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AIETEUR NEWS

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Friday Edition January 26, 2024 - Vol. 26 No. 04

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EPA now wants formal request from citizens to see Exxon's US$2 billion guarantee ..one day after lawyer told Parliament anyone can just walk in and see it

EPA Head, Kemraj Parsram

ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge

Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin

Two men ‘Govt. MPs confused Essequibo man over Guyana’s plead guilty economic status’ to stand trial for killing ...McCoy says Guyana is not rich yet; Jagdeo says their wives we're getting there, Edghill says country not poor for rape of child 53

Debt servicing a growing - IMF challenge to countries ...repayments straining budgets, curtailing spending on essential services, job creation

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Friday January 26, 2024

Kaieteur News

EPA now wants formal request from citizens to see ExxonMobil's US$2B guarantee Although the nation was informed that any citizen can view ExxonMobil's US$2 billion guarantee at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the regulator has informed that a request must first be submitted.

On Thursday, Kaieteur News visited the EPA's Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown office to view the document, following the assurance by the EPA's Lawyer, Sanjeev Datadin.

Datadin had informed members of the National Assembly on Wednesday, during day three of the Budget 2024 Debates, that any citizen can view the document at the agency. He was at the time responding to the Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Shurwayne Holder who told the House on Tuesday that no patriotic government would refuse to make

EPA Head, Kemraj Parsram

Exxon's financial package for oil spills public so that citizens can feel a sense of security. “They (the EPA) are required to keep a register, a ledger of all those documents submitted and it is available for anyone, including the Honourable Member Mr. Shurwayne

ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge

Holder to go to their office between normal business hours and he will be allowed to see it,” said Datadin.

Even though he gave this assurance, the EPA informed Kaieteur News yesterday that there was a “process” in place to view such documents. Kaieteur News

..one day after lawyer told Parliament anyone can just walk in and see it Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin

spoke with the Agency's Receptionist on Thursday who explained that the head of the Legal Department had just left the building. She then referred this newspaper to a Communications Officer who explained the process required to view a copy of the document. She said that the request had to be made so that the officers would have enough time to locate the file.

The officer assured that it would be made available for viewing following the request.

“Any bit of information that is of a project, we usually ask persons to send a request. The reason for that is to eliminate the waiting time. These are physical documents that we have to go and look for and then give...if you want to sit and

wait that's completely up to you but it's still a request you'd have to make,” the officer related.

Kaieteur News has since formally requested to view a copy of the US$2 billion guarantee that has been provided to the EPA. It was reported that litigants Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte had made a number of requests to the Agency to see the guarantee reportedly submitted by the operator of the Stabroek Block but have been unsuccessful in their bid. In fact, this forced the citizens to seek the Court's assistance to ensure the company had complied with an Order dated June 8, 2023.

On May 3, 2023, High Court Judge Justice Sandil Kissoon ruled in favour of the litigants, ordering the

EPA to secure an unlimited parent and/or affiliate company guarantee.

However, Exxon and the EPA appealed this decision.

Pending the outcome of the case, Appellate Court Judge, Justice Persaud mandated Exxon to provide a US$2 billion guarantee. Only last week, the EPA's lawyer argued that the Court has no jurisdiction to order the release of Exxon's US$2B g u a r a n t e e . T h e Environmental Protection Act requires the EPA to make its registers available to the public at its office during normal office hours. There is no requirement for a letter of request, but rather a small fee for the requested copies.

This means citizens can freely view information during normal business hours.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

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Opposition wants paper trail on distribution of billions in cash grants F

ormer Minister of Public S e c u r i t y, K h e m r a j Ramjattan has called out the government for failing to transparently distribute billions of dollars from the treasury to compensate farmers and fisherfolk.

He also cited a similar blackout of information regarding the beneficiaries of other cash handouts such as the $200,000 entrepreneurs' grant.

The Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) was at the time making his contribution to the 2024 Budget Debates at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Georgetown on Tuesday when he raised his concerns.

He told the National Assembly, “They have this arrangement whereby PPP activists are distributing monies and they are bypassing Coalition supporters.

I have heard of arrangements whereby some the PPP supporters are begging the activists please ensure you give that man something, not because he's a known opposition person.”

Ramjattan continued, “And they got the money in they

haversack and they distributing. Is that how you run a country?

Why is it that you do not have an accountable system that states who is doing the distribution and also who are collecting?”

The leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) party contended that he has requested the list of beneficiaries of the $200,000 small business grants, however the information has not been handed over.

According to him, “...you don't want to give us, since the Covid-19 relief we asked, the flood relief we asked, the fishermen's relief we asked, you never provided it...that is not how you operate accountably and you must understand too Mister Speaker that these persons don't understand that democracy got certain pillars.”

Ramjattan continued that while he agrees that free and fair elections is an important pillar in a democracy, government must also recognise the three other equal pillars- good governance, rule of law and accountability.

He said, “We are not getting the accountability one here at all...it is

Opposition MP, Khemraj Ramjattan important that we get these figures.

I have been asking, take for example, what was it that was given to some members after the flood relief and was told by the agriculture minister, we don't have any information to give.

How could you do that and the fisherman's relief also.”

The Opposition MP stressed the need for transparency and accountability as he pointed out that billions are now at the disposal of the administration in this year's

budget.

Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha in an invited comment told Kaieteur News that the list of beneficiaries of the respective grants is available.

While he directed this publication to the Ministry of Finance, he did not respond to further questions regarding online availability of the information.

Kaieteur News was however able to find a list of fisherfolk that received compensation in 2022.

See link attached. https://agriculture.gov.gy/2022/08/ 08/ministry-of-agriculturefishermen-cash-grant-list/ This publication was unable to locate a similar list of beneficiaries for the farmers and entrepreneurs who benefited from cash payouts by government.

The government had distributed close to $8B in emergency relief to farmers that were affected by the 2021 floods.

The payout to each farmer varied, relative to their losses. See more here: https://dpi.gov.gy/over-9bspent-for-emergency-relief-tofarmers-households-in-2021/

‘Govt. MPs confused over Guyana's economic status’ ...McCoy says Guyana is not rich yet; Jagdeo says we're getting there, Edghill says country not poor

W

hile Guyana is heralded as the f a s t e s t growing economy globally and ExxonMobil Guyana's daily oil production reaching a staggering 560,000 barrels per day, there seems to be a lack of consensus among government Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding the nation's economic status.

During his budget presentation in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, asserted that Guyana is not yet a wealthy country.

“You know we hear every single day a reference, Guyana is an oil rich country, we have all the money we need, we have everything that we need,” McCoy said. He underscored that Guyana is still on a developmental journey. “The truth is we are

just not there yet, we are not that rich, there is still a journey along that will get us to where our earnings from oil resources will become much better than it is today,” Minister McCoy said.

He cautioned against the opposition's attempts to “spread misinformation” about the government is receiving bountiful money and can be able to do everything it pleases. “We need to be very careful,” McCoy said.

He added that had it been the APNU+AFC in government the country would have already been with its begging bowl. “Of course, we have worked to improve the lives of people right across this country. But we are not saying that we have done it all.

All of this is part of a process…It will not happen

overnight,” McCoy said.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo echoed similar sentiments, highlighting that Guyana is not currently a rich country. He expressed concerns about the dangerous idea of creating dependency on oil wealth and highlighted the need to address the citizens' growing expectations.

“I think this is extremely dangerous that is why we had to point this out that it creates a s y n d r o m e o f dependency…” Jagdeo said.

He acknowledged the progress made, pointing out the increase in the national economy from $300 million to $22 billion USD. “Now we have made it clear that over time, the resources in the oil and gas sector will accumulate at a magnitude where we will be in a growing way address more

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy

and more needs of our people but we will never come to a point in our history where the citizens of our country will just sit down at home and receive a cheque and have to stop working,” the Vice President said. Contrary to his colleagues, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, presented a more optimistic outlook during the budget debates on Thursday. Edghill declared that Guyana is undergoing a new paradigm of accelerated development, with the latent potential of the

people being discovered and mobilised across the country.

He rejected the characterization of Guyana as a poor nation and emphasised the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government's commitment to modernise and transform the country. In fact, he said: “We cannot continue to refer to ourselves as poor Guyana, old Guyana, and poorest country in the Caribbean.”

Edghill defended the government's spending

plans, stating that they are catalyzing development rather than splurging.” …We are utilising our current opportunities.

We h a v e c u r r e n t opportunities that exist because of the global environment because of what is happening in Guyana, because of the reality that we are now engaging in petroleum,” Minister Edghill said. He argued that the current opportunities are being harnessed to secure Guyana's future prosperity.

Kaieteur News

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

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

EDITORIAL Minister Benn on money laundering and organised crimes It took some time, but it is encouraging to note that Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, is now acutely conscious of the threats to Guyana’s economy, and the Guyanese way of life.

This country was operating under its own stresses before, thanks to local lawbreakers. Now there is no avoiding all the attention that it attracts from criminal elements across the globe. Where there is plenty of money, and the rush of activity that this country has seen, then criminals make it their priority to get with the crowd of foreigners coming to Guyana, to work from the margins and shadows for their own profitability.

“We are faced with new challenges again with respect to our new positioning in terms of income and money and economic activity. The type and shapes of crime that we are faced with… money laundering, cybercrime, financial crime, trafficking in person and all of those issues”, said Minister Benn at his ministry’s recent press conference. The minister speaks to truth, is onto something. For a country to become a target is the first step to it becoming a haven for the most cunning and the most ruthless that the criminal world has to offer. We already have our troubles with money laundering, but that has been minimised and largely suppressed as of late. Guyana has an active criminal underworld that make surveillance tapes disappear into thin air, prompt officials to move, even push top political figures to twist themselves into knots.

This country’s lines of defense are either porous and collapsible, or flexible and cultivatable. There has been too much priority given to politics, with too little regard for the dictates of the law, when such is all that should be. The astute criminal operators from other shores study the terrain that is Guyana, and they sense opportunities to plant what is dirty, and to reap what is pure gold. It could be called the perfect confluence of circumstances, with all of its sordid elements: shaky institutions, manipulable officials, politicians who can be bought, and a supporting cast that makes life comfortable and rewarding for clever criminals.

