Issuu

friday 6th may, 2022

No.106714

Jumbo Jet signs US$40M deal with Sinotruk

–– for over 500 new trucks to satisfy demand of 03 growing local economy PAGE

Prime Minister: ‘Build on the foundation they created’

PAGE

Scenes from Pushpanjali 22, an event held in honour of Arrival Day at the Indian Momument Gardens and the Berbice Indian Cultural Committee’s event in Highbury, Region Six

Big boost for trade 04 between Guyana, US PAGE

–– as Bilateral Chamber of Commerce signs MoU with local private sector

Guyana, Brazil to Press symposium advance discussions recommendations being on range of issues 05 consolidated into –– when Presidents meet today actionable outcomes 09 PAGE

PAGE

guyana CHRONICLE friday, may 6, 2022

Scenes from Indian Arrival Day celebrations in Georgetown, Region Six

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Jumbo Jet signs US$40M deal with Sinotruk

— for over 500 new trucks to satisfy demand of growing local economy

By Cassandra Khan

AMDIST rapid economic growth, locally, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales has signed a contract valuing US$40 million with Sinotruk Incorporated, for the provision of reliable equipment to meet the contractors’ demands to execute existing and upcoming projects. The contract was signed by General Manager of the Caribbean Sinotruk International, Taonaijie, and Nasrudeen Mohamed, founder of Jumbo Jet Auto Sales- a prominent local distributor of machinery and equipment. Through this deal, Sinotruk, which is a company based in Hong Kong, will be providing 500 new trucks to Jumbo Jet over the next few years. Mohamed, following the signing of the agreement, said that the demand for better quality trucks is growing

in Guyana due to the rapid increase in private and public infrastructural work. A study done by Jumbo Jet found that foreign-used trucks last only one to five years, whereas the new trucks will be able to work efficiently for over 10 years. The company said that there will be all types of trucks available for sale to meet any demand. Some options include, but are not limited to, dump trucks, tractor unit/hauler, flat bed, all-

General Manager of the Caribbean Sinotruk International, Taonaijie and Nasrudeen Mohamed, founder of Jumbo Jet Auto Sales sign the agreement for the provision of US$40M worth of machinery and equipment over the next few years

wheel drive, 8X4, 6X6, 6X4 and much more. Spare parts for these new machinery will also be available. Taonaijie said the signing was important to his company, since it affords them the opportunity to work with a reputable distributor such as Jumbo Jet. Mohamed, in turn, said he is very optimistic about this partnership to help provide new, quality trucks to his country. He also noted that with the booming economy, he is

grateful for the opportunity of being the only distributor of this brand. According to Taonaijie, he is hoping to make Guyana the centre of the Caribbean market given the expected economic boom from the oil resources. His company, he said, will also satisfy the Guyanese market effectively and efficiently. More job opportunities will also be created with the arrival of brand-new trucks being imported and new showrooms which will be

created by Jumbo Jet Auto Sales to display the variety of trucks. The companies are also mulling the establishment of an assembling factory in Guyana, which would, in the long term, lower costs and create more jobs in various expertise. The Guyana Chronicle understands that the local economy has been a magnet for investors, who have expressed an interest to invest in massive projects across the various economic sectors.

In 2021, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, had said that 65 per cent of the private investments made in 2021 were from locals. Dr. Ramsaroop said that even as the economy continues to grow, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and, by extension, the government, are committed to having Guyanese benefit from the investment opportunities that are available locally. In light of completed and ongoing projects, authorities

have been investing in initiatives to enhance the skills of the local workforce. Among the programmes the government has rolled out so far is the 20,000 online scholarships initiative, which is being facilitated through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL). The objective of this and other initiatives is to ensure that every Guyanese of working age is equipped with the skills necessary for employment in the sector of his/her choice. “An educated and highly-skilled workforce is critical to our competitiveness as a destination for investment, but also critical in ensuring that the Guyanese people are able to get jobs,” Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, had said in a past interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Further, he related: “We want to create an environ-

ment where every single Guyanese who is of working age is equipped with skills that make them employable. Every Guyanese of employment age should have access to opportunities to acquire skills that will make them employable; and we are planning to do this at every level.” Dr. Ramsaroop, too, had said personal enhancement, whether through skills training or academia, will be crucial going forward.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Big boost for trade between Guyana, US — as Bilateral Chamber of Commerce signs MoU with local private sector

THE Bilateral Chamber of Commerce and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) have pledged to leverage their combined resources to strengthen economic relations between the United States and Guyana. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a ceremony in Houston, Texas, on Wednesday. The MoU promotes trade and investment across sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, industry and education. The agreement, signed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, Aida Araissi, and Chairman of the PSC, Paul Cheong, is the result of a visit by a trade mission from the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce to Guyana in March 2022. The signing ceremony

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, Paul Cheong and Chief Executive Officer of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, Aida Araissi, hold signed copies of the MoU in the presence of Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat (standing centre); US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch (third from left); President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge (second from left), and other officials

was witnessed by Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat; US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch; ExxonMobil executives, Dr. John Ardill and Alistair Routledge, and CEO of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop. Additional attendees included executives from leading energy, real estate, and

technology companies. Following the signing of the agreement, Araissi said: “We are proud to be ranked as a top producing contractor for the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). Our Bilateral Chamber and USTDA programmes represent over US$100 billion dollars of exported US goods, services, and advanced technologies and we’re looking forward to bringing that kind of expertise to Guyana, to grow the local content.” The chamber and the PSC will work together in the coming months to organise more trade missions that bring together businesses from the US and Guyana. Cheong said: “Today is a historic day. We will work on building a partnership that members of both sides will be proud of. This is just the beginning.” The Bilateral Chamber, located in Houston, Texas, has an expansive network of more than 36,000 subscribers, representing small to large enterprises. The chamber is a trusted partner to the US Trade and Development Agency, the US Departments of Commerce, State, and Energy, as well as trade development agencies in key markets around the world.

Guyana, Brazil to advance discussions on range of issues

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

— when Presidents meet today

THE President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro is scheduled for a visit to Guyana today. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Brazilian President is visiting at the invitation of Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. During the visit, the two Presidents will discuss a range of issues of bilateral interest, as well as developments at the regional and global levels. “The two countries share a broad bilateral agenda, covering issues such as infra-

structure development, energy cooperation, trade and investment, health, agriculture, and defence and security cooperation, and these will be among the issues to be addressed by the two Heads of State in Georgetown,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said. Guyana and Brazil established diplomatic relations in August 1968, and enjoy strong ties of friendship and cooperation. Earlier this year, in addressing the importance of the visit, the Brazilian President, said: “We have a number of

President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali

President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro

important issues and opportunities for both Guyana and Brazil that I wanted to highlight, even before our meeting, so our technical teams can start some work.” The President had listed several areas that are critical for both countries to move their relationship forward, including energy and food security, telecommunication,

infrastructure integration and trade. He also pointed out that due to their geographical locations, the two nations must make strong statements in linking their territories. The Guyanese Head of State had said that in addition to oil and gas, expanding opportunities in the other nonoil natural resources sectors

such as bauxite will create an opportunity for a direct link to northern Brazil and further afield that can “create an excellent platform for us to develop an integrated project”. As it relates to trade, currently, there is an existing Partial Scope Agreement that aims to foster bilateral trade flows by the exchange of

other that endured beyond the indentureship time and biological ties. “They have left an enduring and rich heritage that is enjoyed today in the foods we eat, clothing we wear, and the festivals that are part of the

national tapestry of diverse cultures. We are fortunate as a country to enjoy the diversity of the peoples who came and to be able to look back with pride on all their contributions and to have a legacy that is uniquely beautiful and varied.

“We have enjoyed peaceful and religious harmony and we must always use this to bridge all other barriers that may exist, remembering our ancestors’ collective struggles and arduous journeys in those early days of our country’s history,” the

tariff preferences between the two countries, cooperation on trade matters, and increased participation of the private sector. This, President Ali had said, is under negotiation to be expanded, since Guyana wants to increase its quota, especially as it relates to rice being exported to Brazil.

