K
Human Rights Tuesday Edition NEWS must not stand in the way of American - former Secretary interests of State/ex-Exxon Boss AIETEUR
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
April 19, 2022 - Vol. 16 No. 16
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 70,383
ExxonMobil to deduct over US$220M by 2024 for works to be done 20 years in the future - Financial Analyst Disastrous oil spill…
Peru orders company to stop mixing contaminated and clean sand as cleaning method PAC will be unable CH&PA to oversee to scrutinise infrastructural Govt.’s spending works in new before elections housing areas to ...slow pace of work, quorum change; a disservice to citizens - Chairman the tune of $1.6B
‘Big Oil’ board members refuse to participate in climate change hearing - despite being among biggest polluters of the world
Guyana’s failure to repay loans on infrastructure projects will - former result in severe debt crisis diplomat Our leaders are proud of themselves getting US$2M for gas flaring from Exxon while Guyana to spend US$4M
@11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Human rights must not stand in the way of American interests - Former US Secretary of State/ex-Exxon boss On May 3, 2017, just three months into his tenure as US Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, had cited that Americans should be vigilant not to let values like human rights create “obstacles” to the pursuit of its interests. Tillerson served as the 69th U.S. Secretary of State from February 1, 2017 to
March 31, 2018 under President Donald Trump – and is also the former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of American oil giant, ExxonMobil Corporation. Following Tillerson’s remarks, the Brookings (an American research group) had reported that while speaking about values as an enduring guide to U.S.
foreign policy, Tillerson made it crystal clear that when it comes to actual policies; national security and economic interests come first. In fact he said, “Wellmeaning principles like freedom and human rights sit on our shoulder like some guardian angel whispering in one ear to do the right
thing…but only if it’s convenient to more important security and economic interests.” Tillerson had instructed his team of diplomats that “we really have to understand, in each country or each region of the world that we’re dealing with, what are our national security interests, what are our
Former US Secretary of State and former CEO of ExxonMobil, Rex Tillerson economic prosperity interests, and then as we can advocate and advance our values, we should…” He asserted that too often promoting ones value is “an obstacle” to the advancement of other interests. Tillerson went on a tour d’horizon of all the compelling issues on the U.S. foreign policy agenda and did not once mention the words values, democracy, or human rights. In one speech, Tillerson tossed out over four decades of bipartisan consensus that human rights and democracy are: 1) essential components of U.S. national security and economic prosperity, and 2) not just American values but universal values that the United States, through its long and troubled history, has adopted as the north star of national prestige and international legitimacy. According to a POLITICO article, Tillerson’s remarks had alarmed veteran diplomats since his comment sounded like a potential shift in American foreign policy and had provoked an outcry among former U.S. officials and human rights activists who feared America was abandoning a vital mission. Tw o w e e k s a f t e r Tillerson’s comment, one of his top advisors wrote up a short tutorial in the form of a confidential memo to his boss, recapping, “the debate over how far to emphasize
human rights, democracy promotion, and liberal values in American foreign policy.” In fact, the POLITICO had reported that the May 17, 2017 memo reads like a crash course for a businessman-turneddiplomat, and its conclusion offers a starkly realist vision that the U.S. should use human rights as a club against its oppositions, like Iran, China and North Korea – while giving a pass to repressive allies like the Philippines, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. “Allies should be treated differently—and better—than adversaries. Otherwise, we end up with more adversaries, and fewer allies,” argued the memo, written by Tillerson’s influential policy aide, Brian Hook. It was further stated that it was unclear what prompted Hook to author the memo, and whether he did so at Tillerson’s request amid a furor in foreign policy circles about Tillerson’s May 3, 2017 remarks, in which he s a i d t h a t “ i t ’s r e a l l y important that all of us understand the difference between policy and values” like “freedom, human dignity and the way people are treated.” However, a photo of the memo, suggests that Tillerson, former CEO of ExxonMobil, was still on a steep learning curve when it comes to foreign affairs.
Trade Unionist appeals 2 life sentences for rape By Rehanna Ramsay Trade unionist, Micah William is appealing his rape conviction and subsequent life sentences before the Guyana Court of Appeal. The appeal comes three years after Williams was found guilty and sentenced for the rape and sodomy of an eightyear-old girl. The trade unionist is being represented by attorneys-at-law, Nigel Hughes and Ronald J. Daniels. The lawyers are (Continued on page 6)
Convicted: Micah Williams
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
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CH&PA to oversee ExxonMobil to deduct over US$220M infrastructural works by 2024 for works to be done 20 years in new housing areas Financial Analyst in the future to the tune of $1.6B By Kiana Wilburg
F
o l l o w i n g t h e Region Two. allocations of From this year’s budget, h o u s e l o t s i n Senior Minister within the Regions Two, Four, Nine and Office of the President with 10 last year, the Ministry of responsibility for Finance, Housing and Water, through D r. A s h n i S i n g h h a d the Central Housing and announced that the sum of P l a n n i n g A u t h o r i t y $12.4 billion has been (CH&PA), is planning to allocated for the Ministry to spend some $1.6 billion on continue infrastructure infrastructural development works in the housing areas. works in those new housing These infrastructure areas this year. works, he said, will include This was revealed during the upgrading of 45.5 km of the weekly opening of roads in 31 existing housing tenders on Wednesday at the schemes across Regions National Procurement and One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Tender Board (NPTAB) Six, Nine and 10. The road office, where projects were u p g r a d e w i l l b e opened for infrastructural complemented with the works in areas such as construction of drainage Amelia’s Ward, Linden, s t r u c t u r e s a n d t h e Golden Grove and Diamond installation of LED (Light o n t h e E a s t B a n k o f Emitting Diode) street Demerara, Lethem and lamps. Charity. These works, Additionally, said the according to the Ministry’s S e n i o r M i n i s t e r , engineer estimate, are slated “Government also aims to to cost $1,672,231,920. complete the construction of It was reported that in the electricity distribution October last year, some 1000 networks in existing housing house lots were allocated to s c h e m e s a l o n g w i t h residents on the East Bank of procurement of electrical Demerara in areas such as hardware for new housing Plantation Golden Grove, schemes.” Little and Great Diamond It was reported by the and Grove through the Minister that the sum of CH&PA’s “Dream Realised” $18.7 billion was expended programme. last year by the Housing Similarly, some 500 M i n i s t r y f o r s i m i l a r residents in Lethem received infrastructural works, in 11 house lots, while some 400 existing housing schemes. received house lost in Linden Below are the and 350 received in Charity, companies and their bids: Central Housing and Planning Authority Infrastructure development works for Ameila's Ward, Linden- Lot 4.
Infrastructure development works for Golden Grove Block 9, East Bank Demerara –Lot 5.
(Continued on page 8)
By the end of 2024 —two y e a r s f r o m now—ExxonMobil Guyana would have already recovered some US$227M for works to be executed 20 years into the future. These monies, which would be deducted in portions annually, are associated with the abandonment or decommissioning of its wells for the Liza Phase One Project. Such costs are allowed to be recovered by the Operator, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), as per arrangements in the 2016 Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). This notable payment schedule is documented in a report authored and produced by Director of Financial Analysis for the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), Tom Sanzillo. According to his analysis, even before 2020, EEPGL had already deducted US$1M, and that
was raised to US$16M by the end of that year. For 2021 EEPGL, according to Sanzillo, deducted some US$18M as part of its annual recoverable expenses for abandonment costs. By the end of 2022, the company will deduct an additional US$32M which then doubles in the following year –2023—to US$64M. In 2024 EEPGL will deduct from oil sold from the Stabroek Block up to US$95M for a total of US$227M to be deducted as Amortised Abandonment Costs—works to be undertaken some 20 years in the future at the projected end of the lifespan of the Liza 1 oilfield. Decommissioning is the process of ending offshore oil and gas operations at an offshore platform and returning the ocean and seafloor to its pre-lease condition. This would involve the removal of all of the subsea installations such as manifolds, pipes and valves in addition to the resealing of the exhausted well. There will be some 17 wells to be decommissioned
at the end of the anticipated 20-year life span. This publication previously reported that by the end of 2024 ExxonMobil and its partners Hess Corporation and China National Offshore Oil Company are set to rake in some US$42.7B in profits, and deductions for interest on loans, abandonment costs, profits and annual operating expenses, among other deductions, from the oil being produced in the Stabroek Block. Guyana by contrast will have received by then a total of US$3.3B, US$633M of which would be used to pay taxes on behalf of the contractor, ExxonMobil Guyana. It would mean that the oil consortium currently operating at the Liza I oilfield’s take would be some 85 percent of the projected 555 million barrels of oil scheduled to be produced from the Stabroek Block d u r i n g t h a t period—representing recoverable costs such as expenses and profits. Guyana’s take during the
Financial Analyst, Tom Sanzillo same period in contrast, sees the country earning some US$3.7B total, of which US$523M accounts for royalty earned. Of its total take, however, US$653M would represent taxes being paid by Guyana on behalf of the US oil major operating in the Stabroek Block. Total royalty for its oil for Guyana at the end of 2024, is pegged at US$523M or $100M less than what the country will take from its share, to fork over to the treasury as taxes—foregone revenue from ExxonMobil Guyana. These are among some of the startling revelations documented in the analysis conducted by Sanzillo.
