Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR World Press Freedom Day…

Tuesday Edition

Diplomats underscore role of media in Guyana’s ‘rapid development’

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Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

May 03, 2022 - Vol. 16 No. 17

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership - as KN Publisher urges yesterday, media to move away from 76,495 “routine run-of-the mill stories”

One year later, VP Jagdeo fails to disclose monthly oil reports publicly - No excuse will absolve the Govt. of this grave sin against the nation - Patterson

Exxon subpoenaed

by California AG for role in global plastic pollution crisis Growing dependence on online platforms exposes media houses - Media to cyber threats Associations Economist calls for loans with better interest rates for local companies to create competitiveness - says current stance goes against local content law

Environmental study commences for ExxonMobil’s 5 project th

Solar power can cost US$200M less than Amaila hydro project- Economist The leaders of this country, especially our VP Bharat Jagdeo, are creating slave camps Listen to The Glenn Lall Show each day that goes by for the present and future generations. @11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday May 03, 2022

One year later, VP Jagdeo fails to disclose - No excuse will absolve the Govt. of this monthly oil reports publicly grave sin against the nation - Patterson It has been 14 months since Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has failed to

honour his promise to have monthly oil production reports publicly disclosed.

This newspaper had reported Dr. Jagdeo giving members of the media this

commitment on Monday, February 8, 2021 during a press conference at the

Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

The official had said on

that occasion, “So there is a daily report from ExxonMobil – the producers – to the Ministry and I think i t ’s s h a r e d w i t h t h e Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)… I don’t see anything secret about this.

It’s no big deal. It’s just that maybe they have not done

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Opposition Member, David Patterson this.”

He added, “I’m gonna talk to them to ensure that you get it, the monthly statements because this is not secret information.”

Following the Vice President’s commitment, not a single report has been made public. Upon noting this, Opposition Member, David Patterson said the government cannot offer any excuse which can absolve it from this grave sin against the nation.

The Shadow Minister for the Oil and Gas sector in an invited comment to Kaieteur News said, “No one buys a bottle of water that is not full, because you can see through the container. No one buys fruits from our local vendors if the product is visibly damaged. However, if you buy a bottle of cooking gas, you cannot see if you are getting value unless the bottle is weighed on a standard scale, or unless you believe the seal has been properly set and has not been tampered with. This is what the government is asking our nation to accept, a product from a supplier without verification.” Patterson (Continued on page 9)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 03

Economist calls for loans Environmental study commences with better interest rates for ExxonMobil’s 5th project for local companies to create competitiveness - says current stance goes against local content law

By Renay Sambach In 2021, Guyana passed its local content legislation, which caters for locals getting first preference in the country’s oil and gas sector.

The Local Content law is intended to regulate the way companies operate in Guyana’s oil and gas sector; employ persons, buy services and the way that they procure goods.

However, local companies accessing loans from the banking sector with reasonable interest rate have been hindering their competitiveness in the oil and gas sector.

In order to fully recognise the benefits that will accrue from local content, Richard Rambarran, local economist and executive member of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), recently stated that local companies need better and cheaper access to finance to create competitiveness in the oil and gas industry. He also stated that he believes the current stance goes against the local content law.

Rambarran’s remarks were forthcoming while he was a guest on Kaieteur Radio’s, Guyana’s Oil and You programme, which focused on the topic, “Key mechanisms for maximizing our oil economy.”

In fact, he stated that the aforementioned needs to be done, in order to create a level playing field among companies vying in Guyana’s oil and gas sector.

When questioned on GCCI’s stance on the issue of local companies’ access to loans with reasonable interest rates from the banking sector. Rambarran responded by stating that the issue is of grave importance and more light needs to be shed on it.

“We have discussed in the chamber of commerce, and I will say this because it’s something that we feel very strongly about, we have discussed that there cannot be a successful local content regime that helps to lift the standards of MSMEs [Micro Small Medium Enterprises] in Guyana, without

Economist and executive member of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Richard Rambarran improvement to access the finance for those same MSMEs,” he added.

In giving his reason, the economist stated that in order to gain entry into the sector, the person must have to bring something to the table. He stated whether it be logistical construct, administrative framework, landscape knowledge or something else.

However, Rambarran added that when it comes to the technical work of the oil and gas sector or other types of work to support the oil and gas industry, a Guyanese would need access to finance, but more importantly access to cheap finance. He highlighted that the aforementioned will help Guyanese be more competitive in the sector.

“It is no small secret that Guyana is by virtue of the prevailing conditions, not as competitive as some other countries,” he said.

Rambarran then explained that it is for that reason that in 2006, the National Competitiveness Council and other institutions that helped to drive the competitiveness of the economy were created.

He reiterated that access to finance has been one of those bugbears to the local private sector that has really r e s t r i c t e d t h e competitiveness.

Rambarran added, “To answer the question very cleanly or very bluntly, there cannot be absolute success of the local content legislation without cheap and better access to finance.

It is just something that absolutely has to occur.”

According to him, if that

does not happen, Guyana runs the risk of the local private sector being unable to compete with regional and international counterparts.

The economist listed several measures that would help bridge the gap. He believes, for instance, that there must be financial sector development, financial expansion, financial deepening, more institutions, more complex instruments being offered and instruments that cater for what is happening within the modern development of Guyana.

He also called for a revision of the schedule guidelines that the Bank of Guyana (BOG) issues.

“Think about the interest rate, for example, that an enterprise here would have to face here versus an enterprise, maybe let’s take Trinidad, versus an enterprise in Trinidad,” he explained.

Rambarran added that the difference in differential alone in the interest rate and the nominal amount that will accrue from the differential in the interest rate alone is enough to wipe out profitability for a local company - which in turn will render the local company uncompetitive.

In closing, Rambarran stated that there is need for improvement, and he highlighted that based on his assessment, it does go against the spirit and intent of local content.

As such, he said, “So it is something that needs to evolve and evolve rapidly if we are to have full recognition of the benefits that will accrue.”

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Monday confirmed that the study to determine the environmental impacts of another oil production project has commenced.

In a notice published on its website, the EPA said Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, has submitted an application for an environmental permit to develop the Uaru project in the Stabroek Block.

According to the agency, “The proposed project will be implemented in multiple stages which include the following activities: well drillings and completions, mobilisation and installation of subsea equipment, umbilicals, risers and flowlines (SURF), installation of a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) facility, production operations, and decommissioning.

The proposed project will be undertaken in the marine offshore environment and would require land-based activities for support

activities at marine shorebases. As a result of the intended developmental activities, possible effects to the environment may include impacts on marine water quality, air quality, marine fauna, socio-economic resources, among others.”

The EPA has since determined that the project may significantly affect the environment. As a consequence, it said that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) would be required, before it approves or rejects the venture.

To this end, members of the public have been invited to, within 28 days of the issuance of the notice, make written submissions to the agency outlining questions and matters they require to be answered or considered in the impact assessment study.

According to the project summary for the Uaru development, EEPGL’s plans include drilling via drillships to produce oil from about 40 to 76 wells.

Production is expected to commence between fourth quarter of 2026 and the second quarter of 2027, with

an expected field life of at least 20 years.The anticipated production rate for the FPSO ranges between 220,000 barrels and 275,000 barrels of oil per day.

Additionally, the vessel will be capable of storing approximately two million barrels of oil, the company explains. The full summary of the project can be found on the EPA’s website.

It was only on April 1 that the EPA announced it approved the Environmental Authorisation for Exxon’s fourth project, the Yellowtail development, pegged at U S $ 1 0 B .

T h e Environmental Permit was granted for a period of five years to Exxon’s subsidiary and operator of the Stabroek Block, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to undertake the requisite construction and operation of production facilities.

Oil production is also presently ongoing at the Liza One and Two projects, while the third project, Payara is slated for startup in 2024.

Production at Yellowtail is set to commence in 2025.

1 patient in COVID-19 ICU, 2 new cases W

ith one person still in the COVID19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), the Ministry of Health via its dashboard on Monday revealed that within the last 24 hours, two new COVID-19 cases have been recorded in the country.

The new infections, which have increased the total number of confirmed cases to 63,484, were detected in Regions Four and Six, which recorded one each.

The dashboard data shows that 112 persons are in home isolation.

To date, a total of 62,143 persons have recovered.

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Tuesday May 03,2022

Kaieteur News

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

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

EDITORIAL

Petroleum Commission wisdom from the VP

S

ometimes it is better to be sensible with what we say, how we address crucial matters, like the urgency for an independent, trusted, operational, and vigilant Petroleum Commission. Guyanas Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo does and should know better about the significant utility of an ethical and functional Petroleum Commission. When he said, “So a Petroleum Commission is not a safeguard against corruption. It is utter nonsense (to believe that it is)” [KN April 30], he made himself look less than mature, bankrupt of commonsense, anaemic in intellect.

We agree with the Vice President that supposedly independent Petroleum Commissions in other countries did not prevent costly corruptions. Still, the Vice President has to know the whole array of positives that a truly independent, completely principled, Petroleum Commission could mean to Guyana. He must know that it is better for Guyana to have one of such standing than not to have one, to justify the foot-dragging and stonewalling that he engages in on its presence.

Definitely, it is not a guarantee of all the positives associated with such a body, any group of men and women.

By the same token, such a commission may not be the most robust of safeguards that was envisioned, but it would be a safeguard of some merit, possibly considerable, as long as it is built with the right people. To get a Petroleum Commission that, prioritises standing consistently and vigilantly for what is best for Guyana, requires doing something that is sure to cause Vice President Jagdeo the greatest difficulty, since he is not too inclined to conduct the business of this country by this standard. It must have the right people deliberating and determining what is right for Guyana, within the scope of its authority. The right people mean those Guyanese of integrity, who wont stand for any nonsense from governing political leaders and their empowered agents. The right people on such a commission would be people who are fearless and frank to the point of being outspoken, regardless of which leaders may be inconvenienced or angry at the outcomes from them. Given his past handpicked selections for sensitive appointments, it is clear that the Vice President is not familiar with many people of a principled nature.

But when there are people of such calibre on a Petroleum Commission, it is a viable entity that will not be pushed around, one that will not wilt before the self-serving commands of leaders who put them there. Because of this, Vice President Jagdeo may be right, and on to something, that is still to take form before citizens. For when he says that a Petroleum Commission may not be the kind of safeguard that Guyanese expect, it could be he has in mind people who will respond to his bidding, and bow before his wishes. Obviously, in such circumstances, there is no safeguard, but only a pretense of one. Given what has occurred in similar situations involving other state agencies and national commissions, Guyanese should not be optimistic that the people who end up on a national Petroleum Commission will not amount to more of the same cleverness from the Vice President. What is curious in all of this is that Vice President Jagdeo has compiled a revealing record of scorning international experts and ignoring the worrisome parallels of other countries with their oil. This publication has been tireless in presenting the messages, as to what we must learn from, and guard against, so that there is no repetition in Guyana. Yet, there he was pointing to the precedents of other countries that did wrong with their oil, and lost heavily from corrupt practices. It is how he cherry picks conveniently what serves his arguments and purposes, but which he ignores or dismisses when such do not. This is not how a true leader operates, but of someone who is remarkably cunning. He could spew and rant, but he knows, we know, and all Guyana knows that a Petroleum Commission with honourable patriots will safeguard us. When Vice President Jagdeo starts to objects, Guyanese know that he has his own objectives.