For sure, the economics of Guyana is mouthwatering, which few can resist. The challenge for the Government of Guyana, and those places and people standing as bulwarks for Guyanese, is how to differentiate between those who are legitimate, and those who are all about what fulfills their objectives, law or no law. Foreign criminals have deep pockets, and they will invest money to make massive amounts of money. In an environment that is prone to bribery, and where the people who have to stand strong and resolute harbour a deep sense of neglect, the odds are that past vulnerabilities and dangerous exposures are poised to take a turn for the worst.

The money launderers and organised crime figures are sometimes one and the same, and their wisdoms have created endless headaches for more sophisticated law enforcement jurisdictions. What chance does this country stand to repel the arrival and assaults of those who come from all over in various foolproof disguises. The push to keep politics out of the sensitive places that serve as thin walls of protection for the local population, and the local way of life, has been all but dismissed, and largely ignored. The predators have been doing their own feasibility studies of the Guyana landscape, and they thrill about what they see. Now they gear up to move in for the open-ended feasting.

Truth be told, some of them were already here, lying low, and picking their spots. The more that there is a flurry of economic activity, the more shelter and opportunity the criminals have to capitalize. The more that Guyanese remain divided, harboring sharp undercurrents of resentments, and at each other’s throats, the clearer the pathway for the criminals that come here to make a killing. If the situation so demands, then it is just a short, swift step before that could be taken literally, as in actually materialising. While politicians are consumed by their ambitions, and rage at perceived opponents, the real destructive ones are looking for any opening. Crimes of a type and magnitude never experienced before are now here.

Friday January 26, 2024

The Speaker of the House must be neutral DEAR EDITOR, I am troubled. I’m appalled at the alleged conduct of some persons in the Honourable House of Assembly. What for me is even more troubling was the reported lack of an appropriate response by the Speaker of the House.

I read over and over again that disrespect was meted out to an Opposition member of Parliament, but was unaware of the nature and gravity of the disrespect until I read a letter in Kaieteur News (Thursday Jan.25 2024), signed by Pt. Ubraj Naraine in which he detailed “the reported language used

– including terms such as ‘whore,’ ‘stripper,’ and ‘stink woman.’” FUH REAL? Could this be true? I thought that those who uttered such abuse would be summarily dealt with by the Speaker of the house and be made to apologise forthwith!! This woman could be my daughter! My inside churns at the thought of anyone disrespecting any of my children in such a way! And that in the presence of youths who were observing the debate!

I reflect on the tenure of past Speakers of the House, who may have been politically aligned to some

party and do not recall such blatant dereliction of duty.

We expect opposing views in the Honourable House, but is it necessary to descend to such lows!? Is this what we want our young people to learn?

When I think of “Speaker of the House” two words come to mind - ‘dignity’ and ‘neutrality’. Without these qualities, needed to harness and control outcomes, we will descend to animalistic behaviours (apologies to the lower animals).

One redeeming factor to note is that according to Stabroek News, Thursday, Jan.25, 2024, page 19 “...Fernandes

told Stabroek News that several ministers of government apologized to her on behalf of ministers McCoy and Persaud, following their actions.”

Hats off to you- whoever you are! This gives a ray of hope that all is not lost! I sincerely hope that the offenders will follow suit. I hope and pray that there would not be a recurrence of such dastardly behaviour in the House; that the Speaker will always seek to uphold “neutrality”, so that our National Assembly could be a forum that makes all Guyana proud!

Yours respectfully, Claudia Heywood

Research reveals that foreign nationals being denied a visa can escalate mental health risks DEAR EDITOR, According to my estimate, the odds of Cuban foreign nationals getting a visitor’s visa to America are roughly one in ten. There’s no shaking it. Their chances of being approved for a visa are extremely slim. Foreign nationals are more likely getting struck by lightning than getting a visa.

In 2017, more than 22.4 million people applied for a U.S. visa programme, and only an average of 500,000 green cards or lawful permanent residence was issued. The American’s Embassy in Guyana is robbing poor foreign

nationals, primarily from Cuba, flying to Guyana to apply for B-2 tourist visas for the purpose of visiting America. I want to share with you the experience of a foreign national who traveled to Guyana to apply for a visitor’s visa.

When José, (not his real name), an engineer, walked into his visa interview at the American consulate in Guyana, he wasn’t nervous.

He felt good. José, a 26-yearold Cuban national, thought he had a strong case for getting a visitor’s visa.

Applying for a US visa does not come for free. Instead, there are various US visa

costs and US visa application fees that you must pay.

I met José through a small hotel, which I own.

Like many of the foreign nationals visiting Guyana, José stayed at my place. He traveled many miles to Guyana. He paid $3000 (American’s dollar) in expensive to apply for the visa. This includes, plane fare (US$1900), accommodation (US$600), visa application and documents (US$280).

And after all of that great financial burden, and the distance he traveled, in less than 10 minutes, he was

denied the visa. José dreams of visiting America was shattered, and his money that he worked so hard for was gone, disappeared and vanished. José is a talker who talks all the time, but after the interview, he never said a word. He was silent and was weeping. He was devastated and shocked.

Editor, so I decided to do an investigation into the issuing of US visa. From my observation, approximately 200 foreign nationals come to Guyana daily to apply for visitor ’s visa. The US Embassy visa application fee is US$280 per person; (Continued on page 05)

We shouldn’t celebrate these sad developments DEAR EDITOR Please allow me to respond to a letter titled, “A momentous occasion for Hindus who came across those treacherous seas,” which appeared in your January 23 edition, and written by Mr. N. Sahadeo.

Mr. Sahadeo wrote, “What made our family even more happy is that one of our very own – a scion for all Guyanese was part of the audience witnessing this in person. Pujjya Swami Aksharananda Ji was invited to attend the Pran Prathista of the Sri Ram Lala murti in Ayodhya. This great son did not boast and advertise this tremendous honour.”

What is very alarming is that there is a trend in India by the current RSS Government to erase Christian and Muslim history and symbols across

India by mobs. This very temple that Mr. Sahadeo is emotionally excited about was constructed on the site of a 16th Century Babri Masjid which they claimed was the site where the Hindu God, Lord Rama was born at and that an alleged Hindu temple stood there. Yet no hard evidence proves so. The onesided excavation team has published no hard evidence after their findings. The mosque is not ancient history and it’s not hard to prove but the archeological team and the Supreme Court of India did what the ruling government and the public wanted.

P r o g r e s s i v e International, a human rights publication on January 22 wrote, “Today, the Modi government has made a decisive move to overthrow India’s secular constitution

in the name of a new Hindu supremacist nation,” the statement continued. “As prime minister, Modi has pushed this Hindu nationalism as India’s dominant political force: banning the hijab in schools, introducing ‘anticonversion’ laws, abusing municipal forces to demolish Muslim households and shops in cities, and pushing for a ‘uniform civil code’ in law.” Many more mosques since the past decade have been demolished across North India.

“Now, in open defiance of India’s secure constitution, Modi fuses ‘prime minister’ with ‘chief priest’ to conduct the consecration of this controversial temple,” the publication wrote.

This terrible precedent has led to more radicals

alleging that all the mosques in Mathura and Varanasi and even the Taj Mahal were Hindu Temples. They have brought these actions to the court. They have threatened to raze all mosques in Mathura and Varanasi. They have also threatened to tear down the Taj Mahal.

We shouldn’t celebrate these sad developments.

They will lead to more violence, ethnic cleansing, and destruction of d e m o c r a c y. T h e s e developments are not at all good for Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad. This sort of politics uses religion to divide and demonize in order to win elections. The repercussions will be felt in our region and bad examples are being set by the government of India.

Regards Ray Chickrie

Friday January 26, 2024

Kaieteur News

In every sector, there has been a major move upwards DEAR EDITOR Budget 2024 has been presented by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, and in his usual style, he was very erudite and detailed in his presentation. The debate is now on in the house, as to the merits and demerits of the allocations made to the various sectors of our economy. The Government for its own part has put forward a comprehensive package for a giant takeoff, we now await the Opposition’s response to this.

Now, as expected, the Opposition hasn’t been helpful in that they are in a mode of negatives shouting down every facet of the minister’s budget, they are making statements such as, “this project is not good for the country,” or as the opportunistic chameleons they are “it was a project that they had made plans for in their manifesto”.

Nice sounding words I would admit, but it all adds up to empty rhetoric, because in their 5 years 5 months in power, they never completed a single project, including those they haphazardly started, all did suffer a similar fate.

Even more revealing, was the fact that the unfinished ones had to be painfully renegotiated by the PPP/C Government at a great cost to taxpayers.

This is their record; this is their gifted legacy to the Guyanese people.

They are now trying to pull wool over our eyes by making promises to this nation saying if they get back into power, they will

complete those projects while getting others done. It is a dismal bellyaching rehash of their promised “Good Life” or what I would call grandiose delusions.

But let’s make for an argument and compare the PNC led Coalition’s three years (that is three uninterrupted years before the “No-confidence Vote”) against the same of the PPP/C in office.

The record shows after two (2) months in office, the PNC Led Coalition raised their salaries upwards of 50%, having done nothing for the people of this country, they enriched themselves after only two paltry months at the helm.

After that selfenrichment, there was an ushering in of an era of incompetence and gross mismanagement of public funds. Subsequent budgets saw an increase in taxes, two hundred (200) to be exact, and the taking away of other cost of living benefits.

The removal of the water and electricity subsidies to our elderly, the removal of the yearend bonus for those in the disciplined services and to top it off the removal of the “Because We Care” cash grant to our children.

Not forgetting those underhand deals that bankrupted us.

Where is the $18M Exxon Mobil ‘Signing Bonus’?

They would want us to forget these things, but we w o u l d n o t ! We w i l l remember those atrocities meted out to the Guyanese people and vow not to return to that dubious place.

So, when the PPP/C returned to power, it was a balancing game how to get the economy back up and running. We saw the removal of those crippling taxes and massive infrastructural development; roads, four lane highways, bridges, hospitals, the building of new schools and the installation of potable water.

In housing and telecommunication and last, but by no means least, an improvement in person’s take home pay.

In three years, salaries have increased while at the same time, the moving up of the income tax threshold, which means persons in the lower income tax level can have more in their take home earnings.

In every sector, there has been a major move upwards, all towards the good of this nation. Someone then asks the question, then what is the government doing with the rising cost of living?

The answer, there has already been a concerted effort in that direction such as the change in the tax threshold, persons in the lower level of income can now breathe a sigh of relief that they are not burdened with tax.

We have come this far and must keep pressing upwards and onwards.

After three years, we’ve achieved a lot and must keep on an upward trend.

