As a result of Guyana’s experience, ART, other governments, and significant stakeholder groups, particularly Indigenous Peoples and local people, may now accelerate efforts to achieve global forest and climate targets while maintaining social and environmental integrity.”

Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Vice-President of Guyana, praised Guyana for its leadership and tenacity, which date back to 2007 when Guyana first outlined a far-reaching vision for how national-scale action on forests could unlock significant global benefits in the fight against climate change, the preservation of biodiversity, and the development of energy.

pact. The world also needs to value the ecosystem services that tropical forests provide. Today, the vision laid out in 2007 moves to the next phase – where payments for forest climate services can be sourced from global carbon markets. We are pleased that the vision of 15 years ago moves forward in a major way today,” the Vice President said.

Aster Global Environmental Services, Inc., a globally recognized provider of environmental services, carried out the independent validation and verification process by auditing Guyana’s REDD+ results for compliance with both the strict social and environmental safeguards of TREES and the requirements for carbon accounting.

Toshao Derrick John, the Chair of the National Toshaos’ Council in Guyana, spoke on behalf of NTC “The National Toshaos’ Council applauds this significant development in Guyana’s low-carbon development program because it will help indigenous communities further their efforts to protect their forests and develop and expand sustainable likelihood opportunities at the village level.

“The NTC is happy that Guyana is leading efforts on climate finance that will directly help Indigenous Peoples promote climate resilience and sustainable-livelihood prospects. The NTC is the national body that represents all elected Indigenous village leaders in Guyana.”

Before the crediting approach in TREES, no market-oriented strategy allowed

Part of Guyana’s lush green forests

GOGEC impressed with framework for oil and gas, energy sector

PRESIDENT of the Guyana Oil & Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), Manniram Prashad has congratulated the Government of Guyana for a well put together Budget 2023 aimed at advancing Guyana’s development while balancing the needs of the people.

Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Monday, presented the largest budget to the National Assembly on behalf of the government.

The budget represents an increase of 41.4 per cent over the 2022 budget, amounting

to a whopping $781.9 billion.

This is the first budget to be financed from the sale of carbon credit–the sum of $31.3 billion, representing four per cent of the total budget.

In keeping with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision and Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s astute management of the oil and gas sector, GOGEC supports the continued development of the Wales Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project with the allocation of $43.4 billion to support the construction of a 300 megawatts (MW) combined-cycle gas

turbine power plant, natural gas liquids plant, and associated facilities.

The project represents a significant investment towards unlocking greater economic diversification and private sector transformation by reducing the cost of electricity by 50 per cent. It marks an essential step for a robust and technologically sophisticated manufacturing sector.

Similarly, the energy cost-savings to households will ease income pressures, and improve energy access and overall quality of life, especially for Guyana’s vulnerable population.

At the cost of US$1 billion, the project’s direct and

indirect benefits will see a marked decline in overall consumer prices for food and other essential goods and services.

The GOGEC also recognises the immense improvement to both the reliability of electricity supply brought by gas and the improved stability needed to sequentially incorporate intermittent renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind.

By 2025, with 300MW of new baseload capacity provided with natural gas, the reliability of the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) grid will increase while the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with electricity generation will be reduced by half.

In respect to cost of living interventions, GOGEC noted the downward revision of inflation for 2023 to three per cent, down from about seven per cent in 2021 through 2022. This was possible because of the series of policy interventions by the government to combat this issue.

“These measures amount-

ed to over some $200 billion, cumulatively over the last two and a half years which translated to an average of approximately $500,000 per household on an annualised basis.

“The budget is also people focused wherein this is demonstrated in the increases to the cash grants to the school children, pensioners and other groups in the most vulnerable category,” GOGEC said.

Important to note as well are the indirect benefits to the people through the public investment agenda–especially in the public healthcare sector, education and housing. These sectors combined were allocated some $233.9 billion, representing 30 per cent of the total budget.

Finally, in light of the massive development needs of Guyana in public infrastructure, improved social services and the unprecedented structural transformation of the economy, Budget 2023 sought to build on a strong framework in achieving these goals, the oil and gas chamber said.

Parents choose CPCE to relocate Christ Church Secondary students

PARENTS of the displaced Christ Church Secondary School students collectively decided on the Cyril Potter College of Education as the facility to be used to accommodate their children for physical classes.

Following a meeting with parents at Queens College on Tuesday, Education Minister Priya Manickchand, in a post

on her official Facebook page, said: “They unanimously chose space at CPCE (Cyril’s Potter College of Education) to accommodate the education of their children.”

Alternative accommodation is being sought because the decades-old Christ Church Secondary School at Camp Street, was destroyed

by a fire which, according the Guyana Fire Service report, was set intentionally.

“I repeat: Each person who destroys a school and/or any author of said destruction once found guilty ought to be given life imprisonment. We need to legislate accordingly,” Minister Manickchand said.

Parents of the displaced Christ Church Secondary School students collectively decided on the Cyril Potter College of Education as the facility to be used to accommodate their children for physical classes (Ministry of Education photo)

Essequibians pleased with budget allocations

SCORES of Region Two residents have lauded government’s 2023 National Budget which was presented by Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh on Monday.

Essequibians are particularly pleased with the measures that would directly benefit children, the elderly, those receiving public assistance and the employed section of the population.

According to Dr. Singh, the tax threshold will be increased from $75,000 to $85,000 per month; old age pension will move from $28,000 to $33,000 per month and public assistance will be increased from $14,000 to $16,000 per month.

Further, the “Because we care” grant, which is given to every child attending private and public schools, will now be $35, 000, an increase of $10, 000.

Having listened to the budget presentation, 59-year-old Yodha Persaud said that he is very thankful for the increase in the public assistance. The Jib Housing Scheme resident who has vision impairment, said that he

has been receiving public assistance for over 15 years and has been depending on the money to meet most of his daily needs.

Meanwhile, Melisa Bucchoon, a single parent who resides Lake Mainstay, told this publication that the education grant is a great initiative. She said that the additional sum will allow her to do more for her children.

She expressed gratitude to government for giving the increase.

“President Irfaan Ali is maintaining his promises to Guyanese,” Bucchoon said.

Allan Montageue, a pensioner and resident of Lima Sands, said that he became excited when he learned that the old age pension will be increased.

He also showered praises on the PPP/C administration, stating that the president is ensuring that the elderly citizens are being looked after and can live a more comfortable life.

Another single parent, Feezana Ali of Adventure, said she welcomes the increase in the school children’s grant as it will

allow her to better care for her children and give them all if not most of the things they need for school.

“I glad for the money. I will get more food for my children. Lessons [fee] everything raise and with the increase, it will really help me” Ali said.

Shanil Loaknauth, a father of three also commended the government for the efforts being made to give each child the best educational experience.

He said the increase in the grant will be a great help to parents.

Rosana Williams of Hampton Court said that she was particularly pleased that the budget contained things for the country’s Indigenous people.

Some $4.7 billion has been allocated to provide programmes and training opportunities for the residents of Amerindian communities across the country. Williams said that the Amerindians living in Region Two will certainly benefit from this allocation.

Yodha Persaud

Feezana Ali Shanil Loaknauth

Rosana Williams

Allan Montageue

Foster diverse, sustainable, and environmentally sound innovations

REPRESENTATIVES

of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations along with officials from Caribbean and Latin American countries met virtually to discuss various impacts on the global agri-food systems.

This high-level virtual event was organised to allow stakeholders to pres-

ent updates on the progress made on the roadmaps one year after the UN Food Systems Summit, the effects of the current situation, and the adaptation of the different countries to future challenges, motivating a dialogue on the current situation, towards raising awareness and reaffirming commitments

and measures to transform food systems, promoting healthy eating and the protection of the planet.

While speaking on Guyana’s efforts, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said Guyana has been investing in strengthening food security in the region by funding several projects and programmes

aimed at expanding production.

In his address, Minister Mustapha noted that the government remains committed to increasing production and productivity, and easing access to markets for farmers and consumers.

He related that efforts are also being made to ensure the sector develops resilience which includes youth involvement along with adequate, efficient, and reliable drainage and irrigation systems.