PAC will be unable to scrutinize government … slow pace of work, quorum a disservice to citizens spending before Elections change; By Zena Henry Chairman of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Jermaine Figueira is convinced that citizens are receiving a disservice now that a stronger possibility exists for further stymieing the work of the PAC The PAC’s quorum was recently changed from three persons to five and has specific rules as to who must be present from both the government and opposition sides of the House to make any meeting of the PAC a valid one. Figueira believes that given the slow pace of the Committee’s work, and now this new requirement, the oversight body will be unable to scrutinise government’s spending before the holding of the next general elections. Figueira, in fact believes that it is the deliberate intention of the government to prevent these checks of its spending for this period in office. “Government is currently spending millions and billions of dollars
PAC Chairman, Jermaine Figueira unchecked…but we are only on the 2017, 2018 and 2019 audited accounts. And that’s what they want, they don’t want us to go to the 2020 audits,” the PAC Chairman insisted. The 2017, 2018 and 2019 audited accounts would illustrate spending done by the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government. By further slowing down the work of the Committee, it would be highly unlikely that scrutiny of government’s spending would occur before the next election, “You check it, do the calculation,”
Figueira urged, “it will be elections by the time we get to the 2020 accounts.” The PAC Chairman explained that the current situation is “very frustrating” because while the opposition would like to get on with the work of the people, there is not much that could be done to force the attendance of any member. He noted that even if a motion is brought to the Assembly to undo the PAC change, it will more than likely be voted against by the government as has happened in other matters. T h e PA C c h a i r m a n highlighted, however, that what the PAC members are now faced with is that all persons making up the quorum must be present to hold these important meetings. He said that what this means is that even if all opposition members and the Committee chairman is present, once the government side is not in attendance no meeting is allowed. He said even if all opposition members are present, the chairman and atleast one government
member, there can still be no meetings without the full complement. The same would apply if opposition members choose not to attend. Figueira reiterated the seriousness of the recent PA C d e v e l o p m e n t s reminding that it was less than six months ago that the opposition members sought via motion, to increase the number of PAC meetings when it was voted down by the government’s side of the Committee. The motion was to increase the PAC meetings from once, to twice weekly so the body could better handle the backlog of work. Instead of moving toward improving the PAC’s ability to ensure transparency and accountability of public spending, Figueira said the body is now set to reduce its performance as the new motion accommodates further absenteeism. Several opposition members had bemoaned the effects of the PAC change, while government Members of Parliament were (Continued on page 15)
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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Big-ticket projects, empty-pocket people
G
uyana s building of big-ticket projects is gath ering a full head of steam in what are nothing but frenzied visions of building and more building. This is regardless of the massive costs for these infrastructural projects, and with less than caring recognition from leaders of the woes of many Guyanese. Our poor listen and look on in disbelief at the huge amounts of taxpayers dollars that are budgeted for spending on new projects, while they struggle to cope with rising prices, and pay cheques that can only be stretched so far for only some of their daily basics. When those pay cheques are exhausted, they are on their own; how they manage is a mystery. One of our Good Friday front-page banners gave a glimpse of the circumstances that prevail: “Building stadium, airport should not trump citizens welfare -economist reminds govt. of high cost of living, health care, minimum wage issues” (KN April 15). Any one of those circumstances, now the horrible reality of poor, ordinary Guyanese workers and families, would be a killer. High cost of living is tying working class Guyanese into knots, they just dont know what to do, but survive they somehow do. Global supply chain crisis, COVID-19 pandemic, bad weather, worse politics, and rising oil prices have all come in for their share of blame. To those we must add price-gouging, cruel exploiting, and the usual private sector profiteering as contributory factors to rising prices in Guyana, and the pain of the poorer segment of Guyanese people. The people need meaningful relief, their welfare given the highest priority, especially when all these many billions are being proudly announced about airport and stadium. They may use them from time to time, but they still need to live all the time, every breath taken in and out. They have to eat, pay the bills, and they just cant. Health care is a disease by itself, the cost of it, that is. The cost is a source of pain by itself that is felt largely by those who cant afford the six and seven figure bills placed before them by private institutions. On the other hand, people connected to the PPP/C Government are busy building, or readying to build, more private health care facilities. This is so that they are well-positioned to profit even more off the backs of Guyanese already bent from the weight of expenses that they cannot handle. Meanwhile, leaders in the PPP/C Government are busy. The President and the Vice President are busy running around and making loud noises about all the projects that they have in mind, and how much money are a part of those visions. Meanwhile also, both the President and Vice President have little to say about what kind of provisions that they have as visions to give poor Guyanese some timely, much-needed aid in their season of savaging struggle. This is what one economist is warning about; what another economist noted when he said that people have to eat. To repeat the unnecessary, the people cant eat an airport or a stadium, by themselves, possibly beneficial things, but only when done cleanly, correctly. Many Guyanese are crying out for any help that they can get, the problem is that none is coming their way, for such is the manner of the heartless leaders that they put in power. A proper increase in the minimum wage of Guyanese workers would go a long way to make a difference. The differences would be tangible, as in what they are able to put on the table, how long they can stay in their rented residence, what clothing they place on their children, and how they manage to travel to work. Instead of the PPP/C Government appreciating the pain of the people, and doing something worthwhile for them, they are busy planning on how much to put in the pockets of their cronies and themselves through these big projects about which they thunder. Government leaders have not indicated any interests to increase the minimum wage, which buys next to nothing. The irony is that Guyana is this revving, racing, enriching economic engine, while poor Guyanese are struggling, hurting, dying on their feet.
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Invest instead in solar power beginning with the new housing areas DEAR EDITOR, The hidden costs of the gas-to-power projects are slowly bubbling up: GPL has to find 50 MW of heavy fuel oil generation; and they are looking for some other company to deliver seamless connections without transmission and distribution problems. GPL is caught in an inefficiency trap, because it still
only aims to deliver electricity at 80% power factor, and consumers are allowed to operate at unbelievably lower power factors. I also notice that the many transformers required in this system seem to have no maintenance. Moisture and oxidation are unchecked until the transformer bangs out to indicate replacement. There
seems to be a normal state of emergency in running things. The gas-to-power project panders to these inefficiencies and lets GPL off the hook. One day the gas will be finished; what then? The immediate answer is to invest instead in solar power beginning with the new housing areas being built. Let people manage their own elec-
tric power. 10,000 new homes can be comfortably powered with 50 MW, for which there will be no technical and ‘commercial’ losses. Get rid of the old power line mentality, the inefficiencies and instabilities of which subject us to unreliable electricity. Regards, Alfred Bhulai
Mike had a fourth love DEAR EDITOR, Glowing and deserving tributes were paid to the late Lakeram Mike Singh (of Mikes Pharmacy and softball fame) at the funeral service held on Thursday last. One of the persons eulogizing Mike said that he had three loves his family, business and cricket. Mike had a fourth love. He was passionate about mathematics, so much so that after leaving school he pursued a degree in mathematics at the University of Guyana (UG). He excelled in his studies and emerged among the top Maths graduates of his cohort. Mikes role as a businessman had already been preordained. He had no intention of pursuing a career in Mathematics. He enrolled for the degree simply because of his great love of the subject. That love was ignited during his student days at the Christ Church Secondary School, Mikes alma mater. It was while he was a student there that I first met him. He was a classmate of my older cousin, Compton Da Silva,
who introduced me to him. Mike and Compton were buddy friends. Compton was gutted upon learning of Mikes passing. Mike had nicknamed him Karl Marx (for reasons I do not know) and because I was the younger cousin, he referred to me as Karl Marx jnr. For many years, Mike and his brothers would invite us every Christmas Eve night to a feast at the old Kwang Chow roof garden restaurant. When I was studying for A level mathematics, I would go to Mike for help if I were stumped by any mathematical question. Never once was he too busy to assist, and never once, in the ensuing years, did Mike request any favour from me. He was a genuine and sincere friend. A great deal has been mentioned about Mikes contribution to and his love for cricket. But not much has been said about how this passion emerged. When Mike was in his first year at university, he organized a small group of us, including Compton, his brother Bobby and his friend
Shaum Outar, to engage in scrubby matches in the National Park. We would play softball cricket for hours on Sundays, the only free day that Mike permitted himself. We would play among ourselves or include or challenge persons and teams who were playing at the same time in the park. Mike enjoyed those sessions. But he was extremely disciplined and would never play during the school term. His studies came first. Mike was determined to do well in mathematics. I always felt that his love for the subject was greater than his love for cricket. Decades after he graduated, Mike could reel off from memory some of the longer mathematical formulae. When we first started to play cricket in the National Park, Mike bowled what appeared to be innocuous leg-spin. But he spun the ball prodigiously, and on the rough turf of the National Park he was quite a handful. Mike honed that leg spin into an art form. I saw him many years later playing at the
Everest Sports Club and he had flattened the trajectory of his delivery and consistently bowled wicket-to-wicket. On that occasion, he scalped the prize wicket of Shivnarine Chanderpaul. Mike was elated. Years later, he got animated when I recalled that incident, rhetorically exclaiming, “You remember that, right! You remember that!” It was one of the few times he permitted himself any vanity. Mike was humble and modest. He preferred to be out of the limelight. His exploits on and off the field however have catapulted him into the public spotlight as a pioneer of softball cricket, a highly successful businessman and a philanthropist. But for all the success Mike achieved, he remained unpretentious. Mikes death came as a shock. I and my cousin, Compton, grieve the passing of Mike. We are eternally grateful that we knew him and proud that he was our friend. Regards, William Cox
Never stop crying until divine justice comes DEAR EDITOR, The dreadful news surfaced last week. It was about Levoy Taljit and that he is feared dead. His death should not mean the death this sordid saga of perversity, politics, and power in this country. For as Levoy Taljit lived and died so, too, did Alicia Foster. In this country, we like to speak of, remember, and hail our heroes and martyrs. Both Taljit and Foster were and are deserving of all the heroic esteem that could be given them. Their blood was spilled heinously, and it rests on the heads and hands of more than those who did the actual deeds. Editor, the blood of Levoy Taljit and Alicia Foster, both cut down and lost in their prime, rests on the heads of those responsible for orchestrating their murders. It stains inerasably their hands, which ondemns them on each occasion that they raise those
same hands before the mirror, dare to stretch them before the light. How can they look at them, their children? The truths are there, but never talked about openly, only whispered, as is the way of Guyana increasingly. It was that both Mr. Taljit and Ms. Foster performed their public service jobs in an honest and honorable manner. Those are elements that are lacking in just about every leader in this country, quite a broad cohort of public servants, and so many others in our citizenry. Taljit was seeing too much, objecting too much, and insisting that the requirements of the job (policies and procedures) be complied with to the letter. It couldn’t have lasted long at the two State Agencies at which he worked; not with crooked bureaucrats as colleagues, not with criminal businesspeople as adversaries. He had to leave both those agencies under pres-
sure, for he angered powerful men, who are accustomed to doing business a certain way. They had and still have powerful political connections, which is why we talk about triggermen only and only now. Look back to the time of Taljit’s disappearance and there is the answer for which protective politicians, which protecting political leaders could have made matters go away. The intellectual authors of the cruel and wanton deaths of Taljit and Alicia Foster knew and enjoyed close relations with the political people (or their agents) who could make matters like these be held in eternal abeyance, by being swiftly swept under the carpet. It is the mortuary for the storage of cases made not just cold, but which freeze into deathly stillness. Whether the matter at hand was taxes or energy products (Taljit), or the envi-
ronment and what did not, could not, pass principled muster (Foster), they had to go. They had to be made examples of, be cut down in the bloodiest of ways. Other public servants of possibly like outlook on their jobs were given notice. Don’t do it our way, and this is the result. We knew of one killing from day one; today, we live with the death of Taljit made clear last week after nine unending years. Those who knew all along didn’t need any police release of what was long suppressed, and for some inexplicable reason found traction and expression in April 2022. There was nothing new, but the regular old…. The real killers are not some cheap execution(s), but those who are swollen with the commercial successes and prospects of this country. Men who are now intricately involved in the (Continued on page 5)
Tuesday April 19, 2022
THE CORRAL IS SHUT! DEAR EDITOR, The discussion or debate is ongoing about the “Dildo” insult that was hurled to a female MP by a Minister of the Government, in the hallowed halls of Parliament. To date nothing has come out of the incident, not even an apology. To follow up with that we have the brazen put down (to another female) a police no less, by one who represents the chosen race. This contemptuous and hooligan-istic behaviour is just a continuation of what was reported before the elections (at the Marriot) and the “stoning of the school bus and the torching of the butchery in Berbice.” during the elections. When the former Secretary of State of America Mr. Pompeo, came to this country during the still disputed 2020 elections he said “that APNU and Granger by extension was obstructing Democracy.”.Paving the way for these people to become the Government of this racist and broken country. It is my assumption that there was a hidden translation in that missive delivered by the Secretary of State. It was a direct instruction in my belief, to open the “Corral”(The Parliament) so that all the horses will be together; where
the cowboys (the powers that be) with their lassos could take the horses out one at a time to deal with them. Surely their cohorts, and henchmen who were in the arms of the powers that be, sang like Canaries about their past shenanigans present shenanigans and future shenanigans to save their own skins. Now the horses are in the corral (parliament) and the corral is shut. Leaving them at the discretion of the powers that be; allowing intransigence to go on with no comeuppance as yet. When I was a cub at the Trinidad Guardian, we had a political statement that went like this “run you run Kazar Williams run you run.” My deceased Grandmother use to say “It will all come out in the wash,” “or the tune that says “look over your shoulder, I will be standing right there.” Yes, the corral is shut, and there is no room for escaping. The fact that nothing tangible has come out as yet don’t mean that things are not in the works. The game goes on the weather is good, who have cocoa in the sun have to look for rain, including the “Feral Blast.” Respectfully Milton Bruce
Never stop crying until... From page 4 enriching game of national progress, and who are closely linked to those political leaders who can make anything disappear, including any felony, any evil that talks this land. The blood of our young and sparking, our bright and energetic, shed and just for doing what was right. Nothing stays hidden forever. Absolutely nothing! I wonder what those political leaders think when they are reminded of this kind of news that they wish were compressed, never made to see the bright, revealing dawn. I ask myself also, what our leaders who were at the helm then now see when they look in the mirror, if not the faces of these two young Guyanese killed by their friends, their insiders, their supporters from that ever widening criminal sector.
