Kaieteur News

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Saturday Edition Israeli soldiers AIETEUR NEWS burn Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital, force hundreds to leave December 28, 2024 - Vol. 18 No. 48

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 23,529

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

Jagdeo dodges question on whether Exxon formally said it will not renegotiate 2016 contract …says Govt. not interested in optics

US EXIM Bank approves US$527 million loan for Gas-to-Energy project Motorcyclist dies in Boxing Day accident

Dead: Mikel Blair

State withdraws application to revoke Brutus’s bail

100Foster NOT OUT! Leonard Agustus McKoy, fondly called, ‘uncle Foster,’ celebrated his 100th birth anniversary on Friday. He shared the special milestone with relatives and friends during a thanksgiving ceremony at the St. Georges Cathedral.

(Annette Ferguson photo)

Purchase of FPSOs to reduce Hess’ low operating cost - CFO Gas-to-Energy contractor submits ...ruling likely new claims to arbitration by end of Jan. panel over soil conditions - VP Jagdeo

Kaieteur News

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Saturday December 28, 2024

Gas-to-Energy contractor submits new...ruling claims to likely by end arbitration panel over soil conditions of January - Jagdeo

T

he joint venture hired by the government of Guyana (GoG), CH4Lindsayca, to construct two gas plants at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), has submitted new claims to the Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB).

This was revealed by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Friday during his weekly press conference.

He explained that there is presently one issue before the DAB for which oral presentations have been made. However, Jagdeo said, “There have been some additional claims by CH4 and Lindsayca, particularly

as they relate to the soil conditions and those would have to go through the technical process to see whether they are justified or not.”

The first claim by the contractor is for some US$50M and is expected to be resolved soon. Following the submissions by the contractor to the Board, there were presentations made by Guyana’s lawyers in Miami.

“They have I think the 15 of January (2025) to make some supplementary presentations and thereafter I think by the end of the month they will rule on the matter, so if the parties accept that their claims will be settled, if th

The site where two gas plants are being built by CH4- Lindsayca

they accept the ruling; if the parties decide not to then you go to full arbitration,” the Vice President noted.

He was reluctant to comment further on the issue, highlighting that Guyana will now have to evaluate the new claims made by the contractor.

He said, “I don’t want to comment on those, because those matters could end up in arbitration, that has to go through a technical process when they submit the claims, we have an engineering company that oversees the contract and they would have to give their views on the claim, whether it merits addressing or not.”

When asked how much the new claims totaled, Jagdeo said he did not want to make it known at this time, although he is aware of the information. In fact, he said he did not want to push the case of the contractor.

So far, Guyana has already incurred a legal bill of $13.6 million for the arbitration process, according to Prime Minister, Mark Phillips.

In April this year, Reuters first reported that CH4Lindsayca initiated legal proceedings against the GOG for US$90 million in cost overruns for the project.

Notably, at that time, it was stated that the first phase

of the 300-MW power plant was running six months behind schedule and full operation is not expected until the fourth quarter of 2025.

Days later, VP Jagdeo blamed ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) for the construction delays in the Wales gas plants.

Jagdeo said that ExxonMobil was responsible for the site preparation, the road, the Materials Offloading Facility (MOF) and the laydown yard.

“We were supposed to hand over the site to the contractor by June, we did not hand over the site, that is, Exxon did not hand over the site until September and it was still incomplete and they handed over an additional US$14M from the US$1B that they set aside to the contractor to complete the site, so a three months delay,” he said. Guyana Shore Base Inc (GYSBI) was

contracted by ExxonMobil to complete the site.

Jagdeo further stated that the government decided to give the contractors an extension of three months (from the end of 2024), “that is why we are arguing that the plant must be completed

by April of 2025, instead of end December 2024.”

The former Head of State said the GoG is at odds with the contractor over the delay period. He explained, “That is where the three months we are arguing the three months delay on the project came.

They want a longer period because the liquidating damages for not completing the project on time for the contractor, if they don’t complete the project on time, it’s over US$11M per month they have to pay in liquidating damages for delay on the project, so they are arguing they need more time beyond the three months. We are saying three months is adequate.”

Linden mother goes missing on Christmas Day A 52-year-old mother of three went missing on Christmas Day after wandering in the vicinity of the Kara Kara Bridge, Linden, Region 10.

The missing woman has been identified as Baby Ann Persaud also known as ‘Annit’ a resident of Block 42 Amelia’s ward, Linden.

In an interview with Kaieteur News, Persaud’s daughter, Shivanie Peters, said that her mother went missing while she was out getting food for her. Peters disclosed that her mother suffers from Amnesia, after falling and hitting her head in February, 2024.

“I leave her to go by my cousin to uplift some food which I ordered for her … we spent a lil while there because we were having a few drinks … when we come back, my niece told me we have to go for her because she is by Kara Kara Bridge,” Peters told Kaieteur News.

The woman explained that she was unable to check the location with her nieces because she had to look after her baby.

She said, “I see my two nieces go to check but they couldn’t find her and later the afternoon we go and check and we didn’t find her.”

Missing: Baby Ann Persaud also known as ‘Annit’ Peters explained that her mother would from time-totime venture into the community and persons would take her home.

“It’s been sad because last year, last Christmas I had her, she was good, she was happy, she was with me, she was in her good sense… its very heartbreaking for me,” the distraught woman told Kaieteur News.

Peters said since her mother disappeared, she has been unable to eat properly as she is worried about her wellbeing.

Saturday December 28, 2024

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Jagdeo dodges question on whether Exxon said it will not renegotiate 2016 contract Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday dodged a direct question on whether ExxonMobil has formally written to the government indicating that it is not open to renegotiating the 2016 oil contract.

Instead, the country’s oil and gas spokesman sought to blame the APNU+AFC administration for signing the lopsided deal before saying that his government is not interested in optics.

Journalist Denis Chabrol questioned whether the oil company has said in writing that “we will not renegotiate, as opposed to just saying it in the public domain, probably in a conversation and what is wrong with going with taking it to dispute resolution?”

In response, Jagdeo said, “As I said before, we’re not dealing with the optics.

We ’ r e d e a l i n g w i t h

- says Govt. not interested in optics substance. If you want to deal another party, you can ask this question…The AFC and the others can deal with optics. They, they, they did that before. They’re the ones who signed the agreement.

Now, suddenly they think, oh, we should renegotiate the agreement. The PNC, I don’t know what your position is, because everyday changes.

That’s one thing with the PPP. You’re not going to get a PR politics,” he stressed.

He reasoned that the government is not going after renegotiation now because it needs to focus on locking in all of the investments it can get since it is becoming harder to secure them.

Jagdeo reminded the media that his party said it would “renegotiate the five

the other contracts. Which we did… the five other contracts, we will not touch this one for the following reasons.”

He then said that the renegotiation will trigger a loss of momentum, loss of investments and also be a danger to achieving net zero.

He added that Exxon has already said to everyone including the government that they are not interested in, nor will they accept any renegotiations.

“The provision that APNU put in the PSA is that it has to be done with the consent of both parties, the agreement of both parties. If one party says no, which they have already said, what do you do there? The next stage is a dispute. You have a dispute,” he explained.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

On December 21, this publication reported that while serving as Opposition Leader, Jagdeo said Guyanese should be sad each

time ExxonMobil makes a new oil discovery since the then administration accepted a bad deal. He even went on to commit to “renegotiate

those contracts”.

However, last week, Jagdeo, who has since been appointed as Vice President, said he never meant that the deal with Exxon would be renegotiated.

During his press conference, Kaieteur News reminded the VP of his statements shared while he was the Leader of the Opposition, and asked him to say whether he still holds that view and why.

In his response, Jagdeo said, “Yes, so I said that, and I held to the view and not only did I say that, I said that these contracts...will be renegotiated. So, we had, at that time, six contracts, that Continued on page 6

Kaieteur News

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

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

EDITORIAL

Guyana’s woman of the year We give credit when due, thanks when it’s deserving.

Thanks to Attorney-at-Law, Melinda Janki and her team.

She aims high, flies high, with her sights now set on ExxonMobil’s seventh oil project, Hammerhead. What the Guyana Government is not doing, has all but thrown up its hands in surrender, Ms. Janki is doing in taking Guyana’s oil fight for safety, fairness, and justice to the courts. A proven warrior for Guyana has Ms. Janki been, and we are with her and her group of determined partners as they gear up for this latest oil test. For her bold and tireless exploits, Ms. Melinda Janki should be recognized as Guyana’s Woman of the Year.

Guyana’s First Lady, who may have some ideas of her own about that accolade, should be honest with herself, do the decent thing, and take a seat.

Guyanese want to know their exposures from ExxonMobil’s Hammerhead project. Their concerns stand on sound ground, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must be in the forefront of wanting to know about any such impact. The world is waging war against pollution from fossil fuels, and Guyana should not be indifferent to the potential dangers to health and environment. It is troubling to say, but the local EPA has been a study in silence and stubborn refusal to adjust its position, or clear the air. The EPA Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Hammerhead Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) do not take into consideration the impact of greenhouse gas pollution originating from this oil project.

The questions could be asked immediately: what kind of EIA is this, when such a necessary component is not given the place that it should? Also, what kind of EPA Guyanese have that such a gaping hole could be in its ToR? The quality of life of Guyanese, the legitimate fears of citizens, have to mean more to the EPA, because if not, then whose interests are first for the agency? Why is it that Guyana’s EPA is so hostile to its mandate, to the law, and to its constituency (Guyanese)? So hostile, so apathetic, that it was unmoved by several pieces of correspondence from attorney Janki pressing for the ToR to be amended? Who and for what reason could be influencing the direction and work of Guyana’s EPA? The only response has been a wall of silence and resistance to date. This is where Guyanese find themselves with the seventh oil project.

When the government (the EPA) fails to do its job, deliver on its responsibilities, then it falls on professionals like Ms. Janki et al to pick up that dropped baton and carry it.

By filing a Court action so that Guyanese can get the answers (and security of mind) that they are due, and that the government has an opportunity to right its wrongs.

Wrongheaded leadership has plagued Guyana’s oil wealth from the day of its first discovery. Instead of valuable lessons learned, and the proper revisions occurring, worse practices have become the norm, are now enshrined in local oil culture. Citizens need the government as a partner that can be counted upon to be by their side, and fully for their interests. The reality is that they now live with a government that is proud to be in bed with ExxonMobil, and giving it free rein to do as it pleases at the offshore projects.

If ever there was an example of incomparable ugliness, it is Guyana’s EPA. The agency shrinks from doing its best (or anything of substance) to protect Guyanese, and hold ExxonMobil to high standards of corporate responsibility.

It is interesting to note that the EPA gives every appearance of constructing its ToR for the EIA, so that anything that would stir anxieties in ExxonMobil’s management is excluded. The greenhouse gas pollution impact is one. The EPA’s cold shoulder to Ms. Janki’s letters, not budging from its flawed position, certainly supports the worst conclusions about its convenient deafness, and embarrassing lethargic state. Melinda Janki should get a medal for her efforts. Government leaders must recover their minds, and help the EPA save face.

Finally, Guyanese must get an EIA that reports on pollution impacts of the Hammerhead oil project.

Saturday December 28, 2024

PPP ‘Intellectual’ Defender attacks America, Supreme Court & Police; President Trump mustn’t take it lightly DEAR EDITOR, Calling himself an intellectual defender of the PPP government, Freddie Kissoon, no stranger to controversy, slammed the United States in a column in the government discredited mouthpiece, the Chronicle, on December 23, saying: America does not allow free speech like Guyana; the police arrest people for free speech; and the highly respected US Supreme Court is no better than the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Really? Mr. Kissoon, a onetime critic and foe of PPP, is now a paid ally, a hired hand, who has been paid big bucks by government to defend it against criticism. The stateowned Chronicle is used by government to attack the political opposition and critics. It has been subjected to several defamation lawsuits. The paper also marginalizes Guyanese on account of race.

