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Wednesday Edition January 10, 2024 - Vol. 19 No. 02

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Several generations will be denied their rightful inheritance with Govt.'s refusal to ring-fence Exxon's ...remains one of the most detrimental projects missteps since PPP assumed office - AFC Biker killed in Friends die West Coast in Corentyne Berbice crash smash-up

Duo charged for killing brave man during wedding house robbery

Residents lament sloth in works on new Pirara Bridge

US assessing need for military base in Caribbean Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense:

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

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e:

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defens

US assessing need for military base in C’bean

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (center) with DASD for the Western Hemisphere at the U.S. Department of Defense, Daniel P. Erikson and other officials from Guyana and the US. (Photo credit: Office of the President) The Government of the United States of America (USA) is assessing the need for a military base in the Caribbean in light of organised crime and ongoing terrorism activities.

This was relayed by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for the Western Hemisphere at the U.S. Department of Defense, D a n i e l P. E r i k s o n o n Tuesday. Erikson was at the time engaging with local members of the print media

at the U.S Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana when he explained, “The United States views the challenges posed by transnational organisations that are not just military challenges but are also legal and law enforcement challenges and therefore require the whole of government response working with our partners in the region.”

He continued, “So at this juncture, we are not foreseeing any changes in

terms of what our overall posture is in this region but you know we continue to assess the situation as it evolves.” While responding to another question on regional security and the influx of illegal firearms from the United States, the DASD acknowledged the concern. He said, “We recognise that this is a big concern throughout the Caribbean because it is tied to illicit criminal networks, transnational criminal

organisations (and) certainly tied to the overall drugs and narcotics trade that exist in the Region.”

Erikson therefore indicated that the US government is focused on addressing those challenges, providing additional prosecutorial assets to investigate and prosecute cases of illegal firearms trafficking in the Region.

The Top US Defense official is on a two-day visit to Guyana geared towards maintaining and advancing the strong defense ties, which the countries share.

Stemming from the official visit, Erikson said a robust suite of activities will follow this year to develop and modernize the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

For instance, the DASD said additional visits from training teams, increased information sharing, high level discussions and capacity building in the area of cyber security can be expected. According to the US Defense official, “we do recognize that Guyana’s at a turning point in terms of its own economic development in terms of the regional role that it is capable of playing and so we want to make sure that our defense relationship with Guyana continues to meet the times as the situation in Guyana continues to evolve.”

Meanwhile, Erikson also hinted at collaboration between the two countries as it regards developing Guyana’s defense assets. He said, “Guyana is also seeking to modernize its defense capabilities, which will overtime imply additional purchases or assets that they

Daniel P. Erikson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Western Hemisphere at the U.S. Department of Defense during his engagement with members of the media. seek to acquire. We are in conversations with Guyana about what the scope of that development capability should be and one thing is of interest to us is ensuring that as Guyana looks to increase its defence capacities it does so through a plan that is strategic, that is nested in its overall defense institutions and that’s sustainable overtime.”

The US official noted that in the future, Guyana may very well seek to expand its maritime and air assets beyond its current capacity as there is already an interest in this regard.

During his visit to Guyana, Erikson met with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali to discuss areas of mutual interest. In a statement, the President said these included regional security, food security, climate change, information sharing, narcotics monitoring and

disaster risk management.

Also participating in the discussions were Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; Chief of Staff of the GDF, Omar Khan; Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken; National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia and the Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Colonel Sheldon Howell.

US Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Adrienne Galanek; Joint Staff Deputy Director for Policy, Plans, and Programs, Western Hemisphere, Brigadier General Gregory Krane; Caribbean Director for We s t e r n H e m i s p h e r e Affairs, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, Amon Killeen and other US representatives were also part of the engagement.

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Wednesday January 10, 2024

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Several generations will be denied their rightful inheritance with Govt.’s refusal to ring-fence Exxon’s projects ...remains one of the most detrimental missteps since PPP assumed office - AFC Opposition Parliamentarian and Shadow Minister for the Oil and Gas Sector, David Patterson maintains that the government committed a grave mistake when it rejected his recommendation to include ring-fencing provisions in the Petroleum Activities Law. That legislation was debated and passed last year August.

In an interview with Kaieteur News on Tuesday, Patterson said the position of the Alliance For Change (AFC) is that all of ExxonMobil’s current and future projects must be ring-fenced.

Unlike the Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton who is still weighing the pros and cons of ring-

fencing, Patterson said he is quite certain that such an approach would be in the country’s best interest. In fact, Patterson said several generations of Guyanese will be denied their rightful inheritance with the government’s refusal to ring-fence Exxon’s projects. It is because of his belief in the benefits of ring-fencing that he insisted on having it enshrined in law last year.

Patterson said, “I called for several changes to be enshrined in the law, rather than in any production sharing agreement which could be adjusted at any time by the minister. Enshrining same in the law governing all petroleum

activities provides a safeguard for future generations irrespective of the party in Government.”

Patterson also noted that having ring-fencing provisions in the law would ensure that Guyana reaps more financial benefits on the Liza Phase One and Liza Phase Two Projects currently producing 400,000 barrels of oil per day from the Stabroek Block. He also rejected the government’s excuses for not ensuring the ring-fencing of oil projects.

Patterson said, “The government is parroting Exxon and other oil companies’ excuses - that without ring-fencing that the oil industry would not be competitive;

that no ring-fencing encourages investment. However, by not having ring-fencing, the PPP is depriving the nation of billions of US dollars annually.”

He continued, “A prime example is the Liza One and Two development. Despite Exxon having fully recovered their entire production cos ts (totalling US$7.3B), the 50/50 formula has not kicked in as yet.”

If the ring-fencing formula was in place, Patterson argued that Guyana would have been benefiting from about an additional 110K barrels (US$8M) per day. He said these monies could have been addressing several social ills as

Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson well as cost of living challenges. It is with this understanding in mind that Patterson contends the government’s refusal to ring-fence Exxon’s projects remains one of its most grave missteps since assuming office.

To date, ExxonMobil leads a consortium in the Stabroek Block in which 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent resources have been unlocked in the deepwater concession offshore Guyana. Three oil projects are in operation with an output bearing 600,000 barrels of oil per day this quarter.

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

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

EDITORIAL

Meters We admit to some difficulty figuring out something: what is the problem with having meters at the right points on the offshore oil operations? We would think that the PPP/C Government, and its chief oil strategist, Bharrat Jagdeo, would be in the forefront of such an interest. Going further, it is in the interest of ExxonMobil that these meters be in place, so that there are no questions, no concerns, no controversies, about how many barrels of oil is really being produced daily.

Meters on the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, and the key is that they must be independent, can only be the benefit of ExxonMobil's partnership and standing in Guyana.

So why aren't they on the FPSOs? What could be holding up getting them and installing them? Why is there this shrinking and dodging by Jagdeo from what can only be termed a significant responsibility? Quite frankly, we don't know, and we also cannot understand the mysteries that seem to tie the hands and feet of the PPP/C Government at obtaining and installing independent meters. No Guyanese, and certainly not we at this paper, should be calling insistently for these meters to be on the FPSOs and doing their job. The government should have already gotten this vital piece of equipment in action.

Even more perplexing is that Jagdeo, who is not known to be a slacker has manifested considerable circling around and shifting about on these meters, independent ones, for emphasis. On the other hand, this same former head of state has a certain peculiar history. Whenever things are on the suspicious, or much to be desired, side, either he loses his voice, or he loses his cool. In terms of the latter, he tries to demonstrate patience and seriousness in the face of persistent inquiries, only to blow up. What has been more and more noticeable is that on matters related to this nationally sensitive oil and gas sector, Jagdeo is a study in the artful and the fitful. He loves to answer planted questions, or goes into an extended lecture about one oil issue or another, only for keen observers to conclude that he has not given an answer at all, at least not one that could be considered credible or persuasive. These independent meters on the FPSOs provide one such example; certainly, no thinking citizen would find what Jagdeo is pushing to be acceptable.

Which country with mature people, which leader with some degree of commonsense, would want to use any date, any record, anything from ExxonMobil? It is the same ExxonMobil that applied all kinds of schemes on the previous APNU+AFC Coalition government, with the horrendous 2016 Production Sharing Agreement being the result. And it is the same ExxonMobil up to its usual tricks, in that it now stays silent and out of sight, while Guyana's own Bharrat Jagdeo does the heavy lifting for it with these independent meters being the issue.

To be clear, ExxonMobil should want these independent meters installed on the FPSOs, so that all doubt about the accuracy of daily oil production (hundreds of thousands of barrels) is put to rest. Moreover, if ExxonMobil's daily production numbers are on the honest side, then it should insist that Guyana gets its own verification tools (independent meters), and not use the company's. Because using the production numbers, as supplied by ExxonMobil, only serves to deepen the suspicions that some kind of underhanded business may be going at full speed. The questions that should agitate all Guyanese are: how many barrels of oil are being produced daily at the offshore facilities? Are they as ExxonMobil reports, or are they something totally different?

Guyanese do not have a clue as to how much they may be losing out if they are getting the wrong end of the ExxonMobil stick (again). President Ali should know that, and should be concerned, but doesn't seem so. Vice President Jagdeo definitely knows that there is room for huge advantage to be taken of Guyana, but he also seems unfazed with his talk about capitalizing on ExxonMobil's production feed. Guyana should not take anything from ExxonMobil.

Guyana must get its own meters, and get them yesterday.

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Replace the Harpy Eagle at the Mandela Avenue roundabout with a more realistic, natural looking iteration Dear Editor, I have deliberately refrained from penning this letter earlier to avoid impartiality and reason being lost in the initial maelstrom of criticisms and overflowing emotions; also to avoid the risk of it being tagged as spurious or partisan.

I further delayed penning this missive out of respect for a series of events and occurrences which I considered to be of greater solemnity and national importance.

However, now that the storms have calmed somewhat, I would like to respectfully ask the powers that be to strongly consider replacing the current representation of our majestic Harpy Eagle at the Mandela Avenue

roundabout with a more realistic, natural looking iteration.

I fully respect the artist's creativity and bold flair portrayed by the current creation but I do think in keeping with the more lifelike statues of the Jaguar and the Anteater at the other two roundabouts on that stretch of highway, a similar representation of the Harpy would auger well. There is a really good example of one which can be used as a model, that I saw about a year ago, outside the NDC office at Windsor Forest, on the West Coast of Demerara.

I must also congratulate the powers that be on showcasing our unique and spectacular flora and fauna in this way.

