Kaieteur News

Citizens call on K NEWS Guyana Govt. to cut ties with Israel now AIETEUR

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

Wednesday Edition November 01, 2023 - Vol. 18 No. 42

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 (VAT Inclusive) readership yesterday, 59,584

Jagdeo as opposition Raphael leader approved of Trotman

Coalition’s massive reveals

tax giveaway to Exxon US$40 million to expand Eccles dumpsite road Man shoots, robs Brazilian after collecting “a raise” Guyanese couple wins two shallow water blocks Procurement body to move to Guyana asks World Court to block High Court after tender board

Venezuela from ‘seizing, acquiring refuses to release ‘Critics’ or encroaching upon Essequibo’ $865 million contract details

Auditors could not check expenses for over 1000 travel records for Exxon …found oil giant’s accounting extremely tedious, requiring intensive concentration and diligence to understand

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday Novermber 01, 2023

Wednesday November 01, 2023

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Govt's draft gas strategy falls short in outlining achievable steps for Guyana's gas monetization

T

he Government of Guyana (GOG) on Monday unveiled its draft Gas Monetization Strategy for public consultation. This strategy is a pivotal roadmap aimed at managing the nation's substantial gas resources. It also plays a crucial role in helping Guyana make informed decisions concerning the use of these gas resources.

H o w e v e r, f r o m a n analysis of the document, it is evident that the strategy leaves much to be desired in terms of concrete, achievable steps for gas monetization.

Guyana is actively pursuing the use of natural gas in the Liza One and Liza Two fields for the Gas-toEnergy (GTE) project.

ExxonMobil Guyana will fund a 12-inch pipeline for transporting the resource to Wales, where a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) plant will treat and separate the gas for use in the power plant. The power plant aims to generate 300 megawatts of electricity for the national grid and produce products like cooking gas for sale, aligning with the administration's goal of energy self-sufficiency.

Despite some expert concerns about the project's nearly US$2 billion cost, the government remains resolute about its viability.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, had previously been enthusiastic about releasing the draft gas strategy for public input, highlighting its significance in the government's broader plan to monetize the substantial 17 trillion cubic feet of gas discovered in the Stabroek Block. He emphatically stated, "We've made it clear; we want to monetize our gas assets. This strategy will outline our approach to the industry."

Yet, as citizens begin to analyze the document for the two-week period, it is essential to remember that ongoing exploration and appraisal activities are still underway to determine the full extent of Guyana's gas reserves. This uncertainty adds an extra layer of complexity to the monetization strategy.

The draft gas strategy extensively discusses the various options available for the utilization of natural gas, but falls short of providing a clear and detailed roadmap for Guyana to transform these options into reality. This discrepancy raises questions

about the feasibility and practicability of the government's approach.

The document dedicates a significant portion to the role of natural gas in the energy transition. It highlights natural gas as a cleaner and lower CO2emitting alternative to coal, gasoline, and diesel. It further mentions the significant growth in renewables, emphasizing the value of natural gas, particularly through Combined Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGTs), as a short to medium-term solution to complement intermittent renewables.

The consultants who prepared the strategy stressed that technological advancements have made renewable energy more affordable, but natural gas remains competitive due to its reliability and efficiency.

Despite the growth of solar power, the draft document maintains that natural gas for power generation continues to be competitive, even in the face of falling renewable energy costs.

The document states, "Natural gas is an abundant, reliable, and low-cost fuel when compared to most energy sources and is particularly well suited as a competitive and economical solution in power generation, complementing renewables intermittency." It specifically highlights CCGTs as the most efficient thermal power generation technology.

In this context, it was stated that it is essential to recognize that CCGTs can be developed and constructed much faster than other thermal and nuclear plants.

While constructing a CCGT power plant typically takes two to three years, nuclear plants can take up to seven years, and coal plants up to five years. This emphasis on natural gas's reliability and efficiency is undoubtedly c r u c i a l i n t h e e n e rg y transition, as it can provide a reliable source of power while renewable technologies continue to evolve.

The document also emphasizes the role of natural gas in balancing power generation requirements as coal and oilbased fuels contribute less in today's world where governments are pushing for cleaner environmental policies. The transition to renewable energy is ongoing, but given the current high

Guyana by 2035 to cover peak capacity plus reserve margins is approximately 250 MW, according to the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This makes the current 50 MMscf/d (Million standard cubic feet per day) feedstock level the most viable option.

However, the potential electricity supply gap depends on the extent and timing of renewable energy deployment in the country.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

President Irfaan Ali cost and technological limitations, renewables cannot provide an affordable and reliable grid availability to meet growing power demands. Natural gas, particularly in the form of CCGTs, is identified as a key player in bridging this gap during the energy transition.

The draft strategy underscores the complexity and challenges of monetizing indigenous gas reserves to the best advantage. It acknowledges the presence of multiple, often conflicting, financial, political, and economic forces that impact the process. Aligning the interests of the host

government, upstream companies, and other stakeholders is recognized as a significant challenge, involving factors such as domestic market requirements, development costs, local market affordability, and export options.

The document states, "There are a range of options available for utilization of natural gas," and it includes a graphic sourced from the United States Department of Energy, outlining these options.

In the section on gas monetization routes, the document acknowledges

gas-to-power generation as a potential route, citing the Government's Gas-toEnergy project set to begin in late 2024. It was stated that the growing electricity demand in Guyana is expected to create opportunities for a gas-fired power plant to meet commercial and residential demand for electricity. Also, it was noted that access to more reliable and affordable power generation can incentivize the development of new industries, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

The estimated additional firm capacity required in

Methanol Methanol production is another option discussed in the draft strategy. It explains that Methanol is a typical natural gas monetization route for sales into the global petrochemicals and fuels markets.

Methanol is produced from natural gas via a Synthesis gas (also known as syngas) process. The consultants note that Methanol is a globally important commodity chemical, with China being the largest producer and consumer, accounting for about 60% of methanol use.

The document highlights the growth of methanol use in (Continued on page 22)

Auditors could not check expenses for over 1000 travel records for Exxon ...found oil giant's “accounting extremely tedious, requiring intensive concentration and diligence to understand” A team of local and international auditors which examined ExxonMobil Guyana Limited's expenses incurred in the Stabroek Block totalling US$7.3B have made it clear that they were not able to examine every record of expenditure.

As an example of this, auditors attached to Ramdihal & Haynes Inc., Eclisar Financial, and Vitality Accounting & Consultancy Inc with backing from Martindale Consultants said there were more than 1,000 travel expense reports by ExxonMobil. Those records are for the period 2018 to 2020.

The report with the finding of the auditing team said, “We requested and reviewed the larger dollar ones as well as smaller dollar amounts expense reports where the contractor's information may have suggested a nonPetroleum Operations nature of the

expense.”

The report added, “We identified many travel expenses that were not for Petroleum Operations.” The auditors said many of these expenses it found were for corporate activities and had nothing to do with the petroleum operations in the Stabroek Block.

Auditors also outlined the complex nature of auditing Exxon's books as they said the company's accounting “is extremely tedious, requiring intensive concentration and diligence to understand.” Auditors outlined for example that Exxon has more than 180 files that costs are booked into, with many of those costs then flowing into a second set of folders and then further broken down into other tiers. There are even cases where a cost booked into one file must be traced through five other features to see the eventual

charge or full allocation.

Be that as it may, the auditors said they were able to understand a lot of Exxon's accounting which they believe will be invaluable when applied in future audits.

It should be noted that this audit report prepared by Ramdihal & Haynes Inc., Eclisar Financial, and Vitality Accounting & Consultancy Inc is yet to be released to the public.

Kaieteur News had previously reported that the audit contract that was awarded to Haynes and his team back in 2022 for US$751,000 had a strict four-month deadline for completion.

Notably, the US$7.3B costs which the auditors examined pertain to the investments for the Liza Phase One and Liza Phase Two Projects which are currently producing approximately 400,000 barrels of oil per day.

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday November 01, 2023

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

Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Everybody cashing in, why not Guyanese?

Wise business leaders in the global oil sector are already on the move, with not a second wasted. This is what came out of Wall Street Journal under the caption “The offshore oil business is gushing again” (January 21). It is by how much, and in how short a span of time. The numbers are revealing, with much meaning for Guyana, now in the thick of the oilproducing world.

There was a downturn in the oil business in 2014 due to its boom-and-bust nature. High shale oil production and OPEC’s resistance to reducing production levels led to oversupply and falling prices. Additionally, many corporate oil players had overextended themselves in the boom years, which is also a regular feature of a volatile commodity and sector. According to the Journal, in 2107, the worldwide fleet of offshore drilling ships was operating at about 63% of total capacity.

By December 2022, that had climbed to approximately 90%, due to booming business. Robert Eifler, the Chief Executive Officer of Noble Corp said that “after eight years, we basically have full utilization of the high-end drill ship fleet.” Full utilization is reason for gushing, grounds for oil CEOs to celebrate their turn of fortune.

There are about 600 drill ships globally, and around a third of those that are in working condition are concentrated in the waters of Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana. Guyanese should note how the drill ship companies raised the prices for leasing their vessels now back in a heavy demand environment. The price to lease a drill ship was less than US$200,000 two years ago. It then increased by 50% to US$300,00 early in 2022, and another 50% (100% altogether) to US$400,000 in recent times. The forecast of industry analysts is for US$500,000 per ship by next year. So, in three short years, the price being charged by drill ship companies is set to increase by a total of 150% from where it was in 2020. In short, drill ship companies and their CEOs are cashing in while the new boom is in swing, and the going is good.

This is the oil environment and business climate in which oil-producing Guyana finds itself. The opportunities could not be more favourable, for the information coming out of Hess Corporation is that it is putting 80% of its budget in two places: the US and Guyana. With such a concentration of funds, there is an opening for us, especially since ExxonMobil is not lagging in its own investment contributions to its Guyana oil portfolio. Now the same John Hess has just cashed in on his selling of his company’s Guyana partnership interest to Chevron. A company in the doghouse is now in the penthouse, thanks to Mr. Hess’s slick moves that generate a bonanza for his shareholders and himself.

Shipbuilders, ship owners, shareholders, and sharp corporate salesmen are all cashing in on Guyana’s treasure that is reaped, even looted. Yet, the PPP/C Government is stuck in two unmoving positions: the APNU+AFC is continually blamed for tying Guyana’s hands with ExxonMobil; and leaders have manifested a marked preference for sitting on their hands and hiding under sanctity of contract.

Meanwhile, more is being charged for oil products, drill ship operators are charging more for their vessels, and oil companies are enjoying more profits. Look how John Hess cut his own card, rewarded himself with trumps. In this enriching environment, government and leaders are happy to sit still, keep their lips sealed, and take whatever Guyana gets.

To present differently, the same PPP/C Government, both when it was in the opposition and on its return to power, denounced in the worst terms the vile ExxonMobil contract, only for its leaders now to resist fiercely any calls, any moves, for its renegotiation, so that Guyana can get more money in royalties, taxes, and through ringfencing.

Corporate leaders are charging ahead to cash in by charging more for their boats and services, while Guyana Government leaders are downing their heads, downing tools, and down and out where getting more (charging) for our oil is concerned.

No government, no leader, no political opposition, no society can be this slack, this bankrupt in courage and simple business wisdom.

There is no excuse that can justify physical abuse of women and perpetrators must be seen as monsters DEAR EDITOR, I was making my way along the train line in the Half Mile/ Silvertown area when I stumbled upon one of the most brutal beatings of a woman I experienced. I was a teenager still attending secondary school. My destination was supposed to be Paddy Creek at West Watooka.

I loved swimming there after school, sometimes on my own. One day, I saw a man punched a woman so hard to the face she fell backwards and landed on her buttocks. He then kicked her in the face. She laid flat on the ground. He grabbed her up and as she stood shakily and dazed, he began punching her with his right fist while holding her with

his left hand to prevent her from falling.

I was a diminutive child that hated violence. I never got into any real fights at school because my first inclination was to disappear from the scene and I achieved that feat by running as fast as I could. I could not intervene to save her, so I ran to the road, stopped a car and asked the driver if he was going in the direction of the police station at Wismar. The driver dropped me off and I ran into the station and told the policeman what I experienced. The policeman is still around. I think he lives in West Watooka. He is very light-skinned. I don’t recall his name. I would be lying if I told you how I got back to the scene of the beating with

the policeman but when we got there, the man was still beating the woman. That would have been fifteen minutes later.

The man saw us and ran in the direction of the big brown sand area that led to the main road in the vicinity of the Demerara River near the Mackenzie Bridge. We pursued him. The policeman stopped, aimed his revolver and fired a shot in the direction of the fleeing abuser. I saw him fell and thought he was hit but he had actually thrown himself to the ground and pretended to be dead. He was arrested and taken to the station. I went home worried that I could have caused a man to be shot and killed by law enforcement but the rage

inside of me from what I saw that woman was subjected to by her abuser, quickly evaporated my worry about his mortality.

