Kaieteur News

Repsol to claim US$500M in ‘pre-contract’ costs if Govt. renews Kanuku licence

With respect to discussions between Repsol and the government overtheKanukublock,ithasemerged thattheSpanishoilgiantclaimsithas invested a staggering US$500 million in investments over the licence's 10year term. This means that if the government approves Repsol's application for a fresh exploration licence, it would seek to reclaim the funds as 'pre-contract' costs in the future if the government renews its licencefortheblock.

“Theyclaimthattheyhavealready invested about US$500 million in the block,threewells(weredrilled)inthe block. They have 3D seismic for the entire block,” Vice President Dr JagdeostatedThursday

The oil company could reclaim costs if it makes a discovery in the future and moves to production, but it willneedanewlicence,giventhatthe termofthecurrentonehasexpired.

“In May, effectively, the property was back with the government of Guyana," noted Jagdeo. However, the companyhastherighttoholdontothe block until its application is decided on. It has been conducting surveys in themeantime.

Jagdeo confirmed that the company submitted an application for a new licence, but noted that such a renewalisnotautomatic.

Repsol'spastexplorationwellsdid not yield commercial discoveries. Its journey since 2013 in the Kanuku block has been marked by highs and lows. Notably, the Beebei well drilled in2022heldhighhopesofuncovering 200 million barrels of recoverable oil equivalent.However,thefindingswere water-bearing rather than oil-bearing, marking a significant setback.Yet, the non-commercial Carapa-1 in 2020 indicatesthepotentialextensionofthe Cretaceous oil play from the ExxonMobil-operated Stabroek block intotheKanukulicence.

Jagdeo has outlined the conditions under which Spanish oil company Repsol can renew its licence for the Kanuku block, which it has operated forthepastdecade.Chiefamongthese

Tullow's sale of Orinduik stake to Canadian company

G o v e r n m e n t i s preparing to sanction Tullow Oil's divestment of its 60 percent interest in the Orinduik Block to Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. Thiswasconfirmedduringa press conference on ThursdaybyVicePresident, Dr BharratJagdeo.

The chief policy maker for the oil sector said, “On theOrinduikissue,wehave in principle agreed that the approval will be given for Tullow to sell its shares to Eco [Atlantic Oil & Gas] andtoexitthatblock.”

Tullow is divesting the block by selling its subsidiary, which holds the block,toEco'ssubsidiary

conditionsisRepsol'scompliancewith thenewProductionSharingAgreement (PSA)modelandpaymentofasigning bonus.

“Should a policy decision be made that we will consider favourably their application for a new prospecting licenceinthatarea,theywouldhaveto nowcomplywiththenewPSA,which is, one, the size of the block has to be reduced.

Two, there would have to be a signing bonus. Three, all of the other conditions, including enhanced royalty, the new fiscal conditions, and every other condition of the new PSA wouldapply,”hesaid.

Furthermore, the complete

consortium, including Tullow Oil, TotalEnergies, and Qatar Petroleum, would return to work together on the blockifRepsol'srenewalisgreenlit.

The renewal of the licence is not a done deal; Jagdeo said that there is a concern that if the government goes this route to award the block through negotiations, rather than through competitive tender, other operators may want to apply for the same privileges.

He explained that the competitive tenderprocessisadvantageousbecause it encourages aggressive exploration. The government is therefore expected to press Repsol for an aggressive explorationplan.

Policeinstructedtointensifymeasuresagainst risingfatalroadaccidents–MinisterBenn

DPI - The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has received a strict task to overhaul its traffic strategy to combat the escalating toll of fatal accidents occurringalongthenation'sroadways.

Speakingwithmediaoperativeson the sidelines of an event on Thursday, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn expressed concern about the growing problem, noting that more must be done to crack down on the recklessroadbehaviour

The minister stated that these regular accidents make it impossible forthecountrytomeetitslessthan100

deathstargetsetoutfor2023.

“We are concerned about inconsistencies,aberrationsintheway peoplebehave.Wehavebeenrequiring and demanding more to be done in respect of speeding, drunk driving, impaired driving, whether it's drugs or cellphone use and these things,” MinisterBennnoted.

He said statistics has shown that at evening, and from Thursdays to Mondays are the times when most of the road tragedies occur and it is worrying.

“The police are going to give us

again;anupdatedorrevisedtrafficplan and they are going to take stronger action. We expect them to do so,” he stressed.

“A lot of the driving around with loudmusicplaying,withspeeding,and all of these things are examples given by adults. And so those are issues we have to work on,” the minister added whileurgingadultstoleadbyexample. Currently, the Force has an ongoing road safety campaign in collaboration withtheMinistryofHomeAffairsand the National Road Safety Council, dubbed'RespecttheRoad.’

Tullow Oil's decision has sparked curiosity in industry circles given the company's potentially profitable agreement that allows it to cash in on Guyana'soilbountywithout significant direct involvement. The specifics of the deal indicate that Tullow stands to receive an initial cash sum of US$700,000 from Eco Guyana Oil and Gas (Barbados) Limited The terms also include conditions that could see T u l l o w e a r n i n g substantially based on the successes of the Orinduik Block. Should a successful commercial discovery be made within the Orinduik licence, Tullow would receive an additional US$4 million.

Furthermore, an issuance of a production licencefortheregionbythe Guyanese government would guarantee Tullow anotherUS$10million.

Despite the divestment, Tullow retains royalty rights The company is slated to obtain royalty payments from future production within the Orinduik licence, translating to 1.75% of the

60% working interest revenue, after accounting for capital expenditure and lifting costs. This arrangement resembles someoneaccruingrentfora p r o p e r t y t h e y ' v e relinquishedownershipof. While the financial structuring of the deal certainly showcases Tullow's business acumen, it might raise eyebrows considering the active involvement of other companies in exploring and harnessing offshore Guyana. Tullow's strategy ofretainingbenefitswithout substantial commitment could be perceived as audacious With the Orinduik Block's potential f o r c o m m e r c i a l exploitation, Tullow looks set to earn alongside Guyana's citizens, the rightfulownersoftheoil.

The new stakeholder, Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd , remains optimistic about the block's potential, especially given its closeness to ExxonMobil's StabroekBlockdiscoveries. As Eco takes on the operatorship, they are eager todrillaCretaceouswell.In this context, Gil Holzman, President and CEO of Eco Atlantic, stated, “We are delighted to have reached this agreement with Tullow and to be able to begin to unlocktheOrinduikBlock's full potential. Since 2014, we have believed in the potential of this Block. We will proactively engage in a farm-out process for this highly prospective license and begin preparations to drill a well testing the cretaceous.”

Post-acquisition, while Eco will command a 75% interest, TOQAP Guyana B V will retain a participating interest of 25%. Eco plans to farm out part of its stake to a new partner

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

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

EDITORIAL

Tullow

– anybody can come here and do anything

Who is really running this country? Who makes the crucial decisions around here? Do those decisions have weight with people outside of Guyana, or are they ignored and dismissed? Or is the relationship between Guyana’s power structure at the top tiers and foreign operators so intimate,soincestuous,thatthelattertakethingsforgranted, and do as they wish? Is what they are finalizing for executing that which involves their best interests only, and withnoregardforGuyanaandlackinginanyrespectforits leaders? What is the problem with acting unilaterally amongfriends?

Thesearesomeofthepointedquestionsthatariseinthe instance of what the British company,Tullow Oil, recently completed relative to plans for selling the majority of its sharesintheOrinduikoilblock. WhatTullowwasgranted isalicence,aleasetooperateoffshoreGuyanaandexplore foroil. Insimplelanguage,alicenseebyanyinterpretation can be equated to a leaseholder or tenant. A tenant has certain rights and obligations, but a tenant is not an owner Since a licensee is not an owner, by any definition, then it doesnothaveanyrighttosell,evencontemplatedoingso, withouttheappropriatecommunicationstotherightpeople inGuyana.TheGovernmentofGuyanahastobeinformed onatimelybasis,mustbefullyintheloop,andmustbethe authority to give the green light for any sale plans of any kind, as such relate to oil blocks, any one of them. The leadersintheGuyanaGovernmentareduethisregard,andit ismorethanapassingcourtesy,butismandatory Thus,for Guyana’s Minister of Petroleum, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeotobeputintheuncomfortableposition(byTullow) wheresomethingaboutthependingsalewasheard,butthat therehasbeennoformalnotification(fromTullow)istaking theinsultingtoanewlevel.

Thefirstpeoplewhoshouldhaveheardofthisproposed saleoutsideofTullow’shighestinnercirclehadtobethose in the PPP/C Government. This means Guyana’s most seniorpointmanonallthingsoil,wouldbeVicePresident Jagdeo. The Vice President should not be put on the back foot,norshouldhebeleftgropingforananswerthroughthe haze that still surrounds this developing sale. This publication has no interest in whatTullow has to say in its corporate release and well-tuned verbiage about its plans. Wedon’tknow,norwanttoknow,norneedtoknow What wedoknowisthatthisenvironmentwhereeveryTom,Dick, andHarrycouldcomeheretoexploitourrichopportunities intheoilsectorcannot,shouldnot,andmustnotbeallowed tocontinue,asitpleasesoutsiders. Theseoilblocksarethe propertyoftheGuyanesepeople,andnotthatofthepeople who arrive here and say how constructive they will be as partners.

