Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR

Borderline Facts Pt. 11

Monday Edition

It is better for people in conflict to be talking to de-escalate tensions

NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

December 11 , 2023 - Vol. 16 No. 48

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $100

- PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves

Online readership yesterday, 128,549

Guyana to discuss peaceful co-existence, respect for int'l law and avoidance of threats - Pres. Ali informs with Venezuela St. Vincent PM …maintains Guyana's control over Essequibo not on the cards

Pilot Mike Charles lowered flowers for dead pilots near crash site days before his death Joint operations, training programmes to continue as Guyana prepares to defend territorial integrity - Pres. Ali Greek national Two die in ‘Heroes Highway’ commissioned shot, robbed Friendship in memory of fallen soldiers accident at Bourda p.

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Amid border controversy with Guyana, Maduro to visit Russia this month

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Kaieteur News

Monday December 11, 2023

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Guyana being vigilant in ensuring

Venezuelan migrants not being used as ‘Trojan horse’ - VP Jagdeo Vi c e P r e s i d e n t o f Guyana, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, said recently that the Guyana government is taking a cautious approach in monitoring the influx of Ve n e z u e l a n m i g r a n t s , stressing the need for vigilance to ensure that they are not being used as Trojan horses by the Government of Venezuela.

“We have to be careful because there is a possibility that we could be infiltrated by the Venezuelan intelligence apparatus by planting people here,” Jagdeo said on Kaieteur Radio's 'Guyana's Oil & You'.

“So we have to be vigilant. Our security forces and our intelligence operations are geared towards finding such people if they exist. And we also

have to be careful that the communities don't become a Trojan horse here.”

This caution comes amid a backdrop of a longstanding territorial controversy between Guyana and Venezuela. Venezuela has pursued Guyana's territory for many years, with recent actions seen as an aggravation.

This is particularly concerning in light of the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) provisional measures advising against any action that could alter Guyana's control over the Essequibo region. Guyana is currently awaiting the ICJ's judgment on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which is crucial for the settlement of the controversy between the two nations.

However, a deepening crisis in Venezuela has led to millions fleeing the country, with tens of thousands seeking refuge in neighbouring Guyana.

Venezuela's pursuit of Guyana's territory has complicated the issue, resulting in concerns from Guyanese about the effect of the influx on Guyana's ability to protect its territory.

Some in opposition quarters have even alleged that the People's Progressive Party (PPP) intends to use the migrants and refugees of Guyanese ancestry as a new voting bloc, in the lead-up to 2025 elections.

But Jagdeo assured that the government's handling of the issue is not political. "In relation to the refugees, our position on that, it's not a vote

issue… The PPP did not tell Maduro to have a bad economic policy in Venezuela, where people would eventually not have food to eat, so that they can flee to Guyana to come and vote for the PPP," he stated.

The Vice President said the economic migrants are coming, not to vote, but because they believe they can have a better life in Guyana.

“Many of them are of Guyanese origin, and our constitution and laws don't allow anyone, not APNU, not PPP, not any government, to discriminate against those people.”

Jagdeo further explained that there are also undocumented indigenous people, such as the Warraus, who often cross borders due to their nomadic lifestyle.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

He affirmed that the government is committed to granting fair treatment to all under the law. As Venezuela continues to act with disregard for international law, Guyana's focus on upholding its constitutional and international obligations, coupled with a keen

awareness of potential security threats, remains paramount. The message from Dr. Jagdeo is clear: Guyana, as a law-abiding c o u n t r y, w e l c o m e s Venezuelan migrants and refugees, but it will not allow the Venezuelan government to exploit the situation.

Amid border controversy with Guyana, Maduro to visit Russia this month A

s the controversy between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region r a g e s o n , Ve n e z u e l a n President Nicolás Maduro is set to visit Russia in December, a development that could have implications for the territorial quarrel.

The exact dates of his visit will be confirmed soon, as stated by Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov, according to Russian News Agency TASS. This meeting comes at a time when the role of Russia, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), is pivotal in relation to the GuyanaVenezuela controversy.

The matter hinges on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which granted the Essequibo region to then British Guiana. Guyana has sought the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) intervention to affirm the award's validity, while Venezuela contends it as fraudulent and has challenged the ICJ's jurisdiction.

The ICJ, having already issued provisional measures instructing Venezuela not to exacerbate the situation, including by seeking to modify Guyana's control of

Venezuela's President, Nicolás Maduro the territory, has been met with plans by the Bolivarian Republic to incorporate the territory as a new Venezuelan province.

This move could significantly aggravate the situation, and Guyana has sent the matter to the attention of the UNSC, whose decisions are binding for all UN members, including Venezuela.

Guyana's forthcoming non-permanent membership in the UNSC, starting January 2024, places it in a strategic position.

However, the key to a swift resolution at the UNSC may lie in the stance of Russia.

As a permanent member with veto power, Russia's

Russia President, Vladimir Putin position, historically noninterventionist in this matter, gains critical importance.

In 2022, Russian officials assured protestors in Guyana that they would not support Venezuelan actions against Guyana.

This assurance was given during a protest against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where the protestors explained their principled stance, drawing parallels between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the GuyanaVe n e z u e l a s i t u a t i o n .

Guyana's own government has spoken out against Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

A recent statement from Russia urged a peaceful resolution to the controversy

between Guyana and Venezuela, but spoke out against foreign interference in the matter, seemingly

alluding to the involvement of the United States.

Other members with veto power on the UNSC include the United Kingdom, the United States, China and France.

The UK and the US have expressed support for Guyana's territorial integrity, firmly in support of the 1899 Arbitral Award. France has spoken in support of ICJ as the means to solve the controversy.

China, like Russia, urged peace but did not take a side nor did it expressly state support for the ICJ as the solution.

While the agenda of Maduro's impending visit to

Russia, as announced by Ushakov, is not explicitly linked to the GuyanaVenezuela controversy, the timing is crucial.

With Russia's influence in the UNSC and its historical relaionship with Venezuela, any discussions or outcomes from this visit could significantly impact the course of the controversy, as the UNSC is now considering it. Moreover, the visit is notable as it occurs in a mon t h p a c k e d w i t h d o m e s t i c a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l engagements for Russian President, Vladimir Putin, indicating the importance of Maduro's visit.

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

Unwavering support The United States has pledged its ‘unwavering support’ to Guyana. It is pleasing to the ear, but some substance that confirms those words would go a long way in building the confidence of Guyanese. America is Guyana’s pivotal ally in this time of dire escalations of threats, and indications of Venezuelan determination to deliver on their villainous plans.

The Government of Guyana has made appealing and leaning on the international community the first legion of its thrusts to stave off the developments flying out of the Venezuelan capital and its leadership. President Maduro has shown his hand openly, made his objectives crystal clear: “Essequibo belongs to Venezuela as a matter of sacred birthright”. Like hell it is, and from that Guyana must not back away. A peaceful resolution would be the best of situations, but our neighbours seem bent on actions that have no foundation in history or law. When men back themselves into places from which there is no escape, they then resort to desperate measures to save themselves. This is where President Maduro has barricaded himself, and from there plots his moves, pieces together his mad visions.

There was a man who used to do just that in the Bavarian Alps, only to break himself and the people of his country into pieces.

It is in this context that America has pledged its ‘unwavering support.’ Whatever prompts that kind of support, it is welcomed. But the support has to be seen and heard to be believed, to offer the type of comfort for which Guyanese leaders have worked so tirelessly. For better or worse, Guyana has tied bundles with a range of American interests, which all local leaders have gone on record to say must be honoured, and that they will honour. The strength of American reciprocity must put be on the table for all Guyanese to see, Venezuela to be alerted, and the world to be engaged. It must be forthcoming in a hurry, and in the most tangible terms. America’s own interests are involved, for there is nothing that more enrages President Maduro than to sit on the sidelines and read reports of what is going on in Guyana. That is, how this country’s natural resources wealth is explored and extracted, and how much the Americans are involved.

Americans operate in Guyana’s seas, on its land, and in increasing numbers. There is clear visibility here on how much America’s interests are intimately intertwined with those of Guyana. It is encouraging, therefore, to note that Guyana’s appeal to the United Nations Security Council has been given the highest urgency and fast tracked. It would be surprising if the weight of American clout and sponsorship were not fully at work in such a development. Unwavering support can take many forms, and be backed by the might of American muscle. This is the reality of tiny Guyana, limited Guyana, and a vulnerable Guyana.

It is vital that Guyanese leaders and citizens recognize our limitations, and also that all know who our first friends are, regardless of how unhelpful they may appear at times.

We must be further cognizant that powers such as America have strategic interests as their first priorities, and friendships only feature as a secondary consideration. Small and weak nations, like Guyana, have to be wise in their choices, careful in their calculations. America is Guyana’s bodyguard, and that should not be forgotten. Guyanese must also remember that in America’s hands resides the influence to move other powerful nations to go along with it. This can only be to this country’s benefit in the face of Maduro’s ambitions, and Venezuelan aggressions. Guyana needs America by its side, and to have its back. Unwavering support means that it is there in the totality of its vigor, the reach of its many tentacles of power.

Guyanese must appreciate that ‘unwavering support’ is not cheap, and the quid pro quo can be steep. Great economic prices have already been paid, and it is likely that there will be more that is in the making. The condition of Guyana is known, it is important, therefore, that the national positions are founded on what is constructive, defensive, and productive for all Guyanese.

Monday December 11, 2023

If not the ongoing controversy, what is to be discussed?

Dear Editor, The swiftness of agreeing to meet with his Ve n e z u e l a n a d v e r s a r y following on the heels of the call by CARICOM is not only amazing but troubling.

The Venezuela President had call for a meeting, but

this was rebuffed Now all of a sudden a meeting is being brokered by the leader of s small CARICOM state and Guyana, it seems is b l i n d f o l ded into attending.

What are the parameters of this meeting and agenda barring discussions on the

ongoing controversy?

Just what are the stated objectives and collective, expected outcomes?

Going into a meeting of this nature where national issues are at stake demands a national consensus and response.

It has to be asked why is

SVG taking the lead in this meeting of adversaries?

Was this advocated by CARICOM, a small state in the forefront, trying to broker and m e d i a t e , t h e c o n t i n u a t i o n of the zone of peace?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

Making progress combating Mental Health Issues

DEAR EDITOR, Shocking it is! “Two of the most common Mental Health conditions, depression and anxiety, cost the global economy US$ 1 trillion each year. Despite these figures, the global median of government health expenditure that goes to Mental Health is less than 2%.” Terrible right? Thus, my remarks and I hope readers pay attention.

First, it is quite heartening that “Guyana (is) prioritising Mental Health (and to this end), the Government of Guyana intends to allocate sufficient funds to ensure continued improvement in the country’s mental health programme.” This is the word from Advisor to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, who spoke at the opening of the third Mental Health and Well-being Conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

He explained that “Whether it is Mental Health disorders, whether its neurological diseases, whether its substance abuse and the various social issues that we face, Guyana is willing to approach wellness, it’s the reason why in the Ministry of Health prevention programme, road safety is an issue, it’s the reason why domestic violence and sexual abuse are being addressed.”

Is he right? Yes indeed, since Mental Health is more than the absence of mental disorders. In fact, Mental Health is an integral part of health in general; as there is no health without Mental Health, and it is determined by a range of socioeconomic, biological and environmental factors.