“In 2022, we have launched the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme that targets the production of high-valued crops, while posing as a climate adaptive solution to crop production. It also targets young persons with an interest in agriculture.

“With that being said, our government has set out to ensure all future food and agriculture projects will have 35 per cent youth involvement. In addition to this, the critical importance of adequate, effective, and reliable drainage and irrigation infrastructure for safety and security is a top priority for the

government to reduce the effects of flooding on agricultural food systems,” Minister Mustapha said.

He related too that the government has been implementing mechanisms to advance the roadmaps designed to develop a more resilient agri-food sector. This, he said, has seen the government engaging in public-private agreements with the local private sector.

“In order to transform food systems, despite the many challenges we may encounter, we can employ initiatives or best practices to make them more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. First, the issue of inadequate finance must be addressed as it is a key driver for food system transformation.

“Further, to support national efforts to achieve a more balanced and efficient food system and deliver progress on all 17 Sustainable Development Goals, investments are required for the development of production, transportation and logistics, technology, and infrastructure,” Mustapha said.

He further stated that in order to promote stra-

tegic transformation and contribute to sustainability goals such as social well-being, ecosystem health, and food and nutrition security on a wider scale, governments can engage in actions that foster diverse, sustainable, and environmentally sound innovations that proliferate across the food chain, opening opportunities for change.

“This includes experiments with new foods, products, services, and business and governance models. Innovations in efficient food supply chains, sustainable agriculture, increased farming, agricultural governance reforms, food waste solutions, and climate-resilient initiatives.

“The engagement of farmers, consumers, and other agri-food actors is also crucial. Raising farmers’ awareness of their responsibilities and the technical possibilities for transforming food systems will also be key. Technical and financial support for investments needs to be accelerated if we are to achieve changes in agri-food systems,” Mustapha said.

— Minister Mustapha advises CARICOM, Latin American leaders during engagement on region’s impact on agri-food systems

Celebration of multiple cultures unites us as a people

CHINESE community members celebrated the Chinese Lunar New Year and Spring Festival of 2023 Sunday last at the National Park with Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who was also performing the functions as President, and his wife, Mignon Bowen-Phillips.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Phillips spoke to the role the People’s Republic of China and its citizens have played in the advancement of Guyana since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries some 50 years ago and in their 170 years since journeying to the shores of Guyana.

The Brigadier said, “I am aware that the Spring Festival -- a more than four-thousand-year celebration -- is one of the most anticipated and important observances on the Chinese calendar. It is a time of reverence and reflection as respect is paid to ancestors. Much like Christmas time in Guyana, the Spring Festival commemorations are highlighted by the cleaning of homes in preparation for that new start. But most importantly, it is a time of rich cultural indulgence as

the celebration takes place with accents of diverse food, dance, folklore and other traditions, much of which we will have the privilege of observing here this evening.”

The Prime Minister continued: “In Guyana, we welcome this celebration as it allows us the opportunity to partake in that rich culture which makes up the diverse tapestry of this country. Guyana is known as a place where people from all walks of life get the unique opportunity to sample multiple cultures; a practice that has always united us as a people.”

The Chinese Association of Guyana organised

the event, which took place in the Georgetown National Park.

Lunar New Year, also commonly known as Chinese New Year, begins on January 22, 2023, and ushers in the Year of the Rabbit.

China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Guo Haiyan; the President of the Chinese Association, Ruihui Su; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and members of the Diplomatic Corps were also in attendance along with other special invitees.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips greets Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Guo Haiyan, on Sunday to observe the 2023 Chinese Lunar New Year and Spring Festival

Children of Chinese descendants entertaining the audience

One of the many performances at the Chinese Spring Festival 2023

— PM says at Chinese Spring Festival celebration at National Park

GDP reaches new level as Chinese economy embarks on new journey of hope

*China’s economy grew three per cent year on year to a record high of 121.0207 trillion yuan (about 18 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022. Compared with major economies across the world, the growth rate is relatively fast.

*The economy is bound to recover as the fundamentals of the Chinese economy -- its strong resilience, enormous potential, great vitality and long-term sustainability -- remain unchanged.

*Shoring up confidence is crucial for economic recovery. In 2023, the worsening global economic situation needs China’s steady growth as a stabilizer.

(Xinhua) China’s economy posted steady growth in 2022, despite pressures, including epidemic resurgences and a complicated external environment, with its gross domestic product (GDP) reaching a new level.

The economy grew three per cent year on year to a record high of 121.0207 trillion yuan (about 18 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Tuesday.

This marks a new and higher level in terms of economic aggregate, after the Chinese economy topped the thresholds of 100 trillion yuan and 110 trillion yuan in 2020 and 2021, respectively -- maintaining its position well as the world’s second-largest economy, Kang Yi, head of the NBS, told a press conference.

But this is “still a small step forward,”

Kang said. The country needs to more than double the current per capita GDP of about 12,700 U.S. dollars to reach its goal that its per capita GDP will be on par with that of mid-level developed countries in 2035.

Compared with major economies across the world, however, the three per cent growth rate is relatively fast, he said, attributing the economy’s rebound from stronger-than-expected shocks to the timely support of pro-growth policies.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

When asked to comment on the overall performance of the Chinese economy in 2022, Dominik Peschel, head of the Economics Unit of the Asian Development Bank Resident Mission in China, noted several headwinds the country had to deal with, including COVID-19, a proper-

ty market downturn and softening export growth.

To stabilize economic growth, the Chinese government mobilized additional funds for infrastructural investment and gradually loosened monetary policy. Infrastructural investment supported economic growth, as did solid growth in manufacturing investment. As a result, industry grew faster than services, while household consumption was weak, he noted.

In breakdown, China’s industrial output went up 3.6 per cent year on year in 2022, while fixed-asset investment rose 5.1 per cent, year on year.

Retail sales contracted 0.2 percent year on year in 2022. A total of 12.06 million new urban jobs were created last year, exceeding the annual target of 11 million.

The Chinese people became more affluent

in 2022, with per capita disposable income reaching 36,883 yuan, up five per cent year on year in nominal terms.

China’s consumer prices posted a mild growth of two per cent in 2022, in sharp contrast to the global spike.

So far, China has built the world’s largest and most technologically advanced network infrastructure, and the industrial Internet has been widely integrated into 45 national economic categories.

Zhang Yansheng, chief researcher at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said that innovation has been a bright spot in China’s economy in recent years, despite headwinds due to COVID-19. New energy and digital industries have helped stabilize overall economic development.

“The national econo-

my continued to develop despite downward pressure, economic output reached a higher level, employment levels and prices were generally stable, people’s lives had been continuously improved, new achievements were secured in high-quality development, while overall economic and social development was stable and healthy,” said Kang.

HOPES AHEAD

When asked about China’s economic outlook in 2023, Kang said the economy is bound to recover as the fundamentals of the Chinese economy -- its strong resilience, enormous potential, great vitality and long-term sustainability -- remained unchanged.

Citing a solid material foundation, vast market potential, strengthened new drivers of growth, the release of dividends of reform and

opening-up, as well as rich experience in macro regulation, Kang said the Chinese economy is certain to see an overall improvement this year.

Given the country’s optimized epidemic response, Kang believed that consumption will revive this year. Final consumption contributed 32.8 per cent to the GDP expansion in 2022.

As for the property industry, Kang said it will have less drag on the economy in 2023 than in 2022.

There is still room for China’s property sector to grow, as the country’s urbanization rate reached 65.22 percent in 2022 -- still much lower than the 80 percent found in developed countries, he said, while also pledging measures to support the demand of urban residents for home ownership and improved housing conditions.

However, Kang also warned of possible risks in 2023, as the foundation of domestic economic recovery is not yet solid, while the domestic triple pressures of demand contraction, supply shock and weakening expectations, are still concerns.

China will make economic stability its top priority and pursue progress, while ensuring stability this year, he said.

“Shoring up confidence is crucial for economic recovery. In 2023, the worsening global economic situation needs China’s steady growth as a stabilizer,” Zhang Yansheng noted.