Foranycompany,foreignorlocal,togiveitself,orany ChiefExecutiveOfficertogivehimself,thefreedomtobuy and sell at will what has been awarded to them on a discretionarybasisraiseshackles. Guyanashouldneverbe made available, be up for grabs, for these kinds of barters, which possibly flowed, or was misinterpreted, from the mutually rewarding relationships between local political powers and foreign captains of commerce. To think that Tullowcouldhavetheseplanstosellitsmajorityinterestin this country’s Orinduik oil block, and the Guyana Government being in the dark raises hackles, generates anger. What is surprising is that Vice President Jagdeo, a normallyvolatilepresencewhentoughoilissuessurface,is takingthisTullowsaleplandevelopmentsoquietly,almost so casually From Mr Jagdeo’s demeanour, it is as if Guyana is dependent on the sweet courtesy of the senior peopleatTullow,andwhentheyaregoodandreadytoshare theirplans. Onceagain,Guyanesehavearingsideseattothe twofacesofBharratJagdeo:theharsh,impatientfacethathe puts on for locals; and the smiling, and studiously servile, countenance that he keeps in special reserve for foreign entities,likeTullow

The descendants of slave owners are apologizing for too little, too late

DEAREDITOR:

In Guyana, the month of August used to be called “Freedom Month” by politically active people of my ancient generation because of two events. One was the abolition of chattel slavery by an act of parliament which came into effect on the 1st of August 1834, after the enslaved had madeitclearthatthesystem was unsustainable The secondeventwasthecoming to India of Swaraj, or Home Ruleafteraboutacenturyof struggle which the descendants of indentured workers transported from India to Guyana celebrated in1947.

Statements made in the press treat the questions of human bondage from various angles. All of their highlightsarenowthesemiofficialthemeofreparations, called compensation, to the Gladstone family and other slave owners for the loss of their valuable property, namelytheirenslaved.

The information about the Gladstone family’s earnings makes the point without making it that althoughindenturedservants (from Asia, Africa, and Madeira) endured working conditions very similar to those endured by the enslaved, there was an essential difference between thesystems.

Duetoindustrialchanges and conceptions of humanity, indentured servantsescapedthestatusof propertythatcouldbesold.It is historically documented but yet not widely known that communities of indigenous people had endured enslavement Dr NoelMenezesgivestheyear inwhichthatbondageended. Recently, I received direct

oral evidence from a descendant of indigenous people who had been enslaved in balata plantationsintheNorthWest District. I mention this so thathistoriansmayexploreit further

Oneofthethemesarising out of the emancipation discussion is resistance. Yet we cannot leap too quickly from enslaved revolts without highlighting Guyana’s movement for colonial freedom in the twentieth century.

I want to let the world remember that in Guyana, beginninginthelate1940s,a yearbeforeImyselfbecame active, a small band established the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) which after years of effort matured into Guyana’s second but longer lasting mass political party, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

The PPP executive committeedefeatedamotion thatitshouldnotseektowin the1953electionsbutseekto increase its representation andusethenationalforumas Dr Cheddi Jagan had done between 1947 and 1953 to reawaken the freedom spirit of Guyanese of all classes andethnicities.

The colonial world was uplifted, one might say too much uplifted, by this peacefulinsurgency,andthe USAanditsclientpartnerthe UK decided that such examples could not be encouraged.

Acting through the British colonial office and parliament, they issued the famousWhitePaperandsent warships and troops to the Caribbean-South American colony,” with the utmost dispatch.” It was the end of

the PPP as a party in the Executive Council of the colony The Legislative Council elected by the people was shut down after 133days,farshortofthefive years it was elected for accordingtotheConstitution receivedfromEngland.

That constitution was suspended by the British parliament and several organizations were outlawed. And while the PPP was allowed to exist, two youth organizations friendlytoitwereoutlawed. Scores of homes along the coast were raided by the p o l i c e u n d e r t h e guardianship of British soldiers, who tried to strike terror into the hearts of the population To make an example to others, five activists, two IndianGuyaneseandthreeAfricanGuyanese including this writer were detained at the U S wartime airbase, AtkinsonField.

Astateofemergencywas declared on October 8-9, 1953. The Main Secretary, theGovernor’sman,readon the radio to the nation the British White Paper which said bluntly that the elected ministers were “planning to turn the country into a communiststatesubordinate toMoscow.”

Therestishistory Andit isunnecessarytorepeatwhat canbefoundontheinternet. However, let it be said that Dr Jagan and Mr Burnham hadgonetoIndia,Egyptand thenEnglandtowinsupport against the suspension They were in the House of Commons as spectators whenthatbodyapprovedthe Order in Council of the Cabinet imposing the repressivemeasures.

Here was a leader of world democracy, the UK, a

founder of the UN, empowering a small population to vote for its government, and then after 133daysoverturningitsown empowerment and leaving t h e p o p u l a t i o n disempowered Her Majesty’s government appointed the Robertson Commission to examine the circumstancesleadingtothe suspension of the Constitution by said government.

There is one historical factthattheseriesofarticles may have included but did not. The role of Damon, an enslaved man, who in Essequibo became the symbol of a movement opposing and exposing the falsity of emancipation which ordered those just emancipated to work by compulsion without pay for uptoseven-and-a-halfhours in any one day for their old plantationowners.

Thisrevolttooktheform of passive resistance on the eve of 1st August in the Church Yard at LaBelle Alliance,Essequibo.

Asanexampleofpassive resistance, not a word was spokenbythedemonstrators and no one complained of being hurt Ultimately, Damon was tried under the governorship of Governor Carmichael Smith and executed. He was the first martyr of the unfinished emancipation. (This story of Damon is best told in Ten Days that Changed the WorldbyHughPayne.)

Thus,thestoryofslavery is still to be told and emancipation remains unfinishedbusiness.

Thedescendantsofslave owners are apologizing for toolittle,toolate.

Respectfully,

EusiKwayana

Addressing the issues of safety and maintenance

DEAREDITOR, There could be no disagreement that the recent surge in fatalities, particularly from fire and road accidents, exacted an extraordinary toll on families, communities, and the state. It is, therefore, imperative that corrective actions be taken to stem theselosses.

Letter writers have

presented a gamut of probable corrective actions and approaches to resolve theproblems.Inmyopinion, Col Brian Chin’s letter, Magu Risk Consultant Inc, Kaieteur News, September 01, 2023, ‘AFramework for Improving Road Safety’, outlined a professional and objective approach to address the issues. I suggest

be included. The three areas arecriticaltoourwell-being

and complement one another In his letter Col. Chin, also, identified a SOCIOLOGISTtobepartof the data management and analysisteam. Tothisteam, I w i l l a d d a P

In consideration and recognitionoftheforegoing, I humbly suggest 2024 be designated THE YEAR OF S A F E T Y A N D MAINTENANCE.Itwillbe part of GoG’s commitment to partner with all stakeholders for their positive contributions and input.

Yourssincerely, AbrahamDavid

Tackling the garbage situation in Georgetown

DEAREDITOR,

The capital city of Guyana is a vibrant and diverse urban centre that holds great potential for economicandsocialgrowth.

However, like many cities around the world, Georgetownfacesapressing issue:themanagementofits garbageandwaste.

Theimproperdisposalof waste poses environmental, health, and aesthetic challenges that need urgent attention.

Thisletterdelvesintothe garbage situation in Georgetown, its causes, impacts, and potential sustainablesolutions.

Georgetown’s garbage situation is characterized by ashortageofbinsattheside of the roadway, or none at all,litteredstreetsbypeople whohavenorespectfortheir owncountry,andinadequate waste management infrastructure due to inadequate finance, and the p l a n n i n g a n d implementation to raise finance.

cooperationbetweenthecity council and government over the years, especially when it comes to raising taxesonpropertiesorhaving a share in the 10% tax that the government collects on plasticitemsorapercentage shareoftheVATcollectedin thecity,orforthecouncilto holdthepowertolicencesall businesses in the city and pay the VAT to the State, is what are preventing the city government from earning the finance that is needed to properlymanagethecity Better disposal systems for the commercial quantity of garbage, coupled with p u b l i c a w a r e n e s s campaigns, especially to let the people know every day, thattheycanbechargedand taken to court for the dumpingofgaragesillegally and enforcing the law throughtheestablishmentof thecitycourtcanhelpagreat lot in having the city in a bettercondition.

The increase in littering and illegal dumping of plastic waste, in particular, has become a prominent

issue,asitoftenfindsitsway into the waterways, threatening aquatic ecosystemsandbiodiversity

The environmental consequencesofthegarbage situation in Georgetown are significant. Improper waste management can lead to pollution of rivers and drainage systems, contributing to flooding duringheavyrainfall.

