kaieteur news

Israeli attacks K NEWS pummel Gaza’s …as UN denounces north lack of aid access Dr. Adams: EPA omitted sections Friday Edition

AIETEUR

December 20, 2024 - Vol. 26 No. 51

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 54,866

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

of ExxonMobil permit to argue against unlimited parent company guarantee Man gets life Brutus refutes imprisonment claims of for felonious attempting to wounding leave Guyana

Ganesh Dhanraj

...family stages protest, lawyer vows appeal case

‘Heads must roll over collapsing GPL poles in South Ruimveldt’ - Jagdeo $52.5 billion in contracts awarded for construction of 4-lane highway from Craig to Land-of-Canaan Biker crushed to death by truck after swerving from pedestrian Young Entrepreneur, Ezekiel Castello

Embattled Assistant Police Commissioner, Calvin Brutus

The car in which the Ministry of Home Affairs claimed, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Calvin Brutus attempted to leave Guyana, it was intercepted at Lethem.

...Home Affairs Ministry said he was sent back to GT from Lethem

Hicken appointed Top Cop …five deputy commissioners sworn-in

PAGE 02

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

Brutus refutes claims of attempting to leave Guyana ...Home Affairs Ministry said he was sent back to GT from Lethem Embattled Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus has denied claims made by the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding an alleged attempt to leave Guyana for Brazil.

O n T h u r s d a y, t h e ministry issued a statement stating that Brutus had been intercepted by law enforcement officers on Monday, December 16, while attempting to depart Guyana through Lethem, Region 9. According to the statement a vehicle with Brazilian registration, carrying a driver and one passenger, was approaching the Takutu Bridge when it was stopped by the police.

“Upon inspection, the passenger of the vehicle was identified as Mr. Calvin Brutus, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) (ag) who is currently on administrative leave. Mr. Brutus is currently under a court order prohibiting him from leaving

the jurisdiction, as he faces criminal charges stemming from investigations into alleged financial crimes,” the ministry said.

The ministry's release further stated that Brutus was informed by police that he could not leave the country and subsequently returned to Ogle from Lethem on a flight later that day.

In response, Brutus's Lawyer, Eusi Anderson, in a statement refuted the ministry's release describing it as “fictions of an o v e r s t i m u l a t e d imagination.” Anderson insisted that the ministry should provide evidence to support its allegations. He pointed out that two days prior to the alleged attempt to flee, Brutus had appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court. Anderson noted that the state had failed to inform the magistrate about Brutus's

Embattled Assistant Police Commissioner, Calvin Brutus supposed attempt to leave the country during that appearance. He emphasised that the magistrate, who oversees Brutus's passport and bail conditions, is in a better position than the public or social media to evaluate Brutus's conduct and determine whether his bail conditions should be altered. “Instead of complaining to the authority, the ministry of Home Affairs, take their complaint

to the Court of pubic opinion and social media,” the statement said.

Anderson also raised concerns about the logistics of the alleged escape attempt. He explained that to approach the Takutu Bridge, any traveller must pass through two checkpoints on the Guyana side: the Guyana Immigration and Customs Office and a second checkpoint manned by police officers. Anderson questioned how Brutus could have been intercepted on his approach to the bridge if he had already cleared both checkpoints with valid travel documents. He further questioned why Brutus would choose the official border crossing when the Guyana-Brazil border is known to be porous during the dry season, and travellers could potentially cross the border at locations without immigration or police oversight. “If indeed Mr Brutus…was truly

The car in which the Ministry of Home Affairs claimed, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Calvin Brutus attempted to leave Guyana, it was intercepted at Lethem.

attempting to flee, why would he choose the official Guyana checkpoints on the Takatu Bridge when, at this time of the dry-season, the borders are porous and he could simply walk over in the ankle-deep water where there isn't a Guyana Immigration or Police Office in sight?” Anderson questioned.

Anderson also drew attention to the timing of the incident, which coincided with the swearing-in of a new Commissioner of Police and Deputies who may supersede Brutus in rank.

In his statement, Anderson demanded that the

Ministry of Home Affairs provide the following evidence: the name of the o ff i c e r w h o a l l e g e d l y intercepted Brutus, records of the travel documents he used to pass through the first checkpoint, and footage of the supposed violation of Brutus's bail conditions. He also called for the police officers trailing Brutus to release photographs and video evidence to support the ministry's account of events. Anderson further stated that Brutus demands a public apology and retraction of the ministry's statement within 48 hours,

by December 21, 2024.

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 03

Dr. Adams: EPA shamefully omitted sections

Exxon permit to argue against unlimited parent company guarantee for oil spills F ormer Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams has called out the regulator for “shamelessly” omitting a portion of the Liza Two Permit in a statement last week arguing the absence of a provision requiring an unlimited parent company guarantee.

In a press statement on December 11, the EPA challenged Dr. Adams to confirm whether there was an Agreement signed by him and ExxonMobil, where an unlimited parent company guarantee was required to be provided.

The EPA quoted a section of the Liza Two Permit which address oil spill coverage. It said, the permit states under section 12.5 “The permit Holder must, as soon as reasonably practicable, provide from the Parent Company or Affiliate Companies of Permit Holder a n d i t s C o - Ve n t u r e r s ('Affiliates”) one or more legally binding agreements to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources for the permit holder and its Co-Venturers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block…”

In his response on Thursday, Dr. Adams said that the EPA failed to state the entire clause. To this end, he pointed out that the full clause without omissions is, “The permit Holder must, as soon as reasonably practicable, provide from the Parent Company or Affiliate Companies of Permit Holder

Former Executive Director, EPA, Dr. Vincent Adams a n d i t s C o - Ve n t u r e r s ('Affiliates”) one or more legally binding agreements to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources for the permit holder and its Co-Venturers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block if EEPGL or its Co-Venturers fail to do so”.

As such, the former EPA boss argued, “As all can see with your own eyes, the last nine words, “if EEPGL or its Co-Venturers fail to do so” representing the essence of the Guarantee, were dishonorably omitted in EPA's citation to bolster its shameful lie and deceive the public.”

Dr. Adams argued that it is unimaginable that Government officials would so barefacedly lie to the public, in spouting “sheer madness” that “nowhere in the permit (Liza 2) signed by Dr. Adams is there any reference for unlimited parent company guarantee”.

He was keen to point out that the clause was proudly crafted by him on behalf of

the EPA and people of Guyana and first enshrined in the Liza Two permit since April 2019, was copied word for word into all subsequent permits issued by the same body.

F u r t h e r , t h e Environmental and Petroleum Engineer pointed out that almost daily for the past four years, the same EPA was being schooled by the news media and local and international experts.

Moreover, Dr. Adams said, “Their own boss-man Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo regularly chides the deficient original Liza 1 permit (devoid of the Guarantee) signed by Mr. Khemraj Parsram as the worst permit ever, while he embraces the Guarantee clause I crafted in the Liza 2 permit to fix the deficient

Liza One permit, when he declared publicly in various media forums that “yes, full liability coverage (insurance plus unlimited parent company guarantee) is in all of the permits…it is by law they have to do this...that is an obligation…they are liable for any oil spill by law and the EPA for full coverage”.

He was keen to note that the EPA was sued and lost in the High Court for going against its own permit, with Justice Sandil Kissoon adjudicating the clause to mean that “The Permit Holder…is mandated to provide insurance …and provide a further financial assurance of an unlimited parent company guarantee to indemnify the Government against all liabilities.”

The former EPA boss

explained that the full clause in the Permit, which the EPA claimed did not require an unlimited parent company guarantee, simply means that if the child company EMGL's insurance is inadequate- (fail to do so) to cover an oil spill, then the Parent Company - Exxon and Affiliates - have to provide further financial resources (the Guarantee) to cover the remainder.

He said this is as simply put by the Judge that, “there is no hurdle to the unlimited guarantee…the Permit Holder is mandated to provide insurance and financial assurance of an unlimited parent company guarantee to indemnify the Government against all liabilities…and if the Guarantee is in place, and there is the release of

hydrocarbons then EMGL, to the extent that it is unable to do so (EPA's omission) as it is largely an assetless subsidiary, then EXXON, the Parent Company comes into play.

If, however, that event occurs and there is no unlimited parent company guarantee, then the State is liable for all that occurs.”

Dr. Adams concluded that the sad truth is that while the EPA leadership is betraying its own people, denying them this necessary unlimited parent company guarantee, it is in contrast, disloyally granting Exxon the unlimited guarantee to stand with the company against Guyana at all cost.

He urged citizens to read the ruling by Justice Kissoon on the matter to draw their own conclusion.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

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

Upside down

I

t seems that everything about Guyana’s oil wealth is upside down. The people who make decisions are a sorrowful sight. The developments that come out of oil convey a story that is bright on one side and gloomy on the other. ExxonMobil is awash with delight over Guyana’s oil potential, while the owners of the wealth ask what about them, their welfare, their benefits.

ExxonMobil’s top executives speak and Guyana’s spectacular meaning to their company tumbles out. From Chief Executive Officer Darren Woods to its Guyana Country head, Alistair Routledge, the grandness of Guyana’s low cost, high quality oil is their biggest selling point. To their investors and other stakeholders, Guyana is a never-ending stream of good fortune. The big strike that delivers big profits for the company and more. ExxonMobil is currently producing 650,000 barrels of Guyana’s oil daily, reaping profits at record levels. In three years, 650,000-barrel output of today is set to double to 1.3M barrels daily. There is today’s output level in Guyana, and Guyanese are still driven crazy by a paralyzing and fearinducing cost of living environment. Basic food items are beyond the reach of their pockets. We interpret that not to represent oil prosperity for the owners of the wealth, but a horror for the impoverished in Guyana. Yet, in this upside-down country, this is the upside-down reality of citizens where 650,000 barrels of oil are produced daily. For those who think that when oil production doubles in 2027 that their portion will be doubled, they could be in for a big disappointment.

The leaders in this country are not even trying to push ExxonMobil to give more to Guyanese for their oil wealth.

The PPPC Government’s preference is to attack those who point to the weaknesses and betrayals of their leaders. The government cannot even take a stand for oil assets paid for by this country’s oil money in the event of a major oil spill at ExxonMobil’s offshore operations.

The newest obscenity from the PPPC Government is that 50% of those assets may have to be sold to help defray expenses related to an ExxonMobil oil spill. This is how upside-down Guyana is today with the PPPC as the government in charge. It is so upside-down that even the political opposition is content to tag along and not upset any of the people at ExxonMobil. The people who own the oil wealth are held hostage by the people given a license to explore and exploit it. This is the upside-down situation where the roles are reversed and both the government and opposition leaders are proud to say how powerless they are to do anything about it.

Darren Woods speaks with the authority of a chief executive who knows that he controls the oilfields and political field in Guyana. He is already busy selling to his audience his five-year vision and projection, with Guyana as the centerpiece.

ExxonMobil’s newest estimate is 1.7M barrels a day by 2030, which is not quite three times Guyana’s current daily oil production but close enough. The position we at this paper have always taken is clear. For each new oil project that ExxonMobil presents for approval to enhance its production and profitability, Guyana must use that as leverage for concessions from the company. Such projects must be ringfenced and some of the provisions of the new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) must apply to them. To have a new PSA as the governing law over oil, and then assert that the Stabroek Block is exempt from its provisions reduces that to a joke of a law. It’s another instance of how upside-down this country is where its oil is concerned.

Further, the fact that Darren Woods is telling the world about how valuable Guyana is in ExxonMobil’s portfolio of assets and a significant component of its plans presents an opening by the PPPC Government. The Hammerhead and Longtail oil projects now in the formation stages must be grabbed with both hands to get more from ExxonMobil.

The first is more money, or those projects are dead. Instead of the upside-down history so embedded in the ExxonMobil-Guyana partnership, there must be what is sensible and profitable for this country.

Friday December 20, 2024

EPA caught in blatant untruthfulness on Exxon’s Parent Company Guarantee DEAR EDITOR, Most weirdly, EPA’s purported December 14, 2024 response to my Kaieteur News interview of D e c e m b e r 11 , 2 0 2 4 , “Guyana cannot seize and sell its own assets to pay for an oil spill” did not match my interview subject, obviously admitting the idiocy that Guyana can seize Guyana’s own assets to pay for an oil spill. Nevertheless, I gleefully welcome the EPA’s veering off into raising up the ant’s nest of unlimited parent company guarantee (the Guarantee), returning it to the front burner refreshing our memories as to the circumstance of this most consequential issue manifesting the EPA’s betrayal of Guyana.

Notwithstanding the patented incompetence and improprieties of EPA’s

leadership, it is unimaginable that Government officials would so barefacedly lie to the public, in spouting sheer madness that “Nowhere in the permit (Liza 2) signed by Dr. Adams is there any reference for unlimited parent company guarantee”, though: (i) this very clause which I proudly crafted on behalf of the EPA and people of Guyana and first enshrined in the Liza 2 permit since April 2019, was copied word for word into all of the other permits by this same EPA; and (ii) almost daily for the past four years, t h i s v e r y s a m e E PA leadership was being schooled by the news media and local and international experts including yours truly.