It is a great initiative and a tangible way to bring some of what Guyana's vast

interior has to offer to many of our citizens and visitors who have never had the privilege of visiting the natural habitat of these amazing creatures.

I therefore look forward to seeing more of our natural giants like the tapir, capybara, anaconda, black caiman, giant otter, arapaima, lau-lau, giant river turtle, black piranha, electric eel, manatee, jabiru stork, hoatzin, bird eating spider and the Victoria amazonica lily in conspicuous locations around our beautiful country.

Thank you for allowing me the time and space to share my views and I also take the opportunity to wish All Guyanese a blessed 2024.

Yours sincerely, Nicholas C. A. Waldron

Did CWI compromise in order to jointly host upcoming T20 World Cup? Dear Editor The perspective offered in the article by a former CWI director in our local media, headlined 'US cricket market a threat to the future of CWI - former director' (NewsRoom Jan 8), offers a better understanding as to why Jamaica decided not to be a part of hosting matches in the ICC T20 World Cup,

being jointly hosted by USA and WI and to be played in June.

From the schedule of matches, it was gleaned the superpower of T20 cricket India, will play all of its group matches in the US, while cricket's biggest rivalry between India and Pakistan will duel in New York. It seems there are few

marquee games scheduled for the Caribbean.

All the big names, it is perceived, are playing in the US. This has to be seen as a d i s s e r v i c e a n d disappointment to West Indian fans.

For the Guyana leg of the tournament, WI is in Group C, its clash with PNG, (no

underdogs) should be interesting as would be the NZ/Afghanistan encounter. Is this the compromise CWI had to subject itself and fans to with ICC, in order to get onto the shared hosting, with a superpower, of this mega cricket event?

Sincerely Shamshun Mohamed

A Caribbean's taste with Guyana's touch Dear Editor, Argentina, known for Che Guevara and Pope Francis and called “Land of Silver,” is not famous for cricket but soccer, having produced such great footballers like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.

In 1996, Madonna performed and sang “Don't Cry for Me Argentina,” starring in the movie “Evita,” which depicts the life of Eva Peron who became Argentina's First Lady when she married President Juan Peron. Eva died on 26th July, 1952 from cancer at the young age of 33 but not before rising to become a star entertainer after starting from a humble beginning.

Argentina's favourite daughter was revered and loved because in her short life span, she championed workers' rights and those of the poor, especially women.

Often mistaken for a patriotic song, the song was sung at the beginning and end of the musical drama, “to evoke the generosity of Evita's spirit in death by asking the public not to mourn her.” Before she died, she was given the title, “Spiritual leader of the nation” and was honoured with a state funeral, typically

reserved for heads of state.

PPP stalwarts, former President, Janet Jagan along with the late paternal grandmother of President Ali, were also champions of the poor and women's rights, being in the vanguard for d e m o c r a c y a n d independence for Guyana.

Known as “The Land of the Humming Bird,” Trinidad and Tobago will give their fifth Prime Minister (1995-2001) a state funeral on Tuesday January 9th, having departed at age 90 on January 1st, 2024, for the great beyond. Being the first Prime Minister of Indian descent for the carnival island famous for Calypso Rose, Mighty Sparrow, Brian Lara, V.S. Naipaul, curried duck, oil, etc., Basdeo Panday founded the United National Congress and remained political leader until 2010.

The champion for workers' rights known for his wits, humour and dramatic skills, the honorary doctor was a lawyer, politician, trade unionist, economist, actor, and civil servant who reached the top of the ladder by climbing from the bottom and registering and relating with the poor. A watchdog for “religious pluralism,” Panday changed “Arrival

Day” to Indian Arrival Day after 1996. In 1996, he was responsible for writing off hundreds of millions of US dollars from Guyana's debts, racked up by the Burnham's administration. Trinidad and Tobago have much to celebrate instead of mourning, as they reminisce the life in the death of a movie, theater and TV actor who started working in the sugar factory as a sugarcane weigher before becoming a school teacher.

Barbados, “The Land of the Flying Fish,” stole the honour of hosting the final of this year's International Cricket Council Men's Twenty20 World Cup. Prime Minister Mia Mottley praised her country's “high level of organization” for this cricketing feat.

The birth place for world famous cricket hero, Sir Garfield Sobers and international superstar entertainer Rihanna, the small island is also known as “Little England,” because of its “strong connection and staunchly British attitude.”

Mottley proudly claimed that cricket is Barbadians' DNA. The first semifinal will be played at the Guyana National Stadium (Providence Stadium) as the luscious greenery of the once

famous Bourda Oval was not sustained. Regarded as the oldest cricket ground in the West Indies, Bourda Green came into fruition in 1884.

England is the reigning champion.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, found himself in hot water after he was exposed posing with Venezuela's President, Nicolas Maduro and a national flag depicting Essequibo as part of Venezuela. Known as “the Jewels of the Caribbean” and once called “Hairouna” by the early Carib settlers, “Kalinas,” this tourist attractive island's name is translated as “Land of the Blessed,” after Saint Vincent.

The beautiful island for flora and fauna, is home to former CARICOM's Secretary General (19922010) Edwin Carrington, known for his diplomacy. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was prominent for his proactive role in defending democracy in Guyana's 2020 General Election and again supportive in hosting the venue for the “Argyle Declaration,” signed by Ve n e z u e l a ' s P r e s i d e n t Nicolas Maduro and (Continued on page 6)

Wednesday January 10, 2024

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The future of The GPF should be better agro-processing supported in the communities is promising Dear Editor, Agriculture has been considered the backbone of our nation and for many other nations like India and Brazil, ranked among the top five agricultural producing countries of 2023. Guyana as we know it, has been competing strongly with many of these top-producing nations, particularly over the last three years. In 2023, the landscape of agriculture began to evolve even more with greater emphasis on technological advances and sustainable practices to achieve food security.

According to Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, 130 new agroprocessing products were launched in 2023 through the Guyana Marketing Corporation last year with 54 new Guyana shop corners launched as a means to decentralise GMC. This move will see a flurry of local products produced by our very own Guyanese penetrating the markets and even competing with the big brands that are being imported.

There was a time when you could not access one locally-made product on the shop shelves and today in all Chinese-run supermarkets and locally-run shops, products produced by Guyanese are adorning the shelves. The quality in packaging has improved so much and the taste is even better, from chips to sauces, the variety is there, and these improvements are credited to the interest the Ministry of

Agriculture places in making agriculture a top sector r e g i o n a l l y a n d internationally.

We see increasingly agroprocessing facilities taking shape in various regions, all to raise the standard of production of locally made items.

What we can expect shortly is for food to become more affordable and even more accessible.

Minister Mustapha revealed that “From January to November 2023, Guyana's export of non-traditional agricultural commodities totals 8,926 metric tons which is valued at $1,862 million or US $8.8 million,” (DPI) and with a whopping $589.5 million to increase opportunities for agroprocessors, the achievement of this sector has been mountainous and we should be very pleased on the progress made compared to pre-2020.

As a people, it is left upon us to utilize the necessary resources being made available by the agriculture ministry and the government of Guyana to advance our way of living.

We must move away from the traditional methods of farming and welcome new initiatives that will increase food production and enhance agro-processing. Our country is on the cusp of greater achievements and the government has cushioned many areas to help in the advancement.

Regards Anthony Singh

Dear Editor, T h e r e c e n t announcement of a 12-storey building for the new police headquarters seems overly ambitious and may not serve the people of Guyana in its intended purpose. As a nation, we have struggled to have sufficient police presence in the villages and communities. Some of the funds being used to build the 12-storey headquarters would better serve our nation by establishing more police outposts in every region with a focus on the upcoming cities and larger villages.

There is also a need for more police presence on the road to better control the traffic and prevent crime. An airconditioned 12-storey building will not encourage ranks to be out in the hot sun on the street and in the communities where their service is needed.

If we were to look at the current condition of the police outposts in place across the country, we will see that they need fixing up and are also short of the resources needed for effective crime fighting.

Many police outposts do not even have the facilities to house the stray animals that

are on the roads. The idea which the President is promoting is a great one for cities that are large and the development of the community patrols have advanced to the stage where they have multiple around the clock patrol cars and motorcycle patrols. Guyana is not yet at this stage of development. The recent donations to the Police Force received from the Chinese Government have been poorly maintained and many items have been destroyed due to poor handling. It is important that we first support the Police Force with the fundamentals needed before reaching for 12 storeys.

Policing in its intended manner starts with building trust in the communities being served and this is accomplished by building relationships with the members of the community.

The best method to achieve this is by increased presence and engagement within the community. Something which a well-run and maintained police outpost can accomplish. Current and new housing developments should each have a police outpost, a fire station and a

health clinic in a complex where they are housed t o g e t h e r. H a v i n g t h i s strategically placed for full coverage of our villages, towns and cities would be money better spent and can serve as a precursor to a large centralized Police Force in Region 4.

CRG does agree that the Police Force requires a new headquarters, but a more modest one should be its beginning. Let's build a foundation that will allow for growth, but we should first see a clear and sustainable reduction in crime, improved road safety, and better maintenance of what is currently in place before bringing the Force's headquarters to a level befitting that of a major metropolis. Even the LAPD,

which is one of the largest and most equipped police forces in the world (the 3rd largest municipal police department in the US) has a headquarters with only 10 floors, close to 13,000 officers and staff members, and an annual budget of over $3B USD. (references: lapdonline.org and the Los Angeles Times) Let's first look at what is needed by our officers at each location across the country and give our hardworking police officers the facilities and tools they need to better serve their communities before reaching for the sky at Brickdam.

Sincerely, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Bandits rob man of motorcycle on Hadfield Street

Clive Mendonca's stolen bike

T

wo bandits on Tuesday night attacked a Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) shift supervisor and robbed him of his motorcycle bearing registration, CG 3160 along Hadfield Street, in the vicinity of Durban Park, Georgetown.

The shift supervisor, Clive Mendonca, told Kaieteur News that he was attacked around 21:30 hrs while on his way to work.

He related that the men, who were on a scooter, rode into him while he was crossing over a speed bump.

The pillion rider then pushed him to the ground and quickly rode away with the

victim's bike after he fell onto the roadway.

As he was left stranded, the man walked for a bit until he was rescued by a team of police officers who were patrolling in the force's pick-up.

He related his story to them and they took him to the East La Penitence Police Station where he filed an official report.

Investigations are ongoing.

If anyone has seen or knows where the bike may be, they are asked to make contact with telephone number 689-1219, the nearest police station or Kaieteur News.

