Guyana Times -- Friday, April 15, 2022

Good Friday: Forgiveness for one’s sins Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

P17

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4980

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

PRICE

Our next publication will be on Sunday, April 17, 2022

Development will come rapidly –…as President Ali Mandela-Eccles 4-lane highway commissioned See story on page 3

with stern warnings for errant drivers

CGX Energy secures US$35M Frontera loan to finance deepwater port Page 7

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Mother cries for justice 1 year after son was killed P18 in hit and run Stabbing of 4-year-old

Mother’s lover granted bail on attempted murder charge

P19

76-year-old fullyvaccinated man dies from COVID

– 9 new cases detected as persons urged to take precautions over holiday weekend P16

Jumbo Jet donates bus P14 to CIOG

Children of the staff of the Home Affairs Ministry were seen with smiling faces as subject Minister Robeson Benn gifted them kites for Easter. He encouraged them to fly their kites in open spaces away from electrical wires, buildings and the roadways

National Assembly nominates Dunstan Barrow as Director on NRF Board Page 9

story on Criticisms of CCJ Seepage 11 President’s meeting with Govt officials misconceived, scandalous – AG Nandlall

$6M in ganja found in Mahdia-bound minibus

Page 15

Motorcyclist gets $600,000 P9 bail for causing death of Sophia teen

GPF, GCCI explore P19 collaboration, strengthening partnership

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 Development will come rapidly – President Ali NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, April 15 – 02:30h-04:00h and Saturday, April 16 – 03:00h-04:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, April 15 – 15:30h-17:00h and Saturday, April 16 –16:10h-017:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY

Heavy to light rain showers are expected in the early-morning hours followed by cloudy conditions, with partly cloudy skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 16:00h reaching a maximum height of 2.73 metres.

Low Tide: 09:34h and 21: 51h reaching minimum heights of 0.50 metre and 0.48 metre.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS I

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COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$111.70/barrel

+2.68

Rough Rice

$291.294/ton

+2.68

London Sugar

$550.30/ton

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$1974.20

$1975.70

Low/High Change

$1960.50 0.00

$1981.50 0.00%

… as Mandela-Eccles 4-lane highway commissioned with stern warnings for errant drivers

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he much-anticipated Mandela-to-Eccles fourlane Highway was commissioned on Thursday evening and according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, similar developments can be expected across the country over the coming years.

“Development will come and it will come rapidly. To support that development requires rapid infrastructural transformation,” the Head of State related during his address to the gathering.

The President outlined his Government’s vision for the expansion and enhancement of Guyana’s roadways that will allow persons to travel from Berbice and have several alternative routes to take them to the East Bank Demerara (EBD) corridor as well as along the West Coast and West Bank of Demerara.

These, he noted, will be complemented by various industrial estates along the East Coast Demerara (ECD) corridor, modern hotels and hospitals, and Government centres that are all slated to be underway by the year 2025.

“What I explained to you is not dream or fairy but it is an introduction to Guyana 2025,” he posited.

The Mandela-to-Eccles highway was conceptualised by Dr Ali during his stint as Housing and Water Minister under the previous People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government.

However, it was noted that the project was left languishing over the five years under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition regime.

The $2.6 billion fourlane road runs from Mandela Avenue all the way to Eccles, EBD, and works are currently ongoing on a second phase to further extend the road to Great Diamond, EBD. Construction was executed by eight contractors and completed in less than one year.

The road features an asphaltic and concrete round-about with reinforced concrete sidewalks. The four-lane roadway runs for 2.8 kilometres and includes parking lanes, 12 bridges, stones on the median, and 214 solar-powered lamps among others.

However, one of the most striking features of the new highway is its modern security system, which President Ali explained is aimed at preventing loss of lives along the new road.

This new security feature will be operational in three weeks’ time and will be able to track vehicles and drivers on the highway thus removing the need for Police Officers using the ‘speed guns’.

“This feature would track vehicle speed; it would pop your speed up – go you can see – and it would record your speed. It would then transmit your speed electronically to the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

It would identify your number plate, it would record your number plate; it would identify clearly – even in a dark-filled

President Dr Irfaan Ali joined by Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Housing Ministers Collin Croal and Susan Rodrigues, along with other Cabinet members, to cut the ribbon on the new $2.6 billion Mandela- to-Eccles four-lane highway on Thursday evening

night with rainfall – the image of the driver and the front-seat passenger. It would then transmit that image along with the vehicle and number plate with the number plate electronically,” the President noted.

The new security system will be connected to the ‘safe country solution’ and the ‘safe city solution’. There will be a monthly printout of tickets against those delinquent road users and the document will be sent to their addresses.

Those persons will then be required to clear their tickets with the GRA and failure to do so would result in the non-renewal of their registration and road licence.

He added that the Government would soon be making the necessary adjustments to the relevant traffic laws to cater for the use of this system as well as putting in place new and stricter penal-

ties for errant drivers.

“The adjustments in laws will come where necessary to activate the demerit system for drivers so that those who continuously abuse the roads will lose their licences,” he stated.

President Ali further disclosed that only recently a study found that the average truck was recorded doing 60 km/h at the roundabout, which has a 30 km/h limit. He described that finding as the “speed of death”.

“There is no doubt in my mind that all of us in this country will be prosperous. There is no doubt in my mind that we will be “One Guyana” – strongly knitted and united, but “One Guyana” means taking responsibility for each other… “One Guyana” means responsibility, discipline, commitment,” the Head of State posited.

Meanwhile, similar sentiments were expressed by oth-

er speakers during Thursday’s commissioning ceremony.

They included Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, who pleaded with road users to be responsible.

“I wish to plead with all of you to help to take care of the country’s assets by using the road responsibly,” he stated.

According to Croal, this critical infrastructure will not only reduce travel time for residents along the East Bank corridor but will also increase property value in its surroundings as well as give birth to new housing schemes and commercial zones.

Minister with the Housing Ministry, Susan Rodrigues said, during her remarks, that in addition to benefiting people, the four-lane roadway served as the new paradigm shift in the way things would be done under the PPP/C Government.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Good Friday: Hope and renewal

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sk any child what Easter means to them and more than likely their answer will revolve around kite flying, eating chocolate 'eggs', hat shows and for little girls in particular, bonnet parades.

Many adults, this Easter weekend – after two years of COVID-19 and its effect of social curtailment – will be travelling for Regatta or Rodeo or maybe overseas because it affords a four-day break without the need to take an official holiday.

However, not enough attention is paid to the real meaning of Easter – the oldest and most important day of the Christian year.

The meaning of Easter is Jesus Christ's victory over death. It is about one man, who was blameless, assuming responsibility for all guilty men. And he promises eternal life for those who accept him as their personal saviour, with the forgiveness of sins and adherence to the principles and teachings he advocated.

The Easter message is, therefore, one of renewal and hope. It is about the triumph of good on Easter Sunday, over the desperation and gloom which must have overtaken followers of Jesus on Good Friday, the day of his crucifixion.

It is also about the redemption of man who had fallen through his sinful choices, and for whom the eternal love of God had been shown by the sacrifice of his own beloved son so that the world through him might be saved.

This timeless message is one tailored for these times, if it is properly understood. It is, in a word, a message of hope!

This weekend, starting today with Good Friday, when we celebrate the monumental event that is at the centre of the Christian faith – "The Resurrection" – it is perhaps an appropriate occasion for reflections on the decline in behaviour and values, and the moral and spiritual challenges facing society.

In this context, we may also need to recall that Jesus' death was preceded by the public acclamation for the rogue and robber Barabbas, and the wholesale condemnation to the horrors of crucifixion of a man of whom Pilate could say he had "found no fault with".

Even then, the public were given to choosing the popular and easy path in preference to the decision which would have accorded with the virtuous and unpopular way.

This is the period too where the leaders in our country, particularly those in Parliament, should reflect on their approach and treatment of each other in that august chamber, as any semblance of negativity demonstrated by them could easily be mimicked.

Living by example is not just for adherents of the Christian faith, but for all people of this country and in particular those in positions of influence and decisionmaking.

So, as we observe Good Friday today and then celebrate Easter on Sunday, rejoicing at the Resurrection, both Christians and other members of our society need to reflect on the essential message of the season.

At the same time, we need to recognise the broader appeal of the message of the biblical doctrines which provide hope for us in recessionary times, and also provide a road map for citizens in a society which has been adversely affected by social deviance and increasing violence – that "one should love one's neighbour as one's self".

The meaning of Good Friday today, which precedes Easter, therefore, includes a need to see the wider message of hope and renewal.

The Education Ministry on Thursday hosted a hat competition in which staff from several departments participated and winners were awarded prizes. Staff members were also reminded about the reason behind Easter and the significance it has in their lives.

They were treated to several cultural items including spoken word poetry, songs, dramatic pieces and steel pan renditions by the Buxton Steel Orchestra

Shubh Hanuman Jayanti to all Guyanese Dear Editor, In this blessed land of Guyana, Guyanese are once again privileged to fast and pray together this Saturday, as the three mainstream religions: Hinduism, Christianity and Islam, simultaneously observe Hanuman Jayanti, Easter Saturday, and Ramadan.

Having observed nine nights and days of Vasant Navratri, culminating with Ram Navami last Sunday, Hanuman Jayanti follows shortly, and Hindus in Guyana will join with the rest of the world to celebrate this grand occasion, which typically falls on the day of the full moon during the Chaitra month, as per the Hindu calendar.

This year, the Chaitra Purnima Tithi commences at 2:25am on April 16th and ends at 12:24am on the 17th. The auspiciousness is consolidated with conducting Satnarayan Katha for Purnima, and paying homage to Shri Hanuman Ji in celebrating His manifestation from Lord Shiva.

One of the most revered Deities, being the elixir of devotion over doubts, despair and distress, Prabhu Sri Ram commissioned Pawan Putra Hanuman as his most ardent devotee, to portray strength, energy, valour and wisdom, and as his ambassador for His representation. Sri Ram also embraced Hanuman Ji as his fourth brother.

As a blessing to Anjana, an Aspara who spent 12 long years praying to Lord Shiva to rid her of a Shraap from Sage Durvasa, He provided

her and Kesari with a joy of the world with His incarnation as Mahaveer Hanuman Swami. At the same time that Anjana Devi was engaged in Tapasya, King Dasharatha in Ayodhya was performing the ritual Putrakama yagna in order to be blessed with children. By divine intervention, Suvarchala, the kitebird, appeared right in time and snatched some of the payasam or pudding given to King Dasarath from Agni Deo, flew away, and dropped it in the air above the vicinity of Anjana’s head. Vayu, the wind God, blew the droppings directly in the open palms of Anjana, and she participated in the offerings from above. From this consumption, she was gifted with Shri Hanuman Ji. King Dasarath was blessed with 4 sons: Shri Ram, Bharat, Lakshmana and Shatrughna.

As a child and growing youth, Shri Hanuman thrilled the world with his admirable feats and prankish mischief, endearing adventures unbelievable to the eyes of his companions. Like Shri Krishna, he had an army of followers who never left his company, but proceeded not to abate from his magnet. In the Holy Ramayana, Valmiki emotionally describes the inevitable meeting of Shri Ram and Hanuman Ji in the forest as a revered moment filled with ecclesiastical and savoured penchant. From that moment, Shri Hanuman Ji remained in the Lord’s company, to serve him with humility and harmony, blossoming with ardour and adoration and bonded through

appreciation and attachment.