The abuser was from the One Mile area near the popular venue we called Rusty. I saw him years later at Ryan’s shop on the Mackenzie Market. He did not recognise me. He was gainfully employed at the bauxite company and I gathered that he had become a good citizen. I don’t know if he was jailed for that crime. The darkness of physical abuse that envelopes women across Guyana is prevalent and must be put in check. Their unheard screams are drowned out by the (Continued on page 6)

Graham’s Hall Primary is in a crisis DEAR EDITOR, Graham’s School is grappling with an escalating crisis that extends beyond a mere water shortage. Urgent attention from relevant authorities is needed to address an array of pressing issues that pose significant threats to the health, safety, and overall functionality of the school.

Water Crisis, Traffic Chaos, and Pedestrian Perils: The water scarcity issue at Graham’s School is exacerbated by empty water tanks, leaving the school community without essential resources for hygiene and

sanitation. Concurrently, chaotic parking on the road has led to vehicles getting stuck, creating a hazardous environment. The absence of police presence to control traffic for the temporary twoway flow and the lack of designated pedestrian crossings intensify the risks faced by parents and students navigating the school premises.

Inadequate Infrastructure and Emergency Preparedness: The deteriorating state of washroom facilities, with missing bolts, handles, and water for flushing, poses a direct threat to the health and

well-being of students, particularly young girls.

Furthermore, the absence of a secondary exit in the event of an emergency compounds the safety concerns. The sole gate, small and not easily accessible, raises serious apprehensions about the school’s preparedness to handle a calamity effectively.

Call to Urgent Action: G r a h a m ’s S c h o o l urgently implores relevant authorities, including local representatives and government agencies, to comprehensively address these critical issues. From the water crisis to traffic

management, pedestrian safety, and the dire state of infrastructure, swift and decisive action is imperative for the well-being and safety of our students. Neglecting these concerns not only compromises the health and safety of the school community but also poses a serious threat to the functionality of the school in times of emergency. The responsibility to intervene rests with those entrusted with the welfare of educational institutions, and immediate measures are needed to avert a potentially catastrophic situation.

Concerned Parent

Winrock’s fraudulent award of forest-based carbon credits in December 2022 including stolen rights over titled Amerindian forests DEAR EDITOR, You extracted from a Press release by the Office of the Vice-President in your article ‘APA withdraws from Carbon Credits appeal process’ (SN October 30, 2023).

The Vice President’s Office is yet again misleading the people of Guyana by implying that the National Toshaos Council (NTC) has authority to surrender control to the Guyana Forestry Commission of forest on titled Amerindian Village Lands. The NTC has no such authority.

Only a properly convened Village Meeting can approve such

s u r r e n d e r, Vi l l a g e b y Village, as written in the Amerindian Act (cap. 29:01 2006). I quoted the exact wording of the relevant sections of that Act in my letter which SN published on 13 December 2002 (‘Gov’t and its partner Winrock have illegally arrogated to themselves the rights vested solely in Amerindian land title holders’).

Nothing has changed in the Amerindian Act since December 2022.

The Winrock award to Guyana of 33.47 million jurisdictional carbon credits on December 01, 2022, includes credits estimated from the 2.299 million hectares of forest on

titled Amerindian lands.

Guyana’s immediate sale of 37.5 million carbon credits to the oil company Hess Corporation of the USA was fraudulent in that the government did not disclose that the credits included those misappropriated from A m e r i n d i a n s .

Winrock/ART and its auditor Aster Global Environmental Solutions and Hess Corporation all failed to carry out due diligence sufficient to detect the illegal seizure of Amerindian forest rights.

The Office of the Vice President itself has failed to carry out due diligence when making unreasonable

criticism of the sustained work of the Amerindian Peoples Association to uphold Amerindian rights.

The Office of the Vice President has asserted that the acceptance by A m e r i n d i a n Vi l l a g e Councils of allocations of money from the initial payments by Hess Corporation means that the Villages have accepted the illegal seizure of the rights over their forests.

Legally speaking, the Office of the Vice President is absolutely wrong, a disgrace to a high office in our land.

Your truly, Janette Bulkan

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

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This call should Govt. must play an active role in the not be heeded future development of golf in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, The putrid, anti-national call and stance taken and elaborated in the recital of measures to be first adopted, in order for a section of the population to show patriotic duty (if called upon) in the border controversy matter, (Guyana Standard October 31) conflicted with and flies in the face of the national position taken by both the government and opposition at their recent meeting. This anti-position must be roundly and soundly condemned and the opposition must lead the condemnation rebuttal. Both sides agreed to collaborate and be united in our national efforts to protect our country and territorial integrity. There were no conditions attached for the support of the opposition. In fact, the opposition has always been very clear and unequivocal in its support of the government regarding the border controversy, regardless of its differences with the government.

For a provocateur to come now with an agenda laced with racist and political overtones is nothing short of seeking to divide our country, in the face of acute adversary. Given this position, we do not need Venezuela’s Maduro to divide us; we have our own Maduro. Maybe we might have to resort to the deployment of the Wagner Group if the anti-call is heeded.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

Mahaica Police Station needs to do more to combat noise pollution DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the persistent issue of noise pollution in our community, specifically on Third Street, Helena Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. Often complaints would have been made to the Mahaica Police Station over the phone but the situation remains unchanged, causing significant distress to the residents in the area, myself included.

Regrettably, the Mahaica Police Station has not taken adequate measures to address these disturbances, even though complaints have been made over the phone.

Strangely, I have observed a discrepancy in the response of the police – while prompt actions have been taken in response to noise complaints from other areas, the situation at Third Street seems to be overlooked.

This issue reached an alarming peak last Sunday when loud music continued well into the early hours of the morning. Despite my attempts to sleep through the disturbance, I was abruptly awakened at 3 AM, and the music persisted until 4:15 AM. I had called the Mahaica Police Station at around 3:15 AM. The police station is 5 minutes away from the area. I am not certain if the music stopped because of their intervention or if the partygoers had enough at that time.

I urge the Mahaica Police Station to take this matter seriously and implement appropriate measures to curb noise pollution in our neighborhood. The right to peace and quiet is a fundamental one, and every resident deserves to live in an environment free from such disturbances. I implore the police to treat all complaints, regardless of their origin, with the same level of urgency and responsiveness.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and trust that the necessary actions will be taken promptly. Together, we can make our community a more peaceful and enjoyable place to live.

Yours sincerely, Resident of Helena Mahaica

DEAR EDITOR, The premier golf tournament on the local calendar is the Guyana Open. This year, it has been played as the GT&T Invitational but in the absence of an Open, this tournament will be considered by the golfing fraternity as the Open.

Regrettably, technically speaking the winner will be denied ownership of the highly coveted title of ‘Open Champion’ but cannot be denied that of being the champion golfer of the year.

This, however, is but a digression from the tournament itself, one that was played on a rock-hard Lusignan course due to the prolonged dry spell.

The bone dry and hard (clay) fairways, largely devoid of grass, meant that the bounce of both tee shots and approach shots were unpredictable, adding to the challenges that are part and parcel of a game that can be unforgiving.

Each of the ninety plus golfers that teed it up will have their own laments of what ‘unfair’ bounces they had but at the end of the day everyone played the same course and faced the same conditions.

The winner usually comes from the final group, i.e. players with the four lowest scores at the end of Day One. By this measure, the

defending champion, Av i n a s h P e r s a u d w a s considered to be out of the race.

At the end of the first day there were five players with better scores than him, these being Vishal Dhani (73), Marlon Abena (Surinam) (74), Mohanlall Dinanauth (74), Jalen Raman (Fiji) (75) and Ridel Doekoe (Surinam) (75). Avinash was four shots adrift of the leader and the whisper among the villagers was that there would be a new champion this year.

There were still 18-holes of golf remaining, however, and as four-times Major winner Padraig Harrington observed, it’s the back nine on the final round in Majors that determines the winner and where the mettle of players are tested.

In his eleven previous Open wins, Avinash had never not been in the final group on the final day but clearly statistics do not deter champions.

Undeterred by not being in the select final group, Av i n a s h p r o d u c e d a scintillating display of quality golf with a score of seventy-one, that was seven shots better than the next best, to win by four shots.

His even par score of 35 on the front-nine, fully erased the deficit with the final group.

Starting the back nine, however, he was one shot behind Jalen, with whom

he’s had ding-dong battles over the years. Jalen’s front nine score of 36 meant that Avinash had clawed back one of the two shots deficit he started day two with.

Though unnoticed the fight for the title was going to be between these two players who were not in the final group.

Returning to Padraig Harrington’s time-tested observation, the fight had now begun. Avinash wasted no time to show his resolve and mettle with an eagle (2 under par) on their 10th hole, the par-5, 11th hole. Jalen’s par score meant that he was now one shot behind Avinash and so the battle continued until his implosion at their 16th hole. Avinash’s eagle was followed by consecutive bogeys (one over par) on the next two holes.

His dry remark that ‘just like that the eagle flew away’! showed that he was not over-awed by the moment and stakes. He followed this with another bogey on the par-4, 14th.

Jalen had reclaimed advantage.

True champions dig deep however and consecutive birdies on two of the next three holes, one being arguably the most challenging hole, the par-3, 17th (with Jalen making a triple bogey six!) effectively saw the contest over. One will never know but it is suspected that Avinash’s

laser like tee shot on this par3 hole definitely added to the pressure of the moment, resulting in Jalen’s totally uncharacteristic triple bogey.

Sportswriters speak of an ‘Xfactor ’ which defines champions and interested persons can google this.

When it was all over, Avinash had for the 12th time proven his clear superiority as champion golfer of the year, in the process narrowly missing parring the course. It was also his ninth consecutive Open victory, his only loss being in 2013 to his younger brother Avinda.

Vi s h a l D h a n i a k a ‘Butters’ finished 2nd and Fijian, Jalen Raman, 3rd with total gross scores of 152 a n d 1 5 3 r e s p e c t i v e l y.

Congratulations to them both.

Editor, Guyana is now an oil-producing state with previously unimaginable revenues at its disposal.

Through your paper, a call is being made to the Ministries of Youth and Sports and Education to engage the 32years old Avinash to partner in the future development of golf in Guyana.

As the country with the fastest growing economy and highest per capita income, the game of golf should enter the mainstream of the national curriculum.

The government would do well to take the initiative.

Yours sincerely, Ronald Bulkan

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday November 01, 2023

Duo busted with unlicensed gun, ammo and handcuff

Loris House

Shakia Chase

Two men were arrested on Friday by police after the lawmen who were conducting a ‘stop and search’ exercise at Eccles Access Road, East Bank Demerara, found them in possession of an illegal firearm, ammunition, hand cuffs and foot cuffs.

According to the police, on Friday around 22:00 hrs at the Eccles Access Road in the vicinity of Sage Pond,

ranks stopped a white Toyota Allion vehicle, bearing registration PXX 9496, driven by 39-year-old Shakia Chase.

In the front passenger seat was 34-year-old Loris House, who reportedly had a black haversack on his lap and was acting suspiciously.

The police became suspicious and asked the men if they could conduct a search, to which they agreed.

Upon searching the car, the ranks discovered one pair of foot cuffs and two pairs of handcuffs and when questioned about the items, Chase said that the car did not belong to him. He was told of the offence committed and remained silent following his arrest.

In addition, in the black haversack which House had on his lap, the ranks found a

The black and silver .357 Magnum firearm along with the six .38 rounds of ammunition that the police found on the men. black and silver .357 Magnum firearm, along with six .38 rounds of ammunition. Police also found US$99 in the haversack.

When House was questioned, he stated that he is not the holder of a firearm

licence; he was then told of the offences committed, cautioned, and arrested. He reportedly told the ranks, “Is me gun.”

The duo was escorted to the Providence Police Station and placed in custody, pending charges.

End the Middle East Conflict DEAR EDITOR, Wars (terrorist attacks, all forms of organised, indiscriminate violence) bring misery on people. The innocent (including children, babies) get killed. A human catastrophe is unfolding in the Middle East; thousands have been killed and hundreds of thousands rendered homeless and without any food, water or shelter. The human tragedy is sad. Many are killed on account of faith and or ethnicity. The violence must end.

I denounced all forms of violence (massacres, kidnappings, malicious murders, terrorist attacks, etc.) in the Middle East and in Ukraine as well and urge our government to use whatever influence it has at the UN and at other international forums to appeal for an end to the violence. While far away from our shore, the wars in the ME and Ukraine also impact upon us – shipping and goods as well as fuel become more expensive. The war put

tens of millions of lives at risk.

There should be an immediate cease to allow food, water, and medicine to reach victims.