Assailing the judicial system and state of free speech in America, Kissoon wrote: “There were police

mass arrests and prosecutions of people speaking out … in America”.

He added: “Hundreds have been arrested and hundreds of students have been expelled from their respective universities for speaking out. (sic) Dozens of foreign students have been expelled from the US for denouncing Israel. (sic)”.

Kissoon failed to distinguish between “speaking out” in freedom of speech guarantees of the American constitution and breaking the law — such as engaging in violence and disruptions on the streets and on campuses, arson, looting, damaging properties, derailing classes on campus, and preventing instructions.

The individuals disciplined were not for free speech but for criminal acts and contempt of authority.

A fact check on K i s s o o n ’s a l l e g a t i o n s against American police revealed that those arrested had their say in court and charges were dropped for minor infractions. There was

due process for all arrestees.

No student was expelled from university or disciplined without an impartial hearing and no one was deported without a fair court hearing before a judge.

Many students were pardoned. Charges against some were dropped. Matters are still pending before the courts for egregious crimes and violations.

President Trump announced that those immigrants including students who break American laws should be deported. He also stated that those who complete their studies should be allowed to reside in America. So Kissoon has misled readers with his unsubstantiated claims that America doesn’t guarantee free speech.

Continuing his denigration of America, Kissoon added: “The federal Supreme Court in the US is not of higher quality that (sic - than) the Caribbean Court of Justice”.

Bull! The Supreme Court is some 250 years old

whereas the CCJ is 20 years old. The rulings of USA Supreme Court provide sound scholarship and erudition that were often cited in matters before the CCJ. The Supreme Court has nine judges, three of who were appointed by President Trump. Disrespecting the Supreme Court is tantamount to attacking P r es id e n t Tr u mp . T h e President Elect would not take too kindly to the unverified claims of Kissoon who is an intellectual defender of the ruling PPP government.

The public needs to hear from the PPP government whether it endorses Kissoon’s insult of the Supreme Court and his claim that American police arrested protesters for free speech.

The American Embassy is urged to take note of Kissoon’s attack on America and his close affiliation with PPP. Yours truly, Ms. L. Lewis

$100k cash grant a representation of a caring government DEAR EDITOR, The $100.000 Cash Grant is one representation of a caring government giving back to the People of this country in a tangible way part of their sovereign wealth. I say one representation, in that government’s initiatives is multifaceted, taking into focus massive development in many sectors, key areas include infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and many other transformational features sweeping the length and breadth of this country. It is a significant way of showing what proper planning and the execution of those plans are; kudos to the PPP/C Government!

This is a marked contrast to what an APNU/AFC Coalition Government did when they were in office, they after two (2) months, raised their salaries by 50%, while introducing 200 new taxes on the people who

voted them into power, if this is not what we commonly call “peeing in one’s eye and calling it rain,” then what is?

The Coalition’s performance in office was a blatant manifestation of how little emphasis was placed on people and much on themselves, something they would have to live up to, and one we would not forget.

But I digressed, so let me get back to our main discussion of the cash grant, its verification and disbursement. From my vantage point I can see one temporary difficulty, that is the registration of the recipients of the grant. What we see is a mad rush to get registered, and persons from other regions are travelling to those regions where registration is ongoing to get themselves registered. This is not an abnormal occurrence, because you are talking about cash something that people need -

and everyone wants to know that they are instantly locked in. We cannot blame them for that.

So, what authorities will see is a moderate, if not drastic increase in the allocations for the various regions where registration is in progress. Government’s logistical data of individual regions would see change in numbers, for example

persons from Regions 5 and 6 getting registered in Region 4; this is sure to happen. I think government would have learnt from the little hiccups that came along the way with the present cash give-out and make the necessary adjustments for future disbursements.

Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams

Stow-away DEAR EDITOR, During 1955 the Police was virtually stunned by a most unusual report of a stow-away. A radio report was received from a Man-oWar ship (Royal Naval Vessel) which had left the Port of Georgetown Bookers Wharf LaPenitence and passed the beacon that there was a stow away on board.

The vessel made its way

back to port with the prisoner who was deformed in both legs, compelling h im to walk on his knees.

He was, however, no invalid; He was well known for the performance of acrobatic feats and feats of strength for which he was nick named “Mighty Joe Young”.

Sincerely, Frank De Abreu

Saturday December 28, 2024

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Motorcycle bandits rob Duo jailed for break and enter Regent Street boutique, and larceny shoot employee T wo suspected bandits robbed a 50-year-old Chinese businessman at his boutique on Regent Street, Georgetown, on Thursday.

The victim has been identified as Zhenz Sh Fa, the owner of “Nice To You” Boutique, located at Lot 48 Regent Street.

According to a statement from the police, the suspects w ere tw o identifiable men, one of w hom w as armed w ith a handgun.

They robbed Zhenz of an undisclosed amount of cas h.

A security guard from S w at P rotection S ervices , w ho w as on duty at the time, told the police that the boutique w as open for b u s i n e s s , a n d cus tomers w ere ins ide

s hopping.

H e w as s itting on a chair next to the s outhern door of the boutique w hen the tw o s us pects arrived on a r e d a n d b l a c k m o t o r c y c l e ( r e g i s t r a t i o n n u m ber unknown).

“They stopped in front of the boutique, dismounted the motorcycle, and approached the security guard. The pillion rider was armed with a handgun in his right hand.

They searched the guard and took away a ‘Toy Gun’ that he had in the waistband of his pants,” police said.

The suspects then ordered everyone inside the boutique to stay still.

One of the bandits opened the cashier drawer and took the day’s sales (cash).

At that moment, an employee of the boutique, identified as Zhao Peiming, rushed at the bandit holding the gun.

The suspect discharged round and shot Zhao in the right thigh.

Both suspects then fled the scene on the motorcycle, in an eastern direction.

Zhao was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for medical treatment.

His condition is reported to be stable.

Upon their arrival at the scene, police discovered a 9mm spent shell.

Several CCTV cameras in the area are being reviewed, and efforts are ongoing to locate the suspects as investigations continue.

Lloyd Bartholomew

T

wo persons were on Friday sentenced to three years in prison when they appeared at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court to answer to break and enter and larceny charges.

The duo, 23-year-old Okeria Andrew and 22-year-old Lloyd Bartholomew made their

Okeria Andrew first court appearance before Magistrate Dylon Bess where the charges were read to them.

Both parties pleaded guilty.

The duo is accused of committing the offenses on December 24, 2024 at Unicomer Guyana Inc, Georgetown.

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Saturday December 28, 2024

South Korea’s acting president Han Duck-Soo impeached as Yoon goes on trial SEOUL, Dec 27 (Reuters) - South Korea’s parliament impeached

acting President Han Ducksoo on Friday, less than two weeks after suspending

President Yoon Suk Yeol’s powers over his short-lived declaration of martial law,

Acting South Korean President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo delivers an address to the nation at the government complex in Seoul, South Korea, December 14, 2024. Yonhap via REUTERS/File Photo plunging the country deeper into political chaos.

The impeachment of prime minister Han, the acting president since Yoon was impeached on Dec. 14 for declaring martial law on Dec. 3, has pushed South K o r e a ’s o n c e - v i b r a n t democratic success story into uncharted territory.

Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, who assumed the position of acting president while the cases of Yoon and Han are considered by the Constitutional Court, convened the National Security Council, spoke with key officials including military leaders and vowed to do everything in his power to stabilise state affairs.

The unexpected imposition of martial law and the ensuing political upheaval sent shockwaves through Asia’s fourth-largest economy, and drew concerns from allies in the United States and Europe who had seen Yoon as a key partner in efforts to counter China, Russia and North Korea.

Han’s sudden ouster adds to the uncertainty, and Choi may also face removal if he too clashes with the opposition-led parliament.

“The government must do its best to ensure that the

people do not become anxious, or the security of the country and people’s daily lives are not shaken,” Choi said, according to a statement from his office.

Earlier, Choi had pleaded unsuccessfully with parliament to withdraw the plan to impeach Han, saying it would do serious damage to the economy.

The Korean won was down 0.5% at 1,477.0 per dollar as of 11:00 GMT, after hitting a more than 15-year low of 1,486.7 ahead of the vote.

“In terms of financial markets, (Choi) taking charge can only be bad news, as it only goes to show that political turmoil is ongoing,” said Huh Jae-hwan, an analyst at Eugene Investment & Securities.

The country could plunge into economic troubles comparable to its devastating financial crisis of the late 1990s, said Shin Yul, a political science professor at Myongji University.

CONSTITUTIONAL FIGHT The impeachment of Han came after he declined to immediately appoint three justices to fill vacancies at the Constitutional Court,

saying it would exceed his acting role.

Han said he accepted the outcome. “...In order to avoid further chaos and uncertainty, I will suspend my duties in accordance with relevant laws,” he said.

He added he would await the decision of the Constitutional Court to review the impeachment motion.

The motion led by opposition parties passed with 192 votes in favour and no opposed after the ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the vote. PPP members surrounded the speaker’s podium, chanting that the vote was invalid and parliament had engaged in “tyranny”.

A h e a d o f t h e parliamentary session, opposition leader Lee Jaemyung of the Democratic Party, which has majority control of parliament, accused Han of “acting for insurrection”. Until just before voting began, it was unclear how many votes were needed to impeach Han. The threshold for a prime minister is a simple majority, while a two-thirds majority is needed for a president. Speaker Woo (Continued on page 17)

Jagdeo dodges question on whether Exxon...

From page 3 is, with Kaieteur, Canje block, several blocks. So, we said we are not gonna renegotiate the Stabroek contract because we are already in production, and we will kill the momentum.”

He went on to explain, “Remember when I was talking about this, there were six contracts outstanding so we said we will renegotiate those contracts and we’ve effectively kept our promise because we made it clear that the new fiscal regime would have to apply to all of the contracts that were outstanding then or currently outstanding, except the Stabroek Block.”

Jagdeo said his previous statement often causes confusion, since it was interpreted to mean that the Stabroek Block contract would be renegotiated.

He, however, noted that government has kept its promise to “renegotiate the contracts” since the new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) will apply to the other blocks.

“We have effectively renegotiated five of them because we made it clear that the new PSA would have to apply to all of the five that are outstanding, outside of the Stabroek Block, so Canje, Kaieteur, everything else,” he said.

Saturday December 28, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

Sophia man dies after Christmas night stabbing Trevor Thornhill, a 36-year-old resident of ‘E’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown has died after he was beaten and stabbed on Christmas night.

Police in a statement on Friday, identified the deceased Thornhill as a labourer, had lived in the area for the past four years with his common law wife, Leslyn Norton.

The woman reportedly told police that her husband was in the habit of accusing her of

cheating on him and he would be both physically and verbally abusive towards her.

She also said that on Christmas morning at the Kitty Market she had “a falling out,” with Thornhill who was again accusing her of infidelity.

As a result of the situation, she left him there and made her way home. Around 19:00hrs that evening, she left home and went to the Pink Shop located at ‘E’ Field Sophia,

Christmas Day brawl leaves several injured in Essequibo Several persons were injured on Christmas day during a brawl in Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two. Kaieteur News understands that at about 20:30h, a fight started after a father and son attacked a group of friends who were at a ‘barbecue and lime’.

An eyewitness told this publication that the duo arrived at the function armed with a steel pipe and a cutlass.