We have a government that cares and it is our bounding duty to work with them for the betterment of a place called Guyana.

Respectfully submitted Neil Adams

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Rescind the decision to bestow President Irfaan Ali with African Global Leadership award DEAR EDITOR, T h e B u r n h a m Foundation is compelled, at this juncture, to call upon the African Prosperity Network to rescind its decision to bestow President Irfaan Ali with its African Global Leadership award.

What has President Ali done to warrant an award to be presented, ostensibly, in recognition of Guyana as the ‘fastest growing economy’, and his sharing of the nation`s prosperity “along the principles of equity and probity.”?

It is mere coincidence that Ali is the President at this time of a bonanza due to the discovery, production and sale of oil. That cannot be the basis for an award. The Ali regime has openly articulated that the Guyanese ofAfrican descent, as a subset of the population, do not need equitable treatment, as redress for post emancipation economic and social depravation. With regard to probity, actions such as the demolition of African Guyanese homesteads and farmsteads in Mocha-Arcadia, and the wanton destruction of their means of livelihood, are antithetical to probity and worse. It should also be noted that they were encouraged to establish themselves on those lands by the President himself, who in doing so promised that the construction of the road, which has been given the name Hero’s‘ Highway, adjacent to their properties would have resulted in the appreciation of the value of their properties. To their dismay, their properties were demolished and livelihoods thrown into disarray, yet some aliens from Ghana, of all places, have decided to reward the

President, notwithstanding his conduct, and that of his regime, which has been quite antithetical to probity. Those examples are but a tip of the iceberg, when it comes to the regime‘s disrespect for the people of African descent, including their refusal to honour the constitutional provisions for the representatives of the people, including those of African

descent, in particular, to be included in the decisionmaking processes at the national and local levels. The brethren from Ghana would be best advised to, themselves, embrace equity and probity and not repeat the ills of some of our ancestors, from that land, who sold our foreparents into slavery.

Regards Vincent Alexander

Research reveals that foreign...

From page 04 approximately 200 people per day apply for a visa, the embassy collects US$56,000 per day or US$280,000 per week or US$14,560,000 per year. Editor, that’s a lot of money which the embassy is making off poor people. And the worst part in all of this, Editor, like José, most of the foreign nationals are being denied visas.

The embassy is taking advantage of poor people. I am appalled by the bad treatment of these poor people. I am ashamed that Americans are

treating them like this. I would never believe that such a mighty country would take advantage of poor people. Editor, is this practice of the embassy of giving foreign nationals false hope of getting a visa and taking advantage of them financially illegal? No. Is it immoral and unethical? Yes. Having been denied a visa, José was devastated, shocked and hurt. Research reveals that foreign nationals being denied a visa can escalate mental health risks.

Sincerely Anthony Pantlitz

Kaieteur News

PAGE 06

Friday January 26, 2024

Barbados Parliament removes deputy The African award would be the impetus for speaker amid sex-related charges continued nation building

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Prime Minister Mia Mottley has defended the decision to remove Neil Rowe as deputy speaker of the Parliament, saying it will allow him to deal with a matter he faces before the High Court.

Last September, Magistrate Deidre McKenna ordered that Rowe stand trial before the High Court on the charge that he had sexual intercourse with a woman on September 18, 2022, without her consent or was reckless as to whether she consented.

Rowe made his first

appearance in the High Court on Thursday morning.

His trial has been set for June 11. Rowe, who was represented by Senior Counsel Michael Lashley, pleaded not guilty to having unlawful sexual intercourse with a woman on September 18, 2022.

He remains on bail until his trial.

The ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP), which controls all 30 seats in the Parliament, on Tuesday voted to remove Rowe from his post after Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of Government Business, Santia Bradshaw moved the

motion to rescind his appointment. Mottley said that the decision removes Parliament from being embroiled in the private issues of a member.

“In this case, there is no consideration whatsoever of anything other than the Deputy Presiding Officer of the Parliament of Barbados being involved in a private matter. It is a judgement of all of us, that he be allowed the time to allow himself to deal with this matter, and indeed to be able to ensure that his assertion of innocence is capable of being pursued,” said Mottley, insisting that

Rowe will remain as the parliamentary representative for St Michael North West constituency.

“By the same token, while that is going on and he be given all of the space to do that, we have to ensure that the public business of the Parliament of Barbados, and by extension, as an arm of the Government of Barbados, can continue without, as I said, being embroiled in the private issues of a particular member,” she said, pointing out that this is the third instance where a Deputy Speaker of the House has faced legal issues.”

DEAR EDITOR The daggers are out. All the reasons given. It must be seen as incomprehensible, given all the claims of racial bias, discrimination and oppression, an African c o u n t r y, a n A f r i c a n organization would see it fit and proper to honour our President with an African award! How could this be?

This is so vexatious to those seeking to have the award rescinded/withdrawn.

The African country and organization and the award are seen as anti- and a betrayal by that segment of population locally.

The African country and

organization don’t think so.

The decision to make the award was bigger and compelling than the aspirant Ghanian investor here seeking favourable contract consideration.

The award would be gracefully and humbly accepted for all the peoples of Guyana.

This award will be the impetus and driving force knowing fully well work remains to be done to bring about the elusive unity, prosperity for all and harmony so badly needed in nation building.

Sincerely Shamshun Mohamed

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Kaieteur News

This country's lines of defense are either porous and collapsible, or flexible and cultivatable. There has been too much priority given to politics, with too little regard for the dictates of the law, when such is all that should be.

The astute criminal operators from other shores study the terrain that is Guyana, and they sense opportunities to plant what is dirty, and to reap what is pure gold.

It could be called the perfect confluence of circumstances, with all of its sordid elements: shaky institutions, manipulable officials, politicians who can be bought, and a supporting cast that makes life comfortable and rewarding for clever criminals.

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 8 10

Monday Friday January May 02,26, 2022 2024

Debt servicing a growing challenge to countries ...repayments straining budgets, curtailing spending on essential services, job creation The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned that high debt servicing costs is a growing challenge for low-income countries, noting that financing pressures due to relatively high interest payments and the pace at which the countries need to repay debt are straining budgets.

The Government of Guyana (GoG) has set aside $44 billion in this year's budget to service its ballooning debt. The $44B or approximate US$220M vastly exceeds the sum

allocated to various government ministries. For instance, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport have each received about $9 billion to finance their development agenda. In 2023, some US$177.3 million in revenue went towards debt service, up from US$150.2 million in 2022.

The growing payments to service the country's debt stems from a conscious decision of policy makers that believe Guyana's forecast of revenue from the oil and gas sector justifies its

borrowing agenda.

Meanwhile, the IMF in an article titled: “How to Ease Rising External DebtService Pressures in LowIncome Countries” said that the high interest payments have been preventing lowincome countries from spending more on essential services or the critical investment needed to attract business, create jobs, improve prosperity, and build climate resilience.

“One important metric is the share of revenues the government collects from its population through taxes and

o ther fees that goes to pay its foreign creditors. While the scale of the burden differs greatly across countries, it's generally about two and a half times higher than a decade earlier.

This means for a typical low-income borrower the share has risen to about 14 percent, from about 6 percent, and as much as 25 percent, from about 9 percent in some economies.

This is one of the key indicators used in the framework for assessing debt sustainability that signals a country might be at risk of needing financial support from the IMF or of missing a debt payment,” the IMF said in the article written by Allison Holland and Ceyla Pazarbasioglu.

The IMF said too those low-income countries also have significant debt repayments falling due in the next two years. “They need to refinance about US$60 billion of external debt each year, about three times the average in the decade through 2020.

But with many competing demands for financing, including from advanced and emerging market economies that are also trying to adapt to climate change, there's a significant risk of a liquidity crunch—failure to raise sufficient financing at an affordable cost. That could in turn lead to a destabilizing debt crisis.

To address this financing challenge, we must understand why it's happening and what affected countries and the broader international community can do to help.”

According to the IMF, one factor was higher government borrowing and deficits to mitigate the impact of the pandemic and other external economic shocks.

This has increased the level of debt and consequently the cost of servicing it. The IMF said it's encouraging that this trend is reversing as countries bring primary deficits back in line with pre-pandemic levels.

In addition, the IMF said

central banks have significantly raised borrowing costs to tame inflation. “That makes it costlier for governments to raise new debt or refinance existing debt. While central banks may be done raising rates, it is not clear when they will start to cut, and this uncertainty may be reflected in volatile financial market conditions.

Low-income countries have also increasingly borrowed from the private sector—with about one third of financing coming from private creditors in the last decade compared with about one fifth in the previous decade.

This reflected a slowdown in financing from multilateral development banks (MDBs) in the earlier part of the decade and through official development assistance (ODA) agencies over 2020-22 compared to borrowing needs. This shift has increased both financing costs and vulnerability to global financial shocks.”

Avoiding a costly debt crisis Building resilience in the face of these trends requires countries to act. Some countries have made progress— for instance, A n g o l a , T h e Gambia,Nigeria, and Zambia have taken steps to implement significant energy subsidy reforms to create space for development spending.

But many are lagging behind, especially in efforts to increase revenues, such as broadening the tax base, reducing tax exemptions, and increasing the efficiency of tax administration.

For instance, the typical Sub-Saharan African country raised only 13 percent of gross domestic product in revenues in 2022, compared with 18 percent in other emerging economies and developing countries and 27 percent in advanced economies.

And those with high debt vulnerabilities can't afford to wait. Policy reforms are needed to boost growth and capture more revenue from that growth, for instance, through tax reforms.

This will directly improve countries' key debt metrics and ensure they can avoid a costly debt crisis.

Only this week, Opposition Member of

Parliament and Shadow Minister of Finance, Juretha Fernandes condemned the government's plan to have 40 percent of the substantial $1.146 trillion budget supported by loans.

Fernandes said this amounts to $458.4 billion through borrowing. Fernandes noted the impact of this decision on individual households and citizens, stating that it would effectively saddle each household with an additional $1.8 million in debt, which translates to around $588,000 per citizen. Fernandes's remarks were part of her scathing response to what she perceives as the government's reckless financial planning.

She said, “So in an oil rich economy, instead of creating a pathway to sustainable prosperity for Guyanese, the PPP has decided to shackle every man, woman and child with a debt burden, and there seems to be no light at the end of this tunnel.”