Further, their own bossman VP Jagdeo regularly chides the deficient original

Liza 1 permit (devoid of the Guarantee) signed by Mr. Khemraj Parsram as the worst permit ever, while he embraces the Guarantee clause I crafted in the Liza 2 permit to fix the deficient Liza 1 permit, when he declared publicly in various media forums that “yes, full liability coverage (insurance plus unlimited parent company guarantee) is in all of the permits…it is by law they have to do this...that is an obligation…they are liable for any oil spill by law and the EPA for full coverage”. Even further, the EPA itself was sued and lost overwhelmingly in the court for unbelievably going against its own permit, with the Honorable Judge Sandil Kissoon adjudicating the clause to mean that “The Permit Holder…is mandated to provide insurance …and provide a further financial

assurance of an unlimited parent company guarantee to indemnify the Government against all liabilities.”

Therefore, since it is uncertain whether the EPA leadership may plea insanity, blindness, incomprehension, or obliviousness to critical information stored in their own files and which bombards them every day; and since no level of ineptitude could unravel such a misreading; and unless “the Agency has descended into a state of inertia and slumber at the critical juncture of an emerging oil and gas sector” as characterized by the Judge; this grave malpractice of the Agency could only be explained by its arrogance, malfeasance, and disrespect for the public which pays its salaries. It is unthinkable that the (Continued on page 06)

Coalition politics is not just a political strategy but a reflection of our commitment to a more equitable and united Guyana DEAR EDITOR, As someone who has had the privilege of appearing and listening to Dr. David Hinds’ programmes on Politics 101 on social media (Facebook), I have come to appreciate his deep knowledge and analysis of Guyanese politics.

Dr. Hinds’ perspectives have been invaluable in fostering understanding, particularly when it comes to the complexities of coalition politics.

However, it is my belief that there is a critical aspect of coalition politics that Dr. Hinds, and others in the political discourse, must address more directly: the need for a truly inclusive approach that represents the interests of all ethnic groups in Guyana.

It’s undeniable that coalition politics plays a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of our nation. Historically, the idea behind a coalition government was to bring together different ethnic communities—Africans, Indians, Indigenous peoples, and others—into a shared vision for a united Guyana. This model is supposed to be a reflection of the diverse fabric of our society. Yet, we must ask ourselves whether coalition

politics today truly embodies this inclusivity or whether it falls short in addressing the real struggles of these ethnic groups.

Under the current government, we cannot ignore the fact that many communities—particularly the Africans, Indians, and Indigenous peoples—are still facing significant challenges.

These challenges are not just economic or social but are also embedded in the political dynamics that govern their daily lives.

From access to resources and opportunities to representation in government, these groups are still marginalized, and their needs are often overlooked.

T h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s actions do not reflect the unity and inclusivity that the concept of coalition politics demands.

It is crucial to acknowledge that Guyanese people are not uninformed or easily swayed. Our people are intelligent, aware, and capable of understanding the complexities of politics.

They can see when promises are made and when they are broken.

They know when their communities are being left

behind in favour of others.

And they understand when coalition politics is merely a term used in speeches, but not fully reflected in policy and governance. This reality cannot be ignored.

Coalition politics must go beyond just a surfacelevel agreement between political parties. It must address the unique and diverse concerns of each ethnic group.

The issues facing Africans, Indians, Indigenous peoples, and other vulnerable communities cannot be relegated to the background.

These communities have legitimate grievances, and it is the responsibility of those advocating for coalition politics to ensure that their voices are heard and their issues are prioritized.

This includes equitable access to government programs, protection of cultural rights, and genuine representation in decisionmaking processes.

I have great respect for D r. H i n d s a n d h i s contributions to the political discourse in Guyana.

His insights have been invaluable in shaping the way we view the political landscape, especially with regard to coalition politics.

However, I believe that it is

time for a more inclusive approach—one that acknowledges the realities of all ethnic groups and provides solutions that are not just political in nature but also practical and equitable. Coalition politics must be more than a concept; it must be a living, breathing force that works for every Guyanese, regardless of ethnicity.

Let us not forget that true unity comes from understanding and addressing the diverse needs of our people.

It is not enough to speak of coalition politics when actions do not align with these principles. The Guyanese people deserve better, and they are smart enough to demand it.

In closing, I urge Dr. Hinds and other political leaders to take a closer look at the issues that continue to divide us and ensure that coalition politics is not just a political strategy but a reflection of our commitment to a more equitable and united Guyana. Only then can we move forward as one nation, with a government that truly represents all of us.

Sincerely Pt.Ubraj Narine Former, Mayor City of Georgetown

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 05

Robert Corbin: one of PNC’s most consequential leaders DEAR EDITOR Biographer Ron Chernow once disclosed that he decided to write a book about the man on the United States ten dollar bill to give Mr. Alexander Hamilton his just deserts. He said “He seemed to be fading into obscurity….to be regarded as a second string founding father.”

During a television interview, Lin-Manuel Miranda admitted that the very book motivated him to research and write, over a seven-year period, the transformative musical ‘Hamilton.’

It is in this context that I have chosen to highlight some aspects about a living Guyanese political legend who, though not of the stature of “founding father”, could go down in the history of the Peoples National Congress (PNC) as one of its most consequential leaders. I say this because his strategic, unselfish action resulted in his party leading a coalition to a one seat majority in the National Assembly in 2011 and a one seat majority in government, though short lived, in 2015.

He is a pragmatic politician, a master at reading the landscape, who altruistically put party and country first by turning his back on the perks associated with the Office of leader of the opposition. This could be considered akin to a singular role in enabling his successor to achieve the coveted high office that alluded him At a young age, Robert Herman Orlando Corbin, fondly called Brezhnev by his compatriots, was elected General Secretary (GS) of t h e Yo u n g S o c i a l i s t Movement (YSM), youth arm of the governing Peoples National Congress (PNC). He became an elected Member of Parliament (M.P) from August 1973 to October 1997 and from 2001 to 2011.

He held several ministerial portfolios, the highest rank being Deputy Prime Minister from 1985 to 1992.

In 2000 he was elected PNC Chairman (I would expand on this aspect a bit later).

Following the death of President Desmond Hoyte in February 2003 he ascended to the position of Leader of the Party and suffered a resounding loss as presidential candidate at the 2006 National and Regional Election.

But while the buck stopped with the leader, the fact of the matter is that

Corbin was dealt a bad hand and given a porous bucket to fetch water in large part, due to some self-defeating actions by his predecessor who served as Executive President and would have had favours to call in; yet was beaten thrice in National and Regional elections.

On assuming the Presidency and party leadership in 1985, Hoyte, an economic reformer who liberalised the economy, opened the door to private media, private education and in general, promoted the private sector as the engine of economic growth as part of a negotiated Paris Club and International Monetary Fund (IMF) prescribed Economic Recovery program. On the flip side, he simultaneously, diminished the national significance of his political party in relation to the government, and as a consequence, the party structure tapered in size and influence. Grassroots’ cells dismantled, and seasoned political organizers were shunted off to overseas missions or put to pasture. In f a c t , o n e m i n i s t e r, a respected political type who successfully managed a number of different portfolios from his youth, only learnt of his removal from office while listening to the radio on his way home.

By the time the overdue elections were held in 1992, President Desmond Hoyte, with a weakened party institution resorted to Committees for the Reelection of the President (CREEPS), a Nixon era United States political campaign model which comprised mainly of business person, as his major fund raising mobilising

election strategy.

D r. C h e d d i J a g a n meanwhile, with his party structure firmly rooted and growing, was successful in engaging lobbyists to find favour with influential American policy makers.

Hoyte underestimated Jagan’s staying power. He over relied on the communism bogeyman strategy to the degree that during their presidential debate he demanded of Jagan “Are you still a communist? You must answer the question” the latter calmly retorted “do you still beat your wife?” By that time internationally, the Berlin wall was taken down in 1989, and because of Glasnost and Perestroika, communism was making a steady decline throughout Eastern Europe and some Republics that were part of the USSR. The iron curtain was less opaque. Let’s also remember that before August 1985, the governing and opposition parties were engaged in unity talks which Hoyte discontinued. When Corbin assumed leadership of the PNC in 2002, the governing party between 1997 and 2011 had aggressively instituted several policies and actions that expanded their sphere of influence, and also effectively stifled opportunities for the opposition to grow.

They amassed financial resources to expand their war chest, nurtured and formed a strong alliance with the private sector and private sector umbrella organisations, made remarkable inroads in the territory of organised labour to the extent that they wrestled control of the

Guyana Labour Union (GLU) and engineered the formation of a powerful rival umbrella Trade Union body.

Ironically, that body, The Federation of Trade Union Organisations (FITUG) was headed by the very person that ousted Corbin as leader of the GLU, the Trade Union of H.N. Critchlow, and L.F.S Burnham.

A national election is a numbers game. The governing Party methodically chipped away at almost every existing support and strategic building block which had any potential of propping up the PNC. By the time Corbin took the helm of the PNC, the PPP had aggressively dug in, consolidated and expanded their support base into almost every available social, economic and cultural people centred organisation as well as some sections of the religious community. In other words, the governing party finetuned its prowess as a welloiled election machine.

Those were some of the daunting hurdles that challenged Corbin as a political Leader and leader of the Opposition along with having inherited a weakened party structure that continued downhill. Corbin also faced internal

challenges. Like Mayor Robert Williams, he was exposed to bias from some members the African middle class; Those who firmly believed that leadership should only be bestowed on persons of a certain pedigree, lettered, influential family name, having attended one of the four top secondary schools (especially Queens College), and/or having resided north of Brickdam. I see history repeating itself today.

Corbin tried to maintain a healthy relationship with the private sector. When the Guyana Manufacturers Association (GMA) under Ramesh Dookhoo decided to engage the main political parties to ease growing ethnic tension, he promptly agreed and participated in the dialogue.

Editor, permit me to briefly state something worthy of note that is a uniquely positive trait of Corbin’s character. Before doing so, I wish to acknowledge that he was not a paragon of virtue throughout his political career. He was tainted by a scandal of which he had his day in court and was exonerated.

At the Party Congress in 2000 it was the day to hold elections for office bearers.

Corbin, was at the time reading law (alongside his daughter) and was therefore a little less active in person in party affairs. He was however playing a key role in managing the congress, the highest forum of the Party.

It was understood and acknowledged in some quarters that a slate headed by the brilliant and dedicated Winston Murray for Party Chairman would be elected as office bearers. The line-up also comprised persons from the ‘Reform,’ ‘nontraditional’ subset of Party leaders. But something happened that morning that nearly sounded Corbin’s political death knell. The incident undermined his stature and credibility; a damning, self-inflicted, unkind cut, initiated by someone else for which but he was duty bound to carry out. The fallout was very seismic. By the time he assumed the position of Party leader in 2002, many of those reform / nontraditional activists gave lukewarm support. Some continued to serve in the National Assembly or returned to the party from whence they migrated.

Despite being roundly condemned, maligned and (Continued on page 16)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 06

Friday December 20, 2024

Biker crushed to death by truck after swerving from pedestrian A

budding young entrepreneur ’s l i f e w a s tragically snuffed out on Thursday after a Canter truck crushed him to death at Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara (EBD). He had reportedly swerved his bike from colliding with a female pedestrian, lost control and fell into the path of the heavy-duty vehicle.

The dead man is identified as 23-year-old Ezekiel Castello, the owner “Zeek592Customs”, a small business that customizes sneakers.

Castello a resident of Lot 294 Savage, La Penitence,

Georgetown was killed around 15:37 hrs. Pixels GY Inc.’s cameras recorded the victim riding a motorcycle south along the western side of the East Bank Demerara (EBD) Public Road. As he approached the intersection that leads to the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) the traffic in front of him began slowing down.

C a s t e l l o w a s subsequently seen undertaking the slowly moving vehicles in a Zig Zag manner when suddenly a woman walking north appeared in his path. It appeared as if Castello was unable to simmediately halt

Dead, Ezekiel Castello the bike, so he made a sudden swerve right, lost control and fell with his bike

onto the road.

Unfortunately, Castello’s head fell under the tray of a

Canter truck that was driving closely behind him. He could not recover quickly and the rear wheel of the truck ran over his head, crushing his skull.

Police said that an ambulance was summoned immediately.

Castello, according to the police, was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The truck driver is in custody assisting with the necessary investigation.

Castello, a Guyana Technical Institute (GTI)

graduate had big plans for his life. He launched a small business in 2022 and hardwork led to it becoming a successful venture.

In 2023, the Kaieteur News’ Sunday Magazine, The Waterfalls featured him as a “Young Entrepreneur”.

During an interview with the magazine, the young Castello spoke about his passion for small businesses.

“I think that young entrepreneurs play a huge role in society because not everyone has a mind whereby, they have a business idea and work towards it and be consistent with it,” he had said.

EPA caught in blatant untruthfulness on Exxon’s...

From page 04 untrustworthiness of the EPA could have sunk any lower, and in any other country that honors good governance and the rule of law, the EPA Head would be removed for this dastardly m i s c o n d u c t , notwithstanding the myriad of widely publicized transgressions and incompetence which will be further dealt with at a later

time.