A Caribbean's taste with Guyana's...

From page 4 Guyana's President, Dr. Irfaan Ali which binds them to maintaining peace in the Latin/South America and Caribbean Zone.

The popular tourist resort and bauxite land, Jamaica, was referred to as “Xaymaca” by the Indigenous people, the Taino, meaning “Land of Wood and Water” or “the Land of Springs.” The 2022 CPL Champion, the Jamaica Tallawahs, is no longer owned by Guyanese businessman, Kris Persaud, and will not be featured in this year's tournament. The island, famous for cricket legend Michael Holding and Chris Gayle, the reggae king, Bob Marley and sprint athlete, Usain Bolt, also helped to sensationalize the island's fame and fortune.

As can be seen, Guyana's political, social and economic affairs certainly

play an integral part in the Caribbean's business.

Guyana's performance in its developing oil and gas industry, has added an additional interest to attract participation for investment.

Guyana now provides numerous opportunities and Caribbean nationals are hammering on her door for employment. The country's administration by the PPP/C Party is also responsible for increasing closer and trustworthy relationship among the Caricom Heads of Government. Guyana now enjoys the Chairmanship under the astute President Irfaan Ali who was recently awarded with Barbados highest honour.

Guyana's Government, led by a young and vibrant President Ali, is blazing a trail of unprecedented achievements to catapult the nation into the 21st century with innovative ideas

secured with modern technology to educate and promote a foundation for economic stability, not only locally but regionally.

President Ali finds himself in a most favourable and formidable position as he is being welcomed with open arms nationally, regionally and globally. As Guyana prepares for General Election next year, CARICOM will again unhesitatingly participate as observers, ensuring that free and fair election takes place in a transparent manner and democracy is sustained and will survive from any attacks by insurgents of the State. As demonstrated by the people of Linden recently, their love and affection for President Ali is untarnished by naysayers and they will not cry over spilled milk by the former administration.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall.

Wednesday January 10, 2024

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

DPP writes Chancellor urging speedy trial of electoral fraud cases - AG concerned about lag in Magistrate’s Court The sloth in the handling of the electoral fraud cases from the 2020 General and Regional Elections has prompted the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, S.C, to make an appeal to the Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards to intervene.

This was revealed by Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall, S.C on Monday, during his press conference. Nandlall said, “I am aware that the Director of Public Prosecutions has written to the Chancellor of the Judiciary, requesting her intervention.

The Chancellor has a supervisory authority

over Magistrates in the country.”

The Attorney General disclosed that hopefully the Chancellor’s involvement will expedite the cases and potentially designate specific Magistrates to preside over the election fraud cases. Nandlall expressed dismay over the prolonged duration of the cases which are at the Magistracy level and deemed the slothful pace as a disservice to the nation.

“After three years, those charges have not been able to secure a trial date. Now I am the Minister of Justice. I cannot be pleased with this state of affairs. No decent-minded

Guyanese can be pleased with this state of affairs...These are charges that relate to misconduct of the electoral process by persons who have been appointed and paid by the taxpayers of this country, to manage that process and ensure that the process meets the imperative of transparency, legality and fairness,” Nandlall said.

Nandlall criticized the handling of the matter and drew comparisons to the proceedings against senior officials in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) were charged, in contrast to the ongoing delays of the electoral fraud cases and the trend of Magistrates recusing themselves from the cases.

Following an investigation into the March 2020 General and Regional Elections and the events that followed, several former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) officials and others were criminally charged for allegedly attempting to rig the elections.

Over 20 electoral fraud-related charges were brought against former GECOM Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Roxanne Myers, Clairmont Mingo, Opposition members, Volda Lawrence, and Smith-Joseph. Also, GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Bobb-Cummings and Michelle Miller, are also before the court facing electoral fraud charges.

Notably, in December, Senior Magistrate Leron Daly scheduled January 15, 2024 to fix a date for a case management conference for the electoral fraud cases.

The state’s legal teams are led by Darshan Ramdhani, QC, and comprises of attorneysat-law Glen Hanoman, Arudranauth Gossai,

Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, S.C Ganesh Hira, Mark Conway and George Thomas; while Attorneys-at-law Nigel Hughes, Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson, and Konyo Sandiford are representing the defendants.

According to reports, the state’s case alleged that Lawrence, Smith-Joseph, February, Livan, Bobb-Cummings and Miller between March 2 and August 2, 2020, at Georgetown, conspired with former Chief Elections Officer Lowenfield and Mingo to defraud the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes cast in the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections.

Miller was slapped with a separate charge which allege that between March 3 and 5, 2020, at the GECOM Command Centre at Ashmin’s building on High and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, she conspired with others to defraud the people of Guyana by not using the figures from the Statements of Poll (SOP) for the purpose of ascertaining the figures to make the declaration of the results for the said District Four, thereby resulting in a false declaration being made for the said district. Notably, there are other individual charges against some of the defendants.

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Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 09

A government without a plan A

few photographs appeared on social media showing the President, the Prime Minister, Bharrat Jagdeo and the Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance. They were in a huddle and seemingly in a discussion, but all eyes were on Bharrat Jagdeo.

A caption to the photograph quoted the President as saying that the team spent considerable time working on building out the model to support the immediate, medium-term and long-term development and designing a careful and considerate approach to meet the aspirations of the people.

This came as a surprise since one hardly expects such a narrow team to be involved in such an ambitious planning exercise.

It was presumed, in some quarters, that the discussion of the 'Magnificent Four' may have had to do with the tabling of the Annual Budget.

All the smoke signals pointed in this direction.

There has been a blitz of activity involving projects in recent days.

A number of contractsigning ceremonies took place and from the fanfare associated with these events, it was clear that the government was establishing the tempo for the Budget.

However, the interest of the public was piqued by the caption that the government was developing a model for Guyana's short to long-term development.

It was always assumed that the government was pursuing a neo-liberal model

with expectations of a trickle-down effect to the population.

Soon after, things got more interesting when the President took to a video statement on social media. In that statement, he began by saying he wanted to explain to the public the model of development that his government was using to transform Guyana and to bring prosperity to every home.

For the next twenty minutes, the President seems to have forgotten the purpose of his address.

He spent almost all of that period talking mostly about projects without revealing the model from which his government plans, policies and projects will arise.

Nothing further has been said about the model.

A government's policies, plans, and projects should consistently be anchored in a model of development for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, a clear and welldefined development model serves as a guiding framework, providing a cohesive vision that aligns diverse policies toward common goals, ensuring consistency and efficiency in implementation.

Secondly, having such a model allows citizens to comprehend the ideological basis of its plans. Thirdly, having a development model facilitates long-term planning. Fourthly, it allows for the measurement or evaluation of the extent to which governments plans, policies and programme are consistent with the model.

Even if the PPP/C

government was ashamed that it has strayed from the working class policies of Cheddi Jagan, it could have embraced a social market economy.

This model combines free-market principles with social policies to achieve both economic efficiency and social equity.

It also seeks to balance private sector development with social responsibility.

But as stated before in this column, the government is not following any national development strategy and this gives its leaders leverage to initiate projects and plans as they see fit, including without any feasibility or other impact studies.

A recent response to critiques regarding the lack of a depletion policy saw the Vice President offering a concept statement on petroleum extraction.

However, a declaration of intent to maximize oil production swiftly does not constitute a depletion policy.

A National Depletion Policy must encompass a spectrum of essential elements including reserve estimation and assessment, production limits and targets.

As an article on Oil Now pointed out, these elements have implications for the quantity of acreages that will be put up for exploration and production, the level of investment that will be required.

When Malaysia developed its National Depletion Policy, it placed limits on oil extraction so as to safeguard its reserves. As such, it put a cap on oil production to extend the life

DEM BOYS SEH

When memory loss hits In a place called Forgetsville, there lived a man named Hapless, whose claim to fame was having the most elaborate and foolproof plan ever devised. The only catch? It was all in his head, a place that seemed to be a bit too slippery.

Hapless grandiose scheme involved celebrating the brilliance of his plan. The details were so intricate that even Einstein would have scratched his head in confusion. The problem, however, was that Hapless cranial vault was like a leaky sieve, and his genius plan constantly slipped through the holes.

One fateful day, his face lit up. He had figured out the secret to converting sugar cane into viable low carbon energy source. De people watched in awe as Hapless animatedly gestured, spouting incomprehensible technical jargon that only he seemed to understand.

But as de crowd erupted in applause, tragedy struck. A sudden bout of amnesia hit Harold like a ton of forgotten bricks. His eyes glazed over, and his once sharp mind became empty.

The plan to turn sugar into energy evaporated into the abyss of his memory loss.

In the blink of an eye, Hapless was transformed from a visionary genius to a befuddled man.

He wandered the streets muttering, "I had a plan, a magnificent plan!" But the only thing that remained magnificent was his shining head. His fellow Forgetsvillians, ever supportive, decided to help Hapless recover his lost brilliance. They hired a memory therapist but all attempts failed miserably, as Hapless' memory was hopelessly lost. So de next time Hapless talk about a plan, tell he fuh write it down. Just in case he amnesia returns.

Talk half. Leff half.

of production.

Guyana's depletion policy is unwritten. It is in somebody's head.

And because it is unwritten, it gives full licence to the oil companies to dictate the rate of production and exploration.

The government has little say in how much is invested, and on exploration and production decisions.

The absence of a formal National Depletion Policy raises concerns about the sustainability of the country's

natural resource management. There is also a pressing need for a comprehensive, written policy that delineates clear guidelines and objectives for the judicious extraction of finite resources, such as oil and gas, even if the plan is to extract as much as possible and as quickly as possible in the shortest possible time.

As for the official model of economic development, we most likely will have to wait on the government to make sense of the nonsense it

is doing before such a model is announced.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Nat’l leadership on oil - what’s up with these guys What is there about this oil that makes our leaders twist themselves into knots? What is it about this crude commodity that converts brother Aubrey Norton into a diplomat of some sheen? What mysterious chemical is in this black gold that brings out the bile and all that is vile in brother Bharrat Jagdeo? I wish I knew, but I don’t.

Well, that’s not quite on the dime, for I do have a sprinkling of an idea, but I am keeping it to myself.

After all, brother Barry has his army, and my good friend Aubrey has his potential. The hope is that by the time this writing is done, they will still hold me as a brother, a friend (not necessarily good), and a Guyanese trying to lead where the angelic fear to tread.

He who says the right thing about the stewardship of oil is assured of Guyana’s governorship.