“We deh drinking and them two run up to them boys and start firing lash…so I run, when I turn back, I see them and them man fighting,” the eyewitness said.

Another eyewitness said that the fight lasted for several minutes before the father

and son made good their escape.

Kaieteur News understands that the group of friends visited the home of the father and son to collect a young lady. While they were waiting in a vehicle for the young woman, the father became angry and used abusive language towards the group. An argument ensued between the man and the group of friends.

The group reportedly left the location and returned to the barbecue. However, the father and his son subsequently arrived at the location and attacked the group of friends.

This publication understands that all parties involved in the fight were injured.

where she saw Thornhill at the said shop, consuming alcohol.

Allegedly Thornhill approached her and began accusing her again of being unfaithful to him while he was away working in the interior. Another argument ensued between them and it was at this time Norton alleged that Thornhill threatened to kill her, picking up a lucozade bottle and hurling it at her.

She told police that she walked away and headed back to their home, but shortly after she realized that her husband was walking on the dam and then proceeded to hide in some bushes. She saw two identifiable males and told them he was following her and she feared for her life She said the two men told her to walk home and they were going to look for Thornhill. Shortly after, the woman said she saw the two men in a scuffle with her husband on the dam. She ran home and returned to the area shortly to see him covered in blood and being placed in an ambulance. She said she left the scene and went home.

On Thursday morning, she went to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where she was informed that Thornhill had died while he was receiving medical attention. As a result, she went to the Turkeyen Police Station at about 15:50 hrs. and reported the matter.

However Boigny Miggins, another resident of ‘E’ Field Dam Sophia, related that

on Christmas Day, at about 19:40hrs, he was at home when he heard his dogs barking which caused him to make checks. As he stepped outside of his home, he used his flashlight and saw an unidentifiable male ride past his home on a bicycle, heading west.

He then stepped out of his yard and heard a male crying out for help. Went he went in the direction of the voice he saw the now deceased lying on the dam covered in blood.

As a result, he ran to the front of the dam and raised an alarm.

He claimed he saw Norton sitting on the dam a short distance away and when he told her what happened she responded “Is good fa he, he should f*#@ing (expletive) dead”.

Miggins said he immediately called for an ambulance which later arrived on the scene and took Thornhill to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. Detectives who responded processed the crime scene and a knife believed to be the murder weapon was recovered.

The body was examined, and multiple wounds were seen on his face, stomach and ear.

Kaieteur News understands that several persons in the area were questioned and while checks were made for the suspects they were not located. The body is currently lying at GPHC’s mortuary, awaiting a PME; meanwhile Norton was arrested and is in police custody assisting with investigations.

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

PAGE 09

A Tale of Two Non-appointments I

n Guyana, under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) government, the Constitution remains a battered lighthouse, its beam dimmed by neglect and political expedience.

Tw o g l a r i n g v a c a n c i e s — o n e constitutional, the other a m a t t e r o f g o o d governance—stand as evidence to this erosion.

The absence of a Secretary to the Cabinet and a Cabinet Press secretary not only flouts democratic norms but also steers us perilously close to the abyss of authoritarianism.

In the British Westminster system, which Guyana ostensibly follows, the Cabinet is not a cabal of political loyalists huddled in secrecy. It is an organ of the state, its workings recorded, preserved, and held accountable to posterity.

Central to this apparatus is the Secretary to the Cabinet, a nonpartisan public servant tasked with ensuring that Cabinet proceedings are meticulously documented and archived.

This is no mere clerical role; it is the bedrock of i n s t i t u t i o n a l m e m o r y, ensuring that decisions are traceable, deliberations transparent, and the state machinery resilient against the caprices of transient governments.

And yet, for four years, the PPPC has flagrantly violated the Constitution by failing to appoint this vital

post. It is as though they view the Cabinet not as a state institution but as an extension of the ruling party.

It is as if there is the presumption that Cabinet is supposed to operate in a fog of secrecy that is both deliberate and dangerous.

This neglect is more than an oversight; it is a calculated affront to governance itself. Under the British Westminster system, Cabinet minutes are a sacrosanct part of governance. There, the Secretary to the Cabinet ensures that decisions are documented with an impartiality that transcends party lines. These records are preserved not for the pleasure of current ministers but for the integrity of future governments, historians, and citizens alike. Guyana’s deviation from this practice is not just a failure to meet a constitutional obligation; it is an assault on the principles of transparency and statecraft.

The second glaring omission is the absence of a press secretary to provide post-Cabinet briefings. In a democracy, the media is not a supplicant begging for scraps of information; it is the lifeline between the government and the governed. Yet in Guyana, the media is left scavenging for information from the General Secretary of the P P P, a r o l e t h a t i s uncomfortably intertwined with partisan politics.

This conflation of party

and state is the hallmark of regimes sliding into authoritarianism. When the lines between government and party blur, the public is left with propaganda masquerading as information. And dissent is suffocated under the weight of manufactured narratives.

Once upon a time, the former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, took on the role of press secretary, providing regular updates on Cabinet decisions. This practice, while not perfect, at least acknowledged the media’s right to timely and accurate information. Today, the silence is deafening.

Within the state apparatus, there are persons with the capability to act as official spokespersons.

Thus, the absence of a dedicated press secretary is less a matter of capacity than of intent. It signals a government that prefers opacity over openness, c o n t r o l o v e r communication, and propaganda over truth.

Let us be clear: appointing a Secretary to the Cabinet and a press secretary is not a panacea for all governance woes. But it is a necessary first step in reclaiming the principles of transparency and a c c o u n t a b i l i t y. T h e Secretary to the Cabinet would ensure that the proceedings of governance are not lost to the ephemeral whispers of political corridors but preserved for

DEM BOYS SEH

Overtime in Traffic Dem boys seh de New Year does bring plenty wishes—some want good health, some want riches. But ask dem commuters, and all dem want is fuh de government fix dis traffic madness. People doing overtime, not in office but in traffic, and de only thing dem collecting is stress and high blood pressure.

Back in de day, overtime wuk did sweet.

Time and a half pay plus a lil meal allowance mek you feel like a boss. Now, people doing triple time just fuh get home.

And no meal allowance coming; is yuh own gas and patience yuh burning. Imagine leaving wuk, thinking yuh heading home to relax, only fuh find yuhself in a line long enough to mek yuh wonder if is a next Mashramani parade.

If yuh go down Lombard Street every afternoon, you will see persons waiting, sometimes for as much as two hours, just to get a bus to go home. Is sheer pressure with the transport system.

Some people leaving home before de rooster even think bout crowing, just to beat de traffic. But by de time dem reach wuk,

dem already tired like dem done do a full day. And after work, is de same story—hours pon hours sitting in yuh car, staring at brake lights and thinking bout de curry chicken yuh did plan fuh cook. By de time yuh reach home, dinner turn to egg and bread, and homework get push till next week.

Dem boys seh de government need to fix dis traffic story. De people suffering. How much productive man-hours wasting in dem jams and waiting fuh get a minibus? How much dinner plans turning into “let we order Chinese”? De truth is, dis traffic situation sucking de life outta people. By de time dem reach home, dem exhausted, spent, and ready fuh collapse. Dem boys seh is time fuh de government stop admiring de problem and actually solve it.

Yuh gat to think outside the box Yuh can’t build roads fuh solve this problem.

And if de government can’t fix it, dem boys seh give people double time pay fuh sitting in dem car, cause right now, dem doing de wuk of saints fuh free.

Talk half. Leff half

the scrutiny of history. The press secretary, meanwhile, would serve as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring that the latter are informed not by partisan spin but by facts.

The PPPC government’s failure to make these appointments is not merely an administrative lapse; it is a calculated strategy to maintain power through secrecy and obfuscation. It reflects a mindset that views governance as a private

affair, conducted behind closed doors and shielded from public scrutiny.

But governance is not a private affair. It is a public trust, and the Constitution is not a suggestion. It is the framework within which power is exercised, and its provisions are not optional.

By refusing to appoint a Secretary to the Cabinet, the government is in open defiance of this trust. By failing to appoint a press secretary, it is undermining

t h e p u b l i c ’s r i g h t t o information.

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

Kaieteur News

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D TR

HAR

ALL HK L

BY G

Saturday December 2024 Monday May 02,28, 2022

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Perceptions camouflage pretensions SN’s December 17, 2024 editorial captioned, “Guyana’s petro status and the 2025 general elections” has its moments. Things struggle to stay still thereafter. I note the careful use of (apostrophes) what the Yanks call uplifted commas; one only, but a couple of times. Prudence, indeed; one can never be too circumspect in this neighborhood. ‘World class’ offshore strike by Exxon. A ‘world class’ oil producer in Guyana. Then, there was greater ‘space’ and ‘banana republic’ notes. In the liberal use of those uplifts plenty territory is covered by SN. Re that ‘world class’ strike, my question for Exxon’s Guyana President Alistair Routledge is ordinary: what about those other strikes? How come no m o r e e x c i t i n g

announcements about more commercially feasible discoveries? In the building heat for renegotiation of the oil deal now more sour than sweet, discovery news hasn’t been forthcoming, dried up, since April 2022.

Aw shucks, even Tom Brady (NFL) and Virat Kohli (Cricket India) have had bad patches; even King James too (NBA). In this instance of no news (new oil) that’s bad news.

Just seems slightly, ah, untoward to a tenderfoot. May there be nothing that interferes, slows down, that ‘world class’ status. Like more oil, more renegotiation noise.

Incidentally, SN lapsed in not mentioning Exxon’s world class accounting systems.

Just ask Mr. Routledge.

He seh suh heself; not I. Just ask Big Bob (Gossai) who wrestled

with the dutty job of cleaning up the accounting.

He massaged the numbers, did a fantastic job where 2, 1, and 4, (214) became 3. Until it wasn’t so well regarded. He lost his exceptional worker status, so proudly accorded him by one Alistair Routledge. Oil does make men do funny things. To sober up everybody, there is no laughter here.

Re the “dramatic transformation of global perceptions” all I say is poor Cheddi Jagan. He couldn’t get a lousy US$6 million from any lending institution back in the day. Today any Guyanese nonentity could go with a calabash stamped Made in Guyana and leave with multiples of what was denied him. From ideology to commodity, a lesson in as the world turns. The Yanks were orchestrators then,

t o d a y t h e y a r e gamechangers. My point is straightforward: take away the oil and President Ali may be denied a visa, if not the courtesy of a handshake.

The other guy could get a seat in a cell. Airfare on the house, of course.

Re the 2025 general elections, my first thought is do we have to have these things?

Oh yeah, the international presence will be here in force. Can’t have the republic of manana degrade back to ‘banana republic’ status. Here is an intriguing Jeopardy challenge: what does taking out oil from the equation of a country do to it? Back to banana republic status, m i s t e r.

The global perceptions index is that measly, that tricky, that slippery. In a country like Guyana, there doesn’t have

to be many bananas for it to qualify. Only top bananas.

Watch how the Yanks have taken over this country, even the language; and from control of the government to the opposition.

A pig is still a pig no matter the pigment of the lipstick; favorable global perceptions give due weight.

Those perceptions are for the time being, only as long as Guyana’s leaders keep the oil spigot gushing, and Exxon prospering.

The foreign observer brigade, SN, is not coming here during the 2025 general elections to secure democracy. It is to secure the flow of oil, to shore up investor confidence, and to purge Guyana of its elections jumbies, once and for all time. How daft can we be!

Democracy is the donkey that is pinned on darkskinned people the world over.

From Christianity to democracy to modernity to civility, and it is always for some commodity. Not even humanity is exempted. How about some of that same civility for Guyanese humanity?