As for the big lie at hand, in unethically omitting key words to pedal their lie, the EPA cited the permit’s clause 12.5 in question, as “The permit Holder must, as soon as reasonably practicable, provide from the Parent C o m p a n y o r A ff i l i a t e Companies of Permit Holder a n d i t s C o - Ve n t u r e r s (‘Affiliates”) one or more legally binding agreements

to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources for the permit holder and its Co-Venturers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block…”

However, the full clause without omissions is “The permit Holder must, as soon as reasonably practicable, provide from the Parent C o m p a n y o r A ff i l i a t e

Companies of Permit Holder a n d i t s C o - Ve n t u r e r s (‘Affiliates”) one or more legally binding agreements to the EPA, undertaking to provide adequate financial resources for the permit holder and its Co-Venturers to pay or satisfy their respective environmental obligations regarding the Stabroek Block if EEPGL or its Co-Venturers fail to do so”.

As all can see with your own eyes, the last nine words, “if EEPGL or its CoVenturers fail to do so” representing the essence of the Guarantee, were dishonorably omitted in EPA’s citation to bolster its shameful lie and deceive the public.

However, the Judge described this full clause they falsely claim to not have the Guarantee, to be “clear and unambiguous terms, in simple language that boded no uncertainty or lent itself to ambiguity”, simply meaning that if child company EMGL’s insurance is inadequate (fail to do so) to cover an oil spill, then Parent Company Exxon and Affiliates have to provide further financial resources (the Guarantee) to cover the remainder; or, as simply put by the Judge, “there is no hurdle to the unlimited guarantee…the Permit Holder is mandated to provide insurance and financial assurance of an unlimited parent company guarantee to indemnify the Government against all liabilities…and if the Guarantee is in place, and there is the release of hydrocarbons then EMGL, to the extent that it is unable to do so (EPA’s omission) as it is largely an assetless subsidiary, then EXXON, the Parent Company comes into play.

If, however, that event

occurs and there is no unlimited parent company guarantee, then the State is liable for all that occurs.”

The Honorable Judge continued that the Agency has “at every juncture, engaged in a course of action to undermine and erode the terms and conditions of its own Permit…an egregious state of affairs that has engulfed the EPA in a quagmire of its own making…abdicated the exclusive statutory responsibilities entrusted to it…. sought refuge in silence, avoidance, concealment and secrecy…acted in unison with EMGL…EMGL engaged in a course of action made permissible only by the omissions of a derelict, pliant and submissive EPA… notwithstanding the grave potential danger and consequences to the State and citizens if an event occurred in absence of such financial assurances mandated by the Permit.

Such conduct is nothing short of reprehensible and inconsistent with its mandate and functions…. relegated itself to state of laxity of enforcement and condonation compounded by a lack of vigilance thereby putting this nation and its people in grave potential danger of calamitous disaster… by its failure and/or omission, it placed the nation, its citizens and the environment in grave peril…notwithstanding this grave allegation of dereliction of its functions and potential calamitous consequences.”

In defiance of the Court’s Decision so as to be submissive to Exxon, and despite the fact that the Macondo spill in the Gulf of Mexico costed $145 Billion USD, the EPA wants to

callously axe the unlimited guarantee down to $2 Billion, to which the Judge ruled that EMGL cannot “engage in a frolic of its own, aided and abetted by the EPA, to unlawfully cap its unlimited liability, and any attempt to substitute a diluted guarantee constitutes a breach of the Permit so that argument is erroneous and self-serving.”

Most frighteningly and a lessons-learned that an unfit EPA has ignored, the Judge, in his thoroughness, cited the 2021 case Okpabi and others v. Royal Dutch Shell before the UK Supreme Court which highlights the catastrophic pitfalls of not having an unlimited parent company guarantee, where Shell used the argument that it was not responsible for the oil spills occurring in Nigeria under their subsidiary operator.

The very sad truth is that while the EPA leadership is betraying its own people, denying them this necessary unlimited parent company guarantee, it is in contrast, disloyally granting Exxon the unlimited guarantee to stand with Exxon against Guyana at all cost.

If you don’t believe me, r e a d J u d g e K i s s o o n ’s characterization of EPA’s “submissiveness” to, and “unison” with Exxon, manifested by the innumerable examples of privileged treatment not afforded local businesses, including hiding Exxon’s files locked up in the Director’s office; allowing Exxon to break the law; and in defiance of the Judge, not showing proof of Exxon’s $2 Billion provisional guarantee pending appeal of the full parent company guarantee case.

Regards, Dr. Vincent Adams

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08 10

Friday Monday December May 02,20, 2022 2024

Hicken appointed Top Cop

$52.5B in contracts awarded for constructon of 4-lane highway …five deputy from Craig to Land-of-Canaan commissioners sworn-in

President Irfaan Ali on Thursday set aside conventions and appointed Clifton Hicken as Commissioner of Police although he has passed the age of retirement and is being kept on as head of a force besieged by allegations of corruption.

The issue of whether Hicken could have been still appointed to the top post within the Guyana Police Force had been fiercely debated in the press, but government has maintained that they saw nothing wrong with doing it. In addition to Hicken, President Ali also appointed Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Head Fazil Karimbaksh, Assistant Commissioners of Police Ravindradat Budhram and Errol Watts and Simon McBean, Commander for Region Four as deputy commissioners.

President Ali, during the ceremony, expressed high expectations for the newly appointed leaders. He emphasised the critical

President Irfaan Ali, along with Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn and Newly appointed commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken and Deputy Commissioners (right) (Screenshot from President Irfaan Ali Facebook page) importance of unity, respect, and professionalism in the execution of duties, stating that the success of the police force hinges on the collective strength of its leadership and officers.

"The prosperity of every

country lies in the bosom of the security of the nation," said President Ali. "Today we have men and women including the Director of CANU, (Director of Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit, James Singh) who is here, who are placed in position of leadership in the security architecture of our country to execute their responsibility in a manner that will build, uphold, and extend public trust," he added.

The President further called on the Police Force to act as a cohesive body, working together to achieve the goals set forth by the Constitution and the people

of Guyana. He stressed that the fight against crime requires both strategic planning and operational efficiency, which the new leadership team is expected to provide. "I expect the leadership of the Guyana Police Force and all the men and women who constitute this body of service to our country to act together in unison. In upholding our constitution, protecting our laws, protecting the people of our country," he said.

As part of his address, President Ali highlighted the recent successes of the Guyana Police Force, noting that the country's crime detection and solving rates are among the best in the region. He acknowledged that while the police force is a central component of national security, its success depends on the collaboration with other arms of government and continued modernisation of operations.

"When you look at our operation efficiency, when you look at our training, modernising the force, the strategic direction, the strategic planning is in keeping with what the economy is evolving into but more importantly, it is in keeping with what is expected of Guyana in this region," The Head of State related. As Guyana continues to evolve as a nation, Ali emphasised that the leadership of the Guyana Police Force will play a crucial role in ensuring that its security architecture remains robust, responsive, and trusted by all.

The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office has awarded eight contracts totalling $52.5 billion for the construction of a new fourlane highway from Craig to Land of Canaan on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

In June, 47 contractors submitted bids to construct the new four-lane road. At the opening of bids at the NPTAB office, it was revealed that the project is being executed in eight lots and is estimated to cost $49,550,312,074. The four-lane road project is being executed by the Ministry of Housing and Water through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA).

The contracts for the highway were awarded as follows: Lot 1 (Ashoka Build Construction Ltd) $5,546,817,641; Lot 2 (H. N a u t h & S o n s ) $6,384,420,210; Lot 3 (R. Bassoo & Sons & Qingjian Group Co. Guyana Inc. $7,699,717,043; Lot 4 (S. Jagmohan Construction & General Supplies and Vals C o n s t r u c t i o n ) $8,198,675,835; Lot 5 (Aronco Services Inc. and Build Smart Construction & Supplies) $6,325,080,011; Lot 6 (China Railway First Group Guyana Inc) $4,464,086,736; Lot 7 (Pro Build Hardware & Construction Inc) $5,676,911,709 and Lot 8 (KP Thomas & Sons Construction Inc and Const Soma) $8,262,131,511.

Notably, according to its engineer's estimate Lot 1 is estimated to cost $7,758,191,995; Lot 2 $6,595,741,681; Lot 3

$7,724,548,738; Lot 4 $8,222,950,788; Lot 5 $644,692,261; Lot 6 $4,568,695,021; Lot 7 $5,687,188,423; and Lot 8 $8,348,303,167.

Kaieteur News understands that funding for the new highway is part of the $100.5 billion that was approved for the ministry in this year's budget. At the ministry's year- end press conference held in January 2023, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal said that the new East Bank highway that is under construction will extend from Buzz Bee Dam, Craig to Land of Canaan, and then from Land of Canaan to Soesdyke.

The first phase of the new East Bank highway started with the $2.6B Mandela Avenue to Eccles road project which was commissioned in April 2022.

The second phase of the road was extended from the Eccles Dumpsite Road all the way to Diamond. This project costs $13.3 billion and is divided into 12 lots. It includes the construction of more than 30 reinforced concrete bridges, 8.6 kilometres of reinforced concrete highway road, and two roundabouts.

In September 2023, President Irfaan Ali commissioned the Eccles/Haags Bosch roundabout which connects the already completed Eccles thoroughfare to the Mandela Avenue Highway.

After Diamond, the other phase of work continued to Buzz Bee Dam. The $11B contract was awarded late last year.

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 09

A question of timing and priorities T

he advent of significant oil discoveries has catapulted Guyana into the global spotlight. However, beneath the promising layers of black gold lies a central question of governance: how best should a government utilize its newfound wealth to serve its people?

Last week, an interesting issue arose during the Vice President’s Press Conference. It concerned whether to go for increased amortization of costs or impose a windfall tax. As with most economic conundrums, the devil resides in the details, and it is here that the government must tread carefully.

Proponents of increased amortization of costs argue from a position of fiscal prudence. In the context of a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), where oil companies can claim up to 75% of revenues as cost recovery, accelerating the repayment of these costs can have tangible benefits. The quicker the costs are amortized, the sooner the nation can access the lion’s share of the profits.

Consider the mechanics: every dollar directed toward amortizing costs today translates to fewer deductions tomorrow. By reducing the cost-recovery pool, the government potentially accelerates its journey toward enjoying 50% of the profit oil. Over time, this could mean billions more in state coffers—funds that can be channelled into education,

infrastructure, or healthcare.

On the other side of the ledger, advocates for a windfall tax appeal to immediacy and equity. They argue that windfall revenues—those extraordinary profits generated when oil prices s o a r b e y o n d expectations—are a unique opportunity to address pressing social and economic needs. A windfall tax captures this surplus and redistributes it, often in ways that directly benefit citizens.

In a country where inequality is a persistent problem, this approach carries undeniable appeal.

A windfall tax, in its essence, is a recognition of the finite nature of oil wealth. Oil is a depleting resource, and the revenues it generates are subject to the whims of global markets.

Capturing excess profits during boom periods ensures that the nation can build buffers for the inevitable bust. Whether through sovereign wealth funds, social programs, or infrastructure projects, these revenues can transform lives in the here and now.

The ethical underpinning of a windfall tax cannot be ignored. When oil companies reap extraordinary profits, often due to geopolitical tensions or supply disruptions, the optics of allowing such gains to go untaxed are damaging.

Citizens, who often bear the brunt of environmental and social costs associated with oil extraction, demand a fairer share of the pie.

At its core, the debate between amortization and windfall taxation is a question of timing and priorities. Should a government prioritize longterm financial stability or address immediate needs?

The answer lies not in choosing one over the other but in finding a balance that respects the complexities of the issue.

To achieve this balance, governments must first ensure transparency and accountability in the management of oil revenues.

Without a clear framework, both amortization and windfall taxation are susceptible to misuse. A robust sovereign wealth fund, for instance, can serve as a repository for windfall revenues while adhering to strict rules for withdrawals.

S i m i l a r l y, a c c e l e r a t e d amortization can be accompanied by periodic audits to prevent inflated cost claims by oil companies.

In countries like Guyana where poverty is widespread, the case for windfall taxes becomes s t r o n g e r. I m m e d i a t e investments in social services, job creation, and infrastructure can lay the foundation for sustainable growth. Conversely, in countries with more advanced economies, where the emphasis might be on debt reduction and fiscal discipline, amortization could take precedence.

The debate between the choice of a windfall tax and that of amortization is not a

DEM BOYS SEH

Women Shopping Is Ah Sport

D

em boys seh shopping wid a woman is like runnin’ a marathon in slippers—it does test yuh patience and yuh sanity. De man dem know de struggle.

Yuh guh in town fuh pick up one lil thing, and before yuh blink, de woman done stop in every store like she getting paid to window shop. But even more worse is Christmas shopping in Guyana. De town ram pack wid people hustling, car horns blaring, and vendors shouting. Last week people did walking and looking.

But dis week, dem get pay

and is shopping till yuh drop. And nuff men does mek de mistake of tagging along fuh fetch bag.

But is de women in de stores who does mek de men sweat. Fellas, next time yuh woman seh, “Let’s go shopping,” just seh, “I busy,” and hide yuhself. stress.

One man seh he and he wife gone in town fuh do some Christmas shopping.

De man seh he tell heself, “Leh we do this quick and done,” but quick and women ain’t mix, especially when shopping involved.

Next thing yuh know, de man and he wife get separated in de crowd. She call he pon de phone, vex vex, and ask, “Where yuh deh?”