The accumulation of plastic waste not only disrupts the aesthetic appeal of the city but also poses a seriousthreattothehealthof marine life and overall ecosystembalance.

As I traversed North Road in Georgetown on 30/8/2023, I saw the filthy condition of the drainage stagnant water and the amount of garbage in the drain,Icouldnotbelievemy eyes because that drainage usedtobecleaninthe1970s and’80s.

You could have seen people going fishing on a weekend and even swimming during rainfall, I asked myself why the

Church Street and North Road drainage cannot be cleanedasbefore?

Accumulated garbage canattractpestsanddiseasecarrying vectors, such as rodents and mosquitoes, leading to the spread of illnesses such as dengue feverandleptospirosis.

Moreover,theburningof waste materials releases toxic fumes and pollutants

into the air, further deteriorating air quality and affecting residents’ respiratoryhealth.

Addressing the garbage situation in Georgetown requires a multifaceted approach that combines the business communities, citizens, city government, and central, government engagement and a political behavioral change for the bettermentofGeorgetown.

Here are some potential sustainablesolutions:

1 Invest in modern Infrastructure Improvement for the waste management facilities, including recyclingcentresandwasteto-energy plants, to reduce

thevolumeofwastegoingto landfills.

2 Promote waste separation at source to encourage recycling, establish recycling collection points, and educate residents on the importanceofrecycling.

3 Launch extensive publicawarenesscampaigns to educate citizens about proper waste disposal, the impact of littering, and the benefitsofrecycling.

4 Enforce stricter regulations on waste management practices, including high fines for littering and illegal dumping,todiscouragesuch behaviours.

5.Collaboratewithlocal communities to organize clean-up initiatives, treeplanting campaigns, and workshops on waste reductionandmanagement.

6. Implement bans or taxes on single-use plastics to reduce plastic waste generation and promote the useofreusablealternatives. The garbage situation in Georgetown, Guyana, is a pressing issue that demands immediate action from the City Council and help from the government with the finance needed and citizens alike By adopting sustainable solutions and fostering a culture of responsible waste management, Georgetown canworktowardsbecoming a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally consciouscity Through collective efforts, the city’s residents can pave the way for a brighter and greener future forgenerationstocome.

MichaelCarrington FormerMP

100 Amerindian communities receive monies to upgrade community grounds

DPI-Onthefinaldayof the 2023 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, 100 Amerindian villages received $100 million from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to offset upgrades to community grounds. This follows an announcement by Vice President,DrBharratJagdeo onTuesday

The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with some Toshaos at t h e A r t h u r C h u n g Conference Centre (ACCC) who collected their cheques fromtheministryonFriday One such Toshao was JermaineWelcomeofKaburi Village located in Region Seven who said the village boastsofgreatathletes.Now that funding has been

secured, these athletes will nowhaveapropergroundfor their activities He commended the government forthisbeneficialinitiative “I would say the government, they are really entrusted in us becausetheywouldhavegiven usfundsnowsothatwecould upgrade our grounds and I really want to thank the government,” according to Welcome

Ricky Moses – the Toshao of Kwatamang Village, Region Nine also explained that the support comesattherighttimesince thevillagewillbehostingthe annual inter-school competitionsin2024.

As such, “I really appreciate the cheque and it will benefit my community

This is very good; we

haveitintime.So,Iamvery grateful,”Mosesexpressed.

Meanwhile, Basil Pablo, leader of Kopinang Village, Region Eight informed DPI thatthevillageutilisesastrip of land on the airstrip for sporting events and with the $1 million he received on Friday;asafergroundwillbe constructed.

“Anewsportsgroundfor the youths will be constructed I am very grateful to receive this cheque so that it would benefit the youths of Kopinang,” stated the Toshao Vice President Jagdeo during his presentation on Tuesday noted that an additional 100 villages will receive the same support to enhance theirgroundsin2024.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai and Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal with some of the beneficiaries.

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

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

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President Ali, how many more deaths will it take for you to do something?

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

It cannot be a coincidence that so many accidents are happening these days.

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

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

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

The underlying rootcause of the road accidents claiming the lives of our people needs to be identified and snuffed out.

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

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

Immediate action is imperative to protect the future of our nation and prevent further loss of innocent lives.

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

Ouryoung peoplearedying

American companies being trained to compete with Chinese for contracts in Guyana - outgoing U.S. Ambassador

With most of Guyana's majorinfrastructuralprojects being awarded to Chinese companies, outgoing United States Ambassador, SarahAnn Lynch, has disclosed thatAmericancompaniesare being trained on Guyana's tendering process to better competeforcontractshere.

O n T h u r s d a y , Ambassador Lynch hosted herfinalpressbriefingatthe Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown.

The Ambassador was asked about China's increasing presence in Guyana. “Clearly,theChina footprint is growing in Guyanaaswellasthebroader Caribbean,”sheresponded.

She underscored that therearemanyopportunities, not just in Guyana's oil and gassectorbutacrosstheother sectors “Whether it be

agriculture, IT [Information Technology] services, tourism, manufacturing, and many, many nations are e x p l o r i n g t h e s e opportunities,”Lynchsaid.

Tothisend,shenotedthat the U.S. has been working “very hard” to bring American companies to Guyana to explore the potential and take part in someoftheopportunitiesthe countryhastooffer

The Ambassador explained that her goal has been to educate U S c o m p a n i e s o n t h e opportunities Guyana has to offer

She also stated that she has been involved in a matchmaking role, bringing American companies to Guyanaandconnectingthem with local companies to be able to benefit from the

bountiful opportunities available in the different sectors.

“U.S. companies bring some unique things to the table.Ithinktheybringsome unique things to any country in which they invest, and

that's quality, excellence on time,onbudgetprojects,and high standards of safety,” AmbassadorLynchsaid.

She added that those are things Guyanese companies should think about when considering which U S company they want to partnerwith.

She added, “And it's important for the Guyanese people to know U S companies and what they bringtothetable.”

Moreover, Lynch highlighted that in partnership with the Guyanese people, the U.S. tripled their bilateral trade overthepastfouryears.

“We'vehostedhugetrade missionsthisyear,Louisiana wasthebiggesttrademission that the U.S. has ever had, (and)inFloridaahugetrade. Those trade missions have resulted in deals. We are workinghardtomakephone calls, do webinars, attend conferences,againhosttrade missions so that relationship grows,” the Ambassador stated.

She continued, “So I think we are here; we are strong, and we will remain here.”Moreover, Lynch was questioned on whether Guyana's national procurement and tender

administration process favours Chinese companies, to which she responded by stating that they have embarked on educating U.S. companies on the tendering process,addingthatsomeare still learning to navigate that process.

She stated that the U.S. has worked closely with the Government of Guyana on issues of transparency, and accountability

She added, “We have excellentpartnersthroughout thegovernmentandsoweare seeing the procurement process that continues to improve here and we think that'sveryimportant.”

Ambassador Lynch underscored,“Itisimportant to modernize systems that will be very attractive to investors.

Guyana's been able to attract many investors already but at the rate at whichcompaniesarecoming here to look at the opportunities, I think the more the country can do, to modernize,todigitizetohave a process that's easy to navigate for companies that would be in Guyana's favour.”

In Guyana, the majority of the major infrastructural projects are awarded to

Chinesecompanies.

The decade-old Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project was awarded to Chinese contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) for the sum of US$150 million: $138 millionfromtheChinaExim Bank and $12 million from the Consolidated Fund –taxpayers' money While CHEC has since completed its part of the work on the airport, millions more are still being invested by the governmenttomodernizethe airport.

Out of the two Chinese contractors that bid for the US$184M East Coast of Demerara(ECD)railwayand highway expansion projects, China Railway First Group Co.Limitedwasawardedthe contract last October to executetheworks.

Also, Chinese Company – China State Construction EngineeringCorporationLtd was awarded the US$260M contract to build a new fourlane, high-span fixed bridge acrosstheDemeraraHarbour Bridge(DHB).

Another major project that is upcoming is the Corentyne River Bridge project.Whilethecontract (Continuedonpage9)

Outgoing United States Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch

The GRA owes no one an explanation

The Guyana Revenue Authority is now being asked to go public about the tax’s agency capacity to undertaketheauditoftheoil expenses of ExxonMobil and its partners. According toareportinthisnewspaper, at his weekly press conference yesterday, the Vice President of Guyana said that he told GRAthat it needs to go public about its problems in finding staff to undertake such audits since this matter was never raised as a matter of policy with eitherhimortheMinisterof Finance.

This is a shameless abrogation of the government’sresponsibilities andaformofblame-shifting on the part of the Vice President. The issue of finding qualified staff is an operational matter and does notfallunderthepurviewof policy Inanyevent,theVice Presidentoughttoknowthat the GRA should not have been asked by the

American

government to undertake such an audit. The GRA, as

the tax arm of the government, has specific statutory limitations and a clearmandateoutlinedinthe Guyana Revenue Authority Actof1996.

