Kaieteur News

compression to neck

Man shot dead by police in Linden operation

...one hospitalised, three others captured; two guns, ganja found

Elderly woman killed, body dumped next to her home

...grandsonheldafterneightbours reportedhearingcriesof“murder”

U.S. Govt. report flags complaints of unequal pay for Guyanese oil workers

…pointsoutthatlocallabourlawsbeingignoredbyGovt.

The most recent US State Department report on Human Rights and other abuses in Guyana, has flagged the disparity in salaries being paid to Guyanese working in the Oil and Gas industry as against expatriate workers, suchasTrinidadiannationals.

The pay disparity has been raised by numerous domestic unions that have over time been highlighting the fact that expatriate workers are very many times paid several times higher that their domestic counterparts forthesametasks.

According to the Report documenting instances recorded last year, the US Government noted that local trade union bodies were concerned that employers used hiring practices such as contract labor and temporary labor to avoid hiring workers withbargainingrights.

To this end, the Report cites as example, “the

National Mines Workers Union of Guyana advocated on behalf of oil and gas workers to raise complaints with the Ministry of Labor that citizens received less favorable contracts and lower pay than Trinidadian nationals.

The Guyana Agricultural and Commercial Workers Union, Oil and Gas Committeehasalso,inrecent times been vociferous in seeking to champion the causes for local workers in theoilandgassector

Additionally, the US Report stated, “The government did not e ff e c t i v e l y e n f o r c e applicablelaws.Penaltiesfor violation of labor laws are small fines that the government frequently did notimpose.”

The GAWU outfit, in a recent report in this publication for the period under review had expressed theirconcernoverthecurrent

approach to petroleum workers, who in many instances, have pointed out cases of mistreatment and non -compliance with labour laws by t h e i r e m p l o y e r s

G A W U ' s G e n e r a l Secretary, Aslim Singh i n t h a t r e p o r t h a d contended that “the arm's l e n g t h a p p r o a c h t o employment where workers work through contractors, is contributing to the situation where the real employer can disavow the contracted employee ” Several companies serve as subcontractors within the sector, all providing auxiliary services that enables the development of the industry Sub-contractors may also seek sub- contractors to provide them with a particular service, such as labour

It has been recognized however that while a contractor may be providing

the labour, that hiring company may not be directly responsible for the worker who actually takes his orders fromwheretheywork.Inthis way, the worker is hired by one company, but is fired or receives directions from anothercompany

Recent complaints by workers attached to a local joint venture had said that theywereplacedonone-year contracts and made to pay theirowntaxesandinsurance despite being out of a job every few months due to the availability of work which comes based on available projects.

In the US Report on Guyana, noted also that during the course of the year the Guyana Public Service Union reported instances of political interference in the union and government attempts to pressure some members to leave the union. “In July, the union filed suit against the government, the

Lack of Equal pay for equal work in Guyana's oil sector cited in US Human Rights Report

country's largest employer, for failing to participate in

r e q u i r e d c o l l e c t i v e bargaining on public-servant wages, salaries, and allowances despite repeated requestssince2020.”

It was outlined too that while Guyana's statutes, provides for a national minimum wage, there is a different minimum wage rate for the public sector and private sector “Minimum wage rates are set through Minimum Wages Orders made under the Labor Act and Wages Council Act. In sectors not covered by the act, wages maybe agreed upon by individual or collectiveagreement.”

It was noted that

minimum wages for regular working hours of all fulltime, private-sector employees are set nationally for hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly workers and that in addition to, the national minimum wage, the law prohibits compulsory overtime, and overtime work must be paid according to rates set in the law or according to any collective bargaining agreement in force where workers are unionised According to the US State Department however, there were alleged violations of wage, hour, or overtime laws were common in the mining, oil and gas, and logging sectors.

Guyana borrowed US$335M from IBD in 2022

Dead: Baby Oriya Gravesande

Baby Oriya died from haemorrhage, compression to neck

A post-mortem examination (PME) conducted on 7-month-old, Oriya Gravesande has revealed that the child died from hemorrhage and compression to the neck The PME was conducted on Wednesday by Government Pathologist, Dr Nehaul Singh, at the Georgetown Public Hospital'sMortuary LittleOriya'sbodywas thenhandedovertorelativesforburial.

Oriya was the daughter of Shavannie GravesandeandOdysseusClement.

The grieving parents had revealed that their child was dropped off at a day care located in Ogle, East Coast Demerara on Tuesday morning, 'in good health' not knowing that would have been the last time theysawtheirbabygirlalive.

During a teary interview on Tuesday afternoon, Gravesande said, “I was made to understand they murder my daughter, they murdermydaughter.”

According to the woman, her daughter fell into the corner of a bed in a sheet which reportedly suffocated her “So by the time theycouldhavecalledmetocomedown,she

had arrived at the Health Center unresponsive. By the time they could have bring her to Georgetown Hospital, she was pronounced dead on arrival due to suffocation,”thedistraughtmothershared.

“Howcanadaycarebesoirresponsibleto allow my child to fall down and suffocate?” theyoungmotherquestioned.

“First thing, the day care lady deprive me entrance to see how and where my child really fell, telling me how child care does come every day to inspect so there is no need formetocomein,”themothersaid.

According to the woman, her daughter had gone home with a swollen head, prior to her death. She recalled that an employee of thedaycarehadtoldher,“Yourbabyisinsafe hands.”The grieving mother is demanding justiceforthedeathofherchild.

Moreover, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday afternoon issued a statement revealing the findings of the PME. However,itwasnotstatementinthereleaseif an investigation was launched into the death of7-month-old,OriyaGravesande.

In 2022, Guyana borrowed approximately US$335 million from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This was revealed in the bank's Annual Report2022FinancialStatements.

As required by the by-laws of the IDB, the Board of Executive Directors is required to submit the report. The Annual Report consists of a printed volume entitled, 'The Year in Review', containing a review of the Bank's operations in 2022 (loans, guarantees,andgrants).

According to the summary of loans approval by country, Guyana borrowed US$335 million from the IDB last year It wasstatedthattheaforementionedsumfalls under sovereign guarantee. Stated in the reportisGuyana'screditratingwiththebank whichisaB-.

The loans Guyana took from the IDB were for several different projects and programmes such as: healthcare network strengthening, a programme to support climate resilient road infrastructure development, 'Enhancing the National Quality Infrastructure for Competitiveness' Reformulation and Additional Financing program and the program to Strengthen Public Policy and Fiscal Management in ResponsetotheHealthandEconomicCrisis CausedbyCOVID-19.

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh announced in January 2023, that the country's total public debt stood at US$3,654.M an increase by 16.9 percent from last year Importantly, almost all of its

recently announced public infrastructural projects government has been borrowing to financethemdespiteearningoverUS$1Bin theoilaccountforlastyear

Also in January, the IDB had released a report cautioning Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) countries against 'excessive' borrowing and urged governments to bring their debts down to moreprudentlevels.

In its report titled, 'Dealing with Debt –Less Risk for More Growth in the Latin America and the Caribbean' the IDB disclosed that debt has risen and stands at some US$5.8T which is 117 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the region. “Given the dangers of excessive debt, the current situation in Latin America and the Caribbean is worrisome,” the IDB said. IDB said public debt serves a critical role for countries to pursue public investment projects, implement counter cyclical policies, and provide support to economies in the face of negative shocks. However,theIDBwarnedthatifpublicdebt becomes too large or is not managed with sufficient caution, interest costs may balloon,growthprospectsmaysuffer,andin the limit, a costly debt crisis may be provoked.

According to the report, governments can bring down their debt levels by improving spending efficiency, expanding the tax base, and seeking wider reforms to enhance fiscal balances and boost growth. TheIDBsaidthatthere

The grieving parents, Shavannie Gravesande and Odysseus Clement.

UK firm selected again to review th Exxon's US$12.5 billion 5 project

United Kingdom firm, Bayphase Limited has once again been selected by the Government of Guyana to review the Field Development Plans (FDP) for ExxonMobil's US$12 5 billion Uaruproject.

According to information released on the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) website, the international oil and gas consultancy firm was awarded the contract at the cost of US$797,480onMarch8,2023.

Kaieteur News had reported thatwhentheprojectwasopenedat the NPTAB office back in January this year, Bayphase and Stratoil Energy Services (bid US$709,470) were the two firms that were vying forthecontract.

Bayphaseisaninternationaloil and gas consultancy, based in the United Kingdom, which has decades of auditing experience and is a well-known client of Exxon. It has previously been awarded the contract to review the US$9B YellowtailFDP

The Ministry of Natural Resources which had issued the request for Expressions of Interest for this contract, had said the contract would be funded through

the US$20M World Bank (WB) loan for the Guyana Petroleum Resources Governance and Management Project (GPRGMP). It said the money would be used to pay the successful consulting firm to provide advisory services, technical support and training, as well as for capacity strengthening services.

It said too that the consultant willberequiredtoprovideadvisory services to professionals attached to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and other attendant ministries with the aim of enhancing the country's core capacity to review, authorize, oversee, and report on the implementationofFDPs.

KaieteurNewsunderstandsthat the assignment is expected to includeadetailedassessmentofthe Uaru concept selection process and Field Development Plan, FDP management, oversight, monitoring, and reporting, a detailed assessment of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the Proposed Uaru FDP, and ESIA management, oversight, monitoring,andreporting.

In the term of references of the tender document, it stated that the duration of the assignment is 52

weeks. The selected consultancy firm is expected to be physically present in Guyana for at least 80% ofthe52weeks.

Meanwhile, this publication reported that this project is located in the Uaru, Mako and Snoek fields (collectivelyreferredtoastheUaru field) approximately 191 kilometres or about 119 miles northeast of the coastline of G e o r g e t o w n i n w a t e r s approximately 1,700 to 1,900 metres(5,577to6,234feet)deep. Exxon has proposed to produce 250,000 barrels of oil per day at the site It said that initial oil production is planned for late 2026 and May 2027. To support this timing, development-well drilling is planned to start in mid-2024. Productionwillcontinueforatleast 20years.

The project will consist of drilling approximately 38 to 632 development wells (including production,waterinjection,andgas re-injection wells), installation and operation of Subsea, Umbilicals, Risers, and Flowlines (SURF) equipment, installation and operation of a Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel in the eastern half of the Stabroek Block and ultimately, projectdecommissioning.

Govt. rebuffs Jamaican economist's claims that Guyana on path to oil curse

Jamaican Economist, Dr Damien King in an interview with theJamaicaObserversaid“Guyana is going to go nowhere” due to its weak institutions to prevent corruptionintheoilandgas;butthe Ministry of Natural Resources said these statements are merely an attempt to undermine the progress made by the administration on this front.

In a statement Wednesday the ministry said King's comments are an “attempt to undermine the progress made towards the prudent management of the Guyanese economy and the shared development vision of the Governmentanditspeople.”

Though the nation is yet to implement key anti-corruption mechanisms for the oil sector

including the establishment of a Petroleum Commission, the Ministry noted, “Our nation's exemplary environmental credentials and dynamic policymaking to facilitate expeditious offshore exploration and development activities underscore Guyana's role-model status for Oil and Gas development strategy in the Energy Transition environment.”

It explained that the government since taking office in 2020 has moved towards transforming the governance framework and management of the petroleum sector by effectively developing and implementing various policies and programmes which allow for adherence to international best practices and

principles.

As part of the measures highlighted by the Ministry to avoid the oil curse, it said the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act wasremedied.

“The Government swiftly remedied the deficiencies of the Natural Resource Fund Act 2019 withtheNaturalResourceFundAct 2021 — an important step towards safeguarding against the resource curse, ensuring fiscal smoothing and advancing the quest of inter generational wealth while utilising petroleum wealth to finance national development priorities,” thestatementnoted.

This legislation was rushed through the National Assembly by the PPP in December 2021, even though Opposition and other

stakeholders were calling for the thenBilltobeproperlyvetted.

The Ministry however boasted that the legislation is now strengthened in that it has reduced theexcessivepoweroftheMinister of Finance removing the possibility of ministerial direction in determining the ceiling on withdrawals,establishedaBoardof Directors—vestingtheBoardwith powers previously concentrated in the hands of the Minister and removed the possibility of any expenditure from the Fund being met without prior parliamentary approval.