China’s BRI ‘circle of friends’ expanding

(People’s Daily) This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

At the beginning of 2023, China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the joint construction of the BRI with Turkmenistan and signed an updated MoU on the BRI with the Philippines. This fully demonstrated that the BRI meets the needs of world development, conforms to the expectations of the international community, and always enjoys strong resilience and vitality.

The Belt and Road cooperation embraces the historical trend of economic globalization, responds to the call for improving the global governance system and meets people’s longing for a better life, which is the fundamental reason why it always has strong resilience and vitality.

So far, China has signed more than 200 BRI cooperation agreements with 151 countries and 32 international organizations.

In its latest Global Economic Prospects report released on Jan. 10, the World Bank slashed its 2023 global economic growth forecast to 1.7 per cent, 1.3 percentage points lower than what it projected last June.

As economic globalization is encountering headwinds and global economic recovery is in the doldrums, the joint construction of the BRI has shown a more important role in boosting the economic growth of relevant countries and regions and promoting the common development of all countries.

A research report released by the World Bank in 2019 showed that transportation infrastructure projects under the BRI, if fully implemented, would generate $1.6 trillion in benefits annually in global revenue by 2030 — accounting for 1.3 per cent of global GDP.

More countries will carry out high-quality cooperation under the framework of the BRI, which will be the prevailing trend.

The BRI was proposed by China, yet it generates opportunities and benefits for the entire world.

The initiative has provid-

ed new platforms for international trade and investment. Data showed that the cumulative value of trade in goods between China and countries along the BRI routes reached nearly $11 trillion from 2013 to 2021, while the two-way investment hit more than $230 billion.

The initiative has also promoted infrastructure connectivity and made new contributions to the well-being of the people in various countries.

High-quality BRI cooperation conforms to the trend of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The cooperation has injected new vitality into the ancient Silk Road by seizing opportunities of digital, Internet-based and intelligent development, fostering new growth drivers, exploring new development pathways, and building the digital Silk Road and the Silk Road of innovation.

Martin Albrow, a British sociologist noted for his works on globalization, pointed out that the BRI has connected China’s peaceful development with the prosperity and happiness of the whole world.

As an important international public good China has provided for the world to help improve global governance, high-quality BRI cooperation draws on past experience, values innovation, takes the initiative, emphasizes seeking common ground while reserving differences, and promotes incremental reform of the existing international order and rules.

The BRI and its guiding principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits have been included in relevant documents of the United Nations, the Group of 20 (G20), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and other organizations, becoming an important consensus on global governance.

The establishment of multilateral development institutions and cooperation platforms, such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Silk Road Fund, will contribute to the building of a fairer and more reasonable global governance system.

From visionary blueprints to intensive implementation,

the BRI has taken a journey from taking roots to achieving sustainable progress.

China’s “circle of friends” for joint construction of the BRI has expanded continuously, while the BRI’s quality of cooperation has kept

improving and its development prospects have grown more promising.

China will consider holding the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation this year to provide fresh impetus for the devel-

opment and prosperity of the world.

At a new starting point, China is ready to work together with various parties to continue promoting high-quality construction of the road for peace, pros-

perity, opening up, green development, innovation, and connected civilizations, so that the initiative, a project of the century, will better benefit people across the world.

City Hall restoration: $263.2M budgeted

—

$1.9

By Cindy Parkinson

In 2020, the government inherited a lethargic system encouraged and practised by some Local Democratic Organs (LDOs) and in changing this outlook $ 263.2M has been earmarked for City Hall’s building renovation for the year.

The 2023 National Budget, totalling a massive $781.9 billion, was presented Monday by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh. According to him, works will also advance in Charity, Parika, Leonora and Mon Repos markets.

“Our government has long recognised that robust local government architecture and systems support more sustainable commu-

billion for sanitation

nities. In 2022, improved infrastructure in communities resulted in a total of $714 million being spent to support and enhance the Regional Development Programmes within the LDOs.”

According to the budget, the National Pathway Workers Project and the Community Enhancement Workers Programme were effectively introduced by the government in 2022, creating employment for over 12,000 people and enhancing the environment, sanitary conditions and infrastructure.

The government of Guyana plans to maintain its commitment to national pathway workers, community infrastructure and improvement projects,

sustainable livelihood and entrepreneurial growth with an additional $13.5 billion budgeted.

According to the finance minister, the approaching local government elections will revitalise the local government system and serve as a reminder of the government’s commitment to good governance and transparency in every community.

SANITATION

Dr. Singh noted that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government has aggressively pursued implementing a solid waste management programme nationwide since assuming office. The finance minister claims

that the programme has led to timely and secure trash disposal.

According to him, the operation and improvement of the Haags Bosh Sanitary Landfill Site and associated facilities in several communities, including Rose Hall, Belle Vue, Lethem and Lusignan, have been prioritised by

the government.

In 2022, the senior minister noted that a total of $1.4 billion was spent towards solid waste management and the upgrading of solid waste infrastructure, including the completion of temporary locations for accepting waste at East Canje and Blairmont, closure of dumpsite at Babu

John, the upgrading of existing disposal landfill sites at Corriverton.

He said further infrastructural development and operation of current and new landfill sites and solid waste clean-up programmes are all budgeted for this year with a total of $1.9 billion.

More specifically, plans are made for the Blairmont Waste Management Facility’s access road and bridge, and the closure of the landfills in Charity, Lima and D’Edward.

Additionally, the finance minister noted improvements in the building of stormwater ponds, installing a landfill gas management system at Haags Bosch and improvements to the landfill sites in Kildonan, Bon Success and Kara Kara.

Man allegedly confesses to brutal murder of Black Bush couple

— says house set alight to protect identity of robbers

By Nafeeza Yahya-Sakur

THE badly mutilated bodies of an elderly Black Bush Polder couple were discovered on Tuesday morning, shortly after neighbours successfully quelled a fire at their home.

Dead are 67-year-old Subnauth Budraj, called “Bullboy and Bud”, and his wife Sarasuati Devi Budraj, called “Sita”. They were found a short distance from each other in the lower flat of their Lot 26 CZ South Yakasari, Black Bush Polder home at approximately 04:00 hours.

The couple lived alone in the property where they also operated an off-licence liquor store.

Police have since determined that they were the victims of a robbery/murder and have detained seven persons including a 22-year-old man of Yakasari, Black Bush Polder, who has been identified the prime suspect. The man has reportedly confessed to his role in the crime, telling detectives that the husband and wife were killed because they would have been able to identify him and the others who had broken into the property to commit a robbery.

When the Guyana Chron-

icle arrived at the scene, many residents had gathered and they expressed shock at what had transpired.

They related that they heard a loud explosion and subsequently saw smoke and fire emanating from the house. An alarm was raised and residents formed a bucket brigade. The fire was extinguished before the arrival of the firefighters and the police.

Sarasuati’s nephew, Satesh Persaud told this publication that he received a call around 04:15 hours about the fire.

He said he immediately contacted another aunt and went to the scene.

Persaud recalled that when he arrived, the residents were already tackling the fire with buckets of water and had the situation under control.

He did not see his aunt and uncle, and moments after he began making enquiries about their whereabouts, he was told that they were both dead.

Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle that soon after the police arrived, ranks entered the premises where they found the couple. His aunt was in a pool of blood on the floor with a knife protruding from her neck. Her entire left hand was burnt. Her husband

was found a short distance away with gaping wounds on his neck and other parts of his body. He was covered in blood.

According to Persaud, the entire house was ransacked and most of the valuable items were missing.

“The whole house tumble upstairs and downstairs; all the cash and the jewelry gone. All of them bags and drawers open,” he said.

The lower flat which houses a bond, was badly damaged.

QUIET PEOPLE

Meanwhile, Rovindra Goberdhan who was part of the bucket brigade said he heard a loud explosion and when he looked through his window, he noticed fire emanating from the lower flat of the couple’s house.

“I rush out and same time a next neighbour run come and say, Fire! Fire! So, I turned back and grab a bucket and start throw water. The fire spread lil bigger and more guys come in and went around the next side and try out it and soon after the po-

lice come,” the man recalled.

Another neighbor, Dindyal Budhoo recounted that during the time they were dousing the fire they were shouting for the elderly couple as they thought they were asleep.