De man seh, “Do you remember dat likkle jewelry store we gone to last year? De one where you see dat diamond bracelet yuh did love, but I tell yuh I ain’t got money fuh buy it?”

She seh excitedly, “Yes! Yes! I remember! “ De man tek a deep breath and seh, “Well, I in de bar next door to dat place drinkin’ a cold beer.”

Talk half. Leff half.

peripheral issue. It is central to any strategy aimed at ensuring the best interests of the people. The way oil revenues are managed has a direct impact on a nation’s economic and social development, and its ability to weather future uncertainties.

Of importance to note is that neither the windfall tax nor higher amortization need to be a zero-sum game. It is possible to achieve a synergy that benefits all stakeholders. A hybrid

approach, for instance, could allocate a portion of windfall revenues for immediate social investments while channeling the rest toward accelerated cost recovery.

Another nuanced approach could involve a sliding-scale mechanism, where the rate of cost recovery diminishes as oil prices rise. This can bridge the gap between amortization and windfall taxation. Such a mechanism can ensure that both the government and oil

companies share in the risks and rewards of the industry.

But selling such an approach to Jagdeo may be a no-goer.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Friday December 20, 2024

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Upcoming elections rich with opportunities There is the strong sense that one of the traditional underpinnings of Guyana's elections has undergone a change. Blame it on oil. For once in the spotted history of this country's elections, the blindness has eased, voters from all points are watching, considering. Here are some commonsense assertions that can be challenged, but hard to overcome.

First, I believe the racial count has narrowed. It is more than migration of one demographic over the other on a sustained basis. People see and know the fat cats, top cats, and alley cats that live large off the wealth that belongs to all Guyanese, but from which the majority has been excluded. It's not so much about government policy, but more the result of insatiable greed.

Covetousness and acquisitiveness always trump clearheaded and

cleareyed policy. This has riled those who once told themselves that they will only vote one way. Oil is the mover and shaker, and a great many Guyanese have been shaken and stirred, then taken for a ride. They don't like it.

Second, the census results are now long overdue.

The PPP Government, the custodian of that sensitive Blackbox, has gone underground with it. Only the comatose, or Guyanese space cadets, need enlightenment as to why. I report this differently. If the demographics favored the government, or were closer to some confidence in electoral viability, both government and leaders would have been fullfledged noise nuisances.

Study the tensions in the two leaders.

Anything riles them, not just inquiries about

their poor oil management.

The usually garrulous, unstoppable twosome are strangely silent about that census, then did what couldn't have been more revealing. They have been ducking it. The longer and deeper they duck it, the more quickly and powerfully it floats before Guyanese.

This is more than losing an election. It is more than losing illegitimate intimacies with the people's oil money. It is about serial crimes that hang over the unvaccinated.

Thus, one side of the local electoral mudwrestling extravaganza has been pummeled by a two-fisted attack. The census numbers and the ever so slightly shifting voter sentiment.

Sure, it isn't a mass rejection, but just enough to cause profuse sweating at Freedom House. It's why the air conditioners are always on,

and the curtains drawn.

Citizens want piece of the oil pie. Guyanese can read, they have cellphones, many of them are on Facebook.

Guyana is the biggest news around, but ordinary Guyanese must still fish around for a tadpole or a teabag to get by. So, the PPP dug deep, and came up with a believed winner -$100,000 per adult. Many Guyanese are delirious, reinforcing how bad things are. After all, a hundred is a hundred, and when there is nothing, anything is something. The PPP Government is gambling that the hundred isn't too small, not too late, and recipients will remember. Like the singer sang, “remember who, who use to wipe yuh nose fuh yuh, who use to hug and kiss you.”

Meanwhile, PPP hustlers are busy selling that song.

But when Sir Alistair put up his luscious billboards, and the PPP li'l buoys (they bob and weave like one) went around trying to roundup the faithful, the people knew courtship was happening.

The difference is that there

are neither flowers nor perfume; not even some cheap chocolate.

The peeple nah stupid like lang time.

What a difference this oil makes, 24 little errors…

Looking at these scenarios, the opposition should be sitting prettily electorally. Whoever has that thought in their head, should swallow a bottle of aspirin. The PNC and the AFC are either tacticians of peculiar ability, or have some secret elections sauce.

Like, the ruling party's supporters, some of the opposition parties' supporters are saying not so fast. Show what is in hand.

Show how much readiness there is. Show what is different, better. Remember that slogan about every vote counts?

Now try this, Guyanese who are utterly disgusted with the PPP, want the PNC and AFC to show them what they have got.

Why y'all and not dem?

Why even vote? This is no longer about the lesser of two evils. It is about which side could deliver more money,

and other goodies.

It is my position that there is a decent basket of votes that is up for grabs.

Call them whatever suits: independent, malcontent, intelligent, or just plain damn belligerent. They are fed-up and mean to get the most from their vote, if they vote. If the opposition can rise to the challenge with the proper form and figure, it may surprise. If it doesn't, something tells me that it could be a low voter turnout come September or whenever. A purely oil party could be a homewrecker, but that depends on who is doing the jilting, who gets jilted. A foot in the house and soon seats could be occupied. Is who house is dis? Is who runnin' dis place? Move over, Manzoor.

Oil has lubricated the upcoming elections every which way. The action is now starting. Incidentally, I'm watching to see if Mr. Alistair Routledge would be voting. He has been here long enough. Yeah, sad movies made Sue Thompson cry. Oil is doing that to Guyanese.

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

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

‘Heads must roll for collapsing GPL poles’ -Jagdeo Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo told reporters on Thursday that persons should be fired and blacklisted for the concrete poles that recently collapsed in South Ruimveldt Georgetown.

The incident caused blackout for around 2000 residents. Jagdeo said that the incident caused him great grief and made him infuriated. He said it is time that government starts firing people who are not doing their work and are being paid to oversee projects be done properly but are neglecting their duties.

“Imagine if that didn't happen there we would have never known that these poles were not placed according to specs because someone either the contractor didn't do their work properly and if the contractor didn't do their work properly they had to do it with the complicity of the person who is supervising the work and there should be consequences, people have to be blacklisted and fired for these sorts of things or it's not going to change,” the vice president said.

Citing that the government has been on a journey to upgrade Aubrey Barker Road as part of its city upgrade plans, he highlighted that since the project a number of new businesses have sprung up and property value has also gone up. “So consistent with this we are extending the Aubrey Barker Road, and we want the community to benefit from all of these changes.

He explained that he did some digging and realised that it was not an ordinary accident that brought discomfort to the community.

In fact, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and the Public Works Ministry will have to provide credible information on the situation justifying what exactly went wrong.

“I'm going to be on their case until we get to the bottom of this, because for one these poles that were

moved there from the wooden poles to the concrete poles they were moved out of the path way to expand the road,” the Vice President said.

He said information reaching him suggests that the poles were not laid according to specifications.

“So the Public Works Ministry will have to say who was responsible for the design. Additional information will have to be provided as to, “what was the contractor paid for whether it's a design fault or the contractor did not comply with the design and who supervised this, which engineers designed this and allowed this to happen.”

On December 14 this publication reported that GPL had blamed ongoing road and drainage works for the collapse of the poles which caused a 24-hour power outage in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Power was disrupted around 19:00 hrs. on Thursday last. Shortly t h e r e a f t e r, v i d e o s a n d photographs of concrete utility poles hanging dangerously over Aubrey Barker Road, in the vicinity of Spurwing Drive, South Ruimveldt began circulating.

The viral circulation of photographs on social media resulted in widespread concern for safety as the GPL workers rushed to remedy the situation. Residents blamed the road contractors for the disaster that not only left them in darkness but without access to the roadway for several hours. In its press release GPL stated that at approximately 20:07 hrs. on the evening it received a report of the falling poles.

Upon inspection, it was determined that ongoing road and drainage works had compromised the foundation of GPL's network infrastructure, leading to the collapse, GPL stated. Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips and a team had also visited the site

The collapsing poles last week.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

Family members and friends gathered at the High Court to protest against penalty imposed on Ganesh Dhanraj

Man gets life imprisonment for ...family stages protest, felonious wounding lawyer vows appeal case The family and friends of Ganesh Dhanraj, also known as “Jango,” protested outside the High Court of Demerara on Thursday, calling for justice after the 33-year-old was sentenced to life imprisonment and flogged with four strokes of the whip for felonious wounding.

The sentence followed a jury's guilty verdict in November on a charge stemming from a 2014 incident.

Dhanraj, of Montrose, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was convicted of attacking 20year-old Clinton Babooram on December 26, 2014, stabbing him in the groin. According to reports, the sentence, handed down by Justice Navindra Singh followed Dhanraj's conviction by a jury in November. Originally charged with attempted murder, the jury found Dhanraj guilty of the lesser charge of felonious wounding.Two days after the sentencing, Dhranraj family and friends gathered at the High Court gates to protest.

Holding placards, they voiced their frustration at what they described as an “excessive injustice penalty.” Kaieteur News was on the scene where the family shared their frustration into the matter.

Dhanraj's sister, Sherry Dhanraj, stated, “He has always been bullied, and one day he decided to retaliate. He was in a fight, and a couple of guys beat him.” The family claimed that Dhranraj reported his assault to the Sparendaam Police Station. However, when trying to retrieve the case jacket as evidence for the trial, the jackets could not be located at the station. “His medical records, his statement, everything disappeared from court, and now he's sentenced to life imprisonment with four lashes. This guy (the victim) is alive and well, but my brother is treated as if he committed murder,” the sister explained.

She further questioned the

Ganesh Dhanraj sentenced to life imprisonment fairness of the sentence and believed that the maximum penalty was imposed on Dhanraj, noting, “Can you imagine being whipped four times? That's like sentencing him to death for something that happened when he was 24 years old. We want a retrial and for the jacket he used to report the bullying to be found.”

His mother, Dhrandaei Dhanraj, visibly distraught, could only say, “Right now, I'm confused. I don't have words. I feel sad,” before breaking into tears.

Dhanraj's family also pointed out the long gap in proceedings, noting that the case resurfaced nearly ten years after the incident. “This case died down for about a decade before it was brought to the High Court. Jango had poor defence,” a family member claimed.

In light of the protest, this publication contacted defence lawyer Adrian Thompson, who announced plans to appeal the sentence, particularly the corporal punishment aspect. “We are appealing and will attempt to file a constitutional motion because we believe the flogging is cruel and inhuman.

It should be removed from the penalty,” Thompson said. He added that the team is pursuing all legal avenues through the Court of Appeal.During the (Continued on page 16)

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

Israeli attacks pummel Gaza's north as UN denounces lack of aid access (ALJAZEERA) Israel has carried out a series of attacks on northern and central Gaza that killed at least 25 people, including children, as a leading rights group accused it of committing “acts of genocide” by denying clean water to Palestinians.

Separate Israeli attacks on Jabalia in northern Gaza, where Palestinians have remained under a tight siege for more than two months, killed at least 16 people, including 10 members of the same family, on Thursday.

In Gaza City, an Israeli attack on a home in the Daraj neighbourhood killed at least four Palestinians, with another person killed in a strike on a group of civilians in Zeitoun neighbourhood. In central Gaza, a strike on Maghazi refugee camp killed at least four people.

There were fears the overall death toll would rise as many people were reported wounded in the Israeli attacks. The Israeli military also issued forced evacuation threats to residents in Bureij refugee camp. “The question is where people can go, as everywhere is overcrowded in the central areas of the strip,” said Al Jazeera's Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from nearby Deir el-Balah. At least 45,000 Palestinians have been killed and 107,000 others wounded in more than 14 months of attacks across Gaza, a densely populated territory that is at risk of famine and is experiencing emergency levels of hunger.

Israel began its ferocious military campaign after at least 1,139 people were killed during an attack led by Palestinian group Hamas in Israel on October 7, 2023, with more than 200 others taken captive. Most of Gaza's 2.3 million inhabitants have been displaced, many of them multiple times, while Israel's intense bombardment has left much of the territory in ruins.Referring to a report

by Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Thursday that accused Israel of using water as a weapon of war in Gaza, Abu Azzoum said searching for water in the besieged and bombarded territory was “a daily struggle for survival”.

In its 179-page report, HRW detailed how Israeli authorities have cut off and later restricted piped water to Gaza, rendered most of its water and sanitation infrastructure useless by cutting electricity and restricting fuel, deliberately destroyed and damaged

Women and children were among the victims of the air raids, and were taken to the al-Ahli Arab Hospital [Abood Abu Salama/Anadolu Agency] water and sanitation infrastructure and water repair materials; and blocked the entry of critical water supplies.Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied the accusations, which it called “lies”, and alleged that the organisation is promoting “anti-Israel propaganda”. A separate report by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) published on Thursday found “clear signs of ethnic cleansing” in Gaza, particularly in the northern part of the strip. “Our firsthand observations of the medical and humanitarian catastrophe inflicted on Gaza are consistent with the descriptions provided by an increasing number of legal experts and organisations concluding that genocide is taking place in Gaza,” the organisation said.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has repeatedly ordered Israel to take all the necessary action to ensure that water and basic food supplies arrive without delay to the Palestinian population in Gaza. In spite of that, Israel was still being accused by the United Nations and humanitarian organisations of restricting aid supplies to Gaza by effectively blocking access to the enclave.UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday said Israeli authorities had “yet again” denied access to Beit Hanoon, Beit Lahiya and east of Jabalia, which are under h e a v y s i e g e . “ We underscored how the vast majority of our efforts to reach North Gaza governorates since the Israeli siege began 10 weeks ago have been blocked. Most requests are denied outright,” Dujarric said. The UN said it had planned 96 humanitarian actions in the north of Gaza, but just 16 of those were facilitated by Israeli authorities.

