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AIETEUR NEWS
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Lincoln Lewis says...
Removal of oil
Monday Edition December 13, 2021 - Vol. 14 No.47
money ‘watchdog’ opens door for corruption
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $80
Online readership yesterday, 74,174
‘Guyana witnessing an
oil hustle’ The protest continues for change to ExxonMobil’s contract.
...throws away future generation’s wealth for fast cash - Dr. Thomas Ceres backs indictments against Jordan ..says Granger, Harmon, Williams give away valuable state asset to BK Int'l Selection process for Exxon's EIA…
Govt. must provide list from which ERM
was chosen - Environmentalists Man names his killer before taking last breath
'Restore anti-corruption mechanisms' ...Article 13 tells Govt., Opposition
GPL's CEO, Bharrat Dindyal, says he cannot guarantee NO blackouts for the Christmas Season, even after spending US$35M more than they budgeted for 2021. Let's have a complete breakdown of how, where and what this money was spent on. @11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM
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Monday December 13, 2021
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‘Guyana witnessing an oil hustle’ ...throws away future generation’s wealth for fast cash - Dr. Thomas Former Head of Transparency International Guyana Inc (TIGI), Dr. Troy Thomas is perturbed by the way in which Guyana’s oil industry is being handled, noting that instead of there being earnest efforts towards the protection of the nation’s patrimony, the citizenry is witnessing a “petroleum hustle.” During a recent interview on Kaieteur Radio, for International Anti-corruption Day (December 9, 2021), Dr. Thomas, a University of Guyana Lecturer commented: “We did not consider intergenerational equity and intergenerational justice. We wanted some fast cash and we were willing to
give away the wealth of future generations in order to get that fast cash and when you listen to the conversation and the justifications that people put forward even to this day, t h a t ’s w h a t y o u ’ r e getting…” Dr. Thomas added, “We’re not thinking beyond or looking at what we can do in terms of infrastructure right now or looking at what we can do in terms of building this and that and the o t h e r . ( We a r e ) n o t recognising that whatever natural resources we have, belong to our Guyanese and even future Guyanese and if we think about it that way then we would want to step back and make sure we get
things right.” He alluded that the policy leaders of the day would want to ensure they maximise the value that is returned to Guyanese and that they would follow the law. Additionally, the former TIGI Head said he is bothered by the way, which the oil sector and the Exxon Mobil-Guyana Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) have been handled. Dr. Thomas also expressed dismay about the fact that there are some citizens who believe that “you want to “stop the progress if you raise objections to what is taking place.” “But I would ask what
progress are you talking about exactly? So I think we have to be very sober about it. (The current head of TIGI, Fred Collins) mentioned the giving away of 600 oil blocks to Exxon in the form of the Stabroek Block when the law says only 60 and that bothers me very much as well because we have given up any competitive advantage we could have had. Based on all the analysis that would have been put out by various organisations, it seems like we’re getting the short end of the stick…” In a December 11, 2021 publication, Kaieteur News had featured Mr. Collins’ views on the oil sector which echoed similar sentiments expressed by Dr. Thomas.
Ceres slams Opposition for not pushing renegotiation of Exxon contract Geotechnical Engineering, Charles Ceres has slammed the Opposition, particularly its leader- Joseph Harmon for their lethargy in holding the government accountable and lack of zeal in pressing the government to renegotiate the lopsided ExxonMobil contract. He said too that the agreement has disadvantaged future generations of Guyanese and confirms that both Harmon and Basil Williams who were key players in the Coalition have no ability to understand the concept of nation building and should not be allowed to lead the PNCR. Several ordinary Guyanese and civil society bodies have been calling for a renegotiation of the contract. Both the Coalition and the PPP/C have ignored those calls. Ceres made his comments in a wide-ranging statement he released on Sunday in which he addressed the state of affairs in the PNCR leadership race and his endorsement of Aubrey Norton for the top post. Government recently came out with a definitive pronouncement that it will not be renegotiating its contract with Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)—ExxonMobil Guyana, although on the campaign trail this was one of its promises. “Harmon, as opposition leader, has not even taken the time to remind the PPP of its 2020 election manifesto which promised a 50% salary increases, renegotiation of the ExxonMobil Contract and creation of 50,000 jobs,” Ceres said in his statement. Only last week Canada-based Guyanese, Dr. Jerry Jailall said Harmon must also now come clean with the nation, and divulge who instructed the then Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, to sign the contract with ExxonMobil Guyana. Dr. Jailall was adamant that Harmon
Geotechnical Engineering, Charles Ceres must now explain clearly, “If he and his PNC are now supporters of a better, fair deal for Guyana.” Meanwhile, Ceres said too that the recent “correct indictment of former finance minister Winston Jordan is an indictment against both Joseph Harmon and Basil Williams.” Ceres said Harmon and Williams are both attorneys. “Harmon was the de facto leader while David Granger focused on the colonial trappings of office. Harmon failed to represent the interest of the State, since he was part of the cabinet which allowed the gifting of valuable state asset on the Demerara River waterfront to BK International. Basil Williams as the attorney for the state has equal responsibility for not ensuring adherence to minimum standards of care for state resources,” Ceres an outspoken critic said. He said the action of these individuals cannot be dismissed when payments, withheld by the PPP Government, to BK International, for the Haags Bosch landfill, were made without allowing the courts to examine the merits of BK International claims
and counter-claims compiled by the Ministry of Communities. “Please be reminded that the principal owner of BK International was on stage with Janet Jagan when the PPP launched their election campaign at Kitty Market Square in 1997. Charles Ramson must be regarded as being correct when he spoke about the PNC failure of its fellowship, since I see no similar action by Harmon and/or Williams to empower the African Guyanese members of the PNC,” Ceres said. He said both Harmon and Williams were integral parts of the machinery which signed the agreement with ExxonMobil. “That agreement has significantly disadvantaged future generations of Guyanese. That agreement confirms their inability to understand the concept of nation building. Williams had responsibility to ensure the adherence of all state agencies to the laws of the land. He took no steps during his tenure to ensure the Environmental Protection Agency adhered to the Environmental Protection Act of 1996 and its amendments significantly contributing to the current state of affairs at that agency. Harmon’s inability to recognise the concept of nation building is exacerbated by his swearing allegiance to the United States to become a US citizen. He, an attorney, sat is parliament for more than five years fully aware that he was breaking the law. He is not smart enough to know that the framers of US constitution enshrined the three-fifths clause in the Constitution, to which he swore allegiance, which set the census value of an African person as 60 percent of the value of a free person. He willingly swore allegiance to a constitution with this clause enshrined which confirms his inability to analyze the consequences of his action,” Ceres said.
Former TIGI Head and University of Guyana Lecturer, Dr. Troy Thomas He had essentially noted that good governance of the oil sector will continue to be undermined if “the original sin” or root case is not fixed by the leaders of the day. Collins had said the “original sin” refers to the 1999 award of 600 blocks as part of the Stabroek Block licence to ExxonMobil when the law only allows for 60. This newspaper had previously reported that former Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman had a golden opportunity to correct this illegality but chose not to, citing various reasons, such as the law allowing for such awards to be done in the event of special circumstances. But Collins was keen to note that he does not agree with this line of argument while noting that the country will pay the price for failing to correct the state of affairs that reflects total disregard for the law. Furthermore, the TIGI Head said this “original sin” has resulted in a domino effect of dire consequences that now plague the sector and would continue until the end of the industry if not addressed. Due to the sheer size of the block, Collins noted that ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Petroleum Limited, have the ability to produce multiple projects across a massive acreage. He noted that the absence of ring-fencing provisions to prevent costs for projects in the
development stage are not deducted from those, which are producing has also made matters worse. Collins noted that if the Stabroek licence had 60 [blocks] as the law prescribes, the impact of no ring-fencing provisions would not have been so economically damaging. With no ring fencing provisions in place and the leverage to go as fast as it wants with exploration and development, ExxonMobil has racked up astronomical costs, which the State is yet to audit. In fact, Guyana is yet to audit over US$10B in costs, which Exxon said it expended from 1999 to 2017. Even if Guyanese authorities conduct the audits tomorrow, they would essentially be left at a disadvantage since the twoyear timeline to object to ineligible costs has elapsed. What also complicates this predicament Guyana is caught in, is the fact that ExxonMobil has the most favourable relinquishment provision of all the oil companies in the basin. Following negotiations in 2016 with Trotman and other officials in the David Granger administration, the oil company is allowed to relinquish 20 percent of the oil block in seven years when the law prescribes that 75 percent of the concession be returned in that timeline. This was made possible due to a loophole in Guyana’s oil laws.
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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: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
One week only for beating wife?
W
hat is going on in this country? How could a sentence of one week only in jail be considered appropriate for a man found guilty of beating his wife? Why should this be just another matter that grabs our attention for a quick minute, and then fall by the wayside, because of new developments, other competing interests? The circumstances are revealing, in that they involved a young man, all of 21 years old, starting down the road very early in life with a battering of his wife that left her with swollen eyes (KN December 7). Additionally, this was a newly married couple beginning life together with something so numbing and disgusting. Sure, it may be that he is a first offender, and that there were other factors of which we may not know that contributed to the violent abuser being the beneficiary of what is a merciful slap on the wrist, because a jurist decided to make use of the discretionary powers that he held. We are in favour of mercy and second chances, but domestic abuse, and of the violent kind, has been a plague on this society for too long, and too harrowingly. We can only imagine the trauma and constant fear that the new bride experienced, and which could serve as a constant burden over her head that one slip and it will be a hard slap. Or one mix-up and that a flare-up is sure to follow. We cannot continue to go on like this, where in the aftermath of these brutal assaults, either erring members of the Guyana Police Force are fingered, or considerate magistrates are faulted for a fleeting moment, as being too kind, and too out of touch with reality; we must do more. Those who are accused, and actually make it to trial without change of heart by victims, must be made to feel the full force of the law, or at least at some point that is closer to the wise exercise of that fullness. As much as we wish for it, this will not completely prevent domestic violence situations from occurring. This reality must be faced, since it is a worldwide phenomenon, to different degrees in different places. In the next instance, being passive and/or negligent in appreciating the extent of what must be done to bring about some sustained easing should not be options. For clearly, a deterrent must be in place, one that is strong and sends a warning to other abusers, so inclined, and all too ready to let the domestic home deteriorate into such a frightening state. Both abusive men and women (mainly men) must be sent clear messages that this society will not tolerate such excesses, by being disinterested, coolly clinical observers. Nowhere should this be more evident than in the ranks of those who stand as guardians of the law, inclusive of police officers, social workers, and officers of the court, when given its broadest meaning. In this specific instance one week is too little, and a year would have been too long. It is our position that a month would have served as enough of a cooling off period, and presented the offender with time and opportunity for deep and serious reflection, as to how and where he went wrong. We go a bit further, and recommend that those standing in judgment should consider, as a matter of routine, a probationary period of several years, such as three at a minimum, or five at the outside, to keep the peace. Such an addition to jail time, in most circumstances, lays out the ground rules demanding discipline and orderliness. To sum this up, officers of the law at the police level must be tougher and tighter in the performance of their duties, officers of the court presiding over such cases have to be tougher and wiser in the combination of penalties handed down, and domestic partners subject to violent abuse (especially women) must also be tougher and stronger in holding the line, and demanding that justice be meted out. When there is this mix taking hold in our society, and culture, then we stand a better chance of combatting domestic violence more acceptably.