“Me never though meh would ah see this in meh community. Them people nah trouble nobody, them quiet quiet and old… meh hope ah police find them [the killers] soonest and let we get justice. Them old people nah deserve this”, he said.

The dead woman sister, Savitry Devi Jasodra, 62 was inconsolable at the scene.

She related that she spent time with her sister on Monday afternoon during which they cooked together.

“Me can’t even believe wha happen to meh sister. Only yesterday afternoon me see them. Me brother-in-law and me sister nah get problem with anybody. Yesterday afternoon, me and she was cooking and I left deh around 3 [15:00 hours]. Till now meh deh in one shock,” Jasodra said.

The two victims were described as quiet and friendly.

Region Six Vice-Chairman, Zamal Hussain and Regional Executive Officer (REO), Narendra Persaud

were among those who visited community to offer comfort and to express sympathy to the grieving relatives.

The couple leaves to mourn three children who resides abroad.

BREAKTHROUGH

Investigators were able to make a major breakthrough in the case following the arrest of several men and women.

One of the suspects reportedly confessed to the crime and implicated another.

He reportedly told investigators that they never intended to kill the couple. However, during the robbery they recognised them. It was then it was decided that they would kill them both and set fire to the building to cover their tracks and reduce their chances of being captured.

The suspect claimed that he used a gas bottle and pieces of paper to start the fire which quickly spread through the lower flat.

Regional Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus told the media that jewellery, phone cards, cash and other items belonging to the couple were recovered at the prime suspect’s home.

One of many cleanup exercises done within the past year (Photo Credit: Local Government Ministry)

The robbers attempted to set fire to the building. A section of the lower flat was badly damaged

GTT on board for Guyana’s Energy Conference

— MMG is official local payment partner

attend the conference and be a part of it want a seamless way to ensure their participation and that’s where MMG comes in.

“All of the companies out there that have to buy their passes, can simply go onto the website provided by the Energy Conference, you book your passes, your tickets or whatever you’re

buying and in a matter of seconds make the payment with MMG.”

So far, the Conference and Expo has been able to attract over 30 sponsors and over 150 exhibitors. This year, the IECEG Secretariat confirmed that the conference will have more delegates, sponsors and exhibitors than last year.

The Conference and Expo this year is being hosted under the theme, “Harnessing Energy for Development” and is expected to assemble Heads of State, government officials, policy-makers, academics, industry professionals, and global energy thought leaders.

THE International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana (IECEG) 2023 announced, on Monday, the return of GTT as a Platinum Sponsor for the second edition of the event, slated for February 14-17, 2023.

Mobile Money Guyana (MMG+), GTT’s sister company, will also be the official payment partner for local transactions for the Conference and Expo. The announcement was made at a media conference held on Monday at the Marriott Hotel, Guyana, the host venue for the event.

Kurt Baboolall, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana 2023, in welcoming GTT on board for the Conference and Expo, said: “We are also happy to welcome GTT’s subsidiary, MMG, whose participation is more along an operational and financial perspective.

“I am more so thankful for GTT’s confidence in the role of the secretariat, which is to drive the energy conversations and to also create linkages within the energy sector.”

Baboolall added: “The preparations for the conference have been moving along very smoothly and progressively, which we are happy about. We’d like to welcome GTT as our Platinum Sponsor in the second edition of the International

Energy Conference and Expo Guyana, 2023.”

Also present at the media conference was Richard Stanton, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GTT, who said: “This is the second year of the conference and of GTT being a significant sponsor to it. We recognise what we saw from last year and what we gained in terms of knowledge and business from last year, and we’re back again since it is the most important conference and exhibition that will happen in Guyana… so we are really delighted to be involved.”

Stanton added: “For GTT, it’s not just about being a name and a sponsor, it’s about being fully engaged and fully involved, from selling tickets to providing infrastructure, complementing what the Marriott already has - our plan is to be 100 per cent involved and be a supporter of the Energy Conference Team and work together over the next few weeks to make sure we get it and make it bigger and better than it was last year and look to how we can improve things next year as well.”

Meanwhile, Orson Ferguson, Chief Operations Officer with responsibility for GTT Business Solutions, said: “This [IECEG] is the largest conference and expo of its kind in Guyana and as the premier provider [of telecommunications] for the

sector in Guyana, it makes sense for us [GTT] to be here, the Energy Conference and Expo presents a unique opportunity for us to interact with, meet and listen to leaders in the sector, as well as policy-makers...it allows us to understand the plans for the sector so that we can prepare and provide solutions to meet the needs of the sector.”

Ferguson added: “Last year during the conference, we used our participation to not only listen to the players in the sector, but also to validate some of the assumptions we had made around the needs of the sector. We are excited again to be partnering with the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana for 2023 and we look forward to the exciting things that are going to come out of this conference.”

Bobita Ram, Chief Operations Officer with responsibility for MMG, said in her remarks: “We are absolutely delighted to be part of the International Energy Conference and Expo this year. This is the first time we are in the energy sector and we are very happy to be here.”

Ram added: “I know that Kurt and the team are not looking for lines of people going into their offices for passes and tickets to the expo, they are also not looking for people to go pay cheques. And I know members of society today and organisations that are going to

The International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana (IECEG) 2023 announced, on Monday, the return of GTT as a Platinum Sponsor for the second edition of the event, slated for February 14-17, 2023

More lands, technology and regional food hub to boost ‘agri’ sector

- $19.7 billion allocated to upgrade drainage, irrigation countrywide

By Naomi Parris

GUYANA’S agricultural sector is positioned for extensive growth, with billions of dollars allocated to it in the 2023 National Budget to reclaim its title as the breadbasket of the Caribbean.

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, on Monday presented the nation-

al budget at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where he disclosed that some $19.7 billion had been allocated for the upgrade of drainage and irrigation networks across the country.

restoration and enhancement with strong, decisive leadership at both national and regional levels to mould a robust agricultural sector that will transform lives, livelihoods and landscapes,” the Finance Minister said.

Dr Singh, during his presentation to the national assembly, stated that the government is conscious of the importance of having adequate, effective and reliable drainage infrastructure for the safety and security of its people.

“Since returning to office,

our government has resumed giving the sector the attention it deserves, focusing on its

Additionally, the budget highlights a $2 billion allocation for increasing production through expansion in acreages and the use of technology with the rollout of three initiatives.

In this regard, the minister disclosed that the government will be partnering with the private sector to see the rollout of the three initiatives:

The establishment of a regional food hub, greater use of science, technology, research and development and the promotion of agriculture in the hinterland regions.

Meanwhile, further investments will be made in increasing the production of high-value and new crops.

“Aligned with the agricultural diversification agenda, government continues to expand non-traditional agriculture, with particular focus on research and development, and the production of high-value commodities.”

To this end, the sums of $150 million, $153 million, and $200 million have been allocated for advancing the corn and soya bean project, citrus and spices project and the agriculture and innovative entrepreneurship programme.

Further, in 2023, government will invest in new agro-processing facilities in Crabwood Creek and Orealla, construct a new cold-storage facility in Bartica, and procure two new refrigerated trucks to support the transport of inputs and agro products.

“Agro processors will also benefit from the establishment of another Guyana Shop and a marketing information centre at Bartica. Moreover, the regional food hub referred to above will provide strong impetus to agro-processing and value-added food production,” Dr Singh said.

LIVESTOCK AND FISHERIES

Meanwhile, much focus will also be placed on advancing the country’s fisheries and livestock industries.

The Finance Minister said: “[The] Livestock sector is vital to government’s

plans for enhanced food security, sustainable economic growth, and enhanced farm incomes. With high and growing demand for animal-sourced food products both locally and internationally, the livestock sector is poised for further expansion, which can simultaneously bring economic value to underutilized pasture lands, while creating further avenues for investment, employment and bolster farm household incomes.”

To this end, Dr Singh said the government will continue to support the industry by undertaking investments to help improve the quality of milk and milk products through better sanitation and hygiene practices, improve mutton variety and production, establish a bio-secured small ruminant breeding facility and invest in a broiler breeder facility which will reduce dependency on importation of hatching eggs.

