Kaieteur News

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Thursday Edition Turkey AIETEUR NEWS calls Israel a ‘terror state’ November 16, 2023 - Vol. 16 No. 47

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

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 50,495

...criticises the West

Exxon must now put decommissioning fund in place for– all Minister Guyana projects Bharrat Eco Atlantic receives Govt. approval to take charge of Orinduik Block

Guyana recorded 182 rape cases in 11 months Man drives through thick smoke, slams into back of truck, body left in car Omai confident of becoming next largest gold mining ...announces new operation in Guyana drilling results

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

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Eco Atlantic receives Govt. approval to take charge of Orinduik Block C

a n a d i a n exploration company, Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd., has received the government's approval to assume 60% of the working interest as well as operatorship of the Orinduik Block which measures 1800 km2.

Eco told the market on Wednesday that it had signed a Sale Purchase Agreement on August 10, 2023 for its wholly owned subsidiary, Eco Guyana Oil and Gas (Barbados) Limited ("Eco Guyana") to acquire the 60% Operated Interest that was initially held by Tullow Guyana B.V. ("TGBV"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Tullow Oil Plc. ("Tullow").

According to the deal, Eco has agreed to pay Tullow a combination of upfront US$700,000 cash and potential future payment.

Kaieteur News understands that if Eco makes a commercial discovery it will pay Tullow US$4 million in addition to a further US$10 million if Guyana issues a production licence and royalty payments on future production.

On completion of the US$700,000 transaction with Tullow, Eco said the 60 percent interest will be added to its previous holding of 15 percent, thereby giving it an aggregate 75% participating interest in the Orinduik Block.

Eco was keen to point out that is new subsidiary called Eco Orinduik will hold the 60 percent interest while Eco (Atlantic) Guyana Inc. will hold the 15% stake.

Meanwhile, TOQAP Guyana

B.V—a company that is owned 60 percent by Total and 40 percent by QatarEnergy—will continue to hold a participating interest of 25% in the Orinduik Block. Completion of the transaction between Eco and Tullow is expected before year-end 2023.

Following the announcement on Wednesday, Colin Kinley, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented said he is pleased to have the government's support for the transfer of the interests.

He further noted that the partners are finalizing plans to drill their next well. Back in 2019, Tullow had drilled two exploration wells but oil was not found in commercial quantities.

This time, Kinley said the company is targetting the Cretaceous play which is where Exxon has found most of its sweet, light crude in the Stabroek Block. That concession is also in the vicinity of the Stabroek Block.

Kinley said, “After nearly 10 years of exploration and interpretation, and multiple regional discoveries (by Exxon) at the Cretaceous

A map of the Orinduik Block level of close to 11 billion barrels of recoverable oil, our team has a good understanding of the Cretaceous play and we have a great deal of confidence in drilling our first well, targeting a stacked pay target in this well proven horizon.”

Kinley said Eco now seeks qualified partners in this high-value play following which, it would proceed to transfer the majority if its stake to its new

deep-pocketed partner.

He also noted that recent interest from super majors and other well capitalised energy companies in the latest

licencing bid round in Guyana supports Eco's thesis of the oil migration and the high quality and charged reservoirs it sees on the Orinduik Block.

Kaieteur News

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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

Accidents and blackouts The GPL Inc. came into the public domain with a strange one to explain the spate of recent blackouts. A senior official from the GPL pointed a finger at vehicular and construction accidents. An example of the latter would be when the boom of a crane knocks over an electricity pole that is part of the GPL network. According to the GPL, there is a cascading effect with large areas impacted by blackouts. We at this paper are going to call this for what it is: an excuse that collapses under the weight of scrutiny. It would have been better if the GPL had kept quiet.

The frequency of blackouts plaguing Guyanese businesses and households has been so steady that it has reached alarming proportions. Guyanese turn around and the light is gone. They get ready to take care of the family, or the children prepare to study, or there are plans to do some work from home, and the lights go out. It has not been once a week, but an almost daily occurrence. Taking the GPL’s curious defense, it follows, therefore, that these vehicular and construction accidents are occurring daily. Also, that they are almost always knocking out a GPL pole, and with a corresponding daily knockout punch smacking Guyanese families and businesspeople across the face. It is either Guyana has some really terrible drivers and construction equipment operators, or that the GPL is clutching at straws and is pulling any rabbits out of hats to quiet Guyanese. We are not buying this explanation that sounds like covering-up for the near constant blackouts that have wreaked havoc on daily Guyanese life.

Something else is not making sense, and further tears apart the GPL’s public pretense about vehicular and construction accidents being major culprits in the wave after wave of blackouts. The light is on, then the light goes out, which if that were all would give some credence to what the GPL is saying as being responsible. However, when the lights come on, they remain so for a period during that same day, then they go out again for an extended period, and often more than a few times. Taking the GPL’s position into account, this could signify that there is a series of vehicular and construction accidents that knockout electricity poles, all in the same day, and leave Guyanese in the dark.

Moreover, when this takes place several days a week, and for weeks at a time, it should mean that there have been a rash of accidents of the types identified, and that there are far fewer GPL electricity poles standing.

Stretching reasoning to extreme levels, it means that accidents are occurring fast and furious across the Guyana landscape, viz., on as many roadways and construction sites as there are this country, and with scant space between them.

It would be interesting to learn what the Guyana Police Force traffic records have to say about accidents, and how those reconcile with what has been mentioned by the GPL. The same goes for the relevant Ministry of Labor (or EPA) record of workplace mishaps and how those also matchup with the GPL’s pronouncement. Like we said earlier, the GPL would have salvaged some of its tattered reputation, (at least allow Guyanese tempers to cool) if only there was the wisdom to keep its mouth shut.

We understand that the GPL has its problems, and despite the many more billions poured into it, the problems keep mounting and taking on new lives. The prevailing thinking at the GPL seems to be that a good public relations posture is the best course of action, and that there must be some form of damage control. They both have turned out to be losers, and leave the GPL in a worse place. Which Guyanese is going to be foolish as to put any trust into what people at the GPL say? Sometimes too much focus on spinning leads to a web that causes the feet to tangle.

Separately, the GPL has given assurances that the blackout woes are going to ease before the Christmas holidays. Let us hope that the drinking and driving and related accidents around that time also ease.

Thursday November 16, 2023

President Ali’s and Guyana’s positions are simple: a peaceful resolution and no negotiation with Venezuela DEAR EDITOR, When it comes to the 124-years-old border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela, President Dr. Irfaan Ali is leaving no stones unturned as he deals with the erratic behavior of the Maduro regime in the most serious manner.

On several occasions, His Excellency has made it clear to all and sundry in the world that Guyana has always been and will always be a peaceful nation that respects the rule of law, but Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo region poses a direct threat to Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as well threatening the economic stability, tranquility, and peaceful existence of the Caribbean, which unlike Venezuela has never encroached on the territory of any other nation.

The border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela which dates to the 1899 Arbitral Award has shown how successive governments have tried but failed to settle this age-old dispute, but President Dr. Ali is determined and committed to settle it once and for all.

Not only has he elevated the dispute to the World Court which is highest the legal body capable to settle disputes peacefully between and among countries, but he has also apprised the

members of international community, chief among them is the United States as well as regional organizations including the European Union, Commonwealth of Nations, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and our neighbors at CARICOM and at the Organization of American States (OAS).

He told the world that Ve n e z u e l a ’ s r e c e n t deployment of troops on its border with Guyana and its latest threats to use force to unilaterally annex the Essequibo region are designed to undermine and disregard the rule of law and the impending case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

President Dr. Ali has always taken the threats from the Maduro Regime very seriously and so have the government and opposition lawmakers, who during a debate on the border dispute on Monday November 6, have unanimously approved a parliamentary motion in the National Assembly against Venezuela.

The lawmakers have noted that in addition to the deployment of thousands of troops by the Maduro regime on the Venezuela side of the border, it has placed several postings on social media declaring that Essequibo belongs to Venezuela, which is false. They also reaffirmed

Guyana’s commitment to the ICJ and have ruled out any bilateral talks between President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart, President Nicolas Maduro to settle the controversy.

As a pragmatist, His Excellency realized that in terms of military prowess, Guyana is no match to Venezuela whose National Bolivarian Armed Forces comprised of the Army, Navy, and Air Force,is the 4th largest military in Latin America, behind Brazil, Colombia and Mexico and is more than half the size of G u y a n a ’s p o p u l a t i o n .

Therefore, while Venezuela broods over military threats, it is inconceivable for Guyana to think that there is a military solution to settle the border dispute. However, after a very careful assessment of the escalation of tension propagated by Caracas and the misleading rhetoric disseminated by President Maduro to buttress his claim over Essequibo, President Dr. Ali has sought and received solid support and meaningful partnerships with members of the international community and regional allies to condemn the reckless behavior of Venezuela.

Despite the saber-rattling from Venezuela, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s eyes were firm on the prize to thwart Maduro plans because he

knew he had options which he saved for the last. To strengthen and expand relations with Brazil, given its historic position on the inviolability of borders.

President Dr. Ali held discussions with the President of Brazil, Luis Inacio ‘Lula’ Da Silva on a wide range of bilateral issues, including defense, military cooperation, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the rule of International Law, the Ve n e z u e l a b o r d e r controversy, infrastructure, and economic cooperation, among others.

The talks between President Ali and his Brazilian counterpart were held amid repeated threats by Venezuela to use force to annex the Essequibo region which was of concern to Brazil.

The Brazilian President has always been concerned about violence in the region and has called for a diplomatic and or legal settlement to the dispute.

If anyone had any misgivings about President Ali’s strategy on the border dispute or his resolve to settle it peacefully through the ICJ, they should be cast aside.

To the surprise of almost everyone, the Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana Carlos Amador Pérez Silva (Continued on page 06)

Public servants part of society’s backbone, deal with them fairly DEAR EDITOR, It is with great disappointment that i address the recent unilateral announcements made by President Irfaan Ali on salary and one-off cash grants for public sector workers. The decision to make such an announcement without proper consultation and negotiation with the relevant unions and workers is a blatant disrespect to their efforts and contributions to the Guyanese society.It is no secret that our teachers, nurses, doctors, police and soldiers work tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of our society. They are the backbone of our nation, working tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy. Yet, despite their invaluable

contributions, they are treated with little to no respect, with woefully inadequate salaries and minimal basic benefits.

I acknowledge the critical role that the unions play in advocating for their members. However, it is frustrating to see that some of these unions, including the Guyana Labour Union led by Mr. Carvil Duncan, is not doing enough to stand up for their members. It is unacceptable that they would agree to such unilateral decisions by the president, effectively abandoning the workers’ best interests.We must ask ourselves, what kind of message does this send to our hard-working public servants? Are we telling

them that their efforts are not valued? Are we indicating that their contributions are not significant enough to warrant decent salaries or adequate benefits? It is high time that we start treating our public sector workers with the respect they deserve.

They are the backbone of our society, and we must ensure that they are adequately compensated for their efforts. I urge the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the unions to ensure that the interests of the workers are adequately represented.

In conclusion, I urge unions and other union leaders to take a stand for their members in the form of taking the roads and having peaceful protests to ensure

that the government’s decision-making process is transparent and fair. If we continue to take this nonsense from any Government our future will be in shaped by small, trivial choices. Additionally, I implore the Guyana government to prioritize the welfare and well-being of our public sector workers by providing them with adequate salaries, benefits, and resources. Anything short of this is unacceptable and will only serve to further erode the public’s trust in any government.

Yours truly, Pt. Ubraj Narine, JP, COA Former Staff Sgt. (GDF), Mayor City of Georgetown

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

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City Council has disappointed with What Exxon is doing in Guyana resembles what Israel the Durey Lane Enhancement project is doing to Palestinians DEAR EDITOR, Palestine (including Gaza) is supposed to be a sovereign place with the Palestinians running their own affairs. Instead of having independence and freedom, Israel completely dominates and controls the territory.

Isn’t the same thing happening to us in a different way? Powerful nations and companies are dominating poor nations and poor people. Isn’t Exxon d o m i n a n t o v e r environmental and energy affairs in our country?