Coming from the World Health Organisation, “Mental Health is an integral and essential component of health; a state of complete physical, mental and social

well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” So, we need to bear in mind that an important implication of this definition is that Mental Health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities.

Editor, we all know the seriousness of Mental Health issues and it is only appropriate that “… budgetary allocation to tackle this issue has increased over the years and covers the collaborative work of several ministries.” This was clearly pointed out by Ramsammy, who added that “Guyana’s approach since the 1990’s has been a Holistic Government Approach to Mental Health … with our Budget for example in the Ministry of Education, where we in the early 2000’s started an Adolescent Health Programme. For the first time there is a measurable amount of social workers in schools, we are not where we want to be, but for the first time we have that… we have various programmes in various ministries.”

My second point is rooted in the current literature on this issue. I iterate that what we know must translate into what we do. It is well-established that Mental Health is a state of wellbeing in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. It is crucial to our collective and individual ability as humans to think, emote, interact with each other, earn a living and enjoy life. On this basis, the promotion, protection and restoration of mental health can be regarded as a vital concern of individuals, communities and societies throughout the world.

I guess this is precisely the reason for Ramsammy’s detailing that there is “… the need for improved mental

h e a l t h ‘ l i t e r a c y, ’ a n d suggested that the University of Guyana’s curriculum be updated accordingly.”

He elaborated that “Suicide kills people, mental health disorders kill people and that understanding we need to develop, not only among ordinary people, among us, policy makers, service providers, our doctors and nurses and unless we have a strong Mental Health Literacy Programme, we cannot talk about wellness.”

Succinct and timely!

Editor, as you can guess, I am very pleased, on behalf of all those affected that Professor Emanuel Cummings of the University

of Guyana informed the audience that “… discussions have started with the Ministry of Education as a follow up to the last conference, to have social workers do internships at schools across the country.”

So, things are falling into place. Guyana has moved forward quite a bit, since the P e o p l e ’s P r o g r e s s i v e Party/Civic Government (PPP/C) passed the allimportant Mental Health Bill and Suicide Prevention Bill last year, with the aim to use modernised methods of tackling Mental Health issues in the country. I know there is more to come.

Yours truly, HB Singh

This country in good hands DEAR EDITOR, I refer to a letter penned

by Mr. Hamilton Green in the media dated 11th August captioned, ‘No one really knows how these billions of dollars are gobbled up by GuySuco’ and it behooves me to reply since the Elder boldly threw the gauntlet thus, ‘On behalf of many concerned citizens, I will offer a public apology to the Minister and Board of Directors if the industry makes this 60,000 tons of sugar as stated by the Hon. Minister in Parliament this week.’

Undoubtedly, the words of an Elder bore a high degree of persuasive influence since his words are deemed to be the truth based on credible evidences. But in this case it was just a wild speculation, more malicious than of any substance.

At this point in time, the corporation has produced 60,106 tons of sugar, and the ‘public apology’ promised by Mr. Green is in order and should be made with haste.

This nation has suffered

immensely from the lies and deceit being peddled by the Opposition and a few of its sympathizers. Only recently the Opposition made a wild claim of chicken being smuggled into the country, another wild claim debunked by the Ministry of Agriculture.

This country is in good hands under the leadership of Dr. Irfaan Ali and so is the Guyana Sugar Corporation under the astute and competent leadership Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sasenarine Singh, who has defied the prognostication of the naysayers and has delivered beyond expectation which would include the rehabilitation of the Rose Hall Estate. Green and his cohorts can only destroy, they cannot build.

In conclusion, let me say this, I am of the firm belief that GuyScuo will achieve viability and will surmount all odds in so doing.

Congratulations GuySuco.

Yours sincerely, Angelita Karran

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Smuggling is well Will the left and socialist entrenched in Guyana countries support us on DEAR EDITOR, What is my response?

Preposterous! Ludicrous! A Big fat Joke! I speak here in response to the news that “Govt threatens legal action against Opposition Leader over ‘chicken smuggling’ comment.”

Let me quickly say this.

Guyanese buy chicken and other products from smugglers. I am not talking about the regular shopper alone, but actual business owners, namely the grocers.

They do this because they enjoy a better profit margin.

As for the ‘known’ and very ‘well-experienced’ smugglers, they can sell cheaper, since Guyana’s borders, across Surname and Venezuela, are a free range for illegalities. These ‘business’ men sell to even the prisons across Guyana.

They enjoy great immunity as they have the means to secure protection militarily and legally. Why do you think they are known for their hostile behaviour in the society? They can play loud music at will, park anyhow their luxury vehicles, entertain their employees’ police friends, and build fanciful houses.

The scale of smuggling in Guyana is unimaginable.

In fact, it would be good for readers to peruse the following: “Dealer under investigation for smuggling fuel from Venezuela.” …

Was previously banned from Suriname.” (Jul 14, 2021 News). By the way, this is not even the tip of the iceberg. I say to the Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, either you are

‘cracking a joke,’ or simply saying, ‘to heck with everyone-who can touch me or my smuggling pals.”

Look at this nonsense: “The Agriculture Ministry has refuted, in the strongest possible terms, the malicious, false, and libellous claims and allegations made by the Office of the Leader of the Opposition in regard to the smuggling of chicken.”

This is my proposal for those who are going to try to refute me. Come let us take a ‘walk around.’ Let me point out and record the smugglers in my village. Let me show you their assets, their crew, and their store houses. Let us ask them to show ‘proof-ofincome.’ Are you willing Mr. Minister? Let me boldly say that I am with the Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, who “has said that a major corruption has been unearthed in the Agriculture Ministry, and he is alleging that the Minister and at least one other senior official have been accused of smuggling truckloads of chicken.”

This is so in the fuel business too. The entire hinterland is supplied with fuel from Venezuela. This is well-established too. Again, we can go on a ‘walkaround’ or ‘sail-around’ as such. Editor, we have a National Coordinator for Agriculture, who at best, is not high-school qualified.

This post for National Coordinator was never advertised. All of a sudden Mr. Rabindranauth Persaud, a party-man, is sitting as ‘one of the top-dogs.’

Again, Mr. Minister, go

around with an independent group and find out what is happening at the National Agricultural Research and Extension institute (NAREI). I will not embarrass you nor him, concerning ‘suitability’ and ‘qualifications’ for National Coordinator. I am aware of party paramountcy. After all, some people lack dignity and honesty. Bare-facedness is normal in Guyanese politics.

I know. I can prove, but in this case the Opposition head is saying that “based on information he has received, several senior Police officers were instructed to allow trucks carrying huge amounts of smuggled chicken from Suriname to deliver same to the Guyana Marketing Corporation.”

This is not news or anything new. One man supplies the Lusignan Prison with smuggled goods.

Imagine the happenings across the country. I need no police source to inform me that “… the scheme involves over 50,000 pounds of chicken and over 1400 boxes of Rockingham chicken leg quarters.” And of course, we all know how undermining this is, as “Apart from being a criminal activity, such amounts threaten the local chicken industry and rob the country of valuable tax revenue.” In closing, I am calling the Minister’s bluff.

Let us go and do proper, independent and transparent checks on what is happening, and what I stand by. We film as we go along.

Are you ready?

Yours truly, Prescott Mon

border controversy?

DEAR EDITOR, I read that Russia, a left wing nation, has called for a peaceful resolution to the border controversy. Ralph Gonsalves, a left winger, is bringing the leaders of Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana together. It will be interesting to see which side the other so called ‘left’ or socialists (left wingers, Marxists, antiimperialists, communists, social democrats, pro-Chinese, pro-Russians, pro-Cubans, etc.) support on the border controversy. We know which side ‘the right’, the capitalists, the Americans, the West, support — clearly, they back Guyana.

The world court case on the matter is clear and a ruling is expected sometime next year.

The right tells Venezuela respect the world Court ruling. The left is largely silent except for the move

by Gonsalves. This is no different from the position of the left during the anti colonial struggle during the 1950s and 1960s. The communists and other left in France, Italy, West Germany, UK, Spain, and other Western European countries did not vocally support their communist brethren Cheddi Jagan. They were silent when Jagan was overthrown and when their countries sided with the right against Jagan, and now they are silent again on Guyana as Maduro claims our territory.

They have a new friend in Maduro and have abandoned an old loyal friend in Guyana which is now appealing to the right for protection.

Venezuela is claiming territory that has been under Guyana control for the last two

hundred plus years. Venezuela is not accepting any court ruling because it knows it has no case and is sabre rattling, pushing ahead with its claim for occupation and annexation of almost two thirds of our territory.

Guyana is no match for Venezuela in a military standoff. Who will come to Guyana aid? Will left wing politicians and countries support Guyana or back the new left wing Maduro?

Neutrality amidst injustice and bullying is not a position.

The governments of both countries claimed or are claiming socialist credentials and have been known to ally with other left partners globally. Both have very fraternal relations with historically accepted socialist countries. Venezuela has been a newcomer, less than two decades, in the cauldron of the left; Maduro has been showing off socialist credentials winning over Russia, China, Cuba and even a few Caribbean leaders. Guyana has been ‘left’ since the independence struggle in the 1950s except briefly when Burnham shifted rightward, strategically embracing the West to gain political power, and returned to the left by 1970 after achieving his goal.

The Caribbean Marxists or leftists or social democrats have not made a definitive statement

on the border case. The Guyanese left has also been quiet except for Clement Rohee who is calling for rightist intervention. The PPP has traditionally been very close with Russia, China, and other socialist allies. Russia, Cuba, and China, old time traditional left allies of both PNC and PPP administrations have been silent. They have not even issued a statement calling on Venezuela to pursue a peaceful solution to its claim and respect the world court.

China, not America, is the largest investor in Guyana.

Those of us on the right calling for greater American investments in and a security alliance with Guyana have been abused as imperialistic.

The left don’t want close relations with Washington.

The opportunists and left have told us that ‘Pax Americana’ is dead and that China is the future for Guyana.

Which world do they live in?

Where is China to defend us from Maduro? Today, USA and the right are strongly supporting Guyana on the border controversy. America stands between Venezuela and Essequibo. Without Pax Americana and warnings, Venezuela would walk over Guyana. Will the left come out definitively and irreversibly on the side of the world court and Guyana?

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

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Kaieteur News

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T B UN Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News, recognizing Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves as a respected elder in the Caribbean, acknowledges his wisdom in urging Guyana and Venezuela to discuss their issues.

The aim here is clear: these talks are not just about dialogue, but about cementing a commitment to peace and international law.

Kaieteur News sees real merit in conversations that align with the provisional measures set by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

To recap, those measures insist that no action must be taken by Venezuela to alter Guyana's control over the Essequibo Region.

This newspaper, reflecting the nation's hopes, fervently wishes that these discussions will lead to the most favorable outcome for the entire region of Latin America and the Caribbean.

We note the importance of stability for the region, as the lives of every person, even in the most distant communities in the Caribbean and Latin America, depend on peaceful and fruitful relations.

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Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

Guyana to discuss peaceful co-existence,

respect for int'l law and avoidance of threats with Venezuela - Pres. Ali informs St. Vincent PM

…maintains Guyana's control over Essequibo not on the cards

By Davina Bagot

President Dr. Irfaan Ali yesterday accepted an invitation by Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves for dialogue with the Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro.