As it pertains to the fisheries industry, Dr Singh said the government will continue its support of fisherfolk and is assiduously working to provide the necessary assistance and technical support to promote innovation and productivity within the marine and aquaculture industries, with an allocation $349.6 million for the expansion of brackish-water shrimp sub-sector.

SUGAR AND RICE

Remembering the traditional industries, Singh noted that investments will be made to adopt new mechanisms for better production and yields of both the rice and sugar industries.

An allocation of $4 billion will go to the Guyana Sugar Corporation ( GuySuCo) for commencement of construction of the Albion Packaging Plant and the expansion of the capacity of the Blairmont Packaging Plant.

Meanwhile, over $300 million will be allocated to promote production and productivity in the rice sector. Emphasis will be placed on research and development to improve yields to implement alternatives to insecticides to control the paddy-bug problem.

The allocation will also make room for constructing two new drying floors in Regions Three and Five; introducing new bio-fortified rice varieties; securing new markets for the rice industry and advancing other initiatives.

Elliott stunner fires Liver into FA fourth round

LIVERPOOL claimed their first win since the turn of the year as Harvey Elliott's stunning strike proved enough to beat Wolves in their FA Cup third-round replay.

Elliott's powerful longrange drive broke the deadlock with 13 minutes on the clock.

Fabio Carvalho had a goal ruled out before Ruben Neves sent a free-kick narrowly off target in the second half.

Liverpool will travel to Brighton in the fourth round on Sunday, 29 January.

Reds manager Jurgen Klopp, who made eight changes to the team beaten by the Seagulls in the Premier

League on Saturday, will be thrilled with his side's gutsy response to that humbling defeat on the south coast.

Wolves' improvement under Julen Lopetegui has been clear to see but the home side failed to seriously threaten Caoimhin Kelleher's goal until the latter stages of the contest, when Neves, Raul Jimenez and Matheus Cunha all went close to an equaliser.

Reds deliver perfect response

There was a brief stoppage in play within the first minute due to a power cut inside the stadium, but Liverpool's visiting supporters did not have to wait much longer for teenager Elliott to light up Molineux with a goal of the

highest quality.

The 19-year-old collected a pass from Thiago Alcantara, advanced unchallenged into the Wolves half and unleashed a ferocious 30-yard effort which sailed over the dive of goalkeeper Jose Sa and into the net.

The goal appeared to settle Liverpool, who continued to attack with pace and intensity while forcing the hosts into errors in possession.

Fabio Carvalho had the ball in the Wolves net again 10 minutes before half-time, but the former Fulham forward was in an offside position from Naby Keita's through-ball and the goal was disallowed. (BBC Sport)

Sports headed in right direction...

tween the government and the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) to upgrade and expand the South Dakota Circuit at Timehri is another promise that the PPP/C administration has stayed true to. The inaugural One

Guyana President’s Cup, which was a collaboration with the Guyana Football Federation and the Kashif & Shanghai Organisation, was rightfully lauded by Dr. Singh. He posited that, “The Inter-Regional football tournament which was

(From back page)

launched and successfully executed, witnessed the remarkable footballing talent of our country being mobilised in a single competition and led to a significant increase in national and international exposure.”

West Indies Test Squad named...

Seales has done extremely well for us since he started back in 2021, but with him unavailable we have decided that Gabriel would be best able to fill that role. He (Gabriel) is an experienced bowler who has been at the international level for over 10 years and has knowledge of the conditions in Zimbabwe when we won there in 2017.”

West Indies will play both Test matches at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, with the first Test

running from 4 to 8 February, and the second match from 12 to 16 February. Ahead of the two-Test Series, West Indies will have a three-day warm-up match against a local side set for 28 to 30 January at Bulawayo Athletic Club. All matches start at 10am local time (4:00am Eastern Caribbean/3:00am Jamaica).

The last Test Series between Zimbabwe and the West Indies was also played at Queens Sports Club in

(From back page)

October 2017. West Indies won the two-match Series 1-0, winning the first contest by 117 runs with the second Test ending in a draw.

FULL SQUAD: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Jermaine Blackwood (vice captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Tagnarine Chanderpaul, Roston Chase, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach. (CWI)

South Africa Racing Tips

Irish

American Racing Tips

Gulfstream Park

Race 1 Tempora

Race 2 Too Much Vino

Race 3 Mama Maria

English

Race 4 Marley Luck

Race 5 It's A Gamble

Race 6 Megan Makin

Australian Open 2023 results: Djokovic, Zverev advance on day two

Novak Djokovic thanked the crowd for a "welcoming reception he could only dream of" after he made the perfect return to the Australian Open with victory over Roberto Carballes Baena.

The Serb won 6-3 6-4 6-0 in his first Grand Slam match in Melbourne since his controversial deportation last year.

Djokovic, 35, walked out to loud cheers, with flags and banners displayed around Rod Laver Arena.

"I couldn't ask for a better start to the tournament," he said.

Chants of "Nole! Nole! Nole!" also rang around the 15,000 capacity arena after the fourth seed won crucial points in a one-sided firstround match against Spain's

Carballes Baena.

"Thank you for giving me such a welcoming reception that I could only dream of," he told the packed crowd.

"I feel really happy that I'm back here in Australia and on the court where I have had the biggest success in my career.

"Definitely this court is the most special court in my life."

Djokovic was unable to compete at last year's event after the Australian government cancelled his visa because of his Covid-19 vaccination status.

He had already received plenty of support from fans on his return to Australia earlier in January.

He also praised the reaction he received from a sold-

out Rod Laver Arena in an exhibition match with Nick Kyrgios earlier this week.

Djokovic shakes off hamstring concerns in clinical win

The Wimbledon champion is looking to make up for lost time as he pursues Rafael Nadal's record of 22 Grand Slam titles, having also missed last year's US Open because of the United States' travel restrictions.

Once again receiving warm support from the crowd, Djokovic proceeded to expertly dismantle world number 75 Carballes Baena's game in a little over two hours.

Djokovic has been managing a hamstring injury and took to the court with heavy strapping on his upper left leg.

But he did not appear limited by the problem and, sparking into action to save three break points in the fifth game of the match, went on to demonstrate his class on his favourite court in a near-perfect third set which saw him lose just four points in the final six games.

It extended his remarkable winning streak at the Australian Open to 35 matches - a run stretching back to 2018 - and the manner of the victory suggests he will be difficult to stop once again.

He will play Bolivian Hugo Dellien or French qualifier Enzo Couacaud next in the second round

Alexander Zverev claimed his first singles win since tearing several knee ligaments with a five-set victory over lucky loser Juan Pablo Varillas.

The German, who had surgery after injuring his right ankle in the French Open semi-finals in June, came through 4-6 6-1 5-7 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 against Peru's Varillas.

"Whatever happens now, this tournament is a success for me," Zverev said.

Zverev, 25, missed Wimbledon and the US Open after sustaining the injury in his match against Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, only

returning to the court for an exhibition in December.

He was on court for four hours against Varillas and will face American lucky loser Michael Mmoh or French qualifier Laurent Lokoli next.

Second seed Casper Ruud came through in four sets against Czech player Tomas Machac.

The Norwegian, 24, won 6-3 7-6 (8-6) 6-7 (7-5) 6-3 to set up a second round meeting with American Jenson Brooksby, who came from behind to beat Australian Christopher O'Connell 3-6 6-2 6-3 6-2.

Fifth seed Andrey Rublev beat 2020 US Open champion Dominic Thiem 6-3 6-4

6-2 as Austria's wildcard Thiem continues his return from injury.

American eighth seed Taylor Fritz required four sets to beat Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili, winning 6-4 6-2 4-6 7-5, while Danish ninth seed Holger Rune defeated Serbia's Filip Krajinovic 6-2 6-3 6-4.

Spanish 14th seed Pablo Carreno Busta won 7-6 (7-4) 6-1 7-6 (7-3) against Argentine Pedro Cachin, and Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov overcame former semi-finalist Aslan Karatsev of Russia 7-6 (7-3) 7-5 6-2.

Britons Andy Murray and Dan Evans were also among the winners on Tuesday. (BBC Sport)

NBA: LeBron James scores season-high 48 points in Los Angeles Lakers win

LeBron James scored a season-high 48 points to help Los Angeles Lakers past Houston Rockets and further close in on the all-time NBA points record.