It is as simple as that, as made blatantly clear by John Hess and others, and a little more subtly by one Sarah Ann Lynch. In the smallest of snap glasses, do the right thing by this oil, and all will be right by whoever does so. In American: aw shucks, you are alright. Look at Aubrey Norton in that answer he gave about ring-fencing. I thought I knew something about this

brother, only to realize that I missed a whole new development in his repertoire. He is an acrobat and a gymnast and figure skater all in one and all at once. I thought for a moment that it was Bharrat Jagdeo in disguise. I am a little rusty, so pardon is asked for leaving out the “doctor” honorific.

When I read what Mr. Norton gave as his response to the ringfencing question about “static” and “context” and something about information, I wanted to run back and extend my sabbatical. What is it that Exxon has done to these guys?

President Ali can’t speak straight on oil. Dr. Jagdeo can speak on oil, but it is better that he never utters another damn word about it, for all that he says. Now up comes the mighty Opposition Leader, Mr. Aubrey Norton, and there is this ode and serenade about ring-fencing that is a study in obfuscation, a joy in the fine arts of vacillation.

Indeed, I seem to remember (age) that one of the Opposition big chiefs was kind enough to inform the media and Guyanese that the party was gathering its ducks on oil, and lining them up in a row. Good Lord, it is several years later, and the ducks are either on display in some restaurant menu, or they are part of

the collateral damage in the just recent Guyana-Venezuela hissing and spitting match. I mean this is almost a 4-year college degree cycle, and it is clear that there is considerable groping in the dark in seeking for a way forward with this crude oil that is causing our political leaders so much trouble.

It is not so much that they don’t know the right way forward, but there are all these, ah, er, ow, considerations. Just take a look at the erudite Bharrat Jagdeo when a real (real) question is asked of him about oil. He shuffles, he muffles, and he ruffles. Mess with the man, and the next thing is that there is a whole host of goons and gorillas let loose to go after the offender(s). It is oil democracy, Guyana style; and since I am committed to being patriotically correct (yes, I said that), I take back those harsh descriptions (goons and guerillas) and replace them with Palace Guard.

Everybody should be happy now, calm down some.

When Dr. Jagdeo turns from mountain lion to house cat whenever oil is in the mix, that tells me something is up. Powah! Retention of power. Again, I look at Mr. Alistair Routledge, and ask: what’s the potion, sir? I am searching for

the new American Ambassador, but can neither see her nor hear her.

Has anybody? Anyhow, she also has her marching orders from State, keep things simple, maintain tranquility. Remind the fellas of their compact with America. Ha, ha! That is the real sanctity of contract business, my fellow Guyanese, which brings me back to the Hon. Leader of the Opposition.

Ow, brother Aubrey! This is not the style that is known, and all Guyana is watching openmouthed.

Yeah, I understand - adaptability and versatility.

I must try those sometime. There is an electorate out there that has to wait for 25 of something, a li’l bridge, and a big speech from the people who control the biggest bankbook in Guyana. In the interim, on the biggest prospect ever to garland Guyana, there is this political leadership awkwardness, this patented clumsiness. It does not fit Bharrat Jagdeo and Aubrey Norton; no sir, not the roles they have taken, and how they play them. The VP looks like he is running from the truth police, and the OL as though he is running from his shadow. Powah! I dismiss the other fellow.

We have all this oil, and we have this caliber of leadership. Oh, we also

h a v e Mr. Routledge. One likes to speak about equilibrium, and revenue maximization. What happened to synergy with this patrimony? Why is it that Guyanese, the 700,000 plus poor ones, have to exist on trickledown economics? Why is Guyanese leadership so squeamish about squeezing Exxon by the, ah, thumb, to wring some fairness out of it? Don’t tell me that they are afraid of Lloyd Austin sending some gunboats. Those would be for Maduro.

Time to close this out. My thinking is that we should deposit Bharrat Jagdeo and Aubrey Norton in the Natural Resource Fund and leave them there.

Withdraw everything else and leave them there. This would be better for Guyanese, with everybody knowing where they really stand, and none of these dreadful word games being played. Happy New Year!

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

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Wednesday January 10, 2024

$947.6 million in presidential grants disbursed to Amerindian Villages in 2023 The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs has disbursed approximately $947.6 million in presidential grants to I n d i g e n o u s villages/communities during 2023.

This is according to Minister of Amerindian

Affairs, Pauline Sukhai who noted the figure during her ministry’s year-end press conference on Tuesday at their Thomas Street, Georgetown office. It was noted by the minister that her ministry currently serves about 250 Indigenous communities countrywide.

The Presidential Grant which started in 2007 under the PPP/C administration is one of the major interventions being undertaken by the Government aimed at boosting economic and social development for Indigenous People in the respective villages and communities.

It was mentioned at the press conference that presidential grants have increased, and would now see small villages that used to receive about $450,000 are now receiving $1 million and those who are receiving larger amounts like $1.2 million, $1.8 million are now receiving a minimum of $2 million and more.

Minister Sukhai stated that of the $947.6 million in grant spent, a large chunk of it went towards agricultural

projects in the Amerindian communities.

“The presidential grant we have spent $947.6 million in that grant in 2023, for agriculture, we spent $261.3million. So agriculture may have been the largest chunk of the assigned sums of money from that grant,” she said.

The minister noted that this is so, because Amerindian communities are based on agriculture and so their lives depend on food security. She added “so the terrain, location and also the soil type and distance, Amerindian villages continue to need further support in agriculture.”

Minister Sukhai went on to state that a new intervention which is also catered in presidential grant and in support of agriculture is the introduction of shade and green houses in these

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai communities. She noted that this project has been able to attract a lot of women and young people.

“It (shade house project) has caught on quite a lot over the last year and a half and the Amerindian Village Councils have also requested that shade houses be built in communities,” she shared.

In relation to the implementation of shade houses, minister said that it is President Irfaan Ali’s idea

that where there are schools and school-feeding programmes, it could be a sustainable venture for shade houses to be built and for the schools to utilise the foods they produce.

“And so, out of all the support that we have provided for agriculture last year, we have 38 projects, we have 17 shade houses that were assigned last year to villages and that added up to about $85 million,” she stated.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 13

Three more fires recorded within 24 hrs

Raging fire at Good Hope

…two families left homeless

Fire at ‘B’ Field Sophia

Amidst the rapid increase of fires recorded thus far for the year, three more fires have been recorded in 24 hours. Of that number, two families in Georgetown have been left homeless after their homes were gutted at ‘B’ Field Sophia and South Ruimveldt Gardens, on Monday and Tuesday respectively.

According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), one of the three fires, which occurred on Monday at a junkyard located at Lot 6 Good Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was deliberately set.

It resulted in a quantity of derelict vehicles and the wooden shed being completely destroyed.

According to the Fire Service, on Monday, around 17:45hrs, at Lot 2114 ‘B’ Field Sophia, 64-yearold David Williams, along with 49year-old Shannon Dover, lost their home after a fire of unknown origin, engulfed the house in flames, destroying the building and its contents completely.

Investigations disclosed that the building is owned by Lucell Gray, 83, who resides in the United States of America. According to the GFS, the building was a two-storey

concrete structure. The upper flat contained a living room and bedroom, and other necessary rooms. The lower flat was being rented to Williams and his family.

Williams told the firemen that he was at home in his living room, when he heard people shouting “Fire! Fire!”

He then claimed that he ran out of the house, where he saw the western side of the house to the upper flat engulfed in flames.

Public-spirited citizens reportedly assisted him in getting some household items out of the burning building.

The fire service was then contacted. Firemen arrived soon after with two fire tenders. The firefighters then sprang into action to contain and out the flames.

According to the GFS, “it is uncertain if the house was insured.”

Investigations are still in progress.

As regard the Good Hope fire, at about 13:45hrs on Monday, firefighters, acting on information received responded to a massive fire which was observed at a junkyard aback an auto spare business.

Screenshot of video captured enraged fire at South Ruimveldt, Georgetown

According to the fire service, a quantity of derelict vehicles and a wooden shed, owned by 54-yearold Roshan Ali, were destroyed.

“The purported cause is deliberate setting of fire, on grass by person(s) unknown, which spread to the derelict vehicles and subsequently ignited the shed,” the Fire Service stated in the report.

The matter has been handed over to the police for further investigation.

On Tuesday at about 15:00hrs, fire of unknown origin destroyed a double flat home at Kiskadee Drive, South Ruimveldt Gardens.

Reports are that a mother and her daughter were left homeless after their home was gutted by the fire.

Over the weekend, the GFS reported that it was concerned about the large number of fires, with five being recorded on Saturday last. Of that number, four houses caught afire while a vehicular fire was also recorded.

The Fire Service emphasized the importance of fire safety and prevention, urging citizens to remain vigilant. Installing smoke

detectors, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers in homes and businesses is crucial to curbing potential fire emergencies.

The series of incidents

underscore the pressing need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to safeguard against the devastating impact of fires across Guyana.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Duo charged for killing brave man during wedding house robbery

CHARGED, Otto Pittman

CHARGED, Oliver Franklyn

Two men, Otto Pitman called ‘One Dan’ and Oliver Franklyn were on Monday charged with the murder of Natram Persaud called ‘Vishal’ who was killed following a robbery at a wedding celebration on Old Year’s night.

The incident had occurred at Canal Number Two Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD) and had left Manipual Rambarhak injured.

Pitman and Franklyn yesterday made their first court appearances at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Faith McGusty where the charge was read to them.

They were not required to plead to the charge and were remanded to prison until February 7, 2024.

It was reported that around 20:50hrs on December 31, three male bandits, all of whom were dressed in dark coloured clothing and wearing masks, showed up at the house. One of bandits was armed with a handgun.

According to the police, the men invaded the wedding house of Mr. and Mrs. Samsundar where about sixty people were in attendance. The yard where the celebrations were being held is situated on the northern side of the Canal Number Two access road,

Friends die in C/tyne smash-up

KILLED, Natram Persaud

facing south. At the entrance to the yard which is situated at the southern side, is a metal grilled gate which was wide open at the time of the robbery.

Police reported that Rambarhak was sitting at the western side of the entrance along with another friend when three masked men approached him and one of the men who was armed, discharged two rounds at him and relieved him of his gold band. The suspects exited the yard and the Persaud chased after the intruders and began to scuffle with one of the suspects. “During the scuffle, a loud explosion was heard, after which Persaud fell to the ground. The three bandits then made good their escape east of the Canal #2 Polder access road,” the police had said.