Dharmic Sabha acknowledges resilience, indomitable spirit of indentured immigrants

AS the 184th Indian Arrival Day was celebrated on Thursday, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) said that it is important to acknowledge the indefatigable and indomitable spirit of the Indian indentured Immigrants who came on May 5, 1838 and also to all those who came through the indentureship system. “Today, we reflect on the immense and incredible contributions of our ancestors who arrived as indentured immigrants to then British Guiana. Arrival Day gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and salute the visible and tangible imprints of their presence and impact in multiple spheres in our country,” GHDS related. From the earliest days of struggle and sacrifice, GDHS said those persons demonstrated remarkable resilience and courage in the face of hardship, callous and inhumane living and working conditions. There are multiple stories of their resistance against colo-

nialism and their struggle for an independent Guyana and their fight for better conditions. “Our country has benefitted tremendously from their invaluable contributions in diverse spheres. Their industriousness in the agricultural sector in the earliest years and thereafter have been impactful and benefitted Guyana’s economy for decades,” the Sabha said. The organisation added: “We recognise the remarkable foundation they laid for their descendants and all Guyanese to build on. We are grateful for their dedication in preserving a rich culture filled with beautiful traditions, creating a heritage that contributes to Guyana’s kaleidoscope of festivals, cultural practices, national cuisine and everyday life.” People, the body said, could learn from their courage, unity against undemocratic practices and colonialism, consistent and ceaseless work to develop their community and country and their respect and love for each

Dharmic Sabha said. The organisation related that as descendants of those who came as indentured immigrants, persons have much to be proud of and to be grateful for and to build on.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Beyond cultural links

Over the past several decades, there has been a renewed momentum in the outreach that the Government of India has undertaken with respect to strengthening relations with Guyana and other Caribbean countries. Multiple high-ranking officials have paid visits to the Caribbean region and several leaders from the region, including all Guyanese Presidents going back to Forbes Burnham, except Desmond Hoyte and Mrs. Janet Jagan, have visited India. All of the visits were aimed at boosting bilateral and/or regional ties with India. The relationship with Guyana has been on an upward tick with recent visits by trade and investment delegations from India. The latest political uptick is the visit by Guyana’s Minister of External Affairs,

Hon. Hugh Todd to New Delhi where he held talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. Subramaniam Jaishankar; Minister Todd also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signalling the importance given to the relationship by the Indian Government. This is a reflection of the significance placed by India on the relationship with Guyana and the Caribbean nations. The importance of relations with Guyana is further reflected in the amount of time spent by and the posturing of Minister Jaishankar in holding lengthy bi-lateral discussions. The aim behind Todd’s visit is to further the relations between the two longtime allies, shoring up bilateral engagements and partnership agreements already in place or in progress and entering into new ones. Minister Todd praised In-

dia for the developmental assistance rendered to Guyana since independence. India has provided huge amounts of financing and other forms of aid to Guyana since independence in 1966 totalling billions in American dollars. Even during the pandemic, India was kind towards Guyana and the developing nations. During the widespread gloom of the COVID-19 pandemic, India kept almost all its supply lines to other countries open thereby ensuring that critical medical equipment, medicines and other supplies could reach Guyana, Latin America, the Caribbean, and other developing nations; even wealthy countries like Canada, USA, UK, and several others in Europe were beneficiaries of India’s generosity. The wrath of a devastating wave of the virus that took many lives in India in

April/May 2021 did not stop India from helping Guyana and other countries. Under India’s landmark ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative that started in mid-2020, India gifted hundreds of tonnes of medical supplies to poor countries including Guyana. This further serve to prove the significance that India has been attaching to its relations with Guyana and Caribbean nations. In the course of Todd’s visit, the Foreign Ministers discussed a plethora of issues that were bilateral, regional as well as global in nature. These included, but were not limited to developmental partnerships, healthcare services, education, culture, agriculture, trade, commerce, technology transfer, Informational Technology, finance, and other economic considerations and common issues of interest. Guyana is already

the beneficiary of concessional lines of credit, grants, loans, thousands of scholarships and developing other capacity-building initiatives with Guyana. The India-Guyana relationship is firmly rooted in deep historical, political, people-to-people, and cultural ties. Even before Guyana attained Independence from the colonial rule of Britain in May 1966, prominent leaders of the national movement in India would issue calls of support for the anti-colonial liberation struggle in Guyana and the Caribbean region that were taking place since the 1950s. And several Indian Guyanese figures were supportive of India’s freedom struggle since the early 1900s. Despite the deepened ties with India, spanning across the seven decades since India’s independence, there is

room for further expansion, especially now that Guyana is transitioning into a petroleum energy economy. India, which has reputable petroleum engineering institutes, can provide training to Guyanese to work in and manage the emerging oil and gas sector. Government should request such assistance; India is sure to respond positively. Guyana should also seek to bolster co-operation in emerging sectors such as health, tourism, new and renewable energy, high-yield farm production, technology transfer, oil refinery, agro-processing, and non-traditional or ayurvedic medicine, among others. It is hoped that the Todd’s visit to India will lead to a boost in the growing trade and investment relations between India and Guyana.

Is the City Council and the Mayor unaware of what Georgetown has become?

Dear Editor,

I REMEMBER the days when Georgetown was proudly referred to as the Garden City. Regretfully, sadly and unfortunately, today and for the past 30 or so years, it has descended into the ‘Garbage City’, and referred to as such by locals and visitors. I recently had to go to someone at 322 New Market Street, North Cummingsburg, incidentally, immediately opposite the Georgetown Public

Hospital and was appalled at the garbage and stench emanating from the vacant lot adjacent to the building I had to visit. It is obviously a dumping ground for garbage from the various stands that now form part of the landscape of not only this part of Georgetown, but most of the arear where there are opportunities to make a “quick dollar”, regardless and with absolutely no consideration for the health and safety of persons who have to frequent those areas. There is a prolif-

eration of what I consider to be both permanent and “make shift” structures selling from food to items needed by patients in the hospital, and I dare say anything in between. I saw a few weeks ago very high level publicity of a “clean up campaign” led by no one else than His Excellency the President, in the City of Georgetown, which was followed up by other high level functionaries in the government, in other areas of Guyana. Unfortunately, the “other

side” of the political scenario felt it convenient to boycott that commendable effort, and what some considered, out of shame, did their own semi clean up soon after. Both campaigns, according to popular opinion went “to waste”, absolutely no pun intended. Is the City Council and the Pandit Mayor (and their predecessors, including the Elder, Hamilton Green, under whose Mayorship this deterioration started) unaware of what Georgetown has be-

come? Are these persons not ashamed to know that they are presiding over a city that is stink and is a willing and can be a prime participant for an epidemic waiting to happen? As I’ve said and written on before, I am of the opinion that the City Council as presently constituted has proven themselves to be incapable of solving not only this problem, but other equally important matters of the City. In the interim, I hope that this letter “catches the eye”

of someone in authority to immediately change the location of the garbage dump opposite the Georgetown Public hospital and relocate it to its proper place, in the interest of those who live and frequent that area. It would be extremely easy to find and prosecute the violators of the dumping in this and other areas, but only if there is the will to do so. Yours sincerely, Harry N Nawbatt

GPHC celebrates midwives

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

INTERNATIONAL Midwifery Day is celebrated on the 5th of May and the theme for year 2022 is “100 years of progress”. During the past two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors, nurses, midwives and maternity support workers have risked their lives to provide maternal care at the low, moderate and high risk stage to women and their families. The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) joins with the world in thanking them for their sterling contribution, especially in the challenging health environment. At a simple presentation ceremony on Wednesday, the GPHC showed its appreciation by hosting an event to acknowledge the outstanding services of all the midwives.

Resilience, adaptation hallmark of Indian culture in Guyana

— High Commissioner, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa INDO-GUYANESE still retain their culture despite settling down in a far-off country for almost two centuries and the most beautiful aspect of their culture in Guyana is their strength of resilience and adaptation. That was according to High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, who was at the time speaking at a virtual symposium marking 184 years of East Indian Arrival in Guyana, hosted by the University of Guyana, via a webinar on Wednesday. Under the theme “Contributions of our unsung heroes to Guyana”, the High Com-

missioner said it was not an exaggeration to say that Indian culture has tremendous influence on the overall culture of Guyana, be it music, food, language, art and costumes, amongst others. “As we are all aware, Indian religious rituals, cuisine, customs and traditions have indeed enriched the country’s cultural mosaic. Indian enterprise diversified the local economy. Indian descendants ventured successfully into politics and were active in social organisations and in sport. Indians have achieved prominence in all aspects of national life. They cultivatContinued on page 8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Resilience, adaptation... From page 7

ed respectful relations with other races and, in so doing, fostered the development of a more cohesive nation. They are an integral part of the political system and, together with other ethnic groups, contributed to the evolution of Guyana’s demography, economy and society,” Dr. Srinivasa explained. The High Commissioner noted that the Indian diaspora in Guyana has played and is playing a crucial role in the economic, political and social development of the country.