Ah, sanctity.

Suddenly, the sanctity of a world class strike by Exxon is more inviolable than the Holy Bible and all the ideals of democracy that these tricksters use to brainwash dumb suckers in poor, desperate Third World countries.

If a noisy citizen like me

(consult John Hess) could hold Guyana’s leaders (all of them) in the regard that I do, then I urge my fellow citizens to ponder what the wise men across the globe think of them. Those who are not peaches themselves, but know how the world functions behind closed doors and outside the back door. So, the world comes here to ensure that their investment, their rewards, are safe for the future. There is electoral democracy; then there is income statement democracy. Guess which one trumps everything else?

Who the hell cares about a few brown and black people running around like lunatics quadrennially, and refusing to fix themselves?

Irresponsible and immature Guyanese cannot be allowed to tamper with the donuts.

So, in a petro state that is a banana republic that is held out as not a banana republic, there still must be hordes of Atilla rushing here to save Guyana from itself. I have heard about save the children and save the whales.

Nobody makes a big deal of saving the oil.

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

CDB supporting Caribbean regional trade statistics modernisation with new WTO initiative Greater evidence-based trade policy is on the region’s horizon as Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) member countries are set to benefit from a recently approved project.

Over USD165,000 has been allocated for the Caribbean Development Bank and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics Training Programme, a trade focused capacity building regional activity set to modernise the production, compilation and dissemination and use of data in national statistics and customs offices, and ministries of trade.

According to CDB’s Director of Economics, Ian Durant “The Bank is pleased to support, this initiative which will assist in deepening Caribbean trade and integration and further support development outcomes.” Increased capacity and technical expertise, and enhanced cross-agency partnerships in the collection, compilation, and dissemination of trade and tariff data will undoubtedly improve the design of related strategies and policies and advance achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He added that “CDB recognises the significance of establishing and expanding our strategic relationship with the WTO to further a shared commitment to fostering economic development and trade expansion.” In Continued on page 14

Saturday December 28, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Saturday December 28, 2024

US EXIM Bank approves US$527M loan for Gas-to-Energy project The United States Export Import (US EXIM) Bank has granted final approval for a US$527 million loan to support Guyana’s Gas-toEnergy (GTE) project.

In a statement on December 26, the financial institution said the Board of Directors approved $527 million to the Ministry of Finance of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to support a gas-to-energy project that will strengthen the country’s energy security by doubling the country’s installed electric capacity.

It explained that financing from the transaction will aid the construction of a natural gas separation plant; a 300 megawatt (MW) combined cycle gas turbine power plant and services related to the gas supply pipeline near Guyana’s capital, Georgetown.

“This project will allow Guyana to transition to more reliable and cleaner energy for consumers and businesses by using natural gas-powered turbines to generate electricity. Without this gas-to-energy project, Guyana will continue to import fuel oil, one of the highest polluting fossil fuels, and be unable to decommission hundreds of less efficient local generators. This project will result in a reduction of more than 460,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, the equivalent of consuming more than one million barrels of oil,” the US EXIM Bank stated.

President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis said, “I am extremely pleased that the Board of Directors approved this strategically important energy project. Not only is EXIM continuing its support of U.S. businesses small and large, but this project will support more than one thousand jobs across the country. I am especially proud to continue to support Bank priorities and charter mandates along with projects that align with the administration’s economic, energy, and national security

President Irfaan Ali

President and Chair, US EXIM Bank, Reta Jo Lewis priorities.”

The financing will support a U.S. joint venture involving Lindsayca, a Texas-based company, and CH4 Systems, a Puerto Rican small business. The joint venture was awarded the contract to construct the NGL and power plant for Guyana.

According to the EXIM Bank, the financing will also support more than one dozen U.S. companies and support an estimated 1,500 jobs a c r o s s 11 s t a t e s a n d territories.

In a separate statement b y t h e O ff i c e o f t h e President, it was explained that President Irfaan Ali received a telephone call from the President and Chair of the US EXIM Bank on Thursday informing that the Board has approved the loan for the gas project.

The Board Meeting was h e l d o n T h u r s d a y, completing the 35-day congressional notice period.

“President Ali expressed to the Chair and EXIM Bank as well as all other US Government agencies and authorities involved, including Ambassador Theriot and her team at the US Embassy in Guyana, the G o v e r n m e n t ’s s t r o n g appreciation and thanks for the approval granted and for the confidence shown in this GtE project and in Guyana,” the Office of the President said.

Further, the Head of State commended the Guyana team at the Office of the President, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Natural

Resources, and the Guyana Embassy in Washington DC, whose work helped secure this important outcome for our country.

Meanwhile, the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AMCHAM) applauded the loan approval, signaling that the landmark agreement marks the largest-ever infrastructure loan in the Caribbean which signifies a growing confidence in Guyana’s prosperity and deepening the U.S.-Guyana partnership.

It said, “AmCham Guyana commends the Government of Guyana, the U.S. Embassy, and all stakeholders involved in this ground breaking achievement. We look forward to supporting U.S. EXIM’s continued engagement in Guyana and fostering further economic cooperation between our two nations.”

Repayment O n F r i d a y, Vi c e President Bharrat Jagdeo during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown explained that there is a fixed 4% annual interest rate on the loan which would be repaid over a period of 15 years.

He said the country will be required to make two annual payments on November 1 and May 1, commencing on May 1, 2031.

“The interest rate is 4% so if you calculate it over the period, but remember there are moratoriums and all of

that so it’s a 4% interest and you can calculate what the repayment would be over a time period. It’s fixed at 4%...principal repayment is 30 semi-annual installments...so its 15 years thereafter,” the VP explained.

Background on loan Back in April 2023 it was revealed that Guyana applied to the Bank for a US$646M loan to support the NGL and power plant.

On November 28, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced that approval had been granted for the loan.

At that time Jagdeo explained that the loan will be providing retroactive

financing, so if it is made available it will be covering financing that the government had to make since the start of the project.

Last month, Prime Minister Mark Phillips indicated that some $99B has been spent to date on the GTE project. His revelation came as Parliament approved an additional $25.3B to further advance the project. As of November, 58% of the work had been completed, according to the Prime Minister.

Just last week Kaieteur News reported that International award-winning lawyer, Melinda Janki, warned the US EXIM Bank

that approving Guyana’s application for a loan to support the GTE Project exposes the financial institution to political, financial and litigation risks.

In a submission to the Bank, dated December 6, 2024, Janki lobbied the Board to refuse Guyana’s loan application, pointing out the risks for the Bank as well as potential breaches of fiduciary duties and the resulting harm to the American people and American economy.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, o v e r 16,000 Americans had also written to Chair of the EXIM Bank in May 2024, demanding the financial institution not to fund the controversial gas project.

According to a letter from 16,452 members of Friends of the Earth United States, a non-governmental organization, the project is both a disaster for Guyana and the climate.

They said, “This project is both a disaster for Guyana and the climate! The U.S. government should not be using taxpayer dollars to subsidize Exxon – a company that has recently reported billions in profits.”

274 Guyanese trained in restorative justice in 2024

Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Orin Boston

Approximately 274 individuals underwent comprehensive training in the restorative justice programme this year.

This is according to the Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Orin Boston, during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI).

The training sessions included magistrates, Amerindian village leaders, prison and probation officers, educators, and members of civil society. Boston said during the aggressive training programme, the centre sought to place emphasis on the school and prison environments, recognising these as critical points in the criminal justice process.

“The school environment is somewhat very critical because it is one of the funnels to the criminal system in the adult stage.

Historical data and empirical evidence are enough to lead us towards a very aggressive programme at the school level,” he said.

Additionally, the centre has been tasked with establishing restorative justice offices in every region. According to Boston, four of these offices have been constructed and are waiting to be staffed. He explained that in 2025, a comprehensive public relations strategy will be launched to enhance awareness and training.

The goal is to familiarise Guyanese with

restorative justice principles and encourage its utilisation as a primary response to minor, non-violent offenses. “A lot of times, the issue of going to court is not ideally what you want. You want a resolution, and we need to move forward in harmony. Restorative practice definitely brings that aspect into our lives,” he explained.

The enactment of the Restorative Justice Act 2022 laid the foundation for the use of restorative justice as a tool to improve justice outcomes.

Implemented in over 80 countries globally, restorative justice has the potential to alleviate court backlogs, reduce prison overcrowding, and strengthen community relationships. It is a key component of the IDB-funded Support for the Criminal Justice System (SCJS) Programme, which is scheduled to conclude in 2025.

The SCJS Programme aims to address prison overcrowding by focusing on the overuse of pre-trial detention and the overreliance on custodial sentences. The implementation of restorative justice is a pivotal step towards realising Sustainable Development Goal 16: “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.” (DPI)

Saturday December 28, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Purchase of FPSOs to reduce Hess’ low operating cost - CFO

Embattled Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Calvin Brutus

State withdraws application to revoke Brutus’s bail What was expected to be a ruling on whether embattled Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Calvin Brutus would be remanded to prison turned into a surprising development on Friday, as the State Prosecution informed the court that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) decided to withdraw its application to revoke Brutus’s bail.

Prosecutor David Braithwaite informed Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty that the decision to withdraw the application was made following instructions from his superiors.

On Monday, prosecutors had filed an application seeking to have Brutus’ bail revoked due to an alleged breach of his bail conditions. Brutus, who is facing 250 financial crime charges, was accused of attempting to leave Guyana for Brazil on December 16, 2024, through the Lethem border in Region 9.

On December 21, 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a statement revealing that Brutus had been stopped by police officers while attempting to cross the border into Brazil.

Braithwaite stated that SOCU, which had charged Brutus with fraud, was unaware of the incident until the Ministry’s announcement. This prompted the state’s decision to seek the revocation of Brutus’s bail.

The matter was initially heard by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where the prosecution presented several reasons why Brutus’s bail should be revoked. They also indicated that witnesses would testify regarding Brutus’s attempt to flee the country.

The prosecution had hoped for a ruling that day, but Brutus’s defence attorneys, Eusi Anderson, Darren Wade, Yuborn Allicock, Earl Daniels, and Domnick Bess, requested more time to respond to the application. Magistrate McGusty granted the request, setting the ruling for Friday.

However, before proceedings began on Friday, lead prosecutor David Braithwaite informed the court that SOCU had decided to withdraw its application.

“Before we proceed madam, on today’s date (Friday) my instructions are that the affidavit filed in relation to Mr. Brutus bail to be revoked… SOCU reports that the application to be withdrawn,” the prosecutor said.

When Brutus’s defence lawyer, Eusi Anderson, enquired about the reason behind the withdrawal to which Braithwaite responded, “The witnesses were engaged and were making preparations to come out, but to maintain that my instructions are in terms of the application, that is how far I know.”

No further explanation was provided.

During the court proceedings, Brutus also sought permission from the Magistrate to return to Lethem to assist his father, who resides in the area. The request was granted, with the condition that Brutus not leave the jurisdiction.

Brutus is expected to return to court on December 30, 2024, for further proceedings concerning the first 30 of his financial crime charges.

Hess Corporation has disclosed that the purchase of two additional Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, is a move that will significantly reduce its operating costs in Guyana.

Recently, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited the operator of the Stabroek Block, finalised the purchase of the third FPSO operating in the Stabroek Block, from Dutchshipbuilder SBM Offshore.

The acquisition of the Prosperity and Destiny FPSOs add to the Liza Unity FPSO that was purchased last year, marking a pivotal step for Hess and the Stabroek Block partners.

