Kaieteur News

Exxon was required to relinquish another of Canje Block since March 2022 20%

ExxonMobil’s

subsidiary, Esso Exploration and ProductionGuyanaLimited (EEPGL) was expected to relinquish 20 percent of the Canje Block since March, 2 0 2 2 a s p e r t h e relinquishment provisions in the agreement governing thatblock.

Intheoilandgassector, “relinquishment” refers to the process where a company returns a portion of an area it was allowed to explore or produce oil and gas. That process is also governed by specific timelines. Relinquishment, according to several pieces of literature, is also considered critical for governments as they can auction those returned portions to other oil companies, thereby ch an n ellin g mo r e opportunities for revenues totheState.

Back in 2019, Exxon and its partners which included Total S.A, Mid Atlantic Oil and Gas, and JHI Associates Inc. were required to give up 20 percent of the Canje block which at that time spanned 6 1 0 0 k m 2 T h i s relinquishment was in keeping with its agreement signed in March 2015 with Guyaneseauthorities.

That contract outlined that Exxon would be allowedtoexploretheblock for10yearswhichwouldbe splitintothreephases.Inthe first phase lasting four years,Exxonwasallowedto conductseismicsurveys.At theendofthatperioditwas requiredtoreturn20percent of the block to Guyanese regulators Exxon relinquished 1,220km2, thereby reducing the block

to4880km2.

The contract also states t h a t a f t e r t h e relinquishment, and a renewal of its licence, Exxonwouldadvancetothe second stage lasting three years During that time, Exxon drilled three wells (Jabillo-1, Bulletwood-1, Sapote-1), none of which yielded a commercial discovery

The end of its second phase of having the licence to explore should have occurredin2022.Oncethat relinquishment occurs, Exxon would be able to applyforitsfinalthreeyears to explore for oil, thereby bringing a close to its 10year-lease.That20%thatis owed to the government, amountsto976km2.

Notably,Exxonoperates two other blocks offshore Guyana. For the Kaieteur Block, the agreement states that 25 percent should have been relinquished in 2019 and another 20 percent given up in 2022. The total portion to be relinquished would be equivalent to approximately5414km2.

Over in the Stabroek Blockspanning26,800km2, Guyana’s most lucrative offshore concession with over 33 discoveries, Exxon has to relinquish 20 percent ofitnextyear

In total, Exxon has to return 11,750km2 in highly prospective offshore acreage to the State. This is nearly half of the total acreageforthe14oilblocks thatarepartofthecountry’s maidenauction.Guyanahas up for grabs, 11 shallow water blocks and three deepwater blocks spanning 26,478km2 These are expected to be awarded in thefourthquarterof2023.

A map showing the location of the Kaieteur, Canje and Stabroek Blocks that are operated by EEPGL as well as the 14 oil blocks part of Guyana’s maiden auction

24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams

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

EDITORIAL

Oil blocks extension

Itisinblackandwhite:ExxonMobilshouldbegivingup

20percentof600oilblocksintherichStabroekBlock. This means that Guyana had to get back 120 of those 600 oil blocksinOctober,twomonthsfromnow Thebigproblemis that what is on paper (the oil contract), and what is being practiced by the PPPC Government is the equivalent of the difference between night and day When the people of this country were expecting ExxonMobil to relinquish 120 oil blocks in October, the opposite was signed and sealed: not one oil block, or one dozen, but 120 of them, because one mandecidedso.

BharatJagdeodidExxonMobilthebigfavorofextending its control over the 120 blocks due to Guyana for another year ExxonMobil gets to enjoy a free-hand studying, mapping, exploring, and assuring itself that it is worthwhile to put some money into checking out what those 120 blocks have in them. Though there might be the pretense of PresidentAlibeinginvolved,andthecabinetparticipatingin the decision, this one-year extension must be called for what it definitely is. We at this publication believe that this is the result of the calculations in the head of one man, the sole handiwork of, Vice President Jagdeo. The crucial decisions in this vital oil sector have been screened, shaped, and set in motionbyJagdeo.Therecordisthere,andithasalwaysbeen about what benefits ExxonMobil and its partners, both offshore and providing supporting products and services in Guyana and elsewhere. Then, it is what puts a feather in his cap, and makes him feel good about himself about pulling another rabbit out of his hat of maneuvers. Last, it is about what drives a shaft into every hopeful Guyanese, except for Jagdeo’s growing army of those who leech this country’s wealth nonstop. What was done with sugar and in other sectorshasnowtakenoffatanunprecedentedtrajectorywith the massive oil wealth. The record is that if ExxonMobil wants to flare more tomorrow, the approval is as good as signed yesterday When ExxonMobil has little use for Environmental Impact Assessments, Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency falls in line with signing onthedottedline,eventhoughthereisabookofunanswered questions about perils to Guyana’s environment and people andbothforitsneighbors. AndwhenExxonMobilfastensits eyesonarichnewoilproject,thenJagdeoisablurofmotion to run with the approval to the company, as if such was its birthrightandnotthatoftheGuyanesepeople.

In terms of these 120 oil blocks, our position is the same as it was for the new oil projects given the green light by the PPPC Government, which means the one-man show that is Jagdeo. Get more for Guyana, Jagdeo; get as much as could be wrung from ExxonMobil’s tight fists, Jagdeo; at least, get something for Guyana, Jagdeo. Nothing would make more sense,sinceitisclearthattheprojectsapprovedbyJagdeoin the past three years were very high priorities for ExxonMobil. This is especially so, when ExxonMobil has beenbold,bright,andopenenoughtotellitsinvestorsandthe worldabouthowmuchthiscountry’s oilmeanstoitsvisions and calculations. To put its money where its mouth is, there is the proof of how much the company has adjusted its portfolio of oil assets to concentrate on extracting the most fromthisworld-beatingGuyanaoil.

In each of these scenarios involving new oil projects, Jagdeo was content to get nothing from ExxonMobil, when hehadthecompanywhereGuyanawantedit. Regardingthe 120 oil blocks, which ExxonMobil clearly wanted badly, Jagdeo had the opportunity (again) to get more for Guyana. His position had to be that since these blocks are desired so much, make it worthwhile for Guyana. ExxonMobil must giveGuyanamoreusingthenumberinhissamenewsharing agreement. What Jagdeo did was rollover and relinquished the 120 oil blocks for nothing, but a smile and thanks from ExxonMobil. Ifthisisnotahideouscrime,itshouldbe.

(FirstpublishedonAugust28,2023)

Road carnage is an epidemic concern in Guyana

tradition, inculcating as a vehicle? Was speeding the purpose? Will temporary or convenient culture? Those determining factor for a permanent suspension of the who have succumbed to demise or the overpowering driver ‘s license add to the DEAREDITOR, life’s finite moment will not state of drunkenness? Was misery or contribute to less The young and restless be able to participate in this losing control a conclusive accidents? How about love the fast and furious lane questioner element due to carelessness raising the age limit? Is this in order to satiate a Saturday Whatever happened to and recklessness? Was poor feasible? Is there a need to night fever, saturated with the designated driver as a judgement a result of revamp the training and booze, drugs and music and default mechanism? What is inexperience or the inability educating program for new to satisfy a growing pain as so costly to hire a cab? Does of proper application? Was d r i v e r s ? A n y the world turns around (up- the flashy car serve to boost there a tire blow out or encouragement on the death sidedown?). an ego? Ever heard the mechanical failure or a road penalty?

As if there is no saying “speed thrills but hurdle or simply, a human A revisit to holding tomorrow, they have fun in kills?” Remember the old error? Was there loud music bartenders accountable for galore and ride the wind of adage, don’t mix alcohol (noise?) playing? We can responsible drinking and excitement into the night of with gasoline? Doesn’t drive down the highway to driving seems to be in order darkness while being anyone listen anymore to the no way and perform a post Was this line of duty ever woefullywild.Ofcourse,not song “Tell Laura/Johnny, I mortem to investigate, pursued? Many are all simulate close to this love her/him?” Do we examineorprobethereasons questioning the efficient and similarity as some sensible joyfully ride with the five Cs to find the cause of the effective functioning of the ones settle for safer, simpler in the driver’s seat or accident (?), but that will not Traffic Department How andsoothingselective. woefully locked in the trunk bringbackthelostlives. sincere and dedicated are all

L i k e w i s e , t h e – c a r e , c a u t i o n , In Guyana we say, “easy the officers in totality? combination may not consideration, courtesy and lesson good fu dunce.” But “Write or left” still seems to incorporate all those common-sense? Does what about the sensible be the provoking, proverbial imbibing, intoxicating or prevention better than cure ones? Isn’t there a lesson to and profitable pretense to interfering ingredients serve any meaningful be learnt from all the prevent the prosecution of “Hanging out” has trended a purpose? Do we choose to accidents which have prime “perpetrators”. New norm in this modern- day become a matured driver occurred in Guyana? The recruits out of training society and the passion for overnight or to toil by police cannot be here, there school are praying for traffic “can’t wait for the week-end experience and exposure and everywhere 24 x 7. Will duties. Who has the stamina to come” or for the “week to over a long journey with old the speed bumps serve as a tostampoutthisstigma?The be over”, fashions a week- mantime? deterrent? Will the stop and dedicated and devoted end chore of partying as a Was the now motionless, search be effective? Will the officers on the right side of must to be included on the weekenddriverdistractedby speed guns be persuasive to the road are paying a heavy laundry list. Is this out of someone or something discourage speeding? Will price for those on the left necessity, or is it a habit or is suddenly crossing Infront of the CCTVs be the answer? side.Bodycamerasonallthe it a developed custom which the car or was his attention Will higher fines or jail traffic officers? Rotating has not strangely but taken away by someone or sentences for the guilty ones officersperpetuallyto strongly conjectured as a somethinginsidethemoving serve any meaningful (Continued on page 5)

Guyana Government Requires a Clear Road Map to Successfully Implement AI

DEAREDITOR, of AI upending human housing are the leading is one area that will be It is heartening that intelligence. Other countries candidates forAI integration impacted by AI Current President Ali is embracing are expected to adopt and implementation versions of AI chatbots can Artificial Intelligence (AI) with/without modifications Successful implementation generate codes to solve and wants to position the governing rules in this will demonstrate to the complexproblemsfasterand Guyana to be” competitive consensus. public the transformative more efficiently than and sustainable” (Guyana To be a leading country power of AI. Government humans. Chronicle,August28,2023). and gather the momentum to services in Guyana remain However, it cannot deal AI has been in the public be competitive, the PPP/C substandard and frustrating. effectively with subtleties domain for many years but government must move Early effective enactment of and specific experiences overthelastyearinterestinit swiftly with a well-crafted AI in Government services Consequently,humancoders has grown exponentially. AI policy (roadmap) beyond can exemplifyAI’s power to withuniqueAIprogramming While media focus has been legislation. Such a policy provide readily accessible skills will be required for onthechallengesAIpresents shouldbeadaptive,clearand and efficient public service special cases. Unless the to privacy and security, the comprehensive, and align toGuyaneseandothers. coding is relevant to real challenge for countries with the government’s T h e s u c c e s s f u l interacting with AI and, in such as Guyana is how to be priorities. implementation of AI general, machine learning attheforefrontofintegrating T h e f o c u s o n requires significant and large data management, AI to leapfrog social and implementing AI should be investment in relevant current training in “canned economicdevelopment. in sectors of social life and education and training, in a coding”isinutile.