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Kaieteur News
I look around and watch closely. We have public servants today, but what we don’t have is backbone, integrity, the care for the duty (because they just don’t have it) to stand for anything that is noble and indubitably honorable to do justice by the defeated people of this country. I look similarly carefully at the leaders around, and all I see is their widespread deviousness, for I hear their lies, and I recognize the friends and loyalists they protect. The bodies are there, and there are the murderous stories of Levoy Taljit and Alicia Foster. Their blood stains the red that our political leaders wear so proudly, so perversely. Guyana weeps for your stricken son and fallen daughter. Guyanese weep for yourselves. Cry, justice, cry! Never stop crying until divine justice comes. Sincerely, GHK Lall
800 part time jobs for Region Two DEAR EDITOR, The writer of the letter ‘Were those recent promises taken from the PPP’s Manifesto, or. are they just pulling things out of a hat? (SN April 17), stated Region 2 ‘will get 1000 jobs’. The VP rolled into that Region a few weeks ago and rolled out 800 part time jobs to help cushion the effects of the rising cost of living for Region Two. The writer further stated in the matter of the Berbice Bridge tolls ‘the Government said no to lower tolls on the Berbice Bridge as requested by the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce’. This is misleading as it cre-
ates the impression the Government is opposed to a review of the toll structure of the Berbice Bridge. In a recent cabinet outreach to Region Six, it was reported the President made clear there are no plans or intention for the administration to take ownership of the Bridge. Further a commitment was given by the President to engaging stakeholders on reducing the steep tolls (News Room. April 12). No was the response to the Chamber’s request, not to the toll reduction. Regards, Shamshun Mohamed
Ministry of Education has improved DEAR EDITOR, The Ministry of Education has made several improvements during this current administration. It is encouraging to see the commitment and community participation shown under the stewardship of the young Minister. Focusing on setting an example for the next generation is clearly a priority for the Ministry. Before, one associated educational initiatives with the PNC, but with this
young Minister who is working hard in all of our communities, it is clear that she is driving continual improvement in the education sector. Congratulations on a job well done and may you continue to have success during the remainder of the current administration’s term. Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
A season to reflect and not inflict conflict DEAR EDITOR, Not so popular in Guyana, not highlighted or observed on a large scale, the important Jewish festival, referred to as Passover or what is known as Pesach in Hebrew, is being celebrated this year in the Jewish communities throughout the world, commencing on the evening of April 15th and concluding on the evening of April 23rd. Also referred to as The Festival of Freedom, this period commemorates the liberation of the children of Israel who were led out of Egypt by Moses. This celebration goes back to 1300 BC according to the Book of Exodus. History reveals that the children of Israel were in slavery for some 210 years. Jewish teachings reflect that God had promised to release them from this bondage but the Pharaoh had denied Moses his bequest when broached on the topic. There were 10 plagues on the land, the final claiming the lives of all the first-born Egyptians and animals. The Israelites were told to sprinkle blood on the doorposts so that their homes will be passed-over and their first
born saved. This final wrath proved effective for the transitioning of the Israelites from slavery to freedom. Part of the tradition is the participating meal (Seder), to remove all leaven from their possession for seven days, eating bitter herbs and matzah (flour and water mixed and baked before the dough can rise), drinking wine, retelling the story and singing. It is also a pilgrim festival when Jews would make one of three a special effort to visit the Temple in Jerusalem, according to the commandments in the Torah. Also referred to as the Festival of Spring, it was an agricultural festival for production and harvesting when the Jews lived in ancient Palestine. The significance of Passover symbolises hope and starting a fresh for a new life. The remaining Jews holidays are Purim, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom (Continued on page 6)
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4 new COVID-19 cases recorded There is currently no COVID-19 patient in the countrys Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. However, the Ministry revealed on Monday that, within the last assessed 24-
hour, four new cases were recorded across the country. The new infections have brought the total number of confirmed cases to 63,375. They were detected in Regions Four and Six which recorded two each.
The Health Ministry, via its dashboard, stated that five persons are in institutional isolation, 93 are in home isolation and 11 are quarantined institutionally. To date, a total of 62,049 persons have recovered from the virus.
A season to reflect... From page 5 Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah and Chanukah. The Hebrew greeting is “Chag Sameach” or “Chag Pesach Sameach” meaning “Happy Passover Holidays.” For the Christians, Jesus Christ is referred to as the “Lamb of God,” having shared the Passover meal (the last supper) with his apostles, and, being the fulfillment of the Passover. The 15th was Good Friday, observing the day Jesus Christ was nailed on the Cross. The period of Lent ended on the 14th. This was also a time which included fasting and abstinence (the need to make a sacrifice and give up something of specific pleasure). Commencing with Ash Wednesday, the duration ends on Monday with the celebration of Easter. This four-day holiday weekend incorporates the Muslim sisters and brothers observing Ramadhan, the holy month of fasting from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is one of the Pillars of Islam, the others being daily prayer, declaration of faith, charity and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The fasting period ends with the celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr. Saturday 16th, Hindus celebrated Hanuman Jayanti, the adoration of paying homage to Shri Hanuman Ji’s manifestation on Dharti Mata, mother earth. Shri Hanuman is revered by 108
names and symbolises courage, bravery, strength, innocence, compassion, selflessness, humility and wisdom. He is the doorway to Prabhu Shri Ram and is depicted as a strong and influential character in the Ramayana and also, reference is made to his dynamic embodiment in the Mahabharata. Will the perpetual influence of the significance of the religious season blossom into embracing all the meaningful attributes ascribed and prescribed in all the holy books, manifest into reality and be applicable in our daily lives, especially for the leaders in the political arena in this beloved country we love as one Guyana? Will there be the pathway of untruth to truth and darkness to light? How many will uphold the grace of honesty and discard dishonesty? The advent of selflessness and discarding selfishness is being preached at this time but, will there be the practice of this contribution towards the welfare of this country so that transparency reflects the heart, mind and soul of all? The liberation of freeing oneself from bondage is advocated, do we want to continue to tie ourselves to the wicked and evil ways of the past to inflict conflict, or, announce the denouncement of unrighteousness to pronounce righteousness? Like the Pharaoh, who will choose to shackle a nation to
duress and hold the people to ransom by feeding them with lies and deceits rather than, like Moses, providing a freedom of alternative to decide on facts and figures and a way to salvation? Isn’t this an ideal time to gladly accept the opportunity to atone for dishonourable behaviour in and outside of one’s home? Why should we still resort to threats and violence when we do not achieve any gains by devious means? To block the progressive projects deliberately ascribing towards the rapid development of this nation heralds the infamous parables of the unheroic deeds of devils and demons described in the stories of ancient times. Perhaps the swearing into office by holding the holy books to uphold law and order will provide a change in approach with open eyes rather than close minds, to avoid bringing disrepute to public domain! Let’s hope this traditional festive season will proclaim a change of heart and see the will of the people being displayed in the efforts and advocacy of the leaders in words, deeds and actions. Can we separate the sweet from the bitter for the better of all together? May that unseen one bless this country so that all may survive equally with a breath of fresh air, which is still available free. Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Miner who drowned in Region 8 identified O
n Monday, police were able to identify the miner who reportedly drowned last Friday while trying to cross a creek at Obanna, Kurubrong, Region Eight. The dead man has been identified as 33-year-old Iftikhar Huniff Hussain, called Tarzan, a pork-knocker of Lot 245 Britanna Village, West Coast Berbice. Police reported that the man allegedly drowned in a creek at the Obanna Backdam in Kurubong, Potaro on Friday between 19:00hrs and 21:00hrs. According to reports, the dead man was employed by Leon Lowe, who has a mining operation which is a near 45 minutes drive by boat from the Obanna Landing. On Friday, about 19:00hrs, Hussain and another man called Black Boy were trying to cross the Caiman Creek on a wood from the Backdam to go to the landing when he reportedly drowned. Police said that Hussain was swept away due to the high water level and strong current that prevailed while he was crossing the creek. Black Boy, who managed to cross, had gone to the Landing and told Lowe what had transpired. Immediately, they left to check
Iftikhar Huniff Hussain, called Tarzan for Hussain but were unable to locate him. A report was made to the police and on Saturday, around noon, Lowe and some other men conducted another search during which they found Hussains motionless body in the creek.
His body was retrieved and taken to the Mahdia District Hospital, where he was officially pronounced dead by a doctor. His remains were taken to the hospitals mortuary where it awaits a post mortem examination.