I appeal to the international community to send assistance to aid the hapless victims who are caught in wars, especially in the ME. They are suffering tremendously. I note that India’s Air Force has flown nearly 40 tons of medicine and food aid to the hapless Palestinians. Other countries, including Guyana (with food), should follow suit.

Honest brokers (countries friendly with both warring ethnic groups) should try to bring the warring parties together to end the bloodshed and indiscriminate destruction of buildings.

An effort must be made for reconciliation to be followed by a permanent solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

There is no excuse that can justify...

From page 4 acceptance of a culture that has no place in civilisation.

The law must now become more stringent and the society must be adamant that this scourge must no longer be accepted. There is no excuse that can justify physical abuse of women and the perpetrators must be seen as monsters in human form that have no right to roam free in society.

Celebrities in Guyana must not be exempted from the full force of the law. In fact, their involvement in such inhumane and abhorrent crime must be dealt with the severity that signals to all men in Guyana that we have arrived at the juncture where women are free not to be brutalised by men.

Sincerely yours, Norman Browne Social and Political Activist

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo in reacting to Chevron’s buyout of Hess Corporation’s 30% share in the Stabroek Block last week said Guyana is an attractive destination and that we should all be happy that the second largest US oil company is ready to invest billions here.

But what are we getting happy about Mr. Jagdeo?

Not a blind cent of that US$53B sale which comprises of 30% of the Stabroek Block is coming our way.

Hess, one predator has sold its 30% to another predator and their shareholders will continue to rape us of our oil in the Stabroek Block.

And Jagdeo wants us to be happy…!

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Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

Jagdeo as opposition leader approved of Coalition's massive tax giveaway to Exxon

D

uring his tenure as Opposition L e a d e r, D r.

Bharrat Jagdeo was a prominent and unwavering critic of the previous A P N U + A F C administration. He consistently claimed that the former regime had unduly granted significant concessions, essentially selling out the nation's patrimony to a consortium led by ExxonMobil in the oil rich Stabroek Block.

But did Dr. Jagdeo play any role in facilitating such concessions to Exxon and its partners? This implication is hinted at by the former

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, in his revealing new book, “From Destiny to Prosperity.”

Chartered Accountant a n d A t t o r n e y - a t - L a w, Christopher Ram is undertaking a thorough r e v i e w o f Tr o t m a n ' s publication.

In a recent segment of his analysis, which appeared in Stabroek News, Ram shed light on a pivotal revelation about Jagdeo from Trotman's work.

The columnist, referring to Chapter V of the book which deals with the Stabroek Block Petroleum

Agreement wrote, “The chapter discloses that prior to the tabling in the National Assembly of the Order to approve the tax concessions specified in the (Stabroek Block) Agreement, he (Trotman) had been informed that the Leader of the Opposition had been “briefed” on them a n d ' w o u l d o ff e r n o objection.'” Trotman did not name the Leader of the Opposition but at the time it was now Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

The column continued, “ Tr o t m a n c l a i m s t h a t unanimous approval was granted on August 8, 2016,

– Raphael Trotman more than 15 months before the agreement was released to the public…”

In light of the foregoing revelation, among others, Ram told this newspaper, in a brief comment, that it underscores all the more a need for a Commission of Inquiry into the APNU+AFC's mishandling of the 2016 agreement.

The order mentioned by Trotman was also reported on by this newspaper on August 10, 2016. Former Finance Minister, Winston

Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram Jordan had moved the motion to apply section 51 of the Petroleum Act, which allows for the waiver of the application of certain laws in favour of licensees with whom the government has entered into production share agreements.

Jordan had said too that the order provides investors with the necessary comfort and assurances that the agreement will be respected in its entirety. Since the

signing of the 2016 PSA, ExxonMobil and its partners which include Hess Corporation and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, have unlocked over 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent resources.

The partners also have over US$40B invested for five sanctioned oil projects.

It is currently in discussions with authorities to approve a sixth development worth almost US$13B.

CDB Funds Regional Gender Differential Labour Market Impact Study The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has provided US$362,300 to fund a Gender Differential Labour Market Impact Study (GDLMIS) in 15 Caribbean countries aimed at narrowing the gender gap in the Region's labour market post-COVID-19 pandemic.

The GDLMIS will include a baseline assessment of the socioeconomic situation and labour market structure in the Region before COVID19 and the pandemic's direct impact on national output and fiscal spending, assess gender access to credit for Micro, Small and Mediumsized Enterprises and the implications for entrepreneurship, identify

the most at-risk workers, and analyse policy response to identify gaps in design and implementation and solutions for improving g e n d e r e q u a l i t y. D a t a collected in the GDLMIS will inform decisions related to labour market shocks in times of crisis or rebuilding.

Countries that will participate in the study already have baseline data from previous Surveys of Living Conditions or Country Poverty Assessments.

In a press release, CDB said director of its Economics Department, Mr. Ian Durant, noted that with only eight years remaining to 2030, (Continued on page 9)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

PAGE 09

We are still divided when it comes to protecting our national patrimony

A

protest action was called last week to demand the oil companies operating in the Stabroek Block surrender the 20% of its oil blocks in accordance with the law.

Those carrying out the protest are fearful that if the oil companies are allowed to hold on to these blocks, they will use the time to survey the entire Stabroek Block and then to hand back to Guyana unproductive areas.

On the other hand, if Guyana reclaims its 20% of the Stabroek Block, it can be put out to auction and earn billions of dollars in the process.

That money can be used to double the salaries of public servants, nurses, teachers, and members of the disciplined services.

Even though the protest was poorly advertised, it did attract many vociferous protestors. It shows that the Guyanese people are aware of the many shortcomings and betrayals in the management of the oil and gas industry and that more of them are willing to come

forward and take a stand.

Presently, were the government and the Opposition to call a protest, the acts of provocation by Venezuela, it would be the biggest protest in the history of the country.

Tens of thousands of Guyanese are likely to turn out even though the threat of a Venezuelan invasion currently is remote because of the situation in that country.

Persons have asked how it is that Guyanese can be so united against Venezuela but so divided when it comes to the oil contract.

They have pointed to the fact that booth situations are tied to oil. Venezuela is raising the ante over its claim to Essequibo precisely because of the oil discoveries in the Stabroek Block which most Guyanese are now convinced was handed to the oil companies through a lopsided and disadvantageous agreement.

It is a contradiction that Guyanese can rage against Venezuela’s claim to our national patrimony but refuse to do so against the oil

companies that are raping this patrimony and shortchanging Guyana is the process.

The reason why more Guyanese are not taking to the streets over the oil deal is because of local political divisions. The PPPC supporters believe if they protest the failure of their party to renegotiate the oil deal, it strengthens the hand of the Opposition APNU+AFC which attempted to benefit from rigged elections in 2020.

The Opposition supporters on the other hand are reluctant to protest because the Production Sharing Agreement was signed by their government.

They fear that by protesting this would amount to a denunciation of the APNU+AFC. Politics in Guyana has been reduced to a zero-sum game. Anything that is construed as benefitting the government is shunned upon

by Opposition supporters and vice versa.

A second reason for the fact that the turnout at the protests is not larger is

CDB Funds Regional Gender Differential...

From page 8 Caribbean countries are hastening efforts to meet their sustainable development goals.

“Following on the overlapping economic, social, and trade crises, the focus on people, planet and prosperity has never been more relevant and even more crucial is ensuring equal and sustainable access to resources by disadvantaged and often disenfranchised groups such as women,” Mr. Durant said.

According to the World Bank’s 2021 Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) labour market impact study, women were 44% more likely than males to lose their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women are over-represented in retail, tourism, services, and hospitality industries, which

lost 56% of jobs in the Region. “This project highlights the Bank’s commitment to promoting gender equality and will allow CDB to produce more focused evidencebased projects, knowledge products, and services to enhance gender mainstreaming by providing the necessary data to inform existing projects,” Mr. Durant said.

The CDB’s 2016 Country Gender Assessment Synthesis report found that despite higher rates of education, women in BMCs had higher unemployment rates and were in predominantly lower-paid occupations. This and other socio-cultural i s s u e s a f f e c t w o m e n ’s e c o n o m i c opportunities and life chances and are closely tied to the “female face of poverty”.

Dem Boys Seh...

Two wrongs don’t mek a right!

A real dreadful scene play out on social media yesterday, man!

De video show two Ve n e z u e l a n f o l k s g e t stripped bare and put to walk down the road, boy. Even if dem two did do something wrong, the police supposed to be call in, man. No need to shame and disgrace dem people like that. You know, this vigilante justice thing a i n ’t n o t h i n g n e w i n Guyana, bro. When dem male thieves get catch, they usually get a good ‘licking.

But dat ting is illegal and should never be supported, especially in these modern times, you know. Instead,

we need to call the police and let them to escort the accused to the station; dat’s the way to go. But having a woman and a man strip naked and forced to walk down the road, that’s downright humiliating and inhumane, man. If we let dat kinda behaviour slide, it’s just gonna make people more hostile towards immigrants, you feel me?

Now, we all know there’s some tension ‘bout Venezuela claiming part of Guyana, and we gotta be careful that this don’t turn into some anti-immigrant frenzy.

We want peace, but if the

Venezuelan people see how two of their own get treated here, they might push their government to step in to protect their citizens, you know?

Guyana got an obligation to safeguard immigrants, man. We signed them international agreements that say so.

There’s no excuse for what went down with that woman and her partner.

The ones responsible need to get arrested, and charges gotta be brought against ‘em. Their actions brought shame to Guyana, man, we can’t let that slide.

Talk Half! Leff Half!

because the organizer/s have not done enough in building alliances.

These protests actions are merely ad hoc exercises and have not the result of seeking to establish a strong movement.

Part of the problem with building a strong movement is that different actions have different objectives: the environmentalists are concerned with protecting the country from an oil spill; then there are those who want to see greater transparency and accountability. Another group is interested in having greater inclusionary democracy. Glenn Lall is interested in a better deal through renegotiation. Ray Daggers wants the same.

Yet there is no reason why these disparate groups and individuals cannot find common ground.

The environmentalists

should join the protests because it is part of a fight for renegotiating the oil contract to guarantee full liability protection.

The transparency activists should recognize the link between their struggle for transparency and accountability and the protests for information about the interest rates that are being applied to the investments in the oil and gas sector, and for greater disclosure terms in a renegotiated contract. Those which to see greater inclusionary democracy are not being inclusive when they stay away from protests which aligns with their own aims.

As Glenn Lall has said repeatedly, when the oil companies come into your country, they set out to keep the people divided while they loot the country. It therefore plays into the

hands of the oil companies when the movement for renegotiation is divided into different camps.

The next protests must be better advertised and organized; there must be wider mobilization and all the disparate groups should come together and define the terms of the protests so that nothing is said or done that does not find consensus among the various groups and individuals.

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

Bolivia severs ties with Israel, others recall ambassadors over Gaza attacks L A PA Z , O c t 3 1 ( R e u t e r s ) - B o l i v i a ’s government said on Tuesday it had broken diplomatic ties with Israel due to its attacks on the Gaza Strip, while neighbors Colombia and Chile recalled their ambassadors to the Middle Eastern nation for consultations.

The three South American countries lambasted Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip and condemned the deaths of Palestinian citizens.

Bolivia “decided to break diplomatic relations with the Israeli state in repudiation and

condemnation of the a g g r e s s i v e a n d disproportionate Israeli military offensive taking place in the Gaza Strip,” Deputy Foreign Minister Freddy Mamani said at a press conference.

Bolivia and Chile called for a ceasefire and the passage of humanitarian aid into the zone, and said Israel was violating international law.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro called the attacks a “massacre of the Palestinian people” in a post on social media network X. A spokesperson for Colombia’s presidency said

she was seeking more information about Petro’s decision.

Israel’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the three countries’ decisions.

Other Latin American neighbors, such as Mexico and Brazil, have also recently called for a ceasefire.

“What we have now is the insanity of Israel’s prime minister, who wants to wipe out the Gaza Strip,” said Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday. Bolivia is among the (Continued on page 23)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 UTHS

D TR

HAR

ALL HK L

BY G

Wednesday November 01,2022 2023 Monday May 02,

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

A MEMO TO THE TOP COP, CRIME CHIEF AND SPECIAL BRANCH HEAD Vehicles. Manpower.

Time.

Resources. All being the property of Guyanese taxpayers, and deployed against this taxpayer. This should be anger; it is simply regrettable, wasteful. It is more than barking up the wrong tree, for there is no tree worthy of the keen attention inside this perimeter of the local l a n d s c a p e . To b e unsparingly frank, it is a waste of scarce resources.

Given the situation, I now do my duty as a citizen and offer some free advice to H i s E x c e l l e n c y, t h e Commissioner of Police (see I have discarded the acting), the Crime Chief (taken officially and not literally), and the head of

the Special Branch (nothing special about this Guyanese, sir). To all three remarkable officers and gentlemen of Guyana, I say most solemnly: the precious resources of the State can be more gainfully distributed.