Doesn’t it get and does what it wants in Guyana? Can Exxon do the same thing in US, Canada, and Europe? A foreign company LINDSAYCA/CH4 got a contract to build a power generating plant. Very little work has been done on the project. The country is suffering constant blackouts. Hundreds of millions of dollars of electrical equipment have been destroyed and GPL has not compensated anyone.

Lives are disrupted.

Transformers go off; fires get started. Blackouts can be easily addressed. Why doesn’t LINDSAYCA/CH4 get a barge to produce electricity to address immediate short term needs until such time that the power plant has been constructed and started producing electricity? The entire country is suffering from blackouts because of bad decisions from GPL and a government official who instructed the purchase of secondhand generators that can’t produce the capacity to meet needs. Instead of acquiring second-hand generating plants from Trinidad, GPL should have purchased new (Japanese) generators which were (are) cheaper and more efficient than the used ones and would have produced more electricity than demand.

On government

sovereignty, how much of what is happening in Palestine different from, say, E x x o n ’s b e h a v i o r i n Guyana? Israel has destroyed the Gaza Strip and rendered it as well as the rest of the Palestinian territory (state) stateless. The people of Palestine are helpless and completely dominated by the Israeli government and lack the capacity to respond to the firepower of the Israelis; they have no political rights. And their constitutional as well as human rights are violated beyond documentation.

A r e n ’t s i m i l a r t h i n g s happening to us? Isn’t the government subservient to foreign companies including those control oil and gas, agriculture, and other sectors? A Brazilian company was granted hundreds of thousands of acres of land, but Guyanese can’t get house lots or land for agriculture.

Isn’t the government acting powerless towards multinationals? Aren’t politicians, political parties, governments, and even o rg a n i z a t i o n s ( N G O s ) behaving like they are owned by Exxon and other foreign companies? Exxon has been spreading its tentacles over the government and opposition figures. The giant multinational controls key individuals in the government. Government seems helpless and the key figures who run the government dance to the tune of the large company.

Maybe they even ask Exxon what to do or how to run the energy Ministry (oil and gas development). Why was the audit compromised? At a minimum, Exxon could have turned over the audit

records. But it has failed to do so.

Only the court can save Guyana from corrupt politicians who instruct and direct officials of government agencies how to do their job even when such acts violate the law as courts recently ruled in environmental court challenges. The court (a few judges) is saluted for its integrity on judicial matters involving state sovereignty and the environment, ruling in favor of the people against corrupt politicians and violation of environmental acts. It is hoped the court will also take an independent law-abiding position on the audit of multinationals like Exxon so that Guyana can recover money it lost (some US$211 M) through terrible acts of officials. One person who gave away $107M (at the instruction of higher officials) received a slap in the wrist, a petty fine, for being the fall guy for giving away money that can give half a million dollar to every poor family.

On integrity and adhering to the constitution and lawful practices, what is h a p p e n i n g a t LINDSAYCA/CH4? The Dominican company with close links to two powerful government officials is pursuing arbitration on a contract (gas power plant) recently awarded to it. What is the VP’s position on that matter? LINDSAYCA/CH4 is also being considered for the oil refinery project. Why is it being considered for (Continued on age 06)

DEAR EDITOR, I am writing to express my concern and to seek clarification on the status of the enhancement project in Durey Lane, Campbellville, announced with much fanfare in January 2022.The proposed project, conceptualized by a Georgetown Municipal Officer, aimed to transform Durey Lane into a familyoriented avenue, offering relief to residents and users of the area, including those attending Campbellville Secondary School and St. Theresa’s Church from the horrible and insanitary state of the environs. The initial announcement generated significant enthusiasm, but unfortunately, nearly two years have passed, and the project seems to have made little progress, remaining another municipal pipe dream.

The public is aware that a significant amount of financial and other resources

was garnered for this project.It is disheartening to observe the continued neglect of Durey Lane, as it languishes in a sordid state with poor lighting, unauthorized garbage dumping, and increasing challenges for motor vehicle use. The community, along with businesses and individuals, has demonstrated support for the enhancement project, making it perplexing that the City Council has not translated this financial and other support into tangible action.

While the City Council has faced criticism for unfulfilled promises and a reputation for announcing ambitious plans that never materialize, the Durey Lane Enhancement project stands out as a critical initiative that could significantly improve the quality of life for local residents.

The persistence of inaction raises questions a b o u t t h e c o u n c i l ’s commitment to fulfilling its

responsibilities, especially in essential areas like road building, maintenance of street lighting, public sanitation among others.As we await an update on the project’s status, it is essential to emphasize the broader impact of municipal inaction on our city’s reputation.

President Ali rightly noted during a clean-up campaign of the capital city, that he benevolently spearheaded, that maintaining a clean country is not only a matter of patriotism but also crucial for earning respect at regional and international levels. I trust that transparency and timely communication regarding the Durey Lane Enhancement project will not only address the concerns of the c o m m u n i t y, b u t a l s o contribute to fostering trust in the City Council’s ability to deliver on its promises.

Yours sincerely, Tiki Singh

Calls for boycotting Israel is antisemitism at work DEAR EDITOR, Recently, there have been a plethora of letters to the local newspapers calling for a boycott of Israel, and the cutting of diplomatic ties with the Jewish state.Among other things, they said that Israel has overreacted to an attack on its c i t i z e n s a n d h a v e disproportionately attacked the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

First, there is no proportionality in war.

The Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941 and killed two thousand Americans. The U.S then entered the Second World War and fought Japan for

several years, culminating with two atomic bombs being dropped that killed and maimed nearly half a million people.

What is disturbing about the current denouncers of Israel, is that when Arabs or Muslims are killed by their own - these people are silent.

Disturbingly silent.

A country to Israel’s north has bombed and killed nearly half million of its own Muslim citizens. Israel’s other Arab neighbors have routinely killed many of their fellow Muslim citizens, and none of the people who are calling for the boycott of Israel had

anything to say about these atrocities. Just last week, a Muslim country in South Asia expelled more than one million fellow Muslims to its western neighbor, and everyone is silent on this injustice. If India had done this, it would have been called “ethnic cleansing.”

It can, therefore, be concluded that the only time Muslim lives matter to these people...is when Israel fights for its survival, and Palestinians are killed.

This is the textbook definition of antisemitism!

Respectfully submitted, Jhagroo Persaud

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

Cops question 41 Venezuelan Omai confident of becoming men over brutal attack next largest gold mining on Parika taxi driver

operation in Guyana

…announces new drilling results

O

The Taxi Driver, Shon Smith The search continues for five spanishspeaking men accused of almost severing the neck of a taxi driver during a robbery at Ruby Backdam, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on Saturday last.

Police in a statement on Wednesday said that they had rounded up several Venezuelan men for an ID parade and took the victim, Shon Smith to the Parika Police Station for him to identify his attackers. Smith was unable to stand because of the severity of his wounds. Police resorted to showing him photographs of 41 Venezuelan men they had detained. “After carefully viewing the photos to see whether he could identify his attackers, he said he did not recognised any of the 41 men as his attackers”, police said.

Smith was reportedly stabbed chopped and robbed by five spanish-speaking men around 01:45hrs on Saturday. The men had reportedly hired him to take them to Ruby Backdam but unleashed a brutal attack when they arrived. Smith alleged that he had to “play dead” in order to save his life. He managed to get up after they left and drove to

Some of the Venezuelan men rounded up for the ID parade a house nearby and begged for help. Police said that he was rescued by Jagmohan Singh, a 49-year-old farmer of Ruby Backdam. The farmer told police that at around 02:00 hrs he was awoken from his sleep by a loud noise.

“Singh said he got off his bed and went outside, where he saw the victim, lying down under his house shed with blood running down his body”, police stated. Singh immediately alerted his brother-in-law who took the victim into his car and transported him to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was admitted for treatment.

mai Gold Mines, one of several Canadian mining companies operating in Guyana, on Monday unveiled new positive drill results.

In its recent statement, the company underscored that since re-entering Guyana’s mining industry in 2020, their work completed thus far, has put them on track to become the next large-scale gold mine to open in Guyana.

Currently, Zijin Mining Inc., a Chinese company that owns the Aurora Gold Mines in Guyana is the only large-scale gold mining operation here.

Omai holds a 100% interest in the Omai gold project, located in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), which encompasses two gold deposits: the shear-hosted Wenot Deposit and the adjacent intrusive-hosted Gilt Creek Deposit.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Omai, Elaine Ellingham, expressed optimism, stating, “The Wenot drilling results, coupled with recent successes, highlight the untapped potential of the Omai gold project.

The favorable grades and widths make it conducive to developing an open pit operation, leveraging the advantages of a brownfields project.”

Ellingham outlined plans, mentioning, “We are initiating an updated Mineral Resource Estimate, expecting completion by year-end.

This marks the third NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate in under two years, propelling us toward a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA). The ongoing 2023 drilling has expanded the Wenot gold zones and revealed a wide zone of gold mineralization within the southern sedimentary rock sequence.”

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Omai Elaine Ellingham In previous updates, Omai had already announced excellent drilling results, further underlining their commitment to exploring the rich potential of the Wenot pit.

Moreover, several Canadian gold mining companies, including Omai, have shown interest in Guyana’s mining industry.

However, the country has experienced declines in annual gold declarations since 2017, despite billions in incentives pumped into the industry.

While Canadian mining companies, including Omai, express interest in Guyana’s mining industry, concerns persist regarding the government’s failure to disclose mining contracts.

This transparency issue contradicts Guyana’s membership in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, raising questions amid renewed foreign interest in the country’s gold resources.

What Exxon is doing in Guyana...

From page 05 another major project when it has not completed the first one as yet?

Is the V P giving his approval?

LINDSAYCA/CH4 has not done any significant work on the power plant in spite of receiving some payment. Yet it has gone to court for arbitration over a minor dispute in order to extract funds.

Will there be a settlement a g a i n s t t h e c o u n t r y ’s financial interests? Is there

any conflict of interest between LINDSAYCA with two or more government officials (one of who is Miami based and is known for corrupt acts)?

Is the company going to arbitration to extract more money while holding the country to ransom.

Guyanese are suffering endless blackouts and damage to household electrical equipment as a result of the company’s action and anti-national interests involving a few

government officials.

Companies that are not working in the interest of Guyana are being awarded contracts for projects that are essential for the future development of the country.

Several of these companies are not working in the best interests of the country.

No company should be awarded a second contract until it finishes the first and has demonstrated competence and capability.

Yours truly, Rudesh Jodha Baksh

President Ali’s and Guyana’s...

From page 04 has declared on Sunday November 12, 2023, that Venezuela would not invade Guyana even if its citizens vote ‘yes’ in the referendum on December 3, 2023, to annex the Essequibo region. The Venezuelan envoy explained that the deployment of troops on the Venezuela’s border with Guyana is part of an operation codenamed “Operation Roraima” to tackle illegal gold mining, drug

trafficking, trafficking in persons, gangs and other “internal security” matters. Despite Ambassador Silva proclamation, President Dr. Ali will not claim victory or budge from his position that Venezuela’s claim to Essequibo is false, groundless, and illegal.

He will continue to push for a peaceful and legal settlement at the ICJ. Sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose.

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B T LUNT. UNT...B BL Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

“Venezuela has proved to be nothing but a regional bully.

The 1899 Arbitral Award was the basis of the tri-junction point which fixed the boundaries for Guyana, Venezuela, and Brazil. In this exercise, Caracas lost territory to Brazil but has never once contested the legitimacy of the Award with Brasilia. Yet it has done so with the smaller state of Guyana.”

- Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton on November 6, 2023.

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Kaieteur News

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Thursday November 16, 2023

71% rise in road deaths - police T

he Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday reported that there has been a 71 per cent increase in road deaths this year compared to the previous year.

The statistics provided by Senior Superintendent, Mahendra Singh, disclosed that in the year 2022, 88, road fatalities were recorded, however, it was shown that 151 deaths were recorded so far for this year-an increase of 71%.

