Kaieteur News

Deaths by fire

PPP/C's dealings favour ExxonMobil over Guyana

The government's recent decision to

extend the period for ExxonMobil and its partners to surrender 120 oil blocks out of the 600 that make up the Stabroek Block represents treachery According to Guyana's laws, this portion that represents 20 percentoftheStabroekBlockwasrequiredtobe surrenderedbyOctoberofthisyear Thedubious decision to extend the period for surrendering the blocks benefits the oil companies at the expenseofourpeople'sfuture.

When the PPP/C swept into office, they vowed to address the lopsided Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that has long been a thorn in the side of the nation. In their Manifesto, they also promised better contractmanagement.

However,insteadofrenegotiatingthedealas theyhadpromised,theyhavechosentoabandon theircommitmentandprioritizetheinterestsofa corporate giant over the welfare of Guyanese. Now, they are retreating from their pledge to havebettercontractmanagement.

Had the government enforced the provisions of the contract as well as ensured compliance with our laws, the country would have had 120 blockstoauctionthisyear

By auctioning these blocks and utilizing the proceeds to alleviate national debts and enhancing the lives of its citizens, the PPP/C would have been bequeathing a better future for allGuyanese.

By inexplicably allowing ExxonMobil and theotheroilcompaniestoretaintheseblocksfor an additional year, the government is enabling the oil companies to map out the entirety of the lucrative Stabroek Block and then hand back, nextyear,unproductiveassets.

So what has become of the "better contract management" the PPP/C championed? The government's actions are a calculated manoeuvre that severely threatens the nation's futureprosperity Theextendedtimelineactively sabotagestheaspirationsofGuyanese.

It is a damning indictment that the PPP/C's actions are now aligned more with the interests of ExxonMobil than with the people. Guyanese deservebetterleadershipbutwillnotreceivethis leadershipunlesstheyarepreparedtoconfronta government that has gone rogue on them. Guyanese citizens must stand united against this betrayal by the PPP/C. They must demand that thisdecisionbereversed.

Already producing an average of 400,000 barrels of oil per day in the Stabroek Block from the Liza One and Liza Two projectswithout full liability protection against an oil spill- Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), the operator of the Stabroek Block has submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its sixth deepwater project,Whiptail.

This key document lays the foundation for the regulator to make a decision in granting a Permit for a planned development which can affect the environment and human life. It identifies the risksinvolvedintheproject,aswell aslistsmitigativemeasuresthatcan beimplemented.

The Whiptail project is ExxonMobil's largest oil project to date. It seeks to produce up to 275,000barrelsofoilperday(bpd). The company submitted an application to the EPA back in January for the project. It was also revealed by the Executive Director oftheagencythatthecompanywas ordered to conduct an impact assessmentforthedevelopment.

In a Public Notice published in Sunday's edition of Kaieteur News, the EPA announced that the EIA along with the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was submitted by the oil company It also noted that this means the public would have 60 dayscommencing August 20, 2023- to review the document and make submissions to the EPA as they consider appropriate, in accordance with Section 11 (10) of the Environmental Protection Act, Cap. 20:05. Though the regulator saidthedocumentwasavailableon itswebsiteyesterdayfordownload, thiswasnotthecase.

Notably, ExxonMobil's sixth and largest oil project seeks to produceoilattheWhiptail,Pinktail andTilapia fields.According to the Project Summary, Whiptail is located in the south eastern portion of the Stabroek Block, approximately 183 km from Georgetown. Current plans include drillingviadrillshipstoproduceoil from approximately 40 – 65 productionandinjectionwells.

The company hopes to start up thesixthdevelopmentbythefourth quarter of 2027 or first quarter of 2028.Ithasanexpectedfieldlifeof atleast20years.

Exxon explained, “The anticipated production rate for the (Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel) FPSO ranges between approximately 220,000 barrels and 275,000 barrels of oil per day The vessel will be capable of storing approximately two million barrels of oil. Third party

oil tankers will be scheduled to offload the oil from the FPSO, making the oil available for export to the international market. The FPSO will also process, dehydrate, compress, and re-inject associated gasproducedfromthereservoir.”

The company said that its experience from current operations and environmental studies will enhance the design and implementation of its sixth offshore deepwater development. Not only that but it will also i n c r e a s e e n v i r o n m e n t a l

...four

months after receiving th approval for 5 project

ExxonMobil hands EPA impact th study for 6 project

Management (ERM) The credibilityandindependenceof the firmhasbeenquestionedinthepast by stakeholders who flagged what was described as a “long running relationship”, with ExxonMobil andtheEPA.

Todate,ERMhascompletedall of ExxonMobil's EIAs, except for its fifth impact study, conducted by Acorn International. It is unclear whythisConsultancyfirmhasbeen booted.

Only four months ago (in April), Exxon received the nod of

Oil spill

Even as ExxonMobil races ahead with the production of Guyana's sweet light crude discovered in the Stabroek Block, the company has been reluctant to provide the country with a signed parent company guarantee to protect the state from footing the costsassociatedwithaspill.

Presently, Guyana has a US$600 million oil spill insurance policy per occurrence along with a US$2 billion affiliate company guarantee Meanwhile, impact studies done by Exxon so far have

of economic activity annually, largely based on the maritime and tourism sectors. This means that US$140 billion of economic activity is at risk from a Guyana oil spill.

Meanwhile,Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana during a media engagement in March said the US$2 billion sum does not did not consider ensuing liabilities of potential impacts on 12Caribbeanterritories.

Two Guyanese men are currently fighting for ExxonMobil to supply an unlimited parent

performance and economic value, Exxonstated.

The development of the three projects under one application means one FPSO will be used to develop the three fields This contributes to the reduction of investment or expenditure required intheactivities.Italso aids in boosting production activities in keeping with the Government's plan to accelerate such activities.

Kaieteur News understands that ExxonMobil utilized the services of its

approval by the EPA for its fifth project,Uaru.

The Uaru project is expected to cost US$12.7B and produce about 250,000 barrels of oil per day after comingonstreamin2026.Thecost of the sixth project has not yet been revealed.

revealed that a massive spill can impact the country's Caribbean neighbours.InternationalFinancial Analyst, Tom Sanzillo however pointed out that the islands located within the path of a potential oil spill from the Guyana project produce more than US$140 billion

guarantee to cover all costs above the insurance policy in place. The matter is presently before the AppealCourt,followingarulingby the High Court's Justice Sandil Kissoon in favour of the Guyanese citizens, Godfrey Whyte and FrederickCollins.

Map showing the location of Exxon's 6 oil project in the Stabroek Block

24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

Tullow, Oh tricky Tullow

When Guyanese thought they had seen and heard the last of the UK’s Tullow Oil operating here, the company had its ownplansalreadyfirmlycemented. Inessence,TullowOilis physically gone from Guyana, but it is still very much present, very much immersed in Guyana’s oil. The details areinthemoneyarrangementsthatthecompanyputinplace, andfromwhichitcouldprofitsweetlyfromadistance. Once again, Guyanese are educated on how skillful and sophisticated foreign oil companies can be, and how tricky theyalsoare,whenitisthismuchindemandcommoditythat isinvolved. TheGovernmentofGuyanacouldtakeapageor twooutoftheplaybookofthelikesofExxonMobilandHess CorpandTullowOil,anddosomuchbetterforGuyanese.

Like the tricky Greeks of Homeric legend, who got bogged down outside the walls of Troy, Tullow Oil gave the appearance of actually physically withdrawing from Guyana’s oil sector, only for it to reappear through its own versionofTrojanHorsearrangements. TheBritishcompany still stands to walk away with a rich harvest from Guyana’s ever-expandingoilsweepstakes(liketheGreeksdidinTroy). ThisishowthenumbersfavouringTullowOillook.

When the deal is sealed with Eco Guyana Oil and Gas (Barbados) Ltd, Tullow Oil collects US$700,000, which is a nice piece of change for stepping from the forefront of Guyana’s oil, but staying in the shadows. Tullow Oil still lurks in the long, possibly rich shadows of Guyana’s Orinduik oil block, and could collect a sweet US$4 million shoulditspartnermakeasizablecommercialdiscoveryinthe blockthatitsupposedlyrelinquished. Thisishowpiecesand parcelsofthiscountry’soilpatrimony,thebirthrightofevery Guyanese, are passed from hand to hand, as if they are the whollyownedpropertyoftheseforeignexploiters,todowith as they please. But the gravy train does not stop at US$700,000 and US$4 million, for there is a bigger payday thatcouldstillbe.

If developments in the Orinduik block were to call for it, andbasedonitshelpfultrackrecord,thePPP/CGovernment is almost guaranteed to issue a much sought after production license. Insuchaninstance,TullowOilisbackinthepicture, withmoremillionscomingitsway,viz.,US$10million. Itis alushongoingstreamofmillionsthatTullowOilreceivesfor seemingly walking away from Guyana’s oil. What this emphasizes is that even the smaller players, like Tullow Oil, neverstopbenefitingfromGuyana’soil,includingwhenthey wipethedustfromtheirfeetandturntheirbacksfromhere.

The PPP/C Government, and its people who hold themselves as bright bulbs, could learn a thing or two from Tullow Oil. To facilitate possible future participation in a profitable oil find by its partner in Guyana, Tullow Oil came upwiththebeautyof“workinginterestentitlementrevenue” (lesscapitalexpenditureandcosts). Itisafancy,convoluted way of saying thatTullow Oil has locked in a share from any profits in oil found in the Orinduik block. Its financial advisersandinvestmentbankersmostlikelyhadahugehand in designing this sharing arrangement. The people that TullowOilengagestoworkforit,orofferexpertguidance,or havesomecreativerelationshipwiththecompany,constantly lookforwaystokeepitintherunningshouldOrinduiktakea profitableturn.