The indentured Indians after the completion of their contracts took to their occupations and displayed the diversity of their natural and acquired talents. “Gradually, Indians began to move into market gardening, milk production, rice and other agricultural production, thus ensuring the food security of the country. Some moved into commerce selling mainly groceries and haberdashery and later consumer durables like cars and agricultural machines and since they had to be very com-

petitive to survive, the consumers benefitted, the occupations of ‘free’ Indians displayed the diversity of their natural and acquired talents,” he underscored. EXCELLED They excelled in all areas of development and careers most notably in business, politics and the legal and medical field, he said. One other aspect of Indian origin, he added, was the introduction of two religions: Hinduism and Islam which were strengthened and their places of worship were

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa

renewed and Indian culture began to contribute to mainstream national culture. “All cultures are unique, rich and meaningful in their own ways. The same can be said for the Indo-Guyanese culture of Guyana. In many ways, the overall cultural stage of Guyana was significantly shaped by Indians. Their culture has many branches and roots; it is more than what the eye meets. Perhaps, the most beautiful aspect of the Indo-Guyanese culture in Guyana is the strength of its resilience and adaptation,” Dr. K.J. Srinivasa said. The Indian culture in Guyana, he explained differs from that of its ancestors’ in India. From the language they speak, all the way to how they cook the curried dishes, all of which are different but still yet significant. “That is evidence that culture can adapt and still be preserved at the same time. Their ancestors had to adapt to this tropical region, they had not the tools and ingredients to cook their traditional foods, they had not the garments to make their traditional wear and they also lost their mother tongue along the way

and adapted to western languages,” he said. Dr. K.J. Srinivasa continued: “Nonetheless, what we know today as the ‘Indo-Guyanese Culture’ is undoubtedly significant and relevant to who and what are known as Guyanese. There was a struggle to maintain the Indian culture because of the personal struggles those before now faced on the plantation. However, they have preserved Indian culture creditably and successful because across Guyana, religion and culture has been spread and practised.” However, he noted that the language is something that has suffered tremendously. Unlike Guyana’s neighbours Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago where Hindi or in fact, Bhojpuri is spoken, Hindi is not spoken as a main language in Guyana. VERY PROUD India, he said is very proud of the achievements by the Indo-Guyanese diaspora and their role in the development of Guyana. “I consider it indeed a matter of great honour and privilege for me to have been appointed to serve as the Indian

High Commissioner to this Girmitiya land. The priority of the current Government of India led by Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, is to build everlasting links with the Indian Diaspora the world over, especially with our Indian Diaspora in the Girmitiya lands including Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Mauritius, Fiji and South Africa. In fact, Indian Prime Minister Modi ji had been to Guyana around 19992000 and he fondly remembers the people and country of Guyana,” Dr. Srinivasa expressed. He said he sincerely hopes that Indian Arrival Day is used suitably to reflect and show appreciation to the contributions that the Indian ancestors in Guyana have made and find ways and means to preserve the existing and metamorphosised version of the Indian culture. “A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the souls of its people,” said the High Commissioner in quoting Mahatma Gandhi. He added: “Let then in Guyana, the Indian culture be reflective through the goodness and light of our hearts and souls.”

guyana CHRONICLE friday, may 6, 2022

Press symposium recommendations being consolidated into actionable outcomes –– authorities say immediate focus will be on streamlining social media news, current affairs outlet into workable framework

RECOMMENDATIONS stemming from the National Press Freedom Conference and Symposium will be consolidated into actionable outcomes in specific areas discussed, according to the Department of Public

the quality of engagement facilitated through its consultative format. Of note was the ground-breaking unveiling and activation of the virtual Guyana Media and Communication Academy, developed in partnership

ident of Suriname, Alven Roosveld, received support from the Office of the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Guyana, several civil society and corporate bodies, and saw attendance of over 400 media and communication

Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, addresses persons during day one of the inaugural National Press Freedom Conference and Symposium (Delano Williams photo) Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister. The event organised by the Department of Public Affairs, concluded on Wednesday evening with the final panel assembled among social media actors, interrogating the rise of the citizen reporter and trends for 2022 and beyond. Earlier panels examined the case for partnerships in communication for development and issues surrounding ethics and legal frameworks. Partner stakeholders, local and regional delegates and resource experts participating in the two-day event, have roundly hailed

with the world’s largest online learning platform, COURSERA. The first of its kind academy for the Caribbean region promises to kick start the process for partnerships in communication for development, with the government taking a fresh lead in the areas of upskilling and knowledge advancement for the Guyanese media fraternity. The conference and symposium which saw keynote participation from the Minister of Home Affairs and Information of Barbados, Wilfred Abrahams, as well as the Press Secretary in the Office of the Pres-

operatives from across the country. The event was also attended by groups of CAPE Communication students from leading secondary schools. Over the past two years, the government has taken steady, decisive measures to continue building its legacy of respect for the press and the universal freedom to which it is entitled, with marked changes in access for the press over what obtained under the previous coalition government, including frequent engagements and the reinstitution of the constitutional office of Commissioner of Infor-

mation. The 2022 global press freedom index saw Guyana’s ranking improved by a whopping 17 points. This year’s inaugural conference served to reinforce the unwavering positions of the PPP/C administration in support of free environment for the Guyanese press, with the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, declaring, in emphatic

terms, that his administration could be judged on its record, even as he committed to never supporting nor embracing any surveillance or other clandestine measure against the press that could undermine its freedoms. In keeping with the government’s commitment, even as the Department of Public Affairs moves to consolidate the recommen-

dations of the symposium into actionable outcomes, there also plans to continue engagement with key actors across the local spectrum. Chief among the issues emerging as most urgent is the need for streamlining of social media news and current affairs outlets within a workable framework in the Fourth Estate.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

US$2M contract signed for feasibility study of Guyana-Suriname Bridge

GUYANA and Suriname are set to benefit from major economic developments with the construction of a bridge across the Corentyne River, which will connect the two countries. Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, joined his Surinamese counterpart, Riad Nurmohamed, on Wednesday, for the signing of a US$2 million contract with WSP Caribbean. The Trinidad-based consultancy firm will conduct a seven-month study to determine the best design, build, finance and model for the bridge through a Public-Private Partnership. Minister Edghill said the bridge is one the infrastructural projects that is high on the agenda for both countries.

“This bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a vision for the further development of two nations being realised. Development practitioners have agreed that bridges are key drivers of economic activity, ensuring the increased efficiency of trade, rapid exchange of ideas and quick access to services for those who need them most. Co-operation at this level means less delays, and more progress for both of our populations. “The Corentyne River Bridge is both a physical connection between two landmasses, as well as a social connection between two peoples. When completed, it will forge stronger cultural bonds and encourage more knowledge-sharing activities across our common border,”

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill (left); Suriname’s Minister of Public Works, Riad Nurmohamed (centre), and another Surinamese official (DPI photo)

Edghill said. The bridge will remove the constraints of current schedules and space when travelling with the Canawaima Ferry, and make

way for a five-hour-long drive from Georgetown to Paramaribo, resulting in increased efficiency and safety. Apart from reduced travel time, the bridge will play a significant role in development for both nations in various sectors. A landing in Guyana or Suriname will afford tourists the opportunity to seamlessly travel the neighbouring borders, boosting tourism growth in both nations as the bridge will be strategically designed to pass through the untouched lands of Lange Is-

land, in the Corentyne River. There is also enormous potential for commercialisation and development of a free-trade zone with hotels, resorts and all the forms of entertainment that will attract tourists. The Corentyne Bridge will provide easy access to deep-water facilities in Guyana and Suriname, enabling easy movement of goods and services to support offshore activities. With the new bridge and the opening of fertile agricultural lands, Guyana and