The report also revealed that fatal accidents have increased by 59%, compared to last year. In 2022, Guyana recorded 81 fatal accidents, while, in 2023, 129 fatal accidents were recorded, with Region Three and Region Four, having the highest increases.

N o t a b l y, R e g i o n T h r e e recorded 10 fatal accidents last year, but jumped to 29 fatal accidents in 2023 and Region Four (c), recorded 17 fatal accidents in 2022, but increased to 31 in 2023.

Back in October Police Commander of Region Three, Mahendra Siwnarine had disclosed that while drinking and driving contributed to some of those fatalities, most of them were caused by individuals not paying attention when using the roadways. He explained that an analysis was done to determine the cause of accidents

The motor lorry and minibus which were involved in the Greenwich Park fatal accident

The mangled cars at the scene, where four persons died including a father and daughter (Newsroom Photo) within his district. He noted that the high increase in Region Three road fatalities has put a negative impact on the efforts of ranks within the division to reduce accidents across the region. “We would have seen decreases in all the other categories that are serious, minor, and damage, but because of that great

increase in the fatalities we are currently operating at a positive point five percent in terms of all categories of accident,” Siwnarine had said.

One of the recent fatal accidents that rocked Region Three took place in August when four teenagers were killed in a car crash

at Canal #2 Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD). Those who died were identified as Daveanand Singh, 17, of Providence, East Bank Demerara; Amiesha Jaikaran, 19, of La Grange Old Road, WBD; Divyanie Narine, 18, of Kitty, Georgetown; and Daniel Tirbeni, 19, of La Grange. Singh was the

d r i v e r o f c a r, w h i c h b o r e registration PAE 5773, and the others were his passengers.

According to the police, Singh was reportedly speeding when he lost control of the car and crashed into the rear of a motor lorry, GTT 6960, before slamming into a fence. Two (Continued on page 16)

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 09

The maritime question A

US Embassy Diplomatic Cable, dated 16th June 2006 reported that then President Bharrat Jagdeo told embassy officials that he was told by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez that the Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s territory was spurious and that “the dispute was an imperialist issue, blaming pressure from the U.S. and UK in the runup to Guyana’s independence for Venezuela’s pursuit of the claim.”

This cable has since been released by Wikileaks.

Jagdeo owes to the people of Guyana and the record of history to confirm whether Hugo Chavez did concede to him that the Venezuelan claim was spurious and if this admission disarmed Guyana in its subsequently dealings with Venezuela.

Hugo Chavez certainly did not operate as if the claim was spurious. Chavez opposed plans by Beal Aerospace to set up a satellite rocket launch site in Guyana in Region 1. Chavez had opposed to that project.

In a radio address the Venezuelan President had said: “We cannot accept it because that territory is in reclamation.”

Even though a senior official of Beal had said they have preferred that the project was located in an undisputed area, the project was eventually shelved because of commercial considerations. One year earlier, the then Venezuelan Foreign Minister had expressed similar sentiments. José Vicente Rangel was said to have written to the Foreign Ministry of Guyana rejecting “unfriendly act, which

hampers a practical and satisfactory solution to the territorial dispute between our two countries.”

Just three days ago, the Guyana Chronicle reminded the nation that Chavez had said, “It concerns and displeases the Venezuelan People and Government, that the initiatives promoting foreign direct investment are directed mainly to the zone under claim, on which the Venezuelan State claims and will claim its possession, until achieving the practical and satisfactory solution foreseen in the Geneva Agreement.” These comments and actions by the father of 21st Century socialism do not concur with what Jagdeo reportedly told US embassy officials in 2006. Chavez certainly was not operating as if his country’s claim to Guyana’s territory was spurious and the product of imperialist machinations.

In 2000, the Venezuelan government had threatened to grant oil exploration licenses in the offshore area which is now considered part of Guyana’s territory but which is not delimited. There are many Guyanese who are of the mistaken view that a favourable ICJ ruling will bring an end to the controversy over the granting of oil concessions

by Guyana in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). But these persons need to be reminded that while Guyana’s land boundaries have been demarcated, the same has not been done for G u y a n a ’s m a r i t i m e boundaries with Venezuela and a separate round of legal proceedings will have to be done under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Following an incident between Venezuelan naval forces and an exploration vessel operating in Guyana’s waters, the then Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, on the 7th November 2013, related to the country’s National Assembly that while the land border, which includes Essequibo, had been settled in 1899, the maritime boundary had not yet been resolved.

In its decision of 18th December 2020, the International Court of Justice ruled that it has jurisdiction to entertain the Application filed by the Cooperative Republic of Guyana on 29 March 2018 in so far as it concerns the validity of the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 and the related question of the definitive settlement of the land boundary dispute between the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and Venezuela.

However, it also found that it did not have jurisdiction to entertain the claims of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana arising from events that occurred after the signature of the Geneva Agreement.

Guyana had asked the court to order that Venezuela refrain from threatening or using force against any person and/or company licensed by Guyana to engage in economic or commercial activity in Guyanese territory as determined by the 1899 Award and 1905 Agreement, or in any maritime areas appurtenant to such territory over which Guyana has sovereignty or exercises sovereign rights, and shall not interfere with any Guyanese or Guyaneseauthorized activities in those

areas.

As per the issue of a sea lane to the Atlantic, this was an issue that was broached since the time of Forbes Burnham. It was not a Jagdeo invention. The Venezuelans contend that during Burnham’s presidency, and during informal contacts, a concrete proposal in the maritime area was made by Guyana. In its memorandum to the ICJ Venezuela noted that during the Good Officers process, on the 29th October 1990 (u

nder the Desmond Hoyte presidency), a member of the Guyana’s side was reported to have said that the greatest contribution Guyana could make to overcome the dispute was in the maritime area and that this could involve “a corridor towards the Atlantic, possibly accompanied by a small stretch of coastline.”

There are a great many things which were discussed during that Good Officers Process that would cause heads to turn now in Guyana.

But that is better left for another day.

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

DEM BOYS SEH

Inexperience running things now in Guyana I n G u y a n a , incompetence does tek center stage and common sense does go down de drain.

No wonder we gat situation whereby we placing inexperienced individuals at the helm of major departments of de government.

How yuh gan tek a man without experience and put he fuh run a major department? It like asking an intern fuh perform lifesaving surgery. Putting an inexperienced to head a department is like de blind leading de blind-folded.

When de government advertise dem same big wuk, dem does ask fuh qualifications and

experience. But it looks as if when de same government mek political appointments, dem does discard de requirement of experience. Book knowledge is good enough!

Imagine if de Fine Ants Ministry had to be run by a man wah selling from a cool down cart.

What yuh think gan happen to de economy?

It remind dem boys of de time, Burnham bring a farmer and put he in charge of de Gee Pee Hell.

This was Burnham idea of mekking de small man a real man. When de farmer call a meeting was entertainment galore.

De man was de fuss

who threaten fuh ‘electrocute’ de whole county.

It reminded dem boys of de time a businessman hired an inexperienced handyman.

He tell de man fuh paint he office walls fuh he.

De businessman then left to go to a meeting.

When he returned he saw the handyman had on two long winter coats.

De businessman asked de handyman why in de hot weather he was wearing such bulky clothing.

De handyman pick up de paint tin and showed de businessman where it was written, “For best results use two coats.”

Talk Half! Leff Half!

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Thursday Monday November May 02, 16,2022 2023

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

Case for a base

I will come right out and say two things if other Guyanese think about them, but are too timid to say so in public. First, if America seeks to have a military base here, then let the Yanks have it. Second, if the US hasn't asked as yet, let that overture be made in the clearest terms.

When the oil is gone, neighbours will still be there.

So also will the covetousness for territory; or the using of Guyana's land as a bait to lure the masses away from their misery.

It is worth repeating an old position of mine: regardless of who says what today, who adjudicates however they do, the controversy is not going away. Even if there was some meeting of the minds between Guyana and its neighbour, the original claim would still be exhumed and brandished a hundred years from now. Further, given our porous borders, and helpful official figures from different layers, (plus the oil magnet), native born Guyanese could be a minority sooner than

estimated.

Now, all of this brings me to where I am. Frankly, an American miliary base here cannot make Guyana more American than it is right now.

Indeed, this is how saturated this country is. The PPP leadership makes some halfhearted noises about not wanting to get underfoot when elephants fight, and not being pawns in big power feuds. I think this country is too far along for that to hold any water, for any such position having any staying power. If not the Americans, then who? The Chinese?

Which European power has the vested interest, the brawn, and the will to count for something around here?

Or to be about what gives Guyana some breathing space by having our perimeter sealed and safe?

I think all locals have to stop pussyfooting around this base issue. Or being too clever by half. Guyana's leadership should start seeing this country as the gateway into the whole of Latin America. It is doubtful that

Caricom is fully committed to this country; not with recent anglings and posturing by some of our sister countries in the half centuryold regional body. Further, the OAS has to play a balanced hand and, if anything, could be no more than about jawboning those who step on Guyana's toes with their greedy ambitions.

From my perspective, the process of elimination ends right there, and leaves Guyana with one choice.

I do not envision that the capital city, present or new, would be overrun by men and women in jungle gear. If arrangements are well drawn up, Guyana does not have to be overrun by Brooklynese, Southern drawls, and nasal New England tones.

Incidentally, that is already part of a growing picture and more and more an element in environmental ambience right now. But Japan, or South Korea, or Germany, is not quite how I think any American presence should shape up here.

The Philippines have

Clark Base and the Subic Naval Facility. Thus, the US has a commanding presence at the gateway of the Pacific.

I am thinking of an American military installation in Guyana that serves as the former's gateway in this hemisphere. The Treaty of Tordesillas, as masterminded and drawn up by a Roman pontiff divided the world between Portugal and Spain.

It is due for a new reordering.

I think that it is imperative that the United States reprioritises its visions (something it is almost certain to have already done), with the Americas featuring as a prominent cornerstone.

The NATO bond would still be there, and there is always CINPAC for matters farther afield.

Though both the people in Guyana and America are being coy on any such idea percolating, my sense is that the conversation has been ongoing, more than likely intensifying. I would be interested in the quid pro quo for Guyana. To those who pretend not to want to have

Fire leaves vendor, sons homeless

The gutted house of Sukhwanti Ramnarine

F

i r e Tu e s d a y e v e n i n g destroyed the home of an elderly Bourda Market vendor of Number 12 Village, West Coast Berbice.

Sixty-year-old, Sukhwanti Ramnarine was on her way home from the market around 19:00hrs when she received the news of the fire. The three-

bedroom two storey house, was occupied by Ramnarine and her two sons who were reportedly not at home when the fire of unknown origin broke out.

According to reports neighbours formed a bucket brigade in an attempt to contain the fire, while they waited on the arrival the fire tender from the

Onverwagt Fire Station.

A vendor for approximately ten years, Ramnarine is said to have built her home bit by bit from the profits of her trade.

While a minibus that was parked under the home was salvaged, the woman said her losses are in the millions.

anything to do with this kind of thinking, I am asking them to do these simple bed checks. Who are the ones swaggering all over Guyana today? Who leads the way in calling the shots about what goes on here? Who is deeply enmeshed in Guyana's affairs, including those of state? In each instance the Americans are the biggest kids on the block. Here is another gut check: observe how subservient to America's guiding hand are President Ali and the senior copresident Dr. Jagdeo. Senior and co are not contradictory, but insistence that some are more equal than some.

In my view, there is a new Great Game already in motion in this part of the world. Guyana would do well to ensure that it is on the right side of history. In fact, I

would say that this country has a head start, considering how much power and reach America has in Guyana.

Most of it has been of the soft and subtle variety of power. A base would project hard power. For those who argue about sovereignty, I ask where is it, when our leaders, and our highest house, stand neutralised relative to the oil contract? Better to make it official. Let an American base be. I prefer that rather than one erected by Venezuela.

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

Man on illegal firearm charge, granted bail due to medical conditions A man, who was previously remanded to prison on a possession of illegal firearm charge, was on Wednesday granted $150,000 bail after his lawyers pleaded with Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus at the Georgetown Magistrate's Court for bail to be granted to their client due to his underlying medical conditions.