According to the 1996 Act, the GRA is primarily responsible for assessing, charging, levying, and collecting all revenue owed to the government under specifiedlaws.Italsoplaysa

role in safeguarding

Guyana’s interests in international taxation agreements, promoting compliance with revenuerelated laws, advising the Ministeronrevenuematters, and performing other revenue-related functions directed by the Minister. Crucially, any additional functions assigned to the GRAmustbetax-related.

The GRA cannot be delegatedasanauditorunder thePetroleumAct,asitisnot the external auditor of the

government This would create a clear conflict of interest for the GRA, as it would be tasked with auditing the government’s financial dealings under the Petroleum Act while simultaneouslyassessingthe tax implications of these audits.

The GRA’s primary role revolvesaroundtaxcollection, making it ill-suited for the detailed examination of ExxonMobil’s pre-contract costs Suchataskisbestleftto professional international auditing firms It is the MinistryofNaturalResources thatoughttoberecruitingsuch auditors.WhiletheGRAcan perform an audit for tax purposes, there is little to be gained from doing so. ExxonMobilanditspartners benefit from substantial and extensive tax exemptions. This means that the GRA doesnothavesignificanttax revenues to collect and therefore there is little incenti vefortheGRAtobe

companies being trained...

Frompage8 for this project is expected to be awarded in October2023,itshouldbenotedthatfourout of the five contractors/ joint ventures who havebeenshortlistedfortheCorentyneRiver BridgeprojectareChinese-owned.

According to the Ministry of Public Works, the list of pre-qualified contractors for the project are: China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) – (China); China Railway Construction International Ltd (CRCCI) in a joint venture with China Railway Construction Caribbean Co Ltd (CRCCCL), and China Railway Construction Bridge Engineering Bureau Group Co Ltd (CRBG) – (China); Ballast NedamInfraSurinameB.V.;ChinaHarbour Engineering Company (CHEC) – (China); and China Overseas Engineering Group Co Ltd (COVEC) in a joint venture with China

Railway Eryuan Engineering Group Co Ltd (CREEC), and China Railway First Group (CRRG).

Meanwhile, an American company, Houston-based Lindsayca and CH-4 of Puerto Rico was able to secure a US$760 million deal to build two plants for using naturalgasfromoffshoreGuyanatoproduce electricity The American and Puerto Rican companieshavepartneredtoconstructa300megawatt power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara(WBD).

Also, recently a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between the Central Housing and PlanningAuthority (CH&PA) and South Atlantic Logistics and GeneralServicesInc.,anAmericancompany for the construction of 200 three-bedroom flat houses at Leonora on the West Coast of Demerara(WCD).

Dem boys seh...

No tricks, no living!

Dem sugar workers know dem psychology

Dem done stumble pon a cunning way to get what theywant:abitofpolitical snuggling with the Opposition.

De workers are disgruntled. Dem did get transfer from Rose Hall and Blairmont to Albion Estate when the Rose Hall Estatebinclosed.Demwas not sent home. Now de GuySUCO want to retransfer dem back to Rose Hall. Dem workers nah tekking in so simple. Dem claim dat amount to severancesincedemgatto travel almost 15 miles by road to get to wuk at Rose

Hall Dem demanding severance plus de same cash grant wah deVee Pee did give to dem severed sugarworkers.Datwasfat cheque of quarter of a milliondollarseach.

De government howevernahlisteningtode workerscries.

But de workers know dempoliticsanddemknow dat once dem start to court d e m O p p o s i t i o n politicians, de government gan get jealous and meet theirdemands.

In Guyana, when de Opposition gets involved, the government starts to sweat.OncedeOpposition becomes the sugar

auditingtheoilexpensesfor taxpurposes.

Even if perchance the GRA uncovers errors, omissions,orfraudduringits tax-related audit, its primary concern would be the tax implications This informationcouldbeusedfor potential tax-related prosecution against ExxonMobil However, the findings of such an audit cannot be shared with the government due to confidentiality obligations between a tax agency and its clients, as stipulated in the Guyana Revenue Authority Act This legal framework prohibits GRA members from disclosing privileged information obtained during their duties without proper authorization. And if it cannot be shared with the government, it certainly cannot be shared with the public. The Vice President has sought refuge behind proprietyconfidentiality.He says that much of the

informationfromtheauditis protected information. But theissueisnottherevelation ofthedetailsoftheexpenses, which admittedly are propriety information. The issue is really the general findings of the outcome of theaudit.Itisthesefindings that the public is anxiously awaiting. Consequently, the GRA’s role in auditing ExxonMobil’s pre-contract c o s t s r e m a i n s circumscribed. Its scope is limited to tax-related matters,anditcannotlegally serve as the government’s authorized auditor of oil expenses.

In any event, GRA does nothaveandcannotaffordto pay for the expertise needed to undertake audits of oil expenses.As such, the GRA shouldexitanyroleithasas theauditorofExxonMobil’s costrecoveryexpenses.

Furthermore, the GRA’s capacity to undertake such audits is questionable, as it lacks the requisite expertise

and experience. The GRA should refrain from overstepping its mandate and should not overestimate itscapabilitiesinthisregard. And it should not be baited into becoming the government’s spokesperson ontheoilandgassector That responsibilityisreservedfor the Minister with responsibility for oil and gas- whoever that is BecausewiththePPP/C,you simplydonotknowwhoare substantive Ministers and whoarenot.

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

workers’ fairy godmother, the government can begin toteknoticeandact.

Right now, dem Opposition politicians smelling an opportunity to score point and to champion the cause of the workers.

De stage is set for de workers fuh start getting cozy with de Opposition. And once dem do dat, de government gan jump into action.

De sugar workers gan get what dem want and dem gan go back to de government and fuhget de Opposition.Datishowwe doesrollinGuyana! Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

Port Mourant Training Institute

estimated to cost US$6.2M …Localcompanies dominatebidsforcontract

The new Hospitality TrainingInstituteslatedtobe constructedinPortMourant, Region Six is estimated to cost US$6,218,294 (GUY$1.2B).

This is according to the National Procurement and TenderAdministrationBoard (NPTAB) office. During the recent opening of tenders, it was revealed that five construction firms are vying for the contract. Three of which are local contractors andtwoChina-ownedfirms.

Atthereadingoftenders, itwasrevealedthatthefirms are R Bassoo & Sons Construction (Guy), China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co Limited, Kares Engineering Inc (GUY), Shandong Hi-Speed Dejian Group of Company

Limited, and Nabi ConstructionInc.(GUY).

It was also disclosed that all five firms bid above the engineer's estimate of US$6.2 million. Their bids are as follow: R. Bassoo –

US$9,816,190, China Railway – US$9,767,265, Kares Engineering

US$6,411,097, Shandong –US$7,102,191, and Nabi

C o n s t r u c t i o n –US$12,941,824.

It was reported that the

Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Education will be building the facility through a Caribbean Development Bank(CDB)loan.

Back in 2020, the Government announced that it secured a loan from the CDB for the construction of the Institute. The CDB had loaned Guyana US$11 6 million The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is the executing agency for the project,whereastheMinistry of Education is responsible f o r t h e o v e r a l l implementation of the project.

Kaieteur News had reported that in the government's initial advertisementforbids,itwas highlighted that the new training Institute will entail Block C, Block D, external works, mechanical installation, and electrical infrastructure.

The works pertaining to Block C (training facilities) includes a two-storey building with a reinforced concrete frame and reinforced concrete floors thatshouldbeapproximately 2,850 square meters while Block D (classrooms and studentfacilities)wouldbea

two-storey building with a reinforced concrete frame and reinforced concrete floors and should be approximately 1,150 square meters.

Externalworksentailsite preparation, security office, gates, fence, roads and car parks,concretedrains,septic tanks, reservoir, access and walkway, and generator building in an area of approximatelyfouracres.

Following the loan approval, Senior Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh stated that the Institute is for thedevelopmentoftechnical capacity in the tourism and hospitality sector, raising standards, training of personnel, ensuring that peoplehavetheskillsthatare necessary to staff and manage a modern, dynamic and competitive tourism and hospitalitysector

“We want to create an environment where Guyanese can get worldclasstrainingandcandeliver world-class service, in or with world-class companies. This is also about giving people skills, it is also about e n h a n c i n g t h e i r employability and it is also about meeting a need in the jobmarket,”hehadstated.

High winds destroyed several houses at Aishalton

Hi g h w i n d s accompanied by rainfall on Friday eveningdestroyedseveralhouses locatedatAishalton,DeepSouth Rupununi,RegionNine.

While no one was seriously injured, as many as five homes sustained structural damage Several roofs of homes were blown off during the storm whichstartedaround18:30hrson Friday

AtCatherineRealine'shome, the family was chatting after a bout of rain poured in the area. Moments later, heavy winds pummeled the area, catching everyoneoffguard.

Maria Realine sustained injuriestoherlegswhentheroof of their house collapsed during theheavywinds.