Guyana needs competent leaders to move forward DEAR EDITOR, The PPP and PNC followed by AFC are bent on destroying Guyana. The fact that Azerbaijan built a brand new airport for US$40 million in 8 months and Guyana struggles to renovate and expand an old airport now exceeding US$160 million over the last 8 years is damning. The airport has in fact moved backwards. The sewage system is always problematic. Space for persons waiting on passengers were reduced to being non existent. Another backward example are the methods employed that will ensure the spread of COVID rather than reduce. This is the insistence on persons removing their shoes and traversing on the filthy ground. The reasons for these failures are employment of persons who are friends and cronies of the governing parties and political hacks. I said this before. It still stands. It needs repeating. Again and again. by everyone and all decent minded Guyanese. Persons are simply unfit for many offices but are being retained for the attribute that these parties hold dear. A total lack
of integrity. The misuse of public funds is a prime example of why Guyanese will remain in this vicious poverty cycle once they continue to vote for these parties. The PPP has a set of young turks who shuffle around shaking their heads like they know everything but most of them got there on their parents backs. This is no measurement of capability and is certainly not experience. Hire people who have demonstrated competence. Another example of wastage of funds includes the Amalia Falls hydro project. These are some of the reasons why public servants are paid minimum wages except for party cronies and soup drinkers. The intended new Public Procurement Commission will be comprised of PPP and PNC members? Are these the only persons who own Guyana? Yes, Own. That is how they behave. Like little children splitting everything in half and to hell with everyone else? What sort of society is this? There is no space for objective persons. The selection of a contractor with China ties is an-
other nail in the coffin of infrastructure works for Guyana. It will be another extended and inferior construction project that is prone to corruption. This project will result in immense misery for Guyanese on the East and West banks of the river because of the location. The envisaged loss of Georgetown to global warming in the very near future is another reason why the bridge must be built further south in perhaps the Friendship area. We need to move away from a one man or two men decision-making team as is currently the case when it comes to issues that have such an impact on the nation. Then there is Exxon. The new indentured masters making a mockery of Guyanese by way of their tools which are the members of the PPP, PNC and AFC. Yes, all the members because none of them has demonstrated the strength of character to stand up for what is right. They are all cowered by the petty foremen aka leaders in their parties. I don’t expect Exxon to pay 50% royalty. That is not reasonable since they invested in this venture.
But had I been at the negotiating table, this would have been my stance. Share of oil extracted: Guyana -14.5% and Exxon 85.5% (this currently is what happens). Cost of production: Exxon must cover this from its 85.5%. So, Guyana can audit this at leisure since that’s the way the party cronies operate. Royalty: Guyana must get 15.5% This to me is something that can be renegotiated immediately unless there are reasons why the indentured foremen are unwilling to do this. It likely requires some tweaking by persons who are knowledgeable on the subject.he only way out of this mess is for Guyanese to vote for another third party comprising leaders that have demonstrated competence and integrity in whatever profession. The presidential candidate must be someone who is around 60 years. Possibly retired from a notable profession and is secured in life. This single act has a better chance of addressing corruption. Sincerely, Harrish Singh
The current Administration must save the Daniels’ family and all those affected! DEAR EDITOR, It was with immense horror and frustration that I read of what was happening to Farmer Daniels and his young family. The Government and the EPA are aware of how dangerous manganese mining is to the health and development of human beings, especially young children. With this in mind, the Government should never have permitted the Chinese mining company to have the land near homes and farms for the storage and staging of the manganese. The dust that Farmer Daniels and his children are breath-
ing is extremely toxic. The Government has to immediately relocate all the people living in close proximity to these manganese operations. No leader in good conscience can allow this to continue. It is extremely urgent that this problem be rectified immediately. Our country cannot develop and be prosperous if our citizens’ health and livelihoods are destroyed in the process. How can a properly functioning EPA knowingly allow such an operation to exist? This is a clear indica-
Give the new GECOM CEO an opportunity to deliver DEAR EDITOR, They are distancing themselves from the appointment of the CEO-elect, but did not see it fit and proper to do the same a while back, when an appointment was made. Even though the appointee was not qualified, experienced or suitable for the position. No pushback then against the appointment or the then illegally appointed Chair. Indeed, a tangled web. The nation will be looking, too, to see how the CEO-elect performs, not just the opposition. He must be given every opportunity and support
to carry out the mandate of the office, the same as was afforded the one whose appointment to a senior position was questionable. And look how that turned out. In closing, the commissioners, who distanced themselves from the selection of the CEO-elect should do the honourable thing and resign en bloc. That would give credence to their position. If not, it is just blowing hot air, something they are good at when things don’t go their way. Regards Shamshun Mohamed
tion that a change must occur within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). CRG calls upon the current Administration to address this issue posthaste and help save the Daniels’ family and others affected from being destroyed by the toxicity caused by the exposure to manganese and manganese dust. The EPA must clearly outline a safe perimeter where no farming, animal rearing nor human occupation of the land can occur around all manganese operations. CRG has previously stated that the mining of manganese should not be permitted until all safeguards are in place. The return on investment for this project is also not very attractive. Our people deserve better and are worth much more than this toxic industry, which is already showing total disregard and lack of respect for the lives of our citizens. This situation needs to be rectified immediately!
Our President and First Lady have shown themselves to be loving parents and no one would expect them to be knowingly comfortable with such toxic exposure for children within our nation. Our Nation’s First Family has a responsibility to safeguard the lives of all Guyanese families and the children of our nation are their responsibility as well. The leadership of the EPA must seek to improve and ensure that the agency’s decisions do not put at risk the lives of our people. We are a small and closely-knit community in Guyana. We must not step on the blood of our fellow Guyanese in the pursuit of money. Please help save the Daniels family and all others who are being affected by this highly toxic manganese industry. With concern, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
The reincarnated DEAR EDITOR, As ExxonMobil touts that it intends to invest US$30B in Guyana as FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) it stands to reason that they intend to make back that money PLUS PROFITS FOR SHARE-
HOLDERS. Remember, remember: the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. Here comes: The Lisa Destiny, The Lisa Unity and The Prosperity. Yours faithfully, Sean Ori
Monday December 13, 2021
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Time to hand out some well-earned NY Based Guyanese Org. praises sense about installed and recnational awards ognition by either side. No, GECOM Selection of CEO graphic memory. It was I sir! Not when dirty money and DEAR EDITOR,
In seasonal spirit, it’s time to hand out well-earned national awards to devoted sons of the soil. Since, I am judge and jury, no argument is brooked, no appeal available. The award for the wisest COVID-19 safety practices belongs to the Hon. Minister of Health. He insisted on vaccination, and then all but eliminated the curfew. Midnight to 4 is no curfew; and I don’t want to hear of a National Task Force’s decision. He takes a beating for the country, party, and the roguery (partying) of others. Separately, who the hell goes to the UAE for vaccines? It’s pharmaceutical (dude) not petroleum; a serum, not sand. Now there’s a choice for booster: Burma, Botswana, or Brazil (got mine). The poor Indians, democratic ones, gave Guyana free vaccines, and we give the sweet oil to the Saudis. Minister Frankie Dr. ‘Immunity’ Anthony gets the gold medal. For next year’s medal consideration, I suggest doing away with masking, since it inhibits having a ‘good’ drink. The award for the most versatile with transparency goes to His Excellency. There is Guyanese leadership transparency, and the best precedent, which PPP celebrants should love. Dr. LFS Burnham (he had an honourary one, too) said he was transparent about elections victories. Just like how today, His Excellency ‘sez’ he is transparent about ethical leadership, clean oil, and cleaner governance. PPP supporters were damned for saying that the transparency was in the rigging. Today, they damn me for saying that the president’s transparency is how he is rigging the English Language and rigging truth: Oil secrecy, contract secrecy, reports secrecy, money secrecy. I tell him: secrecy is not transparency. If he is doing no wrong, then Burnham did not, too. Let’s not wait 28 years for that discovery. The runner-up in this Most Versatile Performer category goes to the other fella, the country’s real leader, not the proxy. He, too, professes affection for accountability, but works overtime to conceal a deeper affection for trickery, other people’s honey, and general financial mystery. The most miraculous recovery award boasts joint winners. The first is one who couldn’t recall anything that occurred under his watch, not for the life of him. This citizen went before a fixed, friendly national tribunal, and couldn’t remember one damn thing, now he knows everything through the miracle of newly discovered photo-
don’t recall. I don’t recall. Stop asking, damnit! What is not understood (or misunderstood) about I don’t recall? Asked about national security threats (not I, surely?) or rogue cops in high places: no recall. But, nowadays, he is a blubbering, babbling brook, the equivalent of Guyana’s Encyclopedia Britannica. The man remembers everything. I heard about fake news and fake orgasms; but faked memories are too much. A miraculous recovery award is due to the former minister of something. I can’t recall what; please excuse me. The second half of the most miraculous recovery award, leaving me awed, goes to the esteemed Deputy Speaker. I say it must be divine intervention. In the case of the Deputy Speaker, I hope it is the real thing, and not another special dispensation that falls to pieces under pressure. Or leadership overtures and incentive(s). I may have to take back the award if he shifts into reverse, or switches lanes too rapidly. The Deputy Speaker must be focused. Committed to truth. Principled and a consistent presence on the straight and narrow. And to think this fine Guyanese aspired to be president. How about faithful service to truth, justice, and the Guyanese way (whatever that is).The national award for best problem solver and stellar overachiever goes to Anil, His Majesty Nandlall, SC. The man thinks so highly of himself that it is not Senior Counsel, but most Senior Council (a Star Chamber all by his royal, high-caste self). The honourable one has never seen a reform occasion that he didn’t grasp gleefully to make a flashy reform speech. Media reform is the AG; electoral reform (guess who?); judicial reform (right again). But he is a real wisecracker, this Guyana AG, for he “ain’t taakin nuthin” bout campaign finance reform. “De PNC dun agree: no conflict.” No pushback with this non-
heavy money laundering funding are concerned. Are the Americans still here? I hear them chattering about anti-graft and anti-corruption. I have an award for them: most hypocritical. Why no hands-on, close-up involvement, dear friends? For conspicuous gallantry (not the PM) for swordfencing with truth, none beats the man of god inside the PPP. First, it was the airport will be done. Guaranteed. Then, like Clint Eastwood, only for a few (million) dollars more. It is the equal of Burnham’s not a blade of grass. The President and the Bishop said to the contractors (“deh own peeple who duz give plentee monee to de partee”) this is absolute nonsense. Thank god, the cameras were veiled, so as not to catch the smile and style and guile. Where do we get these people from? These political televangelists! Meanwhile, the contractors Guyanese and Chinese smirk, rub their hands in readiness to present the next bill. The PNC gets the Golden Globe award (national too small) for how [not] to run elections. It’s an exercise in transparency, integrity, stupidity, of the worst kind imaginable. Next, top PNC supporters receive the most adaptable award: yesterday, ‘dem’ was PNC, today, nothing but PPP. Indeed, Black Lives Matter, baby. There is Carl. From PNC strongman to frontiersman to PPP Government man, he is awarded, Man for all Seasons. Carl squared the circle. What Descartes, Archimedes, and Shakuntala Devi couldn’t do, Tropical Storm Carl did. He is a real hard luck case: first, he own PNC ‘rab hee’ of de leadership, now the PPP pick fight ‘wid’ he. He should do like me, don’t meddle with monsters. Last, it was close, but best citizens belong to PPP supporters nosing out PNC ones for most childlike, doelike, and sheeplike. Sincerely, GHK Lall
DEAR EDITOR, A New York based Guyanese based organisation, Guyana Democracy Project, hails the appointment of Mr. Vishnu Persaud as Chief Election Officer of GECOM. The organisation, led by President Dr. Tara Singh, former Senior lecturer at UG, advocates, promotes, supports, and defends democracy in Guyana. The group played a prominent role combatting electoral fraud in Guyana 2020 elections. The organisation released a statement praising the appointment and cheering the Chair, Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh, for selecting Mr. Persaud who had distinguished himself in service at the body before his appointment was not renewed. In part, NYGDP statement says: “The decision by GECOM to appoint Mr. Vishnu Persaud as the Chief Election Officer has received wide support from Guyanese at home and the diaspora. Many felt that it is/was poetic justice for a man who was denied the position on account of racial bias and politics. The GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh says that Mr. Vishnu Persaud has the right “skills, experience and expertise” for the job of CEO. She further indicates that he knows the 10 geographic regions of the country. She is right. He is very knowledgeable about electoral issues in the varied regions.