Before the Top Cop, I assert and insist that I am a law-abiding citizen, more than most in the Cabinet, probably the police itself, and even the judiciary. So, why all the attention for a poor, citizen that is a nobody? To the Crime Chief, I present an early Xmas gift: I am no criminal sir. Not by any stretch of the imagination, not by any clean consideration, not by any provision in the law.

Now, if speaking out for the voiceless, and standing up

for conscience and what is right count as crimes against the State today, then I am guilty as charged, more than a person of interest; definitely a serial offender; an unreconstructed recidivist against whom the book could be hurled.

Before the Special Branch Chief, I make this simple oath: I, sir, am a Guyanese.

I am not a Venezuelan.

I n c i d e n t a l l y, S p e c i a l Branch boss, I hope that that Holy Bible that I once saw and commented on is still in close proximity, and also still considered to be holy.

Sir, I am neither mole nor plant nor sleeper. Oh, by the way, that Spanish speaking man that I was speaking to early on Sunday was someone who was in

need, and seeking some food. It was how I interpreted the situation, and how I followed up. No evil intent on either side of that chance encounter and conversation with a total stranger. Now, it is my rough task to pen what may be interpreted as a terse memo to the Commissioner, the Crime Commander, and Special Branch skipper. It makes no sense to have personnel in tinted vehicles parked in my vicinity from the early hours for 10 to 12 hours daily. To have the windows rolled up, and engine running all day is running up a huge gasoline bill, and for what, gents?

Yes sir(s), the eyesight and state of mind are still that good, and the technology better still, to convey those images across Guyana’s borders. To the far north, not the near West. I assure the police top brass that the ground around me is barren.

No opposition visitors, no underworld types, no questionable characters hobnobbed with, or ever present. No spooks, foreign or local. Here is a hand: If there is one place where the police could be better employed, try a mere block or two from yours truly, and there they are. Ladies of the evening (appropriately attired, assembled, and

arrayed); and they have been seen to operate in the daytime, too. Most are foreign, many may not be in that trade that is as old as man, but in matters more nefarious and detrimental to the State. So, why not call off the dogs?

I am contemplating including the Hon. Minister of Home Affairs in this little affair that plays out daily (and in the darkness also).

Yeah, the fellas are that obvious, and they appear constantly in the electronics; no matter how much they make themselves small, change spaces. Further, I am pondering all the chaos in the big city, and the many reports of outsiders intruding illegally in Guyana’s spaces. I am recommending giving those the highest priority, for there is sure to be a bigger return on the investment of human capital, physical resources, and organisational assets. The Guyanese people lose when there is misuse of their strengths, when they themselves become the targets of undue scrutiny, possibly constitutional violations. I will have to check with the chief law officer in the land, the erudite attorney general, for some serious advice. I am

thinking on the grounds of human rights interferences, invasion of privacy, and false imprisonment.

Considering what has been happening for a while now, the first question that comes is this: is this really necessary, and who came up with such thinking? Why all this anxiety?

More importantly, where could all of this be leading? I, like every other citizen of the democratic republic of Guyana, should be looking to the Guyana Police Force as a bulwark against the dark forces at every level in this land. Dismal be the day, when there is thinking that the thin khaki and blue line that separates civilization from tyranny transforms into an i n s t r u m e n t o f encroachment, an organ of inquisition, and the weapon of politics, that most noble of undertakings and hallowed arts. Well, that day is here, and to that I swear.

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

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday November 01, 2023

Guyana asks World Court to block Venezuela from ‘seizing, acquiring or encroaching upon Essequibo’

I

n response to Venezuela's sinister plan to seize Guyanese territory, the Government of Guyana sought the urgent protection of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by filing a request for provisional measures.

In its request, the government seeks an order preventing Venezuela from taking any action to seize, acquire or encroach upon, or assert or exercise sovereignty over, the Essequibo Region or any other part of Guyana's national territory, pending the Court's final determination of the validity of the Arbitral Award that established the

land boundary between the two States, as the final and binding nature of that boundary.

Guyana has no doubt of the validity of that Arbitral Aw a r d a n d t h e l a n d boundary, which Venezuela accepted and recognized as the international boundary for more than 60 years.

Given the urgency of the matter, Guyana has asked the ICJ to schedule oral hearings on its Request at the earliest possible date in advance of December 3, 2023, the date Venezuela has fixed for its “sham referendum”.

Guyana insists, as does CARICOM, the SecretariesGeneral of the United

Nations and Organization of American States, and the entire international c o m m u n i t y, t h a t t h e controversy over the validity of the Arbitral Award and the land boundary must be resolved by the ICJ which will assure a just, peaceful, binding and permanent solution to this matter, in accordance with international law.

In fact, the Government noted further that the Court itself has determined, in two separate Orders, that it has the exclusive jurisdiction to resolve this matter, and that it will do so.

“Twice Venezuela has formally objected to the

Court's jurisdiction, and both times the Court overwhelmingly rejected Venezuela's objections.

In the interim, pending the oral hearing on its request and the issuance of the Court's Order, Guyana urges CARICOM and the international community to continue reminding Venezuela of its obligations under international law, including its obligation to accept the ICJ's jurisdiction, plead its case to the Court, and comply with the Court's rulings and Judgments,” the statement said.

The Government of Guyana had previously issued a statement

denouncing the aggressive new measures taken by Venezuela in furtherance of its territorial claim to Guyana's Essequibo Region.

These new measures included a purported national referendum to ratify the Venezuelan government's apparent decision to withdraw from the present judicial proceedings in the ICJ, and proceed unilaterally to incorporate the Essequibo Region into its own national territory as an integral part of Venezuela.

Guyana properly characterized this naked threat of territorial

aggression as: “nothing less than the annexation of Guyana's territory, in blatant violation of the most fundamental rules of the UN Charter, the OAS Charter and general international law.”

Guyana's statement added that: “Such a seizure of Guyana's territory would constitute the international crime of aggression.

Following Guyana's statement, CARICOM issued a strongly worded denunciation of Venezuela's measures, fully supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.

OAS Permanent Council to discuss surge in gang violence across the Americas The Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) will hold a special meeting on Wednesday in the Simon Bolivar room at OAS headquarters in Washington, DC, to discuss the surge in gang violence across the Americas.

Many countries in the Americas are currently in the grip of a troubling surge in gang violence and deadly criminal activities, OAS said in a release.

These developments have triggered societal breakdowns and are severely challenging law enforcement agencies and humanitarian groups. Security conditions have deteriorated to an unprecedented level in a cluster of historically troubled countries, pushing this issue to the forefront of their priorities.

The Chair of the Permanent Council, Sir Ronald Sanders of Antigua and Barbuda, will introduce an expert discussion, designed to unravel the

complexities of gang formation, delve into the role of organized crime, and emphasise the critical need for a united, multilateral response from law enforcement agencies across the OAS member states.

This event will look forward to deliver insights, expert perspectives, and actionable solutions with the participation of: Senator Reginald Armour, the Attorney-General of Trinidad and Tobago; María Eugenia Mata Chavarría, Director General of Armaments, Ministry of Public Security of Costa Rica; Romain Le Cour Grandmaison, Senior Expert, Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime; Ivan Marques, Secretary for Multidimensional Security, OAS General Secretariat; Caio Pellim, Law Enforcement Specialist, Department against Transnational Organized Crime, OAS General Secretariat.

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Guyanese couple wins two shallow water blocks The International Group Investment Inc. (IGI), a Guyanese owned and operated company recently won bids for two blocks in the shallow waters (S5 and S10) in the concluded Guyana Licensing Round 2022.

IGI Inc. Guyana is led through the Directorship of Guyanese Citizens Dr. Levi Wilson Odoe, a Lawyer and International Arbitrator; and Mrs. Esther Allison Odoe, Director and Legal Advisor.

Kaieteur News understands that the duo is husband and wife.

In a statement, Director Dr. Odoe commended the Government of Guyana “for creating such enabling business environment and opportunities for investments that is attracting the global business community.”

“We look forward to a successful working partnership,” the duo said.

Meanwhile, the company said that it prides itself on being a leading force in the construction, education, agriculture, and the Oil and Gas industries. “ Wi t h a l e g a c y o f excellence spanning ten years internationally, its commitment to innovation, q u a l i t y, a n d c l i e n t satisfaction remains unwavering.

In the construction sector, it has earned a reputation for transforming dreams into reality, whether it's creating stunning residential spaces, innovative commercial developments, or vital road infrastructure. Our expertise and dedication shine through in every project, reflecting our core values of integrity, excellence, and safety. In addition to our construction endeavours, we are actively engaged in the dynamic world of Oil and Gas,” the company said in a statement.

IGI Inc. said it understands the vital role the oil and gas sector plays in powering economies and improving lives.

“Our exploration, production, refining, and distribution services are all geared towards delivering reliable energy solutions while prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.

At IGI Inc., our clientcentric approach is the cornerstone of our operations. We collaborate closely with our clients to understand their unique visions and requirements, ensuring that every project we undertake, whether in construction or the Oil and Gas sector, is tailored to

meet specific goals and objectives.”

The company said that it has complied with Guyana's Local Content Policy and has since identified four working pillars that will ensure objectives are met upon commencement of operations in blocks S5 and S10.

These pillars include employment opportunities that encourage capacity building through close cooperation with local communities, including business interests, as well as developing the enterprise's activities in the domestic market consistent with the need for sound commercial practice guided

by Guyana's Local Content Policy; we encourage human capital formation, in particular by creating employment opportunities and facilitating training opportunities for employees.

“Greater preference of employment will be immediately granted to Guyanese favourable to more than 70%, and where lacking consideration of outsourcing will be given.

To ensure that the standards of delivery and performance is maintained, constant capacity building through training will be moduled and executed which further will be measured through quality assurance checks.”

The company spoke of supply chain and the importance of recognizing and appreciating the intent to build capacity among local micro and macro businesses.

“IGI Inc. intends to work closely with the already established Guyana Centre for Local Business Development to assist in the sourcing of suitable local contractors which will aid in transportation, maintenance, security, procurement etc.

IGI Inc. business model envisages that it can achieve its economic, environmental and social goals through managerial decisions and actions that facilitate strategic and transparent integration of key business processes cooperation among participants in supply chain. It believes that by giving local suppliers the opportunity to deliver, their standards of service will be significantly improved. First preference will always be given to Guyanese suppliers.”

On the social front, the company said while it continues to develop blocks, it has not lost sight of its commitment to play its role

Mrs. Esther Allison Odoe, Director and Legal Advisor of IGI Inc. as an enlightened corporate institute.

“Corporate Social Responsibility will always be on its agenda.

Further pursuant to the Ministry of Natural Resources Corporate Social Responsibility Framework 2017- 2020 which gives

Dr. Levi Wilson Odoe, Lawyer and International Arbitrator

guidance on how companies, particularly those in the extractive industries sector, can make a tangible contribution to the development of all Guyanese; IGI Inc. will be guided but as a company has already identified areas of interest which it believes can

make contributions immensely such as; water and food security, rural health care, education etc.”

Additionally, IGI Inc. said that as a reputable company, it understands the i m p o r t a n c e o f environmental suitability and the need for minimal

carbon footprint and will liaise with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure best practices are enforced at all times.

“IGI Inc. commits to ensuring environmental sustainability, ecological balance, protection of flora & fauna, animal welfare, agroforestry, conservation of natural resources & maintaining quality of soil, air & water; Contribution towards Natural Disaster Mitigation and for such other purposes and activities as may be permitted, from time to time and Give support to Non-Governmental Organisations that focuses on environment conservation and ecosystem preservation,” the statement said.

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Procurement body to move to High Court after tender board refused to release ‘Guyanese Critic’ $865M contract details

T

he Public Procurement Commission (PPC) is mulling legal action to compel the National Procurement Tender and Administration Board (NPTAB) to release the documents in relation to the $865 million contract award which was given to the Tepui Group Inc, a company closely associated with c o m m e n t a t o r, M i k h a i l Rodrigues better known as the 'Guyanese Critic.'

In a statement published via its website, the procurement body explained that it is exploring the legal option of approaching the High Court after NPTAB and the respective procurement entities failed to submit to the commission the requested information.

The procurement body had requested the record of the tender proceedings and evaluation reports related to five complaints of contract awards which it received.

As regard the contract awarded to the Tepui Group Inc, the commission said it followed established procedures in accordance with Article 212DD (1) of the constitution.

The commission said it sent a request in writing to both the procuring entity and the tender board which it listed as the National Drainage and Irrigation

Local commentator, Mikhail Rodrigues better known as the 'Guyanese Critic Authority (NDIA) and the NPTAB, respectively, for the submission to the commission, within five business days, of certain relevant information and documents including the full record of the tender proceedings.