The two states are presently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a final resolution on the border controversy.

Venezuela claims that two thirds of this country's mineral-rich Essequibo belongs to that country, but Guyana argues that this matter was already settled through an Arbitral Award in 1899 that has long been accepted by Venezuela.

In light of the deepening of tensions between the two nations, with Venezuela announcing measures to seize the territory, regional bodies have called for dialogue with the Guyanese and Venezuelan Presidents.

President Ali in his acceptance of the invitation

by Prime Minister Gonsalves on Sunday informed that

while Guyana is open to discussions with Maduro, the subject of the border controversy will be off the cards.

In fact, Guyana's Headof- State made it clear in his correspondence to Gonsalves, dated December 10, 2023 that the talks should be focused on peace, respect for international law and avoidance of threats.

The President said, “I will be there in answer to the call by colleague CARICOM Heads of Government on 9 D e c e m b e r, 2 0 2 3 f o r appropriate dialogue between the leaders of Venezuela and Guyana to ensure peaceful coexistence, the application and respect for international law and the avoidance of the use or threats of force.”

The talks between President Ali and Maduro is set to take place in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday, December 14, 2023.

St. Vincent's Prime Minister in his letter to Guyana's Head of State, dated December 9, 2023

President Dr. Irfaan Ali informed, “The leaderships of the Community of States of Latin America and the Caribbean (CELAC) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) consider that it is necessary and desirable to facilitate the convening of a meeting in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., between the Presidents of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on matters consequential to the border controversy between these two great countries.”

Kaieteur News

understands that President Maduro has also accepted the invitation for talks with Guyana.

Meanwhile, President Ali in a subsequent address to the nation on Sunday, made it clear that there will be absolutely no compromise on the border controversy. His statements come amid tensions in the country on the scheduled engagement with Maduro.

The Head of State explained, “This matter is before the ICJ and that is where it shall be settled.

There is no negotiation on

this, there is no compromise on this…we have committed ourself to international law and that will not change.”

President Ali also reaffirmed Guyana's commitment to peace and stability in the Region and every action geared towards achieving this objective. To this end, he said Guyana has no objection to any conversation with Venezuela that does not include the border controversy, presently before the ICJ. The President was keen to note that the 1899 Award by the International Tribunal not only provided a full and complete settlement to the border dispute over the Essequibo region, but the Geneva Agreement also allowed for the United Nations Secretary General (UNSG) to determine a place where this controversy can be settled. Consequently, he pointed out that the UNSG has determined that the ICJ is that place and Guyana remains not only committed to that legal process but the outcome.

With the matter still

pending before the World C o u r t , Ve n e z u e l a n government on December 5, 2023 announced the appointment of a governor of Guyana's Essequibo Region, Major General Alexis Rodríguez Cabello.

International media reports also note that the Maduro regime has also announced that he and his team will grant concessions in the Essequibo region and have also given companies within the area three months to vacate.

Venezuelan authorities also presented a new map to its people which shows the Essequibo region being part of the Venezuelan territory.

These acts are in blatant defiance of the ICJ's orders on December 1, 2023. The Court had instructed Venezuela that it should not take any action that would alter Guyana's control over the Essequibo Region. It also instructed both nations to refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.

Pilot Mike Charles lowered flowers for dead pilots near crash site days before his death

T

hree days before Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles and his four colleagues were killed in a helicopter accident, the veteran Guyana Defence Force (GDF) pilot had honoured two dead pilots who were killed in a plane crash 50 years ago at the same location, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali revealed on Sunday.

President Ali was at the time giving the feature address at the commissioning ceremony of the 'Heroes Highway' which was named in honour of the fallen soldiers. The President recalled Lieutenant Colonel Charles lowering down two wreaths into the dense jungle, where he himself ended up losing his life three days later. Ali said that Charles did the endeavor in memory of the dead pilots.

“Mike Charles was determined, in memory of a crash in the same area, to lower two wreaths for two pilots who died in that crash,” Ali said, while adding, “ He {Charles}

An emotional President Ali on Sunday

and {Major} Anson Weekes {another GDF pilot} proceeded on one of their flights to the interior to make these wreaths with flowers.”

Ali described the act by Charles as an act of “selflessness.”

“50 years after the crash, the love was there and he went and do something in their honour, how many humans would do something like that,” Ali told those in attendance of the road

commissioning ceremony.

Michael Charles is popularly known by Guyanese for the beautiful photos he takes of the hinterland regions, Guyana's landscape and the country's biodiversity, while flying across the country on GDF missions. He had been a GDF pilot for decades and on Wednesday last, he and his co-pilot Lieutenant Andio Crawford and engineer, Corporal

Lieutenant Colonel, Michael Charles

Dwayne Jackson, was tasked with a mission to fly four high-ranking GDF officials, Brigadier Retired, Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan to Arau, a location at Guyana's western border with Venezuela.

The soldiers left Base Camp Ayangana around 09:23hrs but stopped along the way at Olive

Creek to refuel the helicopter.

Shortly after taking off, the helicopter crashed in the forested area enroute to Arau. The GDF said that the chopper's Emergency Locater Transmitter (ELT) signal went off around 11:20hrs.

The crash site was located on Thursday but Charles and four his colleagues did not survive. His crew members, Jackson and Crawford made it out alive.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 11, 2023

PAGE 09

Say no to a US military base in Guyana Ravi Dev has published a shocker – calling for the establishment of a US military base in Guyana.

One hardly expects such sentiments from someone so knowledgeable about global relations.

South America, despite its ideological plurality and the decline of left-wing governments and movements, remains fiercely anti-imperialist. The anti-imperialist sentiment that resonates across Latin America and the Caribbean is rooted in a desire for autonomy and selfdetermination.

H i s t o r i c a l l y, L a t i n America and the Caribbean have borne witness to the scars left by imperialistic ventures, and the wounds are still fresh. The shadows of colonization loom large, and the region has long prided itself in its struggles for independence The very idea of a foreign military installation in the heart of Latin America and the Caribbean – there is already a major base in Colombia – not only collides with this anti-imperialist posture but also challenges the principles of sovereignty but also carries the ominous shadow of neocolonialism.

The presence of a foreign military base in Guyana would serve as a reminder of a bygone era when powerful nations sought to exert control over weaker ones.

Guyana has been colonised by the Dutch and English.

A US military base in Guyana would represent a new form of colonization and a return to the Monroe doctrine.

Allowing foreign

military bases is a step backward, not forward, in the collective pursuit of a world where nations are free to shape their destinies without external coercion.

Guyana, like any other sovereign nation, has the right to chart its course without external interference. The establishment of a US military base, regardless of its size, infringes upon this sacred right and introduces an unsettling element that compromises our understanding of nationhood.

Guyana must learn from history. A US military base would expose the country to a new form of colonization.

Such a proposal would not even have been contemplated during the era of Burnham and Jagan. But since their demise, the quality of national leadership has deteriorated.

And it is because of the mediocrity of leadership that we can have such abhorrent suggestion.

Establishing a US military base would endanger the security of Guyana, rather than help it.

The United States is hostile to Venezuela and it is not necessarily an ally of Brazil.

None of these two countries are likely to look kindly upon any suggestion that a US military base be established on their doorstep.

To do so would invite aggression from Venezuela and a rejection from Brazil.

Guyana cannot entertain the idea of a US military base on its territory.

Brazil has always – as it has done recently – been a

counterfoil to the Ve n e z u e l a n t h r e a t t o Guyana’s territory. To bring a US military base would remove the Brazilian factor as part of the defense of Guyana since Brazil would not be enamored by another US military base on their doorstep. The argument for a US military presence in Guyana often revolves around the idea of security cooperation and mutual defense. While security is undoubtedly a priority for any nation, it is crucial to question the motives behind such proposals.

Is the presence of a military base genuinely for mutual defense? Or does it serve as a strategic move to extend US influence and control?

The rest of the Latin America region will see any such base as moving beyond mere security considerations and towards projecting US power in the hemisphere.

Guyana, like any nation, has the right to defend its borders and ensure the safety of its citizens. However, the solution lies in fostering regional cooperation, diplomacy, and dialogue rather than resorting to the establishment of foreign military installations.

Such cooperation already exists with the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) which has been more concerned with fighting drug trafficking than equipping Guyana to improve its military capabilities. But the cooperation has nonetheless been important in deterring foreign aggression from Venezuela because of the perception in that country

DEM BOYS SEH

The times are changing

A

Trinidadian official invite a Guyanese official to his home.

The home is beautiful.

The Guyanese man is in awe at the Trinidadian home, so he asked him, how he managed to build such a massive and luxurious estate on his salary.

The Trinidadian takes him to the balcony, and points to a half-built bridge. ”See that bridge?

I used half of its budget to build my mansion.”

Six months later, the Guyanese official invites the Trinidadian official to h i s h o u s e .

This time, the Trinidadian

is shocked by the Guyanese o f f i c i a l ’s i n c r e d i b l y luxurious, huge and beautiful mansion, many times more expensive than h i s o w n .

So he asks the Guyanese how did he manage it with a public servant’s salary.

The Guyanese official brings him to the balcony and points out: ”Do you see that children hospital there?” ”What hospital?”

All dis story remind me that they had a time when if yuh w ukkin w ith de government and yuh build a decent house, de talk of de town was dat yuh deh pun de take.

But these days if yuh wukkin with de government and yuh living in a decent house, people does ask yuh how come yuh nah gat a mansion. People does expect dat if yuh wukkin with de government dat yuh are expected to have your hand in the cookie’s jar.

All of dis mek dem boys ask what ever happen to de investigation in fraud at de housing ministry.

We did hear how de police did wukkin pun de case.

But like de trail even gone dead, or de whole thing was a false alarm.

Talk half, Leff half

about the close relations between SOUTHCOM and Guyana.

Dev wants Guyana to adopt a realist approach to its defense. A realist approach to emphasize military strength as a primary means of ensuring security and the development of a self-help s t r a t e g y. G u y a n a ’s population is too small for it to have a strong military to match that of Venezuela.

Realism also downplays

the importance of regional cooperation and diplomacy both of which have been effectively deployed in the past and presently in responding to the threat from our western neighbour.

Guyana would be much better off doing what it is doing presently: rely on diplomacy and international solidarity to fend off any threat of aggression.

(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

PAGE 10

Monday Monday December May 02, 11,2022 2023

BY GHK LALL

H@RD TRUTHS President Ali in SVG: Maduro on the ropes S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

It is very encouraging to learn from a breaking news Demerara Waves article that Presidents Ali, Lula, and Maduro of Guyana, Brazil, and Venezuela respectively are scheduled to meet in St. Vincent in a few days. The ice had to be broken before matters got out of hand, and I am glad that Brazil's Lula took the lead, and is acting as the broker in this tense situation. There needs to be some urgent defusing, and a meeting of leaders on a neutral venue, with a heavyweight hemispheric leader in the middle, are as good a start as the disengaged and distrustful neighbors could get. I am glad that both Presidents Ali and Maduro have agreed to meet face to face. For if there is no dialogue between hostile parties, then there is no telling how mistakes could be made, and where they lead.

It means that urgent backchannels efforts to tone things down are bearing fruit.