The Shadow Minister added, “For every child that will receive the $40,000 'Because we care cash grant,' they will also be receiving a 'because we do not care' debt burden of more than half a million-dollars, complements of the PPP administration.”

Fernandes said having $458B in loans is not to be taken lightly. She recalled that in 2020, the same time the government took office, the external debt ceiling was $400 billion. “So in this one budget, the PPP is adding almost the same amount of debt to the nation as the total external debt ceiling under the coalition; a ceiling the coalition never met and never saw a need to increase,” she said.To make matters worse, Fernandes expressed alarm that the government plans to return to the House to increase the debt ceiling for a third time as well as revise the Natural Resource Fund's (NRF) withdrawal rules to spend more of the oil revenues. Fernandes said this does not bode well for the nation's economic wellbeing.

Sharing similar concerns was her colleague, Shadow Minister of Legal Affairs, Roysdale Forde.

During his contributions, Forde questioned whether the $1.146 trillion budget represents a true cost or would government return with supplementary requests.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

PAGE 09

Burnham and Jagdeo can shake hands When the PPP/C took office in 1992, it lamented the country’s US$2.1B external debt which it said made Guyana one of the most highly indebted countries in the world, It pointed out that every Guyanese child born inherited a per capita debt of almost US$300,000.

Of course in those days the country also laboured under a high debt per GDP ratio and a crippling debt servicing. Now that these particular ratios are very healthy, Jagdeo and the PPP/C are overlooking the fact that Guyana’s per capita debt today is twice what it was when the PPP/C took office in 1992.

Jagdeo should tell the nation how much money the PPP/C borrowed since 1992 and whether the aggregate loans that it took was not more than the PNC took during its tenure in office.

Jagdeo does not feel that the country has a debt problem.

And he sees no reason to be worried about the excessive borrowing by his government since as he contends the country is not borrowing for consumption but as an investment in the future. Burnham was also borrowing for investment purposes when he began to build, the glass factory, the bicycle factory, GRECO and the host of other enterprises that flat-lined and pushed the country deeper into a debt crisis. Had Burnham done proper feasibility studies, those projects, pursued in the name of self-reliance, would not have been undertaken.

And this is what Jagdeo does not get. No one is questioning that Guyana now has a greater ability to borrow because it is flush with oil revenues and is backing its borrowing with future oil revenues. No one

is disputing that the debt to GDP and debt to revenue ratios are extremely healthy.

The concerns being raised are two-fold. The first is that had the PPP/C done the right thing and renegotiated the oil contracts or pressed for ringfencing, there would have been no need for Guyana to borrow any monies. Guyana could have paid off its debt and have no need to borrow.

Jagdeo get very agitated when asked about ringfencing. He has made a lame excuse about future benefits which contradicts his own position that Guyana has a narrow window to exploit its oil resources.

Why is Guyana borrowing? And is it not too risky to be backing your borrowing against future oil revenues? What happens if oil prices collapse as they did during the pandemic? Is it not too risky a strategy to be raising the debt ceiling to try

DEM BOYS SEH

Guyana is the borrowing capital of the world

G

uyana, de fastest growing economy in the world is becoming de fastest growing debt collection agency? It seems our national pastime is not cricket but rather the thrilling sport of “Who Can Borrow More?”

Deh gat folks in Guyana who have turned borrowing into an art form. Forget saving for a rainy day; we’re too busy creating a downpour of debt. If only there were Nobel Prizes for borrowing, we’d have a cabinet full of them by now.

When yuh just get married and gat to furnish yuh home, it does cost millions fuh but bed, stove, refrigerator, dining table, chairs, blinds

and even kitchen utensils.

Even dem young professionals can’t save enough fuh furnish dem homes. So dem gat to go to dem hire-purchase place fuh get the items pon terms.

And what’s a Guyanese home without a car? We don’t just drive cars; we chauffeur our debt around town. Don’t be fooled by that sleek ride; many are bought by loans from the banks or paid for in installments from the car dealers. But the borrowing bonanza doesn’t stop there.

Oh no, we’ve got our fashionistas strolling down the runway of debt, flaunting their designer wear from boutiques.

Thank goodness for lay-

a w a y. A n d w h e n t h e supermarket checkout line demands cash like a toll booth, fear not! We’ve perfected the art of the neighbour-nudge and the friend-favour – the modernday barter system where groceries are the currency of camaraderie. Forget about fiscal responsibility; we’re here for a good time, not a financially stable time.

So, fellow Guyanese, let’s raise our glasses (borrowed, of course) to a nation that knows the true meaning of living on the edge – of someone else’s credit limit.

Why worry? The government is borrowing too – left, right and centre…even under!

Talk half. Leff half.

to borrow more money than perhaps the government can spend?

The IMF has warned about the risk of overheating. This is one of the main downside risks which the IMF had identified for both the short-term and medium term. The IMF has encouraged a policy of declining debt as one of the ways to avoid overheating.

The government has tabled a US trillion-dollar Budget this year. The size of the 2024 Budget flies in the face of the caution, made by the IMF, for the government to moderate fiscal impulses, a euphemism for saying the government should be prudent in its spending and not embark on reckless expenditure.

The second concern is that many of the projects for which loans are being sought

have huge question marks over them. Why do we need 12 new hospitals costing billions of dollars? What feasibility studies have been carried out on these projects?

Has a specific feasibility study been done in relation to the gas-to energy project?

After the fiasco with the Skeldon Sugar Factory, and the problems with the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project, the public has justification for being circumspect about these large-scale projects being proposed and undertaken by the PPP/C. Already a number of these projects are behind schedule. Like Jagdeo, Burnham did feel too that he was investing in the country’s future when he began setting up all manner of factories. Well, the bottom fell out of the sugar prices and oil prices rose throwing

the country into a prolonged economic crisis which in turn created the debt crisis for Guyana. Guyana is not sitting comfortable with the large amount of loans that the PPP/C is contracting.

And while Jagdeo says that it is an investment in the future, this was the same reason given for the now defunct Skeldon Sugar Factory.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Friday Monday January May 02, 26,2022 2024

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Commission of Inquiry versus Independent Investigations Whenever there is a development of great sensitivity or heavy controversy in Guyana, the calls are immediate and many for a Commission of Inquiry (COI).

From Linden to Mahdia, and going beyond arson and assassinations, the thinking and press by Guyanese have been for COIs. A COI involving the right people, functioning with an open-ended mandate, and lacking in interference, or even a whiff of untoward influence, has its benefits, possesses merits.

C o n t r a s t i n g l y, w h a t Guyanese have received for COIs have been mainly sham and spectacle.

Doing something for the sake of doing something.

Get it done for the record and reference. Meanwhile deep skepticism reigns that the COI for this condition, or that tragedy, lacks either depth or genuineness.

The composition of any given COI is the first giveaway.

For the most part, the names and selections are of people who do not inspire the greatest confidence.

Credibility is questioned quietly in some corners, sometimes many, particularly by those who know them.

Their commitment to getting to the bottom of whatever is being reviewed for real substances can be questioned. Then, there is that indicator that does not fail: their long connection to one

government or another, their mutually rewarding relationship with one leader or the other.

One of the standing practices in this society is to select the leader for a COI from friendly quarters.

That is, someone who can be depended upon to deliver what is expected.

What local politicians of exceptional craftiness expect more often than not falters before what does justice to the challenge at hand, what is in the best interests of the people.

But Guyanese do have these cherished COIs, and whatever the issue-crime, crisis, or catastrophe-at hand, simply fade away.

The government of the moment is pleased with itself

to assert that there was a COI, and it has delivered. What else is there to harp and carp about?

Meanwhile, in the realm of thinking and conscientious Guyanese- a shrinking presence-there is the sticky sense that cannot be shed that something is amiss, that all is not alright, and that matters were cleverly smoothed over, or even that some fix was part of the process, and the resulting product (report).

The latter usually triggers a new series of clamors and controversies.

But who cares about means and methods, a COI was called for and completed, wasn't it? So, what's the problem now?

This is the unsettled territory that has been inseparable from most COIs that had been given life. To maintain a neutral and general context, I do not pinpoint any one COI, except to say this to citizens: take a closer look at those in the last couple of decades, and they have generated more questions than answers, more disturbances than calm, and renewed controversy over what should have been finalized, and put to rest, but was not.

To s u m t h i s u p differently, I discern that if Guyanese had their way, there would be a COI of completed COIs, to prove that what was delivered is only half of the story, and a skewed one at that, in the minds of those who still think

freely and cleanly here.

Weighing all this, I am thinking that we need a better arrangement, apparatus, to probe our issues that roil and trouble deeply.

If only for the confidence that it gives. In America, there is a creature called an Independent Counsel, as underwritten by the law of the land.

There is a powerful need for such a presence in Guyana. A man or woman who is named, and who assembles his own team. As in Watergate and Clintongate, great pains were gone to by the Attorney General and Justice Department to identify a citizen of impeccable reputation, one saturated with integrity and credibility across the board.

The person has always been someone known to have strong ties to the other, adversarial, political side.

The mere mention of such a consideration is tantamount to a sacrilege, if not crime, in Guyana.

I persevere. The Independent Counsel has an unlimited budget, works with an open-ended scope (Terms of Reference), freely gathers his group, and is not answerable to the president, or attorney general, or anyone.

Simply putting something of this nature into the public domain could be enough to get me the gas chamber. There, I still place it firmly, but insistently, before all Guyanese, none

more than the clean thinking ones, meaning, the hoped-for objective, non-partisan ones.

The first concern is whether there is the principle and the guts to consider something like this.

The second is whether there would be the will and leadership vitality to put something along the lines of an Independent Counsel into action here. For whatever it i s w o r t h , m y recommendation is that we should do so in disputeriddled Guyana.

It is time that an effort is made to overcome the charges of 'whitewash' and 'coverup' and what I would label a fool's errand. I readily admit to a glaring deficiency in any such Independent Counsel/Investigator mechanism. Who is there in Guyana from the other side that a PPP or PNC government and leadership would put so much in their hands?

What could expose and maul? For most issues and developments of national significance, there is running to foreign shores and their citizens.

That alone should emphasize where and how things stand here on the matters that drain and drag down and degrade Guyana.

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

Two wife killers plead guilty to manslaughter

T

wo men on Thursday pleaded g u i l t y t o manslaughter when they appeared at the High Court before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

The men, Tyron James, a carpenter of Port Kaituma and Dhanraj Theophillus, who beat their common-law wives in Region One, North West District (NWD), who subsequently died from their injuries, appeared separately before Justice Sewnarine-

Beharry.

