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Borderline Facts Part 5: Saturday Edition

ICJ, international NEWS community would not Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most sit idly by if Venezuela popular weekly tramples on its ruling - AG

December 02, 2023 - Vol. 17 No. 47 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 57,322

World Court orders Venezuela to stand down, preserves Guyana's control over Essequibo The Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland KC

Man to spend Christmas in jail for shooting 14-year-old girl

Jealous bar owner shoots customer for dancing with Spanish employee Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary More than 180 killed General CARICOM as Israel resumes CARICOM, Commonwealth urge Venezuela Gaza assault after truce lapses to respect ICJ order on border controversy

ExxonMobil tells Court citizens had no right challenging pipeline Permit for gas project

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

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World Court orders Venezuela to stand down . .preserves Guyana's control over Essequibo

By Rehanna Ramsay The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Venezuela not to take any action that would alter Guyana's control over its Essequibo region, but did not specifically ban Venezuela from holding its planned referendum on the territory's future tomorrow.

Ve n e z u e l a h a s historically claimed Guyana's Essequibo region as its own despite its initial acceptance of the 1899 Arbitral Award that gives Guyana control of the Essequibo.

The case finds its genesis in Venezuela's challenge to the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award of the boundaries that separate the two countries.

After years of fruitless mediation, the two countries were sent to the world court through the United Nation's (UN) peacekeeping process to settle the controversy once and for all.

H o w e v e r, w i t h t h e substantive case still pending before the ICJ, the Venezuelan Government took a decision to put the issue to a national vote upon which the country promises to act and possibly annex two-thirds of Guyana's territory.

As a result, Guyana approached the World Court last month seeking protective orders that would effectively halt parts of the vote, aimed at paving the way for Venezuela to annex the Essequibo region.

It is based on this request that the World Court handed

down a unanimous decision by all 15 judges of the ICJ. The ruling is set to effectively block the Spanish-speaking country from taking any action based on the results of its referendum.

In her delivery of the orders, President of the Court, Judge Joan E. Donoghue said that the interim orders were necessary because “Venezuela's expressed readiness to take action” on the disputed territory “at any moment following the referendum” showed that there is “a real and imminent risk of irreparable prejudice to Guyana's plausible right, before the court gives its final decision.”

She submitted that if Venezuela proceeds with its scheduled referendum, the “inevitable” affirmative response to the fifth question would lead Venezuela to annex the Essequibo region and to grant Venezuelan citizenship to its inhabitants, causing irreparable harm to Guyana's rights.

“In Guyana's view, even a judgment of the Court on the merits upholding the validity of the 1899 Award or settling the boundary dispute in a manner that leaves all or part of the Essequibo region under Guyana's sovereignty might not be sufficient to protect Guyana's rights if Venezuela has already annexed that territory,” Justice Donoghue posited.

As such, she noted that “Pending a final decision in the case, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify

President of the ICJ, Judge Joan E. Donoghue the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby the Cooperative Republic of Guyana administers and exercises control over that area” The ICJ President said, “Unanimously, both parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

Before handing down the decision, Justice Donoghue said the Court, pursuant to Article 41 of its statute, has the power to indicate provisional measures when irreparable prejudice could be caused to rights which are the subject of judicial proceedings or when the alleged disregard of such rights may entail irreparable consequences.

She said too, noted that its orders indicating provisional

measures under Article 41 of the Statute have binding effect and thus create international legal obligations for any party to whom the provisional measures are addressed.

Last month, lawyers representing Guyana at the ICJ presented evidence showing the increased military presence of Venezuelan soldiers at the border near Guyana as that neighbouring country moves towards voting in a referendum to seize the Essequibo Region.

Attorney-at-Law, Paul Reichler noted that following its referendum Venezuela plans to inter alia, issue IDs to the people of the Essequibo region.

Professor Reichler said therefore that Guyana's decision to seek provisional measures swiftly is necessary to block the referendum

Pres. Ali urges pragmatic solutions for climate action solutions at COP28 President Irfaan Ali on Friday addressed the Conference of Parties (COP) 28 World Climate Action Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, emphasizing the need for practical solutions to address climate challenges.

President Ali left Guyana on Monday for Dubai, where he is leading a delegation at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP28.

“Too often the climate debate is dominated by some who are stuck in the past, who deploy outrage and anger as their only tools,” Ali said.

President Ali urged a shift from divisive debates to collaborative efforts, highlighting the importance of

involving all stakeholders in achieving a just and affordable transition aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

On the COP28 stage, President Ali stressed the necessity of considering current realities, especially the energy demands in developing countries. He proposed a balanced approach, acknowledging the growth in demand for energy while advocating for measures such as the reduction of fossil fuel production, removal of large polluters, and incentivizing renewable energy sources.

He said, “COP28 will not achieve the desired objectives of definitively putting our planet on a net zero trajectory, if we continue to address this matter in a doctrinarian way, ignoring

the current realities.”

Moreover, he underscored, “If the debate of COP28 is framed by two camps, one calling for no cuts in fuel productions including the most polluting form such as coal and the other saying the only solution to net zero is an end to fossil fuel production then we will fail once again to achieve a viable outcome and not to give our world the energy it needs to grow and prosper.”

President Ali outlined Guyana's commitment to a net-zero future by 2050 through a combination of strategies, including the reduction of fossil fuel production, removal of subsidies, and initiatives like carbon (Continued on page 9)

because of the implications for Guyana's continued control of Essequibo.

“Urgency is shown by the impending referendum to be held less than three weeks from now, which would be the trigger for the execution of Venezuela's annexation plans and by the preparations of the national Bolivarian Armed Forces to secure Venezuela's claim to the territory,” he said.

Reichler had submitted evidence, comprising newspaper articles, video recordings, and statements issued by the President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, the Minister of Defense for the National Armed Forces of Venezuela, Vladimir Padrino Lopez and Colonel Juan Gutierrez Ortiz, of the country's plan to seize control of two-thirds of Guyana's territory and reject the Court's authority to r e s o l v e t h e controversy.Venezuela has nonetheless remained defiant. Vice President (VP) of that country, Delcy Rodriguez told the court in response to Guyana that nothing will stop the Bolivarian Republic from

proceeding with its December 3, 2023, referendum.

Rodriguez said too that Venezuela's appearance before the ICJ did not constitute it recognizing the jurisdiction of that court but opted to present its arguments to counter “Guyana's childish manipulation of her country's historic legal position.”

“Without prejudice to our position and doctrine on jurisdiction. We come before this court to defend independence, sovereignty and self-determination as the inalienable rights of our nation,” she said.

As a result, the VP noted that regardless of what the ICJ says the government will act in accordance with what the people of Venezuela decide.“No one can deny or divide this right finally, the state of Venezuela will not turn its back on what the people decide during the referendum,” added Rodriguez.

She told the ICJ that Guyana's move to the World Court to seek to curtail the referendum was “abhorrent and illegal behaviour.”

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Fear and punishment President Ali has said it. Vice President Jagdeo has said much of the same thing. Guyana’s head of state has said there is ‘absolutely nothing to fear’ from Venezuela. The former head of state has scorched ‘fearmongers’ and spoke of Venezuela not going ‘unpunished’ should it push matters beyond the brink in Guyana. It cannot be denied that, as far as words go, these expressions and postures of Guyana’s two national leaders have some resonance to them, seek to soothe agitations in the local population, and remind Venezuelan leaders that they are playing a dangerous game, which could backfire.

The words of the President and Vice President may help to reduce some of the fear in some Guyanese. We applaud them, and encourage them to be more visible, to speak calmly and wisely. Wherever Guyanese are, they want to see their leaders in the forefront and coming out sensibly against Venezuelan ambitions over this country’s land and its storehouse of assets. Though Guyanese may fear less, it appears that there is no fear in Venezuela. There is no fear of Guyana’s strengths, which are not significant to begin with, and there is no fear of Guyana’s friends. The same lack of fear goes for any allies that Guyana may collect along the way.

The reality is that Venezuela has been hanging on by a thread for years, due to the deep impacts of crippling American sanctions. Though not uttered in the public domain, the thinking in the higher elevations of Venezuela’s leadership could be that many sanctions have been implemented, and that they have all been endured. At a very painful price, to be sure; but nevertheless, Venezuela has managed to survive in one piece, and has not descended into chaos. So whatever else could be in store through international pressures and punishing penalties, they have been dealt before, and they will be again. Especially when the stakes are so high, as in the vast Essequibo region, and the prizes are so rich and irresistible. Like seasoned criminals, committed politicians often are not fazed by the grim logic of deterrence. The proof of who should fear and who is fearful, should not be long in coming.

On the Guyana side, President and Vice President frequently remind Guyana that appealing to the international community is the centerpiece of Guyana’s strategy in this border controversy. The concern that has some traction is whether Venezuela cares at all. It has been a pariah so long that desperation has taken firm hold of the country’s leaders.

We all know too well that the desperate are prone to miscalculate, and make misjudgments, as in overplay their hand. The pressures on President Nicolas Maduro have to be enormous, but we are not shedding any tears for him, since he is the one responsible for the current monstrous state of affair relative to the border controversy.

He is engaging in a highwire act, and any slip of his can result in the shockwaves being felt across Guyana.

While the government’s leaders have been on the move, and saying the right things to Guyanese who may be nervous, the coolness of commonsense has to prevail. It is better to harness Guyana’s strengths, and to refine those for maximum effect. The messages about not fearing, and standing up for sacred territorial integrity have to be part of a broad-based program that encircles the government and the opposition. This is about national governance, national protection, and national continuity, and it is mandatory that any appearance of the regular divisive politics rearing its ugly head be snuffed out immediately. National unity and national harmony are more than a nice situation to be in presently, both are compulsory, and this should be without any pushback, any hedging, and any games being played by anyone.

The Venezuelan crisis has all the indications of a severely wounding situation for Guyanese. Sober heads must be the order of the day, and a full head (one head) of steam should propel forward. If there is reluctance to master the fear of one another, then it becomes extremely difficult to conquer whatever comes from Venezuela, when there is lingering in a disunited state.

Saturday December 02, 2023

Arthur Schlesinger damaged Cheddi Jagan and Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Arthur Schlesinger, popular US historian and diplomat passed away at age 100. He was instrumental in shaping United States foreign policy towards Guyana especially during the Kennedy years. It was Schlesinger, in his capacity

as advisor to President Kennedy during the early 1960’s who recommended that ‘an independent British Guiana under Forbes Burnham would cause fewer problems to the United States administration than an independent British Guiana under Cheddi Jagan.’

