K
AIETEUR CGX says
Kawa-1 well not abandoned
NEWS
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Monday Edition March 07, 2022 - Vol. 15 No. 10 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 76,719
...appraisal works to continue in the future
Govt. confirms Amaila Hydro Project will not power Essequibo ...says Berbice will benefit through link to Demerara system
Russian attacks halt plans to evacuate Ukrainian civilians
Pres. Ali defends shutting out opposition nominee from NRF board
War weds!
A soldier holds a helmet as a wedding crown during the wedding ceremony for members of the Ukrainian Territorial Defence Forces Lesia Ivashchenko and Valerii Fylymonov, at a checkpoint in Kyiv, Ukraine, Sunday, March 6, 2022. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)
'Our objective is to fill up those boats'
...Exxon VP says company to produce more, faster in Guyana
The Amalia Falls Hydro Project WILL NOT GIVE Listen to Kaieteur Radio electricity to Essequibo or Berbice. @11:00hrs on 99.1/99.5FM
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Kaieteur News (from left) Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, President Irfaan Ali, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd and Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud
Monday March 07, 2022
Guyana to set aside 25,000 acres of land to C'bean for agri development In an effort to reduce the region's US$5 billion food import bill and meet other targets in the agriculture sector, Guyana will be opening up 25,000 acres of land to the Caribbean as the country lives up to its commitment of becoming the bread basket for the region. This much was revealed on Sunday afternoon as President Irfaan Ali addressed the media at State House, following his return from the CARICOM
Heads of Government meeting, held in Belize. During the press engagement, Ali explained that the regional demand for poultry feed was some 550,000 metric tonnes in 2020. This demand is expected to increase by about 17 percent in 2025, to about 645,000 metric tonnes, he said. “To achieve that, we did some backward and forward analysis as to how much feed we will need to grow the industry and to (Continued on page 17)
Kaieteur News
Monday March 07, 2022
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'Our objective is to fill up those boats' ...Exxon VP says company to produce more, faster in Guyana
W
ith an initial target set at one million barrels per day from the Stabroek Block from 2027, US Oil Major last Wednesday revised this to 1.2 million barrels daily from that year. The company began production back in 2019 with the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) at a capacity of 120,000 per day. This was complemented this year when its second F P S O — t h e L i z a Unity—began production earlier this year with a design capacity of 240,000 barrels daily. A third vessel Payara is currently under construction,
with the company already working full speed ahead to get a fourth production up and running with the Yellowtail Development. The news to increase its earlier estimates of production from Guyana was confirmed by the company's senior Vice President, Neil Chapman, who during an earnings call informed analysts that "Clearly our objective is to fill up those boats." Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Darren Wo o d s , d u r i n g t h a t shareholder activity, in his report noted that “We are focused on leading the industry in safety, reliability, environmental performance,
earnings and cash flow growth – and ultimately shareholder returns.” It was reported too that the company plans for the year include annual structural reductions of US$9B a year by 2023, compared to 2019, building on US$5B annual structural reductions achieved to date. “These savings and other improvements, including a streamlined organizational structure, will enable ExxonMobil to double earnings and cash flow potential by 2027 versus 2019, reduce breakeven costs by roughly $10 per barrel, boost returns on capital employed, and sustainably grow total shareholder
returns and distributions,” the official said. Exxon THROUHG ITS Subsidiary, Esso Exploration and P r o d u c t i o n G u y a n a Limited along with and partners Hess Guyana Corp and C h i n a N a t i o n a l Offshore Oil Company Ltd have been working assiduously in Guyana w i th some 23 commercial discoveries to date, amounting to in excess of 10 billion barrels of recoverable oil. Exxon reminded during its shareholder activity that it can drill in Guyana around ten new exploration wells in 2022 and another ten next year. Earlier this year, Exxon
Senior Vice President of ExxonMobil, Neil Chapman started a new production vessel [the Liza Unity FPSO] that brought the country's total capacity to more than 340,000 barrels per day. According to officials, to
improve future earnings, ExxonMobil is upgrading its portfolio with low-cost-ofsupply opportunities by investing in advantaged assets, including Guyana.
Govt. confirms Amaila Hydro Project will not power Essequibo ...says Berbice will benefit through link to Demerara system The Ministry of Finance, by way of a public statement on Saturday, confirmed that any power to be generated at the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Plant will not initially supply residents of Essequibo. Additionally, the Finance Ministry said its master plan for the electricity sector includes linking isolated Essequibo systems with the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System by 2026. The Ministry was at the time responding to a “banner carried on the front page of Kaieteur News on Saturday, which indicated that the Amaila Falls power plant will not supply electricity to Essequibo and Berbice. According to the Ministry, Amaila will supply electricity through Sophia to the national grid for distribution and this will include Berbice which is already connected through the DBIS. The Ministry said too that even in advance of Amaila, the government is already working to deliver approximately 10 megawatts
of peak solar power to be delivered directly to Regions 5 and 6. The resuscitated Amaila Falls Project was handed to China Railway First Group in November last, said at a cost of US$700M. Senior Minister in the Office of the President, with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his budget presentation for this year announced that the Chinese contractor, who was granted approval to construct the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, will commence operations on the mega venture this year. Dr. Singh had told the National Assembly at the time, “regarding renewable and low carbon energy, our most promising venture continues to be the AFHP (Amaila Falls Hydropower Project) with an expected capacity of 165 MW”. He informed that government has already requested, received and evaluated proposals for the project and negotiations are in progress with the 'highest ranked company' China Railway First Group (CRFG)
Senior Minister in the Office of the President, with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh – the same company that had previously signed a contract to build the said project several years ago. During the recently
concluded Energy Conference and Expo, p r o j e c t h e a d Wi n s t o n Brassington had outlined that “Like any large project, there is a lot of risk in these projects but most of these risks have been put to the developer,” adding that they include the construction cost with all the “usual checks and balances”, geotechnical risks, hydrology risks, and force majeure risks. He told the Conference Guyana that the 165 megawatt station itself would cost U$500 million but the government would not be paying for the facility. Under the Build Own Operate and Transfer (BOOT) model, the
company China Rail, would be selling power to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) at 7.7 US cents per kilowatt hour—a price still to be finalized as part of a Power Purchase Agreement . “This cost is largely the
repayment of financing,” he said.
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Monday March 07, 2022
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Guyana needs a Zelensky
T
he world has a real-life hero, one so much unlike the comic book ones we have in Guyana. To find him, one doesn’t have to travel across the oceans. Simply open a newspaper or turn on a radio or television and there he is live and in colour. He is definitely a picture of one embattled and in a state of grimness, but given the circumstances, which have been forced upon him and his besieged people, his appearance is to be expected. The world looks on and is inspired by Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine. In so many aspects of his leadership he is the polar opposite of those that we have here masquerading as leaders, and this goes all the way to the top of the leadership pile right here in Guyana. Talk about leadership, courageous leadership, under relentless and withering fire, and there is none like Ukraine’s Zelensky. He is a man waging a mighty uphill struggle, with the odds against his people, and he would not give-up, yield an inch through taking a backward step, doesn’t know the meaning of such words. His is a modern version of the ancient story of a puny David refusing to back down, and taking on, a hostile, aggressive, fearsome Goliath. According to Scripture, David had God on his side; according to the Western press, President Zelensky has many, if not most, Western nations in his corner. But any honest and frank appraisal of the evidence from a slew of fevered developments, bring the reasonable conclusion that the Ukrainian got the short end of the deal, when compared to the Israelite David. Yet he labours valiantly on for his people. What about our leaders here in the PPP/C Government, for the most part, and the coalition opposition to a lesser extent? Where are they in this our peacetime and supposed time of prosperity? Why have they not declared some form of war against Exxon and its warrior band throttling the Guyanese people and their interests? Why have our leaders not found the wisdom and patriotism (like Zelensky), and the red-blooded guts also, to stand up to Exxon, which has declared the equivalent of economic war against the Guyanese? Why have they not drawn a line in the sand, and said not one barrel of oil more, not one more approval for any block or exploration project, not one more vessel of any kind coming here to disembowel us by taking the oil that is ours from the depths below our seas? When we should have had leaders, we have been given limp-wristed and limp-lipped weaklings, who fear their shadows, who see Exxon’s ghosts in every nook and cranny that drive the fear of God into them. Because like Macbeth of Shakespearean glitter, they did wrong, by harbouring the worst of ambitions, which led to the most unpardonable of betrayals. They sold themselves for power, they compromised honour and principle for filthy lucre, and when they did so, they bound themselves to the fate with which they now must grapple and live, while putting up an alternately brave or bland front. Take a look at the headman, the make-believe one. He is a striking picture of the man in literature who wanted to be king and would do anything for it. He reflects the paleness of a sickly presence, a slippery shadowy existence, while keeping up some forms of pretensive public appearances. Even his words are garbled, the sound of a man who has gored the hopes of his people, but one who chokes on their blood. Take a look also, at the other leader, who like Lady Macbeth would do anything to anyone to get what he wants. She did and she was the real power behind the throne, which is precisely what we have here in Guyana. We need a Zelensky-like figure to stand up and get in the faces of Exxon’s enslavers, but all that Guyana gets for its futile hopes are clowns in zebra suits, preening at and pretending at being leadership thoroughbreds. When Guyana needs warriors to fight for it, all it gets are these wimps behind skirts, who daintily skirt the confrontations that should be had.
Guyana is in desperate need of intelligent and Guyana first politicians DEAR EDITOR, The fact that most Guyanese live pay cheque to pay cheque and that our country remains underdeveloped despite our vast natural resources is a direct consequence of visionless, corrupt and selfinterested political leaders. It is not only the PPP or the PNC, it is both of these parties that have used Guyanese people (especially, Africans, Amerindians and Indians), sowing seeds of distrust, racism and other wedges to mobilise votes and support, sometimes through violence and coercive means. I would like your readers to ask themselves one question. With all the gold, bauxite, diamonds, rice, sugar, seafood, oil and green gold, that is our standing rainforests which we are being paid to conserve and use sustainability, why do the majority of Guyanese live in poverty or pay cheque to pay cheque? There is no other
country in the Englishspeaking Caribbean with the vast quantity of diverse natural resources that Guyana possesses, yet our people must struggle to make ends meet. Does this make sense? The nation of Qatar discovered its Dukhan oil field in 1940 and in 1960 discovered its first offshore oil field. Since then, it has become one of the most prosperous nations on the face of this earth. The political leaders of Qatar would never allow foreign companies and agents to rob their people of the immense benefits of their nation’s wealth. By the way, the FIFA World Cup will be hosted in Qatar in 2022. This is the first time the world’s largest sporting event will be hosted in the Middle East. With the current crop of uninspiring and corrupt politicians, Guyana will never be a Qatar, perhaps not even a Trinidad and Tobago or
Barbados. I am willing to risk my house, retirement savings and commercial assets on this. In fifty years, we will be right where we are right now. Actually, we will be a more indebted nation because of the heavy and more expensive borrowing from the Inter-American Development Bank and China especially. Imagine, we are incurring potentially crippling debt because we are borrowing against future oil and gas earnings. Imagine that! This is what the politicians we risked our lives for have done to us. Most of the revenues from our oil resources are enjoyed by foreign companies, foreigner workers/ consultants, some local politicians and very wealthy persons with close connections to these politicians. So it was for gold, bauxite, diamonds and so it will be for oil and gas. Finally, I ask readers to ask themselves another question.