It also highlighted that “To maximise value extraction from Guyana's petroleum resources and remedy pressing issues, Local Content Legislation was enacted in

2021. Today we see the growth of the Guyanese economy driven by a vibrantlocalprivatesector.”

In addition, the Ministry explained that work has commenced on overhauling the 1986 Petroleum (Exploration and Production)Actandregulationsfor a modern and effective legal framework It noted, "The Government of Guyana remains committed to its strategic developmentpathreinforcedbythe establishment of a pragmatic legal and fiscal Petroleum Management Framework and is confident that the country's practical, academic and industrial intelligence will ensure that policies and programmes are implemented to avoid the resource curse syndrome toourmulti-sectoraleconomy."

A map depicting the location of the Uaru project in Guyana's Stabroek Block

...although failing to implement key anti-corruption mechanisms

Georgetown, Guyana.

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

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

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

THE NEW ERC

It is encouraging that Guyana now has an Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) in place after the absenceofoneforseveralyears.Weextendahandof goodwilltoall10membersofthenewERC,andwishthema tenureofcourageous,wise,balanced,andprincipledservice tothisnation.

We need most urgently a functioning ERC, one that is unbiasedanddevotedtodoingitspartasacrucialoversight bodyinGuyana.

Our racial divisions are probably at the worst that they haveeverbeen. Thestruggleforpowerhasbruisedusbadly, contributed heavily to Guyanese battering Guyanese, be it the two major ethnicities at each other’s throats, or both at onetimeoranotheragainstourfirstcitizens. Thearrivalof great natural resource gifts has only widened the divisions, intensified the competition for the upper hand, the supremacy that instils sentiments of dominance and defeated.

In fact, the competition for a rich slice of Guyana’s resourcepiecanbemoreaccuratelytermedanall-outbattle, a scramble, a pushing and shoving by the races to get the biggest share. Because of growing awareness of what controloftheselavishresourcegiftsmean,therewerethose ugly,drainingfightsforpowerinthelastelections.Wehave damagedourselvesbadly,andthethinkingiswhetherwecan stillberepaired.

Thatis,ifweareevenopentothehealingandreconciling nowsonecessaryinGuyana.

This is a little of the environment that the 10-member ERC must wrestle with, facesquarely The environmentis ultrasensitive, and ever vigilant for slurs and schemes and slashesthathintoftheracial,orthedemeaning,anythingthat puts down one person or one group. What was never intendeddoesnotmatter;whatmattersishowwhatwassaid orwrittenisinterpreted,andwhatisthenmadeofit. Likewe saidearlier,thiscountryisinadarkplace,onethatgivesthe chills.

It is helpful that the ERC has among its members those who are steeped in some of the great religious denominations. We take this position, because their teachingsandmantrasareaboutwhattakestheinitiativeand touch deeply enough to begin the process of mending, one ravaged cell at a time, one hurting person at a time. The citizens of Guyana could use some of that, a lot of this mendingandhealingofwhichwespeak.

The great prophets who graced this world with their presenceswerealwaysabouttheinspiringvisionofwhatis brotherly,respectful,embracing. Itisanassetthatthereare othersinthenewERCgroupthatarefromdifferentwalksof Guyanese life, of which we single out a veteran trade unionist. Hismembershipofworkersinvarioussectorshad to have been of the cross-sections of the Guyanese demographic, which gave him an eyewitness seat to their troubles,worries,andanguish.

Thisistohisadvantage,shouldmakehimanassettothe deliberations of the disputes and divisive issues that would beroutineintheERC’swork.

It is tough work and likely in volumes, with much backlogthatbuiltupwhentherewasnoERC. ThenewERC mustsetstandardsthatarepoliticallyneutral,visuallyblind, andcharacterizedbythesharpestofhearingantennas.

WhenwehaveanERClikethis,thenitisonethatsetsa tone,onewhichnonedaretomesswith,playgameswith,or come up with the usual cleverness where race matters are concerned in this shattered, boiling society We are at that frighteningstatewhereanythingandeverythingareseenas racially tinged, and with many torments, pretended or real, emergingthereaftertoprejudiceusfurther TheERChasits workcutoutforit.

We need unity in this country, and never more than like today Wehavetheworldrunningtous,andifallwecando is run over each other, then they will run away with our wealth, leaving us pauperized and still demonized by each other TheERChasreceiveditsmandate,wewishitthebest. Itisgoingtoneedit,andsodowe.

GECOM:ALITANYOF SNAFUS, MISSTEPS,AND MISADVENTURES

DEAREDITOR,

Yet another week has passed and GECOM is still tosetthedatefortheconduct of the interviews with the applicantsforthepositionof Deputy Chief Elections Officer It is now one year and five months since GECOM advertised, however,approximatelyone year ago the vacancy was readvertised on the pretext that the original applicants d i d n o t m e e t t h e requirements.

The readvertisement attracted one internal candidate The shortlist, notably, includes three candidates from among the original applicants, who were originally deemed not tohavemettherequirements forthejob,inadditiontothe internal applicant whose application was facilitated by virtue of the contrived readvertisement.

The recruitment process hasbeenslothful,inaddition to being delayed by the passing of a commissioner, who was involved in the original shortlisting The deceased commissioner has

since been replaced by Commissioner Rohee who hastakensixmonthstocome up with a short list of two persons and has further delayed the process for two weeks, to date, due to his unavailability

PREPARATIONFOR LOCALGOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

The preparations for Local Government Elections, which should havebeenheldinNovember or December of last year, 2022,andarenowscheduled for June 12, 2023 have been affected by a number of snafus, missteps and misadventures.

Attheveryinceptionthe responsible Minister sought to usurp the function of GECOM by unlawfully gazetting the boundaries of new and reconfigured constituencies.

The Government appointed Commissioners, the Chair and the CEO sought to endorse that illegality The effort to reverse that misadventure took approximately two months and occasioned a

significant delay in the preparations for the elections. The reclamation, and execution, of that function by GECOM was also contentious, since it is the view of some that the Commission did not follow due process in the demarcation of the boundaries and merely sought to facilitate the Minister‘s earlier intervention, which constitutes gerrymandering of the constituency boundaries.

GECOM also failed to conduct the Claims and Objections process in the requiredmanner,whichafter much haggling and an approachtotheCourtbythe APNUsawthemisstepbeing halted and the correction processinstituted.

That too has led to a substantial delay in the preparation and has also become the source of contention, since in many instances the wrong procedures were embraced in determining whether a person is “ordinarily registered” in a particular

c o n s t i t u e n c y a n d consequentially entitled or not entitled to vote in the particular constituency..This matter hinges on the peculiarity of Local Government Elections (LGE) and GECOM`s insistence that the Chief Justice`sdecisioninRamvs. GECOM is applicable While the Chief Justice`s decision does not permit the removal of a name from the National Register of R e g i s t r a n t s a n d consequentially the voters listforGeneralandRegional Elections, in the case of LGE, a name may be taken off of the voters list, but retained on the National Registerofregistrants,ifthe person is not ordinarily resident in the constituency inkeepingwithsection10of the Local Authority (Elections) Act. Local Government Elections are now scheduled for June 12 while GECOM remains on the path of snafus, missteps andmisadventure.

Sincerely,

VincentAlexander GECOMCommissioner

Today’s PPPcannot hold a candle to the Jagans, corrupt practices run rampant

DEAREDITOR,

The PPP put out an advertisement for a rally in tributetoDr CheddiJaganto be held at the burial ground where the ashes of his body are entombed in Babu Jaan, Port Mourant this Sunday, March26.Thetwodominant figures in the government, PresidentIrfaanAliandVice President Cheddi Jagan are announced as the main speakers.

The two did not visit Jagan’s tomb for over four years, not even during the 2020 election campaign And close to three years since its return to political power in August 2020, the names Cheddi Jagan (and wife Janet) did not figure in any communication or tributes to the Jagan’s from anyone in the present government.

It was as though Cheddi and Janet no longer matter althoughtheparty,inandout of government, owes its existence to the towering duo. Irfaan and Jagdeo have awakened from their slumber

Why a rally on Jagan’s birth anniversary – 103 years People generally

celebrate annually or at majormilestoneslike75,50, 100, etc., not 103. Is it because the party base has been ignoring the leadership? Local election related turnouts at meetings have been low At a local

electionrallylastweekendin FreeYard,therewereonly11 people in the audience Votersarenotinterested.

Thepartysupportersfeel betrayed over widespread corruption and ignoring the baseandtheinabilitytowork

new ERC:

DEAREDITOR, I am flummoxed that there is nota single youth representative included in the eight member commissioners, moreover why8and not 9or13?No youth representative or an odd number is a nonstarter for a number of reasons.

First the youth is who will change the attitude of parents that will create the changes sought bythe ERC because theyhave theleast bias when it comes to discrimination and racism. They are more intolerant andimpartial tothe rigidity of conservatism that are mostly ineffective and

with the opposition. No one in the ruling party or government can compare themselves to Cheddi and Janet. The government has extracted nothing from the playbookoftheJagan’son

(Continuedonpage5)

even number

consists of outdated thinking Besides, those policies have always benefited a handful of d i s i n g e n u o u s benefactors.Young people livebytheethosofInstagram and Facebook where they decide on what is moral, including dating or socializing with people who are different inevery way Ask any parent or guardian about their failure to imposed socalled good conduct on their kids or impressthe youths oftoday

ThenewERCisreally the Older ERC...it is not too late to add 5 more commissioners, besides

wherearethejournalists,the students andtheartists and the sportsrepresentative as well as the farmeroreven the multimillionaire. I truly believe those that have been excluded have value add to ERC achieving its objectives.

Then again there’s the counterfactual thinking that has the Republic remaining in the status quo. I firmly believe the youth of Guyana,ifgiven a chance, will obliviate racism and discrimination from the Guyanese society once and for all.

Yoursfaithfully, KeithBernard

The

where are the youths, farmers, journalists, and why the

The racial divide will not solve itself, we must act, do our part

DEAREDITOR,

Many of us in Guyana andtheDiasporahaveheard thenameJimmyCliff,oneof Jamaica’s most famous reggae stars whose most popular melody was ‘Many RiverstoCross’.

The lyric in the song is indicative of what is happening in the country, that is we have many problems to overcome, but we believe that the most pressingisforallofustostep up and heal the racial divide and hatred that have permeated our society and have ripped the nation apart fordecades.

Governments in the past have tried but with little successbecausetheproblem still lingers on. We can no longer bury our heads in the

sandorpretendlikesomeof us have and continue to do that racism does not exist. It doesanditisdeep-rooted!

Those of us who are in denial that racism does not exist, are only deceiving themselves.

And to prolong the problem hoping that it will be solved by a future generation is ludicrous Racism is an evil that has embolden some at the expense of others and the claim that only time will solveitisabsurd.

The Greek poet, Menander,wholivedaround 300 B.C. said, “Time is the healerofallnecessaryevils.” While Menander is correct, we as Guyanese must act nowtoendracismbecauseit has been a feature in society

for decades with no end in sight.Itislikeanunattended sore and if not attended to wouldfesterandgrow

However, the belief by some that racism can be solved through civil discourse and education which is the corner stone of society should be explored. Since returning to office in August2020,theMinisterof Education, Ms Priya Manickchand and her team havedoneanoutstandingjob in making education available to everyone in the country.

And based on statistics from the Ministry of Education, school dropouts have reduced significantly, especially in the populated areas of the country and in the hinterland, CXC grades

Today’s PPPcannot hold a candle to...

Frompage4 good governance and engagingtheopposition.The present government has completely eradicated the philosophyoftheJagan’son governance – like running mean, lean, cleaning government and dedicating theirlivestothepeople.

Dr Jagan and his wife r a n i n c o r r u p t i b l e administrations. They were n o t i n t e r e s t e d i n accumulation of private wealth. They did not own businesses. They did not set upbusinessesinthenamesof others and bid for government contracts. They did not give contracts to friendsorfamilymembers.

They did not condone corruption.

They did not give scholarships to the unqualified.Theymadesure scholarships were given to the deserving. They did not use fraudulent high school and college certificates and transcripts to award scholarships. They did not violate laws or rules of e n g a g e m e n t s i n

p o l i c y m a k i n g a n d governance. They did not ignore the opposition. They did not waste money They did not wear fancy name brandsuits.

Theydidnotacceptgifts that were tantamount to bribes. They lived simple lives.Thepresentleadership has built Pradovilles for the elite. The Jagan’s lived for thepeople.

