Kaieteur News

‘Guyana is going to go nowhere’

University of the West Indies (UWI) lecturer and Jamaican economist, Dr Damien King fears that Guyana could fall victim to the “resource-curse” citing that the country lacks strong institutions to prevent corruption.

Dr King made those comments during an interview with Jamaican Observer, a daily newspaper published in Kingston, Jamaica.

According to the article, King stated that even as Guyana moves deeper in developing its oil and gas finds, the country lacks strong institutions to prevent corruption.

Themediaentityreported that King is convinced that political parties will soon start to squabble over the spoils to the detriment of the country

“You mark my words, Guyana is going to go nowhere,” King told the Jamaica Observer, citing that the oil revenues could cause corruption to increase in the countryandmakeitworseoff than it was before accessing

...fearscountrycouldfallvictimto'Dutchdisease' ...lacksstronginstitutionstopreventoilcorruption

thewealth.

“It's worth bearing in mind that very few countries intheworldhavegrownfrom poverty to wealth, having donesoonthebasisofnatural resources.

Very, very few,” he continued, pointing out that oil-rich countries like “Venezuela is a basket case andNigeriaisajoke.”

“One of the reasons why there is this thing called a 'resource curse', why countries which have resourcestendtodoworse,is because not having resources forcesacountrytohavegood governance, because that's theonlywaytheGovernment and the elite can extract wealth. For them to extract w e a l t h t o r u n t h e Government, they have to create a wealth-creating environment,” he said using resource-poor Singapore and Switzerland as examples of countrieswhichhavebecome wealthy through good governance.

King continued by noting that in resource-poor countries,“Theonlywaythat the Government will have resources to function is to

have an environment that creates the resources. When you have natural resources you don't have to do that. [With natural resources] the Government then only becomes an institution to fight over the resources and extractit.

And unless you have strong institutions to begin with, to put a constraint on the fight for spoils, it descends into corruption and violence because the spoils are so lucrative; it's worth killing people to get into power That's what's going to happen to Guyana because Guyana already has weak institutions.”

“It's not even a radical view amongst political economists,” he continued. King added that because of his fears of the resource curse, he prays that oil is not discoveredinJamaica.

“I would rue the day that Jamaica discovers oil for exactly that reason and Jamaica has stronger institutionsthanGuyana.”

Dr King comment comes at a time when the Government of Guyana is pushing ExxonMobil Guyana to accelerate its exploration and production of the country's oil and gas resources, all while knowing that the country has been

operating with archaic petroleumlaws.

Kaieteur News had reported that in December 2020, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) released a brief pointing out the glaring loopholes in Guyana's legislative framework which essentially weakens the shield of protection that is needed for theoilsector

Also, upon assuming office in August 2020, the PPP administration had promised an overhaul for Guyana's petroleum laws. In fact, President Irfaan Ali during his inauguration addresspledgedtoestablisha Petroleum Commission to insulate the oil and gas sector from political interference. However, that has not been done and May 2023 will make eight years since Guyanaiswithoutanupdated legislative and regulatory framework that is essential for the protection of the oil i n d u s t r y a g a i n s t mismanagement and corruption.

Notably, what the Government has done is implement a Natural

Resource Fund (NRF) to manage the oil proceeds.The NRF legislation allows for a Board of Directors, an Investment Committee and a Public Accountability and Oversight Committee

However, most of the members appointed to the committees responsible for the management of the oil monies have either been appointed directly by the President or chosen by the National Assembly, where the President's party has a majority Exxon's affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) is operatorandholds45percent interest in Guyana's lucrative Stabroek Block, which is 6.6 million acres and has 11 billion of proven barrels of oil.HessGuyanaExploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest Guyana signed onto a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with the oil major, which has been heavily criticised for beinglopsidedandbenefiting the oil company more than thecountry

U.S. Dept. of Justice offers technical support to develop Guyana's cyber security framework

The United States Department of Justice's cyber team, in conjunction with the Organization of America States (OAS) on Monday offered technical support towards the development of nationalcybersecurityframeworks to combat cybercrimes, especially inthesecurityandenergysectors.

The offer was made during a meeting with the Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the U S Department of Justice, Mr Richard W Downingandateamcomprising Cybersecurity Program Manager from the Secretariat of the Inter-

American Committee against Terrorism, Organization of America States (OAS), Ms. KerryAnn Barrett, and a team of Department of Justice (DOJ) cyber experts s and representatives of the Government of Guyana on cyber securitysolutions.

Deputy Assistant Attorney General Downing and Ms. Barrett met with Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, representatives from the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions

(DPP), representatives from the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Attorney General's chambers, representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Guyana PoliceForce(GPF).

The duo encouraged Guyana's accession to the Budapest Convention, or the Convention on Cybercrime, which would offer additional resources to strengthen domestic capacity for law enforcement responses when combattingcybercrime.

“This crucial step will help Guyana combat cyber threats as it

Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the U.S. Department of Justice, Mr. Richard W. Downing (center) with Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (left) and National Security Advisor CaptainGerryGouveia(right)on Monday.

undergoes a major economic transformation. Additionally, the DOJ cyber team, in conjunction with the OAS, offered technical support toward the development of nationalcybersecurityframeworks to combat cybercrimes, especially in the security and energy sectors. The team proposed similar support to CARICOM countries,” a statement from the United States Embassy in Guyana said on

Monday

In addition to the visit by DOJ,

the U.S. Southern Command and Florida National Guard will send a cyber defense assessment team to Guyana this week, with the goal of sharing best practices with the Guyana Defence Force to protect military networks from cyberattacks. These visits by DOJ and USSOUTHCOM highlight the United States' concerted efforts to assist Guyana in establishing and developing a strong cyber security defense to support future development.

Jamaican Economist, Dr Damien King

Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the U.S. Department of Justice, Mr. Richard W. Downing and a team of cyber experts held discussions with representatives of the Government of Guyana on cyber security solutions on Monday.

Govt. playing 'hot potatoes' with Exxon's audits

…as Jagdeo says “ask Vick” and Vick says “ask Jagdeo”

The Government of Guyana (GoG) attitude is akin to the children's game of 'hot potatoes' when it comes to accepting responsibility for the billion-dollar review of expenses to develop the offshoreoilandgasresources intheStabroekBlock.

Though on a much grander scale, the elected officials seem unwilling to acceptthedutyofconducting this process, as on one hand, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeowhoisinchargeofthe petroleum sector and functions as Minister of Finance in the shadows, directed this newspaper to speak with Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat concerning the audits.

At his last press conference, held on March 5, at the Arthur Chung Conference Center, Kaieteur News asked the VP to say when the audits for the third

and fourth ExxonMobil

projects, Payara and Yellowtail, respectively, will be conducted to which he responded, “Which Payara andYellowtail?From2020?I don'tknow,askVick.”

When this newspaper reachedouttotheMinisteron Friday however, his position was that the VP had already addressed the subject Bharrat explained, “VP gave

Cooperation critical to achieving national harmony - ERC

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Tuesday said that it is committed to Guyanese of all ethnicities with the aim of “a stable society and upholding theruleoflaw”.

In a statement in observance of the United Nations'InternationalDayfor the Elimination of Racial Discrimination',theERCsaid that as a multi-ethnic society G u y a n a f a c e s m a n y challenges among its diverse peoples, whose foreparents experienced varying levels of discrimination at varying periods.

“Today, many years later, t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y recognized observance annually seeks to spur continued interest and awareness to rid societies of a destructive practice The ERC, in its monumental task, seeks the cooperation of everyone to achieve national harmony in the society,” the ERCsaidinitsstatement.

The Commission said it remains firm on its mandate to “promote harmony and

good relations” in a multiethnic society and to build peaceandunderstanding.

“This observance is a pertinent and wellintentioned desire by the UN to promote racial and ethnic harmony everywhere. The

an update on the audit at his last press conference Positionhasn'tchanged.”

Kaieteur News however informed the Minister that Jagdeo had directed the issue pertaining to the Payara and Yellowtail audits to him, to which he did not respond.

The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed between the GoG and the oil company allows for audits to

be conducted within two years after each Calendar year

According to the contract's Annex 'C' Section 1.5 (a), “The Minister shall have the right to audit upon ninety (90) days written notice, at his sole cost and expense, accounts and records of the Contractor, maintained hereunder with respecttoeachCalendarYear within two (2) years from the endofeachsuchyear…”

Notably, the Payara project was approved by the administration on September 30, 2020, paving the way for Exxon to commence investments to develop the third oil project. This means thatmorethantwoyearshave already elapsed and there is n o w o r d f r o m t h e government on auditing these bills The Payara project is pegged at US$9 billion.Thisismorethantwo times this year's National Budget, which was approved

to the tune of US$3.9 billion (GYD$781.9billion).

This newspaper had reported that if the two-year deadline as prescribed in the Stabroek Block Agreement, passes and Guyana fails to audit ExxonMobil's subsidiary,costrecoverybill, the country has no choice but to allow the oil company to recoverUS$9BforitsPayara Development Project in the Stabroek Block, without makinganyobjection.

The lopsided petroleum deal in which the PPP now refuses to change allows the oil giant to extract 75 percent of the oil earnings towards servicing these expenses

The remaining 25 percent is deemed profit oil which is then split evenly between the contractor and Guyana Given the country's already meagre earnings, activists have been clamouring for special attention to be given to the audit process, as the country could be shafted even further on this end. Presently, the nation is awaiting the audit reports for a review process that was awarded to check the bills of the contractor between 2018 and 2020. That contract was signed in May last year, with thefinalreportexpectedtobe handed over to the GoG by monthend.

Govt. appoints team to probe BOSAI tragedy

ERC is resolute that the UN observance worldwide will further promote the much needed awareness to stop and prevent occurrences of prejudice based on an individual's racial or ethnic background,” the statement said.

Moreover, theERC said it r e c o g n i z e s t h a t t h e e l i m i n a t i o n o f t h e aforementioned prejudices is p a r a m o u n t f o r t h e preservation of peace and brotherhood.

One week after a staff of the Chinese-owned, BOSAI Minerals died when the bulldozer he was operating collapsed in a mining pit at the company's Linden operation, the Ministry of Labour has announced a formal investigation into the tragedy andalsoappointedateamtooverseethe probe.

The deceased, Neptrid Hercules lived at Republic Avenue, Linden, Upper Demerara River. The persons appointed to serve on this formal investigation team are: Charles Ceres, Chairman, Ms. Emilia Maslen, Victor Fernandes, Jimmy Reece, Michael A Howard, Krishna Ramdas, Neza King, Darwin Bourne, Alyea Williams, and ColisPrimo.

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton met with the team Monday morning and briefed them on the terms of reference and the ministry's expectation for the investigation. The

formal investigation will commence on Monday, March 27th, 2023, and will last for six weeks. This action is in keeping with Section 72 (1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, Chapter 99:06 Laws of Guyana. The Act gives the Minister the power to direct formal investigation into any accidentarisingoutofandinthecourse of employment of any worker where he considers it expedient to so do. The persons appointed are referred to as “The court” and “shall hold the investigation in open court in such a manner and under such conditions as the court may think most effectual for

oftheaccident“.

ADepartmentofPublicInformation press release said that competent personshavebeenappointedtoserveon the investigating team whose main purpose will be “to determine the cause (s) of the accident and make

recommendations for the prevention of accidents generally and more in particular the recurrence of similar accidents.