In contrast, there are Guyanese in, or tight with, the PPP/CGovernment,whodonotlookforwaystowrestorslip this country out of the grievously wounding ExxonMobil oil contract. Instead, there is a pack of Guyanese lacking in any shame or self-respect, who defend the plots that foreign oil companies are involved in here. They do so through attacking their fellow citizens, who insist that ways can be found to weaken the contract. There are ways to tie up ExxonMobil, for Guyana has laws to follow, and those existing laws could be weaponized, should the company insist on playing hardball. Unfortunately, what Guyanese have is a bunch of whimpering politicians, bending over for ExxonMobil.

NORTON’S CALL FOR AFRICANS TO GO INTO BUSINESS IS HISTORIC

DEAREDITOR, Village Voice of 25th April example of claiming that Afro Guyanese had and

In my letter of 14 April 2021 titled. “Vassan victimhood as it incessantly which was destroyed by the 2021 published some three Ramracha’s intellectual seeksgovernmenthandouts. PNC government is to their years ago in the KN, I had presumptuousness of the Too often Blacks in the a d v a n t a g e w h e n suggested thatAfricans need African reality,” Mr Lincoln Diaspora are exposed and resuscitated. The PNC ruled to embrace capitalism in Lewis of the TUC had influenced mostly to by emphasising cooperative Guyana. Now three years condemned my letter with politicians and intellectuals Socialism to guarantee safe later, the Opposition Leader, venom: Now he perches on the Left and not on the salary handouts that Mr Aubrey Norton from his arrogant position, Right. The Leftists Black contributed to the demise of (Demerara Waves) is not having to do the initial Socialists mostly emphasize BlackEntrepreneurship. commendably exhorting heavy lifting, to now decry a ‘ v i c t i m h o o d ’ , t h e To own business one not Africanstogetintobusiness! people. His letter was an reparations ideology and a ONLY has to work hard but During emancipation attempt to insult and dependency on Government one has to be innovative, celebrations at Dartmouth, denigrate the African handouts. thrifty, and to be able to take the PNC leader said “The community Ramracha is not The Blacks on the Right r i s k s B u s i n e s s African Guyanese need to White but East Indian. But on the other hand emphasize entrepreneurship is not a 9 to focus on business. We need his thinking is no different a more capitalist republican 5occupation. to make all our villages than the arrogant Whites approachtoempowerBlacks I want to illustrate my sustainable where people in withtheirmisplacedsenseof through strong family personal account by the village should be able to superiority, and false notion culture, education and self- piggybacking on the ideas of find everything they want or that they can define for economicdevelopment. Dr Thomas Sowell who is most things they want in the Africanswhattheirproblems OntheRight–prominent one of theAfricanAmerica’s village,” are and tell them what to do activists like Bill Cosby said top think tank capitalists’

A t t h e 2 0 2 3 to correct them. This is what ‘Poor Black people suffered economist whose research emancipation concert, Mr you call intellectual from not having strong applies globally, to Trinidad Norton said, ”We are presumptuousness Mr leaders and Blacks should and Guyana as to why Black operating at a time when Lewis goes on to say spend their money on businessfailed. there is the tendency for “Ramracha is being education and NOT on In Trinidad, I recall my people to give handouts c o n t e m p t u o u s a n d disposable goods Juan grandmother [Nanee] built Now, handouts cannot solve disrespectfultoAfricans.” Williams – said ‘Many 15 houses and my parents ourproblems”. Mr Lewis is certainly African leaders have lost builtfive.

But Mr Norton is one angry African and in all touch with the Civil Rights The building of these nevertheless on record as his fulminations absolutely m o v e m e n t o f S e l f - houses was done by 80% encouraging Guyanese to fails to suggest any solution Empowerment – they African workers These accept handouts as it is their for how Blacks can embrace the notions of African workers, as in monies from the national economically empower “Victimhood”. Guyana, were very skilled coffers. themselves! Dr Thomas Sowell, in many different trades, in

Continuing, Mr Norton, Indeed Dr Walter Larry Elder, Shelby building houses -carpenters, “said a special system was Rodney would have been Williams and Candice masons, cabinet and needed to establish certainly amazed how Black Owens debunk systemic furniture makers [ joiners] businesses and counter the leaders and many Black racism in the USA – today blacksmiths, metal workers, bigproblemofpoverty,what intellectualsinAfricaandthe andtheyblametheeconomic cooks, bakers, tailors, will solve our problems are Diaspora are the ones who downfall of Blacks on the shoemakers, druggists [ structured programmes to are keeping Black people WelfareSystem. pharmacists] and were more put our people into business. underdeveloped and Now there is a new skilled than the Indians It is proper levels of intellectually ignorant to suit historic awakening because Indians at this time employment so people can their political agendas of Opposition leader Mr werestillfieldworkers.Even earn and mind their victimhood to influence and Norton is calling on Blacks most bakeries were Black families,’”heemphasised. control the Black masses. to use their skills to own ownedandnowaremostly

Lo and behold in the IPADA-G is a prime businesses; using trade skills (Continued on page 5)

Roger Forbes Luncheon - remember the name

DEAREDITOR, Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo Luncheon’s life and service. Nowtheseedslongsetinthe Therecomesatimeinthe went beyond the customary They had worked through fertile soils of multiracial life of every nation when its blazonries some of the darkest days in p o s s i b i l i t i e s , a r e history demands the He hailed Luncheon as a the history of this country, contributing to the gathering presence of a figure that fighter against the politically days and days running late momentum of the PPPas the stands tall, well above the connected criminal elements into the north of midnight only multiracial political fray, with a commitment and who were on a rampage when humanity had fallen forceinGuyana. will to lift the life of its againstthesoulofthisnation asleep. The best tribute one can citizens for generations in the early 2000s, bent as In a touching moment, pay to this great and humble Guyana found that man, that they were on destroying the Dr Jagdeo told the audience manistofollowhisexample. citizen, that patriot in Roger remaining strands of and nation how party Begood,andworkhardfora ForbesLuncheon. democracy that they had not comrades physically carried bettercountry

A medical doctor by yetwipedout. Luncheon up several flights The nation stands today training, Dr Luncheon came This is not the place to of stairs to the top floor of in mourning. Luncheon has back to his homeland with repeat or recite all that Dr Freedom House for PPP Ex- left us, but he is not gone. good will but soon found out Luncheon did for Guyana. Comeetings. N K Gopaul, a past that the Guyana he was The list is just too long, but Dr Luncheon was 74 Permanent Secretary at promised was in the even more, the people of the when he passed away, a Office of the President and doldrums, with an economic land already know his track- comparatively early age in who served with Dr disaster in motion, and the record, the dedication and modern times, but especially Luncheon on the Defence requiem for democracy love with which he served, so because he had so much Board, commends these alreadyfullycomposed. and the indomitable spirit moretogive. words on this occasion “Do

At the Reflections for that was a call to life for all He had already given thou the deeds [he died] too the former HPS on Friday thosearoundhim. beyond call and duty to young to do” (Matthew night (8/18/2023) at the Vice President Jagdeo building the institutional and Arnold).

Arthur Chung Conference wasvisiblymovedduringhis cultural infrastructure of Sincerely,

racio-ethnic bipartisanship. Dr Randolph Persaud

What is GTT doing with the Pinktober Funds?

DEAREDITOR, fall prey to these marketing remainingfunds? results.

There is a saying that tactics of companies who I recently accompanied a Persons living with goes “Little thieves are portray an intent to help relative to the Cancer cancer are oftentimes forced hanged, but great ones those who are vulnerable. Institute at Georgetown tochangetheirdietsandway escape”. Today, I heard that But do companies really hospitalandwassaddenedto oflife.Withtheriseincostof saying and was immediately honour their word in see the number of cancer living,manyofthemarealso reminded of GTT and the ensuring the funds raised are victims there Cancer is unable to afford such a life, Pinktober funds it has indeed allocated to those rampant in Guyana and the especially when some of accumulatedsince2017. whoneeditmost? Caribbean and is affecting them are the breadwinners

Reparative justice for the Caribbean remains a work in progress

DEAREDITOR, ‘spin doctors’ will

One cannot be amused manufacture glorious stories watching Min. Edghill as he to paint different stories. paradestovariousareaswith Whateveryonefailstonotice selected media personnel to is that approximately two inspect works undertaken by weeks after the roads/streets contractors. It’s interesting are completed, there were to see how he upbraids the visiblesignsofdeterioration, contractorsandissuesthreats with edges not properly to the contractors, but smoothed, making the likes ironically, most are of a pond/pool, which will mediocre/small contractors, contribute further to the which I’m sure got contracts deteriorationoftheroads. based on loyalty to the party Finally,Editor,onehasto The big contractors seem to wonder why the minister is be excluded from the comic notgoingafterthosewhoare show approving the works

DEAREDITOR, T h e s e s m a l l b u t

Mr Editor, in 2017, GTT Reports in the media both young and senior aged fortheirfamily indicated it raised $4 7 indicated that GTT had persons. Many of the cancer Again, I ask, what is million Guyana dollars. In donated its first $4.7 million victims there related the GTT’s intention with the 2018, reports indicated the dollars raised in 2017, in horrors of affording a CT remaining Pinktober funds company raised $11 million 2019 a $300,000- and $1.14 scan, biopsy, blood test, raisedtohelpcancerpatients Guyana dollars and million-dollars cheques among other tests. While and when will the company whopping $28 million were handed over to the some of these services are allocate the money to help Guyana dollars in 2019 Giving Hope Foundation free at the hospital, many of those who it was intently Despite the covid-19 and the Guyana Parenthood the patients are not in a state raisedtosupport? pandemic, the company still Association Finally, in to wait hours to get a test Sincerely, managedtoraise$10million 2022, GTT donated $4 done and then wait on the Cancer Advocate dollars with a $4M million dollars to the Cancer Guyanese dollar allocation InstituteofGuyana. from one company The Sincethestartoftheyear, public is still yet to find out I have seen GTT sponsor howmuchmoneywasraised many shoddy events in the in 2021, even though the past months under its pillar company hadn’t many “ t o s t r e n g t h e n o u r activities-againduetocovid- community”, but not one 19. It was observed that in donationwasmadetocancer 2022,therewasnoeventand victimsorsurvivors. nooneatthecompanysawit What has happened to fit to announce a reason, the remaining $47 56 despite many customers million dollars raised in enquired. support of cancer victims

My burning question, and survivors? Are these however, is where are the shoddy events being funds raised to support sponsored with the cancer victims and Pinktober funds? What is survivors? Many times, we GTT’s intention with the

NORTON’S CALL FOR...