They did everything to improve the lives of the ordinary people They dedicated their lives to the working class raising the salariesofthelatter

Their friends were not among the wealthy. They socialized with the working classandthepoor.

Theystayedatthehomes of working class and party comrades when traveling. They tried to save as much government money as possible in their local and international travels. They never stole a cent from government They were unselfish.

They helped the poor as best they could with their

have improved, and students’ performance have beenexceptionalinEnglish, mathematics, and other sciencesubjects.

Wemustcongratulatethe Minister and her team for s u c h a m a z i n g accomplishments, but there is need for an expanded curriculum to include the teaching of racism and its negativeimpactonsocietyat all levels, from primary to post-secondary.

The truth is racism is detestable and has no place insocietyinthe21stcentury. But it does not exist in Guyana only, it is a worldwidephenomenonandwhile some are uncomfortable to addressit,wemustfindways to eradicate it from our society

may be reasons for their failure to deal with racism and inequality in their societies, but some have assertedthattheyarefearful of being accused of opening “Pandora’s Box—an artifact in Greek mythology that means something that creates a new set of unnecessary problems that werenotexpected.

Today we have a golden opportunity to jettison racism from our society and not pass it on to future generations. We cannot and must not look back to the decades of disappointment toresolveit.

We must move forward with pride, dignity, and a g e n u i n e s e n s e o f responsibilitytoendthisevil fromsociety

shunned by society and becomesanoutcastand,asa result, becomes lonely which if not tended to or guarded could lead to depression which in turn could trigger selfdestruction and or the devastationofothers.Suchis the temperament and intensity of racism in our intransigentsocietyWemust preserve our national pride and not allow racism to saturate our society or else we will perish as a nation as therewillbenohopeforus.

earnings in government. Dr Jagan was constantly educating people and never abandoning struggle for economic and social dignity of all. None of the present figures in the PPP, save a handful like Donald Ramotar, Hydar Ally, Indra Chanderpaul, can compare themselves to the Jagan’s.

Dr Jagan not only talk the talk but also implemented the talk. The Jagan’s would never have closed their eyes to destruction of the sugar industry that made the PPP what it is today The Jagan’s were open to critiques and independent views; they did notusetrollstoattackcritics or take measures to silence mediahouses.

Thepresentleadershipof the PPP has aligned themselves with forces that areagainstJaganismandthe destroyers of Jagan’s philosophy

Would the rally at Babu Jaan return the party to its rootsandJagan’sphilosophy ofgoodgovernance?

Yourstruly, Kevin

Ragonauth

The United States, Canada, Britain, and the western countries have prided themselves on being considered the bastions of democracy,yettheyhaveall failed to deal adequately withracismandinequalityin theirsocieties.

Many believe that there

All in society must confront racism through civic discourse and education Studies from severalsocialscientistshave shown that racism breathes hatred that could lead to lonelinessbecausewhenone isdeemedtobearacist,itis likely that the individual is

It is time for all of us to put traction on President Dr. Ali’svisionof‘OneGuyana’ and at the same time call on thepowersthatbetoincrease the wages of civil/public servants to withstand the high cost of living and to make tertiary education availabletoallfreeofcost.

Our leaders will be showered with praise for takingsuchboldstepsandit will be a blessing to our beloved country and its citizensfarandwide.

Sincerely,

Dr AsquithRose

DEAREDITOR,

Letmebeginwithalittle story In 1997 the then Chaplin of American University, Washington DC, asked if I knew one by the nameofMikeMcCormack.I repliedintheaffirmativeand informed the good gentlemanthatMikewasthe head of the Guyana Human Rights Association. Chaplin X was pleased because he knewMikeasahumanrights guy In 2022, the same person asked – how is Mike

doing?Irepliedthatheisstill theheadofGHRA.Noneed to betray further details of that conversation, but the Chaplin did exclaim – 25 years;aquarterofacentury!

Well yes, not only that long, but much longer because Mike has been the real headman of the GHRA since 1979. His reign is closing in on half a century, with no sign of any change. Some wider context is needed here, something the philosopher Martin

Heideggercalled‘worlding’. Byworlding,Heddiger (Continuedonpage6)

The GHRA’s Mike McCormack has been a one-man show, it is time he goes

The GHRA’s Mike McCormack...

Frompage5) meant that it is important to situate things in the larger life-world in which specific phenomenadevelop.

IntheworldingofGHRA we must insist that few things, if any, are more importantthanhumanrights. It is not far-fetched to say that without the full, unconditional, and unobstructed practice of political, economic, and socio-cultural rights, we are less than human. The most generalized way of actualizing rights is through democraticgovernanceatall levels,namely,atthelevelof worldorder,thestate,andthe local.

In light of the above, the Guyanese people should have deep concerns with the institutional norms and general practices of the Guyana Human Rights Association(GHRA).

The crux of the problem with GHRA is that since its founding in 1979, Mike McCormack has been the ‘top dog’ with no signs of change. Transparency and accountability are key ingredients of any organization that operates in the name of the public

interest. Regular, open, free, and fair elections are nonnegotiable elements of any civil society group, not least for one that claims to be the leading voice of human rights in the country The GHRAhas failed the test of t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountabilitybecauseof its clear political biases. The GHRAis always on the side of the current political oppositionandhasadistinct urban bias. It is never to be concerned with the lives of people in the sugar and rice districts and villages of the country Sometimes, however,GHRAthrowsina few sentences for the indigenous peoples of this country Its main constituency is the Georgetown ‘wine and cheeseclass.’

The blatant political and cultural bias of GHRA was recently outed when Mike McCormack stood down from condemning the violent, racist rant of a top WPA official, all this in the presenceoftheLeaderofthe Opposition, Mr Aubrey Norton.

Further, on 20 March, 2023,theAttorneyGeneral’s Chambers (headed by Hon.

AnilNandlall)revealedwhat appears to amount to financial malfeasance by GHRA.Apressreleasefrom the AG Chambers states the following –“ records prove that the organisation, [GHRA] which was incorporated on the 27th of September 1979, is not in Good Standing for failing to file itsAnnual Returns since incorporation.

The Company has failed to apply for Continuance under Part IV, Division B of the Companies Act and therefore owes the State some$38,649,600.”

A human rights organization should always obeythelaw Ifitdoesnot,it should be disbanded forthwith. Mr McCormack shoulddotherightthingand resign from his current position, and he should also please to honor and put into practice the basic principles ofhumanrightsconduct.

To return to Heidegger, the GHRA needs to wrench itselffromitsenclosurewith theWPAandPNCR.Itneeds to step into the world of global human rights, to reworlditself.

Sincerely,

Dr RandolphPersaud

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

AMERICAN AMBASSADOR LYNCH AND SANCTITY OF CONTRACT - PART 2

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Ambassador Lynch: what about fairness for Guyanese?

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

America: yes, sanctity; but why no to prosperity for Guyana?

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Ambassador Lynch: sticking to sanctity doesn’t help stability

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

America: be aware the Guyanese people are unhappy

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT...BLUNT

Govt. yet to pronounce on Payara and Yellowtail audits

The Ministry of NaturalResources ( M N R ) i n a statement to the media yesterday defended the Government's position as it regards the auditing of ExxonMobil's expenses, even as it attacked the Kaieteur News for what it deemed as misrepresentation offacts.

The statement comes in wake of incessant calls from citizens and other activists for updates on the issue, but instead of addressing the matter at hand, the ministry devoted huge chunks of the press release to attack Kaieteur News and its

publisher, Glenn Lall

“Many of the articles churned out by the media entity in question are based on the publisher's narrow understanding of the sector, misrepresentationofthefacts and sensationalism for economic returns on sales of what has manifested into the doom and gloom newsprint of the nation,” the statement read.

TheMNRstatementsaid: “Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, who plays a leading role in the judicious management of Guyana's oil and gas sector, has repeatedly, by way of numerous press conferences,

...asMinistersaysK/Newsmisrepresentfacts

articulated updates relating to the management of the oil and gas sector, more particularly the conduct of audits.” It also noted that “Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat in his presentation as part of Budget 2023, indicated publicly to the House that a preliminary audit of the 2018 to 2020 costs submitted by the Stabroek Block operator had been prepared, kickstarting the sixty day reply period that the operator, Esso Exploration and Production GuyanaLimited(EEPGL),is entitledto.”

During the 60-days period which is still in effect,

the operator will have an opportunity to review the findings and issue a response to the government. The ministryadded, “Pursuantto the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) between the contractor and the government, specifically under the Auditing and Inspection Rights of the Government, the minister has a legal right to carry out further investigation within sixty days of the contractor's reply, should the report or reply require further investigation.”

Though the government statement spoke about the audit of ExxonMobil's US$7.3 billion expenses, it failed to address the critical subject of reviewing Exxon's third project before the stipulated timeframe in the PSA elapses. Notably, the contract with Exxon allows for expenses to be audited within two years. After this time expires, Guyana can no longer make claims on any inflated bills that may be caught during the audit process.

The Payara project was signed in September 30, 2020, paving the way for Exxon to commence investments to develop the third oil project. This means thatmorethantwoyearshave already passed, but there is still no word from the government on auditing these bills The Payara project is pegged at US$9 billion. These costs amount to more than two times this year's National Budget, which was approved to the tune of US$3.9 billion (GYD $781.9 billion). This was pointed out in an article published by Kaieteur News in its Tuesday edition, where it was reported that VP Jagdeo and Minister Bharrat have both been dodging this responsibility.

S e e L i n k : https://www.kaieteurnewson line com/2023/03/21/govtplaying-hot-potatoes-withexxons-audits/

Nevertheless, the MNR said it rejects the intent to

undermine its work in building out a regulatory framework that adheres to international best practices and an economic model that will provide benefits for all Guyanese.

The ministry pointed out that the government has taken a number of measures to regulate the sector since assuming office in 2020, none of which included measures to ensure timely auditsareconducted.

It pointed to 10 specific areas explaining that: 1) the petroleum production licenses have been updated, 2) a new Local Content Legislation was enacted, 3) the Natural Resource Fund (NRF)Act was strengthened, 4) new conditions and fees were implemented and cost recovery audits commenced.

It was also noted that the administration has been continuously reviewing and modernising the legislative framework for the sector

Other key achievements according to the Ministry are “Updating of the 1986 Petroleum and Exploration Act,developmentofoffshore s a f e t y r e g u l a t i o n s , development of hydrocarbon environmental management regulations, and promoting inter-agency collaboration to

improve monitoring capabilities.”

To this end, the ministry stated it “will remain steadfast in achieving its goals in the expansion of the hydrocarbon sector, its sustainability, environmental soundness and lucrativeness, and will not be distracted by characters aimed at misinforming, misguiding and sensationalising matters.”

Misplacedpriority

Meanwhileinresponding to the attacks on his newspaper, Mr Lall offered that the ministry should channel its energies on addressing the Payara and Yellowtail audits and other critical areas, rather than hurling abuse at the press. “Government should list the misrepresentations by the Kaieteur News articles and Glenn Lall's comments. I would like to urge the administration to focus on the questions and messages rather than trying to degrade the media entity and its publisher by throwing out baseless remarks to the public.”

Lall added, “Government should address ring fencing, capping of interest rates, full liability coverage, and tell us when the audit will be conducted for the Payara and Yellowtailprojects.

Tell us why they are not being conducted on time, why they are hiding the FDP (Field Development Plan) reports, and why the nation can't see the quarterly reports on the expenses of the oil companies. Why are they being kept in the dark and silentontheseissues?”

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

Container truck crashes into church tent at Victoria

...two seriously injured, several vehicles damaged

A container truck attachedtothedistributorof Rock Hard Cement crashed into a tent of Seventh day Adventist worshippers on the Victoria Public Road, East Coast Demerara Wednesdaynight.

Reportsarethatthetruck which was heading west on theVictoriaPublicRoadlost controlasitnavigatedaturn andranintothetent.

The driver of the truck was swiftly taken into custody, and was described as being under the influence

ofalcoholatthetime.

Several vehicles were severely damaged and two members of the church sufferedinjuriestotheirlegs.

TheVictoriaSeventhday Adventist Church had embarked on a week of prayerservicedubbedYouth WeekofPrayerlastSaturday and was holding the nightly meetings under a tent opposite the Guyana Power andLightoutpostatVictoria.