Hercules went missing in the early hours of the morning on Saturday, March 11, 2023 along with the CAT D9T Dozer which he was operating at thetime.Thiswasasaresultofafailure experienced by the Overburden Dump where he was working in the East Montgomery Mine which caused them to be covered by the overburden material.

ThebodyofMr Herculeswasfound severaldayslaterafteranextensiveand painfulsearch.

The DPI said Minister Hamilton is deeply concerned about the matter and holds the view that this accident should never have happened and he owes it to the family, co-workers and the community to ensure that there are no recurrences.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton meeting with members of the probe team

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

ELIMINATINGRACISM

It is now 75 years since the Universal Declaration of HumanRights(UDHR)cametolife.Atthepinnacleofthose humanrightsistheequalityofallhumanbeings.Initsown words, the UDHR states that everyone is entitled to all the rightsandfreedoms,withoutdistinctionofanykind,suchas raceandcolour,amongothers. Rightsandfreedomsarenot gifts of government, nor the timely handouts of political leaders. Rights and freedoms are what belong and are inseparablefromhumanexistence,regardlessofthestation inlifeofany

Today, March 21st, the world still grapples, it seems mostly fruitlessly, with racism and racial discrimination. Guyana’s own tormented history has been of claims and counterclaimsinvolvingdiscrimination.

EastIndiansinGuyanaareunmovingthatthishasbeen theircircumstances. GuyaneseofAfricandescentarenow unwaveringintheirownstancethatthisistheirexperience. And Guyana’s first citizens, its indigenous peoples, have staked out their own claim about what has plagued their group. Thecommonthreadisracism,andithasbeenalong, ugly,anddisfiguringone.

Indian and African and Indigenous Guyanese are staunch in the belief, their undiluted bitterness, that for 28 years(thenmorerecently5),and23years(andnowtwoand a half), and that all the time respectively since our Independence, they have been discriminated against, made into objects of the most reprehensible forms of racism. Racismisreprehensible,degradesfellowhumanbeings,and dealswiththeminamannerbelowthatnormallyextendedto animals. The burning issue for Guyanese is not whether racismexistshere,buttowhatdegree,andwhoaretheones targeted,whoaretheonesdoingthetargeting.

Political leaders are quick to distance themselves from anycontentionsthattheyareracists,practicediscrimination intheirpoliciesandprogrammes.InGuyana,thePPPC,the PNC,thePNCR,andtheAPNU+AFCCoalitionallputtheir handsonsacredtextsandswearthattheyarenot.Atdifferent timesinthestoryofthiscountry’seffortsatself-governance, hugesegmentsofGuyana’sdemographichavealleged,have lived with, and will always believe that they have been mockedandscornedbecauseoftheirrace. Theirrightshave been trampled upon, their dignity tarnished, and their selfrespecttornintopieces.

One section of Guyana points to sugar, while another identifiesbauxite,andstillanotherspeakoftheirlandsand forests. Thereareelementsoftruth,withsupportingfacts, of communities paying harsh prices, through the forms of the uneven practices where jobs, public works, and muchneeded assistance are withheld to inflict punishment, or awardedinanunfairmanner

DespitetheGuyanaconstitutionglisteningbrightlywith articlesandclausesaboutrightsandprotections,theroadof racism and discrimination in Guyana has been a long and rockyone. Ithasnotended,butcontinuestothisday,when there is another Guyana that is coming to past before our eyes.

We have the most sparkling gem from the vault of our national treasure in our hands. It is oil by the billions of barrels,withmanymorebillionsasgoodasguaranteedtobe ours. Astheproductionofoilsoars,soalsodothecriesof discrimination and racism, from those left out, by those feelingthebruntoflocalhardships. Intoday’sOilGuyana, thepoorisatthebackofthelineofconsideration,political losers are given the back of the hand, and conscientious objectors to official mismanagement and malfeasances are backedagainstwalls.

UnfairactionsatthehandsoftheStatethatimpactsona clearlyunbalancedscalethosewhoareatthebottomofthe economic ladder, or due to political affiliation, or because they protest for social justice amount to forms of discrimination,nomatterhowrationalized.

When the victims are largely of one set of people and theircolor,thenthereisjustificationforassertionsofracism. On this ‘International Day for the Elimination of DiscriminationandRacism’,theunfortunatefactisthatboth arepresentinGuyana,andtheyarenoticeable.

But is anyone reading this?

DEAREDITOR,

The Minister of Finance’s response to the recent statement of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) on the proposed transition from paper-based to electronic formatting of personal data, chose to completely ignore the substance and concentrated on slandering theGHRAitself.

The delayedresponse by the GHRA to this attack in the state media is rooted firstly in a reluctance to engage with this demeaning response and, secondly, by the thought of who would readitinanyevent.Allofthe allegations made about the GHRA:itsExecutiveBoard, finances, its political impartiality, and the legitimacy of its elections, are false and baseless. The continuous hostility and

vindictivenessofthecurrent Government towards any criticism emanating from civil society is sufficient for the GHRA and others to ensurewehaveallourducks inarowasfarasroutinelegal and financial matters are concerned.

Indeed, the staff of Guyana Chronicle, and the social and televised official media involved in this tarnishedformofjournalism are more aware than most thatservilityintheserviceof the Government is the best policyforkeepingtheirjobs.

Even employees as lofty as a Minister of Finance in the Office of the President apparently, for example, continue to feel forced to dwell incessantly on the 2020 elections. While the Ministerrecountedallofthe misconduct the GHRA supposedly never addressed

during the APNU/AFC Government, he himself knows nothing of it firsthand, having scuttled away immediately after the 2015 elections only to re-surface afterthePPP2020victory

This no doubt accounts for his parroting the untruth that the GHRA issued no press releases on the electoral shambles The GHRAissued four – all sent to the Guyana Chronicle –focusing primarily on the failureoftheGECOMChair to make a declaration of the election results and then use her casting vote to ensure approval by GECOM in ordertobringthefiascotoan end. With the exception of the five years of the APNU government, the PPP have exercisedpoliticalpowerfor thepastthirtyyears.

Prior to the discovery of oil, little was achieved

economicallyandnothingby way of inclusive politics. Its chronic inability to deliver coincides with its anti-civil societyideology

ThePPPhasclungtothe illusion that the party alone defeatedthePNCinthe1992 elections, rather than a coalition of civic and business forces in the GUARD movement in which the GHRA played a leading role in delivering free and fair elections

Moreover, an obsessive focus on wealth rather than well-being has diverted attentionfromtherealtaskof building political inclusivity through a viable domestic alliance incorporating civic, religious, business and politicalsectors.

Regards, ExecutiveCommittee Guyana Human Rights Association

Postpone public hearings on gas-to-shore energy project

DEAREDITOR,

We have called on the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB) by letter dated March 16 to postpone its PublicHearingscheduledfor March 22 on the 300 MW Gas-Fired Power Plant to be located at Wales, West Demerara The EPA has waived the requirement for anEIAforthisproject.Some citizens have formally submitted written appeals to the EAB, and along with otherstakeholders,expectto make oral presentations at a Hearing.

We are now publicly callingforthispostponement foranumberofreasons:

1. Under Article 8.1 of the Environmental ProtectionAct (EPAct), the newly appointed Chair of EAB,MrMahenderSharma, has a direct conflict of interest in this project since he is a longstanding Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) board member – and it is on the GPL letterhead that the application with project summary was submitted to t h e E P A f o r a n environmental permit to construct and operate the Wales Gas Plant. Does this mean that the Chair of the EAB will preside over a matterofwhichheisalsothe applicant?

2 Further, Ms Maria Nadir Sharma, the wife of Mr Mahender Sharma, is a prominent member of the company board which was specifically established in

relation to the development oftheGastoEnergyproject. This situation of both the EAB Chair and his wife holding Board positions on both companies presents, in our opinion, is clear conflict ofinterest.

3 This situation is compoundedbythefactthat there are only three persons appointedtotheEAB–allof whomareseniorlevelpublic servants and employees of thegovernment.Provisionis madeintheEPActforupto5 EAB members – but there areonlythese3.TheEAB,as itstands,needstoputitsown house in order To be genuinely independent, the E A B m u s t h a v e representation on it from professional and upstanding members from the nongovernmentalsectorwhoare qualified environmental professionals.

4 A number of documents and requests for information to the EAB and EPAhave been requested by the undersigned appellants, which have not yet been received, and which we consider essential documents related to the hearing.

These include: The methodology for assessing the cumulative impacts of the project inclusive of the gasplat,theNGLfacilityand thegaspipeline;Therulesof engagement for the conduct of EAB hearings; the mechanismfortherecording of EAB hearings and access

ofsuchbythepublic–since EAB hearings are “public hearings”; It is not feasible thatuptheweekinthewhich the hearing is scheduled to takeplacethat,theEABand EPAareunabletofurnishus with these standard documents governing procedures and information mechanisms.

(The EAB’s response as to its rules of engagement was to say that it was still developingthese.)

Public Hearings are public hearings The c o m b i n e d G a s t o Energy/Gas to Shore project is the most expensive infrastructural project, to date, in Guyana with the Wales gas plant alone estimated at 3M US dollars. The project is described as spanning the entire Demerara- Berbice Interconnected system, which is where the largest proportion of Guyana’s populationlives.

In view of these facts from the GPL’s project summary, it is unacceptable that the EAB declined our request for Zoom. A second letter was sent pointing out the necessity for zoom facility,inordertomaximize stakeholder participation in thepublichearing-giventhe geographic scope and widespread stakeholder interest.

It was pointed out that it is not fair to disadvantage citizensandkeystakeholders from participating in the

hearing and having because they do not live in Georgetown.

We further point out that there is precedent for EAB hearings where zoom was made available (e g the Coverden hearing held in July2022);andthatitisnow the norm for national and international stakeholder meetings to be blended with physical and virtual participation.

We have checked with Cara Lodge, the venue for the Hearing and zoom facility is most certainly available there. It is also improper for the EAB to refuse to accommodate our own technical and legal advisors whom EAB asked us to contact and invite, but who are unavoidably out of thejurisdictionatpresent.

Of particular note is a gender discrimination issue: The fact is that grassroots and community-based women who have publicly raised their voices and expressedconcernsaboutthe project and who expect to makeoralsubmissionsatthe hearingmightnowbedenied the opportunity by the EAB tojoinbyzoom.

They feel discriminated against because of the realities of their child-care a n d f a m i l y c a r e responsibilities and their scattered community locations that are outside of thecityandregion.

TheEABissimplynotin (Continuedonpage5)

Congressman Jason Smith: Supports GoG Buyout of CNOOC’s shares in the Exxon-led partnership

DEAREDITOR, I write with reference to your lead article of March 18threportingCongressman Jason Smith, Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee saying: “

“America must be committed to outcompeting China around the world while strengthening key American supply chains, increasing U.S. production of affordable energy resources, and improving partnerships with allies in

theWesternHemisphereand beyond”.

Congressman Jason Smith:Welcome to Guyana. The Guyanese Diaspora in New York supports US Government policy “to outcompete” China in the Western Hemisphere Towards this end, we urge you to raise the option of a Guyana Government Buy Out of the shares of CNOOC.

As per the Exxon Oil Contract, all loans and

interest GoG may take to achieve this goal is paid for fromOilRevenues.

Mr Routledge, Exxon’s Guyana president says Oil Companies have pumped $30 billion into this project. Most of that money is borrowed. Who pays the interest? It is all paid for from the Oil Revenues. Not fromOilCompanies’profits.