Neil Dutchin, called 'Tony,' made his second court appearance virtually, via zoom, at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court before the Acting Chief Magistrate where the matter is being heard.

The accused was represented by Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes and Attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat. Both lawyers pleaded with the court for bail to be granted in a reasonable amount to the accused with conditions which they suggested the magistrate would have to impose.

Dutchin's attorneys highlighted that their client has certain medical conditions and would need treatment for such.

Subsequently, the magistrate granted bail to the accused in the sum of $150,000. The next scheduled court date for the matter is December 13, 2023.

This publication had reported that on October 8, 2023, while ranks from Brickdam Police Station were on patrol duty on Church Street, they observed Dutchin, who was the driver of a black Toyota Tacoma motor vehicle, along with two other occupants, parked in the middle of the road. The ranks immediately approached the driver and told Dutchin to remove from the vehicle, after which they observed him behaving suspiciously.

Thereafter the police conducted a search of the vehicle. During the search the police observed the man reaching into his pants waist and he later pulled out an object and attempted to put it into the vehicle.

Police, however, intercepted and discovered that the object was a Taurus .32 pistol. When ranks questioned Dutchin if he is the holder of a firearm licence, to which he replied 'No.' When told of the offence and cautioned, he reportedly said, “Officer, I get this thing to protect myself because I got shot in Blue Martini years ago.”

He was arrested and escorted to Alberttown Police Station along with the two other occupants of the vehicle.

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

Nothing will stop Venezuela's - Country's planned referendum VP tells ICJ Vice President (VP) of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Wednesday that nothing will stop the Bolivarian Republic from proceeding with its December 3, 2023, referendum.

This, despite arguments presented by Guyana's legal team on Tuesday that the move is part of a plot by the Bolivarian Republic to annex the Essequibo region.

Rodriguez said too Venezuela's appearance before the ICJ did not constitute it recognizing the jurisdiction of that court but opted to present its arguments to counter “Guyana's childish manipulation of her country's historic legal position.”

“Without prejudice to our position, and doctrine on jurisdiction. We come before this court to defend independence, sovereignty and self-determination as the inalienable rights of our nation,” she said.

As a result, the VP noted that regardless of what the

ICJ says the government will act in accordance with what the people of Venezuela decide.“No one can deny or divide this right finally, the state of Venezuela will not turn its back on what the people decide during the referendum,” added Rodriguez. She told the ICJ that Guyana's move to the World Court to seek to curtail the referendum was “abhorrent and illegal b e h a v i o u r. ” L a b e l l i n g Guyana as an aggressor state, a predator of natural resources, and a violator of i n t e r n a t i o n a l l a w, t h e Venezuelan VP accused Guyana of planning to attack Venezuela with the help of the United States.

Meanwhile, International Law Professor Makane Moïse Mbengue who appeared before the court on behalf of Venezuela said that “the referendum is an internal domestic matter and is not meant in any way to result in the annexation of the…territory.”

According to the

Vice President (VP) of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez Mbengue, given that the referendum is a domestic m a t t e r, i t s d o m e s t i c consequences are not and cannot be the subject of the proceedings before the court or the merits of the case which are “purely about the validity of 1899 Arbitral Award.”

As such, the Professor

argued that Guyana's request for provisional measures should therefore be rejected.

“Nothing in international law allows Guyana to dictate to Venezuela, through the court, how its constitutional bodies should perform their functions…It would be unprecedented for one state to force another to forego a

domestic popular consultation and for the court to indicate to a state not to consult its population on such a crucial matter,” he stated.

Mbengue said too that though Venezuela plans to issue IDs to the people of the Essequibo region, this would benefit the population in the border communities rather

than disrupt it. ”“This would benefit the frontier population, particularly those who engage in commercial and day-to-day activities, and will ensure the free movement of persons in the area,” he claimed On Tuesday, lawyers representing Guyana at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) submitted evidence showing the increased military presence of Venezuelan soldiers at the border near Guyana as that neighbouring country moves towards voting in a referendum to seize the Essequibo Region.

Attorney-at-Law, Paul Reichler said that Guyana's decision to seek provisional measures swiftly is necessary to block the referendum because of the implications for Guyana's continued control of Essequibo.

“Urgency is shown by the impending referendum to be held less than three weeks from now, which would be the trigger for the execution (Continued on page 15)

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Thursday November 16, 2023

Guyana recorded 182 rape cases in 11 months Between January 1 and November 13, 2023, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) recorded 182 reported rape cases, reflecting an 11.6% decrease when compared to the same period in 2022, when 206 cases were recorded.

This is according to crime statistics for the year as presented

by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum on Wednesday.

Just recently, this newspaper repor ed that one month after he allegedly raped a pregnant Venezuelan woman, a doctor fingered in committing multiple sexual offences in the past, remains in hiding.

Detectives are having a difficult time tracking the man since he has managed to keep a low profile or may have fled the country. Kaieteur News understands, however, that the man is well-known among the elite in the Guyanese society and the lawmen are hoping that his friends could assist them in capturing him.

Following the exposure of the alleged rape of a pregnant Venezuelan, the doctor has failed to show-up at one of his properties which he frequents. Neighbours said that he simply disappeared.

The alleged rape took place around 19:00hrs on September 24 when the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) cricket finals were in

Charged, Kellon Benjamin

Charged, Waylon Jordan

Charged, Omar Williams

Charged, Akeem Lowe

t full swing. The doctor had allegedly lured the victim into his trap by tricking her into believing that he is a businessman seeking painters and cleaners.

Another recent matter involved the alleged gang rape of a 14-yearold girl. This publication had reported that the young girl was hospitalised, following the ordeal.

A medical source at the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, had told this publication that when the young girl was taken to that institution, she had to be referred to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) as a result of

the extent of injuries she sustained; the child was bleeding profusely, the source said.

The source noted that the teen appeared to be a victim as a result of a prolonged, forceful sexual assault on her body given the extent of her injuries. It is suspected that she was raped by more than one individual.

PERSONS CHARGED Last month, 31-year-old Kellon Benjamin of Four Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica was charged with a rape of a child under 16 years.

The crime was allegedly committed between February 1 and 24, 2023 in Bartica. Benjamin was

not required to plead and was placed on $200,000 bail.

In June, twenty-five-year-old Akeem Lowe of Region Seven was remanded to prison for allegedly raping a five-year-old girl.

Kaieteur News had reported that the child had told her relatives what had happened to her on June 19. Her parents then made a report to the police the following day and Lowe was later arrested and placed before the Bartica Magistrate's Court.

In May, minibus driver, Waylon Jordan, 27, of Lot 15 Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD)

was released on $500,000 bail after he was charged for raping a child under the age of 16 years.

The alleged crime reportedly took place during the month of February 2023, at Grove.

In March, Omar Williams, a 36year-old miner of 11 Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara, and of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, was charged with the rape of a child under 16 years.

He was not required to plead and bail was granted in the sum of $150,000 with the condition that he is not to make contact with the victim or her family.

Sixty-two joint replacement surgeries completed at GPHC Last weekend, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in collaboration with the Women's Orthopedic Global Outreach (WOGO) medical mission completed a recordbreaking, 62 joint replacement surgeries on 50 patients as part of 'Operation Walk' initiative.

This was noted at a press conference hosted by the hospital and WOGO on Wednesday.

According to the GPHC, it would have taken them an entire year to undertake the number of surgeries which were performed last weekend and it attributed this to the lack of manpower and facilities.

One of the lead surgeons on the medical team, Dr. Linda Suleiman, a total joint surgeon practicing joint hip and knee replacement at North Western University, said that “we have been trying to come here since 2019 that was when we first did our pre-trip and unfortunately COVID delayed out ability to come back to Guyana.”

She informed the gathering that what made the WOGO arm of Operation Walk unique, is that they

Members of the medical team pose with a double-knee replacement recipient.

Members of the Women's Orthopedic Global Outreach mission along the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation staff during a medical procedure. are not based in one city; they are a team of 10 total joint replacement surgeons from across the United States. “The reason we are across the country is because there are less that 1% of women who do total

joint replacements in the United States. And so our mission is to really empower, engage and educate not only the place that we work but making sure that we're teaching our residents.”Dr.

Suleiman noted that over the last three days, the team completed the most cases they have ever done in a single trip. “This is the most cases we've ever done, we did 62 knee replacements for 50 patients in

three and a half days.”Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the G P H C D r. N a v i n d r a n a u t h Rambarran, in his opening remarks said , “ At the end (Continued on page 18)

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

PAGE 15

Jagdeo, Ali make the policies, we implement them - Oil minister on running sector

By Shervin Belgrave Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat on Tuesday at his year end press conference made it clear that Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo and President Irfaan Ali make all the decisions on the management of Guyana's oil and gas sector.

His role, Bharrat said, is only to implement the policy decisions and manage the sector on a day-to-day basis. “…Vice President is in charge of the sector at a policy level, we work on a day-to-day basis at the Ministry of Natural Resources,” Minister Bharrat said.

He continued, “Managing the oil and gas sector is a multi-agency task and that is the approach that we are taking,” while r e i t e r a t i n g . “ T h e Vi c e President as I mention, and President has overall responsibility of the sector, (making the) policies. We manage on a daily basis, the implementation of those policy decisions,” Minister Bharrat further added.

Bharrat then added that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also have their respective roles to play in the extractive sector. The GGMC, he said,

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has more of a technical and regulatory role.

Jagdeo's policies for the oil and sector especially when it comes to ExxonMobil's operations in Guyana, have come under heavy criticism by many Guyanese. They believe that the government must renegotiate a lopsided deal that the previous government had signed with American oil giant for the Stabroek oil block in 2015.

Both Ali and Jagdeo agree that the deal is one of the worst in the world.

However, the two leaders chose not to renegotiate it, claiming they respect the sanctity of the contract.

The current oil deal is riddled with loop holes that allow ExxonMobil and its

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali partners to rake-in billions in profits, leaving Guyana at a disadvantage.

Apart from a two percent royalty rate that is considered very low when compared to the norms in the industry, the contract lacks ring fencing provisions. Without ring fencing, Guyana can lose hundreds of millions of US dollars in profits.

If ring fencing mechanisms were included in the contract, then it would prevent the oil company from recovering costs from a producing oil field -already paid off for- to develop future ones. This means Guyana will never be able to recover a full 50-50 percent from any oil field in the Stabroek Block because the absence of the key mechanism that

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

allows Exxon to continue recovering 75 percent of the total production as costs.

Many Guyanese have taken to the streets in protest, calling on the government to include this key provision.

However, both Jagdeo and Ali are firm in their policy decisions to not include this or any other provision that could increase the country's take from its oil resources.

The Stabroek Block contract also gives the oil companies and its expat workers a tax-free ride and does not provide for adequate

insurance coverage or a parent-company guarantee to protect the country in the case of an oil spill or any other disasters related to oil operations offshore Guyana.

Guyana is powerless too, when it comes to approving ExxonMobil's large US billion dollar budgets.

Additionally, the contract is considered so weak that it allows to ExxonMobil to commit 'skullduggery' as regards spending monies from the Stabroek block.

Recent audits of Exxon's expenditure from 2018-

Tree destroys house at Agricola

Nothing will stop Venezuela's planned....

From page 12 of Venezuela's annexation plans and by the preparations of the national Bolivarian Armed Forces to secure Venezuela's claim to the territory,” he said.

The lawyer for Guyana said the country's right to Essequibo would be “irreparably prejudiced” and would suffer “irrecoverable loss of the territorial rights” even if the ICJ finds that Venezuela has no rights to the country.

Reichler submitted evidence, comprising newspaper articles, video recordings, and statements issued by the President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, the Minister of Defense for the National Armed Forces of Venezuela, Vladimir Padrino Lopez, and Colonel Juan Gutierrez Ortiz, of the country's plan to seize control of two-thirds of Guyana's territory and reject the Court's authority to resolve the controversy.