Ramsarran George told this publicationthathevisitedseveral homes and observed that many rafterswereontheground.

“The residents are lucky that noonewasseriouslyinjured,”he told this publication late last evening.

George said many persons were caught by surprise by the storm which he described as a “minitornado.”

Village leader, Michael Thomasissaidtobeinthecityattendingthe NationalToshao'sConference.

However, his deputy Samantha Winter andothercouncillorsaresaidtobeassessing thedamage.

On June 30, a similar situation occurred when five homes were destroyed byheavywinds.

Atthetime,residentswereasleepwhen thewindsrippedthroughtheirhomesaround 22:30hrsthatFridayevening.

Two residents assess the damage at one of the destroyed homes last evening.

Unit of Allied Arts donates musical instruments to CPCE

DPI–TheUnitoftheAlliedArtsonFriday handedoveranumberofmusicalinstruments to the Music Department at the Cyril Potter College of Education, Turkeyen. This is in keeping with the Unit's commitment to enriching the subjects taught at the nursery, primary and secondary levels.The musical instruments included acoustic guitars, trumpets,keyboards,drumsets,andrecorders whichtotaled$1,300,000.

Mr Joel Gonsalves, Education Officer with responsibility for Music at the Unit of AlliedArtsstatedthattheaimistoensurethat graduating teachers are skilled in playing at leastthreeinstruments.Heexplainedthatthis will add to the growing cohort of Music teachersacrossthecountry

Mr Gonsalves noted that this is also in keepingwiththeMinistryofEducation'splan to ensure each child is exposed to a foreign language, a TVET subject, a sport, and a musical instrument before graduating secondary school.The Music Coordinator at CPCE, Mrs Althea Hamilton-Wintz expressed gratitude to the Unit ofAlliedArts on behalf of the college. She noted that the donation will enable each teacher enrolled in themusicclassaccesstoaninstrument.

Some of the musical instruments donated to CPCE

Unit of Allied Arts donated musical instruments to CPCE

AFC accuses Govt. of sidelining and marginalizing Opposition …calls for “schoolboy behaviour”

Inasternandcandidaddress today,CathyHughes,Chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), openly criticized the ongoing rift between President Irfaan Ali and Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, and urged an end to what she called "immature, schoolboy behaviour" onbothsides.

During an AFC press conference, Hughes made her stanceclear,emphasizingtheneed for maturity in politics, regardless of the election's outcome. She stated,"Wehavetogettothelevel of maturity, where regardless of whothewinneris,wedon'tbehave like little school boys in kindergarten,andwecanreachout acrossthedividetobuildGuyana."

The tensions be

PresidentAli and the Opposition Leader have persisted for more than a year, with official talks remaining elusive. While they met in May 2022 to discuss critical Constitutional and statutory appointments, relations souredafterasubsequentplanned meeting collapsed Aubrey Norton's refusal to shake the President's hand at an event furtherescalatedthediscord.

Recently, the United States expressedawillingnesstomediate between the two leaders, but President Ali dismissed the idea. Hughes, however, stressed that personal issues should not hinder

national development and called on the President to take the high road. She urged him to extend an official invitation to the Opposition Leader to discuss pressingmatterssuchastherising costoflivinganditsimpactonthe

to end

workingclass.

"The immature attitude just gets us absolutely nowhere,"

Hughes asserted "When it comes to engagement, there is no progress. We're not going anywhere. All of us are not serving the people of Guyana withthecurrentengagementor lackofengagement."

Hughes also highlighted what she perceived as a deliberate effort by the government to sideline and marginalize the Opposition. She pointed out that, unlike past practices, the government had not invited OppositionMemberstositonState

Boards, which contradicted t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability principles. She said,"Wehavenotreceivedone letterinvitinganypoliticalpartyor memberoftheoppositiontositon thoseStateBoards."

Furthermore, Hughes accused the government of excluding the Opposition from Independence and Republic Day celebrations, alleging that such actions were contributing to the creation of a "OnePartyState."

Cathy Hughes, through her impassioned plea for political maturity and transparency, underscored the deepening divide between the government and the OppositioninGuyana,callingfora more inclusive and constructive approachtonationalgovernance.

Dead: Hassani Mack

Body of missing Wisroc teen found floating in Demerara River

Thebodyof13-yearold Hassani Mack, of Wisroc New HousingScheme,Lindenwas foundonThursday,floatingin the Upper Demerara River near the western side of CoomackaBeach.

According to police, the body was found at about 05:30hrs, while Mack's mother,communitymembers, andranksfromtheMackenzie Police Station, were continuing their search in the CoomackaMinesBeacharea.

The teen's body was examined by Detective Constable Wilson The examination found no marks of violence on the exposed parts of the child's body The body was then taken to the LindenHospitalComplexand then to the G-Jetso Funeral Home where it awaits a postmortemexamination.

On Tuesday, August 29, 2023, an outing at the Coomacka Mines Beach turned into a tragedy for a foreign couple after Mack reportedly drowned in the

Police were told that the foreign couple, a 29-year-old manandhis25-year-oldwife, had taken Hassani and four other children for an outing around14:00hrsthatday.

They reportedly spent the afternoon swimming and playing games in the water together

Astheywerewrappingup their afternoon of fun, Mack and one of the children, a 14year-old boy, went into the Demerara River to wash off theirskin.

Suddenly, according to police, “the water started to flow at a fast rate” sweeping both boys away They began shouting for help as they struggledtostayafloat.

The 29-year-old man reportedly rushed to help them, but police said that he only managed to rescue the 14-year-old boy Hassani disappearedintheriver

Otherpersonsatthebeach helped the man to search for Hassani but they were unsuccessful.

DemeraraRiver

WANTED VACANCY

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

Able-bodied male or Handyman needed. For more information Call: 661-1000.

Able-bodied Sales clerk preferably Female. For more information Call: 661-1000.

Porters needed at Hamson's General Store, 116 Regent & Bourda. Call: 226-3748, 6372061, 619-9161.

Experienced Land dredge

Workers and male Cook needed to work in the Interior. Call: 684-1030.

1-Mini Excavator Operator,1Bobcat (Skidsteer) Operator, 1- yard worker & couple for Farm Worker. Contact: 6190898.

One Cook and two Kitchen Assistants needed. Call 6031278

1 Concrete Pump truck Driver /Operator and 6 Mixer Driver. Contact: 650-0402/ 665-3880.

1 male to work on chicken farm in the Interior. Must have knowledge & experience of chicken rearing. Call: 680-2702.

Looking for a reliable livein aide for an elderly woman. Call: 686-8051.

Wanted: one Office Assistant. Call: 233-2725/ 233-2439.

Cook needed to work in Campbellville. Must know to cook various meals, salary $6000. Call: 621-5140.

Experienced Weeders & Canal Cleaners to work on the East Bank. Call: 665-0677.

One Hauler/ Truck Driver needed. Call: 611-7088 for more information.

One female Domestic needed. 25-45 years old residing WCD Or WBD. Call: 647-6075.

One male Office Assistant needed. 25-40 year old, must have CXC Maths and English. Call: 623-8414.

FOR SALE

Canje transported farm land 207 acres, recently used for rice cultivation, fresh water own koker. Email: gelgin15@gmail.com

One blast freezer and 2 holding rooms for sale. All in working condition. Call: 6820823/ 687-5814.

East Bank Electrical is now hiring Electrical Engineer, Outside Sales Staff & Counter Sales Staff. Call: 604-6394, sales@eastbankelectrical.com

General Domestic needed to work 4 days per week, must know to cook. Apply at Keyfood Mc Doom village next to the post office.

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

One Clerk for TSI Eccles office.Must have grade 1or 2 Maths and English. Email: techserigy@yahoo.com or Call: 615-9132.

Maid needed to cook and clean at East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.

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

Driver needed. Must have Motor Car, Van & Lorry Licence. Apply @ HRM Global Healthcare Supplies Inc Or Email:globalhealth suppliesinc@gmail.com

Live-in Maid, Maintenance Person, Mason/ Carpenter and Tm Truck Driver needed. Call: 609-7675/ 674-1705.

Two experienced Cooks/ Chefs needed to work on the WBD. Must have a valid food handler's license. Call: 679-2612/ 689-5100.

Live-in Housekeeper needed to cook, clean and do laundry in Virgina, USA. Free room & boarding offered. Call: 845-325-8241.

Accounts, Bond & Office Clerks, W/Union CSR'S, Lorry Drivers, Sales Supervisor, AM /PM Cashier , Sales Rep & Porters needed. Call: 609-2995.

1 Salesman & Labourer, Cxc Subjects, experience in writing bills, stocktaking and cashing. Apply at Keyfood Mc. Doom Village.

Carpenters, Labourers, Masons & Skilled men needed, wages $7,000-$10,000 per day & Labourer 5-6K per day. Call: 650-1394, 692-7110.

Vacancy for Domestic/ Maid for morning and afternoon shifts. Call: 592-637-6700.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

1 two storey 3 bedroom house in South Ruimveldt Park, $30 mil neg. Call: 6226527.