At the scene last night scores of villagers and worshipperswereinshockat

theaccident.

“Thisisatragedy...thisis the works of the devil,” a churchmemberexclaimed.

Kaieteur News was told that the service was nearing an end when tragedy struck.

“ We had almost closed off the altar call was concluding when the truck smashed into the tent,”

a n o t h e r m e m b e r commented.

Owners of the vehicles could not immediately estimate the extent of the damagetheysuffered.

Scene of the accident

H@RD TRUTHS

GHK LALL

AMERICA FADING, WORLD SLIPPING AWAY, GUYANA RISING

Inote the Chinese brokered thawing of relations between SaudiArabiaandIran.

It is about Sunni Arabia and Shiite Persia making a start at moving past their differences, rising above whatdividesthem.

Theirs have something to do with doctrine, with Western ideology and manoeuvres contributing in majorparts.

Now the Chinese worked behind the scenes and came up with this shiftingof politicalsands in the always volatile Middle East.

Where America long reignedsupreme,andflexed

its muscles, for almost a century is now slipping awaybybitsandpieces.

This makes Guyana’s position more interesting. There is something called OPEC+,andtheplusinthat powerful cartel is the huge RussianBearthatcastslong shadows.

The more it is cornered, themoreitbristles,pawsthe a i r, i s d a n g e r o u s (unpredictable) Western sanctions for its Ukrainian “ s p e c i a l m i l i t a r y operations”,meantcheapoil for India, and encroaching Chinese diplomacy in Ukraine.

Open defiance of America is now almost the

normamongnations.Still,I assert that Guyana takes on anevenmorepivotalrolein the American schemes and visions, notwithstanding losses in influence and prestige.

For when the lifeblood of global and national economies, the oceans of quality Middle Eastern oil hitched to the output of Russia, it makes for incredible clout, reversing political fortunes, and the dominancethatgoeswithit. America’s reach and power is waning, which can’t be denied.

Furthercomplicatingthe situation, the powers thirsting to replaceAmerica

at the pinnacle are not its friends, or allies; or those thathavesympathyforit.

Truth be told, there is much blood in the eye of those going against the Americangrain.

I w e i g h t h e s e developments, and recognised positives for Guyana.

This country’s oil gifts and its location place it firmly in the American firmament, within distance of its needs; feed for its military and economic beasts, if only as a guaranteed secondary presence and dependable reservoir

Thereisneedforanally, as strong relationships long held in check, now go their own way (like Saudi Arabia).Thereisawelcome homeforAmericanbusiness interests, with the local economy short of everything that a new oil producing country must havetogrow,andpushfora better life for its peoples. Considering only these components of Guyana’s emerging meaning to America, in the light of Chinese advances, Indian relationships, and Middle Eastern movements, this countryiswell-positionedto be more than a gas station for ExxonMobil, and a SouthAmerican outpost for American visions Well positionedisastart,butitis only one aspect of where Guyanaistoday It has to take advantage

of what is unfolding elsewhereintheworld, with an eye to what events meanforthiscountry

Howtogetmore,witha helpinghandfromAmerica.

AnAmericanowreeling from rejections, and slowly fading from the pinnacle it hasoccupiedwithothersfor the last century, and alone forthelast30years.

How to squeeze Exxon for what would be fair and makesitseesthingsourway in the light of global developments. Guyana oil takes on a greater sheen, morestrategicimportance.

As an aside, it is my belief that Exxon has not fully disclosed the extent of its explorations and the discoveries in which they haveresulted.

All of the above would be possible, gain some needed muscle, but only if leaders in the PPP Government have the boldness, timing, and depth to move with skill and strength.

If they did to make the best use of Guyana’s gifts, then the benefits to this country and its peoples would be inestimable. If they are untouched and untarnished, then political leaders must find a way to overcome odds and circumstances with which thiscountrygrapples.

Iftheyaretrulypatriotic and clean, there would be the fearlessness and will to stepforward,andworkfora deal that is fair and square

forGuyana. Nomoreofthisnibbling around the edges in fright beforeExxon.

None of this prostrating b e f o r e A m e r i c a n Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch Not another moment of this misleading ofGuyanesewithwhatthey allinterpretastheweakness of those with power in their hands.

Theregrettablerealityis thatneitherPresidentAlinor the Vice President have so far shown any of what is required to lift this country outofwhereitisfastened.

What they do, rather, is to curl around crucial oil issues; crimp themselves intocorners;andbowbefore the dictates of Exxon. The Opposition leadership, present and previous, also has to come out of their shells Manifest more muscle.

The time is ripe for Guyana to make its moves. America has less and less friends. Guyana can be a steadyfriend,butonlywhen Exxon does right by Guyana.

America must lend its weight to that, like it has done at other times in other mattersofoilinotherplaces.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

Reckless mining activities undermining

-APA Amerindians' access to clean, safe water

...Amendment of Amerindian Act needed to stop further pollution

Access to clean and safe water remains one of the basic rights for any human being. However, the laws of Guyana fall short of empowering indigenous communitieswiththerightto safeguard this vital resource.

According to theAmerindian People's Association (APA), amerindian communities continue to struggle with having access to clean and safe rivers and threatenedThis is largely due to mining activities.

In a release issued on the observance of World Water Day on Wednesday, the APA highlighted the need for strengthening of the Amerindian Act to give the indigenous people's right to ownership and protection of waterways,bodies,riversand creeks that form part of their titledlandandterritories.

The rights group pointed out that since World Water Day is observed to raise awareness about the importance of access to clean andsafewater,theyareusing the occasion to draw the government's attention to the sore issue. “The day is also used to call for action to protect freshwater sources as well and get government to

commit to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 which is for cleanwaterandsanitationfor all by 2030. The APA also said adding that based on an assessment of the progress made to achieve SDG 6, Guyana like a majority of the world is “seriously offtrack.” “There is an urgent needtoacceleratechange–to go beyond 'business as usual,” the APA said. To this end, the APA called on Government to recognize that many indigenous communities do not have

Magistrate throws out GRA charge against Director of Atlantic Fuels Inc.

Magistrate Dylon Bess on Wednesday upheld a nocasesubmissionmadebythe attorney for the Director of Atlantic Fuels Inc., who was charged for allegedly makingafalsedeclarationon aninvoice.

In January 2021, 69year-old Eugene Gilbert, the Director of AFI made his first court appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts The charge was brought by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). It was alleged that on November 12, 2020 at the GRA, Camp Street, Georgetown Headquarters, Atlantic Fuels Inc. caused to be made and subscribed

invoice

410C, contrary to section 217 (1) (a) of the CustomsAct,Chapter82:01. Gilbert was out on $300,000 bailfortheoffence.

access to potable water and depend on our rivers and creeks for safe and clean water

“Access to clean and safe water from our creeks and rivers is being threatened largely due to mining,” the i n d i g e n o u s r i g h t s organisation emphasised Alluding to a recent report from Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), the APA highlighted the state's violation of the rights of the indigenous peoples of IsseneruinRegion7.

In that report, the APA saidthatIACHRsaidthatthe community's rights to health, water, food and a healthy environment were violated by the negative impacts of mining in the community particularly, contamination ofwaterways.

“There have been no corrective steps taken as yet by the authorities The Caribs of Chinese Landing, (Region One) are reporting the contamination of its waterways owing to mining and again no steps are taken by the government to correct

this,”theAPAadded.

Further it noted that the issue is not only limited to Chinese Landing and Isseneru but is the reality faced by many indigenous communities where mining is prevalent. In this regard, the APA calls on the governmenttoensurethatthe waterways are protected so that indigenous peoples can carry on their traditional ways of life without hindrance. The group noted that indigenous peoples are well known for their deep connection to the lands on andaroundwhichtheylive.

According to the APA, waterways – rivers, creeks and ponds which serve various purposes related to access to resources and are a reliable source of food and hydration.

T h e o rg a n i s a t i o n explained that “Recognizing the importance of these waterways, it is not surprising that the inherent practices and culture of indigenous peoples around the world…Development is ongoing and increased impacts on our environment including the security of groundwater can be expected. As Guyana

considers development projects, it is critical for indigenous leaders and communities in the areas for proposed development to be integrally involved in the discussions from the very beginning.”

Consequentially,theAPA said it recognizes the importance of and urges the strengthening of the Amerindian Act of 2006 so that indigenous peoples can have the right to their waterways in an effort to protect and preserve their w a y o f l i f e “ A l s o , development activities usually result in increased access to/use of resources in theseareas.Indigenousrights need to be strengthened so communities on the ground are empowered to better control access and protect theirwaterresources.”

Nevertheless, the organisation noted that the onus is also on indigenous peoples to keep our waterways and vital water sourcesprotected. As such, the APA will continue to support communities in conducting environmental monitoring and having frank discussions andplansonbestpractices.

$397 million contract awarded to upgrade Paruima Airstrip Reg. 7

The Ministry of Public Works

wouldsoonbeupgradingthe Paruima Airstrip located in Region Seven to the tune of $397,552,625.

Director ofAtlantic Fuels Inc., Eugene Gilbert

Attorney-at-Law Siand Dhurjon, who represented the Director, stated that he made a no-case submission on behalf of his client and on Wednesday afternoon the magistrate upheld his s

Prosecutor, Jason Moore representedGRAinthe (Continued on page 16)

According to the National P r o c u r e m e n t a n d Te n d e r Administration Board (NPTAB) website, on March 14 last, it awarded the contract to contractor, International Import & Supplies, to execute the works. Kaieteur News had reported that whenthisprojectwasopenedatNPTAB last month, International Import & Supplies was among eight contractors vying for the project. The Ministry had estimated that the works on the airstrip wouldcostapproximately$324million.

Paruima airstrip as well as Matthew's Ridge airstrip located in Region One, theMinistryhadtenderedfor Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill related to this publication

yesterday that the Paruima Airstrip whichmeasure760m(length)x15.24m (width) would soon see the “Placement and compaction of 225mm cement stabilized laterite base course and sand sealingofthefinishedsurface.”

Kaieteur News had reported that the Matthews RidgeAirstrip and the one in Paruima are among several runways which would be rehabilitated this year so as to make the structures safer for aircrafts to land. This is according to Senior Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh who mentioned during his 2023 budget presentation that the government has allocated $1.6 billion fromtheNationalBudgettorehabilitate and maintain a number of hinterland airstripsinthecountry

“Mr Speaker, several hinterland airstrips and related facilities were also rehabilitated and maintained to make them safer for aircraft, travellers,

tourists, and investors In 2022, Government expended $600 million toward the completion of the Lethem, Baramita, Paramakatoi and Kaieteur airstrips, paving the way for new developments in these communities to attract more business, tourism and socio-economic activities,” he explained.

The Minister had noted that part of the $600 million too; they also commenced rehabilitation on three airstrips – Eteringbang in Region Seven, Karisparu in Region Eight and Ekereku Bottom in Region Seven –whichwillbecompletedduringthefirst half of this year He added, “In 2023, an amount of $1 6 billion has been allocatedfortheircompletionandatthe same time, caters for the rehabilitation of Paruima, Imbaimadai, and Matthews Ridge airstrips and maintenance of otherhinterlandairstrips.”

An aerial shot of the point where the Mazaruni and Kamarang rivers meet.

A photo of a section of the Paruima Village Airstrip. (Photo courtesy, Sandro Edmund)

Govt. misapplied law to short change Amerindians of benefits from carbon credit sales - International Lawyer

Gu y a n a - b o r n international attorney and climate activist, Melinda Janki is once again speaking outon whatshe callsanother move by Government to short change Guyanese of theirpatrimony

This time, Jankie has written a letter to President Ifraan Ali expressing c o n c e r n s t h a t t h e government had incorrectly interpreted and misapplied the law to deprive indigenous peoples of their rightful benefits from the some US $750 million deal s i g n e d w i t h H e s s Corporation, for carbon credits emanating from Guyana's vast standing forests. The major deal between the government and the global energy giant will see the company purchasing 2.5 million carbon credits annually for the years 2016 to2030.

The government has so far, agreed to give Amerindian communities a fraction of funds receives

thusfaramountingtoUS$22 million.

However, Janki told the Presidentinherletterthatthe purported consent by the National Toshaos Council is not legally possible She explained that National Toshaos Council does not own the forests. “It has no legal right to do anything with those forests” Janki asserted adding that “the NTC cannot authorise the government to sell carbon credits.