The President should be economic developments that robust digital infrastructure L i k e m a n y commended for stating his will bring immediate that includes high-speed t r a n s f o r m a t i o n a l government’s intention benefits and set the stage for internet, data management, technologies before it, AI is (Guyana Chronicle, August further integration ofAI into andcloudcomputing. receiving mixed public 28, 2023), perhaps as a first allfacetsoflife. President Ali is reported reactions from fear to joy step, “to create the Sectors such as public (Guyana Chronicle, August The workforce from legislative environment to service, education (see 28, 2023) to state that “the professionals to manual manageAI and digitisation.” writer’s article “An AI and governmentistakingstepsto laborwillbeimpactedbyAI. Powerful countries with quantum computing ensure that the country is not Governments must engage large economies are jostling t e c h n o l o g i e s - b a s e d left behind and that the the public for trust and to be top tier in market share education system requires government recently signed acceptance, and quickly forAI. Thehopeisthatthese m u l t i - s t a k e h o l d e r an agreement with the demonstratethevirtuesofAI countries will soon reach a collaboration”, Kaieteur UnitedArab Emirates which for21 centuryliving. consensus on contentious News May 9, 2023), will see some 150,000 Sincerely, issues such as privacy, healthcare, agriculture, and children in school being Dr Muniram Budhu security, bias, and the limits infrastructures inclusive of trained in coding.” Coding Professor Emeritus

Is the extension of Hicken’s tenure really lawful?

DEAREDITOR, opposition and Chairperson of the consultation and Commissioner of Police, recommendation to the promoted to superintendent, ThefrontpageofGuyana of the Police Service circulatethedecisiontoeach CliftonHicken. President? When was this one assistant superintendent Chronicle, August 24, 2023 Commission after the of the persons or entities It is apposite to peruse done? Why was Hicken’s promoted to superintendent; screamed, “Extension of Chairperson has consulted consulted.” the relevant section of this extension done after he one inspector promoted to Hicken’s tenure is lawful - with the other members of InmylettertotheeditorI Act. Here is what Section 2 reached the age of fifty five superintendent; (They all Attorney General affirms” theCommission.” posited that the President (b) states, “the President years? How can one extend had disciplinary matters The Chronicle quoted from What is consultation or doesnothavetogetapproval a c t i n g o n t h e something after it had pending against them at the Nandlall’s weekly television meaningful consultation? from those consulted to recommendation of the expired? Why is the date of Police Service Commission programme, “Issues in the Article 232 of the make the appointment. The Police Service Commission the extension still in limbo? whichisabartopromotion); News.” Constitution explains, “ ‘ power to remove from office tendered after the Prime Was Article 232 of the one female was promoted According to the news consultation ‘ or ‘ issetoutinArticle211(3)of Minister has concurred on Constitution complied with? twice; one civilian outlet, Nandlall addressed meaningful consultation ‘ the Constitution The the recommendation may I n t h e i n t e r e s t o f promoted; Not a single criticism raised by Leader of means that the person or Constitution speaks about permit a Commissioner of accountability, transparency, female promoted to the Opposition Aubrey entity responsible for the appointment of a Police who has attained the justice and fair play let the assistant commissioner or NortonandClintonConway, seeking consultation shall - Commissioner of Police and age of fifty five years to authoritiesproduceevidence senior superintendent which were centered on the (a) identify the person or acting Commissioner of continue in office until he to adequately answer the Numerousrankswhodidnot legality of the extension. entity to be consulted and Police and the removal from has attained such later age, questionslistedabove. pass the Appropriate Editor, please permit me to specifytotheminwritingthe office. not exceeding sixty years as In my humble opinion Qualifying Examinations put things in proper context. subject of the consultation It is silent on the m a y ( b e f o r e t h e the two main actors of which is a prerequisite to Article 211 (1) of the and an intended date for the extension of service of a Commissioner of Police has Chapter 27: 12, the Police promotionwerepromoted? Constitution of the Co- decision on the subject of Commissioner of Police attained the age of fifty five Service Commission and the Several officers were operative Republic of consultation; (b) ensure that Perhaps, the framers of the years)havebeenagreedwith PrimeMinisterhaveoverthe overlooked for promotion. Guyana states, “ Every each person or entity to be Constitution could not have the Commissioner of past years lost a lot of Numerous ranks were Commissioner of Police and consulted is afforded an foreseen the time would Police.” creditability Ifinditdifficult unjustly superseded. In a everyDeputyCommissioner opportunity to express a have arrived when the T h e r e a r e m a n y to believe them. Editor, you High Court case I can recall shall be appointed by the considered opinion on the movers and shakers of the unanswered question in may recall that in July 01, seeing an affidavit President acting after subject of the consultation; Guyana Police Force would relation to theAct and action 2022BishopPatrickFindlay, purportedly signed by the meaningful consultation and(c)causedtobeprepared have considered appointing or lack of action taken by the Chairman of the Police Prime Minister indicating with the Leader of the andarchivedawrittenrecord an Assistant Commissioner thoseinauthority: Whendid Service Commission that there was no meeting of Police as an acting t h e P o l i c e S e r v i c e announced in an interview between Paul Slowe and the Commissioner and later Commission meet and made that he was awaiting the list President when according to unlawfully extending his recommendation to the of ranks recommended for a government release and service for a date to be President for the extension promotion from the Paul Slowe the meeting took determined. of Clifton Hicken as acting Commissioner of Police. On place.

Road carnage is an epidemic...

From page 4 suggested many remedies different areas may be because, “Drinking and feasible.Settingupdecoysis driving, speeding need to be too suggestive? How about thoroughly addressed ” police patrol cars constantly “There is need for a public traversing the roads, awareness program in especially during rush hours, dealing with this (road to control the flow of traffic? accidents),” he said while Seems as if too many speed calling for more visuals, bumps are both annoying marking and launching a and distasteful. The usage of massive road safety good, old traffic lights seems campaign.There-openingof to be outdated. Are traffic schools will see more cops standing in the middle children using the road and of the road more practical heavier traffic snarls. Saving and useful than regulated, lives is a national concern functioningtrafficlights? and each person is a Road carnage is an stakeholder with an epidemicconcerninGuyana. invaluable input Drastic Patience is no longer times call for drastic virtuous Due care and measures. Be safe Guyana attention are not applied. and“RespecttheRoad.” President Dr Irfaan Ali is Yours respectfully, much aggrieved He Jai Lall

The Attorney General in Commissioner of Police? July 02, 2022 the Police Itisimportanttonotethat his weekly programme When did the Commission Service Commission (Continued on page 6) agreed with me that there is meet with the President? released a list of over two no provision in the Are minutes of the meetings hundred and fifty persons Constitution for the if held available? Was it a p r o m o t e d b y t h e extensionoftheservicesofa one person’s decision or a Commission. Commissioner of Police or unanimous decision of the There was no due an acting Commissioner of Commission? diligence.As a result among Police However, he W h e n w a s t h e the promotions were: three submitted that the President recommendation submitted senior superintendents were acted in accordance with the to the President? Did the promoted to assistant Constitutional (Prescribed Prime Minister concur with commissioners; one Matters) Act Chapter 27:12 t h e P o l i c e S e r v i c e superintendent promoted to when he extended the Commission? If so, did the senior superintendent; one s e r v i c e s o f a c t i n g Prime Minister submit his deputy superintendent

Oil money being used for cash grants, pension increase and part-time workers – VP Jagdeo

After ballyhooing that money from the oil and gas sectorcannotbeusedascash handouts and that the oil revues will be focused on infrastructuraldevelopment–Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo told Indigenous leaders that the oil money is benefitting them and their communities through the ‘BecauseWeCare’cashgrant and other initiatives by the government

On Tuesday, the Vice P r e s i d e n t m a d e a presentation on the Low Carbon Development Strategy2030(LCDS2030) as part of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference 2023, which is being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC), Liliendaal, Georgetown.

During the question and answer segment, a resident of Jawalla Village, Region Seven,HaroldBrown,raised a concern by one of his villagerswhohadaskedhow indigenous people are benefitting from the oil money

The Toshao said, “Just before I came to NTC meeting,justrecentlyIhada (meeting) with my people about the same LCDS and the one of the young guys ask if is LCDS alone we benefitingfrom?Whatabout the oil money, Exxon money and that same question I am asking you… howarewebenefittingfrom theExxonmoney?”

The Vice President acknowledged the Toshaos’ inquiry as a good question, adding that less than onethird of this year’s budget is financedfromoilresources.

Guyanesearenotbenefitting more…soletmedoacouple of categories,” the Vice Presidentsaid.

Jagdeo said too that the previous administration had revoked the children’s cash grant To this end, he highlighted that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C)reintroducedthecash grantandwasabletoincrease itto$40,000perchild

“By 2025, as we promised it will get to $50,000soguesshowmuch is spent on our children $8.4B so let’s put down $8.4B,”hefurtherstated.

The next benefit Jagdeo listedwastheincreaseforthe pensioners He said, “The pensioners, their pension increase from, $20,000 to $33,000, and it will get to $40,000 by 2025 as we promisedinourmanifesto”

According to the Vice President, about 74,000 pensioners, including Indigenous people, benefitted from the $13,000 increase – which resulted in a$14.5Billioninvestment.

Jagdeosaidinadditionto themoniesspentonthecash grant and the pension increase, the government also increased wages for publicservantsliketeachers, policemen, soldiers and others – this, he said, was a $37 Million investment since the PPP returned to officein2020.

Another benefit Jagdeo told the indigenous leaders, isthepart-timejobsthatarea $10 Billion investment. He explained that about 15,000 people were hired for parttimejobs.

“So when you look at it, thatishowtheresourcesis

Continuedonpage26

Harold Brown, a resident of Jawalla Village

Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo at the NTC conference on Tuesday (picture taken from the VP’s Facebook page)

Country must see Exxon’s reports for relinquishment of oil blocks

watchdog organization, Transparency Institute

Frederick Collins is calling on the Government of Guyana(GoG)toreleasethe reports submitted by

ExxonMobil, outlining the impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on their operations.

…Jagdeo does not own the country’s resources – TIGI President

The quarterly reports were a prerequisite to the extensiongrantedbyformer President David Granger to allow Exxon to continue exploring the Stabroek, Canje and Corentyne oil blocks.

In the case of the Stabroek Block, where 11 billion barrels of oil have already been discovered, Exxon would have been requiredtorelinquishorgive backthestateaportionofthe blockthatisequivalentto20 percentinOctoberthisyear, however it has now been delayeduntil2024.

It must be noted that Granger made the decision months after a noconfidence motion was passed against his governmentandintheheight onanelectionsfiascowhich led to the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) taking office in August2020.

According to the extension approvals granted on July 24, 2020, the company was allowed additional time so that the days between March 11, 2020 and March 10, 2021 wouldnotbeassessedaspart oftherespectiveprospective licenses received by ExxonMobil.

However, Granger included a clause in the documentwhichnoted,“The Licensees/Operator shall present updated work plans detailing mitigation efforts, revised schedules, planned milestones and such other informationasrequested.”

Importantly,itgoesonto s a y , “ T h e Licensees/Operator shall update work plans every three months detailing any new developments, including but not limited to, how those developments may restrict or promote the ongoing challenging

circumstances that has brought about the need for theCovid-19Relief.”

OnThursdayduringVice President, Bharrat Jagdeo’s pressconferenceatFreedom House,KaieteurNewsasked the chief policy maker for the petroleum sector whether these reports were s u b m i t t e d t o t h e administration.

While he confirmed that the company adhered to the requirementoftheextension granted, he was reluctant to release any proof in this regard.

Hesaid,“Exxonbrought in information and gave a fullreporttotheMinistry[of Natural Resources] on how their original [exploration] plan was affected from six rigs down to four because twocouldnotbemobilized.”

With respect to the Opposition’s call for reports of such due diligence to be made public, the Vice President said there is no need for the government to do this. “This is a diversion. They got caught with their pants down…we don’t have to give evidence to AFC,” theofficialsaid.

Jagdeo was also not i n c l i n e d t o m a k e government’sreportsonthis matter public to ease ten s io n s o f o th e r

stakeholders.

Weighinginontheissue, the transparency advocate told Kaieteur News that the reportsmustbemadepublic to assure Guyanese of good governance in the management of its resources.