It cannot be easy for Maduro

to climb down from his shaky straw horse, but the fact that he has done so signals a significant amount of arm twisting, and buttonholing.

But considering the range and weight of the international community's position and in whose favor it is almost unanimously, I believe that the Venezuelan president could have also be looking for a face-saving way to de-escalate out of the disaster that he made for himself.

For his part, Guyana's President Ali is operating and conversing in St. Vincent from a position of strength.

He has the winds at his back, and like any good fast bowler, he has to exploit the conditions to his advantage while the ball is new. The US, the UK, the OAS, CARICOM, and the Commonwealth have all made pointed statements, which even in the most critical assessments confirm them leaning more towards Guyana's direction. To this

point, only a treacherous Surinamese sneak development indicates any spiritual identification with Venezuela's claim, and this is reading very deeply into a reaction or two coming out of Paramaribo.

In keeping with this country's repeated position, our own President Ali has flatly and quickly punctured any idea about talking about matters related to the tense border controversy. I admit to some difficulty here, for of what meaning would such a Brazil-brokered meeting be about then? With Venezuela marshaling its forces, deploying its strengths, and brandishing its swords, and making no secret of any of these aggressive and disconcerting actions, I am hard pressed to discern what else is left to be discussed in such an atmosphere.

A considerable amount of bad blood has been generated by Maduro, and it does not wash away that easily. I fail to foresee how genuine talks

can be had about anything, such as bilateral trade, treatment of citizens in the two countries, or working together on joint ventures.

Maduro has poisoned the well of Guyanese goodwill, and President Lula is sure to have his hands full.

It is too late now, but it would have been so constructive and strategic for Brazil to have been closely involved in building a deepwater port here, possibly at the proper point in the Essequibo River, or one of those big bridges or projects that are all the rage currently in Guyana. When I think of such a wide Brazilian footprint in Guyana, all I could see is our first line of defense in the face of p e r e n n i a l Ve n e z u e l a n aggression. Shared interests, such things are called. This is where friendly neighbors with enormous capabilities are the best of friends. It makes for good sense, for any country that lives under the shadow of a huge and

grasping neighbor that has an on and off history of stirring up a century old matter that has long been settled, and dressing it up for their own scurrilous objectives. In brief, Guyana needs strong and principled allies, and I cannot think of any better than Brazil, with its proximity and regional superpower weight featuring prominently.

The hope, and it is a faint one, is that St. Vincent meeting of the three presidents will set the stage for more dialogue. Whatever misinterpretations and miscalculations have been made by Venezuela, it is time for them to be put to bed for good. The misjudgments of Maduro and his clique about their own strengths and Guyana's resolve must all wither away in the shortest possible time. Though he has tried to paint a rosy picture, even his own folks have not been fooled, as the turnout at his December 3rd referendum indicated, so he

is grasping for a way out of his self-created predicament.

It is my belief that Maduro has been harboring visions of glory, in seeing himself as the Bolivarian John Wayne on horseback.

He certainly chose a tall horse to ride. Now, he has a long way to go in his fall back to earth.

The St. Vincent meeting is the first movement in that direction. My expectations are low with regard to any g r o u n d b r e a k i n g development. My advice to President Ali is to hold to his line, and stand his ground.

He must not blink in the face of what has been Maduro's barefaced brinksmanship all along.

(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.)

Motion to be tabled today to reverse PAC quorum W

h e n t h e National Assembly is convened today, Opposition Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul will move a motion aimed at revising the quorum for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) from five members, to three for meetings of the parliamentary body to proceed.

Previously a quorum for the PAC was three members in keeping with Standing

Order 95 (6) which states “Unless the Assembly otherwise direct, three (3) Members shall be the quorum. In ascertaining whether there is a quorum present, the Member in the Chair shall not be excluded.”

However, last year, despite strong opposition from the Opposition APNU/AFC, the PPP/C government used its one seat majority to amend the standing orders in a motion moved by Minister of

Governance and Parliamentary Affairs and PPP/C Member of Parliament (MP) Gail Teixeira.

With the amendments, the PAC meetings could not go forward without the government side or opposition present.

In Mahipaul's submission, he noted that “since the existence of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), its work has always gone unhindered up until Resolution No. 35 of the National Assembly of Guyana.”

He also highlighted that the committee is yet to complete the “the examination of the Auditor General Reports for the years

2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021,” as well as “to submit reports to the National Assembly for the financial years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.”

It was also noted that since Resolution 35 came into play, the PAC was forced to cancel 11 meetings due to the lack of a quorum, as no member from the government's side showed up. The proposed resolution to the issue, according to the motion, is that the “National Assembly rescinds Resolution No.35 which was passed by the National Assembly on Wednesday, 13th April, 2022.”

Mahipaul had previously expressed to the National Assembly that thnow that the

quorum has changed, by the government members not showing up, it creates a scenario to stall the review of spending by the PPP/C regime.

The vote had come days after Chairman of the PAC, Opposition MP Jermaine Figueira raised concerns about the motion submitted

by Teixeira to amend the Standing Orders which deals with the quorum for the PAC. He explained that the previous quorum made it vastly different from all other committees of the Parliament and provides for a more independent and apolitical environment. According to the Chair, the motion by the Minister, who is also member of the PAC, sought to stymie

Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul the work of the committee.

“We in the APNU+AFC are confident that the effect of this motion will be that by their mere non-attendance, the PPP will stymie the functioning of the PAC rendering it impotent and non-functional,” he said.

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Borderline Facts Pt. 11

It is better for people in conflict to be talking to

Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves

de-escalate tensions

– Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves

By Kiana Wilburg

Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves recently offered a resounding substantiation of the importance of dialogue ahead of planned talks between Guyana and Venezuela. "It is better for people in conflict to b e t a l k i n g , " s t a t e d D r.

Gonsalves.

This perspective is especially relevant against the backdrop of the longstanding territorial controversy between Guyana and Venezuela, which has amplified in recent months.

Venezuela's President, Nicolás Maduro

Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali

" The fact of the matter is this, our region [of Latin America and the Caribbean] has been and is a zone of peace, and we'd like to keep it like this,” Gonsalves reasoned.

His concern extends beyond the immediate parties, recognizing that conflict can reach unwanted boiling points, l e a d i n g t o f a r- r e a c h i n g negative impacts, even in the most remote villages of the Caribbean.

Led by this reasoning, Prime Minister Gonsalves has requested a meeting in representation of the leaderships of the Community of States of Latin America and

the Caribbean (CELAC) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) between the Presidents of Guyana and Ve n e z u e l a o n m a t t e r s consequential to the border controversy.

The meeting is expected to be held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday, December 14, at 10 a.m. Dr. Gonsalves is the Pro-Tempore President of CELAC and has invited President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to participate in the engagement.

Dr. Gonsalves believes this meeting is critical to achieving one common goal: Deescalating tensions, even as both parties maintain their

independent positions.

On the heels of these talks for peace, Dr. Gonsalves stressed the need for maturity, wisdom, understanding, and respect as essential qualities in any meaningful diplomatic engagement.

“We have to be mature, we have to be wise, we have to be understanding, we have to be respectful of everyone,” he said at a press conference on Saturday.

Furthermore, Dr. Gonsalves has cautioned against the allure of quick fixes in a world accustomed to instant solutions.

He noted that real-life conflicts require more than immediate resolutions, calling for patience and perseverance.

"Life, living and production don't go like that," he said, while encouraging a measured, thoughtful approach to conflict resolution.

As citizens await the outcome of these talks, do bear in mind that President Dr. Irfaan Ali has stressed that Guyana is adhering to the process at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has affirmed that it has the jurisdiction to settle the question of the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award.

Dr. Ali has also affirmed that the controversy is not up for

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Monday December 11, 2023

‘Heroes Highway’ commissioned in memory of fallen soldiers ... late servicemen had chosen replica of an anteater for roadway

By Shervin Belgrave

commissioning ceremony on Sunday.

He recalled that the army officers had previously taken him many times by helicopter to the exact spot where the roundabout now stands, to inspect works on the highway.

“Hundreds of videos of the development of Guyana came from the lens of that chopper,” Ali said of the helicopter, 8R-AYA, which went down in the jungle at Region Seven last week.

To further preserve their memory, Ali said that steel structure with the names of the men will be erected at the Eccles roundabout today.

He said too that Heroes

The unveiling of a steel structure beside the roundabout with the fallen servicemen names

President Ali applauds as the son of the late Colonel Michael Shahoud cuts the ribbon to officially open the 'Heroes Highway'.

The unveiling of the plaque engraved with the names of the five fallen soldiers who died in Wednesday's helicopter crash

P

resident Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Sunday evening commissioned the $13.3 billion (US$65 million) 'Heroes Highway,' named in honour of the five fallen soldiers who died in a helicopter crash on Wednesday. The highway connects Eccles with Great Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

To honour the fallen soldiers, their names, Brigadier (Ret'd) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, veteran aviator Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan were engraved in a plaque

below a bronze replica of a giant anteater which was erected at the center of the highway's roundabout at Great Diamond.

President Ali recalled that the anteater was chosen to be the monument at Heroes Highway roundabout by two of the fallen soldiers before they died.

“Today we stand with one of our giants, the giant anteater, chosen by Anson Weekes {GDF Major} , Mike Charles, Jason (Khan) and myself,” Ali said during his emotional speech at the

Highway is not only dedicated to the five servicemen who tragically lost their lives i n t h e helicopter crash but for all those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“This highway from Eccles to (Continued on page 16)

A scenic shot taken from the roundabout at the Heroes Highway.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali addresses the gathering during the commissioning ceremony

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Two dead, several injured in Friendship accident

Dead: Keon Chandos Edwards called 'Junior Proctor' and 'Mad Dog'

The driver and a passenger of a Route 42 minibus died on Sunday morning after the vehicle toppled along the Friendship, East Bank Demerara public road when the driver attempted to overtake a line of traffic while heading to the city.

Dead is Keon Chandos Edwards called 'Junior Proctor' and 'Mad Dog,' of Lot 660 Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway and passenger Alvin Jones, 51, of Lot 4287 Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

Eight other persons, who were passengers in the minibus and most of whom live at Kuru Kururu, sustained injuries following the accident.

According to the police, one other passenger, a male whose particulars are unknown, was picked up in an unconscious condition, was seen, and examined by a doctor at Diamond Hospital; he was transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for further treatment as his condition was regarded as critical.

The police said the accident involved Edwards' minibus and two cars. Around 08:30 hrs on Sunday, Edwards was driving his minibus, bearing registration BYY7440, along the

Friendship public road in a northerly direction at a fast rate when he overtook a line of traffic.

The driver swerved west into the western lane and collided with motor car bearing registration PAD 3102, pushing same into the rear of another motor car, PXX 5169.

The minibus moved ahead and further collided with the front right bumper of motor car, PXX 5169 and as a result of the collisions, Edwards lost control of the minibus which turned turtle several times and passengers were flung out of the vehicle.

The minibus then came to a halt on the western parapet of the road with extensive damages. In video recordings seen by this publication, the passengers moaned in pain while some lay motionless on the parapet as police arrived at the scene and summoned assistance from emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Edwards and Jones were pronounced dead at the scene by the EMTs. The injured passengers were picked up in conscious and unconscious conditions, and taken to the Diamond Hospital where they were seen and examined by doctors on duty.