Lal Teeka is applied on the forehead to demarcate a devout devotee of Shri Hanuman Ji, and Hindus would do Hanuman Jhandi on Tuesdays and Saturdays to pay homage to him.

Raising the red flag in the front of the yard remains a pride for all of his worshippers, and a Hindu home is usually identified by this hallmark.

Pawan Putra Hanuman served Shri Ram with exceptional distinction, and Hanuman Ji is considered the door to Shri Ram. By praying to Hanuman Ji, he can be the pathway for receiving the blessings of Sri Ram. There are numerous and fantastic stories with their diverse facets depicting the valour of Sri Hanuman in coming to the rescue and assistance of the Raghukul.

His strength was needed to restore King Sugreeva to his rightful throne, secure the victory of Lanka, and eliminate the evil Rawana to place his kind-hearted brother Vibishana to rule.

Sri Hanuman’s valour was required to release Sita Mata from the imprisonment in Lanka, and his intellect became renowned with his dealings with the different demons and their trickery and sorcery. As a yogi, Hanuman Ji could have expanded and contracted his body size to fit the need or purpose of his mission. When Sri Ram’s brother Lakshmana was hurt in the battle, Sri Hanuman

felt the pain, and his sentiments expressed overflowed his love and compassion for the brothers. His retrieving of the whole mountain to ensure that Lakshmana would be cured with the right medicine from the Sanjeevani herb depicted his committed concern and unswerving loyalty to risk any danger in order to give his services selflessly.

The Hanuman Chalisa remains one of the most beloved and dearly chants for all Hindus, being a devotional strota or hymn. The forty verses authored by Tulsidas Ji in the Awadhi language serenades the glory of Shri Hanuman Ji, and fully describes his affluent features, flawlessly characterising his immaculate qualities. It is sung before the commencement of the reading of the Ramayana, and heralds the end of a puja for Shri Raghuveer.

Shri Hanuman Ji was asked by Lord Rama to remain on Dharti Ma, and his immortality sanctions a devotee’s prayers as the means to capture Bhagwan’s attention faster.

May Sri Hanuman Ji bestow his love for all, and remove all hurdles as we celebrate His anniversary. May the sentiments and emotions of Pawan Putra remain our strength and devotion towards the road of renunciation. Shubh Hanuman Jayanti to all Guyanese as we share His love for a One Guyana.

Respectfully, Jai Lall

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

GECOM is putting its Tribute to Mike house in order

Dear Editor, Justice Claudette Singh is on course in having two important matters of the commission settled: having key positions in the secretariat filled, as well as completion of the houseto-house registration that was so much acclaimed by the Opposition PNC. All of these important issues will be addressed in time for Local Government Elections.

Getting things right at GECOM is great news, and a welcome development; it is a step in the right direction in the fulfillment of the democratic process. We want the democratic pro-

cess to work freely, transparently, fairly and justly for all the parties involved.

We want to run as far away and as fast from the backwardness and shame of the 2015-2020 period, when democracy hung in the balance and our country was earmarked to become the pariah of the Caribbean.

Thankfully, that lawlessness and shame was averted, and good sense prevailed. In this regard, GECOM must take cautious steps in fulfilling its mandate; as careful, proper scrutiny - no more no less - of every single person selected to hold office there is necessary. Those

who are chosen to do the day-to-day administration of our elections must go through that acid test.

Now, the pace at which things are being done at GECOM is cause for concern in some quarters, namely the PNC Opposition, to be exact.

They are of the opinion that things are moving painfully slow, and should be speeded up, but as I said in a previous paragraph, filling these GECOM positions must be carefully done, so as to avoid the pitfalls of yesteryear.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Police methods!!!

Dear Editor, Of recent, the Government could be seen travelling throughout Guyana, meeting the people to listen to the community issues affecting them, and making decisions to assist. In addition, the acting Commissioner and high-ranking members of the Guyana Police Force could be seen playing their roles by also visiting areas and talking to the residents, and even major stakeholders.

I've no problem with these moves, because I'm glad to see many of the issues affecting us being resolved; however, my concern is that the GPF already have many issues that could be dealt with that don't involve consultation, and they are not addressing them properly.

Editor, immediately after Ambassador Lynch issued the advisory on the crime situation around the Stabroek area, we saw members of the GPF swoop down on the Stabroek area, accompanied by media representatives, and inform the public of a glorious plan to regularise the area.

Lo and behold, a few days after, there were constant traffic jams at the various parks, mostly being caused by errant minibus drivers.

People are continuously being blatantly assaulted and robbed around the Stabroek area during the day and night. Almost every night and into the morning hours, vendors shopped around the old GNCB bank and the selling area is being robbed.

Vendors are reluctant to assist one another, because the criminals are armed and there's no protection should they resist.

These criminals are known and regular, why can't the GPF set up sting operations to get rid of these criminal elements? They are so brazen that many vendors and minibus operators know them, and would point them out as they pass. The way they move around also would make you be cautious/ suspicious, because they move around without fear.

It's very sad to listen to the vendors complaining, and no one seems to have any interest in their well-being.

Finally, Editor, traffic jams don't occur in the Stabroek area alone.

They occur throughout Georgetown, and the outskirts are also facing this problem. Hopefully, with the new roads and roundabout, there would be a reduction. The GPF issued an advisory to the public, suggesting that the citizens could carpool. It is, again, a wonderful suggestion, but maybe they should advise drivers of the GPF vehicles that, unless there's an emergency, they should not turn on their sirens and bully their way through the traffic, causing drivers to hurriedly go into the corners, and leaving chaos after they have passed.

Rarely could you see a Police vehicle in a traffic jam and waiting patiently along with the other vehicles.

They would turn on their sirens and drive through without even looking to see what could be causing the jam. The senior ranks would have the heavily tainted Police cars, either going to pick them up or taking them places, driving recklessly, with sirens blazing daily.

It should be noted that many times Ministers’ vehicles could be seen on the

roadways only with the lights flashing, and not bullying their way through traffic.

It's a fact that the GPF is abusing their privileges, and they are part of the problem creating traffic jams. They should do a little house cleaning first, but that's impossible. Many still drive around with their heavily tainted vehicles, and even going to work with them. So yes, the comedy show continues!

Sincerely, Sahadeo Bates

Dear Editor, We hereby commiserate with the elders, together with the darling wife and children of Lakeram Singh, popularly known as Mike.

Mike was a leading member of the Mike’s Wellman Softball Cricket Team that travelled to Florida to take part in a competition. The day of the tournament was hot and humid. Mike was handed the ball to bowl; he bowled the last ball of his over, and then collapsed on the field. He was rushed for medical attention, and he expired rapidly, travelling to the heavenly zone on the 31st March, 2022.

The greatest gift of any community is to dwell among peaceful, enlightened neighbours. Mike and his family remain our close good neighbours.

The shock of his sudden death sent streams of doubt across the country, and shock to the near and dear ones that in fact he died.

Mike is not popular and dearly loved by many because he is a macro distributor in Guyana of pharmaceutical products; it is due to Mike’s charm, kindness, generosity and soft, sweet communication and persuasion, and without the use of obscenities as a means of persuasion to his staff, his workers, and members of society in general. He remained helpful to all who sought aid.

We cannot overcome the sudden passing of such a good and dear person, yet

we have to come to terms with destiny.

From a simple unknown pharmacy, Mike has developed and built a magnificent multi-storey building in Blygezeigt which has now become the epitaph of his glory and the symbol of his heritage. He took none of these things with him, as material wealth is frail and fickle.

Mike has taken his fine, good and lofty character, honesty, charity, generosity and love of God to his heavenly home.

We of the Kissoon fami-

ly sympathise with his darling wife and children, that his goodness and popularity will ameliorate the great pain they now endure at the passing of a good husband and great father.

We humbly pray that his soul may have eternal rest with perpetual light of the divine shining upon him.

We love Mike and his family.

Sincerely, JT Kissoon, Attorney-at-Law & Family

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

By William Wordsworth

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n this fun and easy science experiment for kids, we’re going to attempt to make metal shiny by using a chemical reaction.

Materials:

Glass Vinegar Salt Measuring spoon Twenty or thirty dirty pennies Two or three paperclips Instructions: Fill the glass about halfway full with vinegar.

Stir in one teaspoon of salt until it dissolves.

Soak the pennies in the solution until they are clean.

Take the pennies out of the vinegar solution.

Now put the paperclips in the vinegar solution and let them sit for several hours.

Remove the paperclips. If they are not a noticeably different color, return the paperclips to the solution.

How it works: The vinegar is an acid and when combined with salt will easily dissolve the copper of the pennies. The copper atoms in the vinegar and salt mixture will move through the solution and swap with the iron atoms in the paperclips. The swapping of iron atoms for copper atoms will copper plate the paperclips giving them a nice and shiny copper coating.

Make this a science project: Try to copper plate other metal items. Try a different acid like lemon juice. Try different types of salt such as Epsom salts. (sciencefun.org)

"Any fool can know. The point is to understand" — Albert Einstein

Earth has not anything to show more fair: Dull would he be of soul who could pass by A sight so touching in its majesty: This City now doth, like a garment, wear The beauty of the morning; silent, bare, Ships, towers, domes, theatres, and temples lie Open unto the fields, and to the sky; All bright and glittering in the smokeless air.

Never did sun more beautifully steep In his first splendour, valley, rock, or hill; Ne'er saw I, never felt, a calm so deep!

The river glideth at his own sweet will: Dear God! the very houses seem asleep; And all that mighty heart is lying still!

Summary In this 14-lined Italian sonnet, the persona is crossing the Westminster bridge and sees a sight that he never has before. The city before him now seems to be more beautiful than he ever had considered it to be before, in the early morning air. He notices the small details all around him, and is awed by the stillness and beauty all around.

The sonnet overall is an expression of the persona's admiration of the world around him. The theme is natural beauty, and the tone is reverent and somewhat celebratory of the beauty of nature. The mood could be described as amazement, serenity or wonder.

Analyse the following lines: "Earth has not anything to show more fair:" "Dull would he be of soul who could pass by a sight so touching in its majesty:" "Never did sun more beautifully steep in his first splendour, valley, rock, or hill; "

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CGX Energy secures US$35M Frontera loan to finance deepwater port

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Artist's impression of Berbice Deep Water Port

GX Energy and Frontera Energy Corporation have sealed a US$35 million loan agreement that would see CGX Energy continue plugging more funds in the Corentyne Block and the Berbice Deepwater Port, along with other costs associated with the deal.

An Oil Now report has stated that the US$35 million loan will be secured by all of the assets of CGX in a move that could see Frontera expanding its ownership of CGX’s shares.

As per the terms set out, the loan will be available for drawdown in tranches, on a non-revolving basis until September 10, 2023, or the date that CGX has drawn down the maximum amount of the loan. It was explained that the loan would become due and payable on September 10, 2023, or a later date as mandated

by Frontera, together with all

the interest accrued.

The interest rate has been set at 9.7 percent per annum, and would be paid each month in cash, with an interest on overdue interest. And should the loan be extended by Frontera past the September 10, 2023 deadline, the interest rate would then move to 15 percent per annum.