In fact, the TIGI President said, “We can’t be c o m f o r t a b l e T h e constitution of this country requires and puts people paramount. The leaders are only the managers and the caretakers of the country’s business. What we have is thecaretakers-andthisisnot the only case- they are operatingasthoughtheyare the owners of the resources (but) they are not! They are the caretakers and it is our businesstoknow.”

Collins explained that the law does not provide for information to be kept away from the public unless it relatestoamatterofnational security He therefore noted that the “culture of secrecy” is not to the country’s benefit,butrathertoafewin society

While TIGI does not believetheextensionshould have been granted, the body is adamant that the governmentmustreleasethe reports submitted by the developer The President of the Institute reasoned, “We are saying since you have given the concession, it is subject to every quarter under review and a problem hasdeveloped...thisproblem has become a national issue andthequestionthenarises, ifgovernmentissupposedto be monitoring and Exxon is supposed to be reporting then can you make it public or are you going to keep the reportssecret?”

Collins argued, “Who areyou?Whogavethemthe powertodothat?Whogave them authority to operate like that? I don’t understand because this country don’t belong to them.”

The TIGI head contendedthatGuyanahas been reduced to a state where politicians are allowedtoactontheirown accord without there being any consequences. He said that while this trend was evident under David G r a n g e r - l e d administration, it has becomemoreblatantunder thecurrentgovernment.

TIGI President, Frederick Collins

Mouthopen,storyjumpout!

The crime wave which for political insurrection thePPPCgovernment. actions of these individuals, An inquiry is essential to followed the Feb 2001 They wanted to rob, murder J a g d e o ’ s as their conduct not uncover the motives behind prison jailbreak marked a andrape.Andallofthemmet acknowledgment of political threatenedthesecurityofthe these actions, and whether traumatic period in the theirjustdeserts. cover during the insurgency nation. they were driven by withthecriminals. history of this country But Jagdeo’s admission raises broader questions The alleged attempted affiliations, or other ulterior (The views expressed in Scores of innocent people nonetheless highlights the aboutthestateofgovernance deception by personnel motives.Thepublicdeserves this article are those of the were killed including blurred lines between in Guyana. The intertwining within the police and army to know if the deception was a u t h o r a n d d o n o t children and members of the criminal activities and of criminal activities and raises profound questions a result of systemic failures necessarily reflect the GuyanaPoliceForce. political interests, revealing political interests speaks to about the loyalty and or political loyalties and opinions and beliefs of this

It was a frightening how political elements the weakening of state integrityofthoseresponsible whether these unnamed n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s episode in our country A desperate for power could institutions. for upholding law and order individuals were in cahoots affiliates.) young child was killed when resort to stoking instability, By not pursuing a gunmen riddled her home fear and terror to advance comprehensive inquiry, with bullets. A crippled their political ambitions. Jagdeo risks perpetuating an widower was brutalized. H o w e v e r, J a g d e o ’s environment where those Acid was thrown in the face admissioncannotbeleftasit engaged in atrocities might of a young lady travelling in is,itshouldleadtoarenewal believe that they are not minibus through the Buxton of calls for justice for those answerablefortheiractions. gauntlet. Thegunmentooka slaughtered by the criminals Anationgrapplingwitha liking to killing policemen. duringthatperiod. traumatic history needs to

This was followed by A glaring inconsistency know the truth. Jagdeo’s mysterious ‘phantom emerges from Jagdeo’s reluctance to fully disclose killings’ of persons believed p o s i t i o n : w h i l e h e theeventsandcircumstances to be criminals or supporting recognizesthecrimewaveas surrounding the post-2001 thecriminals. an insurgency with political crime wave hinders the Former President, and cover,hehasfailedtoinitiate processoflearningthetruth. now Vice President Bharrat an inquiry into the matter Guyanese must now Jagdeo’s recent admission The killing of one of his demand the establishment of thatthiscrimewavewaspart Ministers, Saytadeow Sawh, a commission of inquiry into of an insurgency with h i g h l i g h t s t h i s the post-2001 crime wave. political cover, raises inconsistency This entails uncovering the questions about his The Sawh’s family has full extent of political government’s handling of persistentlycalledforjustice involvement, identifying the events of that period. for the members of their those responsible for While his assertion is by no family killed. Others too criminal activities, and means controversial – the have made similar calls ensuring that justice is crime wave exhibited Ignoring these demands served. It will also mean that patterns of a political perpetuates a culture of the secrets which Jagdeo insurgency – Jagdeo’s impunity that undermines believes will go to the grave reluctance to undertake a trust in the government and with Roger Luncheon, must detailed inquiry into that trust in the State’s security be exhumed and he, Jagdeo, t u m u l t u o u s p e r i o d apparatus. must be called as a principal undermines the pursuit of Jagdeo’s assertion that witness to state what he justice, the stability of the certain aspects of the period knows, including the extent State and the healing of willlikelyneverbedisclosed to which the security affectedfamilies. raises concerns about services misled his

It is believed that the selective State secrecy The government. terror and fear created by the suggestion that information

Jagdeo’s disclosure crimewavewasexploitedby might be buried with about the involvement of political elements with an individuals like Roger certain unnamed individuals agenda to topple the Luncheon, long-standing within the police and army government It did not Head of the Presidential attempting to deceive the succeedbecausethegunmen Secretariat, casts a shadow government during the postthat laid siege to Buxton over this period. This veiled 2001 crime wave is were not only hardened approach is indicative of the troubling. In light of this criminals but they were style of secrecy that has revelation,justicedemandsa dunderheads and ill-suited become so characteristic of thorough inquiry into the

Dem Boys Seh...

De attack dog losing it!

In Guyana, people like debate issues. arguments,heispushedtounleashabarrage Wherever yuh go, people does be debating ofpersonalattacksandinvectivesthatwould andtradingideasandfacts.Issuhwestay! makeaschoolyardbullyblush.

Butwegatamanwholiketohavethelast It’ssadobservingagrownmanresorting say in every debate. He must have de final to tantrums that rival a toddler denied a word even after de audience gone, he still lollipop. yappingaway Hebelievesheknowitall. His arguments are evaporating like hot

He is known for being an attack dog for air in de wind. Perhaps that’s why he clings de government. But the only problem is that topersonalattackslikealifeboatinastorm–his arguments are as thin as his receding hisshipissinking,andthelifeboatisrunning hairline outofoars.

A debate is supposed to pit one set of Ascriticismrainsdownlikeconfetti,this ideas against another It is a sparring of man has begun to yank at his remaining hair words. But here we have a gentleman who as if trying to extract enlightenment from missed the script entirely As his arguments what is not there anymore. De great irony of crumble under the weight of scrutiny, and as it all, is that he’s shedding both his dignity his words lack substance, de man is pushed andhisfolliclesinequalmeasure. into corner As reason begins to destroy his Talk Half! Leff Half!

DPI - Guyana’s environmental conservation efforts will continue to see tremendous growth over the coming months as the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre was inaugurated at the George Walcott Lecture Theatre (GWLT), University of

SophiaPointRainforestResearchCentreInaugurated

GuyanaonTuesday

The centre which is located in River’s View, Region Ten will facilitate education on biological science, as well as indigenous culture and a m p l i f y e x i s t i n g conservationefforts.

President, Dr Mohamed

Irfaan Ali welcomed the initiative and noted that Guyana has for many years played an important role in

forestconservation.

“Our priority on the environment and climate change is part of our global responsibility Wedonotsee ourselves in an eggshell in Guyana. We understand the importanceofourforestsfor lifeintheglobalcommunity We understand the significanceoftheforestfor biodiversity studies and for the advancement of modern

medicine, research and d e v e l o p m e n t , a n d importantly, we know for a fact the value of the forests… not down, but the valueoftheforestsstanding. And that is why today, we have one of the lowest deforestation rates in the world,”heexplained.

The president said having a forest that contributes positively to

humanityandaddressingthe climate crisis gives the country good international branding.

Meanwhile,UKShadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, who cofounded Sophia Point with his wife, Nicola Green, said thecentrewasbirthedoutof

Continuedonpage18

UK Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy

The gathering at the lecture theatre on Tuesday

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

Govt. non-payment crippling peanut factory business in Region Nine

TheAranaputaProcessersFriendlySocietypeanut-butter factory located at Aranaputa Village, Region Nine, has not been producing peanut butter at full capacity for approximatelysevenyearsbecausethegovernmenthasfailed topayoutstandingsumsamountingto$1.2million.

ThisisaccordingtotheChairpersonofAranaputa/Upper Burro Burro Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), GillianRodrigues,whomadetheannouncementonTuesday during the second day of the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC)Conference.

Rodrigues raised the issue with Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo. She said, “The community has a peanut factory and forsometimenow,from2016to2020thefactoryhasnotbeen producingpeanutbutter Reasonbeingisbecausethefactory issayingthattheMinistryofEducationowedthemfrom2016 toMarch2020,$1,220,160.”

The Chairperson explained that those in charge of the factory’s operations are asking the government to make the outstandingpayment,“Sotheycanhavetheirfactoryupand running.”

InresponsetoRodrigues,theVicePresidentsaidthatthe paymentwillbemadesothatoperationscouldresumeatthe factory

“WewillhavetodoitbecauseAPNUleftalotofbillsin many places, even before you leave we will pay it. If that is what it will take to put you back in production we will pay themthemoney,okay,”Jagdeopromised.

After raising the concern at the conference, Rodrigues toldKaieteurNewsthatthemoneyowedtothefactoryisfor supplying snacks to theAranaputa Primary School over the identifiedperiod.

Itwasreportedinthemediathatthefactorysuppliedthe snacksthroughtheNationalSchoolFeedingProgramme.

When asked about the present status of the factory’s operations, Rodrigues related that the factory is operating whenitcanaffordrawmaterialstoprocesspeanutbutter.

This factory, Kaieteur News understands was opened backin2010.

The Aranaputa Village peanut butter factory

Chairperson of Aranaputa/Upper Burro Burro Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Gillian Rodrigues

TheCheddiJaganInternational Airport (CJIA) is in the process of installing an independent water system to the new US$160M facility located at Timehri, East BankDemerara(EBD).

Inastatementtothemedia,CJIA apologizedforthefacility,beingout of water and as a result, passengers were unable to flush the toilets or washtheirhandsonSunday

“CJIAsincerely apologizes for anyinconveniencethisincidentmay have caused to our valued passengers and staff”, the airport stated

According to CJIA, there was a disruption in water supply to the airport facility while GuyanaWater

New water system being installed at CJIA

Incorporated(GWI)engineerswere installinganewwatersupplylineat theairport

A main connecting valve reportedly blew out while the new line was being connected to the airport’s terminal and disrupted water supply to the building for severalhours

As a result, the toilets were cloggedandfilthy Passengerscould not use the facility and one woman madealiveFacebookvideotovent herfrustration

CJIAsaidinitsapologysaidthat the engineers were able to restore water supply to the building later thatevening

However, the installation of the

new water system to the airport is stillnotyetcomplete

“GWI anticipates completing the installation of the additional WaterSupplySystemwithinone(1) week,”CJIAnoted

Nothing was mentioned about thecosttoinstallthe‘independent’ watersystembutCJIAboastedwill improvewatersupplytoairportand assistGWIinenhancingitsservice toresidentslivingcloseby

“Weunderstandtheimportance of uninterrupted services and are takingproactivemeasurestoensure the airport has the necessary resourcestooperateseamlessly,”the airportsaid

The airport was built by China

Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for the sum of US$150 million

Guyana burrowed US$138 million from the China Exim Bank and used another US $12 million from the Consolidated Fund –taxpayers’ money- to fund its construction

When the government took office inAugust 2020, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill had expressed dissatisfaction with the workdonebythecontractorandas such,hadnegotiatedwithCHECto do additional works at the airport, atnocosttoGuyana.

Theadditionalworksthatwere done by the contractor included a

superstructure,corridorandcurtain wall. It was only recently that CHECcompletedtheworksonthe airport.