According to John Riley, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Hess Corporation, the FPSO acquisitions represent a strategic investment. Riley explained, “In the fourth quarter, we are purchasing the Prosperity that’s on Payara, and we are purchasing Destiny, that’s on what we call Liza, phase one.

It’s approximately, as we put in the release, US$635 million of capital.”

The purchase of these FPSOs is expected to reduce operating costs even further for Hess Guyana operations, which are already among the most cost-efficient in the industry. Riley stated, “Our Guyana operating costs are already very low, but that will reduce it further, because we won’t have the lease operating costs coming in.”

The company is also looking ahead to 2025 with optimism. Riley noted, “Yellowtail should be leaving the yard and sailing

to Guyana in the first quarter.

So that should be out. Let’s just call it mid-year-ish into Guyana, with the startup, then later in the year.”

He noted that once the Yellowtail FPSO comes online, it will add 250,000 barrels per day (bpd) of p r o d u c t i o n c a p a c i t y, bringing Guyana’s total installed production capacity to over 900,000 bpd.

R e c e n t l y, i t w a s announced, “SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd, an affiliate of Exxon Mobil Corporation, have completed the transaction related to the purchase of FPSO Liza Destiny, ahead of the maximum lease term, which would have expired in December 2029. The purchase allows ExxonMobil Guyana to assume ownership of the unit while SBM Offshore will continue to operate and maintain the FPSO up to 2033.”

The transaction comprises a total cash consideration of US$535 million. This will bring the total cost spent to purchase the three FPSOs to just over US$3 billion.

The FPSO Liza Destiny has been on hire since December 2019 and since 2023 has and will continue to be operated through the integrated operations and maintenance model combining SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil’s expertise and experience delivering outstanding operational performance.

In August, this publication reported that EMGL was considering the purchase of the Prosperity and Liza Destiny FPSOs

One of the FPSOs that was purchased

John Riley, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Hess Corporation ahead of the end of their maximum lease terms in November 2025 and December 2029, respectively.

L a s t y e a r, E x x o n purchased the Liza Unity from SBM for US$1.3 billion, a few months before the end of its maximum lease term in February 2024.

Similarly, on November 7, SBM announced that it had completed the transaction with EMGL in relation to the purchase of the FPSO Prosperity. The purchase involved a total cash consideration of US$1.23 billion.

President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, has said that the purchase of the FPSOs is a more costeffective approach for both the company and Guyana.

Routledge made that statement during an interview aired by the “ E n e rg y P e r s p e c t i v e s ” podcast.

When asked about the company’s decision to purchase a second FPSO, Routledge said, “It’s really primarily a financial matter.

I t ’s m o r e f i n a n c i a l l y -

efficient for the investors and for the country to purchase the FPSOs at this stage.”

He explained that while early and construction leases can help ensure efficient and high-quality project completion, long-term leases typically involve higher financing costs. “We found that model to be a very effective one, but a longterm lease is generally a more expensive financing option for the country and for the investors than purchasing the FPSOs,” he said.

Routledge added that with the vessels already proven to be operating “very well” at this stage, Exxon feels comfortable that it’s the right time to purchase.

Notably, at one of his press conferences, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo reminded that the money (US$3 billion) that was spent

by Exxon to purchase the vessels will be recovered by the oil company from revenues generated from the Stabroek Block. At his November 14, press conference Jagdeo said, “That’s all part of the cost oil, it’s part of cost oil, every cent that goes into or is spent, it goes to cost oil…” the Vice President noted.

Under the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that requires Exxon and its partners Hess and CNOOC to pay no taxes to Guyana, 75% of the revenues generated from the Stabroek Block go to Exxon to cover operational expenses. The remaining 25% is then split between Guyana and the oil companies – out of that share Exxon pays a 2% royalty to Guyana.

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

UNICEF hands over vaccine Two Region 4 families receive boats to Ministry of Health homes on Christmas day

One of the Vaccine Boats equipped with solar refrigerators to store vaccines at required temperatures, life jackets, 200Hps engines and retractable beds to transfer emergency patients, including pregnant women to health facilities.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Friday handed over two vaccination boats to the Ministry of Health to benefit children and families in the riverain communities of Regions One and Eight.

In a press release, UNICEF said that the boats will help to enhance the accessibility of essential medical services, particularly vaccination to the communities. UNICEF was supported with funds from the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunization (GAVI) COVID-19 vaccine Delivery Support (CDS).

“The vaccine boats, which are the first of its kind in Guyana and Latin America and the Caribbean, are equipped with solar refrigerators to store vaccines at required temperatures, life jackets, 200Hps engines and retractable beds to transfer emergency patients, including pregnant women to health facilities,” the statement said.

UNICEF Operations Manager, Mr. Abdul Saleh during the handover explained that the initiative comes as part of UNICEF’s vision to ensure that lifesaving vaccines are accessible to all children and families, especially those in remote areas.

“These vaccine boats are a testament to our commitment to the children and families of Guyana. It embodies our dedication to ensuring that every child in Guyana has equal access to vaccines and life-saving medical care, regardless of where they live or their socio-economic status,” Saleh said.

The boats will serve communities including the villages of Kamwata, Parakeese, Karaburi, Santa Rosa, Waramuri Islands, Acquero, and Koko in Region One, and Wipa, Sandhill, Kaibarupai, Catchcow, Bishop Landing, Salawoo, Cheleang, and Orinduk in region eight.

According to Saleh, the boats were built by local contractors and designed collaboratively by the Ministry of Health and UNICEF to suit the specific needs, blending maternal health priorities with immunization services in Guyana.

Director General of the Ministry of Health and Member of Parliament, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo received the boats on behalf of the government and thanked UNICEF for its continued partnership in ensuring vulnerable communities have access to essential medical services. “Our mandate has been clear to do whatever is necessary to bring healthcare in the hinterland on par with what is on the coast,” Dr. Mahadeo said.

He explained that while the Ministry has increased training of medical professionals in the riverain communities, transportation remained a challenge. The Director General said that the vaccine boats will contribute tremendously to providing medical services to the riverain populations in regions one and eight.

The boats were inspected and certified as safe for transport by the MARITIME Authority.

Several children in the community also received gifts during the president’s visit Tw o R e g i o n F o u r families experienced a truly joyous Christmas, receiving the keys to brand-new homes through the state-funded Men on Mission (MoM) initiative.

Delise Blades of Cummings Lodge New Scheme, and Kirtimatie Ramraj of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara, were the recipients of the homes. For 43-year-old Blades, this home represents a significant turning point in her life, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.

Blades, who has faced numerous challenges, including supporting her family through odd jobs while battling health conditions, can now look forward to a more secure future. “This is such a blessing. I would like to thank the president for making my dream come true this Christmas morning.

Paying the rent is not easy. I

can now say that I’ve acquired my own home through you. Thank you,” she expressed.

In Good Hope, Ramraj, a 74-year-old mother of two, also received a new home.

Having previously lived in a dilapidated house with a leaking roof, she expressed immense gratitude for this “blessing.” Despite the challenges, Ramraj emphasised the strong community support she received from her local church.

“I thank the president for his good work,” she said, acknowledging the g o v e r n m e n t ’ s responsiveness to the needs of its people. In his remarks at the handing over ceremony, President Irfaan Ali emphasised that this gesture extends beyond simply providing housing; it also empowers individuals by increasing their net worth and creating opportunities

for a more prosperous future.

“Today, you can go to the bank with this structure, and the bank would at least give you $7 million. That is the value that we have created in your life,” he pointed out.

The president highlighted the ongoing development in the area, emphasising the construction of a water treatment plant as a key example of the large-scale i n f r a s t r u c t u r a l improvements that are transforming the area.

Further, he commended MoM for its profound impact in improving the lives of Guyanese.

“We have built more than 60 houses, completed hundreds of home improvement projects. We have done counselling and health programmes. The Men on Mission has touched the lives of thousands of Guyanese across this country,” he noted.

CDB supporting Caribbean regional trade...

From page 10 2022, CDB and WTO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support countries on various international trade matters, capacity building in trade and statistics; and collaborating on knowledge products in the areas of tourism, education, culture and entertainment, public policy support, and innovation. Both institutions also pledged to explore intersections of trade policy, climate change and women’s participation in international trade focused on achieving gender equality.

The new programme, which is underpinned by the MOU, will fund capacitybuilding workshops intended to advance the production of high-quality, comparable, national and intraregional statistics in the emerging area of digital trade. It will also enable and facilitate timely and modernised reporting of trade data and notifications.

Statistician at CDB Dindial Ramrattan anticipates the successful execution will result in “Enhanced institutional and technical capacity of regional and national statistics offices and trade agencies to report on trade and tariff statistics, in a timely, relevant, and suitable form to national, regional, and international stakeholders.”

The partnership with the WTO augurs

well for the region, supporting efforts to harmonise standards, and strengthen governance and innovation.

The Bank continues to build on earlier interventions with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Statistics Canada and the World Bank which helped address the paucity of trade statistics in certain areas.

These deficiencies limited the region’s reporting on existing and emerging areas such as detailed services, small and medium-sized businesses, creative industries, and bilateral trade flows.

The programme will commence in early 2025 with tailored training sessions to increase collaboration between statistics offices and principal trade data producers, through a clearly defined and effective administrative process for data exchange.

“Through this offering, we hope to significantly advance the production of high quality, comparable, national, and intraregional statistics; establish a cohesive and coherent architecture in the production, processing, and dissemination of statistics and enable and facilitate the development and sharing of innovative methods, tools, and technologies in the production and dissemination processes in the CARICOM Statistical System,” stressed Ian Durant.

Saturday December 28, 2024

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Saturday December 28, 2024

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No clearance given for Brutus’s wife to return to Guyana by U.S. doctors – Court hears

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Adonika Aulder, the pregnant wife of embattled Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus, who is facing financial crime charges, has not been given clearance by her doctors to return to Guyana.

This was revealed by her lawyer Eusi Anderson on Friday at the Magistrates’ Court when the matter was called before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.

On December 5, 2024, Magistrate McGusty granted Aulder permission to travel to the United States for medical treatment, with an expectation for her return to Guyana by December 18 for her next court date. However, she did not return as planned, instead appearing virtually via Zoom for her court proceedings.

Aulder is facing two charges of money laundering.

She is accused of acquiring $352,082,315 from her company’s account at Republic Bank in December 2023, knowing or having reasonable

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LEGAL NOTICE 2022 NO.30 DEMERARA IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE DECLARATION OF TITLE In the matter of sub- parcel 27EP, being portion of Lot 27 (twenty-seven) portion of preliminary parcel 395 all being portion_of Plantation Friendshipor Land Registration Block No XXVIll, Zone: East Bank Demerara, in the County of Demerara, Guyana, as shown on a plan conducted by V. Deokinandan, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 24th day of May, 2021 and recorded in the Guyana of Lands and Surveys Commission on the 110 day of June, 2021 and numbered COS-1401 -and- In the matter ofTitle of Land (Prescription and Limitation) Act, Chapter 60:02 -and- In the matter of an Application

by ELTON PARASRAM, TERRENCE ALEXANDER BEDAYSIE and TREVOR ALEXANDER BEDAYSIE. PUBLICATION First Second Third ELTON PARASRAM, TERRENCE ALEXANDER BEDAYSIE and TREVOR ALEXANDER BEDAYSIE all of Lot 27 Plantation Friendship, East bank Demerara, Guyana, has presented a Petition for Declaration of Title to the property described in the Schedule hereto. Any person intending to oppose the said petition_must within 1 (one) month after the date of the first Publication of this

LEGAL NOTICE Notice File in the Registry of Court in the City of Georgetown Demerara, Notice of his Opposition and An Affidavit or Affidavits in support thereof and serve a copy thereof upon the said ELTON PARASRAM, ERERENCEALEXANDER EDAYSIE nd TREVOR ALEXANDER BEDAYSIE. Georgetown, Demerara This 28th day of November, 2024

Attorney-at-law for Petitioners SCHEDULE Sub-parcel 395E of Sub-Parcel 27EP, being portion of Lot 27(twenty-seven) portion of preliminary parcel 395, part of Lot 27 Plantation Friendship or Land Registration Block No. XXVIII, Zone: East Bank Demerara, in the County of Demerara, Guyana, as shown on a plan conducted by Seaon M. James, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 27th day of February, 2023 and recorded in the Guyana of Lands and Surveys Commission on the 3rd day of March, 2023 and numbered COS-1618.

