Guyana Times - Friday, March 24, 2023

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, March 24 – 04:15h-05:45h and Saturday, March 25 – 06:30h-07:15h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, March 24 –05:40h-07:10h and Saturday, March 25 – 06:15h-07:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny conditions are expected during the day interrupted by light to thundery showers in the mid-morning to mid-afternoon hours. Clear to partly cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 06:08h and 18:31 reaching maximum heights of 2.84 metres and 2.73 metres.

Low Tide: 12:05h reaching a minimum height of 0.36 metre.

LGE 2023

PPP/C

looking to take reins in PNC-led

Opposition strongholds – GS Jagdeo …says APNU having difficulty getting support for polls

…PPP finalising candidate list to contest all constituencies

in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), New Amsterdam in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), and Linden in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) – all of which are led by the PNC Opposition.

If given the opportunity to run the City Council in Georgetown, the General Secretary has reassured citizens that they could look forward to enhanced transparency and accountability in the management of the capital city’s resources as well as its development under the PPP/C.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is gearing up to contest the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE) and is aiming to take control of those constituencies that are traditionally considered to be People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)led Opposition strongholds.

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo made this declaration during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, where he gave an update on his Party’s readiness for the upcoming LGE slated for June 12, 2023.

According to Jagdeo, his Party is looking to penetrate the traditional PNC strongholds across the country.

“We’re contesting everywhere. We’re fighting a hard campaign in every single one of these areas… but there are some areas where we have never won these areas and we are hoping, politically, that people would give us an opportunity in these areas to prove that we can put together a stronger development plan, and implement it, than [the Opposition has] ever done,” he posited.

The PPP/C is currently eyeing major municipalities around the country, including Georgetown

“Greater accountability and stewardship of the funds of the City Council [in Georgetown]. Once there is greater accountability, an increased flow of money [will go] to the City Council itself, because right now there is no accountability there. You give them money for one thing, they spend it for something else and often, it’s

doesn’t have it,” he contended.

The PPP General Secretary further stated that his Party has a “proud” track record in delivering to the electorate and this was evident in the governing Party’s fulfilment of most of its 2020 General and Regional Elections manifesto promises.

Opposition difficulties

Now, the Party is focused on preparing for the upcoming local government polls, he indicated that the PPP/C intended to contest all the Local Authority Areas (LAAs) across the country. This, he noted, will give the Party an advantage especially since the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) was still uncertain about its participation in the elections.

At his weekly press conference on Thursday, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton said the PNCR was looking at all the factors surrounding the LGE and has even identified some candidates, but this did not mean that the party would be participating in the polls.

This comes on the heels of the PNC-led APNU’s parliamentary coalition partner, the Alliance For Change (AFC) having already announced that it would not be participating in the LGE.

ficulty in putting together a credible campaign to contest in all the local government bodies was reflected today in the comments by Mr Norton… So, the ambiguity is not because of strategic thinking. It’s because of the difficulties they’re faced with on the ground in putting together lists of candidates to contest in all of the areas,” Jagdeo pointed out.

PPP LGE candidates

On the other hand, in preparation for the LGE, the PPP’s Central Executive will be meeting soon to finalise its list of candidates to contest the local government polls. According to Jagdeo, the PPP/C has already start-

something that doesn’t bring benefits to the people of this country or the city.

“So, greater accountability and more focus on development. The group in the City Hall, they are not focused on development. It’s an attitude, it’s a mindset… you have to have to focus on development and they don’t have that mindset – the PNC

But according to Jagdeo, this ambiguity by the PNCR is because the party is having a hard time on the ground gathering candidates to contest the upcoming elections.

“They’ve been busy going around the country trying to seek candidates, put together lists to contest these elections and they have not received a very favourable response from many parts of the country. And that dif-

ed assessing candidates across the country.

“The Executive of the Party will meet in the next couple of weeks to look at all the candidates. We’re in consultation now across the country and settling [on the candidates] in many areas.

I can say there are a number of people, who are formerly APNU members and Councillors, who have expressed a desire to be part of our list and our campaign,” he posited.

This increase in young and Opposition supporters is welcomed by the PPP, Jagdeo stated.

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Honouring obligations

Very often, City Hall appeals to businesses to pay their rates and taxes. Doing so, it generally says, would enable administrators to improve the quality of services provided to the City. Whenever City Hall makes an appeal as this, it is often very difficult to ignore it – especially since it touches on the City’s management. Such appeals are routine, and reflect the municipality’s inability to get residents to cooperate with it.

This publication respects the statutory obligations conferred upon citizens, and urges businesses to pay their rates and taxes. This is notwithstanding businesses not taking a delight in City Hall. Their reasons are understood. The problem is, if businesses – and even households –continue to base their reaction to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on sentiments, Georgetown would be in a wretched state. Whether the M&CC is liked or not, households and businesses are the ones that suffer when taxes are not paid.

The business community in particular should step up and pay their taxes. But – and there is a but – inasmuch as paying rates and taxes is a statutory obligation, it is being honoured for a reason. Taxpayers expect authorities to provide them with quality services in return. That has always been the thrust of paying taxes. Further, it is the taxpayers’ responsibility to ensure they receive the type and quality of services they are paying for. To their disadvantage, there is hardly a way available to them to ensure that authorities keep their end of the bargain. This is unfair, since authorities have legal recourse against delinquent taxpayers. Local Government Election is the only measure available to residents to depose incompetent and inefficient administrators. Regardless of the situation, taxes still have to be paid. It is therefore incumbent that businessmen meet with City officials, lay their demands on them, and get a commitment on how soon those demands will be met. If City Hall is able to impress residents generally, the latter would be disinclined to default on their payments.

Over the years, taxpayers have not seen the kind of development they expected. Georgetown continues to battle with garbage, insanitation, strays, junkies and vagrants, petty robberies, and congestion, among other things. Instead of there being any notable improvement, the landscape continues to deteriorate, and the problems worsen and Government is often called upon to assist. In several beautification projects which the M&CC should have undertaken, it is the Office of the First Lady and the Government that are funding and executing these initiatives. In many instances, the municipality is unable to pay garbage collectors.

City Hall has a poor track record, which erodes public confidence in the ability of its officials to keep a commitment and use taxes efficiently to improve the City. This is responsible for the “chicken and egg” dilemma between the residents and the municipality. Should residents pay their taxes first, or does City Hall get its act together first? The municipality does need the money to run the City, so residents and businesses must be magnanimous enough to pay their taxes. But they must get City Hall to honour its obligations towards them. So long as they have paid their taxes, residents have every right to have a go at City administrators for the inefficiency that has suffused them for too long.

lead to East Berbice

Dear Editor,

The People’s Progressive Party has organised a massive rally at Babu Jaan today, Sunday, March 26, 2023, to celebrate the rich legacy of the life and works of the Party’s founders-leaders, Cheddi and Janet Jagan.

The Annual Memorial Committee, which was established in 1998 with direct responsibility to organize annual memorial activities to celebrate the life and teachings of the great leader, must be complimented for its outstanding works, which have since served as a template.