All CAPEX (Capital Outlays) is paid for in the 75% capped CR, Cost Recovery

Strands of familiarity of past encounters

DEAREDITOR,

Though the remarks were withdrawn, one wonders though on what basis, controversial remarks made at a political meeting, founditswayonthefloorof a recent council meeting of Region 5, before being

swiftly shut down? (GT March 19) Further the speaker having been lambastedfrombothsidesof theaisle,soughtrelevancein offering belligerent remarks totheformerchairmanofthe Region. Is this the standard how this council’s meetings

are being conducted, with acrimonyandbelligerence?

There are strands of familiarity of past encounters at council meetings for this same region.

Regards, ShamshunMohamed

Postpone public hearings on...

Frompage4 goodenoughordercurrently to preside fairly and independently over the hearing on March 22nd. We call on the EAB to postpone the hearing.WecallontheChair to disclose his conflict of interestandtorecusehimself orresign.

We call on the President and relevant government authorities to establish an EAB that is not dominated by governmental employees andwhichincludesequitable non-governmental and civil society members of high

standing. All EAB appointees must be vetted with strict due diligence applied prior to being a p p o i n t e d a n d a n independent committee should preside over their selection, review and approvals.

We call for the establishment of the Tribunal as outlined in the EPAct.Thisbodyisrequired under the law and, does not, todate,exist.

This breach of the Act needs to be addressed expeditiouslysothatthereis recourse to this Tribunal by

Guyanese citizens as prescribedbylaw.

All citizens of Guyana have the right to participation in decisionmaking in all sectors of the state according toArticle 13 oftheConstitution.

We stand firmly for compliance, transparency and accountability with the RuleofLawinourcountry

Sincerely,

E l i z a b e t h D e a n e

Hughes

VandaRadzik

And other Appellants to EAB re 300MW Gas-Fired PowerPlan

AllinterestonCAPEXis also paid for in the 75% cappedCR.

Congressman Smith, the Contract is egregiously lopsided in favor of Exxon. Two percent Royalty is below industry standards Suriname’s PSA contract providesfor6.25%royalty

OntheRoyaltyalone,on 11 billion barrels, Guyana loses/foregoes $35 billion.

[11 BB times 4.25% times Avpriceperbarrel$75=$35 billion]

Oil Companies also pay no corporate income tax on profits made in Guyana but

paytaxtoUSgovt.

Congressman,permitmy repetition for emphasis: How can Exxon be required topaytaxonprofitsmadein Guyana to their home govt, USA, but not to the host country where the profit is made?

This is an unbearable insult to the Guyanese people.

How did this happen?

And, why can’t the contract berenegotiatedtopermitthe removal of this insult to the Guyanesenation?

We know for a fact that the contract was not

negotiated – but signed Then Minister Trotman told the Guyanese press he had beeninstructedtosign.

This suggested an “insidedeal”.Or,justasbad, E x x o n h a d b e e n manipulating the leaders of thethengovtthatauthorised thesigning.

TheGovt.ofGuyanahas refused to demand renegotiation based on political considerations, not based on the intrinsic unfairnessofthefiscalitems in the contract. There is abundantevidencethatGoG

(Continuedonpage6)

Stupidity of Guyanese politics on racial lines!

DEAREDITOR, I have a solvefor this political football called “racismanese politics “ that been around and invented by the colonizers or imperialistssince1965.

My hypothetical solution is4yeartermsfor3 party system Mixed Race party, Afro-Guyanese Party and Indo- Guyanese Party, the first party, no order implied,willhave 4yearsto lead then it hands over leadership tothe next party and so on and so forth. Guyanese citizens will only vote on referendums andrecalls ofbillsandheads of state owned enterprises, including Ambassadors and permanent secretaries.

Citizens will beable to nullify bills that negatively affect their livesduring the four years of reign of the party in power, including

bills related to taxes. Separately,citizenswillvote to keep good projects or cancel nonsensical or wasteful ones , including those approved by the procurement authorities, contracts also includes those of heads of government entities as well as commissioners or permanent secretaries and ambassadors.

I believe the racial tangent will eventually intersect at the point of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’.Okayyouare rightjustwishfulthinking....

I forgot those little parties by religious beliefs,

sexual orientation, old money, new money, Demerarans , Berbicians , Essequibians, socialists , communists, capitalists, fascists...I guess you see my point that the stupidity of Guyanese politics on racial linesistantamount to adogchasing itstailoracat pouncingonitsshadow!

So I suggest Guyanese gettheiracttogether before they all become an annex under Venezuelan rule, resulting in Spanish being the glue that will hold Guyanese together andnot Mashramani.

Regards, KeithBernard

Now is not the time for small-minded politicians, divisiveness or racial politics

DEAREDITOR,

I am disappointed, shocked and appalled at the level of opposition politics takingplaceinourcountryat presentandinthelead-upto localgovernmentpollstobe

heldonJune12,2023. Firstly, the type of language and political rhetoric used at public meetings and rallies of the combined opposition is increasingly inciting

division and segregation among our people It is publicly racist and demeaning.Ifeelopposition politicians are not demonstrating the kind of responsible rhetoric that the

public has come to expect from a leader who has an interest in becoming either the President or Minister in thefuture.Icondemnallthe parties and groups that support either partially or wholly this level of politics or political rhetoric. I draw attentiontothesilenceofthe Guyana Human Rights Association, Civil Society, Non-governmental groups, a n d i n d e p e n d e n t commentators.

Every Guyanese who part-takes in allowing the political campaign being waged by the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), A Partnership for NationalUnity(APNU),and the Working Peoples Alliance Party (WPA) are guilty of supporting more divisiveness and a disunited Guyana.Theyaresupporting a Guyana in which the oppositionstatementscango unchecked, unfiltered and down a path of being unhinged.

Secondly, this is sad and unfortunate that leaders of combined opposition do not researchorknowthesubject of the topics they are speaking about at the meetingsandrallies,leading to a vast and troubling amount of misinformation, disinformation, misleading statements and political lies being levelled against the government of the day and individual members of the government.

They slander and libel the members of the Peoples

Progressive Party daily without exception and then abusetheprivilegeunderthe parliament or politics, and the freedom of Speech to shieldthemselves.Ithinkthe freedom of speech does not empower these opposition politicianstotellblatantlies or different versions of the truth because they suit them politically

Thirdly,IdonotnorwillI ever support the racial incitement of violence against the different ethnic groups seemingly by the combinedopposition.Istand against political violence because there is simply no justificationforitinGuyana in the year 2023. I reject the WPA,DavidHinds,Tacuma Ogunseye and Rickford Burke for seeking to allegedlystirupconflictand thepotofethnichostilityand racism in our society to win votes. These are dangerous men but I know Guyanese will not follow, act, or listen to the things they are saying on their public social media platforms.

I support the military, joint services and the Guyana Police Force which will act professionally at all times regardless of the temptation to be political from either side of the politicaldivide.

I support the law and legality and hereby believe that the authorities should not turn a blind eye to politicalheresy,politicaland racial incitement of PNC/R, APNU, WPA and any other

social media personality in the leadup to the local government polls This common, puerile and reprehensibletypeofpolitics mustendinmodernGuyana. Finally, it is either you have the facts or shut up! The opposition is sounding very stupid whenever they make these allegations of discrimination and racism but cannot point to some specificcases.Theymustbe challenged because it is Guyana’s image regionally and internationally that they slander not the PPPalone as they seemingly intend. The leader of the Opposition should use some of the money or opposition resources they have to commission a factual and analytical analysis of discrimination, racism and allotherallegationhemakes a g a i n s t t h e P P P Government.

Again, this is baby politics and politics 100 being practised in our society Where are the issues, plans and policies that opposition politicians will present to make local governmentworkefficiently and effectively for the people?

Now is not the time for small-minded politicians, divisivenessorracialpolitics but the time for building Guyanasotherealityof‘One Guyana’ can continue to be fashionedfromanideaintoa functioningreality

YoursTruly, MichaelYounge

Stupidity of Guyanese politics on...

Frompage5 is afraid to demand renegotiation – because of a historical perception that U S government will collaborate with Exxon to oust the government from power, if it were to do so. I have read scores of blogs –all by supporters of the government expressing this fear Congressman Smith, wouldyoubekindenoughto make a declaration on this matter?

I am Guyanese-born and have lived in the United Statesforthelast50years.I do not believe U.S. foreign policy works like that – at least not since Church Committee hearings of 1970’s.

CongressmanSmith,itis notpossibleforyoutotravel toGuyanaandnotknowthat the Guyanese people have beenagitatingdailyfortheir government to demand renegotiation.

And, that the real reason f o r g o v e r n m e n t ’s intransigence is that if they weretodoso,theywouldbe oustedfrompower

Thisisanunsettlingstate of affairs of the Guyanese nation – and if left unresolved, it means Exxon andpartnerswouldbefreeto cheat Guyana of scores of billionsofdollars.

There is a clause in the contract that explicitly allowsforrenegotiation.But theGoGistooafraidtomake use of that clause

Congressman Smith, I appeal to your good offices and good consciences to speak to the unfairness of this contract imposed on the Guyanese people and to the fears of the leaders of the GuyaneseGovernment.

Regards, MikePersaud

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INCESTUOUS RELATIONSHIPS

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Today we invite our fellow citizens to study what is before them.

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We encourage them to take a slow, careful look at our politicians, especially when they are in Government and determine for themselves if those leading the way, do not possess deep, dark secrets.

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Their secrets are so dark that they have a sheen about them that glows and reveals so much about the dirty relationships that they have cultivated, to the shame, horror and loss of Guyanese.

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Do a simple, commonsense study of our governments past and present, and what is observed over and over, are secrecies.

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Incestuous relations force people to engage in cover-up actions, so that the evidence of their crimes does not track back to them.

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BankofGuyanaprofitsunabletomaintaincountry's cashreserves

As Guyanese and the rest of the world continue to keep an eye on the global financial implications of the f a i l u r e o f s e v e r a l international banking institutions in light of g l o b a l i s a t i o n a n d c o n c o m i t a n t r i p p l e effects—it would be apposite to note that the General Reserves, held at Guyana's Central Bank, also continues todwindle.

BankofGuyana(BoG)in

…account now in $12 billion overdraft

its most recent official report onitsstatementofAssetsand Liabilities, reflect that the General Reserves of cash held at that institution is, $12.1Binthered.

That figure represents an increase over the $9 2B overdraft that was reported last month by the Bank. The latest figures show that at the closeofbusinessattheendof thefirstweekinMarchofthis year that -$9,223,246, 431, accounted for in February, h a d g r o w n t o -

$12,111,508,791.

This publication had also reportedthatbythemiddleof last year, the reserves were actually at minus $6.7B. As such, it would mean that between the middle of last year, and the first three months of this year, or approximately nine months, the overdraft of the general Reserves at BoG has in fact doubled. Under the Laws of Guyana establishing the G e n e r a l R e s e r v e s account the Bank of

Guyana Act—the BoG shall establish a general reserve into which it would deposit 50 percent of the net profit made by the bank for each financial year The other half of net profits earned by the BoG, according to the Act, would then be transferred to the Consolidated Fund through the Accountant General.