Jagan was seen at the time as someone with ‘communist’ leanings as opposed to Burnham who came across as more ideologically pliable.

Schlesinger later apologized for the role he played in the removal of the Jagan administration and said that

‘an injustice was done to him.’ Burnham subsequently proved to be an embarrassment to the United States which at one time was forced to break off diplomatic relations with Guyana.

Yours truly, Hydar Ally

A manager at the GPL is causing untold problems for staff DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to bring to your attention as well as that of the public and the management of the Guyana Power and Light Inc., some serious concerns regarding a manager, who has recently come under public scrutiny due to allegations of corruption, collusion, and misconduct.

This manager is allegedly involved in allocating jobs to a specific contractor in exchange for personal gain. Such practices undermine the integrity of the organization and erode public trust in its operations. Furthermore, there are disturbing reports indicating that this manager has been making sexual and inappropriate comments towards the female staff in his department, which constitutes a grave violation of workplace ethics. It is particularly troubling that the department is comprised of approximately 90 percent female employees, creating a vulnerable environment

where employees don’t feel safe.

This is not the first time such allegations have been raised against the manager.

During the APNU administration, a complaint was filed regarding sexual harassment. Despite an official visit and staff interviews by the Ministry of Labour, it was reported that no substantial action was taken, possibly due to the manager’s close association with a former minister. The fact that a junior staff member reported vile comments and advances two years ago highlights a longstanding issue that has not been adequately addressed. The manager’s alleged pattern of grooming females for personal benefits and recommending unqualified individuals for senior positions raises significant ethical and professional concerns. One such appointment is that of a female supervisor. The supervisor’s reported history of poor teamwork, lack of

harmonizing qualities, and inadequate understanding of critical systems raises serious concerns about her suitability for the post.

Colleagues highlight her limited knowledge in both the customer information system and field aspects further underscores the need for a reevaluation of her qualifications.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e supervisor’s misconduct and poor leadership, compounded by bias in addressing complaints, contribute to a toxic work environment. It is troubling to hear about duties being assigned outside of employees’ job descriptions and the breakdown of work relationships within the department. The perception that the supervisor is not mature enough for the role and lacks the diligence to instigate positive change, particularly amid ongoing investigations, is alarming.

The belief among field investigators that she prioritizes the manager’s

personal interests over the company’s welfare is a troubling aspect that requires immediate attention.

The described pressure within the department, stemming from cases of misconduct and poor leadership, adds urgency to the situation. The staff’s request for a meeting with the CEO and Human Resources reflects their genuine concern and the exhaustion of alternative avenues for resolution.

In light of these issues, the staff’s plea for Human Resources to conduct thorough reviews before appointing individuals to senior positions is a reasonable and proactive measure.

Ensuring that individuals in leadership roles possess the necessary skills, experience, and commitment to the company’s objectives is crucial for maintaining a healthy work environment.

Yours sincerely, Worried worker

Serious trouble at Agriculture Ministry, people being pressured into wrongdoing DEAR EDITOR, It is learnt that the PS of the Ministry of Agriculture was instructed to submit her resignation for refusing to violate contract management procedures relating to some $10 billion in contracts to various contractors who have been in default. The contracts were for pump stations and other infrastructure work. The projects have been stalled for more than two years and PS is asked to sign off on them.

The PS is a soft-spoken woman of integrity and doesn’t want to run afoul of the laws and rules governing management enforcement of contracts. Persistently pressured to approve past

contracts that violate contract management policy, and instructed to sign, the PS submitted her resignation rather than be in violation of contractual management rules. Who will replace her?

Rules on contracts relating to nepotism and friendship in awarding government contracts were violated as some ten billion dollars in contracts given to kith, kins and friends of high-ranking officials who lack experience or a history of private construction and or doing government contractual works. Some are new contractors. All are in contract management default. The rules governing large contracts require

performance security and advanced payments security.

Before an awarded contract is signed, the contractor must obtain a security bond of between 10 to 15% of value of contract made out to the government ministry. When the contract is signed, the government gives out advance payment of 20% of the value of the contract for mobilization. Favored contractors got 35% advance payments for mobilization.

In addition to the 10 to 15% performance security, there is a mandatory advanced payment security (insurance bond) of the same amount as the advanced payment for the contract. So before work begins, some 30% to 45% of

the value of the contract in two security deposits (performance and advanced payment) must be assured to the Ministry through a bank or an insurance company bond. The security deposits are time limited for a year and must be renewed if the contracts will be completed beyond a year. As the security termination date approaches, the contractors are reminded to renew it. The two above securities have not been renewed in some ten billion of contracts.

In the above case relating to the $10 billion, the contracts were awarded more than two years ago.

The security amounts of (Continued on page 06)

Saturday December 02, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Capitalist-controlled media conditions the mind, poor attack the poor DEAR EDITOR, Today, more than ever before, we are witnessing how the mainstream media and those who control social media are attempting to exercise strong control of what is being disseminated.

The Ukraine and Israel war has brought this into focus.

We have to bear in mind that the one % of super rich controls over 85% of the means of disseminating information.

Just for information, three companies, BlackRock, State Street and Vanguard are the largest shareholders, 88%, of all S&P 500 companies. The amount of money in circulation in the world is 440 trillion. These three CEOs control 66 trillion.

BlackRock and Vanguard

are the two largest shareholders in the six major media companies that control more than 90% of the U.S. media landscape. I hope readers appreciate the connection. They control the companies, and they exercise influence over our minds. The extremely rich owns Twitter, Google, Facebook and the list is long.

Most of the TV stations, publishing houses, News Papers, magazines etc. are owned by the capitalist class, We must also consider the concept written about by Gramsci, “Cultural hegemony” where we are socialized by the ruling elites to defend their interests. Bob Marley sang about liberating ourselves from mental slavery while others insist so many are colonial in their

mentality. Karl Marx wrote extensively about ideology explaining that every socioeconomic system generates an ideological superstructure that we internalize that which defends and justifies the existing socioeconomic formation. This was clear, as when the capitalist revolution took place there had to be the creation of a new ideology to justify capitalism. While Catholicism was the ideological justification of capitalism, Protestantism and Calvinist ethics were the ideological justification of the emerging capitalist elites Wi t h o u t t h i s , t h e minority of exploitative elites would not survive.

This is why today if one criticizes capitalism even

A thousand ‘trench crapos’ must be more harmful than one ‘lowlife’ Dear Editor, In yesterday’s newspaper an organisation wrote a letter criticizing Vice President Jagdeo for his choice of words against a sitting Member of Parliament, Cathy Hughes.

Many years ago, I worked with Ms. Hughes’s father, and he was a great man, and a pantheon of perfection.

I doubt if he would ever have sanctioned anyone going to a foreign country to denigrate their own. Or accuse other politicians of untruths, like giving away Essequibo to the Venezuelans. However, the

VP responded “in the heat of battle” with one choice word, he should never have used.

N o w, w e h a v e a n organisation and others demanding that he apologize. Fair enough, he should. However, we have a sitting Member of Parliament who nightly spews the most caustic and venomous words to this same VP and others....and no one cares. On what seemed like thousands of occasions, this sitting MP shouted “trench crapos”, “jagabats” etc. etc.

And the same people

who are now expressing outrage, have nothing to say about that. And many of the people who are now calling on the VP to apologize, have appeared on this MP’s show while he is spewing his racist insults.

Rank hypocrisy, anyone?

Shouldn’t they be demanding similar apologies from this sitting MP, who knowingly is slinging arrows with the desire to inflict, hurt?

Surely, thousands of “trench crapos” is more harmful than one “lowlife”!

Respectfully submitted, Herbert Allen

ordinary workers would attack the ones who dare to criticize their beloved system capitalism.

They would even cuss the critics as if they themselves have been attacked. Today we see how PPPites and PNCites at the lower level of the socioeconomic ladder would attack even physically those who dare criticize their party.

Bear in mind that large sections of the population in England and France fought to defend their beloved king, ordained by God. It would be comedic if not serious how even the educated who know the concept of socialization, indoctrination would argue strongly to defend what they know instead of opening their minds to new ideas. I saw this quote on social media, “You must always be willing to truly consider evidence that contradicts your beliefs.

And admit the possibility that you may be wrong.

Intelligence is not knowing everything. It’s the ability to challenge everything you know”.

I gave myself the opportunity to listen to a lecture by a famous American Professor and writer, Richard Wolf. He discussed what he considers as the greatest purge in American History. He said that during the 1930s President Roosevelt solved the problems facing the working people by taxing the rich corporations not because he was a radical, as he was a conventional rich kid, but because he was

pressured by “a coalition of communists, Socialists and unions, many of which were the result of the struggles of the communist and socialist parties.

So, at the end of World Wa r 2 , t h e e n r a g e d capitalists who knew this was because of this coalition went to work to destroy this coalition to prevent this from happening again. They determined that the weakest link was the communist parties. The capitalists went to work using their ownership of the mass media to demonise them. So, “the communist activists who were the leaders of unionization in many industries, and in the struggle against fascism in Italy, Germany Japan, became not leaders, not heroes, but demons, converted into agents of a foreign power, the USSR. Let’s not forget for the five years 1940 to 1945, the USA and USSR were allies fighting the fascists of Germany, Italy and Japan.

“They were our friends, our supporters, suddenly turned into arch enemies”. So, after

the death of Roosevelt there was a political purge.

“Government, big business and conservatives went on a tear to arrest communists, to deport many of them back to countries they left 40 years ago; to demonise them as agents of a foreign power, and not leaders who had succeeded, is giving workers the benefits of government programmes the likes of which never occurred in the history of the USA and never happened again”. Business realized that to roll it back they had to destroy that coalition. And now begins the Mcarthy period. So, they went after communists wherever they worked, “no longer heroes, veterans leaders of union movements and when they were finished with the Communists they went after the two socialist parties claiming that socialism was the same as communism but just spelt (Continued on page 06)

Kaieteur News

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Saturday December 02, 2023

ICJ ruling affirms Guyana’s right to the Essequibo Region – MP Walton-Desir Capitalist-controlled media conditions... taking any action which O p p o s i t i o n spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Member of Parliament Amanza WaltonDesir on Friday said c o m m e n d e d t h e International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) insistence on stability and refraining from any action that is likely to further aggravate the border controversy.