Dr. Jagan was born on March 22nd, 1918 at Plantation Port Mourant. He died on March 6th, 1997. The former Queen’s College student excelled at his academics and sports while at Queen’s College, and subsequently strengthened his developmental academia platform as he went on to study at the distinguished Howard’s University in the United States of America. He graduated in 1942 with his degree in dental surgery (DDS) and a Bachelor of Sciences degree (BSC).

Dr. Jagan married Janet Rosenberg on the 5th of August 1953.

In 1947, Dr. Jagan was elected to the National Assembly, as he formally entered and established the basis for the rest of his life in

the political arena.

In 1946, he formed the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), which was the foundation for the formation of the People’s Progressive Party. In 1950, he formed the PPP. Quickly after, in 1953, his Party PPP won the first Elections in Guiana under universal suffrage.

Unfortunately, the British suspended the Constitution after a mere one hundred and thirty-three days. Dr. Jagan and his close Ministers were put in prison.

As the world was experiencing the serious effects of the Second World War, the world was divided into so-called Socialist and Capitalist blocs. Dr. Jagan’s PPP was split in 1955. However, he again won elections that were held in 1957 and 1961.

In 1964, the imperial grippers and opportunists formed a coalition, and the PNC/UF formed the Government. What followed thereafter established Guyana as the country with the greatest Riggers of Elections. The PNC rigged itself into Government office time after time during the following twenty-eight years. However, in 1992, with the country fully united to fight ‘rigged’ elections, the PPP/C won the Government as the Dawn of a New Era came into being.

The PPP/C, as a Government, recognised the role of inclusiveness, as the Civic component in its Governance structure brought pride and prestige to a coordinated and advanced representative list of candidates. The PPP/C maintained power for twenty-three years, during which time it transformed the country into a better place to live.

Subsequently, another coalition, the ‘APNU/AFC’, came to power in 2015. However, due to the pervasiveness of serious corruption, crime, and blatant discrimination at all levels, the people in Guyana voted out the established riggers, and PPP/C is back in Government.

In 1997, the founder Leader of the PPP died, and Prime Minister Sam Hinds was elevated to President. At the General Elections in 1997, Cde. Janet Jagan won the Presidency with the winning team of Sam Hinds and the brilliant Bharrat Jagdeo as the “A” team.

It must be noted that after the PPP/C came to Government in 1992, Dr. Jagan was very conscious of the developmental role of his Party, the PPP, and the need to strengthen the pillars of ‘People’ resources that would serve for sustenance and continuity. Consequently, he elevated several young and

brilliant activists into our Party's Central Committee and Executive. Young Jagdeo was quickly appointed as Junior Minister of Finance, and won the confidence of leaders and members to sufficiently advance to the Party’s Executive Committee.

Cde. Janet subsequently resigned as President, due to fading health, and Comrade Jagdeo was elevated based on her recommendation and those of other senior Party executives. It was Cde. Janet who appointed Cde. Jagdeo as the youngest Executive President in Guyana. Young Jagdeo developed into a genuine Leader, and won two consecutive General Elections.

The PPP team has never forgotten the role of our founder-leader, and will always be inspired by his determination and never-saydie foundational pursuits, that continue to live on. The Party’s Central Committee has set up an Annual Cheddi Jagan Memorial Committee to address and honour Cde Jagan as founder member. The Committee guides the coordination broad-based approximately one hundred activities organized across the country to celebrate the life and teaching of our dear founder-leader.

President Dr Irfaan Ali interacted with students and teachers of the Stanleytown Nursery School at State House on Thursday, before they were given a guided tour of the historic building, which is also the President’s Official Residence (OP photo)

All roads

– as PPP continues to pay respect to our legendary leaders Dr Cheddi Jagan and Mrs Janet Jagan

Barbados, Guyana ink MoU to boost tourism in Guyana

The Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) and the Barbados Coalition of Services Industries (BCSI) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to help boost the tourism sector in Guyana.

Executive Director of the BCSI, Michelle SmithMayers, explained that Barbados would be conducting a needs analysis in Guyana to see where assistance can be provided.

“We are happy to be able to assist THAG wherever we can. We are trying to do an analysis of what the needs are. We know a lot of those…are going to be behavioural change,” Smith-Mayers shared

during a simple signing ceremony. President of THAG, Harrinand Persaud, ex -

Chaitra Navratri 2023

Day 3: Story of Maa Chandraghanta

On the 3rd day of Chaitra Nauratri, Mother Durga is worshipped in her form of Maa Chandraghanta.

She got her name from the half Chandra (moon crescent) adorning her forehead that is shaped like a Ghanta (prayer bell) after getting married to Lord Shiva.

Maa Chandraghanta denotes Durga’s married form. She carries a Trishul, Gada, Sword and Kamandal in her four left hands and lotus flower, Arrow, Dhanush (bow) and Japa Mala in her four right hands. Her fifth left hand denotes the Varada mudra (granting boons) and her fifth right hand is placed in the Abhaya mudra form (no fear; peace).

Like a Mother she is kind to her devotees and always ready to defend them. She establishes justice and discipline in the world.

She rides a tiger or lion.

Maa Chandraghanta rewards the devotees with her grace, bravery and courage.

Color of the day - Green

pressed gratitude to the Government of Barbados for their collaborative efforts, and added that he is looking forward to working with the BCSI.

“We could definitely gain a lot from Barbados. They have been very busy and popular with tourists, and Guyana is now [in] the spotlight. So, we hope that we can offer the same level of service and quality that Barbados is known for.

This is definitely a step in the right direction …we look forward to working together,” Persaud shared. Specifically, the MoU will facilitate the opportunity to engage the services of Smith-Mayers and her wealth of knowledge in the structure and management of the national Tourism and Hospitality Association, to advise and assist THAG in achieving its strategic objectives.

PPP/C looking to...

However, even as the party is yet to finalise its list of candidates, a poster was circulated announcing that prominent businessman, Nazar Mohamed of Mohamed’s Enterprise, will be contesting as PPP/ C’s candidate for the Eccles/ Ramsburg constituency on the East Bank of Demerara.

According to the General Secretary, Mohamed’s name was nominated for that area and while the party has consented to this nomination, it has to go before the Central Executive to be formally approved along with the names of candidates for all the other LAAs.

Recently, there have also been reports that the owner of a popular supermarket in Georgetown, Mattai’s, is also a PPP/C candidate for the upcoming local government polls.

Jagdeo explained that the party had adopted a model of having a list of candidates that reflects 50 per cent PPP members and 50 per cent civic or civil society representatives.

“That has always been the model PPP-Civic. These are people who don’t have membership cards but they want to contribute to the community [and] they want to make a difference so they’re welcome as part of

These include maintaining and expanding THAG’s role as the collective voice and advocate for the policies, regulations and other supports needed for the growth of the tourism and hospitality industry; as well as strengthening and expanding THAG’s role in providing and facilitating training and skills development opportunities tailored to the needs of the tourism and hospitality sector.

allow THAG to be better positioned to contribute meaningfully within the industry, to fulfill the training and marketing mandates within the St. Barnabas Accord.

the PPP/C at the national level too,” the GS stated.