According to Janki, the Amerindian Act 2006 protects Amerindian land rights, and the only people who can sell carbon credits for forests on Amerindian lands are the Amerindian communities who own the landandforestsunderalegal title held by their Village Council.”

She emphasised that it is the Amerindian Village Councils who own the forests on the land; the trees whichmakeupthoseforests; the carbon service which the government has started to

sellasa'carboncredit'.

She explained “They owntheforests,thetrees,the carbon service forever So, if a n A m e r i n d i a n village/communitywishesto sell carbon credits they must follow the procedures in the AmerindianAct 2006.These procedures were developed byAmerindian communities to protect themselves from exploitation and outside interference and to stop Village Councils from makingbaddecisions.”

Janki stated, “The AmerindianActsaysthatthe Village Council must act in the best interests of the A m e r i n d i a n village/community

That means the Village C o u n c i l m u s t g e t independent expert advice from professionals They cannot ask NGOs, activists, academics etc. for advice. For example: the Village C o u n c i l m u s t g e t independent expert legal advice. Their lawyer has to understand the Amerindian Act and ensure that the

carbon credit arrangement compliesfullywithit.”

She emphasised that the Amerindian peoples have absolute title to land and are in a strong position as landowners. Janki explained that “The Village Council will have to share all the legal and financial advice w i t h t h e e n t i r e village/community They must consider the advice. This is a difficult issue. The village/community should ask questions until they are sure they understand the issuefully.”

She continued that, “Carbon credits are new Communities would be better off making their decisions based on traditional Amerindian

consensus as preserved by section34oftheAmerindian Act Obviously NGOs, activists, government and other outsiders, must not interfere in the village or try to influence their decision. Nobody can rush the Amerindian Village Nobody can demand an answer They have to wait. The Amerindian Village can takeaslongastheylike.”

According to the lawyer, these legal rights are more powerful than consultation and free, prior and informed consent[whichiscontraryto the previous arguments made by some NGOs, rights groups].

“Amerindian property rightsandtheirrightstoselfgovernance are protected by the Constitution and the Amerindian Act 2006,” Janki said. The international attorney therefore said that the government does not have the legal power to require village plans from anyAmerindianVillage.The government cannot tell A m e r i n d i a n villages/communities what todo.

“ U n d e r t h e Amerindian Act 2006, Amerindian villages are free to do as they like as long as they do not try to give away theirlandrights,”shestated.

In addition to this, the attorney lamented on lack of k n o w l e d g e o f t h e Amerindian Act 2006 which was assented to by now former President Bharat Jagdeo, some seventeen years Janki said, “The public debate on the carbon credits issue indicates that NGOs and many people ( i n c l u d i n g p u b l i c commentators, politicians, activists, and academics) do not unders tand the Amerindian Act 2006 It seems many Amerindian communities/villages and their leaders are also unaware of the powerful protectionoftheAmerindian Act 2006. Seventeen years after theAct was passed, this is a disgraceful situation and a failure on the part of every governmentsince2006.”

She stressed that this knowledge is the only way thatAmerindian peoples can protecttheirlands,theirlives and their cultures, and freely determine their future. “…I would therefore respectfully urge you to ensure that every A m e r i n d i a n community/village is given accurate and comprehensive information about the Amerindian Act 2006 and theirlegalrights,”thelawyer told President Ali in her letter

The Court of Appeal on Wednesday concluded hearing arguments in the ElectionPetitionappealcase filed on behalf of the O p p o s i t i o n - l e d , A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)party

The court has now reserved a date for decision inthematter OnWednesday, Attorney for the appellants, Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde presented his submission before a panel of judges led by acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, JusticeYonetteCummings

Forde was joined by Canada-based Guyanese lawyer, SelwynPietersashe argued strongly against the legality of recount order that was brought by Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and allowed for a recount of the votes which determined the ruling People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) as the winners of the 2020 Regional and General Elections.

Fordetoldthecourt,“Itis oursubmissionyourhonours that Section 22 of the Elections Laws Amendment Act constitutes this very

unconstitutional divestment that I referred to as Order 60 [the recount order]...” He continued, “we submit, your honour that the key issue in this case, which was o v e r l o o k e d b y t h e respondents is the difference between delegating a u t h o r i t y t o m a k e subordinate legislation

within the framework of a statute under which the delegationismade...”

Forde contended that by the Constitution of Guyana, Parliament and Parliament alonearevestedinthepower to legislate in respect of the Electoral System, and under whichelectionsaretobe

(Continued on page 16)

Guyana-born International Lawyer, Melinda Janki

Forde maintains Recount Order was unconstitutional, Elections Petition... Court of Appeal to rule soon

(At right) Senior Counsel Forde was joined by Canada based Guyanese Lawyer, Selwyn Pieters at the hearing of the election petition appeal.

Cyber threats seen as emerging risks to port security

Security threats posed to shipping and port facilities came into focus when the Shipping Association of G u y a n a ( S A G ) i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h

MATPAL Marine Institute hosted a one-day Port Facility and Shipping SecurityAwarenesstraining programme for members of the SAG last Tuesday at the Institute's Training Centre in Lamaha Gardens, Georgetown.

The programme was declared open by Major (retd.) Dwain Nurse, Chief Port Security Officer of Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). Accordingtoapressrelease from SAG, MARAD is the designated local authority for the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code(ISPS).TheISPScode provides a framework through which ships and port facilities can cooperate to detect and deter acts which pose a threat to maritimesecurity

Major Nurse told participants that there are manyseriousthreatsthatare prevalentbutCyberthreatis one of the emerging risks to port security worldwide “Security risks are always new and emerging, the newestofthembeingCyber threats. We must be aware of those emerging threats because, while some might be around for a while, some of these threats might be new to your environment. It

Alberttown woman

on

manslaughter charge for death of partner

Participants at the training programme

is our job to mitigate and minimize these dangers and threats,”headded.

He encouraged the security officers to be aware of their environment, of their role and what is expected of them. Mr. Philip Fernandes, Chairman oftheSAGsaidthecourseis timely and important at this time of heightened focus on Guyana.

“The security of our shipping terminals is not only the concern of the businesses in the industry or the owners of cargo. It is of national importance that everyone plays a part to ensure the safety and integrity of our port facilities to uphold the reputation of our country as a s a f e a n d s e c u r e destination,” Mr Fernandes said.

Mr Ian Hutson, Senior Lecturer of the MATAL

Marine Institute who conducted the training outlined the various threats posed to shipping and port facilities. These include terrorism, piracy, s t o w a w a y , d r u g trafficking,sabotage,civil unrest, kidnapping and humantrafficking.

Mr.AndrewAstwood, Trustee of the SAG also made brief opening r e m a r k s a t t h e programme.

The participants were Shane Kendell, Alton Sauers (Muneshwers

Ltd ) Colin Henry (GNSC), Tracy Miller, Onika Duncan (John Fernandes Ltd ), Paul DeFreitas, Enroy Bobb (NAMILCO),Amechi

Chiawa (GNIC) and VidianandSandhu.

T h e S h i p p i n g Association of Guyana ( S A G ) i s a n o n -

Major (ret’d.) Dwain Nurse, Chief Port Security Officer of Maritime Administration Department

governmental organization that serves as the advocate for the entire shipping industry in Guyana representing ship owners, shipping agents, terminal operators, cargo haulers and transporters (road, air and river).

Aaliyan Lewis, a 2 year-old waitress was on Wednesday arraigned at t h e G e o r g e t o w n Magistrates' Court

c h a r g e d w i t h manslaughter, for unlawfully causing the death of her common-lawhusbandonSaturdaylast.

Lewis popularly known as “Dacia” is accused of stabbingEsaunHamilton,23, the father of her three children, at their Lot 57 Fourth Street, Alberttown home in Georgetown. She made her court appearance before Chief Magistrate,Ann McLennan Lewis was represented by Attorney-atLaw,DarrenWade

The manslaughter charge waslaidindictablyandLewis was not required to plea. Magistrate McLennan, however, granted her $300,000 bail and the matter was adjourned untilApril 13, 2023. According to reports, Lewis had allegedly stabbed Hamiltonafterhehadslapped herwhilesheslept.Policedid not confirm if this was the case, but reported that Hamilton was stabbed sometimearound06:30hrson Saturday

Dead: Esaun Hamilton

Hereportedlycameoutof his bedroom around that hour holding his abdomen. His aunt was in the kitchen of the couple'shomeatthetime,and alleged that Hamilton told her, “look what Dacia (Lewis) do to me” She assisted him to a chair and noticed that he was stabbed. The woman recalled too that Lewis came out of the bedroomafewmomentslater holdingaknifeinherhand. She reportedly asked Lewis what had transpired, but the defendant did not respond Hamilton was subsequently rushed to a city hospital where he died while receiving treatment It is believed that the stabbing might have stemmed from an argument the couple had that morning

Manslaughter Accused, Aaliyan Lewis, leaving the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Wednesday

Man shot dead by police

in Linden operation

A man was shot dead by police, another has been seriously wounded and is hiospitalised and three others have been captured during a police operation in Wisroc, LindenonWednesday

Dead is Randy Ronald Jerome, a 33-year-old resident of One Mile Wismar, Linden While Ronaldo Chapman, called 'Paki', a 23year-old of 73 Half Mile Wismar, Linden, who was wanted for robbery under arms and rape, is receiving medical treatment at the hospital,policesaid.

According to a police press statement, at about 11:30hrs Wednesday officers and ranks of Regional Division #10 conducted an intense operation at Phase Three Wisroc in Wismar, Linden, during which two firearms were recovered from armed suspects and 458 grams of suspected marijuana were found in a house in whichtheywerehiding.

Police said they were at thetimeactingoninformation

received that Ronaldo Chapman called 'Paki' and other male suspects who are wanted for robbery, rape, and serious offences, were hiding out at a house in PhaseThree, Wisroc.

According to the police on arrival at the house, the ranks observed three men sitting on the verandah “When they saw the police in front of the house, one of the men (later identified as RandyRonaldJerome,age33 years, of One Mile Wismar) whipped out a firearm from his waist, pointed it at the ranks and discharged rounds atthem,”thepolicestatement read. It added, “The Police ranks took cover and observed Randy jump from the verandah and begin running in a northern direction whilst continuing to discharge rounds at Police in abidtoescape.”

Police said detectives pursued him while returning fire, during which Jerome was shot during the armed confrontation, and a

suspected black .40 Berretta Pistol containing three live rounds of ammunition were retrieved from him. Randy Jerome was examined, and it wasobservedthathereceived asuspectedgunshotwoundto hislowerback.

Simultaneously, the policereportedlystatedother (Continued on page 16)

marijuana recovered from the scene

...one hospitalised, three others captured; two guns, ganja found

The guns, ammunition recovered from the scene

Dead: Randy Ronald Jerome

Injured: Ronaldo Chapman, called 'Paki'

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.

One Chef needed to cook for family, must be able to cook various dishes, work hours: 6am-2pm Mon-Fri & 8am-2pm Sat. Call: 682-8251.

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.

Maid and Driver needed, preferably residing in Eccles area. Call: 223-7165.

Truck Driver needed. Call: 663-3866.

Male & Female general Workers and Receptionist needed to work shift at hotel. Apply in person @ 12 Henry Street Werk-en-Rust. Call: 2259211.

Magistrate throws out GRA harge against...

From page 12 matter. According to Dhurjon, Moore also made a submission to the court.

Dhurjon stated that Magistrate Bess ruled that he reviewed the submissions made by the prosecutor and the lawyer. He added that the magistrate found favour with his submissions that the falsity of the invoice was not proven by the prosecutor.

magistrate reminded Mr. Moore that a court must never have to speculate and that an accused must always know the case he has to meet. The Court held that Mr. Jason Moore failed to make out the charge against AFI even at the preliminary prima facie stage,” the lawyer disclosed.

General of GRA, Godfrey Statia is listed as the complainant and Atlantic Fuels Inc. is listed as the respondent.

FOR SALE

One double Lot 80x160 on the east side of Friendship, Public Road, $12M GYD neg. Call: 626-4234/ 628-6212.

Stall for sale in Section1, Stabroek Market. Call: 6664002.

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.