Suriname will be positioned as major food suppliers to CARICOM, achieving the goal of reducing the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025. Additionally, Minister Edghill noted that the bridge will aid in enhancing South American connections. Minister Nurmohamed said as the Surinamese Government enters this new stage, the road from Paramaribo will be upgraded. “We have decided that it should be upgraded so that we have a very good road for tourists so that we can boost the development, especially in Nickerie and, overall, in both countries,” he said. Meanwhile, Suriname’s Technical Assistant for capital infrastructure projects, Kees Boender, said the bridge is expected to have a lifespan of 100 years and will require little maintenance. The bridge which will link Moleson Creek in Guyana to South Drain through Lange Island could facilitate ships of 47,000 dead weight tonnes, a horizontal clearance of 100 metres and a vertical clearance of 43 metres. (DPI)

guyana CHRONICLE friday, may 6, 2022

Significance of Indian culture, heritage underscored –– at separate activities in Region Six

THE significance of the Indian culture and heritage was underscored by several officials during separate events to commemorate the 184th Anniversary of Indian Arrival at Higbury and Palmyra, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). Over at Highbury, the Berbice Indian Cultural

of India to Guyana Dr. K.J. Srinivasa and other senior officials. The celebrations included Indian classical and fusion dance performances by students of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and remarks by the dignitaries. They all stressed the importance of recognising the contributions of Guya-

Guiana) with approximately 423 East Indians on board. The significance of this arrival and the overall contributions of East Indians to development was further elaborated during SANSKRITI, a celebration of heritage, culture and traditions organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

One of the performances during SANSKRITI at the Indian Arrival Monument in Palmyra Committee held an event that was attended by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand; Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson; Minister of Public Service Sonia Parag; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oniedge Walrond; Regional Chairman of Region Six David Armogan; High Commissioner

nese of Indian origin and the need to commemorate Indian Arrival Day with more such celebrations dedicated to them. It was in Plantation Highbury that the first set of East Indian indentured labourers landed on May 5, 1838. On that day, two ships, The Whitby and Hesperus, landed in the then British colony (British

The event, which was spearheaded by Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud, was held at the Indian Arrival Monument in Palmyra. According to a press statement from the Indian High Commission, the iconic monument at Palmyra was illuminated in multi-coloured lights by the High Commission

Several high-level officials among the persons gathered at Highbury on Thursday

of India to mark the occasion, and showcase the ever-growing India-Guyana friendship. The dignitaries addressed the gathering, and lauded the contributions of East Indians to the development of Guyana. The High Commissioner paid rich tributes to the Indo-Guyanese Diaspora, and called for a more widespread commemoration and recognition of their contributions to Guyana. He also spoke on the latest developments in the India-Guyana bilateral relations, and updated

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J. Srinivasa addressing the audience at the Berbice Indian Cultural Committee event in Highbury the gathering on the various collaboration projects under execution as part of Indian development assistance to Guyana. The ongoing projects and proposals are within the areas of infrastructure, transportation, drainage and irrigation, healthcare, education, training and skill development, and

agriculture, among other things. India is celebrating its 75th Anniversary of Independence on August 15, 2022. In the run-up to the celebration of this historic occasion, the Government of India is organising a number of events across the world.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Trio arrested with ‘ganja’ during Lethem operation

AS the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) continues to tackle micro-trafficking in Lethem, Region 9 (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo), three men were arrested, on Thursday, with a quantity of cannabis. According to a CANU release, the three men were

arrested on the outskirts of Lethem, close to the Guyana-Brazil border. The trio was allegedly found with 31 small Ziploc bags of cannabis, weighing a total of 48 grams. The men are currently in the custody of authorities as the investigation continues.

The suspected cannabis

O n Tu e s d a y l a s t , CANU officers conducted a narcotics operation in Lethem, which led to the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis. Three persons were arrested during the operation with a total 260 grams of what is believed to be cannabis, according to a

CANU statement recently on the matter. The anti-drug agency noted that these operations are part of their strategy to combat micro-trafficking within various communities, including schools, as recently reported in the media.

Body of Maria’s Lodge farmer found at Mashabo THE decomposed body of a 54-year-old hunter and rice farmer of Maria’s Lodge, Region Two, was recently discovered at Mashabo, according to police reports. The Guyana Chronicle understands that the body of Suresh Dyal, which had two gunshot wounds, was found by two hunters on Monday. According to victim’s mother, Chandra Dyal, her son

Dead: Suresh Dyal

left home Thursday last to go hunting and was expected back on the Essequibo Coast by Monday. She said that she called him several times, but his phone went unanswered. Prior to his demise, he would usually go hunting in the Mashabo area regularly, as this was his favourite hobby. “My son is very quiet, he doesn’t trouble no one… he left with his tractor and licensed shotgun and I didn’t know that was the last I would see my son,” the mother said. She said she received a call from one of the hunters informing her that her son died. The woman, who was left in shock, subsequently informed the victim’s other relatives. The relatives then journeyed to the backdam to locate his body, and there, they found him shirtless and lying in a clump of bushes. His head was swollen and his body had two gunshot wounds. According to relatives, it took them almost a day to locate Dyal’s body. The body was transported to the Suddie Public Hospital, where a post-mortem examination will be conducted. The man’s tractor along with his licensed shotgun was brought out on the Essequibo Coast. The Guyana Police Force has since launched an investigation into the matter.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

‘Build on the foundation they created’ —Prime Minister urges persons to learn from the lessons of indentured labourers PRIME Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, has encouraged Guyanese to build on the foundation set by the indentured labourers, whose work and traditions were honoured and remembered on Arrival Day. The Prime Minister made those remarks at the Indian Commemorative Trust’s annual Pushpanjali cultural celebration, which was held

ciety like ours, we encourage acceptance, celebrate diversity and promote unity as a country. Arrival Day reminds us of the foundation upon which our country is built, especially as we look at our current existence,” the Prime Minister said. He went on to say that Arrival Day is a day to be proud of one’s heritage and as Guyanese to be proud and remember the struggles

Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips delivering remarks at Pushpanjali 2022 (Carl Croker photo)

at the Indian Monument Gardens, on Thursday. The event marked the 22nd year of Pushpanjali cultural presentations here and the first one since the COVID-19 pandemic was detected here in 2020. During his brief remarks at the celebration, the Prime Minister highlighted that traditions give individuals their identity and reinforces values by reminding persons of their faith and integrity, among other things. He noted that it also encourages persons to be grateful to those that came before them and appreciate the work that they have done. “More importantly, as we partake in traditions, particularly in a diverse so-

of the indentured labourers. Phillips added: “Let us honor those struggles and be grateful for the lessons that we learned across our country as a result of them… let us use those lessons to remind ourselves to make positive contributions to the lives of others.” Arrival Day 2022 marked 184 years since the arrival of Indian indentured labourers to Guyana. The Pushpanjali celebrations at the Indian monument Gardens included various aspects of the Indian culture. Performances included Indian dances, prayers and songs from the three prominent religions in Guyana: Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.

This dance troupe lit up the stage at during the Arrival Day celebrations on Thursday (Carl Croker photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Driver dies, two children injured in Windsor Forest accident A 27-YEAR-OLD driver is now dead after losing control of his vehicle and crashing into a concrete bridge along the Windsor Forest public road, West Coast Demerara (WCD), yesterday (Thursday) morning. Dead is Kelvin Ghisiawan of Samatta Point, Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), according to a police statement which said the accident occurred around 04:15 hrs. Two other occupants of

DECEASED: Kelvin Ghisiawan

the vehicle, 12-year-old Alyna Deoliver, and six-yearold Josiemla Mafra, both of Kaneville, EBD, reportedly survived the crash with bodily injuries. The children were said to be in the backseat. Police said the now-dead man, driver of motor car #PSS 3117, was speeding east along the northern side of the Windsor Forest Public Road. The law enforcement agency said Ghisiawan lost control of the motor car, swerved south, and drove off of the said road. The vehicle then reportedly crashed into a concrete bridge located on the southern side of the road. As a result of the impact, the car was extensively damaged. The police report said Ghisiawan was picked up in an unconscious condition and rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The two children, however, were conscious and admitted as patients at that hospital. This is an active police investigation.