CGX says Kawa was a ‘finders well’ opportunity unlocked, not being ‘abandoned’.

Further, a standby fee of 2 percent per annum multiplied by the daily average amount of unused commitment under the loan in excess of US$19 million shall be payable quarterly in arrears by CGX, on the last business day of each fiscal quarter, during the drawdown period.

Added to that, once approved by the TSX Venture Exchange, Frontera, in its sole discretion, can, at any time after July 31, 2022 up to and including September 10, 2023, choose to convert

all or a portion of the principal amount of the loan outstanding into common shares of CGX. This would be done at a conversion price equal to US$2.42 per common share (equivalent of Cdn. $3.10 per common share), provided Frontera provides CGX with 15 business days’ notice of such conversion.

CGX also has the right to prepay all or any portion of the loan, including any unpaid interest, on 15 business days’ notice to Frontera before September 10, 2023.

The Corentyne Block operator is also required to repay all of the loan that is outstanding in the event that, without the consent of Frontera, it issues any security that would dilute Frontera’s current ownership of CGX, or any of its subsidiaries enters into any transaction the proceeds of which are used by CGX to pay its part of the authorised costs of Wei-1.

The maximum number of

The Corentyne Block operated by CGX

common shares of CGX which may be acquired by Frontera upon the conversion of the principal amount of the loan is 14,462,809 common shares of CGX. If the loan principal is converted in full, Frontera will hold approximately 77.93 percent of the currently issued and outstanding common shares of CGX (compared to its current ownership of 76.97 percent).

The loan remains subject to customary conditions, including obtaining all required regulatory final approvals.

CGX operates both Corentyne and Demerara

with 66.67% stakes, and Frontera holds the remaining 33.33%.

In February, CGX Energy Incorporated and its joint venture partner Frontera Energy Corporation announced an oil find of 200 feet of oil-bearing reserves in the Kawa-1 well.

In January, the partners announced an oil find in the Kawa-1 well in the Corentyne Block, bringing an end to an over-two-decades wait for the company’s maiden discovery of oil in commercial quantities.

According to them at the time, the Kawa-1 well was

drilled to a depth of 21,578 feet and encountered some 200 feet of oil-bearing reserves in the well during an initial evaluation.

There are further hydrocarbon-bearing sands that were encountered, which the companies said will be analysed and possibly form the targets of future exploration.

The company had further revealed that in the wake of its success at the Kawa1 well, a second well, called the Wei-1, will be spud in the north-western part of the Corentyne Block in the second half of the year.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Finally...

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…Norton’s in fter shooting itself in the foot - with the Sanctimonious Gangster aiming the gun - the PNC finally had itsleader-since-December appointed as “Opposition Leader”!! Surely, dear reader, we don’t have to go over the sordid details, do we?? That’s now a Guyanese cautionary tale for the ages on the tragedy of a country led by men filled with hubris. As was promised by the Speaker, as soon as Norton (along with Volda) was sworn in as an MP, the Opposition MPs were allowed to huddle and elect their Leader.

Within 15 minutes, the deed was done!! So, it’s clear that neither Ramjattan with his 9 AFC MPs nor the 20 APNU MPs selected by Granger raised any fuss, even though Norton had already signalled there were going to be some “readjustments”. This bodes well for Norton, since it’s never a good strategy to fight on two fronts - especially if one of those fronts is from within!!

Norton indicated very clearly that he’s taken your Eyewitness’s advice to focus on utilising his new bully pulpit as the means of removing the PPP from office, and the means of scrutinising their performance from all the platforms available in Parliament, to “expose” whatever skulduggery he can find.

While Norton didn’t get too granular, your Eyewitness expects he’ll take the advice to utilise the Sectoral Committees to summon whichever Government official the Opposition believes can reveal needed facts, and grill them in the presence of the media!! That’s getting two bangs for the buck!! Making Government officials sweat, and having it reported in the mainstream press!! You don’t think the house lot distribution is fair?? Well…grill officials from Housing!! Employment opportunities? Ditto!!

What Norton has to aim for - as advised by your Eyewitness - is weaning away enough crossovers to give him the one or two seats that stand between him remaining in the Opposition or capturing the Executive. His weak link, of course, is the AFC of Ramjattan. While they got 9 MPs as per Granger’s Cummingsburg Accord, there’s no way he can muster that kind of support in 2025. Frankly, it’s doubtful they can even pip any of those mushroom parties that popped up in 2020! It took two of them to obtain ONE “joiner” seat!! The clincher in 2015 was the Indian crossover vote, especially in Berbice. This disappeared like a snow cone in hell the moment Granger decided to shutter those sugar estates!

Norton will have to get someone who can generate some confidence in the Indian- Guyanese community. Can he do it? Well, not if he takes the advice of the “radicals” and put boots on the ground - in the streets!!

He did make this threat. Hope it was just to genuflect in that direction!! ...a functioning e–democracy??

For those who might be scratching their heads and wondering whether your Eyewitness has switched to the PNC, all that can be said is they missed the point about how a parliamentary democracy functions. It runs on Lord Acton’s principle that power always corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. So, if at elections’ time we hand over power to a group that forms the Executive, what stops them from being corrupt and abusing their power?

The Opposition, that’s what!!

An American founding father had expressed the psychology behind that principle. “If men were angels,” he said, “we wouldn’t need governments”!! But we ain’t angels, right? Not after Adam ate that apple! So, we need power to be checked and balanced at all times. In parliamentary governance, the Opposition checks the Executive in Parliament, and the Opposition Leader checks the President in having to be consulted on certain critical matters.

The Judiciary, finally, checks and balances them both by interpreting the Constitution that they both must follow!!

Kapeesh?? ...anti–colonialism dead?

Your Eyewitness is quite disappointed that Norton went to Parliament in a suit, rather than a shirt-jack. He’s the FIRST small man to become a real man, and he didn’t follow Comrade Leader Burnham?

Et tu, Aubrey??

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

National Assembly nominates Dunstan Motorcyclist gets $600,000 bail for causing Barrow as Director on NRF Board death of Sophia teen

Dunstan Barrow

T

he National Assembly on Wednesday nominated former PNCR Member of Parliament (MP) Dunstan Barrow for the position of Director on the Board of Directors of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

The position of Director is provided for in the NRF Act 2021, which became law in December, 2021.

The motion which was passed in the Assembly was moved by Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, who is also the Chairperson of the Committee of Appointments.

Last month, the Parliamentary Committee of Appointments approved the nomination of Dunstan Barrow as a Director to sit on the NRF Board, which will have oversight of Guyana’s oil revenues.

Barrow was nominated by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government. However, his nomination did not attract the approval of the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition.

It was reported that there were initially 10

nominees – three from the Government and seven from the Opposition.

The Government’s nominees were Barrow, former Guyana High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Non-Resident Ambassador to France and Russia, Hamley Case; and former Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, Clement Sealey.

Among the Opposition nominees were Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram and former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Vincent Adams.

Reports are that the coalition members were upset that Government would use its one-seat majority in the National Assembly to eventually have its nominee selected. However, President Irfaan Ali recently told reporters that the parliamentary process provides for the Committee of Appointments to select someone of public standing in society to serve as Director on the Board.

“Let’s focus for one moment on the three names that were submitted, that tells you how much interest we want in ‘One Guyana’; not PPP names, three citizens of this country. When we talk about ‘One Guyana’, you need to have integrity,” the Head of State noted.

While stating that he has no issue with the Opposition nominees, President Ali contended that the parliamentary process must be respected. Moreover, he pointed out the duplicity of the APNU/ AFC coalition, which had rejected Ram’s nomination for the Chairmanship of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), but is now supporting his nom-

Dead: Makida Quick

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

ination for the NRF Board.

Meanwhile, in addition to Barrow’s nomination for the NRF Board, the Committee of Appointments also went ahead and approved the Government’s nomination of Clement Sealey to sit on the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee under the NRF Act. Once the nomination is approved by the House, his name will be sent to the President.

The three-to-five-member NRF Board is expected to be made up of mostly civil society representatives, with one nominee from the Private Sector and one from Parliament. The other members are to be appointed by the President.

President Ali had previously made it clear that he would select individuals with the utmost integrity to sit on the Board.

Section 5 (2) of the NRF Act provides that the Directors shall be selected from among persons who

have wide experience and ability in legal, financial, business or administrative matters, but no member of the National Assembly is eligible.

The NRF Act was passed in the National Assembly in December amid chaos caused by the APNU/AFC Opposition, who disrupted the proceedings after the Bill was brought up for debate.

The Bill, which has since been assented to by President Ali, outlines that the Directors will hold the post for not more than two years, with eligibility for reappointment; and all appointments, as well as changes in appointments, are to be gazetted and published on the Ministry’s website and in two daily newspapers.

T

he 21-year-old man who allegedly struck down a 14-yearold girl in Sophia was on Thursday charged with causing death by dangerous driving and placed on $600,000 bail.

Glenton Redman of 1584 Section ‘E’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown appeared before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that, on April 10, he drove motorcycle CK 7840 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Makida Quick, a student of the Tucville Secondary School.

The matter has been adjourned to June 8.

It was previously reported that, on the day in question, Redman was speeding south along the eastern side of Section E Field’s Main Access Road in a lying posi-

tion on his motorcycle when he allegedly lost control of the vehicle and it collided with Quick, who was riding a pedal cycle.

As a result of that collision, the teenager was flung some distance in the air before falling into a nearby drain, while Redman fell onto the road’s surface.

Quick and Redman were picked up in an unconscious condition and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where Quick was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police have said that Redman was suspected not to be the holder of a provisional licence.

Shortly after the girl’s death, a team of Police ranks from Regional Division 4A visited her grieving family and assured them that a thorough investigation would be conducted into the deadly accident, and that no stone would be left unturned.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

11 Criticisms of CCJ President’s meeting with Govt officials misconceived, scandalous – AG Nandlall NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali and other Government officials last week

A

ttorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, has joined in rubbishing allegations levelled against Justice Adrian Saunders, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), over his recent engagements with officials of the current People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government.

Justice Saunders was invited by the Guyana Bar Association last week to deliver the Keynote Address at the Bar Dinner last Saturday, which culminated in a series of activities as part of the association’s inaugural Law Week. The CCJ is Guyana’s apex court.

As is customary and protocol to do, the CCJ President, during his visit, on Friday paid a courtesy call on President Dr Irfaan

Ali, who was joined by other Government officials, including Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, along with several ministers. He also met with AG Nandlall and legal practitioners within his office.

These and other meetings on his agenda, including with Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Dr Carla Barnett, were indicated in an official missive from the CCJ. It was explained that since there was no Leader of the Opposition at the time, no such meeting was scheduled.

However, there have since been criticisms from certain sections, denounc-

ing these meetings and accusing Justice Saunders of being biased, given the fact that Guyana has cases before the CCJ in which the Government is a party.

But during this week’s edition of his programme – Issues In The News Nandlall described those allegations as distasteful, unfortunate, regrettable, and baseless.

“I reject that the meetings convey an improper impression; suggesting, of course, that by those meetings, the appearance of bias, or perhaps worse yet, there is likely to be actual bias when the cases are going to be heard before that court.

I wish to reject those criticisms out of hand as completely misconceived, wholly without merit, and rather scandalous,” the Attorney

General posited.