PAGE 13

Friday December 06, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

President Ali pledges continued support to GDF

Members of the Guyana Defence Force at the Christmas Luncheon Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed the government's commitment to investing in the well-being of members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and enhancing the agency's operating capabilities.

The president's heartfelt speech resonated with all those p r es en t at th e Ch r is tmas Luncheon at Camp Base (Continued on page 16)

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali hands over parcels to GDF members

Friday December 20, 2024

Govt. touts easier access to loans for small businesses with passage of new bill The new Security Interests in Moveable Property Bill 2024 was passed Wednesday evening in the National Assembly, allowing small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to easily access loans.

During her presentation, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, said the bill will resolve the hesitancy of small business owners being able to access loans due to the insufficiency of immovable properties.

“The bill simplifies the process of using moveable assets as collateral for secured credit, making it more accessible to a wider range of businesses…These include tangible assets like equipment, inventory, crops, livestock and vehicles, as well as intangible assets like receivables intellectual properties and negotiable instruments,” the minister explained.This new legislation creates more opportunities for financing and ensures consistency, transparency and legal certainty in credit markets by streamlining a secure transaction system.

It consolidates previous mechanisms for securing credit such as bills of sale, finance leases and pledges of goods. All these mechanisms are contained in a single legal device called “security agreements.” A security agreement is a consensual agreement that secures payment or performance of obligations. It eliminates redundancies, reduces administrative burdens and ensures a coherent legal framework for secure transactions in the country.

It must be noted that if an asset is jointly owned both owners must sign this agreement.

The registration of the moveable property is managed through an electronic track register maintained by the registrar.

According to the minister, the Security Interest in Moveable Property 2024 will bring a safe change in the commercial industry. “It will remove key constraints that have confronted thousands of Guyanese citizens and small businesses. It opens up avenues of credit previously (Continued on page 16)

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

Israeli attacks pummel Gaza's north as UN denounces lack of aid access (ALJAZEERA) Israel has carried out a series of attacks on northern and central Gaza that killed at least 25 people, including children, as a leading rights group accused it of committing “acts of genocide” by denying clean water to Palestinians.

Separate Israeli attacks on Jabalia in northern Gaza, where Palestinians have remained under a tight siege for more than two months, killed at least 16 people, including 10 members of the same family, on Thursday.

In Gaza City, an Israeli attack on a home in the Daraj neighbourhood killed at least four Palestinians, with another person killed in a strike on a group of civilians in Zeitoun neighbourhood.

In central Gaza, a strike on Maghazi refugee camp killed at least four people.

There were fears the overall death toll would rise as many people were reported wounded in the Israeli attacks. The Israeli

military also issued forced evacuation threats to residents in Bureij refugee camp. “The question is where people can go, as everywhere is overcrowded in the central areas of the strip,” said Al Jazeera's Ta r e q A b u A z z o u m , reporting from nearby Deir el-Balah. At least 45,000 Palestinians have been killed and 107,000 others wounded in more than 14 months of attacks across Gaza, a densely populated territory that is at risk of famine and is experiencing emergency levels of hunger.

Israel began its ferocious military campaign after at least 1,139 people were killed during an attack led by Palestinian group Hamas in Israel on October 7, 2023, with more than 200 others taken captive. Most of Gaza's 2.3 million inhabitants have been displaced, many of them multiple times, while Israel's intense bombardment has left much of the territory in

ruins.

Referring to a report by H u m a n R i g h t s Wa t c h (HRW) on Thursday that accused Israel of using water as a weapon of war in Gaza, Abu Azzoum said searching for water in the besieged and bombarded territory was “a daily struggle for survival”.

In its 179-page report, HRW detailed how Israeli authorities have cut off and later restricted piped water to Gaza, rendered most of its water and sanitation infrastructure useless by cutting electricity and restricting fuel, deliberately destroyed and damaged water and sanitation infrastructure and water repair materials; and blocked the entry of critical water supplies.

Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied the accusations, which it called “lies”, and alleged that the organisation is promoting “anti-Israel propaganda”. A separate report by Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

PAGE 15

Women and children were among the victims of the air raids, and were taken to the al-Ahli Arab Hospital [Abood Abu Salama/Anadolu Agency]

published on Thursday found “clear signs of ethnic cleansing” in Gaza, particularly in the northern part of the strip.

“Our firsthand observations of the medical and humanitarian catastrophe inflicted on Gaza are consistent with the descriptions provided by an increasing number of legal experts and organisations concluding that genocide is taking place in Gaza,” the organisation said.

The International Court

of Justice (ICJ) has repeatedly ordered Israel to take all the necessary action to ensure that water and basic food supplies arrive without delay to the Palestinian population in Gaza. In spite of that, Israel was still being accused by the United Nations and humanitarian organisations of restricting aid supplies to Gaza by effectively blocking access to the enclave.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Thursday said Israeli authorities had “yet

again” denied access to Beit Hanoon, Beit Lahiya and east of Jabalia, which are under heavy siege. “We underscored how the vast majority of our efforts to reach North Gaza governorates since the Israeli siege began 10 weeks ago have been blocked. Most requests are denied outright,” Dujarric said. The UN said it had planned 96 humanitarian actions in the north of Gaza, but just 16 of those were facilitated by Israeli authorities.

Friday December 06, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

Robert Corbin: one of PNC’s most consequential...

WANTED

VACANCY

Drivers (25-45 Year old) to deliver Groceries & Porter to work on the canter & warehouse. Attractive salary. Tel673-7373.

One (1) painter & Male cleaner 615-9132 or 645-8443.

Live-in Babysitter / Cook age 45-55 years old. Experience would be an asset. Contact : 681-4662.

Male sales-rep 18-28 years old, Knowledge about vehicle models would be an asset. Call : 619-1237.

Drivers / Porter. Contact : 223-5273 / 621-5907.

General domestic to work 2 days per week- Campbellville G/TOWN.Tel: 624-7436 / 621-5140.

Reputable transportation service is seeking experienced Chauffeur with mini bus and hire car license.

Call: 645-0025 / 707-9428.

One sales girl and one cook, Must have food handling certificate or 2 years experience.

Call: 618-5354 / 618-5784.

Puri/ Roti Maker, Porters, cook wanted at Rabbies 266 Thomas & New Market St. Call: 648-8279/ 231-6591.

FOR SALE For Sale 6 used American made Dental chairs excellent condition contact Mr Vino on 661-3030 or 626-8918 One Nissan Double cab pickup, fully off road setup ; -5 Million Negotiable. Call: 626-8919 / 661-3030.

For sale 1 320D Caterpillar Excavator with 3066 Engine.

Contact :701-4000

Vacancy for experience and non-experience sewing machine operator at Lall's Garment Enterprise Lot 6 Friendship E.B.D. Subby’s Sandwich Shop is hiring Restaurant Manager, Supervisors, Cooks, Kitchen Assistants, Counter Attendants Email: subbysguyana @gmail.com / WhatsApp: 657-0772.

Security Guard, Skilled & Semi-skilled carpenter Contact: Jason: 643-9861 / Saoud: 614-7147 Location: G-Town and Happy Acres, ECD. Admin / Accounts clerk, Kindly call - 676-1148 E-mail / Info@wrsi.gy Apprentice mechanic, Kindly call-676-1148 E-mail / Info@wrsi.gy Job opening- Truck drivers, project manager, Civil engineer. To apply, please send your application via Whatsapp 638-5303 / 6082114.

Vacancy for Elderly care Worker. Please Call or WhatsApp Karen: 656-1875/ 233-5160/609-6952.

Female cleaner call 615-9132 or 645-8443 Maid to clean for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132 One (1) electrician for Eccles Call 615-9132 or 645-8443.

One night watchman call: 6122125 VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.

One Unregistered Nissan XTrail 2016 model, Mode Premiere. Call : 649-0956.

SERVICES

ACCOMMODATIONS

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 629-5526.

Aracari Hotel renovated rooms ,A/C, TV, Restaurant, bar, pool, gym Stay 7 nights, 1 Free! Call: 264-2946.

Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.

ENTERTAINMENT Family fun Aracari Resort! crystal clear pool, safe kids & adult sections, music & food. W.B.D. Call : 2642946-9

FOR RENT Fully furnished four bedroom apartment- AC, hot & cold water, Internet e.c.t. Tele : 6247436/ 621-5140- Campbellvile G/TOWN. LAND FOR SALE Garden of Eden E.B.D, 2 Minutes from proposed Heroes Highway 3.8 Acres, 65M per acre. #621-1139 / 712-4020.

From page 05 accused of even harbouring racial tendencies contrary to the ethics of the party, Corbin took the criticism without retort.

A disciplined cadre, he chose not to invoke the popular Shaggy line “it wasn’t (all) me”.

And so editor, some two decades before a long serving Caribbean head of state lectured a colleague “(he) should learn to take his licks like a man,” RHO Corbin demon-

strated this admirable leadership character trait to this day.

Unfazed and undaunted, Corbin having given up the leadership to a person with a significant following (estimated almost the equivalent of one parliamentary seat,) operated behind the scenes and engineered the entry of big tent politics on the political landscape.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) was formed in 2011.

The party won 26 of the

65 seats in the National Assembly. The Alliance For Change (AFC) won Seven.

The Peoples Progressive Party having won 32 seats and formed the government with a one seat minority.

For the 2015 election, APNU formed a joint electoral list with the AFC. The combined result, thanks to the support of a large amount of young people, was thirty-three seats which gave the coalition the nod to form the government.

In a functioning democracy, the pendulum could swing in favour of any contesting party. Results according conditions agreed must be acknowledged, recognised and facilitated without delay.

It was John Lyly who said “All is fair in love and war” I prefer to say, “All is fair in love, war and politics.”

I wish everyone, a Merry Christmas, a happy Kwanza and a prosperous 2025.

Yours faithfully Derrick Cummings

Govt. touts easier access to loans for small businesses...

From page 14 unavailable to them,” Minister Walrond noted.

Moreover, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh also contributed to the bill.

Dr. Singh noted that the bill will add to the series of

legislations already put forward by the government to support SMEs. “This Security Interest in Moveable Property 2024 is a most commendable and most welcomed addition to our legal architecture and financial system and I commend my colleague for bringing it to parliament on behalf of our

government,” the senior minister noted.

According to him, Guyana’s bank deposits grew exponentially over the years due to the many financial initiatives that the government implemented.

He pointed out that between June 2022 to June 2024, the commercial bank deposit

grew by a staggering 7.9 per cent. Meanwhile, the bill received unanimous support from APNU+AFC Opposition Member of Parliament, Khemraj Ramjattan. He commended the government for the “well put together” bill, which he believes will assist upcoming entrepreneurs.

(DPI)

Man gets life imprisonment sentence for felonious...

From page 12 sentence on Monday, it is reported that Justice Singh imposed a base sentence of 30 years, adding nine years for aggravating factors, including the senseless nature of the attack and Dhanraj’s attempt to mislead the court with contradictory defences.

The judge ordered that Dhanraj serve at least 39 years before becoming eligible for parole.

In addition to the life sentence, the judge ordered that Dhanraj receive four strokes of the whip.

The incident took place outside a rum shop near

Babooram’s home in Montrose, ECD. The court noted that Dhanraj approached Babooram without provocation and delivered a potentially fatal stab wound in the groin with a knife before fleeing.

The injury required emergency surgery, with medical

experts confirming its lifethreatening nature.

Babooram had remained hospitalised for over two weeks and was bedridden at home for an extended period after the incident.

The trial was prosecuted by attorneys-at-law Muntaz Ali and Christopher Belfield.

President Ali pledges continued support to GDF...

From page 14 Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, on Thursday.

During his address, the president celebrated the significant strides the officers have made in their welfare and living conditions, emphasising that hundreds of service members now own their own homes. He accredited this major accomplishment to the numerous investments the government has made to support, train and develop members of the joint services.

“Our defence…is built on our own determination, our own selfless action, our own men and women in uniform [and] the investment we make

in you,” President Ali noted.

Over the last four years, the government has expended over $115 billion to enhance the infrastructure and proficiency of the GDF, Additionally, this year, 12,000 GDF service men and women will receive a onemonth bonus. President Ali deemed these investments as a “well-spent cent” and commended the progress the GDF has seen over this term.