The badly-damaged car

GUYANA CHRONICLE FridAY, MAY 6, 2022

Samuel Medas rounds up 14 nominations at Caribbean gospel awards By Tamica Garnett LOCAL Psalmist, and former Mashramani Soca Monarch, Samuel Medas, is at it again with his award-winning style, clinching 14 nominations in the 2022 Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Award, which will be held on July 3 at the Myles E. Munroe Diplomat Centre in The Bahamas. Medas is the third highest nominee, following behind Trinbagonian singer/songwriter, Joel “Positive” Murray, who has 18 nominations, and Sherwin Gardner with 15. Over 40 categories are listed for awards. The award nominations were announced in April during a live broadcast on the awarding body’s social media accounts. “I found out the next morning when I woke up and watched the Facebook announcement and tallied it up. “I was surprised at being the third highest nominee. But the amount of nominations you receive is dependent on the diversity of your music, and I’d (sic) be dipping my feet in different genres over the past years,” Medas shared in a recent interview with The Buzz. The categories Medas has been nominated in span numerous genres including Reggae, Soca, Hip Hop, Christian Contemporary, Calypso, and another called, DJ Collaboration. “It’s always a learning process when approaching other genres. Some of my records

Award-winning gospel singer, Samuel Medas

are collaborations with other regional artists that are versed in a particular genre. So, I’m never too lost. But I take my time and learn the ins and outs of making any genre of music,” the 33-year-old musician shared. Of the 14 nominations, four are related to his hit single “Stadium”, which was his winning entry in the 2021 Mashramani Soca Monarch competition. “Stadium” has been nominated for “Outstanding Soca Performance”, “Outstanding Calypso Soca Vocal Performance (Male)”, “Outstanding

Music Video, and “Outstanding Song”. His single “Cyah Wait”, featuring Jaron Nurse, received nominations in the “Outstanding Calypso Soca Vocal Performance Duo” and “Outstanding Calypso Recording” categories. Other popular songs which have landed Medas nominations include his big hit “Royalty”, nominated for “Outstanding Reggae Vocal Performance (Male)”; “Move”, nominated for “Outstanding Dance Recording”; and “Can’t Be the Only One” which has been Continued on page 18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Red carpet, audience prizes for ‘Mother & Daughter’ pageant tomorrow

AHEAD of the Mother’s Day observance this Sunday, some 20 mothers and their daughters will take to the stage at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on Saturday evening to display their special bond through fashion and character as Supa Stylistics’ “Mother & Daughter Pageant” makes its official return. The pageant will see six mothers with their little girls compete in the junior category, six mothers and daughters showcasing casual wear in the middle category, and eight mothers and their daughters showcasing evening wear in senior category.

Speaking with The Buzz recently, pageant organiser, Dr Sulan Fung, said preparations have been coming along smoothly, and patrons can look forward to a new and improved aesthetics this year. “Preparations are going very well. We’ve just been to the National Cultural Centre where we started building the stage. It’s something that the National Cultural Centre has never seen before, we’re going high on technology. We have everything in place on stage,” she shared.

However, with a full blown red carpet affair planned for the grand return after two years, this year the pageant will be about so much more than just what will be going on the stage. Some 174 gifts will be given away to persons attending the event. But even before patrons get to their seats, Dr Fung explained, they will be treated to the “Team Mohammed” red carpet area where there will be complimentary wine and food from the “Bistro” and “Italian Gourmet” restaurants. (TG)

Contestants in the Junior Category

Contestants in the Middle Category

Contestants in the Senior Category

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Samuel Medas rounds...

From page 16 nominated for “Outstanding Reggae Recording”. Medas’ other nominations include “Outstanding DJ Collaboration” for his song “Jah Arise” which features DJ Nicholas, “Outstanding Reggae Hip Hop Recording” for his song “Harder than Before” featuring Dwayne Fiyah, “Outstanding Reggae Duo” for “Be Alright” featuring Neesha Woods, and “Outstanding Contemporary Vocal Performance” for “Secret Place” featuring Christina Richardson. His album “Ready” has been nominated for “Outstanding Album”. This will be Medas’s second set of nominations for the prestigious regional awards. His first nomination was in 2017, when he landed in seven categories and won

the “New Artiste of the Year” award. The gospel singer has come quite a far way since then with the release of three new albums, and is looking to branch off into various genres, all the while staying true to his gospel roots. Medas has also built up his awards collection, winning “Regional Artiste of the Year” twice at the Gospel Music Awards of Trinidad and Tobago in 2018, and 2019. He also won “Regional Artist of the Year” at the Sterling Gospel Music Awards in Jamaica in 2019. In 202, he wrestled the Mashramani Soca Monarch crown in a grand performance. He returned to the competition earlier this year and finished third. This year alone has been quite a busy one for Medas,

who dropped his latest album “Nations of Worshippers” in January this year. His Caribbean tour included performances at the “Praise Fest” in Grenada, the “Our God is Champion Concert” in Antigua, and other stops in Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, and in New York, and Texas in the United States (U.S.A). Medas would’ve also been among the creative greats who represented Guyana at the World Expo 2020 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the Guyanese contingent were well-praised for its performances. Medas has also done a number of packed out local shows, and has been busy building his brand, signing marketing deals with Fruta and Digicel, and promoting his own line of branded hoodies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Man accused of attacking comic Dave Chappelle charged with four misdemeanours (REUTERS) - A 23-yearold man, accused of attacking comedian, Dave Chappelle during a performance, was charged, on Thursday, with four misdemeanour criminal counts after the city’s district attorney declined to bring more serious charges. Isaiah Lee, who was subdued after tackling Chappelle, 48, to the stage floor on Tuesday evening, was charged by the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office with battery, possession of a weapon with intent to assault and two other misdemeanour counts. “This alleged attack has got to have consequences,” City Attorney Mike Feuer said in a videotaped message. Feuer announced the misdemeanour charges just hours after the city’s top

prosecutor, District Attorney George Gascon, declined to prosecute Lee. A spokesman for Gascon said a review of the evidence did not show felony conduct. Under California law, a misdemeanour carries a maximum sentence of one year in county jail. In Los Angeles, Feuer’s office prosecutes misdemeanours while the district attorney is responsible for felony cases. Police say Chappelle was performing at the Hollywood Bowl on Tuesday when Lee rushed at the comedian, knocking him to the ground. Lee was subdued near the back of the stage as he sought to flee. Chappelle returned to the stage after a short break and went on with the show, ad-libbing jokes about the incident. He did not appear to be injured. The performer’s repre-

sentatives said, on Wednesday, that he was fully cooperating with the police investigation. “As unfortunate and unsettling as the incident was, Chappelle went on with the show,” his spokesperson, Carla Sims, said in a statement on Wednesday, crediting Chris Rock and fellow comedian-actor, Jamie Foxx with helping to “calm the crowd.” The attack sparked comparisons to a bizarre incident during the Academy Awards ceremony in March at which actor, Will Smith smacked comic, Chris Rock onstage, apparently over a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Rock joined Chappelle onstage a short time after the attack, took the microphone and quipped, “Was that Will Smith?”

Pastor sues Kanye West, saying ‘Donda’ track ripped off sermon

(REUTERS) - A Texas minister is suing Kanye West, saying the rapper, producer and entrepreneur used a recording of one of his sermons without permission in the song “Come to Life.” Dallas County, Texas,

from Moten’s sermon. UMG and an attorney for Moten did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the lawsuit. West, who legally changed his name to Ye last year, could not immediately be reached

year. Moten said in the lawsuit that West has shown an “alarming pattern” of “wilfully and egregiously sampling sound recordings of others without consent.” West has previously

Recording artist Kanye West performs during the closing ceremony for the 2015 Pan Am Games at Pan Am Ceremonies Venue in Toronto, Canada July 26, 2015. Credit: Matt Detrich-USA TODAY Sports via REUTERS

pastor David Paul Moten sued West, his label Universal Music Group (UMG. AS), and its subsidiaries Def Jam Recordings and the West-founded G.O.O.D. Music on Tuesday in Dallas federal court. The copyright infringement lawsuit says at least two sections of “Come to Life” feature excerpts

for comment. Moten claims samples from his sermon comprise over 20% of “Come to Life,” which appeared on West’s hit album “Donda” last year. Named for West’s late mother, “Donda” went to the top of the Billboard charts and was nominated for a Grammy award for album of the

settled lawsuits over samples of a Hungarian singer on the 2013 song “New Slaves,” a child’s prayer on the 2016 song “Ultralight Beam,” and a theatre work about Jamaican activist, Marcus Garvey on “Freeee (Ghost Town Pt. 2),” a 2018 collaboration with rapper, Kid Cudi.