“Venezuela has made

clear that after the referendum, it will count on its armed forces to defend its annexation of its new state of Guyana Esequiba. Military preparations have already begun,” Reichler said while adding that “Venezuelan armed forces are now constructing a military airfield to carry out the government's plans for the Essequibo Region of Guyana,” he said.

Guyana wants the Court to provide the following provisional measures: 1. Venezuela shall not proceed with the Consultative Referendum planned for 3 December 2023 in its present form; 2. In particular, Venezuela shall not include the First, Third, or Fifth questions in the Consultative Referendum; 3. Nor shall Venezuela include within the 'Consultative Referendum' planned, or any other public referendum, any question encroaching upon the legal

issues to be determined by the Court in its Judgment on the Merits, including (but not limited; to the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award; b. sovereignty over the territory between the Essequibo River, and the boundary established by the 1899 Award and the 1905 Agreement; and the purported creation of the State of 'Guayana Esequiba' and any associated measures, including the granting of Venezuelan citizenship and national identity cards.

4. Venezuela shall not take any actions that are intended to prepare or allow the exercise of sovereignty or de facto control over any territory that was awarded to British Guiana in the 1899 Arbitral Award.

5. Venezuela shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

2020, has exposed such misuse of funds by the oil company and as a policy maker, VP Jagdeo has shown no interest in arming future oil projects with stiff penalties to prevent such reoccurrences.

A recent Kaieteur News article reported that according to the 2016 Stabroek Block contract, there should be no spending of revenues from that block to offset expenses in another block, such as Canje or Kaieteur.

However, when auditors reviewed a sample of ExxonMobil's expenses incurred in the 2018 to 2020 period totalling US$7.3B, they found that the Stabroek Block revenues paid for services related to the Kaieteur and Canje blocks.

To compound this alarming state of affairs, auditors also uncovered that Guyana's oil profits were also used to cover expenses that were not related to the effective running of Exxon's operations offshore.

Auditors attached to Ramdihal & Haynes Inc., Eclisar Financial, and (Continuned on page 16)

The damaged house A “Long John Tree” on Sunday fell onto a twostory wooden and concrete house at 96 Front Half, Second Street Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The house belonged to Sandra Timothy and according to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), no one was injured or trapped in the incident.

At the time of incident, the top-floor of the property was occupied by Onika Bostick, Gerron Williams and Shemarion Gomes. Firefighters were sent to the location to remove the fallen tree with chainsaws.

It was noted that a number of household items as well as the roof, and the northern and eastern walls of the house were destroyed.

PAGE 16

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

Gov’t. unveils action plan to tackle illegal, unreported fishing

WANTED

VACANCY

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

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

Washbay Workers needed at Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara. Call: 233-5227, 682-1616.

Experienced canter Drivers to do water delivery. Must be living on the West Coast Demerara. Call: 662-9341.

Experienced Taxi Drivers needed at Princess Hotel.

Must have hire car license.

Call: 265-7076 or 616-5419, 690-2242.

Two Housekeepers needed for hotel and one Nanny preferably from ECD. 2235273/ 225-0254.

SERVICES

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

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

Sales and Delivery Clerks needed. Apply at Lens 136 Sheriff Street. Call: 2272486/ 227-1511. Email: lensgy@outlook.com Warehouse Manager/Forklift Operator and Truck Driver (Part time or Full Time) at Lens. Call: 227-2486/ 2271511. Email: lensgy @outlook.com One Maid needed to work 4 days per week, must know to cook. Apply at Keyfood Mc Doom with ID and recommendation.

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

A able-bodied live-in Housekeeper to work in Virgina U.S.A. Between the ages of 30-50. Call: 845-325-8241/ 592-615-5476.

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

Accounts, Bond & Office Clerks, W/Union CSR'S, Truck Drivers, Sales Supervisor, Cashier, Shelf Restockers and Porters. Call: 609-2995, 227-5286-9.

Business/ residential PFSGYD$58M, Visa Application, advertisements, graphics design, passport application forms & i130 application.

Call: 626-7040.

Career Opportunity! We are now hiring Housekeeper.

Apply today, for more information Call: 227-6466/ 592600-8743.

Office Clerk and Live-in Domestic worker. Call from Mon- Sat. Call: 223-7500.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale at Kuru Kuru Sosedyke Linden High way & Diamond Golden Grove Contact- 653-2477

Live In Care giver for elderly female, Must know to cook Indian Dishes 30-50 years.

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Guyana on Wednesday launched a national action plan to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

The plan envisions the strengthening of fisheries monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement. The plan was handed over to Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha at his ministry’s head office, Regent Street, Georgetown.

Mustapha emphasised the crucial role of the fishing industry as a vital source of food, jobs, and trade for both Guyanese and the global population. The minister noted that the principles, strategies, and objectives of the plan are inclusive, adaptable, and innovative, and are necessary for the sustainable development of the fisheries sector. “We firmly believe that sustainable fishing starts with

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erts highlighted that the plan is another mechanism to sustainably manage the fishery resources. “We all know that IUU fishing is a very harmful activity globally, regionally, and on our shores here in Guyana. This is a very timely event where we will be afforded the opportunity to have a manual to assist us in our management measures,” Roberts stated. Meanwhile, Country Manager of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Guianas, Aiesha Williams said that IUU fishing is a global challenge that can be addressed through a combination of governance, enforcement technology, and engagement. “We recognise the crucial role the industry and other stakeholders need to play in effectively addressing IUU fishing. Ending IUU fishing remains one of the most important priorities for

achieving healthy ocean ecosystems and protecting the welfare of millions of people around the world, Guianas and Guyana who depend on fisheries for their livelihoods and food security,” Williams asserted.

She said it is clear that the government recognises that IUU fishing is a major threat to its fisheries resources based on the efforts to develop the plan. The new manual was made possible through collaboration by various stakeholders including the fisheries department, the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), the World Wildlife Fund, FAO, and other government agencies. Representatives from French Guiana, Suriname, and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), among others, were also present at the launch.

Kwakwani Hospital to be outfitted with $55M operating theatre The Kwakwani Hospital in Region 10 will soon be outfitted with a new operating theatre. This was revealed at the recent opening of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board

(NPTAB). Government is looking to construct the theatre at a price of $55,748,963.

Four contractors submitted bids for the Ministry of Health project. The contractors are: JA Mcrae Construction & Auto Repairs, JK Enterprise Inc. who bid $54,996,637, A&S Contract-

ing Services who bid $35,559,510, and Fay Investment who bid $52,789,958.

Plans for an operating theatre at the hospital were mentioned last year by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony. The minister was at the time visiting the hospital where the government had

completed the expansion of the Accident and Emergency area and upgraded some wards. There he had mentioned that “In 2023, further renovations will be done and the intention is to add a minor operating theatre,” to better serve residents utilising the hospital.

71% rise in road deaths...

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us…Guyana’s National Plan of Action ensures that there is a strategic framework involving government, industry, and international cooperation to combat IUU fishing and other forms of transnational organised crime linked to fisheries. It also includes measures to improve vessel monitoring, traceability, and stronger port controls,” Minister Mustapha emphasised.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), IUU fishing activities are responsible for the loss of 11 to 26 million tonnes of fish yearly, which is projected to have an economic worth of US$10 to $23 billion. To this end, the agriculture minister said there is a constant need for fish and fish products due to the massive expansion of the global population. Chief Fisheries Officer, Denzil Rob-

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From page 08 of the victims were killed on the spot while the others died while receiving medical attention.

Another tragic accident in the Region Three district took place earlier this year on March 6, 2023 at Greenwich Park, East Bank Essequibo ((EBE). Five persons were killed in that smash-up.

Their names were given as, Stella Parhoo of Parika, EBE , 50-year-old Vernon Prowell, of Bent Street, Wortmanville, Margaret

Kennedy, 72, of Tuschen; Olga Reddy, 57, of Parika; and Elvis Charles, 40, of Ruby, EBE. Additionally, on September 9, 2023, at De Hoop, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD), four persons including a father and his 12year-old daughter lost their lives in an accident.

Those involved in the accident were: Kellon Jones, a taxi driver of New Amsterdam Berbice, Region Six, Chris Gonsalves, Jason Rudder a Guyoil employee and his

daughter Jameela Rudder of Palamyra Village, East Canje Berbice, Region Six. Kaietuer News understands that the motor car was driven by Jones with Jason and his daughter, while Gonsalves was the other vehicle’s driver.

Jason and his daughter were on their way home from an award ceremony, where Jamella had been a recipient.

According to reports, it is said both vehicles were heading in opposite directions, colliding head-on.

Jagdeo, Ali make the policies, we implement...

From page 15 Vitality Accounting and Consultancy Inc with backing from Martindale Consultants, said Exxon used a portion of Guyana’s profits to cover social media ads to promote the company, puppet shows, staff parties, school fees for the expats’ children, and private drivers amongst other things which are not cost recoverable.

With audits still to be done on the third, fourth and fifth oil projects in the Stabroek Block worth approximately US$30B, Kaieteur

News recently asked the Vice President if future projects would be armed with stiff penalties if auditors continue to find a pattern of abuse or skullduggery.

The Guyanese official said that the government can only rely on its right to audit Exxon’s expenses which is enshrined in the 2016 Stabroek Block deal. He noted that this right is also afforded to local authorities via all agreements.

He further explained that, “The right to audit gives you a chance to see whether the

expenditures were done illegally or they were inflated and therefore you have a mechanism to address it.” The Vice President said the mechanism the government has at its disposal is to instruct the oil company to return all disputed expenses to the cost bank. Jagdeo noted that, “This is how the world of economics (and) accounting works. So there is a mechanism for that, for the government to have oversight over this, and it’s been in all the contracts. That’s the mechanism that we are pursuing.”

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

$10B spent to upgrade roads in mining areas – Minister Bharrat S

ince assuming office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration has allocated approximately $10 billion for the enhancement of roads in mining areas.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, disclosed this during his year-end press conference o n T u e s d a y. B h a r r a t highlighted key fiscal measures implemented, including the removal of VAT on equipment and machinery, tax exemptions on fuel, and a reduction in final tax from 3.5 percent to 2.5 percent. These measures are expected to inject an estimated $1.9 billion back into the mining industry.

In August 2022, the National Assembly approved the Fiscal Enactment Amendment Bill No. 2 of 2022, providing tax r elief to min er s . Th e legislation included a reduction in final tax, benefiting the industry with an estimated $1.4 billion, and the elimination of the 10 percent Tributors’ Tax, returning $300 million to

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat affected workers.

Minister Bharrat emphasized the significant investment of over $10 billion in hinterland roads, primarily in mining and logging areas. He continued, “We have started to open some new areas mostly in the Tamakay (landing CuyuniMazauni), Poppy Chow (landing Middle Mazaruni area near Olive Creek) area and the Aramu area (Aramu, Cuyuni River).”

Notably, Guyana’s has been suffering massive declines in its annual declarations since 2017.

Similarly this year, the Ministry of Finance Mid-

Man drives through thick smoke, slams into back of truck, body left in car A truck driver’s decision on Tuesday to drive through some thick smoke at Foulis, West Coast Berbice resulted in the death of one of two passengers who were seated in the front seat after his vehicle slammed into another truck.

Killed in the crash is Retaford Chittian, 34, of Williamsburg Corentyne Berbice. The crash reportedly took place around 16:00hrs while both trucks were heading west along the Foulis Public Road Due to poor visibility caused by the smoke, the driver identified as Mohamed Shakar, 43, of Ta i n N e w S c h e m e , Corentyne Berbice, Region Six crashed into the back of another truck, owned by Industrial Fabrications Inc. The driver of the truck that Shakar had crashed into, GTT 9027, told police that he was driving at 70 Kilometers per an hour when he saw thick smoke blowing across the road at Foulis Village.

Due to poor visibility, the man said that he slowed down to drive through the smoke but suddenly felt an impact to the back of his truck. The impact was as a result of Shakar slamming into the

Dead, Reataford Chittian man’s truck from behind.

The cab of Shakar’s truck was crushed pinning his two front seat passengers, Chittian and Nadir Ali Mangar, 33, of Port Mourant Village Corentyne.