However, the bodies did not submit the documents as requested by the PPC. The PPC noted, therefore, that while Article 212 DD(1) of the constitution empowers the commission to request information in certain circumstances, the subsequent sub-section -

Article 212DD(2)- has not been given effect by the legislature to provide for penalties or other coercive powers for the failure to comply with such a request by the commission.

A c c o r d i n g l y, t h e commission said that it has sought advice from its legal department regarding its jurisdiction in the circumstances to ensure that the matters brought before it for investigation are duly discharged.

“The commission awaits receipt of the said advice and at this time, has not ruled out approaching the High Court

for Orders compelling the production of the information,” the PPC said in its statement.

Pursuant to Article 212W (2) of the Constitution of Guyana, the PPC is an “independent and impartial” body which shall discharge its functions fairly “in accordance with law.”

The PPC investigation was made in relation to a complaint made by Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) David Patterson.

Patterson had requested the investigation, flagging the contractor's inexperience among other irregularities.

He was keen to note that this investigation may uncover alarming findings that an official at NPTAB

may be involved in corruption.

In his letter to the PPC, the former Minister said that, “the technical requirements of the bid documents required the successful bidder to have successfully completed projects of a similar nature and size within the last three years.”

However, he pointed out the company that received the $865M contract- Tepui Group Inc, was established in August 2022, thus failing to meet those requirements.

Te p u i G r o u p w a s awarded the contract to construct a pump station at Belle Vue, West Bank Demerara (WBD) through the tendering process at NPTAB on August 14, 2023.

The company is

affiliated with the 'Guyanese Critic' who is a close friend of leaders in the People's Progressive Party/Civic, particularly Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

In his letter to the Public Procurement Commission, Patterson requested that should the award prove defective, necessary actions should be taken against the entities and individuals associated with the award.

The five-member PPC is chaired by President of the Guyana Bar Association, Pauline Chase.

It commissioners include government nominees Rajnarine Singh and Joel Bhagwandin as well as Opposition nominees, Diana Rajkumar and Berkeley Wickham.

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Drunk driver fined Murder of businessman… $50,000 for causing death of pedal cyclist A drunk driver was fined $50,000, on Monday, for causing the death of a pedal cyclist at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) when he appeared at the Leonora Magistrates' Court.

The driver, 36-yearold Mark Braithwaite, was charged with driving under the influence (DUI) when he appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty. He pleaded guilty to the charge.

Fined: Mark Braithwaite Reports are that Braithwaite was intoxicated on Sunday when he struck and killed 20-year-old pedal cyclist Kazim Hamid at Tuschen with the pedal cyclist Old Road, EBE. Police said that the who was proceeding a c c i d e n t o c c u r r e d a t west.

Due to the collision, 23:40hrs and involved a motorcar PWW 668 owned the pedal cyclist fell into

by Ravy Sawh of Parika and the windscreen of the car and then onto the roadway. driven by Braithwaite.

He was dragged about 40 feet The vehicle was reportedly proceeding east and received injuries to his along the Tuschen Old Road body.

The injured man was then at a fast pace when it collided

picked up, in an unconscious state and taken to the Lenora Cottage Hospital, where he was examined by a doctor, who pronounced him dead on arrival.

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the driver, and he was found to be above the prescribed limit with .44 and .46 micrograms in his

Dead: Kazim Hamid system. He was arrested and the vehicle lodged at the Leonora Police Station.

The house at Middle Road, La Penitence where Singh was bludgeoned to death

Court hears victim fought for his life as he was bludgeoned by murderer Murdered businessman, 21-year-old Amit Singh, fought for his life as he was bludgeoned to death on October 24, 2023.This was revealed on Tuesday when 2 4 - y e a r- o l d Yo o g e n d r a Sukhdeo, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrate's Court before Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus where he was charged with murdering Singh. Sukhdeo, of Lot 1896 Yoogendra Sukhdeo Great Diamond, East Bank at the Georgetown Demerara (EBD), was not Magistrates' Courts required to plea to the

indictable charge. He was represented by an Attorneyat-Law Gordon Gilhuys.

Attorney-at-Law Latchmie Rahamat, who appeared on behalf of the prosecution, told the court that after Singh was murdered, contact was made with the accused by the police and he led ranks to his home at Diamond, EBD and handed over $7,790,000 in cash to the police, property of the deceased.She said police ranks (Continued on page 22)

Education Ministry launches MIS software T

he Education Management Information System (EMIS) is set to transform the education sector countrywide by improving information sharing and efficiency in schools.

The EMIS software, which was launched at the Pegasus Corporate Suites on Monday morning, was designed to cater for the management of data at the ministry level and in classrooms. It was developed in collaboration with UNESCO. It is a fully integrated system which caters to both public and private schools with a total of 1,573 educational institutions already registered on the system. Giving an overview of how it works, Senior Statistician in the Ministry of Education's Planning Unit, Ms. Dahvis Caldeira said the software will enable the efficient management of data by teachers and education officers. She said that the EMIS stores enrollment information, transfer requests, attendance, grades, end-of-year processing, class portal, teacher web pages,

A section of the audience at the launch of the software

parent portal, teacher information, and timetables.

While delivering the feature address, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand stated that the Education Management Information System will be a game changer for the sector.

“I truly want this to be such an integrated system that it's not piloted anywhere. It is in every school, every learning institution, every education district, and every department available to everyone who wants to track or determine how service can

be improved by using numbers.”

She explained that not only will the software assist in resource planning but will also aid in reducing the number of early school leavers. She urged teachers to get acquainted with the system.

In brief remarks, Chief Education Officer, Mr. Mohamed Saddam Hussain deemed the launch of the software as significant noting that it is part of the “new future” of the country's education system.

Meanwhile, the Ministry's Chief Planning Officer, Ms. Nicola Johnson said in the rapidly changing digital age, technology is being used to advance the system.

She noted that with the system, there will be enhanced accountability which will empower teachers and administrators to make informed decisions. She said that the EMIS will help identify and address gaps within the education system to ensure every Guyanese has access to a quality education.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

Citizens call on Guyana Govt. to cut ties with Israel now - launches petition Guyanese have launched a petition calling on the Guyana Government to cut economic and diplomatic ties with Israel as that country continues to attack Palestine in its ongoing war with Hamas.

Up to press time last night, close to 9000 Palestinians and 1405 Israelis have been killed in the war thus far, which erupted on October 7, 2023.

In the petition, which has been signed by over two dozen persons so far, organisers detailed that a dozen years ago, in January 2011, Guyana recognized

Israel has bombed civilian homes, schools, factories, hospitals, roadways, and other infrastructure critical for public health and wellbeing.

They also cut off all food, water, medicine, and fuel supplies to Gaza as part of a clear strategy of collective punishment.”

The petitioner said international human rights bodies such as The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, as well as the United Nations have described the death toll

generations.

Worldwide, peace and justice loving people, saddened and horrified by the continuing slaughter of innocent civilians, have been marching and lobbying for a ceasefire and end to the violence.

Many nations and political leaders have added their voices to the chorus for peace. The government of Israel however, remains deaf to such pleas, maintaining that their right to selfdefense is the only thing worth focusing on.

They seem unwilling and unable to understand and

the rights of the state of Palestine.

More recently, in a much-acclaimed speech to the United Nations last month (September 2023), President Irfaan Ali r e a f f i r m e d G u y a n a ’s solidarity with the Palestinian people. “We wish to remind President Ali of this statement, and to urge him to do more to demonstrate real, meaningful solidarity with the people of Palestine in this time of their great need,” the petitioners said.

According to them, the thousands of innocent Palestinian children and families suffering unimaginable physical and emotional trauma need more than nice words at this time; they need the Israeli bombs to stop falling on their heads and homes.

“In the last three weeks, thousands of Palestinian civilians- almost half of them children- have been killed by the Israeli bombardment of Gaza (and other parts of the occupied Palestinian territory).

In response to the October 7th Hamas attack,

of Palestinian civilians as devastating, alarming, unacceptable, and disturbingly similar to genocide and ethnic cleansing.

“They have also lamented the Israeli military’s lack of adherence to international human rights protocols and laws governing conflict, and have documented evidence of war crimes being committed by Israeli forces.

As Indigenous and formerly colonized people ourselves, we stand in firm solidarity with the Palestinians who have been dispossessed and displaced from their homeland, and cruelly deprived of many of their human rights for

acknowledge that their cruel and inhumane treatment of Palestinians over the decades has contributed in large part to the current conflict.

Instead, Israeli leaders describe the Palestinians people as “animals” and continue to ignore their humanity and rights. “ As such, the petitioners said it is imperative that additional pressure be brought to bear on the state of Israel in order for the bloodshed to end. “ We c a l l f o r t h e government of Guyana to immediately suspend all diplomatic and economic connections with Israel, and to call on other nations to follow suit.

This would send a clear signal to Israel that its horrific violations of international human rights law are unacceptable and will not be condoned.

Business cannot continue as usual while millions of innocent civilians are massacred, displaced, and collectively punished.

While some Israeli

businesses are independent of the State, many enjoy close ties with the Israeli government and several of the contracts and deals that were made with Guyana came about as a result of collaboration between the Israeli government and Guyanese ministries.”

“Immediately suspending diplomatic and economic ties with the state of Israel

and encouraging other nations to do the same would send a tangible message of solidarity to our longsuffering Palestinian brothers and sisters, demonstrate a real commitment to peace and justice in the Middle East, and make us proud as peaceloving Guyanese.

President Ali, we urge you to heed this call.

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

Guyanese named teacher of the year by Massachusetts Psychological Association created to attract and prepare faculty members from underrepresented backgrounds for careers in higher education.

Dr. Cort, a research grade psychiatric diagnostician consultant, has been an investigator, intervention developer, clinician, and interpersonal psychotherapy trainer on 11 research trials and programs funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. A prolific writer, she has also co-authored peerreviewed journal articles and a practitioner guide on racial/ethnic differences in youth mental health, child abuse reporting practices, high-risk sexual behaviors, age-discordant sexual relationships, and depression treatment outcomes.

As an immigrant of Afroand Indo-Caribbean cultural background who attended St. Agnes Primary School and Queen's College in Georgetown, her personal experiences spurred her to

Guyanese native, Dr. Natalie Cort challenge ethnocentric and monocultural practices in the mental health field. Through h e r c o m p a n y, C o r t Consulting and Counseling, Dr. Cort provides leadership coaching, professional development training, and consultation to ensure the promotion of culturally responsive and traumainformed organizational policies and practices.

“I am humbled by this honor and appreciate the s u p p o r t a n d acknowledgement of my peers,” said Dr. Cort. “I t h a n k t h e M PA f o r

recognizing my efforts to ensure that my students are committed to social justice and equipped to engage in ethical and culturally informed psychiatric diagnostic and clinical practices. This award is truly a high point in my career.”

Founded in 1974, William James College is an independent, nonprofit institution and a leader in educating the next generation of mental health professionals to support the growing and diverse needs of the mental health workforce.

Integrating field work with academics, the College prepares students for careers as organizational leaders and behavioral health professionals who are committed to helping the underserved, multicultural populations, children and families, and veterans.

William James College alumni can be found making an impact in a variety of settings including schools, the courts, clinical care facilities, hospitals the community and the workplace.

PAGE 21

GECOM urges registrants to uplift national ID cards The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is urging registrants to uplift their national identification cards from the registration office where they applied for the document.

On Tuesday GECOM also noted in a release that existing registrants, who a p p l i e d f o r changes/corrections to their registration records or a replacement ID card, can check with the registration office within two weeks of their application to uplift their ID cards.

The commission noted that the ongoing registration exercise will conclude on 30th November, 2023, and all eligible persons are reminded to visit the GECOM registration office responsible for the area where they live to apply for registration.

“During this registration exercise, any person who will be 14 years and older by the 31st December, 2023, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalization, or registration, or is a citizen from a Commonwealth

country living in Guyana for one year or more, can apply for registration, providing he/she was never registered,” the commission said.

It was noted that existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records such as a request to correct or change their names, date of birth, occupation, and update their addresses are advised that those transactions would also be facilitated during this exercise.

For further information, persons are advised to visit GECOM's website at www.gecom.org.gy, follow us on Facebook at Guyana Elections Commission, or call 225-0277-9, or 2239653.

GECOM said the commission is committed to producing and issuing national ID cards to first time registrants within the shortest possible time.

“However, it is not unusual for this process to be held back a bit due to the need to routinely conduct the crossmatching of the relevant fingerprints, on a monthly

basis, to check for multiple registration,” the commission said.

GECOM said the primary objective of the fingerprint cross-matching exercise is to ensure that no registrant

is listed in the National Register of Registrants more than once.

In this regard, providing that there are no issues with an applicant's registration transaction, an Identification Card would be produced at no later than six (6) weeks from the time of the application.