Actor Dave Chappelle arrives for the press conference to promote the film A Star is Born at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, September 9, 2018. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Essex fined after pleading guilty to charges related to racist comment (REUTERS) - Essex have been fined 50 000 pounds ($61 835) by an independent Cricket Discipline Commission panel after the English county club pleaded guilty to two charges in relation to a racist com-

ment made at a board meeting in 2017. Essex chairman John Faragher resigned from his role in November 2021 after the allegation that he used racist language, although he strongly denied the incident. The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which announced the decision yesterday, said Essex had also been cautioned about further conduct and issued with a reprimand. It added that 15 000 pounds of the fine was suspended for two years.

“The charge was in two parts - relating to the comment made at the meeting, and the subsequent failure by Essex CCC to conduct an appropriate, or any, subsequent investigation,” a statement by the ECB said. Faragher’s decision to quit Essex came a day after fellow county side Yorkshire’s former chief executive Mark Arthur resigned in the fallout from the allegations of institutional racism made by their former player Azeem Rafiq.

Volcanoes get help from Windies... FROM BACK PAGE tournament. Sir Andy Roberts held sessions with the Windward Islands Volcanoes that included discussions on the theory and art of fast bowling. The sessions with Sir Andy, in which international players Shermon Lewis and Preston McSween participated, included discussions on the theory and art of fast bowling. “As we continue the efforts to zoom in on specific components of the

Powerlifting Federation engages...

FROM BACK PAGE Nationals on December 4. Support was pledged for the overseas engagement which had a substantial budget to field a large contingent of athletes who were shortlisted to compete at the NAPF event. Ninvalle, through the National Sports Commission, offered support in finding a home for the Federation’s equipment and gear and discussions were held about Guyana having been seen as a role model to other regional powerlifting bodies such as Trinidad, Suriname, Jamaica, and others from within the region. Guyana boasts four Category 2 International Powerlifting (IPF) referees and

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will be sending two other individuals – Mark Seymour and Juanita White - to Panama to write their IPF examination. GAPLF indicated its intention to invite overseas competitors for its senior nationals, in order to improve the level of competition. Future developmental interest for the Federation is getting a programme incorporated into the school system, and the GAPLF will be reaching out to the Ministry of Education. The GAPLF is adamant that they play a vital role in getting the youths to stay in good health, shape, and frame of mind so as to contribute meaningfully to national development.

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The Federation is working to decentralise powerlifting to all regions, reforming the constitution to have regional bodies and representatives. Also in the pipeline is to have outreaches in areas such as Lethem, North-West, Essequibo and Bartica as competitions will soon be held in those regions.

game, this fast bowling engagement was timely and productive,” said WICB Technical Director, Miles Bascombe. “The experience and knowledge that Sir Andy has shared with these cricketers are invaluable and will eventually bear fruits.” WICB vice-president Dwain Gill added that hosting Sir Andy aligned with the new Windwards’ “policy of advancing our cricketers on all fronts”. “While this was primarily about developing our fast bowlers’ skills, another critical element of this activity was to allow these young players to identify with a West Indian legend and be

inspired,” he said. Sir Andy Roberts, the first Antiguan to play for the West Indies, received recognition for his continued contribution to the development of the sport in the region, after he engaged with the players. WICB president Dr Kishore Shallow presented him with a plaque. Sir Andy, a former Leeward Islands and Combined Islands cricketer, played both Tests and ODIs for West Indies from 1974 to 1983. He also played extensive county cricket for Hampshire County Cricket Club and Leicestershire County Cricket Club.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Suns, Heat take command Actor/writer Stephen Fry to become next MCC president of NBA play-off series

Devin Booker scored 21 of his 30 points in the second half for Phoenix Suns PHOENIX Suns and Miami Heat lead their best-of-seven play-off series 2-0 after respective victories over Dallas Mavericks and Philadelphia 76ers respectively. Chris Paul scored 28 points for Suns in a 129109 win over Mavericks in the Western Conference. “We just did what we were supposed to do. We won two games at home,”

said Paul. In the Eastern Conference, Heat also took advantage of being at home in a 119-103 victory over the 76ers. Bam Adebayo scored 23 points and Jimmy Butler 22 for the hosts, while Tyrese Maxey scored a game-high 34 points for Philadelphia. The 76ers will hope Joel Embiid will be back today for the first of their

two home games, but coach Doc Rivers conceded: “He’s got so many steps to go through. I don’t think he’s cleared any of them right now. So we just have to wait and see.” Mavericks, who also host the next two games in their series, outscored Suns 32-26 in the second quarter to take a 60-58 lead, with Luka Doncic top-scoring with 35 points. However, Paul scored 14 of his points in the fourth quarter as his side won it 40-26 to surge to victory. “(We) just had to be a little bit more aggressive,” Paul said. “That second quarter we started turning it over. They got it going. Shooters were making shots and we just wanted to stay the course.” (BBC Sport)

ACTOR and writer Stephen Fry will become the next president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Fry, 64, will take over from former England captain Clare Connor, who nominated him for the role, on October 1, 2022. The broadcaster and comedian is a lifelong cricket fan and has been an MCC member since 2011. “I am honoured and proud to be nominated as the next president of MCC,” said Fry. “It is a club that is known throughout the world for what it represents in the game and to be gifted the opportunity to perform this role is truly humbling.” Based at Lord’s which it owns, MCC acts as custodian and arbiter of the laws and spirit of cricket. Fry delivered the 20th MCC Spirit of Cricket Cowdrey Lecture last year, becoming only the second non-cricketing figure after the late Archbishop Des-

Stephen Fry was named next MCC president at the club’s annual general meeting at Lord’s mond Tutu to do so since the event started in 2001. Connor became the MCC’s first female president since it was founded in 1787 when she took over in October last year. “I am thrilled to be able to announce Stephen as my successor,” said Connor. “He has a deep love and care for cricket and will be a wonderful ambassador

for MCC. “The Cowdrey Lecture he delivered last year was inspiring and showed the extent to which he understands the challenges and opportunities that both MCC and cricket face. “He will bring a wealth of experience to the role and I hope he thoroughly enjoys his year.”

Ranatunga slams ‘corrupt’ SLC over mismanagement ARJUNA Ranatunga led Sri Lanka to their first and only World Cup triumph in 1996. After his illustrious cricketing career, the southpaw also tried his luck in politics and excelled at it. Lately, the legendary skipper has lashed out at Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and has also labelled it the most “corrupt” institution in the island nation. Sri Lanka is currently battling its worst-ever financial crisis, which has affected the day-to-

Former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga day lives of the people of the country, with the

rate of inflation having skyrocketed. Meanwhile,

Arjuna has criticised SLC for ruining the chances of young talented cricketers due to mismanagement. “Nobody asked me to step down the order, especially after having won a World Cup as captain, but that’s what a good leader does,” 58-year-old Ranatunga was quoted as saying, by Sportstar. “When you play cricket, you think of tomorrow, not today. Now, everyone is after his own personal glory and our cricket board is the most corrupt institution in the country.