Trade Unionist appeals 2 life sentences... From page 2 arguing that the High Court erred in putting the evidence upon which Williams was convicted before the jury. More s p e c i f i c a l l y, Daniels contended that the trial judge did not fairly put his client’s defence to the jury. Daniels has argued that his client was not the one who had abused the girl, t hat two persons had “guided” the complainant to implicate his client, to cover up for a 14-year-old boy who had actually committed the act. The Court of Appeal has concluded hearing arguments into the case and reserved a date to hand down its decision. Back in 2018, Williams was found guilty of two counts of sexual penetration of the eight year old girl by a 12-member mixed jury following their deliberations. The indictment is that between January 1 and January 31, 2016, he engaged in sexual penetration with an eightyear-old girl. Then again on January 6, 2017, he engaged in sexual penetration with the same
eight-year-old girl. Williams is the founder and General-Secretary of the Guyana Natural Resources, Clerical and General Workers Union (GNRC&GWU). Back then, the jurors after deliberating for almost two hours returned with unanimous guilty verdicts in respect to both counts of the offence. For his actions, Justice Jo Ann Barlow had sentenced Williams to serve life sentences on both counts, respectively. The two life sentences were to run concurrently and the convict only becomes eligible for parole after serving 20 years behind bars. Kaieteur News understands that Williams who hails from Linden engaged in vaginal and anal sex with the young girl. The convicted rapist showed no remorse at all after being found guilty by his peers. In fact, he maintained his innocence. He told the court, “This is the most terrifying day of my life. I know to my heart that I did not commit such an act.” He further went on to express his dissatisfaction with the
decision of the jurors. Justice Barlow nonetheless told Williams that there is no justification for his actions. The judge reminded him that in his capacity as a Trade Unionist, he advocated for the rights of people but violated the trust that the little girl had for him. The trial judge told Williams, “I don’t find I could be lenient with you. You cannot claim ignorance of sexual abuse and its consequences.” Reminding Williams that he testified to participating in campaigns against sexual abuse , J u s t i c e B a r l o w stressed that the emotional scars of such acts will have an effect on the young rape survivor. During a plea in mitigation, Williams’ lawyer said that he is the sole breadwinner for his family and has always been an active member in the community. The lawyer asked the judge to take into consideration that this was the first time his client has been charged with an offence of such nature.
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T L B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . LU ...BLUNT LUNT...B NT...BL T B U . . L N . T B BLU T...BLUN BLUNT... UNT...B . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B BBLU T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T T U L U L N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
President Irfaan Ali loves to boast of his government’s transparency.
But it would appear that his understanding of transparency is to merely publish an invitation for bids for some major infrastructural projects to alert the public that development is soon to come. However, when some of these ‘big’ contracts are signed, it is done behind closed doors with citizens being privy to precious little information. Especially worrying, too, is the fact that government has locked out the Opposition from the Natural Resource Fund Board, which will manage the country’s oil money.
This begs the question: Does the Government really care about transparency?
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 19, 2022
CH&PA to oversee infrastructural works in new housing areas... From page 3 Infrastructure development works at Little & Great Diamond AHS Phase 2, East Bank Demerara- Lot 6.
Infrastructure development works for Golden Grove Block 18, Kaneville for Lots 8 to 10.
Infrastructure development works for Golden Grove Block 15 and 17, Kaneville, East Bank Demerara- Lot 5.
Infrastructure development works at St. Joseph and Buxton, Charity for Lot 5.
Infrastructure development works for Lethem.
Tuesday April 19, 2022
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Kaieteur News
A civil society alliance is needed When it comes to the renegotiation of the highly flawed oil agreement, Guyanese should no longer look towards either the government or the Opposition. Both have made it quite clear that there will be no renegotiation of the agreement. This constitutes a betrayal of the public interest. For if there is any agreement which requires renegotiation it is the Production Sharing Agreement entered into between the oil companies and the government of Guyana. The PNC/R has a new leadership but it is caught in a dilemma. For it to call for renegotiation can be interpreted as opposing this very agreement which was signed under the APNU+AFC government of which the PNC/R was the dominant partner. Statements emanating from the PNC/R indicate that it favours clawing back greater benefits from the oil companies rather than outright renegotiation. As we have seen, however, this is easier said than done and so far the PPP/C has been unable to recoup any significant benefits from the oil companies. The PPP/C government has taken issue with the oil agreements. But it has ruled out completely renegotiation. Hiding behind the excuse of the sanctity of agreements, the government says that future agreements will have to be different. But there are two main obstacles in this path. The first is that Exxon will most likely buy-in to the other oil blocks which have been given out by the government. The present agreement allows them to do so and would subject the development of these blocks
to the same terms as the Stabroek Block. The second obstacle is that the Exxon Production Sharing Agreement will act as a powerful precedent for future terms. Guyanese, therefore, cannot look towards the political parties for obtaining a better deal. And without a better deal, the idea of wealth filtering down to the people will remain a mirage. It is simply not going to happen with two percent royalties and 12.5 percent profit sharing. Guyanese are also going to be short-changed by a government which is bent on going on a spending spree. The small oil revenues are going to quickly fretted away by the present government. Already it appears to be plucking projects out of thin air and undertaking them without any feasibility studies that are specific to those projects. The parliamentary Opposition can do much more to call the government to account about these projects which are being touted the gas-to-shore project, the hydroelectric project, the construction of the new fourlane highways, the development of an airport in Berbice and the erection of a new stadium in the same county. The basic needs of the people should first be attended to before any attempt is made to go on a wild spending spree on public infrastructure. Education remains in a mess with almost half of our students still failing school-leaving examinations. Half of our primary school children are failing the examination which grants them entry into secondary school. The countrys health system is in serious crisis. The government is now only
able to offer a cap of $600,000 per persons for dialysis treatment. Guyana, an oil producing country, should have been able to provide free dialysis at public institutions rather than having persons with renal failure being forced to go to private clinics. It is only now that the government is paying for radiotherapy for cancer patients. But by now there should have been a fullfledged public oncology hospital which would attend to all the needs of cancer patients. Why should the government be paying private institutions to provide services to cancer patients? These needs, in both education and health, should have long been fully met by the countrys public health and education systems. But they are not and it is private medical services providers who are profiteering off of the sickness of the Guyanese people. If you do not have significant savings or relatives who will finance your treatment, pray to the Creator that you do not become seriously ill in Guyana. Instead of the government focusing on infrastructure, it should devote more of the oil revenues to fixing the decrepit education and health systems. But the government will ignore such demands because it can afford to do so. And the Opposition is in shambles, facing a credibility crisis and is on the same page as the government when it comes to the oil contracts. The suffering Guyanese people in the meantime cannot look to either the government or the Opposition. As such, the only option is for the weak civil society to muster some effort to come together as a pressure group to press for a
Dem Boys Seh…
Tik Tak ticking off some people De Vee Pee Facebook page send out greetings to Guyanese fuh Good Friday. Dem boys never hear bout Good Friday greetings yet. Is suppose to be de saddest day fuh Christians and is a sombre occasion. But things changing and now we gat dis new development about people wishing people a happy Good Friday. Deh gat a lady every Friday night does turn out bad fuh she. She young daughter does go out every Friday night and nah come back till de next day.
So she mek a Tik Tak message and tell she daughter dat if she nah come home by 12 oclock, she can come and collect she clothes. Now everybody jeering and mimicking de woman message. Tik Tak mekkin people become star overnight. Is good dat dem gat a platform weh people can express demselves creatively. But some ah dem too creative. Dem language and style downright vulgar and is nah good fuh de younger generation. But Tik Tak allowing people fuh get breather from
Guyanas poisonous politics. People having fun and recording dem message and enjoying demselves. Just like how de Guyanese enjoying demselves without masks over de Easter weekend. One man complain dat he trying fuh find he girlfriend and she nat answering she phone. So he presume she bin at de big concert at de stadium. But de next day, de girlfriend call he and ask he fuh bring some food fuh she. Dat tick him off. And dat is why he mek he own Tik Tak video. Talk half and keep tikkin and takkin.
renegotiation of the Production Sharing Agreement. There are elements of civil society who have concerns over the environmental aspects of oil exploration and production. There are also other groups which are interested in greater transparency and accountability. Each of these groups by themselves will be ineffective in forcing change
as we have seen with the failure to audit US$9B in expenses and claims. Everyone, however, likes to be a king and queen in their own hamlet, rather than come together and fight for the overall kingdom. But if all of these groups come together on a common platform to press for greater safeguards and accountability, they may be able to initiate a process that would allow for
renegotiation. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Class analysis of the Ravi Dev incident
I
n 34 years of newspaper columns, I cannot count the times I have laughed on the occasions in which I was criticised yet proven right; not just in passing but in ways in which the society can glaringly see for itself. Columnists get their fair
share of communication from others who want to engage them. I receive emails all of which unfortunately I cannot enter a dialogue with. There is this gentleman whose first name I will omit. Mr. Bansgopaul writes me often and I did a
response to him which cannot be reproduced here but if readers email me I will send them it if they are interested. Based on Mr. Bansgopaul’s persistent enquiry into the positions of Mr. Glenn Lall, I did a class analysis of the two newspapers - Kaieteur
News and Stabroek News. I honestly think it is a very plausible analysis which has not been done by any scholar in or out of Guyana but is the stuff that should be available to the public. In the near future, I will publicise these things maybe by my entry into social media. Here are the opening lines of my response to Mr. Bansgopaul; “I take all of your points but in life you have to look beneath the layers. There is where the meanings of life exist and you are better able to understand life.” I believe in this country if you are going to understand major institutions like the media, the political establishment, civil society, prominent actors, etc, you have to use class analysis. This methodology is efficacious and allows you to see the invisible meaning of social phenomena. I was able to satisfy Mr. Bansgopaul on the fundamental difference between the origin and nature of the two newspapers. Before I move on to the Ravi Dev incident and begin gloating on the many times my class analyses have been right, an important reflection is in order. Using class analysis, I have always argued in my academic work and in my life as a public intellectual that the PNC is a working class political party just as the PPP. Mr. Dev complained that in his exchange with long serving WPA activist, Nigel Westmaas on the issue of ethnic politics, the Stabroek News edited out a very
important line in his letter. When you read what t h a t l i n e contended, and you are familiar with class analysis, then you see the Frederick Kissoon seminal value of class analysis in research in during my youthful days in Guyanese society. politics. A member of the Here are the words, the mullato ethnic community, removal of which Mr. Dev he joined the WPA as a w a s n o t h a p p y w i t h ; teenager. I was courting my ”Substituting Indian for future wife at the time and Portuguese, the parallels she became very fond of with our present ethnic him. He was one of the WPA dilemma hopefully needs no cadres that I became close to. belabouring.” Now context Let me repeat what I once is everything in life so wrote in one of my columns readers will need to see the recently. Because of our context to understand (1) - friendship, I took the liberty Dev’s feeling about the of sending Nigel an email omission and (2) - What was asking him to condemn the the Freudian meaning election rigging but he behind the deletion politely declined. Dev and Westmaas, who Here are his exact words I consider the most ardent to me on March 14, 2022; “I custodian of WPA’s political guess my thoughts would be culture and history, had an lost in the developing story.” exchange about the Angel Anyway back to Dev. In Gabriel Riots (AGR) of 1856 deriding Nigel’s description in which Africans attacked o f “ p e t t h e s i s , ” D e v Portuguese business places. observed; “I used, in 1995, That is the context. my “pet theory” to predict Why the omission of v i o l e n c e b y A f r i c a n those words by Dev when the Guyanese, which erupted relevance of AGR may be a on Jan 12, 1998 and useful starting point to continues for a decade.” understand 21st century Dev got his time-line wrong. sociology in Guyana? A decade is 10 years. Dev also found it not too The violence’s last pleasing when Westmaas episode was as recent as described Dev’s continuous September 2020 in Region e m p h a s i s o v e r t h e Five where people were problematic of Indian- a t t a c k e d , h o u s e s a n d African conflicts in Guyana vehicles were burned. The as “Dev’s pet thesis.” guardians of transparency T h o s e w o r d s o f and accountability were Westmaas may be viewed as silent. cynical when one takes into (The views expressed in account the problematic is a this article are those of the serious part of Guyana’s a u t h o r a n d d o n o t scholarly enquiries. necessarily reflect the I have known Nigel opinions of this newspaper.) Westmaas as a little boy
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kite flying returns to the Georgetown seawalls After two years of COVID19 restrictions, including social distancing and a halt to social activities, the joy of kite flying returned on Monday, much to the enjoyment of Guyanese across the country. This newspaper visited the Georgetown seawalls and there many families were seen decked out in
colourful outfits, as the loud sounds of kites singing in the air covered the crashing waves. There was hardly enough room for vehicles to maneuver safely along the one-way seawall road, but the families, including many young boys and girls, still found joy as they tried their best to raise their kites.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 19, 2022
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Peru orders company to stop mixing contaminated and clean sand as cleaning method Disastrous oil spill…
Scenes from Peru oil spill.