Persaud reportedly sustained a gunshot injury to the back of his head and was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Rambarhak was taken to the Woodlands Hospital where he underwent an emergency operation and admitted in a critical condition.

An investigation was subsequently launched into the incident.

The scene of the accident

T

wo friends tragically lost their lives after a motorcycle they were riding crashed head-on into a motorcar late on Monday night on the public road at Fyrish, Corentyne, Berbice.

Dead are Canada-based Guyanese cricketer Harrienarine Chattergoon called “Gangu,” 33, and Javid Mohamed, called “Bottle,” 35, both of Fyrish.

The men were on Mohamed’s motorcycle bearing registration CM2728, heading east along the roadway around 22:35hrs when the bike crashed headon into a motorcar bearing registration PAC 3786 which was heading in the opposite direction.

The two men were flung onto the roadway following the collision and publicspirited citizens rushed the men to the hospital.

Mohamed was pronounced

dead on arrival at the Port Mourant Hospital while Chattergoon died during the early hours of Tuesday while seeking medical attention at a private hospital in Berbice.

News of the men’s death shocked the community of Fyrish as well as their friends and relatives overseas. A number of national cricketers expressed shock at the men’s demise.

Both men represented Guyana at the national and youth level. They also played for the Albion Sports Club.

R e l a t i v e s o f Chattergoon, who is the youngest of the four Chattergoon ‘cricket’ brothers, including former West Indies opening batsman Sewnarine Chattergoon, noted that the man was in Guyana on vacation from Canada. He was slated to return to North America on Friday.

DEAD: Javid Mohamed

Former Berbice Cricket Board president Hilbert Foster paid tribute to the men. He recalled that Mohamed played cricket for years at the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, both at the senior and junior levels.

He said Mohamed successfully led the Pepsi team to victory at the under 19 level. “He was a faithful supporter of our charity programme,” Foster said.

As regard Chattergoon, he said the man’s passing was, “shocking and I pray that God would guide them during this difficult moment.

May God grant him eternal rest and May he rise in glory.”

A breathalyser test was conducted on the driver of the car involved in the accident. However, no trace of alcohol was found.

An investigation is underway.

DEAD: Harrienarine Chattergoon

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Suspect confesses to chopping E’bo man over old grievance The 21-year-old suspect who allegedly chopped an Essequibo man on Sunday, an incident which led to the victim’s death on Monday, has reportedly confessed to chopping the man at Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, Region Two, over an old grievance.

The suspect, identified as Elroy Matthias, is accused of c h o p p i n g 2 5 - y e a r- o l d , Ricardo John of Lot 42 La Belle Alliance, Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, around 23:30hrs on Sunday during a drunken brawl. John died the following day at the Suddie Hospital while receiving treatment for a chop wound to his left side chest.

Kaieteur News learnt that police captured the suspect at Good Hope, Essequibo Coast almost 48 hrs after the chopping; he then admitted

Dead: Ricardo John to the chopping. This newspaper understands that the suspect told investigators that he and the victim had an argument over an old grievance that involved his girlfriend.

According to reports, Matthias’ girlfriend is John’s ex-girlfriend.

On Sunday, Matthias and the woman were drinking at a bar at Lima Sands when John reportedly entered to purchase a Guinness beverage.

John’s family members claimed that after the suspect saw him, the assailant started arguing with the woman and later became aggressive towards her. The couple eventually left the bar but John would cross paths with them sometime later in front of their home.

Kaieteur News understands that while John was passing, he saw the suspect “acting violently” towards the woman and intervened to prevent the man from assaulting her.

According to family members, John allegedly told the suspect to desist from the actions he was

taking against the woman.

This led to a heated argument between the two men.

Family members continued their claims that things escalated when the suspect ran into his yard and returned

with a cutlass.

He chopped John across his chest and ran away.

Kaieteur News was told that the victim managed to walk some distance towards his home, before being rescued

by a relative who met him along the way. He was rushed to Suddie Public Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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Gunmen storm Ecuador television studio live on air

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(BBC News) A group of armed men have broken into a live television studio in Ecuador and threatened staff, footage shows.

A live broadcast by station TC in the city of Guayaquil was interrupted on Tuesday by the group, who were wearing hoods and carrying guns. Staff were forced to on to the floor, before the live feed cut out. A 60-day state of emergency began in Ecuador on Monday after a convicted gang leader vanished from his prison cell.

The hooded men were seen leaving the TC studios, with police seen entering the set about 30 minutes after the gunmen first appeared. National police units in Quito and Guayaquil have been deployed to the scene. The country’s national police force said in an update on X, formerly Twitter, that staff had been evacuated from the studio.

It later said several suspects had been arrested. Following the incident, President Daniel Noboa signed an executive order declaring an internal armed conflict and listed several organised crime groups as “terrorist organisations” and “nonstate actors”.

The University of Guayaquil said all academic and administrative activities had been suspended given the social unrest nationwide.

At least seven police officers have been kidnapped by gang members since the state of emergency was declared.

The measures were introduced by President Noboa after the boss of the Los Choneros gang disappeared from a maximum security jail on Sunday.

Officials said Fito, whose real name is Adolfo Macías Villamar, was not in his cell on Sunday morning when police arrived to move him to a different jail within the same compound. He is thought to have absconded just hours before his planned transfer.

Two prison guards have been

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detained on suspicion of helping Fito escape.

Los Choneros is a powerful prison gang which is thought to be behind many of the deadly riots and prison fights which have erupted in Ecuador’s jails over recent years. It is not clear at this stage whether the storming of the television station is linked to the prison escape, but it is an example of the deteriorating security situation in the country.

Nearly 40 other inmates, including another convicted

drug lord, broke out from another prison in the city of Riobamba in the early hours of Tuesday.

Fito’s escape is also a blow to the government of President Noboa, who was sworn in in November after winning an election tarnished by the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio. Villavicencio had reported receiving death threats from Fito just days before he was shot dead while leaving a campaign rally in the capital Quito.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 17

Biker killed in West Labourer drowns Coast Berbice crash in Mazaruni River Police are investigating the death of a 25year-old man who died following an accident involving a lorry, a car and a motorcycle on the West Coast Berbice (WCB) public road on Monday night.

Dead is Ricardo Bipta, called 'Junior' of Lot 16, Bath Settlement, WCB. The accident occurred around 22:30hrs last night on the Number 9 Village Public Road, WCB. According to the police, the driver of a motorcar, bearing registration PLL 6437, was proceeding east along the roadway behind a lorry bearing registration GSS 9769, when the car ended up in the path of Bipta who was riding his motorcycle in the opposite direction.The car collided with Bipta and as a result of the collision, the motorcyclist further collided with the lorry.

Bipta sustained injuries and fell onto the roadway. He was picked up in an unconscious condition and taken to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital where a doctor pronounced him dead on arrival.

Ricardo Bipta called 'Junior’

Police said the drivers of the lorry and the car were arrested and taken to Fort Wellington Police Station where they were placed into custody, and the vehicles lodge at the station.

Breathalyser tests were conducted on both drivers and the results indicate no trace of alcohol in their system.

Bipta's body is at Anthony's Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

A search is ongoing for a labourer who drowned on Monday morning in the Mazaruni River in the vicinity of Pappy Show Landing.

Dead is Cleveland Gouveia. He is said to be in his 3os.

Reports are that Gouveia was seen at the bank of the river on Monday morning around 09:30hrs; he was attempting to bathe. Minutes later, he was seen in the water and he later went under. At the time, he was wearing his 'long boots.'

A resident of the area noted that the man returned to the area on Saturday from Georgetown after spending the Christmas holidays in the city.

He has been living in the Mazaruni area for a number of years after moving there from Region One. According to his friend, the man never returned home to Region One. Residents said they will continue to search for his body on Wednesday.

Feared dead: Cleveland Gouveia

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 18

Teenager claims 'friend' give Blinken tells Israel to avoid him illegal shotgun, phones ‘further civilian harm’ in Gaza Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli attack on a house, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, January 3 [File: Emad Gabon/Reuters]

The 12-gauge shotgun that was found

An 18-year-old labourer of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast who was nabbed by police with a 12-gauge shotgun and two phones, told the lawmen that a 'friend' gave him the said items.

According to the police, on Sunday, acting on information, ranks ventured to the 18-year-old man's residence, where the young man was confronted with arms and ammunition allegations. Police said an iPhone and a Samsung phone, which do not belong to the man, were found at the residence.

The labourer reportedly told investigators, that the phones were given to him by a friend. He further told police that his friend also gave him a shotgun to keep as well.

He then accompanied the ranks to an area at his home where he pointed out a 'salt bag' (a woven bag used for packaging agriculture produce in Guyana). The salt bag was opened in his presence, and the 12gauge shotgun was found with the serial number filed off. The young man was taken into custody as investigations continue.

(ALJAZEERA) United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Israel to avoid further civilian harm in its war on Gaza and to seek a path towards the creation of a Palestinian state as a way to resolve the longrunning wider conflict.

In a Tel Aviv meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, Blinken “stressed the importance of avoiding further civilian harm and protecting civilian infrastructure in Gaza”, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.

He reaffirmed US

“support for Israel's right to prevent the terrorist attacks of October 7 from being repeated”, Miller added, and “reiterated the need to ensure lasting, sustainable peace for Israel and the region, including by the realisation of a Palestinian state”.The top US diplomat is on his fourth visit to the Middle East since the war broke out on October 7 when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel that killed 1,139 people, according to Israeli authorities.Israel responded with a devastating bombardment and a ground invasion of Gaza that has

United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken destroyed much of the territory and killed more than 23,200 people, mostly women and children, according to Palestinian officials. The secretary of state voiced hope that, after the war, Israel could push on with its efforts towards regional integration following its US-brokered normalisation deals with the United Arab Emirates and other states. “I think there actually are real opportunities there, but we have to get through this very challenging moment,” Blinken said after meeting Foreign Minister Israel Katz.On Monday in Riyadh, he said countries in the region wanted integration with Israel but only if plans to normalise relations included a “practical pathway” to a future Palestinian state.Blinken was to meet with families of captives taken by Hamas and discuss the “relentless efforts” to bring them back. Several dozen protesters gathered outside the hotel where he was having meetings and called for a ceasefire to secure the release of the captives.

Israel said that of about 240 people seized by Palestinian armed groups on October 7, 132 are still being held in Gaza and 25 have died in captivity.