On Friday, the ICJ in a unanimous and binding ruling in response to Guyana’s request for the indication of provisional measures in the case of the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 (Guyana V. Venezuela) reaffirmed the Guyana’s

Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Member of Parliament Amanza Walton-Desir

right to administer and control the Essequibo Region as an integral part of our sovereign territory.

The Court ordered Venezuela to refrain from

would interfere with our exercise of this right, pending the final decision of the Court. “We commend the court’s insistence on emphasizing the imperative of stability and the refraining from action likely to further aggravate the dispute.

Even as we welcome the Court’s decision today and glean from it some measure of comfort and assurance, it is important that we remember that securing our sovereignty and territorial integrity is not an event, it is a process - a process to which your strength and solidarity (Continued on page09)

Serious trouble at Agriculture Ministry...

From page 04 nearly $4 billion should have been deposited to the Ministry. Those funds should have been forfeited over a year ago for failing to complete the work. The contractors accepted advanced payment funds but are not fulfilling the contract. Very little work was done two and a half years later. Contractual management rules should have been enforced and both securities should have been confiscated. The PS insisted that they be enforced. It is learnt that the PS was instructed to close eyes to management rules

governing both securities.

She has refused to comply as such an action would be illegal, and she does not want to compromise on integrity. Were she to carry out the instructions, the ministry and government would have stood to lose some $4 billion from the $10 billion in contracts that have been in default. That is money that could put $200,000 in the hands of every poor family. In addition to losing the $4 billion, the Ministry will have to re-tender the work that will cost additional money well beyond the $10 billion that was contracted

out.

Why is a PS victimized for doing the right thing and enforcing the law? Why are contractual rules violated?

And who are the beneficiaries? It is rumored that that a PS from another Ministry who had a run in with US authorities in Miami airport earlier this year is being considered as the replacement. The Vice President was informed of the management rules violations at the Ministry of Agriculture. Will he take action or close his eyes to this corruption?

Yours truly, Rudesh Jodha Baksh

From page 05 differently. Then they went against the trade unions” From 33% unionized workers in 1945 to today 10%, reduced to a shadow”.

The workers were traumatized now all their leaders who fought for them “were demonized and cast as the sum total of all evil. It was drummed into them not to have anything to do with those people critical of capitalism nor those with socialist ideas. All these were now evil. These ideas were no “longer taught in school not allowed in the newspaper. This lasted over 50 years. Politics destroyed a whole part of the American political spectrum”. The coalition which caused taxes to be imposed on the rich and for increasing benefits to the working people was broken.

In 1947 a law called the Taft Hartley law was passed. This law went against the communist, the socialist and the trade unions. This law made it illegal for trade unions to elect communists and socialists as leaders. They could not democratically elect their leaders. It prevented communists and socialists from being democratically elected as l e a d e r s . To d a y a n t i communism is an ideology impressed into the minds of most through the process of cultural hegemony. Their information bias is what is fed

to them by the elite controlled media. They refuse to listen to any criticism of capitalism and as soon as one criticizes capitalism, they regurgitate all the ills of socialism, how undemocratic it is. They are blinded to the atrocities of the present system, forgetting slavery, colonialism etc.

Now I hope that some at least recognize what took place and make a serious attempt to open their minds.

Bear in mind it is in the interest of the ruling elites to demonise any possible alternative. But even if they do not want socialism at least they should come to the realization that an alternative to the present system is n e c e s s a r y. C a p i t a l i s m replaced feudalism and now the evidence abounds that it can no longer advance humanity and need to be replaced just like it replaced feudalism: 170 poor capitalist countries and seven rich imperialist countries is the evidence that poor countries traverse a capitalist path to nowhere.

Just want to make one point re “democracy”, it was over 300 years after the capitalist revolution that the capitalist West adopted universal suffrage and this was not given but fought for by the communists, socialists and trade unions.

Bear in mind there was no

local or global counter revolution. We were drilled that Russia and socialist countries do not have democracy meaning elections western style. However, let’s not forget these countries were relatively backward and subject to local and global counter revolution. I am not advocating a socialist revolution here in Guyana.

My intention is just to have our people open their minds to recognize the controls exercised over the information that we receive. To appreciate the force of cultural hegemony, socialization etc.

To question what they know and open their minds to alternative views instead of cussing those with opposing views. Remember most of us are working people and so we need to recognize our interests and organise to defend our interests instead of spending a lot of time defending the interest of the ruling economic elites.

Remember race was/is a divisive tool used by the elites to divide the working people. United we are strong. Solidarity forever but even the unions don’t teach this song anymore. The leaders for life are not interested in a strong united trade union.

Sincerely, Rajendra Bisessar DSc Sociology, LLB

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Saturday December 02, 2023

rd

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an important Order yesterday. It instructed that Venezuela refrains from acting on those aspects of its December 3rd Referendum that seeks to galvanize support from its citizens to engage in the illegal annexation of the Essequibo Region.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali welcomed the ruling by the ICJ, emphasizing that the ruling is legally binding on Venezuela.

The Commander-in-Chief said both the United Nations Charter and the Statute of the Court to which Venezuela is a Party, require its strict compliance.

President Ali said this is an opportunity for Venezuela to join Guyana in demonstrating respect for international law and the principles that govern peaceful coexistence.

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Saturday Monday December May 02, 02,2022 2023

ExxonMobil tells Court citizens had no right challenging pipeline Permit for gas project E

xxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) has applied to the Appeal Court to reverse a decision that the two citizens who successfully challenged their Permit for the Gas-to-Energy (GTE) pipeline had “sufficient interest”.

The company, formerly Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) was granted a Permit by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on November 25, 2022 for the pipeline aspect of the GTE project. The gas project also entails a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and a 300 megawatt power plant.

Two citizens, Elizabeth Hughes and Vanda Radzik approached the High Court in March this year, seeking that the Permit be quashed since the legal requirements were not met by the company at the time it applied for the Permit. https://www.kaieteurnewson line.com/2023/03/29/citizen s-file-court-actionchallenging-permit-issuedto-exxon-for-gas-to-energyproject/

On October 5, 2023 the High Court ruled that the EPA acted 'contrary to the law' and 'improper', by granting a Permit to Exxon.

Even though the Judge flagged the improper decision made by the regulator, the reliefs sought by the Applicants were not granted.

Consequently, Radzik and Hughes filed an appeal of the High Court's decision not to quash the Environmental Permit to Exxon.

The oil company on November 28, 2023 filed an intention to contend that the decision of the High Court be varied. It believes that: “The findings of the trial Judge that the Appellants had sufficient interest in the subject matter of the application and/or that the Appellants had locus standi to institute the proceedings (should) be reversed.”

Exxon contends that the appellants lack locus standi to challenge the alleged breach of the Environmental Protection Act Regulations.

It argued that Regulation 17(c) (ii) is for the protection

of a definite category or group of persons, namely, landowners or occupiers.

In addition Exxon asked the High Court to reverse the finding of the trial Judge that at the time the Permit was granted it had no legal right or ability to conduct its scope of the Guyana GTE project

or occupier should be reversed, adding that the findings were “against the weight of the evidence”.

The company is arguing that the Judge erred in finding that the decision by the EPA to grant the Permit for the pipeline was contrary or improper.

charges.

The pipeline currently being constructed by Exxon in Region Three will deliver natural gas from the Liza One and Liza Two fields in the Stabroek Block to the Wales Industrial site, West Bank Demerara. The gas will then be processed in the NGL

without the consent of the landowners or occupiers.

In fact, the oil company said the Judge “failed to distinguish between 'legal right' and 'ability' to carry out the GTE project” without the consent of the landowners or occupiers.

Exxon said the Judge's decision that Esso had failed to show that it had the legal right or ability to carry out the GTE project activity without the consent of the landowner

ExxonMobil is being represented by Guyanese Lawyers, Andrew Pollard, S.C and Edward Luckhoo, S.C. The EPA as well as the Attorney General (AG) of Guyana, Anil Nandlall, S.C are respondents in the matter.

About the GTE project/ case The highly touted GTE project is intended to deliver cleaner electricity at 50 percent of the current

facility to be built by government and ultimately used for power generation.

Citizens Radzik and Hughes in their Appeal of the High Court's ruling stated, “the learned Judge took into account irrelevant matters namely the purported expenditure while failing to take judicial notice of relevant matters such as the questionable expenditure claims made by (Exxon) as revealed in the public

pronouncements of members of government.”

They argue that the learned judge failed to have due regard to the utility of the declaration in the context of the application of Guyana's Environmental Laws and the importance of a declaration to clarify and confirm the legal duties of the respondent authority.

Justice SewnarineBeharry in her October 5, 2023 decision stated that, “Cognisance must be paid to the fact that significant fiscal expenditure has been injected into the Gas to Energy pipeline.

A quashing order would disproportionately disadvantage Esso Guyana and the State by halting significant project development already underway.

Moreover, it may also have an unintended consequence of impacting innocent third parties to the project development, all while proving to be a brutum fulmen in the way of substantive relief for the Applicants.”

One arrested after cattle rustlers' slaughter Rupununi rancher's cow

P

olice at Lethem in the Rupununi have arrested a man after cattle rustlers stole a farmer's cows and slaughtered a pregnant heifer from the herd sometime on Wednesday night.

Neville Adolph told Kaieteur News that he operates a small ranch at the village of St. Ignatius outside Lethem. He said a cowboy who works at the ranch rounded up his seven cows on Wednesday afternoon and retired to bed.

Adolph, who lives some 7 miles away from the ranch, related that on Thursday around 09:30hrs, the cowboy called him frantically and related that the cows were missing.

He said he hurried over to the farm and immediately started searching for his cows, noting that it was the first time he had had such an experience.

Adolph said he informed other residents and search parties scoured the savannahs in search of the cows.

Suddenly, he said one of the

cowboys in the search party looked up in the skies and saw a group of crows hovering over a section of the roadway leading to the village.

“This is the main road which is closer to the village,” he said, adding that it was a mile away from his home.

Adolph said the teams hurried to the location and discovered the remains of his beloved heifer, which he noted was pregnant. “I raised her since she was a calf, she was expecting, she was heavy {pregnant} and it was her first time,” he said.

He said the thieves killed the animal at the scene and left behind its head and pieces of rope. As the community desperately tried to assist Adolph, another farmer informed the man that he saw a group of cows during the wee hours of Thursday close to the Kumu Creek.