Police investigations into the accident are ongoing.

Greek national shot, robbed at Bourda A 48-year-old Greek engineer was shot on Sunday after he was confronted by two bandits on bicycles as he bought fruits on North Road in the city.

According to reports, Ioannis Caravassilis called 'Yanis,' arrived in Guyana on Saturday and was staying at a hotel on Croal Street. On Sunday, he decided to walk across to North Road, Bourda to purchase fruits when he was confronted by two bandits on bicycles.

One of the men confronted the foreigner from behind and placed him in a choke hold. A fight ensued and the other bandit pulled out a firearm and discharged a round in the air.

The man continued

fighting with the bandit when his accomplice discharged three rounds in the victim's direction.

He sustained injuries to his left side knee and right leg.

The bandits relieved the man of his LG-model mobile phone valued US$600 and G$5000 in cash.

He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Emergency Unit, where he was admitted a patient in a stable condition.

When he was visited by the police at the hospital, Caravassilis handed over three .45 spent shells and one projectile to the ranks.

Investigations are continuing in the said matter.

The minibus following the accident

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Monday December 11, 2023

Govt. opens first Mangrove Centre in keeping with conservation efforts

T

contribute to global efforts, striving to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Recognizing the importance and valuable contribution of these ecosystems to coastal protection and climate change mitigation, our government has over the years committed to their protection sustainable management, and restoration.”

He went on to say that, “This has been articulated in The new Mangrove Centre located at Mon Repos ECD the transformative Low Mangroves are known to C a r b o n D e v e l o p m e n t Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha Strategy 2030 and the new said that mangroves act as a serve as a link between National Mangrove Action natural sea defense and, by t e r r e s t r i a l a n d m a r i n e extension, complement our environments and as such, Plan.”

Meanwhile, Agriculture nation's D&I system. He also perform multiple functions said that the opening of the including mitigation of center demonstrates the c o a s t a l e r o s i o n , government's dedication to compensation of rising sea s a f e g u a r d i n g G u y a n a ' s levels, regulation of water natural ecosystem and sea quality, and provision of other countless ecosystem defenses. “ T h i s M a n g r o v e services.

Mustapha also disclosed Information Centre signifies more than a mere building; it t h a t f o r 2 0 2 3 , t h e is a proclamation of our Government has invested dedication to safeguarding some $200 million into our mangroves, preserving mangrove restoration to our heritage, and securing complete projects on the our future. In our national Essequibo Coast in Region context, mangroves are Two and Mahaicony, Region indispensable contributors to Five through the construction our fisheries, vital buffers of geotextile tube groynes, Representatives of the Government and other stakeholders against coastal erosion, and and timber breakwaters.

“These projects are part guardians of our diverse cut the ribbon at the opening of the Mangrove Centre of Guyana's adoption of the ecosystems,” he said.

he Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture's National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) on Friday opened the country's first Mangrove Information and Preservation Centre at Mon Repos.

T h e c e n t r e ' s establishment, which was developed through collaborations with Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development and Exxon Foundation, forms part of the Agriculture Ministry and by extension the Government's efforts to implement a

Strategic Plan for Agriculture and Rural Statistics (SPARS) and develop an Integrated Agriculture Information System.

Prime Minister Brigadier (ret'd) Mark Phillips in his feature address said Guyana has long been at the forefront of mangrove restoration and management efforts and that through collaborative initiatives, efforts have been made to restore degraded mangrove areas.

“Mangroves act as a natural carbon sink absorbing and storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By conserving and protecting our mangroves, we actively

green-grey infrastructure approach to the protection and increased resilience of our coastline. Through strategic government interventions, we have been able to execute projects that include the construction of 300 meters of permeable breakwaters along the Dantzig/Fairfield foreshore, a project aimed at enhancing the resilience of our coastal areas. Additionally, the construction of sediment trapping units spanning 300 meters along the Exmouth/Jib foreshore and a 160-meter rubble mound groyne in the same area exemplify our multifaceted approach to coastal protection. Moreover, the installation of 500 meters of (Continued on page 16)

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

Cuba thwarts terrorist plot by South Florida man who arrived by jetski, state-run media says

WANTED

VACANCY

SERVICES

Live-in domestic/ maid and canter driver to work in the Interior. Call: 614-1819.

Wanted: Experienced supervisor, cashier, counter person, cooks and labourer.

Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts.

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

Data Entry clerk needed.

Apply to: Essential Care Pharmacy & Supercentre , Block X Mandela Avenue or G3 Building Diamond East Bank Demerara Or Via E-mail - essentialcarepharmacy@ yahoo.com

Visa application: Canada and UK & U.S.A. Graphics design & advertisements.

Wedding decorations & elderly grooming: hair, nail etc. Call: 626-7040.

Carpenters, masons and labourers required. Call: 645-9805.

Driver, sales man, porters to work in warehouse. Must have experience , attractive salary offered. Call: 6964444.

One experience accounts clerk required. Call: 231-0363 General domestic covid vaccinated for Tuesday's & Saturday's between Cove & John & Machaica, E.C.D 259-0953/623-3231.

Handyman, maid & male receptionist for night needed.

Call: 225-9211.

Experienced crew (Jet, Maroc, Pitmen) and servicemen required for mining operation. Must be willing to work through christmas and the new year. Call: 697-2533.

Nimbus water system are now Hiring porters. Apply with application at Lot 79 Albert and Laluni streets queenstown.

Contact 622-0445 or 6857659 .

Male & female needed to work in the Interior, ages 18 years & older and one live in domestic to work min Georgetown. Call: 6862201/ 691-3942, 674-9999.

One housekeeper needed ages 18-35yrs, must have child care experiences and living in Timerhi/ Soesdyke or Kuru-Kuru. Call/ Whatspp: 603-0210.

Farm workers, clerk and admin assistant needed.

Preferably living in Timerhi/ Soesdyke or Kuru-Kuru.

Call/ Whatspp: 603-0210 or email: tjjason52@gmail.com One Domestic needed. Call Ameena: # 226-4948.

Male workers needed for Candy Factory, $3500 per day. 7am - 4pm, transportation provided. Call: 6117839.

Experience Cashier, Cooks, Counter Staff & Cleaners.

Apply @ Hot& Spicy Albertown. Call: 225-6255/ 226-9000.

Pharmacist & Pharmacy Technician needed. Apply to: Essential Care Pharmacy & Supercentre, Block X Mandela Avenue or G3 Building Diamond East Bank Demerara or E-mail essentialcarepharmacy@ yahoo.com Log truck driver, Diesel mechanic, Porters and Timber grant manager. Call: 609-7675/ 674-1705 Cook/ baker, pitman and servicemen for Interior location.

Applicants must be experienced. Call: 615-0545 or 2312250.

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(REUTERS) - Cuba said late on Saturday it had thwarted a terrorist plot hatched in neighboring south Florida, according to a report broadcast on state-run media, after a man allegedly arrived on the island by jetski to commit acts of violence.

The resulting investigation, which state-run media said was still underway, alleged the plot was tied to at least two groups, Nueva Nacion Cubana and La Nueva Nacion Cubana en Armas, which Cuba has labeled as terrorist entities.

Reuters was unable to contact either of the groups late on Saturday.

The report said one of the men it had arrested, who appeared on the program but whose identity was unclear, was armed with several handguns, ammunition clips and ammo.

The report alleged the man, a Cuban residing in Florida, had entered Cuba illegally on a jetski with a Florida registration, which he then abandoned in a mangrove swamp on the island‘s north coast before making his way overland to Cienfuegos, in south-central Cuba.

The man then attempted to recruit others to assist in committing acts of violence, arson and vandalism before his eventual arrest, according to the report.

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Cuba’s former President, Raul Castro and Cuba’s President and First Secretary of the Communist Party, Miguel Diaz-Canel speak during a May Day rally in Havana, Cuba May 1, 2022. REUTERS file photo State-run media said several other Cubans, residing both in South Florida and in Cuba, were under investigation for their involvement in the alleged plot.

The allegations comes just two days after Cuba published a list of more than 80 foreign nationals and entities it accuses of terrorism, including influencers, many longtime dissidents who reside in

the United States and a candidate for mayor of Florida’s Miami-Dade County.

The two groups identified in Saturday‘s TV report appear on the list published by Cuba earlier this week, and are labeled as “criminal organizations based in the United States that organize, finance...and execute actions against the security of the Cuban state.”

‘Heroes Highway’ commissioned...

From page 12 Diamond is appropriately named the ‘Heroes Highway’ for all the men and women we lose in the line of duty, henceforth their names will accompany the path of this highway,” he noted.

Ali pointed out that the highway is part of a interlink roadway that will not only connect Berbice and the East Coast of Demerara with the EBD, but also Essequibo with the counties of Berbice and Demerara.

Construction on the highway began in 2021 and is part of multibillion road project partly funded by loans to connect the ECD with the EBD. The Ministry of Housing and Water is tasked with carrying out the massive project which is being done in phases.

In 2021, the contract for the project was awarded to 12 contractors, GuyAmerica

Construction Inc, V. Dalip Enterprise, (JV) Colin Talbot Contracting Services and Eron Lall Civil Engineering Works, S. Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc., H. Nauth and Sons, JS Guyana Inc., (JV) VALs Construction and AJM Enterprise, China Railway First Group Company Ltd., Aronco Services Inc., Ivor Allen, (JV) Puran Brothers Disposal Inc. and Khemraj Nauth Contracting Services.

The contractors had 18 months to finish the project which included the construction of some 30 reinforced concrete bridges, two roundabouts, and a total of 9.4 kilometres of reinforced concrete road.

The government plans to extend the highway from Diamond further south to Buzz Bee Dam, Craig, EBD. Contracts worth some $11 billion have already been awarded to carry out these works.

Gov’t. opens first Mangrove...

From page 14 geotextile tubes to form groynes and breakwaters along the Alness foreshore showcases our commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions in sea defense,” he added.

Mustapha explained that these projects, undertaken through the MOA with NDIA and MMA, are pivotal steps in the government’s mission to fortify Guyana’s coastlines against the ravages of climate change.

NAREI with support from Iwokrama and Exxon Founda-

tion has also commenced work to support training opportunities for local communities to help start sustainable businesses. Additionally, investments in mangrove-related economic opportunities, starting with beekeeping in mangroves, will significantly improve local livelihoods. This will be realized through a partnership with Cuban beekeeping experts and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) which will see investments to scale up Guyana’s honey production.

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Monday December 11, 2023

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Joint operations, training programmes to continue as prepares to defend territorial integrity - Pres. Ali President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday said collaborative efforts with the country's allies will continue, as Guyana remains committed to ensuring its territorial integrity and sovereignty is never compromised.

The Head of State in an address to the nation, ahead of Thursday's meeting with Ve n e z u e l a ' s P r e s i d e n t , Nicolas Maduro, said he was proud of the level of partnership with Guyana's allies, signaling that these relationships will continue to be strengthened.

According to him, “There are a number of activities that are planned, there are a number of activities that are scheduled and these activities, these training programmes, these exchanging programmes will continue as planned.”