In the interaction with Mr. Persaud in his capacity of Public Relations Officer and then as Deputy Chief Election Officer (DCEO), he has always been responsive and forthright. In the circumstances, NYGDP welcomes this appointment as an essential step in the promotion of democracy, inclusive of free and fair elections especially when efforts were made to rig the 2020 elections. The GECOM Chair is commended for assessing the objective realities regarding Mr. Persaud’s credentials and synchronise these with the broader national need for integrity, and confidence in the electoral process. Casting aspersions on the Chair’s integrity and professionalism are misguided. She has made the right choice. There was no other candidate that is more qualified than Mr. Persaud. We note also that the country has been without a GECOM CEO for several months. This has resulted in the postponement of Local Government Elections (LGE) constitutionally due in 2021. Thus, filling the vacancy was long overdue and the Commission could now proceed to lay the groundwork for LGE. Mr. Persaud worked tirelessly almost for two decades
at GECOM and was unjustly rejected (which was confirmed by Guyana Ethnic Relations Commission) for the Deputy CEO position in 2017 when a person less qualified than him was chosen for the position. GECOM’s image was severely tarnished during the 2020 elections process when elements of the Commission, in collusion with political party operatives, attempted to stage an electoral heist. Several of them are before the courts to answer charges relating to electoral fraud. The Chair knows that the integrity of GECOM has to be repaired if Guyanese are to have confidence in the electoral machinery. No better a person can assist the Chair to restore the integrity of the elections’ body. Mr. Vishnu Persaud’s appointment, his competence, integrity and professionalism will help to restore the image and integrity of GECOM. Guyanese could now breathe freer as the stage is being set for free and fair elections. The task ahead for Mr. Persaud would be formidable but he has shown from past experience that he would navigate this with distinction. Congratulations to Mr. Vishnu Persaud”. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
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There will always be individuals who embrace biased views for and against who is Ramharack. Nor would res that typify a multicultural ibbean. had passed away. what Jagan stood for In deconstructing Clearly, Ramharack does they have any interest in society. Dear Editor, I read with deep interest what I considered to be swift and erudite responses to Ramharack’s articles and letters about Cheddi Jagan. Not being among the ‘first respondents’ to what Ramharack wrote, I believe that what others wrote contrary to his interpretations, can help any reasonable and unprejudiced person understand the complex nature of the thinking and the socioeconomic conditions under which Cheddi Jagan lived and worked. Just as the Ramharacks of this world will hold steadfast to their jaundiced view about Cheddi Jagan, in the same way, others will hold to their knowledgeable appreciation of, and comradely assessment of Dr. Jagan, his role and place in Guyanese and global politics. Mr. Ramharack seems to believe, that being ideological is repugnant, unless it is of a hew supportive of, or close to his own, apart from his dogmatic approach to religion. But life does not work the way Ramharack wants it to. What Ramharack holds as true for himself, may not be true for others and what he holds as his beliefs may not necessarily be the beliefs of others. Ramharack is free to believe in what he writes, and that probably gives him im-
mense satisfaction, but realpolitik in Guyana would show that what he and others of his ilk wrote is unlikely to have any impact on supporters of the PPP, large swathes of the middle class or the business community. Nor are they likely to be supportive of his attempt to push them away from supporting the Party at an election. If Ramharack thinks his view would alienate people from the PPP, he should think again, they would tend to close ranks around the legacy of Jagan. Ramharack’s own writings reveal how deeply ideologi-
cal is his advocacy of ultraconservative and ethno-centric beliefs. In the USA, where he is a citizen, Ramharack holds a US passport, a drivers’ license, pays taxes and perhaps even vote at elections. He must know that in his country of residence, there is a preponderance of ideological strands and extremities ranging from the ultra-right to the ultra-left. But prolific as he is, he is yet to share with Guyanese any of his pronouncements on the extant ideological expressions, their organisations and representatives in the US so that we can glean, based on what he may have written, an appreciation of where he stands politically and ideologically in relation to these matters. Sitting in the comfy of his home somewhere in the USA and preferring to not pass judgment on any of the left or right wing organisations and their leaders in the USA, Mr. Ramharack chose the safest route; to pontificate, and to a large extent, regurgitate what has been written many moons ago about Cheddi Jagan. Digging up dirt is one thing, manufacturing, packaging and selling dirt is another. In that sense, Mr. Ramharack’s views on Dr. Jagan are redundant, stale and out-of-fashion. There is nothing fresh in Ramharack’s writings about Cheddi Jagan. Everything he wrote about Jagan is unpersuasive and refutable. And that is precisely what all those who rose to the occasion did when they effectively debunked his bunkum. It would not take much perusing of Ramharack’s articles and letters, to recognise that he must have been exposed to anti-Jagan views while Jagan was alive and engaged in political activism. Ramharack could have expounded on the ‘reimagining’ and the ‘unmooring’ of Jagan at that time, but nay, he chose to do so long after the man
not endorse Jagan’s ideological nor political views but, as demonstrated in his writings, he certainly absorbed the anti-Jagan sentiments prevailing at the time. In other words, back in the days, it must have been the ideas and values hostile to the PPP that influenced and eventually shaped Ramharack’s adult life. Ramharack is not the first nor will he be the last to expound anti-Jagan views. It has long been recognised that there will always be individuals at home and abroad who hold to biased views for and against what Jagan stood for. And just as the debate about the efficacy of Marxism has prevailed over decades, in the same way, the debate about Cheddi Jagan’s role and place in history is likely to continue for years and perhaps decades to come. Those who read the Ramharack’s of today and those of tomorrow would be able to ‘pick sense out of nonsense’ as the older folks would say. In matters treating with great and influential men and women in history, it is human nature to disagree on their role and place in history and to hold strong views one way or another. This is particularly so in respect to such personages who, from lowly and humble beginnings, emerged as outstanding figures and are etched in their country’s history as ‘Father of the Nation.’ History is replete with many examples. In considering Ramharack’s views, two fundamental questions arise: first, why the sudden extensive coverage of his anti-PPP/ anti-Jagan views at this time? Secondly, what class and/or social strata is the target audience in Guyana? Those of us who reside permanently in Guyana and move around the country would know that the vast majority of Guyanese have absolutely no knowledge of
views they consider unhelpful to uplifting their daily lives. Ramharack’s stereotyping of Dr. Jagan apparently stems from his understanding of who Dr. Jagan associated himself with politically and ideologically. But Ramharack didn’t stop there, he went on to stereotype all those who came to the defence of Jagan and what he stood for. Ramharack is free to associate himself with whom he wishes to but not others who hold an ideological view opposed to his. As far as Ramharack is concerned, Guyanese of Indian origin are expected to be naturally faithful to either Hinduism or Islam, any departure from this ‘natural being’ would result in being lost to one’s ‘cultural moorings’ as unscientifically defined by Ramharack. Therefore, in the mind of Ramharack, an unmoored Hindu who gravitates to secular convictions is unworthy and should be rejected. Based on his ideological posturing, Ramharack seems inclined to be supportive of organisational regimentation, strict adherence to a religious belief of his preference; a ‘one size fits all’ cultural and religious practices, and values alien to the customs and mo-
This begs the question, how would Ramharack categorise politicians of Indian descent who converted to, Catholicism, Anglicanism, Presbyterianism or Evangelicalism. A classical example is Dale Bisnauth of Indian decent and former minister of government who according to Pulandar Kandhai (S/N 12.4.2013) grew up in the village of Better Success ... ‘a veritable backwater - in a literal area of darkness’ on the Essequibo Coast, shades of the conditions under which Jagan spent his boyhood days. Bisnauth was, most likely, born into a Hindu family. Later in life, he converted first to Anglicanism then to Presbyterianism later becoming a pastor. While he firmly believed in one of the two ‘isms,’ but not openly opposed to the suffix in Marxism, he chose to serve in the cabinet of the ‘communist ogre’ created in the mind of Ramharack. In his life long journey, Bisnauth never lost his ‘cultural moorings’. In fact, he was so intellectually accomplished that he authored books on Indian immigration, the History of the Presbyterian Church and the History of Religion in the Car-
Ramharack’s resort to ‘cultural moorings’, it is apposite to note that it is not uncommon for a Guyanese born into a Hindu family, to marry into a Muslim or Christian family, convert to one of the dominant religions and, have a wedding or a funeral within one of the three persuasions. That Jagan was politically ‘reckless and inflexible’ because of his adherence to Marxism and that he was ‘outmanoeuvred by Burnham, and further, that he was bound to fail because he did follow in Rodney’s footsteps, are all reckless conclusions drawn by Ramharack. But what is even noteworthy is that the quotes and remarks cherry-picked by Ramharack about Dr. Jagan are by persons to whom Marxism is anathema as a methodology for scientific investigation into economic, social and political life in society. Ironically, it is the same Marxism that Ramharack rejects that is being utilised by many outstanding scholars, researchers and fellows at universities and academic institutions in the United States, Europe and in many other countries. Ramharack is obviously not in their league. Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee
Is it now legal to squat? DEAR EDITOR, With reference to a letter captioned, “this lawlessness must stop” appearing in the Kaieteur News edition of Friday, December 10, 2021, I wish to state the following. Indeed, the author of the letter is bang on target and he/she speaks for many other communities about the, “wanting erection of shacks and other hazards on the road ways”. This is exactly what is happening at the entrance of Tuschen New Housing Scheme. People are being allowed and seemingly encouraged to erect shops, beer gardens,
rum shops and other unsightly structures on government reserves, disturbing the peace, impeding the smooth flow of traffic hindering the proper cleaning of the main canal and allowing urinating and the easing of bowels in plain sight of passersby way into the night. Loud music and vulgar language perpetrating the once peaceful neighbourhood. I also call on the Honourable Minister Juan Edghill, Ministry of Public Works and Honourable Minister Nigel Dharamlall, Ministry of Local Government
to immediately take action at least for the mental health benefit of the folks in the neighbourhood. By the way, did the former Minister of Public Works, The Honourable Robeson Benn, not leave his “sledge hammer” with the new minister? I reiterate that all of this is happening on government reserved land. I now ask, what has happened to the law against squatting and is it now legal to do so? Very concerned resident NY Based Guyanese Org. praises GECOM Selection of CEO
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Monday December 13, 2021
‘Restore anti-corruption mechanisms’ T
he fledgling civil society watchdog group, Article 13 has renewed its call for the Government and the Opposition to restore and strengthen the guardrails and the institutional framework designed to prevent corruption. The group in a recent statement on the occasion of International Anticorruption Day 2021, observed last Thursday, iterated its grave consequences of the absent anti-corruption mechanisms. In the statement, the
group which consists of prominent, outspoken Guyanese such as Chartered Accountant and Attorney at law Christopher Ram and telecommunications expert Yog Mahadeo said it noted and agrees with the assertion of US Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch, who in a statement Last week pointed to the importance of institutions in the fight against corruption. In this regard, the group referenced several of the mechanisms and institutions with anti- corruption functions such as Office of
- Article 13 tells Govt., Opposition the Auditor General, and the Procurement Commission and the Procurement Commission Tribunal all provided for by the Constitution. The group also referenced the Anti-Money Laundering Act and the Integrity Commission Act, and the Public Accounts Committee and the Committee of Supply. The organisation noted that while it is satisfied that
the country has enough constitutional and statutory mechanisms on the record, “many of the instruments are either not working or not operating independently.” To this end, Article 13 noted that “unless we establish, appoint, finance, defend and hold responsible those institutions, it will be like whistling in the wind.” “Many of these institutions and instruments are either non-functional or for one reason or another, c a n n o t o p e r a t e independently, competently and effectively. President Ali has many places from where he can start. He needs to begin now,” Article 13 said. Addressing the issue under both the government and opposition’s tenure in office, the civil society group noted that while the
Article 13 Founder/Member, Telecommunications Expert, Yog Mahadeo APNU+AFC had a fair share of criticisms on corruption, the PPP/C does not enjoy a favourable record when it comes to corruption. To add weight to this point the group referenced Guyana’s ranking in the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index (CPI) between 2015 when
the APNU+AFC came to power and when the PPP/C’s regained power. Describing the data as quite instructive, the group noted that according to the index, Guyana’s corruption ranking was higher under the current administration. Article 13 warned however that because corrupt practices are usually carried on clandestinely, its extent is notoriously hard to measure. Hence, the CPI is what is says, a “perception index.” In reference to recent incidents, Article 13 saluted the police for charging the persons who recently offered members of the Force a bribe of a substantial sum of money to drop a matter. The group nonetheless said that they are also monitoring the prolonged police investigation of the case of the Permanent Secretary who was reported Continued on page 15
GTT rolls out Fibre service in Non Pareil Residents of Non Pareil, East Coast Demerara area on Saturday warmly welcomed GTT Fibre to their community, as the company rolled out Fibrebroadband service there. GTT’s Chief Operations Officer for Home Solutions & Fixed Services, Eshwar Thakurdin said, given the advantages to subscribers including more bandwidth and faster Internet service, it was not surprising that the demand for GTT Fibre remained high. He said the start of installations in Non Pareil meant GTT remained well on course to achieve its targets set for this year. “We are encouraged by the response
of residents in Non Pareil to our roll-out of GTT Fibre and pleased that we have begun installations in time for the Christmas holidays. We hope this brings even more seasonal joy to subscribers who can now enjoy faster speeds for important things like staying in touch with family and enjoying holiday entertainment,” Thjakurdin said according to a press release from the company. Thakurdin noted that the Company remains focused on ensuring a steady continuation of the GTT Fibre upgrade programme, bringing major increases in upload and download speeds with reliable connectivity at no increased cost to both
New customers signing up for GTT Fibre at Non Pareil.