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

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

Supermarket AM & PM Sales Representative required @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff ST. Tel: 609-2995, Email: survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

VACANCY

Experienced Accounts Clerk needed @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff Street. Call: 609-2995, Email: survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

Supermarket AM & PM Cashiers required @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff ST. Call: 609-2995, Email: survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

Supermarket Packers/ Porters AM & PM needed @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff St. Tel: 609-2995, survivalhumanresources2 @gmail.com

Housekeeper/cook needed. Must live in GeorgetownECD, Part time optional,Visa holder preferred. WhatsApp: 640-6535.

Heavy equipment Servicemen needed to work in Georgetown. Applicants must be experienced. Call: 231-2250/ 615-0545.

Vacancy At People's Choice Kitchen for night Cooks/ Pastry Maker for night shift. Call/ WhatsApp: 6799449.

Water Delivery Driver and Porter needed for E.C.D. Call: 676-1363/ 692-6768.

Experienced Pump Attendants needed at Sunrise Marina Gas Station, preferably from Parika area. Send CV to sunrisemarinainc@ yahoo.com or Call: 2620404.

Vacancy exist for Carpenter/ Joiner. Apply at Regency Suites/ Hotel, 98 Hadfield Street, Werk-en-Rust G/ Town. Call: 226-0550/ 6093332.

The magistrate further ruled that the charge filed by Moore ‘lack specificity of the falsity’ that the GRA was alleging. “The magistrate was at a loss for the Court could not know if the falsity alleged had to do with the value declared, the amount of fuel declared or the supplier. The

He continued that the court asked GRA to be reminded that the emails admitted into evidence concerning the fuel transaction were not admitted for the truth of their contents but merely for the fact that such correspondences were exchanged.

Kaieteur News had reported that according to a court document seen by this publication, Commissioner-

The fuel company is owned by former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Dr. Richard Van West Charles. It was stated that the fuel company had allegedly been caught recording less than the amount of fuel in a shipment which caused the revenue authority to lose revenue and this is not the first time the fuel company has been caught up in allegations of tax fraud. In 2019, GRA investigations revealed a similar situation involving Atlantic Fuels Inc.

Forde maintains Recount Order was...

From page 13 held. He told the Appeal Court Justices that it is the function and responsibility of the Parliament to formulate legislative policy and not GECOM.

“We submit that the conferral of such power on GECOM, the power to issue orders to modify Electoral Laws, where in the opinion of GECOM, there is a difficulty in the application of electoral laws

constitute an abdication of part or portion of the constitutional authority conferred on the Parliament of Guyana by the Constitution to pass laws in accordance with Article 65 and 170 in respect of the Electoral System, “ he said. According to the lawyer, it is Parliament’s function and responsibility to deal with the broad and controversial questions of legislative

policy. At the level of the High Court, the Election Petition, filed by Claudette Thorne and Heston Bostwick – was dismissed by the Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George on the grounds that there was nothing unconstitutional about Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act and or Order 60.

The case is now before the Appeal Court.

Man shot dead by police in Linden...

From page 15 ranks on the operation proceeded to the house where Ronaldo Chapman was seen at the doorway pointing a suspected firearm at a rank who discharged a round in his direction, hitting him to the lower right thigh, which

caused him to drop to the ground.

The rank then retrieved the suspected firearm, which was examined and observed same to be a JA 9mm Pistol containing six live 9mm ammunition in the magazine and one in the breach.

Police said ranks conducted further searches in the house where one black plastic bag containing 75 transparent ziploc bags with suspected cannabis and a portion of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be Cannabis Sativa were discovered in a bag on a sofa in the house.

2 & 4 bedrooms Apartments and 2 empty corner lot for rent at Bladen Hall, E.C.D. Call/ WhatsApp: 700-0030/ 648-1787.

Two 2 bedrooms apartment for rent (fully furnished) located on South Road, for long term or short term. Call: 614-0495.

Jerome and Chapman were both escorted to the Linden

Hospital Complex, where they were seen and treated by the doctor on duty.

Jerome succumbed while receiving medical attention. His body is presently awaiting a post-mortem examination, the police statement noted. Chapman remains a patient up to press time and under police guard at the said medical institution.

His condition is regarded as stable.

Meanwhile, ranks conducted searches in the area and recovered five suspected 9mm empty casings. The suspected marijuana was weighed and amounted to 458 grams.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

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

One

Visa Application: Canada and UK & U.S.A. Graphics design & advertisements. Wedding decorations & elderly grooming: hair, nail etc. Call: 626-7040.

Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 629-5526.

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

Elderly woman killed, body dumped next to her home

- grandson held after neightbours reported hearing cries of “murder”

Muslims begin Holy Month of Ramadan

Members of the Muslim communityherelastevening commencedtheironemonth long observance of Ramadan.

An elderly woman was found dead Wednesday morning on Russel Street, Charlestown, Georgetown and police have concluded shewasmurdered.

Inastatementpolicesaid they are investigating the alleged murder committed on Patricia Bovell, an 89year-oldPensionerofLot57 Russel Street, Charlestown, Georgetown The alleged murder occurred between 19th March 2023 and 22nd March 2023 at Russel Street between Broad and Howes Streets Her grandson, YonnicGilpin, isreportedly themainsuspect.

According to the police enquiries disclosed that Sunday, at about 21:05hrs, Yolanda James, a 32-yearold niece of the deceased woman, visited the said home and did not see her James said she enquired from Gilpin as to the whereabouts of Patricia Bovell, and he told her that he had taken her to GeorgetownPublicHospital because she was feeling unwell Based on that information, James made checks at GPHC, and the deceased could not be accounted for at that hospital. As a result, she made a report at Ruimveldt Police Station of the disappearance of Bovell, police said. According to police investigations were

conducted during which Gilpin was arrested in relation to the missing person report. Gilpin was interviewed and related that on19thMarch2023atabout 04:00hrs, Bovell fell ill. He took her to Georgetown Public Hospital using a passing taxi. Checks were made at the Georgetown Public Hospital by the Police, which revealed that the now deceased woman wasneveratGPHC,asstated by Gilpin. As a result, the Police canvassed the area at Russel Street and received i n f o r m a t i o n f r o m neighbours that they heard screamsof“murder”coming from the deceased residence on19thMarch2023atabout 04:00hrs Neighbourssaidthe crieswentonforabout5to10 minutes, and then the place became quiet Acting on this information,apartyofpolice ranks checked at Lot 57 Russel Street, Charlestown, with Gilpin but was unsuccessful Gilpin was further interviewed, and he maintainedthesaidstory On 22nd March 2023, at about 10:00hrs,thePolicereceived

information of a stench coming from the alleyway near the deceased woman’s home. The Police, acting on thisinformation,wenttothis locationandfoundabodyof a female in a partially decomposed state, wrapped in a blue and white sheet, among garbage. The body was naked. The crime scene was processed, and the deceased’s body is currently at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination Several persons were questioned, and statements weretaken. Meanwhile, detectives havesincelearntthatBovell’s grandson is mentally ill Investigators were forced to take him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for a psychiatric evaluation

The psychiatrist who attended to him have told police that he is indeed a patient at the Hospital’s Psychiatric ward, but is of soundmindtobeinterviewed by detectives. Investigation continues with the main suspectinpolicecustody

InastatementtheCentral Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) said the Holy Month of Ramadan shouldbereceivedwithdeep respect, love, and gratitude. “Thismonthwasgiftedtous so that we could focus on purifyingourbodies,minds, and hearts in order to come closer to Allah, our Creator, who made it known in the HolyQuranChapter2Surah Baqarah:Verse183: Allah says, “O you who believe,fastingisprescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard against evil and become Al-Muttaqun (righteous, pious).”[Chapter 2:Verse183]

Allah said in Surah AlImran 3:133: “And march forthintheway(whichleads to) forgiveness from your Rabb, and for Paradise as wide as the heavens and the

earth prepared for AlMuttaqun(thepious).”

The CIOG calls on Muslims to prepare from now by purifying their intention.

“Our intention should be to utilise this Ramadan to enhanceourspiritualgrowth and to seekAllah’s pleasure and draw closer to Him. Preparing and refreshing ourselves of the virtues of Ramadan,thesignificanceof Ramadan will cause us to appreciate this blessed month in a deeper manner Our preparation has to start

now, if not done already to welcome this distinguished guest.

We must train our bodies, increase in our worship and spiritual practicesnow.”

Muslims are encouraged to engage in extra voluntary prayers, reciting the Quran on a committed schedule daily,forgivethosewhohave wronged them, spreading goodness,helpthoseinneed and be a lamppost of positivity for our family and friendsandmembersoftheir community

Russia boosts defences near Japan amid US row over Asia Pacific

Moscow’s move comes after high-level visits by rivals China and Japan to both sides of the RussiaUkrainewar.

(Al Jazeera)Russia has said that a division of its Bastion coastal defence missile systems has been deployedtoParamushir,one of the Kuril Islands in the northPacific,someofwhich Japanclaimsasitsterritory

The move is part of a wider strengthening of Russia’s defences in its vast far eastern regions, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Wednesday, partly in response to what he called United States efforts to “contain”RussiaandChina.

Moscow’s move also comes after high-level visits by Asian leaders to both sidesoftheUkrainewar

Prime Minister Fumio KishidaofJapan,acloseUS ally and a key Chinese rival inEastAsia,madeasurprise trip to Ukraine this week, which some observers said was an attempt to upstage Chinese President Xi Jinping‘s state visit to Russia.

“To contain Russia and China, the United States is significantly increasing its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, strengthening its political and military links with its allies, continuing to create a

new American security architecture in this region,” Shoigusaidinavideoofhis addresstoRussia’stopbrass, published by the defence ministry

Shoigu said the Bastion system would bolster Russian security around the KurilIslandschain.

Japan, a close US ally, claims the four southern Kuril Islands, which were seized by Soviet forces at theendofWorldWarII.

Japan does not claim Paramushir, one of the northernKurilislands.

T h e i s s u e h a s prevented Moscow and Tokyo from ever signing a peace treaty formally endinghostilities

Modernisation

Russia’s armed forces in the east of the country have received around 400 items of modern military

equipment over the past year, including Su-57 jets and anti-aircraft missile systems,Shoigusaid “ T h e m i l i t a r y capabilities of the eastern military district have significantly increased,” hesaid Shoigualsosaidthe m o d e r n i s a t i o n o f Moscow’s air defence s y s t e m w o u l d b e completedthisyear

Russian officials have blamedKyivforastringof drone attacks deep inside Russian territory since the beginning of the military campaigninUkraine.

On the Ukraine conflict, Shoigu said Russian aerospace forces had so far destroyed more than 20,000 Ukrainian military facilities since the start of what Moscow calls its “special military operation”

The empty lot where Bovell’s body was found

Map showing the Kuril Islands (SOURCE: AL JAZEERAAND NEWS AGENCIES)

Commercial banks not keeping pace with Guyana's development -businessmansays

...urges more creativepackages,less hassle

Local businesses being able to access financing from banks has notkeptapacewithGuyana'srapid development of the oil sector- a situation, which has prevented many to take advantage ofthenumerousopportunitiesintheindustry

This is the view of Managing Director of Brass Aluminum and Cast Iron Factory (BACIF), Peter Pompey, who in a recent interview discussing equitable access to opportunitiesinGuyana,lamentedthestateof affairs. Speaking to the inhibiting factors stymieing persons wishing to get into business, he specifically cited not only the access to and cost of financing, but the very financepackagesbeingoffered.Hefirstdrew referencetothefactthatallcommercialbanks domestically are privately owned but the Central Bank, functions as the government's regulator To this end, he was adamant that government and the private sector would need to work together to come up with r e m e d i e s

According to Pompey, “we always have to lookattheissueof where we were and where we are now,” referencing the discovery made by Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)—ExxonMobil Guyana—back in 2015 and first oil in 2019. He said, “since Guyana became an oil producer, the acceleration of our development has been substantial and I believe that there are elements of our environment that is still lacking in development parallel with the acceleratedmovementthatishappening.”

As such, he posited it has become necessary for a review of the regulatory policies that govern and supervise commercial banks This since “they (Commercial Banks) seem to always want to givetheimpressionthatitistheCentralBank that is inhibiting them from doing more creativethings.”

According to Pompey, “I do believe that the commercial banking system as it is now set, may not provide all requisite tools or remedies that will allow for the acceleration that is needed”. He pointed out further that “I think with the rate we are expected to grow over the next decade we probably need to consideradevelopmentbank.”