Addressing concerns of some of these ‘civic’ candidates posing a conflict of interest given the nature of their businesses such as construction, Jagdeo pointed out that the PPP/C has implemented a new stipulation at the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and Municipal levels that councillors cannot bid for contracts within their serving constituency.

“If you intend to tender in that area… where you’re a councilor, do not put your name on the list because, for the first time now, we are prohibiting that from happening. We’ve had a few instances in the past where we’ve found that some of the councillors were tendering for contracts in their own NDCs or municipalities,” Jagdeo noted.

The PPP/C is expected to formally launch its LGE 2023 campaign next month before April 17 Nomination’s Day.

At the last LGE held in November 2018, the then PPP/C Opposition had secured 52 of the 80 Local Authority Areas. This had followed the holding of the LGE in 2016, during which the PPP/C also claimed the majority of the LAAs.

These services, which will be free of cost, would

All roads lead to...

The Annual Babu Jaan activities always attract our President, Prime Minister and our Party General Secretary, along with other representatives. This is done by recognising that the schedule and political calendar are not counted by the number of days, but in events that are included and implemented. We would organise wreath-laying ceremonies all over the country, and conduct national fitness walks at the National Park. Further, sports events are conducted in his honour, including the hosting of cycle races

FROM PAGE 4

in Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo.

The massive fun day at State House was also a signature event, while Our Night of Reflection normally attracts local and international presentations.

The PPP leadership is blessed with quality comrades, and those comrades indeed could always call on the Party Special Committee to take care of our comrades in need.

All roads lead to Berbice this Sunday.

On July 5, 2022, the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Motley, and the President of Guyana, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, signed the St. Barnabas Accord in Paramaribo, Suriname. Point three of the accord covers Tourism and International Transport. FROM PAGE 3

Sincerely,

Neil Kumar

Mantra

Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Chandraghanta Rupena Samsthita Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah

The MoU being signed by THAG and BCSI

NGSA Math Questions

Thursday’s answers

3ai)

3aii) 14

3bi) 2

3bii) 14

4a) 15:25 = 3:5

4bi) 4:7

4bii) 12

4iii) 132

4iv) 10 boxes

5a) $1009

5bi) $1200

5bii) $10, 260

WORD SEARCH

PRINCIPAL

Shared governance hindered by PNCled APNU's “racist agenda” – Jagdeo

General Secretary of the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo has stated that his Party’s relationship with the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is drifting further apart as a result of the various postures taken by the Aubrey Norton-led grouping which do not bode well for inclusive governance and united leadership.

During a press conference at his Party’s headquarters – Freedom House – on Thursday, Jagdeo was asked about the PPP/Civic’s position on inclusive governance. He pointed out that this could only happen if there were trust and shared values between political parties – fundamental elements that were currently lacking between the governing party and its main Opposition

counterpart.

“You have to have a period of building trust and only then you can have [inclusive governance] happen. But there is no building trust. In fact, we’re going further apart because every day APNU pushes one agenda –a racism agenda. And they’re unwilling to acknowledge and say ‘we support free, open democratic elections’. They would say it inwards but not really subscribe to it. Those are two fundamental things that have to change before you can work together,” GS Jagdeo stressed.

Only recently, in his message to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Norton had sounded a call for unity and a closer working relationship between political parties.

“Political leaders should promote a vision of a unit-

ed and inclusive society, and work towards building consensus and cooperation between different racial and ethnic groups. This includes promoting greater representation and participation of underrepresented groups in the political process, as well as promoting greater dialogue and collaboration between different political parties,” the Opposition Leader had stated in his March 21 statement.

But according to the PPP General Secretary, this type of governance cannot be achieved without the current PNC-led Opposition changing its stance on critical issues as well as its race rhetoric.

“I suspect that this new form of inclusive governance that they’re talking about only has one end, that is, executive power-sharing. But our point is if you can’t share a common set of values [and]

Grandson confesses to dumping pensioner’s body after panicking – claims her death was an accident

if you believe in stealing elections and we don’t, we can’t get along well. If you don’t share economic values and other social values or patriotism, and if you’re racist, then you can’t work with us on this. You have to share common values for that to work, or else, you bring the same gridlock that we have in the Parliament now, into the Cabinet, and nothing happens. We’ve seen it [and] it has stymied many countries,” he explained.

Since taking office in August 2020, President Dr Irfaan Ali and Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton have only met once in May 2022. During that meeting, they discussed constitutional and statutory appointments.

Norton had snubbed a second engagement that was scheduled between the two leaders later that month and no other meetings were set since.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo, who is the Vice President of the current PPP/C Administration, further pointed out that the governing party was still committed and subscribed to this

type of governance – something which it included in its 2020 Election Manifesto.

However, he underscored the need to safeguard free and fair elections, which will be a key component in the constitutional reform process that is expected to get underway some time this year.

“If there is a proposal there that comes out about some form of executive power-sharing and it has resonance with the people –maybe, you’ll have to go to a referendum or something of that sort. But right now,

we have made serious efforts in this Party to have an institutional framework that promotes greater collaboration and governance, inclusive governance. No country in the Caribbean or in the Commonwealth or even further afield have those features in their Constitution,” the PPP General Secretary contended.

This inclusive governance, according to Jagdeo, is reflected in the many constitutional changes that were done over the years by various PPP/C Governments, including during his tenure as President from 1999 to 2011.

These include the parliamentary management committee and the five rights commissions – all of which require bipartisan support in the National Assembly to establish these bodies. He added similar practice is done with the four standing committees in the Parliament –the chairmanship of which is divided and shared by the two sides in the House.

He went on to highlight too that the requirement for mandatory agreement between the President and the Opposition Leader on the appointments of a Chancellor and a Chief Justice is also another demonstration of the PPP/C’s efforts to promote shared governance.

The 27-year-old grandson who was arrested in connection with the murder of his 88-yearold grandmother has since confessed to wrapping the woman’s body in a sheet and dumping it among the garbage after he panicked. He also claimed that the elderly woman’s death was an accident.

Yonick Gilpin, unemployed, during interrogation reportedly told investigators that his now-dead grandmother, Patricia Bovell, would often accuse him of stealing her personal things, and that he had made several complaints to other relatives but they told him that she was old and that he should not take her on.

The grandson, however, recalled that on the morning of Sunday, March 19, at around 04:00h, he was in the bottom flat of their shared Russel Street, Georgetown home when he heard a sound emanating from the upper flat, which the elderly

woman occupied alone. As he went to enquire, he heard his grandmother screaming “Murder!” and “Thief!”, but after checking around, he did not see or hear anything unusual.

He recalled that at the time his grandmother did not have on any clothes, and she was sitting on the floor with her dentures close by.

Gilpin explained that as he was leaving the upper flat, his left foot accidentally struck his grandmother in the head, thus causing her to fall onto a rug on the floor, where she sustained injuries.

At that time, he realized that the woman was motionless and she was not responding. He reportedly panicked, wrapped the woman’s body in a sheet, took it down the stairway and placed it on an old fridge.

Still in shock and fear, the man waited until the course was clear before he took the body and dumped it among the garbage across

the street from the house.

However, his cousin went to the house hours after the incident and enquired about the elderly woman, but the grandson reportedly told him that he had taken her to the Georgetown Public Hospital after she complained of feeling unwell.