Adolph said the search parties rode to the location on horse backs and found his remaining six cows

grazing near to the creek. He said he was deeply hurt by the situation, noting that the heifer which was killed was his lead cow. “She would lead the herd, so it seems as if the remaining cows just were grazing on their own,” he said.

Meanwhile, this publication understands that a man, who was looking for market for beef on Thursday, was arrested by the police at Lethem. Reports are that the residents were suspicious of the man since he is not known to be in the business of selling beef.

In addition, Adolph said another cowboy recognized a piece of rope which was found near to the carcass of the heifer. “He said the rope belongs to another man here,” Adolph said.

When the police went in search of that man, he was not at home and residents suspect that he rode out of the area after Adolph raised an alarm after the crime was committed.

“Whoever did this to me, it has

The rope which the cattle rustlers left behind. not gone unnoticed, there is someone greater looking over me,” he said. He valued his loss at approximately $200,000.

Reports are that multiple

farmers at St. Ignatius have suffered at the past as rustlers made off with their animals including cows, sheep and goat, mainly in the dead of night.

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East Coast workers are left stranded in the city after work If you want an example of just how the oil economy is undermining the poor, then all you need to do is take a walk down to the East Coast bus parks after 4:30 PM. The parks and the East Coast bus routes from Camp Street to the BV Bus Park are overflowing with commuters waiting, sometimes hours, just to get transportation home.

It is an indictment against the oil economy. The plight of the workers who depend on public transport to get home to the East Coast each day shows how the poor are being left behind in the fastest growing economy in the world.

Hardworking East Coast workers – many of whom are young girls – face the daunting challenge each afternoon of finding transportation to get home.

As the sun begins its descent, the East Coast car parks transform into a sea of faces, each telling a story of frustration and exhaustion.

Thousands of workers find themselves stranded, waiting for transportation that is unable to keep up with the ever-increasing demand.

The dream of a swift and smooth journey home becomes a distant mirage, replaced by the harsh reality of long hours spent waiting in uncertainty and a mad scramble to get on any available bus.

Yo u w o u l d h a v e presumed that with the massive increase in the fleet of motor cars that the

congestion at the parks would have been alleviated.

However, the exponential growth of motor vehicles on our roadways has not only failed to alleviate their struggles but has worsened their plight, turning the simple act of commuting into a horrid ordeal.

The rapid surge in the number of vehicles on our roads has failed to translate into tangible benefits for the working class. If anything, it has deepened the challenges faced by those who toil day in and day out to sustain our economy. The very essence of progress, symbolized by the increasing population of motor vehicles, seems to have bypassed the very people who contribute to this growth – the ordinary workers. At the heart of the problem is the crippling traffic congestion that plagues our roadways every afternoon. The buses, which are the lifeline for many workers, are caught in the congestion. It now takes much longer for a bus to pick up and drop off a load of passengers and then to return for another trip.

Some buses are now only able to make two trips after work, when before they would have made four or five. The turnaround time for each route has increased s i g n i f i c a n t l y, l e a v i n g countless workers stranded for hours, anxiously awaiting the transportation.

Some of the buses do not even need to return to the bus parks. As soon as they reach

the center of the city, they have a full load to make another trip and therefore those at the park are left stranded for hours.

It is a paradoxical situation where the increase in the number of motor vehicles has led to a regression in the quality of life for ordinary workers.

The buses, meant to be a solution to the transportation woes have become victims of the congestion caused by the massive increase in the number of motor vehicles on our roads. This situation demands immediate attention from the government. The responsibility to alleviate the suffering of the workers falls squarely on the shoulders of those in power that seem oblivious to the nightmare facing ordinary workers each day. As the President returns from Dubai, there is a pressing need for him to address this matter. Workers are the the backbone of our nation. They cannot be left in limbo, their safety compromised as they wait to get transportation to get home in the darkness of evening in a city in which there are marauding bicycle gangs at twilight.

Immediate measures must be put in place to provide relief while a comprehensive, long-term solution is sought. The government had set aside 5 billion dollars this year for cost- of-living relief. Instead of that bonus which they offered workers across the

Pres. Ali urges pragmatic solutions for climate...

From page 3 capture and storage. He called for a collective reset of global relationships to address climate change, conflicts, energy, and food crises, emphasizing three priorities for COP28: a just transition from excessive fossil fuel use, accessible climate finance for developing nations, and action to preserve tropical forests.

Highlighting the pivotal role of finance, President Ali announced Guyana’s cochairmanship of the Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP) carbon market working group. He expressed a commitment to building high-quality carbon markets to benefit forest communities and countries.

President Ali concluded by reaffirming Guyana’s status as a carbon net-

positive country, detailing the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, commitment to sustainable practices, and the impact on their economy.

He emphasized solidarity with those working towards a better future in developing countries and stressed the importance of practical solutions in achieving global stability.

ICJ ruling affirms Guyana’s right...

From page 06 are crucial,” the MP said.

Walton-Desir said too that Guyana is grateful for the support of the international community and our international partners, regionally and further afield.

“At a time when the troubling ethos of “might equals right” threatens to dominate the interactions between nation states, we are heartened by the assurances of their commitment to the due process of law and respect for national territorial sovereignty,” she said while calling on Venezuela to

respect the ruling of the Court and to demonstrate its commitment to the peaceful coexistence of States and the maintenance of this region as a zone of peace.

The Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs called for unity as Guyana’s sovereignty is defended.

“We must remain united, as Guyanese first, and we must do all within our respective powers to ensure the preservation of this unity. We in the APNU+AFC Parliamentary Opposition will continue to offer our support in this regard,” she said.

board, they could have offered it only to low income workers and pitch in with a few large vehicles to help transport workers home after hours. In doing so, the government can hardly be accused of crowding out the private sector transport system. That system is unable to provide a reliable and efficient service after work hours.

The government should consider acquiring some big buses or GUYSUCO trucks to ferry passengers to designated location along the East Coast. Or they should do what Trinidad did years ago and have a designated lane for buses, between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm. They could also offer temporary permission to private vehicles to work hire

to help reduce the build up at the parks. They can also encourage companies to deploy large buses for their staff who live on the East Coast. Incentives can be provided to do so.

While these short-term measures are crucial for immediate relief, a comprehensive and sustainable long-term solution must also be pursued. This involves investing in the expansion and improvement of public transportation infrastructure, addressing bottlenecks in traffic flow, and implementing urban planning strategies that prioritize the needs of the working class. Why instead of expanding the railway embankment can’t a light rail not be established to ferry

commuters to and from the East Coast? The government, led by the President, must take decisive action to alleviate the suffering of these workers. It is time to transform our roads from sources of frustration to ease of travel especially for our hardworking individuals striving to earn a living.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaper and its affiliates.)

Kaieteur News

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HARD

TRUTH

HK

BY G

LALL

Saturday Monday December May 02, 02,2022 2023

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Of cut brake lines and baseball bats

I

don't know Mr. Bryan Max, never heard of him before; I am content to let matters rest there. It is likely that Mr. Max would say likewise.

Though what allegedly happened to him may appear to be extraordinary, it reflects the rather ordinary in how the PPP deals with dissension, o b j e c t i o n , a n d condemnation. What could be revealing is how commonplace the response of the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana courts to the experience of Mr. Max. For sure, Mr. Max has a peculiar manner in how he approaches issues, what drives him to vent publicly.

Let this be said immediately: his style of expression is on the far side from where I stand. From a first video that introduced Mr. Max to me, I gathered that there was c o n s i d e r a b l e e n e r g y, definitely significant passions, welling up from deep inside.

The language could be rated X. I think I will stick to the vocabulary that has served me and this country well. What is obvious is that Mr. Max now travels down a certain road.

He couldn't turn back, and some people decided to do something, so that he couldn't stop from driving into danger, as the man's

second video in circulation attested.

There was the distinct impression that convictions were so strong that there was swearing to them.

Names were called, situations recalled, and something had to be done to deal with the gall of the man.

Some may have found him offensive; others found ways to register how offended they were.

The first weapon unleashed took the form of a libel suit, with several million blows promised, should it succeed. The next weapons unleashed are reported to be baseball bats, with the trail narrowing to three.

Whether PPPC or ACDC sluggers are still up for grabs is not my business.

Justice should be served, and given every appearance of it being served.

But what should ring a clanging bell with a huge number of Guyanese, including PPP supporters, is how this government of law and order has its people, who

deliver their own versions of what is law, who is lawless, and who should be put in order.

I wasn't here at the time, but thanks to the technology I recall reading about a Guyanese held as the epitome of greatness by many citizens, Mr. C.N. Sharma, who was set right for speaking too much, and s p e a k i n g t o o r o u g h l y.

Memory is vague, but it wasn't a baseball bat that was employed on that occasion, but a backhanded stroke that assaulted his right to speak, that violated his freedom to call things as they are.

A list of Guyanese found objectionable have been subjected to the same fate, through the use of different battering rams in the hands of PPP goons and criminals.

I could testify to that, with some in open media, and others hiding behind the skirts of social media, while covering their faces with dirty and skimpy underwear with the brand name of Live in Guyana.

I call them criminals; whether in the Office of the President, the Office of the Prime Minister, or the Office of the Vice President, offices held by men of the highest virtue, let us not forget. I call the culprits criminals

whether in the cabinet, or the kitchen cabinet of their political sponsors, instigators, and heroes. I call these criminals brothers, because as all Guyanese should know there are those in all families, even the best ones.

Instead of baseball bats, these PPP henchmen (there is the flower of Guyanese womanhood also enmeshed, I understand), hide behind keyholes and use keyboards.

Calls had been made before to maximize the use of social media to overpower those standing in the way. My position is as ordinary as they come: spit on a man, and be ready to drown him.

Returning to Mr. Max, his situation is part of a long and storied trend; one hell of a dirty story it is.

Even women have not been spared by the PPP Palace Guard (Live in Guyana again).

It should be part of Guy Expos, and I would recommend for COP 28, given the Live in Guyana group's efforts at climate change in the local environment.

Political climate change, that is. In the midst of these lawless developments, the Hon Attorney General, who is usually bristling with the

magma of volubility, has been remarkably silent. The ideals of his portfolio, and what he says he stands for, have been attacked and desecrated at will, and all he is capable of doing is bottling up his challenges.

Since the Attorney General is unable, unready to say it, I help him: Guyana is a nation of men and not laws.

When laws only apply to s o m e m e n , w h a t l a w, esteemed AG? Mr. Max may be interested in his answer on behalf of the PPP Government and its agents.