The Government of Peru has ordered Spanish oil giant, Repsol to stop mixing sand impregnated with crude oil with clean sand in the supratidal zone of the San Gaspar beach, Lima, Peru and at other beaches as a cleaning method. The order came as a result of the continuous environmental supervision actions by Peru’s Environmental Assessment and Control Agency (OEFA), for the cleaning actions that Repsol’s La Pampilla SAA Refinery has been carrying out. According to Peruvian reports, the administrative measures issued by the environmental control authority are mandatory for the oil company and noncompliance with the measures may result in the imposition of coercive fines of up to US$123, 208 for each measure and c o n s e c u t i v e l y, u n t i l verifying compliance. Peru’s OEFA reiterated that it will continue to issue additional administrative measures on the oil giant when potential risks that cause damage to the environment or to people’s health are evidenced or determined. To date, Repsol has failed to comply with five of the 16 administrative measures issued: identification of the areas affected by the spill; cleanup of affected areas; containment and recovery of hydrocarbons; containment, recovery, and cleanup of hydrocarbons in Natural Protected Areas; and containment and recovery of the hydrocarbon from the second oil spill which occurred on January 15, 2022. As such, the OEFA has so far imposed five coercive fines for a total amount of 2,300,000 soles (US$616, 043). It has been just over three months since the oil spill in Peru but the country is still in the remediation phase of
almost 12,000 barrels of crude which contaminated its shores and water. To provide aid for the citizens, the Peruvian government recently ordered the oil giant, to pay an additional US$700 compensation to those who were affected by the spill – particularly fishermen. According to reports, the crude was spilled from one of the La Pampilla refineries, which are owned by Repsol, off the coast of Ventanilla in the region of Lima, Peru. It was reported that the spill was caused by shock waves from an undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean. At the time of the undersea eruption, Suezmax tanker, Mare Doricum, was offloading a shipment of Brazilian crude oil at one of La Pampilla refinery’s offshore mooring buoys, and as such, a quantity of the cargo was released. This publication had reported that following the devastating oil spill, several Peruvian officials had called for the oil company to offer compensation for the disaster. The first action taken against the company was by Peruvian judge, Romualdo Aguedo, on Friday, January 28, 2022, who granted an order to prevent four Repsol’s executives from l e a v i n g t h e c o u n t r y. Peruvian media reported that Judge Aguedo imposed an 18-month ban on the grounds of the potential risk that the officials might leave Peru. Among them were: refinery manager, Jaime Fernández-Cuesta Luca de Tena; terminal manager, Renzo Alejandro Tejada Mackenzie; environmental manager, Gisela Cecilia Posadas Jhong and production manager, José Gregorio Reyes Ruiz. In taking additional steps, Peru’s former Minister of the Environment, Rubén R a m i r e z o n M o n d a y, January 31, 2022, revealed
that the government had taken the decision to suspend the company’s hydrocarbon loading and unloading activities. In other words, Repsol’s operation in the country was halted until it can substantially prove that another oil spill will not occur again in its waters.
Subsequently, a fuel shortage in Peru forced the country’s OEFA to lift the suspension on Repsol’s operation temporarily. However, the company was only allowed to continue its operations for 10 days and under supervision from the OEFA. That 10-day period
has long elapsed with the Peruvian government stating that it has other alternative sources to obtain fuel. According to Repsol’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Josu Jon Imaz, the clean-up and remediation of the spilled crude is expected to cost some US$65 million.
Moreover, Peru’s current Minister of Environment, Modesto Montoya, has cited the importance of legislative reform to adequately deal with companies after oil spills and to protect citizens. As the country grapples to recover from what has (Continued on page 15)
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Guyanese express low confidence in electoral system - as US Opinion poll highlights need for reform
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n January 2022, the USbased International Republican Institute (IRI) d e s i g n e d a n d commissioned a national public opinion poll through its ‘Strengthening Democracy Through Polling Data and Peace Building’ programme. The poll was conducted by CID Gallup throughout all regions of Guyana and is the first IRI public opinion poll to ask for opinions and perceptions of Guyanese on governance issues. According to IRI, the findings indicate high interest in electoral reforms; 81 percent feel that such reforms are necessary. The majority of adults in Guyana (58 percent) think they are “very” necessary. According a statement from the IRI, a wide range of actors across government; civil society organisations, Indigenous community organisations, trade unions, and the private sector were consulted in developing content for the poll. The data was collected between January 4, 2022 and January 24, 2022, through CAPI administered
face-to-face interviews in respondents’ homes. The sample consisted of 1,500 Guyanese adults aged 18 and older. For the survey, the IRI said a multi-stage probability sampling method was used to design a nationally representative sample. The achieved sample was weighed for ethnicity, gender, age, and region according to figures from the 2012 census. The response rate was 20 percent. The margin of error for the mid-range full sample does not exceed 2.5 points. Charts and graphs may not add up to 100 percent due to rounding. IRI’s work in Guyana aims to help ensure reforms are based on the participation of Guyanese, who design their own solutions while benefiting from regional expertise and best practices. IRI offers support and tools to national stakeholders to advance Guyana’s development goals through strengthening democratic institutions and electoral reform processes. The survey was funded by the National Endowment for Democracy. Last April, the US Embassy in
Georgetown issued a statement in which it said that the US Department of State was supporting an 18-month project to strengthen the capacity of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the Attorney General’s Chambers regarding electoral processes, and to encourage Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to advocate for electoral reform in line with regional and international standards. The project, the US Embassy said, would have been implemented by the IRI. Under the project, GECOM, the Attorney General’s Chambers and
Guyanese CSOs worked collaboratively to consolidate and improve local electoral and constitutional law knowledge, establish an internal timeline to address electoral reform, improve collaboration for joint advocacy actions, and prioritise electoral and constitutional law issues while promoting reform through citizen engagement. The statement added that the project was part of ongoing support by the United States Government to strengthen the capacity of Guyana’s governance for the benefit of all Guyanese. However, a firestorm of
criticisms has since erupted over the project, much of it associated with the contractor, IRI and its antecedents and associations in the Donald Trump-led US administration and the lack of consultation with the opposition and civil society. Some critics believed that official word of the project should not have come first from the US Embassy but it should have come directly from the Guyana Government as it had been hinted at by U.S. Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch in a meeting on February 8, 2021 with Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Todd.
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
Peru orders company to stop mixing... From page 13 been described as an “ecological disaster”, the Minister pointed out that the country’s current laws are too permissive with the pollution produced by companies. Minister Montoya emphatically stated that he believes that Repsol is setting a bad example for the population and other companies, due to the fact that it is not fully complying with its obligations in the cleanup and remediation of the areas damaged by the oil spill. As the Government of Peru takes action to
protect its people and its environment, Guyana in contrast, continues to give American oil giant, ExxonMobil, permission to operate without a guarantee that it would cover the cost for any oil spill that surpasses the capacity of its subsidiaries to pay. In February, last, ExxonMobil announced that it has commenced oil production at Guyana’s second offshore development area called Liza Phase Two in the Stabroek Block. Among the oil companies working in Guyana’s backyard is the very oil company –Repsol – that caused the oil spill in Peru.
PAC will be unable to scrutinize government spending before... From page 3 supportive of the move. When Government Chief Whip and PAC member Gail Teixeira moved the motion to increase the PAC numbers last Wednesday, she explained that it was to ensure that both government and opposition were present to scrutinise the public accounts and that no one side would feel disadvantaged. Some members of civil
society organisations, such as Attorney Christopher Ram who has been calling out the government for lack of public information, saw the PAC change as “another blow to transparency.” He told the newspaper that the PAC’s move not only affects transparency and accountability, but the Constitutional right to citizens to be informed.
