Kaieteur News

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Tuesday Edition Gaza mother AIETEUR NEWS struggling to feed children

November 12, 2024 - Vol. 17 No. 45

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

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 47,493

...says only death can end their suffering

Govt. vows crackdown on Guyanese aiding foreign companies to

flout Local Content law Car dealer Fire destroys supermarket, slapped with damages hotel in Berbice 68 charges over $51.57M fraud Omeca Primo

Chain snatcher tells court, ‘I'm a Dr. Bhiro Harry patient’ Remanded: Junior Lilly

Firefighters on the scene in front of the Penguin Hotel and Bob and Sons Supermarket

Firm involved in audit of ExxonM’s expenses has licence suspended

Glenn Lall flays Jagdeo, Norton over indifference to lopsided oil contract ...renews calls for referendum on Exxon's deal

PAGE 02

Govt. vows crackdown on Guyanese aiding foreign companies to flout Local Content law Vice President (VP) to give benefits to our people, Bharrat Jagdeo has issued a stern warning to Guyanese firms enabling foreign companies to bypass Guyana's Local Content Act, stating that violators will face penalties.

The Local Content Act currently features 40 areas for services carved out for Guyanese businesses including rentals, supply of goods, accounting, catering and welding. Foreign companies wanting to operate within those areas are required to partner with local firms. However, the law stipulates that the Guyanese partner must have 51% or more beneficial ownership, among other benefits. The Local Content Secretariat has observed foreign companies finding new ways to flout this law in order to gain access to the 40 areas of services set aside for Guyanese businesses. At his last press conference, Jagdeo made it clear that the government is committed to enforcing the law to ensure that benefits set aside for Guyanese go to locals, not foreign firms. “Let me just reiterate that all of those who are violating now the Local Content Act, they have a lot to worry about,” Jagdeo said.

“We intend to crack down on it. This Act was designed

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

Guyanese, and if there are a few people here who are using it to confer the benefits so that the foreign companies can get these benefits that are set aside for our people, and they are collaborating with the foreigners, then they run the risks of not just losing the certification but also facing the fines in accordance with the Act,” the Vice President added.

Jagdeo emphasized the seriousness of the government's stance on the issue and noted that the Local Content Secretariat have already started acting on the evidence they have.

On November 5, 2024, Kaieteur News reported that Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat disclosed that foreign companies operating in the oil and gas sector continue to find new ways to sidestep Guyana's Local Content law.

The minister was speaking at the Private Sector Commission's second annual Local Content Forum. He addressed the escalating tactics some companies are employing to meet local content requirements on paper while continuing to channel the benefits outside Guyana, through deceptive practices. The minister talked about how certain companies

Vice President (VP), Bharrat Jagdeo use strategies such as “rent-acitizen” or “fronting,” where foreign entities rely on locals as superficial fronts to comply with local ownership laws. Minister Bharrat said that while his ministry, through the Local Content Secretariat always get feedback and/ complaints about new mechanisms foreign companies use to flout the local content requirements – the foreign companies have grown more sophisticated in their methods. According to him, the companies are evolving from the “blatant” use of front men to tactics like creating shell companies and partnerships with newly naturalised citizens. “So, there are different methods now, naturalization of people who've been in Guyana and making them partners, establishment of shell companies with no assets or no liquidity,” Minister Bharrat said.

Firm involved in Exxon's third audit has licence suspended The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana (ICAG) has suspended the membership of several individuals, one of those individuals, Azzar Haniff of Eclisar Financial and Professional Services.

Eclisar is a part of a local consortium VHE Consulting that was contracted for the third audit of ExxonMobil's Stabroek Block expense. The suspension was announced in a notice dated November 6, 2024. Haniff and George Vaughn of SFAI Guyana - Vaughn Business Solutions, both have had their ICAG memberships suspended for 2024, meaning they can no longer issue statutory audit opinions under Section 170 of the Companies Act. Additionally, Andre Davis of AMD Financial Services has had his certificate to practice suspended pending an ongoing investigation. This also restricts him from issuing statutory audit opinions under the Companies Act. Moreover, VHE is a registered partnership comprising Ramdihal & Haynes Inc., Eclisar Financial, and Vitality Accounting & Consulta cy Inc. Last month, VHE was awarded a $312 million contract for the third audit of Exxon's Stabroek Block expenses, covering the period 2021 to 2023.

Moreover, VHE with international support from SGS and Martindale Consultants conducted the second audit of ExxonMobil's US$7.3 billion Stabroek Block expenses for the period 2018 to 2020.

Managing Director of Eclisar Financial and Professional Services, Azzar Haniff On Monday, this publication reported that VHE has been instructed to release the finalised second audit of ExxonMobil's Stabroek Block expense. Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia told this publication on Saturday, “The final audit will be released within the week. I have already given the go ahead to VHE for them to do so.”

Fire Service rolls out new skylift The Bronto Skylift was used to extinguish a rooftop fire at Fireside Suites last Saturday

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has significantly strengthened its firefighting capabilities with cuttingedge machinery through substantial government investments.

Among the latest additions is the Bronto Skylift, a state-of-the-art firefighting apparatus capable of reaching heights up to 120 feet, making it the first of its kind in the Caribbean. This advanced equipment was recently deployed to extinguish a rooftop blaze at Fireside S u i t e s o n S a t u r d a y, underscoring its effectiveness in high-rise and hard-to-access locations.

As the country rapidly develops and high-rise buildings become more common, equipment like the Bronto Skylift serves as an invaluable tool for firefighting and rescue

operations. This advanced firefighting equipment is part of a broader upgrade, as the government has invested a considerable amount in improving all of Guyana's security agencies.

In the first half of the year, the sum of $32.6 billion was expended to procure new equipment and upgrade infrastructures for the GFS, Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS). These investments along with the upcoming acquisition of a rescue and firefighting vehicle, an all-terrain fire fighting vehicle, and a crash tender will significantly enhance the GFS' ability to serve and protect citizens.

Emphasis has also been placed on bolstering the agency's workforce.

Approximately $4.1 million was invested in training over 105 GFS ranks in critical

areas such as Basic Recruitment Firefighters training, Medical First Aid Responder training, and Tactical Firefighting training, among others. The government's commitment to providing quality security services is also evident in its numerous efforts to boost the Guyana Police Force's (GPF) current operating abilities.

A number of police vehicles, motorcycles, boats, and engines were recently added to the Police Force's existing fleet.

The GPF has also made notable strides in strengthening international relations by signing a Memorandum of Agreement with the New York Police Department. These efforts are yielding evident results as the GPF has recorded a 17.8 per cent decrease in total serious crimes for the year 2023. (DPI)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

PAGE 03

Glenn Lall flays Jagdeo, Norton for indifference to lopsided oil contract ...renews calls for referendum on Exxon's deal

B

usinessman and advocate for a better oil deal, Glenn Lall has accused Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo of selling out the country's natural resources to foreigners and he chastised Leader of the Opposition (LOO), Aubrey Norton for doing little or nothing to arrest the situation.

Lall has used his weekly radio programme and social media platforms to advocate for major reforms in the oil and gas sector - among them being the renegotiation of the lopsided oil contract which the Coalition government signed with ExxonMobil in 2016.

However, despite during the 2020 elections campaign,

Jagdeo and the PPP/C had promised to renegotiate the contract once elected, since returning to government, the administration has reneged on the promise.

Speaking during last Friday's programme, Lall told his listeners that much of the problems the country faces must be laid at the feet of Jagdeo, who is also general secretary of the ruling PPP/C and a two-term president.

“Let me tell you this tonight, that man Bharrat Jagdeo does not care for any Guyanese, Bharrat Jagdeo is not there to safeguard our pockets or to defend our God-given blessings - that oil out there. Bharrat Jagdeo is one of the main men

Businessman, Glenn Lall

Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

selling out this entire nation's wealth with generations to come.

It's not that he doesn't know, Bharrat Jagdeo is one

of the smartest leaders you have in this country, but for whatever reason you want to describe it as, he is not using that smartness to benefit the

Guyanese people,” Lall said.

Further, Lall referenced an interview he had with the former president in early days of the President Irfaan Ali government.

“I played the interview for you on my Wednesday night programme – you heard his answers on simple, straightforward questions, issues that he 'cuss' out the PNC about, he went in there and did worse. I asked him about what he would have gotten for Guyana had he been in Raphael Trotman's shoes negotiating that oil deal, he couldn't even answer that question and still doesn't want to answer that question to this day. You know why; he would have left it at that one percent…”

Mr. Lall said.

Among some of the flaws of the 2016 contract, which governs Exxon's operations in the rich Stabroek Block are: the paltry two percent royalty, lack of ring-fencing, no taxes among other things.

Lall told his radio audience, the much anticipated seventh project of ExxonMobil will be signed without any improvements. “Wait, watch and see he will not ringfence that 7th project, he will not get a cent tax or do anything in that 7th project to put more money in the Guyanese pockets for their children.

Just like the other oil projects, Guyana will remain with that good-for-nothing 2 percent royalty with that same 12.5 percent profit share. You and your children, me and my grandchildren, will see nothing more from any other oil project this man approves.”

Meanwhile, turning his attention to Norton, who he

IDB Report reveals…

High crime big burden on Latin America, Caribbean ...costs equivalent to 78% of budget for education, double budget for social assistance

Latin America and the Caribbean social and economic development remains heavily burdened by crime and violence, a new Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) study shows.

The direct costs of crime and violence in Latin America reached 3.44% of the region's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022, mostly unchanged from a previous IDB study published in 2017.

“Our study shows that crime is a significant burden on our societies and economic development. It limits growth, drives inequality, and diverts private and public investment. We must join and redouble efforts to change that reality,” Ilan Goldfajn, IDB President was quoted in a press release as saying.

“Evidence shows that targeted prevention and effective security and justice systems are key to lasting change. The IDB practical experience working with countries shows that we can mitigate the impact of crime. We are scaling our impact in this area by establishing a Regional Alliance for Security, Justice and Development,” he concluded.

The study, “The Costs of Crime and Violence: Expansion and Update of Estimates for Latin America and the Caribbean,” calculates the direct cost of crime in three areas: loss of human capital (costs of productive time lost as a result of non-lethal crimes, homicides and incarcerations), spending on crime

mitigation by businesses, and public spending on crime prevention and criminal justice. In 2022, security expenses by private businesses accounted for 47% of the total cost of crime, while State spending on crime prevention represented 31% and the loss of human capital made up 22%.

The research also compares the direct cost of crime in Latin America and the Caribbean with six European countries - Poland, Ireland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Netherlands, and Sweden - where costs average 2% of GDP (42% less than Latin America and the Caribbean). Reducing the cost of crime to these levels would give Latin American and the Caribbean the equivalent of nearly 1% of GDP to invest in social welfare programmes.

The report expands, updates, and refines the estimates presented in 2017.

It uses a new methodology to estimate the cost in human capital based on local information about victim demographics for the calculation of the present value of economic losses from the premature death of homicide victims.

Additionally, the study presents an analysis of the indirect costs of crime such as reduced investment, lower business productivity and increased emigration. This analysis of indirect costs highlights why addressing crime requires restoring a sense of security and stability in addition to reducing the

number of violent crimes. The study offers key public policy recommendations for the region. These include strengthening public institutions to improve spending efficiency, focusing on evidence-based interventions, and strengthening justice systems while investing in education and social services to address the root causes of crime, especially in high-risk areas. And it emphasizes the importance of improving data collection and research to better understand crime and violence.

These are precisely some of the policies that the IDB seeks to promote through the Alliance for Security, Justice, and Development, an initiative that, in addition to facilitating regional coordination for the implementation of public policies, aims to promote resource mobilization to address, with a new approach, the challenges to economic and social development posed by organised crime.

It includes three case studies showing the impact of crime on tourism, migration, and business productivity in the region. It also presents the results for the year 2020 to analyze the dynamics during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting a slight increase of 0.09% compared to 2019 and 2021. This indicates that, despite the focus on the health emergency, crime continued to demand economic resources.

said has also been noncommital to making changes to the contract, Lall referenced the LOO restating last week that he needed data to say whether or not he will ring-fence the projects, although stating that he supports it in principle. “Ring-fencing is not an option; ring-fencing is not a game; ring-fencing is a must.

Every oil-producing country knows this. You don't need data or information about this, you don't need any record for this. Ring-fencing puts money right away in your pockets, ring-fencing is like royalty - you must have that, ring-fencing you must have, it does not depend on any information,” Lall stressed.

Lall said with estimates showing that ExxonMobil collected US$9B already because of a lack of ringfencing, Norton does not need any data to make a clear position on this issue.

“Look what these men engaging in, running an oilrich country where they are not ring-fencing the projects, they are not capping the interest rates on the oil companies' investments, not collecting a cent in taxes, not ensuring that the nation is fully protected from an oil spill, accepting next-tonothing for royalty with a 12.5% profit, not having a single of our own meters at the pumps, refusing to put in place oil experts to help us manage the oil industry, not thoroughly checking Exxon's expenses, not verifying these project costs with oil experts and not telling this nation nothing about what is going on in the oil sector, if not asked.”

Lall said given the shortcomings of the two leaders, the call for a referendum on the oil contract becomes more urgent.

“You see why we must vote on what we want from this oil blessings, before we go into any other elections–that is the reason.

Bharrat Jagdeo and Aubrey Norton will not change that contract arrangement and they will not hire experts to manage this oil industry.

You and I are seeing it, you and I are hearing it, and it's crystal clear under these two men's leadership, Guyana is doomed…”

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

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

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

EDITORIAL

Road safety It is Road Safety Month, and Guyanese are reminded of how dangerous, even deadly, travelling on our roads can be.

It could be in the city or a rural area, and the life and limb of young and old are endangered.

There are two major contributory factors, speeding drivers and drunk drivers. In both situations, those behind the wheel engage in what is reckless and destructive to themselves and anyone in their vicinity. This is a severe problem in Guyana, and one that does not look like it has any end in sight.

The Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has done its part, through informing citizens of the need to exercise greater care, more discipline, and with regard for others. The advice of the GPF has largely fallen on deaf ears, given the continuing stream of accidents and, too frequently, road fatalities. Citizens are seriously injured, breadwinners killed, and survivors left hanging by a thread, and managing however they can. We are not equipped, as yet, to deal with some of the horrible injuries that are caused by accidents on the road, since we lack extensive facilities and skills to handle the carnage that crushes bone, body, and life itself. Concerned Guyanese have lent their voices, given of their time and energies, to shed light on the dangers of speeding and drunk driving, but again with little success for their efforts.

We highlight road safety and road wreckage, and the great costs to property and body, and to use such circumstances to speak to an environment beyond our roads. It is people operating above of our streets, who are even more dangerous than drunk or speeding drivers. In fact, we take the position that because the entire nation could be endangered in many ways, and pays the bitterest of prices the men responsible are potentially deadlier than those who drive dangerously on our roads.

These would be the Leaders in this PPP/C Government, who captain our national oil vessel. Because of their reckless actions, their resistance to listening, hearing, and acting appropriately, and their hostility to those who call them out on our national oil journey, these men, these Leaders, pose a greater danger to all Guyanese. It is more than any speeding minibus driver, reckless truck driver, and drunk and out of control vehicle driver (of any type), through the decisions they make, the things they do, and those that they refuse to do.

When Leaders in this PPP/C Government race at breakneck speeds with oil production when we, including themselves, know so little about the oil industry, how it works, what are its tricks, and how we need to protect ourselves, there is the great danger that severe injuries of different kinds will follow. There are financial injuries which the foreign oil companies can and will inflict upon us, and of which we are ignorant. It makes sense, therefore, for Government and Leaders to slowdown to get feet wet, and for them to be able to wrap their minds around the complexities of a demanding and sophisticated business.

Further, when Guyana rushes forward as rapidly as it has done, then the oil companies are given the go ahead to speed up processes and practices to the point where safety becomes secondary. Just as how speeding road users throw caution to the winds and cut corners, only to end up badly wounded or kill others, this is what the PPP/C Government practices. The risk, the probability, of a disastrous oil spill is sharply higher at accelerated production levels. There is potentially untold danger to our environment and future, to that of our tourismdependent neighbours and their way of life, and there could be the likelihood of this oil meaning nothing to us due to national bankruptcy hanging over our heads. Guyana would be like a man that has a Mercedes, but who has injured himself so badly that he can’t drive it anymore, experience its joys anymore.

Leaders in the PPP/C Government must slow down, they must not be so drunk from power. They must learn, and discipline themselves to listen and observe for the betterment of all. They must cease being the most dangerous people in Guyana.

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Nothing in Guyana works DEAR EDITOR Nothing in Guyana works. I will start with the two most important ones, which in my opinion is interfering with the functioning of the others, first, to all intents and purposes, we don’t have a functioning Parliament, no matter what the opposition says there, it falls on deaf ears.

I was a member of the Guyana parliament for four years and I never saw the PPP retract one number or word from anything they presented to the house, even after hours of debate.

Second, our legal system has not as yet recovered from the final arbiter of all our legal matters. It was hoped that it would have recovered faster with a Chief Justice like Justice Roxane George Wiltshire, and the CCJ. Editor, I’m not saying that all the judges are not fearless and impartial, a few are definitely emerging, but by and large more independence must be visible, perhaps, the constitutional reform could suggest a method of appointing judges which guarantees the independence of the judiciary, a most essential element in any democracy.

It affects everything,

when a businessman, politician, ordinary citizens, organisations, media do not have access to justice nothing will work. That’s why so many reversals of judgement are happening at the CCJ. Pity that the CCJ Judges does not insult bad judgements, as the Law Lords at the Privy Council do.

For example, on the night of 11/5/24, I watched the Hon Amanza Waldron MP being interviewed by someone on YouTube, to my astonishment, I heard her complaining, that a huge impediment to her functioning was occasioned by the State-owned media refusing to give her coverage. Just a few months ago, I again presented the decision in a 1985 case in Trinidad and Tobago, [T&T] to very senior members of the opposition, reminding them that since 1985 in the High Court of T&T Justice Lennox Deyalsingh ruled in the UNC’s MP Rambajan matter, that the State-owned media was owned by all the people of T&T not only t h o s e i n p o w e r, a n d therefore, time for politicians on all Stateowned media must be awarded according to the seats in parliament i.e. in Guyana, if the PPP gets 51

minutes coverage, the opposition must get 49 minutes.

Editor, I gave that ruling to the late Former President Desmond Hoyte since 1996 compliments of Sir Fenton Ramsahoye since I was a broadcaster at that time and was suffering from the unfair advantage GTV had over me, since it was receiving a huge subvention and was competing unfairly with me for advertising. Since Jagdeo had agreed to the CCJ by 2005, such a case with such a clear decision, guarantees a definite outcome at the CCJ. I have since given it to many senior members of the opposition on numerous occasions as recently as this year.

It’s unlawful and a violation of our constitution for the government in power to behave as if they own the State media. So MP Amanza must ask for time/space on GBC/GTV/Chronicle to respond to something which has been made public by the person she is shadowing, and if she is denied the time/space, she should file in the Supreme Court, naming just that one precedent. I am also against the State media also being given those massive amounts in subvention of the taxpayers of Guyana’s citizen, because

it creates not only the inequity of the opposition not having their opinions heard in the public domain, it also offends the rights of the citizens who would like to hear the opinion of the opposition in this country i.e.

49% of the public, since freedom of speech not only appertains to your opinion being communicated to your supporters, it also violates the rights of their supporters whose freedom of speech is also being eroded, since the article 19 of the UN’s declaration of civil and political rights which Guyana signed, states that freedom of speech is not only to give information, but also to receive information.

Editor, even you and your paper are being disadvantaged since when the State media is given these huge subventions from the budget, they enjoy an unfair advantage over private broadcasters/media houses, thereby depriving them not only of their constitutional rights to fair and equal competition, but also revenue, since the Stateowned media boasting of their enhanced coverage, etc. to advertisers seek to outbid the private local broadcasters for advertising revenue, actions which have (Continued on page 18)

Does Guyana have any message for COP 29?

DEAR EDITOR The 29th Conference of Parties (COP), the main vehicle for bringing world leaders together to combat global warming, opens today November 11th in Baku Azerbaijan. Whether any leading Minister of the Guyana government will attend is, as yet, unknown.

Given the Government’s undeniable commitment to “drill, baby, drill”, what message Guyana would have for a Conference whose chief priority is to reduce carbon emissions is equally unknown.

The COP meetings, sponsored by the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCC) have, in recent years, progressively been taken over by oil companies, whose representatives number more than a thousand delegates. Since ExxonMobil will be well-

represented among this n u m b e r, i t m i g h t b e concluded the Guyana Government need not attend since the two share the same fundamental position on accelerating rather than reducing carbon emissions.

Guyana’s justification for this policy is the argument that the country has the right to ‘catch-up’ with the developed world.

If ‘developed’ meant those nations in which the majority of the population enjoyed equitable, sustainable-oriented and inclusive policies, it would be more acceptable.

However, the evidence to date points in the direction of copying those nations whose privileged few enjoy untold wealth. This form of consumerism can never become the model across the population as a whole.

The major contradiction of ‘catching-up’ is that

greater social equality can only be achieved in conjunction with reduced gas-based fuels, gas-based flaring and cement. The impact of access to water of the poorer segment of the Guyanese population, for example, by the upsurge in demand for water to sustain the huge current road and building construction programme, funded by the oil boom, has never been assessed.

To say nothing of the current heat wave. Bottled water, black tanks and pumps are assumed available to everyone.

Inequality goes hand-inhand with rising emissions.

Prosperity-led strategies are also taking their toll on regulatory Agencies. The Guyana Police Force’s pursuit of ‘prosperity’ is the most prominent example, prompting questions about o t h e r, l e s s p r o m i n e n t

Agencies with responsibility for health standards, commercial products, genetically-modified seeds, building and licences of all kinds.

All are vulnerable to the numbing of conscience and slick justifications used to manipulate rules for personal gain. All of the above is carrying Guyana more in the direction of oligarch-run societies than democracies, societies in which consumption patterns of the privileged are believed to be a ‘right’.

To this extent, Alister Routledge, ‘Guyana ExxonMobil’s President and Manager’ (as he is referred to in news videos), would not be too out-of-place representing Guyana at Cop29. Guyana’s Elon Musk - so to speak?

Regards Guyana Human Rights Association

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 05

Chris Ram’s Polling Effort on Referendum Commended DEAR EDITOR, As an avid poll watcher (of USA and several other countries) and someone who has being conducting polls for four decades in the Caribbean, India, and elsewhere, I was approached to give my views on Mr. “Chris Ram’s Internet Polling” mode that was utilized to determine public views on whether a referendum should be held on renegotiating the oil contract.

Internet polling is welcomed in Guyana, and it is hoped there would be more and that it will be institutionalized.

Although the latter is far from reality in internet and technology challenged Guyana, it is increasingly being used in other countries to solicit public reaction or views on important issues including on approval ratings of politicians.

Chris Ram’s name is affiliated with the survey because it is believed that he and a few others constructed it and decided to conduct it on the internet.

He has strong views on oil renegotiation, and they as well as the man himself are respected.

Chris Ram has a r e p u t a t i o n o f uncompromising integrity and as a brilliant thinker and writer with few local comparisons, one of the most respected chartered accountants, and an individual of courage who c h a l l e n g e d authoritarianism. He is the kind of lawyer or accountant one would prefer to have on one’s side.

It is also known that he supported political change in 2011, 2015, and 2020. He

was in the forefront in the struggle when democracy was under pressure and the constitution violated, and when attempts were made to rig the 2020 elections.

He spared no personal expenses to mount legal challenges and represented many clients gratis.

We may not be in agreement on issues, but he fought fairly, fearlessly, and courageously for his political position and on what he thinks is right for nation including on oil renegotiation.

Regardless of how one feels about him personally, Chris Ram must be recognized and honoured for his role against authoritarian tendencies and saving democracy in 2020. And one must commend his and the efforts of others of introducing and conducting a poll (on line), a new idea in our country.

It is well known that political polling (not general anthropological and other social science surveying) in Guyana was introduced by Dr. Baytoram Ramharack, R a v i D e v , Va s s a n Ramracha, myself and a few others in the late 1980s, polling that benefited Dr. Jagan and the PPP and other PCD parties. Ramharack and I studied polling in USA when we were graduate

students during the 1980s.

Polling is the most reliable method of obtaining public views (as a percentage) on issues (aside from voting and or referendums).

A traditional paper and writing utensil mode of surveying was used then and still being used by this writer in latest polling.

Other pollsters have gravitated to other modes of polling using the latest technology.

Polling has undergone significant change since it was introduced almost a century ago.

Different modes have been introduced over time with the latest one being “internet polling” as used

by Ram and others.

The evolution of polling began with straw polling (unscientific generalized opinions, unrepresentative of the voting population), then PAPI (Pen and Paper Personal Interview), CAPI (Computer Assisted Personal Interview), CATI (Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing), CAWI (Computer Assisted Web Interviewing) and now internet.

There are advantages and disadvantages in each mode of polling. No need to go into them as that is

not the focus in this essay.

Most polls were and are still conducted on telephone, relying on live interviewers to call randomly selected people for their views to represent the population.

Some pollsters are experimenting utilizing the internet because it is cheaper and quicker to obtain results.

It has taken survey researchers some time to adapt to the idea of online surveys.

Many approval ratings polls were and are done online rather than utilizing phone polls. Online polling has its challenges and pollster are addressing them to limit errors.

When results or findings of polls were or are released, pollsters tend to inform the public the mode of surveying.

Chris Ram did same! It was not a commissioned poll but one based on volunteerism.

He (and colleagues) have met all the requirements of a genuine survey — outlined the methodology used, the questionnaire, how the findings were obtained, and publication for public consumption.

Because of issues pertaining to reliability of internet and the small

number of people who have access to internet, responses to internet polling in Guyana would be low – no fault of the sponsors of the survey.

They have done well within the limitations.

As for the results of the poll, more and more people have become familiar with the presence of Exxon operations in Guyana.

From nine years ago, when only a small percentage knew and or cared about Exxon’s drilling and production operations, today almost everyone knows about the oil giant’s presence in Guyana as per field surveys conducted annually.

Almost everyone supports oil and gas production and welcome the infusion of revenues into the economy.

On referendum or a

plebiscite, it is the best option of law making. It is a form of direct democracy that was used centuries ago in ancient Athens.

More and more countries and all the states in USA have used referendums for law making.

Whether politicians in Guyana support referendums as a form of law making is another question as is the legality of a referendum on a private contract after it has been signed! The latter is for the lawyers and the court.

Chris Ram and team are commended for effort on internet polling.

Their work will encourage public engagement and the public’s opinions as well as input are welcomed.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

PAGE 06

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Contract award to Turkish powership raises concerns DEAR EDITOR, Reference is made to “Turkish powership company wins contract to supply 60 MW” (Nov 8).

The same company was also awarded the first offshore power generating plant (at Everton) which experienced challenges.

The award of this second contract raises important questions.

There are also issues about transparency. Can the Vice President and or the President inform the nation who is the local partner of Karpowership? This may help us to understand

decision making.

Karpowership’s bid is two and a half (250%) to the next closest bidder and 450% that of the lowest bidder. Yet Karpowership was awarded the contract.

Why? It smells fishy!

Shouldn’t government be providing electricity at the lowest possible price per unit.

Karpowership unit price is very high and will burden consumers.

As reported in another media house, GPL has been supplying fuel to the off shore power generating ship plant at Everton. Will GPL

also supply fuel to this additional off shore plant?