With the development of the Amalia Hydro Power facility, why has the Government of the day procured a Chinese company to construct the facility and sell to us, that is, the Guyana Power and Light, electricity produced from the facility? Was this the only option available to the current political leaders? Does this make sense? Can we not create a locally owned and managed company to operate the facility, even if the Chinese construct it and we employ several of them? Oh, lest I forget, the Chinese are also extracting and exporting manganese from Region One. The company is registered and operating under the name of the Guyana Manganese Incorporated. The only thing this current crop of politicians have not sold out to foreigners is our flag, and this is even debatable. Sadly submitted, Chris Singh
Exxon intervening in tax suit, this is going all the way DEAR EDITOR, So, Exxon has filed to be a party to the tax suit brought by the Publisher of KN against the Government of Guyana (“Exxon’s subsidiary applies to join Govt. in tax suit brought by Glenn Lall” -KN March 6). I am not at all surprised, since so much is involved; billions of dollars and Exxon is not going to sit by idly, and let that go on, with it watching as a mere observer. The implications are too open ended, the possible consequences too costly. But, no matter how scrutinised, what we now have is this stark and sinister reality; the PPP/C Government and Exxon versus the People of Guyana. I think that is worth repeating: the PPP/C Government and ExxonMobil against the People of Guyana. My, my…. As this gathers steam, I think that leaders in the PPP/C Government have to have breathed a deep sigh of relief, many of them. Because, in applying to join as a respondent to the suit, Exxon lets them off the hook. In the event there was an unfavourable judicial outcome, the President and Vice President are no longer faced with the heavy, nasty, and dirty job of facing Exxon’s people with the bad news: the courts of Guyana have spoken, and they must abide by the decision(s) handed down, since they have no choice, due to the independence of
the judiciary. For to do otherwise publicly would have put PPP/C Government leaders in the most awkward of positions: that of taking the side of Exxon against the very people who elected them. Thus, Exxon’s moving to the court removes that possibly embarrassing situation. The President and Vice President don’t have to do anything, since Exxon’s leaders will take it from there, viz., the United States court system, where victory in the tax suit filed locally becomes a much more difficult undertaking; after all, that is Exxon’s home ground, and it will work every element of that to its advantage, inclusive of unfair and unethical ones. Editor, this move by Exxon’s local subsidiary signals how it will be fiercely protective of its interests, and not yield a single centimetre. Not when money is involved, and lots of it; not one blind cent is to be given up. Also, there is no assurance that matters would stop there, with the tax suit, but could open the floodgates to a host of other litigation. It is why Exxon took the bull by the horns and made itself into an intervener, given that its own interests are intricately tied up with the suit before the court. The adjudication, one way or another, would have distilled into the lap of Exxon, anyway. It is why company leaders (and there are none smarter than them, more ahead of the
game than them) preferred not to wait for the outcome from a system that many Guyanese don’t trust, have reasons to believe is not of the most unsullied record, or of the most untarnished behaviour. To repeat, what Exxon did is a Putinesque preemptive strike to protect what is dear to its cheating, thieving heart. As another reminder for Guyanese: it is money, and they have had the best local conspirators in the form of our weak and wasted politicians. Editor, as an aside, it is instructive how Exxon can be selective to suit its purposes. I point to how Exxon’s people conducted themselves during what was called public hearings, billed as open consultations. It was how they dodged or shutdown hard questions from angry Guyanese about concerns in many areas relative to the environment and protection, and so forth. The company’s spokespeople are on record as referring to some inconvenient issues to local authorities, while saying something to the effect that such issues are not under their umbrella, but that of Guyana’s, meaning, the government. Therefore, they are best referred to it, handled by it. Yet, here is a tax suit brought by a Guyanese against his Guyanese Government and its Guyanese leaders, about a Guyanese problem, and Exxon saw it fit and timely to insert (intervene) itself as an interested and impacted party. Indeed, to give it its due, that
is so. Because any court ruling handed down would impact its plans and operations, as well as the richness of its profitability here. I would have thought that, given Exxon’s public pretense with its distancing practices from local affairs, that this charade would have been maintained by the company in the short run, at least. As I reflect on this latest protective move by Exxon, I close out with some questions, which I place before my fellow Guyanese. First, did Exxon join the suit of its own free will (intervener), which, indeed, makes much sense? Or was it asked by this conspiring and crooked PPP/C Government to do so, to give it cover should the wrong holding occur? Did leaders in the Guyana Government collaborate with the company, so that they can hide behind Exxon’s big skirts and claim that whatever ensues is not of its doing, but Exxon’s and its right to do so? To ask and answer, I don’t think that local political leaders had to try too hard, because Exxon was already on the ball like a hawk watching out for what is its own. Still, both sides would be pleased, with Exxon confident of having a reliable ally in its corner at crunch time, while PPP/C leaders get Exxon to take over the fight, so they sit back and let matters unfold, however they do. Sincerely, GHK Lall
Monday March 07, 2022
Lessons for Guyana from the Russian conflict with Ukraine DEAR EDITOR, The history of the Ukrainian conflict with Russia has many lessons from which Guyana must learn. Ukraine has always been a prosperous country, but under the Russian/Soviet Union leader, Stalin, they suffered a famine in the East, which was used as an opportunity to repopulate the Eastern section of Ukraine with Russians. They also changed the language to Russian, banned the Ukrainian language and strengthen their ties with Russia. Russia has benefited and leveraged the presence of rebels in that section of Ukraine to advance its agenda of making Ukraine a part of Russia. We have seen this during the conflict from earlier this century and we also see this in today’s conflict. The result of a long term strategy for military conquest of Ukraine. When we look at the west-
ern section of Guyana, we must consider the increase of Venezuelans in that section of our country. Lack of food and opportunity in Venezuela is being used as a pretext to repopulate that section of our country with Venezuelans. The dictatorial leader of Venezuela has also made it clear that he considers the western section of Guyana a part of Venezuela. It is also illustrated as such on the current national map of Venezuela. The Venezuelan strategy for military conquest of Essequibo is similar to that of its ally’s approach to Ukraine. There must be a consideration of the integrity of our borders when we offer our hospitality. A strong military base on Ankoko island should be established to provide a focused area where those leaving Venezuela and those who have left Venezuela can be housed, schooled and fed.
Venezuela does currently have a military base on the western half of our island. It was established as a result of their war with us in 1966. Guyana should strengthen our presence on the eastern half of Ankoko Island to prevent losing more ground to the Venezuelans. The assistance of the EU, US and British military to establish such a strong military base should be given serious consideration. The overarching condition for the presence of Venezuelans in Guyana should be premised on their eventual return to Venezuela. This requirement for entry into Guyana will allow for both humanitarian and national security concerns to be accomplished peacefully. Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
The Committee of Appointments, inclusionary Democracy and PPP Governance model DEAR EDITOR, The People’s Progressive Party, the organisation, is a sordid one. The way in which decisions are made and executed is quite phenomenal. When grown people who have a modicum of sense are placed in a position to argue that a Dunstan Barrow is more suited, has more professional weight and academic qualifications than a Christopher Ram and a Dr. Vincent Adams to sit on the Board of Directors of the Natural Resource Fund we must recognise as a society that we are now in a very diabolical governance system. That Ms. Vindhya Persaud who presents and attempts to espouse a presence of peace, goodwill and fairness had no choice but to argue that the Opposition should not have at least one individual of their choice on the Board of Directors further emphasises not only the diabolical but also the duplicitous nature of the beast called the PPP. Diabolical because nothing has to be logical or flow from any modicum of reason or sanity. Everything is or becomes because one person in the PPP has ordered it so. We all know who that one person is. Duplicitous because they say all the right words when it suits their interest but act contrary to their own words when action is required. They have no qualms with the use of lies to make a point.
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It flows so elegantly and effortlessly from their mouths most Guyanese would have to be convinced that the words coming out of the mouth of those who call themselves PPP politicians are quite frankly unadulterated lies. What eventuates is a comical pretense of democracy. A pretense of anything that is true and just and right. Where does this paradigm, this way of operating, leave the rest of us who may or may not have voted for the PPP? Those who believe that governing and the foundation of the idea of governance is that those given the opportunity to govern are competent, reasonable and receptive and not inept, irrational and unsusceptible. We all get wrapped up in the flashy stuff, the roads, the parties, the ability to be in crowds and enjoy ourselves, the lawlessness, the ability to do as we please as long as we are not offending anyone of the elites because for that you must be punished. You see they will continue to shout from the rooftops that they saved democracy in 2020 but the test of democracy must be seen as the extent to which the institutions and practices contribute to less overreach-
ing by the state; a broadening of the decision making process to include sectors other than the elites; the development of rules of governance that militate against class, racial, ethnic, religious and other form of dominance; governmental accountability beyond elections; economic democracy whereby citizens are guaranteed equitable access to the national resources and; the expansion of civil rights and liberties and protection against governmental subversion. Nothing that has been done between 2020 to now will convince any right-thinking Guyanese that we are on the right track where democracy is concerned. The country, our citizens and future generations deserve something better. Something that reduces our fears and anxieties and allows all to feel that they have equal and equitable prospects in this dear land of ours. Regards Tabitha Sarabo-Halley
Small miners call on President Ali for help
DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, All across our country Guyana, the heavy rainfall has affected everyone in some way and at the same time we are dealing with the COVID19 pandemic of which we have no control. As Miners just like the farmers and others, we are working people and we are affected. We are already facing serious challenges in this industry, like poor infrastructure but we are still going out there every day and that is because we have a task at hand, a duty to complete, bills to pay, mouths to feed, because our families are depending on us. Meetings are been called with farmers, loggers, etc. I can’t remember the last time a meeting was called with Miners to hear our cries. It’s Oil, Oil and more Oil. The Mining Industry over the pass 25 and more years has been carrying this country, built foundations, develop hinterland locations, find jobs for Guyanese especially the ones who don’t have a formal education and also people from around the world. It is the largest earner of foreign exchange. Over 200,000 Guyanese are dependent on this Mining Industry, from the cities, coastlands, hinterlands including Amerindian communities. The Mining Industry is one of the most stable industries that the Government and Guyanese people can count on. We pay ROYALITY AND TAXES up front on ALL GOLD and Diamonds produced, unlike other businesses which pay taxes on profits declared (if any) only. Even with our hard work and paying taxes we still do not enjoy the benefits, since we have to be tax compliant before we can enjoy any perks but we never give up. At present we are paying 8½% in Royalty (5%) and Income Tax (3½%) $34,000 on an ounce of Gold. Come rain or shine. This is our livelihood; we have to survive since families depend on it. So, it hurts to see there is no: A. Security - Police and Mining Officers are not visiting and patrolling Mining locations. Illegal shops, drugs, guns, trafficking in persons are prevalent. The illegal shops are operating with the
knowledge/consent of the Mines Officer (GGMC). B. Terrible Roads - Major Mining roads, bridges are not being repaired and maintained. No new roads are being opened to new mining areas. The areas we are working are already worked out. C. COVID-19 Pandemic Illegal shops and landings with no COVID-19 restrictions, masks, etc., are putting Miners lives at risk. D. Malaria Outbreak With the continuous rainfall and flooding there is a serious outbreak of Malaria in the Mining camps. Treated mosquito nets, along with other Malaria treatments are not being given to Miners. Health staff/personnel are not visiting Mining camps in the backdam. Mr. President, as soon as the farmers cry, help is available. As soon as the loggers cry, even though they are the ones damaging what little is left of the mining roads, they are demanding that the contractors work overtime to get their logging roads fixed. We as Miners, our cries hardly ever get heard. To reach the work site, one has to travel over roads that are in deplorable conditions, at times risking your life to get to our work destination. The Government has attempted to “re-