The press women made an example of in the most scurrilous manner that could be imagined by the PPP brain trust may have hope.

As for me, I have something for the AG, HE, and the VP, and it is a handshake. It is of European vintage, and doesn't use all fingers.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaper and its affiliates.)

Saturday December 02, 2023

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Borderline Facts Pt. 5

ICJ, International Community would not sit idly by if Venezuela tramples on its ruling – Attorney General, Anil Nandlall

By Kiana Wilburg

T

he International Court of Justice (ICJ)'s order for Venezuela to refrain from any attempt to annex Guyana's Essequibo Region is the essence of justice being served, says Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall S.C. In a recent commentary posted on his Facebook Page, Nandlall said the World Court's decision for Venezuela to not take any action that affects

Guyana's control of the Essequibo area, and for both parties to refrain from actions that make the controversy difficult to resolve, was unanimous and binding.

While the court issued a critical ruling, Nandlall said the Guyana Government harbours no illusion that Venezuela's December 3 Referendum will disappear. Be that as it may, he said the ruling puts Guyana, “in a much more formidable position” than it was previously in.

Based on the Statute of the ICJ and the United

Nations Charter, the Attorney General stressed that Venezuela is bound to comply with the ruling.

Should Venezuela still refuse to comply, Nandlall said: “It would be a travesty of justice… If Venezuela as a litigant and a UN Member chooses to violate the Charter of the UN, and more fundamentally, the order of the ICJ, then it is signaling to the world that it is prepared to depart from the league of civilized nations, that it is prepared to trample on international law, that it is prepared to threaten and undermine, and

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall

subvert the international legal order of the world.”

Nandlall confirmed with this newspaper that the ICJ nor the International Community would not sit idly by and allow a violation of the ICJ's ruling.

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Man to spend Christmas in jail for shooting 14-year-old T

he 21-year-old man who shot a 14-year-old girl last Saturday, was on Friday remanded to prison by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court.

The accused, Leon Garraway shot the 14-year-old with an unlicensed .32 pistol at Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown.

He was charged for discharging a loaded firearm with the intent to maim, disable, or cause actual bodily harm; possession of firearm without being a firearm licensed holder; and possession of ammunition without being a firearm licensed holder.

Garraway pleaded not guilty to all those charges. His attorney made an application for bail in a reasonable

sum but the prosecution objected on the grounds that the accused has pending matters for offence of the same nature.

Senior Magistrate Daly refused bail on those grounds raised by the prosecution and remanded Garraway until January 19, 2024 when he is expected to return to court.

The next scheduled court date is set for January 19, 2024.

Meanwhile, the prosecution told the court that the 14-year-old girl, along with a friend and Garraway were preparing to go to a party at the Norton Street premises when Garraway, who was armed with an unlicensed .32 Pistol, took it out, and pointed it to the teen, releasing a round in her direction.This resulted (Continued on page 33)

The .32 pistol and matching ammunition that were found

Leon Garraway at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court

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Saturday December 02, 2023

Jealous bar owner shoots customer for dancing with Spanish employee

A

27-year-old man is nursing gunshot wounds to his abdomen after the owner of a bar located at Arakaka, Five Mile, Region One shot him twice on Saturday night after he saw him dancing with a Spanish employee.

The injured man has been identified as Clinton Moses of Matthews Ridge, Region One while the accused has been identified as Eon Evans, owner of Sky Bar and Club.

Reports are that Moses was imbibing with his friends at the bar when he they decided to dance. A Spanish woman working at the bar joined Moses and he continued dancing.

Subsequently, Moses returned to the bar to purchase two Banks Beers after which he continued dancing with the Spanish woman.

This reportedly angered the businessman who in a fit of anger whipped out a firearm and discharged a

Shot, Clinton Moses round in Moses' direction.

That bullet missed Moses. As a result, Evans discharged two more rounds hitting Moses in his abdomen.

Moses tried defending himself by throwing two beer bottles in Evan's direction.

Evans then made good his escape from the bar.

Moses was subsequently taken to a regional hospital, and which he was medevaced

to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he underwent an emergency surgery.

Kaieteur News understands that Moses and the businessman had no issues.

Meanwhile, Evans has since been arrested and charged with attempted murder. He has been placed on $300,000 bail.

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Bids opened for 60 bunk beds for Kuru Kuru Training Centre During the opening of bids on Thursday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), it was revealed that the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is seeking to procure sixty bunk beds with mattresses

for the Kuru Kuru Training Centre, located on the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway.

At the reading of tenders, it was revealed that only Modern Industries Limited submitted a bid, worth $6.1 million, for the contract.

Below are the companies and their bids: Guyana Energy Agency Supply and delivery of solar PV equipment of NAREI Hydroponic Project.

Procurement of sixty bunk beds with mattresses at Kuru Kuru Training Centre.

Supreme Court of Judicature Supply and delivery of air-conditioned units for lot 1 to 3.

Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport Procurement and installation of a complete fire alarm system.

Design, supply, installation and commissioning of a 0.60 MV Solar PV plant and transmission and distribution networks for Leguan, Region Three.

More than 180 killed as Israel resumes Gaza assault after truce lapses Israeli forces prohibit entry of aid trucks via Rafah crossing, the Palestinian Red Crescent says.

Procurement of heavy-duty tools for the training centres.

Aljazeera - More than 180 people have been killed and hundreds of others wounded as Israeli forces resumed their bombardment of the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian officials, after a week-long truce expired.

Eastern areas of Khan Younis in southern Gaza came under intense bombardment as the deadline lapsed shortly after dawn on Friday, with columns of smoke rising into the sky, the Reuters news agency reported. Residents took to the road with belongings heaped in carts, searching for shelter further west.

Sirens blared across southern Israel as militants fired rockets from the coastal enclave into towns.

Hamas said it had targeted Tel Aviv, but there were no reports of casualties or damage there.

Gaza health officials said Israeli air strikes had killed 184 people, wounded at least 589 others and hit more than 20 houses.

The Israeli military dropped leaflets over Gaza City and southern parts of the enclave on Friday, urging civilians to flee to avoid the fighting, but rights groups have repeatedly warned there are no safe places in Gaza.

“Civilians are being ordered to move south, but

Palestinians check the damage of a house destroyed in an Israeli strike on Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on December 1, 2023, after the expiration of the seven-day truce [Mahmud Hams/AFP]

nowhere in Gaza is safe due to the indiscriminate bombing and continued fighting,” said the NGO Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres, or MSF) on X, calling on the Israeli army to rescind the order.

The UN said the fighting would worsen an extreme humanitarian emergency.

“Hell on Earth has returned to Gaza,” Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN humanitarian office in Geneva, said.

The Palestinian Red Crescent (PRCS) says Israeli forces informed “all organisations and entities” operating at the crossing that the entry of trucks is “prohibited, starting from today” and until further notice.

“This decision exacerbates the suffering of

citizens and increases the challenges facing humanitarian and relief organisations in alleviating the hardships of citizens and displaced persons due to the ongoing aggression,” the PRCS said in a post on X. ‘Urgent rescue plan’ Speaking to reporters after Israel resumed its b o m b a r d m e n t , G a z a ’s government media office called on Arab and Muslim states to urgently establish field hospitals in the besieged enclave to save “tens of thousands of injured people”.

T h e o f f i c e ’s spokesperson, Salama Marouf, said a “large number of aid trucks” is also urgently needed, including at least one million litres (more than 264,000 gallons) of fuel per day.

Marouf called on

countries, especially members of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, to come up with an “urgent rescue plan” and to find “quick humanitarian solutions that address the fate of more than 250,000 families who have lost their homes”.

Each of the warring sides blamed the other for causing the collapse of the truce by rejecting terms to extend the daily release of hostages held by armed groups in exchange for Palestinian detainees.

The pause, which began on November 24, had been extended twice, and Israel had said it could continue as long as Hamas released 10 hostages each day.

But after (Continued on page 33)

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Man to spend Christmas in jail...

From page 18 in the teen sustaining a gunshot wound to her left thumb.

The 14-year-old girl was then carried to the Kitty Health Center, where she was treated and later discharged.

Subsequently, a report was made to the police and Garraway was arrested. The prosecutor told the court that a search was conducted at the Norton Street house, and the accused lead ranks to some hollow blocks, where they found a black plastic bag,

containing a suspected .32 pistol (serial number filed off) with one live round of ammunition.

When ranks asked Garraway if he was a holder of a firearm licence, he responded, “No.” He was then told of the offence committed, cautioned and arrested.

Notably, the prosecutor also highlighted to the court that the 14-year-old girl is known to Garraway, and that the two, reportedly share a relationship.

More than 180 killed as Israel...

From page 23 seven days during which women, children and foreign hostages were freed, mediators failed at the final hour to find a formula to release more, including Israeli soldiers and civilian men.

Qatar, which has played a central role in mediation efforts along with the United States and Egypt, said negotiations were still going on with Israelis and Palestinians to restore the truce, but that Israel’s renewed bombardment of Gaza had complicated its efforts.

In a meeting with the United Kingdom’s newly-appointed Foreign Secretary David Cameron on the sidelines of COP28 in Dubai, Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, said his country was committed to continuing efforts to de-escalate.

According to a a statement released by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two reviewed the latest developments in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories as well as ways to implement a lasting ceasefire.

The White House also said it was pushing to restore

the truce, with Press Secretary John Kirby telling reporters on Friday evening that the US wants to see more captives released and more humanitarian aid get into the Strip.

“There has been some disappointment, the fact that the US efforts to extend the ceasefire were not successful, but the other reaction has been to simply repeat the Israeli line that the end of the ceasefire came about because of actions by Hamas,” Al Jazeera’s Mike Hannah reported from Washington, DC. “Blinken says Israel is acting immediately to ensure the safety of civilians in the conflict zones, giving them areas in which they will take safe shelter. This ignores the fact that Israel has, in turn, ignored the humanitarian notification system,” he added.

Egypt says it was also working to reinstate the truce in Gaza as soon as possible, according to a statement by Egypt’s State Information Service.

More than 15,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 7, including more than 6,000 children.

In Israel, the official death toll stands at about 1,200.

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News LEGAL NOTICE 2 13th day of October, 2023 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by ALECIAANNETTA UKUSARE nee ARMSTRONG, Petitioner/ Applicant by the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 19th day of October, 2023 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News, a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the worldwide web. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Monday the 5th day of February, 2024 at 11:45 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Damone Younge via Zoom Meeting ID: 845 1426 6584 and Password: 786445.

IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara].

The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed.

Dated the 25th day of October, 2023.

WANTED

FOR RENT

LEGAL NOTICE 1

Truck and Canter Driver, ages 30 years & older. Must have atleast 5 years experience. Call: 613-0855 9am4pm.

4 bedroom furnished house, 6 beds and 2 parking available at Lamaha Gardens, Garnett street. Call: 679-2966.

APPLICATION FOR MONEY LENDER’S CERTIFICATE PURSUANT TO SECTION 4 OF THE MONEY LENDERS ACT I, ANWAR HASSAN SALIM of Roden-Rust, Parika, East Bank Essequibo, hereby give notice that I have applied to the Magistrate of the WEST DEMERARA MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT for a Certificate under the Money Lenders’ Act, authorizing the grant to me of a Money Lender’s Licence to carry on the business of a Money Lender under the title· of SALIM’S MONEY LENDING of Roden-Rust, Parika, East Bank Essequibo. NOTICE of any objections to the application should be sent forthwith to the CLERK OF COURT OF THE WEST DEMERARA MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT and a copy of any such notice should be sent to the subscriber, ANWAR HASSAN SALIM of Roden-Rust, Parika, East Bank Essequibo

One licenced car Driver, ages 40-50 years. Must have atleast 10 years experience.

Call: 613-0855 9am-4pm.

Workers needed to work on Cash Crop Farm, $6000 per day. Call: 695-6139, 6797552.

Experienced Mechanic, Operators (excavator, bulldozer, ADT) and dredge crew needed for mining operation to work through Christmas.

Call: 688-6575.

Experienced Land dredge Workers and male Cook needed. Call: 677-2385.

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

Shop for rent at Stewartville, opposite secondary schoool.

Call: 649-2179.

Commercial building for rent at Zeelugt public road, E.B.E. 4500 SQ FT. Call: 650-0402/ 652-0251.

Furnished 1 & 3 bedroom apt in Diamond and Providence.

Call: 604-6664, 617-2666, 2162299.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crashbar, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Contact: 649-0956.

One Hauler Driver needed, starting salary $13,000 daily.

Call: 611-7088 for more information.

SERVICES

LAND FOR SALE Commercial land 205ft X 115ft in 6th Street Kase Village Cummings Lodge, ECD. Call: 701-6735.

19 acre of road side land at Friendship, East Bank Demerara. Call: 701-6735.

Commercial land located at Robb and Bourda street.

Call: 701-6735.

Property on Mon Repos public road, ECD. Call: 7016735.

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

Business/ residential PFSGYD$58M, Visa Application, advertisements, graphics design, passport application forms & i130 application.

Call: 626-7040.

Repair & install fridge, freezer, washer & dryer, AC units, stove, etc. Whatsapp/ Call: 637-4927, 654-9511 or 683-8734.

Corner land at Durban Street, Georgetown. Call: 701-6735.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale between Louisa and Norton street.

Call: 667-7659/ 649-8159.

FOR SALE

VACANCY

Empty 20ft containers for sale. Call: 701-6735.

Driver, Male bond assistant , Sales- clerk and Cashier. Apply at Mike's Pharmacy, Bel-Air. Email: mikeswholesaledepot@ yahoo.com

Yamaha 300hp HPDI outboard motors for sale. Call: 655-6283/ 673-9593.

Sworn to at West Demerara, This 19th day of October, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE 2 2023-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-1511 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Petition No. FD-1511 Between: (UKUSARE) ALECIA ANNETTA nee ARMSTRONG Petitioner/ Applicant -and(UKUSARE) JUDE Respondent TO: JUDE UKUSARE 162 Area ‘G’, Strathspey East Coast Demerara, Guyana.

TAKE NOTICE that on the

PAGE 34

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

PAGE 35

CARICOM, Commonwealth urge Venezuela to respect ICJ order on border controversy

T

he Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Commonwealth have issued strong statements urging Venezuela to respect the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) order on the border controversy case pending the outcome of the substantive matter.

The ICJ on Friday ordered Venezuela not to take any action to challenge, disrupt or interfere with Guyana's longstanding control and administration of the Essequibo Region, which constitutes more than twothirds of Guyana's land territory, until the Court has issued its final Judgment on which State enjoys sovereignty over that territory.

In a statement, CARICOM noted that Venezuela cannot by a referendum, or otherwise, violate international law and disregard the Order of the world's highest Court.

“CARICOM expects Venezuela to uphold the ICJ's Order of 1 December 2023.

It also insists that Venezuela complies with international law in all respects, and the Charter of the United Nations, and, in this connection, calls on it to take no actions in violation of them.”

CARICOM reminded further that the VenezuelaGuyana controversy is properly before the ICJ by the decision of the SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations for 'final settlement',

Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland KC pursuant to the provisions of the 1966 Geneva Agreement to which both Venezuela and Guyana are bound.

“CARICOM demands that Venezuela pursue its claims within the law and the legal process.

Further, CARICOM demands that the Caribbean be respected as a Zone of Peace and that nothing should be done to disrupt the tranquillity of the Region, which is essential to the economic prosperity and social well-being of all countries of CARICOM and Latin America,” the statement added.

S i m i l a r l y , Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral, Patricia Scotland KC, issued a statement o f f e r i n g t h e Commonwealth's full support to Guyana.

The statement noted that:

Secretary-General of CARICOM, Carla Barnett

“The Commonwealth reiterates our collective faith in due process, respect for national territorial sovereignty, international law, global order, peace and security and cordial international relations in the Caribbean and the Latin American region.”

Additionally the Commonwealth called on all members of the United Nations to encourage the parties to respect the integrity, sanctity and binding nature of the decisions of the ICJ in this matter and the provisional measures under Article 41 of the Statute of the ICJ that have binding effect and create international legal obligations for parties.

“The Commonwealth unequivocally condemns any action likely to breach the

peace in the region,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali said in response to the ruling that the Court has made clear, that Venezuela is prohibited from annexing or trespassing upon Guyanese territory or taking any other actions – regardless of the outcome of its referendum on December 3 – that would alter the status quo in which Guyana administers and controls the Essequibo Region, as an integral part of its sovereign territory, under the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899.

“Today's ruling is legally binding on Venezuela. Both the UN Charter and the

Statute of the Court, to which Venezuela is a Party, require its strict compliance.”

He added that “This is an opportunity for Venezuela to j o i n G u y a n a i n demonstrating respect for international law and the principles that govern peaceful coexistence.”

According to the President, “Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to the international judicial process and the rule of law. It is fully confident that, when the ICJ issues its final Judgment on the merits of the case, it will conclude that the Essequibo is legally and rightfully Guyanese territory.”

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

Bartica FA lauds the reality of new lights at the GFF’s National Training Centre

The GFF’s National Training Centre (NTC), at Providence, EBD, though not yet completed, is already, greatly, serving the development of football in Guyana. The facility, which is the reality of our first infrastructure project under the FIFA Forward Programme, is expected to be a model facility that will serve as Guyana’s first real home of football, the Bartica FA noted recently.

Already, our national teams have found suitable ground to use in their preparation for international campaigns, and grassroots devel-

opment competitions are making good use of the allweather surface. Now the GFF has ventured into the second phase of the project: the installation of television-quality floodlights.

The addition of floodlights at the NTC will add great value to the facility, and allow for maximum use of the facility...and, naturally, inspire more benefit to our players.

With this new development, our game can only get better.

The BFA further stated, On that note, improvement is a movement we are getting used to under the current foot-

ball dispensation in Guyana.

Since coming into office at the GFF, the Wayne-Forde-led administration has inspired new, higher standards in all things related to the game that we love. These days, we (the member associations) have come to know and appreciate a more civilized gathering of the congress, better systems for the sharing of information, transparency, the distribution of resources by way of the Members Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP), the actual promotion of the game by providing funds and equipment for leagues across

The lights being installed at the GFF facility.

Saturday December 02, 2023 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A number of deliveries, service people, emails, or phone calls might keep you jumping today, Aries, right when you're in the mood for a quiet day. It may take all your effort to keep your cool.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Too much pressure on the job could have you feeling like chucking it all and going somewhere by yourself.

You might be tempted to go on a spending spree or overindulge in food or drink.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) A close friend might pass along some seemingly harmless but nonetheless untrue gossip, Taurus. Don't accept anything you hear today until you check the facts for yourself.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Inner conflict regarding spiritual matters might have you questioning your and others' beliefs. You might doubt just about everything, Scorpio, and you could be tempted into angry debates over different concepts.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You don't normally tend toward frugality, Gemini, but today you could go overboard with your spending.

Frustration from all sides makes you want to release it all at once by acquiring new possessions.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Although your financial situation appears to be on the upswing, you still might be feeling pessimistic and indifferent about money and life in general. You might want to soothe your discontent.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Some failures that you may have experienced over the past few days could have you beating yourself up today, Cancer.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A minor and rather silly quarrel with a friend or romantic partner could have you down in the dumps. This is an overreaction, Capricorn.

You might need to get away for a while before you can make sense.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you might be able to tune in to the thoughts and feelings of others, Leo, but you aren't likely to know exactly how to handle the situation. Should you say something or just tailor your own behavior.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Group activities are probably very much on your agenda today, Virgo. You could attend an online meeting or lecture and later participate in a group chat with a bunch of friends.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Pressures on the job may be mounting. You might feel so disgruntled that you want to chuck it all and run away.

Foreign countries and distant states may suddenly seem far.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Demands made by friends, children, or the special person in your life might have you feeling like you're moving in a dozen different directions at once.

the country and several interassociation developmental championships, and the creation of infrastructure development programmes, not just at Providence, but also in the jurisdiction of several other member associations.

In terms of programmes and infrastructure development for football, the GFF, with assistance from FIFA, CONCACAF and other partners, is performing like one would expect the national government to perform. The new installations at Providence promise to light a pathway to a brighter future for

Guyana prepares to host 2024 From page 39 with the Minister earlier today and we expect that it will be a terrific competition. So we are fully confident of the success of the upcoming championship will be achieved. I am looking forward to visit the venues over the next few days and will provide the necessary information to both the local and international authorities.”

According to Malone, “What I’ve seen so far, the hospitality and the people I have met, I am extremely gracious and I am fully prepare to offer full support to Guyana. Additionally, the safety and well-being of everyone involved remain our utmost priority. We’re meticulously examining health protocols and security measures to guarantee a secure environment for all participants and spectators.”