James was accused of cuffing his wife, Evadnee Baptiste to the head after he saw her dancing with another man; this resulted in her death death on July 15, 2008 at the Port Kaituma Waterfront.

He was charged with murder. James reported what transpired and that Baptiste's body was taken to the Port Kaituma Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Her cause of death was

given as brain haemorrhage due to blunt trauma.

Meanwhile, Theophillus reportedly beat Lorinda Thomas badly on January 18, 2018 at Barima Line, Baramita resulting in her being rushed to a health outpost in the area where she subsequently succumbed to her injuries.

The men pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter and are expected to be sentenced on February 5, 2024.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

PAGE 11

Old age pension increase can only buy five mints per day A

Partnership For National Unity ( A P N U ) Parliamentarian, Natasha Singh- Lewis has described the $3000 increase for old age pension listed in the 2024 Budget as not only pitiful and insignificant but it is equivalent to the purchase of five chick mints per day.

The Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) made this deduction during her contribution to the national budget debates at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Thursday.

Highlighting what she called cosmetic measures to cater to the poor and working-class people of Guyana, Singh-Lewis questioned the authenticity of the reliefs listed the 2024 budget. “These are mere cosmetic measures nothing of substance that will address the genuine concerns of ordinary people.

Upon scrutinizing this budget, it became increasingly apparent that the government is navigating a path detached from the genuine needs and struggles of our people,” the MP said.

She continued “The budget evokes a melody of a composition that fails to strike a chord with the soul of the average people harmonizing more with the interest of a privileged few rather than addressing the pressing concerns of the working-class Guyanese.”

To this end, Singh-Lewis noted that increase for pensioners and relief for those in need of social assistance is not close to enough to offset the burdens of a high cost of living. “Mr. Speaker, pensioners were granted a 3000 increase which works out to approximately 100 per day… One chick mint is $20.

This is what the pensioners will get with that increase every single day, five chick mints…”

As such, the MP reason that the increase is essentially equivalent to no increase at all. Turning her attention to the management of the agency, the MP pointed to the high staff

turnover at Ministry of Human Services.

The MP noted “Qualified staff at the Ministry of Human Services is leaving because of incompetence and nepotism...Sir let me remind this house that the staff of the Ministry in 2022 wrote a letter demanding that the minister should resign because of her policies of discrimination…”

“There is a high turnover of technical staff who are leaving … the childcare and protection staff are leaving at an alarming rate in some regions, over 80 percent of the staff left and, in some regions, there are reports of over 3000 cases of child abuse. In Region one, there is only one Childcare and Protection Officer.”

She reasoned that for a country with the highest GDP per capita, we should be able to handle our social i s s u e s a d e q u a t e l y. I n response, Minister of Human Service, Dr. Vindhya Persaud noted that the government has a robust plan to address these issues.

She noted that the Government will among other things, be injecting some $63 million of its budgetary allocation for social services for the construction of a muchneeded juvenile justice processing centre. “Young people may come into conflict with the law and we want to give them a second chance, we want to make sure they are dealt with in accordance with the Juvenile Justice Act and that Act provides for us to deal with these young people very differently.

The juvenile justice processing centre will be built for $63 million in Region Four catering to the needs of our juveniles,” she elaborated. Further, the minister noted that over 100 ex-prisoners and their families will also benefit from this through the ministry's budgetary allocations.

“The work that we do speaks for itself and I also believe that our young

- MP tells Parliament people should be very familiar with what this government is doing for them,” she said. The minister reiterated the government's long-standing commitment to providing much-needed support for the improved livelihood of the nation's youths.

APNU Parliamentarian, Natasha Singh- Lewis

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

IDB President Concludes First Visit to Japan with Key New Agreements and Support for the Bank's Path Forward

P

resident of the I n t e r- A m e r i c a n Development Bank (IDB), Ilan Goldfajn, successfully concluded a three-day visit to Tokyo on Wednesday, deepening ties with Japan, a major development partner for Latin America and the Caribbean.

During his visit, Goldfajn met with high-ranking government officials at the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as private-sector leaders in the context of the BID for the Americas initiative, securing key new agreements and gaining support for the IDB's path forward, the bank said in a press release. He also delivered a lecture for students at Tokyo's Sophia

University, a longtime partner of the IDB in Japan, which sponsors internships programs at the Bank's headquarters in Washington.

The president signed new partnerships with Japan's International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the NEC Corporation, while also receiving support for the IDB Group's path forward, including the forthcoming Institutional Strategy, a new business model and recapitalization proposal for IDB Invest, and the replenishment proposal for IDB Lab. "It was an honor to be in Japan for my first visit as president of the IDB. Since joining as one of our initial non-regional member countries in 1976, Japan has played a critical role in

promoting sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The new agreements we signed and the authorities' support for the ongoing initiatives to reform the IDB Group are a testament to our strong bond and Japan's commitment to improving lives in our region," said President Goldfajn.

A new memorandum of collaboration between the IDB Group and JICA paves the way for a $1 billion increase in co-financing under the Cooperation for Economic Recovery and Social Inclusion (CORE) framework. Established in 2 0 11 , C O R E s u p p o r t s projects in areas such as quality infrastructure, disaster-risk preparedness, universal health coverage

and climate change.

With the new agreement, total funding for the program will reach $4 billion and will be extended until December 2028.

The IDB and NEC Corporation, a Japanese multinational company specializing in the integration of IT and network technologies, signed a new cooperation agreement, focusing on building knowledge programs through conferences and workshops on digital infrastructure and technology applications, including artificial intelligence.

The partnership also includes training, capacity building, course and material development, collaborating on proofs of concept, pilot

programs, and identifying potential co-financing or coinvestment projects in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The agreement also incentivizes future collaborations in areas such as citizen security and models for climate resilience, as well as potential engagements with IDB Invest and IDB Lab. In addition to the JICA and NEC signings, President Goldfajn met with a range of highlevel officials and representatives in Tokyo, including from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He also met with other partners from business and academia, such as the Japan E x t e r n a l T r a d e Organization (JETRO), the Japan Institute for Overseas Investment (JOI), the Japan Association of Latin America and the Caribbean (JALAC) and S o p h i a U n i v e r s ity. In collaboration with JETRO,

JOI and JALAC, the IDB organized a session to introduce BID for the Americas to Japanese companies.

The program seeks to enhance the participation of international firms in IDB bidding and investment opportunities in Latin America and the Caribbean.

President Goldfajn also delivered a lecture at Sophia University, where he shared his insights on the IDB's role, priorities and vision for Latin America and the Caribbean.

He emphasized the importance of the partnership with Japan, which has been a key ally and supporter of the Bank and the region's development goals.

He also highlighted the agreement between the IDB and Sophia University for internships at the bank, and the career opportunities at the IDB for young professionals and students interested in working for the region.

To stand trial, Haimchand Takram

Essequibo man to stand trial for rape of child A 60-year-old businessman from La Bell Alliance, Essequibo identified as Haimchand Takram called "Coolie Boy" w a s o n We d n e s d a y committed to stand trial at the Suddie Supreme Criminal Court for the rape of a child.

Takram was charged with the offence of Sexual Activity with a Child which reportedly occurred between September 1 and 30, 2022.

O n We d n e s d a y, Magistrate Esther Sam presided over the Paper

Committal at the Anna Regina Magistrates' Court where the court decided that there is enough evidence for the accused to stand trial.

Takram was granted $500,000 bail.

Meanwhile, Rohan Narine called Prem Narine also from Essequibo was on Wednesday charged with rape committed on a woman from Region Two. Narine was granted $300,000 bail and the case was adjourned to February 7, 2024 for the disclosure of statements.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

PAGE 13

An image from the first meeting of the Joint Commission between Guyana and Venezuela (Photo credit: Brazil Ministry of External Affairs)

Guyana and Venezuelan Foreign Ministers met in Brazil for Joint Commission Meeting The Foreign Ministers of Guyana and Venezuela convened in Brasilia, Brazil, on Thursday, marking the inaugural meeting of the Joint Commission established in accordance with the joint Declaration of Argyle for dialogue and peace.

The Declaration emerged from discussions between President Irfaan Ali and Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro at Argyle, St. Vincent on December 14, 2023 on the Guyana –Venezuela border controversy.

Under Paragraph 7 of the Joint Declaration, both nations agreed to promptly establish a joint commission comprising their Foreign Ministers and technical experts. The commission's mandate is to address mutually agreed-upon matters, with an obligation to provide updates to the Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela within three months.

During the meeting, Guyana presented an agenda, with Minister Hugh Todd, leading Guyana's delegation, stating that the country's stance on the land boundary between Guyana and

The observers from Brazil, CELAC and UN Venezuela remained unchanged.

Guyana asserted that the resolution of the border controversy falls under the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as stipulated by the Geneva Agreement.

Consequently, Guyana emphasized its commitment to maintaining the matter before the Court until a final

ruling is issued, which will be respected fully.

Minister Todd proposed exploring regional and hemispheric statements on peace and security as a constructive avenue for advancing discussions.

He also identified several areas for potential collaboration, including existing agreements on drugs, Jet

A1 Fuel, and matters related to food security.Guyana reiterated its dedication to the principles outlined in the Argyle Declaration, emphasizing a commitment to fostering peace in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Todd expressed eagerness for future meetings to further enhance the relationship between Guyana

and Venezuela.

Notably, he extended sincere appreciation to the Foreign Minister of Brazil, HE Mauro Vieira, for facilitating the discussions. Recognition was also given to the representatives of CELAC and the United Nations, who attended the meeting as observers.

PAHO and International Hospital Federation sign agreement to strengthen hospital management in the Americas Washington DC, 25 January 2024 (PAHO)- The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the International Hospital Federation (IHF) signed a technical cooperation agreement to strengthen hospital management capacity in the region, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The collaboration will focus on three core aims: supporting the development of hospital management competencies; strengthening hospital management, systems, and processes; and advancing the transformation to net zero-, climate resilient and sustainable healthcare.

“PAHO operates on the basis that strong, trusted, and long-term collaboration is key to tackling health challenges in the Americas,” PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa said. “Together with the IHF, we look forward to equipping executives in the region to deliver hospital leadership for tomorrow – services that are innovative, integrated, patient-centred, and anchored in sustainability.”