In addition, when he balks, it is what talks for him and not in a clean way.

There is a flourishing illegal gun licensing enterprise in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Recently, I read with much concern in the print media that a man was charged by the police with uttering a forged firearm approval letter to the police in an unsuccessful bid to obtain a firearm licence.

If true, it is shocking. This may be just the tip of the iceberg.

The alarm bells should be ringing. Red flags must be flying. There are rumours that currently operating is a flourishing and illegal multi-million

dollars enterprise targeting persons desirous of obtaining a firearm licence.

The starting price is G$1M depending on the type and caliber of the firearm requested. It is alleged that the unlawful enterprise is conducted by persons from Shiv Chanderpaul D r i v e , a house in Robb Street, Young Street, Lamaha Street and Brickdam, not the burnt out Brickdam Police Station but a location NorthWest of that site.

Let me caution SOCU not to send its infamous personnel to speak to me. I will not talk to them. They will encounter a massive wall of silence, because I do not have any confidence in the incompetent ranks from that Unit.

It is alleged that this Unit is operating like a political arm of whichever Government is in power. Remember what they did to Dr. Ashni Singh, Anil Nandlall, Mike Brassington, Dr. Irfaan Ali, Bharrat Jagdeo, Dr. Roger

Luncheon and others when those individuals were in the Opposition and now what they are doing with selected members of the current Opposition and others.

This allegation was already passed on to persons who will remain nameless, but who are both competent and capable of taking corrective action.

May God help and bless the Guyana Police Force.

Yours respectfully, Clinton Conway

Real cost of living rose by 40% since 2020 DEAR EDITOR, The real cost of living in Guyana since 2020 has risen by over 40%. In particular, the cost of essential commodities has risen drastically: plantain was $80 per lb and is now $200 per lb. It is the working class, who have already endured much over fifty years of decay under poor leadership, who are hardest hit by these increases.

By a stroke of luck, Guyana has newfound wealth, which could easily be directed to relieve that

hardship. Guyana has received over USD$700,000,000 in royalties and profit from oil production since March 2020.

More revenue is expected shortly. One would imagine that the Government, flush with funds, would prioritize the alleviation of the distress of the working class by (1) raising salaries in the public, police and teaching services, especially at the lower scale, by (2) raising the minimum wage, by (3) lifting the income tax threshold, and by (4) providing a system of unemployment and sickness benefits

and benefits for schoolchildren using the existing National Insurance Scheme structure.

But the Government has raised public servants wages by 7%. The minimum wage is less than USD$400. The working poor continue to see their meagre income taxed, and the Government tells us that the National Insurance Scheme is bankrupt, and that the Government cannot account for the monies handed out in their cash handout schemes.

Meanwhile, billions of

dollars are being awarded by the Government in an opaque system where friends and family continue to benefit, billions are spent to prop up a disastrous GuySuCo, billions are earmarked for a Gas to Shore project for which the country has seen no feasibility study, and there is a loud announcement of VAT relief for cement.

The working poor do not eat concrete, and they do not buy cement.

Regards, A New and United Guyana

Failed projects could bankrupt Guyana DEAR EDITOR, There have been many failed economic projects. Both political sides were guilty of failures going back to Burnham and Hoyte and Granger. Nevertheless, most failures occurred under the presidency of Jagdeo. Nearly all of Jagdeo’s projects were cost overruns, virtually none of which have earned significant revenues to recover costs and created few jobs.

They were also overpriced.

The projects were not properly evaluated for cost benefit or engineering practicality and suitability given the small size of our economy.

The list of identified failures is not exhaustive. There were countless more including the Fip Motilal road to the Amaila hydro project, Berbice Bridge, Marriott, LCDS, and so many more. In fact, I can’t

think which one of Jagdeo’s projects was a success. Some critics said the PPP administration wrecked the economy.

If one were to add all of the money wasted on the failed projects, the amount would easily approach a billion American dollars if not more.

That kind of money would have transformed Guyana into a developed state. One must also take into consideration that Guyana’s annual budget during those years did not average a billion dollars.

Guyana is now saddled with huge debts from the presidencies of Jagdeo, Ramotar, and Granger, and now Irfaan Ali, and paying astronomical interests just to service the debt. Our debt would be bigger than that which Burnham and Hoyte saddled us. Yet, Jagdeo, as

the Vice President in the Ali administration, continues to tout and promote economic large-scale cost prohibitive projects whose success is highly questionable and which are not affordable even with oil revenues. This time, the amount is in many billions of American dollars. If failed, they will bankrupt the nation.

And fail they will as was the case with the large-scale projects that were engaged in between the years 2000 and 2011. The oil revenues will have to be used to pay the humongous debt that will be several billion American dollars.

As the editorial correctly stated, for the failed projects, there were no serious, professionally conducted independent studies except the assessment from Auditor General. The same is the case for

the new proposed projects — gas to shore, power station, Wales industrial complex, oil refinery, Demerara Bridge, etc. Is West Coast the right spot to posit and transship the gas? Is the location for the Demerara Bridge the right spot? What measures are proposed to prevent or prepare for disasters? Will there be environmental disasters and who will be responsible?

As your editorial notes, all of the projects had overrun costs including the airport— under both administrations.

There were allegations of questionable activities and monetary gains from cost overruns. No proper investigation was done into the projects. There was no detailed audit apart from Mr. Goolsaran’s. And no one (Continued on page 5)

Let us continue to strive for social cohesion in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, On behalf of the PNCR, the parliamentary opposition, and on my personal behalf, I extend warm Eid-ul-Fitr greetings on this joyous occasion to all Guyanese especially our Muslim brothers and sisters here in Guyana and in the Diaspora.

The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr signals the conclusion of the

holy month of Ramadan in which the Muslims increased their worship and charity, and fasted the entire month in obedience to God Almighty.

Ramadan reminded us of our responsibilities to nurturing brotherhood, social responsibility, and the commitment to self-sacrifice to ensure the less fortunate can benefit from food,

clothing and shelter. As Ramadan comes to an end and as we celebrate Eid-ulFitr, let us continue to demonstrate compassion and kindness to one another. Let us continue to strive for social cohesion in Guyana. Let us live up to the ideal of religious tolerance as is enshrined in our constitution. Eid Mubarak to Guyana on this

Festive occasion. May God Almighty grant us unity and harmony as we endeavour to build a Guyana free from fear and ill will and seek to nurture the goodness of Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr.

Eid Mubarak!

Regards, Aubrey Norton Leader, People’s National Congress Reform

Tuesday May 03, 2022

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Kaieteur News

The good, the questionable and the haphazard DEAR EDITOR, A handful of recent issues caught my attention, on which I share a quick thought or two. Two of the issues involved the Vice President, one came from the Guyana Police Force, and another from the Government. The four issues projected the good, the questionable, and the haphazard.

Incredible as this may sound, the two issues that were good came from the Vice President-one with whom I rarely see eye to eye, due to different codes of ethics, and the tongues that have come to characterize the productions of the national leader.

The VP is reported by the media (KN May 1) to have said that he doesnt have to take advice from the IMF, as it deals with debt and not development.

I agree to a point. From my perspective, and that of others globally, the IMF is not a friend of Third World societies, so any advice it gives must be rinsed in vinegar; perhaps, some caustic soda too. In some corners, it is viewed as a Mafia entity. It is my position also, which is why I am leery of taking advice from it. In other words, whats the catch, where is it

coming from, and why the sudden warmth to little people with big debts?

Whats the real agenda, bubba? Thus, I hear the VP. As an aside, and this may surprise Guyanese, but my regard for the World Bank, though not as harsh, is not as good as I once had for it, not with some of the things that have occurred in other poor societies under its watch.

The second issue with which I doff my wig (dont need one) at the VP is on the preemptive move he made with dead people being removed from contentious lists.

I think he did an end around the opposition and took away a major board out of its electoral-related complaints and objections. As to how far this sanitizing will go, how well regarded it would end up being that is another story.

On a personal note, I have three very close people who departed this earthly vale overseas. They were all adults with national identity cards but who left here over 30 years ago. They might still be on some list. I wonder if anybody voted for them, who have been gone so long…dont look at me, I didnt. But good for the VP,

and now some hard work for the opposition.

Regarding the police, I am all for shutting down bars that are sources of noise pollutions, devastations; nuisance, they call it, which is a rank understatement. What is going on with noise is not a nuisance but a crime, should be made into a felony. It is why I sometimes applaud the Saudis and Iranians. So, for the police to say that it will shut down (whatever that means) offending establishments after the third report is being generous to the point of a law enforcement crime by itself.

Three times is over by two, and questionable as to too much discretion. Shut down these places after the first warning, show the proprietors that this is taken seriously, and serious action will be taken. Because I think these three warnings could be tied up in how many times warned, when, and by whom, and end being a joke; one time, and after that it is the lockdown. One more thing: dont insult the neighbours and suffering communities by shutting them down for a day and then reopening happening in quick order with the

equivalent of a $20 (Guyana) fine, and some silly lecture from a magistrate, possibly looking for free drinks, and other fleshy entertainments.

Last, the government announced no VAT on cement, which is a good move. But if the Government really wants to give relief to Guyanese struggling with runaway prices, cease this hopscotch, piecemeal, dumb approach, of a crumb here and another there. Come out with a package that benefits struggling, hurting families. Less VAT on cement means more for contractors, more work for builders, truckers, and labourers.

The first three are mainly PPP campers. Yes, households could use the no VAT on cement, but it is time to stop touching the edges, while leaving the centres of what is a price and cost of living crisis for Guyanese from most walks of life. The leaders in government know this, so they must desist from this playing around and pussyfooting with the lives of poor Guyanese in this rich (so they say to me) society. Better could and must be done.

Move!

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Guyana should negotiate for at least 50% of the premium oil price DEAR EDITOR, When Guyana’s oil contract was signed in 2016, world market prices per barrel averaged $65. All indications today are that future prices (next 5 -10 years) may average $110. The portion of higher average price ($110 minus $65 = $45) can be called the Russia-Ukraine war premium.

Who gets to keep most of the $45 premium? Should Guyana and Exxon share in the war-premium equally?

Should it remain at the per contract rate of 14.5% for Guyana (profit share 12.5% plus 2% royalty)?

Guyana is the owner of the resource. Where is Guyana’s sovereign ownership’s rights reflected in this contract? It is time for the Government of Guyana to contemplate this question – and negotiate for at least 50% or 100% of the premium price per barrel of crude produced in Guyana.