MEMORANDUM: The address for service of the Petitioner is at the Chambers of Mr. Donavon A. Rangiah, Attorneys-at-Law for the Petitioners of and whose address for service and place of business is at Lot 156 Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana

grounds to believe that the funds were derived from criminal activity.

Earlier, Aulder and Brutus were denied permission to travel to the United States for medical treatment.

This application was brought before Justice Gino Persaud at the High Court on October 18, 2024, but was rejected due to Brutus’ involvement in financial crimes, with over 240 charges filed against him.

However, on Friday the court was informed that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) had made inquiries about Aulder’s status and her potential return to Guyana from the United States, where she had travelled for emergency medical treatment.

Anderson told the court that Aulder is feeling better, although no medical records were submitted to support her condition. However, he added that he is expected to receive her medical records via FedEx

by Saturday.

Adonika Aulder “She (Adonika Aulder) is returning to Guyana, but the doctor has not given her permission to travel due to her precarious condition,” Anderson stated.

“She is pregnant, about to deliver at the end of January, and the general nature of these matters is putting Miss Aulder and her child at risk.

The doctor has not given her permission to travel because of this,” the lawyer told the court.

The prosecution raised concerns about what would happen if Aulder does not return to Guyana after January.

In response, Magistrate McGusty remarked that Aulder had already breached the conditions for the release of her passport, which she had used to leave for the United States.

The magistrate warned that if Aulder does not return promptly, the court may be compelled to take action.

“The court has certain powers. I do not wish to exercise them at this point, but I may be forced to do so. If she continues to be in breach, it may result in her bail application [being revoked],” McGusty cautioned.

The magistrate further ordered that Aulder’s original medical records, to be sent via FedEx, must be submitted to the court by December 31, 2024.

Aulder’s next court appearance is scheduled for December 30, 2024.

Motorcyclist dies in Boxing Day accident A 23-year-old motorcyclist lost his life on Thursday afternoon following an accident at the junction of Winter Place and Croal Street, Georgetown The deceased has been identified as Mikel Blair, of Lot 261 ‘D’ Field, Turkeyen, Georgetown. The accident occurred around 17:45 hrs.

According to the police, the collision involved two motorcycles: one driven by Blair and the other by 27-yearold Tavel Jonas, a resident of Lot 101 Arapaima Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown.

Police said that around 17:55 hrs, a report was made to the Brickdam Police Station’s Operations Room, alerting officers to the accident. However, when police arrived at the location, they found no immediate evidence of an accident. It was later reported by the Georgetown Public Hospital Police Outpost that two males, believed to be involved in the accident, had been admitted to the hospital’s Emergency Unit.

“When ranks proceeded to the hospital, they found the two motorcyclists. One of them, Mikel Blair, was unconscious and receiving treatment from doctors,” the police stated.

Blair, however, succumbed to his injuries around 19:00 hrs. His body has been transferred to the hospital’s mortuary, where it awaits a post-mortem examination.

Jonas sustained a frac-

Dead: Mikel Blair

tured right leg. He was treated at the hospital and later admitted in stable condition.

Investigations into the accident are ongoing.

A video of the aftermath of the accident, seen by this publication, showed Mikel lying on the ground with blood oozing from his body, though he was still showing signs of movement. The other motorcyclist was seen just a short distance away. Bystanders were observed assisting and monitoring the individuals before they were taken to the hospital.

Blair’s death has left his family and friends in mourning. Speaking with Kaieteur

News, one of his close friends, Arron Asim, shared how the tragic news had left him traumatized. “I was sitting at home when a fellow friend called and told me that Mikel was in an accident, and I was like, ‘you’re lying.’ An hour later, he called back and said Mikel passed away. I was traumatized. I never knew that this day would come,” Asim said, reflecting on the loss of his dear friend.

Blair was remembered by his friends as a friendly, humble individual. “There was never a dull moment with him. We used to ride bikes together,” Asim recalled fondly.

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Nearly 70 killed after boat capsizes en route to Spain The makeshift boat was carrying about 80 people when it capsized on December 19, Malian authorities said.

Aljazeera - At least 69 people, including 25 Malians, died after a boat heading from West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands capsized off Morocco, Malian authorities have said.

The makeshift boat was carrying about 80 people when it capsized on December 19; only 11 people survived, the Ministry of Malians Abroad said in a statement on Thursday, after collecting information to reconstruct the incident. A crisis unit has been set up to monitor the situation, it added.

Several of the Malian victims are from the Kayes region in the west of the c o u n t r y, a c c o r d i n g t o

Doulaye Keita, adviser to the ministry, in a statement to The Associated Press news agency on Friday.

“Among the 25 Malians dead, there are 8 Malians from my commune,” Mamadou Siby, the mayor of the commune of Marena in the Kayes region, told AP. “These dead young men left my commune seven months ago to work in the construction industry in Mauritania. Unfortunately, they were in contact with their friends in Europe and America, who encouraged them to come to these countries, and in most cases, they took the perilous journey without even informing their families

South Korea’s acting president Han...

From page 06 Won-shik declared a simple majority would constitute parliamentary approval, but the People Power Party said it had filed a constitutional court petition declaring that such a threshold was too low to remove an acting president.

SWIFT TRIAL Also on Friday, the Constitutional Court held its first hearing to review whether to reinstate Yoon or remove him permanently from office. It has 180 days to reach a decision.

At a preparatory hearing, Justice Cheong Hyung-sik denied a request

by Yoon’s lawyers for a postponement in p r o ceed in g s to b etter prepare and said the court would move swiftly.

The next hearing is due on Jan. 3. A lawyer representing Yoon later told reporters the impeached president planned to appear in person in future.

He was not required to attend Friday’s hearing. He has previously ignored court requests to submit documents as well as summons in a separate criminal case over his martial law declaration.

If he is ousted, a new presidential election would be held within 60 days.

There has been overwhelming public support for Yoon’s removal, opinion polls showed after his martial law attempt.

WORST POLITICAL CRISIS IN DECADES Yo o n s h o c k e d t h e country and the world with a late-night announcement on Dec. 3 that he was imposing martial law to overcome political deadlock and root out “anti-state forces”.

Within hours, however, 190 lawmakers had defied the cordons of troops and police and voted against Yoon’s order. About six hours after his initial decree, Yoon rescinded it.

Events since the declaration have sparked South Korea’s gravest political crisis since 1987, when protests forced the ruling party of former military generals to accept a direct, popular vote to elect the president.

On Friday, prosecutors indicted former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun in the first move to put on trial an official accused of insurrection, Yonhap news said.

People on an inflatable dinghy attempt to cross the English Channel to reach Europe [File: Benoit Tessier /Reuters]

back home.” The Atlantic migration route from the coast of West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands, typically used by African migrants trying to reach mainland Spain, has seen a surge this year, with 41,425 arrivals from January-November already exceeding last year’s record 39,910. Years of conflict in the Sahel region that

i n c l u d e s M a l i , unemployment, and the effect of climate change on farming communities are among the reasons why people attempt the crossing.

The Atlantic route, which includes departure points in Senegal, The Gambia, Mauritania and Morocco, is the world’s deadliest, according to

migrant aid group Walking Borders.

More than 10,000 people died while trying to reach Spain by sea this year, a report released by Walking Borders revealed on Thursday, the highest number since it began keeping a tally in 2007.

The route departing from Mauritania, which has been particularly well

used this year by migrants leaving the Sahel region, was the deadliest, accounting for 6,829 deaths. Walking Borders blamed a lack of action or arbitrary rescues and the criminalisation of migrants for the surge in deaths at sea, accusing governments of “the prioritisation of immigration control over the right to life”.

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Saturday December 28, 2024

Israeli soldiers burn Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital, force hundreds to leave Health officials say they have lost contact with staff at the northern Gaza hospital after Israel forced 350 people out.

Aljazeera - Israeli soldiers have stormed Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last remaining medical facility in the northern Gaza Strip, torching large sections and ordering hundreds of people to leave. Gaza’s Ministry of Health said on Friday that contact had been lost with staff inside the hospital in Beit Lahiya, which has been under siege and heavy pressure from Israeli forces for weeks.

“The occupation forces are inside the hospital now and they are burning it,” Munir al-Bursh, the director of the ministry, said in a statement.

The Israeli army issued a statement confirming it launched a raid on the Kamal Adwan Hospital, claiming without evidence that the medical facility “serves as a Hamas terrorist stronghold in northern Gaza”.

Israeli forces have throughout their assault on Gaza routinely besieged and

attacked medical facilities – housing both patients and displaced families – under similar pretexts.

Fire erupts Youssef Abu el-Rish, G a z a ’s d e p u t y h e a l t h minister, said Israeli forces had set fire to the surgical department, laboratory and a storehouse in the hospital.

The fire has been spreading to the rest of the medical complex, according to a separate statement by the enclave’s Health Ministry.

It said Kamal Adwan is “suffering from a stifling siege, as the operating and surgery departments, laboratory, maintenance, ambulance units and warehouses have been completely burned”.

“The fire has now begun to spread to all buildings,” the statement added.

It also said, “the [Israeli] occupation army is forcibly transferring patients and the injured under the threat of weapons and gun barrels to

Gaza’s Health Ministry said the Israeli army ordered 350 people to leave Kamal Adwan Hospital for a nearby school sheltering displaced families [Khalil Ramzi Alkahlut/Anadolu Agency] the Indonesian Hospital, which lacks medical supplies, water, medicines, and even electricity and generators.” Like the Indonesian and al-Awda hospitals, Kamal Adwan has been repeatedly attacked by Israeli forces, especially after they launched a renewed ground offensive in

the area more than two months ago. The north, where a famine is looming, has been under total siege and cut off from the rest of the Strip since then.

Al-Bursh said the Israeli army had ordered 350 people to leave Kamal Adwan for a nearby school sheltering displaced families. This

included 75 patients, their companions, and 185 medical staff. Footage circulating on local media showed smoke rising from the area of Kamal Adwan Hospital. Much of the area around the northern towns of Jabalia, Beit Hanoon and Beit Lahiya has been cleared of people and systematically razed, prompting speculation that Israel intends to keep the area as a closed buffer zone.

‘Devastating blow’ Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from central Gaza’s Deir el-Balah, said there has been a scarcity of information coming out of Kamal Adwan on Friday, but witnesses who were in the facility said they faced inspections from Israeli soldiers.

Witnesses also “confirmed that the Israeli military had conducted field executions in [the hospital’s] vicinity”, Abu Azzoum said, adding that the fate of the hospital’s director is unknown.

Kamal Adwan has been seeing a “gradual escalation” and “deliberate attacks” by the Israeli army, our correspondent said, adding that the forced evacuations and fires have dealt a “devastating blow to the already fragile northern Gaza’s healthcare system”.

On Thursday, health officials said five medical staff, including a paediatrician, were killed

by Israeli fire at Kamal Adwan.