Checks at the hospital for the woman proved futile. As such, the suspect was arrested, and upon initial questioning, he related the same story he told his cousin.

Meanwhile, Bovell’s body was discovered on Wednesday morning. It was following the discovery that the grandson confessed to the crime.

Some relatives had told this newscast that the grandson was often abusive towards the elderly woman, but she refused to put him out of the house. The elderly woman had three children, but only one is alive and resides overseas.

Dead: Patricia Bovell

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo

Essequibo duo charged, remanded for $5M in imported ganja

Where’s the method...

…to the Opposition’s madness?

Charged: Naresh Ramdeen

Naresh Ramdeen,37, of Jacklow, Pomeroon River and Stefan Mohamed, 29, of Coffee Grove, Essequibo Coast were on Thursday remanded to prison for being in possession of 13.34 kilograms of imported ganja for the purpose of trafficking.

The duo appeared virtually before Magistrate Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges when those were read to them. As such, they were remanded, and the matter has been transferred to the

Charged: Stefan Mohammed

Charity Magistrate’s Court for April 17.

Two men were arrested by agents of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Monday last with the imported ganja during an operation at Charity Street, Charity, Essequibo, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

CANU has stated that, on the day in question, officers intercepted a motor vehicle bearing registration HD 1880 at Charity Street, Charity, Essequibo. At the time, the vehicle had two occupants.

A search was conducted

on the vehicle, and 12 bricklike parcels suspected to be cannabis were unearthed. The narcotic was tested and found to be imported ganja,

weighing approximately 30 lbs. (13.34 kg) and having an estimated street value of $5 million.

Miners remanded on possession of gun, ammo charges

Twenty-year-old

Ramuel Shemar

Garraway, a miner of Grant Unity, Essequibo River, and 29-year-old Kelon Reynolds of Block 22 Wismar, Linden were on Thursday remanded to prison for the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

They were both arrested for being in possession of a semi-automatic machine gun and 11 rounds of 9mm ammunition on March 20 at Toroparu Backdam, Puruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Both men appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Crystal Lambert, who read them the charges. They pleaded not guilty and were remanded.

Charged: Ramuel Shemar Garraway

They will make their next court appearance on April 18.

Meanwhile, Brazilian national Almeida Maim

Charged: Kelon Reynolds

Pereira, 58, also appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert, where the charge of possession of firearm without license was read to

Charged: Almeida Maim Pereira

him.

He, too, pleaded not guilty, and was remanded to prison until April 21.

Pereira was arrested with the unlicensed firearm on March 19 at Turtle Creek Backdam, Cuyuni River.

Man busted with ganja remanded to prison

Ulric Lambert, 39, of Grove Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, who was busted with 740 grams of cannabis at Sewanda Backdam in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), was remanded to prison on Wednesday.

The miner appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where a charge of possession of narcotics for trafficking was read to him.

He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison until April 11.

Charged: Ulric Lambert

Lambert was arrested on March 19 at Sewanda Backdam by members of a Police patrol that was conducting an operation between Sewanda and Turtle Creek.

While in Sewanda Backdam, the ranks observed Lambert throwing a purple haversack on the ground in a shop. The bag was retrieved and, upon checking, was found to contain 22 transparent parcels of cannabis, which when weighed amounted to 739.6 grams. He was cautioned, arrested and charged.

Your Eyewitness suspects he’s testing your patience, dear reader, by returning to this well-worn path. But while they mightn’t realize it, he cares about the Opposition’s survival. It’s nothing personal, but if “nature abhors a vacuum” – and rushes to fill it! - politicians abhor a power vacuum even more! And Mother Nature ain’t no slouch when it comes to filling vacuums? Have you seen what happens when there’s a hole in an aeroplane’s wall? Sucking all the passengers through that hole is Mother Nature’s way of filling the ALMOST atmospheric vacuum at 36,000 feet!!

And when it comes to PPP politicians, they’ll be sucking voters from the Opposition’s TRADITIONAL constituency at such a rate in the upcoming elections – Local and National – that it’ll take decades for them to recover, if ever!! And your Eyewitness’s concern stems from the fact that even if the PPP were angels, they’ll turn to the Dark Side with no Opposition!! Anakin was such a cute and good kid, wasn’t he?? But he became Darth Vader!! So, the bottom line is: we need a solid Opposition in Guyana, and your Eyewitness will be offering them some gratuitous advice, since he doesn’t want no Darth Vader running the show when he’s ready to “throw back” in his dotage!!

So, what should the Opposition NOT be doing?? Well, for starters, they should take some pointers from Dr Jagan - who was in Opposition for twenty-eight years!! Firstly, he didn’t try to overthrow the PNC Government by force –even though there was tremendous pressure from without and within for him to do so. And it wasn’t just a matter of the army not being “kith and kin”. Jagan insisted that any such attempt would result in a civil war worse than the one we experienced in the sixties! And asked whether, in such a small society as ours, we would be able to ever heal THOSE wounds!

Another lesson – which took Dr Jagan those twentyeight years to learn – was that while you don’t have to play footsies with the Americans, you gotta tack in their direction. And right now, the Yanks don’t want no local unrest to mess with their investment in energy. So, what should they be DOING?? Well, your Eyewitness thinks it’s so obvious he’s surprised he even has to say it. Fact of the matter is that no matter what the PPP does, there’s gonna be a huge chunk of voters from even THEIR traditional constituency who’re teed off about the cost of living.

Rather than shooting themselves in the foot about a coup, they should push that “$1,000,000 in every pocket” ploy.

Just don’t identify it with Buxton!!

…to civil society’s modus operandi?

Now if, in a democracy, the “Opposition” was created to keep the Government on its toes, one has to ask why we need “civil society” organisations to be doing that job?? After all, civil society organisations evolved to deal with issues that folks thought Governments should be keeping their noses out of!! Meaning, things like burial societies and such like could be handled by the people, thank you. But something funny happened after WWII – “civil society” groups suddenly started taking on Governments!!

Was it because the political parties – especially the Opposition parties - weren’t giving some views expression?? But in that case, shouldn’t these “civil society” types touting those interests form another political party?? Or work directly to influence a political party that needs their votes?? But in Guyana, there’s another peculiar development –whether in or out of Government, a number of civil society groups just never agree with the PPP.

Can’t be about the PPP’s ideology – that’s now as regular as sliced bread!! So what is it?? Their breath?? Or, gasp!! –race??

…to WI rebuilding??

Your Eyewitness is still waiting to see some pattern developing from promises by Cricket administrators to get WI cricket back on its feet. He isn’t even looking to return to the glory days.

Just be competitive!!

The imported ganja

GBTI records $2.3B in net income after tax in 2022 –

loans grew by 33%

been an exceptional year, with a net income after tax of $2.3 billion. In addition, 2022 ended with $175 billion in total assets, along with an exponential improvement in its asset quality.

Against a background of a rapidly expanding economy, loans grew by 33 per cent for the year to $65 billion, while deposits grew by 20 per cent to $148 billion.