Itshouldbenotedthatnet profit for BoG, is calculated by deducting from gross incomeallexpenses,together w i t h a l l o w a n c e f o r depreciation of assets, contribution to staff benefit funds, provision for bad and doubtful debts, and such other contingencies and accounting provisions as are usually made by banks. The BoG Act does however, provide for instances where if, the General Reserve Fund is in any year insufficient to coveranynetlossofthebank recorded in its profit and loss account,anamountsimilarto the deficiency will be appropriated and shall be debited to the account of the Govt. with the bank. “Such debit shall be made in the form of shall be made in the form of a transfer from the Consolidated Fund or interest-bearing marketable obligations issued by Government.” As such, it would mean that it is ultimately the nation's treasurythatwillhavetopick uptheshortfall.

News of the continuing growth of the overdraft comes amidst a global financial crisis which has so far has led to the collapse of severalUSbanksandthebail out of others, including in Europe.

A c c o r d i n g t o internationalreports,overthe weekend the financial crisis

currently threatening banking systems saw regulators attempting to stave off the phenomenon. In an emergency deal brokered by Swiss authorities, UBS agreed to scoop up longtime rival Credit Suisse for US$3.25B, which was less thanhalfofthelatter'smarket valuation at the close of

tradingonFridaylast.

Economists indicate that without a deal, Credit Suisse would've likely collapsed this week, spreading further financial contagion that began in the U.S. with the implosion of Silvergate Capital (SI), Silicon Valley Bank (SIVB) and Signature Bank(SBNY).

(First Republic (FRC) is also facing trouble with additionalcutstoitsratings.

Market sentiment took a turn for the better following the emergency rescue, which would limit contagion through the financial system, only to drop lower as things werefullydigested.

With big losses on tap for s h a r e h o l d e r s a n d bondholders, the Federal authorities in the US, Europe andothermajorcentralbanks took "coordinated action" to ensure dollar liquidity, while the Swiss National Bank promised access to liquidity facilities for both banks involvedinthetransaction.

In premarket trading, UBS and Credit Suisse opened down, 11 percent and 59percent,respectively,with regulatorFINMAaddingthat about $17B worth of Credit Suisse's riskyAT1 bonds will become worthless to guarantee that private investors help bear some of thecosts.

This week will see a crucial two-day meeting of the Federal Reserve's policymaking committee with some investors on a razor's edge over the potential for an unexpectedlyhawkishtilt.

Economists across the

world have noted that the common denominator affecting the banking are sharplyrisinginterestrates.

Central banks around the world have been raising the cost of borrowing to try to dampen down rising prices. After years of very low interest rates, that has come as a shock. Guyana is no different. Only recently the Insurance Association of Guyana (IAG) announced that effective April 1, the insurance rates being offered in Guyana across the board willalsobeincreased.

At that time, IAG said that for several years reinsurers servicing the Caribbean region had been onthedeclineaddingthatthe declining rates being offered here and regionally was not sustainable.

The situation it said, had been made worse by the fact billionsinclaimsbeingmade annually and referenced that insurers that had settled claims related to Hurricane Ian and other storms was some US$95B in addition to claims in the US and Australia and also across Europe.

Tothisend,itwaspointed out that by last year, several reinsurers servicing the region reduced their capacity while others withdrew from the region altogether This was compounded, IAG said, with the fact that at the beginning of this year all of the reinsurers servicing the region collectively increased the premiums being asked for

Bank of Guyana

Pressure mounts on Govt. over partisan EAB

‘Article

‘Article 13’, a civil society group along with other individual activists have joined the call for President Irfaan Ali to a p p o i n t a n e w Environmental Assessment Board (EAB), free from conflictsofinterests.

In a statement yesterday, the group that comprises of members including A t t o r n e y - a t - L a w, Christopher Ram, outlined thatthefunctionsoftheEAB shall be to conduct public hearings into all appeals submitted to it and make recommendations to the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA).

‘Article 13’ said it is important to note that the EAB is a body which is independent of the EPAand designatedtoconductpublic hearingsintosuchappealsto either confirm or set aside theEPA’sdecision.TheEAB alsoservesasareviewbody for EIAs in order to make a recommendationonwhether aprojectshouldbeapproved ornot.Afterthehearing,the EABtakesallargumentsinto consideration, and renders a decision,thegroupadded.

To this end, ‘Article 13’ noted, “To fulfill its remit and maintain its credibility as an oversight body, the EAB must demonstrate its independence from the EPA and from political

13’, other civil society activists join call for new body

influences Unfortunately, these clear lines of independence are absent in Guyana’s EAB which has seen several political appointees nominated to the Board. This issue continues unabated, with the recent EAB appointments in February 2023, of Dr Mahender Sharma and Mr JoslynMcKenzie.”

DrMahendarSharmahas beenappointedChairmanof theEABwhilehealsoshares the title of Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), an organization charged with overseeing and promoting the development of energy projects in the country, including fossil fuel-based projects.

On the other hand, McKenzie, is the current Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, which is responsible for the management of Guyana’s natural resources including mining, logging and other commercialuses.

Initsmissive,‘Article13’ said it “finds the selection of theseindividualstobecounter totheintentofthefunctionof theEAB”Thebodyreasoned, “Howcananindividual,such as Dr Sharma, switch from a role where his remit is to promoteenergyprojectstoone of watchdog challenging the

very same projects from an environmental standpoint?

And similarly, how can Mr JoslynMcKenzie,whoisnow responsible for the development of Guyana’s natural resources, (including promotingitscommercialuse) be seen as independent when called to make an assessment on the need for an EIAor an EISonthesamekindsprojects he is currently promoting and for the same commercial clients with whom he is currently working?” ‘Article 13’ was keen to note that as Guyana pursues the rapid developmentofitsoilandgas resources, it must also ensure the protection of its environment to ensure sustainability Tothisend,the civil society group said, “Guyana must have an independent EAB with members selected based on clear qualifications and experience in protecting the environment not based on promoting commercial interests or based on political affiliations.”

As such, the body insisted that until the independence of the recent appointments can be demonstrated,thecredibility oftheBoardwillandvalidity ofanyofitsfuturedecisions will be questionable Meanwhile, environmental advocates, Danuta Radzik and Elizabeth Deane-

Hughes in a separate statement to the press said they support the call for Dr Sharma to be removed as Chairman of the EAB. The womenhavealsocalledfora postponement of a public hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, where the EAB will listen to concerns by citizens who have objected t o w a i v e r o f a n Environmental Impact Assessment (EAI) for a 300megawatt gas-fired power plant Inexplainingtheneed for the hearing to be postponed, Radzik and Deane-Hughes said, “Under Article 8 1 of the Environmental Protection Act (EP Act), the newly appointedChairofEAB,Mr Mahender Sharma, has a direct conflict of interest in this project since he is a

longstanding Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) board member–anditisontheGPL letterheadthattheapplication with project summary was submitted to the EPA for an environmental permit to construct and operate the Wales Gas Plant Does this mean that the Chair of the EAB will preside over a matterofwhichheisalsothe applicant?”

“Further, Ms Maria NadirSharma,thewifeofMr Mahender Sharma, is a prominent member of the company board which was specifically established in relation to the development oftheGastoEnergyproject. This situation of both the EAB Chair and his wife holding Board positions on both companies presents, in our opinion, is clear conflict

ofinterest,”Theyadded. The women also pointed out that the situation is compoundedbythefactthat there are only three persons appointedtotheEAB–allof whomareseniorlevelpublic servants and employees of the government They argued, “To be genuinely independent, the EAB must have representation on it from professional and upstanding members from thenon-governmentalsector who are qualified e n v i r o n m e n t a l professionals.” The activists called on President Ali to establish an EAB that is not dominated by governmental employees and which includes equitable nongovernmental and civil society members of high standing.

Former Ambassador says e-ID cards can be sourced for half of US$34M

Calls on Pres. Ali to terminate contract

As questions continue to linger over the Government ofGuyana(GoG)decisionto sole-source a German-based company to produce an integrated electronic national identification system and cards that will be costing taxpayers US$34 million, former Ambassador Dr ShamirAllyhascalledon President Irfaan Ali to terminatethecontract.

Dr Ally, a former Guyana Ambassador to Kuwait and former FIRST Alternate Governor, Islamic Development Bank, disclosedthathequotedfor1 million polycarbonate chip cards in the industry and the price tag is between US$12 million to US$17 million, which is half the price the Government signed a contract for with Veridos Identity Solutions. Kaieteur News had reported that the deal was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Ahmed bin SaeedAlMaktoum.

Dr. Ally suggested alternate firms like French company Thales, and IDEMIA, a multinational technology company h e a d q u a r t e r e d i n Courbevoie, France, that provides identity-related security services and sells facial recognition and other biometric identification products and software to private companies and governments Importantly,

the former Ambassador highlighted that Thales provided the technology software and chips (for card) a n d p r i n t e d b l a n k polycarbonate cards for the UAE, but through a UAE company

According to the quote DrAlly received, for half the price Guyana is paying, the countrycanreceive1million polycarbonate chip cards comeswith10to15locations

to enroll and generate cards, one large central location in Georgetown to enroll and generate cards (10 clerk stations), system software to generate biometric feature ID cards, setup and training, monthly fees for software maintenanceandannualfees for third party software licenses, partner General Dynamics Information Technology It also includes other features like kinnegram guilloche and micro-text print hologram; digital signature pads x 30.10-15 IXLA or matica brand single station laser printers and chip encoders; 1-2 large units IXLA or matica brand central station bulk laser / chip encoder printers; 30 document scanners; 30 cameras; PC and monitors x 30; card testing units x 30; Servers and software; Database software (oracle IBM Microsoft etc ) and card readersx500.

Dr Ally noted that the

quote is for new cards with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) features suggesting Thales and IDEMIA as alternate contractorsforGuyana.

M o r e o v e r , h e questioned, “What about Competitive Bids? Why the silence from the Public Procurement Commission? Is this a violation of the ProcurementLaw?”

He continued, “With all

duerespectfordemocracyin practice with accountability, transparency, and fairness, HE President Dr. Ali's administration, should cancel this contract and go through the established procurement regulations ” Dr Ally added that Guyana should have requested bids or quotes from General Dynamics, Thales or IDEMIA. Last week, the

(Continued on page 16)

President Irfaan Ali

Dr. Shamir Ally

One dead, 13 homeless in massive fire at Agricola

...childplayingwithmatcheson mattress seen as main cause

A fire at Lot 101 Third Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara on Sunday claimed the life of a 45year-old man and left 13 persons homeless.

The dead man has been identifiedasKevinTrotman.

According to information received from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the fire occurred around 14:58hrs and destroyed two houses. Trotman died in one of the houses.

The GFS revealed that the fire started in a two-storey wooden and concrete building owned by a man identified only as Mr Narine. The first floor of the building was occupied by the deceased while the ground floor was occupied by 42year-old Marcia Cato and her familyofseven.

The fire from that building spread to another two-storey building located at Lot 102 Third Street(situatedonthesouthernside of the building where the fire originated) That building was reportedly owned by 45-year-old Sonia Hope who occupied the structure along with her family of four KaieteurNewsunderstandsthat two other buildings were also affected by radiated heat, resulting in some home appliances,

construction tools, and walls being damaged The fire was extinguished by firefighters who respondedfromtheEccles,Central, andWestRuimveldtfirestations.

In relation to the origin of the fire, the GFS said that a child was playing with matches that ignited a foammattressandcausedthefireto quickly spread throughout the building.

The Fire Service advised citizens to exercise caution and follow safety measures to avoid home fires. Additionally, the GFS said that children should be

educated on the dangers of fire starters (matches and lighters) and warnedabouttheiruse.