James has now passed 35 points in five of his past seven games, and was his team's top scorer in the 140132 win.

He has 38,072 career points, 315 behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's all-time record.

Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum scored 51 points, including a pair of three-pointers in the final 64 seconds, as they won 130-118 at Charlotte Hornets.

Tatum now holds the franchise record for regular-season games with 50 or more points, with five.

Boston have won seven

matches in a row and extended their lead at the top of the Eastern Conference.

Elsewhere, Stephen Curry finished with a game-high 41 points as Golden State Warriors beat Washington Wizards 127-118.

Memphis Grizzlies extended their winning run to 10 games with a dominant 136-106 win at Phoenix Suns, and are second in the Western Conference behind Denver Nuggets. (BBC Sport)

Novak Djokovic has won 24 of his past 25 matches, losing only to Holger Rune in Paris during this run

LeBron James is closing on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's all-time NBA points record

Bolt missing millions from investment accounts

Former Olympian, Jamaican Usain Bolt, is among more than thirty persons whose investments at Stocks & Securities Limited (SSL) are believed to have been fleeced by a wealth adviser.

A Jamaica Observer source said the information was delivered to Bolt’s management team last week just before the company went public about a massive fraud that sources say amounts to more than $1.2 billion.

Last Thursday, SSL issued a statement saying that it had “become aware of fraudulent activity by a former employee of the company”.

The company said that following initial internal investigations it “referred the

matter to the relevant law enforcement authorities to facilitate a thorough and complete examination of all aspects of the matter”.

Added the company, “To ensure this, we have taken steps to secure those assets and strengthened internal protocols to detect suspicious activity in the shortest time possible.” The company also said it would “continue to liaise and co-operate fully with law enforcement throughout this investigation and ensure that the responsible party faces the full consequence of the law”.

At the weekend, the Observer source said SSL was aware of the fraud since August; however, the employee suspected of involvement was still employed with the

company up to last Wednesday.

That was the same day that Bolt’s team met with SSL representatives after requesting a meeting last De-

cember following the Olympian’s yearly review of his financial portfolio, at which point he had noticed the discrepancy.

After Bolt’s team brought

the matter to the attention of SSL, the company revealed that it had been doing an investigation into other matters to which the employee allegedly “confessed”, but until then the company was not aware that Bolt had also been affected.

Bolt, the source said, opened the account in 2012 and never made a withdrawal. He is said to have invested just under US$10 million. However, the source stated that only US$2,000 remain in the account.

The source also suggested that the magnitude of the fraud involved more than one person and the authorities are looking at that possibility.

Efforts by the Observer over the weekend to confirm this information with the compa-

ny were not successful.

Late last Thursday the Financial Services Commission (FSC) said it has issued directions to SSL barring it from engaging in sales or trading of assets without the permission of the FSC.

“These directions are a supervisory tool to allow the FSC to engage an entity in a process of enhanced oversight,” the regulator said.

“In the case of SSL, this enhanced oversight reflects the need for the FSC to have a full view of the integrity of the transactions being conducted, including the movement of funds and of securities into and out of SSL.”

The FSC also said it will continue its investigations into matters related to SSL. (Jamaica Observer)

Steven Smith closing in on Sussex spell as Ashes preparation

STEVEN Smith is moving closer to a County Championship deal with Sussex in pole position to acquire the Australia batter on a shortterm deal for the start of the 2023 season.

A report in the Sydney Morning Herald on Thursday cited Hove as the likeliest destination for Smith, who has spent the last few months in discussions with county sides over a possible stint of "three or four games". ESPNcricinfo understands Smith was ideally looking at joining a club in Division One, with Kent seen as an ideal given his links to the county following a stint in club cricket at Sevenoaks Vine CC in 2007, which led to a oneoff second-team appearance at Canterbury. However, the club's situation and Smith's availability did not align

. No contract has yet been signed with Sussex, who play in Division Two, with a decision expected in the coming week.

The short-term deal would allow Smith to acclimatise to English conditions ahead of Australia's likely appearance in the World Test Championship final at the Kia Oval in June, along with the Ashes series that follows, beginning at Edgbaston on June 16. The 33-year-old is forgoing this year's IPL, a period he will use to return home after Australia's four-Test series in India which finishes in the middle of March.

This would be Smith's first red-ball experience in county cricket, and the pull of a player of his undoubted quality is all too clear. He averages 60.89 in Test cricket - a figure that only drops to 59.55 across 16 Tests in

England - and has 30 centuries in the format

. His previous dalliance with the English domestic game came in 2010 when he played five T20 matches for Worcestershire.

However in 2007, Smith was presented with the opportunity of forging a long-term future in English cricket when Surrey offered him a full-time contract after he was scouted by their first team coach at the time, Alan Butcher. Smith has British citizenship through his mother, Gillian, who was born in London, and ended up playing two matches for Surrey 2nd XI, but turned down the offer with a view to continuing his progression at New South Wales. His one-off appearance for Kent 2nd XI came earlier that summer. As it happens, Paul Farbrace, the new head coach at Sussex, was Kent's academy and 2nd XI coach at the time.

Smith's presence in the English domestic game will present a concern for the national team, offering vital preparation for a rival ahead of their attempts to reclaim the Ashes. Such a dilemma was put to Ben Stokes on the recent tour of Pakistan, and England's Test captain was conflicted on the matter.

"It's good for the county game to see players of Steve's calibre want to come over and play," Stokes said. "But I don't know. It's one of those where you probably prefer them not to get any game time in England before the Ashes. It is what it is."

However, Mo Bobat, ECB's performance director, insisted that the benefits of Smith's presence on the county circuit would cut both ways.

"You end up being fairly split," he said. "Any good player coming to our domestic system will raise the standard of it. In many ways it's good. It's good for our bowlers to bowl at Steve Smith. It's good for young batters to bat with him. There is upside.

"Specifically with the Ashes. Yeah, you could say it helps him prep and that could be a disadvantage to England. I don't spend too much time thinking about that. We just try to control what we can do. I think, and I'm sure that Brendon and Ben would be the same, if we play to our potential we know we are a match for anyone and can beat anyone, the way we are playing our cricket. We will focus on that.

"At times it's disappointing that our players aren't afforded the same opportunities overseas," Bobat added. "I'd love to get more of our players in first-class cricket overseas. It's notoriously difficult. It's not particularly easy in Australia, can't really do it in India, we've done it at times before in Sri Lanka. It's not an easy thing to do, but it would be nice if our players could sample a bit of that in red-ball cricket. It's not easy, though."

Should Smith sign for Sussex, he will be a replacement for Jayden Seales. The West Indian quick was due to be the club's second overseas player alongside India batter Cheteshwar Pujara, but has been ruled out of the start of the English summer after requiring surgery on an injury to his left knee.

It is understood Sussex, who went through a turbulent period under the joint coach-

Usain Bolt won eight Olympic gold medals before retiring in 2017

ing team of Ian Salisbury and James Kirtley before the appointment of Farbrace, are

also looking to bring in Australia allrounder Sean Abbott on an all-format deal, and

Pakistan legspinner Shadab Khan for the Vitality Blast. (Cricinfo)

PCB postpones women's T20 league to September

THE Pakistan women's T20 league, meant to run alongside the PSL next month, will not go ahead as planned. The new PCB management committee, headed by Najam Sethi, decided to shelve the league, with the aim of holding it in September. The new league - which will bear a different name - will be a standalone tournament with four teams.

The idea to launch the women's T20 league was initiated by previous chairman Ramiz Raja and the league was meant to run side by side with PSL games in Rawalpindi. Ramiz was also a big proponent of launching the leagues at the youth level and intended to commercialise women's cricket by having a franchise-based league. The dates of the women's PSL directly clashing with the inaugural edition of the women's IPL - scheduled for March 2023 - was also less than ideal for commercial reasons

With the change in PCB's leadership, it was agreed in the PSL governing council meeting that the women's league was unfeasible at this time of year. The PCB will, however, continue to explore avenues for the league. There were discussions around having some exhibition games during the men's PSL as a test case, though this idea was also shelved.