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
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…despite being among biggest polluters of the world
E
xecutives of major oil companies have refused to submit themselves to a United States House oversight panel hearing on climate change, despite them being among some of the world’s largest environmental polluters. The executives have declined the invitation of the Oversight and Reform Committee to answer questions relating to their companies’ climate change pledges and their roles in disseminating disinformation regarding the effects of global warming. A report from the US Oversight and Reform Committee highlighted that despite letters inviting the executives to the important climate change meetings and possibilities of them being subpoenaed to provide certain information, ‘Big Oil’ executives have refused to take part. Six of the major oil players have, nonetheless, accepted the invitation of another oversight committee, this time to discuss the high fuel prices in the American market, while rejecting also, another invitation to appear before the House’s Natural Resources
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Fossil fuel leads the way in adverse climate effects
panel. The US Committee has stated, however, that its Chairwoman, Carolyn Maloney, and Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Environment, Ro Khanna, had sent letters to the five members of the Boards of Directors of four fossil fuel companies to a hearing held last February and March. To accom-
modate the executives, the Committee said it had split the hearing dates and was committed to getting a response from the oil majors. “If these fossil fuel companies were really taking meaningful steps to curb dangerous emissions, their boards of directors would be eager to testify before the Committee when requested,
and speak to the American people,” Chairwoman Maloney had said. “I am disappointed that is not the case. Our hearing next week will feature climate science experts who will tell us exactly what these companies need to do to meet the goals of the Paris (climate change) Agreement. The (Continued on page 17)
Guyana’s failure to repay loans on infrastructure projects will result in severe debt crisis - former diplomat By Davina Bagot
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With myriad multi-million dollar projects slated to shortly come on stream, a former diplomat, Professor Dr. Shamir Ally has warned that Guyana’s failure to pay back on loans borrowed to facilitate these projects can land the country in a severe debt crisis, similar to the prevailing situation in Sri Lanka. In a letter to this publication, Prof. Ally, who formerly served as Guyana’s second Ambassador to Kuwait and Guyana’s First Alternate Governor at the Islamic Development Bank, pointed out that while infrastructure development is key to a country’s progress, it is equally important for the country to manage its debts. More importantly, he pointed to the importance of feasibility studies being conducted to ensure the viability of huge planned projects. “Infrastructures are excellent, but too heavy emphasis on infrastructures, with poor pay backs will result in a severe debt crisis. Thorough vetted feasibilities’ studies are needed for each project,” Dr. Ally wrote. During an outreach to Region Six, last week, the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Professor Dr. Shamir Ally
announced that a stadium and an airport will be built to serve as a “growth pole” for the Berbice area. On the other hand, several other infrastructural projects are lined up that could cost billions, even though the returns remain questionable. For instance, the government is forging ahead with its Gasto-Energy project, pegged at some US$1.3 billion. Even
though the project has been dubbed the largest ever attempted by Guyana, analysts continue to question the possible returns from the project, in the absence of a feasibility study. The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) ‘renovation’ project, being funded with a loan from China has been ongoing since 2011. Additional features (Continued on page 17)
Tuesday April 19, 2022
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Kaieteur News
UWI Climate Studies Group says Caribbean under threat (CMC) The University of the West Indies Climate Studies Group at Mona (CSGM) says Caribbean islands need to pay attention to the second instalment of the United Nation Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, known as the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6). The report, which was released in February, presents a dire warning of the significant implications of inaction for the globe and the region; noting that even temporarily exceeding global warming of 1.5°C that is anticipated in the next two decades will result in severe effects, some of which will be irreversible. CSGM says while the report covers the global impacts, vulnerabilities, and risks of climate change, Chapter 15 was dedicated to addressing small islands in the Caribbean, Indian, and Pacific Ocean. “It details that a sense of urgency is prevalent among
small islands to combat climate change and adhere to the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels,” it said, noting that the chapters Executive Summary cautions that “Small islands present the most urgent need for investment in capacity building and adaptation strategies”. CSGM said it has compiled ten urgent takeaways for the Caribbean following an analysis of the IPCC February report, noting for instance that as global warming continues to rise “small islands face an existential threat if global warming rises above 1.5°C.”People, ecosystems, and economies in the Caribbean will be significantly impacted in many ways. Among these include loss of lives and livelihoods, decreased food and water security, loss of infrastructure and settlements, degradation of human health and well-being,
and loss of cultural resources and heritage.” It said urgent action is needed if 1.5°C, above preindustrial levels is surpassed between now and 2040, noting that although the Caribbean was at the forefront of negotiations to stay below 1.5°C global warming, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. “Urgent action is needed worldwide to reduce the possibility of global warming going beyond 1.5°C,” the CSMG said, adding that Caribbean islands already face many impacts as seen annually in hurricanes, storm surges, heatwaves, droughts, and floods. “Extreme events such as hurricanes are expected to become more intense. More up-to-date baseline data and access to climate information are needed to be prepared and adapt to extreme events,” CSGM said, noting that small islands are experiencing hu-
man-induced climate change impacts and the risks will increase as warming continues. Regarding coral bleaching and declines in coral abundance that have been observed in many small islands, CSMG said, that while some damage will be irreversible, coral reefs provide beach sand and are fish nurseries. “Climate-sensitive economic sectors such as tourism and fisheries depend on coral reefs. Coast-focused tourism is already extremely impacted by more intense hurricanes due to coral reef damage and beach erosion. Aquaculture is being viewed as a longer-term means of diversifying incomes in the Caribbean.” CSGM is also warning that security for human survival is threatened if drought and salinization of freshwater resources occur. “Increasing droughts in the Caribbean can affect human health and crop produc-
Guyana’s failure to repay loans... From page 16 continue to be added to the structure while more monies are also being pumped into the structure. It was expected to be a US$150M venture; US$138M financed from the China Exim Bank and $12M from the Consolidated Fund – taxpayers’ money. However, to date more than US$160 million has already been spent on the project. Guyana is also in the process of finalising an agreement with the Chinese for the construction, design and financing of a new Demerara
Harbour Bridge (DHB). Prof. Ally in his letter to the editor, therefore, related that Sri Lanka is a perfect example of government taking on too many costly infrastructures, such as its international airport built by China with a loan from the country to finance the project. Another example, he said, is the Hambantota Port deal with China, as Sri Lanka was unable to repay and China received a controlling stake of the port, which is in a very strategic area, with the political and economic in-
terests, competing for power, via location. ”Currently a political crisis is ongoing in Sri Lanka due to severe economic conditions for its citizens and their nation,” he related. The island nation of Sri Lanka is in the midst of one of the worst economic crises it has ever seen. It has just defaulted on its foreign debts for the first time since its independence, and the country’s 22 million people are facing crippling 12hour power cuts and an extreme scarcity of food, fuel and other essential items,
such as medicines. Even as the debt piles up, Sri Lanka is looking to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for an immediate bail out. Last October, Kaieteur News reported that Guyana’s outstanding stock of external debt grew by 2.6 percent to US$1,355 billion from the end of December 2020. More alarming, however, was the fact that Guyana in 2020 collected some $230.4B in current revenues but with its total public debt figure, it would mean the country merely earned as a nation half the amount it owes.
‘Big Oil’ board members refuse... From page 6 Big Oil companies should consider the March hearing their last chance to cooperate. If their board members refuse to appear, they should expect further action from this Committee.” Maloney stated too that, despite attempts to delay, “I look forward to questioning Big Oil board members under oath. It’s no surprise that the Big Oil CEOs denied wrongdoing and refused to stop funding climate disinformation,” said Subcommittee Chairman Khanna. “But these members are scientists and activists, people that understand the severity of our current situation and have previously called for action. Now, they will face a choice. Will they contradict their CEOs and admit more must be done on climate or will they
choose fealty? Their answers will provide a behind the scenes look at the internal discussions occurring at these companies. If the members do not provide them voluntarily, all options are on the table.” The US Chairs intend to examine the fossil fuel industry’s climate pledges. The Committee said it will be hearing from climate experts on whether these pledges will truly reduce global warming—or instead are simply another effort by oil and gas companies at “greenwashing” their role in climate change. Letters were sent to, among other oil companies, BP, ExxonMobil and Chevron. Last year, the Oversight and Reform Committee and the Subcommittee on the Environment, said it was holding hearings to examine “the fossil fuel industry’s
long-running, industry-wide campaign to spread disinformation about the role of fossil fuels in causing global warming.” The Committee Chair had stated that the fossil fuel industry has had scientific evidence about the dangers of climate change since at least 1977, yet for decades, the industry has spread denial and doubt about the harm of its products—undermining the science and preventing meaningful action on climate change even as the global climate crisis became increasingly dire, and its deadly impact increased. A study by members of Harvard University’s Department of the History of Science had shown an over 40-year public relation campaign by, in particular, Exxon to outright deny the seriousness of climate change and delay ac-
tions toward addressing the problem. The University members had said that they would be furnishing US officials with the results. Last May, undercover, Green Peace UK investigators had filmed key US ExxonMobil lobbyist Keith McCoy admitting that Exxon worked with “shadow groups”, and that, among other things, the company fought against science proving climate change.
Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor. Say no to it.
tion. Integrated watershed management and building reservoirs to store freshwater received in the rainy season are fundamental for water security. Improved access to climate information for crop production and new technologies for growing drought-resistant crops and crops adapted to flood conditions are important for farmers.” In its analysis, the CSMG said that no single adaptation response is a complete solution to reducing risks to people and nature advising that the Caribbean should use a mix of adaptation responses such as protection, accommodation, advance and retreat. It said ecosystem-based adaptation such as mangrove replanting and protection measures including seawalls are also used but can cause damage if poorly designed and built. “Responses are more effective if combined, planned,
aligned with sociocultural values and development priorities, and underpinned by inclusive community engagement processes. Feasibility studies are needed to determine how effective adaptation measures have been in responding to sea-level rise and flooding. The scale of needed action remains limited and requires more research.” Regarding barriers to adaptation and enabling conditions that hinder responses, the CSMG said to make progress in adaptation, the Caribbean needs enablers such as better governance; political commitment; legal reforms; improving justice; equity; and gender considerations. It is also calling for increased access to climate information; adequately downscaled climate data, and embedding indigenous knowledge and local knowledge adaptation responses.
Mexico Congress fails to pass president’s electricity reform (BBC NEWS) A contentious reform of Mexico’s electricity sector has failed to get lawmakers’ backing in a vote labelled as “treasonous” by the president. The bill would have increased the say the government has over power generation. Critics said that if it had become law, it would have weakened the private sector’s role and eroded environmental protection policies. Energy firms and investors in the US and Canada also opposed the bill. Tempers were running high during the 12-hour-session, with opponents and supporters of the bill trading insults. While a majority of lawmakers in the lower house voted in favour of the bill, it fell short of the two-thirds majority it needed to pass. The bill’s defeat is a big blow to President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and his Morena party, who argued that it would have made Mexico more energy independent. Speaking during his
daily morning news conference on Monday, the president labelled the vote as “treason” and said those who had voted against his bill were backing those who “had plundered Mexico”. Mr López Obrador had lobbied hard for the reform, saying that the liberalisation of the electricity sector carried out by previous governments needed to be reversed. The liberalisation of the market has resulted in an increased share of Mexico’s energy being produced by private companies. The president sees this as a dangerous dependency on private, often foreign companies. But environmentalists say that some of the private providers have invested in renewable energies while the state-run company relies heavily on older, polluting power plants. Lawmaker Jorge Romero of the opposition PAN party warned that Mexico would have been set back 50 years in its environmental efforts if the reform had passed.