In a statement, Hamas blamed Israel and the United States for the fate of the hospital’s

occupants. “The [Israeli] occupation government is committing crimes in Gaza, relying on American cover and some Western capitals that are partners in the ongoing genocide,” it said on Telegram. Spokesperson f o r t h e U N ’s Wo r l d Health Organization Margaret Harris expressed concern over the situation.

“We are witnessing the targeting of civilians and the health system in Gaza,” Harris told Al Jazeera.

“What Gaza’s hospitals are exposed to is horrific, and what we are witnessing represents a punishment for the population.”

Elsewhere in Gaza, Israeli strikes killed at least 25 people, including 15 people in a single h o u s e i n G a z a C i t y, medics and the civil emergency service said.

Also on Friday, 14 countries joined or signalled their intention to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice.

Organisations including the UN, Human Rights Wa t c h a n d A m n e s t y International have also found that Israeli actions in Gaza are compatible with the crime of genocide.

Israel’s assault has killed more than 45,300 Palestinians since October last year, according to health officials in the enclave.

Most of the population of 2.3 million has been displaced and much of Gaza is in ruins.

Saturday December 28, 2024

US-sanctioned oil tankers fraudulently registered under Guyana flag - MARAD T h e M a r i t i m e Administration Department (MARAD) on Thursday clarified that the five oil tankers allegedly registered under the Guyana flag were fraudulent and not affiliated with the country. This is in response to a Capitol News video report, which alleged that five oil tankers registered under the Guyana Flag, linked to a Syrian conglomerate company in Iran and Syria and connected to Venezuela were sanctioned by the United States Treasury Department.

MARAD, however, confirmed that these ships are not, in fact, registered under the Guyana flag. The vessels in question represent false and fraudulent registrations, MARAD said. Further, it was stated that Guyana operates a closed registry system, meaning only ships owned by Guyanese nationals, residents, citizens of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states, or companies established under Guyanese law are eligible for registration under the country’s flag.

“None of the purported owners falls into any of these categories,” MARAD said in a press statement. Since 2021, instances of fraudulent ship registrations under the Guyana flag have been reported, with perpetrators targeting several countries, including Guyana, Panama, and other regional states. As such, MARAD and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been actively sharing information on these fraudulent registrations with United Nations (UN) member states and relevant international maritime organisations, the release stated.

MARAD explained, “The sanctions being applied by the United States of America, the United Kingdom and other Western States are part of the said response to the threats posed by these false registrations.”

The Government of Guyana has made it clear that it does not, has not, and will not offer a “flag of convenience” for vessels. It highlighted that Guyana is committed to protecting its sovereignty and the integrity of its maritime registry system. MARAD said it continues to take measures to prevent fraudulent activities and safeguard the country’s reputation in the global maritime community.

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From Hinterland to Brazil: Krammer cops 3-month training stint at Academia Real Brazil ... A Dream comes through! “I’ve waited for this moment for a long time,” Krammer says The 2024 KFC Caribbean Secondary School Goodwill Football Series came to a thrilling conclusion, but for one young defender, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Raydon Krammer, an 18-year-old standout from Chase’s Academic Foundation, not only led his team to victory but also secured the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and, with it, a life-changing opportunity

to train in Brazil.

Krammer, who hails from the scenic Region 7 community of Kamarang/Warawatta, has been playing football for nearly a decade. His journey began at D.C. Caesar Fox Secondary School, where he first showcased his talent before moving to Chase’s Academic Foundation in Georgetown to further his education and football aspirations. Known for his

aggressive and attacking style of play as a defender, Krammer’s talent shone brightly during the 2024 Goodwill Series.

Narada Wilson, a sports consultant and scout from Futebol de Real Brazil, was on a four-day visit to Guyana during the tournament.

Tasked with selecting one exceptional player for an allexpenses-paid, three-month training stint in Brazil in

Saturday December 28, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries. Your persuasive manner and gentle nudges are just enough to get people where you want them.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) When faced with ten entrees on the menu, it might be hard for you to choose just one.

Feel free to order two or more, Ta u r u s . D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down. At the same time.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act on them, Gemini. No one else is going to do it for you.

Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take matters into your own hands.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them no mind, Cancer. You have the right to live your life any way you want to.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Reach for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closer than you think. Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think about what it is that you want most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to how far you can go.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.

There's an incredible opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm. Follow the music.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring more magic into your life.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Today is an excellent day for you, one in which you'll find a great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius. Trust that your instincts are serving you well.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you need to make sense of it all. In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself.

Let your creative nature shine through.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Mix your reality with a bit of fantasy today, Aquarius.

Allow your feet to come off the ground for a little while. Give yourself a rest. Take some time to meditate and clear your mind of your daily worries.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces.

Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor. Dream as big as your mind allows.

early 2025, Wilson faced a challenging decision.

Among six top contenders, Krammer emerged as the clear choice, thanks to his outstanding defensive play and impressive statistics: 280 passes, 234 of which were successful, resulting in an 83.2% pass accuracy rate.

“It was a difficult task selecting just one player,” Wilson admitted. “The tournament featured several outstanding talents, but after analyzing the performances, Raydon Krammer’s numbers and contributions to his team’s success made him the ideal candidate for the Academia Real Brazil scholarship.”

The announcement came on the eve of the KFC Goodwill Series final, and Krammer could hardly contain his joy. “I couldn’t believe it,” he shared during a post-tournament interview. “It’s a golden opportunity for me. I know my parents are watching at home, and they’re happy. I’m happy for myself as well, and I want to thank the Heavenly Father for giving me this opportunity.”

Krammer attributed his success to his rigorous training regimen, which he balances with a focus on academics.

“Normally, I get up in the mornings; do my personal training, ball touches, dynamics, and physical exercises.

Sometimes, I run on the seawall.

When I’m home for holidays, my dad encourages me to train, and my family, including; my mom, brothers, and sisters all support me. I’ve been waking up at 4:30 a.m. to train,” he revealed.

For Krammer, this scholarship represents not just a personal achievement but also a chance to honour his roots. “I’ve waited for this moment for a long time,” he said. “Since I was small, I’ve been training and dreaming of opportunities like this. I’ve missed chances before due to financial difficulties, but now I’m thrilled to represent my country, my family, my former school, and my current school.”

The MVP award winner said that: This will be a perfect Christmas gift. “I’ve worked so hard for this, waking up early and attending afternoon training sessions. It’s a dream come true and the best way to end the year.”The threemonth Academia Real Brazil training stint is set to begin in February 2025, providing Krammer with world-class coaching and exposure to Brazilian football’s rich culture and heritage.

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Dharry to face Colombian Randy Ramirez... matchups.

Guyanese standout Abiola Jackman will lock h o r n s w ith B ar b ad o s ’ Kemara Stuart, while Shaquan James takes on Darnell Sinaswee of Trinidad and Tobago.

Both bouts promise action-packed displays as these pugilists vie for regional bragging rights and career-defining victories.

As the clock ticks down to fight time tonight, anticipation continues to build.

Will Dharry’s seasoned fists prove too c r a f t y f o r R a m i r e z ’s youthful ferocity? Can Allicock deliver another stellar performance and keep his undefeated streak alive?

From page 27 make his second appearance since transitioning to the professional ranks earlier this year.

Allicock’s debut was nothing short of spectacular, picking up a third-round TKO victory over Ju-Sean Shepherd at the Everest Ground.

This time, the 24-yearold lightweight sensation faces Dexter Wray, a debutant eager to make his mark. Known for his sharp reflexes and technical precision, Allicock is poised to continue his ascent in the sport while giving fans a g l i m p s e o f G u y a n a ’s promising boxing future.

The undercard also features a trio of intriguing

Berbice River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Saturday December 28, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 14:40hrs Sunday December 29, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 15:15hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs

Demerara River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Saturday December 28, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 03:00hrs Sunday December 29, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 03:45hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs DATE: 12/24/2024

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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.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

Windies women falter as India secure 3-0 ODI series sweep SportsMax - West Indies Women were left ruing another underwhelming batting display as India, powered by Deepti Sharma’s all-round brilliance, secured a five-wicket victory in Vadodara to complete a 3-0 ODI series sweep on Friday.

Despite valiant efforts from Chinelle Henry (61) and Shemaine Campbelle (46), whose 91-run fourthwicket stand briefly revived the innings, the visitors managed only 162 runs as Sharma snared six wickets for 31 runs.

India then chased the target with relative ease, thanks again to Sharma, who produced a composed unbeaten 39 and Richa Ghosh’s explosive finishing knock, as she too ended unbeaten on 23 off 11 balls.

Scores: West Indies 162 all out (38.5 overs); India 167-5 (28.2 overs) The match began disastrously for the West Indies, who lost three wickets within the first five overs. Renuka Singh’s precise bowling accounted for both the in-form Hayley Matthews (zero) and Qiana Joseph (zero) in the opening over. Deandra Dottin’s attempted slog across the line added to the early carnage, as she went for five with the Caribbean side reeling at 9 for 3.

Henry, playing her first ODI of the series, and Campbelle attempted to rebuild the innings. After a cautious start, Henry found her rhythm with a six off debutant Tanuja Kanwar to break the shackles.

The Jamaican went on to register her third ODI halfcentury, as she showcased deft cuts and glides, while Campbelle counterattacked against spin with a series of elegant boundaries. Their

Chinelle Henry resurrected West Indies’ innings. (BCCI)

partnership seemed to stabilize the innings, but S h a r m a ’s i n t r o d u c t i o n turned the tide. Campbelle’s ill-advised attempt at a big shot resulted in a comfortable catch at longon, as her knock, which had seven boundaries, came to an anticlimactic end.

Zaida James (one) fell shortly after, undone by Sharma’s sharp turn and a stunning slip catch by Harmanpreet Kaur.

Henry’s well-played 72ball knock, which had five fours and three sixes, ended soon after, as she was bowled by a straighter delivery from Sharma. Aaliyah Alleyne (21) was the other West Indies batter in double figures as a collapse resulted in the last five wickets falling for just 21 runs, with Renuka Singh accounting for the lower order to finish with figures of 4 for 29 in support of Sharma’s six-wicket haul.

The West Indies had an opportunity to make a match of it when India’s chase got off to a rocky start. Smriti

Shemaine Campbelle steadied the innings after early setbacks. (BCCI)

Mandhana (four) and Harleen Deol (one) were dismissed cheaply in the powerplay, and Pratika Rawal (18) fell to Matthews’ offspin after an aggressive start. Harmanpreet Kaur provided stability with a flurry of exquisite cover drives, which saw her race to 32 off 22 balls, including seven boundaries. However, she was bowled by a skidded delivery from Afy Fletcher, who reignited hope for the visitors. However, Sharma anchored the innings with poise after she survived a dropped catch by Matthews at slip when on 21. She was joined by Ghosh, who applied the finishing touches on the chase with an 11-ball cameo that featured three sixes and a solitary four to seal India’s victory with plenty of overs to spare.

Scores: India 167 for 5 (Deepti 39*, Harmanpreet 32, Rodrigues 29, Ghosh 23*) beat West Indies 162 (Henry 61, Campbelle 46, Deepti 6-31, Renuka 4-29) by five wickets.

Saturday December 28, 2024

Kanaimas, Lady Royal chalk up first wins...

From page 27 Daniel Ross effort, his first of two.

Second half strikes by Pernel Schultz (26’), Jobe Ceasar (29’), Ross (35’) and Colin Nelson (40’) kept the Bent Street boys hope intact of a place in the championship match. Team Cruel’s enterprising run in the championship ended as their three goals from Jamal Codrington (28’, 33’) and Dequan France (32’) was not enough to negate Bent Street’s path to victory.