LEGAL NOTICE 1

Handyman needed. Location: Kitty G/Town. Call 6969854, 223-7165.

FOR RENT

1, 2 & 3 bedroom furnished and unfurnished house at ECD & EBD. $500 USD, $120,000. Call/ WhatsApp: +592-700-0030/ 592-6841787.

TO LET

Store at Lombard street, commercial spaces at Enmore mall, top floor 300ftx25ft. Call: 609-7675/ 674-1705.

SERVICES

Visa Application to Canada and U.S.A, graphics design, advertisements,USA passport application forms & i130 application. Call: 6267040.

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

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

Burkey's House Blessings! Need someone to be a Caretaker of your house in your absence? Call: 663-4654.

LEGAL NOTICE 1

Applicant in person: Samantha Abigale Odetta Maughn nee Peters

Address: 873 Patterson, Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara Tel#: 678-4436

2022-HC-DEM-CIV-FD393

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION

Petition No. FD-393

Between: (MAUGHN) SAMANTHA ABIGALE ODETTA nee PETERS Petitioner -V(MAUGHN) EDWIN EDWARD Respondent

TO: EDWIN EDWARD MAUGHN

Address Unknown

TAKE NOTICE that on the 3rd day of March, 2023 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by SAMANTHAABIGALE ODETTA MAUGHN nee

available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within thirty- five (35) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Thursday the 19th day of October, 2023 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Sandra Kurtzious. via Zoom meeting ID: 648 772 9256 and Password: 5hRiHf

IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence· and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara].

The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 8th day of August, 2023.

27th day of April, 2023 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by SAVITRI SAMAROO nee UDAI the Petitioner/ Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 11th day of August, 2023 the Petitioner/ Applicant was directed to effect service ofher Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Guyana Kaieteur News Newspaper, a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide Web (Online). AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND

VEHICLES FOR SALE

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

PETERS the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 31st day of July, 2023 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaietuer News, a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide Web. AND

FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND

LEGAL NOTICE 2

Filing Attorney: MS.

SHAMEKA TAITT

GUYANA LEGAL AID

CLINIC “Maraj Building”

185 Charlotte & King Streets

Georgetown, Guyana. Tel: 225-9238/225-9246 Email: legalaid@networksgy.com

2023-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-671

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION

FAMILY DIVISION

PETITION NO. FD-671

BETWEEN: -

SAMAROO (SAVITRI) nee

UDAI Petitioner/Applicant -and-

SAMAROO (KHEMRAJ)

VACANCY

Cashier needed. Location Ruimveldt G/Town. Call 696-9854, 223-7165.

Soup House is looking for Kitchen Assistant in Town, 11am-4am. Call: 663-9560.

FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are

Respondent

TO: KHEMRAJ SAMAROO

Last known address

Lot 10 Sideline Dam

Craig

East Bank Demerara

TAKE NOTICE that on the

FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Friday the 24th day of November, 2023 at 9:45 am before the Honourable Mr. Justice Gino Persaud via Zoom meeting ID: 733 558 9086 and Password: Court3.IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 21st day of August, 2023.

McDoom duo charged with possession of marijuana

Two residents of Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara (EBD) were on Friday charged with possession of narcoticswhentheyappeared at the Bartica Magistrates' Court.

The duo, 45-year-old Dodstin Clarke and 63-yearold Lindon Rudder were caught with 3.1 kilograms of marijuana by police ranks at Itaballi Landing, Lower Mazaruni,RegionSeven.

The men made their first court appearance before Magistrate Crystal Lambert where the charges were read to them. They pleaded not guilty and were remanded to prison The case will be recalled on September 22, 2023 According to police, rankswereonmobilepatrolat Itaballi Landing when they intercepted a motor vehicle, withthreemaleoccupants.

The occupants were identified as Rudder, a miner of McDoom, EBD, Clarke of Middle Street, McDoom, EBD, and 63-year-old Albert Griffith, a seaman also of Middle Street, McDoom, EBD.Police said that ranks conducted a search on the vehicle in the presence of the occupants, and discovered a bag containing five bulky parcels. Each parcel had a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.Clarke and Rudder both accepted ownership of the suspected narcotics and were immediately arrested

Farmer missing after Pomeroon boat collision

Regan Rodriguez, a 40-year-old farmer of Charity Housing Scheme, RegionTwo,ismissingafteraboathe wastravelingincollidedwithanother on Thursday while in the Pomeroon River

According to police, investigations revealed that 23-yearoldAndel Garraway, a licensed boat captain was the lone occupant in a wooden balahoo. While proceeding from the Charity Wharf to Grant Phoenix Park, Lower Pomeroon

River, Garraway's boat hit another woodenbalahoo.

Garraway reported the accident to the Charity Police Station He disclosed that he was proceeding South on the river when he collided with the boat Rodriguez was in. This resulted in the farmer falling into the PomeroonRiverashisboatcapsized.

Garraway said he did not see the smaller boat and just felt an impact. Following the collision, he said he looked in the river but only saw a hat and a small boat with the engine 'tilt up'.

Ajointsearchpartyhassincebeen launched Garraway is in police custody,assistingwithinvestigations.

and escorted to the Bartica PoliceStation.

Uponarrivalatthestation, the narcotics were weighed and it amounted to 3 1 kilograms.

Charged: Lindon Rudder

Charged: Dodstin Clarke

The boat belonging to Regan Rodriguez

CJIA successfully audited by TSA

Man chopped by father-in-law at Kurutuku Village, Reg. 7

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the United States Department of Homeland Security has successfully audited the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) The audit was conducted from July 31 to August 4 and was aimed at evaluating the security measures implemented at CJIAas well as the airlines' compliance with TSA guidelines for flights to the UnitedStates.

The audit process i n c l u d e d o n - s i t e inspections,interviewswith staff, and a review of security documentation, including training records and standard operating procedures The audit verified that CJIA has implemented robust

Aircraft Operations at CJIA

security infrastructure and advanced technologies to maintain high-security standards.

This includes modern baggage screening systems, CCTV surveillance, access control mechanisms, and trace detection equipment. In their out brief, the team commended the airport and its stakeholders for being compliantwithinternational s t a n d a r d s a n d recommended practices.

ChiefExecutiveOfficerMr. Ramesh Ghir said, “These auditsarealwayswelcomed and serve to gauge the airport'sperformanceinthis highlyregulatedindustry.”

Mr Ghiradded,“Weare always looking for ways to enhance our security measuresandaregratefulto TSA for their feedback and

guidance. We will continue toworkcloselywithTSAto ensure that CJIA remains a safe and secure airport for all passengers ” The successful audit conducted byTSAattheCheddiJagan International Airport confirms their commitment tomaintaininghigh-security standards.

This audit success reflects positively on the overall security record of CJIA,lawenforcement,and theairlines.TheTSAagents were accompanied by staff oftheGuyanaCivilAviation Authority during the audit.

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport is the mainentryportintoGuyana and a significant hub for international air travel regionally and further afield.

Am a n i s r e p o r t e d l y nursing chop wounds to the head and face after his father-in-law ambushed him on Thursday at KurutukuVillage, Cuyuni River,RegionSeven.

Thevictimwasidentified as Marvin Lewis and his allegedattacker,FelixJohn.

Toshao of Kurutuku Village,TimothyLewis,told KaieteurNewsonFridaythat thedetailsoftheincidentare sketchybuthewasinformed

by villagers that Lewis was ambushed.

Lewis is currently in Georgetown where he attended the National To s h a o ' s C o u n c i l Conference.

"I was made to

understand that this chopping tek place in the river,"Toshaosaid.

Lewis was reportedly followedbyhisfather-in-law afterheleftthecentralpartof the village paddling in a canoe.

After reaching his destination located not too farawayfromthevillage,he moored his canoe. It was there that his father-in-law allegedlyattackedhim.

Lewis managed to survive the attack and was able to receive treatment fromahealthworker Lewis' condition is considered critical and efforts are being made to transport him to the nearestregionalhospital. Villagers have since capturedthefather-in-law

Critical - Marvin Lewis

Indian tycoon Ambani beats Disney to BCCI cricket media rights for $721 million

(Reuters) - Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s broadcasting unit grabbed rights to televise and live stream the national cricket team’s bilateral matches for $721.41 million, in its latest win over Walt Disney that had previously held the rights.

Reliance Industries (RELI.NS)-owned joint venture Viacom18 won the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) media rights for international and domestic games from September 2023 to March 2028, the cricket administrator said on Thurs-

day. The company already owns digital streaming rights to the popular Indian Premier League Twenty-20 (IPL T20) tournament.

Ambani snatched away the rights from the Disney Plus Hotstar streaming service in a $2.9 billion bid last year, and then streamed games for free.

This prompted Disney subscribers to flee - out of 61 million users in October 2022, about 21 million had left by July this year.