Notably,whilethecontractcost remains at US$150M, the government is undertaking several multi-million upgrades to the airport which were separated into threeparts.

Withmorespendingtobedone ontheairport,thefinalcostforthe airportexpansionisstillunknown. Notably, while Minister Edghill had assured that the CJIA expansionprojectfinalcostwillnot surpass US$200 million –to date, the amount spent is over US$160 million.

An overhead shot of the newly built airport

An artist’s impression of what the US$160M airport should look like when it is completed.

Enmore man beaten at wedding house

A37-year-old mechanic of Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was on Saturday allegedly beaten at a wedding house followinganargumentwithanotherguest.

Police identified the victim as, Chetam Tomby

Tomby, according to police, was brutally attacked around 23:45 hrs at 18th Street, Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD). He sustained severe injuries to his face, in the regionofhismouth.

Investigations revealed that around 23:00hrs,thevictimandhisfriendsattendeda weddingceremonyatthelocation.

During the celebration, an argument ensued between Tomby and another guest at thewedding.Itsoonledtoascuffle.

Tomby reportedly armed himself with a beer bottle and dealt the guest a lash to his shoulder,causinghimtoreceiveinjuries.

Upon seeing the commotion, the guest’s friend intervened. Police said the friend armed himself with a beer bottle too and attackedTomby,lashinghimseveraltimesto his face before subsequently fleeing the scene.

The matter was reported at the Enmore PoliceStationandtheseverelyinjuredTomby and the guest he fought with, were sent to a

hospitalformedicalattention.

The suspect was later arrested and is in custody, assisting the Police with the investigation.

SophiaPointRainforestResearch...

Frompage10 his love for Guyana and his desire to do somethingforhiscountry

Since both his parents are Guyanese, he spent many of his formative years travelling betweenGuyanaandtheUnitedKingdom.

“On this journey, we’ve been spurred by theenthusiasmandexcitementateverylevel across the country for what Sophia Point represents:aspaceforyoungGuyanesetobe inspired and to inspire others, to better understand and protect the vitally important rainforests,andtoequipthemselveswiththe knowledge and skills to champion their environment for generations to come,” he expressed.

HestressedthatSophiaPointisdedicated tobuildingcapacity,especiallyasGuyanahas a significantly lower number of environmental research stations when comparedwithsmallercountries.

“If you look around the globe, at comparable countries, you can see what the standard is. Costa Rica, a country four times

smallerthanGuyanahas44researchstations. Panama, a country three times smaller than Guyana, has 12 interconnected sites just run by the Smithsonian Institute alone. Both countries represent 60 percent of the size of Guyana. So, Guyana deserves more,” he posited.

Further, at a time when biodiversity loss and climate change increasingly threaten the Caribbean and Latin American region, Lammypointedoutthatnowisacrucialtime to re-examine rainforests and their immense benefit.

He also expressed his belief that there is no solution to the climate crisis without inspiring, intelligent and articulate young people from countries like Guyana to engineernewsolutions.

“Now feels like an immense time of change in Guyana. And we have the opportunity to do something rare in environmental efforts: to take action to prevent, rather than cure. And to deliver a transformation in how we live alongside nature.Ibelievethat it is only possible through education, a d v o c a c y, a n d empowerment; a better-studied, betterunderstood and betterprotected rainforest is for the benefit of all in Guyana, South A m e r i c a , t h e Caribbeanandbeyond. And the Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre offers to be a part of that, a project with a small footprint, but we hope an outsized impact,” Lammysaid.

The Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation.

The brutally beaten, Chetam Tomby

Govt. explores development of deepwater port

- considers New Amsterdam as potential location

The Government of Guyana is continuing to explore the development of a deepwater port, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo disclosedonThursday

During his last press briefing, theVicePresidentshedlightonthe government’slong-termstrategyto establishanationaldeepwaterport. This announcement arose amidst inquiriesfromjournalistsregarding the substantial costs associated withsuchanambitiousendeavor

Inresponse,Jagdeoemphasized the importance of carefully evaluating various sites to ensure the project’s success. Among the

potential locations being considered, New Amsterdam has emergedasastrongcontender

Jagdeo disclosed that multiple parties, including an Indian consortium,haveshownsignificant interestincollaboratingtobringthe deepwater facility to fruition

However, a primary challenge for the New Amsterdam site lies in providing river access for port construction. Jagdeo highlighted that the focal point for port developmentistheriver’smouthas itisstrategicallypositioned.

Further,heopenlydiscussedthe financial complexities tied to the

dredgingneededtoconstructsucha facility, acknowledging the considerable expenses involved in the process. He noted that as the government explores its options, thesubstantialcostsofdredgingare being carefully integrated into the decision-makingprocess.

Integral to the viability of the deepwater port project is the establishment of complementary infrastructure. Jagdeo underscored the necessity of devising a comprehensive framework that extends beyond the port itself. He also outlined that to warrant the significant investment, a crucial

component involves establishing a connectionwithBrazil.

The Vice President elaborated on the reasoning behind this approach, stating that given the current import landscape, the governmentrecognizestheneedfor aconcreteandsustainablestreamof benefits to underpin the proposed expenditure Relying solely on importactivityheopinedfallsshort of justifying the substantial investment at this juncture

Therefore, Jagdeo stressed the importance of introducing a fresh avenueofadvantagethatcantipthe

Continued on page 22

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

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Businessman accused of hammering customer to death released on station bail

A 34-year-old businessman accused of hammering a customer to death was on Saturday placed on $1M station bail.

Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police Station as investigations continue.

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The customer, 40-yearold Mark Braithwaite of Four Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica, Region Seven was bludgeoned to death around 19:45hrs on Wednesday last at a Blast Gaming Center outlet located on Second Avenue, Bartica.

According to police, the businessman’s father owns the gaming center and left him in charge of business for the night. Braithwaite, a regular customer, was playing at one of the slot machines when he allegedly spilt alcohol on one of the counter tops.

The suspect allegedly scolded Braithwaite and an argument ensued. Braithwaite allegedly armed himself with several beer bottles and began pelting the

Dead: Mark Braithwaite

businessman before walking out of the shop. In retaliation, the suspect allegedly armed himself with a hammer and brutally attacked Braithwaite, lashing him several times to his head and face.

Braithwaite fell to the ground and remained motionless. He was picked up and taken to the Bartica

An autopsy revealed that Braithwaite died from multiple blunt trauma to the head and that his skull was crushed.

Police subsequently arrested the businessman and kept him in custody for 72 hours before releasing him on station bail. A suspect is not usually held in custody for more than 72 hours without being charged.

In the businessman’s case, Police said that a file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Shalimar Ali Hack, SC. for legal advice on a recommended charge. The DPP, however, returned the file with instructions that more investigations be done before charging the suspect.

As a result, the investigators had to release the suspect on bail with the condition that he reports every day to the Bartica

“He has been reporting to the Bartica Police Station...he reported yesterday and today thus far,” police said.

Meanwhile, the Bartica Police Commander has reportedly indicated that his ranks have completed investigations and the case file will be sent back to the DPP’s chambers today.

As police await the DPP’s advice, the victim’s mother, Clare Cheeks has contracted the services of Attorney-atlaw Darren Wade.

Via her attorney, the woman demanded that police conduct a fair and impartial investigation into Braithwaite’s death.

“We believe that Roopnarine (the suspect) should be charged with murder, and we will not rest until justice is served,” the woman said in a statement issued by Wade.

Tour operators, hoteliers benefit from energy management training

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DPI - Several persons within the hospitality industry are now better informed on energy consumption as they benefitted from a one-day Energy Management Practices training which was hosted by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).

During the training which was held in GTA’s training room, the tour operators and hotel proprietors were taught

how to calculate energy, how it is consumed, and how they can conserve it.

One of the participants, and Chief Executive Officer of Jubilee Resort Inc., Navindra Narine said the training was educational as he learnt a few techniques to conserve energy.

“I love alternative energy because it helps the environment and Guyana is one of the most frontier countries left in the world…So, it is very important for us. I learnt a lot of stuff that you

can actually use to reduce electricity costs in the environment,” Narine said.

With this added knowledge, Energy Engineer at GEA, Brian Constantine said proprietors will be better able to choose appliances while still providing customers with the best experiences.

“The objectives of the presentation are to raise awareness on energy use, cost, practices, energy conservation and also what potential exists in terms of savings when using technologies,” he noted.

With the proper use of bulbs, air conditioning units and water heaters, the energy efficiency can be sustained. Meanwhile, Training and Tourism Development Officer of GTA, Chetnauth Persaud stated that the programme will help organisations to think ahead.

“It was also done to help persons to start thinking in a sustainable manner. So, we wanted to bring this idea that we can actually do tourism and you know, do it in a more sustainable manner by using our natural products,” Persaud explained.

Govt. explores development of deepwater...

From page 21 scales in favor of the project’s feasibility. This innovative stream of benefit, as proposed by Jagdeo, revolves around fostering trade relations with Brazil.

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Guyana had hopes for a deepwater port being built in Berbice by CGX Energy Inc, however, the Vice President recently came to the fore to note that though CGX selfstyled its project as a deepwater port, the facts would show that it is not.

CGX is an oil and gas exploration company focused on operations in the GuyanaSuriname Basin and is known for its involvement in offshore drilling and exploration activities in the region. The company had announced the commencement of works on its “Berbice Deepwater Port” noting that construction activity had begun on a 50 x 12-metre access trestle from the quayside yard westward into the Berbice River, along with the necessary dredging

of the river. It had also noted that it would later construct a wharf, perpendicular to the trestle.

Addressing CGX’s projections, Jagdeo said the facility being developed by CGX “was never a deepwater port.” He added that “(A) deep-water port would be a port that can bring in the massive vessels. In the Berbice River, (at) that location, it’s hard to do a deepwater port.”

He indicated that the

facility would not even be able to facilitate Panamax vessels which are the largest sizes of vessels that can transit the Panama Canal. Also, he said a proper deepwater port would carry a cost of more than US$1 billion to develop. In contrast, CGX Energy has spent a few tens of millions on this facility. He concluded that the project is more in line with a facility to support the offshore oil exploration activities, but is not a deepwater port.

Navindra Persaud, one of the participants

Chetnauth Persaud, Training and Tourism Development Officer, GTA

Guyanese farmers benefit from FAO, PROCASUR technical and financial support

h e F O 4 A C P

TT o s u p p o r t t h e Central Mahaicony Perth p r o g r a m m e , implementation of these Village Farmers Association which focuses on innovative plans, FAO and in Region 5; West Berbice

e m p o w e r i n g

Representatives from Gibraltor/Fryish Farmers’ Association with key stakeholders and FAO/ PROCASUR facilitators

PROCASUR convened a Sheep and Goat Farmers Farmers’ Organizations to nine (9) day technical Association in Region 5; participate in sustainable mission to connect the Pomeroon Beekeepers f o o d v a l u e c h a i n s Innovation Plans with a Association in Region 2; effectively, continues to m e d i u m - t e r m Pomeroon Export Producers progress well under the O r g a n i z a t i o n a l Association in Region 2; partnership of the Food and Development Plan that will Gibraltar/Fyrish Farmers Agriculture Organization of receive technical and Association in Region 6; the United Nations (FAO) financial support from the M o c h a A r c a d i a andPROCASUR. FO4ACPprogramme. Multipurpose Agriculture

FromAugust 7 to 14, the

These development Cooperative in Region 4; partnering team engaged plans, which have been Medicine from Trees in somesixty(60)farmersfrom individually tailored based Region 9 and Blue Flame e i g h t F a r m e r s ’ on each organisation’s Women’sGroupinRegion1. Organizations (FOs) in six unique circumstance, The FO4ACP project is Regions of Guyana to build geography, and needs, will funded by the European functional and operational focus on a number of areas, Commission through The capacities to improve the i n c l u d i n g b u s i n e s s International Fund for quality of services they development, marketing, Agricultural Development provide. This exercise is a good governance practices, (IFAD) and is implemented continuation from last May a n d p r o d u c t i o n across Regional Latin theme“ComeupintheValue tasked with developing a increase their associative when the team visited these enhancements. America and seven Chain.” During those visits, short term Innovation Plan and entrepreneurial FOs following a National

The FOs who benefited Caribbean countries, each organization was that will enable them to capacities. Learning Route under the from this exercise were; the includingGuyana.