A full list of contact numbers for all the GECOM registration offices can be accessed on the website at https://gecom.org.gy/public /home/contact.

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Grace Kennedy Money Services donates $200K to Cancer Foundation

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Wanted Scaffolders & Trainees. Prior scaffold experience will be an asset, training will be provided. Email: Agricola scaffmanguyana@gmail.com Diesel Mechanic wanted.

Contact: 688-0417, 223-5273/ 687-5814.

Wanted! Male & Female workers for packaging pasta and chowmein on the Back Road (Mandela Ave). Call: 611-7839.

One male and female ablebodied Staff needed to work in a store. Call: 225-2313, 2261497, 658-8559.

To purchase Antique or Vintage collectable souvenir.

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One Clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics required. Call: 615-9132, Email application: techserigy @yahoo.com Maid needed to clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

One male Cleaner needed for Eccles area. Call: 615-9132, 645-8443.

Two experienced Waitress with food handling certificate. Preferably on the West Bank. Call: 679-2612.

Workers needed to work for growing business in Soesdyke. Ages 18-60 years. Call: 669-9258.

Receptionist, Deskstaff, Room Attendant, Laundry Attendant, Security Guard & Handyman needed at 233, South Road Lacytown. Call: 225-0198.

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awareness, and free medical screening. The Foundation’s mission is particularly focused on underserved communities with low income and limited insurance coverage.

Head of the Foundation, Ms. Bibi Sadeeah Akhtar Hassan expressed her profound gratitude for Grace Kennedy’s financial contribution, noting that it will significantly strengthen their free medical screening programme. This support enables them to extend their reach to more individuals in need, resulting in a substantial impact on early cancer detection.

Troy Williams, Country

Head of the Foundation, Ms. Bibi Sadeeah Akhtar Hassan (left) receives the cheque from Tina Seabra-Gibson, Marketing Officer, GraceKennedy Money Services|GraceKennedy Financial Group Manager for Grace Kennedy Money Services, Guyana, emphasized the importance of early cancer detection through screening tests.

“Detecting abnormal tissue or cancer in its early stages makes treatment more

effective,” he said. “As a way of giving back to this country, GKMS maintains its commitment to the Guyana Cancer Foundation, supporting free medical screening for women throughout Guyana,” he said.

Court hears victim fought for his life as he was bludgeoned...

From page 18 recovered blood stained clothing and the suspected murder weapon which was a piece of wood covered in what appeared to be blood.

It was also noted that the accused sustained injuries while he bludgeoned Singh and that the victim fought with his killer during the attack..

The prosecutor highlighted that since the post-mortem examination of the deceased was done on Monday, the prosecution was unable to complete the status of investigation. She then asked the court for an extension for the completion of the file and also for legal advice from the Director

Public Prosecution (DPP). The magistrate then adjourned the case to November 28, 2023.

On Tuesday, Sukhdeo walked into the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court in shackles as curious onlookers gathered to get a glimpse of him as he made his way into the court yard.

This publication reported previously that Sukhdeo, who calls himself ‘El Chapo Escobar’ on social media, told police that he picked up Singh from his Delph Street and Campbell Avenue home in a vehicle with a false number plate. He drove Singh his father’s property at Middle Road, La Penitence where he killed the young man.

Following the murder, he

had initially told investigators that he and three of his employees had robbed and murdered Singh at the Middle Road house, after duping the young man into believing that he (Sukhdeo) had a large quantity of gold to sell.

Investigators tracked down the men but they denied any involvement in the heinous crime. Kaieteur News was told that the men provided alibis for their whereabouts at the time when Singh was killed.

After allegedly killing the young businessman, Sukhdeo took possession of the money and wrapped the body in a sheet. He then locked up the house and

went to his home at Diamond, where he hid the stolen cash.

An autopsy, which was conducted by government pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh, revealed that the victim died from blunt trauma to the head and face with multiple fractured.

The pathologist also observed blunt trauma to the neck and by a broncho aspiration of blood (blood in the nostrils and lungs).

Sukhdeo portrayed a mafia persona on social media and presented himself as a wealthy businessman, drinking the finest champagnes, dining in the best restaurants and even holidaying in high-class hotels abroad.

Govt’s draft gas strategy falls short in outlining...

From page 3 the fuel sector due to its clean combustion characteristics. They added too that many countries are promoting methanol blending into gasoline for automotive use, and it’s also gaining popularity as a marine fuel due to its lower emissions compared to heavy fuel oil. Methanol has diverse applications, including in gasoline

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The contribution will empower the Foundation to reach more individuals in need and make a tangible impact on early cancer detection.

The Guyana Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing assistance and instilling hope to those affected by cancer through early detection, education,

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additives, biodiesel production, and other fuelbased products.

It’s important to note that while the consultants highlight the potential of methanol and its competitiveness, they do not provide a comprehensive strategy for Guyana to develop its natural gas resources for methanol production.

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is overviewed in the draft strategy. It is explained that LNG is natural gas cooled to a liquid state to occupy a much smaller volume. The document acknowledges the complexity of LNG value chains and mentions the reliance on long-term contracts to underpin significant capital investments and risks across the value chain.

It was also pointed out that the number of countries producing LNG almost doubled from 12 to 23 between 2000 and 2022. However, despite the substantial LNG production capacity under construction globally, there is still a need for additional LNG supply to sustain long-term

demand growth post-2026.

Once again, the draft strategy fails to provide a detailed roadmap for Guyana to enter the LNG market.

AMMONIA/ UREA The document explores ammonia and urea production as a natural gas monetization route for sales into global fertilizer markets. It highlights the demand for urea as fertilizer and identifies China and India as the two largest consumers. The consultants mention price fluctuations in recent years, especially in 2021 and 2022, which saw urea prices peaking at significant levels.

The draft strategy suggests that the war in Ukraine has created export constraints and extremely high gas feedstock prices in Europe, driving urea prices to record levels. It estimates urea prices in the US Gulf Coast (USGC) market and assumes that a world-scale urea plant in Guyana could capture similar prices.

Still, the document falls short of presenting a clear plan for Guyana to capitalize on the potential of ammonia and urea production.

Blue Ammonia / Hydrogen Hydrogen and its

potential role in the fight against climate change are mentioned in the draft strategy but no clear steps for Guyana to take that route.

“Green and blue hydrogen can be utilized in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, such as steelmaking, and as a long-distance transport fuel. Green hydrogen requires access to significant renewable energy sources, whereas blue hydrogen requires access to Carbon Capture and Storage technology and CO2 transportation networks that have yet to be proven and developed in Guyana,” it was mentioned.

Given this potential, it was explained that governments and industry leaders around the world are increasingly focusing their efforts on building out the infrastructure necessary to support a hydrogen economy.

To access the Guyana Gas Monetisation Strategy and participate in the public consultation, please visit the ministry’s official website at https://petroleum.gov.gy/.

The deadline for the public consultation is November 14, 2023.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Man shoots, robs Brazilian after collecting “a raise”

A

bandit shot and r o b b e d a Brazilian man o n We d n e s d a y a t h i s Alberttown home after begging for and receiving “a raise”.

The victim, identified as 53-year-old Damião

He pulled some money out and handed it to the bandit but as he was retreating, the bandit pulled out a gun and pointed it at Araújo.

As the victim backed away, the bandit shot him to his leg and scaled the fence.

PAGE 23

US$40M to expand Eccles dumpsite road T

he Eccles Landfill stood at G$1.2B. At the Road commonly opening of tenders on c a l l e d t h e Tuesday at the National ‘Dumpsite Road’ will soon Procurement and Tender be extended at a cost of A d m i n i s t r a t i o n B o a r d U S $ 4 0 M Office, it was revealed that (G$8,481,545,837). The the Central Housing and road was under construction P l a n n i n g A u t h o r i t y i s last year and the initial cost seeking contractors for the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Extension of four lane road at Eccles Landfill, East Bank Demerara for Lots 1 to 6.

“extension of four lane road $1,170,838,725 and Lot6 at Eccles Landfill”, a project $1,520,551,148. Kaieteur which would be done in six News understands that the lots. The estimated figures upgrade was prompted due for the lots are as follows: to the deterioration of the Lot1 $1,688,814,383, Lot2 road. It is important to note $ 1 , 6 3 9 , 7 1 7 , 11 8 , L o t 3 that the Eccles dumpsite road $ 1 , 2 9 0 , 7 2 2 , 7 3 8 , L o t 4 connects Mandela Avenue to $ 1 , 1 7 0 , 9 0 1 , 7 2 5 , L o t 5 the Eccles highway.

Ministry of Education Supply and delivery of geometry sets and scientific calculators.

The Brazilian man giving the bandit a raise.

Berchiol Araújo, was shot twice around 22:00hrs in front of his wife and two daughters.

The entire ordeal was captured on CCTV cameras.

The Brazilian man arrived at his gate in his car.

O n e o f t h e m a n ’s daughters opened the gate and he drove in while she locked the gate.

A few seconds later, the bandit was seen approaching the gate.

Footage shows that the bandit was calling out to the Brazilian man who was still in his yard. The Brazilian responded by walking towards the gate and meeting the man.

The two had a brief conversation and the Brazilian man was seen reaching into his pockets.

Kaieteur News understands that he shot the Brazilian man again before stripping him of his gold jewellery.

The bandit escaped and Araújo was taken to the hospital.

Meanwhile, Kaieteur News learnt from a Facebook post made by the man’s son that the bandit was no stranger to the family as he is known in the Alberttown community.

According to the son, he would beg for help and would receive it every time he asked.

“A couple days now, I realise that no matter how good and kind you be to people, they will always try to take advantage of your kindness,” the victim’s son said.

Essequibo rice farmer found dead A 47-year-old rice farmer was found dead on Tuesday next to his bicycle at Devonshire Castle, Essequibo Coast, Region Two. The dead man has been identified as Mohindra Mohan, called ‘Boyo’, of Devonshire.

Mohan’s remains were reportedly found around 07:00hrs lying face down next to his bicycle on the path to his rice farm.

Ghanishree Mohan, the deceased mother, said she last saw her son alive at around 04:30hrs while leaving his home for the rice field on his bicycle.

Bolivia severs ties with Israel, others recall ambassadors...

From page 9 first countries to actively break diplomatic relations with Israel over its war in Gaza, retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel by Palestinian Hamas militants that Israel says killed 1,400 people and took 240 hostages. ssThe South American country had previously cut diplomatic ties with Israel in 2009 under the government of leftist President Evo Morales, also in protest of Israel’s actions in Gaza.

In 2020, the government of right-wing interim President Jeanine Anez reestablished ties.

“We reject the war crimes being committed in G a z a . We s u p p o r t international initiatives to guarantee humanitarian aid, in compliance with international law,” Bolivian

President Arce said on social media on Monday.

Gaza health authorities say that 8,525 people, including 3,542 children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since Oct. 7. U.N. officials say more than 1.4 million of Gaza’s civilian population of about 2.3 million have been made homeless.

The Israel military has accused Iran-backed Hamas, which rules the narrow coastal territory, of using civilian buildings as cover for fighters, commanders and weaponry, accusations it denies.

Reporting by Daniel Ramos; Additional reporting

by Gabriel Araujo, Lucinda Elliott, Oliver Griffin and Peter Frontini; Writing by Brendan O’Boyle; Editing

by Rosalba O’Brien and Stephen Coates

Bureau of Statistics Supply and delivery of computer software licenses for Microsoft 365 Business Standard.

The woman said that at about 07:00hrs, she received information that her son was seen lying on the road. She said she immediately visited the location where she saw her son lying motionless on the ground.

The police were called and an investigation launched. Crime scene investigators examined the rice farmer’s body for marks of violence but none was observed.

Mohan’s body was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital Mortuary where it awaits a post-mortem examination.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Yemen’s Houthis say they launched ballistic missiles, drones at Israel (AL JAZEERA)Yemen’s Houthi rebels claim they launched a “large number” of ballistic missiles and drones towards Israel and warned of more attacks to come.

Israel earlier said it destroyed an unidentified “aerial target” over the Red Sea on Tuesday morning.

“There was no threat or risk to civilians,” the Israeli military said.

The incident triggered air raid sirens in the popular Red Sea tourist resort of Eilat and sent residents running for shelter.

Separately, the Israeli military said that it used the “Arrow” aerial defence system for the first time since the October 7 outbreak of the war with Hamas to intercept

a surface-to-surface missile in the Red Sea fired towards its territory.

Ya h y a S a r e e , a spokesperson for the Houthi’s military, said the operation was the third targeting Israel and threatened to carry out more strikes “until the Israeli aggression stops.”

Earlier, a senior Houthi official told the AFP news agency that the Iran-backed Yemeni group had sent drones towards southern Israel.