“A single entity securing both TV and digital rights is

mutually advantageous as it enhances negotiating lever-

Saturday September 02, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Things should be running smoothly for you, Aries, and you'll accomplish a lot with surprisingly little effort. Although there may not be any Earth-shattering developments.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You may feel like you're being tested in some way, Taurus, like you're on trial and must defend yourself, including what you believe and how you operate.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

An attractive neighbor with whom you seem to share a bond could become a friend. A group you're affiliated with could be expressing highly idealized goals and purposes.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

Your vitality is low. It may be difficult to fight adversity, Gemini. Try not to get discouraged. Instead, realize that this is part of the natural cycle. Awareness of your energy patterns is half the battle.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Your hard work is paying off in ways that may not be noticeable to you now, Leo. Things are flowing naturally, and you seem to have all your responsibilities under control.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

You may feel like it's your responsibility to take care of everyone, Virgo. If you love someone, your brain translates this into thinking that you need to be the caretaker.

Athanaze star shines bright to lead Royals Home

Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, (REUTERS/ Francis Mascarenhas/ File Photo)

CPL - Barbados Royals returned to winnings ways in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with a six wicket victory over the Jamaica Tallawahs.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

There are opportunities for achievement, so stay open to new energy coming your way, Libra. If you don't turn at these fortuitous junctions, you may never find this spot in the road again.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

You may find it hard to relate to others verbally, Scorpio. You may have everything figured out in your head, but the words get in the way as soon as you share your ideas.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

You may be coming to a point of reckoning in something you set into motion years ago, Sagittarius. This is a time of hard work when you may need to either salvage the mess.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

our thoughts may be scattered and confused, Capricorn, especially regarding responsibilities that are important to you. You need to be disciplined and focused, but frivolous chatter may fill your brain.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

There's a chance that incredible luck will befall you, Aquarius, but nothing will come without hard work on your part. Don't expect someone else to hand you the treasure chest.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

You may feel like someone's trying to pin you down before you start, Pisces. Perhaps these obstacles are selfimposed. Maybe you're restricting yourself from doing the things you want.

age in contrast to two separate players, which fuels competitive rivalry, dampening overall revenue,” said Elara Capital analyst Karan Taurani.

Disney did not bid aggressively for the BCCI rights as it sees a decline in viewership for such matches and is instead looking to focus on profitability in India, a source with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

It has, however, decided to show the ongoing Asia Cup cricket tournament and the ICC Cricket World Cup, set to begin in October, for free on smartphones in hopes to boost advertisement revenue and offset the impact of subscriber exodus.

Disney did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

Last year, Disney renewed its media rights to show International Cricket Council’s tournaments in India from 2024 to 2027 after winning a bid for $3 billion.

It later licensed the TV broadcast rights to India’s Zee Entertainment (ZEE.NS) and only regained the digital streaming rights, a source told Reuters.

($1 = 82.6580 Indian rupees)

Former Hockey Board President...

From page 24 hockey team visited Guyana and participated in two games against our National team. We drew one game nil all but won the second match one nil.

He became the President and I the secretary and we (Guyana) were successful in gaining admission to participate in the Pan American games in Cali Columbia in 1971,” disclosed Chris Fernandes.

The sporting fraternity and members of the Guyana Police Force, both past and present especially, are extending condolences to his family. The Kaieteur Sports Department also extends condolences to the Roberts family.

The Royals won the toss and opted to field first and it proved to be an inspired decision in the early passages of the game. The Tallawahs innings imploded inside the PowerPlay with the loss of three wickets but good recovery batting at the back end led by Shamarh Brooks ensured the Tallawahs set a tricky 161 for the Royals to win.

In reply the Royals faced similar problem to the Tallawahs, losing key wickets in the PowerPlay, but Alick Athanaze’s statement knock of 76 was the foundation for a successful chase that saw the Royals home with an over to spare.

The Tallawahs attempts to set a competitive total were dealt a huge blow inside the PowerPlay. Losing King, Mckenzie and Hales in quick succession left the Tallawahs teetering at 25/3 at the end of six overs. Shamarh Brooks

and Raymon Reifer consolidated after the initial drama with a 54 run partnership but Qais Ahmad cleaned up Reifer to keep the Royals well on top. Brooks was not to be denied however and his 78 from 40 balls proved crucial in keeping the Tallawahs in the game. This was supplemented by Imad Wasim’s late order hitting to get the Tallawahs up to 160/7 at the end of their 20 overs.

161 was a tricky chase for the Royals to navigate and when they lost both Rahkeem Cornwall and Kyle Mayers in the PowerPlay the game looked set for a tight finish.

However, Athanaze and Laurie Evans’ partnership of 89 ensured the Royals entered the final five overs with a gettable equation to navigate.

Chris Green removed Laurie Evans in the 16th over and Salman Irshad got Alick Athanaze to top edge one to the fine leg boundary for 76 with 12 balls to go but Rovman Powell and Jason Holder saw the Royals home to put them right back in the playoff race.

Andrew, Weir fifties in vain as West Indies U19s come up 51 runs up short in series decider against Sri Lanka

SportsMax - Jewel Andrew and Adrian Weirbothhithalf-centuriesbuttheyweren’t enoughastheWestIndiesUnder-19scameup short by 51 runs in the series-deciding third ODI against Sri Lanka Under-19s at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium yesterday

Weir hit a 41-ball 52 at the top of the innings including seven fours and two sixes while Andrew, a wicket-keeper/batsman, made a top score of 80 from just 64 balls includingeightfoursandtwofoursixes.

Joshua Dorne also hit 32 as the tourists wererestrictedto253alloutin40.3overs,51 runsshortoftheirtarget.

VishwaLahirustarredwith3-48from8.3 overs for Sri Lanka while Sineth

Jayawardene (2-29 from three), Vihas Thewmika (2-29 from four) and Garuka Sanketh (2-44 from nine) all provided support.

Earlier,SriLankamade304-8offtheir50 overs after winning the toss and choosing to bat.

Opener Pulindu Perera starred with a mammoth 155 off 140 balls including 17 foursandfoursixes.

NathanEdwardtook3-66fromnineovers fortheWestIndieswhileDeshawnJames(270from10)andTarriqueEdward(2-41from 10)providedgoodsupport.

Theteamswillnowturntheirattentionto apairofyouthTestswiththefirstbeginning onMonday

The quest for a play-off spot in the promotion to Elite football intensifies

Theclimaticstages of the respective R e g i o n a l Association (RA) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) are expected to intensify as teams battle to secure a place among the eightqualifiers.

The champion of each RA will be rewarded with qualification to the Federation’s play-off competition which will be contested next month to determine who will occupy the two places available for nextseason’sEliteLeague.

From the just concluded 10-team Elite League, bottom team Mile Rock FC have been relegated to 2nd tier football and will be replacedbythewinnerofthe upcoming play-offs. Ninth placefinisher,VictoriaKings will have a Golden opportunity to retain a place

in the Elite League when they meet with the runnersupoftheRAsplay-offforthe final spot in Guyana’s premier football League competition.

Inaugural champions of the Federation’s Elite League, Slingerz FC continue to dominate the West Demerara FA’s Senior Men’s League and are favorites to reclaim their place among Guyana’s Elite teams. The highly talented Slingerz unit coached by former National captain, Charles Pollard have easily brushed aside their first 4 opponents with 41 unanswered goals and are seemingly destined to conquer the other 4 teams and capture the 2nd tier title fortheWestside.

Aglanceattheother2nd tier competitions currently on course to complete their

Leagues suggest that Beacons of Bartica and Monedderlust of Berbice, shouldtheyprevail,couldbe chief opposition to Slingerz intheplay-offs.

The champion of the Rupununi FAmust be a real contender as well, but not those from Essequibo Coast andPomeroon,EastBankor Georgetown FAs The Upper-Demerarawhoareyet tostarttheirLeagueandEast Coast Demerara who just began theirs are also out of contention.

ThenextEliteLeagueof the GFF is set to kick off in January,nextyear

The GFF through its Members-Financial Assistance Programme (MFAP) has primarily funded all the 2nd tier football Leagues currently in progressandbeingrunbythe Ras.

Jewel Andrew (left) and Adrian Weir (right) both hit fifties for West Indies U19s.

Tagenarine Chanderpaul leading from the front with 206 runs in Minor League Cricket

West Indies test opener

Tagenarine Chanderpaul is making headlines in Florida r e p r e s e n t i n g F o r t Lauderdale Lions in the 2023 Minor League Cricket T20tournament.

Last Sunday, the lefth a n d e d b a t s m a n Chanderpaul showing his explosive batting as well as hitting an impressive 77 to

help his team beat Orlando Galaxybynineruns.

Fort Lauderdale Lions reachedarespectable160all out in the 20-overs while Orlando Galaxy, who won the toss, replied with 151-8 whenthe20-oversranout.

Chanderpaul, the son of legendary player Shivnarine Chanderpaul,clobberedfour sixes and four fours during

his 49-ball enterprise at the crease.

The captain, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, got support from Zachary Sattur who contributed 28 as Hardik Desai grabbed 3-17 from three overs and Sumit Sehrawat picking up 2-31 fromthreeovers.