From page 4 With the PNC stacking owned by Chinese people. the public services with But something in the Africans, Indians had no 1960s/1970s caused Blacks choice but to go into to start losing their skills and business. entrepreneurship. According In conclusion, the to Dr Sowell, the journey of some Guyana’s government interceded in Black leaders’ behaviour African lives with welfare adopt a capitalist’s mindset and corporate welfare to lead their people to the [Government Enterprises] capitalist Promised Land has commonly known as now begun by Mr Norton. handouts. Now they must teach their

Regardless of the hurdles race business skills and and pains of indenture ships refrain from who is to blame and PNC Black rule for 28 for Blacks downfall. It will years, the Indians unlike eventually cause Africans to Africans did not use these resurrect as entrepreneurs drawbacksintheirlivesasan again. Know the past; do excuse to be failures in notstayinthepast.

Guyana, Suriname and Sincerely, Trinidad. Vassan Ramracha

The heirs of a slave significant steps by these owning family is following twofamiliescanbeacatalyst inthefootstepsoftheheirsof for others to come forward another slave owning family and do what is right for the in offering apologies and descendants of African making a contribution. That slaves not only in the the Gladstone family will be Caribbean but in other featured at an event hosted jurisdictions. by the University of Guyana UG must be commended (UG) to observe the in its efforts in getting the bicentennialyearofthe1823 Gladstone heirs to come and uprising is historical as it is be a part of its ‘Legacies and significant. the Future’ commemorative

Not so long ago, the event.

Trevelyan family of which Reparativejusticeforthe renowned former British Caribbean is a long, hard, b r o a d c a s t e r, L a u r a workinprogress,butthefact Trevelyan, traveled to the that some families can Caribbean island of Grenada recognize and accept that and publicly apologised for their role in slavery was her family’s ownership of wrong while seeking to slaves. make tangible amends

She also pledged a means some justice is being personal contribution. Ms. servedinsmallways. Trevelyan has since quit her If they can do it, then job at the BBC to actively participating governments, campaign as a ‘full-time inwhathasbeendescribedas roving advocate’ for the greatest crime against reparation justice for the humanity,mustdoittoo. descendants of slaves in the

Sincerely, Caribbean. Shamshun Mohamed

In Guyana, even if a completed and they are not contractor is blacklisted lasting the estimated time. from bidding for future Engineersaresupposedtobe contracts, he could register inspecting and testing all another firm in his works carried out by family/relative’s name and contractors and if not to still bid. Chances are that is standard, corrective presently happening. measures should be taken, Presently, the Minister’s beforeapprovalforpayment. main concern is getting If anyone has doubts that contractstobefinishedinthe skullduggery not happening, time frame estimated or just look at the quality of before Quality of work work being done and the doesn’tseemtobeanissue. cost.

Editor, a few days ago, Almost everyone hears Pres. Ali visited selected of contractors having to pay p a r t s o f t h e huge sums of money to get Uitvlugt/Stewartville contracts and for it to pass, communities, whilst it was a but is anyone addressing welcome visit, most are still that?InHaguebackdam,the unclear about the purpose of road is slated to be rebuilt, hisvisit. some morons approve the

The visit was arranged a road to be built before others while before, so a few roads and instead of starting from and streets were quickly the back and coming polishedupinanticipationof forward,theydidthereverse. his visit. I was in amazement Without a doubt, traversing as he and his battalion of PR on a good road to repair the officials videoed the bad one will cause the good community as they passed onetobedamaged. through but failed to stop in Majorityofthecountryis certain sections to listen to under the impression that the resident’s concerns benefits of the oil will meet Whilst the crowd that goes them,butwhen? with him is more than the Sadly,nooneknows. turnout by residents of the Sincerely, communities, no doubt the Sahadeo Bates

Real Works is needed, not a Facade

Disgusted by treatment at Woodland’s Hospital

DEAREDITOR, availableat2pmthesaidday, her because I was unable to medications because at first, workersshownoremorsefor an emergency ward doctor

Guyana is truly a land of paradoxes

DEAREDITOR,

First, we say crime is down but we won’t allow tints on vehiclesbecauseofcrime.

On Saturday last, my but that doctor showed up at secure a private room so one we decided we wouldn’t like their patients who are when his patient could lose mother’shealthdeteriorated, 2:40pm. By that time, the of us (her children) would to admit her in a shared extremely critical and are his/herlifeinasplitsecond. andasaresult,werushedher emergency ward doctor remain with her They were room. With us receiving the slothful in administering the Thank God my mom’s to Woodland’s Hospital at would have been on lunch. giving us a semi private transfer papers, my brother appropriate treatment even alive but I wouldn’t wish for the Emergency ward. We Again, we waited while room, with her being unable spoke up and then finally we when in the emergency another to experience what reached at around 12:30 pm systems weren’t in place to to do much for herself and did obtain some medications ward I am not fully weendured. and at that point in time, she have my mother’s pressure not giving me the option to buttooursurprise,theywere comprehending how an Yours faithfully, was placed on a monitor undercontrol. remainwithher medicationsthatshouldtreat hour’s lunch is necessary for Neelam Ramcharitar where her heart rate and her The doctor finally I discussed this with my infants and kids. My mom blood pressure were on showedupandIhadtoplace family members and we got the lowest milligrams of display the results of the head scan weren’t able to decide what thetabletstocombathernear I discovered her pressure before him since he didn’t to do.At around 4:40pm, we deathcondition. remained extremely high, rush to his patient; instead, were given refusal to That day because of the hence I pointed out to the he was chatting with his admittance papers, still poor treatment and doctor in charge that it’s a nurse. beinghesitantaboutwhether uncompassionate behaviour cause of concern since it He read the report and we should admit her or not, of the staff, my mom could could have been the result of advised me to admit her For so we were practically have lost her life. I am something much worse. He the duration of her stay, I thrown out of the emergency extremely disappointed at responded that they are didn’t see the urgency of the ward because we perhaps the staff and more so the monitoringit. nurse or doctor to have her indirectly indicated we management of one of the

We rushed now to out of danger instead the wouldn’t like our mom to be most established private complete a head scan but the doctor’s main focus was for admitted. hospital in Guyana. It is doctor expected to read the metoadmither

The doctor maintained m i n d b o g g l i n g a n d report would only be I was skeptical to admit thathewouldn’tgiveherany despicable how frontline

Then we allow our politicians, police and others to drive around with tinted vehicles, including a tinted front windshieldwhichisthemostdangerousthingwecoulddofor ourroadways.

Guyanaistrulyalandofparadoxes.

Yours faithfully,

James Wills

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Jagdeoand histantrums

Vice President Bharat Jagdeo must hurry up and grow up.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

He has to stop stamping his feet when he doesn't get his way.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Jagdeo must stop throwing these childish tantrums when pressed for answers.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Jagdeo must remember he is a former President.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

He doesn't have the keys to all knowledge, or deep truths.

He must stop making himself look like someone on the run.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Someone with many things to fear.

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Govt's failure to conduct feasibility studies for oil projects could result in mountain of debt -Opposition

The political Opposition has acknowledged the recent a d v i c e f r o m a Commonwealth Specialist inviting member states of the organization to conduct feasibility studies for oil projects, specifically to determine cost versus benefits.

Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader and SpokespersononOilandGas matters, Elson Low in a recent interview with this publication pointed to the importance of such an analysis being conducted by government.

Earlier this month, Vice PresidentBharratJagdeotold reporters at a press conference hosted at Freedom House that feasibility studies are the responsibility of the oil companies, since they are investing their financial resources. He indicated that this was not done for any of the five projects approved to date for American oil giant,

ExxonMobil. According to the Opposition, an assessment of each oil project is critical for G u y a n a , e s p e c i a l l y considering that the Stabroek Blockdoesnotincludearingfencing provision. Such a clause would have prevented the developer from utilizing the revenue generated by one project to pay off expenses for another project For instance, Kaieteur News reportedthatintheabsenceof a ring-fencing provision, the Stabroek Block partners last year deducted revenues from the Liza One and Liza Two projects to pay for decommissioning costs related to the third and fourth projects that are yet to commenceoilproduction.

To this end, Low explained, “In general, it is important to evaluate the viability of each field, but as Guyana does not have ringfencing provisions, this is vital.”

He went on to note,

“Studies should be done so that we have a concrete understanding of what we should expect from each field, but also its impact on theshareofrevenuethatgoes to profit oil We have previously spoken about spacing out developments so that the share of revenues received earlier is increased and this of course requires an

evaluation of the economics ofeachfield.”

Low believes that if the government does not regularly assess these fields, it would be unable to identify its expected annual revenues. He therefore cautioned that “Such poor planning could lead to the government being unable to meet its expected expensesorserviceitsdebt.”