Based on this performance, a dividend of $20 per share has been recommended; $12 of which has already been paid to shareholders. This dividend represents a 25 per cent increase over that of 2021.

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) on Thursday announced that 2022 has

“GBTI sees encouraging portents for continued positive growth in 2023. We anticipate a continu-

ing growth trajectory and strengthening of our position in the local market”, Chief Executive Officer James Foster stated.

The banking institution in a release stated that, undoubtedly, a highlight of the performance is the transformative digital drive through upgraded software computer systems overall,

and “Go- Banking” in the last quarter of 2022, without negative impact to its increasingly digital-savvy customers.

“The upgrade process is ongoing; staff training is continuous, and clients are sharing expressions of support and greater confidence in the bank and Guyana’s economy. GBTI’s competitive performance in 2022

was fuelled further by an empowered team conversant with, and committed to, achieving its strategic priorities,” the release added.

As 2023 enters its second quarter, GBTI says, it is poised for continued growth and more regular engagement with stakeholders and the communities it serves countrywide.

GBTI Chief Executive Officer James Foster

Tevening of April 8 and 9, when Deejay Garwin hosts his second annual One Guyana concerts. The events, which are powered by Team Mohameds and the Government

big names slated to perform. Saturday, April 8, will be the Soca Flashback concert featuring Peter Ram, Rupee, and Guyana’s own Adrian Dutchin. However,

along with Sonia Singh, A.W. Lyrical, Kady Kish and Kharisma. This time around, the purchase of one band for the cost of $3000 will give patrons access to both

be opened at 18:00h, but showtime is later in the evening. Top Guyanese deejays are expected to set the tone by mixing and juggling several tracks.

GDF ranks secure scholarships to study in India

GCAA Director General gets int’l aviation award

Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. Egbert Field, has received the prestigious Katerina & George Iatrou Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2023 Air Transport Symposium and Awards Ceremony in Canada.

This award is a reflection of Field’s outstanding work throughout his 52-year career in the industry.

Field, in accepting the award, said: ”Believe in yourself, that no matter your circumstances of birth or life, you were born to win. However, to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win”.

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Corporals

Colin Harris and Dominique Sabola have been selected to undergo studies in India under a military scholarship scheme which falls under the umbrella of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Scheme for friendly foreign countries.

The scholarship was provided by the Government of India to strengthen IndiaGuyana defence collaboration.

Corporal Harris, of the GDF Intelligence Corps, will be travelling to Maharashtra, India to commence a six-week Investigator and Vigilance Course at the Military Intelligence Training School and Depot.

Corporal Sabola, of New Amsterdam Berbice, works in the Medical Corps of the GDF, and will be studying a Medical Advance course at Special Forces Training School (SFTS) in Bakloh for three and a half months.

During their interaction with Indian High Commissioner Dr. KJ Srinivasa, both ranks expressed excitement and gratitude for the scholarship and the opportunity to be a part of the promotion of India-Guyana collaboration.

The High Commissioner congratulated them and briefed them on the ongoing collaboration between India and Guyana.

To date, 29 GDF officers have travelled to India under this scholarship scheme.

“I am certainly happy for this international recognition of his contribution to the development of the aviation sector,” expressed Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill. “This award is deserving, and I congratulate DG Field, the staff of the GCAA, and his family, who continue to work and support him, and by extension the Ministry of Public Works and the Government of Guyana.

“This annual award is bestowed on organisations, companies, and leaders of

the air transport industry. And so, when one of us is acknowledged, we celebrate because it’s a recognition and win for all of us, for the miles we pass and heights we reach together,” Edghill said.

“So, as we continue to work together to advance Guyana’s aviation sector, I am cognizant of the knowledge and experience of stalwarts like Mr. Field, and only hope and implore our younger folks to align themselves and take a pattern, and get as much knowledge as you possibly can from these learned and outstanding members of our society.”

From L-R: Corporal Dominique Sabola; Indian High Commissioner Dr KJ Srinivasa, Corporal Colin Harris and a representative of the Indian High Commission

GCAA Director General Egbert Field and his award

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Campbellville businessman jailed for 18 months for beating, threatening to shoot daughter

Weever on Thursday imposed an 18-month prison sentence on an assault convict, 50-year-old businessman Devanand Singh.

The sentence came three weeks after she found the father of five, of Kanuku Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, guilty of assaulting and threatening to shoot his 26-year-old daughter.

The brutality, which was captured on CCTV footage, went viral on social media, and sparked widespread condemnation.

By Feona Morrison

Expressing that “women are not a ball to be tossed around”, and that the judicial system will not condone any form of abuse, Magistrate Rhondell

On the charges of inflicting actual bodily harm on his child, and threatening to shoot her, the defendant was jailed for 14 months and four months respectively. These jail terms will run concur-

rently, and, as such, he will only serve 14 months.

During her sentencing remarks, Magistrate Weever said that while she took note

of Singh being a product of a dysfunctional family, he allowed his childhood to negatively impact him.

Singh told a probation officer that his father, who was an alcoholic, was physically and verbally abusive toward him. As a result of his father’s habits, he said, his mother ended their marriage.

The convict’s lawyer, Nigel Hughes, in a plea in mitigation, submitted that his client’s abusive behaviour towards his child was a result of poor knowledge. However, given Singh’s age, Magistrate Weever pointed out that he “should be well aware that such behaviour is unacceptable”. According to her, the businessman’s conduct was “reprehensible”

and “distasteful”.

While reflecting on the evidence, she referred to the adage ‘a picture tells a thousand words’, and said that CCTV footage of the battery demonstrated more than a thousand words.

Magistrate Weever added that Singh treated his daughter like he was hitting a ball with a bat, while noting that he also “droppedkick her” like he was in “mortal combat”. “No longer should we treat women as if they are a ball to be tossed,”

Magistrate Weever asserted.

Hughes, while address-

ing the court, said his client’s behaviour was an “impulsive reaction” to his daughter’s inappropriate behaviour. In light of Singh’s daughter’s testimony: that he began abusing her at 16, and abuse reports against Singh by his past spouse, Magistrate Weever concluded that he has a history of behaving violently.

The lawyer described the incident between the father and daughter as “unfortunate and regrettable”, and called for them to be supported to repair their family.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

...“Women are not a ball to be tossed around” – Magistrate Weever

Magistrate Rhondell Weever

Businessman Devanand Singh being led away from the courtroom by a Policeman to begin serving his jail sentence

A snippet from the CCTV footage showing Devanand Singh abusing his daughter

Body washed up at Leguan foreshore identified as overseas-based Guyanese

One week after a body was washed up at the Leguan foreshore in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), it has been identified as that of Roma Dookeran – an overseas-based Guyanese.

Dookeran, formerly of Pert Village, Essequibo Coast, reportedly arrived in Guyana to finalise several business transactions a week prior to the discovery of her body in Leguan.

Police had stated that on Friday last, an unknown caller reported seeing what appeared to be a body at Uniform Beach, Leguan Island.

As a result of that report, Police ranks went to the area, and the body of the female that was washed up on the beach was seen facing upwards. The body was clad only in a black brassiere, with what appeared to be a silver wedding ring on a finger and a silver chain around the

Campbellville businessman jailed for...