Passengers were also travelling in the tray of Shakar’s truck but they escaped with a few scrapes and bruises. They dismounted from the truck and pulled Shakar and the front seat passengers from the wrecked truck cab. They were all taken to Fort Wellington Hospital.

Chittian was pronounced dead on arrival while Ali and Shakar received treatment for their injuries.

Shakar’s injuries were not life-threatening and he was discharged but police arrested him after he left the hospital. Both him, and the driver of GTT 9027 are police custody assisting with investigations.

Year Report 2023 attributes the decline to low declarations made by small and medium scale miners. It was stated that at the end of June, gold declarations stood at 209,756 ounces, compared with 236,728 ounces during the same period last year, an 11.4% decrease.

Moreover, this newspaper reported Omai Gold Mines, a Canadian company, views the US$190 million Linden to Mabura Road as a valuable asset to their operations in Guyana.

Elaine Ellingham, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Omai, highlighted the benefits of the road project, emphasising its importance for transportation and logistical support. The ongoing widening and paving, funded by the government, contribute to the upgrade of the road to Brazil, bringing it within 12km of Omai property.

Omai is no stranger to Guyana; the company holds a 100% interest in the Omai gold project in Guyana which produced over 3.7

million ounces of gold between 1993 and 2005.

About two years ago, Omai re-entered Guyana’s mining industry, occupying the same property which host two gold deposits: the shearhosted Wenot Deposit and the adjacent intrusive-hosted Gilt Creek Deposit.

The sod was turned for this project in May 2022, after a contract was awarded to Brazilian firm, Construtora Queiroz Galvao S.A. for the construction of the 121 kilometres road.

In 2020, the Government of Guyana secured a loan for this project. The US$190 million road project comprises a US$112-million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), a grant of £50 million (US$66 million) from the Government of the United Kingdom via the CDBadministered United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund, along with US$12 million provided by Government.

Kaieteur News had reported that this project will consist of two main highways; the width of each

Part of the Linden to Mabura Road

lane is approximately 3.6 metres, some hard shoulders both sides measuring 2.4 metres, cyclist and pedestrian lane of two metres, a utility corridor, about 10 bus stops, and nine rest areas just to mention a

few. The Linden to Mabura Hill road project is just the first phase that will ultimately lead to a completed Linden to Lethem road link that will then complete an overland link to Brazil.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Thursday November 16, 2023

Lawyers for Gaza victims file case at International Criminal Court The civil society initiative could result in the issuing of arrest warrants against top Israeli politicians, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu [File: Aleks Furtula/AP]

(AL JAZEERA)-A group of lawyers representing Palestinian victims of Israeli attacks on Gaza have filed a complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC), arguing that Israel’s actions amount to the crime of genocide.

Gilles Devers, a veteran French lawyer and the victims’ representative before the ICC, submitted the complaint to the prosecutor as part of a fourperson delegation in the Dutch city of The Hague on Monday.

The civil society initiative could result in arrest warrants being issued against top Israeli politicians, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “It is clear for me that there are all the criteria for the crime of genocide,” Devers told Al Jazeera, adding that cases such as ex-Yugoslavia and Rwanda set the precedent against which the complaint had been submitted.

“So this is not my opinion, it’s the reality of law.”

Israel has made no attempt to hide the hallmarks of genocide, the group has

argued, by cutting food and electricity to Gaza, attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure and using dehumanising talk that likens people to “animals.”

The group also collected the witness accounts of Palestinian victims whom they legally represent in court.

With mounting allegations of serious war crimes being committed in Gaza, Devers said governments that did not wish to be found complicit should refrain from backing Israel. “Governments must choose which camp they are on, if they support human rights or genocide.

They cannot give speeches about international law and human rights and then accept Israel’s attack without doing nothing,” he said.

Israel does not recognise the ICC, but Devers said that did not render the court ineffective. In 2021, the ICC ruled that it has jurisdiction over grave crimes committed in occupied Palestinian territories, including potential war crimes committed by any party on the ground.

The initiative led by Devers is one in a number of lawsuits presented to the ICC in the past weeks.

On November 9, three Palestinian human rights groups urged the body to investigate Israel for “apartheid” as well as “genocide” and issue arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. #JusticeForGaza, another initiative, aims to bring together diverse voices from international civil society, political leaders and representatives to petition the court.

Prominent European politicians who have advocated for Palestinian rights, including Spain’s Ione Belarra and Britain’s Jeremy Corbin, are among the more than 80 signatories of that petition.

Devers said the latest bombing of Gaza amounted to the most relevant crimes that the court had seen in decades.

“If the ICC does nothing, then it’s the end of the ICC,” he said. “We have sufficient proof for a mandate of arrest against Mr Netanyahu,” Devers said.

The ICC in March issued an arrest warrant for Russian

Sixty-two joint replacement surgeries...

From page 14 of every successful venture like this it is always important that we do a gathering, a debrief informing the public at large what is being done and why it’s important that we keep doing these ventures.”

He added, “The Operation Walk which affords a large amount of patients, joint replacement surgeries is something that we have been doing along with similar projects and it is really aimed at bringing that level of world class care to our patients that may not be available around the year but in some cases in limited capacity throughout the year. But when we have these big projects we are able to do many of these surgeries.”

He went on to say that a d m i n i s t r a t i v e l y, t h e medical institution is geared towards taking on the project

such as the Gift of Life Pediatric cardiac surgery initiative that will be happening in December.

This coming weekend, the GPHC will be conducting a number of complex hernia surgeries to the abdomen on patients.

Rambarran noted that the collaboration with WOGO has been long overdue as the team was previously here for a “pre-visit” but COVID had altered the plans.

However, since the pandemic is over, and after several months of planning, they returned to complete initial plans.

As of 14:00hrs on Wednesday, only five of the 50 patients remained in the GPHC ward, with the majority being discharged to continue their recovery at home.

They are supported by ongoing physiotherapy services provided by

hospital.

Last month the GPHC revealed that it has removed the $1.2M-$1.4M fees it charges for joint revision operations.

The hospital made a decision last month also, after some consultations and considerations, to waive the $200,000 fee for hip and knee replacement surgeries.

“For the hip and knee replacement there was a fee, while it was minimal for the actual total cost for the surgery in terms of all the supplies, and the theater time and surgeon time, and everything else that it associated with the surgery, it was $200, 000,” Chief Executive Officer of the organization, Robbie Rambarran said last month.

He noted that the $200,000 was really a burden to many persons in dire need of the surgery, especially the elderly.

President Vladimir Putin’s alleged involvement in war crimes in Ukraine.

While Putin rejected the

verdict and did not surrender to the court’s jurisdiction, the decision was a symbolic moment and limited the

Russian leader’s ability to t r a v e l i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y, including to attend international forums.

Turkey calls Israel a ‘terror state’- criticises the West Tu r k i s h p r e s i d e n t sharpens criticism of Israel and its allies and calls for Israeli officials to be tried for war crimes.

(AL JAZEERA) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called Israel a “terror state”, stepping up his condemnation of the Israeli assault on the besieged Gaza Strip ahead of a sensitive visit to Germany.

Erdogan said on Wednesday that Israel’s military campaign against the Palestinian armed group Hamas included “the most treacherous attacks in human history” with “unlimited” support from the West. He called for Israeli leaders to be tried for war crimes at the International Court of Justice in The Hague and repeated his view – and Turkey’s position – that Hamas is not a “terrorist organisation” but a political party that won the last Palestinian legislative elections held in 2006. “I say clearly that Israel is a terror state,” Erdogan told members of his Justice and Development Party (AK Party) in parliament.

“While we curse the Israeli administration, we do not forget those who openly support these massacres and those who go out of their way to legitimise them,” he said, pointing to the United States and other Western

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan allies of Israel.

“We are faced with a genocide,” Erdogan added.

He called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to announce whether Israel has nuclear weapons and added that Netanyahu would soon be a “goner” from his post.

Ankara would take steps to ensure Israeli settlers in occupied Palestinian territories are recognised as “terrorists”, he said.

Netanyahu, speaking at an event in Israel, said he will not be “morally lectured” by the Turkish leader, saying Erdogan supports “the terrorist state Hamas”.

The Turkish leader had taken a more nuanced line immediately after Hamas launched attacks on southern Israel on October 7. About 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and about 240 people taken hostage, according to Israeli officials.

But Erdogan’s rhetoric

has escalated as the scale of Israel’s military response has grown. Health officials in the Hamas-run territory said more than 11,300 people have been killed in Gaza, including more than 4,000 children. Turkey this month recalled its ambassador to Israel and broke off official contacts with Netanyahu, suspending recent attempts by the two countries to repair their rocky relations.

Israel has also said it is “re-evaluating” relations with Ankara after calling back its diplomatic staff from Turkey and other countries in the region as a security precaution.

Erdogan made his comments two days before a planned meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has been forced to defend his decision to receive the Turkish leader. Germany has backed Israel, and Scholz said he is opposed to an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza. “I don’t think the calls for an immediate ceasefire or long pause – which would amount to the same thing – are right,” Scholz said on Sunday. “That would mean ultimately that Israel leaves Hamas the possibility of recovering and obtaining new missiles,” he added, echoing the position of the US government and calling instead for “humanitarian pauses”.

Thursday 2202 ,20November yaM yadno16, M 2023

sKaieteur weN ruetNews eiaK

0PAGE 1 EGAP 19

Exxon must now put Decommissioning Fund in place for all Guyana Projects – Minister Bharrat

N

atural Resources M i n i s t e r, Vickram Bharrat confirmed on Tuesday that ExxonMobil will now be required to follow a series of robust decommissioning rules as outlined in the nation's Petroleum Activities Law. While the new rules only came into effect in August, the minister said they shall apply to all of Exxon's projects in the Stabroek Block, including those passed prior to the enactment of the legislation. The minister made the foregoing disclosure following clarifications from Kaieteur News during his end-of-year press conference.

In the oil and gas industry, decommissioning refers to the process of safely dismantling and disposing of offshore and onshore oil and gas facilities once they reach the end of their productive life. This involves cleaning up the site, removing equipment, plugging wells to

prevent leaks, and restoring the environment as closely as possible to its original state.

This process is also crucial for minimising harmful environmental impacts, e n s u r i n g s a f e t y, a n d complying with regulatory r e q u i r e m e n t s .

Decommissioning is also a costly exercise, sometimes demanding billions of US dollars hence countries are often advised to mandate that oil companies set aside money in a fund for this purpose. This fund ensures that the country is not left to carry the burden of handling those costs which ought to be covered by the oil companies.

Guyana's Petroleum Activities Law which came into effect this year sets out strict rules for companies to f o l l o w o n t h e decommissioning of oil projects. The law states that the company would have to submit for the minister's approval, a proposed decommissioning plan and

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat budget no later than two years before the expiration of a petroleum licence or no later than two years before the anticipated end of production.

Once that plan is approved, the minister would i n s t r u c t t h a t a Decommissioning Fund is created. The company would have to make contributions to that fund to ensure that when the time for “clean up”

Albion Estate achieves weekly production target The beleaguered Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) has announced that the Albion Estate has exceeded its weekly production target by 7% in the week ending November 11, 2023.

This is the fifth time the estate has exceeded its weekly production target since grinding operations began for the second crop of 2023, the corporation said in a press release. According to GuySuCo, the estate remains focused on its crop target and is making all efforts to boost its overall cane supply to the factory to improve on the factory efficiency during the second crop of 2023.

To this end some 36 bridges in the cultivation were rehabilitated, (some unusable for over 12 years) in order to improve access to the canes. Further, some 22 tractors that were suffering from a shortage of spares were all repaired over this crop and 95% of the field machines were re-fitted with new tyres during October 2023 thus increasing the availability and reliability of these machines.

Favourable weather conditions in 2023 during these “El Nino” conditions have also played a major role

in this Estate surpassing its target this week. As a gentle reminder, the rainy season started on November 4, 2020, November 11, 2021 and November 14, 2022 which contributed to a swift end to those crops. The Hydromet Office of Guyana in its November 3, 2023 forecast predicted belownormal rainfall for the remainder of November 2023 and these conditions are conducive to the industry harvesting the remaining canes.