GTT’s Chief Operations Officer for Home Solutions & Fixed Services, EshwarThakurdin current and new subscribers. The COO said the company looks forward to announcing upgrades in other residential districts, as it was well aware that customers all over Guyana were keen on making the switch to GTT Fibre that brought many benefits. Included in the fibre upgrade is a high quality voice line; optional Wi-Fi; High-speed fibre internet with a free modem; VIP Tech S u p p o r t a n d troubleshooting; Video streams and video conferencing; and Static IPs to support networks, servers, and cameras. As the Fibre rollout continues, GTT also announced that it will make provision for customers who cannot be accommodated and are still on DSL in the interim. The company is providing most DSL customers with a free speed upgrade where possible and reducing monthly DSL service costs where upgrades were not achievable.
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DO TRAFFIC COPS MAKE A DIFFERENCE? A letter writer asked a question that has had me thinking hard, far more than I have ever done on any subject in recent times. That question should also have you thinking. The letter writer – whose name I unfortunately cannot recall at this time – asked whether without traffic cops, there would be any difference on the roads or to put it another way, what function do traffic cops serve in Guyana. If these cops were to not be on the road, how much of a difference would be made? I have to confess that I never quite considered the subject from that angle. And the more I think about it, the more I believe that the letter writer has a point about the general impact that our existing traffic cops make to safety on our roads. If you ask the vast majority of public transport operators whether they think that traffic cops make a difference to road safety, I am certain there will be a divergence in the results. What you will also find emerging from any such survey are a number of stories about the harassment to which public transport operators are subjected to on our
roadways.I had one interesting experience on our roadways, which tends to confirm what I believe to be the overriding perception that many have of traffic cops on our roadways.I was returning home one day when I was stopped by a group of traffic cops, one of whom had a radar gun aimed in my direction. Since I was not travelling above the speed limit – which is ridiculous in any event – for that roadway, I was not worried.What I wondered was why would I have been pulled over when I was going far slower than any of the other vehicles. A very friendly cop came over and said, “I see you pass here earlier with your face straight. How me and you living so?” I really did not know what the hell he was referring to since I had not passed anywhere near there for hours. Clearly, he was simply trying to make small talk, for what apparent reason I did not know. I soon found out. “The boys out here in the sun. They need some water,” the cop added. I was waiting for him to suggest that I should leave a “freck” with him and his fellow officers. But he noticed that I was serious and he simply sent me on my way say-
ing, “I don’t know how me and you living so these days.” I was tempted to inform him that I never saw him before and that I did not know him or care to know him, and couldn’t care less of his views about how we were living. But I said goodbye, conscious of the humiliation that these underpaid cops have to endure each day, having no doubt to do and say things which they would be ashamed to let their children know about. I felt for him having to humiliate himself on the job. However hard things are, no person with self-respect should bring himself or herself to this level. It was sad indeed to see someone, who is supposed to uphold the law, having to humiliate himself like that in public.I was also conscious that there are some very nice traffic cops on our roadways. Not all traffic cops should be painted or tainted with the same brush. There are some of them who are extremely professional and who are more understanding than others who only see their positions of power as granting to them the right to harass motorists for their own personal gain on the roads.
Dem Boys Seh…
Guyana gat mo gas onshore dan offshore Dem boys seh de guvament nah gat fuh build no gas-to-shore plant. De amount ah fart wah does come out ah dem politicians’ mouth, dem gat enough gas fuh power de national grid right pun shore. Dem boys call dat natural gas. De amount of gas wah does pass, enough fuh knock de wind out ah yuh and to blow de country away. Dem boys know dat sometimes when a strong one hold yuh, yuh does gat fuh let it
rip. After all happiness comes from within. De Vee Pee could put all dah gas from de guvament to use. He can mek it light every bulb in every house in Guyana. But de specialists fuh gas is dem doctors. Dem gat de cure. One day a man went to see he doctor who ask he: “What seems to be the problem today?” De man answer, “Ah passing a lot ah wind, all de time.” De doctor nod and say, “Hmm.”De man seh, “Dem
nah stink and yuh nah hear dem. Is just dat it happening all de time. Since me come hay, me done leggo five times already.”De doctor picked up he notepad and write out a prescription.De man tun to de doctor and ask, “Will this prescription help me stop passing gas?” ”No,” said de doctor. “The prescription is to clear your sinuses. Next week I want you back here for a hearing test.” Talk half and check yuh smell and hearing regularly.
These professional types would most likely give an erring driver who has committed a non-dangerous infraction on the roads, a chance. They would send you off with a warning, rather than seeking to haul you down to the station.
They make a difference because they show how a professional and considerate cop should behave. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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Monday December 13, 2021
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Carl Greenidge should know that it will not be done Here is what Carl Greenidge said: “Given the loss of the 2020 General and Regional Elections, it is imperative to do what is normally done by most political parties, and that is to have an opportunity to reflect on the loss….” Mr. Greenidge is an experienced person to know why that will not be done. Both the PNC and AFC have put themselves in psychological prison. They painted the opposition victory in 2020 as a huge conspiracy of fraud. They told their supporters they won the election but the West installed the PPP into power. There were two opportunities for the AFC to break from that pattern. One was when one of the most powerful figures in the AFC, Dominic Gaskin pronounced on the Mingo numbers game as fraudulent. The AFC did not join him. The second occasion was when Khemraj Ramjattan openly admitted at a farewell session with his staff at his ministry that they lost. Ramjattan the next day
sang an opposite theme. It is simply bewildering that Ramjattan would do an interview and his host would not have quoted the relevant part of that speech. Outside of those two situations, individual PNC leaders have not accepted the loss. I saw an interview with Amanza Walton-Desir (AWD) weeks ago and she used the word “installed.” If there was any pathway to save face and move on, it was early; after the new government was in place. But to use the word “installed” 18 months after the PPP returned to power is limiting the opportunity to reason with your supporters. As it stands, neither the PNC nor the AFC has the latitude at the moment to concede an election loss. The secret AFC d o c u m e n t , “ T h e Wa y Forward” which if accepted at the AFC’s congress in March next year will see the AFC part with the PNC. Even on its own next year, there still will not be an acknowledgement of defeat by the AFC. They will not
touch the subject. Both parties have created the point of no return for themselves. The consequence of that imprisonment is there in a huge body of analytical material that the PNC and AFC cannot offer their supporters to explain how Guyana’s electorate thinks and why elections could be won and lost here. This is what happens in normal circumstances everywhere in the world. One has to be naïve to think that the Democratic Labour Party which lost all its seats in the last election in Barbados has not provided its members and supporters with that large body of analytical reflections. It will not be done by the PNC. It will not be done by the AFC. I think for intent and purpose, the AFC is dead so the PNC will be left with the dilemma on how to cope with this nightmare. The most likely scenario I see is that the PNC leaders will carry on with its work in three years without any mention of the election loss. They will avoid it and not
mention it at all. They cannot discuss it for one basic reason – people will become angry and say to them, “why admit this after two years.” They will not have an answer for that. They will not produce that body of political analysis at bottom house meetings because that would be a colossal gamble. If it is recorded and made public, it will devastate the PNC. I don’t think they will take that chance. They may ask attendees to leave their phones at the entrance but that does not
prevent word getting out on who said what. The AFC u s e d t h a t mechanism at all of their statutory meetings of its Frederick Kissoon e x e c u t i v e committee but still who said what got out to executive committee. He the press. In the end, I think should record history for there will be not be even an posterity. utterance that the election (The views expressed in was lost fairly and squarely. this article are those of the What people like Mr. a u t hor and do not Greenidge can do, is to write about it since I doubt he will necessarily reflect the be returned to the PNC’s opinions of this newspaper.)
Removal of oil money ‘watchdog’ opens door for corruption - Lincoln Lewis Veteran Trade Unionist, Lincoln Lewis said government’s intention to scrap a 22-member committee to oversee the Natural Resources Fund will open the door for more corruption. It was Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo who made the announcement last week of the government’s plan. During his address at the 2021 Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Gala last Thursday evening, the Vice President said the 22-member Public Accountability and Oversight Committee will not be featured in the amended legislation, when it is tabled in the National Assembly. “It is almost impossible to operationalize and there are measures there that don’t lend themselves to people understanding how it works,” Jagdeo noted. He said the government will, therefore, make four major sets of changes in the NRF legislation with the first being the removal of the oversight committee consisting of 22 organisations. The Committee, according to the existing law, was expected to include a representative from civil society organizations and community based organizations, a nominee to represent women with the nominee being nominated by civil society organizations; a nominee of the Bar Association of Guyana; a representative of the Guyana Consumer’s Association; a nominee of the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a nominee
Trade Unionist, Lincoln Lewis of Transparency International Guyana Inc. (TIGI); a nominee of the Guyana Press Association; a nominee of most representative associations of trade unions; a nominee of the Private Sector Commission, one from each of the 10 Regional Democratic Councils and a nominee from academia who is nominated by the governing council of the University of Guyana. Writing in his Sunday column in the Village Voice News, Lewis criticised the administration for “uprooting” the part in the law that seeks to ensure accountability, through oversight of the management and utilisation of withdrawals from the Fund. “Though the move comes as no surprise, given the pervasive corruption under Jagdeo’s presidency, society should be incensed. This amendment is designed to undermine oversight and control to e n s u r e t h e n a t i o n ’s resources are managed and distributed in the best interest of all Guyanese. To
remove or even reduce the 22-member organisations flies in the face of Article 13 in the Constitution of Guyana,” Lewis reasoned. Article 13 expressly speaks “…to establish [ing] an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens, and their organisations in the management and decision-making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision-making that directly affect their wellbeing.” T h e p o p u l a r commentator argued, “The Ali/Jagdeo regime is trampling on tenets that would ensure respect for the supreme law, best practices, transparency, and good governance. This is not about the ridiculed ‘academic’ nature of the law; it is about finding a nonsensical reason to remove a sensible approach to governing and oversight”. In fact, Lewis explained that the mere fact that Jagdeo admits the law reads like an “academic” paper suggests it has the elements required to be implemented. The activist noted that a situation is being created where laws will be amended not for the good of the nation and its people, but rather to serve the interest of a few. “It is evident the government would prefer a partisan, political instrument that will serve only the ruling elite…I have argued before about the need for passing key legislation with more than a Continued on page 16
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Sugar workers receiving $250,000 payout Government on Saturday commenced the distribution of its $250,000 ‘one-off’ cash grant to sugar workers who were severed when the APNU/AFC Government sought to restructure the Guyana Sugar Corporation that continues to bleed the treasury, without turning in a profit. Following their retrenchment all of the workers received their severance pay, but the Irfaan Ali Government has decided to give them an additional $250,000 payout which has sharply divided the public with some persons arguing that despite their low wages no such gesture was made to public servants. Instead, government last month announced a seven percent increase in salary for public servants, which worked out to $4900 a month for a public servant at the minimum wage. It was Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo who had announced in October that before the end of 2021, severed sugar workers would benefit from the government payout totaling approximately $1.8 billion.
Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, spearheaded the distribution exercise at the Enmore Administrative Office and the Wales Community Center Ground on Saturday, the Department of Public Information stated. Giving remarks at the distribution exercise at the Enmore Estate, Minister Mustapha said the exercise represents another fulfilled commitment by the government to improve the lives of people. “When we were in Opposition, we said when we returned to government, we would ensure that the sugar workers who were severed would receive some form of assistance although they already received their severance pay. We are here today, and as a party when we make promises we always deliver on those promises. Everyone here, who was severed by the previous administration, I know that your lives were changed tremendously. You had a job and
then suddenly we had the closure of four estates. With the stroke of a pen, the former government put 7500 sugar workers on the breadline. The repercussions were severe. The workers’ lives were devastated and the many village economies were destroyed. Access to utilities became a luxury for many people. Today, as I am speaking here, we are standing to the commitment made to the people,” Minister Mustapha. The Government had promised also to reopen the sugar estates, but has failed to do so over 15 months since being office. Minister Mustapha also said that in addition to the $250,000 grant, the government is working to reopen several of the closed estates in a phased approach. He further stated that, to date, approximately 1200 workers who were severed have been reemployed with the government investing close to $12 billion to rehabilitate the industry. Meanwhile, Dr. Singh said the decision to close the estates was one of the most callous decisions made by any government in
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha (right) hands over a cheque for $250,000 to one of the severed sugar workers at the Enmore Estate. Guyana’s history. “The decision to close the industry, the decision to padlock the gates of sugar factories throughout the length and breadth of Guyana; that decision by the APNU/AFC government shortly after they came into office was one of the most callous, cruel, and unconscionable decisions made by any government in the history of this country. This was not just about making a profit. When they flipped the switch and padlocked the gates and said these factories were not operating anymore, they were not just closing a factory, they were putting a noose around the neck of entire communities. You don’t have to be a genius to figure out what would happen to a family if you put the primary breadwinner out of work and there were 7000 families like that across the country,” Dr. Singh said. Dr. Singh also said that in addition to its efforts to resuscitate the industry, the government is also working to create opportunities for citizens in other sectors. He disclosed that come 2022, the government, in collaboration with the private sector, will be hosting a series of
job fairs so that persons can be made aware of the job opportunities available. More than 2,500 sugar workers turned up to the venues to receive their much-anticipated relief package. Sighting the challenges faced since the closure of the estates, sugar workers thanked the government for the relief. Hilla Rai, one of the workers who benefited from the grant at Enmore said “I’ve been working at the Enmore Estate since the 16th July 1981. I got severance in 2017 or 2018. From that time, I’ve been all over looking for work. When the government took office, I was reemployed at GuySuCo and I’m so thankful to the government for this grant,” the sugar worker noted. She said she plans to use the grant as a start-up to fund a business to help support her family. Severed workers from Enmore Estate benefited from a payout of approximately $398 million while severed workers from Wales Estate received approximately $232 million. The ministers will be in Region Six on Sunday to continue the distribution exercise.
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Ceres backs indictments Govt. must provide list from against Jordan Selection process for Exxon’s EIA…
which ERM was chosen By Davina Bagot A g r o u p o f Environmentalists has written to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requesting that it discloses the list of other qualified consultants, from which the Environmental Resources Management (ERM) was selected to conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). In the document seen by this publication, the experts Simone Mangal-Joly, Alfred Buhlai, Vanda Radzik, Janette Bulkan, Denuta Radzik, Jerry Jailall, Alissa Trotz and Maya Trotz questioned the independence Esso Exploration Production Guyana Ltd.’s (EEPGL) Consultant, ERM, since records show that the ExxonMobil subsidiary has only ever selected the ERM from a list of consultants, to conduct all its Environmental Impact Assessments and
— Environmentalists
Environmentalist, Dr. Janet Bulkan
Environmental Expert, Dr. Jerry Jailall
management plans to date. As a consequence, the Environmentalists asked the EPA to, “Please provide the evidence that ERM was shortlisted by the Environmental Protection Agency, among (other) consultants qualified to conduct EIAs, through the
prescribed process in the Environmental Protection Act, which requires a review of their credentials and capacity by qualified international environmental organisations (and to) provide evidence of when this was done”. Furthermore, the environmentalists asked, “How does the EPA view the ERM’s credibility considering this serious breach of professional ethics and public trust?”, given that the ERM admitted in an apology letter, in Kaieteur News on November 28, 2021, to placing the signature of People’ Progressive Party Executive Committee Member and well-known Environmental Consultant Mr. Shyam Nokta, on the cover of the public summary of the Yellowtail EIA, without his knowledge or consent. “How does the EPA view Continued on page 16
Youth arrested for allegedly raping friend A 19-year-old boy from Region Nine was arrested over the weekend for allegedly raping his 16-year-old friend. According to police reports, on Friday around 17:00hrs the suspect had picked up the teen and two of her friends from her home in his motorcar, after which they started to consume alcohol. It was further reported that while transporting the girl back to her residence, the young man stopped his vehicle and allegedly committed the act. The matter was reported to the police who took the teenager to a medical facility where she was seen and medically examined. The 19-year-old was contacted afterwards and told of the allegation made against him, which he denied the police said. He was however, taken into custody pending the outcome of the investigation.
- says Granger, Harmon, Williams give away valuable state asset to BK Int’l Prominent Guyanese Geotechnical Engineer, Charles Ceres said the police are correct in charging former Finance Minister Winston Jordan for the role he played in the “gifting of valuable state asset on the Demerara River waterfront to BK International.” Jordan was two weeks ago arrested and later released on a series of allegations relating to irregular transactions of public funds and state properties, estimated to value billions of Guyana dollars. He fell ill and is currently recuperating at home. He is expected to return to the police for further questioning. Jordan was first invited to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Headquarters, a branch of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Upon his arrival the allegation was put to him and he was arrested. According to police Jordan was arrested for misconduct in public office, while serving in public office as the Minister of Finance. This is in relation to the vesting of State lands in 2020 in relation to the Kingston water front properties and other transactions. According to the police, the first transaction that he was interviewed about is in relation to the alleged sale and vesting of the state’s largest wharf facilities located at Kingston, Georgetown, valued approximately US$40,000,000 but was reportedly sold for US$500,000. It is alleged that the purchaser BK Marines Limited, only paid US$100,000, which is 10 percent of the purchase price, and Jordan issued a vesting order passing Title to the purchaser, without the payment of any further sums of monies. It was further stated that the vesting order stated that the property is being sold free from encumbrance and liabilities and no further sum of money is owed by the purchaser. Also, the transport was subsequently reportedly issued for the property and the value stated on the transport was US$2,000,000. It was noted however, that the agreement of sale stated that title must only pass upon full payment of purchase price. The police also reported
Geotechnical Engineer, Charles Ceres
Former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan
Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon
Former President, David Granger that investigators have evidence to establish that a facility which is a mere fraction of the size of the state property that is under investigation and located seven miles upriver was sold by a private company for US$17 million. In a wide-ranging statement on the PNCR leadership contest, Ceres said on Sunday that “the recent correct indictment of former finance minister Winston Jordan is an indictment against both Joseph Harmon and Basil Williams.” He further stated that Harmon and Williams are both attorneys. “Harmon was the de facto leader while David Granger focused on the colonial trappings of office. Harmon failed to represent the interest of the State, since he was part of the cabinet which allowed the gifting of valuable state asset on the Demerara River waterfront to BK International. Basil Williams as the attorney for the state has equal responsibility for not ensuring adherence to minimum standards of care for state resources.” Ceres said the action of these individuals cannot be
dismissed when payments, withheld by the PPP Government, to BK International, for the Haags Bosch landfill, were made without allowing the courts to examine the merits of BK International claims and counter-claims compiled by the Ministry of Communities. Regarding the Demerara River Waterfront property situated at Mudlots 1 and 2, Lot F of Mudlots 3 and Lots A, B and D, North Cummingsburg, it was offered for sale to BK by then National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Horace James for $202,602,759. However, BK had only paid $20,260,276, a mere 10% of the purchase price when it was vested to him by the then Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan on March 28, 2020. During that time, the country was embroiled in a heated elections scandal. Taking this into consideration, the PPP/C Government is contending that the sale was “illegal, unlawful, null, void, repugnant and contrary to public policy”. The PPP/C Government is also claiming that Jordan allegedly colluded with NICIL and acted in a negligent manner. Furthermore, the government is contending that the Finance Minister at the time had no legal power to act in such a manner.
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Monday December 13, 2021
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Man names his killer Ministry says no report made to hotline before taking last breath about Mon Repos murder/suicide A clothes vendor on Friday night killed his wife and then ended his own life at Martyr’s Village, Mon Repos East Coast Demerara, but the Ministry of Human Services is denying claims, that calls to its 914 hotline went unanswered. Dead are: Nalini Wahid age 48 years a domestic worker and her reputed husband Balram Heeralall c/d Nappy 50 years, a clothes vendor. Police said enquiries disclosed that Nalini and Balram lived together and would normally have domestic issues. The male is presently before the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court for assaulting and threatening the said woman. On 2021-12-10 the couple went to court and later returned home. The suspect later left home to sell clothing and he subsequently called Nalini and told her that a horse hit his car and she must go to see him at Triumph Public Road, but she refused. About 20:15hrs he arrived home with his car and complained of feeling pain to his chest. She rubbed his chest and offered him tea which he refused. He then requested to go to the doctor with his car and for her to accompany him. She insisted on taking a taxi instead and an argument ensued between them. She shouted out for help and a neighbour jumped the fence and saw Balram choking Nalini and telling her to die. She became motionless and he then drank a suspected poisonous substance and laid next to her. When police arrived, they observed no marks of violence to Nalini’s most exposed parts but a reddish substance was seen to her mouth, while froth was seen to Balram’s mouth. The paramedics of the Melanie Fire Station were summoned and transported Balram to
Balram Heeralall
Nalini Wahid
the Georgetown Public Hospital where he died shortly after. The body of Nalini was also escorted to the said hospital and was pronounced dead on arrival and further escorted to the Jerrick’s Funeral Home. Meanwhile, in a statement the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms. Malini Wahid. The ministry said it was forwarded various reports from media houses stating that several calls were allegedly made to the 914 Hotline to report the abuse on the 10th December, 2021, which went unanswered. “It caused us great concern, as the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security takes cases of domestic violence seriously,” the statement added. . The ministry said upon receipt of these allegations, an investigation was immediately launched which included a thorough review by Digicel, GTT and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security of all calls placed to the 914 Hotline on that day, a review of the Ministry’s internal call logs and several interviews with personnel who manage the 914 Hotline. The findings of this investigation revealed: that no calls placed
to the 914 Hotline by any GTT or Digicel Number for the entirety of the 10th December, 2021, were missed (unanswered) or dropped; that there were no reports received by the 914 Hotline for the entirety of the 10th December, 2021, in relation to Balram Heeralall’s (Nappy) abuse and murder of his partner; that no report to date was made to the 914 Hotline on Balram Heeralall’s (Nappy) abuse and murder of his partner and that the 914 Hotline, was receiving and responding to calls for the 24 hours on that day during which the operators received numerous reports of other incidents of abuse. “We thank Digicel and GTT for providing us with all information required to aid in this investigation. The purpose of the release of the findings of this investigation is to develop and maintain a relationship of mutual trust, cooperation, and respect by providing citizens with accurate information on the 914 Hotline’s administration and operation. Again, we reiterate the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s commitment through the 914 Hotline to respond to all cases of domestic violence, abuse, and gender-based violence,” the statement concluded.
‘Restore anti-corruption... From page 8 to have taken a bribe from a contractor. In her statement to mark International Anti-corruption Day on December 9, US Ambassador to Guyana, Ms. Sarah-Ann Lynch suggested that a “strong” stance by the Government will demonstrate its commitment to transparent institutions. The day is observed annually on December 9 and is aimed at highlighting the rights and responsibilities of every stakeholder in tackling corruption. For her courage and commitment, the Ambassador - supported by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo – has gained outsized acclaim among sections of the Guyana population for her role in the 2020
elections. Shortly after Ms. Lynch’s statement, President Irfaan Ali, in the course of his address to the US-sponsored virtual Summit for Democracy, said that Guyana is “fully committed to strengthening the foundations and pillars of democracy.” Among other things, Ali noted that his government “is determined to build economic progress and social improvement on the foundation of respect for human and political rights and freedom of expression”; and that “adherence to democracy and the rule of law must be aligned with economic and social progress in conditions of nond i s c r i m i n a t i o n , e q u i t y, a n d e q u a l opportunities.”