PAHO, jointly with the IHF, will provide guidance on the restructuring and upgrading of hospitals and on the delivery of specialized care to ensure adequate accessibility for hospital-based

services, including emergency, operative, critical, and outpatient care.

Furthermore, the collaboration seeks to expand digital health services within hospitals and associated networks, promoting innovative approaches to enhance healthcare delivery.

PAHO and IHF will promote the development of programs for healthcare delivery that strengthen climate resiliency in hospitals and in leadership decisions.

“The health sector is undergoing a period of significant change to adapt to future service needs. Collaborating with peers as

an international community enables us to address the global challenges and opportunities we face, working together for improved health outcomes for patients, the healthcare workforce, and the environment,” Dr Muna A. Tahlak, President of the IHF, said. PAHO will work with the IHF on leadership capacity development and on the provision of training for senior managers and executives within hospitals, in particular in topics such as hospital o rg a n i z a t i o n , m a n a g e m e n t , operation and oversight, and in promoting a culture of quality in

healthcare delivery. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the IHF is a non-profit global organization that provides its members with a platform for knowledge exchange and networking with different actors in the health sector to improve the standard, quality, and level of service delivery.

PAHO is the specialized health agency of the InterAmerican System and serves as the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Americas. It works with countries throughout the region to improve and protect people's health.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Friday January 26, 2024

Guyana increasing oil production annually yet unable to pay nurses liable wage to combat shortage Former Health Minister Dr. Karen Cummings on Thursday raised concerns over the mass exodus of health workers owing to a failure by Government to pay livable wages.

Dr. Cummings, Member of Parliament (MP) for the A Partnership for National Unity party noted that with the ramping up of oil production, the Government of Guyana should be able to collect more revenues to pay nurses and other public servants livable wages and

put a stop to the loss of skilled workers from the public sector. In her budget debates presentation on Thursday, Dr. Cummings called on Government to urgently provide redress to the issue while alluding to the shortage of nurses at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

The MP noted that the figure of nurses that have resigned from the institution, which is the nation's leading public health facility, is cause for alarm. Since January last

year; more than 300 nurses have resigned from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

As such, she noted: “the country's primary medical institution has been hard-hit by a high number of resignations in recent years and according to well-placed sources at the GPHC, at the end of 2022, close to 215 nurses had resigned from the hospital. By the end of August last year, more than 100 nurses had tendered their resignations from the GPHC,

- Dr. Cummings another source noted.

Dr. Cummings noted that some 1200 nurses should be manning the hospital since it is a 450-bed facility; however, the current staff roster is far below that figure grossly impacting the ratio of nurses manning the beds at the hospital.

APNU Parliamentarian, Dr. Karen Cummings “The honourable member, Dr. Ashni Singh,

noted on page 94, three FPSOs in the Stabroek Block will realise 550,000 barrels per day in 2024 with an expected ramp up to over 600,000 barrels per day in the latter part of this year.” “Mr. Speaker, what I am saying is that there is adequate fiscal space to pay nurses and healthcare workers, there is enough fiscal space to address in a tangible way the rising cost of living, and there is no lack of money to give a livable wage to public servants, pensioners, the Guyanese on public assistance and the differently abled…” she added.

The Opposition Parliamentarian suggested that Guyanese nurses are being easily recruited overseas because they are offered more attractive salaries than what they are paid locally.

In response to Cummings, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony noted that additional Cuban nurses are being recruited as the government expands local training programmes. Dr. Cummings, however, said hiring foreign nurses to quell the problem is not acceptable. She also said postgraduate training for nurses “will not cut it.”

According to her, nurses and other healthcare workers must be better paid.

To this, Dr. Anthony highlighted those nurses' salaries, under the APNU+AFC government from 2015 to 2020, saw their salaries increase by about 33%. And he noted that since 2020, when the PPP/C returned to office, salaries have increased by about 71%.

Further, Dr. Anthony said this nursing issue is not one that Guyana alone is grappling with. “Migration of nurses is a global phenomenon but what is important is what we do,” he said.

The Health Minister posited that the government is responding to this issue by training far more nurses now than before and those healthcare workers will be employed as soon as they complete their studies. Dr. Anthony defended the mammoth $129.8 billion allocation for the health sector in the $1.14 trillion 2024 budget.

A huge chunk of those funds will be spent on building 12 new hospitals across the country and upgrading several other facilities.

Friday January 26, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 26, 2024

Kaieteur News

Over 30 contractors bid to build mega drainage canal in Reg. 6

WANTED

VACANCY

FOR RENT

Female Bartender, Cook & Domestic and male Workers needed to work in Interior.

18 years & older. Call: 6609093/ 661-5992.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

Place to rent for business at Vreed-en-Hoop junction.

Suitable for church, lessons, storage bond, office & other.

Call: 603-6400.

Customer Service Representative & Driver needed. Apply in person with application & relevant documents at Sandy's Funeral Home.

Call: 223-5354/ 227-7178.

Wanted! Male & Female workers preferably from WBD, for packaging pasta and chowmein. $4100 per day. Call: 611-7839.

Welder needed. Living accommodation provided. Call: 627-5043/ 639-1315.

2 Porters needed in grocery store. $5000 per day. Call: 223-9677.

Professional teacher required for tutoring Grade 2 pupil in Math, handwriting & assisting with homework.

Call: 623-6383.

Babysitter needed to work Monday to Saturday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. Call: 623-6383.

Drivers, Porters and Salesman needed, experience will be an asset, Attractive salary offered. Call: 673-7373.

General Manager Needed for the Interior at 6th Dredge.

Call: 696-9854 or 223-7165.

We are looking for part-time: Serving staff, Bartenders, Janitor & Full time: Handyman, Handy woman. Call: 227-5536/ 651-9793.

Experienced Jet and Marack men to work in the Interior.

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One experienced Mechanic with knowledge of welding.

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One male office Assistant.

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1 Male to work & live on a poultry farm with a small family. Call: 708-4374/ 2275222.

Females & males to pluck chicken in Georgetown. Call: 708-4374/ 227-5222.

Drivers needed. Must have licence for Car, Van & Minibus. Call: 623-6383/ 227-1964.

LAND FOR SALE 44X80 located at Policeman Street, Dairy. 2 minutes away from Harbour Bridge, $11 mil neg. Call: 677-4286.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics.

Email: techserigy@ yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

Maid needed to clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

Male Cleaner for Eccles. Call: 615-9132/ 645-8443.

Land development Hyundai R140 long reach excavator & 1.5 sack ransom cement mixer.

Call: 657-9237/ 615-5669.

One furnished 2 bedroom apartment for rent. Call: 6732484.

Kitchen assistant, chef, Salesperson and housekeeper needed. Call: 659-5559.

Experienced Salesperson, knowledge in writing bills, stocktaking and cashing & 1 General Domestic. Apply at Keyfood Mc. Doom Village.

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Receptionist and Hotel Attendant needed at Hick's Ville Hotel. Email: info@ vegeworld.net or Call: 2310951/ 231-0952.

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One Bodywork man needed.

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Farm Manager to oversee and manage a farm on the East Bank, accommodations available. Call: 227-0373/ 2239888.

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Vacancy exist for a Graphic Designer, Pharmacy technician & Billing Clerk. Email: globalhealthsuppliesinc @gmail Pharmacy Technician needed at Essential Care Pharmacy & Supercentre. Email application: essentialcarepharmacy @yahoo.com 1 Janitor, Handyman and Farmer needed to work at Hujjatul Ulama, # 74 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. Call: 3353749.

Demerara Transportation & logistics Inc is now hiring Supervisor, Safety Officer, Site Manager, Labourers & Driver needed. Call: 671-5433.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crashbar, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Contact: 649-0956.

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FOR SALE John Deere 7300 combine, Lavarda 132 combine, 11090 fiat tractor & 290 Massey tractor. Call: 644-9512.

Tundra for sale, GKK5670.

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House lots for sale in gated community, no down payment. $50,000 monthly. Call: 622-1957.

Approximately 37 companies have submitted Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the construction of flood embankment and Hope-like Canals from Vreid-en-Vencap to 66 Village, Corentyne, Region Six. This was revealed during the recent opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office. The construction of the canal is a project being undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

The government has budgeted $29.4 billion to facilitate its plans to replicate the Hope Canal (Region 4) in Regions 5 and 6, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh said during his presentation of the 2024 national Budget.

The Finance Minister stated that the replication of the Hope Canal “fits firmly in our Manifesto promise to provide climate resilient Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) Infrastructure, protect our coastland from losses due to perennial flooding and address issues of adaptation and mitigation consequent on climate vulnerabilities.”

Dr. Singh noted that, “In 2023, we commenced the design of three new Hope-like structures. In 2024, we will begin works on two of those structures in Regions 5 and 6.”

Last year, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported that designs for the canals in Regions Five and Six were expected to be completed by February of this year, to facilitate the commencement of works.

At a recent farmers’ meeting, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha had mentioned that, “These will be

massive structures. These will be canals that will help us when we have excessive rainfall and excessive water in the system to drain the system without putting pressure on our drainage we now have.”

He added that the consultants working on the plans have promised to build the canals so that water can be conserved for use in irrigation, particularly during extended dry periods.

Below are the companies and their bids: Ministry of Agriculture- National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Expressions of Interest (EOI) - Construction of Flood Embankment and Hope-like Canals from Vreid-en-Vencap to 66 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

DRESSMAKING SERVICES Business/ residential PFSGYD$58M, Visa Application, advertisements, graphics design, passport application forms & i130 application.

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Male seeking a female pen friend, 40 years & older. Call: 667-6396.

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

Six nuns and two other people kidnapped in Haiti have been released, archbishop says

Two of six Catholic nuns who were kidnapped by gangs drive to a hospital the day after being released in Port-auPrince, Haiti, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. Six nuns kidnapped in Haiti last week along with two other people have been released, according to the archbishop of Port-au-Prince.

(AP Photo/ Odelyn Joseph)

AP - Six nuns kidnapped in Haiti last week along with two other people have been released, the archbishop of Port-au-Prince told The Associated Press on Thursday.

The group was released l a t e We d n e s d a y, a n d everyone is in good condition, said Archbishop Max Leroy Mésidor.

“Thanks to God for

helping us,” he said.

He declined to say whether a ransom was paid or to provide other details, including who was responsible.

This latest high-profile kidnapping prompted religious leaders to issue a scathing letter criticizing the government for its inaction toward Haiti’s surge in gangrelated violence.