This is from the NYT of

Failed projects could...

From page 4 was brought to book. No was held accountable.

The question one must ask: In light of all the failed projects, why is the VP continued to be involved in economic projects? And big ones too. Another related question, in light of so many allegations of misconduct and lack of proper accountability over the last twenty months, why continue with business as usual?

It is noted that the same (lack of independent review) process that led to failures in earlier projects is being utilized now for the proposed oil and gas related projects as well as the hydro station and the bridge. Why isn’t the VP willing to consider the views of critics and independent evaluators and professionals of his proposed projects?

Why can’t he commission evaluations by Chris Ram and or other professionals of his proposals? Instead of depending on the Chinese for funding and technical evaluation or to implement the projects, why can we use Americans or Canadians or Europeans, countries that helped saved our democracy?

Yours truly, Calvin Braithwaite

April 29: “Exxon and Chevron report huge jumps in first-quarter profits. Thanks to rising energy prices, profits at Exxon doubled, to $5.5 billion, and it would have been bigger if not for a $3.4 billion hit from quitting a Russian operation.

Chevron, which has less exposure to Russia than rival oil giants, saw its profit nearly quadruple, to $6.3 billion”.

The current world crisis created by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine presents an opportunity for money making for both Oil Companies as well as Oil-host countries, but that assumes the Govt of Guyana is of the mind-set to ask for renegotiation of the Oil Contract. Guyana’s oil resource is finite – and a world opportunity presents itself only rarely.

GoG should seize this oppor-

tunity to press its demand for a Fair Contract.

Editor, permit me to include a blog-post from a SN blogger using the name: Anonymous #2:”You are still with this dishonest 2% royalty story. It’s 14.5% effective minimum royalty right now going to 52% when costs borne by operators are paid off. With oil at $100 a barrel this will begin much sooner than previously expected. At some point Guyana will get every other lift and the three co-venturers will share the others. Just stop it Mike, just stop it”.

I respond to Anonymous #2 as follows: Guyanas take as per the contract is 2% royalty plus 12.5% profit share.

Not 14.5% effective minimum royalty. Royalty rate 2% (Continued on page 6)

Government has divided Guyana into two nations DEAR EDITOR, It is time for the public to know that the government has reverted to its pre-2015 style of governance of being arrogant, corrupt, partisan, spiteful, big-headed, egotistical and above all vindictive.

Under this government, the interest of the poor is being ignored while those of the rich and powerful are given full consideration. Many believed that the government is at the root of the fracture of Guyana into “two nations,” one for the rich and the other for the poor. The image of Guyana becoming ‘two nations’ is frightening, because it is an oil-producing country with untold future wealth.

However, it is the third poorest country in the Western Hemisphere after Haiti and Nicaragua. With only 780,000 and with colossal agriculture, minerals, timber and fishing, Guyana’s should have been the wealthiest country in the Caribbean. But it is not, because of our corrupt political leaders.

The two nations have become non-intersecting worlds of rich and poor with very little or no sympathy, thoughts, or feelings for the poor from the government. In fact, the government has and continued to portray the poor as uneducated inhabitants from a different planet. Today, Guyana is fractured into two entities, politically, between the PPP with overwhelming Indo-Guyanese support and the PNC with massive Afro-

Guyanese patronage and economically, between the rich and the poor. And while the people no longer agree on the nation’s purpose, values, history, or meaning, yet there has been no attempt at reconciliation by the governments to heal the wounds and unite the people. By now, Guyanese ought to know that the development of the country and the survival of the government depend on a baseline of fairness, equality, non-partisan politics, and the even sharing of the resources. But in Guyana with “two nations” no one, not even the rich and powerful can live a happy, peaceful, and productive life if the poor is not recognised and given their fair share in society.

The country is facing a crisis that could destroy it and retard its development and paraphrasing a passage from the New Testament: “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” The division of the country can be blamed on the government given the fact that the “One Guyana Initiative” as enunciated by the President is a sham. No one, not even the powers that be believe in that garbage. It is a propaganda stunt to deceive the masses. Since taking office 18 months ago, the PPP has openly and deliberately excluded and ostracized a large segment of the population. It has fired more than 1000 public servants whom it deemed are supporters of APNU.

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Tuesday May 03,2022

Kaieteur News

A salute to media workers in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Guyana has come a long way in terms of freedom of the press. Today, the press is free to cover events or to comment on issues of national importance as they see fit, which is quite unlike what transpired under the Forbes Burnham regime when the opposition media were starved of newsprint and other inputs. Both the Mirror and the Catholic Standard, which were considered ‘opposition’ media, were forced to close down for varying periods due to failure by the then PNC regime to grant licences to important newsprint.

As we observe World Press Freedom Day, we need to reflect on those dark days

when there were restrictions on press freedom and freedom of expression on the whole. Today, there is complete freedom of expression in Guyana, even though the same cannot be said for several other countries where journalists are being harassed, tortured and in some cases killed for having dared to publish the truth. Only recently, a journalist was killed while covering the war in Ukraine. We have to be grateful for those journalists who are putting their lives at risk for covering stories, at times under difficult conditions.

Over two dozen journalists have so far died in their line of duty while covering the War in Ukraine.

It is said that the pen is mightier than the sword. There is a lot of truth in that saying.

Indeed, the world is a richer and better place, thanks to our journalists. The media has an important ‘watchdog’ role to play in terms of holding governments in check but it must do so in a balanced and objective manner. Too often, there is a ‘man bite dog’ approach to news coverage with the main objective of focusing on the sensational rather than what is in the best national interest.

Be that as it may, there is no alternative to a free and independent media. This is good for the health of the society and an integral component of our evolving informa-

tion society. The media landscape in Guyana and the world as a whole has changed significantly with the emergence of social media, which has now created a unique platform for people from all walks of life to have their say. It is no longer possible to suppress the truth and people today are much more knowledgeable of what is taking place in the world.

I wish to take this opportunity to salute all our media professionals on this occasion of World Press Freedom Day. I always believe that in the market place of ideas, no individual has a monopoly.

Let a thousand ideas bloom!

Regards, Hydar Ally

Guyana should negotiate for at...

From page 5 will not change for the life of the contract (unless it is renegotiated).

Profit share will rise, as you claim, when “costs borne by operators are paid off”. Show

us a pro-forma schedule when it will be paid off.

We have always argued that absence of Ring Fencing of Costs will work to ensure that Guyanas take of 14.5% remain 14.5% for as long as

possible. G u y a n a u r gently needs to have Ring Fencing as part of the contract.

A million dollars received at some point in the future will not have the

same purchasing power as a million dollars received today. Maynard Keyes said that “at some point” in the future well all be dead.

Regards, Mike Persaud

We should rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep DEAR EDITOR, I am moved by Mr. Tacuma Ogunseyes KN letter, “A dedicated month to celebrate Indian history should be supported,” on April 30.

I resonate with his premise that all “races are entitled to equal treatment at all levels of our society since we are victims of enslavement, indenture and colonialism.”

Mr. Ogunseyes words reflect social acumen, insight and mature judgement which can go a long way in helping to heal the racial wounds especially between the two prominent racial groups in the country Indians and Africans.

It is time to truly recognize the racial mosaic in the country and appreciate peoples history, culture, religions, traditions, arts, etc. More importantly, we

need to sit and learn about the different other and be sensitive to their (real or perceived) expressions of injustice meeting down w i t h t h e i r p e o p l e . We should “rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) as one way to express our unity in our diversity.

I would love to meet with my African-rights brother, Tacuma, and listen to his heart and mind and see what can be done so that we can move on as a people in our nation.

I wish to thank Mr. Ogunseye for taking the bold step to express his support for the Indian Heritage Month in May. It would be superb if other individuals, organisations and outfits also give support to this idea.

Yours truly, Dr. Devanand Bhagwan

T N U L B . . .

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Let the media rise!

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday May 03, 2022

Kaieteur News

It was heartening to see some of our leading journalists, being bold enough to speak truth to power, while condemning the lack of transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector in Guyana.

The fact that their comments preceded World Press Freedom Day, which is being celebrated today, made it even more special. Our media workers have done their best over the years in holding the leaders of this land accountable: we mean the real media and not those that pander to the authorities out of fear and also for favours.

And so amid the oppression, depression and suppression by successive governments, our local media have weathered the storm; our journalists have done well and yes there is room for improvements.

We still have in our midst a number of pretenders and quacks - we who are serious must resolve to root them out. On World Press Freedom Day – Let the Media rise!

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Tuesday May 03, 2022

UG to host virtual symposium to commemorate contributions of lesser-known Indo-Guyanese The University of Guyana (UG) will be hosting a three-hour-long symposium on May 4, 2022 to commemorate the 184th anniversary of the arrival of East Indians in Guyana. The symposium, which will be held virtually from 17:00 hrs to 20:00 hrs, will focus on lesser-known and lessercelebrated East Indians who have made significant contributions to the development of Guyana, UG stated in a press release.

Among those scheduled to make remarks are: the High Commissioner of India to Guyana – H.E. Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, University of

Guyana’s Vice-Chancellor IX – Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH) – Dr. Roslin Khan, Lecturer in the FEH – Alim Hosein, Head of Department of Language and Cultural Studies, FEH – Andrew Kendall, among others.

Leading academics will make presentations on several of these lesserknown but outstanding Guyanese, Professor Baytoram Ramharack will present on Jung Bahadur Singh and Balram Singh Rai, Dr. Seeta Shah Roath will present on Esther Mahadeo,

Professor Somdat Mahabir will present on Nutan Bishun and Premsukh Poonai, while Cliff Rajkumar will present on Pam and Harry Harrack.

The presentations will be followed by discussion sessions. The symposium will also feature cultural presentations and readings from the works of IndoGuyanese writers by present and past students of the University of Guyana, including award-winning poet Gabrielle Mohamed.

Another feature of the symposium will be a spotlight on Guyanese poet Mahadai Das and her artistic focus on another group of

undersung persons of Indian heritage: women.

In celebrating lesserknown historic and contemporary East Indians who helped to develop Guyana, and also looking forward to contemporary and future development of Indo-Guyanese culture and scholarship in Guyana, the symposium will widen the thinking on the IndoGuyanese contributions and presence in Guyana.

The declaration of May 5 as Arrival Day followed the passage on April 14, 2003, in the National Assembly, of Resolution No. 12 of 2003. It celebrates the contributions to the national development of our African, Indian, Chinese, Portuguese and European ancestors and their descendants.

Arrival Day challenges (Continued on page 9)

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Who is civilised and who is…?

A hybrid hydrogen and solar power plant is being constructed in Barbados. The plant is expected to generate 58MW of power from the solar component and 120MW from the hydrogen facility, at a total cost of US$100M. This means that a total of 178MW of power will be generated from an investment of US$100M. Now compare that with Guyana where a hydroelectricity facility is expected to cost more than US$800M to generate 165MW of power.