For Orlando Galaxy, MeetulPatelhitafighting42

Adrian Sukhwa blasts two half-centuries for Riverside Cricket Club

Pugnacious opening

batsman Adrian Sukhwa blasted back-to-back halfcenturies for Riverside Cricket Club in the 2023 Connecticut Cricket League T20tournament.

Last Sunday, the former Guyana youth player slammedabrilliant86tofire histeamtoacomprehensive seven-wicket win over JPL Cricket Club while the previous Sunday, the righthanded Sukhwa struck an unbeaten61toleadthemtoa nine-wicket victory over WestHartfordKings.

Playing at Keney Park, Sukhwa clobbered six sixes andeightfoursduringhis36ball display as Riverside Cricket Club reached 167-3 with 30 balls remaining replying to JPL Cricket Club’s challenging 166-6 from20-overs.

Sukhwagotgoodsupport fromJayvenlnThogainathan whocontributedauseful44. Thepairalsofashionedinan enterprising 109-run partnership to set the platformforthewin.

Fizroy Quest grabbed 219 from his maximum four oversbowlingforthelosers.

When JPL Cricket Club battedafterwinningthetoss, KenqueWilliamsalsobatted with aggression to hit a topscore of 84. His pulsating knock comprised of nine sixesandtwofours.

Ex-Guyana and West Indies playerAssad Fudadin claimed three wickets (hattrick) for 44 runs from his

four overs, delivering for RiversideCricketClub.Offspinners Kumar Joseph (121) and Naizul Hussain (021)alsobowledwellintheir four overs to offer tidy support. And in the opening encounter, Sukhwa cracked four sixes and six fours as Riverside Cricket Club chased down West Hartford Kings’ modest 85 all out in 17.1 overs. He and Junior McKenzie(18)sealedoffthe game with a steady, unbroken72-runstand.

ForWestHartfordKings, Bilal Ahmed scored 34 as seamer Earl Hanningham snatched 4-24 from four economical overs to be the

and Praveen Bora with 38. Former Barbados first-class all-rounder Kevin Stoute snatched 4-31 from his maximum four overs bowlingforFortLauderdale Lionsonaresponsivepitch.

From four games,

TagenarineChanderpaulhas accumulated 206 runs while Stoute has taken 12 wickets to be at the top. The action was slated to continue yesterday with Fort LauderdaleLionscomingup againstBaltimoreRoyals.

most successful bowler for the victorious Riverside Cricket Club He got excellent assistance from another seamer Chevon McLean, who finished with 3-6inhisfourovers.

The eight-team, roundrobintournamentisslatedto continue September 10 Riverside Cricket Club will clashwithConcordEaglesat KeneyPark.

Meanwhile, recently, Riverside Cricket Club emerged champions in the 40-overs tournament also under the auspices of ConnecticutCricketLeague. In the process, they retained thechampionship.

AdrianSukhwa

Tagenarine Chanderpaul

Former Hockey Board President, player and Crime Chief Cecil ‘Skip’ Roberts has died

Former Hockey player, who later became President oftheGuyanaHockeyBoard andwasalsotheCrimeChief of the Guyana Police Force, Cecil ‘Skip’ Roberts, has died.

‘Skip’Roberts as he was fondlyknownovertheyears, served Guyana with distinctionwhetherinsports orinthepoliceforceoverthe years. The cool quiet figure wasknownforgettingthings done and played and led the Guyana National team with distinction After his retirement from the police

force, ‘Skip’ would migrate to Canada where he resided untilhispassing.

Current President of the GHB Phillip Fernandes commented on ‘Skip’ Robertsnoting,“Cecil‘Skip’ Roberts was a giant among men, especially in the realm of field hockey in Guyana. HerepresentedGuyanawith distinction during the 1960s and 1970s as a central midfielderandeventuallyas Captain. Hewasamongthe finestplayersofthegamein thatday

Skip was the founder of

the Old Fort field hockey club which started in his bottomhousewherechildren from the South Ruimveldt community and Skip’s two sons, Jeremy and Sammy would practice. The club went on to achieve tremendous results in hockey over the years and remainsoneofthecountry’s premiere clubs, producing many fine players who represented Guyana. Skip’s threesonshaveallplayedthe sportinternationally.”

“Skip then went on to revivethehockeyteamofthe

Guyana Police Force and took that team through its mostvibrantyears.

Laterinlife,afterretiring from the field, Skip continued to serve the sport asaFederationPresidentand international team manager,” Fernandes disclosed.

Another known name in the local sporting fraternity, Chris Fernandes, also shed insight into the life and notable contributions of the late ‘Skip’ Roberts, “It was on the Easter weekend that we first met and the idea of

Guyana’s first participation at the Pan American Games wasdiscussed.

We were lucky that in thatyeartheUSAmen’s (Continuedonpage21)

2023 Digicel Schools’ National Football Championships...

Top performers receive accolades

MVP Ian Daniels of Carmel Secondary received his prize from Digicel Communications Manager, Gabriella Chapman.

Yesterday, the top brass of recently concluded 2023 Digicel Schools’ National Football Championships collected their awards duringasimpleceremonyat Cara Lodge. Attended by representatives of the sponsor, Digicel, the

organisers – Petra Organisation and also representatives of the four top teams, a combined total of over two million dollars washandedout.

Winner of the 8th edition

of the countrywide

tournament, Carmel

Secondary, claimed the top prize of one million dollars while the runner-up, St IgnatiusSecondary,cartedoff the $500,000 second place prize.

The third place finisher, Desrey Caesar- Fox Secondary, won $300,000 and fourth place holder, Waramuri Top, received $200,000 for their efforts.

All monies awarded will go toward a school initiative.

Co-Director of the Petra

Organisation, Troy Mendonca, who spoke briefly, was very appreciative of Digicel and all those involved in every aspectofthetournament.

Mendonca also disclosed thewillingnesshisorganisation hasforthegrassroots level of the sport, and believes tournaments of this magnitude keep the youths inschoolandawayfromillfated decisions Digicel’s Communications Director, Gabriella Chapman, congratulatedtheevent’stop performers as well as organisers for playing their part in another memorable tournament. Chapman said, from her observation, bragging rightswerewell-placed Meanwhile, the Highest Goal Scorer, the Most ValuablePlayerandtheBest Goalkeeper were also handsomelyrewarded.

It was further disclosed that a ninth edition of the impactful tournament is already being discussed by thesponsor

Tournament

Cecil ‘Skip’Roberts

‘One Guyana’ National Basketball Conference continues today

Th e G u y a n a B a s k e t b a l l Federation, in partnership with the Georgetown Basketball Association, “One Guyana”

National Conference continues tonight. Basketball enthusiasts can catch all the action at the National Gymnasium Outdoor Court on Mandela Avenue, with the games starting at 18:30 hours, marking Day Five of this exhilaratingtournament.

The tournament which initially kicked off on Saturday, August 12th, features 14 teams divided into two dynamic conferences: the Harpy Eagles Conference and the JaguarsConference.

With a projected total of 56 to 63 games to be played throughout the competition, in the quest to crown the nation’s basketball

champion.

In this tournament format, teams within the Jaguars Conference and Harpy Eagles Conference will face off against each othertwice.

The top four teams from each conference will then earn the privilege of competing in the playoffs The playoff matchups are structured with the number oneranked team facing the fourth-ranked team, while the second-ranked team battle the thirdranked team The victors of these playoff games will advance to their respective Conference Finals, where they will engage in a best-of-three series to determine who earns the right to move on to the National Finals

The Jaguars Conference features formidable teams

such as Stabroek Eagles, Leonora D-UP Rising Stars, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts, Lamaha Park/Springs

P e p s i S o n i c s , Bagotstown/Prospect Kobras, Cummings Lodge, andUGTrojans.

Meanwhile, the Harpy Eagles Conference boast t h e t a l e n t s o f Kitty/Campbellville Ravens, South Ruimveldt

Ravens, Plaisance Guardians, Guyana D e f e n c e F o r c e , Wortmanville/Werk-en-Rust Pacesetters,NorthRuimveldt Caimans, and Kwakwani Untouchables.

The stakes are high in this competition, with the tournament winner set to claimasubstantialprizeof $1 million along with well-deservedtrophies

The runners-up won’t leaveempty-handed,asthey will be awarded $500,000

and a trophy as recognition oftheirefforts. The event is made possible by the support of

key sponsors, including the Culture, Youth, and Sport Ministry; G-Boats Guyana; N a t i o n a l S p o r t s

Commission; Guyana Basketball Federation; and Georgetown Basketball Association.

Recent action of the ‘One Guyana’National Basketball Conference at the National Gymnasium.

Athanaze star shines bright to lead Royals Home

Champions Carmel Secondary School received their prize from Digicel Marketing Manager, Ramesh Rupchand, in the presence of Petra Co-Director, Troy Mendonca.

AlickAthanaze’s knock of 76 saw the Royals home. (CPL)