The defence counsel urged the court to impose on Singh a suspended sentence, assuring that he would not behave like this again to his daughter or to anyone.

Hughes submitted, “He [Singh] is not a serial assaulter. I would urge the court to consider the imposition of a suspended sentence which would remind the defendant of the risk he faces if he commits any offence, in particular of this nature.”

He also highlighted that his client has no prior conviction, that he is remorseful and regrets what he has done, that he is the sole breadwinner of his family, and that he is a taxpaying businessman who employs many.

culation. That video, Hughes noted, has caused Singh public embarrassment and has had a negative impact on his businesses.

During an interview with the probation officer, Singh’s daughter expressed that the traumatic experiences have caused her to suffer from anxiety. She also said that the incident between her and her father has affected her relationship with her brothers and sisters.

Singh’s daughter and her Attorney, Latchmie Rahamat, appeared in court virtually.

crimes. The convict will likely appeal the Magistrate’s decision. The judicial officer has also directed psychosocial support for Singh and his child.

After he was found guilty, Singh offered his daughter $2 million as compensation, but she rejected the sum.

Singh, proprietor of “Brands2Go” and other businesses, was initially charged in April 2022. After pleaded not guilty to the charges, he was released on $400,000 bail. He committed the crimes sometime in March 2022.

family home while he was out of town.

After the video had hit social media, the businessman, while being interviewed by a social media commentator, had said the video was “not what it seems”. He did not deny that it was him in the video beating a woman in his Regent Street, Georgetown store in full view of his employees.

neck. The body was picked up and transported to Parika Stelling. On arrival at the Stelling, the body was checked for marks of violence, and there were black and blue marks between the legs and on the side of her body. Police are continuing their investigations.

According to Hughes, the charge against his client was reduced from causing grievous bodily harm to causing actual bodily harm because of the nature of the injuries the victim received.

“The injuries were not grievous,” Hughes remarked. The counsel told the court that the young woman’s injuries tell the true story, and not the “dramatic video” in cir-

For his part, Police Prosecutor Kwasi Carmichael petitioned for a custodial sentence. And in so doing, he mentioned the prevalence of domestic violence in Guyana. Prosecutor Carmichael averred that this will serve as a deterrent to potential offenders, and will keep Singh away from his daughter, since he has the means to make good on his threats against her.

In the end, the Magistrate agreed with the prosecution that a jail sentence is a reasonable punishment for Singh’s

At his first court appearance, a permanent restraining order was granted against him, compelling him to stay 1,000 feet away from his offspring. He was also ordered to give her her belongings.

Prior to Singh being charged, several videos had gone viral on social media, in particular Facebook, of him kicking and stomping his daughter. During an interview in another section of the media, his daughter had related that she had been abused by her father for over a decade, and that she had planned to escape from their

After Singh was arrested, Police ranks had gone to his home and seized his licensed 9mm pistol and a shotgun, as well as matching ammo. The items had been lodged at the Kitty Police Station.

Singh’s daughter has been receiving support from the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Survivour’s Advocate Programme.

Meanwhile, Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud, in reacting to the video of the assault, had said the worst thing anyone can do is justify abuse and violence.

“No one deserves that, no matter what,” she had written in a Facebook post.

Dead: Roma Dookeran

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

6 drive away with motor cars in Gafoors’ Christmas promotion

ly regarded within the construction and hardware industry in the country.

The six lucky winners in the Gafoors’ Christmas promotion were on Thursday presented with the keys to their new Toyota Allion motorcars at the company’s McDoom Mega Complex.

They are Azad Khan, Kim King, Joel Williams, Lakeram Singh, Parbhudyal Seenauth and Phillip Azore. The seventh winner will be announced following a draw-

ing at the Diamond location later this month.

The Christmas promotion was launched on September 9, 2022 and ended on December 29 with $30 million up for grabs, including seven motorcars.

Customers who spent $5000 in any self-service store or $100,000 in any of the wholesale departments were eligible to participate in all the locations – Rose Hall,

Canje; Beterverwagting, Diamond, Land of Canaan, Nismes, Parika and the flagship store at McDoom.

This promotion, the brainchild of Gaffoors’ Founder and Executive Chairman Sattaur Gafoor, was an opportunity for the business to give back to its customers.

Established 70 years ago, the company has held long-lasting relationships with customers, and is high-

“[This giveaway] is indicative of the value that we place on our customers,” Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Gafsons Industries, David Faulkner, related. “We want you to benefit as much as we’ve benefitted, not just from the business, but from knowing you and being part of your projects.”

Twenty-three-year-old Joel Williams of Yarrowkabra on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway is a first-time winner of any promotion of this kind, and expressed disbelief when he found out he had won.

“At first I didn’t actually believe it, because I had a prank call that morning about something like this; so, when I got the call [that I actually won], I felt that it was another prank,” Williams related, while adding that the new car is a special addition to his life.

Having recently moving into a new home at Ann’s Grove, Kim King is now grateful to have a new car to allow for the ease of trips to church and other daily errands.

“I feel blessed to have the privilege to win the car, because that was God’s doing,” King said.

Similarly, Parbhudyal

Seenauth of Canal No

2, West Bank Demerara (WBD), a regular Gafoors customer, was longing for a car, since he usually walks to church each Sunday; and is grateful to finally own one.

The promotion has been extended to customers at the company’s Diamond branch, who have been unable to participate due to consistent road construction.

In addition to the cars, more than 200 consolation prizes, including bicycles, A/C units, power tools, solar lights, and paint bundles, were handed out.

Houston Secondary teacher whips out cutlass following attack by parent, student

and it is really bothersome and worrying”, Lyte told News Source. He added that gone are the days when parents would visit the schools and speak to the teachers to understand what was happening with their children.

Following the attack on Shawn Marshall, a teacher of Graham’s Hall Primary who was attacked and beaten by a parent, the Ministry of Education has stated, “Whatever the circumstances, it is a reprehensible and ghastly act. It is unacceptable, and will not be condoned in the least.”

According to the Ministry, schools are considered safe spaces, and any act of violence is deemed totally unacceptable.

The Houston Secondary School was thrown into turmoil after a teacher whipped out a cutlass to defend herself against a parent and a student who attacked her on Thursday, March 23.

The incident, which was caught on camera and shared on social media, showed the raucous behaviour on the school’s premises. The teacher was later identified as Kimone Gentle, who has been in the profession for a number of years. The teacher and the parent were both detained at the Ruimveldt Police Station, but the teacher was later released following the intervention of her attorney, Darren Wade. The teacher,

who briefly spoke to sections of the media, explained that attacking teachers is becoming a new pandemic.

In a socal media post, Education Minister Priya Manickchand stated, “In every altercation between a teacher and parent/s, a child will be affected. Remember that. And dial down all the talks of violence and hostility.”

GTU President Mark Lyte told the media that the issue must be addressed head-on, while adding there is need for legislation to be updated to protect teachers in the classroom and in the schools.

“This seems to be the new way of parents and students trying to resolve their challenges with their teachers,

“When parents or guardians are engaged in violent acts against teachers, it goes against established values, norms, and expectations. We cannot beat teachers and then ask them to teach our children peaceful conflict resolution,” the Ministry stated, adding that it would therefore take all appropriate actions to ensure that all teachers continue to work in a safe and secure environment.