The head of state further emphasised that Guyana’s defence strategy will continue to thrive on internal resilience and international partnerships. Looking ahead, plans to generate a stronger defence force and a more mod-

ern and technologically advanced military are being streamlined. The president highlighted interest in incorporating newer technologies such as artificial intelligence into the country’s defence strategy. “Today, we are building a new defence force. A defence force that is focused heavily on the future,” President Ali said. As these plans take effect, there will be a growing need for increased investments in training officers and enhancing their intellectual capabilities. Referencing this notion, President Ali said, “We will continue to expose you to greater training, greater opportunity, and importantly, greater technol-

ogy.” The Commander in Chief also addressed ongoing territorial disputes and pledged his administration’s willingness to adhere to international law, protecting the sovereignty and national borders of Guyana. In addition to these technological and territorial advancements, the government will also continue to increase financial investments. President Ali’s renewed message and his administration’s numerous strides to supporting the GDF are a testament to the government’s dedication to bettering the quality of life for service members and creating a defence force capable of facing all challenges. (DPI)

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 17

Israel committing ‘acts of genocide’ by cutting off water in Gaza, HRW says

Displaced Palestinian women use a dry path to carry water. Palestinians in Gaza have access to only a few litres of water a day in many areas, far below the 15-litre threshold for survival [File: Bashar Taleb/AFP] (ALJAZEERA) Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of committing “acts of genocide” by denying clean water to Palestinians in Gaza, and called on the international community to impose targeted sanctions.

In a new 184-page report released on Thursday, the New York-based watchdog said that since October 2023 – when Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza – Israeli authorities have “deliberately obstructed Palestinians’ access to the adequate amount of water required for survival in the Gaza Strip”. “What we have found is that the Israeli government is intentionally killing Palestinians in Gaza by denying them the water that they need to survive,” Lama Fakih, Human Rights Watch Middle East director told a news conference.

Bill Van Esveld, acting Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch, told Al Jazeera that the organisation interviewed over 115 people and used satellite imagery as part of its investigation. “We did a very thorough job and we found four key things that Israel has done to deliberately block [access to water] in Gaza,” he said.

First, pipelines bringing drinking water from Israel to Gaza were blocked. Israel then cut off the electricity supply needed to activate water pumps for reserves inside Gaza, so desalination plants, water wells and waste management plants stopped working.

Some of those facilities had solar panels to power them in case the electricity was cut off. “The Israeli military then went in and bulldozed every single one of them in four of Gaza’s six wastewater treatment facilities, leaving nothing to chance,” Van Esveld said.

“Finally, they prevented any attempts at repair from

happening,” he said, by killing technical staff and preventing humanitarian aid agencies from bringing in water-related supplies. “This is a comprehensive policy preventing people from getting any water,” Van Esveld concluded, and “a very clear finding of extermination”.

“What this means is that you’re deliberately inflicting conditions on a population that you know are going to kill a large number of those people.” The organisation found Palestinians in Gaza had access to two to nine litres of water a day in many areas, far below the 15-litre threshold for survival, which contributes to the spread of diseases and death. The report concluded that this policy amounts to “acts of genocide” under the criteria outlines in the Genocide Convention of 1948. “Israeli authorities intentionally inflicted on the Palestinian population in Gaza ‘conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part,’” it said.

Israel rejects findings Israel has repeatedly rejected any accusation of genocide, saying it has a right to defend itself after the Hamas-led attack from Gaza on October 7, 2023. On Thursday, it rejected HRW’s report, calling its findings “appalling lies”. Proving the crime of genocide against Israeli officials before international courts also requires establishing an intent to commit this crime.

The Genocide Convention, enacted following the mass murder of Jews in the Nazi Holocaust, defines the crime of genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group”.

The report cited statements by some senior

Israeli officials which it said suggested they “wish to destroy Palestinians” which means the deprivation of water “may amount to the crime of genocide”.

It also argued that Israel violated provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in January, as part of a case brought by South Africa alleging that Israel is violating the Genocide Convention. The court required Israel to enable the provision of basic

services and humanitarian assistance to demonstrate it has no genocidal intent.

In light of its findings, H RW c a l l e d o n t h e international community to issue “targeted sanctions, suspension of arms transfers and military assistance, and review of bilateral trade and political agreements” to pressure Israel to comply with the ICJ’s provisional measures. The report follows another study by Amnesty International issued earlier this month that

also concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) last month issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defence chief for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel’s war has killed more than 45,000 Palestinians, displaced most of the population and reduced much of the coastal enclave to ruins.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Friday December 20, 2024

I should have invaded Ukraine earlier, Putin tells Russians in TV marathon (REUTERS) Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Russia should have launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine earlier and been better prepared for the war.

In his end-of-year press conference on Thursday, Putin said, with hindsight, there should have been “systemic preparation” for the 2022 invasion, which he refers to as a “special military operation”.

Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014 and pro-Russian forces began a conflict in eastern Ukraine, but it was eight years later that Putin tried to seize Kyiv.

During his four-hour long appearance, Putin also talked about Syria’s deposed leader, Russia’s more aggressive nuclear doctrine as well as domestic issues, like the price of butter.

Billed as “Results of the Year with Vladimir Putin”, the event was broadcast live across the main state TV channels on Thursday. Putin appeared in front of a large blue screen emblazoned with a map of the Russian Federation, complete with annexed parts of Ukraine.

He took questions from

members of the public, foreign journalists and pensioners - but it was a highly choreographed and tightly controlled affair.

When asked by the BBC’s Russia editor Steve Rosenberg whether he felt the country was in a better state than where his predecessor, Boris Yeltsin, had left it 25 years ago, Putin said Russia had regained its “ s o v e r e i g n t y ” . “ Wi t h everything that was happening to Russia before that, we were heading towards a complete, total loss of our sovereignty.”

Asked about the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, Putin insisted it was not a defeat for the Kremlin which supported President Bashar al-Assad militarily for years - but he admitted the situation was “complicated”. He said he had not yet spoken to ousted Syrian leader, who fled to Moscow as rebel forces closed in on Damascus earlier this month, but planned to do so soon.

He added that Russia was in talks with Syria’s new rulers to retain two strategically important military bases on the

Russian President Vladimir Putin

Mediterranean coast and that Moscow would consider using them for humanitarian purposes.

On US President-elect Donald Trump, Putin said the pair had not spoken in four years, but he was ready to meet him “if he wants it”.

When put to him he was in a weak position compared to Trump, who is set to take office in January, Putin quoted American writer Mark Twain: “The rumours of my death are much exaggerated,” prompting a smattering of laughs in the conference hall.

Moving on to China, Putin said Russia’s relations with its eastern neighbour had reached an all-time high

and the two countries were coordinating actions on the world stage. “In the last decade, the level and quality of our [Russia-China] relations have reached a point that has never existed throughout our entire history,” he said.

A lengthy portion of the session was focused on the war in Ukraine, with Putin saying he was “open to compromises” to end the war - although it was unclear what such compromises could entail. Russian forces are making progress on the frontlines “everyday”, he said, describing his troops as “heroes”. At one point, he produced a signed flag he said was given to him by

Russian marines who were “fighting for the motherland” in the Kursk region, and ushered two observers to hold it behind him for the cameras.

He also talked up R u s s i a ’s c o n s t r u c t i o n projects in areas it has seized from Ukraine, claiming the standard of roads in the Ukrainian region of Luhansk had greatly improved since it was seized

by Russia-backed forces in 2014. When asked by an audience member if the West had “received the message” on Russia’s change to its nuclear doctrine, which Putin pushed through in November, he said “you’ll have to ask them.” The new nuclear doctrine allows Russia to conduct a nuclear strike on any country, if it is backed by a nuclear power.

That means if Ukraine were to launch a large attack on Russia with conventional missiles, drones or aircraft that could meet the criteria for a nuclear response, as could an attack on Belarus or any critical threat to Russia’s sovereignty. Putin also emphasised the capabilities of Russia’s new intermediate-range ballistic

missile, Oreshnik, which was used in a strike on Ukraine in November.

In order to test its power, he suggested Russia should fire the Oreshnik towards Ukraine, and Ukrainian air defence - using US-supplied systems - should try to bring it down. As for the name “Oreshnik”? “Honestly,” Putin said with a smirk, “No idea. No clue.” A dominant theme throughout the event was “Russian sovereignty”, with Putin claiming that less reliance on international partners - partly a result of Western sanctions - was one of the key achievements of his invasion of Ukraine.

He said the economy was “stable”, pointing to higher growth than countries like Germany, but admitted inflation of 9.1% was “alarming”.

In fact, the economy is overheating and highly reliant on military production - sometimes termed the “military industrial complex”.

Throughout the address, Putin also answered questions on domestic issues - from telephone scammers to young people’s struggles with getting a mortgage.

Congress in disarray and shutdown looms as Trump, Musk slam spending deal (BBC NEWS) The US could face a government shutdown at midnight on Saturday after Presidentelect Donald Trump called on Republican lawmakers to reject a bipartisan funding bill that would have kept the government funded through March.

Trump urged Congress to scrap the deal and pass a slimmer version with fewer provisions. His intervention followed heavy criticism of the bill by tech billionaire Elon Musk. Congressman Steve Scalise, the Republican House Majority L e a d e r, i n d i c a t e d o n Wednesday night that the bill was dead after Trump denounced it. The shortterm funding bill will need to be passed by Congress by the end of the week to prevent federal government offices from shuttering

beginning on Saturday.

Now, Republican leadership must go back to the drawing board, and they only have until 23:59 EDT (04:59 GMT) to reach a deal before funding expires and the government shuts down. A government shutdown would cause federal services - ranging from the National Parks Service to Border Patrol - to limit and begin closing operations this weekend. Trump and VicePresident-elect JD Vance dealt the final blow to House Speaker Mike Johnson’s bipartisan funding bill on Wednesday night following a pressure campaign led by Mr. Musk on X. Mr. Musk, who Trump has tasked with cutting government spending in his future administration, lobbied heavily against the existing deal posting repeatedly on

Wednesday against the bill, often with false statements.

The president and vicepresident elect are pushing for streamlined legislation that does not include Democratic-backed provisions that Johnson negotiated with his colleagues across the aisle.

The now-dead bipartisan deal would have extended government funding until March 14 - several months after Trump returns to the White House. The legislation is necessary because Congress never passed a budget for the 2025 fiscal year, which began on 1 October. Instead, lawmakers opted to pass a short-term funding extension until December 20.

They also called, in a joint statement, for Congress to raise the debt ceiling, which determines

how much the government can borrow to pay its bills, and limit the funding legilsation to temporary spending and disaster relief.

“Republicans want to support our farmers, pay for disaster relief, and set our country up for success in 2025. The only way to do that is with a temporary funding bill WITHOUT D E M O C R A T GIVEAWAYS combined with an increase in the debt ceiling,” the statement read.

They called anything else “a betrayal of our country.” In posts on his social media site, Tr u t h S o c i a l , Tr u m p threatened to help unseat “any Republican that would be so stupid as to” vote in favour of the current version of the bill, which was unveiled on Tuesday. “If Democrats threaten to shut down the government unless we give

them everything they want, then CALL THEIR BLUFF,” he said. Johnson’s 1,500-page continuing resolution included more than $110bn (£88bn) in emergency disaster relief and $30bn (£23bn) in aid to farmers. It also included the first pay raise for lawmakers since 2009, federal funds to rebuild a bridge that collapsed in Baltimore, healthcare reforms, and provisions aimed at preventing hotels and live event venues from deceptive advertising.

It is not clear how Johnson plans to proceed.

Both parties are meeting on Thursday to decide their p a r t y ’s p a t h f o r w a r d .

Democrats are unlikely to help Johnson with support for a re-vamped funding bill, blaming him for breaking their bipartisan agreement.

“You break the bipartisan agreement, you own the

consequences that follow,” Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries posted on X. White House Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre issued a statement after Trump came out against the bill, saying: “Republicans need to stop playing politics with this bipartisan agreement or they will hurt hardworking Americans and create instability across the country.”

“Triggering a damaging government shutdown would hurt families,” President Joe B i d e n ’s s p o k e s w o m a n continued, adding: “A deal is a deal. Republicans should keep their word.”

There have been 21 US government shutdowns or partial shutdowns over the past five decades - the longest of which was during Trump’s first term when the government was shuttered for 35 days.

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

India produce dominant 60-run win over West Indies to claim 2-1 T20I series victory in Mumbai SportsMax - The West Indies will have to wait a bit longer for their first T20 International series win over India since 2017 after they were defeated by 60 runs in the Thursday’s decisive third T20I at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai.

India batted first, posting 217-4 from their 20 overs before restricting the West Indians to 157-9 in their 20

overs.

It looked like Hayley Matthews made the right decision by choosing to bowl first after winning the toss when Chinelle henry got the wicket of Uma Chetry for a duck at the end of the first over.

However, that proved to be the last bit of success the Windies women experienced for a while as

captain Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues added 98 throughout the next nine overs.

That partnership ended when Rodrigues fell off the bowling of Afy Fletcher for 39 in the 11th over.

Raghvi Bist then joined her skipper and the pair out on a further 44 before Mandhana went off the bowling of Deandra Dottin

Friday December 20, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today is a day of opposites for you. You may jump from one thing to another, Aries.

Somehow nothing seems to sit right with you, and so your search intensifies. Try to be the active one in the situation as opposed to the one acted upon.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Today is a terrific day for you, Taurus, in which action spells reward. You can't go wrong by expressing your needs and how they fit with the collective agenda. Feel free to focus on you and be selfish about your passions.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Egos may rage out of control today, leaving you to wonder what all the fuss is about. Give other people their space, Gemini. If the conversation gets too boring, just smile and nod.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today is a powerful day for you, Cancer. Your emotions may be stubborn but realize the very thing you resist is the very thing you need the most.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) People may have an extra spark in their actions and an extra bite in their words today.