He argued that it is a normal practice for the President of the CCJ, and even judges of the regional court, to make courtesy calls on the Head of State, Attorney General, and Opposition Leader in any member State that has the CCJ as its final court.

“Mr. Justice Saunders simply observe that practice. One of the first things that Mr. Justice Saunders said at the courtesy call that he paid on His Excellency the President was, if there was an Opposition Leader, he would have done similarly… The mere respectful engagement in the form of a courtesy call cannot, and does not, amount to impropriety if the parties involved is a judge and, in this case, members of a Government,” the Legal Affairs Minister contended.

Nandlall further reminded that former CCJ President Sir Dennis Byron had paid a similar courtesy call on former President David Granger during a visit here back in November 2015. At the time, he noted, Guyana had pending cases before the CCJ, but the PPP/C, as the then main Opposition party, did not raise any objection with the meeting.

“We didn’t view that as an improper engagement, so I don’t understand the basis for these ludicrous allegations; these are ordinary engagements. In any democratic, civilised society, these engagements cannot,

Attorney General & Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

and do not, constitute an abrogation of the principles of separation of powers, neither do they amount to, in any way, a violation of the doctrine of natural justice.

It’s only a perverse and perverted mind that can draw these ridiculous inferences and arrive at these outrageous conclusions,” Nandlall stated.

Further driving home his point, the Attorney General explained that the Executive regularly interacts with the Judiciary in Guyana, and even he himself is invited to participate in major events.

Only two weeks ago, Nandlall delivered the feature address at the opening of a Magistrate’s Court in Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

This, he noted, has been happening for years under various Governments.

“I suppose that when

you live in a society where you have persons who have an agenda to divide, they will make these issues part of their agenda, and that is what you’re seeing here…

But it is unfortunate that we have not reached the level of maturity as yet, where these engagements can take place and one can view them objectively, dispassionately, and do not attribute ulterior and sinister motives to the parties of those types of engagements. But that’s the society in which we live,” the AG asserted.

Meanwhile, the Bar Association in Guyana has also already denounced the criticisms against the CCJ President. In a statement issued last Saturday, the Association explained that it is the protocol of the Caribbean Court of Justice that its President visits with the Head of State of member States when that country elects a new leader.

“There is therefore nothing peculiar or insidious about the visit of the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice and the protocol adopted as part of his visit. Any such insinuation or allegation is unfounded and mischievous…

The Bar Council unreservedly condemns such statements and/or insinuations.

The integrity of His Honour and the Court is beyond reproach. We have full confidence therein, whether decisions have been made for or against this Government or any other sitting Government,” it stated.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 15,, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Jumbo Jet donates bus to CIOG

Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr handing over the keys to Shaykh Moeenul Hack

J

umbo Jet Auto Sales on Thursday donated a 17-seater Coaster bus to the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG). This is the third

such donation made by that business entity to the CIOG. The keys to this vehicle were handed over at the CIOG’s Al-Ghazali Islamic Academy on Woolford

Avenue, Georgetown to Principal of the Academy, Shaheed Ahmad, and Shaykh Moeenul Hack, Director of Dawah and Education at CIOG.

The Jumbo Jet business entity was represented by Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr and his family.

Moeenul Hack explained that the bus would be used to daily transport students of the Academy from the Islamic Academy at MetenMeer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara.

“This is the third donation to this institution and our other school located in Meten-Meer-Zorg located on the West Coast of Demerara.

These buses have been used to transport our students to and from our schools, and it has resulted in the increase of the school population when they were introduced,” Moeenul Hack explained.

“Many parents feel safe that their children are being

Students of the academy

picked up and transported to our schools,” he added.

The CIOG, in a press release, related that the bus “will be of tremendous benefit, especially to the orphans and vulnerable stu-

dents, which will allow them to travel safely, securely and conveniently to and from school, thus ensuring regular attendance, which will enhance their education.”

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$6M in ganja found in Mahdia-bound minibus

The ganja that was found in the minibus

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gents of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Wednesday discovered $6 million worth of ganja in a Mahdia-bound minibus that was intercepted at Yarrowkabra village, Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

Based on reports received, members of the drug enforcement body conducted an intelligence-led operation that resulted in interception of the minibus

as it was transporting passengers and food supplies to Mahdia.

A search conducted on the minibus resulted in the discovery of 19 parcels of cannabis concealed in pieces of sponge.

Six persons were arrested, along with the driver, 40-year-old Nelvern Isaacs of Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

They were taken to the CANU Headquarters along

with the narcotics, which when weighed amounted to 19.593kg, which has a street value of approximately $6 million.

All of the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

CANU has been working around the clock to make sure that illegal drugs are taken off the streets.

CANU has only recently destroyed over US$2.5 million of drugs seized from 2021,

following the closure of the court cases.

It has been reported that the Unit had intercepted 2.1 tonnes of cannabis and 41 kilogrammes of cocaine.

A breakdown of the ganja seized in the various regions of Guyana showed that interceptions occurred as follows: a whopping 1027 kilogrammes in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); 481 kilogrammes in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); 457 kilogrammes in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); 6.4 kilogrammes in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and 4.4 kilogrammes in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

In respect to cocaine interceptions countrywide, 23.5 kilogrammes were seized in Region Four; 17.4 kilogrammes in Region Two, and a small amount of 0.16 kilogramme in Region Six. In addition, 3.1 kilogrammes of ecstasy were confiscated in Region Four,

The minibus driver who was arrested

and a small amount of Crystal Methamphetamine and Hashish were seized.

In 2020, CANU had seized 32 kilogrammes of cocaine and 135 kilogrammes of cannabis. Last

September, CANU and the Guyana Police Force destroyed over $100 million in illicit drugs, including cocaine and marijuana that had been seized over the past two years.

16 NEWS 76-year-old fully-vaccinated man dies from COVID FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– 9 new cases detected as persons urged to take precautions over holiday weekend

W

ithin a 24-hour period, a second person who tested positive for the novel coronavirus has died in Guyana.

This latest fatality is a 76-year-old male from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) who died on Wednesday, April 13. At the time, the elderly man was fully vaccinated.

The COVID-19 death toll in Guyana has now gone up to 1,228.

Only Wednesday, the Health Ministry reported the death of a 90-year-old unvaccinated woman from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) earlier that day.

These two fatalities are the first recorded for the month of April, and their deaths come nearly one month after the last COVID-19 death was recorded on March 16.

However, new statistics provided by the Ministry showed that another nine persons have tested positive for COVID-19, thus taking the country’s total number of confirmed cases to 63,358.

However, only 100 of these cases are currently active, including one patient in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the remaining persons in isolation; that is: 10 in institutional isolation and the other 89 in home isolation. There are also 24 more persons in institutional quarantine.

In addition to the one pa-

tient in the COVID-19 ICU, there are eight other patients at the Infectious Disease Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, while a total of 11 patients are hospitalised across the country.

Additionally, some 62,030 persons have recovered after contracting the life-threatening disease in the country – six more recoveries than the figure reported the previous day.

Meanwhile, since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in Guyana over two years ago, a total of 581,654 tests have been conducted countrywide, and of this, some 29,166 males and 34,192 females were found to be positive.

Of the nine new cases detected on Thursday, one was from Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), another from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), six were from Region Four (Demerara- Mahaica), and the remaining one case was from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

There were no new cases in the other six regions across the country within the reporting 24-hour period.

This declining trend in COVID-19 cases has resulted in the Guyana Government last month removing most restrictions as the country moves to recover from the pandemic and return to normalcy.

But while mandates such

as masking in public and social distancing are no longer in place, health authorities are still encouraging persons to get vaccinated, and for those who are so qualified, to get their booster shots in order to add a layer of protection against the virus.

Latest figures show that, so far, more than 439,140 or 85.6 per cent of adults have taken a first dose of the vaccine, and of that amount, some 338,208 or 65.9 per cent of persons 18 years and over are fully vaccinated.

For adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17, approximately 34,407 or 47.2 per cent of them have received their first dose, while some 25,160 or 34.5 per cent of them are fully immunised.

In addition, in excess of 60,612 persons have returned for their booster shots thus far.

But even as COVID-19 cases continue to drop, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony has pointed out that while the Government has moved to open up the country and remove most of the restrictions, Guyana is not completely rid of COVID-19, and is still not a place where there are zero COVID-19 cases.

To this end, Dr Anthony is urging citizens to be cautious and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, especially during this upcoming holiday weekend, when for the first time in two

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD APRIL 14, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

9

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

10

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

89

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

1

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

24

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

34,192

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

29,166

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

63,358

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

62,030

REGION 1

2518

REGION 2

2492

REGION 3

8054

REGION 4

31,337

REGION 5

2380

REGION 6

5776

REGION 7

2423

REGION 8

887

REGION 9

4020

REGION 10

3471

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

439,027

FULLY IMMUNISED

338,089

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1228

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

years people will be able to spend Easter outdoors.

“People must take the relevant precautions. Those precautions would be that you should, if you’re in a congested environment, at least have on a mask; and if you must be in those environments, at least wear the masks; and ensure that you’re vaccinated, because we know that vaccination would help to pre-

vent the severe form of the infection and, in many cases, prevent hospitalisation,” Dr Anthony said during Thursday’s COVID-19 update.

According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) recent figures, some 500,186,525 confirmed cases were reported globally, along with 6,190,349 deaths.

In the Region of the

Americas; that is, Latin America and the Caribbean, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 151,691,843, while the death toll in the region has gone up to 2,711,779.

As it relates to vaccination against COVID-19, WHO also reported that a total of 11,294,502,059 doses have been administered worldwide.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Landmark Condominium Bill Good Friday: Forgiveness tabled in National Assembly for one’s sins

G

P

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal at the ACCC

ersons who have purchased duplexes or condominiums from the state will soon be able to access the titled document for their properties, as the Condominium Bill 2022 was tabled in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

The Bill was presented by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal during the 46th Sitting of the Twelfth Parliament at the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC).

With six parts and 65 clauses, the Bill makes provision for the horizontal and vertical subdivision of land and buildings into units for individual ownership, and for the use and management of condominiums.

Among other things, the Bill paves the way for commercial banks to accept titles for the properties, and insurance companies to issue policies to owners of condominiums. Clause 19 of the Bill states that units in a condominium constitute the immovable property, while Clause 20 provides

for the title of ownership of a condominium unit.

Clause 44 empowers unit owners to insure their respective units. The Bill also requires that proposed declarations and descriptions of units be approved by the Minister before a condominium is constructed, or before an existing building is converted into a condominium. It also empowers the Minister to approve, reject, or direct the amendment of a proposed declaration and description.

The crafting and tabling of such a Bill fulfills the promise of the PPP/C Government, made after it was discovered that the former Coalition Administration had constructed duplexes (a home with two individually-owned units in one building) without amending the relevant legislation that guides the regulation of such properties.

In an interview with DPI last year, Minister Croal spoke of the importance of the Bill as the Government

continues to push its aggressive national housing programme. He anticipates there will be a demand for condominiums and duplexes with the advent of the oil and gas sector and a growing interest by investors and developers to construct condominium schemes.

“Our current Act does not cater for that type of construction. We have more of the single ownership…

We cannot accommodate a condominium scheme because the necessary legislation for those was not amended, so all of that will be catered for,” he explained.