They have messed up everything. We produce several young talented cricketers, but they are managed very badly,” the former World Cup-winning skipper said in Bengaluru, where he was on a visit to the Karnataka Olympic Bhavan in the company of President K. Govindraj. Ever since the 2015 World Cup, Sri Lanka have been in the transition period and have failed to find a proper balance in their squad, as a result of which they

have been unable to perform in multi-nation tournaments. The Lankans, who won the T20 World Cup in 2014 under Lasith Malinga, have even failed to make the cut in the Super 12 stages of the 2021 event. Even this year, the former champions will have to do well in the group stages in order to qualify for the next round, just like they did in the previous edition in the UAE. (CricTracker)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Swag Boss win inaugural Linden Town Week Mayor’s Cup dominoes tournament

SWAG Boss emerged winners when the inaugural Linden Mayor’s Cup One-Day Town Week dominoes tournament, which attracted nine teams, was played last Saturday at the Egbert Benjamin Conference Hall in Mackenzie, Linden. Coming out on top were Swag Boss with 80 games, WHO with 72 and GJETSCO on 50. Swag Boss captain, Arthur Chung, was the Most Valuable Player of the final with 17 games as Andre Ferdinand ended with 15. Teams in this tournament, organised by Westwell Peters of the Big Landing Dominoes Club and who received sponsorship from the Linden Town Week Committee were recent Dewars Linden Town Week champions Bidders, Warriors, Rockets, CATS, Royal Champions, WHO, GJETSCO, Swag Boss and Big Landing. The winners Swag Boss copped the first prize of $100 000 with second-placed WHO collecting $40 000 and GJETSCO $20 000 for placing third. Trophies were donated by Snook’s Jewellery, Powers Brian Money and Life Time Gift Shop. Mayor Mrs Waneka Arrindell who was present gave her blessings and wished all the teams well. At the end of the event, prizes were presented by Mayor Arrindell and other councillors. She expressed joy and her hope that the tournament will be an annual event. (Joe Chapman)

Mayor of Linden, Mrs Waneka Arrindell, left, presents MVP trophy to Swag Boss, Arthur Chung, in the presence of other members of the team

SCCA Memorial Weekend softball festival set for May 28, 29 THE Schenectady Softball Cricket Association (SCCA) annual Memorial Weekend cricket festival is set for May 28 and 29, with teams from New York, Canada, Florida, New Jersey and the hosts battling for supremacy in the two-day extravaganza, a brainchild of Guyanese-born Onkar Singh. Known more for his prowess as one of the top commentators in the softball arena, Singh told Chronicle Sport that his association is all set to stage the two-day affair at Central and Grout Parks in Schenectady. Prizes will be awarded to the winners and runners-up, as well as MVPs for each game, MVP of the tournament and members of teams in the final. According to Singh, who has been at the helm of the SCCA since its inception some 17 years ago, after leaving Queens

during the regular season and currently one of the 20-over categories has started. This year marks 22 years since the self-made commentator “accidental-

ly” ventured into a career which has since branded him as a cricket commentator with a difference. Singh is not heard on radio or television but his on-the-spot coverage

of softball cricket has caught the attention of many, prompting him to describe himself as “the pioneer of on-field coverage,” (Frederick Halley)

FIFA confirms World Cup playoffs schedule

SCCA president Onkar Singh to reside in Schenectady, he saw a need to organise the tournament in his hometown. Singh disclosed that the tournament has received the blessings of City officials who have played a big role in upgrading and modernising Grout Park. Meanwhile, the SCCA

annual weekend tournaments started recently with eight teams in contention – Rizing Stars, Rude Boys, All Stars, Knight Riders, Ankerville, Challengers, Gaza Rebels and Port Mourant. Singh disclosed that his association normally runs three 20-over and one 25-over tournaments

(REUTERS) - Global soccer governing body, FIFA, confirmed that the intercontinental playoffs for the World Cup will be played at Doha’s Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, June 13-14. Asian rivals Australia and United Arab Emirates

(UAE) meet in a playoff at the same venue on June 7, with the winner to meet Peru on June 13. The winner of the Peru clash will go into Group D with world champions France, Denmark and Tunisia. Costa Rica play Oceania

champions New Zealand on June 14 for the final place at the World Cup in November and December, with the winners to slot into Group E with Spain, Germany and Japan. Both intercontinental playoffs kick off at 21:00hrs local time.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Seattle Sounders beat Pumas UNAM to England near Test coach appointment win CONCACAF Champions League with Gary Kirsten favourite for role

Seattle’s victory secured a place for them at FIFA Club World Cup MAJOR League Soccer side Seattle Sounders beat Mexico’s Pumas UNAM to win the CONCACAF Champions League. After a 2-2 draw in the first leg in Mexico, Seattle won the home second leg 3-0 with two goals from Raul Ruidiaz and a late effort from Nicolas Lodeiro to claim a 5-2 aggregate win. “There are no words to describe what I’m feeling right now,” Peru striker Ruidiaz told Fox Sports. “The club made history and deserved it - now enjoy it.” LA Galaxy were the last

MLS winners of the competition, claiming victory in 2000 when it was called the Champions Cup and played under a different format. Seattle’s victory secured them a place at the FIFA Club World Cup and means they will become the first MLS team to play in the competition. The next Club World Cup will be hosted by China, but a date has not been set after it was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic and this winter’s 2022 World Cup. “The MLS deserved the continental title, and this

will go down in history,” said Lodeiro. CONCACAF is the governing body for football in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. “It means everything,” said Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei. “It’s a Wednesday and we’re packing this place with 68 000 people. “The passion is so strong in this city. I’m so happy for everybody that we’re able to achieve this for them. “In the end, it’s all about winning trophies. We want to win trophies, and today’s a big one.” (BBC Sport)

ENGLAND are hoping for a swift conclusion to their hunt for a new Test coach, with South African Gary Kirsten the leading contender as the deadline for applications expires. The window for submissions officially closes at 6pm on Friday, but informal conversations have already been held and the field of candidates is unlikely to shift at the eleventh hour. The England and Wales Cricket Board are interviewing for two positions on Monday and Tuesday after resolving to split the red-ball and white-ball roles, but time pressure is most significant on the Test team. They are back in action on June 2 at Lord’s, where they begin a three-match series against New Zealand, and would like the incoming coach, as well as new captain Ben Stokes, to play an active role in squad selection before that. Kirsten appears to be the man in pole position, as he was four years ago before being edged out by Chris Silverwood. That experience suggests there is still plenty up for grabs during the interview stage, which will be led by

England drop to lowest Test points rating in 27 years

England lost 1-0 to West Indies in Joe Root’s last series as Test captain ENGLAND have dropped to sixth in the world Test rankings and now hold their lowest points total for 27 years. England, who have won only one of their past

17 Tests and are winless in nine, have dropped a place below Pakistan. Their points rating of 88, a calculation of their points scored divided by matches played across a

time period, is their lowest since 1995. Australia are top of the annually updated rankings followed by India, New Zealand, South Africa and Pakistan. England, who named all-rounder Ben Stokes as their new captain after Joe Root’s resignation, play New Zealand in their next Test series in June. The rescheduled fifth Test against India follows in July before three Tests against South Africa in August and September. Speaking about the team’s form on Tuesday, Stokes said: “If we’re

completely realistic, winning one game in 17 is nowhere near good enough. “What we can do is say, ‘There’s only one way to go from here, which is up’. “I can’t expect it to just click and all of a sudden we’re number one in a year’s time. “That would be fantastic, but I’m very excited about the role I’ve got to play in hopefully making the England Test team great again, It’s a big goal of mine and I’m really looking forward to it.” (BBC Sport)

Former South African batsman Gary Kirsten the recently appointed director of cricket Rob Key alongside Sir Andrew Strauss and chief executive Tom Harrison and take place via video conferencing for those unable to attend in person. Simon Katich is another live candidate, emerging as the likeliest Australian to cross the Ashes divide, Ottis Gibson’s name refuses to go away despite suggestions that he is committed to his current role in charge of Yorkshire and Graham Ford forged close links with Key at Kent Internal candidates such as Paul Collingwood, one of Silverwood’s assistants and recently interim head coach in the West Indies, and Young Lions coach Richard Dawson may find themselves with a better chance of pitching for the limited-overs vacancy. Interest in that should be high given England’s status as 50-over world champions, but a homegrown prospect to work alongside captain Eoin Morgan may be preferable

given the likelihood of an overseas appointment in the longer format. If former South Africa and India coach Kirsten does emerge successful in that race, an agreement would need to be reached over his role as batting coach with Indian Premier League franchise Gujarat Titans. They are currently top of the IPL table and on course to go all the way in a competition which runs until May 29 – just four days before England’s Test summer begins. Extracting him from his longer-term commitments in future years should be simpler, while the ECB would also need to find a new coach for Welsh Fire in The Hundred. Having overlooked Kirsten for Silverwood, they successfully recruited him to front the Cardiff-based team in last year’s launch season. Katich is also tied to that tournament with Manchester Originals, giving him recent exposure to the English game. (PA Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday May 06, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Sachin Tendulkar-618 (MI) (2) Murali Vijay-127 (CSK) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who claimed most wickets in IPL 2010? (2) What were the best bowling figures in a single game in IPL 2010? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

World Cup berths at stake CWI decision to not name a T20I in CW U17 semifinals vice-captain surprises Wallace