Expounding further, he sought to differentiate that the difficulties entailed are notonlyinaccessingtherequiredfinancingin the first place but the kinds of packages available.

He cited as example that an aspiring entrepreneur or one looking to expand and is serious about development and transformation, incorporating new technologies, research and development in order to be competitive and join in the accelerationofthegrowthofthenation,doing suchaventurewouldtakeatleastthreeyears.

The domestic commercial banks, he said, would provide loans with payback periods as littleasfiveyears.

He noted that with ExxonMobil and other multi-national companies operating in Guyana,thereisalotthatcanbelearnedfrom themandlooktowardsformingjointventures and such, that could invite capital and technologies.

Pompey pointed out as example, Exxon's Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) which is geared towards assisting locals in accessing opportunities in the budding oil sector, in its gaps analysis, had foundthatthecapitalwassimplynotthere,as is required by potential entrepreneurs to support the oil sector alone, much less the otherproductivesectorsinthecountry

In complementing a proposed Development Bank to be set up, he suggested a percentage of oil earnings to be used to develop local business so that theycanbeableto e v o l v e i n a fashion that keeps apace with the oil sector

According to Pompey, “I am of the view that that Government of G u y a n a i n partnership with the private sector should create more revolving f u n d ; u s e a percentage of the oil, we need to have billions of US injected into what I would call capital technological transformation, the development of new technologies.

This, he suggested was critical for the local businesses to maintain competitiveness andproductivity.

“At this rate that we are accelerating at, it requires technological advances;” the human element is one factor and in Guyana, he positedthattooisalreadydeficient.

Access to finance by local businesses looking to expand and potential entrepreneurs wanting to get into business have long voiced, access to finances, as a key inhibitingfactor,hereiterated.

As such, he was adamant, this is an ageold challenge and while there has been some policy interventions on the part of government, “I think the banking sector now has to demonstrate the confidence in the business community and recognize that there is a paradigm shift and we want to be a country that's making things, not trading in commodityandproducts.”

According to Pompey, the more Guyana can develop its infrastructure and industrial capacity, then it would place the country in a substantiallymorecompetitiveposition.

President of the Berbice Chambers of Commerce,RyanAlexander,whowasalsoon hand for the discussion of equitable access to business opportunities locally, conceded yes and echoed similar sentiments to that of Pompey, in relation to the changed business environmentinGuyana.

“Many persons, are upbeat and enthusiasticaboutbenefittingfromthetouted opportunities that are being promoted as inherent with the oil and gas sector but keep lamented the access to finance as an existing hurdle,”Alexandersaid.

BACIF's Managing Director, Mr. Peter Pompey

GTTA welcomes the opening of the Caribbean Senior Table Tennis Championship

The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) held a brief opening ceremony yesterday at the National Gymnasium to mark the commencement of the 63rd Senior Caribbean Table Tennis championship which is being held right here in Guyana.

The Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation (CRTTF) through the GTTA is currently hosting the Senior Caribbean Championship from 20th March and will run until March 25.

Opening the ceremony, the President of the GTTA Godfrey Monroe addressed and welcomed all the territories that are participating in

the competition. He also promised a fair and exciting remainder to the competition.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports

Charles Ramson Jr along with the President of the CRTTF Teddy Matthew served off the start to competition which marks a long term commitment

Thursday March 23, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

A large weight should lift from your shoulders today, Aries. The air has started to clear, and the winds of communication have started blowing again. Listen closely to the buzz in the air.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

People may be abrasive today, Taurus, but you will find after careful assessment that they don't mean any harm. More than likely they aren't fully informed.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Don't criticize the situation until you've come up with a better solution, Gemini. Be creative. You can accomplish much if you approach the situation confidently.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

Your thoughts may have a dreamy quality today, Cancer. You will find that things are less stable than they have been for the past few days. Don't get discouraged by pessimistic people.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Your emotions are soaring, Leo, and you should feel free to indulge in your greatest fantasies. Take a break from reality for a while. Let your inner child play.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

Reward yourself with two desserts today, Virgo. Take a bubble bath. Share your fantasies with others and express yourself fully. Don't feel like you have to say yes.

Dawn of a new era!...

From page 25 proud people and we want to show the world too.”

Among the areas of collaboration is support for National teams traveling under the GOA’s umbrella, as Minister Ramson reminded the officials of President Irfaan Ali’s commitment.

sacrifices and challenges of the past will not be their future. Meanwhile, the newlyelected GOA president thanked Minister Ramson for meeting with his Executive on short notice.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

The weightiness of the past few days seems to be lifting. You will find a slight breeze building that will help fuel your fire, Libra. By building a solid foundation, you've created a reliable.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Now that you have a solid grip on your situation, unexpected things may come along that change the rules again, Scorpio. It may feel like the chair you just got comfortable.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

Use gadgets and electronic devices to make life easier today, Sagittarius. Why take the time to chop food by hand when you can use the food processor.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The

Be careful of the information that comes your way today, Capricorn. People may make unwarranted claims and false accusations. The day has a dreamy, innovative quality to it that asks you to venture out on a limb.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Maintain an air of detachment, Aquarius. Feel free to delve into your fantasy world and let your emotions carry you to another realm. Today is one of those days when you might come up with a new invention.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may find that things are much lighter than they were the past couple days, Pisces. This is a good time to let your physical body take a rest.

between the GTTA and the CRTTF.

Teams participating are Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, Barbados, Cuba, Saint Lucia and host Guyana, male and females will be on show from 20-25 March at the above-mentioned venue.

On October 27, 2022, President Ali, following an apology to the nation’s athletes for the lack of support they receive, stated that moving forward, the Government of Guyana will play an integral part in ensuring that basic standards are met whenever they’re representing the Land of Many Waters.

“To all the athletes, I share your pain, I want you to know that you have our full support. I know many of you have alluded to the support over the last two years, the lack of support you would’ve had, and the investments we have been making,” President Ali said.

He also assured athletes that under his watch, their

Munroe stated that the road map outlined by Minister Ramson in terms of the alignment and objectives of the Government and National Sports Commission is similar to that of the GOA.

“I believe all the international federations also there are similar synergies partnerships that rely on our collective engagement. I believe this committee is quite committed to the task of propelling sports in a new direction and we are happy for this meeting and for our future collaborations and engagement,” Munroe said.

The Government and GOA’s collaborative talks will be put to the test soon, with several athletes getting ready for Olympic Qualification, as they embark on their journey to Paris, 2024.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Charles Ramson met with players of the Guyana female team at the opening ceremony.

Demerara are champions of the Senior Inter County 4-day competition -Triumphas18wicketsfallonfinalday

After losing almost two days of play due to rain, the two counties returned at Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC)Bourda,tocontestthe finaldayofthefinalroundof the Senior Men’s inter county Four Day cricket tournament. Demerara Men defeated Essequibo by an innings and 63 runs margin to lift the championship trophy

Malcolm Hubbard and Kevon Boodie returned to the middle with the score of 28-2, Boodie was the first wickettofallinthemorning session. After a few overs, Essequibo batters Ricardo Adams and Quinten Sampsonledtheattacktothe Demerarabowlers.

RicardoAdamsstrokeda blistering half century, in their attempt to chase down Demerara’s first innings total. Demerara had a few expensive overs but Chris B a r n w e l l g o t t h e breakthrough; dismissing Sampson for 29 runs as Essequibofellto158-6.

Richie Looknauth was introduced to the bowling attack and immediately pickeduptwowicketstopull thingsbackforDemerara.At lunch Essequibo were 159-8 in34overs.

After the break Essequibo were eventually dismissed for 175 in 39.3 overs. Adams top scored with 84 runs while Richie Looknauthfinished4-3from 3.3overs.

Looking for the victory and with a lead of 255 runs, Demerara captain Chris Barnwell enforced the follow-on with the main focus of taking 10 wickets withlessthantwosessionsto do it. Batting for a second time; Essequibo’s batting failedyetagain.

Demerara even without all-rounder Renaldo Ali Mohammed, who suffered a back strain while bowling, bowled their way to victory as Essequibo kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Essequibo only managed to score192-10.Demerarawon by an innings and 63 runs.

Steven Sankar finished 4-32 from his 7 3 overs, Looknauth 3-45 and AkshayaPersaud2-37.

Meanwhile, across at Everest, the match between Berbice Men and the Select XIendedinadrawasaresult Demerara were declared winners of this year Senior inter county

The Most runs award went to Akshaya Persaud, Most wickets was

handedtoRichieLooknauth, while the MVP award went toRicardoAdams.

Akshaya Persaud receiving the most runs award.

Richie Looknauth receives his award for most wickets in the tournament.

Zampa bowls Australia to ODI series victory over India

CHENNAI, India, (Reuters) - Leg-spinner

Adam Zampa took four wickets as Australia beat Indiaby21runstoclinchthe three-match one-day international series 2-1 yesterday

Electingtobat,Australia could not capitalise on a strongstartandwerebowled out for 269 in 49 overs on a slow track at the MA ChidambaramStadium.

Their bowlers, led by Zampa, did an excellent job defending the total and bowled out India for 248 in 49 1 overs as Australia exacted a modicum of revengeafterlosingthefourtestseries2-1.

“It’s been an enjoyable tour,” said Steve Smith, leading Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins who stayed in Sydney to be with his mother who died thismonth.

“The spinners bowled beautifully, really good performance.”

Zampa was adjudged player-of-the-match but fellow spinner Ashton Agar turned the game on its head by removing Virat Kohli, whose 54 was the highest

score by a batsman from either side, and Suryakumar

Yadav in successive deliveries.

For the hosts, Hardik Pandya claimed bowling figures of 3-44 and made a run-a-ball 40 but it was not enough to avoid India’s first serieslossonhomesoilsince AaronFinch’sAustraliabeat themin2019.

Australia recalled fitagain David Warner but the in-form Mitchell Marsh combined with Travis Head at the top of their batting ordertogivethetouringside anotherblazingstart.

Australia raced to 68 for nolossandHead,whomade 33, got a reprieve after Shubman Gill dropped him atdeepsquareleg.

Pandya removed Head, Smith,andMarsh(47)topeg backAustralia.

Batting at number four, Warner made 23 before Kuldeep Yadav wrecked Australia’smiddleorder

The left-arm unorthodox spinner dismissed Warner, Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey (38) but Australia’s lower order provided crucial runs even though they could not last

theirfullquotaof50overs.

India also began briskly with Rohit Sharma (30) and Gill (37) playing a few attractiveshots.

Kohli tried to forge partnerships with KL Rahul (32) and with Pandya but he lookedtiredbytheend.

Zampa effectively decided the match by removingPandya.

India held back Suryakumar,whocameinat number seven, promoting AxarPatelasthepinch-hitter butneitherployworked.

Patelwasrunoutfortwo and Suryakumar fell for a first-ball duck for the third timeinarow

Rohitruedthelackofbig partnerships in the Indian innings.

“You are born and broughtuponthesewickets. Sometimes you need to apply yourself and give yourself a chance,” the openersaid.

Marshwontheplayer-ofthe-series award for his 194 runsfromthreeinnings.

Scores:Australia 269 all out (Marsh 47, Hardik 3-44, Kuldeep 3-56) beat India 248 (Kohli 54, Zampa 4-45) by21runs

Delhi Capitals advance to WPL final, Mumbai Indians to play UP Warriorz in eliminator

SportsMax - The Delhi Capitals have advanced to thefinaloftheinauguralTata Women’s Premier League after a five-wicket win over the UP Warriorz at the Brabourne Stadium in MumbaionTuesday

The Warriorz made 1386 off their 20 overs after being put in to bat by the Capitals Talia McGrath made58*andcaptainAlyssa Healy made 36 against 3-26 off four overs from offspinnerAliceCapsey.

Meg Lanning (39), Capsey (34) and Marizanne Kapp (34*) then led a successfulDelhichaseasthe finalists needed just 17.5 overstoreach142-5.

Pacer Shabnim Ismail took two wickets for the Warriorz.

Withtheleaguephaseof th

w complete with all teams having played eight games, the Capitals, after finishing top-of-the-table with 12

points,areautomaticallyinto thefinal.

The Warriorz will have an opportunity to meet them there when they take on the Mumbai Indians, who finishedasrunners-upinthe league phase, in the eliminatoronFriday

Earlier on Tuesday, Mumbai also finished the league phase with 12 points

after a four-wicket win over the Royal Challengers BangaloreattheSrDYPatil SportsAcademyinMumbai.