pair” some of these roads over the years. They have paid billions of dollars to “Contractors”, whose contract repair works, last for a few months. These roads return to the deplorable state and the same contractor is given another contract to fix the same roads. How long will this continue? GGMC has distributed lands to miners by Lottery and Auctions. However, these lands have no road access. In Budget 2022 presentations Minister responsible for Finance and Minister of Natural Resources applauded the efforts of the Mining Community for 2021 gold declaration. However, in Budget 2022 several billion dollars have been allocated for infrastructure development. These monies are being spent on agricultural roads, logging roads and Amerindian community roads. What about roads for the miners to access their lands? Why are we being forgotten, neglected and abandoned in the “bush”, “backdam”? How are we going to continue to earn an honest living and to provide for our families? Come on Dr. Irfaan Ali, President of ALL the people of Guyana, something must be done for us, Small Miners. Regards Frustrated Small Miners
Frustrated litigant DEAR EDITOR, I am the Respondent in an appeal pending before the Court of Appeal for over six (6) years. It concerns a multimillion-dollar business operation in the hands of persons who are not entitled to it. For years, they have been floundering this business, reaping all the financial rewards and benefits, while the legal owners are excluded and not receiving a cent. After waiting all this time, my lawyer received a notice informing that submissions should be filed with the Court by the lawyers. The Appellant must file their submissions first. After several months, the Appellant’s lawyers failed to file their submissions. My lawyer has enquired from the
Court that he received no submissions but would like the Appeal to be heard. A staff of the court has informed my lawyer that the court does not fix appeals for hearing if there are no submission filed. Is this the law? So, a litigant who is benefitting from the litigation that is pending can instruct his lawyer not to file submissions and the case will not be heard? Something must be done to make the judiciary more accountable. They are funded with billions of dollars of taxpayers monies annually and they make up the most nonsensical rules to justify their inefficiency. More and more litigants must rise up and speak about the injustices (Continued on page 6)
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The continued violation of the rights of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples DEAR EDITOR, Government’s refusal to continue the process of consultation aimed at culminating in amendment to the Amerindian Act is a violation of the rights of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples. The formal call for the Amerindian Act to be amended was made at an open forum of the National Toshaos’ Council conference. The Indigenous leaders called on the Government of Guyana to take steps to have the Act strengthened to adequately preserve and protect the rights of all Indigenous
Guyanese citizens. The Granger Administration responded. Consultations began. Several cluster consultations were held in a number of Regions, touching tens of Indigenous Villages. The reports of those consultations are with the Permanent Secretary (P.S) of the ministry. Millions of dollars have been spent in attending to the best interest of the Indigenous Peoples. The process was nearing completion. Three national budgets (and supplementary budgets)
from 2020 to 2022 without a cent being voted for the continuation of this important process tells the sordid story of a government which preaches one message and practices another. The blatant refusal to honour the collective wish of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana is nothing short of disrespect for our First Peoples. It disregards the right to self-determination and free prior and informed consent. One may ask why pour money into Indigenous Villages and communities and
not address the amendment to the Amerindian Act? How can a government exercise such generosity to citizens and not pay attention to a simple, transparent and open process which the same citizens have called for? The answer is simple. The government wants the votes of those citizens and is willing to invest large sums of taxpayers’ dollars in that regard. However, the same government has no respect for those citizens and is contemptuous of their rights. The recent announcement by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs regarding the holding of elections for the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) executive is yet another example of continued violation of the rights of Indigenous Guyanese. The minister proposes Regional elections. This is not provided for anywhere in the law. The minister cannot arbitrarily determine that a process which is ultra vires the law would be used to elect our leaders. The truth be told, however, this proposed method is being rushed for control purposes. The minister dictatorially determines the rules of
the process in order to achieve the outcome of her choice. The Indigenous Peoples’ Commission (IPC) is soon to be reconstituted. The minister is desirous of having certain predetermined names placed on the nomination list. The NTC has the prerogative of nominating three persons to the IPC. Indigenous NGOs must nominate the other two persons. The minister, having no influence or control over the Indigenous NGOs believes that she must be fully in charge of the NTC’s nominees. The disrespect and disregard for the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Guyana is growing out of control and the Minister of Amerindian Affairs is solely responsible for this most unfortunate situation.
We must have NTC elections in accordance with the existing legal framework. The COVID-19 situation is no longer a valid excuse for avoiding this issue. There is enough evidence to prove that the government cares not about large gatherings as it relates to COVID-9. The government sponsored the “Stink and Dutty” event and the Beenie Man concert; but two examples. Alternatively, the minister must move an amendment to the Amerindian Act in the National Assembly extending the life of the last elected executive body. The responsibility for addressing this difficulty must be theirs. The minister and the government must respect the rights of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples. Yours faithfully, Mervyn Williams
Frustrated litigan... From page 5 that they face meted out by the justice system itself. Somebody needs to take the bull by the horns. I am doing my bit by this letter. Others must follow if they want a change. Yours faithfully, Seekumaar Singh Frustrated litigant
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N B T . U . L . L T B . . N . U N U T L N B . U T . . L N N U T B . U . N L U BL BLUNT. B . . T . T T N N U . U L . . L B . T B . . . . N . T U T N N T U N U L L U B . L B . . . . B . T . . T . N N T U N L LU U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B . T L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B . T . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . . LU ...BLUN B T . . . N T U N L U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T . U B . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T BB T...BLU U N L U B . L . . B . T . . N N T T L U U N L L U B U T...BLU B L . . N . B . T . . N T U N N N U L U U B L . BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Monday March 07, 2022
Kaieteur News
Is the PPP a subsidiary of Exxon ?
A lawsuit has been filed to challenge Government's lax approach to oil operators when it comes to taxes. The lopsided Production Sharing Agreement between Guyana and ExxonMobil and its partners ensures that they pay no taxes.
Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall is challenging this in the local Court. However Exxon is now joining the government to fight Lall, a citizen of this country.
What an irony, instead of the government stamping its authority to ensure that the country gets more than crumbs from the sector, it has teamed up with the oil companies to allow the rape of Guyana's patrimony. This therefore begs the question, is the government a subsidiary of Exxon?
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Monday March 07, 2022
Diamond man goes missing; last seen on Sheriff Street
Monday March 07, 2022
Kaieteur News
UNDER THE CLOCK
Back in the day when you learnt that a patient was placed “under the clock” at the Georgetown Public Hospital, you planned for the worse. It was like a death sentence. Being “under the clock” developed into a kind of local folklore with many people actually believing that once you were placed in that particular ward, at that location, you were being consigned to your death bed. Under the clock referred in those days to a ward in one of the monstrous old wooden buildings in the compound of the Public Hospital (Georgetown). In fact, almost all of the buildings were dormitory-like wooden structures which overtime were overrun with wood ants and were not satisfactorily maintained. The result was that the entire place was worse than a prison. The toilets were overflowing, the place was unkempt. It was depressing back in the day to go to that hospital. Those old wooden buildings, however, were cooler than buildings of a similar concrete structure but the maintenance cost would have no doubt been prohibitive. The British did their best to keep those wooden structures in good shape, worthy of a hospital but overtime there was simply no money to repaint them, or even to keep them clean and the ex-
ternal neglect also began to be symptomatic of the treatment one could have expected inside. Today, the compound where those old wooden buildings used to be is now transformed. It is amazing what has been put in their place. Impressive new concrete structures have been established and what is really good about the design is that they are very well ventilated and, in fact, are much cooler than the old wooden structures they replaced. The old “accident ward” has now been pulled down. It was quite an experience going into that old wooden accident ward since you saw the effects of road accidents there and the mangled bodies of the victims. It was not a pleasant sight at all and the musky and drab nature of the old wooden building was equally depressing. All of that has now changed and the government has built, with the assistance of the Inter-American Development Bank, a really impressive new ward, three floors high. It replaces the old accident and emergency ward. It is clean, it is modern and it has all the amenities, including a waiting room for visitors. And best of all, it is a concrete and steel structure which means that mainte-
nance costs will only be a small fraction of what they used to be. While the old wooden buildings would have been part of our heritage, they had become too run-down and derelict. But things are not too good at the hospital. There are serious problems with that institution. And there needs to be a careful look at what is happening there, lest the superstition about the clock returns in a different form. The old days of the clock still brings back haunting memories. It used to be quite scary to visit that part of the hospital. As I was passing on the pavement outside of the hospital, I heard a scream coming from another new building that has been erected and which houses the female surgical ward. That scream brought back memories of “the clock” when such sounds signalled the death of someone. The screams I heard were not, however, about someone dying. They were premature reactions. They emanated from family members of an ailing patient who on seeing him hooked up to all those fancy machines that they now have, felt that he was on his last. They panicked and started to
Diamond man goes missing; last seen... From page 8 CCTV footage from the supermarket to which she received. The footage seen by the newspaper showed the young man standing outside the store for a while before he
left to go in an unknown direction. Yesterday, this publication confirmed with the CID that a missing person report was filed. The CID also said that a search is still ongoing for the
man. Anyone who might have seen Roger Brandt or knows his whereabouts is asked to call telephone numbers: 2224494, 623-4796, 218-1699 or the nearest police station.
Dem Boys Seh…
Stink and dutty!
Dem gat people with Victorian values. Dem prim and proper. Dem does don’t expose dem body in public and dem does speak de Queen’s tongue. And dem could lecture yuh pun etiquette. But dem does get shocked when dem see wotlessness. Dem does get offended when people cuss. Dem does turn up dem noses pun dem girls wah does laugh lawless and walk about in skimpy clothes. Dem nah understand de working class people and dem ways. Dat is why some ah dem nah understand wat
is ‘stink and dutty’. But de poor people understand wah is ‘stink and dutty’. It nat de same as ‘dutty stinking gal’ which is about somebody who does walk about talking other people name. So wat is ‘stink and dutty’? It is de style of de poor, working class people. If yuh ever bin out on Mash Day and watch dem revellers yuh would understand a little more about ‘stink and dutty’. Is not fuh de faint of heart. Is de working class people thing. Dem wah study literature does seh is part of social realism – looking de experience of de poor, working class
people and how dem does express and enjoy demselves. Dem nah go to concert and clap dem hands and sit down like dem wah schooled in Victorian values and who does turn up dem nose pun people wah does use de English language creatively, wear revealing clothes and leave little to de imagination when dem dancing. Dat is ‘stink and dutty’. ‘Stink and dutty’ is not a reflection of de country. Is a reflection of de times and is against de hypocrisy of dem who passing moral judgment pon others. Talk half. Leff half.