You will find that you may be better off just walking away from any situation that doesn't feel right.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Express yourself to the fullest today, Scorpio. Feel free to take an unconventional approach when it comes to dealing with your emotions.

Try not to let others cajole you into thinking you need to fit into an artificial construct of what you need to be and what you need to think.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) It may be hard to deal with the opposing energies today, Sagittarius. Conflicting v ie w p o in t s a n d tw i s t e d perspectives clash within your world.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Capricorn, this may prove a challenging day for you.

You're used to being the sovereign surrounded by courtiers currying your favor.

There's something trying to draw attention away from you.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today could be an unusual one for you emotionally, Leo. Yo u r u s u a l e a s y g o i n g , adaptable nature could be ruffled by people who try to take over projects that you are perfectly qualified to do.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Take care of yourself and your needs, Aquarius. There's an advantage to making sure your emotions are cared for and stable before you try to heal others.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Try not to be too arrogant today, Virgo, even when you're utterly sure you're right about the given situation.

More than likely, you have the correct answers, but it isn't necessary to be strident about it.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Take the unconventional approach today, Pisces. You're able to gain a great deal and establish a whole new perspective just by opening your lens wider in order to include what you normally shrug off.

with two balls to go in the 15th over.

Mandhana made a top score of 77 off47 balls including 13 fours and a six.

That wicket brought Richa Ghosh to the crease and the wicket-keeper/batter played a massive part in India reaching their biggest total of the series.

Ghosh combined with Bist to put on 70 for the fourth wicket in just 5.1 overs before being dismissed with one ball remaining in the innings for a 21-ball 54 including three fours and five sixes.

Bist finished 31* as India reached 217-4 from their 20 overs.

In pursuit of 218 for victory, the West Indian chase started slowly with openers Matthews and Qiana Joseph adding just nine in the first three overs thanks to some accurate Indian bowling.

That built up pressure paid off in the fourth over when Joseph, after hitting a six off the previous ball, fell caught off the bowling of Sajeevan Sanjana for 11 off 13 balls with the score on 20.

In a change in the order, Deandra Dottin came in at number three and her and Matthews added 37 for the second wicket before Matthew fell caught off the bowling of Radha Yadav for a 17-ball 22 in the eighth over. One over later, all West Indian hope seemed lost as Dottin fell for 25 off 17 balls, caught off the bowling of Titas Sandhu with the score on 62.

Shemaine Campbelle and Chinelle Henry, who came in at four and five, respectively, both batted well in their partnership of 34 for the fourth wicket before Campbelle fell caught for an 11-ball 17 off the bowling of Deepti Sharma at the start of the 12th over.

Henry was the best West Indian batter of the day, making 43 off just 16 balls to try her hand at overhauling the massive total put up by the hosts.

She hit three fours and four sixes before falling with the score on 129 in the 15th over.

Aaliyah Alleyne (6), Nerissa Crafton (9) and Shabika Gajnabi (3) all fell before the end of the 18th over as India closed in on the win and a series triumph.

PAGE 23

Chase’s Academic to tackle... match. Who will emerge victorious? That’s the big question. Each of the remaining teams has earned their spot in the final four. Now is their chance to showcase all the hard work and dedication from the 2024 football season.

Fans can expect electrifying youth football as these teams compete to make history. Come out and support both local and international contenders as the Petra Organisation inches closer to crowning the 2024 KFC Goodwill champions.

The tournament is proudly sponsored by KFC, with additional support from ANSA McAl Distribution (Lucozade), Royal International Hotel, Tiger Rentals, SkyTec Enterprise, RSI Maintence Service Limited, MVP Sports, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports.

From page 26 two exciting semi-final matchups, starting at 5:30 p.m. Meanwhile, in We d n e s d a y e v e n i n g ’s m a t c h e s , G u y a n a ’s p o w e r h o u s e C h a s e ’s Academic Foundation suffered a 3-0 defeat against the Trinidadians, while last year’s champions, Clarendon College, edged out Tobago’s Speyside College 2-1. These results set the stage for an exhilarating finish ahead of Sunday’s grand finale.

According to the fixtures, St Benedict’s College will take on Region Seven’s giants Annai Secondary, who previously defeated Tobago’s Speyside College. Annai will need to give their all to secure a spot in the finals. On the other side, Chase’s Academic Foundation, the 2024 U18 League champions, will battle Clarendon College for a place in the championship

Berbice River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Friday December 20, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 20:30hrs Saturday December 21, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 05:30hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs

Demerara River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Friday December 20, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 8:00hrs Saturday December 21, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 8:45hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs DATE: 12/19/2024

2

7 16 18 19 20 3

2 7

1 Evening 4

DATE: 12/19/2024 Afternoon

9 7

DATE: 12/19/2024

10 19 20 24 25 DATE: 12/18/2024

2 14

9

10 22 27 28 D

G.L.C. 357 Lamaha Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown Tel:226-0753. While every effort is made to ensure numbers are correct, please call the hotline for confirmation, The G.L.C. and Kaieteur News cannot be held responsible for printing errors.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Friday December 20, 2024

2024 BCB Ivan Madray T20 Memorial T20 semi-finals…

UCCA, RHTYSC NAMILCO to face off tomorrow

T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Dr. Ivan Madray T20 semi’s bowl off tomorrow, Saturday, with Upper Corentyne Cricket

Association (UCCA) battling Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) this Saturday, December 21.

The two teams having

made it this far, will lock horns at the Area H Ground located in Rose Hall with action bowling off from 13:00h, as one of either team is likely to book a place in

The BCB Dr. Ivan Madray T20 semi’s is set for tomorrow. the finals.

On the other hand, the BCB has announced that the continuation of the ongoing D r. A r m a n a u t h D u k k i sponsored Under-15 tournament will take an indefinite break.

Action in Zones B and C

will pause for the moment due to the consistent rainfall which has plagued some parts of the Ancient County.

The board is expected to make future announcements regarding the resumption of play following their assessment of the weather.

UDFA year-end Futsal Championship…

Topp XX and Winners Connection seeking quarterfinals berth as six matches carded AT least two clubs can swiftly secure quarterfinal places tonight (Friday) on day two when the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) $3M Christmas futsal championship continues at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

As the preliminary play continues after rain forced the postponement of Wednesday night’s six matches Futsal fans are in for a treat since, weather permitting it would be most interesting as teams know the importance of a victory.

In this fourteen-team championship, two groups have three and another two consist of four and after round robin play, the top two teams will each advance into the quarterfinals.

In this scenario where three teams are in Group B, Topp XX who defeated Capital FC 4-3, on the opening night last Sunday, can with a win against Fearless at 7.00pm reach the last eight.

Then at 7.45pm the second match on the night features Group D teams and again where three teams are bracketed.

Winners Connection, who were 5-2 winners versus Coomacka, can also reach the last eight by defeating opponents Rockstone.

The third game is where the most interest will be as four teams each are involved in these clashes battling it out.

In Group A at 8.30pm Group A match pits Amelia’s Ward against Silver Shattas

with the Shattas just off a 7-0 destruction by Botafago searching for a way to rebound against this Amelia’s Ward side which were held to a 5-5 draw by Net Rockers in their opening game.

After that game in a Group C which has four teams,Blueberry Hill will at 9.15pm, after holding Milerock to a 2-2 stalemate, now face Eagles United.

Eagles after securing that important win over Hi Stars will be tough to stop, but Blueberry Hill United must be encouraged with their previous performance. That game will be followed at 10.00pm by one which also has four teams contesting in a Group C, featuring the defending champions Milerock and Hi Stars.

Milerock are seeking to improve their chances of advancing, after they were held to a 2-2 draw when they clashed with Blueberry Hill United on the first night last Sunday.

Hi Stars on the other hand cannot afford to lose again, after they went down 2-0 to Eagles United in their opener.

Game six of the night starts at 10.45pm where Group A’s Botafago fresh from an impressive 7-0 hammering of Silver Shattas, hoping to establish themselves with another solid win against Net Rockers, who played to a 5-5 draw with Amelia’s Ward.

Following tonight’s matches the tournament continues on Sunday with another six matches at the Retrieve Hard Court.

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 25

Guyanese athletes make mark at second Kares Cross Fit Caribbean event in Suriname

R

oley Chandler, Kellon Reid and Shanika Estwick highlighted the Guyanese presence at the Kares Caribbean Championship ‘December Classic’ in partnership with local gym Rock Fitness Paramaribo.

Chadler and Reid finished first and third in the Intermediate Individuals category, while Estwick claimed a third place finish in the Scaled Females event.

Sponsored by Kares Group and Lotus Hardware, it was the First CrossFit Licensed event in Suriname held on 14-15 December at Ring sports canter in Paramaribo. International participation came from countries including Guyana, Suriname, Bahamas, French Guiana, United Kingdom, France, USA, Venezuela and Brazil.

A total 82 Athletes

competing, categories: Intermediate Individuals, scaled males and scaled females battled over 2 days of competition starting on Saturday at an outdoor venue at Plantation Frederiksdorp where the first event was 1000m kayaking, 2000m run and 5000m trail biking.

It was the second Crossfit licensed event in the Caribbean, (first one in Trinidad August 2024).

Athletes completed 1 event on Saturday and 5 events on Sunday.

The Event was described as a great success commencing at 9am and finishing at 5pm. Organizers were pleased with the enthusiasm and support from athletes and spectators (300). They will be hosting the next Crossfit Licensed event in another Caribbean country in April 2025. The vision for the competition is

to move across borders regionally in the Caribbean and eventually expand globally in USA, UK, Europe and beyond as a recognized Crossfit Licensed Event in countries across the different continents.

Results of the Podium finishes: Intermediate Individuals 1st - Roley Chandler (Guyana) 2nd- Jaime Thompson (Bahamas) 3rd- Kellon Reid (Guyana) Scaled Men 1 s t - Ti m o t e e J u g e (French Guiana) 2nd- Dimitri Stomp (Suriname) 3 r d - K e n n e t h Ya u (Suriname) Scaled Females 1st- Patiqua Cooper (Bahamas) 2nd- Amanda Rijsdijk

Saints, Good Hope, Christ Church...

It was highly-competitive battle among students as a number of schools brought the intensity through the 2024 CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited/GTTA National Schools Table Tennis championships.

From page 22 High “A” def St Joseph’s High “A” 3-0 Obinnah def Travis Lyken 3-0 (11-8-11-9,11-8) Josiah Issacs def Christian Williams 3-0 (115,11-7,11-8) Doubles Obinnah/Williams def Lyken/Issacs 3-0 (113,11,9,11-10) Christ Church Sec A def St Roses “B” 3-0 Samuel Ally def Brad Cush 3-2 (9-11,11-2,1210,6-11,11-6) Gamaliel Philips def Xavi Peters 3-1 (3-11,115,11-2,11-5) Doubles Ally/Philips def Brad Cush/Tyen Paul 3- 1 (118,10-12,11-8,11-8) St Joseph High def Christ Church “B” 3-0

Travis Lyken def Diego De Nobrega 3-0 (11-5,118,11-8) Josiah Issacs def Phillip Persaud 3-0 (11-6,11-7,116) L y k e n /Issacs def De Nobrega/Andre Arjoon 3-0 (11-3,12-10,11-8) Christ Church “A” def Christ Church “B” 3-0 Samuel Ally def Diego De Nobrega 3-1 (12-10,119,11-13, 1 1 - 6 ) Gamaliel Philips def Andre Arjoon 3-0 (11-7,119,11-8) Doubles S. Ally/G. Philips def De Nobrega /Persaud 3-0 114,11-6,11-9) Boys 19 Years and Under Region 4 Bladen Hall def Good Hope Sec 3-2 A Hall def A Doliviera 31 (11-6,9-11,11-7,11-9) J Mc Pherson lost K

Foster 3-0 (4-11,5-11,6-11) Doubles Hall /Mc Pherson def D’Olivera/Foster 3-1(119,11-7,7-11,11-9) D’Oliviera def J Mc Pherson 3-0 (11-2,11-3,112) A H all def K . F os ter 3-0 (11-6,11-3,11-5) G irls 19 Years and Under National Edition ST Stanislaus College def Bladen H all S ec 3-0 A k i r a Wa t s o n d e f Angel Robinson 31(11-9,6-11,11-4,11-5) J amine Billingy def Shackey Damon 3-0 (11-6,11-7,11-4) A Wats on/J Billingy def A Robinson/S D amon 3-0 (11-4,119,11-4)

1st placed Patiqua Cooper (Bahamas) (centre), is flanked by 2nd-placed Amanda Rijsdijk (Suriname) at left and 3rd- placed Shanika Estwick (Guyana).

(Suriname) 3rd- Shanika Estwick (Guyana) The event saw backing

from Sponsors: Baitali Group, Gorilla Energy Drink, Jumex juice, Bacardi, FIS Industrial Services, All

Star, Paramaribo Bright, Plantage Frederiksdorp, Basic ne Water, Rude Boy and Ramcharan’s slijterij.

Minister Ramson tables historic Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill - Horse racing industry set for transformation The Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill 2024, tabled by Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. in the National Assembly, marks a historic step toward modernizing and regulating the country’s horse racing industry.

The long-awaited legislation, which was presented to Parliament by Minister Ramson, aims to establish the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, a governing body to oversee licensing, management, and discipline within the sport.