Rose Hall double murder

…Relatives call for justice, dissatisfied with police probe

Relatives of Melissa and was released on $200,000 Anthony Arokium are bail. dissatisfied with the manner N o t w i t h s t a n d i n g , in which the investigation Melissa’s relatives are into their deaths is dissatisfied They told progressing. reporters on Tuesday that

The bodies of 31-year- Police said Nicholas old Melissa and 8-year-old Arokium was arrested when Anthony Arokium of 189 he was not. They are angry Mangrove Street, Rose Hall t h a t c r i m e s c e n e Town were last Wednesday photographs were circulated foundinapoolofbloodwith on social media and lay several chop wounds by blame at the feet of the law Melissa’s brother, Nicholas enforcement officials since

chop she...Nicholas said he through...last call was 7:00 Arokium The child was no one was allowed to go see the bike (electric bike) ...I called like 3 or 4 times,” found on the bed in the near to the house on the day the go home with, the bag hesaid. bedroom while Melissa was ofthemurders. and the keys on it so like she Umrao said he went to foundinthehallway Ruth Hintzen, Melissa na carry in nothing in the work at the Albion Estate. Police had arrested four Arokium’s, 72-year-old house ” the grieving However, he left work early persons in connection with grandmother said, “We are womansaid. because he did not hear from the double murder Among crazyaboutitbecauseweare

Meanwhile, Shilendra her those arrested were 33-year- not satisfied. The first thing

Umrao called ‘Robin’, He said after leaving old, Cerrano Arokium, a that get me crazy is when I Melissa Arokium’s 37-year- workat13:45hhewenttoan Cane Harvester, 37-year-old see meh granddaughter on old boyfriend told reporters insurance company at Rose Shailendra Umrao of the ground and the chops on he last saw Melissa on Hall but it was closed. After Belvedere (Melissa the skin and then they show Tuesday and they talked a leaving there, he ventured to Arokium’s boyfriend) and the boy on the bed too,” the bit.Hedisclosedthatshewas Melissa’s house where he Deo Naris called ‘DJ’ of elderly woman said while crying and she informed him saidhesawthepolice. Mangrove Street, Rose Hall crying. of a disagreement she had It was then he was

Town (Melissa Arokium’s Hintzen opined, “If the with her older brother informed that the woman neighbour). A cousin of the police aint giving nobody Umrao said Melissa did not and her son had died. Umrao deceased was also arrested. chancetogointheroomthen detail the nature of the wasarrestedthesameday Nicholas was not arrested who can get that permission disagreement.

Melissa’s neighbour but was required to make a and the time fuh tek out this were made to have a rank the duo was murdered since He told reporters that on Naris had reportedly statement since he found his picture and send it out so. I accompany them to the Melissa had left to purchase Wednesdayataround04:53h attacked her last year, sisterandnephewdead. never see no murder so ...we house to collect some somethingsatthemarket. Melissamessagedhimasshe relatives told reporters. She

Two of the persons vexaboutit...” personal items belonging to Theyalsobelievethatthe would usually do and he did not report the matter to arrested were taken to the Additionally, the family Melissa and her son that are little boy may have been responded Umrao said thepolice. Criminal Headquarters in a l s o e x p r e s s e d to be used for the funeral but murdered first since he Melissa told him she was Meanwhile, Kaieteur Georgetownforquestioning. dissatisfactionthatthehouse the request was denied would usually sleep in late okay when he enquired News understands that

Those detained by police Melissa and her lived in has Melissaandherson’sfuneral and was at home that Before he left for work at Melissa’sgoldjewellerythat have since been released. not been handed over to the arescheduledforSaturday morning. around 07:00h, he called her wasworndailyismissing.

Naris and Umrao have been family and no family

Meanwhile,Hintzenand “...there is a wall and the as is customary, but she did A candle light vigil is released on $50,000 bail member is allowed to access other relatives believe that passageway, there is the notanswer scheduledforThursday while Melissa’s elder it. the perpetrator may have room and the television “I called her before I

brother, Cerrano Arokium They said that requests been in the house on the day ...maybe when she turn dem came to work but I didn’t get ongoing.

The house the late Melissa and Anthony Arokium lived in.

Ruth Hintzen, Melissa Arokium’s grandmother

33 persons arrested for DUI in Region Three

Oil money being used for cash grants...

From page 6 spent on ICT hubs and News reported that the going back to our people, internet. Government of Guyana’s ourchildren,ourpensioners, “So you can’t say I’m refusal to ring-fence the oil our part-time workers…you not benefitting…We are not projects, specifically those (hinterland and riverine like APNU (A Partnership currently in operation at the areas) have about 4,500 ForNationalUnity)soevery S t a b r o e k B l o c k i s working, of which maybe one of our communities will preventing at least $1 2,000arepart-timeworkers, benefit from oil money But millionfromflowingtoeach with(benefits)goingbackto it comes in the form of help household across the these areas,” the Vice to our children, our elderly, country This is according to Presidentsaid. the form of help of the Publisher of Kaieteur

According to Jagdeo, in employment creation, News,GlennLall. those four areas (children’s infrastructure, health care Lall, a businessman and grant, pension increase, and stuff like that,” the Vice stern advocate for a fair oil part-time jobs, and public Presidentsaid. deal, in a recent public servants increase) there was In the past, Jagdeo had commentary argued that a major investment from oil stated that the government Guyanese families can revenues.Hehighlightedthe will focus the oil wealth on become millionaires if health and education sector building the country’s government simply ringwas supported by the oil infrastructure. In fact, last fences the oil projects. A revenues, adding that the yearduringaninterview,the ring-fencing provision health sector’s budget grew Vice President promised w o u l d p r e v e n t o i l byover$30Billion. new highways and roads, companies from using

Thirty-three persons

21,ofTuschenNewScheme, were, in the course of two EBE, Dilip Kumar, 43 of weeks, arrested in Region Parika, EBE, Tiran Balram, Three for driving under the 63, of Public Road, Anna influenceofalcohol. Catherina, WCD, Tulsie, 56,

TheGuyanaPoliceForce of Tuschen New Scheme, (GPF) in a short statement EBE, and Derrick Calvan, said that 20 of those arrested 53, of Endeavour, Leguan, have been charged this EssequiboIsland. month while the remaining

One person, Samuel 13 are yet to be charged. Of Kathanan, 49, of Pet Shop, the13,sixwillbechargedon Parika,EBE,willbecharged August 31, 2023, and the on September 1, while five remaining seven will be o t h e r s ; A n a n d r a m chargedinSeptember Latchman, 28, of West

Those placed charged Meten-Meer-Zorg, WCD, are: 40-year-old Suraj Shyamesh Gopaul of Kumar of Goed Fortuin, Pleasure, Wakenaam, Coverden, EBD, Chaitram West Bank Demerara Essequibo River, Takeram Harold of Meten-Meer(WBD), 39-year-old Rohan Persaud, 32, of First Field Zorg, WCD, Vissoon Boodram of Paradise Back Cummings Lodge, East Dialpersaud and Rueben Street, Essequibo Coast; Coast Demerara (ECD), Durga of Block 8 Tuschen, Anil Bhagwandeen, 36, of Keshram Persaud, 46, of EBE, will all be charged on Cornelia Ida, West Coast Second Street Herstelling, September5. Demerara (WCD), Stephen East Bank Demerara (EBD), Vandeyar, 25, of First Street Avinash Harrynarine, 58, of Windsor Forrest, WCD, 31- San Souci, Wakenaam year-old,MaxieNarineofLa Island, Essequibo River, Parfaite Harmonie, WBD, Hemchand Deonarine, 27, 25-year-old Devon Roberts, of Parika Backdam, EBE, of West Minister Phase ‘2’, M o s e s T i l a k d h a r y La Parfaite Harmonie, Deonarine, 49 of Tuschen, WBD, 47-year-old, Boyie EBE,ThakoorNandalall,33, Persaud of Vergenoegen, of Independence Street, La East Bank Essequibo (EBE), Grange, WBD, and Chandra 35-year-old Anil Doobay, of Chintan,29,ofStudleyPark, De Kenderen, WCD, 47- CanalNumberOne,WBD. year-oldLatchmanRamroop The six to be charged on of Ruby, EBE, 36-year-old August 31, are: Sudesh Ravindran Lallchand, of Ramdeen, 32, of Tuschen Cornelia Ida, Trivenil Lall, New Scheme, EBE, Arjune 36, of Salem, EBE, Martin Ajmal, 31, of Area ‘G’, De Biswah, 28, of Maria Willem, WCD, Mark Gill,

Moreover, the Vice investmentsinenergy revenue generated from a President stated that oil “We have spoken about production field to offset revenues make up about that framework of ensuring costs in another project. In $200 Billion of the $781.9 infrastructure for future the absence of such a Billion2023budget–ofthat growth Many people provision, ExxonMobil sum he stated that about $70 believe we should spend have been using the Billionwasinvestedintothe everycentonconsumingbut proceeds from the Liza One four areas he mentioned you can’t do that. We are and Liza Two projects, earlier balancing spending on currently producing about

“Leaving out the sum oneself now and future 400,000 barrels of oil per that we are spending on the welfare,”Jagdeohadsaid. day, to pay for costs related hinterlands, roads, water, Notably, there has been to other Stabroek Block electricity all of these advocacy in Guyana for the projects. improvements I can go government to use millions Though this provision is down a long list and show in the forms of cash grants not catered for in the 2016 you that when you add from the oil revenues for Production Sharing education and health care citizens. A g r e e m e n t ( P S A ) , and water it’s nearly However, the Vice government can include this $170Billion of the $200 President had said that the clause in the Environmental Billion that came in from mentality of handing out Permits, it grants to Exxon oil,”Jagdeosaid. cash grants could lead to foreachnewproject.

Headdedthatthe30,000 Guyana returning to the So far, Guyana has solar panels are also a days when it was a poor already approved five benefit from the oil country projects for the oil giant revenues, as well as monies Just recently, Kaieteur withoutthisprovision.

Is the extension of Hicken’s tenure really...

From page 5 Opposition was not Constitutionmustbowdown overhanging fruit of the t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n a l consulted. Please do not tell to it and say, “me a culpa.” I poisonous tree The (Prescribed Matters) Act me that the extension is not understand that persons are authorities are unwisely Chapter 27:12 has collided an appointment. Chapter 27: moving with break - neck nibbling around the edges of h e a d o n w i t h t h e 12 referred to by the speed to doctor and produce the Constitution. This matter Constitution As stated Attorney General does not false documentsto createthe is crying out for urgent above the Constitution c a t e r f o r m e a n i n g impressionthatthePresident judicial review which must mandates that the President consultationwith theLeader f o l l o w e d t h e l e g a l go all the way to the Apex h o l d s m e a n i n g f u l of the Opposition by the framework meticulously, Court - The Caribbean Court consultations with the President before the ensuring that the extension of Justice (CCJ). I will not LeaderoftheOppositionand a p p o i n t m e n t o f a was well within the bounds comment further on this theChairpersonofthePolice Commissioner of Police or ofthelaw matter Irestmycase. Service Commission who an acting Commissioner of The Leader of the May God help the has consulted with other Police as mandated by the Oppositionsaidthathisparty GuyanaPoliceForce. members of the Commission Constitution. will challenge the extension Yours respectfully before a Commissioner of This is a fatal breach of of the service of Clifton Clinton Conway Police or a Deputy the Constitution which is the H i c k e n a s a c t i n g Assistant Commissioner Commissioner of Police is supreme law Any law that is Commissioner of Police. In of Police appointed.The Leader of the c o n f l i c t i n g t o t h e this case there are too many (Retired)

Some Persons arrested during the DUI

Groves sprints to stage four win as police foil Vuelta oil threat

Alpecin-Deceuninck’s Australian rider Kaden Groves (L) crosses first and Sebastian Molano finished second.