scream and were told to calm down. A few days later, when I visited again, the man was unhooked from the machines and was sitting up in bed. The superstition of “the clock”
had passed. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Was Martin Carter a spy for MI5? It points to him I f y o u g o t o https://discovery.nationalarc hives.gov.uk/ and choose, “available for download,” and type in the “PPP of Guyana” or “Cheddi Jagan” or “Forbes Burnham,” 39 released British intelligence files on British Guiana in the 1950s are available. They were released in 2018. Each file costs 3.50 pounds. In the 1950s, almost 80 percent of our population wasn't born. No one since 2018 has been interested in those files. I do not know if UG has bought them. I don't think the newspapers would have purchased them because what went on in the 1950s is not the stuff to interest readers. Some of those files make references to “Lascar,” the MI5 agent in the PPP leadership that was giving out information to the British government on the activities of the PPP. Intelligence files have to be released by law after 30 years. Depending on
the nature of the contents, some are kept after 50 years and even 60 years. But even after so long, many of them are redacted so specifics are lost forever. When Lascar was made public in 2018, only one leader from the early 1950s was alive and is still alive today – attorney, Ashton Chase. I spoke to Mr. Chase on who he thinks was Lascar. He said he does not know. I spoke with Mr. Hamilton Green, he said he does not know. Though Green was not around at the time, I thought Burnham may have discussed with him who the spy in the PPP leadership was. The British agents who handled Lascar are all dead. So Guyanese will never know who Lascar was. But research can unearth things that have remained hidden for decades. There is an unknown Italian novelist, who is one of the world's most famous names in literature. She goes under the
pseudonym, Elena Ferrante. Ms. Ferrante has been unmasked as a man, Domenico Starnone assisted by his wife Anita Raja by an investigative journalist, Claudio Gatti, and a group of scholars through painstaking research. What is interesting is the name given to the PPP informer. Lascar refers to Indian sailors. What spy agencies do, is they assign code names that can be misleading. If the USSR was looking for Lascar to inform Jagan and Burnham, they would have focused on an Indian. In fact, Lascar was not Indian. Circumstantial evidence points to Martin Carter. Jagan, Burnham and other PPP leaders would never have imagined it was Carter. He was seen as white, married a white woman and was viewed as an elite member of the Creole middle class. PPP leaders if they suspected there was a spy
would probably have focus on an Indian or an African. Carter's life from the 50's until the beginning of the 70's g a v e h i m a w a y. A n examination of his life would point to him being the MI5 informant. Three years after holding a placard with Stalin's photograph on May Day then before that cuss down of a visiting British princess, he turns up as an employee of the British government's cultural office in Georgetown. Then he moves into a senior position with the huge British plantation company –Bookers. So the British Government and Bookers were happy to have a communist working with them who was a selfproclaimed Stalinist. That does not happen in real life and will never happen in real life. Here is what I think happened. After Carter and his colleagues from the local white society were expelled
from the PPP, Carter informed MI5 that he was finished with politics so they found him employment. He Frederick Kissoon stayed with Bookers c ommunist, Martin Carter. until Burnham threw off the presence of Peter Burnham would never have D'Aguiar in 1968 and suspected him. I don't think Mrs. Jagan assumed total control of the state. MI5 then asked him to suspected him either during go back into politics and the the 1950s. None of the PPP leader British government then, did. pressured Burnham to make When he died, she was him a minister. It would appear that President of Guyana. She Carter had enough of agreed for him to be buried at Burnham and politics and the Seven Ponds in the again informed his British Botanical Gardens. The trend handlers that he wanted to is for leaders to look at the return to Bookers and spend second-tier leadership to find his remaining days writing spies. They would never poetry. All the PPP leaders of the believe a top leader would be 1950s are dead except Mr. a spy. After Carter, it Chase and though it was happened again in the WPA. (The views expressed in natural for them to know there were informers among this article are those of the them, I doubt ever for a a u t h o r a n d d o n o t moment they thought it necessarily reflect the w o u l d b e t h e w h i t e , opinions of this newspaper.)
Pres. Ali defends shutting out opposition nominee from NRF board
P
resident Irfaan Ali on Sunday defended his government bypassing the opposition picks for the Natural Resources Fund Board and selecting former PNC MP, Dunstan Barrow. The People's Progressive Party/Civic used its one seat majority in the Committee of Appointments in the National Assembly last week to pick Barrow, ignoring Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram and oil and gas expert, Dr Vincent Adams. The President was asked to comment on the Opposition being denied a seat on the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Board, especially since the Coalition parties the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) represents a significant portion of the Guyanese population. To this end, Ali explained to reporters, “The Parliamentary process is that the committee selects someone of standing in a country and in a society. That process brings out a name. It is not that the PPP supported the name that is a Minister or
a member of the PPP. This is a former MP or member of the PNC”. Barrow according to PNCR sources is not active in the party. “I am not even sure if he is still a member, so for them holding put that he was a former MP for the PNC means nothing. Joe Hamilton who is now a PPP minister was a former PNC MP as well,” a senior PNC source commented. President Ali went on to say that the names submitted by his government, the People's Progressive Party (PPP) demonstrates its interest in its 'One Guyana' mantra. After concluding his statement on the matter, the President asked cameramen to reset their equipment so he could tell the country that the Opposition is duplicitous. He reasoned, “Look at the duplicity of the people we are dealing with…when we had the nomination for the Chair of GECOM, remember what they said? Look at one name, Christopher Ram was not fit and proper. Remember that? And now, the same very p e o p l e s a y i n g M r. Christopher Ram is fit and proper. That is why I am telling you, agenda, agenda,
agenda”. In addition to Barrow, the government side had also submitted the names of f o r m e r D e p u t y Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Clement Sealey and former Guyana High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Hamley Case for considerations. In reacting to Barrow's selection, the People National Congress Reform (PNCR) said it was another demonstration of the PPP's bad faith and politics of exclusion. “This case involves the PPP's use of its majority parliamentary power to reject the nominees of the opposition parties for the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) board and the Oversight Committee, despite the fact that those nominees have the best qualifications for the positions. Our nominees included Professor Clive Thomas, Dr. Vincent Adams, Christopher Ram and Elson Low. Both Adams and Ram were nominated separately by the PNCR and the AFC. Dr. Adams has over 40 years of extensive experience in
both the public and private sectors in the oil and gas industry. Christopher Ram has won the admiration and praise of the Guyanese public for his vast expertise in law, finance and the oil sector, as well as a relentless advocate for transparency and accountability in government.” According to the PNCR it should surprise no one that the PPP used its majority to reject these highly qualified and suitable candidates and advance its list of less qualified persons. “We ask the public not to be fooled by the PPP describing its selectee, Mr. Dunstan Barrow, as a former PNC MP. What should matter are the qualifications and expertise of the nominees and not their political or other affiliations. By these actions, the PPP has shown again its total lack of interest in transparency, accountability and inclusivity. It continues to strive for political dominance and control. The people of Guyana will ensure it does not succeed. The PNCR will continue to expose these examples of bad PPP/C governance to
Head of State, Irfaan Ali
inform the Guyanese public, the international diplomatic community and other stakeholders,” the statement c o n c l u d e d . Observers believe that Barrow being a former member of Parliament aligned to the PNCR further erodes the credibility of the board, which has been designed to give the government full advantage. Last week, Leader of the PNCR, Mr. Aubrey Norton said that it was imperative for the opposition to be able to scrutinize the allocations of the revenue from the oil sector, in the interest of good governance. The Shadow Oil and Gas Minister, David Patterson was however confident all along that the
government would use its one-seat majority in the National Assembly to have its own candidate selected. The full members of the appointments committee are government ministers: Gail Teixeira, Dr. Vindhya Persaud; Kwame McCoy, PPP/C Members of Parliament Alister Charlie a n d Yv o n n e P e a r s o n Fredericks. For the coalition the members are: Khemraj Ramjattan; Nicolette Henry; Tabitha Sarabo-Halley and Annette Ferguson. Under the recently passed NRF Act, the National Assembly has been the prerogative to select a member to sit on the NRF Board which is tasked with (Continued on page 16)
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Lawyer asks Appeal Court to reject NBS challenge to $79M award to former CEO Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo has asked the Appeal Court to reject the New Building Society's (NBS) challenge to the $79 M judgment award granted to its dismissed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maurice Arjoon, on the grounds that he (Arjoon) earned every right to his benefits. The former CEO had filed a lawsuit challenging the grounds by which he was dismissed from his job. Arjoon and two of his
managers were fired on allegations of fraud in 2006 regarding a $69 M withdrawal made from the account of Bibi Shamina Khan, a member of the society at the time. The men endured negative publicity, as well as a trial in the Magistrate Court before they were cleared of the charges. An Ombudsman's report had later confirmed Arjoon's contention that he was framed for refusing to lend some $2B of NBS' money to
the Bharrat Jagdeo-led government for the construction of the Berbice River Bridge. Arjoon and another manager (Kent Vincent) then turned around and filed separate lawsuits suing the institution for wrongful dismissal. Arjoon's matter dragged on for more than six years in the High Court before the Court eventually granted a $79M judgment in his favour. However, the matter did not end there, as the NBS
appealed the Court's decision to pay Arjoon. The issue between Arjoon and the Mortgage Financing Firm continues to drag on with NBS taking Arjoon on in an appeal. At a previous hearing before the Appeal Court, attorney Pauline Chase, the lawyer for NBS argued that Arjoon's dismissal was justifiable on the grounds that he was found liable of misconduct in the performance of his duties. In
Former CEO of NBS, Maurice Arjoon
Senior Counsel, Edward Luckhoo. a continuation of his oral arguments, Luckhoo dealt at length with exhibits related to the High Court trial for which Arjoon secured judgment against NBS. Responding to the contentions of the attorney for NBS, Mr. Luckhoo inter alia, belaboured on the points which supported his contention that Arjoon was within his right to claim his pension and benefits following his dismissal from NBS. The lawyer underscored that the attorney for NBS had
wholly misconceived the meaning pension and severance pay. He noted that in her presentation before the Court, Chase made numerous references to the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act (TESPA) but the points alluded to, did not apply to Arjoon's case. “The Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act has nothing to do with the respondent's right to his pension and benefits… the Act came into force in 1998… and is limited in the circumstances in which an employee can be denied the right to his benefits ” Luckhoo said noting that Arjoon did not fall within (Continued on page 17)
Edghill concerned about reckless road use …15 road deaths so far for 2022 Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, on Friday expressed great concern about the country's current death rate resulting from road fatalities. “As the Minister of Public Works, who is responsible for Guyana's road transportation network, it is of great concern to me and my Ministry that some persons continue to use the roads in a reckless and uncaring manner, which in many instances result in the death or injury to themselves and innocent road users,” Edghill Stated. To date 15 persons have lost their lives as a result of 14 road accidents however when compared with the same period for last year where 20 persons died from 19 accidents. According to Edghill, it is significantly alarming that in 2021, 14 of the 20 persons killed during the same time period were among the most vulnerable classes of road users, specifically 2 pedal cyclists, 8 motor cyclists and 4 pedestrians. While at March 3, 2022 of the 15 killed the vulnerable classes accounted for 7, of which 2
were pedal cyclists, 3 were motor cyclists and 2 were pedestrians. Throughout the entire year of 2021 a total of 99 persons were killed when compared with 139 persons who lost their lives in 2020, which shows a 29 per cent reduction. What is very notable, Edghill said, is that the vulnerable class of road users which includes pedal cyclists, motor cyclists and pedestrians accounted for 67.7 per cent of the total deaths in 2021. While in 2020 they accounted for 79.9 per cent. Further, according to information received from the Guyana Police Force it was proven that both pedal and motor cyclists combined accounted for 37.4% of the deaths in 2021 and 56.1% in 2020. As a result of the above mentioned, the minister implores all pedal and motor cyclists and their pillion riders to use helmets. Too many Guyanese are riding around without helmets, he stressed. “I urge pedestrians to exercise caution when crossing our roads, and with (Continued on page 18)
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Monday March 07, 2022