“Do not leave children unattended or at home without adult supervision. Keep children away from the cooking area, and ensure matches and lighters are out of their reach at all times. Equip your homes with fire prevention and firefighting devices such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; these will aid in alerting people to a fire and putting itoutquickly,”theFireServicesaid inastatement.

Human Resources Ministry trains over 200 Community Advocates

Over 200 persons have

been trained by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security's Sexual Offences and Domestic Policy Unit to be community advocates through the Community AdvocatesNetwork(CAN).

The two-day training saw over 150 persons trained from Regions FourandFiveacrosstwobatchesat Duke Lodge, Kingston and Police Officers' training centre as well as 58volunteersfromRegionNine.

The programme ensured participants' in-depth knowledge on the roles of CAN and an introduction to Gender-Based Violence, presented by Head of the Unit,Dr ConaHusbands.

Supervisor of the 914 toll-free

hotline, Rishma Taylor, educated the volunteers on the functions of the hotline as well as the Imatter mobileapplication.

Allizen Welch-Critchlow, who manages the Legal Pro Bono initiative gave a detailed presentation on the project that renders legal assistance to 500 victims yearly while Kester HardingpresentedontheDomestic ViolenceAct.

On the second day, the participants received training on the services of the Childcare and Protection Agency and CounterTrafficking in Persons Unit. The new advocates also received training on conflict resolution and theSexualOffencesAct.

National powerlifter, Britny

Mack explained, “I was taught about domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and so much more. I learnt how to bring about awareness in my community and implement what I learnt from the programme You know in Guyana there are always programmes where they do a lot of talking but no action being done afterwards? With this programme I can see the effort being placed into what they are doing, I can see they are moving forward and making changesweneedinthecountryand I think more persons should come on board…we as a community mustworktogether.”

Dr AawabHamid,“Ijoinedthis training because I felt I wanted to learn more about this and impact

society positively I was surprised that this training opened a lot of doorsinmymind,therewerethings I thought I knew but it opened different perspectives and allowed me to see how subtle things are and how sometimes we think we know certain things but this showed me how to identify things on a much broader level, empathize more and empower me with the resources to helppeopleandwhotoreachoutto, so I think after this training is done, I'm more empowered to help society and imply things that vulnerable people may need so overall this is something I wish I had done earlier, it's incredible and I applaud the Ministry for conductingthistraining.”

Kimberly Alberts, who works

within the Unit explained, “The Community Advocates Network initiative has trained numerous individuals countrywide These advocates have signed, sworn and committed themselves to join the fightagainstdomesticviolence.”

She added, “They are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to assist the Ministry in eliminating violence from a grassroot level. They will return to their respective communities and function as the eyes and ears while actingasthevoiceofthevulnerable who are experiencing any type of violence. This initiative is another wayoflettingvictimsandsurvivors of violence who are afraid to speak up,knowthatthereishelpavailable toliveaviolence-freelife.”

Newly minted community advocates stand outside of the Guyana Police Force's Officers' Training Centre with their certificates.

The aftermath of the fire which claimed the life of Kevin Trotman and left 13 persons homeless at Third Street, Agricola.

(The Guardian)China's embassy in the CentralAfrican Republic has urged its citizens to avoid travelling outside the capital, Bangui, after nine Chinese nationals were killed in an attack by militants at a goldmineoutsidethecity

The embassy said in a statement on Sunday there had been many “vicious” security incidents against workers of foreign mining enterprises in the area, and Chinese citizens still outside Bangui were requested to evacuateimmediately

As well as the nine dead, twomorepeoplewereinjured in the attack at the mine run by the Gold Coast Group, about 15 miles (25km) from the town of Bambari, its mayorsaid.

“It was yesterday morning around 5am (3am GMT)thatweheardweapons being fired. A little later we learned it was the Chinese mining site that was attacked,” Abel Matchipata saidonMonday

Hesaidtheattackerswere thought to be from the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC), an alliance of rebel groups formed before the2020presidentialelection to oppose the president, Faustin-ArchangeTouadéra.

The CPC in a statement denied responsibility and condemnedtheattack.

A patchwork of armed groups control swathes of territory and regularly commit abuses against the civilianpopulationinCentral African Republic, a country that has rarely known stability since independence in1960.

The Chinese president, Xi Jinping, has called for “severe punishment” of the perpetrators in accordance with the law, and said the safety of Chinese citizens must be ensured, the China's foreign ministry said in a statement In view of the security risks, the Chinese embassy warned Chinese institutions and citizens not to travel outside Bangui and in case of emergency, to contact the embassy to seek consularprotection.

The security risk level in theCentralAfricanRepublic, apart from the capital, was “red“, or “very high”, the Chinese foreign ministry added.The ministry said it w o u l d w o r k w i t h governments and guide Chinese embassies and consulates to take further effective measures to fully safeguard Chinese citizens andenterprisesinAfrica.

There have been several attacks on Chinese nationals abroad in recent months, promptingembassiestoissue warnings and safety alerts andconductevacuations.

Militants from the Coalition of Patriots for Change, which has denied it was responsible for the attack on a goldmine outside Bangui.

Cotton Field home goes up in flames as schoolboy sets mattress on fire

Six people have been displaced after a fire on Monday gutted their home at Cotton Field on the Essequibo Coast.

Based on reports reaching Kaieteur News, the fire started around 13:15hrs. SeikRahamanwhoisheadofthehome said that the fire occurred while he was atwork.Rahamansaidatthetimeofthe fire, his wife, Tracy Devellier was at a neighbour's home, while one of his

daughters-in- law along with a grandchildwereathome.Hesaid,“The small boy, he in nursery school, but today [Monday] he nah go school after henahbinfeeltoowell.”

The man said his wife contacted him to break the dreaded news that the house was on fire. “By time me and the boss reach is bare fire,” Rahaman added. “What we understand is that the lil boy go in the house and he light the

mattresswithalighter.Weusuallykeep a lighter to light the stove and so, and is the lighter that he pick up,” Rahaman related.

Kaieteur News was told that within minutes, the fire quickly gutted the flat woodenhome. Rahaman,whosaidthat he cleans trench for a living and estimates his losses at $2 Million. Citizens willing to assist the family can contactthemon693-6619.

Armed men kill nine Chinese nationals in Central African Republic Stanleytown man dies after run over by car

A Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara (WBD) man died on Saturday after a car drove over him while he was lying on the Stanleytown PublicRoad.

DeadisKelstonFerreira.

According to the police, the fatal incident occurred just around 22:30hrs that day and involved hire car HD2943 which was driven by Kristoff Pollydore, a 33year-old man of Belle West HousingScheme,WBD.

Information reaching the police revealed that the car was proceeding east along the northern side of the road where the left side front wheel ran over Ferreira who was reportedly lying on the northernsideoftheroad.Itis believed that Ferreira was under the influence of alcohol.

Ferreira was picked up in

Dead: Kelston Ferreira

an unconscious state to West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced deadonarrivalbyadoctor His body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home, awaiting a postmortemexamination. Meanwhile, Pollydore is in custody assisting police withtheirinvestigation.

Photograph: Alexis Huguet/AFP/Getty Images

Persons gathered at the scene of the fire

The aftermath of the Cotton Field fire

WANTED VACANCY

PORTERS WANTED FOR PVC CEILING. APPLY@ WHY PAY MORE TRADING, 7 PUBLIC RD HOUSTON E.B.D WITH APPLICATION.

Elderly Bus Driver wanted for route 32 and 31. Call: 6781610.

Cook and Domestic needed. Call: 223-5273/ 223-5274.

Drivers/ Expediters needed. Call: 223-5273/ 223-5274.

Handyman and Porters needed. Call: 223-5273/ 223-5274.

Able-bodied Porters needed, $30,000 Weekly Mon-Sat. Call: 223-9677.

One Plumber needed. Call: 615-9132.

Skilled Carpenters, Masons and Labourers needed. Call: 602-9469, 660-6385 or 6257642.

Inventory Clerk needed to work in fish plant facility. Call:223-7165 /625-2573.

Truck Driver needed. Call: 663-3866.

One Chef needed to cook for family, must be able to cook various dishes, work hours: 6am-2pm Mon-Fri & 8am-2pm Sat. Call: 6828251.

One Housekeeper/ Cook to work 5 days per week, preferably from E.B.D. For more information Call: 609-1434.

Live-in Domestic needed for Georgetown and males to work in a Supermarket in the Interior. Call: 687-7638/ 660-9093.

Urgently needed dried carilla bush and soursop leaves (any quantity). Call: 609-8281/ 693-3003.

One Maid and Driver needed, preferably residing in Eccles area. Call: 2237165.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

One CRV Honda, $3.3M negotiable and 1 Toyota Allion, $3.350 M, fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage . Contact: 649-0956.

Nissan X-Trail (T32-2015), $6.3M. 4WD, leather 7 seater, sun roof, fog lamps, back up cameras, etc. Call: 641-7910.

Driver required, ages 23-50 yrs. Must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles and must have car and van licence. Call: 645-8443.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade one or two, email application to: techserigy @yahoo.com or Call: 6159132.

Vacancy exists for two experienced Dispatchers at Confidential Cabs. Call: 695-1961 /231-5784.

Able-bodied live-in female Housekeeper to work in Virgina, U.S.A. Between the ages of 30-50 yrs. Call: 845325-8241/ 592-615-5476.

Maid needed to cook and clean in East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

1 general Domestic needed to cook & clean, Mon- Fri and preferably living within East Bank Area. Apply at Keyfood, Mc Doom Village next to the post office.

Vacancy exists for 2 experienced Hairdressers at Grove, E.B.D. Call: 652-5800/ 677-0040.

Receptionist and Desk Staff needed at 233, South Road Lacytown, G/Town. Preferably males, 25-50 years old. Call: 225-0198.

Delivery Clerk, Cleaners and Porters needed. Apply @ Lens Hardware, Call: 2271511/ 645-1613.

Hardware Plumbers or Electrical Sales Representatives needed. Call: 2269416/ 679-7391 or Email: innovationamerica@ gmail.com

Carwash workers to work at Romain Carwash & Detail Center. Call: 643-3939.

Experienced Sales Girls and Accounts Clerk required. Apply at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda.

Handyman and Drivers/ Expeditors needed. Call: 6748723.

Project Clerk, Engineer Technician, Accountant, Clerk & Plumber needed. Apply at Chung’s Global Inc. Call: 2185120/2 or 632-0914. Email: chungsvacancy@gmail.com

Inventory/ Data Entry Clerks required @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff St. Call: 609-2995, survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

VACANCY

Bond Attendants/ Porters needed @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff ST. Tel: 609-2995, Email: survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

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Former Ambassador says e-ID cards...

From page 10

Ministry of Finance issued a statement defending solesourcing Veridos, claiming that the contract was awarded in accordance to the Laws of Guyana and added that the company that was selected is “an internationally reputable group.”

The contract for the Single Electronic Identification System and cards that will be issued to Guyanese was signed on March 10, 2023, at State House located in Georgetown. On the heels of the contract being

awarded, Former Auditor General and Stabroek News Columnist, Anand Goolsaran, in his column stated that while sole-sourcing is catered for under national emergencies and national security, the awarding of the contract facilitated by the UAE’s Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, does not qualify. In fact, he contended that while the sole-sourcing section of the Act was used, the justification is flawed because the project cannot be classified as being one of national security.

able citizens to interact with all government agencies and many private sector entities using this single unique and secure identifier, and will vastly improve the efficiency of service delivery to citizens.