ESPNcricinfo understands the PCB administration was reluctant to adopt this idea citing a lack of resources. Instead, they wanted to invest more on the infrastructure to expand the pool of players

across the country. But later with deliberation, it was agreed to have a separate tournament from the men's PSL and across two venues.

One of the major challenges the PCB will face is the formation of teams with adequate competitive players from the local pool. There are a handful of players on the Pakistan women's circuit, with approximately 30-35 cricketers at the senior level.

The domestic circuit for Pakistan women's cricket has two tournaments: three teams each playing the National T20 and ODI Challenge Cups. There is a big crop of cricketers picked up from trials ahead of the ongoing Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup, but the batch is still fairly young and in their developmental stages.

At the time the league was announced, Pakistan had 12 centrally contracted women's players, increasing the number

CRICKET QUIZ

by eight last year. Pakistan would still need a further 28 local players for the league, meaning they will need to dig deep among their reserves for local talent. Lahore Qalandars have also expanded its Player Development Programme to include women cricketers, in a bid to expand the playing base in Pakistan. They have a batch of over 20 girls already under development at their high-performance centre and could conceivably become a feeder to the league.

Sethi had earlier scrapped the Pakistan Junior League (PJL), another of his predecessor Ramiz's projects. It incurred significant losses in its first year which had rendered its future uncertain even more with the change of administration. A financial report revealed the PJL was run at a cost of approximately PKR 997 million, while the PCB got a return of only PKR 190 million for it.

For the women's league, Ramiz's idea was to capitalise the PSL's production company and leverage their existence during the PSL to cover women's PSL, with the intention of saving a significant chunk of logistics and production costs. All PSL franchises had objected to using their money to cover another tournament without any rebate or cost-sharing.

The new management is understood to be open to public tenders to build the league from scratch to make it a separate entity. PSL franchises have also expressed their interest to own the respective teams in the league. (Cricinfo)

Pant 'forever grateful and indebted' to individuals who took him to hospital

IN his first public comment since his car accident on December 30, Rishabh Pant has singled out two individuals, Rajat Kumar & Nishu Kumar, saying he would be "forever grateful and indebted" to them for ensuring he was taken to hospital safely.

Pant put out a series of Tweets on Monday evening, saying his "road to recovery had begun" and thanking the BCCI, Jay Shah and government authorities for their "incredible support".

"I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead.

"I may not have been able to thank everyone individually, but I must acknowledge these two heroes who helped me during my accident and ensured I got to the hospital safely. Rajat Kumar & Nishu Kumar, thank you. I'll be for-

ever grateful and indebted.

"From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to see you all on the field."

The road ahead for Pant, however, remains uncertain after he had surgery to reconstruct two knee ligaments on January 7, with a third surgery expected after six weeks. He is likely to miss out on most fixtures in 2023, among them the Test series against Australia and the IPL. India are also the hosts

of the 2023 ODI World Cup in October-November this year.

After his car hit a divider at around 5.30 am on December 30 while he was driving to his hometown of Roorkee in Uttarakhand from Delhi, Pant was initially treated at a local hospital before being taken to the Max Hospital in Dehradun for further treatment. He was then airlifted to Mumbai on January 4 so that his knee could be operated on urgently, and is expected to continue his rehabilitation in the city for a while. (Cricinfo)

Smith smashes first BBL ton as Sixers rout Strikers

By Tristan Lavalette

Sydney Sixers 203 for 5 (Smith 101, Patterson 43, Agar 2-48) beat Adelaide Strikers 144 all out (Carey 54, Dwarshuis 3-28) by 59 runs.

Steve Smith smashed his first BBL century to power in-form Sydney Sixers to a comfortable 59-run victory over Adelaide Strikers in Coffs Harbour.

After Sixers were sent in, Smith starred at the top of the order and relished the short boundaries in a blistering knock of 101 off 56 balls.

He dominated a 149-run second-wicket partnership with Kurtis Patterson in the highest stand this BBL season, as Sixers finished with a huge total that proved well beyond Strikers.

Sixers won their fourth straight match and remain locked in a battle with arch-rival Perth Scorchers for the BBL's top position, while Strikers are mired mid-table.

Smith cashes in on good fortune

In his much-anticipated BBL return against Scorchers, Smith showed glimpses of his best at the top of the order before falling for 36.

Against Strikers, in typi-

cally fidgety fashion, Smith lived dangerously early in his innings and was lucky to have survived on two.

Attempting to defend a length delivery from quick Harry Conway, the ball rolled back and hit the stumps but failed to dislodge the bails much to the exasperation of the bowler.

Conway's mood soured further when Smith on the next delivery smashed a six. It was clearly going to be Smith's night after he edged a delivery from quick Henry Thornton that bounced in front of wicketkeeper Alex Carey.

Smith then cashed in with furious big-hitting that went against his type and motored past his previous highest BBL score of 66.

He also unleashed ramps and reverse sweeps, as Smith reached his ton in style with his seventh six.

But he was run out in the next over after losing his footing scrambling back to his crease following skipper Moises Henriques' refusal for a second run.

Smith became the first-ever centurion for Sixers to end a long-time jinx for the three-time BBL champions.

His only previous T20 ton was in the IPL in 2016, as Smith continued to showcase his greater freedom following his much-discussed technical refinement.

It was also a statement to national selectors after Smith was on the outer during the recent T20 World Cup.

THORNTON'S TOUGH RUN CONTINUES

After such a blistering start to the season, marked by a remarkable 5 for 3 against Sydney Thunder, Thornton has thudded back to earth and been in and out of the line-up recently.

He was recalled with veteran quick Peter Siddle sidelined with a back injury as Thornton eyed an improved performance. He started well in the third over by conjuring swing to revive memories of his early season heroics.

But it was downhill from there, with Thornton leaking 13 runs in the 18th over to finish with 0 for 28 from three overs.

It was perhaps instructive that Thornton did not bowl his full four overs with confidence in him seemingly wavering as he struggled to carve out a permanent position in the team.

The women's league will not be held alongside the PSL (PCB)

‒ Sixers win their fourth straight match and remain locked in a battle with Scorchers for the top position

Rishabh Pant's car after the accident on December 30 (PTI)

GCA responds to DCB allegations

Barry describes relationship as ‘estranged’

By Sean Devers

THE Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) held its first press conference for the year at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) yesterday to respond to allegations made in a press release issued to the media by the GCB.

GCA’s president, Neil Barry, disclosed that the press conference was held to provide the media and the Guyanese public with GCA’s response to the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) press release on Sunday 16, January 2022, titled ‘Bissoondyal Singh re-election President at Demerara Cricket (DCB) by trashing Speaker of the House Manzoor Nadir.

The DCB press release singled out the GCA for poor attendance at meetings and inefficient performance in positions they were elected to serve.

After no one from the GCA was elected on the DCB, which controls cricket in the City, its members took no further part in proceeding.

Barry showed the media

a copy of a spreadsheet debunking the DCB’s claims of none attendance at meetings.

“It is clear that several other executives had poorer attendance records than the senior GCA executives mentioned in the release but their names were not mentioned.

Further, the executive meetings were organised in an ad-hoc manner with notifications sent, in most cases, within 24 to 48 hours prior to the meetings as against the statutory date of the first Saturday of each month that

was set at the DCB Executive meeting held in October 2022 as extracted from the DCB minutes. But this was not done.

Some of these meetings clashed with GCA meetings which meant we could not attend. What was not mentioned was that excuses were sent in most, especially by Harper who, in 2021, was a West Indies selector while brother Azad had government-related actives as Manager of the National Stadium at Providence” Bar-

ry continued.

Barry informed that he attended twelve of sixteen meetings held over a twoyear period, Vice-President Roger Harper eight of the sixteen, while Azad Abrahim attended five of the sixteen.

“The DCB spoke about efficiency of the last AMG held but how efficient was that AGM when notifications were sent three days before the meeting was held? The constitution states that notification shall be given to all of its members 30 days before

James stars again as Rising Stars crush Indonesia

POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa, (CMC) –Player-of-the-Match, Zaida James, pummeled a second successive half-century to help West Indies Women crush Indonesia Women by 77 runs and log their second win of the ICC Under-19 Women’s Twenty20 World Cup. Brimming with confidence following her Player-of-the-Match outing against Ireland Women on Sunday, James extended her form into the contest at North-West University No. 1 Ground on Tuesday, stroking a top score of 55 from 37 deliveries to propel the Caribbean side to 176 for three from their 20 overs.