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Residents lament sloth in works on new Pirara Bridge

Works on the new Pirara Bridge, seen here, stopped around October 2023. (Photo: Chris Moses)

M

onths after w o r k s commenced on the construction of a new concrete structure to replace the problematic Pirara Bridge in the Central Rupununi, considered the main access bridge to the town of Lethem, the project remains incomplete.

On a number of occasions over the years the old wooden structure, which ran across a tributary of the Ireng River, collapsed under the weight of heavy trucks, resulting in millions in repairs being spent on the bridge.

In January 2022, the

Ministry of Public Works announced that it was upgrading a total of 32 hinterland bridges to international standards, stretching from Kurupukari to Lethem. The list included the Pirara Bridge. During the first quarter of 2023, works commenced on the new concrete structure, which replaced the wooden bridge.

A bypass was built while foundation works were undertaken on the new concrete structure.

However, residents of the region noted this week that since around October 2023, works had stopped on the structure. Only columns

were built.

DANGEROUS BYPASS At the same time, motorists noted that the wooden bypass is in a fragile and dangerous state, especially since it is utilised daily by heavy traffic including trucks laden with goods. “This is a disaster waiting to happen...some very heavy trucks are using this road and this bridge looks like it can barely hold a regular truck,” a resident said on social media.

“Some very heavy Brazilian trucks are using the road presently (double trailer). And the bypass is very rickety and looks barely

The bypass which was built to allow for flow of traffic as the nearby Pirara Bridge in the Central Rupununi is being built.

usable,” another resident said.

Opposition Member of Parliament, Vincent Henry noted on Tuesday that works have stopped on the new structure “for an extended period of time.”

He said in a Facebook post that the Pirara Bridge links the Coastland of Guyana and the North Rupununi to Lethem, South Rupununi and Brazil.

Henry said too that soon the “rains will be here and this vital link, if completion

is not expedited, will become a major problem for all involved.”

Henry called on the government to remedy the situation as soon as possible.

In April 2021, the Pirara Bridge collapsed under a heavily loaded truck.

Kaieteur News reported at the time that at least 50 feet of the 160-foot-long bridge was damaged.

As such, many vehicles were stranded for days, causing a temporary bypass to be built. The firm

contracted to do emergency repairs on the bridge had to replace 16 piles on the bridge. The estimated cost to repair that bridge was at least $17 million.

The bridge was impassable in November 2019 due to a fallen beam. A bypass road was created to allow for smooth flow of road traffic.

Residents expressed hope that the authorities will intervene even as the rains are due in another four months.

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 21

Berbice Cricket Board completes highly successful...

From page 20 s with the assistance of famed Cricket writer Tony McWatts launched a bi monthly online magazine “Quick Pitch”. This online magazine would promote Berbice Cricket globally.

The BCB also hosted Alvin Kallicharran, the former West Indies captain on an official visit which included the launching of his Cricket book and a one day coaching clinic with batsmen at the historic Port Mourant ground. The board with the sponsorship from the Guyana Breweries Inc also unveiled the Berbice test player's billboard in front of the Port Mourant ground, while it joined hands with the University of Guyana to open the historic Berbice Cricketers Wall of

Fame.

A total of 31 players who represented West Indies from 1948 to 2023 were h o n o r e d w i t h o ff i c i a l portraits at the University.

The BCB and the university also agreed on two educational scholarships for two Berbice cricketers and the two entities also worked on the printing of an undated cricket coaching manual for hundreds of youth cricketers in the county.

The BCB also hosted a successful junior Captains seminar spearheaded by level three coaches Esuan Crandon, Winston Smith and Julian Moore. Coaches across the county were also involved in a refresher course supervised by the most successful Cricket coach in the West Indies

Esuan Crandon at the Albion Cricket ground.

Cricket clinics for youth cricketers in the four sub-associations were held, while the BCB annual Dr. Tulsa Dyal Singh Cricket Academy was held at the Port Mourant ground for seventy youths.

All the secondary and primary schools in the county received assistance from the BCB as part of its cricket development plans.

Secondary Schools received complete set of white uniforms along with Cricket balls and Cricket gears while over sixty primary schools received tapeball gear.

As part of its cricket development programme, the BCB also constructed five batting cages which are based at Bush Lot United, Rose Hall Canje, Rose Hall

Wednesday January 10, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19 Some unexpected changes could happen today, Aries.

You could find yourself confronting the prospect of having to get used to some new and totally state-of-theart equipment that you've never used before.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Are you flying today, Taurus, or perhaps going somewhere by train? If so, you might meet someone fascinating on the trip. Don't be shy, and don't let pride or propriety stand in the way.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Have you just bought some new equipment for your home, Gemini? This could be a new computer, a state-ofthe-art entertainment system, or perhaps a new appliance.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) An unexpected phone call, perhaps from an old friend, could come your way today, Cancer. This person is apt to have good news for you.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A financial windfall might be in the stars for you, Leo. This isn't anything you would have expected.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) An exciting group activity, perhaps one involving a number of your friends, could take place today, Virgo. Your mind may be going a thousand miles an hour throughout the day.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Surprising and very fortunate events could take place today, Libra. This could be an advancement that you weren't expecting.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Are you in an especially adventurous mood, Scorpio?

This is the sort of day when you can try just about anything new and still come out in one piece.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Study of the occult sciences, whether historical or handson experiments, should prove fascinating and enlightening for you today, Sagittarius.

A s t r o l o g y, a l c h e m y, numerology, or herbalism are all intriguing fields, and your mind should be especially attuned to them.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The opportunity to take a trip by air, perhaps at someone else's expense, could come to you today, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Some rather bizarre dreams could come to you tonight, Aquarius. The symbols may include people or objects that you would never have thought of consciously in a hundred years.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Do you have plans to go to a party tonight, Pisces? Don't cancel them. If you're single, an exciting new potential love partner might be introduced.

Town, Port Mourant and NO 72 Cut and Load, while the five mentioned clubs along with Cotton Tree benefited from a bowling machine each to assist in the department of their junior players.

The county also benefited from a Donation of 24 other bowling machines from Matt Breuer a friend of Berbice cricket from Australia. Several clubs and schools benefited including Tucber Park, Bath Achievers, Skeldon, Berbice River and Gangaram. Clubs like Whim, Police and D'Edward, also received batting practice Nets from the BCB. It must be recalled that the board in the pass two years had obtained cricket pitch covers for Cotton Tree, Edinburgh, Albion, Rose

Hall Town and #72 Cut and Load.

The BCB has also assisted dozens of clubs with practice nets, catching cribs and cricket gear.

The county's 11 first division teams each received five boxes of white cricket balls along with the Berbice River Cricket Association under the patrons' fund, while over 80 cricket clubs also received $1 million worth of red balls under the Shimron/Nirvani Hetmyer trust fund. The Faizal Jaffarally trust fund provided cricket balls and wicketkeeping gloves for West Berbice clubs.

Additionally 24 youth cricketers in Berbice receive $1 million worth of cricket gear from the Zamal Hussain trust fund. The cricketers

received a cricket bat, a pair of batting gloves and pair of batting pads.

The BCB would shortly share out about $3 million worth of coaching equipment and gear to about 22 clubs with youth teams under the Dr. Dukhi trust fund, while the Pro Chancellor of University of G u y a n a P r o f e s s o r D r.

Edward Greene has also committed to hosting another trust fund to benefit youth players. Region 6 chairman David Armogan has also agreed to another trust fund.

Albion, RHTYSC, Tucber Park and Rose Hall Canje all hosted successful club academies, while the BCB in its wisdom also introduced a President XI, consisting of youth players, to its first division structure.

Several outstanding Guyanese were also rewarded with the BCB highest award, Tribute to Heroes. They include Dr. Edward Greene, Dr. Paloma Mohammed, Dr. Gomes and Jainarine Deochand of the University of Guyana. One hundred youths would also shortly receive $8M worth of cricket gear from the Government of Guyana, while the BCB is also expect to get another grass cutter.

The BCB would like to express thanks to the Government of Guyana, especially President Infaan Ali, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Ministers Collin Croal, Dr. Ashni Singh and Vickram Bharrat.

The board would also like to express gratitude to Faizal Jaffarally MP, Rion Peters, Zamal Hussain, Navindra Persaud, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh, Dr. Puran Singh, Manzoor Nadir, Shimron Hetmyer, Anil Lalsa, Dr. Terrence Blackman, Sheik Mohammed, Brian Ramphal, Renaldo Lewis, Peter Lewis, Ishwar Singh, Armco Construction, Chandradat Chintamani,, University of Guyana, Latchman Construction, Republic Bank, DhanpaulSukhra, Ricky Moore, Dr. Frank Denbow, Ali's Bakary, Diors Bits and Pieces, Nolan France, George Baijnauth, MASS Security, Alvin Kallicharran, To n y M c Wa t t , I n t e r Caribbean Airline, Imran Shaffeeullah, Esuan Crandon, Matt Breuer, Price is Right, NPG packaging, Vishu Super Star, Arjune Nandu, Harrinarine Chattergoon, Kris Jagdeo, Dave Narine among others.

Wednesday January 10, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Berbice Cricket Board completes highly successful 2023 - Cricket development programme main highlights The Hilbert Foster led Berbice Cricket Board in 2023 enjoyed a highly successful calendar year and the board is currently preparing for a hectic 2024 under the new leadership of Dr. Cecil Beharry, who was elected on the 17 t h of December. The highlight of the year was a selection of 13 Berbicians on different West I n d i e s t e a m s , s e n i o r, academy and A teams. The players were Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Isai Thorn, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Shemaine Campbell, Sheneta Grimmond, Sahabeka Gajnabi, Ashmini Munsieur and Anna Grimmond.

Joseph and Sinclair earned maiden call ups to the test team, while Munsieur became the first West Indies female Under19 captain before making her senior international debut.

Seven Barbicans also played for the Amazon Warriors during the 2023 tournament they were Hetmyer, Shepherd, Junior Sinclair, Anderson, Kevin Sinclair and Joseph. Four females also played for the female version - Campbell, Grimmond, Gajnabi and Munsieur. Several Berbicians also played at the senior CWI level for Guyana at the four day and one day levels as the county continues to dominate national selection.

At the junior level, four Berbicians were in the national Under13 team, six in the Under17 and six in the Under19. Devon Clements gained selection on the West Indies Over40 team to tour

Former President, Hilbert Foster Pakistan, while three Berbice females gained selection on the West Indies A team tour to Pakistan and the senior female team to Australia.

Three players, Motie, Joseph and Kevin Sinclair are currently in Australia with the West Indies team, while Isai Thorne is with the West Indies Under19 World Cup team.