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Also, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), in a statement said that the signing of the agreement to operationalise e-governance in Guyana, without the framework legislation covering Data Protection being in place, is reckless in the extreme. The body said that given the haste, absence of public consultation and threats to the integrity of personal information, not to mention the seeming illegality of sole-sourcing the project, it is calling for the project to be paused and submitted to Parliament.

In its statement issued last We dnesday, the Finance Ministry claimed that, “Contrary to the false assertion made by the GHRA, the contract in question was awarded in full conformity with the Laws of Guyana including the procurement laws.”

At the signing ceremony President Ali said that the Single Electronic Identification System being developed for Guyana will not only enhance the ease of transactions but will be one of the most technologically advanced. He said that too that the cards will be compliant with 18013-5 of the ISO Standard and will be accepted by the ICAO for international travel. President Ali said that the card’s capabilities are also in keeping with his Government’s commitment to promote eGovernance to improve the productivity of businesses and the delivery of Government services through the introduction of eHealth, eEducation, eSecurity, eAgriculture, electronic permit, and license processing among other areas.

He noted that the enhancement is necessary because there is an immediate need to implement a robust national identity management system that focuses on the integration of identification services across government agencies, security, ease of use, and acquisition of IDs.

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The ministry continued, “Additionally, the company who will be developing the solution for Guyana is a highly regarded supplier of items of this nature internationally, and its shareholding comprises two major entities operating in the secure printing industry worldwide, Giesecke & Devrient and Bundesdruckerei GmbH, both of whom have unchallengeable longstanding reputations globally.” According to the statement, the Government maintains that the contract with Veridos was lawfully executed, adding that the project is intended to deliver a product that will transform citizen experience in Guyana with the introduction of the integrated electronic national identification card.

It was stated that once introduced, the card will en-

According to him, “The system allows the capture of individuals’ biographical and biometric information based on international standards and stores it to provide identity-based services to individuals and other Government offices.

The ID and resident cards are laser engraved, black and white technology with secure, preprinted designs and devices for a state-of-the-art polycarbonate document, which includes a chip that can integrate a variety of services to the individual.”

The President said the system and software will be tailored for Guyana and will include implementation services, training of administrators and operators, local help desk support and 60 months of support and maintenance. The project is expected to have a 12-month implementation period.

Caribbeancountriesurgedtoaccelerate transitiontorenewableenergy

Latin America and the Caribbean must urgently make progress on the energy transition, with greater production of renewable energy, universalising access to energy and increasing energy efficiency, among other measures, according to the authorities and experts gathered lastweekatECLAC'sheadquarters inSantiago,Chile.

The 'High-level Expert WorkshopfortheSpecialReporton Latin America of the IEA's World Energy Outlook 2023'tookplaceon March 16-17 to gather information on the region's energy-related needs and opportunities in order to prepare a special report, the 'WEO2023 Latin America Energy Outlook', which will be included in thenexteditionoftheannualreport prepared by the International EnergyAgency(IEA).

The event's participants include high-level officials from the IEA, ministerialauthoritiesfromvarious countries of the region and experts from international, regional, and

multilateral organizations such as the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), and the Inter-American DevelopmentBank(IDB).

The workshop was inaugurated by ECLAC's Executive Secretary, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, as the gathering's host, who indicated that the energy transition not only constitutes an alternative for supporting access, energy security and environmental sustainability, but also serves as a driver of productive transformation and of the development pattern in the region.

“The current situation of cascadingcrisesandtheireffectson Latin America – including increased poverty, a new lost decade in terms of economic growth, high inflation, and fiscal restrictions – have exposed the fragility and vulnerability of countries' energy systems, with negative impacts on energy

s e c u r i t y, e q u a l i t y a n d sustainability These crises have especially affected households in the most vulnerable quintiles, worsening the poverty and inequality situation,” the senior United Nations official underscored.

He recalled that despite progress on electricity coverage in the region (which reaches 97% of the population), there are still 16 million people without access to this vital service and 77 million who do not have access to clean cooking systems This is compounded by the fragility of countries that depend on imports of fossil fuels (natural gas and oil), which reveals the low level of diversification and renewability in their energy matrix. All of this keeps us far from fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal 7 (“Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”), with progress that is insufficient or very slow for achievingthetargetsontheshareof

renewable sources and energy efficiency in the region as a whole, heindicated.

“We must redouble work and efforts for accelerating national energy transition processes based on renewables. Even more so when raw materials and human capabilities are widely available in theregionandcanbeharnessedina sustained way I am referring to wind, water, the sun, critical minerals,aswellastheengineering capabilitiesandworkthataddvalue along the entire production chain,” Salazar-Xirinachsemphasized.

ECLAC refers to the energy transition as a process of sustainable transformation of the energy system that requires a new ecosystem of governance, targeted investment and modern regulatory frameworks, along with the adaptation of institutions and publicpolicies.

The United Nations regional organization proposes five pillars of simultaneous action: 1) Increase renewable energy in the energy

matrix; 2) Universalize access to electricitybasedonrenewablesand reduce energy poverty; 3) Increase energy efficiency in all sectors; 4) S t r e n g t h e n r e g i o n a l complementarity, integration and interconnection; and 5) Boost energysecurityandresilienceinthe faceofexternalshocks.

“In this very complex energy context for the region, resulting fromthewarinUkraine,itisvitalto carryoutanexhaustiveanddetailed analysis that would enable exploring energy-related opportunities and challenges in each country, along with the progress made and actions taken in Latin American and Caribbean countries in terms of energy efficiency, clean transportation, sustainable cities and renewable energy, aimed at achieving a fair, sustainable and inclusive energy transition that would truly contribute to the goals of decarbonising the economy, in line with Paris 2015,” ECLAC's ExecutiveSecretaryconcluded.

Linden youth dies as tire explodes at vulcanizing shop

A 19-year-old man of Linden died Moday afternoon after the tire of a truck he was repairing explodedonhim.

Commander for Regional

D i v i s i o n # 1 0 S e n i o r

Superintendent Hugh Winter has indicated that his ranks are investigating the incident which resulted in the death of Joshawn Allistair Sevon Goddard, a 19year-old labourer of Amelia's Ward, Linden which occurred at OldKaraKara,Mackenzie,Linden ataround13:20hrs.

According to Maverline Johnson, a 69-year-old pensioner residing at Old Kara Kara, Mackenzie, the now deceased Joshawn Goddard was a family friend employed as a labourer in her family's vulcanizing shop for thepastyear Johnsonstatedthaton thedateandtimementionedabove,

she was upstairs in her home while her granddaughter Feneta Johnson, aged 25, was inside the 'wash bay' about 30 meters from the workshop. Joshawn was in the 'tire

shop' attending to a truck tire when Johnson said she heard a loud explosion from the vulcanizing shop.

The woman said she looked through her window and heard her granddaughterscreaming.

Johnsonsaidsherushedintothe workshop and observed Joshawn lying motionless with a wound to his neck and what appeared to be bloodoozing.

The matter was reported to the police, and when ranks arrived on thescene,thebodywasobservedin a pool of blood, clad in a pair of short black pants, a green jersey and black slippers. The body was examined,andagapingwoundwas seen in the centre region of the neck. Several tyres, rims and tyre shop tools were discovered around thebody

The body was escorted to the

Authorities and experts who attended the workshop on IEA's WEO 2023 Latin America Energy Outlook report (photo: ECLAC)

Linden Hospital Complex and pronounced dead on arrival by DoctorKennardJamesat14:13hrs.

The body is presently lying at a mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Dead: Joshown Goddard

Johnson Vulcanizing Shop

Regional Public Health Stakeholders discuss health security issues ahead of Twenty-Ninth COHSOD

Regional Public Health

Stakeholders participated in a virtual meeting on Friday to discuss and provide u p d a t e s o n t h e implementation of health projects and programmes; share experiences on health responses, identify recommendations for the improvement of policy, strategies and programmes and endorse policy recommendations for actionsundertakenunderthe broad-based health strategy of the Region (Caribbean Cooperation in HealthCCH) The preparatory meeting was facilitated by the CARICOM Secretariat ahead of the Twenty-Ninth Special Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) – Health scheduledfor26April2023.

Themeetingwaschaired by Dr Melissa Diaz-Musa, Director, Health and Wellness,MinistryofHealth and Wellness, Belize, with thesupportoftheDirectorate of Human and Social Development, CARICOM Secretariat.

In her opening remarks, Ms Helen Royer, Director, Human and Social Development, CARICOM Secretariat, acknowledged the contributions of technical experts in public health, including state actors, non-state actors such as the various nongovernmental organization (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and o u r i n t e r n a t i o n a l development partners, who have supported the implementation of a coordinated multi-sectoral responseforCOVID-19and the development of several publichealthgoods.

“Your technical expertise, leadership and

(L-R): Dr Melissa Diaz-Musa, Director, Health and Wellness, Ministry of Health and Wellness, Belize, Ms Helen Royer, Director, Human and Social Development, CARICOM Secretariat, Ms Curvelle David, Deputy Programme Manager, Health Sector Development, CARICOM Secretariat, Dr Joy St John, Executive Director, CARPHA, Dr Karen Broome, Advisor Immunization, PAHO, Prof. Donald Simeon, Director, Caribbean Centre for Health Systems Research and Development and Professor of Research and Biostatistics, The University of the West Indies, Ms Sandra Jones, Technical Advisor, HIV/STI, TB & Viral Hepatitis in the Caribbean, PAHO, and Dr Kenneth George, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Barbados.

managementinpublichealth h a v e u n d o u b t e d l y contributed to improved coordination, resource mobilization, policy advocacy and improved public health outcomes,”

stated Ms Royer, “The Secretariat again takes this opportunity to thank the Caribbean Public Health Agency(CARPHA)andPan

A m e r i c a n H e a l t h Organization (PAHO) for working collaboratively with us and our CARICOM MemberStatestoaddressthe emerging health priorities and currently the efforts towards addressing the low immunization rates experienced in our routine i m m u n i z a t i o n programmes”. The Director

emphasized that despite the best efforts of Public Health stakeholders and the gains achievedtodate,theRegion continues to experience existingandemergingpublic health challenges which have the potential to undermine the Region’s abilitytoachievesustainable development She underscored that the

regressioninvaccineuptake would continue to affect Member States if drastic steps are not implemented immediately

MsRoyeralsonotedthat the challenges with health security should not be ignored.

“While these challenges are noted, I have no doubt that the updates and policy

recommendations proposed by the various partners will resultintheendorsementand implementation of innovativestrategiesthatare guided by science, evidence and shared experiences,” stated the Director. In a brief opening statement, Chair Dr Melissa Diaz-Musa urged stakeholders to note, in particular, the low immunization rates experienced in routine immunization programmes region-wide She stressed that the trend could reverse the gains made in public health and highlighted the potential impact on the Region’s public health systems The meeting received a detailed technical update from CARPHA on health security issues in the Region and opportunities for funding through the PandemicFund,whilePAHO ledadiscussiononthestatus of the Expanded Programme on Immunizations in CARICOM Member States PAHO also shared an update on the Elimination of Communicable and Tropical Diseases in the Caribbean, among other issues In addition, participants discussed matters pertaining to the Port-of-Spain Declaration on NonCommunicable Diseases (NCDS), which included an update on the “Caribbean Moves Initiative” by CARPHAand a presentation on the status of Regional Mental Health Legislation with country experiences from The Bahamas and Guyana Theoutcomesofthe meeting will inform the discussions for the upcoming COHSOD in Nassau, The Bahamas and ultimately lead to decisions to improve health outcomes for the people of the CaribbeanCommunity

UN makes urgent appeal for help with Haiti crisis

(CMC) - The United Nations and its partners on Sunday issued an urgent appeal for increased humanitarian access and resources for Haiti, stating that the humanitarian situation across the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country continues to deteriorate “day by day due to a spiral of violence, emergencies related to protection, humanrightsandfoodinsecurityas wellasanepidemicofcholera”.