The President added, “We expect good sense to prevail

and the commitment to peace, stability, the threat of destruction will cease and I assure all Guyanese, and all our investors, our development in all 10 of our administration regions, all three of our counties, will continue unimpeded.”

He said collaboration and cooperation will continue in the areas of social, developmental and defence cooperation. “Our training exchange programme will continue as planned, our joint operations will continue as planned as we strengthen

Guyana, UAE to extend cooperation in energy, technology, other areas

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE Guyana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have solidified their collaboration across various sectors.

The agreement, spanning food security, energy, technology, capacity building, and cultural exchanges, was reached following a meeting between President Irfaan Ali and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, at the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Expo City Dubai.

Commending Guyana's strides in sustainable development and green strategy, the UAE leader underscored that country's commitment to global climate action through the COP28's presidency. Both nations committed to reinforcing bilateral partnerships, with a focus on socio-economic and cultural development.

Recognizing the diplomatic ties dating back to 1995, the leaders highlighted the significance of opening embassies in each other's countries. To this end, a key

announcement emerged as the two nations agreed to establish a UAE embassy in Guyana, signifying their joint commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Economic relations flourished in 2022, with non-oil bilateral trade reaching US$826 million, marking a substantial increase from the previous year.

High-level visits, such as those by His Highness, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Her Excellency, Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy in 2023 were acknowledged as crucial in enhancing diplomatic ties.

Moreover, it was announced that the UAE committed US$500,000 to construct a school for children in Guyana. President Ali expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated both nations' dedication to mutual prosperity and well-being.

This strategic partnership marks a significant chapter in the ongoing growth of diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Guyana and the UAE.

every system in our country as we work towards ensuring Guyana's territorial integrity and sovereignty is never compromised,” Ali noted.

He said while Guyana is engaged in these activities, it is hopeful that the region will remain a zone of peace in which each country can coexist in accordance with international laws and principles and more so in respect of each other, without the threat of force or use of force.

The Head-of-State said,

“I assure all Guyanese that I will do everything to ensure the peaceful defence and protection of all of our country, the peaceful defence and protection of our borders in ensuring that like Demerara and Berbice, the development, security, peace and advancement of Essequibo is never compromised.” Last week, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces said the GDF remains on high alert following Venezuela's latest announcements of measures

that would be taken following its December 3 referendum.

Though 89 percent of the voting population turned its back on President Nicholas Maduro's referendum to annex the Essequibo region on December 3, he has gone ahead with the appointment of a temporary government structure for the mineral rich area.

What is worse is that Maduro has instructed his authorities to create two companies that would issue licences. He has also issued a three month deadline for companies to exit the territory.

Significantly, Ali said the Guyana Defence Force has engaged its military counterparts, including the US Southern Command.

The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) is one of 11 unified Combatant Commands (COCOMs) in the US Department of Defense. SOUTHCOM is responsible for providing contingency planning, operations, and security cooperation in its assigned Area of Responsibility which includes: Central and South America.

Kaieteur News

Monday December 11, 2023

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Nearly 300 killed in Gaza in 24 hours as Hamas, Netanyahu trade threats (AL JAZEERA) Fierce fighting has killed nearly 300 Palestinians in the past 24 hours in Gaza as the Palestinian armed group Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu exchanged threats.

Israeli raids continued across the besieged territory on Sunday, including in northern Gaza where entire neighbourhoods have been flattened by air strikes and where ground troops that have been operating for more than six weeks continue to face heavy resistance from Hamas fighters.

Gaza’s health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra told Al Jazeera in a telephone interview that 297 people were killed and more than 550 wounded in the past 24 hours in Gaza, bringing the death toll since the start of the war on October 7 to more than 18,000 – the majority of them women and children.

Hamas, Netanyahu exchange threats Israeli attacks on Gaza continued for the 65th day on S u n d a y, w i t h H a m a s warning that no captives it took on October 7 would leave Gaza alive unless its demands were met.

“Neither the fascist enemy and its arrogant leadership… nor its supporters… can take their prisoners alive without an exchange and negotiation and meeting the demands of the resistance,” Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida said in a televised broadcast.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on his part, called on Hamas to surrender.

“It is the beginning of the end of Hamas. I say to the Hamas terrorists: It’s over.

Don’t die for [Yahya] Sinwar. Surrender now,” he said, referring to the Hamas chief in Gaza.

Hamas earlier said Israel launched a series of “very violent raids” targeting the southern city of Khan Younis and the road linking it to Rafah near the border with Egypt.

Gaza residents also reported fierce fighting in Gaza City’s neighbourhood of Shujayea and in the Jabalia refugee camp, a dense urban area.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) said Israeli forces raided an area near the UNRWA clinic in the heart of the Jabalia

An Israeli attack targeted the Nisman family home in az-Zawayda in central Gaza Strip and left no survivors [Abdelhakim Abu Riash/Al Jazeera]

camp where its emergency teams and medics are operating a medical post.

“The team consists of nine doctors, nurses, and volunteers. The surrounding area is currently under bombardment, posing a constant threat to the lives of medical teams and the wounded,” the Red Crescent said in a post on X on Sunday evening.

In Shujayea – where Israeli snipers and tanks positioned themselves among the abandoned buildings – residents said the dead and wounded were left in the streets as ambulances could no longer reach the area.

“They are attacking anything that moves,” Hamza Abu Fatouh told the Associated Press.

‘Journey of death’ Israel had ordered the evacuation of northern Gaza early in the war but tens of thousands of people have remained, fearing that the south would be no safer or that they would never be allowed to return home.

Heavy fighting was also under way in and around the southern city of Khan Younis on Sunday.

“The mass exodus continues. Those fleeing northern Gaza in order to survive are describing it as the ‘journey of death’,” said

Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from Rafah in southern Gaza.

“Those in Khan Younis have been ordered to flee to al-Mawasi on the coastline – an area considered to be very dangerous,” he added.

“It’s also a region without any infrastructure – including access to water, food and electricity. There’s also no access to toilets. The situation is deteriorating extremely fast now.”

Gaza’s health situation ‘catastrophic’: WHO T h e Wo r l d H e a l t h Organization’s 34-member executive board on Sunday adopted a resolution calling for immediate, unimpeded aid deliveries to Gaza.

“Gaza’s health system is on its knees and collapsing,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, with only 14 of 36 hospitals functioning at any capacity.

The emergency action, proposed by Afghanistan, Q a t a r , Ye m e n a n d Morocco, seeks passage into Gaza for medical personnel and supplies, requires the WHO to document violence against healthcare workers and patients, and to secure funding to rebuild hospitals.

“I must be frank with

you: these tasks are almost impossible in the current circumstances,” Tedors said, commending the countries for finding common ground and saying it was the first time any United Nations motion had been agreed to by consensus since the conflict began.

About 90 percent of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced within the territory.

With very little aid allowed in, Palestinians are facing severe shortages of food, water and other basic goods.

Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian politician who heads the Union of Palestinian Medical Relief Committees with 25 teams working in Gaza, said: “Half of Gaza is now starving.”

Barghouti said 350,000 p eo p le h ad in f ectio n s including 115,000 with severe respiratory infections and lacking warm clothes, blankets and protection from the rain.

He said many were suffering from stomach complaints because there was little clean water and not enough fuel to use to boil it, risking outbreaks of dysentery, typhoid and cholera.

“To add insult to injury, we have 46,000 injured people who cannot be treated

properly because most of the hospitals are not functioning,” he said.

Renewed US support to Israeli attacks Israel intensified its bombardment on Gaza after the latest United States veto on a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire.

The vote was triggered

by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres who invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter – a measure unused in decades.

The article allows the Secretary-General to “bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security”.

The US also pushed through an emergency sale of about 14,000 tank shells worth more than $100m to Israel without congressional review, the Pentagon said on Saturday.

Fending off criticism over the sale from Palestinians and rights groups who say it does not align with Washington’s stated effort to press Israel to minimise civilian casualties, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told ABC on Sunday that

Washington is in almost constant contact with the Israelis “to ensure they understand what their obligations are”.

In an address to the twoday Doha Forum event that started in the Qatari capital on Sunday, Antonio Guterres said he expected the “public order to completely break down soon” in Gaza.

“And an even worse situation could unfold, including epidemic diseases and increased pressure for mass displacement into Egypt,” he added.

Qatar, a key mediator of last month’s seven-day truce, which saw 80 Israeli captives exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners and a flow of humanitarian aid, on Sunday said it was still working on a new truce deal.

Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told the Doha Forum that mediation efforts will continue to stop the war and have all captives released, but “unfortunately, we are not seeing the same willingness that we had seen in the weeks before”.

“Our efforts as the state of Qatar along with our partners are continuing,” he said, adding that Israel’s relentless bombardment was “narrowing the window” for success

Monday December 11, 2023

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Monday December 11, 2023

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Kaieteur News

ICC Officials continue inspections First T20 between South Africa and in Guyana ahead of 2024 ICC India washed out T20 World Cup Top brass officials from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Cricket West Indies (CWI), continued their logistical inspections in Guyana, this time at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence as preparations bowl off for June 2024’s T20 World Cup. The delegation had another day of assessment in Guyana yesterday, as Tulsa Woodham, ICC Senior Man-

ager of Operations and Head of Operations for the T20 World Cup, Khushyial Singh paid a visit to the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, as preparations heightened for next year’s spectacle.

Sunday’s visit served as further assessment for the team as they seek to lock in all logistical aspects as they prepare to host the major event, a follow up to a visit made earlier in the year which

was geared towards assessing the operational systems of the venue.

With both the West Indies and USA jointly hosting the Cup in June of 2024, groundwork commenced across the various areas with yesterday’s inspection revolving around logistics for Television and Radio broadcast aspects of the tournament, which play a huge role.

Player areas, match official

Monday December 11, 2023 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You're feeling especially loving, attractive, and romantic, so romance is likely to be on your mind. Romantic novels and movies could seem especially appealing. If you're currently involved.

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) If you've been thinking about a job change or even a new career, a chance interaction could provide the opportunity. However, Scorpio, remember, "If something seems too good to be true.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) An attractive neighbor with whom you seem to share a bond could become a friend.

A group you're affiliated with could be expressing highly idealized goals and purposes.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A journey by air to a distant place might be on your mind, though you might not make it for a long time. Knowledge is important to you, and you can be insatiably curious.

This is likely to be one of those days.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Dreams of a new career could fill your mind today, perhaps because of too much stress in your current one. You might even think of becoming a movie star.

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LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Spiritual goals may be at the top of your priority list now, Leo. You may be looking for online metaphysical seminars or meditation workshops, perhaps taking place in a distant state or foreign country.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A new neighbor could arrive who you feel especially drawn to, Aquarius. You might have high hopes for a friendship with this person.

He or she may seem especially congenial and share a lot of your interests.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Lovely dreams could spark your imagination and get your artistic abilities going.

You could learn a lot about yourself and whatever has been limiting you.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You could be feeling especially sociable today. Maybe there's a virtual party of some kind you want to be invited to. You could hear some good news.

areas, sponsors, VIP among other areas were inspected as Guyana was essentially the last stop for the team, who wrapped up inspections across the other participating territories.

Given that the next batch of officials will arrive roughly in January of 2024, it is key to ensure that other crucial areas such as the broadcasting leg of the competition, which will target a large nucleus of the fans, is in place way ahead of schedule.