(Pau BARRENA)

AFP - Kaden Groves to motor oil” onto the road pipped Juan Sebastian apparently as part of a proMolano in a thrilling bunch Catalan independence sprintfinishtowinstagefour protest. of the Vuelta a Espana The third Grand Tour of yesterday, hours after the season has been hit with Spanish police said they had problems in the opening foiled an attempted plot to stages, from bad weather to sabotagetherace. reigning champion Remco Four men arrested Evenepoel crashing into a Saturday had planned to spectator after the finish line release 400 litres (88 on Monday as he won stage gallons) of “a liquid similar three.

Wednesday August 30, 2023

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Overall, this should be a pleasant day,Aries, and you'll be properly recognized for the person you are. You may feel like royalty, so feel free to dressinyourmostregalattire.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Frustration may set in early today, but things should pan out for you as the evening approaches. Once you deal with an issue, let it rest. There's no need to keep revisiting an old dispute just because you want to prove you'reright.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Whether your realize it or not, you'll have the upper hand today, so take advantage of this opportunity. Things may be going so well that you might not even notice what a fantastictimeyou'rehaving.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Be careful about planning things too much, Cancer Leave the morning open for spontaneous acts and haphazardevents.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Keep up the positive selfesteem that you've been workingonforthepastseveral weeks. This is one of those days when you'll be presented withasituationwhereyoucan demonstrate your courage and independentmind.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

You may wake up to a cloudy brainfog,Virgo.Emotionally, you may find it hard to make decisions about anything even though you're feeling called to do so There are so many choices and you want themall.

Guyanese Golf Team Set for...

From page 33 intense, players and supporters will be able to enjoy not just Golf but experience the best of Bajan food and hospitality duringtheevent.

The Guyana Golf Association and Barbados Golf Association recently signed a cooperation agreement that was described by Vice President David Philips as “a pivotal momentinthehistoryofCaribbeanGolfdevelopmentasthe fastest growing sports nation (Guyana) aligns with the most developedGolftourismmarketinBarbados.”

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Independence is key for you, Libra, so even though it may not be Independence Day, feel free to celebrate anyhow. Give thanks to all the freedoms you have, and make sure you're takingadvantageofthem.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)

Thingsmaybeunstableforyou this morning, Scorpio, but improve quite a bit by the end of the day If you can, you should probably just sleep this morning.

SAGITTARIUS(Nov22–Dec21)

Make sure you have an equal amountofgiveandtakeinyour life. If someone gives you a compliment today, know how to receive it graciously instead of brushing it off as something meaningless.

CAPRICORN(Dec 22–Jan 19)

Relationships should go well for you, Capricorn.You should be able to find emotional stability when you form a relationship with someone you trust. Don't get discouraged if thispersontendstobealoof.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Extend the day by getting up earlier than usual, Aquarius. Even though it may be hard to leave the comfort of your bed, the rewards will be many The celestialenergybeckonsyouto get up and join the activities of theday

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

You may be trying to cling to something that doesn't want to sitstill,Pisces.It'sliketryingto grab a wet fish. The more tightly you squeeze it, the likelier it is to slip out of your grasp. The trick is to be more strategicandlessfrantic.

UAE Team Emirates’ Colombian rider Molano launched first in Tarragona and looked set to triumph but Australian sprinter Groves, riding for AlpecinDeceuninck, roared past him to clinch the stage victory

“I thought (I could win) because he had led out for 350 metres and a finish like that is super tough, I thought he would have to be on a really good day to beat me,” GrovestoldEurosport.

“It’s been a good year, with a stage win in the Giro and already winning in the Vuelta quite early, hopefully it’snotthelast.”

General classification leader Evenepoel keeps the red jersey and holds a five second lead on second place Enric Mas, with back-toback Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard fourth, 31 secondsbehind.

The relatively flat first section, starting from Andorra and heading back towards Catalonia’s seaside, allowedaquickpacetobeset withthepelotonnotallowing the breakaway of Eduardo Sepulveda, David Gonzalez and Ander Okamika off the leash.

The break survived both of stage four’s two big climbs but they were caught by the peloton with under 20 kilometresremaining.

In the middle of the bunchseveralriderscrashed, including Bryan Coquard and Santiago Buitrago, four kilometres from the finish, while EF EducationEasyPost rider Marijn van den Berg fell on a tight final corner

Stage five today takes riders 186.5 kilometres from Morella to Burriana, with another sprint finish expected and just one mountainchallenge.

Thisisthe78theditionof the race, which ends in Madrid on September 17 after 21 stages and 3,153.8 kilometres.

“Sports tourism is one of the largest drivers of economic development in a country and we’re grateful to the Ministry of Business and the Guyana Tourism Authority for their extraordinary support in promoting the game to local and international players”, said GGA head Hussain. “Several major events we developed together, such as the recent National Junior Golf Championships, National Long Drive Competition and Putt for Millions, are some of the events that GTA intends to use to bring thousands of competitors andtouriststoGuyanainthecomingyears.”

According to Director of Tourism Kamrul Baksh, ”Guyana Golf Sports Tourism will be two dimensional focusedonbothdomesticandinternationalplayerswhowill traverse the country to play in unique settings ranging from flatlands,forestedandmountainousbackdropswithplansin placeforfacilitiestobeavailableasearlyas2024.”

World Classic & Equipped Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting C/ships

DominicTyrellissettocompetetoday;RomeoHunter,tomorrow

Confident in giving a takes the platform from a graduate of the University gratitude to all who have Guyana time, 18:30hrs, on his path to glory, 20 other very good account of 10:00hrs Guyana time, of the West Indies with a assisted him in reaching this Romaniatime. lifters from Finland, Italy, themselves, the Guyanese 17:00hrs,Romania,time. Bachelor of Arts in French, level including his father, At such a tender age, USA, New Zealand, Great duo of Dominic Tyrell and It has been a long time Upper Second-Class

mother, and brother, Delroy Hunter, a member of Unity Britain, Slovakia, India, Romeo Hunter are set to comingforTyrell,whoisthe Honours. whojustreturnedtotheUSA Gym, has already racked up Czechia, Ireland, Canada, unleash their strength at the reigning Guyana Junior Tyrell, who would be tocontinuehisstudieswhilst a name for himself in Turkiye, Thailand, South 2023 edition of the World 74kg champion and a taking on 19 other athletes also focusing on his p o w e r l i f t i n g a n d Africa,andJapan.

Classic & Equipped Sub- member of the One Barbell from countries, including, swimmingcareer bodybuilding Already Accompanying the Junior&JuniorPowerlifting Gym in T&T where he Canada, Spain, India, And, 16-year-old Romeo competing for the past three athletes in Romania is IPF Championships which are resides He is intent on France, Italy, Singapore, Hunter who is making his years, having been Category 11 Referee, takingplaceinRomania. making himself and Guyana Hungary, Mexico, Ireland, debut at this level with quite introduced to the sport, four FranklynBrisport-Lukewho

The23-year-oldTyrellin proud,inRomania. New Zealand, Great Britain, a few more years in the years ago, young Hunter has has been very active as a hisfinalyearatthislevelwill The quiet but fierce Philippines, Kuwait, and pocket, will be seeking to hit been high in praise for his Referee. be going all out to make an junior strongman who holds Turkey, said he is positive of the platform with a bang father,whoisalsohisCoach, Meanwhile, President of indelible mark against the all the 74kg records (squat, makinghisfamilyandnation tomorrow when he takes OuditSeenarain. the Guyana Amateur rest of the world when he benchpress,deadlift,total)is proud and has expressed center stage from 11:30hrs Hunter is currently Powerlifting Federation, ranked9thintheworldinthe Franklin Wilson, on behalf 83kg class and is the current of his executive, members, holder of 18 National and fans of the sport, has records in the Open and extended the nation’s best Under-18 (Sub-Junior) wishes to the team in division. His aim at these Romania and assured them championshipsistobeinthe thatthenationisfullybehind top three overall whilst them as they fly the Golden seeking a gold medal in the Arrowhead,aloft. squat, as well as gold in the Fans interested in bench press with a possible following the action can do worldrecord. so via the International His task would be made Powerlifting Federation, more challenging as he has YouTubechannel.

Imran Khan, Marlon...

From page 31 century Opener R. Thakur 166 for 7 off their allotted was the only other batter to overs. Their innings was offer token resistance with marshalled by P Dindyal 27 Bowling for Everest who scored an unbeaten Masters, S Mohamed, 100* but received very little Randy Lindore & Rajesh support from the other Singh all bagged 2 wickets batters Bowling for GT apiecefor20,27and25runs, Royals, eventual Man of the respectively match, Troy Benn was the In reply, Everest openers pickofthebowlerswith3for took the champions’bowlers 25. GT Royals then made to task quickly rattling up 98 light work of the Enterprise runs for the opening total knocking off the runs partnership before Sahadeo for the loss of just 2 wickets Hardaiow fell for a wellin17.2overs.TroyBennhita played 66. His innings belligerent 103 peppered contained 3 X 6s and 9 X 4s. with9X6sand8X4s. Saheed Mohamed copped

At the Enmoreground- his2ndManoftheMatchfor Match 4 - Everest Masters theweekendbycarvingouta whipped last year ’s responsible innings of 58* champions, West Bank with6X4s.

Warriors, by 7 wickets and 9 At the Farm groundovers to spare.The BMC-1 Match 5 - East Bank Titans champions, West Demerara earned a walkover from Warriors won the toss and Regal. chose to bat first and posted At the Farm groundan inadequate 133 for 8 in Match 6 - Canal #1 t h e i r 2 5 o v e r s C Scorpions gained a walk Ramcharran top scored with over from Independence an unbeaten even half SportsClub.

BCBlaunches$1MZamal...

From page 33 undertheleadershipofHilbertFoster

The Regional Vice Chairman stated that the work of the BCBPresidentwassimplyoutstandingandthateverysingle day, he reads or saw development in Berbice Cricket in the newspaper or Television news. Berbice Cricket, he stated is in safe hands and he was therefore was pleased to play a part in making sure that the legacy of Rohan Kanhai and Basil Butcher continues in the future. Hussain also spoke on the government effort to improve over one hundred sports ground in Region 6. He pledged his support in any way possible in the future and urged the administration of the BCBtocontinuetheiroutstandingwork.

DjokovicandWozniakimakewinningreturnstoUSOpen

NEWYORK,(Reuters)

to Grand Slam tennis with a

Tatiana Prozorova hits to Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark on day one of the 2023 U.S. Open at the Billie Jean King Tennis Center.

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic in action during his first round match against France’s Alexandre Muller.

- Novak Djokovic and tidy 6-3 6-2 win over Caroline Wozniacki made Russian qualifier Tatiana winning returns to the U.S. Prozorova. Open on Monday, while

It has been 78 Grand women’s world number one Slams since Andy Roddick Iga Swiatek was in ominous won the 2003 U.S. Open and form in getting her title hopes that anAmerican man defenceofftoaflyingstart. can snap that title drought

(Danielle ParhizkaranUSA TODAY Sports)

(REUTERS/ Mike Segar)

It was also a bright start have fallen largely on the for home hopes of a U.S. shoulders of Fritz and w i n n e r a t t h e Tiafoe The top-ranked championships, with Taylor American men were hardly Fritz and Frances Tiafoe testedonMonday,withninth enjoying routine wins in seed Fritz crushing their bids to become the first compatriot Steve Johnson 6American man to win a 26-16-2andTiafoe,the10th GrandSlamtitlein20years. seed, beating another

On the women’s side, American, Learner Tien, 6-2 Coco Gauff was made to 7-56-1. work for her place in the Christopher Eubanks, second round Djokovic, who grabbed the limelight prevented from playing in withanunexpectedruntothe last year’s U.S. Open due to Wimbledon quarter-finals, being unvaccinated against NewYorkcrowd. in the 2021 final and fans let audience.