According to the Economic Advisor attached to the Commonwealth Secretariat's Ocean and Natural Resources Advisory Division, Naadira Ogeer, governments should take care to do independent analysis that determines the feasibility of such projects versusthegainstocitizens.

In a handbook developed to help government officials make the best decisions for its people when reviewing a c o m p a n y ' s F i e l d Development Plans (FDPs), the expert stressed the need for there to be detailed reviews done by State

authoritiesortheexpertsthey hire.

TheofficialsaidFDPsare documents that ought to be treated with a high degree of importance as they explain howacompanywillgoabout developing multi-milliondollar projects. Taking this into account, Ogeer said it is critical that the government has a clear appreciation of how revenues will be impacted by changes in key areas of uncertainty e g

p r i c i n g , p r o d u c t i o n fluctuations, and operating costs.

“Ideally, the government should have independent economicmodelsandexperts to conduct independent evaluation of the feasibility of a project and the returns to the country,” Ogeer stated in the handbook published by t h e C o m m o n w e a l t h Secretariat.

Be that as it may, Guyana to date has not conducted such a study for any of the five projects it has approved for ExxonMobil which collectively carry a price tag wellaboveUS$40billion.

TheGuyanaFireService

and Fire Prevention Department plan to improve readiness and response efforts to safeguard people,

p r o p e r t y, a n d t h e environment during El Niño

o c c u r r e n c e s b y comprehending the possible consequencesofElNiñoand putting into practice

efficient mitigation techniquesandpractices.

This would include ongoing monitoring, public awareness initiatives, communitycooperation,and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Hinterland and rural areas can experience vast grass fires during this period that can destroy properties and livelihoods It is r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t surroundings be kept clean atalltimes.

Heavy winds and dust can create health hazards; therefore, all doors and windows should be kept closed.To minimise the risk of grass fires, controlled burning practices should be implemented during non-El Niñoperiods.

By strategically burning small sections of grasslands under controlled conditions, citizens can decrease the accumulation of dry and

flammable materials, making it less likely for fires to spread rapidly during El Niño.

Agricultural burning is common in Guyana, but during El Niño, the risk of fires can be heightened due to drier conditions and increased flammability of

vegetation.

Farmers should practice proper burning techniques, timing burns, and ensuring sufficient firebreaks Alternative practices, such as composting, mulching, and no-till farming, can improve soil health and reducefires.

Firebreaks should be strategically created and maintained based on natural topography,winddirections, and potential fire spread patterns.

A firebreak or double trackisagapinvegetationor other combustible materials that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the progress of a grassfireorwildfire.

Ideally, firebreaks should be placed along ridgelines, natural barriers, orroads,whichcanhelphalt the progress of a fire. The width of firebreaks depends on the intensity and rate of spread of the grassland fire. In general, wider firebreaks aremoreeffectiveatslowing down fires. For grassland fires, a typical width of at least 30–60 feet (10–20 metres)isrecommended.

However,inextremefire conditions, wider firebreaks m a y b e n e c e s s a r y Firebreaks should be easily accessible to firefighting equipment and personnel. Ensure that there are clear escaperoutesforfirefighters in case the fire's behaviour becomesuncontrollable.

For more information or to report a fire or any other related emergency, contact the Guyana Fire Service at 912or226-2411-3.(DPI)

El Niño will greatly affect weather patterns and raise the possibility of grass fires in Guyana

Economic Advisor to the Opposition Leader, Elson Low

The GMSA is seeking impermissible protection

T h e G u y a n a transportation, distribution permissible forms of such have to pay the tax, they had But they could also have Manufacturing and Services oruse.” protections. In another case, a clea

ruled that it was in violation Association (GMSA) must What this means is that the Dispute Panel had ruled

be operating in some governmentisnotallowedto that such protection can be manufacturers from other A similar case was filed alternative universe. Surely, remove a tax on local item done through imported CARICOM States. Guyana by another company The the main representative unless it does the same for tariffs and not on domestic was favouring its own governmentlostalso,ending o r g a n i z a t i o n f o r the same imported product. taxes, which is what the manufacturers and engaging up costing taxpayers billions

manufacturing and services G o v e r n m e n t i s n o t GMSAisseeking. in discriminatory treatment ofdollarsinrefunds.

cannot be serious, or be permitted, not allowed to Article 3 of the GATT is t

taken seriously when it give domestic production known as the ‘national manufacturers The CCJ administration therefore pleads for the government to more favourable treatment treatment’ rule. Under the ruled against Guyana on the should reject outright what remove the VAT on locally than that accorded to like R e v i s e d Tr e a t y o f basis of Article 87 of the the GMSA is demanding. It manufactured and agro- imported products. These Chaguaramas(RTC),thereis RTC. The CCJ treated the should urge that body not to processingproducts. practices are contrary to what is known as the environmental tax as an shootfromthehipbuttoseek Suchactionswouldbein international trade law and ‘nationality rule’ which import tax which was not proper advice before violationofinternationaland for the GMSA not to know follows along the same permitted under the RTC. proposing measures for regional trade laws. It is this is a travesty, and if it principles as the ‘national absolutely bizarre that the knows and is still asking the treatment’ rule. That rule is GMSAdoesnotknowthisor government to do this then it containedinArticle7andisa ifitdoesstillhasthetemerity clearly unaware of the general principle of the to ask the government to ramificationsofdoingso. CaribbeanCommunity violate foundational TheDisputePanelof the But there is also Article agreements governing WTOhad,waybackin1958, 90 which is similar in intent international and regional found that Article 3 of the to that of Article 3 of the trade. GATT was clearly intended GATT and which states as Article 3 (2) of the to treat the imported follows: “Save as otherwise General Agreement on products in the same way as provided in this Treaty, Tariffs and Trade (GATT) the like domestic products Member States shall not: (a) states: “The products of the once import duties had been applydirectlyorindirectlyto territory of any contracting paid. In 1992, the Panel i m p o r t e d g o o d s o f party imported into the considered a case in which Communityoriginanyfiscal territory of any other the United States was charges in excess of those contractingpartyshallnotbe applyingalowertaxonlocal applied directly or indirectly subject, directly or beer than that which was to like domestic goods, or indirectly,tointernaltaxesor applied to imported beer otherwise apply such other internal charges of any The Panel said that this was charges so as to protect like kind in excess of those inconsistent with national domesticgoods” applied, directly or treatment and therefore with A Surinamese company indirectly, to like domestic Article 3 of the GATT In had taken Guyana to the products.” another case involving Caribbean Court of Justice

Article 3 (4) then states: Japan, the Panel observed (CCJ) because Guyana had ”The products of the thatArticle 3 obligates states imposed an environmental territory of any contracting to provide equality of tax on non-returnable party imported into the competitive conditions for imported containers This territory of any other importedproductsinrelation tax was applied only to contracting party shall be todomesticproducts. imported non-returnable accorded treatment no less The GMSA may be containersbutnotonlocallyfavourable than that seeking protection from produced non-returnable accorded to like products of foreign competition. In this containers Guyana had national origin in respect of respect, Article 3 was never consistently ignored all laws, regulations and intended to stop member warnings from COTED on requirements affecting their states of the WTO from thisissue. internal sale, offering for imposingsuchprotectionbut It was argued that since s a l e , p u r c h a s e , merely to determine the Guyanese companies didn’t

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

EAB to hear Houston residents over radioactive waste facility

The three-member

E n v i r o n m e n t a l Assessment Board (EAB) has scheduled a Public Hearing for appeals received into the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) decision not to require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a radioactive waste facility at Houston, East BankDemerara.

The regulator in April this year announced that the developer, Schlumberger was exempted from having to produce the detailed impact study This was the second waiver of an EIA by the regulator fortheproject.

According to a Public Notice in Sunday's Kaieteur News, the rescheduled hearing into citizens' appeals will take place on Wednesday September 13, 2023 at 17:00hrs in the Conference Room of Parc Rayne at Rahaman's Park, EastBankDemerara.

It said the Hearing was being held under Section 18 (2) of the Environmental ProtectionAct, Cap 20:05.

During the consultation, the EABwilllistentothepresentations from the appellants, the developer and other key stakeholders Thereafter, the EAB will deliberate onthefindingsandprepareareport with its decision confirming or setting aside the EPA's decision to waiveanEIAfortheproject.

Chairman of the EAB, Dr Mahendar Sharma on Sunday told this publication that appeals were received by three citizens - Vanda Radzik, Danuta Radzik and RaphaelSingh.

According to project documents seen by this newspaper, Schlumberger Guyana Inc. (SLB)

said it is a registered contractor in Guyana and provides oil field services to the oil and gas industry Specifically, Schlumberger Guyana Inc. provides upstream services with four primary areas of focus to include well construction, reservoir production systems, digitalandintegrationandreservoir performance.

SLB said radioactive sources are used in the oil and gas industry for well logging and well drilling. The company said they are placed in tools that are lowered into the well, both on the drill string above thedrillingbitduringthedrillingof thewell(WellConstruction)andon wireline lowered into the already drilled well (Reservoir Performance), in order to determine details of the formations passedthrough(lithology,porosity, fluid content, etc ) These measurements are of fundamental importance both during the drilling and afterwards to determine the successofthewell.

SLB was keen to note that it invented the technology of lowering measuring instruments into wells to evaluate the presence ofhydrocarbons.

Furthermore, SLB said it has been operating with radioactive sources throughout the world since the early 1950's and has been in the forefront in assisting regulatory bodies such as the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the formulation of regulations and safe operating requirements for the use of ionizing radiation in oil and gas explorationandproduction.