Victor Pedro, a 38-yearold miner of Lethem Rupununi, Region Nine, on Friday reportedly revealed the name of his killer to his 13-year-old daughter before breathing his last breath. Pedro was murdered around 19:00Hrs in his own mining camp’s kitchen located at Turtle Creek, Five Star, Northwest District, Region One. Information reaching Kaieteur News detailed that Pedro had moved to the Region One area about a year ago with his two children and his common-law-wife to mine gold in the backdam. According to investigators his daughter told them that on Friday she was cooking in the kitchen when a cook from another mining camp entered. An argument started between the cook and her dad over money he owed her. The argument escalated and the cook’s husband reportedly got involved in the matter. Pedro, his daughter said, armed himself with a sharp object and dealt the woman’s husband two lashes.
Victor Pedro reportedly identified his killer before breathing his last breath.
The girl said she ran away but returned sometime later to find her father lying on the kitchen floor bleeding from a gaping wound in the middle of his head and another to his face. She recalled that he was still alive at the time and managed to tell her who inflicted the fatal wounds on him. The girl told the police that Pedro told her that it was the cook’s husband that had beaten him. Pedro eventually bled to death right there at
the campsite. The nearest medical facility is located miles away from where Pedro was killed. Investigators reported that when they arrived at the scene they found Pedro’s remains lying on the kitchen floor and covered with a sheet. Inquiries revealed that the suspect and the cook have since fled the area. Pedro’s body is currently at the Port Kaituma’s Hospital morgue as police continue to hunt the suspect.
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Monday December 13, 2021
Kaieteur News
24 women graduate from business development programme VEHICLES FOR SALE
PENPAL
Honda fit 1.175M negotiable. Tel:600-4676.
Indian overseas male seeks female age 30/35.Call:6029975.
SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 House plan drawing & estimates. K.Lakeram Building C o n t r a c t o r. C a l l : 2 1 6 0671,692-8464 or whatsapp 622-0267. Specialized repair/service: A/ C, refrigerator, washing machine,treadmill,stove, deepfryer, pressurepump & backwash,dryer,oven. 6949733.
WANTED Able bodied porter,to work on Sheriff St 6 day weekly. Contact:689-4041. One (1) male able bodied clerk. Tel:231-2029,616-5954. ExperiencedCashier, Counter sever Roti/ Puri cook, handy boy. Apply Hack's Halaal, 5 Commerce St. Professional soup cooks. Kitchen assistant,cashier/ manager,great pay. Easy work, short hrs. Must live in GT. Call: 675-1509. Persons to clean rooms & wash linens. Contact Lee: 225-5606.
PROPERTY FOR SALE Queenstown,Sheriff St, Robb, Betterhope,Ogle, Campbelville,Enterprise, Diamond. Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685.
Wanted a domestic worker. Call:689-5531. One welder must know Grill work.Tel:625-5763. Skilled Carpenters, Mason, Welder & Labourer to work in Georgetown & Linden. Call:615-7526/602-9469. 2 males to work for Holiday in the interior omi age 3545,attractive salary.Tel:6778104.
FOR SALE Pure breed German Shepherd pups,black & tanned. Contact:665-9140. 1 CAT 428 Backhoe $3-5M,1 CAT 416 Backhoe $2M. Houselots available @ Blankenburg. Contact:6500402/652-0251.
Fitter/Machinist,Welder Fabricator,Mechanic,3 yrs experience.Apply at Technical Services 18-23 Industrial Site. Leibrands financial management and tax consultancy. Apply via email:leibrands. pmtc@gmail.com& @leibrands. info@ gmail. com. One handyman from Grove or Land of Canaan.Call:6680306/694-7817.
LAND FOR SALE Carmichael St,La Penitence, Cummingslodge,Eccles, Soeskdyke, Linden Highway. Contact Ray's Realty 6279685.
FOR RENT Self-Contained rooms in Lodge,for working couple/ single person,$35,000 light & water.Call:623-0076.
Wanted watchman and sailor to work on a water dredge. Tel:618-9186/225-9304. Live meat bird to buy.T el:618-9186/695-5310.
Twenty-four women are now poised to take their businesses to the next level following their successful completion of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women– Road to Growth programme. The programme is aimed at enhancing the capacity and marketability of womenled businesses in Guyana. The women graduated on Saturday from the sevenweek programme sponsored through a collaborative effort by the Cherie Blair Foundation, ExxonMobil Foundation and Action Invest Caribbean Incorporated, among others. They covered topics such as Knowing Your Market, Digital Marketing, Knowing Your Business, Understanding Financing, Managing Financial Relationships and Applying for Financing and Confidence-building. Guyana Women Leadership Institute’s (GWLI), Senior Training Officer, Sanjay Pooran said that the purpose of this programme goes ‘hand in glove’ with the Human Services Ministry’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN). As a brainchild of Minister Vindhya Persaud, WIIN has been helping hundreds of women by empowering them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become financially independent. So far, the Ministry has trained about 1400 women, with the intention of training 3000 in 2022. “That is why we are here to help you acquire a better position at work or find a better job or even start a new business so we are excited for this collaboration, this opportunity to work with partners such as Action Coach so that we can impact the lives of women and girls across the country,” he said. British High Commissioner to Guyana, Mrs. Jane VACANCY One experience Hairdresser and One Nail Tech.Call:2256492 Magic Touch Beauty Salon. Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 25-50 car/van licence. Call:642-9823. Vacancy exist for Security Officers,male & female 18yrs & above.Contact:223-4172/ 632-0099.
VACANCY
Driver & Cleaner.Apply with application/CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen rd,Newtown Kitty.
Dish-Washer,Counter Staff, Bond Clerk,Meat prep dept, Porter.Apply: Bettencourt’s Diner. Call: 231-1368/2231938.
Sales Attendant, Cashiers, Porters.Apply with application/CV and passport photo to Survival 16 Vlissengen rd,Newtown Kitty.
A successful participant of the Road-to-Growth programme is presented with her certificate by Action Invest Caribbean Director, Mrs. Davitri Doerga. Caroline Miller thanked the graduates for recognising the need to advance their existing businesses by participating in the programme geared to boost women entrepreneurs.She stated that the foundation’s vision to provide such opportunities to women is in the hopes that they can reach their full po-
tential and thus, closing the global gender gap in entrepreneurship. As such, she hopes that they cannot only use the knowledge given to expand their businesses to new heights but to share that knowledge to others in need and in keeping with the foundation’s philosophy to encourage mentorship
amongst peers. Miller advised the graduates to, “develop tools that will help you grow, learn from all of your failures and lastly, find yourself a mentor (to help you along the way to success).”Action Invest Caribbean Incorporated’s Chairman, Vishnu Doerga said that (Continued on page 17)
Govt. must provide list from which ERM was... From page 14 the ERM’s credibility considering this serious breach of professional ethics and public trust?” Additionally, the group reasoned that the EEPGL applied for an Environmental Permit for Exxon’s fourth project, the Yellowtail Development on April 1, 2021. On May 9, 2021 the EPA indicated that an EIA was required. On June 28, 2021, the ERM was approved as the consulting firm to carry out the study, and on September 10, 2021, the EPA issued the Final Terms and Scope for the Yellowtail Development Environmental Impact Assessment. One month later, in October 2021, the ERM submitted its EIA document for the statutory 60-day public scrutiny process, which commenced on October 15, 2021. In this regard, the experts questioned how the ERM could have possibly conducted a credible EIA study, according to statutory provisions of the Environmental Protection Act, within one month of the issuance of the Final Terms and Scope for the study. “The public relies on knowledge of the Final Terms and Scope for the Yellowtail Development Environmental Impact Assessment to make an informed decision on the adequacy of the EIA presented by ERM. Without this the 60-day public comment period is defeated. Yet the Terms and Scope can be found nowhere. Contrary to basic professional practice, it
is not disclosed in the Environmental Impact Assessment document submitted by ERM. Why is this information being withheld from the public by EEPGL and its firm ERM, and the EPA,” the group further enquired. In this regard, the concerned environmentalists said that the Environmental Assessment Board cannot possibly consider that the current 60-day period for public scrutiny of this EIA is valid when the Final Terms and Scope remains hidden from the public. “In fact, we submit that that entire process has been miscarried and call upon the EAB to declare it null and void and reset EEPGL’s application for Environmental Authorization. The ERM’s professional capacity, ethics, and independence from EEPGL, are in serious doubt and is evidenced in the poor quality EIA study that lacked original research on impacts, and the contempt
ERM has shown for the people of Guyana by cobbling paper together to submit a lengthy EIA document in a mere month without even regard for disclosing the Terms of Scope for works in the document,” the group pointed out. They added that the Yellowtail EIA process is a “travesty” that, among other things, brings into serious question, the conduct of the Environmental Protection Agency and the nature of its relationship with EEPGL and its consulting firm ERM. “The EPA must account to citizens for the transgressions it has condoned,” the experts argued. They have since called for the EIA to be declared null and void, since the document fails to address critical subjects such as the impacts of the total waste brought to shore, and baseline data for Guyana’s fisheries sector, among others.
Removal of oil money... From page 10 simple majority because what will happen is that laws will be changed based on political expediency and not necessarily for the good of the people and nation,” Lewis pointed out. He said that Guyanese must resist Jagdeo’s “underhand effort” to control the nation’s wealth, through the removal of the committee. In this regard, the Trade Unionist posited that the PPP Government is seeking to develop
laws which will serve to weaken and dismantle the oil and gas structure, including undermining whatever revenue could be accrued to the people. “Every day they are moving to topple the guardrails of democracy” and in the midst of a global Pandemic, Lewis urged that Guyanese find ways and means of confronting what he described as “galloping greed, recklessness, and absence of accountability” by the Government.
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An additional $25M to build new offices at the newly renovated CJIA CJIA US$160M and counting...
A new office building for the renovated US$160 million and counting Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is estimated to cost $25 million according to the airport’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ramesh Ghir. In a Department of Public Information (DPI) release, Ghir stated that the design for the construction of a new office building is completed and the next step is to go to tender for the selection of a contractor. It was stated that that the project is estimated to cost $25 million. Kaieteur News has reported that the airport expansion project commenced in 2011, and was expected to be a US$150M venture; US$138M financed from the China Exim Bank and $12M from the consolidated fund – taxpayers’ money.