RCB made 125-9 from their20oversafterlosingthe toss. Ellyse Perry and Richa Ghosh both made 29 for RCB as Amelia Kerr continued her good form with the ball with 3-22 from herfouroversforMumbai.

Players of the winning Australia team pose with the trophy. (Getty Images)

Alice Capsey led a successful chase for the Delhi Capitals. (BCCI)

Ramson, Munroe dismiss talks of ‘Government takeover’ at GOA

…GOA president gives attention to development

ByRawleToney

F o l l o w i n g t h e announcement of the nominees for the Guyana OlympicAssociation(GOA) executive committee for their just-concluded elections,therehasbeenlots of chatter, particularly from itsoutgoingpresident,about a takeover from the GovernmentofGuyana.

Afterthecastingofvotes fromeligibleassociationson Tuesday at Olympic House, GodfreyMunroewaselected president,whilepresidentof the Guyana Boxing Association,SteveNinvalle, president of the Guyana Hockey Board Phillip Fernandes, and Guyana Lawn Tennis Association presidentCristyCampbellis thenewVicePresidents.

Garfield Wiltshire returned as treasurer, and assistance will come from Guyana Basketball Federation(GBF)president

MichaelSingh.

General Secretary is Attorney-At-Law Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon; the Assistant Secretary position is Emelia Ramdhani, president of the Guyana BadmintonAssociation.

However, with Ninvalle beingtheDirectorofSportat the National Sports Commission (NSC) and Campbell and Fernandes sitting as Commissioners, some believe that their government affiliation threatens the autonomy of sport.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is strict on Government interference in the affairs of its National Olympic Committeeoperations.

The IOC has warned its Memberstonotacceptfrom governments, organizations, orotherpartiesanymandate or instructions liable to interferewiththefreedomof

theiractionandvote.

However, the IOC Charter states that “in order to fulfill their mission, the NOCs may cooperate with governmental bodies, with which they shall achieve harmonious relations However, they shall not associate themselves with anyactivitywhichwouldbe in contradiction with the OlympicCharter.”

Quizzed about the concerns, Munroe argued that most members of the executive committee were former athletes who turned to sports administration following their playing careers.

“So,yeah,Ithinkthat’sa myth of somebody’s imagination, but it emphasizes the point that ultimately, the persons who mightbespewingthatarenot in alignment or understand what alignment means, and ifyouwanttoachieveresults

UDCA T20 finalists decided as Royal Champions squeeze past Yariah Warriors by two runs, Malali humble West Watooka by 49 runs

The final of the Upper Demerara Cricket Association’s (UDCA) T20 cricket competition has been decided and come Sunday Royal Champions will clash with Malali after their wins against Yariah Young Warriors and West Watooka respectively last Sunday at the Maria Elizabethground.

Whenthefirstsemifinal was played Royal Champions won by two runs against Yariah Young Warriors,afterbeingsentin theyreached150fromtheir 20 overs as John Degrella had a top score of 44, with Orlando Thom getting 25 and Junior Simon contributing18,withextras accountingfor29runs.

Bowling for Yariah Warriors, Leon Jones grabbedthreefor23offfour overs with John Lorrimer and Kishan Jones each

takingtwowickets.

Inreply,YoungWarriors fell short of the target making 148 in 18.3 overs, just two runs shy of their target.

DellonJonestopscored with30whileMarlonJones made26forthelosers.

Bowling for the winners, Michael

Fredericks, Derick

Richards, Leon Mangal, Rodwell Peters and John Degrella each took two wickets.

In the second semifinal game that day, Malali won by 49 runs over West Watooka at the Maria Elizabethground.

Sentintobat,Malalihit 149 all out in 17 of the allotted20oversas Hanun Chattergoontopscoredwith 31,asDenzilSpencergot29 and Orlando Williams added21.

The best bowlers for

and we won’t focus on that from this committee level, we want to focus on the positive engagement and move forward things in a structured manner,” Munroe said.

Meanwhile, Minister Ramson reasoned that “Every single person here, everyone was before I got intogovernment.AndifIcan add, a lot oftentimes when people are looking for somethingtoclingon,where especially in a competitive situation and they have to clamorforvotesandlookfor votesandknowhowthey’re goingtogetsupport.”

Minister Ramson also pointed to the GOA’s constitution, which he said “allows for persons who are involved in sport to constitute the members of theexecutivecommittee.It’s enshrined in the tenants of the Constitution to avoid personsfromjustnotcoming in from the outside who might not be So the

Minister Charles Ramson Jr (L) and new GOA president, Godfrey Munroe, greet each other ahead of their first meeting since the historic elections on March 21, 2023. (Rawle Toney photo)

West Watooka were Julian Fortune with two for 12 fromthreeovers,Chan,two for 13 from two overs, Eon Rodrigues two for 37 from four overs and Clayton Vanhersel two for 37 from threeovers.

In reply, West Watooka were bowled out making 100 off 13.3 overs, as Lawrence Sears and Nur Williamsbothgot21,while Chanhit14.

The best bowlers for MalaliwereKeonFiedtkou who took four for 24 from three overs and Robin Bowen two for 10 off 3.3 overs.

D C A T 2 0 Championship from

1 00pm at the Maria Elizabeth ground with a supporting game from 10.00am.

LONDON, (Reuters) -A heavyweightunificationtitle fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk is off after talks broke down, the Ukrainian’s promoter said yesterday.

Promoter Alexander Krassyuk confirmed the failure to Sky Sports television although Fury’s co-promoter Frank Warren suggested the fight, which had been pencilled in for April 29 at London’s Wembley Stadium, could stillbesalvaged.

Usyk’ssideindicatedthe WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO champion will now seek to defend his belts against Britain’s Daniel Dubois, the mandatoryWBAchallenger Usyk and Fury agreed late last year to fight for the undisputed title after Britain’s Fury retained his WBC title against Derek Chisora. “The Usyk side pulled out of further negotiationsastheFuryside never had enough (and wanted) to pull everything and all rights to their side,”

legitimate persons with vested interests occupy the halls or the seats of this committee.”

thepowerandjurisdictionof theirNOCs. Amongthemarethelikes of India, Greece, South Africa, and Italy, which is due to host the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

World heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk attends a news conference in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2021. (REUTERS/ Valentyn Ogirenko)

Sky quoted Usyk’s manager EgisKlimasassaying.

“I don’t want to go into details as all negotiations were confidential but I will tell you one thing, when a fighter doesn’t want to fight he overprices himself knowingthatthefightwon’t happen. “They most likely forgot that Usyk is holding the majority of belts in the heavyweight division and Tyson just has one,” he added.

The two sides had already reportedly agreed a 70-30splitinfavourofFury butothertermshadyettobe

decided.

Warren told TalkSPORT radiothathehadreceivedan email from Klimas confirming “Team Usyk is out of further negotiations regardingtheApril29fight”.

“We got that yesterday, that’sthefirstweheardofit,” saidtheBriton.

Warren said a rematch clausehadbeenagreedbuta sticking point was how the rematchmoneywasgoingto besplit.

“We want the fight, why can’t it be overcome? There’s no reason for this fighttobeoff,”hesaid.

Usyk promoter says unification fight with Fury is off

2023 West Indies Championships… Johnson piles on 142 against Scorpions

-Pride,HurricanesimpressonDayone

LeonJohnsonproduceda captain’s knock for the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE)ontheopeningdayof the penultimate round in the 2022/23 West Indies Championships, against the JamaicaScorpions(JS)atthe Guyana National Stadium, Providence,yesterday

In the other two matches of this round contested in TrinidadandTobago(T&T), Leeward Islands Hurricanes reached 246 – 6 at stumps against Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA), while Barbados Pride are 40 – 0 in reply to T&T Red Force’s 203 at the Queen’s Park Oval. At Providence, Jamaica won the toss and

gave the host team first strike,inwhichtheypressed onto268–9atcloseofplay Johnson recorded his seventh First Class ton and currentlystandsunbeatenon 142 - the season’s second highestindividualscore.

Earlier in the day, Scorpionshadamagnificent start to the morning session as Marquino Mindley removed both openers, Tagenarine Chanderpaul (0) and Matthew Nandu (1), whileKemolSavory(1)was adjudged lbw to Ojay Shields Guyana were reeling at 32 – 3 in the 15th over KevlonAndersonlooked betterthisinningsandgotto 36 in the presence on his

skipper but was stopped by Derval Green, which brought Tevin Imlach to the middle.

Imlach and Johnson started a solitary rebuilding phase before poor umpiring once again broke a sturdy partnership The right hander wasgivenout,caughtbehind, on46butwassuggestingtothe umpire that his bat made contactwiththeground.

At the other end, Johnson tookcontrolofthesituationas teammates Kevin Sinclair (10), Veerasammy Permaul (0), Gudakesh Motie (8) and Ronsford Beaton (1) lasted long enough to positively utilizetheskipper’sinnings.

Johnson’s142wascrafted off 248 deliveries and laced

Dawn of a new era!

ByRawleToney

Describedasthedawnof a new era for sports in Guyana,MinisterofCulture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr yesterday met with the new Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

“I’m very happy to meet with everyone, and I can assure the Committee of having a strong relationship with the Government of Guyana, one where we are aligned. Our objectives and the objectives that we are aligned with are obvious, and it should never be seen as anything other than alignment, ” Minister Ramson proclaimed at the meeting, which was held in theMinistry’sBoardroom.

TheGOAdelegationwas headedbypresidentGodfrey Munroe, Vice Presidents Phillip Fernandes, Steve Ninvalle, and Cristy Campbell, along with General Secretary Vidushi

Assistant Treasurer Michael Singh,whodepartedGuyana after the elections on Tuesday for official business.

with16foursagainstanattack thatsawMindley,Shieldsand Greeneachclaimtwowickets while Nicholson Gordon and Abhijai Mansingh both claimedawicketeach.

Pride, Volcanoes impress

Over at the BLCA, the clash between second place holder, Volcanoes, and third place occupant, Hurricanes, saw the latter survive the first day’s allotted 90 overs and have 271 on the board with fourwicketsremaining.

Opener Kieran Powell followed up on his century in the previous match with a solitary innings of 75 that featured 12 fours and a six, while teammates Montcin Hodge (6), Akeem Saunders

(0), Devon Thomas (1), Jahmar Hamilton (12) and Rahkeem Cornwall (14) wereallremovedcheaply

However, with wickets falling at regular intervals solidity came in the form of KarimaGoreandKofiJames, whobothachievedFirstClass half centuries to save a dwindlingHurricaneseffort Gore and James are overnightinthemiddleon87 and61,respectively,andwill be looking to capitalize on theirgoodfortunetoday

For Volcanoes, Preston McSween and Kenneth Dember both have two wicketswhileJustinGreaves hasonescalp.AtQPO,itwas a torrid show for Red Force with the bat but a wonderful

day for Barbados’ Chaim Holder, who claimed 5 – 71 as the host crumbled to 203. HolderwassupportedbyJair McAllisterwith3–31,while Roshon Primus and Jomel Warrican picked up one wicketeach.

For Red Force, Jason Mohammed top scored with 55,TionWebsterfoughthard for his 46, Joshua DaSilva made31andthenexthighest scorer was Vikash Mohan with19.

Pridewereabletoface12 oversbeforethecloseofplay andreducedthedeficitby40 runsastheytrailby163runs goingintothesecondday Today, play is scheduled to commence at 10:00hrs acrossallvenues.

ud-

innon, Assistant Secretary Emelia Ramdhani, and treasurer, GarfieldWiltshire. Theonly

Yesterday’s meeting marked Minister Ramson’s first interaction with the GOA since his People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was voted into power at the 2020 General Elections.

r Ramson was keen on

highlightingthenecessityof c o l l a b o r a t i o n f o r development between the GOAandtheGovernmentof Guyana, adding, “What is it that we are looking for?

Well, we’re looking for our athletes to fly the Guyana flag on behalf of all Guyanese in the best possible way when they’re representing us and they’re representing a nation of peopleofwhichwearea

(Continuedonpage21)

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr (4th from left) following his courtesy call from the new GOA Executive Committee. (Rawle Toney photo).

Leon Johnson was balanced in both defense and offense during his innings.

GOApresident Godfrey (L) and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. (Rawle Toney photo).

Demerara team are the Senior Inter County champions.