“Our visit to Guyana signifies our commitment to ensuring that this event is nothing short of spectacular.

We’re here to inspect various hotels and venues that will serve as the epicenter for this extraordinary championship in October 2024,” Malone concluded.a

our young players, under the vision and leadership President Wayne Forde.

The reason we can shout this from the rooftop is because the Bartica Association has derived tangible portions from these initiatives: equipment, gear, creation of the Academy Training Centre, capacity building

programmes, football leagues and competitions...all with assistance from the GFF. The floodlights at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, which serve the entire community, were first installed by the Bartica Football Association, and later upgraded with more lights from the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Football Federation. The Bartica Football Association lauds the reality of new, television-quality floodlights at the GFF’s National Training Centre at Providence, because we know that our players, along with players from across the country, will benefit tremendously. And that’s not all!

The facility, when it is completed, will set a standard for the creation of other similar facilities within the GFF member associations...including Bartica. The installation of these lights is one small step for football development - the grassroots of infrastructure development, if you will. Yet, it is one giant leap for the youths of Guyana, who need it so badly, the BFA Facebook post informed.

“CPL is foundation to my success...

From page 38 academy side. He says developing his batting and becoming a true all-rounder is where he wants his game to end up.

“My goal is to be the number one all-rounder in the world and to put West Indies cricket back to where it needs to be at the top. So, for me

and a couple of the younger guys like me, we work really hard in terms of fitness, the mental side of the game, theory, whatever it be. We are always working because we know what we want to achieve, and we know the goals that we have set and planned out as a collective group.”

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

The well-being of all will be paramount; Franklin Wilson’s led slate committed to this Following the unfortunate accident in the wee hours of Monday morning that involved four of the country’s Refereeing officials, the Franklin Wilson-led slate that will be contesting the GFF elections set for Saturday, December 9, 2023, has said that the well-being and safety of these officials is a high priority.

The officials are Referee Assessor Ingram Johnson, Referees Gladwin Johnson, Kleon Lindey, and Referee Safyia Goulding.

The quartet were on their way home after performing official duties in an ongoing tournament at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary.

All the officials are now at home resting and recuperating and have all expressed their gratitude to Almighty God for allowing them an opportunity to continue their careers as officials, helping to transform the landscape of the game.

Wilson and Council Member Cristine Schmidt visited the officials on Thursday and expressed wishes for a speedy

Referee Kleon Lindey is flanked by Cristine Schmidt (right) and Franklin Wilson.

Referees, Kleon Lindley (left) and Safyia Goulding, with Cristine Schmidt.a recovery, on behalf of his slate and all Guyana. ”We join with you in thanking the Almighty God for keeping you safe and we do believe that you have lots of work to be done that’s why you are here. As a team, we are here to assist you in any way shape, or form to

ensure that you are fully recovered and can return to duties on the field in the shortest possible time.”

Wilson also told the officials that, once elected, the new GFF would place a high premium on the wellbeing and safety of Referees and other Match Officials.

Bishka Taxi Service T20 Over-40 set to begin December 17

T

he Bishka Taxi Service T20, O v e r - 4 0 competition is set to bowl off December 17 with a number of matches on the Essequibo Coast, Region 2, SupenaamPomeroon.

The round-robin tournament will be played in collaboration with the Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ESCL) and Caribbean Cricket Club (CCC).Registration is still on-going and interested teams are asked to contact Chairman of the ESCL Wakeel Layne (628-8030) or organizer Ehwaas Baksh (621-3070). The deadline is slated for December 10.

The two top teams will contest a final at a date and venue to be announced. The winning side will pocket $75,000 and a trophy while the runners-up team will take home $25,000 and a trophy. The man-of-thematch in the championship game is set to receive a

Wakeel Layne trophy while the MVP of the tournament will collect a trophy as well. Trophies are also up for grabs for the player with the most runs and wickets in the entire tournament. According to Layne, the third-place winner will be presented with a trophy, too.

Meanwhile, Layne stated that they are happy to have Bishka Taxi on board and he is anticipating another eventful tournament.

“We at the ESCL and

CCC [are] very grateful to Bishka Taxi Service to come on board; we encourage teams to register early so we can get things off on the starting date,” Layne mentioned.

Some of the grounds to be used are: Richmond, Affiance Number 1, Queenstown, Reliance and Hibernia with the Beach being an alternative.

Notably, the big whiteball will be used and entrance fee is free.

Layne said that, it should be an exciting tournament as some of the top softball players on the Coast are expected to play for their respective teams.

Some high-profile players who featured in previous competitions are: Ramesh Narine, Patrick Rooplall, Roy Gonsalves, Prashad Mahadeo, Basil Persaud, Vishwanauth Lall, Punraj Singh, Ravi Beharry and Lloyd Innis among others.

PAGE 37

Kaieteur News

PAGE 38

Saturday December 02, 2023

MVP Sports U11 Girls Football continues today - Finalists to be decided The climax of the 2023 M V P S p o r t s P e e - We e Under-11 Girls Football tournament is here, marking the decisive moment before the grand finale on December 9th. The tournament will enter its semi-final stage, unfolding at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue.

West Ruimveldt Primary and St John the Baptiste Primary will kick off the semi-finals, while the defending champions North

Georgetown face off against the formidable Marian Academy in the other showdown. Alongside these matches, other exciting clashes include Potaro Primary against Smith Memorial, Tucville Primary versus Friendship, and F.E. Pollard against St Aloysius, followed by One Mile taking on Genesis.

From an initial pool of 20 competitive teams, the tournament is now whittling down to the final four. The

7th Annual U11 Girls Football tourney has been a spectacle over the past couple weeks, witnessing an astonishing 20 goals on the opening day and numerous awe-inspiring individual hat tricks. Now, it’s time to see which teams will carve their names into the final four.

Moving forward, these four outstanding teams will compete for a grand prize of $250,000 earmarked for a school project chosen by the winners.

Pee-Wee U11 semi finals action set for today at Ministry of Education ground.

Runner-ups down to the fourth-placed team will receive $150,000, $125,000, and $100,000, respectively, for similar school projects, while teams securing fourth

to eighth place will receive $25,000 in sports equipment.

This Petra organised tournament was made possible through the

generous support of MVP Sports, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, and the Guyana Football Federation.

“CPL is foundation to my success” - Matthew Forde Matthew Forde was 20 years old when he first appeared for a CPL franchise. Having had success in age group cricket he was someone who was of interest to CPL teams, but it was a conversation with Pedro Collins that started his CPL career.

Forde had been coached

by Collins for a while. They lived very close to each other, and Collins would regularly give Forde a lift to and from training.

On one of those journeys the conversation turned to CPL cricket. Forde told Collins that he did not currently have a team.

Collins is part of the Saint Lucia Kings set up and he called Daren Sammy, the Kings head coach, while Forde was in the car. Forde was encouraged to send videos of him in action to Sammy and by the time he was dropped off Sammy had called back to say, “I want this youngster.”

That conversation led to Forde making his CPL debut during the 2022 season, and while he didn’t bowl in his first match, he was entrusted with the new ball for his home debut against Guyana Amazon Warriors. Forde says his response to being asked if he wanted this responsibility so early in his

Matthew Forde

career was to tell Sammy, “You asking a dog if he wants a bone”.

Forde was determined to make the most of that opportunity. While sitting on a drinks cooler waiting for his home debut he made it clear to his team mate, Rivaldo Clarke, that he was not going to miss his chance.

He said: “Rivaldo boy, I don’t know about you, but I know when I get my chance and I come off of this cooler, I’m not coming back on this cooler.”

Forde has not had to sit on the side lines since, with the latest milestone being his call up for the West Indies ODI team who are taking on England in December. His coach for that series will be

Daren Sammy, and Forde has said that his relationship with the Kings and West Indies head coach has been foundational to his career.

“I think he has been, if not the backbone, he has been the main guy for me in terms of giving me that opportunity and trusting me, believing in me. I started opening with the new ball for the Kings and he trusted me.

I just kept performing until he built that trust in me,” Forde said.

For Forde, the CPL has been the building block for his career progression since making that breakthrough in 2022.

“I think CPL was the foundation. CPL really started it all because without CPL then the rest of the world wouldn’t see me. CPL was my first major tournament. So, for me that’s like CPL was the foundation.

And I will always say the Kings will always be at my heart.”

Going forward, Forde wants to develop all elements of his game. He has tw o h alf cen tu r ies in topflight cricket, one as an overseas player at the Lanka Premier League and another in the recently concluded Super 50 tournament where he presented the West Indies (Continued on page 36)

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

20 ‘Nationals’ title for District 10!

District 10 wins 7th consecutive trophy, District 11 & 13 tied for second overall

D

istrict 10 asserted their dominance once again, securing their seventh consecutive Champion of Champions trophy and marking their 20th overall victory in the National Schools Swimming, Cycling, Track and Field, and Teachers Championship.

Since 2015, District 10 has held an unmatched reign, clinching victories in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, and now, in 2023.

Their legacy extends further, with overall wins in 1986, 88, 91, 92, 97, 98, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2011.

District 10’s outstanding performance, reigning supreme in the Track and Field Championship and placing second place in the Teachers, Swimming, and Cycling events, resulted in a total of 71 points.

In a tightly contested battle, District 11 and District 13 shared the second-place spot, both amassing 55 points.

D i s t r i c t 11 ’s l a s t championship win dated back to 2014, adding to their victories in 1980, 81, 82, 83, 84, 93, 94, 96, 2002, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013.

District 9 emerged as an unexpected standout, claiming fourth place and surprising everyone by winning the cycling title.

District 3 rounded off the top five at the 61st National Schools Championships.

The championship showcased outstanding individual performances, with Tianna Springer dominating the track, winning the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 4x100m, and 4x400m.

She was rightfully named the U18 Champion

Athlete.

Athalleyah Hinckson secured the U16 Champion Girl title with recordbreaking wins in the 100m and 200m.

District 10’s Kaidon Persaud delivered an unblemished performance to be named the U16 Champion Boy. District 12 claimed the Boys U20 championship, while Shanika Campbell earned the Girls U20 championship title.

In the Boys U8 division, the highlight of ‘Nationals,’ District 4’s Jaden Bristol emerged as the champion athlete, finishing ahead of District 3’s Kester DeSouza and D i s t r i c t 5 ’s A k a z i a h Semple.