The Bill was crafted by the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Attorney General’s Chambers.

It forms part of the Government’s legislative agenda which is directed towards a revamp of many of the archaic and outmoded laws of the country, as well as to lay the foundation for the economic development anticipated to take place in the very near future.

ood Friday is a Christian holiday set aside specifically to commemorate the Crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary. The day is observed on the Friday before Easter. It is believed that Jesus suffered and died for the sins of human beings. This day is therefore observed to ask for forgiveness for one’s sins.

According to the New Testament, Good Friday is the day when Jesus was crucified by the Romans. The Jewish religious leaders had condemned Jesus of blasphemy for claiming to be the Son of God. They were so hysterical by Jesus’s acts that they brought him to the Romans, where Pontius Pilate, a Roman leader, sentenced Jesus to crucifixion.

As the story goes, Jesus was beaten publicly and crowned with thorns. In His battered condition, Jesus was forced to carry a heavy wooden cross through the streets for the entertainment of a jeering crowd.

Finally, He was nailed to the cross by His wrists and feet, where He was left hanging until He died.

According to the accounts in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), the royal soldiers, guided

by Jesus’s disciple Judas Iscariot, arrested Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Judas received money (30 pieces of silver) for betraying Jesus, and told the guards that whomever he kisses is the one they are to arrest, to which Judas went on to kiss Jesus, and call him “Rabbi.”

Conflicting testimony against Jesus was brought by many witnesses, to which Jesus answered nothing.

Finally, the High Priest adjured Jesus to respond un-

der solemn oath, saying “I adjure you, by the Living God, to tell us, are you the Anointed One, the Son of God?” Jesus testified ambiguously, “You have said it, and in time you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Almighty, coming on the clouds of Heaven.”

Following the Synoptic Gospels, the mainstream Christian tradition has held that Jesus’s last meal with His disciples on the evening before His Crucifixion was a Passover seder.

It is said that the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ took place around AD 30 or AD 33. Though the term “Good Friday” is not mentioned in the Holy Bible, the religious text tells us the story of how Jesus was betrayed by Judas, which led to His arrest.

The day, also called Holy Friday and Black Friday, is a day of mourning for Christians worldwide.

People pray that they be liberated from the pain, suffering, and agony in their lives. According to Christian

beliefs, Jesus’s death also signified the end of all sins.

It shows that after all the sins are eliminated, there’s a possibility of a new beginning, which is signified by Jesus Christ’s Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

There are many discussions on why it is called “Good Friday” despite being a sad and sorrowful day. For instance, in German, Good Friday is called Karfreitag, or “Sorrowful Friday.” Many may believe that the origin of Good Friday is from the English term “God’s Friday”.

Today, Christians honour the sacrifices of Jesus, the way He was crucified, His sufferings, the tortures He went through, and the painful death He had.

On this day, many people fast and attend religious services. Churches hold special rituals to commemorate Jesus Christ’s suffering, and silence their bells as a sign of mourning. It is believed that Christians also drape a black cloth over all crosses, photographs, and statues to symbolize Jesus Christ’s death.

18 NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CCJ President laments need for Guyana to appoint more Judges

CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders

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hile commending Guyana for its impressive judicial landscape, Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) President, Justice Adrian Saunders has also lamented the need for the country to appoint more Judges to sit on the Court of Appeal.

He was at the time addressing a gathering of Attorneys-at-Law at the Bar Association of Guyana’s annual Bar Dinner on Saturday last. Justice Saunders related that over the last decade “we have been witnessing” a series of steadying reforms in the administration of justice in Guyana.

This trajectory, he said, is certainly trending in an excellent direction, noting that the regional court is committed to assisting Guyana in this regard.

“It is imperative that these reforms should keep pace with or better yet even outstrip the remarkable de-

velopments taking place in the economy. Attention must be placed on ensuring that the system of judicial appointments and promotions is highly competitive, transparent, and merit-based and that ongoing, relevant, and systematic judicial education is available for Judges and Magistrates.”

Justice Saunders said, too, that now more than ever, Guyana’s Judiciary must be and be seen to be impartial, independent, competent, efficient, effective, and accountable to the people of Guyana.

He, however, added, “We [judicial officers] can only earn the public’s trust if we demonstrate humility and accountability. How do we do that? The Judiciary must, for example, establish and publish performance standards and live up to them. On the other hand, the Executive needs to provide the Judiciary with its

reasonable needs. So, for example, having three Judges of the Court of Appeal is simply not enough for that court to perform effectively.”

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) – the constitutional body responsible for the appointment of judicial officers except for the Chancellor and Chief Justice who are appointed by the President –has not been reconstituted since 2017.

Since taking office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has repeatedly assured of its intention to reconvene the JSC which will pave the way for vacancies in the Judiciary to be filled including the substantive appointments of the Chancellor and Chief Justice.

The current formula for the appointment of the Chancellor and Chief Justice requires consensus between the President and the Opposition Leader.

Article 127 (1) and (2) of the Constitution state: “The

Chancellor and the Chief Justice shall be appointed by the President after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition.”

This provision was added to the Constitution in 2001, and ever since then, a sitting President has been unable to secure the agreement of the Opposition Leader on either of these appointments.

Adjustments were made to the Constitution to cater for if there was no agreement between the President and the Opposition Leader, that is, for the President to make acting appointments.

Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards and Justice Roxane George are acting Chancellor and acting Chief Justice, respectively.

Guyana’s inability to make long-overdue substantive appointments to these two posts has been a source of concern for both local and regional judicial bodies. The CCJ’s President is the latest person to express his views on this impasse, calling on Guyana to remedy this re-

grettable situation with utmost urgency.

While delivering the feature address at the Bar Dinner, he said: “For the country to have not appointed a Chancellor for 17 long years is very disappointing; likewise, to be without an appointed Chief Justice for several years. As the President of your final court, I believe I have a right and a duty publicly to express the view that Guyana should not let this year pass and not remedy this regrettable situation.”

Meanwhile, last year, the acting Chancellor stressed the need for the urgent appointment of more Judges to the Supreme Court of Judicature – which comprises the three High Courts – one each in the counties of Demerara, Berbice, and Essequibo and the Court of Appeal in Kingston, Georgetown. She had highlighted that the current staffing of 13 Judges was not adequate. But in the absence of adequate resources

and staff, she assured that Judges continued to do their work assiduously.

She added, “The Attorney General [Anil Nandlall] is present and I know he is taking heed of our cries. We have need for more than the 11 + two Judges that currently obtains in the Supreme Court…We also need more Magistrates…”

The findings of a recent United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report pointed out that the backlog in cases that have been plaguing Guyana’s criminal justice system for years is because there is, among other things, a shortage of Judges.

“If the present cadre of Judges is not increased, then the issue of backlogs will not be addressed. It is recommended that further options for increasing the human resource capacity including for judicial legal research assistants, Judges, Prosecutors, and trained mediators be explored,” the report noted.

Mother cries for justice 1 year after son was killed in hit and run

By Shane Marks

M

ore than one year ago, 29-year-old Travis Wickham was killed in a hit-and-run accident at Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and today, the grieving family is yet to receive justice.

On January 29, 2021, Wickham was riding a motorcycle along the Enmore Public Road, ECD when he was struck down by a speeding car, which then fled the scene. To date, more than one year later, Police are yet to find the motorcar that was involved in the accident, much less the driver.

The victim’s mother, an emotional Shaundelle Wickham – who resides in Suriname – told Guyana Times in an exclusive interview that it will soon be a year since she last received an update on the case from the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

According to the grieving mother, she last heard from a Police commander, who told her the case would be handed over to the High Court following an inquest by the GPF. This last bit of information was given to the woman in August of 2021.

“The last person I go and see, the commander, told me that the paper gone back

Dead: Travis Wickham

for inquest, and it will be out and the story will throw out over to the High Court.

So, from August to now, I have not heard anything.

We have not heard anything about my son’s case. It’s very hard, it’s very rough on me.

Because not a day goes by that I [don’t] think about my son,” the mother said heartbrokenly.

Shaundelle explained that she had been to the Police station three times over the past year, travelling back and forth from Suriname to Guyana to get information on the matter. Thus far, she hasn’t received from the Police a solid

update that would indicate that progress is being made.

“Since then, I have heard nothing much about my son’s death. I have been to the Police station three times. The first time I go, they said that the paper was gone for the inquest, they said when it come back they will inform the family.

Then I left, I come over back to Suriname, and I go over back to Guyana in August, and I go back there. I have not heard anything, so I go back and I asked them about the letter, if it came back.

They said yes, it came back, but it has to go back for inquest back, for two times,” Shaundelle explained.

She explained that of the five children she has made, Travis was her only son. She said that although the young man had grown into adulthood, he had never spoken ill to her or of her, he had always respected and cared for her, something she always cherished – and will continue to cherish – about him. She added that Travis had kept to himself as a child, avoiding fights throughout his childhood.

“He was my, sad to say, he was my best child. My best. He never answered me back, even though I rowed

Mother of Travis Wickham, Shaundelle Wickham

with him, he never answered me back. He never deh in no problem. He never fight from nursery to secondary, he went to TI. Anybody in the village, in the area, who know he, could testify about that. He was a church boy,” she said fondly of her son.

Further, she related that her son had taken care of her younger child while she stayed in Suriname for work.

The heartbroken mother has said her son’s kindest to her had outmatched the kindness of any other person.

“I am not in the country, and he is the one who used to look after my last daughter, because I am not there,”

she said.

Travis was well-known in his community, having been recognized and respected for his welding work. The man, at 29, was ambitious about his future and what he wanted to achieve. He was a business owner.

“My son was a person with ambition. He had his own business. He used to do welding. He used to work with the Government, and anybody use to call him to do work on houses and so forth.

He [was] always there, so anybody around the neighbourhood they know [that] my son was a good person,” Shaundelle related.

The mother expressed her disappointment in the woman accused of killing her son, saying that she cannot comprehend how a human being didn’t render assistance to someone they had harmed. She said, “I cannot understand how somebody can hit somebody and they did not stop to see if they could render their assistance, and they just drive away.”

At this stage of the woman’s life, she highlighted that she only wants justice for her son, and would like the GPF to do their job efficiently to ensure that justice isn’t unnecessarily pro-

longed.

“I need justice for my son. He was my first child and my only son too. I would like the Guyana Police Force, they should do their work properly because in a case like a hit-and-run… when it have an accident and somebody die…and the person drive away, that’s for sure that the person was wrong, because if the person wasn’t wrong, they would’ve stopped to know…”

Shaundelle cried.

The 29-year-old welder, who had left his Lot 291 Bachelor’s Adventure, ECD home at about 08:00h on January 19, 2021 to visit his girlfriend, was struck down and killed almost instantly by a motor car which allegedly belonged to an ex-female cop, which sped away from the scene.

Reports are that Wickham was riding his motorcycle in the vicinity of the Foulis Gas Station at Enmore, ECD, heading into Nabaclis. ECD when the car attempted to overtake a bus.

In the process, the motorcyclist was struck from his motorcycle, which caused him to be flung at a moving minibus. As a result, he fell onto the roadway, where he sustained injuries about his body and died.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GPF, GCCI explore collaboration, strengthening partnership

– MoU being formalised

T

he Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) are currently exploring ways and options to collaborate and strengthen their existing decades-long bonds of friendship and partnership.