Trishan Holder, who played three senior team T20 Internationals against England Women last December, lashed a fluent 14ball an unbeaten 35, opener Shunelle Sawh made 31 from 36 deliveries while Naijanni Cumberbatch maintained her form with an important 24. The total was always go-

ing to be a difficult chase and so it proved, Indonesia Women never rising to the occasion and settling for 99 for nine from their 20 overs.

Seamer Djenaba Joseph undermined the innings, following up her earlier 14-ball 20 with an incisive spell of three for 14.

With their latest success, West Indies Women moved to four points in Group C but lie second behind New Zealand Women, who they face in their first real test of the tournament on Thursday.

Opting to bat first, West Indies Women gathered steam from early thanks to James, the left-hander carving out eight fours and a brace of sixes in an entertaining 95-run, first wicket stand with Sawh who counted four fours.

The pair perished in successive overs to leave the innings on 97 for two in the 13th over but Cumberbatch anchored a 42-run, fourth wicket stand with Joseph who struck four fours, and then a 37-run, unbroken

fourth wicket partnership with Holder who belted two fours and three sixes, as West Indies Women gathered 54 from the last five overs.

In reply, Indonesia

Women got a safe start of 26 from 29 balls from Kadek Kurniartini (15) and Gusti Ulansari (9) but once they were separated, the innings fell apart quickly.

the OGM.

He added that about eighty per cent of the agenda was rushed with the president speaking, not giving anyone else a chance to ask questions. “When GCA members asked questions they were rebuffed in a very aggressive manner” explained Barry.

Another thing mentioned by the DCB was that GCA members did not perform in key important positions which they were placed in.

Barry said Harper was the Chairman of the Cricket Devolvement Committee and he was named as Marketing Manager.

“At the meeting, I said I had not attracted any sponsorship for that period of time but they did not allow me [to] explain the reason.

“Let’s start with Harper. They said he never submitted a report but I have here a report sent by Harper and it was noted in the DCB minutes in June that this report was submitted.

“I said I did not want the position of Marketing Manager since it was not my strength and, apart from that, as President of the GCA, I would like to focus my attention there.

They said it was a team effort and that I would just manage the process. I agreed and we went on. The first sub-heading about Marketing was done on January 28, 2022.

Barry said it was difficult to get sponsors since many of the places he approached were not interested because of the issues in Demerara’s cricket.

“Despite these issues which included GCA selector Roderick Lovell, also Demerara selector, being forced to resign from the GCA due to a conflict of interest while there is no such problem with the same person being the President of East Coast, Demerara and Guyana, the GCA teams will continue to participate in DCB cricket since GCA is still a part of that entity” said Barry, who described the GCA’s relationship with the DCB as ‘Estranged’.

“This is an Administrative problem which has nothing to do with the players who have won all of the DCB tournament for last year. The GCA is focused on development of its players and cricket in Georgetown.

“We have worked in eight Primary Schools with our Coaches in tri-party collaboration with the ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. And this year we will build on our achievements for 2022” said Barry who described the GCA as a Cricket focussed Association.

Among the many things the GCA cleared the air on was that one of the reasons they became incorporated was to access Sponsorship for tournaments since GCA needed a TIN number to have a Bank account.

Barry said he wants the public to help make the cricket better because it is them who are members of Clubs and Associations whose members have voting rights.

(L-R): Imran Ali, Roger Harper, Neil Barry and Deborah Mc Nichol at yesteray’s press conference held at the Muslim Youth Organisation(MYO) yesterday

Player-of-the-Match Zaida James goes on the attack during her fifty against Indonesia

NSC lauds 2023

$4.3B Sport budget

The National Sports Commission (NSC) commends the 2023 National Budget presented by the distinguished Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, which includes the largest-ever allocation for the sports sector. The provision of $4.3B surpasses the prior allotment with a substantial increase

of $1.1B. This unprecedented allocation must be extolled as it highlights, inter alia, this H.E President Irfaan Ali-led government’s continued commitment, vision, and direction for the development of sports and sportsmen and women. With the largest ever allocation

for the National Sports Commission, Budget 2023 paves the way for Government’s continued transformation in our sports facilities –something that is critical to the development of world class athletes and for the hosting of international tournaments which would have commenced in the previous year.

Sports headed in right direction with $4.3B allocation

By Calvin Chapman

THE Government of Guyana continues to show their commitment to sport with H.E. President Irfaan Ali overseeing a total of $9B invested thus far in sport since taking office.

This year’s mammoth budget of $4.3B for sports, which was announced by Senior Minister in the Office of the President, Dr. Ashni Singh, during Monday’s budget presentation, eclipses 2022’s $3.2B by over 33% and 2021’s $1.5B.

The 2023 sports budget provisions for a massive stadium at Palmyra, is testament to the administration’s aim of decentralising sport, and true to President Ali’s promise of having a state-of-the-art sport facility on the Corentyne.

This year’s budget will see major infrastructural works with Hinterland communities set to benefit from multipurpose facilities and, the rehabilitation of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), which has already seen works being commenced.

In addition, Dr. Singh had shared that, “Provision has been set aside for the establishment of a National Cricket Academy.” Meanwhile, there will be, “Construction of stands and grass mounds in Regions Two and Six, extension of the Squash court at the National Racquet Center and procurement of sports gear,” Dr. Singh continued.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s Community Ground Enhancement project, which benefitted 54 communities

last year with 21 of those being outfitted with lights, has been allocated another $250m this year for the continued improvement of community grounds across the country.

President’s Ali promise of making Guyana a regional hub for sports began to take massive strides in 2022. Dr. Singh mentioned that, “Beyond the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2022, we saw at the Regional level the return of the Inter Guiana Games to these shores after a five-year hiatus.”

Dr. Singh also mentioned that the partnership be -

The allocation also allows for the development of our sportsmen and sportswomen with the National Sports Academy – the first ever in Guyana and the Region – launched last year and has already started to change the landscape of sports in Guyana.

The National Sports Com -

mission is of the firm view and unshakeable belief that with the presented budget and with the leadership of Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson Jr. MP, sport is on a pathway that will transform sport in Guyana forever.

West Indies Test Squad named for two-Test Series in Zimbabwe

ST JOHN’S, Antigua –

The Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) Men’s Selection Panel Tuesday announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test Series in Zimbabwe, starting on 4 February. The Selection Panel recalled experienced fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, as well as left-arm spinners, Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican.

Gabriel has taken 161 wickets in 56 Tests, placing him joint 12th in the West Indies all-time wicket-takers list and more recently was the joint-leading wicket taker in the CG United Super50 Cup for the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in November last year.

Gabriel’s last Test Match was against Sri Lanka in November 2021. Warrican’s last international appearance was also in Sri Lanka in December 2021 when he played in both matches in the Test Series. Motie made his Test debut for West Indies in Antigua in June 2022 in the first

Test of the two-match Series victory against Bangladesh.

Jayden Seales is unavailable for selection following a knee injury and subsequent surgery, while Anderson Phillip is also unavailable due to injury.

Lead Selector, The Most Hon Dr. Desmond Haynes said: “This is the start of the international calendar for 2023 and we will hope to start with a win. We appreci-

ate it won’t be as easy assignment as Zimbabwe, like most other teams in world cricket, play very well on their home soil on pitches that will support their style of play.”

Haynes added: “We looked at the conditions we anticipate playing in, and have included two left-arm spinners who didn’t go to Australia, in Motie and Warrican. With our fast bowlers,

Bolt missing millions from investment accounts

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr.

Kashif Muhammad Chateram Ramdihal Cristy Campbell

Dellon Davidson

Phillip Fernandes

Bissoondyal Singh

Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President

…Gabriel, Warrican and Motie recalled to 15-member squad

Gudakesh Motie made his West Indies Test debut in 2022

Shannon Gabriel’s last Test match was in 2021 against Sri Lanka