But this is not the only bizarre decision which is taking place in our energy sector. The government is constructing a natural gas energy plant, which will source associated natural gas from the offshore oilfields but is not sure as yet what will be the final price tag.

The government claims that the real price will only be

known when bids come back.

Bids for what? If Exxon is transporting the natural gas via a pipeline to shore, surely issues such as the cost of transporting the gas should have been determined prior to permission being granted to move ahead with the project.

How do we know that this project will be viable, if we are not yet sure just what is the cost of the actual pipeline and the cost of transporting the gas?

A few weeks ago, there was a spate of blackouts. This occurred after the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) announced that problems had developed at its Garden of Eden facility, and that out of an abundance of caution, it had to shut the entire facility down.

Foreign engineers came to Guyana to identify the problem. So far the public has not

yet been told the cause of the problems which led to the decision to deactivate the Garden of Eden plant.

In the absence of the report of the investigation, speculation is rife. It is even being suggested that the whole thing may have been a false alarm.

Since then, however, the government has indicated that it will be going out to tender to procure 50MW of power via a lease of generators. GPL hopes to have the power supplied by next March and the contract is expected to last for three years.

Basically, GPL is buying electricity since the scope of works include transport to and set up at site fuel storage tanks (floating or landbased), fuel, water treatment, waste disposal, test, commission, operate and maintain the power generation facility, and

Dem boys seh...

Four-lane is death trap Imagine yuh driving safe along de road. Yuh meet a junction with traffic lights and yuh stap. Yuh get de green light and yuh proceeding safely and slowly over when some mad driver breach he red light and slam into yuh.

It shows dat yuh could be driving safely but yuh cant predict wat de odder driver gan do. Is a real tragedy in dis country. Nuff drivers in such a hurry to go nowhere dat dem breaching de traffic lights.

Some ah dem doing it in front de police tuh. De other

day, a police warden was directing traffic and was stapping drivers from turning.

One driver decide dat he gan turn anyway and he do suh in front de police.

Dis is why dem boys wan tell de Traffic Chief dat when dem sending out he wardens, he must send dem in pairs.

One fuh direct de traffic and de other fuh arrest dem law breakers.

People also getting knockdown trying fuh cross dem four-lane highway wah de guvament building. Dem boys bin warn dem not to build

any four-lane highway; build two lanes circular roads.

Is hard enough fuh try fuh cross de road when it gat two lanes. Imagine wah gan happen when is four lanes. Before yuh reach de centre, yuh gan get squish like a rotten fruit. Dat is why dem boys want tell de Minister of Public Works fuh abandon dem plans fuh build more four-lane roads. Build more roads at de back ah dem village so dat it gan ease de pressure on de main road and avoid having to build death traps.

Talk half. Leff half.

One year later, VP Jagdeo...

From page 2 added, “There have been repeated public requests for the Ministry of Natural Resources to provide the daily production information for the oil we are paying Exxon to explore for, to drill for, to store and mostly to sell for us. To date, there is still no information. There are no figures to perform analysis on, no pro-

duction data which can be tabulated with the corresponding oil prices to ensure that we are receiving value for our oil.” Patterson said Guyanese, the main stakeholder in all of this, remain in ignorance and cannot check or verify the sporadic information, which they receive about oil production offshore from Exxon and its partners.

He opined that this lack of transparency dominates the PPP/C’s activities in the oil and gas sector where the oil production licences are also shrouded in secrecy and quite frankly characterises its activities in general. Patterson said this state of affairs should be concerning for all stakeholders wherever they may be.

UG to host virtual symposium...

From page 8 us to appreciate our diverse peoples and their cultures and encourages us to strive for a society in which the contributions of every ethnic group are recognised, respected and rewarded.

May 5th also marks Indian Arrival Day. The first set of East Indians arrived in Guyana on May 5, 1838, as part of a scheme of “indentureship” or contracted labour devised by the plant-

ers to obtain labour for the sugar estates after the end of slavery in 1834. Between 1838 and 1917, when indentureship ended, an estimated 240,000 Indians were brought to Guyana.

The University of Guyana Press will also host the virtual book launch of “Kiskadee Days” by Gaitri Pagrach-Chandra later in May to continue the month of commemoration of Indian arrival and their contributions

to Guyana.

The university will also host similar events for Emancipation Day and Indigenous Peoples Month on these commemorative days later this year.

The symposium is free of cost and open to the public.

Interested persons are asked to register ahead of the symposium at https://tiny.one/ Arrival-Heroes. This site is already open for registration from members of the public.

decommissioning.

This is a short-term fix, which will involve the use of heavy and polluting fuels. It is at odds with Guyanas environmental profile. Since the power is to be supplied by next March, there was sufficient time for GPL, if it had to invite expressions of interest for the supply of alternative sources of energy. Why has it not done so?

It is more than possible for a solar powered farm generating 50MW of power to be constructed within one year.

The Barbados facility is expected to be completed in two years. But if it was a solar farm alone, this could have been done in one year.

A couple of years ago, the State of Victoria in Australia completed a 128MW solar farm in less than nine months.

The project cost less than US$200M. In the meantime, Guyana is going to be spending close to US$2B to generate 400MW of power.

What is even more scandalous is that in November last year, the government announced that it had obtained US$75M financing for solar farms to generate 28.7MW. Barbados, as was stated above, is spending US$100M for a hybrid solar/hydrogen facility, which will generate a combined 178MW. India has the lowest cost in the world when it comes to producing solar power.

Guyana is selling India its oil.

Yet, it has shied away from asking India to build solar farms in Guyana when it knows that India can do so far cheaper than anywhere else in the world.

Guyana has produced a Champion of the Earth awardee. After it signed a deal with Norway to keep deforestation low, it was considered at one time as a global leader on the environment.

Having drafted a low carbon development strategy, the country was poised to become the renewable energy capital of the Caribbean.

That honour will now go to tiny Barbados. “So answer me fast: Who is civilised?”

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday May 03, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Untergang: The story of David Granger

I

like the word untergang the first time I saw it. I don’t know why. I think it was because I believe that the German movie with that title is perhaps the best film on Adolph Hitler ever made.

Untergang means downfall.

To trace the untergang of David Granger will take several columns and those columns have already been done on this page through several articles spread over a six-year period. So why do another one? This analysis here centres on some of the things he did since he lost power in August 2020 that made Mr. Granger an interesting study for researchers.

Two facts are there to support the argument that Mr. Granger was pressured to leave the PNC’s leader position. During the

leadership contest between Harmon and Norton, there was (1) - no resignation letter. (2) - he did not put on paper that he was retiring or stepping down. The way Mr. Granger left office needs researching. In which part of the world, there is a party congress going on to choose a new leader and there is no statement from the current head that he is stepping down or retiring?

The way Mr. Granger exited the hierarchy of the PNC is one of the most controversial developments in party politics in this country. The five months of election drama was a series of incredible moments. Here were sown the seeds of untergang. We can cite just one example. You are the president of the country and the leader of your party.

An American firm was

hired by your party to lobby the American political establishment to convert them to the belief that you won the general election. But you as president and party leader did not know about the arrangement. At that point as the leader of the PNC, the untergang began to take shape. Why? Two reasons were at work. One is that you lose respect from your membership when you admit you did not know because they feel you are not in control. The other reason is you show you do not have leadership qualities because you failed to discipline the men and women that made that transaction without your knowledge.

As leader of the PNC in opposition, the untergang began to deepen. A leader cannot keep contradicting

himself the way Mr. Granger did. As president of the country and head of the PNC, he did this continuously. Let’s stick to his role in opposition.

Mr. Granger justified his exclusion of small party leaders in parliament because he referred to them as paper entities. It had to be a terrible mistake when in the face of that brutal realism, he ignored that very realism and awarded the AFC nine seats equivalent to almost 50,000 votes.

When Mr. Granger made that award, immediately among his executives, there were disappointing voices.

The PNC in the 2020 elections had soldiers who were in the trenches for months during the election campaign.

When it was over, they didn’t make it to parliament but saw their leader gave nine seats to the AFC. Any analyst worthy of respect would know that it is doubtful that in that combative campaign, the AFC brought in 10,000 votes much less 50,000. The

number of seats to assign the AFC was a matter of intense confabulations in the PNC hierarchy.

The consensus including some Frederick Kissoon names close to Mr. Granger was not to Harmon knocked the AFC, give them nine. So why did when on the platform, he the AFC get nine? It came e m b r a c e d M o s e s out of an intense tete-a-tete Nagamootoo and called him with Raphael Trotman. royalty.

PNC big wigs were A t t h e e v e n t , M r. saying that they cannot Nagamootoo wore the persuade their leader but colours of the PNC and not someone from another party those of the AFC. This was to c o u l d d o i t . T h e send a signal to Ramjattan parliamentary choices of that the PNC preferred Granger for the PNC and his Nagamootoo as the PM award of nine seats to the candidate.

AFC was the final act of Long before the PNC and Granger’s untergang.

AFC renewed the Anger had broken out in Cummingsburg Accord in the PNC’s hierarchy because February 2020, the PNC had for the entire year of 2019, settled on the rejection of the feeling inside the war Ramjattan as PM candidate. room of the PNC was that the In September 2020, the AFC AFC had become dead meat got nine seats. It brought and its existence would not about Granger’s untergang. matter in the final votes of (The views expressed in the general election. this article are those of the It was for this reason in a u t h o r a n d d o n o t August 2019 during the necessarily reflect the c a m p a i g n i n B a r t i c a , opinions of this newspaper.)

Tuesday May 03, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Tuesday May 03, 2022

Local Govt. Ministry inks $136M in contracts for infrastructural works in Reg. 2 The Johanna Cecila Secondary School, which is slated to be extended. (Photo Credit: RDC of Region Two)

Damon Street in Dartmouth and the David James Street in Charity that will be rehabilitated

K

ick starting the c a p i t a l programme for Region Two, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development last Tuesday signed a total of six contracts to the tune of $136 million for works slated for the region this year.

These works are mainly for the upgrading of streets, construction of a bridge, extension of a school and rehabilitating the State House Annex.

Overseeing the signing of the contracts in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Tw o b o a r d r o o m w a s Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall who said that the contracts represent 16 percent of the capital programme for the region.

Before the contracts were awarded, the Minister

expressed to the contractors the importance of these projects and that they should execute the works in a timely manner. All six contracts were awarded to contractors from the region.

“I just want to reaffirm to you that I don’t have the habit of agreeing to variations and I am not in the habit of agreeing to extensions, so the rain today and the rain in May will have no bearing on your contract deadline. We want our work finish and you are the guys who are the contractors so you know how to build in the rain and build in the dry and you know to build in the day and build in the night, just make sure our work is done to the contract specifications,” the Minister said. He told contractors also that they should not only work with the people of the region but to employ them and work as much as possible “to get the region’s

economy going.”