The EPA in announcing its decision to waive an impact study for the project earlier this year explained that the inventory of

Fisherman finds body while catching iguana

A fisherman hunting for iguanas in his backyard on Saturday stumbled upon the body of a taxi driver who had reportedly beenmissingfortwodays.

Thebodywaslateridentifiedto be that of OrvrilAdamson Pedro, a 34-year-old man. Pedro's remains were found during the morning hours in a clump of bushes at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD). It is also believed to be an ex-policeman, but investigators will verify later today if he was indeedoneofthem.

Police visited the location around 10:00hrs on Saturday No marks of violence were reportedly seen on the remains Police however found a black wallet containing his ID card in one of his pockets.ASamsungGalaxyS9was also found next to his body. Police are now waiting for an autopsy to determinehiscauseofdeath,butin the meantime investigations are ongoing.

Found dead in a clump of bushes, Orvil Pedro

Pedro plied his trade as a taxi driver in the vicinity of Robb and Light Streets, Georgetown. One Person recalled that the last time they saw Pedro alive, he received a strange phone call and suddenly leftinacar

Pedro's customers and friends describedhimasonewhowasvery polite and always wore a smile on hisface.

radioactive sources submitted with the application has been categorizedunderCategories3-5as per the International Atomic E n e rg y A g e n c y ( I A E A ) Categorization of Radioactive Sources (No.RS-G-1.9). The EPA said it is important to note that the IAEA has specified that these sources may only pose a potential risk to individuals close to them when they are unshielded, with typicaldurationsrangingfromdays toweeks.

Furthermore, the EPA said the facility will calibrate and store sealed radioactive sources, meaning the radioactive material is enclosed within a tightly sealed capsule, surrounded by layers of non-radioactive material, and securely affixed to a nonradioactive source, effectively preventing any potential leakage or environmental release of the radioactivematerial.

It said too that proper shielding and distancing can significantly reduce the risk of radiation

exposuretothepublic.

Research by this publication shows that exposure to radioactive waste can cause cancerous growths in humans and genetic damage or mutation to animals and plants.

Scientists believe these changes

could prevent sustainable procreation.

SGI'sapplicationtotheEPAfor the project comes on the heels of a CourtrulingonDecember16,2022 byGuyana'sHighCourt.

The three appellants to the current impact study waiver, who are residents of Houston- Vanda Radzik, Danuta Radzik and Raphael Singh- had filed the case after objecting to the first EIA waiver on the grounds that radioactive materials should not be used and located in close proximity toschools,neighbourhoods,amain thoroughfare, the Demerara River, etc.

Notably, Justice Nareshwar Harnanan ruled that the EPA breacheditsstatutorydutieswhenit made the decision to waive the

requirement of an EIA to Schlumberger in relation to granting an environmental permit fortheconstructionofthefacility

In fact, the Judge declared that EPA's decision to not conduct an EIA into the effects of the construction of the facility was illegal, ultra vires, unreasonable, and irrational since it breached the Environmental Protection Act, Cap.20:05.

Justice Harnanan granted an Order of Certiorari issued and directed to the EPA quashing its decision on June 9, 2021 to award an environmental authorisation to Schlumberger to construct a radioactivesubstancesandmaterial storageandcalibrationfacility

Further, the Judge issued an injunction against Schlumberger, restraining it from continuing the possession, use and storage of radioactive chemicals at its Houston facility, unless and until it is in receipt of a lawfully issued permitpursuanttotheprovisionsof theEPAAct.

Venezuelan woman confessed to stabbing man to death

AVenezuelan woman has confessed to the fatal stabbing of a mineridentifiedas'Sunny'whowas killed at Kumung Kumung Backdam,PuruniRiver

AccordingtotheGuyanaPolice Force (GPF), the fatal stabbing occurred sometime between August17and18,2023.

Orianma Naomi Silva Figueira, a 23-year-old female from Puerto Ordas, Venezuela is in police custody assisting with the investigation.

During an interview on Saturday,Figueiratolddetectivesat the Bartica Police Station that she stabbedtheminerwitharetractable knifethatshehadinherpossession. The police reported that Figueira was cautioned and told of the allegation of the murder of Sunny, to which she admitted, stating that thedeceasedhadattackedherwhen she refused to dance with him at a

shop in Kumung Kumung. The womantoldthepolicethatshelater went to the victim's camp later that night, where she saw him lying in a hammock She then took a retractable knife and dealt Sunny threestabsabouthisbody

Kaieteur News had reported that around 23:00hrs onAugust 17, Sunny was in the company of two female Venezuelan nationals and others drinking alcohol at a shop, when he approached one of the ladies and requested to dance with her

Reports are the Venezuelan woman declined Sunny's request, which caused him to become annoyed,andhethenheldontoher The woman, police reported, pushed Sunny away which then led toanargumentbetweenthem.

Eyewitnesses reported that during the argument, the woman broke two bottles and threatened 'Sunny'.

Personsattheshopattemptedto calm the situation, but Sunny then began to behave disorderly and assaulted two of the men that were trying to subdue him.According to the police, the two men, in turn, dealt Sunny several cuffs and lashes about his body He was later taken to his camp in an intoxicated state and sometime after, retired to bed.

On August 18, at about 06:00hrs, it was reported that the VenezuelanwomanwhoSunnyhad the argument with was seen running away from his camp. He was later discovered covered in blood, lying motionless in his hammock.

Police said, upon arrival at the camp, his (Sunny's) body was examined and one stab wound was seentohisupperleftsidechest,two stab wounds were below his left armpit, and one to his upper left sideback.

(From left) Chairman of the EAB, Dr. Mahendar Sharma with EAB members, Dr. Garvin Cummings and Joslyn McKenzie.

Six years later: Leguan Stelling contractor misses another deadline

While the government of Guyana is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the n a t i o n ' s l a n d s c a p e a n d infrastructure, it is equally stern in holding contractors responsible for failing to finish their projects withintheallocatedperiod.

One prime example is the contractor of the Leguan Stelling, Maraj Contracting Services, who has missed another deadline again to complete the structure, six years after the contract was signed under the previous APNU+AFC government.

And according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, the contractor has requested more money from the government to complete the project despite the fact that a previously agreed-upon costhadalreadybeenapproved.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel. In that the deck of the

Stelling is now cast and the major infrastructural works are completed However, when I arrived here, this afternoon and from what I was told by the contractor, (Sattrohan Maraj), I would say that it is highly unacceptable to the Cabinet and to the government,” Minister Edghill told the Guyana Chronicle during a visittotheislandrecently

He added, “I was told that, in order for the minor works to be completed, that is, the installation of the link span bridge, putting in the guard rails, installing the lights, and getting the admin building fixed, the contractor seems to want to have more money; we are not paying more, and Mr Maraj knows that.”

The contract for the rehabilitation of the Stelling was signed in 2018 and since then, the contract sum has increased from $413millionto$607million.

And according to Minister Edghill,“Adecisionwillhavetobe made if Mr Maraj cannot finish whatistobedone.

“There are many contractors in this country who can get the job done; we don't have a shortage of contractors.”

The new deadline for the completion of the project was July 2023.

Minister Edghill, the contractor, and other officials discussthepositionofthelinkspan for the bridge – Guyana Chronicle Photo

He emphasised that after “sitting down, negotiating, and going through all the problems that we have inherited from the APNU +AFC in regard to this Stelling, July 2023 was supposed to be the

deadline. I am here,August 17, and it still has not been completed.I am not here today to hear about more money and fancy explanations; I am here to see that the final aspect oftheworkisfinished.Iwanttotell the residents of Leguan that this is your completed Stelling, but I cannottellthemthatjustyet.”

Even though the residents are using the Stelling at the moment, Minister Edghill related that it is “unfair” and he is “unhappy” that the people of the island have to use an “unsafe” structure, especially in thenights.

Minister Edghill plans to meet with the government engineer on Monday to decide on the way forward; he made it abundantly clear that the company will not get “another dime” to complete the remainderofthework.(DPI)

Clay Brick Road resident murdered after cuffing man to face

A29 year-old man of Clay Brick Road, Canal Number 2, West Bank Demerara (WBD) was on Saturday night brutally murdered after allegedly cuffing amantohisface.

Policeidentifiedthevictimas Bharrat Gendalall better known as Premesh, a driver According to police, the man he allegedly cuffed to the face along with five other masked men ambushed him in his yard around 19:45hrs, andstabbedhimtodeath.

Investigators learnt that Gendalall had just come home from work that evening and was liming with some friends in front of his house He reportedly crossed over the road to urinate whenacardrovebesidehim.

The driver, according to police, stepped out of the car and started arguing with Gendalall. As the argument was ongoing,

Gendalall allegedly cuffed the man to his face. The man then entered his vehicle and drove off whileGendalallenteredhisyard. A short while after, the car returned and stopped in front of Gendalall's home. The driver and five masked men ran out of the vehicle and ambushed him. Gendalall was reportedly stabbed to the chest and in the process fell to the ground as the menescaped.

Relatives picked up Gendalall and rushed him to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where died while receivingmedicalattention.

As police hunt his killers, the entire community is left in disbelief. One of the residents in the area said in a Facebook comment, “He was a very loving person to his family and to everyoneinthecommunity,May hissoulrestinpeace.”

Murdered, Bharrat Gendalall

A section of the incomplete deck of the Stelling – Guyana Chronicle Photo

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill speaks to the contractor, Sattrohan Maraj (right) – Guyana Chronicle Photo

Ecuador chooses president amid spike in violence

BBC News- People in Ecuador have voted in presidential and congressional elections overshadowed by violence.

Some 100,000 police and soldiers were deployed to protect the polls.