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CGX says Kawa-1 well not abandoned ...appraisal works to continue in the future Following a release by CGX Energy Inc. on Friday last that it had engaged in decommissioning activities at the Kawa-1 well which recorded a discovery at the Corentyne block, various industry stakeholders were under the impression that the company had essentially walked away from what was deemed a historic find. Fueling those perceptions as well were statements by CGX that it had “plugged and abandoned” the well as it was “never intended to be an active well.” T h e C a n a d i a n exploration conglomerate noted however that its statement should not be interpreted to mean that it has walked away from Kawa-1. In fact, it was explained that CGX intends to do further appraisal works in the future for Kawa. Expounding on this issue, Jennifer Budlong, Exploration Manager at CGX reminded that Kawa-1 is a discovery with 200 feet of net pay. Budlong said, “Our work with an independent third party laboratory to determine the nature of the hydrocarbons encountered in the pay zones in Kawa-1 is very encouraging…” In this regard the Exploration Manager articulated that cutting samples from 12 reservoir zones in the Kawa-1 well are being analyzed with a variety of geochemical methods to evaluate in situ hydrocarbons. The CGX o ff i c i a l s a i d t o o t h a t preliminary data from four pay intervals in the Santonian show consistent fingerprints which provide confidence in the interpretation and mitigate mud contaminants by overcoming the presence of Synthetic Oil Based Mud (SOBM) in the cuttings. Kaieteur News understands that a technique called Low Te m p e r a t u r e H y d r o u s P y r o l y s i s ( LT H P ) w a s utilized to analyze the cuttings to preserve volatile hydrocarbons. I m p o r t a n t l y, t h e Exploration Manager categorically stated that the company “abandoned” or walked away from the opportunity unlocked by the Kawa-1 well. “It is the opposite; CGX is indeed very excited to pursue the development opportunity
unlocked by Kawa-1. Kawa1 was always planned as a 'finder well' vs 'keeper well'– finder wells are the norm for offshore exploration wells that have no previous nearby subsurface penetrations or offset wells,” explained the CGX official while adding, “The goal of a finder well is to test the hydrocarbon generation, reservoir presence and trap models, and establish preliminary prospectivity regarding subsurface conditions (pressures, temperatures, fluids, reservoir quality).” The Exploration Manager said Kawa-1 was a finder well that has successfully been declared a discovery. She said the outcome supports further appraisal of the Kawa-1 discovery as well as further exploration of the Corentyne block. She explained too that
Mike Stockinger CGX's Vice President of Operations appraisal wells are drilled after a discovery, to confirm the size of a hydrocarbon deposit. She said these wells may be used normally to run drill stem tests, gather core or fluid samples or other evaluations. Further to this, the Exploration Manager noted that the decision to drill Wei1, an exploration well that will be drilled in the second half of this year on the Corentyne block, was motivated by the discovery at Kawa-1. As for Kevin Lacy, CGX's Drilling Director, he was keen to note that oftentimes, companies will not make a clear statement about the end of well status. He noted however that “CGX wanted to be completely transparent as to final well status especially since it was
part of the original plan. That plan was safely executed, eliminating any future liabilities or requirements to return to the well.” Mike Stockinger, Vice President of Operations also outlined that the preliminary plan for plug and abandonment was provided b y C G X t o t h e Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the required Environmental and Management Plan (EAMP) submission in May 2021, then reviewed again after EPA approval for the EAMP, in the required Intent To Drill (ITD) meeting with EPA, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GMCC) and Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) in July 2021. Kawa-1 was then drilled in August. Overall, the CGX team said it is extremely pleased with the outcome at Kawa-1 while noting in no uncertain terms that it remains, “a transformative discovery.” About CGX CGX is an oil and gas exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Canada and was incorporated in 1998 for the primary purpose of exploring for hydrocarbons in Guyana, South America. In partnership with Frontera Energy Corporation, CGX holds an interest in three Petroleum Agreements (PA) known as the Corentyne, Berbice and Demerara Blocks covering approximately 11,005.2 km2 (approximately 9,748.2 net km2) offshore and onshore Guyana. About Corentyne Block The original Corentyne PA covered approximately 11,683 km2 under two separate Petroleum Prospecting Licences (PPL). The Annex PPL (4,047 km2) was held 100%, as was the offshore portion of the Corentyne PPL (6,070 km2), while the onshore portion of the Corentyne PPL (1,566 km2) was held net 62% by CGX through ON Energy, its subsidiary. The original Corentyne PA was awarded to CGX in 1998, following which the company began an active exploration programme consisting of a 1,800 kilometre seismic acquisition and preparations to drill the
Eagle well. The Eagle drilling location in 2000 was 15 kilometres within the Guyana-Suriname border. However, a border dispute between Guyana and Suriname led to the company being forced off the Eagle
Kevin Lacy – Drilling Director at CGX location before drilling could begin. As a result of that incident, all active offshore exploration in Guyana was suspended by CGX and the other operators in the area, including Exxon and Maxus (Repsol, YPF). On September 17, 2007, the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (“ITLOS”) awarded a maritime boundary between Guyana and Suriname. In the decision, ITLOS determined that it had the jurisdiction to decide on the merits of the dispute and that the line adopted by ITLOS to delimit the parties' continental shelf and exclusive economic zone follows an unadjusted equidistance line. The arbitration was compulsory and binding. CGX had financed a significant portion
of Guyana's legal expenses at a cost of US$9.8 million. The decision was beneficial for CGX, as it concluded that 93% of CGX's Corentyne PPL and 100% of the Georgetown PPL would be in the Guyana territory. Because CGX was prevented from gaining unhindered access to a portion of the original Corentyne PPL area during the seven year resolution, the term of the contract was extended to June 2013. In 2008, CGX was the first company to commit to acquire 3D seismic in Guyana when the Company acquired a 505 square kilometre 3D seismic programme to enhance its interpretation of its newly defined Eagle Deep prospect, a large stratigraphic trap in the Cretaceous. The cost of the seismic program was approximately $8 million. Processing and interpretation of the 3D seismic was completed in 2009. B a s e d o n t h e interpretation of the 3D seismic volume and concurrent activities on both sides of the Atlantic margin, CGX interpreted numerous prospects on the Corentyne PPL. One significant prospect was a Turonian sand at approximately 5,600 metres. Because the offset J a g u a r- 1 w e l l o n t h e Georgetown PPL was testing another Cretaceous Turonian prospect, the Corentyne commitment well was targeted to 4,250 metres to test the Tertiary Eocene and Cretaceous Maastrichtian trend. The Eagle-1 well spudded on February 13,
2012 and was initially budgeted for 60 days of drilling, but experienced weather delays and mechanical issues which extended operations to 107 days. The initial cost estimate for the Eagle-1 well was
Jennifer Budlong – Exploration Manager at CGX Energy Inc. US$55 million. However, due to additional time for drilling and additional logging of potential reservoir sands, the final costs associated with the Eagle-1 well were approximately US$89.4 million. In May 2012, the Company completed the analyses of the results of its Eagle-1 well on the Company's 100% owned and operated Corentyne PPL, offshore Guyana. The well was declared a dry-hole after encountering hydrocarbon shows in three formations, but the potential reservoir sands proved to be waterbearing. The Company recognized the total cost of Eagle-1 well as a dry hole expense in the financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2013 (Continued on page 18)
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Mahdia District Hospital to rehabilitate at an estimated cost $13.5M FOR RENT One bedroom apartment for working couples/single person $32,000 monthly,light & water.Call:623-0076. VEHICLE FOR SALE One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable. Contact:649-0956. 1 Nissan pathfinder in good condition, CAT 215 used parts.Tel:683-7225/275-0367.
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WANTED Male seeks confidential companion,ages 30-60 to live with,salary $100,000 monthly. Call:603-9085.
SERVICES Massages and Rehabilitation physical preparation personalized training. Degree in physical Culture and Sports: Kyrenia Ballard Bell.Call:6696910.
With $2.5 billion approved in Budget 2022 for Region Eight, its Regional Administration is looking to spend some $13 million out of that sum for the rehabilitation of the Mahdia District Hospital. This is according to an invitation for bids issued by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Eight, seeking contractors to rehabilitate the health facility at an estimated cost of $13,584,000. Kaieteur News understands that the money that
PROPERTY FOR SALE JFWW Network Real Estate houselots for sale gated community,$4 Mil GYD zero down payment.Messageto whatsapp: 622-1957. Ogle,Sheriff St,Charlotte St,Enterprise C,Zeelugt & Diamond.Contact:Ray's Realty 627-9685.
Farm workers to work at Soesdyke, Highway. Contact: 666-3303. One Heavy duty diesel mechanic to work in the interior. Must know welding & have driver's license.Contact:6802702. Experienced Land Dredge workers.Serious enquiries only.Call:684-1030.
Prestige Janitorial Services. House,Commercial & Office cleaning,Land mowing/ weeding,after party clean up. Call:670-0734/639-9745. Installation, Repairs and parts for AC,Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc.Call Nick#656-0110.
LAND FOR SALE Middle road La Penitence, Cummingslodge 2acres, Eccles 5 acres,Berbice Riverside, Diamond & Friendship. Contact:Ray's Realty 6279685.
FOR SALE Double stalls with bonds for sale in Stabroek Market. Call: 227-3463 between 8:00hrs to 16:000hrs for enquiries. Lots of Tee Shores,some farm boards and plyboards. Must sell for $20,000.Contact: R.Singh,call:609-1633/ 622-0151.
Colingen Road E.C.D, business place to rent.Tel:6303910. One (1) bedroom apartment torent,located at Charlestown $10,000 per week. Tel:6232900. Self contain rooms to rent in Prashad Nagar.Tel#227-2993.
Vacancy exist at P.S.G.C.S for Labourers, General Cleaner, Maintenance worker,Time Keeping,Tool Issuing clerkPharmacist,Sales Girl, Maintenance Supervisor and Office Manager. Call: 621-6969 or 615-7784.
WANTED
Diesel & Auto mechanic, Truck & small vehicle drivers, porter to work in Interior. Call:682-3923/611-5398.
Salesgirl & Porters.Apply at Best Buy Food Supplies.Lot 1E Dennis C Middleton St Campbellville with written application.
One clerk for TSI Eccles Office,English & Maths grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to tech serigy@yahoo.com.
Experienced Taxi Driver (Hire car license) and bus driver at Princess Hotel. Contact:6165419/265-7075/265-7076.
Maid to cook and clean for East Bank areaa.Call:6159132.
Wanted Lorry Drivers. Call:220-2818/3710.
FOR RENT
VACANCY
1 live in maid.Apply with application at 23 Lombard St.Tel:227-8529 or 233-7356. One general domestic,covid 19 vaccinated for Tuesdays & Saturdays. Age 40+,between Cove & John Unity E.C.D 259-0953/623-3231. One male to work in Interior on chicken farm.Must have knowledge of Poultry Farming. Contact:680-2702.
Pitmen and Hauler Operator for interior location. Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250. 2 professional nail technician & one make up artist,location Grove E.B.D.Call:652-5800. Security Guards.Apply in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda. One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing. Keyfood Trading, Mc Doom village.
The Mahdia District Hospital
was approved for Region Eight, the sum of $269 million was allotted towards public works for the region, the sum of $1.4 billion was allocated for education development, $623 million for health services, and some $30 million was allocated for its agriculture sector. The Mahdia District Hospital which first operated as a health centre in the 1970s, and turned into a district hospital in the 2000s, now acts only as the main referral health institution for the region. With rehabilitation works slated for the institution, the goal really is to now move it from a level three facility to a level four which means it would be upgraded to a regional hospital. This is according to the Regional
Health Officer, Dr. Ravindra Dudhnauth who spoke briefly with Kaieteur News on Saturday. “We want to upgrade the hospital to a level four hospital which is going to move it to a regional hospital,” he said. In order to upgrade the facility to a regional hospital he highlighted that it would need to provide services such as surgeries and offer different kind of healthcare services. “So the rehabilitation process is where the hospital is going to have one theatre room, an observation room and a recovery room,” Dr. Dudhnauth explained. According to him, never before did the Mahdia hospital provide these services to its patients. “Region Eight never had any theatre ser-
vices. All our patients that would require operating theatre surgeries whether it has been general surgeries, gynaecology surgery or orthopedics or any type of surgery we would have to refer those patients to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC),” he pointed out. With these kinds of services slated to be offered in the region, it would prevent persons from travelling some seven hours by land to reach the GPHC or having be taken there by a plane. Some other health services projects that contractors are invited to undertake in that region are the construction of a health post and living quarters in Sand Hill Village; this is estimated at $13,900,000. The construction of a health post and living quarters in Waipa Village, this is estimated at $12,000,000, the extension of Kaibarupai Health post which is estimated to cost $8,000,000, extension of the Mailwak Health post which is estimated at $8,000,000 also and the instillation of a central oxygen and medical air system at the Mahdia District Hospital which is pegged at $8,000,000. The public notice states that these projects will be opened on March 15 at the Regional Administration Office located in Mahdia.