However, to date more than US$160 million has already been spent on the contract. The new office building falls under the multi-million upgrades that are being undertaken at the renovated airport, the additional upgrades to the airport was split into three parts – it should be noted that the upgrades are separate from the ongoing modernisation works being undertaken by Chinese Contractor, China Harbour Engineering Corporation (CHEC). Kaieteur News recently reported that Ghir announced that within a decade, a second terminal will be needed at the airport. The CEO had also stated that efforts are being made to have the construction of the $513.7 million airport office building completed on time to house the
The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) (Mike Charles’s photo).
duty-free bond, a conference room, offices for the airlines, and other supporting agencies. Additionally, it was stated that the construction of the airport office building paves the way for more upgrades to CJIA and that talks with foreign investors have already commenced. It was reported in a DPI
Three elderly women die from COVID-19 Three women, from Regions Three and Four who contracted the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease, have died, according to the Ministry of Health. The ministry also reported that they were fully vaccinated and unvaccinated patients who died over a two-day period (December 11 and 12) while receiving treatment at a medical facility. The women who died are: 79-year-old and a 70-year-old from Region Four and a 76-yearold from Region Three. As a result of this, the
country’s COVID-19 death toll has moved to 1,020. Meanwhile, in its daily COVID-19 dashboard the ministry has recorded 62 new infections, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 38,554. The dashboard also shows that 14 patients are admitted into the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 43 persons in institutional isolation, 838 in home isolation and five in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 36,639 persons have recovered.
article that Ghir also noted, “With that new building, we are able to free up more space in the existing terminal building because maybe half of the staff is housed in the terminal. That now translates itself into concession space.” The CEO further disclosed that the $38 million international apron and the taxiway Charlie should be completed soon. Moreover, even though the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, had promised that the total cost for the project will not exceed US$200 million, that cannot be guaranteed now as the venture is currently a work-inprogress and the PPP/C administration is still pumping money into it. Since Minister Edghill announced that the spending on the CJIA expansion will not
surpass US$200 million–other subcontracts for works that were catered for in the original contract, but which the government now has to spend additional funds to do were signed by his Ministry for the airport. One of those projects is for the “Construction and Rehabilitation Works of the VIP Lounge and new and existing commercial buildings of the airport at an estimated cost of GY$612,500,000. Another subcontract project was estimated at GY$23,223,375 for the rehabilitation of the existing roof at the airport. In September, the Ministry awarded a contract for US$2M to a local company named Total Solutions for the supply of two additional airbridges for the long ongoing CJIA project, some US$ 350,000 more than what was
CJIA CEO: Ramesh Ghir. paid for the other air-bridges. Also, a new runway was commissioned at the airport, complete with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) touted to reduce flights diversion by 90 percent. That aspect of the airport was completed at a cost of GY$518 million. The airport was expected to be completed by December 31, 2021, but Minister Edghill said that, due to the constraints of shipping as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, works might not be completed until early 2022.
DECLINE IN BED CAPACITY AT THREE MAJOR HOSPITALS (JAMAICA OBSERVER) THERE has been a decline in bed capacity at Bellevue Hospital, Cornwall Regional Hospital and Kingston Public Hospital over a five-year period, according to the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin). Data provided by Statin, which is said to have been sourced from the Ministry of Health, suggests that all three hospitals have seen a decline in beds between 2015 and 2019. Statin said that Bellevue Hospital’s bed capacity went from 796 beds to 676;
Cornwall Regional Hospital from 400 to 256; and Kingston Public Hospital from 556 to 531. However, chief medical officer (CMO) in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie has questioned the veracity of the number of beds given for KPH.“I don’t know that that is true,” she told the Jamaica Observer in an interview at Jamaica Pegasus hotel on Wednesday. “What I do know is that at Kingston Public Hospital there was a ward — the Upper Nuttall Ward — that we
have been refurbishing to become a high-dependency unit. So, it was a medical ward and each of the medical wards at KPH normally has about 32 beds so I don’t know if that is the decrease, because those beds have not been active for a while as we prepare that to become a highdependency unit. I would have to check further to see if there was an actual decrease outside of that.”In 2016, then acting senior medical officer for the KPH, Dr Natalie Whylie stated that the hospital had a bed capacity of 475.
24 women graduate from business... From page 16 while there were minor setbacks to conduct this programme amid the pandemic, systems were put in place to do so. “It was a real pleasure for the team to be serving all of the participants in the road programme which is taking place in five countries. We did end up starting the programme towards the tail end of COVID, where in many countries, they have
already gone fully online and we had to negotiate for this, but it was worth it.” Road to Growth-Guyana follows the successful rollout of the Foundation’s flagship training programme for women entrepreneurs in Mexico, Nigeria, Kenya, Vietnam and Indonesia. The Road to Growth programme requires a commitment of 8-10 hours per week and mainly occurs online.
COVID protocols permitting, face-to-face classes may take place during weeks 1 and 7 in an easy-to-access location in Georgetown. This programme is most appropriate for women whose businesses are at the development and growth stage. The programme is not suitable for women running businesses at the startup stage. (Information adapted from DPI)
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Ivan Madray 20/20 to be... From page 24 West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne and Upper Corentyne. Each of the zones would provide one champion, who would then play in an overall final. Narine is a strong supporter of the game in Guyana and is the owner of the West Indian Imports Store in New York. Junior Minister of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues along with a group of businessmen this week would also be handing over a three hundred and twenty four thousand dollars pitch covers to the board. The 20 feet by 100 feet covers would be the third one to be obtained by the vibrant board and would be handed
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over to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association. Covers have already been obtained for the West Berbice and Lower Corentyne areas and Foster has committed to getting two more for the riverain and New Amsterdam/ Canje areas in early 2022. Minister Rodrigues has com-
mitted to working along with the BCB to lift the game to another level in the county. The BCB has announced plans to produce a total of ten West Indies players over the next three years and would be expanding its coaching and cricket development programmes in the New Year.
Man-of-the-Match Russell... From page 25 Thunder after Qais Ahmed (2-17), Brody Couch (2-26) and Maxwell (1-7) had reduced the Thunder to 65-4 by the 12th over. Ross and Daniel Sams, the latter playing his part in the recovery scoring 22 from 18 balls, put on 84 from 48 balls before Sams was dismissed on the penultimate ball of the innings. Scores: Melbourne Stars 4 for 155 (Russell 42*, Maxwell 40, Sangha 2-20) beat Sydney Thunder 5 for 151 (Ross 77*, Qais 2-17, Couch 2-26) by six wickets.
Monday December 13, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Thoughts of romance and dreams of a wonderful evening with that special someone are foiled by work that needs to be done right away. This might concern finances. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You might be planning to attend a social event today. You're looking forward to it. Paperwork could take up so much of your time today that you wonder if you can make it. The paperwork doesn't seem to be that urgent. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Frantic communications involving a project or family affairs could have you feeling scattered and unfocused. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Good news about money could fill you with ideas about how to spend it, particularly on your home. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your mind is sharp and ready to take on anything thrown your way. Family members or friends could pick up on this pretty quickly, so don't be surprised if they come to you for help and advice. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Books and magazines on psychic, spiritual, or metaphysical matters could take up a lot of your attention today. Your inclination could be to let your routine tasks go in favor of continuing to read calling all your friends to tell them what you've learned
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A fairly recent goal that you've set for yourself might seem a bit overwhelming. You might wonder if you'll get it done. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you should feel especially optimistic and enthusiastic about life. You'll have a lot of great ideas about what to do with your day, but unfortunately, your ability to put these plans into motion will probably be curtailed by other responsibilities. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Discussions about religion could come up during your day. A recent rush of intuitive revelations could cause you to want to expound on your beliefs, but this could backfire. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Friends or a group with which you're affiliated might run into financial difficulties and ask for your advice. It wouldn't be a good idea to give it, at least not today. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Communication with family members and the special person in your life could be frustrating today. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Plans for travel or advancing your education could be on your mind. Your excitement might keep you from focusing on whatever tasks you have to do. Don't worry about it. Your steadfastness will enable you to get your tasks completed
in spite of anything that may distract you.
‘GAJ could have to practice indoors at LBI’ says... From page 23 Demerara off-spinner Richie Looknauth (46), Port Mourant pacer Demetri Cameron (45), Junior Sinclair (45) and Essequibo left arm spinner Anthony Adams (45) passed the yo-yo test, while 34-year-old Leon Johnson,Guyana’s most successful First-Class Captain (43) passed the CWI fitness requirement. It is understood that a recent West Indies U-19 player could only manage 19 on the yo-yo while a senior player from Berbice could only reach 29. “The players overseas are expected to return home for a scheduled fitness assessment on December 20 and 21. We have two more fitness test before the tournament,” informed Crandon, who was appointed West Indies Assistant Coach in January 2019 for the home series against England. Crandon, who recently returned home from his Coaching in the USA, is disap-
pointed with the fitness level of some senior players. “I do not want to take more of my time to get players fit to play. That should not be the way, they should be fit coming into this period which is now for them to improve their cricketing skills so they can be well prepared for the tournament coming up.” “The period to prepare this squad prior to competition isn’t ideal, however, we will utilize the time wisely to maximize preparation,” added Crandon, who also Coached the West Indies women’s team.“The weather isn’t helping any bit at the moment but we’re targeting the indoors to get some work done,” explained Crandon who said his biggest challenge is getting this team well prepared is the adverse weather. “As you are aware of the U19 World Cup is in Guyana next year…that would take a bit away from our preparation because the best venues in the country will be occupied
until January 15,” continued Crandon, who made his firstclass debut as a 19-year-old in the 2000-01 season. “Practice, matches have been proposed during the month of January, waiting for the confirmation of venues and dates for the matches. The intention is to have the best players in the country compete against each other,” Crandon posited. But due to the bad weather expected for the Christmas period we might have to revert to the LBI indoors nets and do gym work,” informed Crandon, who captured 29 wickets from 28 List ‘A’ games. Most of the contracted players missed the first fittness test since they are overseas on West Indies duty or playing in the USA. Shimron Hetmyer, who opted out the Pakistan series which commenced yesterday for personal reasons, is in Guyana but did not attend the fitness test. Coach Crandon, who also with Hercules, conducted the fitness test at the National Track & Field Stadium in Leonora, West Coast, confirmed that Hetmyer, ‘as far as he knows’, is available for the Guyana Amazon Jaguars, but did not want to comment on why the extremely naturally talented but inconsistent lefthander who turns 25 on Boxing day, was absent from the first fitness test.The Guyana Amazon Jaguars contracted players are: Kevlon Anderson, Christopher Barnwell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shimron Hetmyer, Leon Johnson, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Veerasammy Permaul, Romario Shepherd, Vishaul Singh, Kevin Sinclair, Nial Smith, Anthony Bramble and Keon Joseph.
Guyana only Nation to host... From page 22 Providence. while Ireland come up against Uganda at Everest as Guyana host four matches in two days. Bangladesh are the defending champions, while under the leadership of Guyanese Shimron Hetmyer, West Indies won their only title in 2016 when the tournament was held in Bangladesh. Admission is free but all involved will be required to Covid protocols including being fully vaccinated to enter the Providence Stadium. Guyana is the only Country to host matches in all four ICC events that were held in the Caribbean; the 2007 World Cup), the 2010 T20 World Cup, the 2018 women’s T20 World Cup and now the 2022 U19 Men’s World Cup. (Sean Devers)
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Verstappen wins first F1 title in last lap drama From page 24 champion.“I think we did an amazing job this year, with my team. Everyone back at the factory, all the men and women we have, and here, worked so hard this whole year,” he said.“It’s been the most difficult of seasons and I’m so proud of them, so grateful to be a part of the journey with them. We gave it everything this last part of the season and never gave up, that’s the most important thing.” MORE POLES
Verstappen ended the season with 10 wins to Hamilton’s eight, having also led more laps and taken more poles and podiums.After 22 races, Verstappen had 395.5 points t o H a m i l t o n ’s 3 8 7 . 5 . Mercedes scored 613.5 to Red Bull’s 585.5. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz finished the race in third place, with AlphaTauri’s Yuki Tsunoda fourth and team mate Pierre Gasly fifth. Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri Bottas was sixth in his last race for the team,
ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris and the Alpines of Esteban Ocon and Fernando Alonso. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc took the final point with the Italian team ending the season third overall. Verstappen’s Mexican team mate Sergio Perez, hailed as a “legend” by the Dutch driver for slowing Hamilton significantly while leading earlier in the race, was retired in the pits. The race hit immediate controversy on the opening lap when the title rivals
almost collided after the Briton had taken the lead. Hamilton was pushed wide, cutting a corner as he came back still in front of Verstappen who had made a lunge on the inside and seemed to be ahead at the turn, and stewards decided no investigation was needed. Horner told Sky Sports television from the pitwall that there was “a total lack of consistency” in the stewards’ decision and his team now had to “do it the hard way”.