“These drones belong to t h e s t a t e o f Ye m e n , ” Abdelaziz bin Habtour, prime minister of the Houthi government, said.

On October 27, drones caused explosions in the Egyptian Red Sea towns of

Taba and Nuweiba, near the Israeli border.

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Iranbacked Houthis launched drones and missiles “with the intention of harming Israel”.

The incidents came two days after Hamas, the group running the Gaza Strip, said it launched a rocket towards Eilat. The Israeli military said the rocket landed in an open field.

Also last week, the US military said a navy warship in the northern Red Sea intercepted projectiles launched by Houthis potentially towards Israel.

Regional tensions have been on the rise after Hamas launched a surprise attack inside Israel on October 7.

President calls out Defence Force Reserves, as crime crisis deepens ( T R I N I D A D GUARDIAN) - There will be more law enforcement boots on the ground as President Christine Kangaloo has called 100 Defence Force reserve officers to lend support to the police during the pre Christmas season to 2024 Carnival. This move comes on the heels of this country recording eight murders in 24 hours. Carnival is scheduled to take place on

February 12 and 13 so there will be heightened national security on the streets.

The President issued the proclamation dated October 30, 2023 stating that she has called members of the Volunteer Defence Force for a period of 123 days with effect from October 30, 2023 to February 29, 2024. The President’s proclamation stated this is to strengthen the Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o Defence Force capability

towards the fulfilment of operational support to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service in the provision of a safe and secure environment during the pre-Christmas season to the 2024 Carnival period.

The President is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces: TT Defence Force (TT Regiment, TT Coast Guard, TT Air Guard, TT Defence Force Reserves).

Defence Force Reserve officers. Source: Facebook

Since then, Hezbollah has been involved in increasingly heavy exchanges of cross-border fire with Israel. Iran denies having any role in the Hamas attack.

Meanwhile, Israel in recent days has expanded its air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip, which has been under relentless bombardment for more than three weeks.

Officials in Gaza say more than 8,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s air attacks, while in Israel, the death toll has topped 1,400, according to Israeli authorities.

Al Jazeera engineer loses 19 family members in Israeli air raid (AL JAZEERA)Mohamed Abu Al-Qumsan, a broadcast engineer with Al Jazeera’s bureau in Gaza, has lost 19 family members, including his father and two sisters, in Israeli air raids on the Jabalia refugee camp.

In a statement on T u e s d a y, A l J a z e e r a denounced what it called a “massacre” and an “unforgivable act” by Israeli forces. “Al Jazeera vehemently condemns the heinous and indiscriminate Israeli bombing that has resulted in the killing of 19 family members of our dedicated SNG engineer, Mohamed Abu Al-Qumsan,” the statement reads.

“This unforgivable act, during the Jabalia massacre, claimed the lives of Mohamed’s father, two sisters, eight nephews and nieces, his brother, his brother’s wife, and their four children, his sister-in-law, and one uncle.”

The tragedy has come

amid relentless Israeli bombardment of the besieged Gaza Strip, where more than 2.3 million Palestinians have few options for safe haven.

The Israeli attack on the Jabalia refugee camp, a tightly packed neighborhood in northern Gaza, killed more than 50 people, according to Palestinian authorities. Footage showing the scene of the attack showed rescue workers and volunteers using their bare hands to dig through the rubble to try and reach those trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

The attack came days after Al Jazeera Arabic Gaza c o r r e s p o n d e n t Wa e l D a h d o u h ’s w i f e , s o n , daughter and grandson were killed in an Israeli air raid.

“What happened is clear.

This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians,” Dahdouh said after seeing the bodies of his family members in a

morgue.

Earlier this week, the family of Al Jazeera correspondent Youmna ElSayed received a phone call from a person who stated that they were with the Israeli military and warned them to leave their home and move south.

Palestinian authorities have said that at least 8,525 people, including more than 3,500 children, have been killed in Gaza since fighting began on October 7.

The Committee to Protect Journalists has said that at least 31 reporters have been killed in that time, 26 of them Palestinian. “ We u rg e t h e international community to address this grave injustice with utmost urgency to justice served for the families of Mohamed Abu Al-Qumsan and countless other innocent Gazan civilians who lost their loved o n e s , ” A l J a z e e r a ’s statement reads.

Palestinians search for casualties at the site of Israeli attacks on houses in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip, October 31 [Abed Sabah/Reuters]

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Pres. Ali urges formation of regional private sector consortium to address transportation challenges With the African ExportImport Bank (Afreximbank) poised to fund the establishment of a Caribbean transportation system, President Irfaan Ali has once again urged members of the regional private sector to unite and craft a proposal, positioning themselves as catalysts for the region's economic advancement.

The head of state issued this call in his keynote a d d r e s s a t t h e commencement of the second edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, centred on the theme 'Creating a Shared and Prosperous Future.' President Ali described the forum as a platform for cultivating meaningful partnerships and highlighted that it would be a significant missed opportunity if the private sector does not actively engage in forming a consortium.

“I speak specifically about our maritime transport sector. We can plant and grow as much as we want. We can do agro-processing, manufacturing, and industrial development, and we can reengineer the supply chain, but we have to move things throughout the region.

We must find the solution,” President Ali asserted.

Caribbean leaders, the head of state relayed have already sounded their commitment to facilitating this development by providing necessary incentives for possible developers. “It is in your hands now, and we will champion it, we will champion it with Exim Bank.

Form a consortium between the providers who are under the Afreximbank portfolio and the regional consortium,” the head of state reiterated.

Addressing the substantial funding deficit in achieving fundamental Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, President Ali asserted that Afreximbank could serve as a crucial ally in securing finances for these SDGs. As the developing world rapidly transitions towards

focus on consolidating commercial collaboration between the Caribbean region and Africa. This is

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan digitisation and innovation, the president said it is imperative for the region not to lag behind in this transformative journey.

“That is where the Afreximbank and CARICOM must align … how we can build a regional project; how we can transfer the technology within the confines of our own control to accelerate innovation and digitisation and technology in a world 2030 and beyond.”

President Ali reiterated the essential requirement for close collaboration between the Caribbean and African regions to successfully overcome the numerous challenges hindering their fullest potential. He underscored that the economic constraints faced by both regions, rooted in the historic period of colonisation, highlight the necessity for leaders to unite in forging a new and shared future. “In honour of those men and women who we lost in the most horrendous form, we now have the opportunity to rewrite history of collaborating and expanding partnerships for the prosperity of the people,” the head of state expressed.

Furthermore, the government is actively exploring the creation of a Local Content Facilitation Fund to bridge the payment gap for contributors to the oil and gas industry. The agreements for its establishment are slated to be signed by the conclusion of the forum. ACTIF23 convened by the Government of Guyana and the African Export-Import Bank will

essential to increasing interregional trade and investment; building on the successes of the inaugural

edition that was held last year in Barbados.

Pic save as President Ali President Dr. Mohamed

Irfaan Ali addressing the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum at the Guyana Marriott Hotel

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

Thursday November Wednesday November 24,01, 2022 2023

PAGE 27 19

Banks DIH win Pinktober Circle Tennis Banks DIH Circle Tennis Club recorded victory in a nail biting finish to retain their Pinktober All Female Circle Tennis title on their home soil Thirst Park.

In the all female match, CPCE Rising Stars after been sent in the circle first made 167 - 5, with skipper Ashana Trim hitting 36, Tiffany Rampersaud 35, Shalisa Messiah 20 and Louia Mendonca 18.

Banks DIH Circle Tennis

Both teams along with the event organiser take a photo.

Jiaram triumphs on final day at...

Wednesday November 01, 2023 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Legal papers regarding money might need to be executed today. Your mind is especially quick and agile, so you can take care of it efficiently, freeing you up for more enjoyable activities.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This is a great day to plan new projects. Your mind may be especially quick and full of ideas. These could prove valuable. Write down ideas that you can't put to immediate use so you won't forget them.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Social events could put you into touch with intriguing new people who share your interests. This should be a gratifying experience.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your mind could be especially active today. Perhaps you'll discover a new talent you didn't know you had, such as writing, drawing or speaking. Ideas for stories, sketches, or lectures might come thick and fast.

Write them down.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you might want to spend some time gardening. In fact, you might have a number of tasks to perform around the house and yard, but you may also have friends waiting.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Exploring your intellectual interests might get your curiosity going, although whatever knowledge you gain may bring up more questions than answers! You'll also want to get together with close friends or your partner to discuss this new information.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A number of young visitors could come to your home with news to pass on and information to share. You'll probably spend most of your day working around the house or yard.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your phone may not stop ringing today. Friends and family may have good news and interesting information to share, so you'll want to spend a lot of time talking with them.

You might learn about some newly released books that interest you.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Your intuition has been especially high for a while now. Today you could decide to put it to practical use. You might consider a class or workshop that increases your ability to communicate.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your mind should be especially quick and agile today, and your curiosity will be piqued. Your pursuit of intellectual interests could lead to group activities where you meet others interested in the same subjects.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You might have a few projects in mind that you'll want to work on today. Your mind is especially quick and agile, and you have a lot of great ideas that can make your efforts turn out the way you want.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your mind may turn toward intellectual pursuits that you have been too busy to investigate. Today your mind is so quick and your curiosity so high that you won't resist even if other things interfere.

From page 30 Disposal Service, Rubis, Bel Air, Gentle Elias Attorney at Law, YK Pawn Shop and services, Guyana Beverage Inc. for supplying water and beverages, GT Wines for three bottles of wines to savour the finals and Mr Ivor English and Mr. Collymore for the venues.

The next event is the Christmas hamper competition. Donations for this event is in effect from now. Please contact 6146671 or 645-1002 to give freely.

Club recorded a last ball victory scoring172 - 4, Player of the match Shemeeza Gonsalves Abrams hitting 53, Sheena Stewart 32 and Sonya Forrester 15.

The event was organised

by A. Munroe.

Meanwhile, as we continued the Revival of Our National Game the two teams will return to the same venue shortly, this time it will be a mixed team game.

The MCYS NSC Janet Jagan Birthday Female Windball Cricket continues today Play continues today, November 1st in the MCYS NSC Janet Jagan Birth Anniversary Female Windball Cricket Champions Trophy competition with action in the East Coast Demerara Zone.

Schools in action :- Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Buxton Secondary, LBI Secondary, Bladen Hall Multi, debutants Plaisance Secondary, Lancaster Secondary, New Good Hope Secondary and the defending Champions Presidents College.

Play starts at 9:30am.

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Budhan Memorial Turf Club 1M in cash and Meet set for Sunday - Over prizes up for grabs The Budhan Memorial Turf Club (BMTC) has organised a one day horserace meet for this Sunday November 5th at the Club’s track, No66 Village Corentyne, Berbice.

Six Races are listed for the day with a total of over 1M in cash and trophies and other rewards up for grabs. An action packed day of racing is anticipated.

The Feature event will be for animals classified J and lower going over 1 mile for a winning purse of $160,000 and trophy.

There is an event for the two years old maiden animals over 6furlongs for a top prize of $90,000 and trophy.

The Open event will see the winner taking home $90,000 and trophy over 6F. The race for L non earners will also be going over 6F for a take home reward of $70,000 and trophy.

The final two races are for unclassified animals group one and group two over 6 furlongs. The winners will race away with $50,000 and trophies respectively.

Reports are that close to 40 animals have entered so far for the day’s meet. Interested persons can contact any member of the Club for further information. Entries are expected to be close on November 3rd.

Race time is 13:00 hrs. (Samuel Whyte)

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 29

Santos Football Club secures first victory, while Western Tigers Football Club maintain Group B lead in GFF-KFC Elite League Cup

S

antos Football Club clinched their first victory, w h i l e We s t e r n Ti g e r s Football Club defeated Victoria Kings to maintain their lead in Group B of the Guyana Football Federation KFC Elite League Cup. On Sunday, October 2 9 t h , We s t e r n Ti g e r s Football Club achieved a resounding 4-0 victory over Victoria Kings Football Club at the Eve Leary Sports Club

in Kingston, Georgetown.

Randolph Wanger found the net in both the 25th and 39th minutes, while Jermain Beckles added a third goal in the 31st minute, giving Western Tigers Football Club a 3-0 lead at halftime.

The final goal of the night was delivered by Daniel Wilson in the 73rd minute.

This victory means Western Tigers Football Club maintain the lead in

Group B, amassing six points from two matches.

In the first match of the night, Santos Football Club clinched their first cup win by defeating Milerock Football Club with a score of 3-1.

Stefan Reynolds opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, followed by Darron Niles, who secured the second goal just before halftime, in the 26th minute.

Milerock Football Club

Abrams, Archibald break Guyana’s Pan Am Games medal...

From page back page Abrams finally got her victory over Michelle-Lee Ahye, as the Guyanese edged the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist to third, with the Trinidadian prized sprinter stopping the clock at 11.53 seconds.