Moving forward into 2024, the estate will continue to prioritize innovation and efficiency to further enhance its productivity and streamline its production process including the acceleration of its mechanization projects to ensure the cane supply increase as man and machine work side by side to unleash the potential of this Estate.

Estate Manager, Yu d h i s t h i r a M a n a , i n expressing his satisfaction stated 'the successful achievement of the target for the fifth time is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and effective strategies implemented by the estate.

He took the opportunity to thank all of the workers, the

Union, the sister Estate and the Management and the Board for their continued support on this final push to reach the Estate's Annual Target.

Management is confident that with continued commitment and dedication, the estate is well-positioned to maintain its success in future crops. This achievement will boost the income of workers at Albion Estate, who have worked a minimum of 80% of the days available for the week the target was achieved, and will earn themselves an additional day's pay (tax free) through GuySuCo's We e k l y P r o d u c t i o n Incentive (WPI) programme.

“GuySuCo's Executive Management congratulates the Management and Workers of Albion/Port Mourant Estate for their outstanding performance and encourages all grinding estates to emulate their success and work towards the Weekly Production Incentive.

The Executive Management also implores workers to remain diligent and committed to maintaining this level of productivity,” the release ended.

arrives, there would be adequate funds to cover the associated expenses.

Importantly, the law states that the minister will dictate the terms and conditions of the fund for deposits and disbursements.

Guyana's new model Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) for

deepwater and shallow water blocks also expound on the requirements for decommissioning. In those documents, it is noted that a Decommissioning Fund would be held at a reputable international financial institution agreed between the Minister and the oil company.

The PSAs state that the minister may access funds from the escrow account in the event that the company fails to properly abandon wells or abandon facilities to the satisfaction of the Minister upon termination of this Agreement.

With decommissioning considered a crucial phase in the life-cycle of an oil project, Guyanese authorities have been proactive in setting clear legal guidelines to manage this process meticulously. Companies are obligated to plan and budget for decommissioning,

submitting these details for governmental approval.

A dedicated fund is also required to be established, ensuring sufficient resources are allocated for the comprehensive completion of the decommissioning process. This fund acts as a financial safety net, guaranteeing that the environment is safeguarded and restored, upholding a commitment to responsible and sustainable operational practices in the oil industry.

With the foregoing p r o v i s i o n s i n p l a y, ExxonMobil would now be required to have a decommissioning fund in place for its three producing projects at the Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two and Payara platforms. Those projects are expected to produce over 500,000 barrels of oil by year-end. They each carry a 20 year production cycle.

Relative arrested after trying to obtain fingerprint from woman shot by fiancé The woman who was arrested in the ongoing investigation of Ashmin Mahadeo, who died on Monday after being shot by her fiancé last month, had allegedly attempted to obtain her (Mahadeo) fingerprints on documents relating to her case.

Kaieteur News reported on Wednesday that Mahadeo passed away on Monday after being shot on October 1. Her fiancé, who was identified as Neil Madramootoo had turned himself into police the following day. Police had also confirmed that a woman was arrested in relation to the matter.

Relatives of Mahadeo later revealed to the media that the woman in custody is a family member of the suspect. A relative of Mahadeo related to this publication that last week while Mahadeo was admitted at the Georgetown Public Hospital before being transferred back to the New Amsterdam Hospital, the woman went to the hospital with some documents.

Mahadeo's relative said when persons would want to visit Mahadeo in the hospital they would usually seek permission and have a family member accompany them. The relative said the woman went to visit Mahadeo without them knowing. Mahadeo's relative further stated that they were made aware that the woman went with the documents in an attempt to get Mahadeo's fingerprint.

“They trying to get her fingerprint on the paper, saying it is not Neil shoot her,” her relative related to the media.

Mahadeo of Williamsburg Corentyne Berbice, Region Six succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Her fiancé, an engineer of New Amsterdam Berbice had told the police that he and Mahadeo shared a common law relationship for the past seven years. He said that she had an appointment to have her nails done and he went to her residence.

It was reported that he further disclosed

Ashmin Mahadeo that while packing up their vehicle, Mahadeo was heading back inside the house, some 40 feet away when he heard a loud explosion.

Upon looking around, he observed the woman lying in front of the gate. The man said he immediately raised an alarm and that Mahadeo was picked up and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital where she was seen and medically examined by a doctor.

She was later transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where she was admitted in a critical condition. The woman was reportedly shot to her neck. Her fiancé who was taken into police custody was later released on $300, 000 station bail after the 72hours period in custody was over. Later in October, he was again arrested by the police after new evidence arose in the case.

Madramootoo was then charged on October 23, at the New Amsterdam Magistrate's Court with attempted murder. He was placed on $500,000 bail. His charged is expected to be updated to murder, following Mahadeo's death.

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

Thursday November 16, 2023

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Two wins and two draws in week five of the GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff The Guyana Football Federation-Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff continued on Saturday in Georgetown, Linden and Rosignol resulting in two exciting wins from Upper Demerara and Bartica Football Associations.

Additionally, there were two draws, as the East Coast Football Academy drew with the National Under-15 team, and Berbice played to a draw with East Bank on November 11.

Supporters, including exciting parents, erupted in cheers as Upper Demerara secured a 1-0 victory over

Essequibo with Joshua Fleming scoring a spectacular goal in the 19th minute.

Determined to level the score, Essequibo threw everything they had at the unyielding winner’s solid defence, but Upper Demerara held their ground.

In yet another heartpounding match, Bartica secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over West Demerara.

The excitement began when Ian Gomes opened the scoring in the 24th minute with Shawn Bobb adding a sensational goal in the 35th minute and Kyle Timmerman scoring in the 50th minute.

West Demerara managed

to spark some excitement of their own when Shekeel King scored a lone goal in the 80th minute.

The East Coast and National Under-15 teams engaged in a thrilling contest that concluded with a 1-1 draw. The goals were netted

by Bryan Wharton of East Coast Football Academy in the 6th minute and National Under-15 player Tyrell Walcott in the 83rd minute of the game.

Lastly, the Berbice Football Association Academy and East Bank Football Association Academy also played to a 1-1 draw in another eventful Saturday for

Thursday November 16, 2023 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You might be in a financial jam right now, Aries. The stress of the situation has you considering some radical solutions. Would it really benefit your family if you took a second job.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You've never looked better, Libra. Your partner notices, too, and showers you with extra affection and perhaps even an unexpected gift.

This should put a smile on your face! At work.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Don't spread the good news too quickly, Taurus. As exciting as it is, nothing is confirmed yet. Keep the information under your hat until plane reservations have been made.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Sometimes a little indulgence has value far beyond its price, Scorpio. A bubble bath in the middle of the day, a luxurious hour spent browsing in a bookstore. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You feel as though you've turned a financial and professional corner, Sagittarius.Recent accomplishments have you feeling energized and on top of the world! You exude confidence.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) If you receive a financial windfall, spend it wisely, Gemini. Your tendency might be to buy gifts or treat a crowd to a lavish night on the town.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're energetic and enthusiastic today, Cancer, and those around you respond favorably. It seems everyone wants to be in your orbit.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The Who knew you were so talented, Capricorn? A creation done long ago suddenly takes on a life of its own. A short story written and submitted long ago is pulled from the bottom of the slush pile.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) There's tension all around you, so you'll be happiest spending as much time by yourself as possible, Leo. If you must interact with people, keep your communication clear and concise.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Loving care is prescribed for someone in your family, Aquarius. Offer a bowl of soup and some tea, but beyond that try and stay out of the way.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22) You're ready for a change, Virgo, there's no doubt about it. As you grow older your interests broaden, and you're considering pursuing some of these new interests in earnest.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) There's tension in the air, Pisces, but there's little you can do about it. The harsh atmosphere is in stark contrast to the frivolity you felt over the last several days.

Guyana’s rising stars.

The NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff is a vital component of the Academy Training Centre programme, which focuses on nurturing the talents of boys aged 14 to 17 years old. This programme holds the prestigious status of being an approved ‘Generation Next’ FIFA development initiative.

The participating teams have been strategically organised into two dynamic groups. Group A includes Georgetown, East Coast, East Bank, the National Under-15 Team and Berbice, while Group B features Upper

Demerara, Essequibo, Bartica and West Demerara.

As the tournament progresses through the round-robin phase, the most outstanding teams from each group will advance to the

championship round.

They will then fiercely compete for the distinguished title of national champions, in what promises to be an electrifying showcase of young footballing talent.

Police and Santos clinch wins...

From page 24 from two wins and one loss.

Guyana Police Force is in third position with six points from three games, recording two wins a n d o n e l o s s w i t h A n n ’s Grove United in fourth position and Victoria Kings rounding up the table in fifth.

The championship-winning team will secure a cash prize of $1.5 million, while the second-place team will be rewarded with $1 million.

Furthermore, the third and fourth-placed clubs will each receive cash p r i z es of $500,000 and $250,000, respectively.

GDF, Police, and Fruta Conquerors...

From page 23 and Police Force currently occupy the top spot on the league table, with both teams boasting three wins, nine points, and an impressive total of 31 goals each.

Fruta Conquerors, following their recent victory, have moved up to the third position, securing three points, resulting in a total of six points from two wins and one loss. Potaro Strikers, Pakuri Jaguars, and Santos occupy the fourth, fifth, and sixth positions, respectively.

The Women’s League Division One showcases elite female clubs selected from the nine Regional Member Associations within the federation.

Seven football clubs, featuring both current and former national players, are competing for the inaugural Division One title. The participating clubs include Santos, Potaro Strikers, Fruta Conquerors, Guyana Defence Force, Pakuri Jaguars, and Guyana Police Force.

The league champions will be granted a cash prize of $300,000, while the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixthplaced clubs will each receive cash prizes of $200,000, $100,000, $75,000, $50,000, and $25,000, respectively.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kohli and Shami star as India reach World Cup final AFP - Virat Kohli scored a record-breaking 50th oneday international hundred before Mohammed Shami took a sensational seven wicket-haul as India sealed a place in the World Cup final with a 70-run win over New Zealand in Mumbai yesterday.

Kohli made 117, to surpass the record he had shared with India great Sachin Tendulkar, and

Shreyas Iyer a rapid 105 in a commanding total of 397-4 that also featured Shubman Gill’s 80 not out.

New Zealand were left needing to break their own record for the highest total by a team batting second to win a World Cup semi-final — a Duckworth/Lewis adjusted 299-6 against South Africa at Auckland in 2015.

But in-form paceman Shami then took a career-

best 7-57 as New Zealand, the losing finalists at the last two World Cups, were dismissed for 327 despite Daryl Mitchell’s 134, his highest score at this level.

India, who’ve won all 10 of their matches at the tournament so far as they bid for a third World Cup title and second on home soil, will now face either Australia or South Africa, who play on Thursday, in

Daryl Mitchell swept Kuldeep Yadav a lot.

(Getty Images)

Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad. First-change Shami struck twice early on, taking a wicket with his first ball to leave New Zealand 39-2. But the Black Caps had hope of an improbable victory during a third-wicket partnership of 181 between captain Kane Williamson and Mitchell.

Shami, however, all but ended the chase with two wickets in three balls during the 33rd over.

Williamson fell for 69 when he flicked Shami — who had dropped him on 52 — straight to Suryakumar Yadav at deep square leg.

And 220-3 became 220-4 when Shami had Tom Latham lbw for a duck.

Glenn Phillips (41) hit out while adding 75 with Mitchell.

But with the run-rate against New Zealand, both Phillips and Mark Chapman perished to catches in the deep by Ravindra Jadeja.

Mitchell’s fine effort ended in similar fashion when he whipped Shami to Jadeja at deep midwicket before the paceman finished the match when he had last man Lockie Ferguson caught behind. - ‘Dream’ innings Kohli’s innings saw him surpass the mark of 49 hundreds he had shared with Tendulkar as his compatriot looked on from the Wankhede Stadium stands in a capacity 33,000 crowd featuring football star David Beckham. Kohli put on 163 with Iyer, who made 105 off just 70 balls, including four fours and eight sixes. “It feels like a dream. Too good to be true,” said Kohli at the innings break.