When one adds fuel and lubricant, costs borne by GPL, the price per unit is raised to about US $0.22, more than double the nine cents per unit offered by Karpowership. Is GPL supplying heavy Fuel (HFO) or diesel? HFO provides higher energy content. Is the Tr i n i d a d i a n c o m p a n y, APAN, contracted to supply or transport fuel to GPL? Is Venezuelan fuel being used in Guyana? If not, where is the fuel coming from?

Yours truly, Nigel Pilgrim

LNG exports continue to be a viable option DEAR EDITOR, The viability of the export market for Guyana’s liquified natural gas (LNG) has been recently confirmed by a new report from Wood MacKenzie.

The current market price, access to shipping lanes, a shift in U.S. policy and increasing demand have positioned our country to easily make a substantial sum annually with the export of our LNG. This strategy also avoids the health, production and environmental costs associated with the conversion of the LNG into fertilizer, and increases the cash flow of the country.

The annual sum available to be had is quite substantial and the government should review the recent report by this reputable company, which supports the development of the LNG export market for Guyana. Focusing on LNG export should be a no brainer as it provides quick access to income that can be used in lieu of loans to finance other national development projects.

The billions gained from this venture will also further support the development of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) and strengthen the longterm economic stability of our country.

It’s an easy make vs. buy decision and the country can focus its efforts on leapfrogging the energy transition mix by going straight into the renewable energy sector. Our size and energy demand allow it and we should allow the country to develop rapidly in such a responsible manner.

Our ecotourism credentials will also be boosted and our energy bill will reduce to a lower level than the proposed gas to energy project price.

CRG strongly recommends taking the LNG export approach and using it to…

1. Improve our cash flow for stronger financial performance and lower debt dependence 2. Accelerate our clean energy mix for lower health and environmental risks. Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Tuesday Monday November May 02, 12, 2022 2024

‘Reforms at GECOM possible before elections’ ...WPA says as it demands clean voters' list, biometrics The Works People's Alliance (WPA) said that much needed reforms at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are possible before next year's general and regional elections and the party also c a l l e d f o r t h e implementation of biometrics and the sanitisation of the voters' list.

The WPA as part of the wider opposition parties has made the issue of a clean voters' list and biometrics the centerpiece of their advocacy.

L a s t w e e k Vi c e President, Bharrat Jagdeo said that GECOM must be ready for elections by August next year. Speaking

at the WPA's weekly news conference on Monday, coleader, Dr. David Hinds said the party continues to believe that everything must be done by GECOM and the relevant stakeholders, including the political parties, to ensure that the imminent national and regional elections are free and fair and free from fear.

“No stone must be left unturned, and all aspects of the electoral machinery and process must be addressed with the seriousness they deserve,” Hinds told the news conference. “Because our elections determine who governs in a winner-take-all system which confers on the winner almost absolute

power and relegates the loser to a state of powerlessness, GECOM must treat all concerns with the utmost urgency and meticulousness they deserve,” Hinds said.

He said that it is against that background that WPA welcomes in principle the feasibility study being currently considered by GECOM. “Having said that we have some concerns.

First, any serious feasibility study should have been prepared by an independent source rather than by the Chief Election Officer who does not enjoy the confidence of the full commission and all of the political parties,” WPA said, adding that the report of the

study emphasises more why the necessary reforms, especially as they relate to biometrics, should not be adopted.

“In particular, it cites cost, time constraints and reliability of the proposed system as potential obstacles to their implementation.

Third, while WPA feels that biometrics is an absolute necessity, we insist it must be part of a larger reform initiative, which must include, at a minimum, a clean voters' list and an impartial GECOM machinery. It is a case of all or nothing.”

Hinds said the WPA feels that there is still enough time to put the reforms in place before the next election.

“Time constraints should not be used as an obstacle to free and fair elections. We note Vice President Jagdeo's public instruction to GECOM to put preparations in place by next August. The Vice President is out of order. He is implicitly instructing GECOM to stick to his agenda rather than to ensure a credible and efficient machinery and process that can pass the test of a free and fair election.

WPA will resist this bullying of GECOM,” Hinds said.

WPA also called on GECOM to exercise its constitutional autonomy “and not be bullied by the VP, his party and the government; GECOM is not an arm of the PPP. Its responsibility is to the constitution, the laws of the country and the citizens of Guyana.”

The party reiterated that

it supports all moves aimed at ensuring a fair, just and credible process including a delay of the elections as a last resort. “We wish to remind the nation that the critical 1992 elections were delayed for almost two years to ensure that GECOM put in place the necessary reforms mandated by the all-party agreement brokered by President Jimmy Carter.”

“For the WPA, the issue of prohibitive cost is hardly a constraint. While we do not promote wastage and bingespending, we feel that Guyana can afford the cost cited in the study. A government, which spends money like a drunken sailor on its pet projects and waste money on corrupt initiatives should not complain about s pending on electoral integrity.

Further, a government that is prepared to spend tens of million on political witchhunting of GECOM personnel but is not prepared to spend on electoral integrity is at best hypocritical. GECOM must look for the best deal, but it must ensure that there is biometrics. We have already addressed the effectiveness of the technology against factors such as power failure.”

Biometrics On the issue of biometrics, Hinds said WPA fears that GECOM is aiming to use the PPP majority to signoff against biometrics.

“This would be a grave error that could have far-reaching consequences. We therefore call on the Madam Chair to show impartial leadership by

WPA Co-leader, Dr. David Hinds disentangling herself from the PPP chokehold and uphold the integrity of her office. In a partisan commission, the role of the chairperson is critical to its impartial and democratic functioning. WPA feels that Ms. Claudette Singh has failed GECOM, the constitution and the country in this regard. However, there is still time for her to correct the situation,' Hinds said.

The party leader also said that the WPA is alarmed at reports emanating from GECOM that there has been potential tampering with the voters' list. “ We a r e r e l i a b l y informed that the customary practice of updating the list every six months has been changed to monthly updates without the knowledge of the commissioners. These frequent updates increase the potential for undetected tampering.

The WPA asks two questions which we call on GECOM to address. First, why the change to monthly or more frequent updates?

Second, why were the commissioners not informed of the change?”

Bandits in shoot out with cops after robbing Chinese store Three men were arrested by police on Sunday after they robbed a Chinese General Store of cell phones and cash valued at over $2M in Lethem, Region Nine.

The victim has been identified as Wei Gao, a 43-year-old Chinese businessman and the owner of 'Shopping 25' General Store located at Block 'B' Lethem in Central Rupununi. Police reported that the incident occurred around 14:15h on Sunday. One of the suspects was armed with a submachine gun and two with handguns. The trio robbed the businessman of 21 new Xiao Mi cell phones valued at $1,620,000 and $500,000 cash, a total value of $2,120,000.

Commander for Regional Police Division #9, Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose led a team of detectives and other police ranks to the scene, police reported. Investigations revealed that on the day in question, the victim was operating his business, when the three suspects entered his store, held him at

gunpoint and began to demand money. The gunmen reportedly spoke Portuguese.

Police said the three suspects were described as short, medium-built, and dressed in dark clothing. They arrived on foot. Thereafter, the trio escaped into Tabatinga, heading west towards the Lethem Commercial Zone. Following that, Commander Rose and team gave chase and spotted the three suspects walking, heading south near some bushes towards the Guyana/Brazil border.

Upon seeing police vehicle, the three suspects discharged several rounds at the police vehicle. The police returned fire but the suspects managed to elude them. The police vehicle was hit four times but no one was injured. A Joint-Services patrol team was subsequently formed in an effort to locate the alleged suspects, and all three of whom were arrested and are in custody in Brazil.

Investigations continue.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

PAGE 09

If the system is not broken why try to fix it?

A

few years ago, I was at a private h o s p i t a l watching the workers “clock-in” to work using fingerprint recognition technology.

Interestingly, some of them had to scan their fingerprint numerous times before it was recognised.

The machine refused to recognise the prints of others, forcing management to have to intervene to register the times at which these workers turned up for duty. Imagine what can result when such fingerprinting technology has to be deployed across almost 2,000 polling stations and for more than 400,00 eligible voters.

Fingerprint verification technology has been implemented in elections around the world to reduce voter fraud and improve identification accuracy.

However, several countries have encountered notable problems with this technology, which have led to controversies, delays, and legal challenges.

In the 2020 elections, Ghana's Electoral Commission implemented biometric fingerprint verification as part of its voter identification process.

While intended to enhance

transparency, the system encountered significant problems, such as device malfunctions and cases where voters' fingerprints could not be read. Technical issues were compounded by voter anxiety and skepticism, especially among elderly citizens, who found the process cumbersome.

The verification delays also slowed down voting processes in certain areas, leading to long queues and voter frustration. These challenges prompted calls from political figures to reevaluate the use of such technology in future elections.

Kenya adopted biometric verification technology in 2013 and again in 2017, with fingerprint verification as a key component.

In 2017, problems with fingerprint scanners were widespread, leading to delays at polling stations.

Many devices failed to recognize fingerprints accurately, especially for rural voters who, due to physical labour, often had worn fingerprints. This created significant delays, which some political groups claimed compromised the f a irness of the election.

In Nigeria, biometric

fingerprint verification was first used nationwide in the 2015 elections and continued in the 2019 elections.

The technology faced frequent challenges, particularly in rural and high-density areas where the devices struggled with accuracy and network connectivity. In several cases, voters were turned away because the devices could not verify their fingerprints, often due to errors with the software or hardware failures.

The challenges in 2015 led to calls for reforms, and by 2019, although some improvements were reported, the problems persisted. Critics argue that the technology contributed to voter disenfranchisement in both elections.

Afghanistan used biometric fingerprint verification in its 2019 presidential election in an attempt to mitigate fraud.

However, the technology faced multiple issues: poor internet connectivity hindered the uploading of verification data, and many devices malfunctioned or failed to recognize fingerprints accurately.

Election observers reported widespread technical difficulties that resulted in

DEM BOYS SEH

UG had graduation Dem boys seh UG throw cap an’ gown pon more than 3,500 students, an’ right away, nuff of dem think deh got one foot in a big job. But dem boys seh hold up! Graduation ain’t no automatic pass fuh employment. Dem boys lookin’ fuh people who could do more than just wave a diploma around like it’s a golden ticket.

Yuh see, dem boys done seh de thing plain: a degree is one ting, but if yuh can’t read, write, spell, and count, yuh might as well leave dat cap an’ gown hanging in de closet. It’s one ting to flash papers; it’s a whole next ting to know what yuh doing! De boss man seh graduates got to pass a lil test before dem boys even consider dem fuh a job. An’ it ain’t just any test – dem got to show dem could write a decent letter, draft up a memo dat actually make sense, balance accounts so de figures ain’t looking like alphabet soup, and fix up a spreadsheet dat wouldn’t

mek yuh head spin. Dem boys seh dis nah no UGonly job fair either. If yuh could do de work, UG or no UG, dem boys willing to give yuh a shot. But some ah dem graduates only wuk-ready in theory. How yuh gon’ work wid dem if dem can’t spell “responsibility” without missing two vowels?

An’ de ting is, plenty ah dem graduates already got steady jobs. Dem done wearing uniform – as teacher, police, soldier – so dey ain’t looking fuh no wuk. But de ones who really looking got to be serious. Dem got to prove demself, show deh can handle more than just book learning.

It mek dem boys remember de time when two friends went for a job interview. Dem boys seh two fren go fuh a big interview. De fuss fren guh in, all proud and nice, sit down in front de boss. De boss look at he resumé, ask some questions, den seh, “Imagine you on a train, an

it hot inside. Wah yuh gon do?” De fren seh, “Simple, I gon open de window.”

Boss man smile an seh, “Nice answer! But leh me ask yuh dis – if de train goin’ 100 mph an de window 2 sq ft, how much air gon blow inside in one minute?”

De fren eyes start fuh blink like he get sand in it.

He can’t answer, so dem show he de door.

Now, he come out, and he tell he buddy inside de lobby wah happen, every last detail. De second fren go in now, done prepare fuh dis ‘hot train’ story.

De boss ask he de same question, “Imagine you on a train, an it hot inside. Wah yuh gon do?” De fren seh, “I gon tek off me jacket.”

Boss seh, “But wah if it still hot?” De fren seh, “I gon tek off me shirt too.”

Boss raise he eyebrow an ask, “An if it still hot?”

De man seh, “Boss, I gon tek off everyting if I got to – but I ain’t openin’ dat window!”

Talk half. Leff half.

delayed voting, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure was limited.

This led to accusations of disenfranchisement and allegations that the technical failures disproportionately affected certain areas, casting doubt on the overall fairness of the election.

These instances illustrate that while fingerprint verification technology can bolster election security, it also presents significant challenges, particularly in regions with infrastructural and technical limitations.

Recurrent issues with device reliability, network access, and voter accessibility have led to calls for improved technology and, in some cases, for alternative methods to ensure fair and efficient electoral processes.

In Guyana, members of the Opposition are increasingly calling for the implementation of fingerprint technology in the electoral process.

T h e i r a d v o c a c y, h o w e v e r, h a s s t i r r e d questions about the intent behind the suggestion, as introducing fingerprint authentication would necessitate a fresh registration exercise across the country.

This may be the ultimate aim of the call for the introduction of the technology.

The need for a new registration process so close to the upcoming elections could be viewed as a tactic to complicate or delay the elections, raising suspicions

that the push for fingerprint technology is motivated by political aims rather than the genuine need for system improvements.

Critics of the introduction of fingerprint verification technology argue that the current polling system is not in disrepair, so there is little rationale for such a drastic overhaul.

In a country where election results have historically been extremely close, even minor disruptions to the voter registration process could lead to widespread discontent and mistrust in the election results.

The introduction of fingerprint technology would likely create challenges, including the p o t e n t i a l disenfranchisement of eligible voters who might f a c e d i ff i c u l t i e s w i t h registration or verification.

This is a serious concern in a democratic society where the fairness and inclusivity of the electoral process are paramount, especially considering Guyana's history of contested election results.