Inastatement,followingatwodaymission,theactingDirectorof OperationsandAdvocacyDivision oftheUnitedNationsOfficeforthe Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Tareq Talahma

said“wecannotletHaitibecomea forgottencrisis”.

“The influence of armed gangs isgrowingexponentiallyinPortAu Prince and beyond, including Artibonite department – the country’sbreadbasket.”

The statement said that six representativesofUNaidagencies and international nongovernmental organisations (NGO)metwithpeopleaffectedby the humanitarian crisis, local and internationalpartners,actingPrime Minister Ariel Henry and other governmentofficials.

The delegation also met with representatives of communities in areas controlled or under the

influenceofarmedgangs.

“Wehaveappreciatedthefrank, honest and sometimes uncomfortable discussions with people impacted by the multiple crises in this country, government leaders, UN officials and international NGOs,” said Mark Smith, World Vision’s vice president of Humanitarian and EmergencyAffairs.

For her part, the Chief of the Humanitarian Field Support of UNICEF, Sara Bordas Eddy said “the degradation of true humanitarian needs in Haiti is unprecedented”.

“The suffering of a Haitian childtodayisnotcomparabletothe

suffering of a Haitian child a few yearsago.Ashumanitarians,weare funding ways to reach those in need, including in gang-controlled areas. For that to happen in a sustainable way, we also need the donorcommunitytonotgiveupon Haiti.”

Despitethedifficulties,UNand NGO officials noted that the humanitarianresponsecontinuesto intensify and pledged to provide moresupporttoaidworkersonthe ground.

“The population feels desperate, but I also saw the resilience and potential of the women and girls who want to help build a better future for their

counties, communities and families,” said Shoko Arakaki, Director of the Humanitarian Response division of UN population They need urgent health and psychosocial support, but also livelihood and economic empowerment for recovery.” According to Talahma, this year, the UN and its partners will need US$715 million to help more than threemillionpeople.

“This is more than double the sum appealed for last year and the highest amount since the 2010 earthquake – more than just humanitarian assistance, what the people of Haiti need is peace, securityandprotection,”hesaid.

Service must supersede ambitions of Power and Perks as GOA Elections set for today

The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) election of office bearers meeting scheduled for today has stirred much interest within the sport fraternity and even beyond its environ. This level of interest should not be seen as alarming since sport is an integral part of the holistic development of a nation and this feature alone makes it vitally important that those chosen to serve are committed and competent enough to deliver the objectives of the entity.

As we take a close look at the two combatants for the top post of President, Robin

Singh of the Guyana Baseball League (GBL) and Godfrey Munroe of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), one is immediately tempted to lean towards the latter candidate based on obvious experience and proven results as an administrator. Singh is relatively unknown in the realm of sport administration with his one notable distinction being that of the introduction of baseball to Guyana.

That attempt was evidently a dismal failure and his involvement in sport after that as an administrator simply disappeared. On the other

hand, Munroe has been extremely consistent in propelling the sport he heads to new heights in recent years and his administrative acumen is unquestioned in the sports domain. While baseball disappeared from the local sports landscape, table tennis became one of the busiest programmes on the calendar with new achievements attained constantly over the past 7-8 years. During this period, Munroe has honed his administrative skills admirably and his interaction with administrators from other disciplines has proven to be a

Tuesday March 21, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Today you'll find that you're the missing puzzle piece that people need in every situation, Aries. Engage in light conversation in social arenas and feel free to turn your charm up full blast.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You may find that people want to do a great deal of talking but not a great deal of feeling today, Taurus. Go ahead and put your emotions on the back burner and let your mind take over.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

You should be able to evaluate your emotions from a very neutral, detached perspective today, Gemini. Use this opportunity to take action based on what you feel.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

If you're talking about another person today, Cancer, make sure you aren't saying anything that would be upsetting if they were standing right there. Gossip may be running rampant.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

You might find yourself a bit unfocused and confused about which way to go, Virgo. The baffled look on your face isn't helping anyone else figure out how to help you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

You might find yourself a bit unfocused and confused about which way to go, Virgo. The baffled look on your face isn't helping anyone else figure out how to help you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

It's important for you to get outside and feel the wind blowing, Libra. Reconnect with nature and be aware of the four elements. Take deep breaths and fill your lungs with this energizing life force.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Make practical use of the thoughts you have synthesized over the last few days, Scorpio. Stretch your boundaries and extend your wisdom to the people around you. This is a day to take action.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

This is an important day for you to make valuable connections with others, Sagittarius. You'll find yourself engaged in fastpaced, witty conversations and debates from which you can learn.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) = It could be hard for you to get a handle on things today, Capricorn, as your focus seems to jump from one subject to the next without finding resolution for any.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You might come across strong opposition today from someone who seems to want to cut straight through to your heart, Aquarius. In reality,

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Act on your instincts today, Pisces, and you won't go wrong. You may need to give up a bit of control and put logical thinking aside for the day. Let the wind take you where it wants you to go.

vital asset in his quest to become an excellent steward of his sport. Even outgoing President Kalam Juman Yasin reposed confidence in his ability as an administrator, affording him opportunities to enhance his knowledge as well as display his repertoire whenever there was a chance for him to do so.

Singh’s ability to lead at the highest level is unknown, while Munroe enjoys an excellent relationship with most members of the GOA.

Just to highlight the importance of experience and a winning mentality in the new world of sports, one just has to look at what English Premier League club Arsenal did in its quest to give itself a real opportunity of competing at the highest level.

They recruited two players Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko who possessed the habits, standards and experience to help them navigate the road to success, qualities that were lacking in the recent past and it is paying huge dividends right now. Munroe has an irrefutable record of success; having seen the upward mobility of the sport he leads as well as that many of our players climb up the international rankings.

Add to that the hosting of many local and regional competitions, undertakings that require a level of expertise and knowledge not to mention a solid relationship with the corporate community.

This is just a small testament to his ability as a very good administrator which should be enough to sway the vote of members in his favour. Singh as stated earlier is of unknown quantity with the baseball fiasco being his most notable highlight. His knowledge as an administrator is questionable and uncertain since the sole record of reference is that of failure. The Presidency of the GOA is not a trivial one and those entrusted to vote should not gamble with the future of our athletes.

The performance of the outgoing president was not a glittering one and this should serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that the next Head of the GOA is equipped with the proficiency to advance the agenda for sports development.

Yasin’s 26-year tenure bore little, if any, examples of success in terms of achievements and his enthusiasm to attempt to disrupt or delay today’s constitutional undertaking should be viewed with

scorn. Time has caught up with Yasin following the recent decision to limit the age of eligibility to 70 years, leaving him five years over the agreed entitlement ruling.

The time for real growth

in sport has come and stakeholders have the opportunity to participate in this new dispensation. It is time the commitment to serve supersede the ambitions of ‘Power and Perks’.

Harpy Eagles go 11 points...

From page 22 will be hosted by T&T Red Force at the Queen’s Park Oval (QPO). Athanze, Cornwall lead… Windward Islands’ Alick Athanaze and Leeward Islands’ Rahkeem Cornwall have climbed to the top of the Most Runs and Most Wickets lists this season after impressive performances during the six innings they’ve each played.

Athanze has scored 422 runs at an average of 70.33, while T&T’s Darren Bravo is second with 371 runs at an average of 74.20 and Guyana’s Matthew Nandu is third with 247 runs at an average of 41.16. Nandu’s captain, Leon Johnson, has sprung up to fourth place with 216 runs while Sunil

Ambris (WIV) has 216 runs and Kevin Sinclair (GHE) has 214 runs.

Meanwhile, Cornwall is also ninth in the top 10 on the Most Runs lists with 198; the only player to have made it onto both lists. He leads the Most Wickets list with 21 scalps and has picked up two 10-wicket match hauls, while Guyanese Veerasammy Permaul is second with 17 wickets. T&T’s Bryan Charles and WIV’s Justin Greaves are both tied on 15 wickets each, Guyana’s Ronsford Beaton has 13, while Ryan John (WIV), Akeem Jordan (BP), Joel McAllister (BP) and Patrick Harty (JS) have all tallied 12 wickets each. The final round is billed for March 29 to April 1.a

GCB names GHE 4-day team for fourth round WIC match

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) announced its Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) 4-Day team for the fourth-round match of the West Indies Championship (WIC),2023.

Theteamwasselectedby GCB’s Chairman of the Senior Selection Committee Ramnaresh Sarwan and selectors Albert Clements,

Peter Persaud, and Royan Fredericks.

GHE will play Jamaica Scorpionsintheirfourth-round WIC match at the Guyana NationalStadium,Providence, commencingfrom10:00hours tomorrow, Wednesday, March 22,2023 ThisGHEteamisas follows: Tagenarine Chanderpaul,MatthewNandu, Kevlon Anderson, Kemol

Savory, Leon Johnson (Captain),TevinImlach,Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Veerasammy Permaul (Vice Captain), Ronsford Beaton, Nial Smith, Antony Adams, andShamarJoseph.

Theteamcurrentsitatop thestandingsandwilllookto go all the way to championship honours this year

2023 West Indies Championship…

Harpy Eagles go 11 points clear after round three

-Athanaze,Cornwallleadindividuallists

FollowingRoundthree’s completion in the Cricket West Indies (CWI) 2022/23 West Indies Championship, current leader, Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE), have established a lead of 11.2 points ahead of their closest competitor as they prepare forthepenultimateround.

Harpy Eagles have recorded two wins and a drawn result from the three matches they’ve played to accumulate a total of 49 points in the four-day formatted tournament. They also lead the Bonus Points tally with 22 match points after claiming seven Pace Bowling Points, six Batting Points and nine Bowling Points.

Windward Islands Volcanoes (WIV) have surged into second place on 37.8 points with their latest result that saw them pick up theirfirstwininthreegames. Volcanoesrecordeddrawsin Rounds one and two but are backed by a favourable amount of Bonus points, whichcurrentlystandsat18.

Leeward Islands Hurricanes(LIH)areinthird on34.2pointswithawinand twodrawnresultsundertheir belt. Like Volcanoes, they

too have accumulated 18 Bonus Points thus far The top three teams remain undefeatedwhilethebottom three teams have all concededdefeat.

Defending Champion, Barbados Pride (BP), have had a torrid time this season and are fourth with 31.2 points from a win and two losses The Bajans have tallied the fourth highest in the Bonus bracket with 12 points.

TheTrinidadandTobago (T&T) Red Force franchise sitsinfifthon24.8points,12 of which came from Bonus Points. They are yet to taste victory this season with two draws and a loss in as many

matches.

In the cellar are Jamaica Scorpions (JS), who, like Red Force, are winless on 15.4 points with two losses and a drawn result on their record.