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

Gaza starves as Israel presses war on Hamas

Palestinian children carry pots as they queue to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, amid shortages in food supplies, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip December 14, 2023. REUTERS/Saleh Salem/File Photo Acquire Licensing Rights GAZA/GENEVA, Jan 25 (Reuters) - In battered, hard-to-reach north Gaza, rare aid deliveries get mobbed by desperate, hungry Palestinians and aid workers report seeing people thin and visibly starving with sunken eyes.

Hunger stalks the entire Gaza Strip, the tiny enclave where 2.3 million people have been living under Israel’s bombardment since Oct. 7 as it battles Hamas militants.

The United Nations warned this week that pockets of the territory face famine.

While areas near the Egyptian border get limited supplies of imported food, people in the north and centre of the strip, where fighting has been fiercest, face catastrophe aid workers say. “The food situation in the north is absolutely horrific. There’s almost no food available and everybody we talk to begs for food,” said Sean Casey, a World Health Organization (WHO) coordinator in Gaza.

No comprehensive data on hunger is available for Gaza, with aid agencies struggling to move and communicate amid the fighting.

They plan to assess malnutrition by measuring around children’s arms for signs of wasting flesh.

A U.N.-backed report in December said the whole population of Gaza faced crisis levels of hunger and a growing risk of famine.

Medics in Gaza hospitals describe babies born sick to malnourished mothers, infants losing weight, mothers unable to produce breast milk and injured patients too weak

from hunger to fight off infection.

In a Rafah hospital ward, paediatric doctor Jabr alShaer pointed to a baby whose weight had plummeted to 5.5 kg (12 pounds) from 7.5 kg a month and a half ago.

“This is bad. It impacts his immunity. He constantly has inflammation in the chest and gastroenteritis,” he said.

His mother, Shoruq Shaaban, who is breastfeeding her baby, has little to eat herself. Like most other people in southern Gaza she now lives on a little bread and canned food.

MALNOURISHED The U.N. children’s agency UNICEF projects that over the coming weeks more than 10,000 children in Gaza risk wasting, one of the most serious results of malnutrition, which can stunt physical growth and brain development.

“We saw a lot of very thin people just sitting around and staring into space looking wasted,” said Nick Maynard, a British surgeon who worked in central Gaza in December and early January with the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians.

“There was very clear evidence of people who were now malnourished,” he said.

Ayadil Saparbekov, a WHO doctor who was recently in northern Gaza, said he had particularly seen children and elderly people showing signs of wasting, and described people coming to beg for food, raising hands to mouths to mime eating.

Friday January 26, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

Friday January 26, 2024

Hodge, Da Silva outline technical adjustments that led to improved performances in second Test SportsMax - The West Indies finally showed some signs of life on day one of the second Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday.

After winning the toss and batting, the tourists ended the day 266-8, their first time over 200 in the series.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Windies as Australia’s pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins ripped through the West Indian top order once again to leave them reeling at 64-5 at the tea interval. After the break, a 149-run sixth wicket partnership between Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge provided some much-needed

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Kaieteur News

A 149-run sixth wicket partnership between Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge provided some much-needed stability to the innings. stability to the innings.

Da Silva led the way with 79 off 157 balls while Hodge showed improved judgement from the first Test with a 194ball 71, his first Test fifty.

“We knew it was always going to be a tough fight against the Australians,” Hodge said in an interview after the day’s play.

“Knowing we didn’t put

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TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) If you've been working toward manifesting extra money in your life, Taurus, you will probably see it happen today. Copious physical and emotional energy.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Obstacles that you encountered in attaining your cherished goals could suddenly seem to melt away, clearing the way to make your dreams come true, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) A lot of activity could occur at home today, Cancer.

Perhaps you will have visitors or do some work on the house.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Whatever goals you've been trying to reach may finally become reality today, Leo. Finalizing everything could involve a lot of running around in the car and meeting with other people.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Events over which you seem to have no control seem to be coming together to make things happen for you, Virgo.

You might find this a bit frightening, but don't let it get to you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your energy is probably high today, almost to the point where you feel you might be able to run a marathon! Seriously, Libra, you're probably thinking in terms of getting out of town for a while.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your inner power is probably at an all-time high, Scorpio.

You should be feeling especially confident. You're likely to have a stronger influence on others than usual. .

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Both your physical energy and inner power are operating at their peak, making this an ideal day to make clear plans.

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PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your intuition should be very high right now, Pisces, as is your power of manifestation. Today you need to try to curb your thoughts and only think beautiful things.

out a good showing in the first Test, we knew we had to be consistent with whatever we do. It was important that whoever got in try to push on as deep as possible. Just unfortunate that we didn’t see out the end of the day but I’m really happy with the fight that the guys are showing so hopefully we can come out tomorrow and push on,” he added. Hodge made just 12 and three in the first Test, being dismissed caught behind

by Hazlewood on both occasions.

On Wednesday, however, he made a concerted effort to leave the ball outside off stump, an excellent adjustment by someone just making their way to the highest level.

He put this clarity of thought down to time at the crease.

“Definitely! I was the first to admit in the team meeting after the first Test that the butterflies got the best of me but now I’m a bit more relaxed and I can work my plan and enjoy the environment of Test cricket.

I’m really happy with the time in the middle,” he said.

“I was more relaxed.

Leaving the ball outside off stump was generally my game plan.

It’s just like any normal cricket. The more time you spend at the wicket, the more relaxed you feel and you’ll make better judgements,” he added.

It was a similar experience for Joshua Da Silva who also came up short in the first Test with scores of six and 18. On Wednesday, he made his fourth Test fifty.

“It’s always nice to come up against Australia.

Best team in the world on paper so to face an opposition like that and score some runs is nice,” said Da Silva in a post day press conference.

“Coming in 63-5, I just wanted to consolidate with Hodgie (Hodge). It was challenging at times but it had periods where it was a little bit easier,” he added.

Da Silva also adjusted well to the game plan of the Aussies.

He was dismissed twice to the short ball in the first Test but made the effort to either play the ball down or to duck when faced with those deliveries on Wednesday.

“I knew it was coming after I got bounced out twice in Adelaide.

I put on a chest pad this time and decided to duck from a few. Had to change the philosophy a bit because it wasn’t going well. Thankfully, it worked,” he said.

GCB Harpy Eagles practice game...

Singh fifty keeps Anderson XI afloat following competitive day

S

achin Singh some what missed out on a century but his 81 kept the Kevlon Anderson XI in the game as action in the ongoing Harpy Eagles practice game continued at the Meten-Meer-Zorg Ground yesterday.

After the Kemol Savory led XI finished on a daunting 329 all out after sublime knocks from Raymon Perez who hit 93 and Matthew Nandu 82, Anderson and his men were steady at stumps.

Trailing by 232, Anderson’s XI who were

bowled out for 97, ended on 175 for 5 from 34 overs batting a second time after some good counter-batting from a few of their stars. Sachin Singh steadied the ship with a classy 81.

Contributions from Rampertab Ramnauth (41) and Akshaya Persaud (24) who aided in the cause.

Seamers Leon Swamy, who continued his fine form across all formats, snapped up 3-22 from 5 overs while national pacer Nial Smith grabbed 2-59.

Action continues Today.

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 26, 2024

Top teams confirm for Mash Cup W

henever you have teams the stature of Sparta Boss, Gold is Money, Bent Street and Sophia lined up in the same tournament you can expect fireworks and pure exhilarating action.

These two elements are anticipated to align when Organiser Edison Jefford stages the Mashramani Street Football Competition on February 18, at the National Park.

According to the Organiser, over $1million dollars in prize monies and bragging rights will be the compensation for the winners of the one-night event that will determine the best team in the Capital City.

Mashramani, an indigenous word that means ‘celebration after hard work’

will erase any lingering doubt about its meaning as teams have to battle each other in what is already shaping up to be a clash of will and skill.

Jefford said the winning team will take home $500,000, while second, third and fourth place finishers will receive $250,000, $150,000 and $100,000 respectively.

He added that that the tournament has attracted 16 of the best teams in Georgetown and its environs and fans could expect a night of exciting action along with a well-stocked bar and added entertainment.

Apart from the abovementioned juggernauts some of the other teams confirmed are: Stabroek ballers, Team Cruel, Five O, Family, North

East La Penitence among others. Quizzed on the number of teams invited for the one-day event, the Organiser said that because of the admiration of the street style format, teams have been calling him asking for an opportunity to participate in the tournament.

“Ideally, I wanted to play eight of the best teams, but because of the demand by other teams to be included I was left with no choice but to increase the number of participants to sixteen. It was a difficult call; these were teams who supported all my tournaments in the past and I felt obligated to include them with strict emphasis on punctuality,” Jefford stated.

The event he recalled was usually staged over six nights previously, but due to

the rising cost of hosting such tournaments he was forced to make the adjustment and fuse everything into one night of adrenaline-charged action.

According to the seasoned Organiser, the shortened format is the new direction sports is taking, pointing to the exciting Twenty20 cricket as a prime example to underscore his point.

“I have an opportunity to create an atmosphere allied with the Mashramani celebrations which is adorned with color, pomp and ceremony and fans can be assured that that is what I will deliver along with the on-field intense fireworks.

The Organiser once again thanked all members of the corporate community

who have promised their support, while Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken was also recognized

Edison Jefford

for offering his support.

The date for the launch of the tournament will be announced shortly.

India, Australia surge...

From page 22 compiled 75 - his second straight half-century.

While both batters would fall towards the end, India were boosted by late cameos from their keeper Aravelly Avanish (22 off 13) and Sachin Dhas (21* off 9), which propelled the total beyond 300. Oliver Riley was the pick of Ireland’s bowlers, finishing with 3 for 55. Ireland had little going for them in their chase, as Tiwari quickly proceeded to wreck their top and middle order, before leftarm spinner Saumy Pandey caused more damage to the team’s chances. Ireland’s top eight batters managed just three boundaries between them, and six of them fell for single-digit scores, as the team was soon tottering at 45 for 8, essentially killing off the contest. Daniel Forkin, at No.10, was the team’s top scorer with 27 not out, but his late blows only delayed the inevitable, as Ireland fell short by 201 runs at the end. Tiwari grabbed figures of 4 for 53, while Pandey ended with 3 for 21.