To mitigate these risks, it would be prudent to consider a phased approach to fingerprint t e c h n o l o g y, b e g i n n i n g with local government elections where the voter turnout is low.

This gradual implementation would allow election authorities to address any operational issues and make necessary

adjustments before applying it to general and regional elections.

A controlled rollout would also help build familiarity and confidence in the new technology, easing the transition for both voters and officials.

Testing the system in local elections could reveal potential challenges, such as technology malfunctions, which could then be resolved before broader application in general and regional elections.

Political parties themselves could set an example by adopting fingerprint technology at their internal congresses.

H o w e v e r, r u s h i n g t h e implementation for the 2025 general and regional elections without adequate testing would risk destabilising an already delicate electoral situation.

The untested, nationwide rollout of fingerprint technology could create confusion and heighten tensions, potentially undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday November 12, 2024

BY GHK LALL

H@RD TRUTHS Oil markets by nature are fickle S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Oil markets are fickle by nature… said Vice President Bhar-rat Jagdeo. I agree.

The vision is for the longterm. I agree again. The World Bank's output is not held highly by some CEOs. Maybe, maybe not.

In short, I agree with Guyana's oil superstar Dr. Jagdeo on almost every count. There is appreciation that that doesn't count for much, since he does not deal with “almost.” It's all-ornone. Subtitles: there must be agreement with the PPP Government and Grandmaster Jagdeo 150% of the time, because doing so only 99% of the time converts one to a despicable citizen, traitor.

He further said that the nature of oil markets is fickle. To put simply, fickle means iffy, slippery, tricky.

In raw romantic terms, hard

to put one's loving arms around for any extended interlude. I trust that no one takes offence.

In more sophisticated lingo, fickle means that oil markets manifest volatility, can be c h o p p y, t u r n i n t o a monstrosity, end up a catastrophe.

For oil companies, oil investors, and oil-producing countries.

Economist Jagdeo should know all this. Often, he pretends otherwise. For there is this contradiction based on Dr. Jagdeo's own stated representations (facts). Fact one: he is foregoing oil revenues today (no ring-fencing) for the maximization of revenues tomorrow. More later has its intriguing enchantments than beat less now. Fact two: he himself asserted that oil markets are fickle… something I agree with, and

which is part of oil market's sickness. Because oil is so shaky (unpredictable), then I have my own assertion to offer, respectfully naturally.

Better to grasp at the present, when oil prices are up, and not roll dice, keep fingers crossed, and hope to get lucky. In other words, ringfence now, take high oil prices now, and count Guyana's cash now. Later may not be greater, and rather sadly turn out to be a dumbwaiter.

Elaboration: a dumbwaiter is one of those old up and down contraptions moving food and other goodies.

Interpretation and conclusion: the fickle nature of oil markets (prices) encourage caution and prudence.

What makes more sense, all circumstances and

confluences properly considered? What is based on common sense, good sense, and prudent leadership sense?

In aggregate, the sense of what could benefit more, if not the most.

Fact three: the local maharajah of oil also insisted, even made a persuasive argument about the positives of the longterm over the short-term.

Who would argue? Not I, master. Still, this could do with some dissection, and though I could use a delicate surgical hand from Drs. Frank Anthony and Vindya Persaud, I inhale deeply.

Guyana still has huge pockets of poverty, with anywhere from a third to two fifths to close to five out of ten Guyanese forced to fight a daily war with food. Yes, it is that kind of minefield in the richest country globally.

Fact four: Jagdeo knows it, however much he refuses to admit it publicly. It is so bad that a cash lump sum of $100,000 is needed as temporary relief transfusion.

There's some egg (sunny side up) on Dr. Jagdeo's face.

If government has done so much, then why is that still needed? I proceed.

Because of poverty,

Guyana and Guyanese could do with every penny they could get today. Oil prices are up there. Oil markets are fickle.

That is, the bottom could fall out and high become low.

But Jagdeo's preference is for the long-term. Okay. First, holdoff on collecting today f o r m o r e t o m o r r o w.

Tomorrow is promised to no one, and hungry Guyanese now, could be hungrier Guyanese then. Second, the waiting time was moved from now to somewhere around 2027, not quite longterm, just more intermediate.

Three years is a long time for many cash-strapped Guyanese. Then, throw in the fickle nature of oil markets and long term could extend into the still longer term.

Guyana could be pumping more oil into an oil price trough, at least into a declining market. Where's the beef? My apology to Mr. Jagdeo: what about the money then, more of it?

Fifth, and for the Monty Pythonesque, time for something different.

Oil prices work in cycles. Even Bhar-rat Jagdeo knows that one. The world is at a price height currently, for a few years now. Dr. Jagdeo is sure to know this, too. He

should know that when there is a decline in oil prices, that slump could be protracted, severely so. Conclusion: Jagdeo's long-term visionstrategy-conspiracy (Exxon) is a long rope around the necks of Guyanese. No ringfencing with minimised revenue inflows now in the push for maximizing later is hanging Guyanese on a high tree, while giving them high hopes with the usual leadership hijinks.

Guyanese have been waiting for four years for more since oil discovered/shipped.

Three years more to 2027 was the next interval in Jagdeo's book of promises.

Now it is planning and playing for the long-term with a commodity that is as fickle as a pit bull that has eaten for a month. Lots of Guyanese could be dead, or too far gone to care by the time that Dr. Jagdeo's longterm horizon arrives at the door.

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

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

Fire destroys supermarket, damages hotel in Berbice Lloyd Gittens

Mechanic jailed for 24 months for discharging firearm, gets another 24-month sentence over illegal firearm and ammo Tw e n t y - s i x - y e a r- o l d Lloyd Gittens, who was previously sentenced to 24 months in prison last month, is now facing an additional 24-month sentence after admitting to discharging a loaded firearm at a civilian he allegedly robbed.

Gittens appeared virtually at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Monday before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where he changed his plea to guilty for the charge of discharging a loaded firearm at Odel Thomas.

However, he maintained his not guilty plea for discharging the firearm at Constable Elijah Bijadder and for the robbery under arms charge.

The prosecution objected to bail, emphasizing the seriousness and frequency of such offences, which led to Gittens being remanded for the charges he denied and sentenced to 24 months imprisonment for the charge he admitted to.

Upon hearing the additional sentence, Gittens, who appeared visibly resigned, asked the magistrate, “Your worship, you can't do something for me?” before reluctantly leaving.

He is scheduled to return to court on December 9, 2024, for further proceedings.

Gittens made his first appearance on October 21, 2024, to answer five charges, including two counts of discharging a loaded firearm at a police officer and a civilian, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, and a robbery under arms charge.

The first two charges allege that on September 16, 2024, Gittens fired a loaded firearm at Police Constable Elijah Bijadder and Odel Thomas at his residence located at Lot 140 D'Andrade

Street, Newtown, Georgetown. Gittens pleaded not guilty to these charges, claiming he did not realize that one of the individuals he shot at was a police officer.

The other two charges state that on the same date and location, Gittens possessed i l l e g a l ammunition—specifically, four live 9mm rounds—and an illegal 9mm pistol with serial number #FG046035.

He pleaded guilty to both of these charges. Additionally, Gittens faced a robbery charge for allegedly stealing two gold chains valued at $650,000 from Joshua Holder on September 6, 2024, at Robb Street, Bourda Georgetown, to which he pleaded not guilty.

According to police reports, on September 15, 2024, Odell Thomas reported his black and red XR motorcycle missing. After tracking its location using his cellular phone, he discovered it at a property on D'Andrade Street.

Thomas alerted the police, who responded promptly. Upon arrival, Constable Bijadder and Thomas attempted to enter the premises but received no response at the front door.

They then proceeded to the back door, which they opened to find Gittens armed with a handgun. Gittens allegedly pointed the weapon at them and discharged several rounds. In response, Bijadder returned fire to protect himself and Thomas.

Gittens attempted to flee through a window but fell and sustained injuries, leading to his capture.

The firearm he was using fell from his grasp, allowing Bijadder to seize it. Gittens was subsequently informed of the offences against him, including possession of ammunition and a firearm without a licence, which he acknowledged.

A massive fire on Monday destroyed Bob and Sons Supermarket and threatened nearby buildings at New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six. According to reports, the fire erupted sometime after 19:00hrs.

Details are sketchy at this time. Berbice photographer, Ulric Frazer, who went live at the scene, reported that when he arrived, the roof of the supermarket was on fire.

The Fire Service reportedly arrived promptly but had to battle the dangers

PAGE 11

Firemen battling the blaze

of exploding gas bottles at the supermarket. Reports are that some gas bottles exploded as the fire spread. In the live video, firemen and onlookers could be seeing taking caution as the bottles started to go off. Luckily, there were no further explosion that could have caused a tragedy for firefighters.

The supermarket, was destroyed completely. Up to press time, firefighters were doing their best to extinguish the blaze and stop it from spreading to a nearby bank and the Penguin Hotel. It was noted that the hotel walls were scorched as the firemen contained the blaze.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Car dealer slapped with 68 charged over $51.57M fraud Thirty-five-year-old Omeca Primo, the alleged operator of a fake car dealership, has found herself in deeper legal trouble as she now faces 68 fraud charges totalling $51.5 million.

Initially accused of defrauding customers out of $11.3 million, she is now confronted with 68 charges totalling $51,573,000 in fraudulent activities. The charges stem from her alleged scheme to deceive individuals into paying for vehicles that were never delivered.

The case was heard at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.

During a court session last Friday, it was revealed that 55 additional charges had been added to the initial 13 charges Primo faced during her first appearance, bringing the total to 68.

Primo's attorney, Everton Singh-Lammy, requested that the charges be read on

Monday citing the need for further assessment and making further bail application.

During yesterday's proceedings, all 55 additional charges were read out in court and Primo was not required to enter a plea.

The charges state that between April 27 and September 25, 2024, on Charlotte Street, Georgetown, Primo obtained $40,273,000 from 55 individuals by falsely pretending to be a car dealer operating under the name "Primo Imports and Taxi Services.” The courtroom was filled with victims of her alleged scams, many of whom were awaiting the outcome of the proceedings.

Attorney Singh-Lammy made a formal bail application on the grounds that Primo has a constitutional right to liberty, and that with the large number of charges, the trial would likely take some time

Omeca Primo, further remanded for 68 fraud related charges to begin.

"This is the third instalment being made," Singh-Lammy confirmed.

The prosecution objected to bail once again, citing that Primo was apprehended through a police sting

operation and was difficult to locate as she frequently changed her phone number, business location, and the name of her business.

The prosecutor emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating, “There

are 68 charges against the accused,” and highlighted the importance of protecting the rights of individuals appearing before the court.

As a result of the prosecution's objections and concerns regarding public interest, Primo was further remanded to prison.

H o w e v e r, M a g i s t r a t e McGusty expressed concern about the possibility of an expired trial, noting that the case could not proceed until the defendant entered a plea.

"At this stage, we still have Miss Primo as the accused, and she has not yet pleaded," the Magistrate stated. She gave the prosecution two weeks to seek legal advice on whether the charges should be considered indictable or if they should proceed with a summary disposal

application. Magistrate McGusty further warned that if no decisions were made, bail could be considered at the next court appearance.

The case was adjourned, and Primo is scheduled to return to court on November 25, 2024, at 09:30 hrs for further updates and reports.

During last Friday's proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that some of Primo's alleged victims had begun receiving threats after speaking out about their experiences, even on social media.

Prosecutors claimed these intimidation tactics were intended to deter individuals from coming forward. Additionally, they noted that Primo was allegedly using incorrect spelling variations of her name to obscure her identity.

Chain snatcher tells court, 'I'm a Dr. Bhiro Harry patient' Remanded: Junior Lilly

A 23-year-old man, who claimed to be of unsound mind, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Monday to face a charge of simple larceny.

The accused, Junior Lilly, residing at Lot 29 Section B, Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was brought before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, who read the charge to him.

The charge alleges that on November 4, 2024, at Cummings Street, Georgetown, Lilly stole a gold chain with a pendant valued at $200,000 from Peggy Wade. Lilly pleaded not guilty to the offence, with reason that he is receiving psychiatric therapy from Dr. Bhiro Harry. “I'm a Dr. Harry patient; I take medication,” he stated in court.

He further claimed that a clinic card was found in his side bag. However, investigators confirmed that he had no bag on him at the time of his arrest. Lilly remained firm that a bag was on him. As such, Magistrate Azore remarked, “You are very clear-minded to me,” in response to Lilly's assertions.

The prosecutor objected to bail, citing Lilly's previous convictions for similar offences, noting that the stolen chain had not been recovered. Lilly admitted to having been placed in lock-up at the Cove and John Police Station for assault and rape. Lilly was remanded to prison and is scheduled to return to court on December 9, 2024. According to the facts presented in court, on the day of the incident, Wade was seated next to Lilly in a 44 route minibus. Approximately 20 minutes later, as the bus stopped, Lilly exited and allegedly pulled the chain off Wade's neck before fleeing the scene. Although Wade raised an alarm, Lilly had already made his escape.

Following her report, Lilly was arrested and positively identified by Wade, leading to the charge against him.

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Gaza mother struggling to feed children says only death can end their suffering GAZA, Nov 11 (Reuters) - Itimad alQanou, a Palestinian mother struggling to feed her seven children, feels abandoned by everyone.

She sometimes feels that death is the best way to end her family's suffering after a year of war that has turned Gaza into a bombed-out wasteland gripped by

hunger.

"Let them drop a nuclear bomb and end it. We don't want this life we're living; we are dying slowly. Have mercy on us.

Look at these children," said the mother of three boys and four girls aged between eight and 18.

Advertisement · Scroll to continue

Managing director of Sheriff Hospital gets honorary degree

Managing Director of Sheriff General Hospital Ameir Ahmad was recently awarded an Honorary Degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Science and Technology.