“I feel like I could play was also a popular winner COVID-19, began his latest “Everyone knows in the 36-year-old know they Bidding to become the proactively from the withthehomecrowdafterhe campaign to match Margaret tennis that night sessions at had missed him, showering first woman to defend the beginning and just didn’t beat South Korea’s Kwon Court’s all-time record haul Arthur Ashe definitely are him with applause as he U S Open crown since stop,” said Swiatek, who Soon-woo6-36-40-66-4. of24GrandSlamswitha6-0 the most exciting, fun, loud, emergedfromthetunnel. Serena Williams won three next meets Australian Daria Sixth seed Gauff, winner 6-2 6-3 win over Alexandre energetic sessions you can And it was clear that the straight from 2012-2014, the Saville. “I’m just happy that in her final U.S. Open tuneMuller have out there in the tennis three-time champion had Pole kicked off the action on this was such a nice first up in Cincinnati, got off to a Arriving in NewYork on world.” missed them too as he Arthur Ashe Stadium court round, because first rounds nervy start and had to fight the back of an absorbing win While the U.S. Open has embraced the cheers of a by blasting Swede Rebecca areusuallytricky back against feisty German over young rival Carlos j u s t g o t u n d e r w a y, record crowd of over 30,000 Peterson6-06-1.

“Also, I’m happy that I Laura Siegemund before Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Djokovic’s win guarantees that included former-U.S Winner of three of the kind of had time to advancing3-66-26-4. final, an in-form Djokovic he will nudgeAlcaraz out of PresidentBarackObamaand last six Grand Slams, not implement all of the stuff In contrast to Gauff’s showed the 84th ranked topspotintherankingswhen hiswifeMichelle. even the world’s top ranked thatIpracticedon.” laboured win, Danielle Frenchman no mercy in his theyareupdatedonSept.11. SPARSE CROWD player was able to inject The U.S. Open also Collins, the 2022 Australian U.S.Openmaindrawdebut. Djokovic had not been While Djokovic played some excitement into a welcomedbackfanfavourite Open finalist, turned on the

“This court has seen so seen on the Flushing in front of a packed house, lifeless contest that was andtwicefinalistWozniacki, jets to dispose of Czech much history and so many Meadows hard courts since Swiatek performed to a mercifully completed in whoretiredin2020toraisea Linda Fruhvirtova 6-2 6-0 in battles,” Djokovic told the his loss to Daniil Medvedev sparse sleepy morning under60minutes. familyandmarkedherreturn alightningquick52minutes.

Gauff slams officiating after stormy US Open win

AFP-American teenager Coco stayed calm, not even a gesture

US Open against the audience. They had no officiatingafterbattlingtoastormy respect for me, no respect for the first round victory over German way I played, no respect for the veteran Laura Siegemund on playerthatIam,theyhadnorespect Monday forgoodtennis.”

The 19-year-old American

Siegemund admitted she plays sixthseed—tippedbymanyasone slowly but denied it was a tactic to of the favourites for the this year’s unsettleheropponent. title — was forced to dig deep

“There’s no doubt about it that before winning 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 in 2hr I’m slow,” she said. “There’s no 50minontheArthurAsheStadium. doubt about it that I have to be

But an ill-tempered clash was quicker Butit’showIplay ButIdo marked by angry confrontations by it for me, I don’t do it against the both players with chair umpire (opponent).” MarijanaVeljovic.

Siegemundfoughtbacktearsas

Gauff remonstrated with she admitted the crowd reaction Veljovic at length during the third would make her think twice about set, accusing the Serbian official of playingthetournamentinfuture. failing to properly enforce time

“Thiskindofunfair,respectless violationrulesagainstSiegemund. behaviour towards the nonSiegemund—whowaswarned American player I have only twice for slow play, eventually experienced it here on this court,” costing her a game in the final set she said. “I won here two times. I — also confronted Veljovic during refislettingthemgoover,theother Gauff said she eventually - ‘Respectless’fans - left every minute of every game I atetchyencounter ismorestrictonthetime. approached the umpire after she Siegemund, 35, meanwhile played here, everything left out on Gauff later said she had “I thinktennisneeds to be more “reached a point where I was just slammed the partisan home crowd the court. And this is how (they) snapped in frustration at Veljovic’s strict on the rules for everybody reallyfrustrated.” onArthurAshethathadcheeredher treat me? To be treated like that? I perceived failure to crack down on regardlessofeverysituation.” “I try my best not to let my everyerrorrelentlesslythroughout. will only come back because it’s a Siegemund’spaceofplay Gauff’s coach Brad Gilbert emotions to take over myself,” she “Iamveryverydisappointedof Slam. For sure not because of the “I felt like the rules were being could be heard repeatedly telling said. “When it happens over and the way the people treated me peopleandtogivethemashow.” bent,”Gauffsaid.“That’swhyalot the teenager to raise the time- over, I’m not going to complain if today,”shetoldreporters. Gauff will face a second round of players get mad when these time keeping issue with the umpire it’s once or twice. It was at least “I’m a fighter I never did duel with 16-year-old Russian violations are called because one throughoutthematch. seventimesthatIcounted.” anything against the audience, I MirraAndreeva.

Coco Gauff remonstrates with the chair umpire during her first round US Open win. (MATTHEW STOCKMAN)

Chess - Carlsen and Niemann settle dispute over cheating claims

(Reuters) - Norway’s while contesting over-theMagnus Carlsen and U.S. boardgames. chess prodigy Hans Chess com said on Niemann, whom the former Monday it stood by its world champion accused of findings in the report, cheating last year, have “including that we found no resolved their dispute determinative evidence that outside court, online he has cheated in any inplatform Chess.com said on persongames”. Monday.

We e k s a f t e r t h e

Niemann, 20, filed a Sinquefield Cup, Carlsen $100 million defamation refused to play in an online lawsuit against Carlsen, game against Niemann, Chess com and U S opting instead to resign after grandmaster Hikaru justonemove. Nakamura last October after “I acknowledge and allegations that he had understand Chess com’s cheated. report, including its

A U.S. judge dismissed statement that there is no thelawsuitinJune. determinative evidence that

Chess com said all Niemann cheated in his parties had agreed to move game against me at the

Carlsen, 32, withdrew a report saying he had likely forward without any further “I look forward to who has been the world’s Sinquefield Cup,” five-time from the tournament and cheated more than 100 times litigation. competing against Magnus top-ranked player for over a world champion Carlsen later claimed Niemann had inonlinegames.

The platform added that inchessratherthanincourt,” decade, at the prestigious said. cheated,whichtheAmerican Niemann has admitted to Niemann’s account has Niemannsaid. S i n q u e f i e l d C u p

“I am willing to play denied. cheating online when he was been reinstated and he is T h e l e g a l b a t t l e tournament in St Louis, Niemann in future events, Chess com banned 12 and 16-years-old, but welcome to play at future stemmed from Niemann’s Missouri, in September should we be paired Niemannandlaterpublished denied any wrongdoing events upset victory over Carlsen, 2022 together.”

Around 40 British athletes and staff have been stranded in Budapest.

British athletes and staff left stranded in Budapest after World C/Ships

SportsMax - Around 40 from UK Athletics were which caused disruption and athletes back home but do British athletes and staff forced to return to their hundreds of flights to be not yet know when they will have been stranded in hotel after the flight havoc delayedorcancelled. return. Budapest following the which has impacted Some athletes are now Great Britain were World Championships due thousands of passengers travelling from Budapest returning from Hungary to the travel disruptions in sinceMonday directly to Zurich for the after a successful World theUK. UKairspacewashitwith Diamond League meeting Championships where they

The group of both a network-wide failure for on Thursday while the UKA won 10 medals – the joint athletes and staff members air traffic control systems is working to get other highestintheirhistory

GOAPC to host Inter-Ministries/ Agencies Domino competition September 8-9

The Georgetown Office Assistants Promotion Committee (GOAPC) is gearing up to host its prestigious Inter Ministries/Government Agencies Domino Competition,scheduledtotakeplacefromSeptember8-9.

The tournament, named the “Good Old Days Carnival Style” Domino Competition, is designed to foster camaraderie among different Ministries and Government Agencies, offering enticing cash rewards and coveted trophiestoparticipants.

Registered teams will be in action at the Ministry of Agriculture Canteen, located on Regent Street, Bourda.The event will kick off at 4:30pm on Friday and continue from th 11:00amonSaturday(9 September).

The first-place victors will walk away with a substantial cash prize of $80,000, while the second and third-place winners will secure respectable amounts of $60,000 and $30,000, respectively In addition to the cash rewards, all winning teams will also be presented with commemorative trophies.

Team entry registrations will be accepted until Monday, September 4th, 2023. It’s important to highlight that no late entries will be entertained, so interested teams are encouragedtoregisterontime.

Theevent’scoordinationfallsunderthecapablehandsof James “Uprising” Lewis. For any inquiries or information related to the registration process, individuals can contact Mr Lewis at 688-0073. For further assistance, individuals can reach out to the executive members of the committee. Dave Mohan, Dereck Young, and Trevon Boston, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and InternationalCooperation,canbecontactedatthefollowing numbers:625-9007or672-6179.

Magnus Carlsen of Norway sits in front of a chess board during a game. (REUTERS/Pavel Mikheyev/File Photo)

Hans Niemann of the U.S. (REUTERS/Pavel Mikheyev/File Photo)

Imran Khan, Marlon Brutus, H. Bridgelall, P. Dindyal & Troy Benn smash centuries in the Peter Lewis Construction

&Asphalt Plant Services Big Man Cricket-2 Rounds 4 & 5

- Powered by Blue Waters as the official water for BMC cricket

BIG MAN CRICKET- their response very 2@ O40s T25 tournament positively with their openers continued Saturday & Hemraj Garbaran and Sunday with matches at 4 Surendra Heeralall, putting venues across Berbice, on a solid partnership of 98 Essequibo and Demerara but both were dismissed in

On Saturday, three centuries quick succession and were recorded by Imran thereafter never really smashed an unbeaten 79 their 2nd victory this Khan, Marlon Brutis and H. challenged the record score with5X6sand10X4stobe weekend.X Berbice Police Bridgelallwhilstseveralhalf posted by the city boys. The namedthemanofthematch. tookfirststrikeandrattledup centuries highlighted the Titansfinishedon177tolose ROUND 5- SUNDAY, a formidable 190 off their matches in batsman friendly by 91 runs. Heeralall made AUGUST 27th, 2023 allotted 25 overs. Devon conditions where quite a few 48, Garbaran 46 and J At the Jai Hindground- Clements, who has been scores in excess of 200 were Mohabir with 48* all missed Match 1 - Jai Hind proved selected to represent West recorded. Everest Masters out on half centuries. The too superior for Legend Indies O40s in the World scored a record 268/5 off pick of the bowlers for Rangers Legend Rangers Cup in Pakistan next month, their 25 overs against East Everest was Vic Mahabeer took first strike and posted a was once again amongst the Bank Titans. There were 2 with3for33offhis5overs. meagre 110 all out in 21.2 runs with another half other scores in excess of 200 At the Reliance overs Jai Hind quickly century this weekend, recorded by East Side g ro u n d - M a t c h 6 : overhauledthistargetin11.2 scoring57.OmenofGuyana