Woodham added that minimum standards and requirements are a priority and as such ticking all the necessary boxes ensures that the tournament will be marketed and produced on a premium level to cricket fans globally.

Among other upcoming visits, next month, ICC pitch consultant, Andy Atkinson will host a curators workshop while the ICC Security team will follow up with a visit with all facets of logistical planning, being meticulously dealt with phase by phase.

(Reuters) - The first Twenty20 International between hosts South Africa and India has been washed out by rain in Durban, with no play possible yesterday in the first game of the threematch series. The match was scheduled to start at 1400 GMT but the toss was delayed indefinitely and the umpires eventually decided there was no prospect of play in the sodden coastal city.

The match was to be the first on India’s all-format tour to South Africa, with further T20 matches to come in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on Tuesday and Johannesburg on Thursday. They will then switch format for three One Day Internationals between Dec. 17-21, while the first test will start on Dec. 26 in Pretoria, with the second on Jan. 3 at Newlands in Cape Town.

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Monday December 11, 2023

West Indies Squad Revealed for T20I Series vs England St. John’s, Antigua – The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Selection Panel has named the 15-man squad to play against England in the first three matches of the five-match T20 International (T20I) series from 12 to 21 December. It marks the first time that both nations will be going head-to-head in a T20I series during the festive season as West Indies come home for Christmas. The West Indies T20I squad returns to action after their thrilling 3-2 Series win against India in August.

Matthew Forde is selected for the T20I squad for the first time, having impressed with the new ball throughout the past two CPL seasons and this follows his recent selection for the West Indies ODI squad. Sherfane Rutherford is also selected and returns to the squad after last representing the regional side in January of 2020.

Gudakesh Motie returns to the T20I squad after recovering from injury

which caused him to miss selection for the India Series.

The T20I squad also sees the return of all-rounder, Andre Russell, who last played for the Men in Maroon at the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. Johnson Charles, Obed McCoy, Odean Smith and Oshane Thomas miss out on selection after featuring in the previous T20I squad.

Shai Hope becomes the vice captain of the T20I team, to add to his role as captain of the West Indies ODI team.

The Selection Panel has the opportunity for squad adjustments ahead of the final two matches of the Series to be played at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on from 19 to 21 December.

Speaking about the composition of the squad, CWI lead selector, the Honorable Dr. Desmond Haynes said: “This will be the final home T20I series for the West Indies in 2023, as they prepare to be one of

Sherfane Rutherford

the two host teams for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA in June 2024. We have selected a squad that we think gives us the best chance of success in that tournament.

We will continue to assess in the lead up to the competition.”

Fans can purchase tickets online and in advance from the Windies Tickets service,

presented by MasterCard.

Fans can save up to 20% on tickets when they purchase online in advance and local fans can benefit from other promotions and benefits.

West Indies fans can also benefit from a further saving, thanks to Mastercard, West Indies official payments partner. Caribbean fans who register with a Caribbean address and a Caribbean-

bank issued Mastercard, can benefit from a further 20% off selected tickets when visting the following link https://www.windiescricket. com/news/west-indies-fansto-benefit-from-specialmastercard-ticketpromotion-as-officialpartner-of-the-west-indies/ Venue box offices are open at least 5 days in advance of each match.

Catch the action live in the Caribbean on Rush, the Flow Sports App, or the Sportsmax App and on TNT Sports in the UK. Visit the windiescricket.com website for further details on the live broadcast with our other media partners around the world.

FULL SQUAD 1. Rovman Powell (Captain) 2. Shai Hope (ViceCaptain) 3. Roston Chase 4. Matthew Forde 5. Shimron Hetmyer 6. Jason Holder 7. Akeal Hosein 8. Alzarri Joseph

9. Brandon King 10. Kyle Mayers 11. Gudakesh Motie 12. Nicholas Pooran 13. Andre Russell 14. Sherfane Rutherford 15. Romario Shepherd West Indies v England T20I Series Schedule (Match start time in brackets) 1st T20I – 12 December – Kensington Oval, Barbados (6.00pm local time/5.00pm Jamaica time) 2nd T20I – 14 December – National Stadium, Grenada (1:30pm local time/12.30pm J a m a i c a t i m e ) 3rd T20I – 16 December – National Stadium, Grenada (1:30pm local time/12.30pm J a m a i c a t i m e ) 4th T20I – 19 December – B r i a n L a r a A c a d e m y, Trinidad (4:00pm local time/3.00pm Jamaica time) 5th T20I – 21 December – B r i a n L a r a A c a d e m y, Trinidad (4:00pm local time/12.30pm Jamaica time) Stadium gates open two hours before first ball is bowled.

Manchester City beat Luton to get back on track, Everton down Chelsea L U TO N , E n g l a n d , (Reuters) - Manchester City proved that talk of their demise was premature as the champions climbed back to within four points of leaders Liverpool in the Premier League with a much-needed 2-1 victory over Luton Town yesterday, their first win in five league games.

Tottenham Hotspur also returned to form after a fivegame winless streak as Richarlison’s double helped them to a 4-1 defeat of Newcastle United.

Everton inflicted a third away defeat in a row on Chelsea with a 2-0 victory, while Fulham registered their second successive 5-0 victory when they thrashed West Ham United at home in a one-sided London derby.

C i t y, w i t h o u t t h e i r Norwegian goal machine Erling Haaland who was ruled out with a foot problem, were trailing at halftime at a raucous Kenilworth Road after Elijah Adebayo headed Luton into the lead seconds before halftime.

But Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish scored three minutes apart to keep the champions in fourth place on 33 points in a crowded title fight.

“Great performance after

Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva shoots at goal. (Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs) what happened in (recent) results,” City manager Pep Guardiola told the BBC. “We conceded the goal in the last minute of the first half. It was a really good test and the players reacted as they had to.” Four points separate the top four teams with Liverpool (37) at the summit after their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday, while Arsenal (36) are second after losing 1-0 at Aston Villa, who are third

(35).

“I think a lot of people like to talk about City and go on like it’s a big crisis,” Grealish told Sky Sports. “In reality we’ve played very good teams.”

Tottenham had slipped out of the picture after failing to win any of their previous five games, all of which they led 1-0. But they are only seven points off the top in fifth place after Sunday’s convincing display against a

Newcastle side who are suffering from a long injury list and a relentless schedule.

Destiny Udogie put Tottenham ahead from Son Heung-min’s assist and Son then set up Richarlison for his first goal since September. Richarlison made the game safe on the hour and Son tucked away a late penalty before Joelinton grabbed a consolation goal for Newcastle.

“We looked really bright

and clinical in our front third.

We created a number of chances and kept them to minimal and the boys get the rewards for it,” Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou said. “We’ve gone through a tough time. Hopefully we’re getting out the other side.”

Abdoulaye Doucoure scored in his 100th Premier League appearance for Everton and substitute Lewis Dobbin netted a late second goal as Sean Dyche’s team

won for the fourth time in five games and heaped more misery on Chelsea.

“We are so glad to win this game,” Doucoure said.

“At Goodison Park we know the fans are behind us. I’m very happy, two goals in two games. I’m delighted for the team.”

Everton are 17th in the table with 13 points, while Chelsea slipped to 12th.

Without their 10-point deduction for breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules, Everton would be in 10th, four points ahead of Chelsea.

Fulham had five different scorers against West Ham, four days after they beat Nottingham Forest 5-0. Sunday’s win marked the fourth straight game in which they had scored at least three goals. They climbed four spots to 10th on 21 points, three behind ninth-placed West Ham. “We keep getting in the right areas. We were doing that earlier this season but maybe the runs weren’t there or we weren’t filling the spaces,” said Harry Wilson, who scored one goal from long range and assisted another.

Raul Jimenez, Willian, Tosin Adarabioyo and Carlos Vinicius also scored.

Monday December 11, 2023

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Cropper Primary storms to Berbice’s Future Warriors Tapeball title Cropper Primary surged to the top spot in the Berbice edition of the Future Warriors Tapeball title for Primary Schools with another smashing performance at the Port Mourant Community Centre ground yesterday.

Cropper Primary, Tain Primary, and Fyrish Primary stood out from the 12 invited schools, and Cropper defeated them both on the final day to lift the title.

They opened the day by defeating Tain by nine wickets as they aced the chase of 50 in just four of their allotted eight overs.

Royston Crandon Jr. smashed 22* (2x4s;2x6s) from 14 balls, while Timothy Ramsarack (19*) and Jayden Garner (11) supported the dominant performance.

Ta i n r e a c h e d 4 9 - 4 compliments of an unbeaten 37 (5x4s;1x6) from Sumit Samaroo as Ramsarack got

2-10 from two overs.

Cropper then pilled on the highest total in the competition by making 98-1 from their eight overs against Fyrish.

They were led by Ramsarack, who struck three sixes and three fours in his 38 from 18 balls, and Garner with an unbeaten 33 (2x4s;3x6s) from 19 balls.

Crandon Jr. was among the runs with a five-ball 21 (2x4s;2x6s).

Tain and Fyrish had a close and exciting battle as the latter lost by one run in pursuit of 77.

Aryan Ali blazed to 39* from 10 balls, striking five massive sixes to put his team on the brink of a stunning victory.

Lekraj Rambarran (30) and Keyron Bridgemohan (29) got Tain to 76-2.

Tain finished second, while Fyrish was third.

Cropper also got bats,

Eyes on the ball! Part of the intense action between Cropper Primary and Fyrish Primary.

balls, and stumps in addition to their trophies and medals.

At the presentation ceremony, ExxonMobil’s Community Relations Advisor, Lashawna Prescott, commended the teams for an excellent showing, given the

discipline and high quality of play on the field.

More so, the co-director of FL Sport, John Ramsingh, also highlighted the impressive performances of the teams, their organisation, and their knowledge of the

sport at an early age.

This is the second Future Wa r r i o r s Ta p e b a l l tournament, following the inaugural tournament in Georgetown in September.

Plans are afoot to expand into other counties in 2024.

Individual awards Most run – Yuvraj Goberdan - 101 runs Most wickets - Timothy Ramsarack – six wickets Most Valuable Player Timothy Ramsarack - 98 runs and six wicket

Liverpool hit the top as Arsenal lose, Man Utd humiliated by Bournemouth

Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott scores their second goal. (REUTERS/Hannah Mckay LONDON, (Reuters) Liverpool climbed atop the Premier League after Mo Salah scored his 200th goal for the club in a 2-1 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday before Aston Villa beat Arsenal 1-0 for a 15th straight home league win to stop the Gunners retaking first place. Storm clouds returned to Manchester United as they lost 3-0 at home to Bournemouth.

Bottom club Sheffield United beat visiting Brentford 1-0 for only their second win of the season

while fellow strugglers Burnley and Nottingham Forest both drew.

Liverpool were fully extended by a dogged Palace side who went ahead at Selhurst Park from the penalty spot in the 57th minute after a lengthy VAR review found that JeanPhilippe Mateta had been fouled by centre-back Jarell Quansah.

Mateta then stroked the ball home from the spot.

Liverpool had not managed an effort on target but the game swung when

Palace’s Jordan Ayew was sent off in the 75th minute after two innocuous yellow cards.