The degree is in recognition of his significant contributions to the healthcare sector in Guyana, a release from the Sherriff Group said. The Rajiv Gandhi University of Science and Technology commends Mr. Ahmad for his dedication and impactful work within the healthcare community.

“His pioneering initiatives and leadership at Sheriff General Hospital have set a new standard in h e a l t h c a r e d e l i v e r y, emphasising innovation and comprehensive care,” the release stated.

“This honorary degree is a testament to Mr. Ahmad's exceptional achievements and the profound impact he has made on healthcare in Guyana,” stated Professor, Dr. Jitender Singh, Medical Director/Dean of the

University. “We are honored to recognize his efforts with this accolade and believe his presence at our commencement ceremony will greatly inspire our graduates.”

Under Mr. Ahmad's guidance, Sheriff General Hospital has introduced cutting-edge medical practices and technologies, enhancing patient care and safety. His forward-thinking approach has enabled the hospital to become a cornerstone of healthcare excellence in the region.

The honorary degree will be conferred at the upcoming commencement ceremony of Rajiv Gandhi University, where Mr. Ahmad will also share insights from his extensive experience in healthcare management.

Sheriff General Hospital and its staff congratulate Mr. Ahmad on this well-deserved honour and look forward to continuing to lead advancements in healthcare under his visionary leadership.

Children in their town of Deir al-Balah crowd at a charity site with empty pots, desperate for nourishment.

Aid workers distribute lentil soup from a pot.

But it is never enough to stave off hunger and ease widespread panic.

Qanou says her family faces the Israeli airstrikes that have killed tens of thousands of people and flattened much of Gaza on the one side, and hunger on the other.

"No one is looking at us, no one cares about us. I ask the Arab countries to stand with us, at least to open the borders so food and supplies can reach our children," she said.

"They are all liars; they

are lying to the people. The United States is standing with Israel against us, they are all united against us."

Trucks carrying humanitarian aid were allowed through the Erez crossing into northern Gaza on Monday.

The United States will decide this week on whether Israel has made progress toward improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and how Washington will respond.

FAMINE IMMINENT Global food security experts said there is a "strong likelihood" that famine is imminent in parts of northern Gaza as Israel pursues a military offensive against Hamas militants

there.

In response to the famine warning, the head of the U.N. Palestinian relief agency U N R WA , P h i l i p p e Lazzarini, accused Israel of using hunger as a weapon.

COGAT, the Israeli military agency that deals with Palestinian civilian affairs, on Sunday published a list of Israel's humanitarian efforts over the past six months. It detailed plans for supporting Gaza residents as winter approaches.

I s r a e l ' s U . N .

Ambassador Danny Danon last month told the United Nations Security Council more than one million tons of aid had been delivered during the past year and he

accused Hamas of hijacking the assistance. Hamas denies such allegations.

Aside from the hunger, Gazans say they have no place to go that is safe after repeated evacuations left them living in tent encampments until they need to move again to escape more strikes.

Some say their plight is even worse than the 1948 "Nakba" or Catastrophe when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were dispossessed of their homes in the war at the birth of the state of Israel.

"Conditions were better than what we face now. Now, we have no security, and no place," said displaced Gazan Mohamed Abou Qaraa.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Tuesday November 12, 2024

GPHC acquires equipment to treat enlarged prostate T

he Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has acquired equipment to conduct laser t r e a t m e n t o f e n l a rg e d prostate. This was revealed by the CEO of GPHC, Robbie Rambarran, at the recently concluded 26th Annual International Conference of the Caribbean Urological Association (CURA), held from November 8-10 at the Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown.

The conference brought together top urologists and healthcare professionals from across the Caribbean and other parts of the world.

During the conference's final day, CEO of GPHC, Mr. Robbie Rambarran addressed attendees, speaking passionately about the advancements in urological care at GPHC

over recent years. He highlighted the significant investments in state-of-theart equipment over the past two years.

Mr. Rambarran shared that GPHC's recent acquisitions include a 50W laser, ultrasonic lithotripter, specialized scopes, a surgical tower, and a fluoroscopy C-arm. These instruments have enabled GPHC to adopt treatment protocols that meet international standards, comparable to the best facilities in the Caribbean.

“This is the newest technology on the market, I was told, and the first of its kind in the southern Caribbean. It permits minimal invasive laser t r e a t m e n t o f e n l a rg e d prostate,” he said.

Rambarran highlighted the groundbreaking advancements in urology

CEO of GPHC, Robbie Rambarran

and celebrated new leadership within the a s s o c i a t i o n , w i t h D r.

Rajendra Sukhraj, Consultant at the Urology Department at GPHC, being elected President of CURA. Dr. Sukhraj's election reflects the high regard in which he is held throughout

the Caribbean, and his leadership is anticipated to steer the association into new avenues of growth and innovation.

Earlier this year, that hospital acquired a GY$25 million ultrasonic lithotripter that uses advanced ultrasonic energy

to precisely and effectively pulverize kidney stones, placing patient comfort and safety at the forefront.

One remarkable achievement highlighted by Mr. Rambarran is that in 2023, 100% of kidney stone cases at GPHC were treated with minimally invasive methods, compared to prior years when open surgeries were the only option.

This shift has brought about substantial benefits for patients, including significantly shorter recovery times.

Whereas open surgeries required a large abdominal incision and a six-week recovery period, minimally invasive techniques allow most patients to be discharged on the same day, with a swift return to their regular routines.Further advancements include the acquisition of a 100W

Quanta Magneto high-power laser, the latest technology for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) through minimally invasive laser procedures.

As the first of its kind in the southern Caribbean, this laser allows for same-day discharge in many cases, with minimal bleeding and faster recovery times. Mr. Rambarran noted that while the acquisition of such advanced equipment entails significant costs, the longterm benefits include not only enhanced patient outcomes but also cost savings through shorter hospital stays and lower recovery expenses.

The conference also featured a presentation from Dr. Mahendra Carpen, Head of Internal Medicine and Cardiology at GPHC, who spoke on the link between (Continued on page 16)

GPHC collaborates with World Paediatrics to perform spinal surgeries on ten young patients

G

eorgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Monday said that it successfully completed its second collaboration with World Paediatrics, an international non-governmental o rg a n i s a t i o n t o b r i n g specialised scoliosis surgeries to young patients in Guyana.

This collaborative medical mission, which took p l a c e f r o m M o n d a y, November 4, through Friday,

Led by a team of ten highly specialized medical professionals from prestigious institutions in the United States, this mission builds on the success of last year's inaugural collaboration, which saw eight patients receiving lifechanging corrective surgeries.

The expert team, comprised of both surgical and support professionals, worked seamlessly alongside GPHC's dedicated local medical staff to

The doctors who performed the surgeries

Doctors working on a patient at the GPHC November 8, 2024, provided corrective surgeries to ten young patients, aged 13 to 19, marking a significant achievement in paediatric spinal care in the country, GPHC said in a press release.

complete all procedures successfully within the fiveday period.The visiting team from World Paediatrics comprised ten highly skilled professionals, including: * Dr. Matthew Cage –

Adult and Paediatric Spine Surgeon, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii * Dr. Daniel Cherian – Adult and Paediatric Spine Surgeon, Baylor Scott &

White Hospital (Baylor College of Medicine, Temple, TX) * Dr. Ashley Soppe – Adult and Paediatric Anaesthesiologist, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii * Nicole Benavides – Certified Nursing Anaesthetist, McLean's Children Hospital, Temple, TX * Caitlin Biven – Surgical Technologist, Baylor Scott & White Hospital (Baylor College of Medicine, Temple, TX) * Chelsea Brice – Operating Theatre Recovery Nurse, Baylor Scott & White Hospital (Baylor College of Medicine, Temple, TX) * Lauro Moncada – Surgical Neuro-Physicist, Baylor Scott & White

Hospital (Baylor College of Medicine, Temple, TX) * Joseph Brooks – Nuvasive Instrumentation representative- Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii Cody Sitka – Globus Instrumentation Representative, Tripler Army Medical Centre, Honolulu, Hawaii * Sigmund Wiggins – Programme Director, World Paediatrics This collaboration reflects GPHC's commitment to enhancing the quality and range of medical services available to its patients, especially in specialized fields like paediatric spine surgery.

By fostering partnerships with international organizations like World Paediatrics, GPHC not only

expands access to lifechanging surgeries for local patients but also builds capacity within its medical teams through hands-on training and knowledge sharing.

"We are proud to partner once again with World Paediatrics and are incredibly grateful for the expertise and dedication brought by their team," stated Dr. Hyder Khan, Orthopedic Consultant, GPHC. "This initiative underscores our commitment to delivering specialized care that transforms lives, even in areas that are not routine for our hospital, and to continuously improving the quality of healthcare for all our patients.”

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday November 12, 2024

Kaieteur News

The people of Guyana have watched as other oil-producing nations moved forward with better-negotiated contracts, ensuring substantial national gains from their natural resources.

Yet, here in Guyana, we are left questioning why our leaders allow such an imbalanced contract to persist. The government's refusal to address the PSA's shortcomings leaves many wondering where its true loyalties lie—with the citizens who elected them or with the powerful oil companies they seemingly fear to challenge.

To break free from this cycle of governmental betrayal, the people must be allowed to have their say. It is time for a national referendum to settle this issue once and for all.

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

$189M estimated to construct new Campbellville Fire Station WANTED

VACANCY

Drivers to drive Canter, and Porters to work in warehouse. Call: 673-7373. Experience is an asset.

One clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade 1 or 2. Email application: techserigy@ yahoo.com or call 615-9132.

COINS Wanted, I buy coins best prices paid. Tele : 6430902 / 653-4287.

Maid to clean for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132

Male cleaner for Eccles call Male sales-rep 22-28 years 615-9132 or 645-8443 old, Knowledge about vehicle models would be an asset. Male desk staff, Male room attendant, receptionist 25-30 Call : 709-4313. years old. 233 South Road One male Translator speak- Lacytown. 225-0198. ing Spanish and English. Call One (1) qualify physiothera: 613-0855 Between 9 am-4 pist for home services in East PM Bank area Call 615-9132.

One excavator operator must General domestic, must know have atleast 5 years to cook, clean , press ect. 3 experience.Call : 613-0855 Be- days, $6000, 8-4 at Keyfood, tween 9 am-4 pm Mcdoom village next to the post office.

Domestic to work in Campbellville Georgetown. Cashier wanted. Call : 223Daily $5,000 for 2 days per 7165 / 719-5427. week .Tele: 621-5140. 30 -45 Data entry clerk must be comyears old. puter literate, good communiKitchen assistant & Counter cation skills, cxc maths & staff at Rabbies Snackette, english. Apply to : P.O BOX Thomas & New market. Call : 12152 Supervisor- Heavy duty 231-6591 / 648-8279. equipment rental, Driver's liOne male able bodies staff cense & 5 years experienced to work in a hardware store. is required. Call : 676-1148.

Call : 231-2029 , 693-8462.

Vacancy for an experienced domestic maid Indian cooking Fish process to work in can be priority Call: 638-6816.

Georgetown. Contact : 682PEN PAL 5002 Male seeking non-racial independent female penpal.

Whatsapp : 698-6391.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.

One Unregistered Nissan XTrail 2016 model, Mode Premiere. Call : 649-0956.

LAND FOR SALE

SERVICES Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.

Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.

For low cost repairs for AC units, refrigerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 6294946, 225-4822.

FOR RENT Executive Apts - Fully furnished in Parfaite Harmony and Herstelling USD1100 call : 608 -3575

Garden of Eden E.B.D, 2 Minutes from proposed Heroes Highway 3.8 Acres, 65M per acre. #621-1139 / 712-4020.

3 Acres of Land Located at Hague West Coast Demerara.

Contact : Angel Real estate. # 615-4719.

FOR SALE One LF Leyland Daf Truck for sale. Call : 223-9677.

With plans to reconstruct the Campbellville Fire Station located at Stone Avenue, Georgetown, the Ministry of Home Affairs has revealed that $189,988,648 is estimated for the works.

At a recent reading of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) it was disclosed that 43 contractors have signalled their interest in the contract. The contractors bid above and below the engineer’s estimate with the lowest bid being $153 million.

Those who bid are as follow: S&K Construction/ Consultancy Services & General Supplies Inc. $179,047,399; Blue Print Builders Inc. - $186,109,496; Emerald’s General Contracting & Distributors $197,774,399; STP Investments Inc. - $187,716,736; Sovereignty Investments Construction Services (SICS Builders) - $188,265,332; PP Building Contracting $181,696,170; KHE Engineering; R&S Builders Inc. $187,316,574; Sheriff Construction Inc. - $179,541,716; BM Property Investment Inc. - $232,161,202; D Chowkai & Sons Construction $170,620,316; AYN Construc-

tion & General Services $173,173,907; Permaul Trading & Distribution $218,930,862; KNV Designs, Construction & Supplies $168,560,202; Metal & Fabrication Ink - $199,594,742; K&K Boat Building, Construction & General Supplies - $181,864,409; Advance Engineering - $209,394,902; 4S Security & Building Enterprise - $183,279,363; R&M Mining Investments Project Inc. - $183,355,353; FMC Construction & Services Inc. $184,869,594; Surajpaul Balkaran & Sons Construction - $155,275,975; Green State Oil & Gas Services Inc.; LMM Construction & General Services - $165,535,953; and KP Engineering $172,946,549.

Additionally, Pacific Service System - $186,000,895; Evergreen Construction $172,283,508; Prosperity Investment Inc. - $187,812,192; Green Plains Enterprise $169,145,167; Modern Construction & Trucking Service - $178,040,480; Extermax Pest Control - $178,553,489; Energy Empire - $175,798,862; KNS General Contractors Inc. - $184,517,000; H&S Contracting Services $178,553,489; Dundas Con-

struction Inc. - $153,506,981; Construct It Inc. $185,683,595; J&A Lumber Yard & Contracting Services - $196,414,464; Gryphon Engineering Inc. $235,681,251; Phoenix Engineering & Consultancy Inc. $172,283,508; Urban Edge Builders Inc. - $182,739,416; Navin & Sons Construction $209,969,672; GD’s Construction & Supplies - $207,307,472; and Westbrook Caribbean Inc. - $159,399,143 have all bid.