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Tuesday April 19, 2022
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Jamaica’s U-20 Girls deliver world junior record in 4x100m relay at Carifta Games SportsMax - It was a record-breaking evening session on day two of the 49th Carifta Games at the National Stadium in Kingston on Sunday as Jamaica’s U-20 Girls 4x100m team of Serena Cole, Tina Clayton, Brianna Lyston and Tia Clayton sped to a new world junior record 42.58 to win gold ahead of Barbados (45.36) and Trinidad and Tobago (46.12). Jamaica’s U-20 Boys team comprising Bouwahjgie Nkrumie, Bryan Levell, Deandre Daley and Sandrey Davison were also impressive with a Carifta record 39.15 to win gold ahead of the Bahamas (40.41) and the Cayman Islands (40.72). Camoy
Binger, Bryana Davison, Shemonique Hazle and Theianna-Lee Terrelonge combined to win Jamaica’s third sprint relay gold of the evening in the U-17 Girls section in 45.38 ahead of the Bahamas (47.13) and Trinidad & Tobago (48.19). The hosts completed a clean sweep of the sprint relays as Jadan Campbell, Gary Card, Rickoy Hunter and Shaquane Gordon combined to dominate the Boys U-17 section in 41.74 ahead of Trinidad and Tobago (42.77) and the Cayman Islands (43.40). Moving into the 400m hurdles, Michelle Smith of the US Virgin Islands won gold
in the U-17 Girls section in 58.61 ahead of the Jamaican pair Jody-Ann Daley (1:02.22) and Deandra Harris (1:02.26). Jamaica secured gold and silver in the U-20 Girls section through Sahfia Hinds (58.96) and Shackelia Green (59.77). Trinidad & Tobago’s Natasha Fox was third in 1:02.35. The hosts once again swept the top two places in the Boys U-17 section thanks to Princewell Martin (53.00) and Jordan Mowatt (54.40) while Jermahd Huggins of St. Kitts & Nevis took third in 55.57. Jamaica’s Roshawn Clarke won gold in the U-20 Boys section in 50.68 ahead of Shamiar Bain of the Bahamas (52.83) and Craig
Tuesday April 19, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your positive strength is especially noticeable today. You may find that you're radiating gloriously to the people around you, Aries. This is due to your polite, gentle, and peaceful nature. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Taurus, instead of digging deep into the barrel looking only for the misshapen, bruised, and rotten apples, concentrate on bringing up the shiny, bright red ones. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today there are many areas in which you can shine, Gemini. You need only be yourself to win over the hearts of others. CANCER (June 21–July 22) If you're feeling needy today, you might consider seeking counsel from others, Cancer. Close partners might make light of the situation, so if you're looking for deep metaphysical advice. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Get out in the fresh air today in whatever way suits your fancy, Leo. It's important to exercise your body with some brisk physical activity, or at least refresh your spirit with a ride in a convertible. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Making decisions today is apt to be nearly impossible for you, Virgo. That's why you should leave them up to someone else.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This is going to be one of those days when you get annoyed if someone takes too long to make up his or her mind about something, Libra. You aren't going to have the patience to abide anyone who continues. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Use the power of words as an artistic medium to express yourself, Scorpio. You have a magic way with words that often goes unrecognized. Your sensual nature is poetic. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Whatever you're working on at this time can be expanded tremendously with the help of a partner, especially a creative project or written work, Sagittarius. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Take advantage of the lighthearted, flighty feeling of the day instead of getting annoyed by it, Capricorn. You can't hide in your bedroom forever. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) The more you talk to people, the more successful you'll be, Aquarius. Everyone is a valuable resource, so tap in to this boundless well. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Be careful of people who talk a great deal and promise the world but have a difficult time delivering the goods, Pisces.
Jamaica’s U-20 Girls 4x100m team of Serena Cole, Tina Clayton, Brianna Lyston and Tia Clayton sped to a new world junior record 42.58 at the Carifta Games. Prendergast of Antigua & Barbuda (55.08). Moving into the field, Jamaica’s Chavez Penn cleared 2.05m to win the U-17 Boys high jump ahead of Andrew Stone of the Cayman Islands (2.00m) and Jamaica’s
Kenyans Jepchirchir... From page 20 the finish line in 1:26:58 to pick up his second Boston title. “The crowd was amazing. We start earlier than the runners but everyone was out there screaming so that helped me a lot today,” said Schar. “It’s amazing to be back racing on Patriots Day.”
Aaron McKenzie (1.95m). Penn was also victorious in the triple jump with 14.63m to win ahead of teammate Euan Young (14.41m) and Jonathan Rogers of the Bahamas (13.99m). The British Virgin Islands’ emerging star and
100m champion Adaejah Hodge continued her stellar showing at the Games so far with gold in the U-17 Girls long jump with a distance of 6.20m ahead of Jamaica’s Shemonique Hazle (5.85m) and Rohanna Sudlow (5.65m).
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
Chahal hat trick, Buttler ton leads Rajasthan to IPL win MUMBAI, India (AP) — Yuzvendra Chahal’s hat trick and Obed McCoy’s two wickets in the last over led Rajasthan Royals to beat Kolkata Knights by seven runs in an Indian Premier League thriller yesterday. Jos Buttler smashed the league’s second century of the season — 103 off 61 balls — to help Rajasthan post 2175, the highest total of the season, but Kolkata looked like chasing it down at 178-4 entering the 17th over. Then Chahal turned the momentum in Rajasthan’s favour. Venkatesh Iyer was stumped, then three balls later captain Shreyas Iyer was trapped for 85 off 51 balls, and Shivam Mavi and Pat Cummins were out to catches for ducks. The 21st hat trick in IPL history, and the fifth by a Rajasthan bowler, gave Chahal 5-40. However, Kolkata still has a shot. Umesh Yadav and Sheldon Jackson took 20 off the 18th over, and 7 off the 19th. They needed a gettable nine off the last five deliveries by left-arm pacer McCoy on debut, when Jackson mistimed a pull to short fine leg, and two balls later Yadav was bowled for 21 from nine. Kolkata was all out for 210 with three balls to spare. Rajasthan moved to second in the standings on run rate, while Kolkata’s third straight loss put it at sixth. Put in to bat, Buttler lit up Rajasthan’s innings as he
Aaron Finch and Shreyas Iyer shared a crucial second-wicket partnership •Apr 17, 2022•BCCI Yuzvendra Chahal and Obed McCoy celebrate the fall of a wicket •Apr 17, 2022•BCCI
Jos Buttler smashes one downtown during his quick half-century •Apr 17, 2022•PTI
Kenyans Jepchirchir, Chebet win Boston Marathon
Harvey, Smith, McPherson secure... From page 23 10:40.07s ahead of Harvey who ran 10:51.40s. Pryce’s teammate Ashara Frater was third with a time of 11:03.76s. On Monday - the final day, Harvey and Narissa McPherson put forth dominant performances in the Girls U-17 800m with times of 2:15.76s and 2:15.79s, respectively, to sweep the Gold and Silver medals for the event. Finishing third in that event was the US Virgin Islands’ Michelle Smith, who stopped the clock in a time of 2:18.47s.
smacked nine fours and five sixes. He raced to 50 off 29 balls, and his second hundred of this IPL came off 59 deliveries. He joined the likes of Chris Gayle (2011), Shane Watson (2018) and Hashim Amla (2017) as overseas batsmen with two hundreds in an IPL. Overall, it was his third IPL century for Rajasthan. Buttler put on 97 runs off 58 balls for the first wicket with Devdutt Padikkal (24), and added 67 runs off 34 balls with Sanju Samson (38). He fell to Cummins late in the innings. In reply, Kolkata’s Aaron Finch helped himself to 58 off 28 balls, including nine fours and two sixes, and resurrected their chase in a century stand with Shreyas Iyer. Then Chahal’s spin ruined it for them. Scores: Rajasthan Royals 217 for 5 (Buttler 103, Samson 38, Narine 2-21) beat Kolkata Knight Riders 210 (S Iyer 85, Finch 58, Chahal 5-40) by seven runs.
Guyanese female sprinter, Keliza Smith, after narrowly missing the podium in the U20 100m was able to secure a bronze medal when she participated in the final of the Girls Under-20 200m. Smith’s time of 24.34s was eclipsed by Jamaicans Brianna Lyston (23.93s) and Kaylia Kelly (23.99s). Up to press time, results for the other events had not been published. Guyana was also represented on the final day by Triple Jumpers Trevon Hamer and Stafon Roach, silver medalist Javon
Roberts and Adriel Austin. Guyana started Day three with five medals on the tally – two gold medals and three silver medals. Meanwhile, on Sunday night, the Guyanese Boys Under-20 team tossed their last dice in the 4x100m relay. They finished sixth with a time of 42.79s, whereas the victorious team, the Jamaicans, clocked a new Carifta record of 39.15s. Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe and St. Kitts and Nevis ended behind Jamaica in that order.
BOSTON, (Reuters) Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir edged a thrilling sprint finish to win the women’s Boston Marathon yesterday, as fellow Kenyan Evans Chebet dominated a stellar field to claim the men’s title. With one mile remaining, Jepchirchir moved ahead of Ababel Yeshaneh but the Ethiopian refused to bow and retook the lead before the pair battled down the final stretch. Jepchirchir, who won in New York in November, needed every ounce of energy to break the tape in two hours 21 minutes and one second, four seconds ahead of her rival. “Above all, I was feeling she was strong and I pushed it, I feel I’m tired. I go behind, but I didn’t lose hope,” Jepchirchir told reporters. “The course is tough but thank God I managed to win the race.” Kenyan Mary Ngugi finished third. The win confirmed Jepchirchir as among the most dominant marathon runners of all time, as she became the first athlete to claim Olympic gold along with the Boston and New York titles. Chebetpicked up his first major victory in two hours six minutes and 51 seconds, with compatriots Lawrence Cherono and Benson Kipruto second and third. A huge leading pack stuck
Kenya’s Evans Chebet celebrates winning the elite men’s race. (REUTERS/Brian Snyder) together through 35 kilometres before Chebet pulled away, securing an 18second advantage over 2019 winner Cherono with one mile left. The bells of the Old South Church rang and a roar came up from the crowd along Boylston Street as he ran towards the finish line. “At the beginning I was not confident, I didn’t know that I would come out as the winner,” Chebet told reporters. “When I went to London, I came in position four. And when I went to Paris, I was in position four. Today, I am really happy that I am actually the winner.” The race started in Hopkington in perfect conditions with temperatures hovering in the mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit (10°C) as the world’s oldest annual mara-
thon returned to its traditional spring date for the first time in three years. The fastest field in the race’s history took off on Boston’s festive “Patriots Day” holiday with the Red Sox playing at Fenway Park and plenty for New England sports fans to celebrate after the Celtics won their NBA playoff opener on Sunday. The wheelchair races featured dominant performances from two of the sport’s most reliable podium finishers. Tokyo Paralympic marathon silver medallist Manuela Schar of Switzerland defended her title in the women’s race, seizing the early lead before breaking the tape in 1:41:08. American Daniel Romanchuk pulled away from compatriot Aaron Pike by the 20km mark, crossing (Continued on page 19)
Tuesday April 19, 2022
Guyana women’s hockey team complete disappointing competition with loss to Jamaica Madison Fernandes goes after the ball during play.