The contracts signed for the region include the construction of a health post and landing at Siriki, Upper Pomeroon. Minister Dharamlall explained that, “the reason why we are working in those areas is because we want equitable distributions of the service of the government and so we are constructing a health post with a landing in Siriki, Region Two.” Triple F Variety Store will be constructing the health post and landing to the tune of $21 million.

Two roads – the David James Street in Charity and Damon Street in Dartmouth – will be upgraded to asphaltic surfaces.

Kaieteur News understands that Imran Bacchus and Sons Limited will be rehabilitating Damon Street for $24.5 million, while Vijay Persaud and Sons Contracting Services

The site for the construction of a concrete bridge at Onderneeming

will fix David James Street to the tune of $15 million.

The construction of a reinforced concrete bridge at Onderneeming, Essequibo will be done by H. Rambali General Construction for $27.3 million and the rehabilitation of State House Annex at Anna Regina will

be executed by K&J Persaud Contracting Services for $16.2 million.

Meanwhile, the extension of the Johanna Cecila Secondary School will be carried out by Vandee Construction to the tune of $31.1 million. According to information provided on the

RDC’s Facebook page, the building will be extended at the back to form an L-shape and will be two flats made of concrete. The measurements will be 80 feet long by 30 feet and will have eight classrooms on the two flats.

These projects are scheduled to begin soon.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 13

Solar power can cost US$200M less than Amaila hydro project - Economist Citing an overall reduction in the cost to develop solar power generation across the globe today, Economist Elson Low estimates that Guyana can save at least US$200 million if it pursues this renewable option, rather than the hydropower project at Amaila, Region Eight.

He presented this argument during a weekly commentary aired on the social media platform, Facebook.

L o w, w h o h o l d s a B a c h e l o r ’s D e g r e e i n political Science and Economics from a United States College, Amherst, explained that government will be pursuing 38 megawatts (MW) of electricity through a solar power project that is estimated to cost US$83.5 million. Using these figures, the Economist calculated that a 165MW solar power facility could cost around US$500 million, saving Guyana US$200 million when compared to the US$700 million Amaila hydro project. This US$500 million, according to him, would be the overall expenditure factoring in the land and cost to distribute the electricity.

He said that not only could Guyana save on cost, but also avoid some of the financial risks involved in the proposed hydropower project.

A prefeasibility study for the Amaila Falls project was conducted between 1974 and 1976. The Economist argued, therefore, that solar costs have reduced by over 80 percent in some cases since Amaila was conceived.

The Economist reasoned, “The cost of hydro versus solar, Amaila is supposed to be at seven cents per kilowatt hour that the government will purchase power from the Amaila at, however solar should be at two cents per kilowatt hour, maybe three cents, but around there, so even in that situation, solar is twice as cheap, twice as cheap, in some cases, three times cheaper rather than having hydro.”

He explained that the advancement of technological development has resulted in the massive reduction in costs to generate solar power. Low referenced a statement by the Head of the Guyana Energy Agency

A solar power plant in Barbados (PC: XenogyRE) (GEA), Dr. Mahender Sharma, who told the International Energy Conference back in February that two hours of sunshine in Guyana can power the country for an entire year.

To this end, he said, “So clearly, the sun is shining, clearly, there is opportunity here, the question is why we are not making use of this glaring opportunity, rather we are going to go all the way across the country to Region Eight…and bring that electricity all the way back across to Georgetown.

It truly boggles the mind.”

Low said that the government can set up a solar plant at the Wales Estate, West Bank Demerara where the Gas-to-Energy project is expected to be constructed.

According to him, “You can have a solar plant right there on the coast. You have all the land available to you, you don’t have to worry about the mountains and the rivers and the heavy rainfall and the forest; you have all of the infrastructure there already. You can produce the same amount of electric power and you don’t have to run all of these risks and it is in fact cheaper.”

After analysing the project, the Economist concluded that the Amaila Falls hydropower project is one of the worst he has ever come across.

He argued, “I am not

using numbers from another country. I am not using numbers from another project in the past. I am not using estimates from some expert, I am using the government’s number from another project to show what this cost.”

The 165MW Amaila Falls project is pegged at US$700 million. It is being pursued under a Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) model, in which Guyana would be buying electricity from the hydro project at an estimated cost of about 7.7

cents per MW. A l t h o u g h t h e government will not be investing in the project with upfront costs, Guyanese will have to carry the burden of that project, and after 20 years, the ownership would be transferred to Guyana from the Chinese contractor, China Railway First Group.

At the Energy C o n f e r e n c e , Wi n s t o n Brassington, the project head, while providing an update on the project said that, “like any large project, there is a lot of risks in these

projects but most of these risks have been put to the developer.”

He, however, glided over the burdens Guyana will bear as a result of the project, even though the country is bracing to face six of the most dangerous risks associated with the project.

These include hydrological, which means if the falls run dry due to climate change, or if the 23 square kilometres reservoir is unable to feed the hydro plant, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) would bear the

incurred liability. Secondly, Guyana will be responsible for political force majeure, that is, if the government changes its mind about the project, it would still have to pay the Chinese contractor for its investment.

The third risk Guyana will stand, along with China Railway, is ‘other force majeure’. This relates to damage to the plant, by unforeseen circumstances.

Two other risks will be borne by GPL if the Amaila Falls project fails to meet the electricity demand.

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 15

World Press Freedom Day…

Diplomats underscore role of media in Guyana’s ‘rapid development’ - as KN Publisher urges media to move away from “routine run-of-the mill stories” On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Heads of Mission for the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union have underscored inter alia, the role of the media as the country’s moves on a trajectory of rapid development.

In a joint statement released on Tuesday, the diplomats noted members of the media are a key source of information on national topics such as Guyana’s rapid development while at the same time holding government, opposition, parliamentarians and others accountable.

The group noted that “Press attention to accountability has never been more important in

US Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch would often underscore the role of media workers in highlighting issues of governance and corruption.

As media workers around the globe mark press freedom day, the newspaper

Mission of the Embassy of the United States of America, Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch; the British High Commissioner, Jane Miller; the Canadian High Commissioner, Mark Berman, and the Delegation of the European Union, Ambassador Dr. Fernando Ponz Cantó acknowledged the significant work of journalists.

According to the statement, “The media plays an essential role in our societies, defending and advancing the truth and amplifying the voices of the public by sharing stories authentically.”

“We recognise that media freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies and essential to the

“Guyana is not the Guyana of yesterday.

This country has overnight transformed into a shining star of the world with its enormous oil resources. I hope that journalists can pursue and develop in-depth knowledge to facilitate, speak on and write authoritatively about the country’s vast resources.” - Glenn Lall KN Publisher, Glenn Lall Guyana with a historically large revenue stream entering government coffers and a regularly stated intent to use those resources for a development agenda that cuts across all regions and races.”

“There is also a larger principle at stake that strong democracies require free information flow in the public marketplace of opinions and ideas.

As inconvenient as criticism can be to government officials and other leaders, it is an essential part of the democratic cacophony,” the group added.

This view has long been held by Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall. Mr. Lall, an outspoken businessman, has often underscored the importance of the media in holding government accountable in the management of the country’s resources.

In fact, Lall who often refers to the media as the ‘watchdogs of society,’

publisher is calling on media workers in Guyana to take on a different concept for reporting the news.

He stressed that given their role in the development of the nation, journalists and reporters should move away from placing so much emphasis on the “routine run-of-the mill stories that the nation has grown accustomed to.”

He asserted that, “Guyana is not the Guyana of yesterday. This country has overnight transformed into a shining star of the world with its enormous oil resources. I hope that journalists can pursue and develop in-depth knowledge to facilitate, speak on and write authoritatively about t h e c o u n t r y ’s v a s t resources.”

He continued, “New items should be prioritised in a way that reflects what Guyana is today and where it is headed. Journalists must understand the great role they play in their daily contribution to the public,” he stressed.

In the meantime, the statement by Heads of

protection of human rights, fundamental freedoms and universal values anchored in the Universal Declaration for Human Rights,” the statement read.

It continued, “Journalists have been at the forefront in times of danger in Guyana, including during incidents such as fires and flooding and they tell the heartbreaking stories of women and families who have been victims of domestic violence.

For example, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the media has helped to keep societies updated about developments with the pandemic, to learn of best practices to prevent the spread of the virus and importantly to counter false or misleading information.”

With matters of life and the quality of life in the balance, the Heads of Mission underscored that journalists must be allowed to report facts freely without attacks and acts of intimidation or censorship at a time where the capacity to speak truth is constantly (Continued on page 16)

Canadian High Commissioner, Mark Berman.

British High Commissioner, Jane Miller

EU Ambassador, Dr. Fernando Ponz Cantó

PAGE 16

Tuesday May 03,2022

Kaieteur News

Growing dependence on online platforms exposes media houses to cyber threats – Media Associations

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Even as journalist across the globe observe World Press Freedom Day today, May 3, 2022, a call is being made by associations of media workers both locally and regionally, for those in the fraternity to be safeguarded against pervasive cyber threats.

In fact, this year’s World Press Freedom Day is being observed under the theme: “Journalism Under Digital Siege”.

This theme is apt because of the emergence of more online-based media and the transition to or convergence of conventional media to social media platforms.

Press alliances such as the Guyana Press Association (GPA) and the Association of Caribbean Media Workers (ACM) have raised concerns about the growing transition to information tech-

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nology systems, which exposes many media entities to online threats from spyware and ransomware.

In its statement issued on Monday, the GPA noted these viruses pose the severe risk of media houses by threatening their financial and technological existence.

The GPA held that ultimately, this will affect the public at large which the media serves and thus can affect the freedom of expression which is a fundamental human right.

The GPA also took the opportunity to urge journalists and media houses to take all necessary steps to guard and insulate themselves against such threats.

“No longer do State intelligence gathering agents have to monitor journalists and media houses around the world by their physical presence.

These can be done using spyware to ascertain journalists’ sources and so impose sanctions and take other actions against those sources and journalist themselves,” the GPA explained in the statement. The release went on to note that the Cyber Crime Act criminalises the transmission of certain information by electronic means.

“On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day 2022, we urge the Guyana government to assure journalists and media houses that it does not and will not utilise Spyware such as Pegasus.

Private individuals and organisations are also not immune from this call,” the GPA stated.

Additionally, the GPA noted that media houses should of necessity take the requisite action to minimise the surveillance and monitoring of their work in violation of the freedom to receive and impart ideas.

“Journalists are also urged to be wary of what they download and from which sources on their mobile phones and other electronic devices as such acts can potentially install Spyware that can access their information and contact,” the body added.

President of the GPA, Nazima Raghubir Meanwhile, in its release, ACM noted that journalists are increasingly falling prey to cyber security threats.

“These,” the ACM said, “can ultimately lead to physical harm of journalists, their sources and the damage or destruction of their Information Technology (IT) devices and infrastructure.”

According to the ACM, the environment within which journalists in the Caribbean operate is becoming increasingly perilous.