Junior Sinclair was adjudged as the best emerging player of the 2023 Caribbean Premier League, while Kevlon Anderson scored his first two first class centuries and Isai Thorne had a remarkable start to his first class career representing the We s t I n d i e s C r i c k e t Academy.

The BCB during the course of 2023 launched a total of 34 cricket tournaments at all levels including a historic Under11 inter club. The levels were Under11, under13, under15, under17, under19, under23, econd division, first

Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy U13 team winners of BCB Romario Shepherd tournament.

division, inter zone, females, primary schools, secondary schools and inter zone at the junior level.

Over 70 percent of the tournaments have been successfully completed including the RL Construction U15, Ali's Bakery U17, Brian Ramphal U17 inter zone, Dr. Tilsi Dyal Singh U19 inter zone, Sir James France Berbice River Tournament, Dave Imports B e r b i c e R i v e r, Latchmansingh West Berbice inter primary, MASS Inter Secondary Schools, Roy Baijnauth memorial inter primary, UCCA Price is Right, Romario Shepherd U13 and Jumbo Jet T/20.

BCB Billboard with test players.

The BCB was also able to attract the services of eighteen cricket coaches/trainers within Region 5 and 6 with the assistance of the Government of Guyana and the Region 6

RDC. The board office has also benefitted from two officers under the Government of Guyana ten days work programme.

International cricket journalist Gregory Fean

Hosting of former captain Alvin Kallicharran.

Launching of historic BCB/UOG Wall of Fame.

visited Berbice in February last to do a feature article on Berbice cricket for the Inter Caribbean Airline quarterly magazine “The Cacique”, while the BCB (Continued on page 19)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 23

BCB/Faizal Jafferally MP, T/20 Tournament...

Cotton Tree CC win exciting final rdby one wicket to emerge champions for 3 Edition

N

ational Under15 player, Arif Khan held his nerves in check to lead his team to victory in the 2023 Berbice Cricket Board/Faizal Jafferally MP T/20 tournament at the Cotton Tree ground. Requiring four runs from the last ball of the innings with the last pair at the crease, a confident Khan struck Sheldon Ramsay over midwicket for a huge six to spark wild celebration by his team mates.

The victory cements Cotton Tree's CC rise to the top of second division cricket in West Berbice after they recently won the BCB/Jumbo Jet $1M dollar tournament.

The two teams met with the sponsor and former minister of Local Government, Nigel Dharmalall before the start of play in the presence of BCB vice president David Black and competition chairman Leslie Solomon.

Achievers CC won the toss and decided to take first strike in hot and sunny condition.

They lost Sheldon Ramsay for nought in the second over when he was caught off the bowling of Pooran Persaud at 4 for 1.

Nichel Fraser and Leon Andrews added 31 for the second wicket in four overs before Fraser was dismissed

by Roshan Gaffur for 11.

Andrew batted well to top

Brothers Roshan and Nashad Gaffur then added a quick 29 in two overs before Roshan was run out for 12 and then Nichel Fraser bowled Nashad for 19 off consecutive balls in the 19th over.

Needing o score seven in the final over bowled by Ramsay, the result was cemented off the final ball with a six by Khan.

Bowling well for Achievers were Leon Andrews with 3 for 22 from 4 overs and Andrew Dutchin 2

Faizal Jafferally MP hands over trophy to Cotton Tree Captain Roshan Gaffur.

scored for a brilliant 66 off 51 balls with two fours and six massive sixes. The other batsmen to be dismissed were Agende Rogers 36, Andrew Dutchin 01, Titus Webster 00, Odel Miller 00, Darius Nedd 03 and Samuel 00. Saul 1 not out and Nedd were at the crease when the allotted 20 ovvers finished with Achievers reaching a total of 140 for 9.

Bowling for Cotton Tree, veteran left arm spinner Waqar Hussain took 4 for 28 from four overs. Arif Khan 1 for 27, Pooran Persaud 1 for 19, Roshan Gaffur 1 for 25 and Nashad Gaffur 1 for 40 were the other successful

bowlers for the home team.

Needing to score 141 from 20 overs to lift another BCB second division title, C o t t o n Tr e e l o s t t h e experienced Nick Ramsaroop brilliantly caught off the bowling of Andrew Dutchin for 01 at 23 for 1 in the third over. Rashad Gaffur and Pooran Persaud then took the score to 79 without any problem before Gaffur threw his wicket away swinging across the line to Dennis Webster.

He was bowled for a top score of 31 with three fours and a six. Cotton tree then suffered a slump as they fell to 106 for 6 in the 17th over.

GFF Transfer Window opened on January 1 and will close January 31 ...Opportunity for Clubs to strengthen rosters ahead of new season

T

he January transfer window is now open giving clubs the opportunity to strengthen their rosters ahead of a busy upcoming season which includes the rollout of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League Season Six in February.

The transfer window opened on January 1 and will close on January 31.

GFF General Secretary Ian Alves has reminded the ten clubs participating in the Elite League Season Six to acquaint themselves with the revised Rules and Regulations, adding that transfers will only be considered valid if carried out within the approved GFF/FIFA transfer window

periods.

"Elite League teams are now restricted to a maximum of five (5) alterations within their roster of twenty-five (25) players for the remainder of the League.

Additionally, any requests for changes to the Team Roster must bear the signatures of both the Club President and Secretary before submission to the General Secretary,” he reiterated.

All registe r e d c lubs are urged to provide the Federation with the required supporting documentation to validate any changes, with all submissions undergoing a mandatory twentyfour-hour vetting and approval process.

All replace m e n t s must explicitly receive approval from the GFF and will be meticulously recorded on the official team roster.

for 16. Arif Khan and Waqar Hassain were both named as joint men of the finals while the runner up and champion received trophies and cash prizes.

President of the BCB, Dr, Cecil Beharry and former president Hilbert Foster both congratulated the teams on playing a final of the highest standard.

Foster announced that he had agreed to a passionate plea from his successor to continue serving Berbice

cricket in an advisory position for the next two years.

Sponsor Faizal Jafferaly stated that he was pleased that Foster had agreed to continue serving Berbice cricket and as such he was delighted to renew his sponsorship of the tournament for another year along with the Jafferally MP Trust Fund.

The Member of Parliament also handed a bag of gear to the winner.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Wednesday January 10, 2024

U19 Men's Cricket World Cup only ten days away; West Indies to play New Zealand in first warm-up game on January 14 SportsMax - The ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2024 lies just ten days away, and preparations are in full flow as South Africa gears up to host the very best young cricketers in the world from 19 January.

The 15th edition of the celebrated event will see 41 matches take place across 24 days of competition, with five host venues staging the action; Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein, Kimberley Oval in Kimberley, JB Marks Oval in Potchefstroom, Buffalo Park in East London and Willowmoore Park in Benoni – the venue selected to host the semi-finals and final encounter on 11 February.

Fans wanting to catch a glimpse of the next generation of cricket superstars can do so for free throughout the tournament, and the thrilling action of the U19 Men's Cricket World Cup will be accompanied by a vibrant festival atmosphere at grounds, with braai areas, kids' entertainment featuring jumping castles, face painting and more, live music offerings and a mini-cricket area for young fans to show off their own budding talents, ensuring a truly memorable experience for all.

With the start of the tournament fast approaching, teams are also entering the

final stages of their preparations, and warm-up fixtures are set to take place across venues in Johannesburg and Pretoria between 13 and 17 January with spectators welcome to catch every ball, live.

Each team will play two warm-up fixtures before the main event commences on 19 January, and the opening round of fixtures offers plenty of drama and excitement as a host of rivals meet to start their World Cup campaigns.

Opening day (19 January) will see Potchefstroom host South Africa's opening match against another former U19 champion, West Indies.The young Proteas, led by captain David Teeger will be eager to start with a victory, and there is no shortage of excitement amongst the group.

South Africa U19 skipper Teeger: “The team and I cannot wait for the World Cup to start. The opportunity to play in such an esteemed tournament is a real honour and we are really excited to represent our country.

“With it being a home World Cup, it really is a once in a lifetime experience and we cannot wait to do the Mzansi nation proud.”

Ireland and USA go headto-head in Bloemfontein also

on opening day before India start the defence of their crown against Bangladesh at the same venue a day later on 20 January, in a repeat of the 2020 final. Both captains are looking forward to getting their campaigns off to a positive start.

India U19 captain Uday Saharan: “Our preparation has been intense, and the team has been working tirelessly to fine-tune every aspect of our game. We understand the challenges that come with representing our country at this level, but the excitement within the squad is palpable.

“The prospect of competing against the best U19 teams from around the world is both thrilling and motivating. We have a great blend of talent, determination, and team spirit, and we are looking forward to embracing the competition and giving our best on the field.”

Bangladesh U19 captain Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby: “We are very excited. Most players at this age level get one opportunity to participate in a U19 World Cup and we want to make this event a memorable one. We don't have to look far for inspiration. We became Asian champions only last month and four years ago our predecessors won the World

Rain spoils opening day of 1st Harpy Eagles 4-Day practice match

Rain dashed any hopes of play yesterday.

Mother Nature ruined what was set to be an exciting Day 1 of the first of two practice games organized by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) as part of next month's preparation for the upcoming CWI Regional 4-Day tournament.

Team Anthony Adams and Team Matthew Nandu will both have fingers crossed as they pray for a glimmer of sunshine come today.

Tuesday's Day was expected to be a highlycompetitive bout as a number of stars look to get themselves in proper form with the Guyana Harpy Eagles preparing to mount a defense of their title.

Showers on Tuesday forced officials to call off proceedings, as rains ravaged most of the city for a lengthy portion of the morning, into the afternoon period.

However, should sunshine prevail come today, action between the two sides will take place at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC)

Ground, Bourda, with action getting underway from 9:00h.

Anthony Adams' XI (Team A) – Anthony Adams (Captain); Sachin Singh; Rampertab Ramnauth; Kevlon Anderson; Akshaya Persaud; Zachary Jodah; Zeynul Ramsammy; Joshua Persaud; Aryan Persaud; Junior Sinclair; Quentin Sampson; Rivaldo Phillips; Sylus Tyndall; Malcom Hubbard; Adrian Hetmyer; Bruce Vincent and Clinton Pestano.

Matthew Nandu's XI (Team B) – Matthew Nandu (Captain); Raymon Perez; Shamar Yearwood; Kemol Savory; Richie Looknauth; Brandon Jaikaran; Jonathan Rampersaud; Jonathan Van Lange; Gulcharran Chulai; Veerasammy Permaul; Nial Smith; Thaddeus Lovell; Ronsford Beaton; Ashmead Nedd; Ronald Alimohamed; Ushadeva Balgobin and Steven Sankar.