Govt. takes IDB loan to build water systems at schools to fight Covid-19 The Government of Guyana has secured a loan from the Inter American Development Bank to boost its fight against Covid-19 and also support vulnerable populations affected by the virus. According to a public request for proposals, as advertised, it intends to apply some of that money towards the construction or
rehabilitation of water systems at schools. The implementing agency has been listed as the Ministry of Education. As such, the Ministry of Education has begun inviting sealed bids from interested suppliers. Qualifications to secure the project contract, according to the request, includes completion of at
least two jobs of a similar nature in the past five years and concrete mixes, environmental officers and other criteria, as set out in the bidding documents. Potential bidders would have to make a formal application to the ministry before submission by March 15. Electronic bidding will not be permitted as well as late bids will be rejected.
No objection raised about Guyana... From page 8 provided by Guyanese and Guyanese Businesses. The Legislation explained “Guyanese company means (a) any company incorporated under the Companies Act- (i) which is beneficially owned by Guyanese nationals who ultimately exercise, individually or jointly, voting rights representing at least fifty-one percent of the total
issued shares of the company; and (ii) that has Guyanese nationals holding at least seventy-five percent of executive and senior management positions and at least ninety percent of non-managerial and other positions; or (b) any partnership between Guyanese nationals and a company constituted under subclause (a) in accordance with the Partnership Act”.
It defined Guyanese national as a citizen of Guyana. The Laws therefore would prevent foreign businesses from posing as a local. Although the CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) had flagged possible violations in the Local Content Act, it did not specifically highlight which clause/s breach the Treaty of Chaguaramas.
Pres. Ali defends shutting out opposition... From page 10 the overall management of the oil fund. As part of the governance structure for the NRF, a Board of Directors was established which shall comprise of not less than three and not more
than five persons who shall be appointed by the President, and one of whom shall be appointed Chairperson by the President. The directors, according to the Act shall be selected from among persons who
have wide experience and ability in legal, financial, business or administrative matters. It was noted that one of the Board members shall be nominated by the National Assembly along with one from the private sector.
Monday March 07, 2022
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Customer caught on camera stealing from shop By Shervin Belgrave A shop owner looking for her missing cash on Thursday last, decided to review some surveillance footage and found that it was one of her customers who had stolen it while she was washing some clothes in her yard. Speaking with Kaieteur News on Sunday, the shop owner, Ramela Bisram, whose business is located at Onderneeming on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD), Region Three, said, “I was very surprised when I saw this individual sneaking in behind the counter, grabbing the money box and running away, because he is someone who frequents the shop and sometimes I would give him food and other things when he is in need”. The woman recalled that the cash was discovered missing from the shop around 17:00hrs that afternoon. “I was still washing at the back and someone was calling in the shop and my son had come home so he decided to attend toa person”, Bisram told Kaieteur News. Her son reportedly ap-
plied to where she stored the cash “to make some change” but there was none. He related this to his mom and she entered to look for the money but when she could not find it she began to suspect that it was stolen. Bisram even questioned her 15-year-old daughter who had been home with her all day and had also assisted in attending a few of her customers earlier that day. No one had a clue where the money went, said Bisram, and she decided to review some surveillance footage from her security cameras. It turned out that her money was actually stolen by a known customer who had visited the shop four times that day. The man reportedly carted some $25,000 in cash, half carton of cigarettes and several lighters. “In the box (where the money was kept) I had $10,000 in change and underneath, there were three $5000 bills”, recounted the woman. Based on the footage she had obtained, it appeared the suspect was waiting for the
perfect opportunity to make his move. Earlier in the afternoon, he visited the shop, purchased some mints and left. He then returned around 14:00hrs and bought some cigarettes but this time he pretended to leave. “My daughter had sold him the cigarettes and came inside but he did not go away instead he stood outside underneath a shed” the woman said. When the man realised that her daughter was not around he reentered the building quietly. The footage showed that with the use of a pair of scissors he pried open the door of a small opening on the counter and forced the upper half of his body through. “He hang over half of his body over the counter and watch all around inside the shop”, narrated the woman. The suspect was not seen stealing anything at that time but it appeared he was scanning the area to locate where the money or valuables were
Guyana to set aside 25,000 acres of land... From page 2 see how we can create the opportunity…because we will require corn production, we will require soya production and that is why we will be pursuing the expansion of this, right here in Guyana”. President Ali told media operatives that to achieve the Caribbean's goals in poultry, close to 1.6 million metric tonnes of feed will be required. “Given that 65 percent of this will constitute corn, we will need more than one million metric tonnes of corn to produce this feed…so our intention here in Guyana of pursuing corn and soya is not only sustainable, it is integral in this equation of sustainability in terms of poultry and an increase in terms of production for the regional market.” To achieve the in-
crease in the demand for corn or to meet the 100 percent need of the Caribbean, 178,000 acres of appropriate land will be required the President explained. In this regard, Guyana has made available 25,000 acres of land which he said would be open to farmers in Guyana and those in the Caribbean. “Guyana is willing to put the land assets up and if the Region can bring in the investment so that we can catalyze that land in increasing food production, so this has always been the case of Guyana and those lands are lease lands but we are advancing and not waiting…the farmers can be Guyanese, they can be anywhere from the Region. The farmers will come with the investment but it will be a collaborative effort and
we have already started in terms of corn,” Ali pointed out. He was keen to note that Guyana is at an advantage with its fresh water resource and viable lands available. The President reminded too that Guyana has already started an aggressive programme for the production of corn and soya in which it is targeting to produce 75 percent of the local demand by the end of 2023 after which it will expand to meet and contribute to the regional demand. As regards to feed stock for the region, he did note that Suriname will also be contributing to the demand, while Belize is already on track to help achieve the targets through its agriculture production.
Lawyer asks Appeal Court to reject NBS... From page 14 those circumstances. Additionally, Lukhoo pointed out that the NBS is seeking to make new objections against Arjoon's claim for pension and benefits. He noted that that when the former CEO put the figure in for his pension claim there was no objection or cross examination of it by the legal team for NBS. He stressed therefore that the appellants had no legal premise, from which, they are to challenge the amount. Further, the attorney argued too that not only is Arjoon entitled to the sum calculated for his pension but that the monies are by law, seen as an
earned employee benefit. He explained that since the employee, who in this case Arjoon, had been contributing to the pension scheme up until he was dismissed he was lawfully entitled to claim those monies. With regard to the claim of misconduct on Arjoon's part by the appellants, the attorney noted that this was never proven in the High Court or otherwise. He explained that for misconduct or serious misconduct to be established by the society, there was a procedure. This procedure included, according to the lawyer, an audit being done and certification by auditors cit-
ing the serious misconduct. “None of this was done… Mr. Arjoon was dismissed for serious misconduct but there was no certification of an audit… [And] the directors did not determine the circumstances for which he was liable,” Luckhoo added. Moreover, the lawyer stated that Arjoon should not be denied his rights to any of his benefits since the claim of misconduct or serious misconduct was never proven. Luckhoo said as a consequence in the cross appeal, the respondent is claiming for his other benefits including his outstanding leave passage and full interest incurred on other benefits.
stored. He relocked the small opening and left the shop but returned about an hour later. This time he sneaked behind the counter quietly opening a grill door. The suspect then walked
directly to where the money was located, picked it up then grabbed the cigarettes and lighters before exiting quickly with his stolen booty. With the video evidence in her hand Bisram made a re-
port to Region Three Police. Kaieteur News was told that ranks located him and attempted to arrest him but somehow he managed to escape the lawmen and is currently in hiding.
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Russian attacks halt plans to evacuate Ukrainian civilians LVIV, Ukraine (AP) — A second attempt to evacuate civilians from a besieged city in southern Ukraine collapsed Sunday amid renewed Russian shelling, while Russian President Vladimir Putin turned the blame for the war back on Ukraine and said Moscow’s invasion could be halted “only if Kyiv ceases hostilities.” Food, water, medicine and almost all other supplies were in desperately short supply in the port city of Mariupol, where Russian and Ukrainian forces had agreed to an 11hour cease-fire that would allow civilians and the wounded to be evacuated. But Russian attacks quickly closed the humanitarian corridor, Ukrainian officials said. “There can be no ‘green corridors’ because only the sick brain of the Russians decides when to start shooting and at whom,” Interior Ministry adviser Anton Gerashchenko said on Telegram. The news dashed hopes that more people could escape the fighting in Ukraine, where Russia’s plan to quickly overrun the country has been stymied by fierce resistance. Russia has made significant advances in southern Ukraine and along the coast, but many of its efforts have become stalled, including an immense military convoy that has been almost motionless for days north of Kyiv. Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelenskyy rallied his people to remain defiant, especially those in cities that
Russian soldiers have entered. “You should take to the streets! You should fight!” he said Saturday on Ukrainian television. “It is necessary to go out and drive this evil out of our cities, from our land.” Zelenskyy also asked the U.S. and NATO countries to send more warplanes to Ukraine, though that idea is complicated by questions about which countries would provide the aircraft and how those countries would replace the planes. The war, now in its 11th day, has caused 1.5 million people to flee the country. The head of the U.N. refugee agency called the exodus “the fastestgrowing refugee crisis in Europe since World War II.” As he has often done, Putin blamed Ukraine for the war, telling Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday that Kyiv needed to stop all hostilities and fulfill “the well-known demands of Russia.” Putin launched his attack with a string of false accusations against Kyiv, including that it is led by neoNazis intent on undermining Russia with the development of nuclear weapons. The Russian leader also told Erdogan he hoped Ukraine “would show a more constructive approach (to talks), fully taking into account the emerging realities.” A third round of Russia-Ukraine negotiations is scheduled for Monday. Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron spoke about the nuclear situation in Ukraine, which has 15 nuclear reactors and was the scene of the 1986
The dead bodies of people killed by Russian shelling lay covered in the street in the town of Irpin, Ukraine, Sunday, March 6, 2022. With the Kremlin’s rhetoric growing fiercer and a reprieve from fighting dissolving, Russian troops continued to shell encircled cities and the number of Ukrainians forced from their country grew to over 1.4 million. (AP Photo/Diego Herrera Carcedo) Chernobyl nuclear disaster. The men agreed in principle to a “dialogue” involving Russia, Ukraine and the U.N.’s atomic watchdog, according to a French official who spoke on condition of anonymity, in line with the presidency’s practices. Potential talks on the issue are to be organized in the coming days, he said. Putin also blamed the fire last week at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which Ukrainian officials said was caused by Russian attackers, on a “provocation organized by Ukrainian radicals.” “Attempts to shift responsibility for this incident
Edghill concerned about reckless road... From page 14 the advent of four lane roads, consideration should be given that it will take more time to cross. Proper judgment is required,” the Minister said. “As the Minister of Public Works, I will examine with my colleagues, to encourage legislation to ensure stricter
controls be it the training/retraining of drivers/ riders, higher fines or stiffer penalties and a studied approach for the introduction of a demerit system,” Edghill explained. The minister went on to call upon all Guyanese as we build new super highways,
improve and rehabilitate community roads, expand our Hinterland Road Networks and provide alternative routes for easy access, reducing congestion and cutting travel time that we observe the Five C's: Care, Courtesy, Caution, Consideration and Common sense.
CGX says Kawa-1 well not abandoned... From page 15 and 2012. As of March 19, 2013 and effective December 31, 2012, an Independent Resources Evaluation was completed by DeGolyer and MacNaughton of Dallas, Texas, USA (the “D&M Report”). In the D&M Report, the total best estimate (P50) of Prospective Resources for six oil and gas prospects within the Corentyne PA are 779 MMbbl of oil, 743 MMbbl of condensate, 6,943 Bcf of sales gas plus 696 billion cubic feet of solution gas.