Australia Under-19s 296 for 7 (Dixon 89, Weibgen 68, Sunguro 2-48) beat Zimbabwe Under-19s 71 (Patel 36, Bajwa 4-15,

Beardman 2-7) by 225 runs.

Australia sealed their second successive victory at the 2024 Under-19 World Cup after thumping Zimbabwe by 225 runs in Kimberley. Harry Dixon, who had a BBL deal even before playing this World Cup, and Harkirat Bajwa played starring roles for Australia with bat and ball respectively. In pursuit of 297, Zimbabwe folded for 71.

Ronak Patel was the only Zimbabwe batter to pass 15 in the chase. Mahli Beardman and Aidan O’Connor shared four wickets between them to back up Bawja, who claimed 4 for 15.

After opting to bat, Australia enjoyed a strong start with Dixon adding 91 for the first wicket with Sam Konstas. Captain Hugh Weibgen was also among the runs, hitting 68 off 69 balls, including five fours and a six.

Dixon top-scored for them with 89 off 108 balls. Tom Campbell then applied the finishing touches with an unbeaten 47 off 28 balls.

Zimbabwe then never got going in their chase and eventually slid to their second successive defeat.

Harry Dixon played some punchy shots.

(ICC/Getty Images)

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

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GBA’s Senior Boxing programme kicks off today The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has organised a Senior Boxing Development championship schedule to commence today (January 26th) at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue. Medical officials, alongside the GBA’s technical staff, conducted the customary weigh-in process at the venue, drawing a notable presence of senior boxers and coaches.

With the dynamic weighin process now concluded, the GBA is poised to launch its senior boxing programme, marking the b e g i n n i n g o f a developmental initiative aimed at refining the skills of aspiring boxers striving to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This programme is anticipated to be a pivotal m o m e n t f o r G u y a n a ’s boxing scene, with a commitment to producing athletes capable of competing at the global level.

President of the GBA,

Steve Ninvalle, emphasized the importance of meticulous planning in creating a fair and transparent weigh-in process that supports athletes on their journey to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

As the first senior championship on the boxing calendar, gyms like Rose H a l l To w n J a m m e r s , Forgotten Youth Foundation, Guyana Defence Force, and Guyana Police Force boxing gyms will be wellrepresented at this event. The attention to detail during the weigh-in underscored the G B A’s d e d i c a t i o n t o ensuring fair competition and adherence to international standards.

The senior programme, organised by the GBA, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at providing intense training and preparation for boxers eyeing qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

GBA Technical Director, Terrence Poole, expressed enthusiasm for the program, emphasizing its role in

India, Australia surge to big wins Zimbabwe and Ireland, meanwhile, slump to their second successive defeats Musheer Khan changed gears towards the end to finish with 118.

(ICC/Getty Images)

ESPNcricinfo - India 301 for 7 (Musheer 118, Saharan 75, Riley 3-55) beat Ireland 100 (Forkin 27*, Tiwari 4-53, Pandey 321) by 201 runs.

A dominant India maintained their perfect start to the Under-19 World Cup, as a fluent century from Musheer Khan, followed by a four-wicket burst from fast bowler Naman Tiwari helped the team to a comprehensive victory against Ireland in Bloemfontein. After being asked to bat first, India

posted 301 for 7. Their innings was largely built around a third-wicket partnership between Musheer and the captain Uday Saharan which yielded 156 runs. Musheer, who took his time to settle in, hit the accelerator as the innings wore on, and eventually bashed 118 off 106 balls, with nine fours and four sixes. He had stable company in Saharan, who kept the runs flowing mostly with ones and twos, as the India captain (Continued on page 22)

FYF Boxer, Alesha Jackman during the weigh-in at National Gymnasium.

GDF boxer engages with Medical staff during yesterday weigh-in process.

nurturing local talent and preparing athletes for the global stage. Poole stated, “Guyana has a rich boxing tradition, and with proper training and support, our boxers can compete at the

highest levels. This senior boxing programme is a stepping stone for our athletes to qualify for the 2024 Olympics and bring pride to our nation.”

The programme serves as

a platform for the country’s most promising pugilists to refine their skills, improve physical conditioning, and gain valuable experience under the guidance of seasoned coaches and

trainers. By investing in the next generation of boxers, the GBA aims to establish a sustainable framework that will consistently produce world-class athletes in the years ahead.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Friday January 26, 2024

Da Silva-Hodge 149-run partnership steer Windies to 266-8 on opening day of Brisbane (D/N) Test against Australia SportsMax - The West Indies faced a tumultuous opening day at Brisbane in the second Test against Australia, with the score standing at 266-8 at stumps.

The day/night match showcased the brilliance of Mitchell Starc, who claimed four crucial wickets, including his 350th Test scalp, to rattle the West Indies top order.

The day began with the West Indies winning the toss, offering them a golden opportunity. However, Starc had different plans, dismantling the top order in the opening session.

He took three wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins each contributed with one.

The West Indies’ top six struggled to adapt to the extra bounce, with five of them nicking deliveries that could have been left alone.

Just when it seemed like the West Indies might

Mitchell Starc celebrates the wicket of Tagenarine Chanderpaul. (Getty Images)

squander their chance, Kavem Hodge and Joshua Da Silva orchestrated a remarkable fightback during the middle session.

They batted through the twilight period, frustrating the Australian bowlers on what was considered a good batting pitch at the Gabba.

The duo forged a resilient partnership of 149 for the sixth wicket, showcasing excellent defence and decision-making.

As the pink ball softened and the pitch flattened out, Da Silva and Hodge capitalized on any overpitched deliveries,

driving with control through cover and down the ground.

Despite Australia cycling through seven bowlers in the session, including Marnus Labuschagne, the West Indies’ batsmen stood firm, forming the highest and longest stand of the series to date.

Da Silva’s valiant effort eventually came to an end when he fell for 79 to a delivery from Nathan Lyon.

Attempting to flick the ball, he missed and was adjudged plumb in front. Hodge, on the other hand, continued his impressive innings, reaching 71 before edging to slip off Mitchell Starc.

The lower order then contributed, with Kevin Sinclair and Alzarri Joseph adding a valuable 41 runs.

Joseph played the aggressor, striking seven fours in his quick 22-ball knock.

However, Josh Hazlewood induced a thick edge off the l a s t b a l l o f t h e d a y, dismissing Joseph for 32.

Kevin Sinclair was not out on 16 at the close.

Earlier in the day, the top order struggled to display the same discipline.

Kraigg Brathwaite was the first to fall, enticed into a half-hearted drive by Hazlewood. Tagenarine

Chanderpaul and Kirk McKenzie steadied the ship briefly, but McKenzie’s aggression led to his downfall as he nicked to slip while trying to cut Cummins off the front foot.

Starc returned before the first break to claim three wickets in quick succession. Chanderpaul, Alick Athanaze, and Justin Greaves all fell victim to Starc’s skillful bowling.

A t h a n a z e ’s d i s m i s s a l marked a milestone for Starc, as he secured his 3 5 0 t h Te s t w i c k e t , becoming the fifth Australian to achieve this feat and leaving him just four wickets behind Dennis Lillee on Australia’s alltime list.

The West Indies will look to regroup and build on their total on the second day of this captivating Test match.

Scores: West Indies 266 for 8 (Da Silva 79, Hodge 71, Starc 4-68) vs Australia.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 26, 2024

PAGE 25

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ returns March 15

I

t is considered the most celebrated street football tournament in the country where teams eagerly anticipate its staging.

The Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Zone is scheduled to kick-off on March 15, at the renowned National Park in Thomas Lands.

Thirty-two of the top teams from Georgetown will vie for bragging rights and the right to be crowned champion over eight days of competition along with lucrative prize monies and trophies, while an automatic berth in the national final isguaranteed.

According to Guinness Brand executive Lee Baptiste, because of the extended absence of the tournament due to the Covid 19 pandemic and other unfortunate issues, the organisers are pulling out all the stops to ensure that the event makes an exciting re-entry to the street-style football landscape.

To this end, Baptiste informed that they’ve decided to invite thirtytwo of the best teams in Georgetown, who will battle over eight days for the right to be crowned the best in the City.

The other playing days are March 16, 17, 22, 23, 24 and 30 with the final set for the 31st.

Baptiste added that this year’s zone opener will enjoy unprecedented media exposure, assuring that all platforms will be utilized to advertise the event.

“We are quite aware of the popularity of the event and because of its unfortunate absence for some time, players and fan experience will be a top priority for us so very shortly we will be rolling out our plans to sensitize communities, where these teams will come from, about all the information pertaining to the tournament,” he said.

He disclosed that apart from the automatic qualifiers, the organisers hope to stage a playoff among

Lee Baptiste teams desirous of competing in the tournament, especially those entering for the first time.

Defending champions Gold is Money will be aiming to secure

their third consecutive title an accolade if they achieve it will make them the first team to do so, while the most successful team in the tournament’s history Sparta Boss’s motivation must be to stop them in their quest of accomplishing such a feat.

Among the other favoured teams slated to compete are Back Circle, Bent Street, Sophia, North East La Penitence, Stabroek Ballers and Albouystown.

Judging from recent c o m p e t i t i o n s , t h i s y e a r ’s Georgetown Zone is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory with a plethora of young upcoming teams already displaying their potential and pedigree so therefore it should not come as no surprise if one of the lesser fancied teams go all the way to win the coveted title.

Early evidence of the young teams’ performances in recently staged tournaments seem to

suggest that such a scenario is a real possibility, and this setting makes theattendance of residents from individual communities even more crucial for team support.

Baptiste revealed that they are currently in discussion to stage a tournament Launch and details will be forthcoming soon.

This year could also witness a more vibrant community interaction all aimed at bringing communities togetherto create social cohesion among its residents.

Additionally, the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition has over the years been organized to identify talent and with word emanating about the abundance of such residing in the competing communities, the custodians of the sport are advised to have scouts on every scheduled match day.

What is guaranteed are exciting matches and giveaways for fans.

Kavem Hodge and Joshua Da Silva put on the first 100-plus partnership of the series. (Getty Images)

rts Spo

Mitchell Starc had Kavem Hodge nicking to the slips.

(AFP/Getty Images)

Da Silva-Hodge 149-run partnership steer Windies to 266-8 on opening day of Brisbane (D/N) Test against Australia

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ returns March 15

Action in a previous edition of the Guinness Greatest in the Street football competition highlights what is to come.

GBA’s Senior Boxing programme kicks off today Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.