The Home Affairs Ministry informed Kaieteur News on Monday that the reconstruction is to mitigate flooding issues, and since the current infrastructure is aged and cannot facilitate the original complement of a regular fire station (i.e. water tender, bowser, ambulance, etc.) the new building will cater for that. The move to reconstruct is to also facilitate the decentralisation of services provided by the Fire Prevention Department, and to house a central oxygen refilling station to accommodate ambulance services within A Division, the ministry shared.

The new building when completed will house modern facilities such as a central gym for firefighters’ fitness, a lec-

ture room and conference hall.

This publication was informed too that because there are insufficient facilities to accommodate female firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) and an EMT stores and department at the current station, the new structure will cater for these.

At the presentation of this year’s budget, Senior Minister with the responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh stated that upgrading the physical facilities of the Guyana Fire Service, some $545 million was expended in 2023 for infrastructural and maintenance works at locations such as the Leonora, Ogle and Wales Fire Stations as well as the Fire Service Headquarters at D’Urban Park. “In 2024, our infrastructural investments include the completion of the Diamond Fire Station, construction of additional fire stations at Charity, Parika, Soesdyke and Wisburg as well as the extension and rehabilitation of fire stations in Linden, Rose Hall and Timehri. A total of $572.8million has been allocated in 2024 for this and related purposes,” he mentioned.

Govt. to construct new secondary school building at Dora Park The Ministry of Education is in move to build a secondary school at Dora, Demerara River.

This is according to an invitation for bids issued by the ministry who is seeking contractors to undertake the ‘Construction of Dora Park Secondary School’. Kaieteur News understands that Dora, a riverine community located along the Demerara River currently does not have a secondary school building of its own.

However, there is a Dora Secondary School located in the Kuru Kuru Training Centre compound which is situated along the Soesdyke/ Lin-

den Highway, some miles away from the riverine community.

A primary school teacher from the community informed this publication on Monday that with no secondary school building located in the Dora community, when the students write their NGSA examination they along with their parents would have to relocate from the community and find a place to live on the highway so they can acquire their secondary education.

The resident stated that for several years, the community has been advocating for a secondary school nearby so it can relieve the burden

of those children and parents.

The school when built will not only benefit Dora but its neighbouring communities.

This publication understands that the newly built Yarrowkabra Secondary School on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway also caters for children from Dora.

The new school which already accommodates around 1,019 students caters for community such as Hauraruni, Laluni, Long Creek, Kuru Kururu, Dora, Low Wood and Susannah.

Due to the high number of students attending Yarrowkabra Secondary, the Education Ministry had also

gone out to tender seeking to expand the school to cater for more classrooms. This year, the Ministry of Education was allocated $74.4B, a portion of which will be used for the construction, rehabilitation, extension and maintenance of educational facilities.

The ministry has embarked on an aggressive programme to ensure that the nation’s children have access to secondary education. To this end, the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand on multiple occasions said that over 20 secondary schools will be built across the country.

GPHC acquires equipment to treat enlarged prostate...

From page 14 urology and cardiovascular health in Caribbean men.

His discussion highlighted how the intersection of these fields can impact men’s health, and he underscored the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach in managing these interconnected conditions. Dr. Carpen’s insights emphasized the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies to better serve patients in the region. Meanwhile, in his re-

marks, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to urology services across Guyana. “Our goal is to ensure that men in all 10 regions have access to highquality urological care without needing to travel to Georgetown to access care at GPHC,” Dr. Anthony shared.

He highlighted plans for new hospitals which will include urology services and emphasized the Ministry’s focus on education and

awareness for prostate and men’s health, noting that preventative care and early intervention are key to long-term health outcomes.

The conference was preceded by a hands-on surgical workshop led by Professor Kurt McCammon, a globally renowned expert in Reconstructive Urological Surgery from Virginia, USA, hosted by GPHC on November 6 and 7.

This two-day workshop provided practical training for resident doctors at GPHC in

advanced surgical techniques.

Overall, the 26th CURA Conference served as an essential platform for medical professionals to exchange knowledge, showcase advancements, and recognize leadership within the field. Dr. Rajendra Sukhraj’s election as CURA President marks a significant milestone for GPHC and the Caribbean urology community, setting a promising course for the future of urological care in the region.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

PAGE 17

Unhealthy dietary patterns drive US$8 trillion in annual hidden costs of global agrifood systems

Insufficient intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, along with other dietary risks, are fueling health-related hidden costs in agrifood systems.

A refined study by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) involving 156 countries confirms that hidden costs within global agrifood systems amount to approximately US$12 trillion annually.

Of this figure, around 70 percent (US$8.1 trillion) arise from unhealthy dietary patterns and are linked to a l a r m i n g n o n communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, far exceeding the costs related to environmental degradation and social inequalities The State of Food and Agriculture 2024 (SOFA), builds on the 2023 edition to provide an even more in-depth analysis, utilizing true cost accounting to expose the full range of costs and benefits associated with food production, distribution, and consumption, including those that are not reflected in market prices – the so-called “hidden costs and benefits”. According to a FAO release, the report updates those cost estimates, divides them by agrifood system types, and charts a course for transformative change in our agrifood systems.

The study details how global hidden costs are largely driven by health hidden costs, followed by environmental hidden costs, in more industrialized agrifood systems in uppermiddle- and high-income countries. In examining health impacts, the report identifies 13 dietary risk factors. These include insufficient intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables; excessive sodium consumption; and high intake of red and

processed meats, with notable differences across various agrifood systems.

Historically, agrifood systems have transitioned from traditional to industrial, each with varied outcomes and hidden costs.

For this reason, the report explores how hidden costs manifest themselves in different agrifood system types worldwide.

To facilitate analysis, the research introduces a typology that categorizes agrifood systems into six distinct groups: protracted crisis, traditional, expanding, diversifying, formalizing, and industrial.

This framework allows for a targeted understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities inherent to each system, enabling the development of tailored policies and interventions.

For instance, while diets low in whole grains are the leading dietary risk factor across most agrifood systems, in protracted crisis systems (those experiencing prolonged conflict, instability, and widespread food insecurity) and traditional systems (characterized by lower p r o d u c t i v i t y, l i m i t e d technology adoption, and shorter value chains), the primary concern is a low intake of fruits and vegetables.

High sodium intake is another significant concern, exhibiting an upward trend as agrifood systems evolve from traditional to formalizing, peaking in the latter and then decreasing in industrial systems.

Conversely, high consumption of processed and red meat steadily increases throughout the transition from traditional to

industrial systems, where it ranks among the top three dietary risks.

Beyond dietary risks, the environmental impact of unsustainable agricultural practices contributes substantially to the hidden cost burden. Costs associated with greenhouse gas emissions, nitrogen runoff, land-use changes, and water pollution are particularly high in countries with diversifying agrifood systems – where rapid economic growth is coupled with evolving consumption and production patterns – reaching an estimated $720 billion.

Formalizing and industrial agrifood systems also face significant environmental costs.

However, countries facing protracted crises bear the highest relative environmental costs, equivalent to 20 percent of their GDP. Social costs, including poverty and undernourishment, are most prevalent in traditional agrifood systems and those affected by protracted crises.

These social costs represent 8 and 18 percent of GDP, respectively, highlighting the urgent need for improved livelihoods and integrated humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts.

SOFA 2024 underscores the importance of adapting to local contexts and capturing stakeholder priorities.

This is illustrated through case studies representing diverse countries and agrifood system types, including Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, India, and the United Kingdom.

A call for collective action Overall, the report calls for a value-driven transformation of agrifood

systems to make them more sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and efficient. This requires going beyond traditional economic measures like GDP by utilizing true cost accounting to recognize hidden costs. With this approach, decisionmakers can make more i n f ormed choices that enhance the societal value of agrifood systems, acknowledging their essential roles in food s e c u r i t y, n u t r i t i o n , biodiversity conservation, a n d c u l t u r a l i d e n t i t y.

A c h i e v i n g t h i s transformation also demands bridging sectoral

divides, aligning policies across health, agriculture, and the environment, and ensuring that the benefits and costs are equitably shared among all stakeholders. ‘’The choices we make now, the priorities we set and the solutions we implement will determine our shared future.

Real change begins with individual actions and initiatives, supported by enabling policies and targeted investments.

The transformation of global agrifood systems is fundamental to achieving the SDGs and securing a prosperous future for all,”

said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. The report stresses that this transformation requires collective action, involving primary producers, agribusines s e s , governments, financial institutions, international organizations, and consumers.

While addressing hidden costs will result in uneven impacts across stakeholders, countries, and timeframes, supportive policies and regulations can help minimize disruptions, particularly for small-scale producers and agribusinesses, by promoting early adoption of sustainable practices and protecting vulnerable social groups.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Trump to appoint former ICE director Tom Homan as US ‘border czar’ WASHINGTON, Nov 11 (Reuters) - Tom Homan, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming “border czar”, said on Monday he would prioritize deporting immigrants in the United States illegally who posed safety and security threats as well as those working at job sites.

Trump, who takes office in January, said in a social media post overnight that the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from his first administration would be in charge of the country’s borders in his new administration starting Jan. 20.

The president-elect made cracking down on illegal immigration the central element of his campaign, promising mass deportations. He is expected to mobilize agencies across the U.S.

government to help him deport record numbers of immigrants in an operation that Vice President-elect JD Vance has said could remove an estimated 1 million people per year.

“Public safety threats and national security threats will be the priority...they pose the most danger to this country,” Homan told Fox News in an interview, a d d i n g : “ Wo r k s i t e operations have to happen.”

Trump, in a post, opens new tab on his Truth Social platform late on Sunday, said Homan will be “in charge of our nation’s borders (“The Border Czar”), including, but not limited to, the Southern Border, the Northern Border, all Maritime, and Aviation Security,” including the deportation of immigrants in the U.S. illegally.

Immigrant advocates have warned that Trump’s deportation effort would be

c o s t l y, d i v i s i v e a n d inhumane, leading to family separations and devastating communities.

Homan, who was often praised by Trump during the campaign and who campaigned for him, said he would also focus on immigrants ordered to leave after a failed asylum claims.

“At the end of that due process, if the judge says you must go home, then we have to take them home,” Homan told Fox. Former Acting Director of ICE Homan testifies during House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington Then Former Acting Director of U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement (ICE) Tom Homan in Washington, U.S., S e p t e m b e r 11 , 2 0 1 9 .

REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new

tab He said he would like to have cooperation from local law enforcement but if Democrat-led “sanctuary” jurisdictions like New York City resist, he would consider sending in more ICE officers.

“We’re going to do the job without you or with you,” Homan said.

While ICE executed several large-scale worksite raids during Trump’s first term, the number of employers arrested for hiring immigrants in the U.S. illegally fell compared with his Democratic predecessor Barack Obama, agency statistics show.

Homan was among several top Trump immigration officials who in 2018 recommended the administration implement a stringent border policy that resulted in thousands of migrant families being separated at the border.

W h i l e Tr u m p h a s

Then Former Acting Director of U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement (ICE) Tom Homan in Washington, U.S., September 11, 2019. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo refused to rule out revisiting the separations, Homan said last year that a better approach would be to detain families together.

Va n c e o n M o n d a y appeared to confirm reports that Trump immigration adviser Stephen Miller would serve as White House deputy chief of staff for policy. Miller was a White House senior adviser during Trump’s 2017-2021 presidency and the a r c h i t e c t o f Tr u m p ’s aggressive immigration

agenda.

Trump has not yet said who he would nominate to serve as head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the U.S. Border Patrol, as he continues to meet with potential candidates for his administration.

Chad Wolf, who served as acting homeland security secretary for part of Trump’s first presidency, and U.S. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green could be top contenders.

New deeds, commercial office for Bartica T

he government will soon open a permanent Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority (DCRA) office in Bartica, Region Seven to ensure residents access essential services locally rather than travelling to Georgetown or other regions.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, made the announcement on Monday while engaging several residents at the Bartica Community Centre Ground. “Very early in his presidency, [President Ali] made a public commitment

that [the DCRA] will open branch offices in all the regions of our country, and in giving effect to that promise…we [will] open an office in Region Seven so that the people of Region Seven do not have to travel t o [ R e g i o n Tw o ] o r Georgetown to access these services,” Minister Nandlall stated.

The AG is currently spearheading an outreach in Bartica, where several services are being offered through the Ministry of Legal Affairs and a number of its sub-agencies. The initiative aims to resolve numerous legal issues and

facilitate services such as business registrations and deed polls, among others.

Key agencies involved, include the Office of the Public Trustee/Official Receiver and the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority (DCRA). Since 2020, the DCRA has managed to register more than 60,000 new businesses.

Speaking at the event’s launch, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, explained that the engagement in Region Seven is part of a larger initiative being executed countrywide, bringing

essential services to citizens. “ We r e g a r d t a k i n g government to the people as one of the cornerstones of g o o d g o v e r n a n c e … We believe that the people of our country deserve no less,” he explained.

Minister Nandlall highlighted recent legislative and judicial advancements, including the construction and refurbishment of courts to

improve accessibility to the justice system.

“A few years ago, courts in the outlying areas sat only once every quarter. With the increase in litigation…With more and more people needing to access the justice system, that position necessarily had to change. In the next few months, we will commission new courts,” the AG highlighted.

Regions One and Nine

benefitted from similar services earlier in the year.

The regions were able to file any deed and register any mortgage or debenture. Bills of sale were also filed by residents.

The initiative was conceptualised by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to ensure these services are easily accessible, bridging the divide between the coast and the hinterland. (DPI)

Nothing in Guyana works...

From page 04 decimated the private TV broadcasting industry quite significantly in this country.