The body explained that, “even so, many countries have already enacted legislation to intercept communication and counter what they regard as cybercrime. There is evidence to support the view that cybercrime legislation can become abused and become problematic in the context of the preservation of free expression.”

In a number of Caribbean countries, the ACM noted that State entities have been accused of acquiring spyware that can access digital com-

munication and undermine privacy and other rights.

The ACM, therefore, urged Caribbean governments and their domestic allied institutions to take all necessary steps to ensure that journalists are not targeted with the intention of revealing the identity of confidential sources. “‘With most media and journalists having an online presence, m e d i a e n t e r prises have become acutely aware of some inherent v u l n e r a b i l i t y.

These include exposure to hackers whose sole objective is to destroy channels that offend the public or private status quo and so inhibit the free flow of the truth to the wider public.

Equally, journalists and media houses are being advised to put in place the required measures to prevent, detect and block intrusions to their privacy and ultimately their software and hardware infrastructure,” the ACM said.

Diplomats underscore role of media in...

From page 15 under attack around the world.

They stressed that, “Media freedom also requires freedom from all forms of undue influence or pressure, be it political, economic or financial, so that they can report independently and objectively.”

The abuse and harassment of journalists while doing their jobs must also not be tolerated. Female journal-

ists and members of the LGBTQ community are often victims of inappropriate comments and sexual harassment and that must end.”

Further, in keeping with this year’s World Press Freedom Day theme, the Embassy noted that journalists are increasingly using a digital space, it is clear that bold action is needed from governments to acknowledge and address the evolving media environment.

“As the media continues to transform locally, the presence and voice of the Guyana Press Association is even more important, and we are also pleased to note Guyana’s membership in the Media Freedom Coalition.

Together, we must engage constructively to find practical solutions to protect the voices of journalists in both the traditional and digital space,” the statement added.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 17

Exxon subpoenaed by California AG for role in global plastic pollution crisis O

n T h u r s d a y, April 28, 2022, C a l i f o r n i a ’s attorney general subpoenaed American oil giant, ExxonMobil Corporation as part of what he described as a ‘first of its kind broader investigation’ into the petroleum industry for its alleged role in causing a global plastic pollution crisis.

According to a Guardian report, attorney general Rob Bonta, stated on Thursday that the petroleum industry for decades has encouraged the development and use of petroleum-based plastic products while seeking to minimise public understanding that their widespread use harm the environment and public health.

“Every week, we consume the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of plastic

through the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe,” he said, citing a 2019 study for the World Wide Fund for Nature environmental group.

It was reported that Bonta will consider whether petrochemical companies violated the law with their “historic and ongoing efforts to deceive the public”.

The attorney general also said ExxonMobil was subpoenaed as a significant source of global plastics pollution and for its alleged prominent role in public deception regarding plastics.

However, Exxon said in a statement that it is “focused on solutions and meritless allegations like these distract from the important collaborative work that is under way” with governments worldwide,

including California.

The company said it is the first to have “commercial-scale advanced recycling technology” at a large facility to convert used plastic into material that can be used to make new plastic.

According to the Guardian article, the American Chemistry Council representing plastic makers issued a statement saying that US “plastic makers are committed to a more sustainable future and h a v e p r o p o s e d comprehensive and bold actions at the state, federal, and international levels”.

Initiatives the industry group said it supports include requiring all plastic packaging in the US by 2030 to include at least 30 percent recycled plastic, making producers responsible for packaging to help increase

Body of man missing in Canje Creek tugboat mishap recovered

The body of Richard John has been recovered by coast guard ranks.

Still missing: Shellon Williamson

T

he body of Richard John of Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice was on Sunday afternoon recovered by coast guard ranks.

John and Shellon Williamson, his girlfriend, had gone missing after the tugboat they were in capsized in the Canje Creek Friday night at approximately 20:45hrs.

There were two survivors – the vessel’s captain, Dennis John, who is also the brother of Richard John, and Keon Jannis.

Region Six Commander, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud said that the body

was fished out of the Canje Creek on Sunday at approximately 17:00hrs in the very area that the vessel had capsized.

The captain, Dennis John, had said that his brother had gone out to buy chicken and he had just returned to the boat while he was cooking. Williamson, he said, had gone below the shed of the boat and in a matter of 15 minutes, she called out to them saying that there was water entering the vessel and that there was a huge hole in it. He said he jumped down and the water was already at his knee. His brother, he said, then jumped in and was trying to get the water out but the vessel leaned and capsized, trapping all three of them underneath.

As they all struggled to free themselves, John said he swam up and his brother was right behind. But the water was rough. He said when he surfaced, he did not see his brother nor Williamson and he decided to swim back down in an effort to save them. John said when he tried to open the door to the boat’s cabin, a mattress prevented him from doing so.

After he eventually managed to get it out of the way, the door was still stuck and at that point, he could not get in. He said he swam up back and ventured out for help and filed a report with the police.

Shortly after, the police and the coast guards returned to search for the missing persons but they were nowhere to be found.

recycling, and supporting a legally binding global agreement to confront the problem.

However, Bonta said the industry appears to have engaged in “greenwashing” for decades by leading consumers to believe that p l a s t i c s w e r e environmentally friendly and can easily be recycled.

That marketing effort made “people comfortable to consume more and purchase more plastic,” he said. “And that is really the heart of the deception that we’re going to investigate.”

Companies may have violated laws barring unfair competition, deceptive business practices, or making “greenwashing” illegal, Bonta said.

A civil lawsuit could seek fines or damages, but

ExxonMobil CEO, Darren Woods

California Attorney General, Rob Bonta Bonta said his main goal is a legal order or a settlement requiring companies to clean up plastic waste, make plastics manufacturing changes and promote “nondeceptive ways of talking about plastics”.

“We’re really looking at the underlying issue of non-

recyclability, essentially, of plastics, and that is a major problem,” Bonta said. “And we’re investigating whether that was fuelled by a decades-old campaign of deception.”

There is no timeline for the completion of the investigation, but Bonta said it is proceeding “with a level of urgency”.

The Guardian further reported that, Bonta’s move comes amid growing awareness of the pervasiveness of discarded plastics and the role of “microplastic” waste in the food chain.

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03,2022

Volodímir Zelenski

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 19

Kaieteur News

Senegal sanctioned by FIFA for fan incidents during Egypt World Cup play-off PA Sport - African Cup of Nations winners Senegal have been fined and ordered to play a game behind closed doors for fan disorder during their World Cup play-off against Egypt, FIFA has announced.

The world governing body has imposed a onematch ban on spectators and a fine of 175,000 Swiss Francs – around £143,000 – on the Senegalese Football

Federation after Egypt players including Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah were targeted with lasers during the decisive penalty shootout in Dakar in March.

FIFA launched a probe into alleged breaches of order and security after the second leg of the play-off, which the home side had won 1-0 through Hamdi Fathi’s own goal to level the aggregate scores and take it to a shoot-

out. Footage from the game showed green lights visible on the faces of Egypt players as they stepped up to take their penalties.

Salah, Mostafa Mohamed and Ahmed Sayed all missed from 12 yards before the Reds striker’s club-mate Sadio Mane converted his attempt to win the shoot-out 3-1 and book Senegal’s place in Qatar.

The Egypt Football Association posted pictures of the

affected players on its Instagram page accompanied by the caption, “It happens to the best”, and also images apparently showing damage to the team’s bus.

Senegal’s victory mirrored their earlier success over the same opposition in the Africa Cup of Nations final in February, in which Mane also scored the decisive penalty in a shoot-out following a 0-0 draw.

Bradley Fredericks...

Tuesday May 03, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Days like today push you to act in the areas of your life where you may have hesitated before. Does your love life need a breath of fresh air?

Have you been dreaming of a nice candlelit dinner with your partner TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You face a day of some conflict, Taurus.

Nevertheless, the discord will prove quite useful. This is probably one of the best opportunities in recent weeks to become aware of some family matters.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) If you admit you've made a mistake, people are more likely to forgive you. You have a confrontational day ahead, Gemini.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You may have been wishing for some recognition and appreciation lately. Perhaps you had your eye on a promotion at work.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you happen to be training for a new trade, learning a new technique, or perhaps you're being evaluated after an internship period, you can expect these pursuits to conclude on a high note.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) Your natural compassion may have led you to choose a profession in which healing or helping other people is your primary duty.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You have a rather strange day in front of you, Libra.

The celestial atmosphere could be playing tricks on you. You might get aggravated for no reason at all, that is.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might be upset by certain financial matters today, Scorpio. Either you realize just how much you've been spending lately or you see that things will be tight in the months ahead. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Just for today, Sagittarius, ignore your habit of always trying to find an explanation for everything. Something is changing inside you and in the way you react to situations.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The planets want to make a deal with you today, Capricorn. Either you stay in bed fantasizing about life as a CEO or rock star or you get up, get dressed, and do what you have to do to make your dreams come true.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Today's planetary energies will be very demanding, Aquarius. As you agonize over whether or not you're up to “standard."

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You seem to want to become old and wise before your time, Pisces. Today's aspects will take you by the hand and lead you back into the heat of the action.

From page 23 participate in the ongoing inter county competition.

Ombudsman Peters then took charge and address the gathering making sure all criteria’s for the election were met.

Former Sports Officer Arnold Sukraj served as the Returning Officer. In a smooth process all of the persons elected on the Executives Committee were elected unopposed.

The others elected were Andrew Forsyte Vice President, Jacqueline Bourne Secretary, Fiona David Assistant Secretary, Jeremy Johnson Treasurer with Karen Smith the Assistant Treasurer. The four committee members are Wayne James, Shondel Williams, Trenton Peters and Devon Jones.

Fredericks thanked the GCB for their support and the members for re-electing him to the post. He promised that he and his committee will work hard to bring about the revival and to uplift the standards of the game at all levels including Under-15, 17, 19 senior and female.

The GCB executives including the President, Secretary and CEO gave short addresses and promised to give the UDCA their unstinted support.

Olympic champion...

From page 20 2016, holding off the challenge of Jamal Britt, who clocked 13.53 for second place and Barbadian Shane Braithwaite, who was third in 13.69.

In the long jump, the USA’s Kenturah Orji jumped 6.69m to defeat her friend and former roommate Chanice Porter of Jamaica. Porter unleashed a jump of 6.59m to

take silver by one centimetre ahead of Ese Brume (6.58m).

Former Hydel and Kansas State high jumper Kimberly Williamson cleared 1.85m for third place in the high jump won by Vashti Cunningham, who soared over 1.90m for victory.

Rachel McCoy was second by virtue of a cleaner record on the day having also bowed out at 1.85m.

Rana and Singh help...

From page 22 second half-century of this IPL, 54 off 49 balls.

Samson put on 48 with Buttler and 35 with Karun Nair.

But the Royals’ innings never generated any real momentum.