Earlier this month, a presidential candidate was assassinated. Others have said their campaigns have been marred by shootings.

The snap election was called after President Guillermo Lasso - a conservative former bankerdissolved parliament to avoid impeachment.

Initial results are expected later, but the outcome could take days to emerge.

There will be a second round of voting for the presidency unless one of the candidates takes 40% of the vote or opens up a 10-point lead in the race.

The new president will take office on 26 October and will serve only the remainder of Mr Lasso’s term, a year and a half.

Among the eight politicians vying for the presidency, the frontrunner has been Luisa Gonzales, an ally of leftist ex-President

Rafael Correa.

But the assassination of candidate Fernando Villavicencio on 9 August in the capital, Quito, has made the election difficult to predict.

It has also placed the focus very much on peace and security. Bulletproof vests were in evidence during the campaign and many candidates dialled down their closing events.

On Saturday, gunfire erupted in a restaurant where conservative candidate Otto Sonnenholzner was having

breakfast. The shooting happened in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, which has been overrun by drugtraffickers.

Mr Sonnenholzner is not believed to have been the target.

But the campaign has seen a surge in gang attacks.

A similar shooting occurred during a rally held by fellow candidate Daniel Noboa. And a local politician was shot dead in northern Esmeraldas province.

Mr Villavicencio was an outspoken journalist who had

uncovered corruption and denounced links between organised crime and officials.

Six men have been arrested in connection with his assassination, all of them Colombian citizens.

WANTED VACANCY

Wanted: Experienced Puri Maker, Cashier, Counter Person, Labourer and Cleaner. Apply at Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts.

Looking for a reliable live-in aide for an elderly woman. Call: 686-8051.

Security/ Handyman needed. Contact: 223-5273/223-5274.

General live-in Domestic needed. Call: 660-9093.

Wanted! Male & Female workers for packaging pasta and chowmein on the Back Road (Mandela Ave). Call: 611-7839.

One male and female ablebodied Staff needed to work in a store. Call: 225-2313, 2261497, 658-8559.

One office Assistant needed. Experience will be an asset. Call: 688-7911.

East Bank Electrical is now hiring Electrical Engineer, Outside Sales Staff & Counter Sales Staff. Call: 604-6394, sales@eastbankelectrical.com

Male Engineer needed, Must have atleast 10 years experience in road & building construction. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

1 Male Project Supervisor (construction field), ages 35-50 years. Must have atleast 5-8 yrs managerial experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Vacancy for a domestic maid full time or part time. Call 6376700

Accounts Clerk needed. Must have a sound secondary education and 1-2 years Accounting experience. For more information Call: 2262621.

Vacancies exists for Glass & Window Installers. Must have at least 3 yrs experience & a valid drivers license. Send applications: 654-3905.

We are now hiring Bartender, Waitress and experienced Cook. Preferably from WCD, attractive salary offered. Call: 689-7481.

Driver needed. All Applicants must have Motor Car, Van & Lorry Licence. Apply to: Human Resource Manager Global Healthcare Supplies Inc Or Via Email: globalhealthsuppliesinc@ gmail.com

Looking for a land to buy in Kuru Kuru, offering price- 58 mil. Call: 261-5926. Handyman needed to work shift, Security Guard and Housekeeper at Signature Inn Hotel. Contact Rosa: 644-2020.

Bobcat & Roller Operators needed. Ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

Truck & Canter Drivers needed. Ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855.

FOR SALE

Canje transported farm land 207 acres, recently used for rice cultivation, fresh water own koker. Email: gelgin15@gmail.com

Diesel Mechanic and Skilled Labourers needed for road construction. Ages 20 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Email CV: rbinvestmentinc@gmail.com, Call: 613-0855

General Domestic needed to work 4 days per week, must know to cook. Apply at Keyfood Mc Doom village next to the post office.

Pump Attendants urgently needed at Two Brothers Gas Stations, WCD/ EBE. Call/ WhatsApp: 592-708-3256.

SERVICES

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.

Visa Application to Canada and U.S.A, graphics design, advertisements,USA passport application forms & i130 application. Call: 6267040.

FOR RENT

Bottom flat, 2 bedrooms and top flat 3 bedrooms at Durban Street. Call Leon or June: 612-5296 or 623-1562.

Live-in and business quarters for rent at James Street. Call: 674-0614.

Cashiers needed at Two Brothers Gas Stations, WCD. 1+ experience. Call/ WhatsApp: 592-708-3256.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, $3.3M negotiable and 1 Toyota Allion, $3.350 M, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage . Contact: 649-0956.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office.Must have grade 1or 2 Maths and English. Email: techserigy@yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443. Maid needed to cook and clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

One male Cleaner needed for Eccles area. Call: 615-9132.

Factory Worker needed. For more infoCall: 226-2621.

VACANCY

Voters casting Ballots in Ecuador

Farmer arrested for possession of unlicensed shotgun, ammo

A 36-year-old farmer was on Saturday arrested after he was found with an unlicensed shotgun and ammunition at Mariro Ranch, Karasabai, RegionNine.

The police reported that the farmer, Kelbert Isaac, of SouthPakaraimas,admittedto not being a licensed firearm holder

Around 16:00 hours on S a t u r d a y, a c t i n g o n information received, Deputy SuperintendentAlly,Inspector Winter and Detective Constable Alleyne went to MariroRanch.

On arrival at the Ranch house, Isaac was contacted and told that the police received information that he had a firearm at the ranch and, as such, would like to search thepremises.

The Police reported that Isaac made no objections, and the ranch was searched in his presence. A brown 12-gauge shotgun was found braced to a wall along with three 12gauge cartridges in a blue and

Taxi-driver arrested for possession of air

gun, revolver

A taxi-driver was on Saturday morning arrested after he was found with an Air Gun and a .32 Taurus Revolver in his Lot 161 Area 'G' Stratsphey, EastCoast-Demerara,home.

According to the GuyanaPoliceForce(GPF), the firearm was found in the bedroom of 29-year-old Raphael Samuels. Around 06:00 hours on Saturday party of policemen acting on information received went to the Stratsphey home.

A search in one of the bedrooms occupied by Samuels unearthed a black metal object suspected to be an air gun wrapped in a yellow pillowcase In addition, a second metal object suspected to be a firearmwasfoundinablack plastic bag on a

white plastic bag on a wooden tableinsidetheranchhouse.

Isaac was asked if he had a firearm licence, and he responded“NoSir”.Isaacwas then cautioned about the offence, arrested and taken to the Lethem Police Station, along with the firearm and ammunition.

On arrival at the address, the ranks gainedentrytotheyard through an open southern gate, made c o n t a c t w i t h t h e occupant, identifie themselves as poli officers, and told t occupantstheywouldliketo conduct a search of the building and their personal belongings, to which they complied.

den vanity in the room. Samuels was asked to produce a firearm licence

whichhesaidhe did not have. He w a s immediately told of the offence, autioned and arrested.

muels and two other occupants of the house, along with the suspected air gun and firearm were taken to the VigilancePoliceStation.

On arrival at the station, the suspected firearm was inspected in the presence of RaphaelSamuels,anditwas observed to be a .38 Taurus R e v o l v e r, w i t h o u t ammunition. The firearm was placed in an evidence box, marked, sealed and lodged. The suspect was placed into police custody pending investigation. He is slatedtobecharged.

Arrested, Raphael Samuels

The firearm and air gun

The shotgun and ammunition

Noah Lyles of the U.S. crosses

to win the men’s 100m final. (REUTERS/Marton Monus)

American Lyles delivers with 100m world gold

BUDAPEST, (Reuters) last achieved by Usain Bolt wanted the gold, but I’m - Noah Lyles has been in 2015, before hoping to happytoleavewithamedal. talking up his 100 metres sign off with a win in the “When they had a false chances in the World sprintrelay start in the semi, it made me Athletics Championships all Hughes, who was sit in my blocks a bit. I week and the American 200 disqualified for a false start thoughtI’sgotLyles.WhenI metres specialist backed up in the Tokyo Olympics final, saw the results and saw the chat where and when it wasdelightedwithhismedal Tebogo’s name I thought mattered yesterday as he to cap a season where he has ‘wheredidhecomefrom?’” took gold in a personal best captured the British 100 and Defending 100m world 9.83seconds. 200m records that had both champion Fred Kerley of the

It was a blanket finish stoodfor30years. U.S. failed to qualify for the behind him as Letsile “I’m super, super final after running 10.02 in Tebogo of Botswana took gratefulrightnow,”hesaid.I thesemis. silver by one thousandth of a second from Briton Zharnel Hughes.

Monday August 21, 2023

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Trying to talk your way out of tasksandobligationsprobably isn't the best way to win friends today, Aries. In fact, this is a time to get yourself in gear and take responsibility foryouractions.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Just when you thought you hadeverythingfiguredoutand planned correctly, another obstacle appears. Your first reactionmaybetogetupset.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

The fire within you may be burning brightly, Gemini, but unfortunately, there isn't a great deal of fuel available to keepitgoing.Itmayseemasif people are trying to rain on your parade, but they're just tryingtodotheirduty.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Youmayfindthatotherpeople are the missing variable in the equation that you seek answers to today, Cancer Don't feel like you have to come up with all the details andresolutionsyourself.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Byjumpingaroundfromplace to place, Leo, you may end up feeling like you're getting nowhere. Instead of tackling many different tasks, today is better spent focusing your energyonone.

VIRGO (Aug 23–Sept 22)

Makeaplanatthebeginningof the day for what you want to accomplish by sundown This isagoodtimetotacklemanyof the nitpicky tasks that require yourattention Beconsciousof the fact that there are time limits and restrictions on some ofthethingsyou'reworkingon

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

You might have to adjust your way of thinking in order to match the energy of the situations around you. While you may feel a desire to strike o u t i n t o s o m e n e w, adventurous activity, there's a strong resistance asking you to bemorecautiousandstable.