Round four is scheduled forWednesday,March22,to Saturday, March 25, with three more matches across GuyanaandT&T

At the Guyana National Stadium(GNS),Providence, HarpyEagleslandtotakeon theJamaicaScorpionswhile Windward Islands Volcanoes meet Leeward Islands Hurricanes at the BrianLaraCricketAcademy (BLCA)andBarbadosPride (Continuedonpage21)

Tagenarine Chanderpaul Gudakesh Motie Kemol Savory

Alvin Kallicharran to celebrate birthday today with Port Mourant visit

One of Guyana’s most illustrious former West Indies cricket captains and batting maestros, Alvin Kallicharran; Kalli as he’s long since become familiarlyknownasinevery cricketing corner of the globe;willbecelebratinghis March 21, 2023, 74th

Birthday in a most memorable manner

Kallicharran will be returning to Port Mourant Berbice, his birthplace and the spawning ground for his eventualcareerasoneofthe most outstanding batsmen Guyana and the West Indies has ever produced, for the official launching of an illustrated children’s storybook celebrating his cricketingjourney

Authored by Tony McWatt, the son of the late

former Guyana and West

Indies wicketkeeper

batsman Clifford Baby boy

McWatt, the Alvin

Kallicharran Guyana’s Pocket Dynamo Caribbean

Cricket Superhero

Illustrated Children’s StorybookchroniclesKalli’s cricketcareerjourney.From the humblest of beginnings

to its finest ever performance, his 1975

Inaugural ICC World Cup thrashing of Australia’s legendary fast bowlers at England’s Oval Cricket Ground. Published as a 32 page plus covers, full

coloured, illustrated

paperback the Alvin

Kallicharran Guyana’s PocketDynamoLittleGiant

Caribbean Cricket

Superhero Children’s Storybook will be officially

launched in celebration of Kalli’s 74th at a Berbice CricketBoardhostedspecial event to be held at the Port Mourant Portuguese CommunityCentre.Starting timefortoday’sLaunchwill be at 3:00 pm sharp. During the launch several hundred copies of the book will be presented to the Berbice Cricket Board for subsequent distribution to thecounty’sPrimarySchool aged young cricketers courtesy of Laparkan Canada.

While in Berbice, Kallicharran also conducted atwo-hourcoachingsession for the county’s youth cricketers The coaching session ran from 3:00 - 5:00 pm yesterday March 20 and washeldatthePortMourant cricketground.

Day two washed out at GCC Bourda

DayTwoofthematchbetweenDemerara andEssequibointhethirdandfinalroundof the Men’s Senior Inter county Four Day crickettournamentwaswashedoutwithonly overs into the Essequibo first innings at Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourda.

Demerara430-7declaredfrom933overs, withEssequibo28-2asDaytwowascalledoff around 12:30 hours by umpires due to rain Demerara resumed batting with an overnight scoreof394-6 Afterbattingfor63oversin the first session, they added 36 runs to their overnightscore AkshayaPersaudwastheonly wicket to fall as the captain of the Demerara team opted to have a go at the Essequibo batters EssequiboinreplyofDemerarafirst inningswere12-0in32oversbeforetherain interrupted play at around 10:45 hours Play resumed a short while after at 11:12hrs with KevonBoodieandAvinashPersaudbothon4 runs each Essequibo loss their first wicket at 26-1 as Avinash Persaud was out caught at short-leg from an attempted pull-shot off the

bowling of Chris Barnwell Ashmead Nedd claimedthewicketofRonaldoRenne;caught andbowledbeforeraininterruptedplayforthe second time, forcing the standing umpires to abandonplaywithKevonBoodieunbeatenon 15runsandMalcolmHubbardon1notout

Demerara 430-7 declared Ricardo Adamsfinished4-128.Essequibowere28-2 withBarnwellandNeddonewicketapiece. Matchcontinuestodayat9:30hoursatthe samevenueforDayThreeaction.

Alvin Kallicharran (left front row) with some of the youngsters involved in a previous programme.

Ricardo Adams

Ramsammy leads MYO to six-wicket win over Tranzac of Canada

Zeynul Ramsammy struck an attacking half century to lead Muslim Youth Organisation of Georgetown to a six-wicket win overTranzacof Canada when the teams collided in a 40-over fixture recently at the EverestCricketClub.

Tranzacbattedfirstandmanaged179-9. Pacers Delon Ramsaroop and Shahid Mohamed sent back Kanish Panwa (04) and Anthony Khan (06) respectively while Roy Mohamed(01)wasrunout.

Anoush Fernandez struck nine fours and two sixes in a top score of 78 to steady the innings while Ajay Gainda made 29 and

Andy Ramgoolam took 2-14, Ricardo Percival 2-2 while Ramsaroop, Mohamed andRiyadLatifhadoneeach.

Ramsammy and Shiloh Adams got the chase off to a solid start with Ramsammy striking10fourswhileAdamshitfourfours. AdamswasremovedbyM.Nandufor49and RamsammywaslbwtoNandufor61.

Jaden Campbell made 13 and Abdul Ramsammy16whileLatifwasnotouton20 and Marlon Boele was unbeaten on four as MYOrespondedwith180-4in33.2overs. Nanduhad2-26.

Canje/New Amsterdam One Guyana Softball Cricket Cup set for March 26th

The 2nd annual Canje Softball Cup now beingbrandedasthe“Canje/NewAmsterdam

OneGuyanaSoftballCricketCup”isslatedto beplayedonSunday26thMarch2023atthe Goed Banana Land Sports Club Ground in EastCanje,Berbicefrom09:00hrs.

Thisyear’seventhasseentheteamingup oftheNameBrandSoftballTeamofAdelphi, Canje, and the One Family Star Promotions coming together in making this one-day ten oversasideknock-outcompetitionpossible.

Accordingtothecoordinatoroftheevent, Mr RandyBaichand,thisyear’scompetition will be bigger and better by seeing more prizes at stake and its being made an open competition for teams that are interested to takepartwithinregions5and6thatwantedto be in action as they will be vying for the championship.

According to the organizers, several businesses already pledged their support towardsmakingtheeventasuccessandthey are:A.Ally’sandSons,Bob&Sons(Mazar) supermarket,Yadram and Son Construction, Fordy’s Catering, High-End Shop N/A, and NarineAutoMechanic.

According to the organizers, over $200,000incashandtrophiesareupforgrabs and will be awarded to the top teams and outstandingindividualplayers.

The coordinators are encouraging the residentstobringouttheirfamiliesandhavea fun-filled day with cricket action and lots of side attractions which includes male and

female dancing competitions, children dancingcompetition,100mmaleandfemale sprint race, buns eating competition, tug-awar,andmuchmore.

Interested teams can make contact the coordinatorat670-5795forregistration.

RegistrationwillbeclosedonFriday24th March.

ZashanAlly25.

The victorious MYO team.

Ms. Amanda Beaton of High End Store handing over sponsorship cheque to Mr. Junior Vogle.

Linden All-stars retain Rawle Toney 3x3 Classic title

-Ballin4Peaceedgedoutinsemis

Two exciting days of basketball in the Rawle Toney 3x3 Classic at the Burnham Court culminated with Linden All-Stars retaining theirtitle.

TheMarch18–19event featured 16 teams, but when itcamedowntothefinaltwo teams standing, the Linden All-Stars side of Stanton Rose Jr, Shelroy Thomas, Shane Webster and Harold Adams brushed aside GT Ballers21–13.

In 3x3 basketball, the first team to score 21 points in 10 minutes of play, is adjudged the winner, or a winner is also determined withtheteamthatscoresthe mostpointsin10minutes.

Both teams played undefeated in the tournament’s preliminary

round and topped their respectivegroups.

GT Ballers stormed past the impressive-looking Ballin4Peace USA team, who seemed poised to hoist thetrophyaftersteamrolling throughGroupA.

However, Dominic Vincente, Oqaucey Shortt, Nikkoloi Smith and Ryan Stephney had other plans when they faced the USA teaminthefirstsemi-finals.

Former ‘pro baller’ HaronHargravewaslighting the tournament up with his sniper-like aim along with MarcinTermena.

Birchell Glenn and KelvinFraserweretheUSA team’s muscle in the tournament, but the GT Ballers team wanted to ensurethatthetrophyandthe $400,000 from Team

Mohamed’s remained in the LandofManyWaters.

The Guyanese men battledtoa21–14winover the Americans, while the tournament’s eventual winners, Linden All-Stars, madelightworkofBullets.

Ballin4Peace didn’t leave empty-handed; they finished third and pocketed $100,000, compliments of VSHGuyanaInc.

Century Tamara Logistics Services Inc’s Business Development

O ff i c e r, Va r s h n i e Rampersaud,wasonhandto present Linden All-Stars with their Championship Rings.

The oil and gas logistics company teamed up with Jacobs Jewellery for this year’sfirst-placeincentive.

Stanton Rose Jr was

Alonso gets his 100th F1 podium after penalty U-turn

(Reuters) - Fernando Alonsowashandedbackthe 100th podium of his Formula One career, and second in two races for AstonMartin,afteraU-turn by officials hours after the finish of Sunday’s Saudi ArabianGrandPrix.

The 41-year-old double world champion, enjoying a renaissance with his much-improved team, finished third in Jeddah but was demoted to fourth by a 10-second post-race penalty.

TheSpaniardwasinitially handed a five-second penalty for an error on the startinggridandanotherfor

failing to serve it properly the rear jack being in contactwiththecarbeforethe fivesecondswereup

That second penalty was then reversed when his team won a right to review after presenting new evidence to supporttheircase.

“I am happy in the end

video of “seven different instances where cars were touched by the jack while servingasimilarpenalty without being penalised ” Stewards said the evidence called into question a supposed agreement between the teams and FIA that

namedtournamentMVPand pocketed $50,000 from Signature Moves Marketing Agency The company is owned by former National basketballplayerSteveNeils Jr and his wife, Ulex SmithNeils.

Rose will also be riding back to Region 10 on a motorcycle, thanks to Rock AutoTransandSpares.

“Iwasmorethanpleased with the outcome and the success of this year’s tournament. I think it was almost perfect, and that’s all thanks to the players and officials,”Toneysaid.

Suriname FIBAaccredited referees Harold Meinzak and Mitchell Zeefuik,accordingtoToney, raised the profile of officiating in the tournament

“Overthecoupleyearsof the tournament, officiating was a sour point, so I investedtobringrefereesin. GBF president Michael

Singh made contact with his Suriname counterparts and they identified two of their best officials to complement what we have in Guyana The players hardly had any complaints and everything went smooth,”Toneysaid.

Toney thanked ENet,

MVP Sports, Cole’s Screen Printing, Star Party Rentals, HJ 94 1FM, Germans Restaurant, Slingerz Family Entertainment, Shi-Oil, Trophy Stall and Nel Global Security Company Inc for coming on board and helping to make the 2023editionasuccess.

withtheresulttonightandour secondpodium

Weshowedthatwecanbe the second fastest team and we had good pace throughout the race,” said Alonsoinateamstatement.

The new evidence included the minutes of the latest Sporting Advisory Committee meeting and

“touching the car in any way, including with a jack, would constitute ‘working’ onthecar.”

Alonso, who had celebrated on the podium before the demotion, had criticised the FIA for the delay in imposing the second penalty more than 30lapsafterhispitstop

Stanton Rose Jr was named the Rawle Toney 3x3 Classic MVP and received one Motorcycle and $50,000.

Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso (Right) celebrates on the podium after finishing third place in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (REUTERS/Rula Rouhana)