Cup. “We will go there to win the World Cup. Bangladesh has done that before and there is no reason why we can't carry the momentum from the Asia Cup to South Africa.”

Two further rivals lock horns on 20 January, as finalists from the previous edition England take on Scotland in Potchefstroom and Pakistan and Afghanistan meet in East London.

England U19 captain Ben McKinney: “This is the first U19 World Cup for all the players, and we want to show how exciting we are as a team.

“We want to showcase our skills and impose ourselves on each and every game, with an overall aim to go on and to win the tournament.”

Scotland U19 captain Owen Gould: "We are absolutely buzzing…It's a huge honour to be representing Scotland. It'll

really sink in when we take to the pitch in the first game.

Even to be playing in the qualifiers last summer was special, but this is just the next level up.

“That first England game is the big one. The rivalry, and it being the first game of the tournament… I think we'll all be buzzing for it.”

Afghanistan U19 captain Naseer Khan Maroof Khil: “Including me, all the boys are very enthusiastic and committed.

No doubt, it is an outstanding learning platform to show our talent and skills to the world.

“As we got to the semifinals last time, the boys are eager to get to the final this time and win the trophy for the country.”

Warm-up fixtures Saturday 13 January USA v Namibia, Tuks Oval, Pretoria India v Australia, TUT Oval, Pretoria South Africa v Pakistan, St Stithians, Johannesburg

Nepal v Scotland, Braamfischer Oval, Johannesburg Sunday 14 January Ireland v Zimbabwe, Tuks Oval, Pretoria Bangladesh v Sri Lanka, TUT Oval, Pretoria England v Afghanistan, St Stithians, Johannesburg New Zealand v West Indies, Braamfischer Oval, Johannesburg Tuesday 16 January Namibia v Ireland, Tuks Oval, Pretoria Zimbabwe v USA, TUT Oval, Pretoria West Indies v Nepal, St Stithians, Johannesburg South Africa v Afghanistan, Braamfischer Oval, Johannesburg Wednesday 17 January Sri Lanka v India, Tuks Oval, Pretoria Australia v Bangladesh, TUT Oval, Pretoria Scotland v New Zealand, St Stithians, Johannesburg Pakistan v England, Braamfischer Oval, Johannesburg

Jumbo Jet's Mashramani horserace meet set for February 25 The Rising Sun Turf Club will come alive on Sunday February 25, when the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee hosts a grand one day horserace meet. Eight races are carded for the day and close to GY$10,000,000 will be up for grabs.

The feature event will be open to all imported and locally bred horses, running at a distance of 1600 meters.

The top horse of the feature e v e n t w i l l b a g GY$2,000,000.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e provisional programme includes the West Indianbred four-year-old and West Indian three-year-old horses running at 1600 meters, and the three-year-old Guyanabred non winners of two races (1400 meters) are some of the races on the cards.

All the top horses and jockeys are expected to ignite the Rising Sun Turf Club at the Mashramni event. See below the full provisional programme for the Mashramani race meet: RACE 1: OPEN to all Imported & locally-bred horses -- 1600M- Purse: $3,750,000: 1st: $2,000,000 - 2nd: $1,000,000 - 3rd:

$500,000 - 4th: $250,000 Entry fee: $232, 500 Late Entry Fee: $310,000 RACE 2: West Indianbred 4 Y.O & W.I. 3yr old horses --1600M- Purse: $1,875,000 1st: $1,000,000 2nd: $500,000 - 3rd: $250,000 - 4th: $125,000.

Entry fee: $116,250 Late Entry Fee: $155,000 RACE 3: Three-year-old Guyana-bred non winners of two races -- 1400M- Purse: $1,125,000 1st: $600,000 2nd: $300,000 - 3rd: $150,000 - 4th: $75,000 Entry fee: $69,750 Late Entry Fee: $93,000 RACE 4: G Class Horses.

Open to F3. & also F1 & F2 non earners in their last start horses -- 1400M- North America Imported 3YR & Up Colts 126LB, Fillies 123LB. W.I. & Locally Bred Colts & Fillies 15LB Allowance. Purse: $750,000 1st: $400,000 - 2nd: $200,000 - 3rd: $100,000 4th: $50,000 Entry fee: $46,500 Late Entry Fee: $62,000 RACE 5: I-Class Horses & Open to First time starter West Indian-bred 3 Y.O & Also open to H3 non earners in last two start, or h3 horses who has not earn since

August 2023. W.I. bred colts 126lb, fillies 123. W.I. Bred 3yr old colts 121LB, fillies 119. Locally Bred colts 111LB, fillies 108LB. 1,100M W.I. BRED Colts 126 fillies 123. Guy Bred colts 111, fillies and mares 108. Purse: $656,250. 1st: $350,000 - 2nd: $175,000 3rd: $87,500 - 4th: $43,750 Entry fee: $40,688. Late Entry Fee: $54,250 RACE 6: J3 & Lower horses -- 1400M- Purse; $609,375. 1st: $325,000 2nd: $162,500 - 3rd: $81,250 - 4th: $40,625 Entry fee: $37,780. Late Entry Fee: $50,375 RACE 7: L class horses & open to J3 first time starters- 1400M – Purse: $562,500. 1st: $300,000 2nd: $150,000 - 3rd: $75,000 - 4th: $37,500. Entry fee: $34,875 Late Entry Fee: $46,500 RACE 8: L class non earners of $200,000 or L class horses who has not earn since August 2023 & also open to J3 first time starters 1400M- Purse: $375,000.

1st: $200,000 - 2nd: $100,000 - 3rd: $50,000 4th: $25,000 Entry Fee: $23,250 Late Entry Fee: $31,000

Kaieteur News

Wednesday January 10, 2024

PAGE 25

New Amsterdam Synthetic Track moving - A step forward for Guyana's Sports Infrastructure ahead steadily E

xcitement brews as the New Amsterdam Synthetic Track in Berbice sees significant construction progress.

The project is steadily taking shape, the facility which also aims to boost the country's sports infrastructure.

N o t a b l y, F I FA s t a n d a r d floodlights have been installed, enabling athletes to train and compete after sundown.

Meanwhile, ongoing work focuses on enhancing the grounds and pavilion for a better experience for both athletes and spectators.

The next crucial phase involves laying the synthetic materials for the track, ensuring it meets international standards. The initiative, starting in October 2018 with an investment of around G$141 million by BK International Inc., emphasizes strengthening Guyana's athletic infrastructure.

This track will complement existing facilities like the Bayroc Community Centre Ground in Wismar, Linden, and the National Track and Field Facility in Edinburgh on the West Coast Demerara, showing a comprehensive approach by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and

A snippet of the progress on the modernised pavilion erected at New Amsterdam Synthetic Track.

Sports, and by extension the Government of Guyana toward promoting sports excellence throughout different regions in the country.

As construction continues, the New Amsterdam Synthetic Track signifies progress and promises a future where athletes can excel, symbolizing a commitment to national pride and sporting empowerment.

Its completion will not only enhance Guyana's sports landscape but also open doors for aspiring athletes to access top-notch facilities, fostering unity and competitive spirit in the nation.

FIFA standard lights have also been erected at the Berbice track.

FIFA rules out sanctions against Brazil Cricket fraternity after CBF chief Rodrigues returns mourns Harrinarine RIO DE JANEIRO, (Reuters) World soccer's governing body has ruled out sanctions against Brazil following the return of the country's FA (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues, who was removed by a court in Rio last month, FIFA's director of legal affairs Emilio Garcia said on Monday.

The Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice removed Ednaldo from his post on Dec. 7 and appointed an interim president to organise new elections after a dispute over the CBF's electoral process.

But Federal Supreme Court minister Gilmar Mendes last week ordered Rodrigues' return to office claiming that his dismissal by the courts could cause Brazil's suspension from international soccer competitions

by FIFA and damage Brazilian football.

"We are relieved by the Supreme Court's decision, which restores the presidency of Ednaldo on the basis of a free and democratic decision by Brazilian football," said Garcia.

"We're happy that we're back to the original situation in which Brazilian football elected its president. Brazilian football was at very high risk of being expelled from international competitions.

"That was ruled out for the moment after the Supreme Court decision and is no longer on the table," he added.

Chattergoon passing Harrinarine Chattergoon

FIFA president Gianni Infantino greets Brazil soccer confederation president Ednaldo Rodrigues - Sofia Hotel, Barcelona, Spain - June 15, 2023. (REUTERS/File Photo) CBF president Rodrigues thanked FIFA and South American soccer's governing body CONMEBOL for their support.

"This is the moment that restores normality to Brazilian football and we have many commitments for our calendar. From now on we want to concentrate on the development of Brazilian football," he said.

"I was elected in a clear and transparent way. Brazilian football wins when its autonomy is restored. We can now be sure that Brazil's clubs and

national teams will take part in international competitions."

Brazil are sixth in the South American qualifying standings for the 2026 World Cup, after suffering three straight defeats to Uruguay, Colombia and Argentina.

Rodrigues announced the resignation of Fernando Diniz as Brazil's manager on Friday, the day after resuming his post. Former Sao Paolo coach Dorival Junior is expected to be presented as Brazil's new manager by Wednesday.

Members of the local and Canadian cricket fraternity mourned the passing of Guyanese/Canada-based cricketer Harrinarine Chattergoon who unfortunately passed away following an accident on Monday night.

Brother of former Guyana/West Indies Test batsman, Sewnarine, the 33 year-old and another former youth player Javid Mohamed, both perished following an accident

involving their motor-cycle and a motorcar, in Berbice.

Harrinarine, Hemnarine, Ramnarine and Sewnarine all represented their country as well as the West Indies at some level, with the late Harrinarine continuing his trade in Canada.

Since his passing, social media posts and a number of outpouring of sentiments and fond memories were shared, among friends, family and members of the Cricket community.

BCB/Faizal Jafferally MP, T/20 Tournament...

Cotton Tree CC win exciting final by one rd wicket to emerge champions for 3 Edition The winning Cotton Tree Team.

s t r o Sp

Jumbo Jet's Mashramani horserace meet set for February 25 Close to GY$10,000,000 in cash incentives will be up for grabs on February 25 at Rising Sun Turf Club.

U19 Men's Cricket World Cup only ten days away; West Indies to play New Zealand in first warm-up game on January 14 U19 Men's Cricket World Cup trophy.

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