For one reason to disallow the opposition to have their views aired on a station which is sympathetic to them.

This constitutes an active destruction of the rights of everyone who is not a diehard supporter of the PPP. Editor, I am also saying that many other institutions are deliberately being made dysfunctional in this society, The Ethnics Relation Commission, the Guyana Bureau of Standards, the Procurement Commission, the Broadcasting Authority, even the Central Bank, Editor I, a person who is over 70 years old, have put my life’s saving in the local banking system which is very willing to give me 1.5 percent interest on my deposit, but when they are lending the 93 billion they loaned did in 2023, they’re surely not lending at less than 9% to 11 %!! Who exactly oversees regulating such madness?

In due course, I am sure that others will be offering some insights into the other areas I have identified, since quite a bit is wrong and

we must look at every aspect of our situation, in our efforts as citizens to level the playing field which any decent democracy MUST have.

It must be said, and I am saying it, I know that Hon Amanza’s complaint is valid, but her party was in power from 2015 to 2020 and really didn’t do much to rectify many of the things I have referred to here. It’s as if it never entered their consciences that at some time, they also would have to face another period in opposition with all the disadvantages it brings.

I don’t want anyone to get the wrong impression about what I have said here, the PNC has visually cleansed itself of all those leaders who disgraced the party in 2020.

Unlike other parties, the PPP included, which stubbornly defend those in their ranks who have very substantially disgraced their organizations. And everyone knows who I mean. And it is my opinion that Hon. Amanza is pretty close to being at the very top of our political pyramid.

Sincerely Tony Vieira

Tuesday November 12, 2024

Govt. to continue advocacy for climate adaptation financing at COP29 The annual United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) is set to take place from November 11 to 22 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the government plans to champion its model for climate financing for small and developing countries.

General Secretary of the People's Progressive Party, Bharrat Jagdeo said that these strong positions are not new to Guyanese, as this has been the government's mantra for quite some time. “It is deemed a conference of parties about financing. That's COP29. And so, I guess it will be judged on how it moves that needle forward,” he explained during a press engagement at Freedom House.

The COP is the decisionmaking arm of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is responsible for evaluating and monitoring the measures implemented by the convention and the progress in achieving its objectives.

Jagdeo noted that there is much at stake, as based on the world's current policy level, its current trajectory sees a projected 3.1°C, rise above the pre-industrial level.

“If we fully implement all the pledges made under the Paris Agreement, we will only achieve [a] 2.6 degree rise above pre-industrial levels.

That is of concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

What is required to avoid catastrophic change is a 1.5 degree rise above the preindustrial level. So clearly you can see even with the pledges where we are off target,” the GS further elucidated.

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty that aims to strengthen the global response to climate change by limiting the increase in global temperature rise this century to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-

industrial levels. The Agreement also aims to limit this increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The world's current trajectory of over 3 degrees above these levels represents a significant tipping point, according to Jagdeo. Already, countries across the globe are witnessing the dire effects of climate change, and seeing the situation exacerbate to alarming levels. These effects, such as melting glaciers and ice sheets, the rise in sea levels and intense heat waves are sweeping, and Dr. Jagdeo noted that these have catastrophic consequences for the developing world, which has a limited capacity to adapt.

“It is a very dangerous time for the world,” he pointed out.

At last year's Conference of Parties (COP28), Guyana advocated for the establishment of marketbased mechanisms to promote forest preservation. Jagdeo has previously explained that the government backs a fivepoint mechanism for achieving net-zero emissions.

These measures include the removal of large polluters from the supply chain, the incentivisation of renewable energy, demand management, the use of technology, and the reduction of deforestation and land degradation. Since the signing of the NorwayGuyana Partnership in 2009, Guyana has already crafted a modern model to ensure that funds earned through the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS2030) are being expended on priority projects while contributing to capacity-building efforts in Indigenous communities especially. Further, President Ali has also at several forums highlighted the crucial role developing nations can play in implementing sustainable solutions to tackle the global climate crisis. (DPI)

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Controversies continue over selection policies of Guyana Cricket Board

BY SAMUEL WHYTE The controversy that has arisen over selection of players to represent four teams that is participating in the ongoing Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) T20 cricket competition is continuing.

Persons are calling on the GCB to explain its selection policies, since it was observed that a number of promising and upcoming players were not selected to

represent any of the teams.

A number of former cricketers and prominent businessmen have come forward and called out the GCB and is asking them to say something. The GCB has chosen to remain silent.

They say that the GCB should be courteous and respectful enough and answer to stakeholders.

They said it is customary for persons to be selected for

the present or future, but the GCB seems to have a different policy with a number of unknown players making the cut.

Leading the charge is prominent businessman, community activists and former first division cricketer Rafeek Kassim.

The controversy intensified after prolific y o u t h p l a y e r, A d r i a n Hetmyer, who was one of the

Tuesday November 12, 2024 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you've been working toward manifesting extra money in your life, Aries, you will probably see it happen today. Copious physical and emotional energy gives your inner power of mind over matter a special impetus.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your inner power is probably at an all-time high, Libra.

Yo u s h o u l d b e f e e l i n g especially confident. You're likely to have a stronger influence on others than usual.

You could exercise the power of mind over matter.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Obstacles that you encountered in attaining your cherished goals could suddenly seem to melt away, clearing the way to make your dreams come true.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)Some fascinating conversations with friends, relatives, and others close to you could take place today, bringing new ideas your way, Scorpio.

You have both the physical energy and the inner power to make things happen.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A lot of activity could occur at home today, Gemini. Perhaps you will have visitors or do some work on the house. Your intuition is particularly strong right now, and you could pick up too much of the thoughts and feelings of others.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Whatever goals you've been trying to reach may finally become reality today, Cancer.

Finalizing everything could involve a lot of running around in the car and meeting with other people.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Events over which you seem to have no control seem to be coming together to make things happen for you, Leo. You might find this a bit frightening, but don't let it get to you. Go with the flow.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your energy is probably high today, almost to the point where you feel you might be able to run a marathon!

Seriously, Virgo, you're probably thinking in terms of getting out of town for a while.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Your career and financial goals should be within your grasp, Sagittarius. Both your physical energy and inner power are operating at their peak, making this an ideal day to make clear plans.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today you're likely to feel like the powerful creature you are, Capricorn. Your physical energy is high, and you look and feel great. Your intellect is sharp, so if you indulge in any kind of learning process.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Your intuition should be very high right now, Aquarius, as is your power of manifestation.

Today you need to try to curb your thoughts and only think beautiful things.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your immediate goals and wishes might suddenly appear to come together today, seemingly of their own accord.

This might be strange, Pisces, and perhaps a bit frightening,

players that was surprisingly omitted, blasted yet another century, his 13th century as a teen. Hetmyer hammered 107, playing for the RHCCCC over the weekend, in the U17 cricket finals played at the RHCC against Albion CC in Berbice.

Hetmyer, who was one of the young players cited by the club as a surprise omission, participated in National Senior trials earlier this year.

Apart from the Rose Hall Community Centre (RHCC), a number of other clubs have come forward with stories of their own, but are afraid to mention names for fear of victimization.

However, Kassim, who was a leading all-rounder and still play, has no such hindrances.

The former fast bowling all-rounder said that the GCB policy is simply killing the game instead of assisting the players and wonders what plans the GCB has for the future.

He said that apart from the players named by the RHCC, a number of other young and promising players could be identified before some of those selected.

The RHCC had taken umbrage over the nonselection of any players from the Club to participate in the competition.

Other promising players mentioned include Romario Ramdehol who finished the as the leading wicket taker in the just concluded Regional U-17 tournament. National U17 pacer Devon Wharton, rated as one of the fastest bowlers in the recently concluded Regional U-17 competition and Raymond Vankenie, who was recently invited to the Combined Compasses and Colleges (CCC) trials and participated in the T10 league in Trinidad.

Kassim, a former cricket board official like others who are up in arms the way things are being done, want a shakeup of the selection policy of the national and county boards.

Kassim said that persons like Hetmyer and others should be encouraged and given all opportunities to develop their cricket.

He and others had earlier criticized the attitude and high handed behavior of the Cricket board and national selectors.

Raffick Kassim

Berbice River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Tuesday November 12, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 13:25hrs Wednesday November 13, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 14:10hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs

Demerara River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Tuesday November 12, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 04:00hrs Wednesday November 13, 2024

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 04:00hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs DATE: 11/11/2024

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G.L.C. 357 Lamaha Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown Tel:226-0753. While every effort is made to ensure numbers are correct, please call the hotline for confirmation, The G.L.C. and Kaieteur News cannot be held responsible for printing errors.

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Tuesday November 12, 2024

Namilco hands over First Division coloured uniforms to RHTYSC, MS The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club first division last weekend received uniforms for the 2024/25 cricket season from their official sponsor, Namilco. The presentation was done at the company Head Office, located at Eccles, East Bank Demerara

by Managing Director Bert Sukhai to Secretary Hilbert Foster in the presence of Finance Director Fitzroy McLeod.

Foster, noted that the company has been sponsoring the Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour team since 2019 and the success of the team has been overwhelming. The team under the sponsorship

has won over ten championships and is the leading team at the first division level in the ancient county.

The former president of the Berbice Cricket Board stated that the company has already provided uniforms for the team twice before in 2020 and 2022 and he expressed gratitude to Mr Sukhai for the continued sponsorship. The team under the leadership of Berbice senior inter county and former Guyana national player Clinton Pestano is currently preparing for the finals of the Premier Cup 20/20 finals against arch rival Tucber Park CC and Foster stated that the

uniforms would be used by the players there.

Among the players currently in the team are Pestano, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Slyus Tyndall, Kevin Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersaud, Jermey Sandia, Romesh Bharrat, Matthew Pottaya, Jason Sinclair, Eon Hooper, Keon Sinclair and Troy Mathieson among others.

The RHTYSC Secretary informed the Namilco delegation that the club has a total of eight of its member with contracts with either the Guyana Cricket Board or Cricket West Indies. Three of the boys -Anderson, Sinclair and Tyndall, are currently with the Guyana fifty over

NAMILCO Managing Director Bert Sukhai hands over uniforms to RHTYSC Secretary Hilbert in the presence of Fitzroy McLeod.

team in Trinidad, while Kevin Sinclair was also selected in the team before he was replaced by Junior Sinclair. The Rose Hall Town Namilco team in 2024 has successfully completed over fifty personal development projects and is busy right now, preparing to host the tenth edition of the popular Rose Hall Town Christmas Village from the 21st to 24th of December in the compound of the Rose Hall Primary School. The team along with their peers would also be sharing out one thousand food hampers, thousands of Christmas Toys, five hundred special Christmas packages consisting of apples, grapes, biscuits and confectionery etc among others. The team would also be assisting

youths with bicycles and school bags as part of the programme.

The Namilco team is also preparing to launch another edition of its highly successful Say No/Say Yes campaign. The campaign targets over sixty thousand youths in Region Six with the main objective of getting them to say no to drugs, crime and yes to education and religion.

Namilco is sponsoring four educational outdoor PVC standup promotional signs that would be used at all RHTYSC functions. The signs would feature the images of Jonathan Rampersaud, Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair and Kevlon Sinclair. The signs would feature solid pieces of advice on the different topics.

Namilco Managing Director Bert Sukhai stated that his company was very pleased to be associated with the first division team and was very impressed with their achievements on and off the cricket field. As he handed over the uniforms, Sukhai urged the team to remain focused and to always strive for excellence.

Noting, that the club has always been associated with success, the Namilco boss pleaded for this to continue in the future.

Apart from sponsorship of the team, the company also co-sponsors several of the club activities including award ceremony, cricket academy, summer camps, youth magazine, tribute to heroes and Christmas Village among others.

Thrilling Double Header Highlights...

From page 27 line with the GFF’s broader goals of strengthening youth football and creating pathways for young players to advance to higher levels of competition,” said President

Wayne Forde, who was on hand to witness the matches.

“We are proud to support this league, and we look forward to watching these young athletes grow and develop.”

ExxonMobil Futsal Championship...

From page 29 move one step closer to the championship glory.

All eight teams are locked in a fierce pursuit of the coveted championship title and the lucrative $1 million grand prize.

For those who fall short, there are still substantial rewards, with the runners-up set to pocket $500,000, while $200,000 and $100,000 will go to the third- and f o u rth-place finishers,

respectively.

The quarter-finals of the ExxonMobil Futsal Championship promise not just a battle for survival, but a showcase of the finest talents on the futsal scene in Linden.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

PAGE 27

2024 CWI Men’s CG United Super50 Championships…GHE vs. WIA

Top performances from Matthews, Savory unbeaten half-century guides Dottin lead Melbourne Renegades to Harpy Eagles to tense 2-wicket finish nine-wicket win over Adelaide Strikers SportsMax - West Indian superstar duo Hayley Matthews and Deandra Dottin powered the Melbourne Renegades Women to a dominant ninewicket win over the Adelaide Strikers Women in Women’s Big Bash League action at the Karen Rolton Oval on Monday.

Matthews and Dottin both got their best scores of the season to help the Renegades hawk down a target of 186 for the loss of

Hayley Matthews (right) and Deandra Dottin just one wicket in 17.1 overs.

Matthews hit 12 fours and two sixes on her way to 85* off 54 balls while Dottin

finished 46* off just 18 balls, hitting seven fours and one six.

Courtney Webb, who

Thrilling Double Header Highlights East Bank Football Association U14 Boys League Action The East Bank Football Association U14 Boys League continued its exciting run on Sunday, November 10th, 2024, with two electrifying matches at the Herstelling Football Ground. The league, launched on October 27th, 2024, has already proven to be a platform for rising young talents as six teams compete for supremacy in what is becoming one of the most anticipated youth football leagues in the region.