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Two spots in the 2022 FIFA Women’s Under-17 World Cup in India will be at stake today in the semifinals of the 2022 CONCACAF Women’s (CW) Under-17 Championship in the Dominican Republic. Both matches will be played at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez in Santo Domingo, beginning with Mexico and Puerto Rico. Mexico arrive at the semifinals after scoring 25 goals in their two knockout-round games, a 15-0 win over Guyana in the Round of 16, followed by a 10-0 quarter-final victory against Dominican Republic. Tatiana Flores and Valerie Vargas have been the leaders of the Mexico attack with eight goals each and will be tasked with finding a way past a tough Puerto Rico defence. The Boricuas are only in their third ever CW U17, but they have been hugely

Amalia Villarreal (left, #16) has eight goals to her name thus far in leading the U.S in the 2022 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship in the Dominican Republic impressive in the knockout round with a pair of 2-0 wins against Central American foes Panama and El Salvador in the round of 16 and in the quarterfinals. The other semifinal will be an all-North American duel between the United States and Canada, featuring two of the tournament’s top goalscorers in Amalia Villarreal of the U.S. and Rosa

Maalouf of Canada. Villarreal has eight goals to her name thus far in leading the U.S., while Maalouf has notched 10 goals in Canada’s five games, making her the CW U17 top scorer. But for both it will be a stiff challenge, as the U.S. have not conceded in their five games, while Canada have only allowed two goals. (Concacaf.com)

FORMER West Indies batter, Philo Wallace, is surprised by the decision of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) selection panel to not name a vice-captain for the T20I team. Trinidadian left-hander Nicholas Pooran was announced as the West Indies’ new T20 and ODI skipper on Tuesday following the retirement of former captain Kieron Pollard from international cricket last month. Barbados batter Shai Hope was named the ODI vice-captain but there was no such announcement for the T20 format. “Shai Hope is being designated as his deputy for the 50-over squad. There’s no vice-captain for the T20 squad, which I find very interesting,” said Wallace while appearing on the Mason & Guest Radio Show in Barbados

Barbados batter Shai Hope was named the ODI vice-captain on Tuesday. Missing international assignments has been a big problem for the West Indian players, who are involved in various T20 leagues around the world and Wallace hopes this doesn’t become an issue with the new Windies skipper. “His first assignment is away to Holland and I

hope that we don’t hear that Pooran is going to miss a lot of international cricket after being elevated to this very serious post. I do hope that the selectors would’ve sat down with him via zoom and have a serious discussion with him about what they are expecting of him and what he’s expecting of himself and try to pick the best possible squads going forward,” he said. “All I can say is I wish him all the very best and I do hope that he can help turn our cricket around and work closely with the players, selection panel and the coaches to try to lift the quality of our white ball cricket,” Wallace added. Pooran has so far scored 1 121 runs at an average of 40.03 in 37 ODIs and 1 193 runs at an average of 27.74 in 57 T20Is. (Sportsmax)

Warner, Powell power Capitals past Sunrisers

DAVID Warner was in inspirational form as he spearheaded Delhi Capitals (DC) to a 21run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to boost their playoff hopes in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Warner issued a rallying cry to the Capitals’ top order on Wednesday with the franchise in danger of missing out on a spot in the next round. And it was as if he felt the need to lead by example as he produced a stellar showing, hitting 92 not out to break the record for most T20 half-centuries in history as Capitals set a significant target of 207-3. It was just as well that Warner was so sharp as the Capitals endured a difficult start when fellow opener Mandeep Singh was removed for a duck by Bhuvneshwar Kumar

(1-25) on the fifth ball and Mitchell Marsh (10) did not last much longer. Captain Rishabh Pant proved a reasonable partner to Warner with 26 off 16 balls before falling to Shreyas Gopal (1-34), but that would prove to be the final Capitals wicket to tumble. Rovman Powell (67 not out) and Warner put on a stand of 122 as Capitals surpassed 200, with Umran Malik (0-52) and Kartik Tyagi (0-37) in particular toiling with the ball. Sunrisers’ chase did not start especially well as Abhishek Sharma and Kane Williamson put on just 11 between them – Rahul Tripathi at least managed double that figure, but they needed more. Aiden Markram (42) and Nicholas Pooran (62) at least offered some re-

Rovman Powell brought up his fifty off 30 balls, adding 122 runs for the fourth wicket with David Warner (BCC photo) sistance with their 60-run stand, but hope dissolved after the former skied a delivery from the excellent Khaleel Ahmed (3-30) into the hands of Kuldeep Yadav. Although Pooran

managed to reach his half-century, no one else added more than 10 as Sunrisers fell well short at 186-8. WARNER MAKES HISTORY This was Warner ’s

fourth half-century of the season and comfortably his biggest total (by 26 runs), but the focus was on his new record as he surpassed Chris Gayle (88) for the most 50s in T20 cricket.

After managing a disappointing three last time out, Warner’s display here was a timely response against his former team. His haul came from just 58 balls and included 15 boundaries, three of which were maximums. Warner certainly did not do it all himself, as Powell’s contribution was significant, but it was some showing. ALL PACE, NO PRECISION? Malik recorded the second-fastest ball in IPL history in the 20th over of Capitals’ innings, the delivery clocking 157 kilometres per hour. But, in general, he did not enjoy a great day. Capitals totalled 52 runs against him, more than any other bowler, and he did not claim a single wicket. (SportsMax)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 6, 2022

Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ shirt sold for £7.14M (REUTERS) - The shirt worn by Diego Maradona when he scored two of the most famous goals in soccer history was sold for 7.14 million pounds ($8.93M) on Wednesday, marking a new auction record for an item of sports memorabilia. Maradona wore Argentina’s No.10 shirt in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England in Mexico. Six minutes into the second half he put his team ahead by punching the ball into the net for what became known as the ‘Hand of God’ goal. Four minutes later Maradona dribbled from his own half to score a goal, widely considered one of the greatest in World Cup history. England midfielder Steve Hodge got Maradona’s jersey after the game and announced last month he was putting it up for auction after 19

years on display at England’s National Football Museum. “This historic shirt is a tangible reminder of an important moment not only in the history of sports, but in the history of the 20th century,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables. Sotheby’s said the buyer was anonymous. The sale broke the previous record for sports memorabilia set by the original autograph manuscript of the Olympic Manifesto from 1892, which went for $8.8M in 2019. The sale of Maradona’s jersey was complicated by claims that the wrong shirt was going under the hammer, with his daughter and ex-wife saying Hodge received the shirt Maradona wore in the first half of the match. Sotheby has said they

Diego Maradona’s Hand of God goal shirt sells for £7.14M used photo-matching technology to “conclusively” match the shirt to both

goals by “examining unique details on various elements of the item, including the

patch, stripes, and numbering”. Maradona, regarded

as one of the world’s best ever footballers, died in November, 2020, aged 60.

Powerlifting Federation Volcanoes get help from Windies cricket legend Sir Andy Roberts engages NSC on future plans … prepare for Regional 4-Day tournament

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC) – The Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB) has tapped into the experience of former West Indies fast bowler, Sir Andy Roberts, to prepare

the Windward Islands Volcanoes for the resumption of the West Indies Regional 4-Day tournament. The West Indies legend was hosted in Grenada the home of the Volcanoes

franchise - to observe and help the fast bowlers in their preparations. They travel to Trinidad and Tobago on May 15 for the final three rounds of the regional 4-day TURN TO PAGE 23

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle (centre), along with the Executives of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation THE Executive of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) met with the Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, on Wednesday to discuss issues affecting the association and events for the rest of the year. According to a release from the Federation, among

issues arising was the ban and serving of the suspension of Carlos Peterson-Griffith by the International Powerlifting Federation. Time was served from December 2021 to the latter part of February 2022. The GAPLF then outlined its upcoming local and international events.

Upcoming are the Masters/Intermediate Championships to be held on May 15 at St Stanislaus College; North American Powerlifting Federation (NAPF) Championships scheduled for Panama City from August 15 to 21; Raw Classic Championships on October 15 and Senior TURN TO PAGE 23

Sir Andy Roberts held sessions with the Windward Islands Volcanoes that included discussions on the theory and art of fast bowling

England drop to lowest Test points rating in 27 years Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2022