The D&M Report has been filed on CGX's website at www.cgxenergy.com. The D&M Report was prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 5.9 of National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities. On November 27, 2012, the Company received a new Corentyne PA, offshore Guyana, renewable after four years for up to six additional years. That New Corentyne PA applied to the former offshore portion of the Corentyne PPL, covering
6,212 km2. On December 15, 2017, the Company was issued an addendum to the November 27, 2012 PA. Under the terms of the addendum to the new Corentyne PA beginning November 27, 2017, during phase two of the first renewal period the Company has an obligation to drill one well. That well was drilled last year August with Kawa-1. Additionally, the addendum to the New Corentyne PA resulted in a reduction of acreage to 4,709 km2.
onto the Russian military are part of a cynical propaganda campaign,” he said, according to the French official. International leaders, as well as Pope Francis, appealed to Putin to negotiate. In a highly unusual move, the pope said he had dispatched two cardinals to Ukraine, saying the Vatican would do everything it could to end the conflict. “In Ukraine, rivers of blood and tears are flowing,” the pontiff said in his traditional Sunday blessing. “This is not just a military operation, but a war that sows death, destruction and misery.” After the cease-fire in Mariupol failed to hold Saturday, Russian forces intensified their shelling of the city and dropped massive bombs on residential areas of Chernihiv, a city north of Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said. The handful of residents who managed to flee Mariupol before the humanitarian corridor closed said the city of 430,000 had been devastated. “We saw everything: houses burning, all the people sitting in basements,” said Yelena Zamay, who fled to one of the self-proclaimed republics in eastern Ukraine held by pro-Russian separatists. “No communication, no water, no gas, no light, no water. There was nothing.” British military officials compared Russia’s tactics to those Moscow used in Chechnya and Syria, where surrounded cities were pulverized by airstrikes and artillery. “This is likely to represent an effort to break Ukrainian morale,” the U.K. Ministry of Defense said. Zelenskyy reiterated a request for foreign protectors to impose a no-fly zone over
Ukraine, which NATO so far has ruled out because of concerns such an action would lead to a far wider war. “The world is strong enough to close our skies,” Zelenskyy said Sunday in a video address. The day before, Zelenskyy pleaded with American lawmakers in a video call to help get more warplanes to Ukraine. U.S. officials say Washington is discussing ways to get the planes to Ukraine in a complex scenario that would include sending Americanmade F-16s to former Soviet bloc nations, particularly Poland, that are now members of NATO. Those countries would then send Ukraine their own Soviet-era MiGs, which Ukrainian pilots are trained to fly. But because of production backlogs on the U.S. warplanes, the Eastern European nations would essentially have to give their MiGs to the Ukrainians and accept U.S. promises that they would get F-16s as soon as that was possible. Adding to the difficulties is the fact that the next shipment of F-16s is destined for Taiwan, and the U.S. Congress would be reluctant to delay those deliveries. The Russian military has warned Ukraine’s neighbors against hosting its warplanes, saying that Moscow may consider those counties part of the conflict if Ukrainian aircraft fly combat missions from their territory. The death toll remains lost in the fog of war. The U.N. says it has confirmed just a few hundred civilian deaths but also warned that the number is a vast undercount. Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy, said Ukrainian officials and international humanitarian organi-
zations were working with Russia through intermediaries to establish humanitarian corridors from Bucha and Hostomel, which are Kyiv suburbs where there has been heavy fighting. Ukraine’s military is greatly outmatched by Russia’s, but its professional and volunteer forces have fought back with fierce tenacity. In Kyiv, volunteers lined up Saturday to join the military. Even in cities that have fallen, there were signs of resistance. Onlookers in Chernihiv cheered as they watched a Russian military plane fall from the sky and crash, according to video released by the Ukrainian government. In Kherson, hundreds of protesters waved blue and yellow Ukrainian flags and shouted, “Go home.” Russia has made significant advances in southern Ukraine as it seeks to block access to the Sea of Azov. Capturing Mariupol could allow Moscow to establish a land corridor to Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014 in a move that most other countries considered illegal. The West has broadly backed Ukraine, offering aid and weapon shipments and slapping Russia with vast sanctions. But no NATO troops have been sent to Ukraine, leaving Ukrainians to fight Russian troops alone. Russia’s economy has been devastated by the sanctions, with the ruble plunging in value and dozens of multinational companies ending or dramatically scaling back their work in the country. On Sunday, American Express announced it would suspend operations in Russia, as well as in Russian-allied Belarus. Globally issued American Express cards will no longer work at stores or ATMs in Russia, the company said, and AmEx cards issued in Russia by local banks will also no longer work outside the country. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spent the weekend visiting NATO member nations in Eastern Europe that have taken in refugees from Ukraine. In Moldova on Sunday, he pledged support for the Western-leaning former Soviet republic that is warily watching Russia’s moves in Ukraine. The U.N. said it would increase its humanitarian operations both inside and outside Ukraine, and the Security Council scheduled a meeting for Monday on the worsening situation. The U.N. World Food Program has warned of an impending hunger crisis in Ukraine, a major global wheat supplier, saying millions will need food aid “immediately.”
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Kaieteur News
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Monday March 07, 2022
Monday March 07, 2022
Man City outclass Man Utd to restore six point lead BBC Sport - Manchester City outclassed Manchester United to maintain control of the Premier League title race with an outstanding display at Etihad Stadium. City remain six points clear of Liverpool having played one game more after a victory that was arguably even more convincing than the scoreline suggests. Ralf Rangnick’s side w e r e without injured Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani, as well as Raphael Varane and Luke Shaw, who have Covid-19, and found themselves overwhelmed by the quality and intensity of the reigning champions. Kevin de Bruyne was at the heart of it all. He put City ahead with a crisp early fin-
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ish then restored their lead before half-time after Jadon Sancho put United level with precise low strike, the Belgian’s second hammered home in a goalmouth scramble. City turned up the tempo after the break and got the goal their vast superiority deserved after 68 minutes when Riyad Mahrez met De Bruyne’s corner on the halfvolley to beat United keeper David de Gea. The goal came via a deflection off United captain Harry Maguire, who endured a nightmare afternoon. It got even better for City in the closing moments when Mahrez raced clear to beat De Gea, the goal being given after a lengthy VAR check for offside. Man City respond to
pressure Manchester City felt Liverpool at their back after Jurgen Klopp’s side moved to within three points following their win against West Ham United but the champions could not have responded more impressively. From the first whistle, City imposed themselves on Manchester United and Sancho’s fine equaliser proved to be only a minor inconvenience as the gap between Guardiola’s team and their arch-rivals was brutally exposed. De Bruyne was the mastermind, scoring twice and creating City’s third, the shining star in a galaxy on display at Etihad Stadium as they showed they are in no mood to relinquish their
Monday March 07, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A radical force seems to be stirring up trouble and challenging your long-established beliefs about how things should be done and what you hold most dear, Aries. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Things could get a bit tense for you, Taurus. One of your first reactions might be to look to your loved ones for support. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Parts of your life might seem like gladiatorial games out of ancient Rome. The good news is that if anyone can rise above this situation and see the truth in the matter, it's you, Gemini. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're apt to go in circles if you only see the negative side of every situation, Cancer. Your lack of perspective could keep you from seeing an answer right in front of you. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You're likely to be on a roll with new and innovative ideas about your goals in life, Leo. Unfortunately, there are some obstacles. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Remember that even though there is tension and chaos all around, Virgo, it doesn't have to affect you. Your motto should be you're "in it but not of it."
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) While your brain may want to charge ahead with new and revolutionary ideas, there is something holding you back from setting these ideas into motion, Libra. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You could feel like you're walking a puppy that won't heel, Scorpio. The puppy is curious and, at times, rather reckless. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Your mental processes may run into a snag as you discover that there are certain rules and guidelines by which you need to abide, Sagittarius. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) In all the time spent trying to stabilize your emotions and achieve sensitivity, you may get too caught up in your feelings, Capricorn. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) The more you can apply to your own life the advice you give to others, the better off you'll be, Aquarius. No one is going to follow a leader who doesn't abide by his or her own standards. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may be on a slow, steady track of discipline that embraces an older, more traditional way of looking at things, Pisces. Suddenly, however, you're hit by an aggressive force urging you to do things differently.
crown, no matter how hard Liverpool push them. City’s first-half performance was excellent but after the break they were simply magnificent as they overran United, who were not given a second on the ball and were unable to resist wave after wave of attacks. Mahrez could have scored more than his two goals but for De Gea, while Joao Cancelo was also thwarted by the U n i t e d keeper following an acrobatic volley. City’s dominance o f possession and ability to carve open an admittedly vulnerable United defence at will delighted their supporters, who revelled in a show of superiority that left United a beaten and bedraggled side long before the end.
Queretaro v Atlas: At least 26 injured as fans fight at Mexican match
Fighting broke out between opposing fans at the La Corregidora stadium. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - At least 26 people were injured when violence broke out among the crowd at a top-flight match in Mexico. The Liga MX encounter between Queretaro
and Atlas was abandoned after 63 minutes when fighting spilled on to the field at La Corregidora stadium. Some players attempted to calm fans down before they were sent to the locker room. Three people were seriously injured, with 26 supporters in total taken to hospital. “Even though there are no deaths, we cannot say this is not a tragedy,” said Queretaro state governor Mauricio Kuri yesterday. He added that, of the 26 people taken to hospital, three have been discharged but “three are in a serious condition, 10 are in a delicate state and the other 10 are not serious”. Visitors Atlas led 1-0 when the match was suspended. Liga MX president Mikel Arriola said all Sunday’s matches have been suspended “in solidarity with the people affected”. “Those responsible for the lack of the security at the stadium will be exemplarily punished,” he wrote on Twitter. “The safety of our players and fans is priority!”
Smith, Austin... From page 23 200m. The Running Braves Athletics Club (RBAC) starlet clocked a best time of 11.68s yesterday in the 100m while winning the 200m race in 24.67s. Meanwhile, Adriel Austin dominated the women’s 400m- 800m events. The Running Braves athletes won the 400m in 56.73s as the club made a podium sweep with Maris McPherson second and Attoya Harvery third. In the 800m women’s race, Austin won in a time of 2 minutes 18 seconds.
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Kaieteur News
RHT Namilco Thunderbolt Flour teams launch the third edition of Basil Butcher Trust Fund with support of the Butcher Family
T
he Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Namilco Thunderbolt Flour First Division Team along with their Under 21 counterparts launched the third edition of the Basil Butcher Trust Fund at a simple ceremony at the Area H Ground. The team since 2020 has been hosting the trust fund in memory of the legendary test player who died in December 2019 in the USA after a period of illness. The teams handed over three bicycles valued at seventy thousand dollars to two under17 players and a single parent mother of three children. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster at the handing over ceremony stated that the cycles were sponsored by three children of Basil Butcher and is the start of several projects in 2022 under the trust fund. Among the other projects planned under the trust fund are the distribution of more cycles, school bags, school uniforms, educational grants, food hampers and the hosting of several awards programmes for youths, police officers and medical workers among others. Foster, who is also the President of the Berbice Cricket Board disclosed that hundreds of youths over the last two years have benefitted from the trust fund in the form of cycles, educational materials, cricket gears, sports equipment, clothing, footwear and educational grants. The fund has also contributed office equipment, stationery, medical items among others to several public institutions.
The three recipients pose with their cycles after the presentations.
Thousands of food hampers were also shared out across Berbice in response to the covid 19 pandemic and flooding crises. RHTYSC Asst Secretary/ CEO Jonathan Rampersaud urged the recipients to take care of the cycles and also to always promote the legacy of the late Basil Butcher. He expressed gratitude to the family of the late legend with special mention being made of Blossom, Bruce and Basil Butcher Jnr. Butcher played 44 test matches for the West Indies between 1958 to 1968, scoring 3104 runs at an average of 43.11 with seven centuries and sixteen half centuries. Butcher was also a Wisden Cricketer of the year in 1970 and later played a great role in the development of the game in Linden, where he
captained the first division team for a very long time. He also served on the Guyana Cricket Board as a Vice President and as Chairman of the West Indies Selection Committee. For many years, Butcher also gave back to the game via a Basil Butcher Cricket Fund, which provided gears to young cricketers. One of the players who benefitted from his kindness is current West Indies player Shimron Hetmyer. The RHT Namilco Thunderbolt Flour teams are sponsored by the National Milling Company(NAMILCO) and among the players are Kelvin Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersaud, Slyus Tyndall, Eon Hooper, Delbert Hicks, Keith Simpson, Mahendra Gopilall, Jeremy Sandia and Chanderpaul Govindan.