Meanwhile, the men’s 100m race was a heartstopping saga that demanded a photo-finish verdict to determine the podium placements.

Archibald, racing in lane one, and Brazil’s Flipe Bardi in lane five, both dashed across the line in 10.31 seconds, trailing just 0.01 seconds behind the Dominican Republic’s Jose Gonzalez.

However, after m e t i c u l o u s s c r u t i n y, Archibald’s timing was

microscopically edged out

by Bardi.

The adjusted time for the Guyanese runner stood at 10.31s (.310), a hairbreadth behind the Brazilian’s timing at 10.31s (.302).

Following his run, the 2023 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games 100m champion, said while he was aiming for the gold, he was contented with his bronze-medal performance in Chile.

His race was dramafilled, as Archibald admitted that the two false starts might have hampered his performance, “I was gone in both false starts, but I just worked with it and I medalled so I can’t complain. Up to 60 metres I was good, then my form break, but I’ll work with the

third.”

At the 14th edition of games in the Dominican Republic, Burnett was second in the women’s 800m final, while Pompey finished third in the women’s 400m.

As the excitement continues today, Abrams and Archibald are set to storm the track again in the 200m event, while Aaliyah aims to follow her sister’s success by vying for a podium finish in the women’s 400m finals.

Archibald and the Abrams siblings are aiming to etch their names alongside the legendary James Wren-Gilkes, the only track and field gold medallist from Guyana at the Pan Am Games since the 1975 event in Mexico City.

attempted a comeback with a goal from Quacey Cadogan in the 63rd minute, but Darron Niles struck again in the 73rd minute of the game.

Santos Football Club has accumulated three points in Group A, with one win and one loss. They currently trail the table leader Guyana Defence Force and second place team Buxton United, both with three points from one played game.

Guyana Defence Force

leads in terms of goal difference.

The KFC Elite League Cup features ten participating teams, which are divided into two groups.

Group A includes Guyana Defence Force, Santos, Buxton United, Fruta Conquerors, and Milerock.

Group B comprises Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Den Amstel, Victoria Kings, and Ann’s Grove.

The champions will earn

a substantial prize of $1.5 million, while the secondplace team will receive $1 million.

The clubs finishing in third and fourth place will also be recognized, with prizes of $500,000 and $250,000, respectively.

Every weekend the league delivers an exciting showcase of outstanding talent, skill, and intense competition, captivating fans and enthusiasts alike.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 30

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Jiaram triumphs on final day at the Annual National Draughts C/Ship The final day of Draughts was completed last Sunday at the Transport

Sports Club, Thomas Lands.

The tournament was played in three categories over the

last three Sundays in October. Last Sunday was the biggest event when

President and veteran player Mr. Jiaram triumphed easily by winning the most prestigious event which was played on the international 100 square boards. This event is also the qualifier to enter the Panama Draughts tournament to be played in Puerto Rico next year April.

Jiaram started the day by winning three consecutive opponents securing 12 points. A further 4 points from two other players set him in the safe mode. Esan Anderson with 13 points brought second and also having a chance in Panama.

Navin Meighbarran with 11

points placed third while Steve Bacchus with 9 points clinched the fourth spot.

The National Draughts Association would like to thank the following for their contribution towards the event: Trophy Stall, Bourda Market, Puran Bros.

(Continued on page 27)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

PAGE 31

GBA hands over audited financial statement to NSC Chairman in keeping with directives The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) yesterday presented its financial statement to Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Kashif Muhammad which is in keeping with a mandate that all associations must submit their audited financial records to the NSC. The deadline was yesterday October 31 and Secretary of the GBA Stacy Corriea. handed the GBA’s statement of accounts to the NSC Chairman in compliance with the directive.

The NSC Act requests that all associations presented a copy of their audited financial statements to them. This is to ensure accountability among the

Secretary of the GBA Stacy Corriea hands over the statement to NSC Chairman Kashif Muhammad.

associations and also monitor the spending of funding chiefly provided by the NSC to the various associations for their operation. The NSC is charged with providing

funding to aid the development of sports and must go through government for funding to provide to the associations, hence the need for accountability from all concerned.

PAGE 32

The two teams Camille’s Academy and Covent Garden Secondary.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

Camille’s Academy upset defending Champs Covent Garden in latest Janet Jagan Female Windball Results in the Janet Jagan Birth Anniversary MCYS and NSC Female Windball Cricket at the National Gymnasium show a win for Camille’s Academy that was the highlight of the latest action.

Camille’s Academy upset defending Champions Covent Garden Secondary to book their place in the East Bank Demerara final.

They will meet last year 3rd place finisher Friendship Secondary who beat debutant Yarrowkabra Secondary.

Covent Garden batted first and after a slow start made 54-2, Trinity Gill 18, Devyani Singh 12 were the top scorers.

Camille’s reach the required runs 58-2, off 3 overs, Faria Bodhoo hitting 38.

Yarrowkabra Secondary made 63-3 with Makayla Mendonca 38 as Deneicia Bess took 2-1.

Friendship replied with 66-1, Alissea Oconnor hit 36 (6x6s) and Koomarie Persaud 22.

Meanwhile in Georgetown, Saint Roses High School beat Queens College.

Queens College batted first and scored 74-3, Rachel Joseph 29 and National junior player Naomi Barkoye 25. Bowling for Roses Miel Campbell grabbed 2-6.

Saint Roses in their turn in the middle scored 76-4, winning off the final delivery, Miel Campbell scored 39 (5x6s). Bowling for Queens Barkoye took 2-1 she was also on a hat-trick and Rachel Joseph 2-6.

Master builder NABi Construction onboard ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions Corporate support continues to stream in for the highly anticipated ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions, with master builder NABi Construction Inc. onboard as one of the corporate sponsors for the November 5 event.

NABi Construction Inc., with over 60 years’ experience in the construction industry, is responsible for many landmark structures in Guyana, with its services spanning the Industrial, Governmental, Residential and Commercial sectors.

The family-owned business is proud to align with the Clash of Champions, an event it believes is rooted in tradition.

ability to deliver on each of these and pledge to settle for nothing less,” the company stated on its website www.nabi.gy.com.

When NABi Construction Inc. was formed it merged the multi-faceted ideologies of its directors and personnel with an understanding of quality. Today, the establishment has morphed into a leading provider of construction services, staying true to its continued commitment to core values. “Its innate, time-honoured tradition of delivering construction in a manner exceeding the expectation of clients holds true today.”

This November race meet, dubbed the ‘Greatest Race of All Times’, is one of the marque sport events on the local sport calendar, attracting mass participation by competitors and spectators alike.

NABi Construction Inc., a company whose legacy is found in its spirit of excellence, firmly believes that the event is an integral part of Guyana’s Sport Tourism product, and promotes the ideals of the ‘One Guyana’ concept. NABi Construction Inc. is in the business of general construction, civil works, pipe laying, water well drilling among many other areas in the construction arena.

“We maintain a commitment to integrity, collaboration, wisdom, quality, value, sustainability and safety. From coast-tocoast, we’ve staked our reputation on our

‘Greatest Race of All Time’ Drivers and riders from Guyana, the Caribbean and further afield will compete in what is dubbed the ‘Greatest Race of All Time’ at the South Dakota Circuit.

Race fans can expect a day filled with high-speed action, nail-biting competition, and unforgettable moments.

This event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about motorsport and looking for a thrilling day at the racetrack.

Races get underway at 11:00h on November 5, with rivalry in Group 4, Group 3, Group 2, Starlet Cup, Sports Tuner, Street Tuner and Superstock and Supersport bikes.

Pre-sale tickets are available at G$3,000 (adults) and G$1,000 (children).

Kaieteur News

Wednesday November 01, 2023

PAGE 33

Hamilton Green’s Annual Inter-Ward Lennox Blackmore National KO Football C/ship continues tonight Intermediate Boxing C/Ship

set for Nov. 3-5

Some of the action on the opening night of the 2023 Hamilton Green’s Cup. Play in the Hamilton Green’s 9-a-side Inter-Ward Knockout Football competition continues this evening at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground.

Following the opening night which unfolded with four exhilarating matches, each culminating in gripping penalty shootouts that saw Festival City, Sophia, Airy Hall, and Stewartville etched their names in victory through epic penalty showdowns, the action will see eight teams seeking to make their mark.

The scheduled action kicks off at 6:00pm with BV facing Lilliendaal, followed by Back Circle against Wales, Kitty face Crane, Road Warriors battle Sara Lodge, Gold is Money

tangle with No.1 All Stars, Agricola collide with Albouystown, Ann’s Grove oppose Mocha and Stabroek Ballers challenge Paradise Invaders.

The competition promises to be keen with several leading players expected to be on show for the respective teams.

The action resumes Sunday at the same venue.

This tournament is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Dr. Linden Dodson, GTT, IPA, CIDI, Reunion Gold Inc, Superbet, Gafoors, E-Net, Toolsie Persaud, BK International, Star Party Rental, New GPC Inc, Busta, John Fernandes Limited, NAMILCO, and New Thriving.

Former international cricketers among invitees to commentators’ workshop Legendary cricket broadcaster, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, on the request of His Excellency President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, will conduct a workshop for cricket commentators from November 16 to 18 at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC). The 3-day event will seek to cover the fundamentals of cricket commentary under the theme, ‘taking it to another level.’

Among the areas to be covered are preparation, voice training, audience attentiveness and the significance of the match officials. Former Test player now international Match Referee, Reon King; Regional Umpire Shannon Crawford and international scorer Trevor Hussain are scheduled to make presentations on the opening day.

For the workshop, Perreira have secured discussion papers and notes from a number of cricket personalities in the Region, including former West Indies cricketers Richard ‘Prof’ Edwards and Michael Findlay along with contributions from Barbadian-born England batsman Roland Butcher, former Windward Islands and Combined Islands player Lockhart Sebastian.

Also onboard, former Jamaica cricket administrator Pat Terrelonge, former Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer Bruce Aanensen, commentators Alexis Jordan, Colin Murray and Sunil Ramdeen and journalists Guyanese Tony McWatt, Trinidadian Nasser Khan. ‘Reds’ also acquired a written discussion that was put out by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (Barbados) with inputs from the late Tony Cozier and journalist Adriel ‘Woody’ Richards. Additionally, contribution is expected from respected Caribbean

Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira journalist, Lance Whitakar.

Guyanese Perreira who has called over 150 Test Matches around the world in a career that spanned over five decades will also use footage of matches to steer the knowledge sharing workshop. The invitees are; Clyde Butts, Leon Johnson, Christopher Barnwell, among others.

Local media houses are invited to the opening session and may wish to utilize the services of the trainees there after. In fact, it is the hope of the facilitator, Perreira that radio stations add cricket coverage to their programming in 2024 and beyond. ‘Reds’ said, ‘It is important that after such a workshop that more opportunities are given for cricket reports from all three counties.’

The last cricket commentators’ workshop was conducted by ‘Reds’ for the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) in 1997.

Invitees may contact John Ramsingh via email johnoramsingh@gmail.com or mobile number 592 664 3999 for additional details.

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will officially stage the 2023 edition of the Lennox Blackmore National Intermediate Championship from Friday, November 3rd, to Sunday, November 5th, at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

Participation is expected from notable gyms such as the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force, the Forgotten Youth Foundation, Pace and Power, Rose Hall, Vergenoegen, and Republican for the championship, which commences daily at 18:00 hrs. The medical assessment and weight-in will occur tomorrow, Thursday at the National Gymnasium from 16:00 hrs.

Terrence Poole, Technical Director of the GBA, said, “The intermediate championship is the stage directly after the novices. It’s a more advanced boxing level because there will be boxers who have represented Guyana competing at this level, so there’s a higher quality of competition. This is the stage where you will see the true potential of the fighters. I anticipate a quality exhibition of the talent due to the fact that the competing pugilists are much more experienced.”

Meanwhile, GBA President Steve Ninvalle stated, “The GBA’s developmental agenda is an excursion rooted in continuity.

The Lennox Blackmore National Intermediate Championship is a stepping stone, a structured progression from the previously staged Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis National Novices Championships. It is a transitional level, and its importance should not be understated, as it provides a more detailed and comprehensive assessment of the possible future of the sport. The GBA

Lennox Blackmore

comprehends that development transpires and occurs in an organised and systematic manner, as each tournament under the jurisdiction of the association provides its own particular aim and intrinsic value. As such, this event, which is an annual undertaking, has been tailored to form a pathway for emerging pugilists who harbour national and professional aspirations. This, as a consequence, has always resulted in the exposure of talents, which is the lifeline of the association in its continued dominance of the region.”

The championship is staged in honour of the former Commonwealth Champion and world-ranked challenger, who ended his illustrious career with a record of 30 fights, 25 wins, and five losses.