The championship’s leading goal scorer, Bevney Marks maintained scoring in every game scored in the 19th minute, his 22nd overall in Back Circle ‘A’s 5-2 triumph against North East which sealed their semifinal clash with Sparta Boss which got past a tough Stabroek Ballers ‘B’. 6-3.

The other scorers for Back Circle ‘A’ were Darren Benjamin (5th), Stephan McLean (6th), Akil Plass (30th), and Steohon Reynolds (32nd). Jaldew Hamilton (11’) and Tyrese Dennis (15’) were the scorers for North East.

Stabroek Ballers ‘B’ held the first half advantage when Gerry Burnette’s 17th minute strike sailed past goalkeeper Omar Jones.

They looked destined to create a huge upset, but the experienced Spart side gradually ramped up the momentum and eventually wrested the advantage and took control.

Once they (Sparta Boss) equalised in the 23rd minute through Omari Glasgow with the first of his brace, there was a steady procession back to the center circle to restart the ball by Stabroek Ballers.

Glasgow scored again in the 27th minute as did Curtez Kellman. Kelsey Benjamin added his in the 34thm Jermaine Junor two minutes later with Nicholas McArthur hitting in number 6 one minute before the final whistle.

Burnette was on target again in the 39th minute one minute after Mark Jahlu had netted the second for Stabrok Ballers ‘A’ but their efforts were not enough to thwart the push of Sparta.

Meanwhile, the results of the final four round-of-16 matches on Christmas night are as follows: Back Circle ‘A’ 16 Timehri Warriors 1; Stabroek Ballers ‘A’ 14 Unstoppable 2; North East 6 Espanyol 5; Sparta Boss 5 Bent Street ‘B’ 2.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

Beckham James wins feature C1 and lower event as Kennard Memorial Turf Club Boxing Day Horse race meet was successfully staged

By Samuel Whyte The Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Annual Boxing Day Horse Race meet came off with a bang with Beckham James of the Nand Persaud and Company Racing Stable winning the feature C1 and lower event from a star-studded field.

The track was in good condition and the day’s meet lived up to its pre-race billing. Turfites were out early and a bumper holiday crowed packed the venue to witness a thrilling and exciting day of racing.

It was Beckham James of the Nand Persaud racing Stable with Jockey Michael Semple in the saddles that did the trick with a come from behind triumph.

The feature C class and lower One-mile event was a classic. As the animals raced out of the starting gates Beckham James was nowhere in the reckoning as it trailed the other horses.

The other runners wasted no time and took flight early as they battled for the lead. The race was going at a searing pace as the lead changed constantly. Along the back stretch and into the turn and home drive it was still a battle. Until then, Beckham

James owned and trained by Mohin Persaud was still lagging in the trailing bunch.

With just a few hundred meters to go, Beckham James well guided by the crafty and experienced Jockey Michael Semple in the stirrups, changed gear.

With a bust of speed, the animal galloped passed the front runners with ease to race away with the $1.2M and Sonny Kharag Memorial Trophy, compliments of the Kharag Family.

Running in second was, S t o r m y Vi c t o r y w i t h Bossalina third with Stolen Money rounding out the money. The H Class and lower 7 furlongs’ race saw Blinding Lights with jockey K. Razack finishing with a burst of speed to out hustle American Traveller and Emotional Damage to win the $500,000 first prize and trophy.

Country Rock with Jockey Colin Ross was solid as a rock as it won the Three Years Old Guyana Bred event to take home the $500,000 winning money and trophy from Money Time and Bin Laden.

Name and nature probably played a part as Spank Me Jockey with

jockey K. Razack in control won the two Year Olds Maiden 6-furlong race from Perfect Gold, Miss Grippy and Royal Guard.

Top Gun with Jockey Colin Ross was in top form as it out gunned Republican with Jockey M. Semple in the event for J class and lower horses.

Princess Sasha with Jockey K. Blake in control was too good for GT Boss and company as it ran away with the K class race.

Get Them Bobby with Jockey Michael Semple got first place in the L class open event. Placing second was Money Time as Princess Samiyah and Money Jet rounded out the money.

The outstanding Jockeys, Stables and trainers were presented with trophies compliments of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall.

Michael Semple and Colin Ross were the outstanding Jockeys on show.

The day’s event was incident free and was staged using the rules of the KMTC. The police led by Assistant Superintendent Michael Newland and Inspector Looknauth were commended for their outstanding work.

UDFA Banks DIH/ Jai Signs Christmas Futsal

Milerock, Capital FC, Winners Connection and Botafago secure semifinal berths The semifinals of this year’s Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) Banks DIH/ Jai Signs Christmas futsal tournament will see the same teams from last year’s tournament contesting, including defending champions Milerock, as Botafago, Capital FC and Haynes and Winners Connection also won their quarterfinal encounters Boxing Night, at the Retrieve Hard Court in the bauxite mining town of Linden. Botafago looked the most in-form of the clubs playing in this championship and disposed of Rockstone 42 after the first period ended 1-1.

Donovan Francis shot in the first two goals for Botafago, and the two others from

by Malachi Tudor and Amaniki Buntin, saw them advance without much of a sweat.

Rockstone’s two goals were scored from the boots of Albert Gonsalves and Alex Gonsalves. Game two of the quarterfinals saw Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection dumping Silver Shattas 4-1 after being ahead 2-1 at half time. Winners Connection’s victory came by way of goals scored by Akeem Caesar with a brace and Anthony Layne and Jamal Reynolds the other two.

Damian Williams was the scorer for the defeated Silver Shattas. Reigning champions Milerock booked their last four slot by knocking Topp XX 4-2, as they took the initiative 1-0 at half time through Neil

Botafago scorers, from left, are Amaniki Buntin, Malachi Tudor and Donovan Francis.

Kennedy. Allan Halley, Colwyn Drakes and Michael Jeffers added to the goal by Kennedy as the winners won 4-2. Jonal Caster and Michael Forde were the scorers for Topp XX. The last match ended with Capital FC downing Hi Stars 4-1. Isaiah Adams began the scoring for Capital FC and doubled the scores for a 2-0 lead, before Mortimer Giddings Jr and Devonte Tappin shut the doors on Hi Stars. The lone goal for Hi Stars was scored by Clinton Charles.

Tomorrow night (Sunday) the semifinals will be played and the first features Milerock and Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection at 9.00pm and the other is between Botafago and Capital FC at 10.00pm at the Retrieve Hard Court, Linden.

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2024

PAGE 27

Sparta Boss, Road Warriors, Back Circle, Bent Street move to semis

Kanaimas, Lady Royal chalk up first wins in K&S National Futsal C/ship Women’s leg A

ll the winners on the quarter-final night did so in fantastic style, none scoring less than 5 goals in marching into the semifinals and the business end of the inaugural Kashif & Shanghai / One Guyana National Futsal Championship.

Boxing night, the second night that competitive sports made a grand return to the refurbished Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), not only hosted the quarters but the first two matches in the female segment of this competition.

Using the home and away format which will see the top two teams on aggregate contesting the final on January 3rd 2025, Lady Kanaimas trounced The Lioness 11-0, while Lady Royals tamed Tucville Terrorists 7-0.

Lady Kanaimas were led

by Sandra Johnson with 5 goals (7th, 9th, 11th, 17th

Bevney Marks goal tally increases during Thursday night’s quarter finals.

and 22nd) with Glendy Lewis hitting in a helmettrick (2nd, 6th, 18th and 19th) with one each for Shanice Thornhill (11th) and Glengie Lewis (24th).

Amanda McKenzie led

Lady Royals with a hat-trick (7th, 12th, 16th), Shontell Greene had a double (8th, 21st), while there was one each for Ashantie Aaron (8th) and Tiandi Smith (15th). The teams will

Dharry to face Colombian Randy Ramirez tonight as boxing returns to CASH - Allicock to make second professional outing Tonight, the hallowed halls of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall will reverberate with the echoes of leather on flesh as Guyana’s own Elton Dharry steps into the ring against the undefeated Colombian, Randy Ramirez.

Their highly anticipated contest in the super flyweight division promises a clash of experience and youthful vigour, captivating boxing aficionados both locally and abroad, as boxing makes it return to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Dharry, a seasoned campaigner at 39 years old, boasts an impressive professional record of 28 wins, six losses, and one draw.

Known for his resilience and ring intelligence, Dharry is no stranger to the big stage. He last showcased his mettle in April, when he added the WBA Super Flyweight Gold title to his collection after dismantling Dexter Marques in a dominant third-round finish at the Everest Cricket Ground.

Standing across the ring will be 23-yearold Randy Ramirez, a rising star from Colombia with a flawless record of 10 wins, seven of which have come via knockout.

Since his debut in April, Ramirez has been on a tear, displaying a potent mix of speed, power, and aggression that has left his opponents reeling.

However, his clash against Dharry marks uncharted territory for the young phenom as he ventures outside his South American homeland for the first time.

The question looms: Can Ramirez

maintain his unbeaten streak against a battletested veteran like Dharry?

For Dharry, this fight represents more than just another notch on his belt; it’s a chance to prove that experience and strategy can over turn youthful exuberance.

For Ramirez, it’s an opportunity to announce himself on the global stage and claim a major scalp in his burgeoning career.

The contrast in their journeys and styles sets the stage for an electrifying encounter.

Adding to the excitement of the night, Guyanese Olympian Keevin Allicock will (Continued on page 23)

collide again on January 1st with the overall winner

advancing to the championship match.

The most rousing clash on the night was the Road Warriors / Gold Is Money match which saw the lads from Brazil/Lethem putting on another training session this time against one of the more seasoned futsal teams in Guyana.

Even the fans in the stands and those in the VIP booths were appreciative of the style of play displayed by the Road Warriors as they were on their feet ever so often to applaud exciting moments and the quality of goals that were scored following meticulous moves on court which ended in some scintillating goals.

Leading the Warriors to the biggest margin of victory

on the night was Wendrecky De Souza with a hat-trick (23rd, 26th, 37th) which has now taken his tally in the c h a m p i o n s h i p t o 11 .

Matheus De Souza (7th, 19th) and Daniel Alves (3rd, 25th) scored a brace each.

Contributing one each were Dionathas Pereira (6th) and Erilson Cadete (34th).

The lone goal scored by Gold Is Money came from Shomar Kouley in the 8th minute. Road Warriors will meet with Bent Street ‘A’ which defeated Team Cruel of BV, 6-3.

Team Cruel’s Samuel Garnett scored an own goal in the 9th minute to get Bent Street’s goal tally underway and it was doubled only in the 20th minute, through a (Continued on page 25)

Stabroek Ballers ‘A’ and Sparta Boss going at it on Boxing night inside the new refurbished CASH.

rts o p S Sparta Boss, Road Warriors, Back Circle, Bent Street move to semis

Kanaimas, Lady Royal chalk up first wins in K&S National Futsal C/ship Women’s leg Kennard main event winner – Mohin Persaud (white shirt) owner and Trainer of Beckham James receives the winning Sonny Kharag Memorial Trophy for the animal’s win in the feature C and Lower event as Jockey Michael Semple is perched on the racehorse as connections of the Nand Persaud Stable share the moment.

Dharry to face Colombian Randy Ramirez tonight as boxing returns to CASH - Allicock to make second professional outing

Beckham James wins feature C1 and lower event as Kennard Memorial Turf Club Boxing Day Horse race meet was successfully staged

Bajan Heavyweight Kemara Stuart arrived in Guyana this afternoon to battle local world rated Abiola Jackman... the Barbadian was accompanied by coach Laurence Hunte.

Windies women falter as India secure 3-0 ODI series sweep 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.