Just over a minute later Salah equalised to join an elite list of Liverpool players to notch a double century of goals for the Reds, the others being Ian Rush, Roger Hunt, Gordon Hodgson and Billy Liddell. Liverpool then laid siege to the Palace goal and Harvey Elliott produced a stunning strike in the first minute of stoppage time to seal a sixth win in eight league games for Juergen

Klopp’s side who have 37 points from 16 games.

“I’m a very happy manager in this moment, but I know we were lucky as well,” Klopp said. “If you only win your really good games you have no chance to be really successful, that’s how it is, and obviously today was not a really good game from us.

“For 76 minutes it was a really bad performance.”

Aston Villa’s captain John McGinn scored in the seventh minute and they held on to beat Arsenal three

nights after they shocked champions Manchester City by the same scoreline at Villa Park in what McGinn called a “monumental week.”

Their 15th successive home win set a club record.

Liverpool lead the standings on 37 points, a point above second-placed Arsenal with Villa up to third on 35. City, who visit lowly Luton Town on Sunday, have 30 points. “I’m feeling very, very good and very happy, we are connecting with our supporters and the positive energy transmits to us,” Villa manager Unai Emery said.

“Today we needed it because we were tired after the game on Wednesday.”

“We were speaking about the necessity to keep a clean sheet against City and Arsenal, it is amazing to keep them.” Arsenal thought they had equalised in added time before VAR determined Kai Havertz had handled the ball while firing it past keeper Emi Martinez from a goalmouth scramble.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hesitated to speak about the call, except to say it was “clear and obvious.”

SHAMBOLIC UNITED Manchester United had earlier put in a shambolic

display against Bournemouth at a soggy Old Trafford. Any hope of Erik Ten Hag’s side following up a midweek win over Chelsea never looked likely as they were outplayed by the south coast club who posted a first win away to United thanks to goals by Dominic Solanke, Philip Billing and Marcos Senesi. United remain in sixth place but they are now 10 points behind Liverpool after a fourth home defeat in the league this season.

After a must-win Champions League game against Bayern Munich, United travel to Liverpool next weekend.

“Of course, annoyed, disappointed, definitely,” Ten Hag said. “I expected something different, I hoped before the game you can build on from the performance and result from C h e l s e a , s o i t ’s v e r y disappointing, the way we started the game. After the 20, we broke down so we have to do things better.”

Chris Wilder’s return to Sheffield United in midweek after Paul Heckingbottom’s sacking began with a 2-0 home defeat by Liverpool but he got off the mark with victory over Brentford.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Monday December 11, 2023

Athanaze, Carty get deals but Holder, Pooran and Mayers decline as CWI announce centrally contracted players ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed the West Indies Men’s and Women’s centrally contracted players for the upcoming 2023 to 2024 season. The contracts are offered based on player performances during the 2022 to 2023 evaluation period following recommendations from the Selection Panels and approval by the Board of Directors.

Four West Indies Men have been offered contacts for the first time, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, right-handed batter Keacy Carty and left-handed batters Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Alick Athanaze.

For the West Indies Women’s, two players have been offered contracts for the

Tagenarine Chanderpaul first time, all-rounders Zaida James and Sheneta Grimmond.

West Indies Men’s Lead Selector, The Most Honorable Dr. Desmond Haynes said: “With a busy year of cricket ahead, in all three formats, we have held several detailed discussions with the two Head Coaches on the brand of cricket they want to play.

We are very clear in the direction we want to go. The players who have been offered contracts are among those who we expect to feature, as we look to build towards challenging for the top spot when we host and compete in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 on home soil. We also have away Test Series in Australia and England – these are two major assignments whilst in the 50-over format we look to build a nucleus of players aimed towards the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.”

West Indies Women’s Lead Selector, Ann BrowneJohn said: “The selectors have identified a cadre of players who we believe can drive West Indies cricket forward. We have placed

emphasis on the development of the younger players, which we view as pivotal in the pathway to the international level. We have a number of high-profile bilateral series and major global events on the horizon and with this in mind, we want to have our players prepared and ready for every occasion.”

Meanwhile, of note, the CWI statement informed that, Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran declined the offer of central contracts but confirmed their availability for all West Indies T20 Internationals during the contract year.

CONTRACTED PLAYERS West Indies Men 1. Alick Athanaze 2. Kraigg Brathwaite

3. Keacy Carty 4 . a g e n a r i n e Chanderpaul 5.Joshua Da Silva 6. Shai Hope 7. Akeal Hosein 8. Alzarri Joseph 9. Brandon King 10.Gudakesh Motie 11.Rovman Powell 12 Kemar Roach 13.Jayden Seales 14. Romario Shepherd West Indies Women 1. Aaliyah Alleyne

Gudakesh Motie

2.Shemaine Campbelle 3.Shamilia Connell 4.Afy Fletcher 5.Cherry-Ann Fraser 6. Shabika Gajnabi 7. Jannillea Glasgow 8. Sheneta Grimmond 9. Chinelle Henry 10 Zaida James 11. Mandy Mangru 12. Hayley Matthews 1 3 . K a r i s h m a Ramharack 14. Stafanie Taylor 15. Rashada Williams

Skiing-Shiffrin captures Coco Gauff is the world’s World Cup win 91 in highest paid female athlete, earning $23 Million In 2023 St. Moritz downhill ST MORITZ, Switzerland (Reuters) American Mikaela Shiffrin claimed a record-extending 91st alpine skiing World Cup victory when she won the downhill at St. Moritz on Saturday.

The twice Olympic gold medallist recorded a two-run time of one minute 28.84 seconds for her fourth career World Cup downhill win and first at the Swiss resort, putting her hand over her mouth in surprise when she slowed to a stop.

Shiffrin edged Italy’s Sofia Goggia, who finished 0.15 behind after a ski

buckled briefly near the end of her second run.

“It was so much fun, I don’t know if you can hear it in the video but I’m going down the course like: ‘Weeeee! Woo-hoo! Oh no!’ I think the commentary might be pretty funny. At least in my head, I’m just like freaking out the whole way down,” said Shiffrin.

“Winning World Cup races is hard and I never take it for granted,” the 28year-old added.

“Especially this season, there’s so many athletes who can win and I never expect to be in front of somebody. Every time I

race I know I have to really earn that if I want to be on the podium and winning, and today is no different.”

It was Shiffrin’s first World Cup downhill win since March 2022 and her third win this season after two slalom victories.

Italian Federica Brignone rounded out the podium.

There was a long delay when Austrian Elisabeth Reisinger was taken off the course on a stretcher with an apparent leg injury.

The race was cut short five skiers later due to conditions and so 21 skiers did not start.

Blavity News - Coco Gauff is the highest-earning female athlete of 2023. The 19-year-old is estimated to have made $22.7 million in prize money and endorsements this year, according to Sportico’s annual list of top earners.

Gauff has been competing professionally since she was 15 years old.

She had already signed deals with companies such as Barilla and New Balance at that age. This year, deals included brands such as Bose, UPS, Rolex, the accounting firm Baker Tilly and The Marvel movie.

In 2022, Gauff extended her contract with New Balance to over five years.

She is the only active tennis player with a signature tennis sneaker across all brands, according to Sportico.

This year, she has solidified her impact on tennis. The 19-year-old took home her first Grand Slam title when she won the U.S. Open in September. She became the youngest American to win the title since Serena Williams in 1999.

Coco Gauff is the world’s highest paid female athlete, earning $23 Million in 2023. (Robert Prange/Getty Images) It is estimated that she has made $6.7 million in prize money and $16 million in endorsements this year.

Gauff is among the nine tennis players to hold the 15 top spots on the list of highest-earning female

athletes.

Iga Œwi¹tek and Eileen Gu took up the second and third places, while the list also included Naomi Osaka, gymnast Simone Biles and soccer player Megan Rapinoe.

Monday December 11, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Banks DIH Limited comes big for Berbice football...

Wilson issues statement following Returns with GT Beer Football competition GFF Extraordinary Congress as teams and fixtures released Banks DIH Limited, Berbice Branch, through its Berbice Branch manager Mr Nandram Basdeo has rolled out a number of sporting and community activities for residents of the area.

Top on the agenda is the return of the much anticipated GT Beer 8-a-side Knockout Football tournament. This competition, which was held before, is now back with a bang.

It was expected to begin over the weekend at the All Saints Presbyterian Church ground, Princess Elizabeth road, New Amsterdam, Berbice. Some 16 teams are down to participate.

Teams are drawn from East and West Berbice, East Coast and East Bank Demerara.

The competition, which is organised by Candy Boss and Antics, will be played every Friday and Sunday with double header action. The final is set for December 30th at the same venue.

Among the teams slated to participate are Monedderlust, Fyrish Black S h a r k s , Rosignol FC, Hopetown FC, Mahaica FC, Golden Grove

F

FC, Airy Hall, East Bank Gunners, Police FC, Orealla/ Canje, Dynamic FC, Hearts of Oak, Para dice FC, NA United FC, Cougars FC and Ithaca FC. Over $1,000,000 in cash, trophies and other incentives are at stake.

Special GT Beer offers will be available throughout the various nights of the competition. Action starts at

6:00 pm each night.

A number of other sponsors have joined Banks DIH to be a part of the competition.

According to Berbice Sales Manager, Nandram Basdeo, the initiative is part of Banks DIH way of giving back to the community from where its garners its support.

(Samuel Whyte)

ranklin Wilson, former Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President and recently defeated challenger for the post retained by Wayne Forde, has issued a statement commenting on the Congress and elections.

Wilson noted, “It was not the result that I nor the members of the slate expected because certain members had assured us about their vote. Especially since these members were the ones who complained about the GFF administration.

The narrative bandied around by the incumbent that ours’ was a PPP slate, was false and very skillfully initiated to mislead the football fraternity. Our slate was not about race or partisan party politics, instead we planned to demonstrate to the Government and Corporate Guyana a plan to develop football from school, clubs, right up to international football as our manifesto states.

No part of our plan was for the Government to take over football but instead create a tripartite approach with the GFF, Government, and Corporate Guyana to take the game forward. Our approach to football for all was genuine but ambitious.” he further went on to state, “We feel no shame in having lost and we accept the election result and pledge our continued

Franklin Wilson allegiance to the development of Guyana football. We congratulate Mr. Wayne Forde and his slate and hope that none of the members who supported our slate become the targets of any witch hunt.” ”The biggest hero in this election process has been FIFA, in the way they stepped in and restored the voting rights of members when the GFF Secretariat sought to illegally debar them from voting. FIFA’s efforts give tremendous hope to the democratic process and their vigilance we appreciate and applaud,” Wilson concluded.

rts Spo

ICC Officials continue inspections in Guyana ahead of 2024 ICC T20 World Cup

Keacy Carty (left) and Alick Athanaze (right) during the 3rd and final CG United ODI vs England at Kensington Oval, on Saturday night. (CWI)

Athanaze, Carty get deals but Holder, Pooran and Mayers decline as CWI announce centrally contracted players

Tulsa Woodham (right), ICC Senior Manager of Operations and Head of Operations for the T20 World Cup, KJ Singh during the inspection yesterday.

Cropper Primary storms to Berbice’s Future Warriors Tapeball title

Champions! Cropper Primary School celebrate their success along with official from ExxonMobil Guyana and FL Sport.

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