Senior and executive members of the GPF’s Leadership Team and Executive members of the GCCI met on Wednesday to identify areas of collaboration and to discuss strategies that can be implemented in not just crime prevention but also in aiding the Force in its committed quest to improve the quality of its service delivery to the public.

In fact, a number of issues were ventilated during the almost two-hour meeting which was held in the Commissioner’s Boardroom at Force Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

Among the issues raised, which the GPF is seeking to partner with the GCCI and the corporate sector in tackling, are gender-based violence, domestic violence, crime prevention strategies, training and education awareness, and traffic management especially as it relates to road signs and markings to assist the general commuting public.

GCCI President Timothy Tucker explained that the Chamber looked forward to a close working relationship

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken along with other top-ranking officials of the Guyana Police Force and members of the GCCI

with the Force and to partnering in its social crime prevention programme.

According to him, the GCCI has an open-door policy as it relates to collaboration with the Force.

On the issue of traffic management, Tucker pointed out that he was aware of cases where visitors/tourists using some of the roads in the city were sometimes clueless as to which roadways were one-way streets and which were not, as the markings and signs needed to be more visible, or new

ones needed to be done in areas where there were none.

Tucker also alluded to the fact that one of the best ways to counter the negative perception and improve the image of the Force is by having a good and effective public relations machinery.

He also highlighted the need for persons in society to find alternatives to cash and to move away from cash-based transactions.

Acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken said that partnership with all stakeholders,

including the corporate sector, was essential in contemporary policing and was key to bridging the gap between the Police and members of the public.

Noting that the Force could not operate in isolation or in a vacuum by itself, Hicken stressed that partnership and collabo-

ration were very important elements in successfully achieving the mandate of the GPF in terms of service and protection to the public, as working in isolation would exhaust its limited resources.

As such, in an effort to maximise its resources, the

GPF must work in partnership with all stakeholders, including the corporate community and bodies.

Hicken also informed the GCCI team about the Force’s Strategic Plan 2022-2026, which speaks to operations, infrastructure, performance, partnership, professionalism, and accountability. He also highlighted the robust community outreach programme that the Force has undertaken across all the Police Divisions in Guyana.

The acting Top Cop further assured that moving forward under his leadership, things would not be done in an ad-hoc manner but in a very structured way to measure results. On this note, he lauded the GCCI for its positive input and suggestions during the meeting and for its eagerness to work with the Force to make Guyana a safer place for all.

Acting Deputy C o m m i s s i o n e r (Administration) Calvin Brutus would be drafting the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the GPF and the GCCI, after which it would be finalised by both parties and then ratified.

Trio slapped with armed robbery charge

Stabbing of 4-year-old…

Mother’s lover granted bail on attempted murder charge

P

Charged: Padmini Dwarka

admini Dwarka, 29, of Cemetery Road, Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), who chopped a Four-year-old girl during an argument with her mother, was granted bail on Thursday.

Dwarka appeared at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court, where she was not required to plead to the charge which stated that on

April 11, 2022, she attempted to murder Zahara Lewis, 4.

The charge was laid under section 103 (c) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, and was read by Magistrate Judy Latchman. The accused was granted bail in the sum of $150,000 and the matter has been adjourned to May 17, 2022.

It was reported that the child’s mother and the suspect shared an intimate relationship. The mother, an aviation officer, reportedly told Police that the suspect returned home from work, and they became embroiled in an argument that became confrontational. At that point, she said, she picked up her child and held her in her hands while notifying the suspect that she was leaving because she was frustrated with the re-

petitive arguments between them.

She said the suspect then armed herself with a knife, approached her and dealt a stab to her body.

It was during that time that the child was stabbed in her left side abdomen.

The suspect then made good her escape, and according to Police, the child was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where she was treated and immediately transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for advanced medical treatment.

The child is still a patient at the GPHC in a critical condition.

On Tuesday, accompanied by her lawyer, the suspect turned herself in to the custody of Police at Timehri Police Station. She has been arrested, and is assisting with the investigations.

Adrian Fernandes

Gladwin McDonald

Emanuel Payne

hree men were on Thursday arraigned with armed robbery when they appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate A George.

Adrian Fernandes, 30, a labourer of South Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Gladwin McDonald, 30, also a labourer , of Goedverwagting Squatting Area, ECD and Emanuel Payne, 23, of Goedverwgating Housing Scheme were jointly charged for the robbery committed on 50-year-old Alex Adridge of Goedverwagting

Squatting Area.

The charge was instituted under Section 222 (c) of the Criminal Laws (offences) Act Chapter 8:01.

The men reportedly pleaded not guilty and would make their next court appearance on May 16, 2022.

It was reported that Adridge, a contractor, was at home when four men invaded his property and relieved him of four gold rings, one silver chain, and $5000 in cash.

Police stated that the perpetrators wore face masks and one was armed with a handgun.

On the day in question

about 03:30h, the victim was awakened by a noise in his house. As such, he went to his living room where he was allegedly confronted by the suspects.

They reportedly tried to relieve him of his belongings but he put up a fight during which he was shot in his upper right leg by the armed suspect. The bandits then took the aforementioned items and made good their escape.

The victim was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was admitted. After reviewing CCTV footage, three of the four suspects were arrested and charged.

T

20

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

(March 21-April 19)

Spend time with someone who has something interesting to say or offer.

The outcome will help you see the wisdom of joining forces and making compromises to reach a common goal. Share your thoughts.

You can change your mind, but do your best not to disrupt the lives of others when doing so. Have a backup plan in place, and everyone will be happy with the decisions you make. Keep the peace.

DILBERT

(April 20-May 20) Pay attention, listen carefully and be compassionate and understanding, but don't buy into something dodgy. Do your homework and make the adjustments you need to succeed.

(May 21-June 20) Test your strength and ability to find solutions. Be proactive and helpful. The difference you can make will give others a nudge that starts a movement. Trust and believe in yourself.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Watch what others do, but don't make an unnecessary move. Pay attention to detail and put more time and effort into getting along with others and getting things done on time.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Put in the time and finish what you start. People will judge you on how you live up to your promises and follow through with your plans. Actions speak louder than words.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Focus on your relationships with others. How you deal with situations will determine how well you are received. Offer insight, suggestions and understanding.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Don't take anything for granted.

Do what you say and don't depend on others. Independence will give you the edge and help you stand out. Be true to yourself and do things your way.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Toughen up and put your reputation on the line. Refuse to let anyone lead you astray or talk you into wasting your time. Concentrate on what you want and a lifestyle that offers peace of mind.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Change begins with you. Take the plunge, present your case and head in a direction that makes you happy. Replace what isn't working for you. Say no to emotional manipulation.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Don't let emotions take you in a direction that disrupts your relationship with a friend, relative or peer. Be true to yourself. Don't share your plans until you know you can deliver the goods.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Keep everyone guessing while you put everything in place. Plotting a direct route to where you want to be will make your life easier and win you the praise and support you desire.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

21

Hardik brings the thrill as Titans top table him for three successive fours in the fifth over.

As soon as the powerplay ended, Sanju Samson tried to sneak in an over from Riyan Parag as well. Pandya welcomed him with a straight six before Gill pulled him to the square leg boundary for four.

But Parag had the last laugh when Gill got too greedy and holed out to long-on.

H

Shami claimed the big wicket of Hetmyer

ardik Pandya led from the field with a thigh issue in the front in all three the middle of his third over, the departments - scoring 18th of the Royals' innings. an unbeaten 87 off 52 balls, picking up a wicket and A mixed start for Titans effecting a run-out - to set up a With Trent Boult missing out 37-run win for Gujarat Titans at with a niggle, James Neesham the DY Patil Stadium. With four opened the bowling for Royals. wins from five games, Titans Matthew Wade took advantage are now at the top of the points of that and struck three table in IPL 2022. fours - two off After being put in, Pandya full tosses on and Manohar added 86 off 55 either side balls for the fourth wicket of the wicket to pull things away and the third off from Rajasthan Royals. a short and wide Pandya and Miller delivery. then ransacked 47 off Royals though had the last three overs to him run out in the very further widen the gap. next over when Shubman Jos Buttler started Gill pushed one towards the chase in style, but cover for a quick single the other Royals batters but Rassie van der failed to turn up.

Dussen charged in, Lockie Ferguson was swooped low and superb, picking up 3 nailed the direct for 23. Rashid Khan was hit at the striker's end. economical, giving away Wade was well short. only 24 from his four.

Kuldeep Sen And debutant Yash had a returning Dayal finished with 3 Vijay Shankar for 40 after going for caught behind 33 in his first two but Pandya overs. took him on, The only smashing worry for Titans at the moment will Lockie Ferguson be Pandya claimed three wickets walking off

Pandya-Manohar stand revives Titans At 53 for 3 in the seventh over, Royals seemed to have the upper hand. The more so when the next four overs went only for 24. But Pandya and Manohar then stepped on the gas. In the 13th over, Manohar hit Chahal's consecutive balls for a four and six. In the 14th, Sen ended up conceding three fours, the second of which brought up Pandya's fifty off 33 balls.

Ashwin, too, came in for the punishment. Pandya launched him for back-to-back sixes.

Chahal removed Manohar

Miller. Sen paid the price of that as Miller hit him for three fours and a six in a 21-run 19th over.

Pandya then struck a six and four off Prasidh in the final over to apply the finishing touch.

The Buttler Show Buttler got Royals off to a flier, hitting Mohammed Shami for three fours in the first over of the chase. Leftarm seamer Dayal, who was making his IPL debut, was next in the line.

Buttler hit him for two fours and a six over fine leg. But Dayal

Rashid for a straight six.

However, Ferguson sent him back - courtesy of an excellent, low catch from Miller at cover - for a run-aball 8. Four balls later, Buttler shuffled across and helped Ferguson over fine leg for a six, bringing up his fifty off just 23 balls.

But Ferguson struck again, this time with a slower yorker to castle Buttler.

That left Royals 65 for 3 after the powerplay.

Another excellent piece of fielding saw Sanju Samson's back. The batter punched one

Hetmyer looked promising during his 29 (Photos: BCCI/IPL)

responded by having Devdutt Padikkal caught at slip for a first-ball duck.

After a quiet third over, Buttler again got stuck into Dayal, this time hitting him for three fours and a six. At the end of four overs, Buttler had scored 48 out of 49 runs Royals had on the board.

Ferguson turns the tide Ashwin, who was promoted to No. 3, launched

for a 28- ball 43 after conceding another six but now the stage was set for David Jos the Bos slammed a fifty

Hardik Pandya played a gem of an innings

towards mid-off for a quick single but couldn't beat Pandya's direct hit. After three boundary-less overs, van der Dussen edged Dayal behind, leaving Royals 90 for 5 in the 11th over.