SCORPIO (Oct 23–Nov 21)

Your steady nature will be greatly appreciated today, Scorpio Awellthoughtoutplan of attack is the one that wins approvalfromthehigher-ups

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

It's possible that you're feeling obliged to do something out of a sense of duty toward family orlovedones.Takethistimeto help someone who's struggling with who they are and what they'redoinginthisworld.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Your thinking is clear today, but it might be hard to take action on your thoughts. A sense of discipline is welling up within you, reminding you to add a touch of conservatism to whatever it is that you have inmind.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Your flamboyant approach may not get as much attention today as you'd like, Aquarius. Don't push yourself to achieve somethingthatisn'tworking.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

You have exactly the right amount of discipline and sense of duty to accomplish quite a bittoday,Pisces.Yourthinking should be clear Your sense of time and restriction works in your favor to help you figure out any puzzles that present themselves.

Fourth-placed Oblique Seville of Jamaica was three thousandths of a second off the podium as all three men clocked9.88.

Former champion Christian Coleman was also in the mix after a great start but was just overhauled to finishfifthin9.92.

Tebogo, 20, is the first African to win a world 100m medal, while Hughes, the fastest in the world coming into the championships with 9.83,isthefirstBritononthe men’s 100m podium since Darren Campbell took bronze20yearsago.

It is the United States though who are firmly top of the sprinting tree again as Lyles’ victory makes if four world titles in a row, following four in a row for Jamaicabeforethat.

It had been billed as a wide open final and at 50 metresmostofthefieldwere lockedtogetherinaline.

Lyles, though forged his waytothefrontinthelast30 metres, just, and the event’s biggest showman had to delay his celebration until the big screen confirmed his triumph.Hehadpredictedhe would run 9 65 but a personal best of 9.83 proved enough.

“I needed to make sure that I was accelerating and when I was at 60 metres I tookthelead,”Lylessaid.

“I have taken a lot of losses, even in 100m and going to the U.S. trials with COVID I got bronze medal but a lot of people cut me off rightthere.

“ButIknewwhatIhadto do. I came here for three golds, ticked off one, others are coming. The 100m was the hardest one, it is out of the books. I will have fun withtheeventIlovenow.”

The two-times world champion in the 200m will now go for the sprint double,

the line

Spain defeat England in final of record-breaking Women’s World Cup

SYDNEY, (Reuters) - Sydney hours before kick- went out in the group stages. Spain defeated England 1-0 off on Sunday, with troupes FIFA gave away thousands in the Women’s World Cup of drummers and stilt of tickets and some games finalyesterday,cappingoffa walkers creating a festival attracted as few as 7,000 tournament that has broken atmosphere. fans, although Football attendance and TV records England and Spain were Ferns matches broke records andraisedhopesofasurgein both making their first for a soccer crowd in the interest for the women’s appearance at a Women’s country game. World Cup final, while FUNDING GAP

Co-hosted by Australia England’s wait for a first Australia’s players, who and New Zealand, the ninth trophy since the men’s lost 2-0 in a third-place edition of the global tournamentin1966goeson. playoff match to Sweden on showpieceeventwasthefirst Women were banned Saturday, will earn $165,000 to be held in the southern from official facilities in each in prize money for this hemisphere. England, the home of the tournament, more than 300 While local interest game, until 1970 and have times theA$750 ($480) they ebbed when Australia exited long lagged the men’s team received for a quarter-final in the semi-finals, just shy of in interest and funding, appearancein2015. two million fans will have although that began to But at the grassroots passed through the gates in change after the Lionesses level, the sport needs more nine host cities after w o n t h e E u r o p e a n resources, Matildas striker Sunday’s final crowd of Championshiplastyear. Sam Kerr said after the loss 75,784isaddedtothetally. England captain Millie toEnglandonWednesday.

An Olga Carmona goal Brighttoldreportersafterthe “We need funding in our was the difference between final whistle she was proud development, we need the two sides in a pulsating of the progress the women’s funding in our grassroots,” game that saw Spain create gamehadmade. shesaid. the majority of the clear-cut “ C r e d i t t o t h e “We need funding, you chances. tournament, it’s been know, we need funding

“We suffered, it was a phenomenal, the crowds that everywhere.” difficult match (but) we we’ve generated and the TheMatildas’WorldCup always thought we were support that all teams have campaign has led to calls for going to make it,” Carmona, andit’sbeensurreal,it’sbeen more support to women’s who was also named player sovisible,”shesaid. soccer in Australia, where it of the match, told Spanish “Intermsofthewomen’s lags more popular football statebroadcasterTVE. game I definitely think codes like rugby league and LaRojawererockedbya we’reatourpeak.” Australianrules. lockerroomdisputebetween MATILDAMANIA Australian Prime the squad and coach Jorge Australia’s semi-final Minister Anthony Albanese Vilda and the Spanish loss to England on responded on Saturday by football federation, with Wednesday drew an average promisingA$200 million for some of their best players of 7.13 million viewers on women’ssportinthewakeof absent from the tournament the channels of local theMatildas’runtothesemiasaresult. broadcaster Seven Network, finals.

But despite a shock 4-0 the highest viewership ever Albanese said the money loss to Japan in the group recorded by research firm would be used to improve stage, the team has shone OzTAM, which launched in sports facilities for women throughout the tournament 2001. Matildas matches sold and girls, with soccer tipped withtheirbrandofattractive, out months in advance, and to receive “significant attackingfootball. organisers expect the resourcing”.

“I can’t imagine how averageattendancetoexceed The government also much excitement there will 30,000. wants to ensure women’s beinSpain,”VildatoldTVE. The last Women’s World sporting events are available

“We are going to Cup in France four years ago on free-to-air television, celebrate here and we don’t attracted more than 1 1 after criticism that most knowwhenitwillend.” million fans to 52 matches World Cup games not FESTIVAL with an average crowd of involving Australia were ATMOSPHERE 21,756. behindapaywall.

Thousandsoffansmilled Demand was weaker in ($1 = 1.5618 Australian around Stadium Australia in New Zealand, whose team dollars)

6th Edition of the Winfield Braithwaite Schoolboys and Schoolgirls Junior Boxing C/ship

Guyana secure an impressive six wins on day two

Guyana’s Ryan Rogers in action against Barbados’ Maliki Estwick.

Some of the action on Day Two of the 6th edition - Winfield Braithwaite Junior’s Boxing championship.

The second day of the Charles and Barbados’ Jaheem Ryan Rogers and Barbados’Maliki victory. end, John secured the victory via Winfield Braithwaite Estwick in a Junior Lightweight Estwick.The resonant sound of the Eon Bancroft of Guyana later points.

International Junior’s (60kg)semi-finalduelthathadfans opening bell heralded Rogers’ triumphed over St. Lucia’s Ovey The final two bouts of the Schoolboy and Schoolgirls Boxing perched on the edge of their seats. aggressive onslaught, unleashing a Charemange in the Junior (63kg) evening showcased Guyana’s Championship unfurled with a Charles orchestrated a masterful barrage of combination punches final, while Drewshawn Willery of Chance Niles facing off against riveting display of pugilistic display, asserting his dominance that sent Estwick to the canvas Guyana bested Jamal Muhammed Trinidad and Tobago’s Matthew prowess on Saturday at the over the Barbadian combatant twice during the second round. of Trinidad and Tobago in the Newallo,aswellasGrenada’sKino NationalGymnasiumlocatedalong across all three pulsating rounds of Unyielding, Rogers’ right-fist schoolboy 40kg final. In the Junior Griffith challenging Joshua MandelaAvenue.Athrilling lineup thebout. proved insurmountable for 80kg division, Cai Reid of Thambaran of Guyana. However, of 12 bouts graced the evening, Employing a combination of Estwick, who succumbed again in Barbados emerged victorious Niles commenced the fight with an encompassing six captivating precisejabsandeffectivefootwork, the third round, prompting the against St Lucia’s Jeananan aggressive stance, landing solid Junior finals and one enthralling Charles corralled Estwick against referee to halt the contest mere Gaspard, and Joshua Rene of St. jabs in pursuit of his left-hook. girls’final. theropes. seconds before its conclusion Lucia clinched victory against Newallo strategically kept Niles at

As the sun dipped beneath the Estwick, showing skillful Rogers emerged triumphant, his Grenada’s Joshua Clyne after an bay, but ultimately Niles was horizon, the boxing arena maneuverability, kept Charles on victory solidified by the discerning electrifyingthree-roundbattle. awarded the victory based on the transformed into an arena of fistic his toes, compelling him to exert judgmentofthescorecard. The excitement persisted with judges’ scorecards Meanwhile, fervor and an outpouring of raw greater effort as he sought to Shemroy Wintz of Guyana the commencement of the Thambaran swiftly concluded his emotions. unleash his potent right-hook continued the national momentum, schoolgirls’ semi-finals and finals, bout with Griffith, triumphing one

Host nation, Guyana, had However, Charles maintained his securing an emphatic victory over marred only by the absence of minute and eight seconds into the already clinched a remarkable five momentum, connecting with a St. Lucia’s Jack Suraj in the first Guyana’s Tianna Moore. Angelica firstround. victories on the opening day flurry of punches that outpaced his round Wintz’s explosive style Rogers, also hailing from Guyana, Despite Griffith’s resilience Returning for the second day, adversary, ultimately clinching proved overpowering for Suraj, as engaged in a fierce clash against throughthreeeight-countsearlyon, Guyana continued to exhibit victorythroughpoints. heunleashedatorrentofblowsthat ReynaJohnofTrinidadandTobago Thambaran’sdominanceprevailed, commendable performance, This resounding contest paved backedSurajagainsttheropes.The intheschoolgirls’48kgfinals.Both leading to a stoppage and securing securingsixwinsinsevenfinals. the way for yet another enthralling referee intervened as Suraj fightersexhibitedimpressiveskills, hisvictorythroughRSC.