Samson’s dismissal in the 18th over proved to be the turning point.

Shimron Hetmyer lashed an unbeaten 27 from 13 balls, including two sixes, but Rajasthan finished with a below-par score.

“They bowled well on a slow wicket,” Samson said.

“With the kind of batting we have, we would have liked a few more boundaries at the end. We were short by 15-20 runs. We fought well with

PAGE 20

Day 1 Harpy Eagles’ practice game at Everest

Paul’s XI hold slight advantage at end of opening day

By Sean Devers Leon Johnson’s XI were 18-3 in reply to the 177 all out made by Keemo Paul’s XI at the end of the first day of the first Harpy Eagles three-day practice game at Everest yesterday.

On a day in which 13 wickets fell and no batter got to a fifty, Paul’s XI were bowled in the final session with Akshaya Persaud making 35 from 83 balls with three boundaries but only Kemol Savory with 23 with two fours and the game’s only six, of the other batters managed to reach 20 on a track with some bounce and sluggish outfield in bright sunshine.

West Indies T20I OffSpinner Kevin Sinclair who bowled much slower and extracted more turn than he has done in the past, had 3-28 from 13 overs, while there were two wickets each for pacer Demitri Cameron and leggie Steven Sankar.

By the time stumps were draw, Johnson’s XI were 18-3 with Chanderpaul Hemraj (11), Trevon Griffith (0) and teenager Mavindra Dindyal (0) all back in the pavilion.

Skipper Johnson and Vishaul Singh, both on three, were together at the close and will need to put together a good partnership to keep their team in the game after fast bowler Ronsford Beaton removed Hemraj and Griffith, while Sylus Tyndell got rid of Dindyal to leave the score on

Tuesday May 03, 2022

Kaieteur News

Jamaica, Dom. R ep. advance to Rep. quarter -finals following victories quarter-finals over Cuba and Haiti, rrespectively espectively

Akshaya Persaud top score with 35 yesterday at Everest. (Sean Devers photo) 11-3 in the 3.2 overs in overcast conditions.

Earlier, Cameron got rid of West Indies U-19 batter Matthew Nandu who hit two fours in 17 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul, who fell for a painstaking 21 from 81 balls after Shamar Joseph had sent back Tevin Imlach (3). Nandu and Imlach fell in the space of three runs to leave Paul’s XI on 38-2 before Chanderpaul departed at 50-3 and Kevlon Anderson and Savory took the score to 57-3 by Lunch from 26 overs.

After the interval with Anderson looking set on 19 from 53 balls with three fours, he edged one that left him from Clinton Pestano to be caught behind at 74-4 before

Persaud was caught and bowled low down by Sinclair after surviving a confident appeal for caught behind and at Tea the score was 123-5.

After the break, Sankar got rid of Savory while Paul (1) ran past Sinclair and was stumped before he induced Junior Sinclair (18) to go for a big shot with a nicely flighted delivery which he slashed high to point for Cameron to take the catch and leave Paul’s XI at 148-8.

Anthony Adams (12), Nial Smith (10) and Richie Looknauth (11 not out) all got into double figures to take their team to their eventual total.

Today is the second day and play is scheduled to start at 09:30 hrs.

Jamaica players celebrate a goal during the match.

SportsMax - The Round of 16 of the 2022 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Championship in the Dominican Republic finished on Sunday with another four teams advancing to the quarterfinal round.One of the big winners of the day was the host nation Dominican Republic. In what is their first-ever CWU17, the Caribbean side is now through to the final eight after posting a 2-0 win over neighbours Haiti at the Estadio Panamericano in San Cristobal.The decisive scores came shortly before halftime, with two goals in the span of three minutes.Maria Torreira broke the deadlock in the 39’ to make it 1-0, before the lead was doubled for good, 2-0, in the 42’ by Julia Jimenez.The

first game of the day at the Estadio Panamericano saw El Salvador march to a commanding 10-0 win over Saint Kitts and Nevis.Braces from Carolina Ayala (1’, 4’), Sarina Villa (77’, 82’) and Karoline Velasquez (83’, 87’) were accompanied by goals from Mia Arevalo (42’), Cynthia Ramirez (44’), Victoria Sanchez(45+1’) and Yaneth Sotelo (50’) for the Cuscatlecas.

Canada’s Rosa Maalouf continued her impressive CWU17 campaign by scoring a hat trick to lead Canada to a 4-1 win versus Honduras at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez in Santo Domingo.It was a rocky start for Canada, however, as Honduras grabbed a lead in the 28’

through Susan Henriquez. But soon Canada countered through Maalouf, who scored her first of the day in the 34’ to bring Canada level, 1-1. The second half then belonged to the North Americans with Maalouf scoring in the 49’ and 82’, followed by Amanda Allen in the 88’.With her three goals on the day, Maalouf is the current top scorer in the tournament with nine goals.Rounding out the day was Jamaica, who downed Cuba 4-0 at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez.Natoya Atkinson bagged a brace (2’, 59’), while Shaneil Buckley (53’) and Dannique Wilson (73’) tacked on scores to pace the Reggae Girlz to the victory.

Olympic champion Parchment clocks 13.47 into headwind in triumphant return to Drake Relays

Olympic champion Hansle Parchment has two wins from two starts so far this season.

SportsMax - Olympic champion Hansle Parchment has two wins from two starts so far this season after he strode to victory in the 110m hurdles at the 2022 Drake Relays at the Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa on Saturday.

Running into a stiff headwind of -2.5m/s, 31-yearold Tokyo Olympic gold medallist, clocked 13.47 to follow up on his victory at Velocity Fest 11 at the National Stadium in Kingston on Saturday, April 23. Then he ran a fast 13.20, a time that was the

world lead for a few hours before the USA’s Devon Allen ran 13.12 in Annapolis.

On Saturday, Parchment who had his first injury-free season in a number of years proved unbeatable in his first race in Des Moines since (Continued on page 19)

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Space Gym 2.0 officially commissioned - Sport Minister advises to ‘double-down’ in feature address The Spin Room has a top notch set up.

The cardio equipment are all Hammer Strength and Life Fitness branded.

Space gym has taken a leap ahead of the competition so that Guyanese can take a step in the right direction with health and fitness.

On Sunday evening the wait ended when Space Gym 2.0 was officially commissioned and marked the momentous day, 01/05/22, into the history books. The state of the art facility is located on the top flat of the Royal Orchid Hotel and Mall, Mandela Avenue.

The ambience for the simple ceremony was set and included CEO Sergio Matos, Managing Directors Lucas and Amanda Matos, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Honorable Charles Ramson Jr., Royal Orchid Investor, James Wang, several sporting personalities and partners.

Delivering the feature ad-

dress was the Honourable Minister Ramson who said: “I want to share the reason that I came here. To let you understand that this is more than an opening of a gym for me.

This is a signal; it’s a very strong signal. I’ll use the word that Lucas used in his speech, ‘conviction’. It’s about conviction and belief and having the confidence of big investments.”

He continued: “A bold understanding of where the vision is. I wanted to frame that because I want you to really understand how important appreciating the arrow of time for the Country is and how important it is as well.

That for everyone here and everyone who is paying attention to what’s happening in Guyana how important it is to double-down now.”

He educated the gathering on Guyana’s rapid rise in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the past few years to arrive at point of the Country’s progression.

“Why that’s important is because if you understand the arrow of time and the arrow of time is saying that there’s a lot better to come. It means that you begin to double down, you know that this is the time that you’ve got to really invest, think big and coordinate your activities.”

Minister Ramson added, “I would like to wish you, Sergio and Lucas, all the best for your gym and all of your business investments and your bold ideas and I’m doubling down today. And I would like to encourage everyone today to seize the opportunity. Now is the time for

NBA play-offs: Warriors and Bucks win first game of conference semi-finals BBC Sport - The Golden State Warriors took a 1-0 lead in their NBA play-off Western Conference semi-final with a thrilling 117-116 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

Klay Thompson hit a three-pointer to put the Warriors ahead late on, only to then miss two free throws.

But Grizzlies guard Ja Morant could not convert a contested lay-up at the buzzer as the Warriors held on.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 101-89 Eastern Conference semi win over the Boston Celtics.

Antetokounmpo, twice the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, recorded a triple double with 24 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists for the defending champion Bucks as they took a 1-0 series lead in Boston.

Bucks guard Jrue Holiday

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson hit the winning three-pointer against the Memphis Grizzlies scored a game-high 25 points, while Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 21 points.

The Warriors played the entire second half without key forward Draymond Green after he was ejected for a flagrant-two foul - the NBA rulebook’s name for unnecessary and excessive contact on Brandon Clarke shortly before half-time.

Jordan Poole starred for the visitors in Memphis by scoring 31 points, while Stephen Curry added 24.

Morant hit 34 points and Jaren Jackson Jr made 33 for the Grizzlies but Thompson, who made only six of 19 attempts, overcame a poor shooting performance to hit the ultimately decisive basket.

us to move in the same direction and see the bigger vision; every one of us to see the bigger vision and to partake in the bigger vision is now.”

Prior to the Minister’s encouraging speech, Lucas Matos took the opportunity to welcome the multitude to the realisation of a dream which began in 2018.

“When we opened our doors in 2016 our objective was to redefine fitness through our facilities and provide the best quality and the best gym in Guyana for our members, so they can achieve their personal goals and transformations.”

“We saw that it was our responsibility to continuously improve our standards and members’ experience and

our business has grown based on that aspect,” the Managing Director disclosed.

That was when the team of Matos’ began envisioning Space Gym 2.0.

He continued: “Our new gym is a gym for everyone; from the most dedicated athlete to the zealous beginner, our trainers are here to make sure you get the right form and achieve your goals.”

“With our exclusive partnership with Life Fitness and Hammer Strength, we were able to bring 2022 top notch of the line equipment to provide the best and the most unique workout feeling. We are the only gym in Guyana and Caribbean to have a powerful and versatile line of strength and cardio equipment so it can help you to take

your workout to the next level and to push your limits.”

“So welcome everyone to your new gym. I would like to invite you to face the challenge, ‘to be bolder and to be greater’. So big challenge and here’s a new gym - Space gym 2.0,” he concluded.

When the ceremonial ribbon was clipped, a tour of the 15,000sq ft facility ensued to the delight of those present.

According to the Managing Director, the Gym officially opens to the public on Wednesday, May 5, from 5am to 10pm.

A day pass costs G$2,000 (10USD) while the monthly membership is pegged at G$14,000 (70USD). The other membership plans include Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual.

PAGE 22

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Street’ Linden edition resumes tonight All roads in the Mining Town of Linden will lead to the Silver City Hard-court tonight when the quarterfinal section in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Street’ commences with four matches.

What-Whap will face off with DC Ballers in the opening match at 19:00hrs. WhatWhap squeaked past Back Street Ballers 6-5, while DC Ballers dismantled Spikeland 3-0 in the previous round.