Shimron Hetmyer tried to keep the chase alive, hitting Shami for a six and a four before holing out to long-on in the same over. In the last seven overs, Royals needed 76 with Parag and Neesham at the crease. But Ferguson returned in the 16th over to dismiss Parag. Two overs later, Pandya had Neesham caught and bowled with a slower one to all but seal the game. (ESPN cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD GUJARAT TITANS INNINGS (20 overs maximum) Matthew Wade † run out (van der Dussen) 12 Shubman Gill c Hetmyer b Parag 13 Vijay Shankar c †Samson b Sen 2 Hardik Pandya (c) not out 87 Abhinav Manohar c Ashwin b Chahal 43 David Miller not out 31 Extras (nb 1, w 3) 4 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.60) 192/4 Did not bat: Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson, Yash Dayal Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Matthew Wade, 1.2 ov), 2-15 (Vijay Shankar, 2.5 ov), 3-53 (Shubman Gill, 6.4 ov), 4-139 (Abhinav Manohar, 15.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W James Neesham 3-0-29-0 Prasidh Krishna 4-0-35-0 Kuldeep Sen 4-0-51-1 Yuzvendra Chahal 4-0-32-1 Riyan Parag 1-0-12-1 Ravichandran Ashwin 4-0-33-0 RAJASTHAN ROYALS INNINGS (Target: 193 runs from 20 overs) Jos Buttler b Ferguson 54 Devdutt Padikkal c Shubman Gill b Yash Dayal 0

Ravichandran Ashwin c Miller b Ferguson 8 Sanju Samson (c)† run out (Pandya) 11 Rassie van der Dussen c †Wade b Yash Dayal 6 Shimron Hetmyer c Tewatia b Mohammed Shami 29 Riyan Parag c Shubman Gill b Ferguson 18 James Neesham c & b Pandya 17 Prasidh Krishna not out 4 Yuzvendra Chahal c Shankar b Yash Dayal 5 Kuldeep Sen not out 0 Extras (lb 1, w 2) 3 TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 7.75) 155/9 Fall of wickets: 1-28 (Devdutt Padikkal, 1.6 ov), 2-56 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 5.1 ov), 3-65 (Jos Buttler, 5.6 ov), 4-74 (Sanju Samson, 7.3 ov), 5-90 (Rassie van der Dussen, 10.3 ov), 6-116 (Shimron Hetmyer, 12.5 ov), 7-138 (Riyan Parag, 15.6 ov), 8-147 (James Neesham, 17.2 ov), 9-155 (Yuzvendra Chahal, 19.3 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mohammed Shami 4-0-39-1 Yash Dayal 4-0-40-3 Rashid Khan 4-0-24-0 Lockie Ferguson 4-0-23-3 Rahul Tewatia 1-0-9-0 Hardik Pandya 2.3-0-18-1 Vijay Shankar 0.3-0-1-0

Fraser-Pryce confirmed for Kip Keino Classic in Kenya

… Richardson likely, Shericka Jackson also confirmed

S

Shelly Ann Fraser- Pryce and Shericka Jackson

helly-Ann FraserPryce and Shericka Jackson have both been confirmed for the World Continental Tour Gold Kip Kieno Classic at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya on May 7, Media Liasion Elis Makori confirmed to Sportsmax.TV on Wednesday.

Fraser-Pryce, 35, has yet to open her season as she prepares for the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon in July when she hopes to add another title to her collection of nine

gold medals that includes an unprecedented four 100m titles as well as a 200m title.

The two-time Olympic 100m champion also confirmed her participation on social media on Wednesday.

“One of the most asked questions on the page (Facebook) has been “when are you visiting Kenya?

Kenyan fans, how does May sound? See you in Nairobi,” said Fraser-Pryce, who will be most likely going for a fifth 100m title this summer.

According to Makori, the

four-time Olympic 100m medallist, will most likely be running the blue-ribbon sprint at the meet. This most likely will mean that she will be going up against upstart American ShaCarri Richardson, who has also been confirmed.

Richardson was down to compete at the Bermuda Games last weekend but was a no-show.

Meanwhile, the 27-yearold Jackson competed on the indoor circuit where she ran a lifetime best 7.04 while finishing sixth in the final of

the 60m dash at the World Indoor Championships in Belgrade in March.

So far, this outdoor season, she won the 400m in 51.29 on April 2, at the Velocity Fest at the National Stadium in Kingston and then at the Bermuda Games on April 9, she ran 51.40s for a second victory.

Namibia’s Christine Mboma, the Tokyo Olympic 200m silver medallist and Fred Kerley of the USA are also down to compete.

(Sportsmax)

22

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NSC backs CARIFTA swim team with $1M S

DoS Steve Ninvalle making the $1M presentation to GASA’s Valmiki Singh

imilar to their efforts made for the Track and Field athletes who have already departed local shores for the Games, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has financially supported the CARIFTA Swimming team that will represent Guyana in Barbados.

The support, to the tune of $1M, was handed over to the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) on Thursday.

The presentation was made Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle at his Middle Street, Georgetown Office and saw GASA’s Honorary Treasurer Valmiki Singh on the receiving end. The monies will see that the 10-swimmer contingent

Bartica Easter Regatta Female Football…

AX Galaxy and Rivers View United to clash in tomorrow’s final

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istory will be created tomorrow night when the first female Regatta Football champions would be crowned. The fourteam knockout tournament will conclude with the grand final between AX Galaxy FC and Rivers View United.

In the semi-finals which took place on Wednesday night last at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, AX Galaxy stormed to an exciting 8-3 win over Lazio FC, while Rivers View United edged into the final by needling Potaro Strikers FC. Anna Charles was the

is adequately looked after when they head to the pool and open water for the 35th edition of the Swimming Championships, set for this weekend, April 16–19.

Ninvalle said the NSC is committed to supporting the country’s national teams and athletes, but encouraged all National Federations and Associations to submit their plans and budget to receive the necessary funding.

Meanwhile, GASA President Dwayne Scott thanked the NSC, adding that the Commission is one of the more dependable

Rivers View United

ings for AX Galaxy, which ran riot thereafter.

Blasting a hat-trick each was Lisa Pereira (21st, 39th, 43rd) and Joshana Gonsalves, who rocked the nets in the 32nd, 34th, and 55th minutes. The other goal was converted by Rennea Fordyce in the 21st minute.

Tomorrow’s female championship match will be played immediately after the male third-place game which kicks off at 17:00hrs. The male final will follow the historic female final.

Guyana.

Coach Shyka Gonsalves, Coach Sean Baksh (Open Water) and Elkie Rodrigues (Manager) are the officials travelling with the contingent.

At the 2019 CARIFTA Swimming Championships, Guyana finished with five medals – three gold and two bronze, all of which were won by Olympian Aleka Persaud.

Competing in the Girls 11–12 category, Persaud won gold in the 100M fly and 50m free and 100m free events, while claiming bronze in the 200M and 50M fly events.

East Coast Cricket Board/ Navin-Hanso 50 overs First Division roundup...

Enterprise, Enmore, Better Hope, Fairfield, LBI among winners

AX Galaxy FC

heroine of her club’s triumph over Potaro Strikers with a 20th-minute effort that stood tall for the remainder of the encounter.

The AX Galaxy vs Lazio match turned out to be a goal fest, as 11 goals were scored at either end of the pitch on a rainy night.

When the final whistle was blown by the Referee, the score read: AX Galaxy 8, Lazio FC 3. All three of the losing side’s goals were scored

by Cristy Thomas in the 4th, 42nd, and 46th minutes.

An own goal from Lazio’s Valaria Leon opened proceed-

partners of GASA and “has continued to show support to all our programmes.”

“GASA is extremely grateful to NSC, the Director of Sport and the Minister of Sports and Culture for their contribution and support towards our team’s participation at the 2022 CARIFTA Games,” Scott said.

Daniel Claxton, Elliot and Ethan Gonsalves, Marius (Open Water) and Mario Ramkhlawan, Nathan Jackson, Vishal Babulall, Shareefa Lewis, Amber DeGoeas (Open Water) and Zane Crane are the athletes representing

Chaitram Balgobin

E

nterprise, Enmore, Better Hope, Fairfield and LBI registered wins when the second round of matches in the East Coast Cricket Board/Navin-Hanso 50 Overs first division cricket competition continued last weekend.

Scores

SC

Enterprise vs Mahaica

At Enterprise cricket ground, batting first, Mahaica SC were skittled out for 49 all out in 14.4 overs. B. Samaroo had figures of 4-13 off 5 overs while Rajendra Chandrika had figures of 2-27. Enterprise in reply, raced to 55 for the loss of 1 wicket in just 5 overs. H. Dindyal struck a quick- fire 25 while V. Albert hit 18 not out. Enterprise Busta Sports Club won by 9 wickets.

ECCCC vs Lusignan SC ECCCC racked up 266 all out in 43.2 overs of a 45 over game with Chaitram

Balgobin top scoring with 70 while Amir Khan followed up his century in the first round with a shot filled 63.

Vishwanauth Ramlakhan also contributed well with an even 50. Bowling for Lusignan Sports Club, Karamchand Persaud had a five-wicket haul to finish with figures of 5-48 off 9 overs and Navin Persaud- 2 wickets for 48 runs. Lusignan in reply could only muster 86 before they were dismissed in the 28th over. Stephen Ramdas top socred with 36.

Balgobin returned with the ball to grab 4 wickets for 4 runs 4 overs and Yuvraj Dayal had figured of 2-5.

BETTER HOPE Vs Ogle Game reduced to 45 overs Ogle, who were asked to bat first by Better Hope mustered a paltry 41 all out in 21 overs with former national youth batsman Sachin Singh bagging 4-15 off 9 overs and Rajendra Singh supporting with 3-14, while Ravi Singh also had a 3-wicket haul in his 6 overs which went for a meagre 8 runs. BETTER HOPE then raced to 48/3 in 11.2 overs.

Fairfield Rivals vs Strathavon SC Fairfield batting first after winning the toss made 144 all out in 35 overs.

Former National Under-19 batsman Ramnarine Chatura stroked an even 50. Bowling for Strathavon SC, Prakash Chowtie took 3-26 and Ajay Persaud 3-20.

In reply, Strathavon SC managed 131 all out in 31.3 overs to lose by 13 runs.

Gobindram Hemraj top scored with 36. Ramnarine Chatura returned with the ball to take 4-25 while Karpov George took 3-16 bowling for Fairfield Rivals.

LBI CC vs Buxton CC Over at LBI Facility ground, LBI won the toss and batted first compiling 273 for 9 from 50 overs with

Ariel Tilku 75, Nizam Khan 52, Alex Algoo 34, Richard Dowlatram 24. Bowling for Buxton CC, Anthony Mc Farlene took 2 for 45 from 10 overs. Buxton in reply, limped to 101 all out from 26 overs with Owen Andrews contributing 31.

Yojeshwar Bishun had impressive figures of 5 for 29 while Dowlatram had 3 for 19 and Tilku took 2 for 22.

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23 Guyana’s hockey ladies begin CAC qualification journey T FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

he Guyana Women’s Hockey Team, ranked #66 in the world, were scheduled to face the #49-ranked Puerto Rico in their opening clash yesterday (Thursday 14th April) in Hamilton, Bermuda.

The team is participating in the 2022 Central American & Caribbean (CAC) Games qualifiers in an effort

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to secure a spot in the 2023 CAC Games scheduled for June of that year in San Salvador, El Salvador.

The Guyanese side held a practice session on the artificial pitch on Wednesday, which was the first ever for some of the young players in the team. Head Coach Philip Fernandes explained

that it was a difficult practice, as all that the team learned on grass needed now to be adjusted to the significantly faster artificial pitch on which international matches are played.