The stage was set for an spectacle, this time for the struggledtoregaincomposureafter with John enduring two The action continued yesterday exhilarating showdown between Schoolboy Light Bantamweight an eight-count, ultimately knockdowns before rallying at the same venue with the final Trinidad and Tobago’s Prince (56kg) final between Guyana’s awarding Wintz a well-deserved mightily in the third round. In the nightaction.

Uitvlugt Warriors humble Pouderoyen FC 2-1

Uitvlugt Warriors maintained Chidume Within 2 minutes the on the one man advantage in the their unbeaten run in the West Warriors regained the lead as final 15 minutes and the Warriors Demerara FA’s Senior Men’s Sherlock Phillips sealed the tookall3points. League(SML)whentheyheldoffa victory The Warriors were then The Members-Financial stiffchallengebyPouderoyenFCto reduced to 10 after Fraser received Assistance Programme (M-FAP) win 2-1 in the sole match contested his 2nd Yellow card in the 75th designed by the Guyana Football Saturday at the Tuschen minute Federation is the main sponsor of CommunityCentreground. Pouderoyen failed to capitalize thecompetition.

The first game of the doubleheader was a no show by Number One All Stars in their scheduled game versus Uprising FC, but the feature match produced a close encounter

The Warriors took the attack to Pouderoyen from the opening whistle and after 28 minutes broke the deadlock through Kevis Fraser. Seven minutes later, Dwayne St. Kitts missed a golden opportunity to level the score when he failed to convertfromthePenaltymark.

The equaliser came in the 71st minute, thanks to Matthew

Goalscorers for Warriors (L) Kevis Fraser and (R) Sherlock Phillips.

Superstars Under-16 beat Vaughan Cricket Club in T&DCA Juniors T20 competition

Superstars defeated Vaughan Cricket Club by eight wickets last Sunday in the continuation of the 2023 Toronto and District Cricket Association (T&DCA) juniors 20-overs competition at Thackeray ground,Etobicoke.

Leading the way were opener and Muadh Shariff and his fellow opening partner and skipper Fayyaz Alli Hanif with 62and51notoutrespectively

Superstars reached 138-2 in the 17th over replying to Vaughan Cricket Club’s inadequate137-5fromthe20-overs.

Muadh and Hanif, the son of former Guyana first-class wicketkeeper/batsman

Azib Alli Hanif, posted up a solid 97-run stand. Both batsmen struck eight fours duringtheirstayatthecrease.

Earlier, the winning team won the toss and opted to bowl. Dharm Patel hit a topscoreof48whileYuvrajDhilloncontributed 31. They two also featured in a steady, 80runfirst-wicketstand.Theteamcontinuedto bat positively with Sahijvir Dhaliwal also itsstrengthafterfivewicketsfellforonly14 making a contribution with 31 arriving at runs. number 3.Apart from them, the innings lost TheactionissettocontinueonSunday

Tons from Cornelia Ida and Wakenaam Players highlight

ACG’s One Guyana Festival Cricket Match in Toronto

Canada-based

Beharry who finished with

G u y a n e s e 2-30 in his three overs as players Zaheer well Allard received

A l l a r d a n d assistance from Satesh

Krishna Persaud hit 117 Harilall with 42 while retired out and 107 Beharry and Ramnarine respectively to highlight the chipped in with 23 and 21 Association of Concerned respectively Guyanese (ACG) One

The winning team Guyana Festival 15-overs collected a trophy and the exhibition match last runners-up side one as well. Saturday in Woodbridge, Allard was adjudged playerOntario,Canada. of-the-match by prominent

The right-handed Allard Cricket Journalist Ravendra who was born in Suriname Madholall and he took home and grew up at Cornelia Ida atrophy,too. slammed 14 sixes and four

All the players were fours asACGAll-Stars piled given a Certificate of Persaud, who hails from up a respectable 233-4 from AppreciationbytheACGfor Wakenaan, Essequibo, the allotted 15-overs while theirparticipation. struck three fours and 12 Persaud helped his team

Briton John claims Regan Rodrigues Memorial Cycle Race title

The 19th edition of the Regan Rodrigues Memorial Cycle Race, a sponsored event by Ricks and Sari’s, took place on Saturday morning within the confines of the National Park’s Inner Circuit on Thomas Lands. The race witnessed the prowessoftheseniorcyclist, Briton John, who dominated the senior category by crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of one hour and19minutes.

Junior cyclist Aaron

Briton John, as he opens an impressive lead at the Ricks and Sari’s Cycle event on Saturday

Newton exhibited an impressive performance, securing a well-deserved first place in the junior’s category ahead of his Carrying a slight putting forth commendable competitor,AlexLeung. advantage into the fifth lap, efforts, while, Robin

The event commenced he then took full control of Persaud, Kwame Ridley, withtheseasonedUnitedWe therace. Aaron Newton, occupied the Stand cycling champion, With determination nextthreeplaces. BritonJohn,initiallyfacinga propelling him, John In the Over-50-Open slowstart.Astheracekicked expanded his lead as the race race, Junior Nile and Ian off, a compact cluster of progressed, steadily Jackson showcased their cyclists set a swift pace to approaching the final sprint cyclingacumen,securingthe establish a lead, breaking downthehomestretch. first and second place away from the trailing His acceleration during positions,respectively contenders. this decisive phase of the In the Junior category,

Thepeletonmaintaineda race solidified his victory in AaronNewtondemonstrated tight formation during the the senior category Romello his skill by surpassing first three laps, but John Crawford and Curtis Dey Alexander Leung, who had surged ahead on the back closely pursued him, previously dominated the stretch as the fourth lap finishing in second and third Open category in last year’s approached. place respectively, after competition.

ORSCA/Adana Homes 10-10 final set for Sunday

Excitement galore is anticipated for this Sunday when the 2023 Ontario Round-Arm Softball Association (ORSCA)/Adana Homes10-10knockoutcompetitionfinalwill takeplace.

Precedingthechampionshipgame,which is billed for 11:30 am, the two semi-final matches begin at 09:00 am also on Sunday at the Emancipation Park, Dixee-407 in Brampton.

The right-handed dancingandotheractivities.

The event marked the sixes as Sanheev Ramnarine Aces Cricket Club reached ACG’s 50 anniversary and grabbed 3-35 from his 183-9 at the conclusion of all who attended were maximumthreeoversandhe the15-overs. entertained by music, got support from Vikash

Eight teams are still in the race with the quarter-final segment slated for Saturday commencingfrom09:00am.

Defending champions Brampton Gladiators will clash with 11-Man Army at Hanover Public School ground and on the adjacent pitch, Pegasus trading punches with CoolRunningz.

Still in Brampton across at Robert J. Lee school venue, Sunshine will tackle Smashers classcaptainDamodarDaesrathofBrampton and at Thackeray facility in Etobicoke, Gladiators and Devo Ramsawak of Pegasus, MastersandEnterprisewilldobattle. Ryan Moore of Enterprise, Kyle Karran of Recently, Brampton Gladiators pulled off Cool Runningz and Amzad Hassan of a thriller to dethrone Masters in the 15-overs Smashersamongothers. finalwhileSunshinegotthebetterofMasters Meanwhile, President of the ORSCA inthe“Test”formatcompetition. Mitch Bacchus is in high praise to Satishwar

Some high-profile players on show this Persaud, the Managing Director of Adana weekend include former Guyana and West Homesforhissponsorshipagainthisyear Indies player Royston Crandon of Sunshine, For this version, typically there are Azib Ali Hanif of Masters, ex-Guyana first- fireworksfromthefirstlegitimateball.

Royston Crandon

Fayyaz Alli Hanif

Krishna Persaud

Archibald PB in men’s 100m semis; Abrams bows out of women’s 400m

…Guyana

wraps up participation at World Athletics Championships

By Rawle Toney

Guyana’s journey at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary, concluded yesterdaywithbothEmanuelArchibaldandAliyah Abrams facing exits from their respective events; Archibald in the men’s 100m semifinals and Abramsinthewomen’s400m.

Archibald’s showing at this year’s World Championships demonstrates his progress in the sport while adding another significant chapter to Guyana’sathleticshistory

His path to the semifinals included a preliminary round victory with a time of 10.27s, followed by the heats where he clocked 10.20s to secure a third-place finish, trailing behind American Christian Coleman and 2018 Commonwealth Champion Akani Simbine of SouthAfrica.

However, despite Archibald’s impressive achievement of a Personal Best time of 10.13s, surpassing his previous mark of 10.14s, it wasn’t quiteenoughtosecurehisprogression.

Nonetheless, his performance brought him closertoAdamHarris’2014timeof10.12seconds, anationalrecordsetbytheUS-basedsprinteratthe Hamptons International Games in Trinidad and Tobago.

Meanwhile,Abrams competed in Heat 5, Lane 3 of the women’s 400m, completing the race in 51.44s and landing fifth place in a heat won by Ireland’sRhasidatAdeleke(50.80s).

Despite marking the fourth-fastest time of her season, Abrams fell short of advancing the Guyanese national record holder in the women’s 400m(50.20seconds)tothefinalsinBudapest.

Aliyah Abrams did not advance to the finals of the women’s 400m.

Emanuel Archibald ran a PB 10.13s in the semis of the men’s 100m in Budapest.