The Bill outlines a comprehensive framework to professionalize horse racing in Guyana, with its provisions including establishment of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, which will be a corporate body governed by a Board comprising professionals with expertise in law, finance, business, and horse racing.

It also covers mandatory Licensing, which will allow for all racecourses, trainers, jockeys, and stable employees to obtain licenses to operate. Applications will be vetted to ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards.

A dedicated Disciplinary Committee will also be established investigate

complaints and enforce penalties for breaches of rules. Actions such as license suspension or revocation will be published for public awareness. Regulation and Enforcement will be see the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport having the power to make additional rules concerning security, safety, and operational standards at racecourses.

The tabling of the Bill represents the culmination of years of effort. Several previous administrations attempted to introduce similar legislation but were met with resistance from certain stakeholders, particularly stable owners, as past proposals often faltered at the discussion stage, leaving the industry unregulated and vulnerable to exploitation. The passage of the Bill is poised to address longstanding issues, including the lack of a c c o u n t a b i l i t y, s a f e t y concerns, and disputes over p r i z e m o n e y.

By introducing a legal framework, the government aims to create an environment conducive to growth and investment.

G u y a n a ’s p u s h t o regulate horse racing mirrors similar initiatives in other Caribbean countries like Barbados, Jamaica and

Trinidad and Tobago.

In Jamaica, the establishment of the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission has transformed the horse racing sector into a robust contributor to the economy.

Regulatory oversight has attracted sponsorships, improved animal welfare, and created employment opportunities.

Similarly, in Trinidad and Tobago, the Trinidad and Tobago Racing Authority ensures fair competition, promotes ethical practices, and safeguards the interests of all stakeholders. These examples highlight the economic and social benefits of a wellregulated industry, offering a glimpse of what Guyana could achieve under the new Bill.

Minister Ramson underscored the transformative potential of the legislation, stating that the Bill is not just about r e g u l a t i o n ; i t ’s a b o u t elevating horse racing to a professional sport that contributes to our nation’s economic and cultural landscape. The Guyana Horse Racing Authority Act 2024 aims to provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in fair and transparent practices, ultimately fostering a thriving industry.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 26

Friday December 20, 2024

GFF and MEYBA launch new kits to unite Guyanese fans and boost team performance The Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in collaboration with global sportswear brand MEYBA, is proud to launch its new team kits, marking an exciting milestone in their five-year partnership announced in September.

The kits are designed to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Guyana while equipping the national teams with cuttingedge performance apparel as they gear up for a packed 2025 calendar featuring major campaigns for both male and female national teams. The year kicks off with the Concacaf U-17 Women’s and Men’s World Cup Qualifiers, then the U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers followed by the

senior men’s participation in the Concacaf Gold Cup Preliminaries, the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and later on their Nations League campaign. The senior women’s team will also take to the field for the Concacaf W Champions Cup Qualifiers.

The newly unveiled kits feature designs inspired by Guyana’s rich cultural heritage, striking colours, and passion for football.

Jonathan Jones, MEYBA’s Head of Global Marketing, shared his enthusiasm, noting: “It’s a proud day for MEYBA to release our first international kits with the Guyanese Football Federation. Guyana is a very special place, and we’re

The GFF, in collaboration with global sportswear brand MEYBA, launched its new team kits.

thrilled to be working with a federation that is as forwardthinking as the GFF. The kits are directly inspired by the essence, colours, and love for Guyana. We can’t wait to

2024 CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited/GTTA National Schools Table Tennis championships…

Saints, Good Hope, Christ Church among winners in National Tabletennis School’s championship

I

t was a strong performance from the lads of Saints Stanislaus College, Christ Church Secondary, St. Roses High and Good Hope Secondary who emerged winners of the nationwide national school’s tournament endorsed by the Ministry of Education, which ended recently at the National Gymnasium.

In Boys U-19 group matches for Georgetown which spiked off, St. Roses defeated St. Joseph’s High School after handing them a 3-0 defeat.

Meanwhile, Christ Church Secondary ‘A’ team had a pair of wins, defeating Christ Church ‘B’ and St. Roses High ‘B’, while Bladen Hall beat Good Hope Secondary 3-2.

Action was also intense in the Girls U-19 department as the national duo of Saint Stanislaus Colleges’ Jasmine Billingy and Akira Watson, who got the better of Shackey Damon and Angel Robinson, winners of the Region 4 girls U-19 leg from Good Hope Secondary.

The tournament was overlooked under the watchful eyes of ITTF Level 2 Coach, Linden Johnson and the dynamic ITTF level 1 Coach/ ITTF national

umpire Leona Kyte. Results and Winners Row the CNOOC Petroleum Guyana G T TA M i n i s t r y o f Education Nationwide National Schools Table Tennis Championships Georgetown Region 4 and national Edition: Boys 19 Years and Under St Roses High “A” def St Joseph’s High “A” 3-0 Obinnah def Travis Lyken 3-0 (11-8-11-9,11-8) Josiah Issacs def Christian Williams 3-0 (115,11-7,11-8) Doubles Obinnah/Williams def Lyken/Issacs 3-0 (113,11,9,11-10) Christ Church Sec A def St Roses “B” 3-0 Samuel Ally def Brad Cush 3-2 (9-11,11-2,1210,6-11,11-6) Gamaliel Philips def Xavi Peters 3-1 (3-11,115,11-2,11-5) Doubles Ally/Philips def Brad Cush/Tyen Paul 3- 1 (118,10-12,11-8,11-8) St Joseph High def Christ Church “B” 3-0 Travis Lyken def Diego De Nobrega 3-0 (11-5,118,11-8) Josiah Issacs def Phillip Persaud 3-0 (11-6,11-7,116)Lyken/Issacs def De Nobrega/Andre Arjoon 3-0

(11-3,12-10,11-8) Christ Church “A” def Christ Church “B” 3-0 Samuel Ally def Diego De Nobrega 3-1 (12-10,11-9,11-13,11-6) Gamaliel Philips def Andre Arjoon 3-0 (11-7,119,11-8) Doubles S. Ally/G. Philips def De Nobrega /Persaud 3-0 114,11-6,11-9) Boys 19 Years and Under Region 4 Bladen Hall def Good Hope Sec 3-2 A Hall def A Doliviera 31 (11-6,9-11,11-7,11-9) J Mc Pherson lost K Foster 3-0 (4-11,5-11,6-11) Doubles Hall /Mc Pherson def D’Olivera/Foster 3-1(119,11-7,7-11,11-9) D’Oliviera def J Mc Pherson 3-0 (11-2,11-3,112) A Hall def K. Foster 3-0 (11-6,11-3,11-5) Girls 19 Years and Under National Edition ST Stanislaus College def Bladen Hall Sec 3-0 Akira Watson def Angel Robinson 3-1(11-9,6-11,114,11-5) Jamine Billingy def Shackey Damon 3-0 (116,11-7,11-4) A Watson/J Billingy def A Robinson/S Damon 3-0 (11-4,11-9,11-4)

see them on the pitch as the Golden Jaguars prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualification with MEYBA by their side!” GFF President Wayne Forde also expressed his pride in the partnership and the unveiling of the new kits: “This partnership with MEYBA represents an important step forward for the Guyana Football Federation. These new kits not only symbolize the pride and identity of our nation but also showcase our commitment to providing the best for our players and fans. We are excited to see our teams donning these

jerseys as we continue our journey towards the Gold Cup 2025 and FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.”

Kit Details Men’s Home Jersey: The home kit showcases a bespoke Jacquard base with an all-over jungle sublimation pattern, representing the colours of Guyana’s national flag. Key features include omni move technology, a reflective GFF badge, tri-colour raglan sleeves, a V-neckline, and hidden design elements throughout.

Men’s Away Jersey: The away kit offers a classic pinstripe design combined with geometric jacquard

elements. A dual-color reflective GFF badge and an exclusive MEYBA neckline blend retro aesthetics with modern performance.

Women’s Home and Away Kits: The women’s kits feature bespoke designs inspired by the sights, sounds, and vibrant colors of Guyana, creating a unified identity for all GFF teams.

Founded in Barcelona, Spain, in 1981, MEYBA gained international recognition as the first branded kit supplier for FC Barcelona, famously worn by legends like Maradona and Johan Cruyff.

Today, MEYBA continues to deliver high-performance sportswear to professional clubs and international federations worldwide, including in Europe, the USA, Africa, and South America.

The new Guyana Football Federation kits are available exclusively at MEYBA.com starting Wednesday, 18th December.

The GFF is thrilled to continue its partnership with MEYBA, confident that these kits will not only enhance team performance but also reflect the pride and identity of the Guyanese people.

Petra/KFC Goodwill Int’l Football Series

Chase’s Academic to tackle Clarendon Col’ for spot in the final

The Mantas frontline (Clarendon College) will be on show from 19:30 at MoE ground.

The stage is set for the ultimate playoffs where the winners will secure tickets to the final in the Fifth Annual KFC Goodwill International Under-18 Secondary School’s Football Series 2024. The atmosphere is electric, featuring eight of the fiercest football teams from secondary schools in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and host nation Guyana.

The tournament kicked

off last Sunday at the Q u e e n ’s C o l l e g e a n d Ministry of Education grounds. From witnessing 28 goals scored on the opening day to thrilling double hat-tricks, remarkable penalty kicks, and dramatic comeback victories. The 2024 Series, coordinated by the Petra Organisation has delivered unforgettable action. Today, the finalists will be decided at the MoE ground.

The teams to watch are defending champions Clarendon College from Jamaica and Trinidad’s Southern and Intercol champions, St Benedict’s College. Both have proven formidable, remaining unbeaten in this year’s campaign. Four dynamic teams including Guyana’s Annai Secondary and Chase’s Academic Foundation will face off in (Continued on page 23)

Kaieteur News

Friday December 20, 2024

PAGE 27

Trophy Stall supports Trophy Stall on board with RS/One Guyana Softball Cup Petra-KFC Goodwill Series 2024

A

T

he Trophy Stall, Guyana’s leading trophy store, has officially joined the list of sponsors supporting the ongoing 2024 KFC Goodwill Football Series.

This prestigious tournament brings together eight of the best secondary school teams in a thrilling eight-day Series battle for the ultimate championship title.

During a brief presentation ceremony held yesterday at the company’s Bourda Street location, Ramesh Sunich, owner of the Trophy Stall, highlighted the outstanding efforts of the P e t r a O rg a n i s a t i o n i n developing grassroots football across the country.

Recognizing the positive impact of their initiatives, Sunich made a generous contribution of first, second, and third-place trophies for the tournament.

Co-director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, and Assistant Secretary Nafeeza LatifBoston attended the handing-over ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Mendonca expressed

Trophy Stall’s Devi Sunich (center), Troy Mendonca (right) and Nafeeza Boston exhibiting the three donated trophies on

gratitude for the support provided by the Trophy Stall, emphasising the significance of the tournament for young footballers. “ We a t t h e P e t r a Organization are happy to receive support from the Trophy Stall.

This tournament provides a platform for our young footballers to compete with the best teams in the Caribbean, which can only benefit their development.

We are very thankful for this contribution,” Mendonca

said.

The Trophy Stall joins an impressive roster of sponsors, including Royal International Hotel, ANSA McAL’s Lucozade brand, Tiger Rentals, SkyTec Enterprise, MVP Sports, and RSI Limited, all contributing to the success of the 2024 KFC Goodwill Football Tournament.

Wi t h s u c h s t r o n g backing, the event promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and competition.

s RS Sports prepares to bowl off its highly anticipated inaugural Berbice Softball Cup, Trophy Stall has stepped up as a key sponsor by donating trophies for each competitive category.

These trophies will be awarded to the winners, ensuring that topperforming teams receive well-deserved recognition.

The tournament is slated to commence on Sunday, December 22, at the Port Mourant Centre ground, featuring thrilling Male and Female championship matches.

This event promises to bring excitement and competitive energy to the softball community.

Juliana Rikhee of Trophy Stall led a brief handing-over ceremony at the company’s South Road and Bourda Streets location.

During the ceremony, Trophy Stall presented first, second, and third-place trophies for both Male and Female formats, solidifying their commitment to supporting grassroots sports.

The Berbice Softball Cup is made possible

RCD rep Seetaram (left) receiving the donated accolades from Trophy Stall rep Juliana Rikhee.

through the collaborative efforts of RS Sports, Roraima Tours, City Stars Softball Team, and the GoG One Guyana brand. Their

combined support underscores the spirit of partnership in fostering sports development in the region.

Minister Ramson tables historic Guyana Horse Racing Authority Bill

s

rt Spo

Olympic Kremlin, out of Slingerz Stable, is the top horse in Guyana this year.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr

- Horse racing industry set for transformation

Proley Chandler of Guyana (centre) and fellow countryman Kellon Reid flies the Golden Arrowhead after securing first and third positions, 2nd placed Jaime Thompson(Bahamas) share the podium.

India produce dominant 60-run win over West Indies to claim 2-1 T20I series victory in Mumbai

Guyanese athletes make mark at second Kares Cross Fit Caribbean event in Suriname Petra/KFC Goodwill Int’l Football Series

Chase’s Academic to tackle Clarendon Col’ for spot in the final

Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.