Tuesday May 03, 2022

Kaieteur News

In the second matchup 19:45hrs, defending champion Swag Entertainment opposes Dark Side. Swag Entertainment entered the quarterfinal section following an 11-0 mauling of Midas. On the other hand, Dark Side overcame Coomacka 2-1.

Amazings will then lock horns with High Rollers at 20:30hrs in the third fixture.

Amazings romped into the quarterfinal section at the ex-

pense of Universal Ballers in a 4-1 win, while High Rollers overcame Hill Side Ballers 2-0 in their previous match. In the final fixture, Silver Bullets take aim at Germans from 21:15hrs.

Bullets edged Trend Setters 3-2 to seal their place in the elite eight section, while Germans downed Good Fellas 20 in the earlier round of 16 section. The respective winners will advance to the semifinal round.

Magnum Independence Cup…

Bent Street, Future Stars feature in goal-frenzy wins Defending champion Bent Street, Future Stars, Showstoppers, and Belfield Warriors earned victories when the Magnum Independence Cup continued on Sunday at the National Park Tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Bent Street crushed Vene Stars 7-3. Sheldon Forde recorded a hat-trick in the 18th, 22nd, and 24th minutes, while Wayne Lawrence netted a double in the 10th and 19th minutes.

Adding goals in the fourth and 16th minute respectively were Pernell Schultz and Daniel Wilson.

For the loser, Alberto Hernandez scored twice in the 15th and 23rd minutes while Jose Vasquez netted in the 10th minute.

Future Stars downed Agricola 5-3. Raushan Ritch recorded a first-half double in the fourth and fifth minutes, while Keron Solomon tallied a second-half brace in the 19th and 23rd minutes.

Daniel Ross opened the scoring for the eventual winner in the third minute. On tar-

get in the loss were Kevin Padmore, Collis Samuels, and Kacy John in the 15th, 20th, and 22nd minutes respectively.

Showstoppers edged Leopold Street 4-3. Marvin Josiah recorded a brace in the ninth and 20th minutes, while Dexroy Adams and Luiroy Nievelder scored in the 19th and 24th minute respectively.

For Leopold Street, Derwin George amassed a brace in the eighth and 16th minutes while Samuel Hunte scored in the 23rd minutes.

Belfield Warriors defeated Festival City 2-1. Alden Lawrence and Colin Richmond scored in the eighth and 27th minutes respectively. For the loser, Tavel December netted in the 14th minute.

In other results, North East La Penitence and Tiger Bay battled to a 1-1 draw.

Also, Stabroek Ballers defeated Ansa McAl 2-0. The event continues today at the same venue with the final round of group fixtures.

In the opening match, Agricola oppose Vene Stars

from 19:00hrs, while Melanie battle Mocha at 19:30hrs, and BV face off with Albouystown at 20:00hrs. In the fourth clash, Alexander Village engage East Front Road from 20:30hrs, whilst Back Circles tackle Sophia from 21:00hrs, and Sparta Boss match skills with Avocado Ballers at 21:30hrs.

In the final two fixtures, Gold is Money take aim at Road Warriors from 22:00hrs, and Bent Street oppose Future Stars from 22:30hrs.

The winner of the tournament will collect the package of $700,000, and the championship trophy, while the runner-up will receive $400,000 and the corresponding accolade.

The third and fourth place finishers will walk away with $200,000 and $100,000, respectively.

The other sponsors of the event are MVP Sport, Nigel Hind Financial Services, Andrews Supermarket, Bold Expressions Barbershop, Fireside Grill ‘N’ Chill, Star Party Rentals, and Lucozade.

Rana and Singh help Kolkata chase down Rajasthan in IPL MUMBAI, India (AP) — Nitish Rana and Rinku Singh combined for an unbeaten 66 to lead Kolkata Knight Riders as they chased down Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in the Indian Premier League yesterday.

Rana was 48 not out off 37 balls and Singh made 42 not out off 23 balls for Kolkata to reach 158-3 with five balls to spare in reply to Rajasthan’s 152-5.

Kolkata moved to just outside the top four, while Rajasthan’s second straight defeat kept it at third on the table.

Chasing 153, Kolkata did not get off to a good start.

Openers Aaron Finch (4) and Baba Indrajith (15) went cheaply to leave the team 322.

Rana added 60 runs off 43 balls with skipper Shreyas Iyer to steady the innings.

Iyer scored 34 off 32, including three fours and a six, before falling to Trent Boult.

Rana carried on to the end with Singh, finishing with three fours and two sixes.

Singh hit six fours and a six in their 38-ball partnership.

Rajasthan opener Jos Buttler suffered a rare failure when he was out for for 22

Nitish Rana and Rinku Singh added an unbroken 66 for the fourth wicket. (BCCI

Shimron Hetmyer found his bearings from the get-go as he guided Rajasthan to a strong finish. (BCCI)

off 25 balls to Tim Southee, and the team was 55-2 in 8.3 overs.

Skipper Sanju Samson stemmed the trouble with his (Continued on page 19 )

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 03, 2022

PAGE 23

GCA’s Trophy Stall, Ramchand Auto Spares & Survival Group of Companies U-19 Cricket continues

By Sean Devers A belligerent 27-ball 69 from West Indies U-19 fast bowler Isaiah Thorne with support from Rasheed Gaffor (47) and Romeo Deonarain (45) spurred 4R Lions to a 136-run victory over a GT XI on Sunday in a truncated GCA’s Trophy Stall, Ramchand Auto Spares & Survival Group of Companies U-19 Cricket match at the Queens College ground.

The trio were mainly responsible for 4R Lions reaching an imposing 243-9 in their allotted 35 overs as leg-spinner Reyad Latif captured 4-54 from seven overs while fellow leg spinner Stephon Sankar took 3-36.

The GCA side were bowled out for 107 in 25.4 overs with Joshua Daniels (30) and Rokham Gabriel (14) reaching double figures.

Extras top scored with 35 with the wayward Thorne bowling 10 wides and three no-balls in his three overs.

West Indies U-16 allrounder Rampertab Ramnauth had 4-22 while

Reyaz Latif took 4-54 against GT X1 on Sunday.

(Sean Devers photo)

4R Lions Romeo Deonarain punches for off side runs during his 45 on Sunday. (Sean Devers photo)

Isaiah Thorne deposits the ball into the GTA ground during explosive 69 at QC ground on Sunday.

(Sean Devers photo) Matthew Pottaya and Romel Budwa took two wickets each.

With no covers available at the QC number two ground, a wet pitch delayed the start by 195 minutes and 4R Loins won the toss and opted to bat on a sluggish track and slow outfield.

They were off to fair start in the game reduced from 50 to 35 overs before Ramnauth was removed for 15 with two fours and a six.

Deonarain continued to

bat sensibly; facing 80 balls and hitting three fours in his knock, and along with Gaffor, who stroked the ball well during his innings, which contained four boundaries from 48 balls, strengthened their position before they were both removed.

But the 17-old Thorne launched a brutal assault hitting seven sixes, some landing in places where they were not found and at one point, with white balls were

running out, the idea of using a red ball was a realistic one.

The Berbician, who also reached the boundary five times, brought up his fifty with a gigantic six and continued to go after the bowlers before he ran past a flighted delivery from leftarm spinner Brandon Henry and was bowled.

But by then the damage had been done and getting almost 250 in 35 overs was always going to be beyond the GT XI batters playing in

tournament in which general standard is very poor with players as young as 10 participating in a U-19 competition.

When the GT XI began their run chase, Throne, with still another year at the U-19 level, hit opener Emmanuel Lewis on his hip with a full toss forcing him to retire hurt.

The pacer, giving the impression that he was not taking the opposition seriously and bowling off a shorted run-up, produced three consecutive off-side wides, two more down the

leg-side and followed them up with no-ball in a very long second over.

Burly left-hander Gabriel looked to counterattack and reached the boundary thrice in his 14, including an inside edge off Thorne to fine-leg, before he was caught and bowled by Ramnauth at 38-1.

However, only Daniels who reached the boundary twice and cleared it once in his 30 from 40 balls before he was removed by Deonarain, as none of the other batters, reached double figures.

Bradley Fredericks returned unopposed as President of Upper Dem Cricket Association

By Samuel Whyte The Upper Demerara Cricket Association (UDCA), which is a member of the Demerara Cricket Board, held its Annual General Meeting and Election of Officer bearers on Saturday 30th April at The Watooka Guest House in Linden Region 10. That body is responsible for the conduct of cricket in the Upper Demerara Upper

Berbice (Region10) District.

Long serving sports personality and former cricketer and administrator Bradley Fredericks was elected unopposed to serve as President for another term.

Fredericks, who was an ardent cricketer in his younger days, is a member of the Royal Champions Cricket Club.

The meeting was well attended with nine of the

Some of those in attendance at the Upper Demerara Cricket Association AGM.

member clubs present.

Namely West Watooka C r i c k e t C l u b , Yo u n g Achievers CC, Royal Champions CC, Ituni Warriors CC, Christiansburg CC, Coomacka CC, Malali CC, Aroiama CC and Speightland CC. Absent were Dora, Muritaro, Bayrock, Bosai CC, Yariah CC, Kwakwani CC and Uprising CC. The Mackenzie Sports Club is presently seeking to re-

GCB president Bissondial Singh shares a moment with the newly elected members of the UDCA with President Bradley Fredericks sitting centre. establish their membership.

The meeting was also graced with the presence of a number of executives of the Guyana Cricket Board

(GCB) led by President Bissoondyal Singh, Secretary Ronald Williams, CEO Claude Raphael and Assistant Secretary Davteerth Anandjit among others.

Cricket Ombudsman Malcolm Peters was also in attendance.

The meeting was called to order by President Fredericks who welcomed all present. The President, Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were read and well received.

The president was high in praised for the work of the DCB and the GCB and the assistance they have given the UDCA. Fredericks highlighted

that there is a breadth of fresh air in the country with the election of the new DCB and GCB. He mentioned that over the past 11 years the UDCA was sidelined and victimized by the previous administrators. Now the game is being allowed to flourish.

Highlighting that the UDCA was able to field a representative U 15 cricket team that took part in the recently completed DCB Inter Association cricket competition, he stated that the players never played hard ball cricket, but were eager to play. One person from the U15 team was subsequently selected to (Continued on page 19)

rts Spo

The Minister of Sport, Honourable Charles Ramson Jr, had the opportunity to attempt the symbolic ribbon cutting ceremony of Space Gym 2.0 alongside Managing Director, Lucas Matos (centre). CEO Sergio Matos (right), Foreign Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Robert Persaud, and his wife all shared in the momentous act.

Space Gym 2.0 officially commissioned - Sport Minister advises to ‘double-down’ in feature address

The Spin Room has a top notch set up.

Bradley Fredericks returned unopposed as President of Upper Dem Cricket Association

Day 1 Harpy Eagles’ practice game at Everest

Paul’s XI hold slight advantage at end of opening day

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