Such actions, it noted, include prohibiting violent parents or guardians from having access to school premises, transferring any learner whose parents commit acts of violence on teachers, or any other sanction deemed necessary, while encouraging the Police or any other institution or authority to take whatever action the law prescribes.

The six elated winners of the brand-new cars

Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Gafsons Industries, David Faulkner

One of the winners is all smiles as he speaks with the media

The teacher carrying the cutlass

Over 130 businesses confirmed for UncappeD Marketplace 2023

Over 130 businesses will be on display at this year’s UncappeD Marketplace, which will be held at the National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara on March 25 and 26.

This Guyana Manufacturing and Services

Association’s (GMSA) event aims to connect local businesses involved in agro-processing — of which about 75 per cent are small companies — with a new cohort of customers.

“When you look in supermarkets or what is customary, you will see larger

[agro-processing] companies flourishing, because they have access to what smaller companies do not necessarily have,” GMSA Corporate Communications Specialist Travis Bruce told Guyana Times during a telephone interview.

“UncappeD Marketplace

Major upgrades in pipeline for Stabroek Market – Min Dharamlall –

efforts will bring significant relief to vendors, shoppers

points in the market.

“We have to provide better conditions. As part of the grant the Government gives to the City Council, I am going to speak to the Council to ensure that some of those resources are placed within Stabroek Market,” he committed.

Heavy focus will also be placed on improvement of the facilities at the fisheries, since raw fish is a highly perishable product. Similarly, the security of the market would remain a paramount focus of the Local Government

is pushing our small agro-processors to be better, and work on their packaging and marketing, inculcating those values and beliefs that [will award them] the opportunity to be competitive in the market,” Bruce stated.

With the agro-processing industry being largely male-dominated, the marketplace is offering a unique chance for female-owned businesses to gain access to resources and potential customers.

From Denise Gordon of Denise Institute of Catering

to Dixie Jorden of Dixie Punch De Cream, about 80 per cent of the exhibitors will be women-led businesses.

While the event will see its usual companies involved in agricultural machinery, bottled products, craft and financing, this year’s UncappeD promises to be far different, showcasing a wide range of products that were not available in the previous year, and launching several new and innovative ones.

“Our title sponsors, one of which is CNOOC

Petroleum Guyana Limited, have recognized the role which GMSA is playing in the business community, as well as the role which these small agro-processors have in developing Guyana’s agriculture sector,” Bruce said.

“We are constantly trying to improve, and we want to encourage everyone to bring out their families,” Bruce said.

The free weekend event begins at 10:00am each day, offering a chance to view local agro-products alongside a selection of games, giveaways and other attractions.

Amassive clean-up exercise is slated for Sunday, March 26 at Stabroek Market, Georgetown to kick-start the Government’s efforts to position the popular vending hub into an area conducive to conducting business.

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall visited the market on Wednesday and conducted a thorough inspection and engaged several vendors.

Following the two-hourlong exercise, Dharamlall was forced to initiate a plan to bring immediate relief to vendors, most of whom publicly criticised the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) for neglecting the market and only

ket,” he lamented.

Another stall owner, Omesh Dhanram, highlighted that only a few officers of the City Constabulary are stationed outside the market, and they are some dis-

Ministry, as more solutions will be discussed.

“So there are many things that we need to work on, and over the next few weeks, I want to assure the

showing up to collect revenue.

Enhancement works in the pipeline include repairs to the roof of the fish bay area and to the restroom facilities, desilting of the drains in the market, and excavating outlets currently clogged with garbage, among other undertakings.

The owner of Richard and Sharon Fashion Fabric, Richard Basdeo, expressed grievances regarding the sanitation of the market.

“The biggest issue is the flooding of the market, when the water is coming up and nobody comes to check it out. The gutters need to clean. City Hall not doing anything! They not clearing the water, they’re not washing the mar-

tance away despite the market being a potential hotspot for petty crimes.

“Security is a main thing. A lot of people are scared to come to Stabroek Market…. We all (vendors) pay rent… If we had to come together independently and pay for security, we wouldn’t mind that. But we are not getting cooperation from the City Council on anything else,” he stated.

Dharamlall disclosed that immediate efforts will be made to address the poor garbage disposal at the market.

“Very shortly, I will speak to the City Engineer and the solid waste management team to see how best we can remove the garbage that is blocking quite a few of the areas, especially the hydrant

vendors as well as the shoppers in Stabroek Market, that the central Government will do part of the heavy lifting. And also, we will have to impose some of our work ethic onto the City Council, so that they can come and also be part of this enhancement that we have to do in Stabroek Market,” Minister Dharamlall said.

He also committed to seeking the redeployment of more Constabulary officers to bolster the five-man team that is currently placed at the market. Moreover, the Minister is looking to re-establish the Vendors’ Committee to improve representation as well as implement daily garbage removal and policies to strengthen facility management.

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is looking to establish 40 new wells and 30 water supply systems in hinterland regions this year, as part of the Government’s agenda to ensure every household is provided with potable water.

Once completed, these facilities would serve approximately 12,000 residents.

Some 7,000 residents are already receiving first-time access to potable water in their homes.

The Government achieved 75 per cent coverage of potable water in Amerindian and riverine communities at the end of 2022. With the commissioning of 20 water purification systems at Aranaputa, Rupertee, Wowetta, Rupununi, Jawalla, Shulinab and Annai, among other villages, residents of the hinterland also gained access to potable water in their communities for the first time.

The administration is working assiduously to achieve its target of 89 per cent coverage in the hinterland regions this year.

It continues to make numerous interventions across the country as part of its fiveyear strategic plan aimed at providing 100 per cent access to potable water across those regions.

Government is investing in the development of 13 new treatment facilities countrywide that would ensure cit-

izens have access to purified water, while upgrades are also being made to the current water treatment facilities.

This is in keeping with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal Six, which speaks to providing access to water and sanitation for all.

Some $17.7 billion was injected this year for water expansion and management, with $1.4 billion being allocated to increase access to clean and safe water in hinterland communities in Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight, and Nine. Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal has reminded that several commu-

nities in hinterland regions have accessed potable water for the first time within the past two years.

“We will continue until every household has access to a reliable supply of clean water. But we must commit to protecting our water sources and infrastructure. Our failure to do so will lead to devastating consequences,” Minister Croal stressed during a recent message in observance of World Water Day 2023.

40 new wells to be constructed in hinterland regions this year

– as Govt moves to increase access to potable water

Minister Croal testing the water at the new well in Culvert City, Region Nine

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and team inspecting the drilling of Khan’s Hill well, Region One

One of the booths at a previous UncappeD Marketplace

GMSA’s Corporate Communications Specialist, Travis Bruce

The present condition of the roof of the market

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall, engineers and other officials at the market on Wednesday

The fish bay area

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Sign up for something that makes you proud and grateful. Get involved, take a stand and make a statement. Be the guiding light for others and instigate what you want to see happen.

(March 21-April 19)

Make the changes that will improve your life and point you in a direction that brings you the joy and contacts you need. Participate in something that matters and see what happens.