Double Olympic champion Kipchoge wins Tokyo Marathon (Reuters) - Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, the two-times Olympic marathon champion and world record holder, won the Tokyo Marathon in Japan with a time of two hours two minutes and 40 seconds yesterday. Kipchoge, who defended his marathon title at Sapporo at the Tokyo Games last year, fell short of his world record mark by just over a minute in his debut Tokyo Marathon. Kipchoge’s compatriot Amos Kipruto was second with a time of 2:03.13 while Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia came in third with 2:04.14. In the women’s race, Kenyan world record holder Brigid Kosgei prevailed with a time of 2:16.02, ahead of the Ethiopian duo of Ashete
Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya crosses the finish line to win the men’s category race in the Tokyo Marathon 2021 in Tokyo, Japan March 6, 2022. Bekere (2:17.58) and Gotytom Gebreslase (2:18.18). “I am so proud to win in the streets of Tokyo, where the people have running in their heart and minds,” Kipchoge said on Twitter. “It’s great to now have won 4
out of the 6 Abbott World Marathon Major races.” The 37-year-old holds the world record with a time of 2:01:39 set in Berlin in 2018 and became the only man to break the two-hour barrier at an unofficial race in 2019.
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Kaieteur News
Early Season Classic... Women’s World Cup: India survive scare to beat Pakistan Smith, Austin and Archibald complete double wins BBC Sport - India suffered a fright against Pakistan before coming through to win by 107 runs in the Women’s World Cup. A collapse of five wickets for 18 runs saw India slip to 114-6 on a blameless surface in Tauranga. But Pooja Vastraka, with 67, and Sneh Rana, who made 53 not out, added 122 to drag the 2017 runners-up to 244-7. It was always likely to be a target beyond Pakistan, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, bowled out for 137, with Rajeshwari Gayakwad claiming 4-31. While it was ultimately comfortable for India, they will need an improvement to challenge for a spot in the semi-finals. The collapse was a result of some lackadaisical batting. Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma had added 92 for the second wicket, but both fell to sloppy strokes, which were repeated by the rest of the middle-order. Va s t r a k a a n d R e n a halted the slide by showing the intent their team-
Athletics Guyana held their early season classic yesterday at the National Track & Field Center (NTFC) on the West Coast of Demerara where Olympian Emmanuel Archibald completed the 100m-200m double in the men’s open as expected. Archibald, in his first competitive race on home soil for
Pooja Vastrakar and Sneh Rana put on a record stand for the seventh wicket. (AFP/Getty Images) mates lacked. They pounced on any loose deliveries and hurried between the wickets to set a new record partnership for the seventh wicket at the Women’s World Cup. The swing in momentum deflated Pakistan and ensured they remain winless in the 11 one-dayers they have played against India - this was the first meeting since the last World Cup five years ago. Their reply never gathered pace as
India’s pace bowlers started well with the new ball before further pressure was applied by a trio of spinners, in particular left-armer Gayakwad, who found sharp turn. The tournament continues today as hosts New Zealand take on Bangladesh in Dunedin. Scores: India 244 for 7 (Vastrakar 67, Rana 53*, Mandhana 52, Sandhu 2-36) beat Pakistan 137 (Sidra 30, Gayakwad 4-31) by 107 runs.
Arsenal impress but have to cling on to see off Watford Bukayo Saka is one of only two players under 21 to score eight goals in one of Europe’s top five leagues this season. (Getty Images)
BBC Sport - Arsenal climbed into the Champions League places with an entertaining victory over lowly Watford in a game with five quality goals. The Hornets, who remain in the relegation zone, thought they had taken the lead within the first 20 seconds as Emmanuel Dennis slotted home but he was offside. Martin Odegaard put Arsenal ahead not long afterwards after flicking the ball into the path of Bukayo Saka and then running into the
centre to slot in Saka’s cross. Watford levelled with the best individual goal of the game, Cucho Hernandez’s acrobatic flying volley from Kiko Femenia’s cross. The visitors restored their lead when Saka won the ball off Tom Cleverley and found Alexandre Lacazette, who rolled the ball back into Saka’s path to fire into the top corner. England star Saka was involved again in the third goal as his quick throw-in set up a move with Lacazette laying the ball off to Gabriel
Martinelli to finish. They looked as if they were cruising, and Eddie Nketiah hit the post, before Moussa Sissoko controlled the ball on his chest and beat Ben White before slotting in. That set up a tense finale with Watford debutant Samuel Kalu forcing Aaron Ramsdale into a save with a long-range shot. Arsenal move above Manchester United into fourth spot, with United losing 4-1 to Manchester City in the derby. Watford, who blow hot and cold too often, remain three points off safety.
the year clocked 10.4 seconds in the 100m final to win ahead of Akeem Stewart of the Guyana Defence Force who ran a time of 10.67s while his club mate Loneil Marks ran 10.89s for third. In the halftracker, Archibald, who is upping preparations for this year’s Birmingham Commonwealth Games, ran 21.43 sec-
onds to win the men’s 200m. Loneil Mark’s was on the podium again, this time second for his 21.88s performance in the narrow finish with Archibald. Revon William’s was third in 22.17s. Meanwhile, Keliza Smith remains unbeaten with two more victory in the open 100m and (Continued on page 21)
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GCA’s Noble House Seafoods 2-day 2nd Division cricket
Kevin Christian’s unbeaten 102 highlights game washed out By Sean Devers A magnificent unbeaten 102 from the right-handed Kevin C h r i s t i a n s p e a r headed Police to 162-2 from 23 overs at the end of the opening day of their GCA’s Noble House Seafoods two-day second division cricket at the Police Sports Club Eve Leary. With already first innings points in bag and enjoying a healthy lead of 68 after dismissing Third Class for 94, the Cops were large and in charge in their own back before rain washed out the entire last day yesterday. On Saturday, in Sunny conditions, the entertaining stroke play of Christian, who hit several audacious shots in his 102 from 72 balls decorated with six fours and nine sixes, was the main attraction of the opening day. Andrew Lyght Junior, the son of the late Andrew Lyght, the former Guyana and West Indies B opener, was removed by Lenny Panchan for duck before Police had scored. But the free-flowing Christian put together a commanding 132-run partnership with Kyle Michael who played the supporting role with a carefully constructed 36 from 54 balls with three fours and six before he was LBW to Julian
Monday March 07, 2022
Kaieteur News
Family accept offer of state funeral for Shane Warne Shane Warne will have a state funeral after his family accepted the offer.
VIisha Jaigobin 3-22 and Troy Benn (2-14). Mohabir. Troy Benn, the brother of National Selectee pacer Trevon Benn, joined the well-entrenched Christian, who soon reached a century. The pair scored quickly before the close with Benn hitting a six and a four in his unbeaten 12 from 11 balls and with the third wicket stand already 30 and entire day to go Police were in a commanding position to press for an outright win. But heavy overnight and rain all day yesterday spoiled those plans. Earlier, on Saturday, Third Class quickly slipped to 7-2 and then 21-3 as Keston Hardcourt got rid of Sameer Housein for a duck and
trapped Mohabir (5) LBW, before Benn removed Amir Khan. Gopaul Ramgobin (21) and Alex Leal (15) added 26 before Leal was sent packing by Benn at 45-4. Anand Persaud (8) fell t o l e g s p i n n e r Vi s h a l Jaigobin at 58-5 and his demise trigged a collapse as four wicket tumbled for 10 runs. Number 10, Dion Pierre smashed three fours and two sixes from 22 balls in his cameo 29 before he was dismissed by Ameer Mohammed to end the innings. Jaigobin (3-22), Mohammed (3-25), Benn (214) and Hardcourt (2-15) were the architects of destruction for Police.
SportsMax - Shane Warne will have a state funeral, Victoria premier Dan Andrews has confirmed. The Australia great died this week at the age of 52, having been found unresponsive at his villa in Thailand on Friday. Tributes have poured in for legendary spinner Warne, who took 708 Test wickets across a 15-year career – second only to Muttiah
Muralitharan. Flowers, beer and photographs have been left at Warne’s statue at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is to have a stand renamed in his honour, Andrews had already announced. And further appreciation will now follow at a state funeral, which was offered by Andrews to Warne’s family.
“I’ve spoken with the Warne family again today and they have accepted my offer of a State Funeral to remember Shane,” the premier posted on his Twitter page. “It will be an opportunity for Victorians to pay tribute to his contribution to his sport, to our state and the country. “Details will be finalised in coming days.”
MotoGP: Enea Bastianini wins season opener in Qatar BBC Sport - Italy’s Enea Bastianini won the opening race of the MotoGP season in Qatar to claim his first victory in motorcycling’s premier class. The 24-year-old Gresini rider trailed Pol Espargaro for much of the race before surging past the Spaniard. Espargaro went wide after being overtaken and finished third, with South Africa’s Brad Binder second. France’s reigning champion Fabio Quartararo endured a disappointing start to the season, finishing ninth. Aleix Espargaro, Pol’s brother, finished fourth with six-time champion Marc Marquez in fifth. Pramac Ducati’s Jorge Martin, who started on pole, fell behind early and later crashed when D u c a t i ’s Francesco Bagnaia slipped and took both bikes out. It was an impressive performance from Bastianini, who claimed two podium finishes in his debut MotoGP season last year after winning the Moto2 title in 2020. Bastianini paid tribute to the team’s founder Fausto
Bastianini was the Moto2 world champion in 2020. (Getty Images) Gresini, a double 125cc world champion who died aged 60 last year from coronavirus. “I dedicate this victory to Fausto,” he said. “He pushed me a lot from the skies, and it’s fantastic for all the team. I think we’ve all been crying.” Elsewhere, Britain’s Sam Lowes claimed a podium finish in the Moto2 opener in Qatar, finishing behind Italian winner Celestino Vietti and Spain’s Aron Canet. Qatar Grand Prix result 1. Enea Bastianini (Ita) Gresini 42min 13.198sec 2. Brad Binder (SA) KTM +0.346sec 3. Pol Espargaro (Spa) Repsol Honda +1.351
4. Aleix Espargaro (Spa) Aprilia +2.242 5. Marc Marquez (Spa) Honda +4.099 6. Joan Mir (Spa) Suzuki +4.843 7. Alex Rins Navarro (Spa) Suzuki +8.810 8. Johann Zarco (Fra) Pramac +10.536 9. Fabio Quartararo (Fra) Yamaha +10.543 10. Takaaki Nakagami (Jpn) Honda +14.967 World Championship standings 1. Enea Bastianini (Ita) 25 pts 2. Brad Binder (SA) 20 3. Pol Espargaro (Spa) 16 4. Aleix Espargaro (Spa) 13 5. Marc Marquez (Spa) 11
Monday March 07, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Smith, Austin and Archibald complete double wins Early Season Classic
Attoya Harvey
Keliza Smith
Emmanuel Archibald
s t r o Sp GCA's Noble House Seafoods 2-day 2 nd Division cricket
Man City outclass Man Utd to restore six point lead Kevin de Bruyne is the first player to be involved in three goals in the Manchester derby in the Premier League since Ashley Young in 2015. (EPA)
Kevin Christian hit an unbeaten 102 for Police before rain washed out yesterday's play.
Kevin Christian's unbeaten 102 highlights game washed out 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.