Guyana has the youngest team in the competition with six teenagers and eight debutantes,

but Fernandes is confident they can perform at this level. The head coach stated that he would have been supremely confident if the tournament was being contested on grass, but indicated that the adjustment to the artificial surface is always the unknown factor. He indicated that the team having to go

through this adjustment on the eve of every tournament is the biggest challenge to success.

Guyana remains the only hockey-playing nation without an artificial pitch to compete in the region, and possibly the world.

The team follows its match against favourites Puerto Rico with

a clash against hosts Bermuda on Saturday 16th April at 5:00pm, and completes its matches against Jamaica on Sunday April 17th at 2:00pm. The top two teams based on the accumulation of points will secure berths to the 2023 CAC Games.

Team Guyana

Alysa Xavier #1 Position: Goalkeeper Caps: 41 One of only two players to play on a scholarship in the USA, Alysa is one of the most experienced and physically gifted athletes on the team.

Makeda Harding #6 Position: Left Back Caps: Nil Makeda is a natural defender who brings a unique toughness to the game. She has been one of the breakout players in recent years, and is expected to make a significant impact on the team.

Kezia Chinian #25 Position: Central defender Caps: Nil Kezia is one of those unique players who can fit in at different ends of the field. She has good timing for the ball, which, coupled with a good fitness level, makes her successful at winning most battles on the field.

Gabriella Xavier #2 Position: Attacking Midfield Caps: 47 Gabriella is the team’s inspirational Captain and another player who is playing the best hockey of her career. Gabby is one of the effective playmakers of the team, and has the offensive skills to strengthen the forward line when the situation demands.

Ulrica Sutherland #21 Position: Sweeper Caps: 51 After being the cornerstone of Guyana’s defence for over 10 years, Ulrica was recalled from retirement to manage a relatively young defence. She is a tremendous one-vone defender who is fast and fearless.

Mickelly Rahaman #24 Position: Right Back Caps: Nil Mickelly has been the most improved player over the past year, and this is testament to her personal dedication to improving her craft. She has now molded herself into a tenacious defender who makes good decisions under pressure.

Marzana Fiedtkou #5 Position: Centre Midfield Caps: 47 Marzana is the Vice-Captain of the team, and possesses solid technical skills, vision, and ability to distribute the ball. She has good knowledge of the game, which was strengthened by her stint playing in the USA in University leagues.

Sarah Klautky #19 Position: Attacking Midfield Caps: Nil Sarah is one of the team’s most naturally gifted athletes, who could be a star in any sport. Sarah’s change of pace and skills makes her fit into that unique category of players who can turn an ordinary attack into something special.

Trisha Woodroffe #7 Position: Central defender Caps: 56 Trisha is playing the best hockey of her life, and completes a powerful central defensive unit.

Trisha comes from a hockey family following in her father’s footsteps of being one of the best defenders to ever come out of Guyana.

Kirsten Gomes #14 Position: Left Back Caps: Nil Kirsten is a very intelligent player who plays with a maturity beyond her age and experience. She has a nice balance of good technical skills and sound decision-making.

Madison Fernandes #23 Position: Centre Midfield Caps: Nil Madison has developed her stick skills into one of our best, and has that unique ability to make long passes from midfield, which is a key factor, added to the team&#39’s short game.

Madison’s hard work in the midfield often goes unnoticed, but adds to her value in the middle.

Aliyah Gordon #9 Position: Left Wing Caps: 14 Aliyah is one of those game-changing players.

She is capable of producing a moment in the match that can turn the outcome upside down.

Aliyah&#39’s skills are unmatched, and she is that player who owns the game anytime she gets the ball in the opponents' 25.

Samantha Fernandes #22 Position: Right Wing Caps: 24 Samantha is the player that leads the team in effort. Her speed, condition, and determination to apply tremendous pressure on the opposition makes her a menace to the opposing defence.

Recently her offensive skills and confidence has grown to make her just as effective in possession as she is in hunting the ball.

Claysa Bobb #17 Position: Left Wing Caps: Nil After being identified as a promising junior talent just a couple of years ago, Claysa is no longer just the baby of the team, but is now a bona fide striker who contributes on an even keel with her more experienced teammates. She has done a fine job developing her skills, decision-making and, more recently, her tackling to a high quality.

Princessa Wilkie #13 Position: Center Forward Caps: 14 Princessa brings a high work-rate every time. Her quick acceleration and determination are easy to spot on the field, but what is often overlooked is her natural skill and timing for the ball, which makes her into that player who can turn half changes into goals and gold.

Abosaide Cadogan #12 Position: Center Forward Caps: Nil Abosaide is a unique striker who moves at high speed under full control of the ball. She makes good decisions under pressure, has superb control, and is a prolific goal scorer.

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

Sir Clive Lloyd

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

West Indies women must play Test cricket to improve - says Sir Clive Lloyd

Hayley Matthews was the leading player for West Indies at the recent World Cup

By Brandon Corlette

L

egendary West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd has opined that the West Indies Women must play Test cricket to improve their all-round cricket.

The Caribbean Women's team recently played at the ICC Women's 50-Over World Cup in New Zealand and reached the semi-final.

"If you get to a semi-final, you had to play well to get there; but

really and truly, although it was very close, some of those games, the point is that they were not consistent enough, and I think our problem is more or less not playing the longer game. All those teams that got up to the semi-final and

final were teams that played Test cricket. The longer game takes care of your shorter game," Sir Clive said on Tuesday's Mason and Guest radio programme, aired on Voice of Barbados.

The Guyanese legend added: "When I was Chairman of Selectors, I asked the then President (of CWI) why we don't try to get into the Test match arena, and he said they need three million dollars. I do not know if that is true or not, but the point is, if Australia do have over 2000 women playing cricket, and in the other countries they are a lot more, and we have only four islands that are playing cricket, we need to expand. The longer game will help the shorter game. We are developing cricketers to be ballbeaters when our players should be able to play longer innings; it helps their concentration and shot selection."

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) will be hosting the first Women's CPL in 2022, while Cricket West Indies (CWI) will host the regional tournament.

However, the level of women's cricket played in the Caribbean on a consistent basis is not sufficient.

Sir Clive strongly believes that the women's game must be treated as seriously as the men's game in the Caribbean.

"I think we need to have a programme/competition just like we used to have Shell Shield, the same situation, so that our young players will have a breathing ground for younger enthusiasts.

And we have to treat the women's game just as the men is being treated; they must feel a part of this West Indian set-up. They must have an organization or committee that is affiliated to West Indies Cricket. It needs to be looked at seriously and treated

seriously," Sir Clive has explained.

At the recent World Cup, the mighty Australians emerged as victors, defeating arch rivals England in the final. Both of those teams are Test playing nations in women's cricket, and the highquality level of cricket played by these teams is evident.

West Indies Women had to play qualifiers for that World Cup, and to reach the semi-final, most people would have been satisfied, but to win a World Cup, more should be done.

During the World Cup, Hayley Matthews was the best West Indian player, with 260 runs and 10 wickets. Deandra Dottin had 199 runs, while Guyanese Shemaine Campbelle had 185 runs, and Chinelle Henry and Shamilia Connell each claimed seven wickets in the tournament.

Golden Jaguars foray into French Guiana for two 'friendlies'

T

he Guyana senior men’s national team the Golden Jaguars has started preparing in Cayenne for two friendly matches against French Guiana on Saturday, April 16 and Monday, April 18, as part of an intensive warm-up regime ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League in June.

The two fixtures with French Guiana, ranked 16th in the CONCACAF region, will provide an appropriate test for the Golden Jaguars, with both sides set to compete in the second tier of the CONCACAF Nations League this year.

Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz has said he is eager to maintain momentum in the squad’s development, following an impressive display in the Courts Caribbean Classic, which saw Guyana thump Barbados 5-0 before holding hosts Trinidad and Tobago to a thrilling 1-1 draw.

“It’s great to get two more matches and to keep the core of the squad active,” Shabazz said. “I like the improvements we are seeing individually and collectively. The attitudes are improving, and even the most stubborn egos are bringing themselves into line.”

The squad is drawn entirely from Guyana-based players, with

the highly experienced Trinidadborn coach looking to provide a platform for homegrown talent to shine on the international stage.

“No doubt, the overseas lads set a high standard in their effort, attitude and discipline in the recent matches in Trinidad,” he said. “However, as we widen the pool, this game creates an opportunity for others, and plus we brought in a couple new faces.”

The 22-man squad features new faces in Guyana Defence Force winger Ian Dooker and the promising Police F.C. rising star Jemar Harrigan. Striker Osafo Simpson has earned a recall after being out of the team since FIFA World Cup qualifiers last year.

Defender Nicolai Andrews is back from injury, while U20 national midfielder Darron Niles returns after missing out on the friendly tournament in Trinidad.

In the absence of the squad’s veteran keepers, Shabazz selected two young goalkeepers in Sese Norville and Ronaldo Blair.

“Thus far, I love how the senior guys in the squad like Trayon Bobb, Quincy Adams, Jeremy Garrett and Daniel Wilson have stepped up,” Shabazz said. “I look forward to their leadership in these two matches.”

Shabazz has said that, no

matter which team takes to the field, the importance and responsibilities remain the same for anyone wearing the national colours.

“The guys know that, in the programme, players will be in and out of the team for different reasons,” he said. “The main issue is to represent Guyana with pride and a huge sense of responsibility.”

Guyana has been drawn against Caribbean powerhouse Haiti, Bermuda and Montserrat in Group B of CONCACAF Nations League B, with the winners of each group automatically qualifying for the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the top “A” tier of the Nations League. The runners-up of each group will proceed to the preliminary qualification round of the Gold Cup. To reach Cayenne, the squad undertook a lengthy trip by coach via Suriname.

“It’s a long road trip, but I see smiling faces, I see lads ready to give everything to fight for places in the team,” Shabazz said.

“So, yes, it’s difficult to drive for a day or more, but it gives the opportunity for us to learn to rise above adversity and still battle.

“If everyone could swim like me, I would have suggested we swim part of the journey,” joked

The Golden Jaguars in action against T&T last month (Photo Credit: TTFA)

Shabazz. “This trip is for jaguars and we are Golden Jaguars.”

The Guyana senior men’s national squad (Golden Jaguars) for the French Guiana friendlies is as follows: Goalkeepers 1. Ronaldo Blair 2. Sese Norville Defenders 3. Jeremy Garrett 4. Quincy Adams 5. Marcus Wilson 6. Leo Lovell

7. Nicolai Andrews 8. Shemar Fraser Midfielders 9. Daniel Wilson 10. Clive Nobrega 11. Job Caesar 12. Javier George 13. Darron Niles 14. Jemar Harrigan 15. Ryan Hackett Forwards 16. Trayon Bobb 17. Kelsey Benjamin 18. Ian Dooker

19. Jaminine Beckles 20. Jamal Perreira 21. Pernell Schultz 22. Osafo Simpson Staff: Jamaal Shabazz (Head Coach), Rawle Adams (Team Manager), Wayne Dover (Assistant Coach), Charles Pollard (Assistant Coach), Dylan Palmer (Fitness Coach), Dexter George (Physiotherapist), Trevor Burnett (Equipment Manager), Keeron Tanner (Video/IT Technician).

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