Tendulkar hailed Kohli’s “skill and passion”. “I couldn’t be happier that an Indian broke my record,” wrote Tendulkar, a teammate of Kohli when India beat Sri Lanka in the 2011 final at the Wankhede, on X, formerly Twitter. There was controversy at the start on We d n e s d a y f o l l o w i n g

revelations the match was being played on a used, rather than fresh, pitch.

Opener Rohit set the tone for the innings with a quickfire 47 before a skyed drive off Tim Southee was well caught by Williamson running back from mid-off.

New Zealand thought they had new batsman Kohli out for a second-ball duck, lbw to Southee but their review revealed an inside edge. Kohli completed a 59ball fifty. A two off fast bowler Ferguson then took Kohli to his landmark hundred, his third of the tournament, as chants of “Kohli, Kohli” rang round the ground.

Kohli had then faced 106 balls, hitting eight fours and a six in his 279th ODI innings.

Tendulkar led the applause as Kohli bowed towards his childhood hero.

Dropped on 107, Kohli was eventually out when he pulled Southee low to deep square leg and the dynamic Iyer’s second successive hundred ended after he holed out off Trent Boult.

Shami, who took his previous best of 5-18 under the Wankhede lights when Sri Lanka were dismissed for just 55 in pool play, had an immediate success yesterday.

Devon Conway could only edge his late-moving first ball, although it still needed wicketkeeper KL Rahul to hold a brilliant diving catch.

Conway’s fellow lefthanded opener Rachin Ravindra, the tournament’s breakout star with three hundreds in his first World Cup, was also caught behind off Shami for 13.

But then came New Zealand’s rally with the powerful Mitchell completing an 85-ball century featuring eight fours and five well-struck sixes.

Scores: India 397 for 4 (Kohli 117, Iyer 105, Gill 80*, Southee 3-100) beat New Zealand 327 (Mitchell 134, Williamson 69, Shami 7-57) by 70 runs.

Thursday November 16, 2023

Kaieteur News

GDF, Police, and Fruta Conquerors secure wins with 24 sensational goals in Women’s League Division One on Saturday Guyana Defence Force, Police Force and Fruta Conquerors Football Clubs netted an astounding total of 24 goals to secure memorable victories on Saturday in the Women’s League Division One. November 11 was an exhilarating day of football at the Georgetown Football Club ground on North Road and in Pakuri Village in Demerara Mahaica.

In Georgetown, the Guyana Police Force Football Club outshone Santos Football Club with a remarkable 12-0 victory.

Shanic Thornhill delivered a spectacular performance with goals in the 30th, 33rd, 45th, and 48th minutes, setting the pace for her team.

Akeelah Vancooten displayed remarkable prowess with three goals in the 7th, 13th, and 44th minutes.

Santos Football Club’s

defence further crumbled, granting Tiandi Smith the opportunity to make her mark with a goal in the 29th minute. Lakeisha Pearson also capitalised on their vulnerability, scoring two goals in the 42nd and 76th minutes.

In the closing minutes of the game, Florice Waldron found the back of the net in the 62nd minute and Collette Rutherford sealed the victory with a goal in the 76th minute, encapsulating an extraordinary performance by Guyana Police Force Football Club.

Earlier in the afternoon, Fruta Conquerors Football Club kicked off the action with a hard-fought victory over the Potaro Strikers Football Club, securing a 21 win in the opening game.

The youngest team in the tournament displayed their skills, with Amanda McKenzie scoring in the

10th minute and Shanessa Cornelius finding the net in the 55th minute.

The game reached its thrilling conclusion with a late goal from Olivia Oselmo of the visiting team in the 80+5th minute.

I n P a k u r i Vi l l a g e , Guyana Defence Force Football Club put on a breathtaking performance, securing a commanding 100 victory over the home side. Anastacia Horsham took centre stage with an incredible five-goal display in the 12th, 23rd, 47th, 65th, and 80+1 minutes. The goalscoring frenzy continued as Glangie Lewis added four more goals to the tally, finding the back of the net in the 31st, 34th, 61st, and 75th minutes. Abiece Haywood chipped in with another goal in the 24th minute, sealing their resounding victory.

Guyana Defence Force (Continued on page 21)

PAGE 23

LYBA’s 3x3 Basketball tourney set for November 24

The Lions Youth Basketball Academy (LYBA) is gearing up for its inaugural Annual Under-23 3x3 Basketball tournament scheduled to take place on November 24 at the National Gymnasium. The event will see eight of the top U23/Tertiary teams competing for the coveted title, in what promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and passion of our local young basketball players.

Our dedicated efforts have been focused on creating a dynamic and competitive atmosphere, aiming to captivate both basketball enthusiasts and the general public alike. The LYBA basketball event has a broader objective of fostering values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and community engagement among the youth through the medium of basketball a release from the organisers informed.

Vice President Akili Haynes expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, stating, “This marks the beginning of many more events to come. Looking ahead, we also have plans to organise a basketball camp next year, between June and August. This camp will attract scouts from the Caribbean and the United States, as well as local coaches.”

Wi t h t h e g o a l o f a s s e m b l i n g approximately 50 players, encompassing

both male and female participants, over a weekend, this initiative is not only geared towards enhancing the skills and talents of the players but also provides them with opportunities to showcase their abilities beyond the borders of Guyana.

For further details about this event, please reach out to Lions Youth Basketball Academy Vice President, Akili Haynes, at + (592) 668 1997 or gracefoundation_club@yahoo.com.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Thursday November 16, 2023

Police and Santos clinch wins with strikes by Adrian Arron, Darren Niles, and Stefan Reynolds in GFF-KFC Elite League Cup In the November 12th first match at the Eve Leary Sports Ground in Kingston, Georgetown, Santos Football Club prevailed over Fruta Conquerors with a 2-0 victory.

Just when spectators were gearing up for a goalless first half, Santos’ Stefan Reynolds delivered a spectacular goal in the 45th minute.

Fruta Conquerors made valiant attempts to level the score with several near misses in the second half, but the final goal of the game came from Darren Niles in

Part of the battles in the Guyana Football Federation-KFC Elite League Cup on Sunday.

G

oal scorers Adrian Arron of the Guyana Police Force Football Club

and Santos Football Club’s Stefan Reynolds and Darren Niles claimed the spotlight on Sunday night, securing

remarkable victories for their respective teams in the Guyana Football FederationKFC Elite League Cup.

the 59th minute. In the night’s second match, the Guyana Police Force triumphed over Victoria Kings with a convincing 2-0 victory, courtesy of two exceptional goals by Adrian Arron. The victorious team maintained a resilient defensive strategy throughout the match, presenting a formidable challenge to Victoria Kings in their pursuit of scoring a goal.

In Group A, Guyana Defence Force maintains its lead with three consecutive victories, accumulating a

total of nine points. Buxton United follows in second place, having played three games with two wins and one loss, totalling six points.

Completing Group A standings is Santos Football Club with six points, while Fruta Conquerors and Milerock each have one point.

While in Group B, Western Tigers remain in the top spot with three consecutive wins, amassing nine points, while Den Amstel closely trails in second place with six points (Continued on page 21)

Dolphin Speed Swim Club gains top spots at GASA short course nationals 2023 swim meet

Paul Junior Mahaica

H

ead Coach Paul Mahaica along with Assistant Coaches Floyd Skeete and Kenita Mahaica saw improved performances in different Strokes.

Outstanding for the Meet in the 15 to 17 Category was Paul Junior Mahaica with seven first place finishes, capturing personal best Times in the 50m Free of 24:05 and 100m Free 53:15, along with his teammate Sekhel Tzedeq 18 and over Category. Sekhel Tzedeq who captured Three First Place finishes 50m Back, 50m Breast and 50m Free 24:41 at the recently concluded Guyana Amateur Swimming Association Short Course 2023 end of year meet.

O t h e r, F i r s t p l a c e s winners, 8 and under Category were Adon

Ramdatt and Amiyra Caeser, 9 to 10 Category were Malakhiy Patokie, Shahid Matthews, Elissa ShipleyThompson and Katy Budhan, 15 -17 Category Patrice Mahaica 200m Freestyle.

It was an exciting Swim Meet for Dolphin Swim Family, our Swimmers dominated, from the 8 and under to the 18 and over Categories.

Six clubs participated along with Trident Swim Academy (waiting to be accepted by the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association to Membership since the 1st March, 2023).

Dolphin Swimmers improved, dropping seconds off of their respective times, which will boost their FINA points and qualify them for more senior competitions.

Dolphin Speed Swim

Sequel Tzedeq Club is especially proud of the results generated from this meet which will give their swimmers confidence to keep training hard. Head Coach Paul Mahaica, in an interview couldn’t hold back his pride whilst singing praises to his thirty six swimmers for their outstanding results. Also, proud of Andica Vieira and Heaven Belony, Paul J Mahaica and Patrice Mahaica who are part of the Inter Guiana Games 2023 performed very well, “My swimmers dedicated their time and commitment to a strict regimen both morning and afternoon training at the National Aquatic Centre, never missing opportunities to train and give their all,” Mahaica said. Great improvements were noted from the results of the nationals.

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 16, 2023

PAGE 25

Jai Signs capture Hikers 7-aside hockey tourney - Carroll named MVP, Mckenzie cops Best Defender/Keeper awards The victorious Jai Signs team.

After a tough day of action, Jai Signs emerged winners of the one-day 7Aside Hockey tournament played on Monday; hosted by the Hikers Hockey club.

In the final match, Jai Signs defeated Gift Box thanks to strikes from Jabez

Walters in the 14th minute with support from Randy Hope in the 17th minute.

The event held at Everest, was sponsored by Demerara Mutual, Guinness, Trophy Stall | Jai Signs, INET, GIFTBOX, Coles Printing, Sensodyne, Muse,

Germans and others, with the aim of bringing different players together in a competitive, yet cohesive manner with the aim of winning the title.

The early strikes were all it took for Jai to storm past their opponents, winning by

Neto, Khan star, following the opening of Ram and McRae Open Chess Qualifiers - Rounds to continue this weekend Chess masters Roberto Neto and Taffin Khan took the lead following the conclusion of the National Open Qualifiers opening round, sponsored by Ram and McRae. Both Neto and Khan oozed patience as the 8 round, 4-Day tournament got underway this past Saturday at the National Stadium, Providence.

With 4 points, former champ Khan sits in the lead after defeating the likes of Isa Bremner, Errol Tiwari, Justino DaSilva and Ethan Lee.

Taffin Khan

Roberto Neto

Seasoned campaigner Neto, also made relatively light work of the talented; Kaija Clement, Sahid Bahadur, Alex Benjamin and Rashad Hussain. Third place is occupied by chess sensation, 13-year-old Sachin Pitamber with 3.5 points.

Meanwhile, DaSilva, Lee, Gilbert Williams, Hussain, Benjamin, and Tiwari all currently sit on 3 points as the 40 competitors will be keen on upping their game, with Rounds 5 to 8 continuing this coming Saturday and Sunday at Providence.

a 2-0 scoreline, giving the winners their second championship title. Giftbox who played in their first tournament was awarded the silver medal.

Individual awards saw

Lennox Carrol from Team Gift Box being named MVP. On the other side, Best Keeper/Defender went to the captain of Team Jai Signs, Kareem Mckenzie, with awards being made possible

compliments of Mother’s Kitchen, C-Mobile and LeZo Logistics.

Hikers also took the time to say thanks to their players and sponsors for making the tournament possible.

Two wins and two draws in S week five of the GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff s port

Keenly contested battles were the order of the day in the GFF Women’s League Division One action.

GDF, Police, and Fruta Conquerors secure wins with 24 sensational Part of the action in week five of the goals in Women’s League GFF NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 national academy playoff.

Division One on Saturday

Kohli and Shami star as India reach World Cup final

Virat Kohli celebrates his 50th ODI hundred. (AFP/Getty Images) 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.