Bridgelall recording his 1st Legends- 230 and X Berbice scored with 57with useful Essequibo Mastersmade overs without the loss of any was dismissed for 160 to fall century of the season-100, Police- 231 Another 2 contributionscomingfromI. light work of the Canal #1 wickets Imran Khan shortby30runs.F Kadirtop Baksh finished on 37 and centuries were recorded on Jabbar-25andP Baldeo-24. Scorpions winning by 8 cracked a half century scored with 51 for O Men of Khansupportedwith24.The Sunday, both at the Enmore RichardLatiftook2for30. wickets with in excess of 10 finishing with 73* (12 X 4s Guyana. S. Paltoo was the former lawmen knocked off ground, P Dindyal-100* for At the Canal #2 overs to spare.Batting first & 3 X 6s) to follow his pickofthebowlerswith4for thoserunsforthelossofonly Enterprise and Troy Benn- ground- Match 4 - West on a lovely square at century from the previous 21 for the lawmen whilst Z. 2 wickets with 3.3 overs to 103forGTRoyals. Bank Warriors earned a Reliance, the Scorpions day His opening partner Moakansnared3for38. spare Marlon Brutus ROUND 4- SATURDAY, w a l k o v e r f r o m could only muster 117 all finishedon33*. At the Enmore ground- powered a magnificent

AUGUST 26th, 2023 IndependenceSC. out. The Essequibo Masters

AttheJaiHindground- Match3-GTRoyalsgotthe century 127* scattered with At the Jai Hind- Match At the Canal #2 quickly erased the target for Match 2 - X Berbice Police better of Enterprise

12 boundaries and 8

1-JaiHindgotthebetterofO ground- Match 5 - Everest the loss of 2 wickets in 14.1 foundtheirrhythmagainstO Enterprisesetachallenging maximums He shared a Men of Guyana. O Men of Masters chalked up another overs. Opener Ravi Beharry men of Guyana registering (Continued on page 28) record 3rd wicket unbroken Guyana was all out for 162 victory over East Bank stand of 177 with Devon off 24 overs K Jailall Titans. Everest took first Clements who finished on registered a solid half strike and rattled up a 67*. century- 59* Hassan mammoth 268/5 off their 25

At #71 Massiah ground Hussain picked up 3 for 23 overs with several of their - Match 3 - Legend Rangers andR.Mangaliesnared2for top order batters making overpowered GT Royals 35. Jai Hind rattled up 163 solid contributions. Opener Batting first, GT Royals for3towinverycomfortably Saheed Mohamed top posted a very challenging by 7 wickets in 17 overs. scoredwith83pepperedwith

177 for 8 off the allotted

Opener Imran Khan had just 3 maximums and 7 overs G Sugrim & S enough time to pummel boundaries Raul Browne Massiah both scored even 101*with6X6sand11X4s. alsomadeabrisk50*,whilst half centuries. Bowling for

AttheJaiHindground- there were cameos from Legend Rangers, J. Khan Match 2 - X Berbice Police

Imtiaz Sadik with 38, Basil had 4 for 36 and D. Ramdat won their 1st match very Persaud 33 & V Armstrong took 2 for 22 Legend handsomely against East 21*. Rakesh Gangaram took Rangerspolishedofftheruns Side Legends East Side 2for36whilstM.Bakshhad to finish on 179 for 5 off21 Legends posted a mammoth 2for45. overs.OpenerD.Ramdattop 230 off their 25 overs with H East Bank Titans started

Saheed Mohamed receives his MOM award from BMC Chairman Raj Singh

Troy Benn hits a century

H. Bridgelall registers a ton

O Men of Guyana enjoys their Blue Waters.

GAPLF Raw Nationals 2023 – 15 Records Smashed

Carlos Petterson-Griffith and KeishaAbrigo are overall male and female champs

The2023editionof battle against Tremel King Abrigotoowasinrecordt h e G u y a n a and Paul Meusa for the gold breaking mode, setting new A m a t e u r medal and added the Overall standards in the squat,

Powerlifting Best Lifter Accolade along deadlift, and total She Federation (GAPLF) Raw with a Fitness Express r e c o r d e d 1 6 2 5 k g Nationals concluded on hamper (358 251lb) in the squat, Sunday last at the National The Female Best Overall benchpress 75.0kg, deadlift Gymnasium where a total of Lifter trophy and Fitness 200.0kg (440.925lb), and a 18 athletes including 5 Express hamper went to totalof437.5kg(964.523lb). femalesentertainedthesmall KeishaAbrigowhowongold T h e G A P L F i s but appreciative gathering.A in the 76kg Women’s Open expressing gratitude to the total of 16 records were reset Rawcompetition. following sponsors for ontheday In crafting victory, making the event a success.

At the end of the two Petterson-Griffith also set Ministry of Culture, Youth flights of competition, new squat, deadlift, and total and Sport, National Sports Guyana’s marquee lifter, records. His best squat was Commission, Fitness Carlos Petterson-Griffith, 310 0kg (683 433lb), Express, Space Gym, Ecompeting for the first time benchpress 165.0kg, deadlift Master Corporation, Sunny in the 105kg Men’s Open 350.0kg (771.618lb), total of & Sweetie Roti Shop, Unity category, won the three-way 825.0kg(1818.814lb). Cabs&UnityGym,Dr Billy Mack / Eye Wear Optical, Chung’s Global Inc , Prodental Dr Harry Hannoman and AssociatesGiftlandMall.

Barbadian speedster Maloney strikes another F2 podium finish

Zane Maloney

SportsMax - Barbadian keeping the polesitter

Zane Maloney sped to a Crawford behind him for his second place finish in fourthpodiumoftheseason. Sunday’s Zandvoort feature Maloney had third place race as the FIA Formula 2 finishes in Bahrain and series moved to the Monaco and was second at Netherlands this past Britain’sSilverstone. weekend. Maloney is currently

T h e 1 9 - y e a r - o l d ninth in the championship Maloney, who had been fifth standings on 96 points, the in Saturday’s two-lap sprint same as eighth placed race, started fourth on the Richard Verschoor of the grid and clocked a finishing Netherlands and they are 72 time of 1:01:30.308, just points off leader Pourchaire. over two seconds behind Denmark’s Frederik Vesti Frenchman Clement (156), Japanese Ayumu Novalak, who logged his Iwasa (134) and Australian maidenwinin1:01:36.125. Jack Doohan (130) are JakCrawfordoftheUSA second, third, and fourth was third in 1:01:38.650. respectively heading into Championship leader Theo this weekend’s next stop in Pourchaire, of France, spun M o n z a , I t a l y, t h e off and did not finish the 38- penultimate event of the lapfeature. season.

Novalakkepthimselfout Maloney’s Rodin Carlin of trouble in a dramatic race are third in the team while Maloney held standings on 200 points, Crawford at bay for the trailing leaders ART GP runner-up spot, managing (290) and Prema Racing his tyres to the end and (258).

The Overall Best Male and female lifters showcase their silverware in the presence of sponsors.

Guyanese Golf Team set for Barbados

A team of 12 Guyanese golfers, one of the largest contingents to compete, will strive to bring home honours forGuyanawhentheytakepartintheBarbadosOpenGolf ChampionshiponSeptember15-17.

This highly recognized tournament is a Major 54-hole Stroke Play Tournament in which players earn World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points that will position Guyanese players firmly on the world stage. Amongst those hoping to capitalize on this opportunity are Guyana Golf Association (GGA) president Aleem Hussain, Monnaf Arjune, Rakesh Harry and Panko Steel Ramsundar who are scheduled to play in the Men’s First Flight.

The Barbados Golf Open will bring players from all over the world to compete for three days on one of the country’s premier golf courses According to the tournamentorganizers,whilstthecompetitionwillbe

(Continued on page 25)

BCB launches $1M Zamal Hussain Trust Fund for Youth Cricketers

- Reg. 6 Vice Chairman Hails Foster for outstanding leadership

The Berbice Cricket TrustFundwouldbetoassist Board is widely considered less fortunate but promising as the most active and players to fulfill his/her progressive cricket board in talents on the cricket field. theCaribbeanwithalonglist

The BCB over the last 6 o f a c t i v i t i e s a n d years has produced eleven achievement The BCB (11) players for the West under the presidency of Indies at all levels and the Hilbert Foster has hosted objectives now is to produce hundreds of developmental another ten in the next five projects and programme in years 2024 to 2028. Among its ongoing effort to lift the the players that have played standard of the game for the West Indies for the especiallyamongtheyouths. period 2018 to 2023 are

On Sunday last, the BCB Romario Shepherd, Isai l a u n c h e d a n o t h e r T h o r n e , R a m p e r t a b programme that will benefit Ramnauth,GudakeshMotie, youths across Regions 5 and Kevin Sinclair, Kelvin 6. Foster and Region 6 Vice Anderson, Shakabi Gajnabi, Chairman Zamal Hussain Sheneta Grimmond and metinaspecialmeetingafter four (24) youths in the President stated that the Ashmini Munisan. Foster thepresentationceremonyof county with much needed players would be selected by also disclosed that the BCB the BCB/Minister Zulifar cricket gears. Each of the a special committee headed would soon be hosting Mustapha Under15 final at twenty four players would by Junior Selection another edition of the the Port Mourant Cricket receive a pair of batting pad, Chairman Balram Samaroo. Shimron/Nirvanie Hetmyer Ground. After the short batting gloves and a bat. They would be selected Trust Fund which would be meeting, an agreement was Foster announced that the based on potential, talent, anotherboostforclubsinthe r e a c h e d f o r t h e player would be selected personal discipline and county establishment of the Zamal from all five zones in the commitmenttothegame. Hussain, who is a Hussain Berbice Cricket county – West Berbice, New Foster expressed thanks popular politician in the TrustFund. Amsterdam/Canje, Berbice to Mr Hussain for his county stated that he was Under the fund, the Vice River, Lower/Central support of the game. He very impressed with the Chairman would raise $1M Corentyne and Upper notedthatthemainobjective administrationoftheBCB towards assisting twenty Core

CB of the BCB/Zamal Hussain (Continued on page 28)

Republic Bank Ltd. Nationwide under-23 Inter-Club Super50 tournament…

Albion and Blairmont to clash in Berbice zone final

Albion Community Centre Cricket Club (ACCC) and Blairmont Cricket Club

(Blazers)havebookedtheir place in the Final of the Berbice leg of the RBL Nationwide under-23 InterClub Super50 Tournament with comfortablevictoriesintheirrespective semi-finals.

Albion defeat Skeldon Estate Community Center by 5 wickets

Skeldon Estate Community Center were bowled out for 54 in 16.1overs withSarwanChitnarineleadingtheway with28.

Bowling for Albion, Afraz Budhoo bagged magical figures of 6-6 off 5 overs. In reply,Albion finished on 58-5 with P Setel, (12 not out) and J. Otter (11*). Bowling for Skeldon, O. Boyce returned4for7.

Albion won by 5 wickets and 29.2 oversremaining.

Blairmont “Blazers” beat West

West

by 10

Monnaf Arjune

Aleem Hussain

The Blazers in reply raced to 90-0 from Josh Behari who grabbed 5-57 for BerbiceAchievers

wickets. from 11.4 overs, led by Farouk Subhan BetterHope.

Berbice Achievers were (59*)andSurajBissiondyial(16*). In response, Better Hope were bowled out for 89 in 25.5 overs with S. Lusignan beat Better Hope by 202 bowled out for 67 in 23 overs with Ramsay (15) O. Miller (14) and J. runs. Brandon Jordan (17) and Moin Persaud Samuels (12*). National players Nigel After Anil Singh (51) and (15), the top scorers for their team. Deodat(5-21)andSeonGlasgow(3-30) Chanderpaul Ramraj (59) led the Ramraj returned to bag 3-14 as Neeran alongwithHemchanRagbeer2-4,were charge, Lusignan piled on 269-9 in 45 Bani emerged as the leading bowler for thechiefdestroyers. overs despite a spirited performance Lusignanwith4-14.

Neeran Bani

Nigel Deodat

BCB President Hilbert Foster and Region 6 Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain launch the Trust Fund.