With pride at stake in their final match of the CAC qualifier, the Guyanese ladies lost in their final encounter to Jamaica in similar fashion to all other encounters. After holding steady for most of the match and failing to capitalize on their scoring opportunities, Guyana would eventually succumb to Jamaica off a penalty corner in the 54th minute. With a flawed trap at the top of the circle, the Jamaicans moved the ball to the right and misfired toward goal, the bouncing ball however was first met by the stick of Imauny Linton on the far post who slammed a first time shot into the net from close range. In all three of its encounters, Guyana held firm for most of the match only to have lapses in concentration late in the game which resulted in their three 0-1 losses. Head Coach Philip Fernandes expressed his frustration and disappointment in the outing given that in his opinion, the team performed above the suggestion of the score lines and should have won at least one of the matches if not more. “Our team is very young and inexperienced,” said Fernandes,
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Kaieteur News
“but our front line should have at least scored. Goalkeeper Alysa Xavier, who won the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament award, did all she could to keep the ball out but you cannot win games unless you score.” When asked what was next for the team, Fernandes expressed that it was becoming virtually impossible to challenge teams that train on artificial pitches similar to what is used for international competition, without one ourselves. He indicated that it was vitally important for the continuity of the game and for any decent international results for Guyana to find a way to have an artificial pitch. At the moment, Guyana is the only nation to compete regionally without such a surface. “This also prevents teams from coming to Guyana to compete. No one plays on grass anymore and so it is impossible to bid for international competitions or to invite teams for friendly clashes which are vital for the development of our own players,” said Fernandes. The Guyana Hockey Board President went on to say that the next calendar
event for the female side of the sport was a Junior Pan Am Championships in March 2023 in Barbados. Fernandes is hopeful that Guyana can have an artificial pitch installed in time for the players to train for those championships. Hosts Bermuda won the ladies competition followed by Puerto Rico, Jamaica and Guyana with the top two qualifying for the CAC Games in 2023. In the men’s competition Jamaica finished first and qualified for the CAC games along with second place Puerto Rico, while the Bermuda men failed to qualify. For the women’s tournament, Maha Clarke of Bermuda earned the Player of the Tournament Award, while Shareeka Elliott of Jamaica and Josefina Freaney of Puerto Rico were joint top scorers with two goals each. Alysa Xavier of Guyana received the Best Goalkeeper Award. Richard Harris of Jamaica was awarded the male Player of the Tournament while Brandon Clarke of Jamaica scored the most goals with two. Justin Dill of Bermuda received the Best Goalkeeper Award.
Marzana Fiedtkou defends against a Jamaica player during the contest.
Dey wins Singh-0-Hardware and General Store cycle road race Curtis Dey
Curtis Dey won the Singh0-Hardware and General Store cycle road race which was contested on Sunday last on the West Coast of Demerara. Dey clocked 1 hour 42 minutes 48 seconds to win the event which commenced at Schoonord, West Bank Demerara and proceeded to Parika, East Bank Essequibo before returning to the point of origin. Christopher Griffith took the runner up spot, while Alex Medes placed third followed Paul De Nobrega, Kemwel Moses and Alexander Leung. Leung won the junior category while Arjune Sookhai placed second and Sherwin Sampson was third. Mendes took the top podium spot in the veteran under-50 division followed by
Clivecia Spencer
Junior Niles and Walter Grant-Stuart in that order. Tallim Shaw took the veteran over50 segment, while Ian Jackson placed second and
Aloysius Periera took third place. Clivecia Spencer won the female division while Marica Dick placed second.
Dior-Rae Scott gets Bahamas’ second javelin record for gold at Carifta Games SportsMax - Dior-Rae Scott celebrated the Bahamas’ second javelin record at the 49th Carifta Games at the National Stadium in Kingston yesterday. Scott threw a new Carifta record 44.57m to win the U-17 Girls javelin ahead of Trinidad & Tobago’s Kenika Cassar (42.86m) and Suerena Alexander of Grenada (42.57m). Her countryman Keyshawn Strachan threw a new record of 79.89m to win gold in the U-20 Boys section on Saturday. Interestingly, Scott’s throw broke the record of c u r r e n t We s t I n d i e s women cricketer Deandra Dottin who threw 42.90 in 2007 while representing Barbados. J a m a i c a ’s Serena Cole, a member of the world record breaking
Dior-Rae Scott recorded the Bahamas’ second javelin record at the 49th Carifta Games.
U-20 Girls 4x100m quartet from Sunday, jumped out to 5.89m to win the U-20 long jump ahead of French Guiana’s Kayssia Hudson who jumped 5.77m for second while Cole’s Jamaica teammate Kay-Lagay Clarke re-
corded 5.64m for third. J a m a i c a ’s A n n i s h k a McDonald (1.75m) and Malaika Cunningham (1.70m) won gold and silver in the U-20 Girls high jump ahead of Grenada’s Ahsharean Enoe (1.65m).
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Tuesday April 19, 2022
Kaieteur News
Bartica Easter Regatta Power Boat Racing...
Randy Belle is the new king of the circuit following a commanding performance A
king of the power boat racing circuit was crowned Sunday at Golden Beach in Bartica and it was Randy Belle of the Belle clan who powered to the overall champion accolade in the A-Class Formula 1 Category. Thousands of fans including Minister of Labour, Honourable Joseph Hamilton and Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton as well as Regional Chairman Kenneth Williams and His Worship Mayor Gifford Marshall and their respective deputies all soaked up an exhilarating day of action, dubbed ‘Bounce Back’. The day was sizing up to feature a clash of the titans between eight-time champions Dave Scott aboard J a g u a r, B e l l e a n d t h e Gonsalves from the Pomeroon but early engine problems were encountered by Scott in the first race of the day which put paid to his chances of challenging for a ninth championship title. However, it was Randy Belle aboard his boat named ‘Team Belle’ which set the pace with classy perfor-
mances in all three Formula 1 / A Class (Unlimited) races as he took the first place and the overall Champions trophy in this category. He {Belle} accumulated the most points in any of the five classes, 30 to cap off a bumper day where he powered to 50,000 short of a million dollars along with multiple trophies on a rewarding day. His Overall cash prize was worth $500,000 while each individual win earned him $150,000. Taking the B Class (115200 HP) Overall prize of $250,000 was Whitney Welcome who amassed 14 points. The C Class (75 – 90 HP) division was won by Sanjay Ramkisson who piloted Team Shivray and accumulated 20 points 1; the D Class (25 – 40 HP) produced joint winners in R. Dookie aboard Poseidon and Samuel Ramkisson who controlled Team Shivraj 11. The duo divided the $150,000 prize while in a gesture of sportsmanship, Team Shivraj 11 agreed for Dookie to take the trophy. The E Class (15 HP) Overall contest was won by Samuel Mourlie (Rude Boy) and it was worth $50,000.
A section of the massive crowd at the Bartica Golden Beach Sunday as they absorbed the Easter Regatta Power Boat Racing. (Franklin Wilson photo)
TSC overcome ECC Transport Sports Club beat Everest Cricket Club by 137 runs when the Georgetown Cricket Association Trophy Stall, Ramchand’s Auto Sales and Survival Group of Companies U19 50-over tournament continued recently. Transport Sports Club posted 313-6, batting first at Queen’s College. Alvin Mohabir struck 70 off 45 balls with six fours and four sixes. Riyad Latif made 55 and Jeremiah Hohenkirk 37. Nityanand Mathura took 2-57, Ronaldo Hussian, Kevin Rameshwar and Devon Ramratan had one each. Everest Cricket Club responded with 176 all out in 31.3 overs. Ramratan stroked 69 off 70 balls with five fours and three sixes, while A. Danehara made 55. Latif captured 3-61 and Mohabir 2-1.
Devon Ramratan
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 19, 2022
PAGE 23
Maurice Solomon victorious in Inaugural Bruster’s Real Ice Cream and Qualitea Café Cup Golf Tournament On Saturday Players and spectators were treated to a great morning of golf at the Lusignan Golf Club. The competition was intense as player’s battled to have their names etched onto the first annual Bruster’s Real Ice Cream and Qualitea Café Cup. Maurice Solomon stormed out the gates and never looked back. He posted a first half best Net score of 3-under par 32, and kept it going on the back nine to fend off a strong challenge from veteran low handicapper Richard Haniff - who finished one shot back. Richard’s solid play would have earned him first on most afternoons especially on such a challenging course set-up. The greens were smooth and lightening fast which required soft putting hands and quiet nerves. The round with the very fast true greens seemed perfectly suited for the soft touch of this veteran golfer Maurice went under par on both front and back 9 to cap off a great morning and the honour of forever being the first to etch his name on the Bruster’s Real Ice Cream & Qualitea Café Cup. This was a most gratifying win for Maurice. Other top performers included a strong second place showing by veteran golfer Richard Haniff who finished just one shot behind. Tom Watkins won the best gross and closest to the pin prizes. The full list of winners: 1st. Maurice Solomon: Net 66, Gross 88 2nd. Richard Haniff: Net 67, Gross 78 3rd. Ronald Bulkan: Net 70, Gross 90 4th. Jaipaul Suknanan; Net 71, Gross 79 Other prizes were presented for:
Respective prize winners with their accolades.
Mr. Solomon receiving the champions Cup. - Best Net Front 9: Maurice Solomon - Best Net Back 9: Bholawram Deo - Nearest to the Pin: Tom Watkins - Longest Drive: Rohan Albert This golf tournament
was the second sponsored by Bruster’s Real Ice Cream. This year a magnificent inaugural silver cup secured in a mahogany base was added - each year the champion golfer will have his name inscribed on the base of the cup.
This year’s tournament was co-sponsored by Qualitea Café - this new Café is on schedule to open two stores: the first Open’s early May at the MovieTown Mall. In June a second Qualitea Café will be opened at Amazonia mall. Director of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Paton George thanked all attendees for supporting the golf tournament and has signed onto making this one of the marquee golf tournaments each year. The afternoon was also filled with excitement as the co-sponsors hosted a fantastic inaugural Kids Fun Afternoon which included wonderful treats from Bruster’s Real Ice Cream and Qualitea Café. As well as golf clinics and a first of what promises to be many kids’ completions.
Tom Watkins receiving best gross and closest to the flag prizes.
Carifta Games 2022… Keliza Smith
Harvey, Smith, McPherson secure medals on final day Guyana’s Attoya Harvey managed to secure another Gold medal on the final day of the 2022 Carifta Games that ended on Monday in Kingston, Jamaica.
That piece of hardware will be added to the gold medal she secured on the opening day and the silver medal she won on the second day.
Competing in the Girls Under-17 category, the middle distance athlete won the 1500m on Day One then claimed silver in the Girls Under-20 3000m run on
Sunday evening. The victor in the longer distance was Jamaica’s Samantha Pryce who stopped the clock in a time of (Continued on page 20)
Guyana women’s hockey team complete disappointing competition with loss to Jamaica p. 21
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Jamaica clears the ball following an attack by the Guyanese.
Attoya Harvey won another gold medal, this time in the 800m. (Marlon Reid photo)
Carifta Games 2022…
Harvey, Smith, McPherson secure medals on final day
Keliza Smith
p. 23
New King of Easter Regatta Power Boat Racing, Randy Belle and one of his workers following his explosive performances on Easter Sunday. (Franklin Wilson photo)
A section of the massive crowd at the Bartica Golden Beach Sunday as they absorbed the Easter Regatta Power Boat Racing. (Franklin Wilson photo)
Bartica Easter Regatta Power Boat Racing
Randy Belle is the new king of the circuit following a commanding performance p. 22
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