Monday December 13, 2021
Guyana only Nation to host all 4 ICC Events in C’bean Host venue announcement done yesterday at Providence Guyana was officially announced as one of the host countries for the ICC U19 World Cup at Providence Stadium on the East Bank Demerara yesterday morning. Guyanese Fawwad Baksh of CWI presented a ceremonial branded bat to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jnr. Yesterday. Minister Ramson spoke of the economic value that this Country can gain from hosting such a tournament. “We quantified internally at the Ministry that in excess of US$3M in economic value will be coming to Guyana within the month of January. We were not going to allow an opportunity to host a tournament where you are getting that kind of revenue stream indirectly or directly into the country and let that flitter away,” the Minister stated as Guyana was officially announced a host country yesterday, at the National Stadium, Providence. The Minister posited that the tournament will help in a significant way to drive Guyana’s Sports Tourism product, as the hotel and transportation industries will flourish from the influx of teams, officials and families. Ramson noted that Guyana hosting agreement was in “jeopardy” due to the torrential rain which left some venues underwater a day before the ICC returned to inspect. He further expressed gratitude to the phenomenal teamwork to ensure the country remained a host as
they are ongoing works to clear outfalls and nearby drains to reduce the flooding around the facilities, in particular, Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) and Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC). According to Ramson, this event is a precursor to 2024 and it acts as a way to learn what specifically is needed to host these massive multinational tournaments. “It tests our readiness, it tests our strength, it tests our personnel [and] it tests our facilities and we know now where and how we have to make the investment to get ourselves into a strong position to host as many games possible for the 2024 World Cup”, the vibrant Ramson explained. This is the 14th U-19 Wo r l d C u p s i n c e t h e inaugural one in 1988 in Australia and the first ever in the Caribbean and Guyana. The tournament, which will see 16 teams playing 48 games being played in four groups. New Zealand decided to withdraw from the tournament due to the extensive mandatory quarantine restrictions for minors on their return home, with Scotland named as their replacement. They will compete in Group ‘D’ along with host West Indies, Australia and Sri Lanka. The World cup bowls off on South American soil when West Indies face-off with Australia at Providence and Sri Lanka battle Scotland at Everest on January 14. On January 15, India plays South Africa at (Continued on page 21)
GFF KS Super 16 Cup fixtures continue today at Leonora Action in the yearend Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Kashif and Shanghai (K&S) Super 16 Cup football tournament will continue today with a double header at the Leonora Track and Field facility. The action opens at 6:00pm with the GFA unit battling with the East Coast team. This contest will be followed at 8:30pm with the nightcap between the Upper
Demerara Football Association (UDFA) side and Victoria Kings. Fans are asked to note that due to the current rainfall some games will have to be switched. This fixture was originally set for the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground but had to be switched to Leonora. Only vaccinated persons will get to witness these games.
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‘GAJ could have to practice indoors at LBI’ says Crandon Two more fittness test to be conducted before tourney start The new Executive Committee of East Bank Cricket Association with President Puneeth Jaigopaul, seated 3rd left.
By Sean Devers
S
ince being a p p o i n t e d National Coach in 2012, former Berbice and Guyana pacer Esuan Crandon has won five consecutive Regional FirstClass titles in the six-year history of CWI’s Professional Cricket League. The Guyanese franchise was dethroned by Barbados after the tournament was aborted with two rounds remaining due to the outbreak of the pandemic in March, 2020 and apart from the Super50, which was played in a bubble earlier this year in Antigua; no other senior regional competition was played in close to two years. Since there have been three significant changes involving the local Franchise; the Guyana Jaguars’ name has been changed to Guyana Amazon Jaguars, the team has a new assistant Coach in Essequibian Ryan Hercules and former Guyana and West Indies Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan, who is the new chairman of the National Selectors, has advised that the minimum standard on the Yo-yo test be raised to 45. This is after several Guyanese players were overlooked for West Indies selection for failing to meet the required 40 on the Yo-Yo test or not doing the test at all. Sarwan feels that with Guyana increasing the pass rate to 45, the Guyanese should be better equipped to pass the CWI fittness test. “Those players who failed to reach the standard would be set targets to achieve over the next three weeks. We understand it’s going to be difficult for some of them to reach level 45 in the yoyo test over that period, however, steady improvement during that period is expected,” said Crandon who turns 40 on Friday. “Tevin Imlach has been very disciplined when it comes to his cricket, one of the hardest workers with the right attitude towards the game. Yes, he ran 60,” informed the Berbician, who took 90 wickets from 38 First-Class matches with a best of 7-125 against T&T. The 25-year-old Imlach
Tevin Imlach & Kevlon Anderson during the fitness test at Leonora stadium. (Newsroom photo)
Coach Crandon and his new assistant Coach Ryan Hercules at the fitness test.
has played two First-Class and seven List ‘A’ games and along which 21-year-old Berbician Kevlon Anderson who has played 11 Youth ODIs for the West Indies and 18-year-old Matthew Nandu, who has two fifties in five Youth ODIs and is also in the West Indies U-19 World Cup team, have been identified by Sarwan as possible young batting replacements for the Amazon Jaguars. Anderson (54), Kevin Sinclair (53), West (Continued on page 21)
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Monday December 13, 2021
Verstappen wins first F1 title in last lap drama (Reuters) - Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the Formula One championship, denying Lewis Hamilton a record eighth, with a last-lap overtake to win a seasonending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix yesterday amid controversy and high drama. Hamilton’s Mercedes team took the constructors’ title for an unprecedented eighth year in a row but their run of double dominance was ended by the 24-year-
old Dutch driver, his country’s first champion. Two post-race protests, which might have overturned the outcome, were dismissed but Mercedes refused to drop the matter and said they had filed notice of intention to appeal. “ I t ’s i n s a n e , ” s a i d Verstappen of a race that started with fans on the edge of their seats and ended in u p r o a r, w i t h l a w y e r s looming.
Verstappen’s hopes had soared when he qualified on pole position, sunk when he lost the lead at the start and rose again as the safety car came out and race director Michael Masi decisively pushed the boundaries late in the race. “This is unbelievable guys! Can we do this for another 10-15 years together?” he had said over the radio after the most emotional lap of his life.
Valtteri Bottas crumpled into Sergio Perez, causing carnage after a slow start from the Finn. (AP) “We needed a bit of luck and we got it,” said team boss Christian Horner, who had said earlier in the race that it would take a miracle to win and hailed the victory as R e d B u l l ’s g r e a t e s t achievement. NO COLLISION The floodlit race at Yas Marina avoided the collision many had feared, with Verstappen sure to be champion if Hamilton failed to score, but instead left arguments raging long after the finish.As Verstappen and Red Bull bosses shed tears of joy, Mercedes’s management turned on race
director Masi.“Michael, this isn’t right,” Mercedes principal Toto Wolff had said over the radio to Masi after the Australian’s handling of the ending of the safety car period left some feeling Hamilton was robbed. The safety car had been deployed after Canadian Nicholas Latifi crashed his Williams with five laps to go and Masi then decided not to demand all lapped cars pass it before resuming racing.That allowed Verstappen — on fresher, faster tyres after strategic stops — to close and go wheel-to-wheel with
Hamilton for the lead. Just when it seemed the race would be finishing behind the safety car, which would have handed Hamilton the title, it turned into a sprint finish.“We were screaming at the end to let them race,” said Horner, whose partners Honda are now departing the sport. “It is unheard of to leave the cars unlapped. They wanted to get the race going again. They absolutely made the right call.”Hamilton, who had been heading for a fourth successive race win, congratulated the new (Continued on page 22)
Ivan Madray 20/20 to be launched shortly as investment continues to pour into Berbice Cricket for 2022 The Berbice Cricket Board on Sunday 19th of December would be hosting its Annual General Meeting at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground and incumbent President Hilbert Foster would be seeking his third successive two years term after been elected to the presidency in 2018. The Foster led board inherited a broken system with no proper tournaments been played or completed in over two years, but over the last four years has successfully obtained sponsorship for over seventy five cricket tournaments at the junior and senior levels. Confident of securing a third term, the incumbent executives have been busy working on obtaining sponsorships to hit the ground running from January 2022. Foster, who has led a massive marketing drive for the BCB on Friday last met with long time sponsor Chandradat Chintamani, who recommitted to sponsoring the third edition of the BCB Ivan Madray 20/20 tournament. The tournament would be launched shortly and would involve twelve teams in the county. The teams would include for the first time, the
Minister Susan Rodrigues
Berbice River Cricket Association first division team along with West Berbice, Blairmont, Police, Tucber Park, Rose Hall Canje, Young Warriors, Albion, RHTYSC, Port Mourant, Upper Corentyne
Chandradat Chintamani
and Skeldon. Chintamani, who is the General Manager of Muneshwar Ltd, informed Foster that he was very impressed with the standard of the game in the Ancient County and was delighted to be associated with it. He is the nephew of Madray, who was the third Berbician to play test cricket for the West Indies. The board was also informed by popular overseas businessman Dave Narine, that he would be sponsoring a county wide tournament for second division teams across the county as part of an effort to unearth new talents for the future. The tournament would involve close to one hundred teams in five sub associations- Berbice River, (Continued on page 21)
Monday December 13, 2021
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Cevons Waste Management Inc. partners with GFF-K&S for Super 16 Cup Cevons Waste Management Inc., located at Cevons Park, Lot 1 Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, the market leader in the waste industry in Guyana, has joined forces with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation (K&S) for the Super 16 Cup which kicked off on Friday evening last at the Leonora Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara. On hand to receive the company’s donation at their Mandela Avenue headquarters were, GFF President Wayne Forde along with K&S Co-Director, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major. Handing over Cevons Wa s t e M a n a g e m e n t ’s contribution was Ms. Latoya Jacobs in the presence of colleague, Ms. Jennifer Gordon.
Ms. Jacobs in brief remarks informed that Chief Executive Officer of the company, Morse Archer was thrilled to be contributing to the tournament which makes a timely return and shows the grit and determination of all involved to beat the ongoing pandemic. “As a company we recognise the challenges the world and by extension Guyana have faced due to covid-19 but we also applaud you guys for fortitude and determination you have shown to pull off this tournament. We are therefore gratified to be a part of this year-end extravaganza and we wish you and the teams the very best.” Forde in response expressed pleasure on behalf of both the GFF and K&S to CEO Archer and his company for helping to make
Man-of-the-Match Russell smashes 21-ball 42 as Melbourne Stars registers six-wicket victory over Sydney Thunder SportsMax - Man of the Match Andre Russell came to the rescue of the Melbourne Stars when he scored 42 from just 21 balls to spur his side to a sixwicket victory over the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League yesterday. Chasing a target of 152, the Stars were in a spot of trouble on 83-4 after losing the wickets of opener Marcus Stoinis for 31 and Captain Glen Maxwell to consecutive deliveries from Tanveer Sangha (2-20). The powerfully built Jamaican successfully navigated Sangha’s hat-trick ball and then set about smashing a four and five sixes to guide his side to
victory with 17 balls to spare. Russell didn’t do it all by himself, though, as Hilton Cartwright contributed to the rearguard effort with 23 from just 13 balls as the Stars raced to 155-4. Together, he and Russell posted 72 from just 34 balls that saw the Stars pick up four valuable points.In leading his side to victory, Russell also made up for the 38 runs he conceded from his four overs as the Thunder made 151-5.Led by some lower-order hitting from Alex Ross who cleared the boundary on four occasions and hit the ropes another four times in his score of 77 that rescued the (Continued on page 21)
Andre Russell muscles the ball away © Cricket Australia via Getty Images
the competition a success. “We know that teamwork makes the job easier for all so we thank you Mr. Archer and team for being a part of the corporate team which will bring smiles to the faces of many as the prizes and other tournaments expenses are taken care of. We look forward to your continued support in the coming months and years.”
Ms. Latoya Jacobs (2nd left) of Cevons Waste Management Inc.’s hands over sponsorship to GFF President Wayne Forde. At left is Jacobs’ colleague Ms. Jennifer Gordon and right, Aubrey Shanghai Major.
Guyana only Nation to host all 4 ICC Events in C’bean
Guyanese Fawwad Baksh of CWI (right) presents a branded bat to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson at Providence yesterday.
Host venue announcement done yesterday at Providence Lewis Hamilton (left) congratulates Max Verstappen (right) following a thrilling final race of the season in which Verstappen overtook Hamilton on the final lap of the race amid major controversy. (Getty Images)
Veteran teams st t r o makeSp1 division final Verstappen
wins first F1 title in last lap drama Verstappen (right) dived up the inside of Hamilton (right) at Turn Seven, the cars touched, and the Brit was forced off track, running wide up the escape route and easily retaking the lead. (Formula 1 via Getty Images)
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