In the opening game of the day, Swan Football Club’s U14 Boys delivered an impressive 4-0 victory over Soesdyke United Football Club. Adrian Welcome was the standout player of the match, scoring a remarkable hat trick. The 14-year-old striker displayed excellent finishing ability, netting all three goals in the first half, putting Swan FC firmly in control with a 3-0 lead by the halftime whistle. Devin Barasalte added to the lead in the 42nd minute, calmly converting to seal the 4-0 victory for Swan FC. In the second match of the day, Herstelling FC put on an equally dominant d i s p l a y, s e c u r i n g a resounding 5-0 win over Friendship All Stars Football Club. Forward Eli

Eli Archer, Thea Rodrigues and Wayshawn Forde were on target for Herstelling FC. Archer opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, leaving the opposition’s goalkeeper with no chance. Elevenyear-old prodigy Wayshawn Forde, who played in the attacking midfield role, was the star of the show, netting a clinical hat trick in the 29th, 33rd, and 46th minutes, showcasing his sharp instincts in front of goal. The victory was rounded off by Thea Rodrigues, who finished the goal fest with a thunderous right-footed shot in the 59th minute. Notably, both Herstelling FC and Friendship All Stars FC fielded female players as part of their developmental programme, highlighting the league’s inclusive approach to nurturing young talent across gender lines.

“We are thrilled to see such exciting football at this

early stage of the competition,” said Orein Angoy, President of the East Bank Football Association.

“This league not only serves as a platform for the development of our young players but also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition. We look forward to seeing even more amazing performances as the season progresses.”

The East Bank Football Association U14 Boys League is being played at the Herstelling Football Ground and will continue every Sunday throughout the season. The league is supported by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), which has expressed its commitment to the development of youth football at all levels.

“The East Bank Football Association’s initiative is in (Continued on page 26)

opened with Matthews, earlier retired hurt on 37.

Earlier, the Strikers posted what they thought would be a good total with 185-8 from their 20 overs after being put in to bat by the Renegades.

Talia McGrath and Smriti Mandhana led the way with 49 and 40, respectively, as Matthews led the Renegades bowling with 2-28 from her four overs.

The win puts the Renegades second on the points table with eight points from seven games, the same amount of points as the Sydney Thunder who have played two less games.

Full Scores: Adelaide Strikers Women 185-8 off 20 overs (Talia McGrath 49, Smriti Mandhana 40, Hayley Matthews 2-28).

Melbourne Renegades 186-1 off 17.1 overs (Hayley Matthews 85*, Deandra Dottin 46*, Courtney Webb 37).

Guyana Harpy Eagles secured a tense two wicket win versus a young dynamic West Indies Academy (WIA) last night at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy Ground.

West Indies Academy made a good comeback as they had a few hiccups but eventually got to a defendable 200 all out in 45.5 overs.

The top three batsmen Ackeem Auguste (28), Carlton Bowen-Tuckett (25) and Rivaldo Clarke (27), gave their team a good start leaving Nimar Bolden (32), Johann Layne and Joshua Bishop (15) to finish off the innings nicely.

Spin won the innings for Guyana with part-timer, opening batsman Rampertab Ramnauth (324), Junior Sinclair (3-40) and Veerasammy Permaul (2-57).

The Eagles stuttered during their chase, courtesy of fast-bowler Jediah Blades (4-48) who ripped out the top three batters to help push Guyana on the back-foot early.

Kemol Savory

Only Matthew Nandu (34), Kevlon Anderson (50) and Kemol Savory (56*), who scored his third halfcentury this season, managed to get going as the Eagles posted 204-8 in the 47th over.

Blades found support f r o m te am mat e s , l eg spinner Zishan Motara (243) and Layne (1-33) who also did well to keep the runs and wickets under control.

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Tuesday November 12, 2024

Bent Street settle Back Circle 1-0 to lift Hamilton Green’s Inter-Ward Football KO C/ship A

fter two days of f i e r c e competition, the 2024 Hamilton Green InterWard/Village Nine-a-side Knockout Football Championship concluded on Sunday with a single goal securing victory for Bent Street.

The intense showdown took place at the National Training Centre (NTC)

turf ground, where Bent Street edged out the formidable Back Circle team 1-0 to claim the championship title and a $500,000 cash prize.

The champions also walked away with twelve hampers, medals, and a trophy.

Bent Street clinched their spot in the final after a hard-fought

Bent Street men defended will against Back Circle on Sunday to cruise to a well-deserved 1-0 victory.

semifinal against 2023 champions Stabroek Ballers, which ended in a tense 0-0 draw.

The decisive moment in the final match arrived in the latter half, when a brilliant set-piece collaboration betw een Daniel Wilson and Adrian Aaron broke the deadlock.

Wilson delivered a well-placed cross from the right corner, setting up Aaron for a perfectly timed tap-in that secured the championship-winning goal.

Back Circle, despite a valiant effort, finished as runners-up, receiving a $250,000 cash prize along with silver medals and a trophy.

The semifinal clashes were nail-biters, with both matches being decided by penalty shootouts.

Back Circle edged out Stabroek Ballers in a sudden-death shootout following a goalless draw, while Bent Street narrowly defeated Pouderoyen after a 1-1 stalemate.

In the third-place match, Stabroek Ballers overcame Pouderoyen, taking home $150,000 and

Part of the semi final action on Sunday between Stabroek Ballers (Yellow) and Bent Street.

a trophy.

The event was part of former Georgetown Mayor and Prime Minister Hamilton Green’s 90th birthday celebrations.

Green himself was present, witnessing the thrilling matches and awarding prizes.

T h i s y e a r ’ s

championship was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors, i n c l u d i n g O n e Communications, Gold Reunion, John Fernandes, Gafoors, ENet, NAMILCO, Busta, Prittipaul Singh, Cummings Electrical,

Muneshwer’s, Ready Mix, Silvies, Rick’s and Sari, and King’s Liquor.

A d d i t i o n a l contributions came from distinguished figures like Dr. Linden Dodson, Dr. Michael Sue, Edmond Vieira, Floyd H a y n e s , a n d E d d i e’s Bobcat.

GVF /Republic Bank / One Guyana / ‘ B’ Division tournament ends on high note Curtains came down when the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) lauded the Republic Bank and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for their Sterling contribution towards the development and sustenance of Volleyball throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

The tournament saw some 49 teams, both male and females participating from eight regions across the country.

The culmination of the event, which was held on the 9th and 10th of November, 2024, brought 8 female and 8 male teams to the National Gymnasium.

The quarter finals were played on a round robin

basis with two male and two female zones. Advancing to the male semi finals were the PMTC of Berbice, Alpha of Georgetown, Warriors A of Bartica and Hururu Hydras of Region 10.

In the female category, Mabaruma, Lethem, Siparuta and Bartica advanced to the semis. In the male category, PMTC played Warriors A. PMTC won, 25 - 21 and 26 – 24, while Alpha played Hururu Hydras.

Hururu Hydras defeated Alphas 25 - 19, 14-25 and 15- 11 to advance to the finals. In the female category, Mabaruma won from Bartica 25-16, 20-25 and 16- 14.Lethem played

Siparuta and won 25- 21, 26-24 and 15- 13 to advance to the finals. All matches were played in a best of three format.

The female finals saw Mabaruma winning from Lethem 30- 28, 25- 21 and 25 - 19. In the Male c a t e g o r y, t h e H u r u r u Hydras was triumphant by defeating PMTC in a nail biting finish, 19-25. 21- 25, 25 -22, 25- 21 and 15- 13.

The final segment of the game was graced by the Honorable Mr. Charles Ramson (jnr) Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, M r. F r a n k l i n Wi l s o n Assistant Director of S p o r t s , M r. K a s h i f Mohammed, Chairman of the Sports Commission,

Miss Jonelle Dummett, M a r k e t i n g a n d Communications Manager of Republic Bank and Miss Ismelia Douglas, Assistant Human Resource Manager of Republic Bank.

In the presentation ceremony the Honorable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports gave brief remarks for a promising future for the development of not only Volleyball in Guyana but for sports in general.

He lauded the GVF, the National Sports Commission and the Republic Bank for their arduous contribution towards the success of the venture.

Prizes were awarded to:

- Best DefenceDelinica Campbelle Mabaruma. - Trophy and $20,000.

- Best Attacker Vandette Henry - Lethem Trophy and $20,000.

- Best Setter - Delinica Campbelle - Mabaruma Trophy and $20,000.

- 4th place - Warriors A, Bartica - Trophy and $100,000.

- 3rd place - Sipatuta Falcons- Trophy, Medals and $150,000.

- 2nd Place - Lethem T r o p h y, M e d a l s a n d $200,000.

- 1st place - Mabaruma Tr o p h y, M e d a l s & G$300,000 - MVP went to Lianna Gilkes of Mabaruma

- Best Defence- A. Saywack - PMTC- Trophy and $20,000 - Best Libero - A. Saywack - PMTC- Trophy and $20,000 - Best attacker- Andy Rohoman - PMTC -Trophy and $20,000 - Best Setter- Ravi Rampertab - PMTC Trophy and $20,000 - 4th place - Bartica Trophy and $100,000 - 3rd place - Alpha T r o p h y, M e d a l s a n d $150,000 - 2nd Place- PMTC Trophy, Medals &and $200,000 - First place Hururu Spartans- Trophy, Medals and $300,000.

- MVP Kelon Phillips

Kaieteur News

Tuesday November 12, 2024

PAGE 29

MVP Sports 8th Annual Girl’s U11 Football - 16 teams drafted ahead of Tournament officially launched Saturday’s kickoff at MoE

T

h e P e t r a Organisation has partnered once again with MVP Sports to host the 8th Annual Schools’ U11 Football Tournament, scheduled to begin this Saturday, November 16th, at the Ministry of Education ground. This announcement came yesterday at a launch event held at MVP Sports’ Giftland Mall location, marking the countdown to an exciting competition for young footballers across the country.

This year’s tournament will feature 16 teams from across Guyana, competing in a round-robin knockout format for the coveted top prize of $100,000, along with a trophy and medals.

Prizes will also be awarded to teams finishing in second, third, and fourth places, with cash awards of $75,000,

MVP Sports, CEO Ian Ramdeo.

$50,000, and $25,000, respectively, along with medals and trophies. In addition, special awards await the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), Best Goalkeeper, and Top Goal Scorer.

Present at the launch were Petra Co-Directors Marlan Cole and Troy Mendonca, Secretary Aaliyah Hinds, Troy Peters and MVP Sports CEO Ian Ramdeo, all emphasizing

the importance of supporting youth football and fostering the growth of the sport, particularly for young girls.

Mendonca underscored the significance of this partnership, particularly as corporate backing for grassroots sports has often been challenging to secure. He expressed gratitude to MVP Sports for their steadfast support, noting that their involvement helps to drive the Petra Organisation’s mission of developing football at the grassroots level.

CEO Ian Ramdeo spoke highly of Petra’s role in advancing football in Guyana.

“Petra’s involvement in local football has been pivotal in the development of the sport in Guyana, especially given the work they have put in over the past decade. We at MVP Sports are thrilled to focus more on the girls’ division,

ExxonMobil Futsal Championship quarter-finals decided

Action in the ExxonMobil Futsal Championship in Linden.

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fter two weeks of intense, highenergy clashes in the preliminary rounds, the ExxonMobil Futsal Championship has reached a thrilling crescendo as it moves into the quarterfinals.

Tomorrow’s actionpacked line-up will see the tournament’s top eight teams battling in a dramatic “win or go home” stage, all under the electrifying atmosphere curated by New Era Entertainment at the Retrieve Hard Court.

Kicking off the evening at 7:30 pm, the undefeated powerhouse YMCA will square off against the resilient Silver Bullets, who fought their way to a second-

place finish in Group C. With YMCA’s flawless track record and Silver Bullets hungry to prove their mettle, the opening match promises a fierce duel that could set the tone for the rest of the night.

The second face-off will pit Spaniards, the dominant force from Group B, against Turf Presidents, a formidable squad that secured their spot as Group D’s runners-up.

Spaniards have been a force to reckon with throughout the tournament, but Turf President is known for their tenacity and unpredictable play, making this clash one to watch closely.

Next up, it’s the turn of

Money Bell, who clinched the top spot in Group C, to take on Bomberz, Group A’s second-place finishers.

Money Bell’s tactical finesse will be tested against Bomberz’s explosive style of play, promising a highstakes encounter filled with end-to-end action.

The grand finale of the quarter-finals will feature a blockbuster matchup between Hard Knocks, one of the tournament favourites who dominated Group D, and the ever-daring Young Gunners from Group B. This showdown is already being hailed as the must-watch game of the night, with both teams eager to stamp their authority and (Continued on page 26)

Petra Rep, Aaliyah Hinds (second from right) receiving sponsorship from MVP Sports’ CEO Ian Ramdeo in the presence of Petra’s executive Troy Mendonca and Troy Peters during yesterday’s launch. as we see this initiative as key to growing youth football,” Ramdeo stated.

The tournament, now in its eighth year, has become a staple of youth football, bringing together young talent and offering them a competitive platform.

L a s t y e a r, M a r i a n Academy emerged as

champions.

As the title sponsor for a second consecutive year, MVP Sports, along with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and the Ministry of Education, continues to support Petra’s vision for promoting football in both male and female divisions.

Mendonca closed by

thanking MVP Sports for their continued dedication, adding, “We believe this initiative will serve female football well.” The Petra Organisation, in collaboration with MVP Sports, remains committed to fostering the next generation of football talent in Guyana.

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rt Sp o Champions! Bent Street Football team pose with their spoils at the conclusion of the intense Hamilton Green Inter-Ward Football extravaganza.

Bent Street settle Back Circle 1-0 to lift Hamilton Green’s Inter-Ward Football KO C/ship GVF /Republic Bank / One Guyana / ‘ B’ Division tournament ends on high note Cap Male and female volleyball winners pose following the end of a successful tournament.

2024 CWI Men’s CG United Super50 Championships…GHE vs. WIA

Savory unbeaten half-century guides Harpy Eagles to tense 2-wicket finish Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.