A comprehensive coverage with full details will be published in a subsequent edition of Kaieteur News. (Rawle Toney)

Tough opening day for Guyana Jaguars in Grenada

T

he Guyana Jaguars rugby team faced a challenging start to the 2023 Grenada Rugby World 7s (GRW7s) Tournament, which kicked off yesterday at the Kirani James Stadium in St. George’s.

Participating in Group A, the Jaguars experienced a tough i n i t i a l m a t c h , succumbing 0-29 against

Atlantis from the USA. However, they showcased resilience and determination in their second game, staging a comeback 20-12 against Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force.

Despite their efforts, Guyana faced another setback in their final match on the tournament’s opening day, falling 5-29 to Misfits.

Looking ahead to

t o d a y, S a t u r d a y, t h e Jaguars are set to take on FRN at 11:40 hours in their last Group-stage game.

This fiercely competitive tournament features sixteen of the world’s finest Men’s and Women’s Elite 7s teams from the UK, USA, Canada and the Caribbean, all vying for a share of the US $20,000 total prize pool.

PAGE 39

Guyana prepares to host 2024 CAC Bodybuilding C/ship - CACBBFF officials here for three-day visit Head Panel during yesterday’s GBBFF press conference (L-R) Videsh Sookram Secretary GBBFF, Treasurer of CACBBFF Ed Malone (center) and GBBFF head Keavon Bess.

The Central America and Caribbean Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (CACBBFF) top brass is currently in Guyana for a three-day visit alongside the CAC inspection team. This visit marks a crucial step in Guyana’s preparations to host the 2024 CAC Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship. Keavon Bess, President of the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF), officially announced this during a brief press conference held at the Guyana Olympic Association building in Liliendaal yesterday.

This championship, set to return to Guyana after two decades, signifies the sport’s notable growth in the country. Guyana’s strides on the international stage have been significant, earning considerable accolades in recent years. The upcoming hosting of the 51st edition of this championship is a remarkable achievement.

Among the key figures present at the press conference were Keavon Bess, Videsh Sookram (General Secretary of GBBFF), and Ed Malone (Treasurer of CACBBFF).

Bess highlighted, “We have already secured assurance

from the Minister of Culture, Yo u t h , a n d S p o r t s , guaranteeing approval for hosting this event.” He elaborated that during the visit; Malone would inspect the venue and also attend the ‘Clash of the Baddest’ Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship taking place tomorrow. This presents an opportunity for Malone to observe various facets of the competition firsthand.

During his remarks, Malone stated, “We are extremely confident that Guyana will fit the necessary criteria to host the event. The support is good, we have met (Continued on page 36)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 40

40 goals conceded, as Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival gets off to a flyer - GCC, Antonio Hikers, TT Police among winners Exciting start to the 2023 Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival, as the opening day witnessed a hive of goal scoring prowess on Thursday evening at the National Gymnasium. The tournament kicked off with quite a show! The matches were filled with intense action and impressive performances as 40 goals were conceded on day one of the competition.

In the Value4U Masters Over-45 category, GCC Vintage had a remarkable comeback, turning the game around from being down by two goals to clinch a 6-2 victory against Old Forts General. Davin Hooper and Captain Woodroffe led the charge for GCC, with Hooper netting two goals and Woodroffe contributing to the e q u a l i z e r. T h e r a p i d succession of goals in a short span definitely kept the excitement high.

The Women’s category match between GBTI GCC and Saints showcased a spirited game. Abosaide Cadogan’s quick entry into the turf resulted in an

US-based Ellis Chance of Old Fort Expendables releases a shot at net versus Antonio’s Hickers in the Republic Bank Over-35 Division. immediate goal, setting the pace for GBTI GCC. Sonia Jardine and Sandy Roopnarine added to the scoreboard, securing a 4-2 win for GBTI GCC despite a late goal by Saints’ Clayza Bobb.

The Men’s O45 division match between Antonio Hikers and Old Fort Expendables was a highscoring affair, with Antonio Hikers dominating the game with an 8-2 victory. Akim Toussaint’s impressive hattrick and contributions from Sherwyn Caesar and others sealed the win for Antonio Hikers.

The international clash between Spice and TT Police saw TT Police emerging victorious with a 2-0 win, courtesy of Britney Hingh’s successful penalty corners.

Later, Pepsi Hikers managed to edge past YMCA Old Fort in a closely contested match, securing a 3-2 win with standout performances from Akim Toussaint and Aroydy Brandford.

The final clash between Bounty GCC and Saints ended in a nail-biting finish. Saints took the first lead in the 11th minute, the next 11 minute saw GCC equalising the score after

being awarded a penalty corner. Meanwhile at the end of the third quarter the score was 3-2 with Saints ahead by one goal. Saints bounce back nicely with two excellent field goals in quick succession, pushing the score to 5-2, Despite of scoring two late goals GCC was unable able to come up with a win as the match closed on 5-4. The tournament’s continuation tonight promises more exciting matches at the National Gymnasium, with the details set to be published in the upcoming Sunday edition.

Saturday December 02, 2023

Guyana’s Top Golf Players Focusing on MoE Priority Programme Golf Coaching

A

vinash Persaud, the winningest golfer in Guyana’s history in major championships and Vishal ‘Butters’ Dhanai, the Number 2 golfer in the country, have switched their attention to Coaching in the Unit of Allied Arts Priority Programme Secondary Schools sports programme with the Guyana Golf Association/Nexgen Golf Academy.

Both of these top players have been engaging in coaching hundreds of students on a weekly basis in Golden Grove and Good

the sport on a weekly basis.

That number is expected to double in the next few weeks as more schools are added to the Programme in Regions 3, 6 and 10.

Head of the Priority Programme Saeed Zameen expressed his delight at the response emanating from the HM’s, teachers, and students in all the schools, “While Golf is only one of the many sports being introduced under this Programme with cricket, swimming, volleyball, basketball, track and field, badminton, chess,

Top Golfers Avinash Persaud (L) and Vishal Dhanai (R) turn Nexgen Coaches.

Hope Secondary schools.

According to Avinash, “This is the most rewarding experience in my golf career to be able to share my knowledge and experience with these students and I see amazing talent already in some of them. I only wish that this could have started earlier and I am grateful to M i n i s t e r P r i y a Manickchand, Mr. Saeed Zameen and Mr. Aleem Hussain for making this possible. “ With over 25 Schools already introducing Golf as a sport in Grades 7-9 under the Priority Programme and several already teaching Golf as a PE elective for CSEC in Grades 10 and 11, over 10,000 new learners are now actively engaged in

football, squash and hockey all available for learners, the uptake and interest in golf has surprised me!”

According to Aleem Hussain, President of the GGA and the Nexgen Golf Academy, “This project started in January 2021 under Allied Arts with Nicholas Fraser and has evolved into the a nationwide Programme helped tremendously by the Five Priorities initiative introduced by Honourable Minister Priya Manickchand this year whereby all learners must be exposed to a sport.”

With Westside Golf Course set to open to the public shortly, learners will now have access to a facility that allows them to experience all aspects of golfing.

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 02, 2023

PAGE 41

Winner’s trophy unveiled...

Preparations all set for final match day of GFF Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff today

The Guyana Football Federation-Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff winner’s trophy was unveiled yesterday at the Namilco Headquarters on the East Bank Demerara.

The December 1 presentation ceremony was attended by Namilco Financial Controller Fitzroy McCloud, GFF Competition Director Troy Peters, as well as Berbice Football Academy Head Coach and Team Captain Lennox Adams and Sherwin Charles, respectively.

The much anticipated cup final is scheduled for December 2 at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground on North Road. The winner’s trophy will be claimed by either the Upper Demerara or Berbice Football Academies. East Bank Football and Bartica Football Academies will vie for the third and fourth place trophies. GFF Competitions

Director Peters confirmed the Federation’s readiness to roll out the final day of competition in the National Academy Playoff.

“The Federation is fully prepared to execute the final match day of the Guyana Football Federation-Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff. Players and coaches alike are enthusiastic and the fans are eagerly anticipating their teams’ battles for the top four spots.”

Meanwhile, players from Upper Demerara and Berbice spent the last week attending intensive practice sessions, with both teams striving for victory on the field today.

Berbice Head Coach Adams shared that his squad is “very very excited, we’re preparing for it. We looking for a victory. We took one game at a time and at this point we’re happy to be here and we want to make our

ATC one of the best in the country.” Confidently, team captain Charles backed him up, adding: “It’s the first time playing Linden and it’s going to be a victory for Berbice. There will be a lot of Berbice people out there to support and we aren’t going to let them down either.”

Upper Demerara Head Coach Order Bovell asserted that his players are “focused and practice session has been great. The players are showing that they need it and we are ready.”

His vice-captain Joshua Fleming boldly stated that “the team is putting everything they have into practice. Come Berbice upper Demerara is ready.”

T h e N a m i l c o Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff was established as a platform for Guyana’s emerging young talents to showcase their skills and

From left to right - Sherwin Charles- Captain of Berbice FA Academy, Troy Peters, Director of Competitions-GFF, Fitzroy McCloud, Financial Controller- Namilco, Lennox Adams, Coach Berbice FA Academy. earn recognition for the national team programme.

The tournament kicked off on October 7 with teams placed into two groups. Group A consisted of Georgetown, East Coast, East Bank, the National Under-15 Team and Berbice, while Group B comprised Upper Demerara, Essequibo, Bartica and West Demerara.

Following the round-robin phase, the top-performing teams from each group secured

their places in the championship round.

GFF President Wayne Forde expressed gratitude to Namilco for supporting the Federation’s vision for youth development and extended well wishes to the four teams competing today.

“We’ve witnessed weeks of intense football from our up-and-coming talents. I want to thank Namilco for believing in our youth

development programme, as well as the players, coaches, parents and fans for their commitment to making this playoff a success.”

The GFF top official reiterated his call for fans to attend the games and rally behind Guyana’s aspiring young stars.

The opening match today kicks off at 1:00 p.m., with the final match slated for 3 p.m.

rts Spo

20 ‘Nationals’ title for District 10!

District 10 ruled supreme to win their 20th overall National Schools Championship title.

District 10 wins 7th consecutive trophy, District 11 & 13 tied for second overall

40 goals conceded, as Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival gets off to a flyer - GCC, Antonio Hikers, TT Police among winners Spice girls surrounded by Trinis during the epic 2-0 encounter.

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