(April 20-May 20)

You’re on the right path; now join forces with like-minded people and see what you can do. Don’t hide in the background; make your mark, be proud of who you are and inspire others.

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22)

Silence is golden when you don’t have anything but criticism to offer. Look for the good in yourself and those around you. Encouragement is the best way to get things done and to get along with others.

Don’t overestimate what you know when there is still plenty to learn. Open your mind and dive into available knowledge, and you’ll gain a different perspective. Let go of nonsense.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

You are in a position to improve your life. Travel and personal growth are all possible if you connect with people who can help you reach your goal. Romance will improve your life.

Be practical, and you’ll discover how to gain financial freedom and ease stress. Take better care of what matters to you. Seek out opportunities, projects and proposals.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Use your imagination and make home improvements that will promote efficiency and peace of mind. A change of plans will make you question some of your connections.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Devise a plan to make your home and lifestyle more convenient and cost-efficient. Refuse to argue with someone too stubborn to see things your way. Discard what isn’t working for you anymore.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Don’t start something you cannot finish. Be a good listener, think matters through and do what’s best for everyone. Focus on love, compromise and compassion.

Keep your eyes on what matters. Dismiss whatever is in your way. Having a clear passage forward will give you the drive to reach your mark and outperform anyone trying to compete.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Consider what you enjoy doing and turn it into something lucrative. How you go about achieving your dreams will make a difference. Be open to suggestions and verify information.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

CONCACAF announces details for 2023 Gold Cup Draw

CONCACAF has today confirmed that the 2023 Gold Cup Draw will take place on Friday, April 14, 2023 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

The live, in-person event will begin at 12:00pm PT/local time (3:00pm ET), and will include participation of CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani, the head coaches of the national teams participating in the 2023 Gold Cup, and important guests.

The draw will be available for fans across the re-

gion to view on Fox Sports and TUDN | ViX (USA), Televisa | ViX (Mexico), One Soccer (Canada), and ESPN | Star+ in the Caribbean, Central, and South America. For other territories, the event will be available on CONCACAF GO, CONCACAF Facebook page, and CONCACAF YouTube channel (all subject to territory restrictions).

The 17th edition of the Gold Cup is scheduled to take place between June 16 and July 16, 2023. The Final, at SoFi Stadium on Sunday July 16, will crown

CONCACAF’s best men’s national team, and will conclude two months of elite football in the region, which would also include the 2023 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League Final and 2022/23 CONCACAF Nations League Finals.

2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualification

The CONCACAF Nations League (CNL) serves as the qualifier for the Gold Cup. At the conclusion of the 2022/23 CNL Group Stage play (March 23-28, 2023), the League A group winners and run-

ners-up (eight teams) and the League B group winners (four teams) will secure a berth in the 2023 Gold Cup Group Stage.

Further, 12 other teams would qualify for the tournament’s Prelims. The Prelims will include the League A third-place finishers (four teams), the League B second place finishers (four teams), and the League C group winners (four teams).

Thus far, Saint Lucia and Puerto Rico have each secured a berth in the Prelims, and El Salvador, Jamaica and Panama have done likewise in the Group Stage.

The Golden Jaguars have opportunity to qualify for the Gold Cup through the preliminary stage

Demerara thrash Essequibo to claim Senior Inter-County Four-Day title

Demerara have thrashed Essequibo by an innings and 63 runs on the final day of the GCB Senior Inter-County Four-Day Tournament, played at GCC, Bourda. In the round-three match, affected by rain that had washed out most of day 2 and the entire day 3, Demerara took 18 wickets to dismiss Essequibo for 175 and 192.

Off-spinner Rishi Looknauth, who ended with the most wickets in the tournament (15), lead the way with match figures of 7-48. Steven Sankar had 4-42 in the second innings, while left-arm spinner Ashmead Need took 4-60 in the first innings.

Ricardo Adams was the standout performer in the match for Essequibo, with 84 in the first innings and 44 in the second innings to go with bowling figures of 4-128 in Demerara’s first innings.

Adams, who finished the tournament with 156 runs and 12 wickets, was later named the MVP of the tournament for his all-round performance.

Akshaya Persaud was adjudged ‘man of the match’ for his 127 in Demerara’s first innings’ total of 4307 declared on day one. He also took 2 wickets in Essequibo’s second innings.

At Everest, the GCB Select XI held Berbice to a draw on the final day. Berbice, replying to the GCB Select XI’s total of 141 on the first day, made 162 all out on Thursday. Alex Algu top scored with 74 not out. With 3-21, National Under-15 captain Dave Mohabir was the pick of the bowlers for GCB Select XI, while Mavindra Dindyal supported with 2-9. GCB Select XI were then dis-

Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship…

Yellow Mines Hydraulics support sealed

missed for 131 in their second innings, as off-spinner Malcolm Mickle took 5-26.

Needing 112 off 16 overs for an outright victory, which would have seen them move to second on the points table behind Demerara, Berbice could only get to 70-3 when play was called off with 2 overs remaining.

Talented opening bats-

man Rampertab Ramnauth made a shot-filled 34 not out. Alex Algu was later adjudged the man of the match for his first innings’ knock of 74 in a low-scoring affair.

At the short presentation ceremony held after the game at GCC, Demerara was presented with the winner’s trophy, and Essequibo with the runner-up trophy.

Individual awards were given for most runs: Akshaya Persaud (233); most wickets: Rishi Looknauth (15); and most valuable player: Ricardo Adams (156 runs and 12 wickets).

The GCB Senior Inter-County Four-Day Tournament was played for the first time in nine (9) years. It was last played in 2014.

Commercial Land for Sale

Pursuant to Order of Court dated the 29th November, 2022 and entered on the 5th January, 2023 before the Honourable Mr. Justice Gino Persaud in Action No.2020HC-DEM-CIV-FDA-489. The Office of the Public Trustee/Official Receiver situated at Lot 91 Middle Street, Georgetown is hereby authorized to offer for sale property situated at Lot lettered 'C' being a portion of Lot numbered 7, being a part of Good Hope, in the La Reconnaisance-Mon Repos Village District situate on the East Sea Coast of the County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana bearing 840acs. or 36,590.40 sq/ft forming part of the Estate of Fareeda Nesha Gafoor aka. Fairda Nesha Yassim aka. Farida Nesha aka. Farida Gafoor, deceased. Expression of interest and/ or Request for bids in the developed parcel of commercial land as described above is to be submitted beginning at GYD$182,000,000.00 (one hundred and eighty-two million dollars), the current market value of the aforesaid property. For more information contact 231-7388 or email to admin.publictrustee@ mola.gov.gy.

Ms Sandra Prashad of Yellow Mines Hydraulics (left) handing over contribution to Ms Fung-A-Fat

Another corporate entity is partnering with the organisers of next month’s Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship to ensure that it’s a satisfying experience for athletes and supporters.

The principals of Yellow Mines Hydraulics, located at 223 Anaida Avenue, Eccleston Gardens, East Bank Demerara, through their representative Ms. Sandra Prashad, handed over a cheque to Kares CrossFit Organising Committee Member Mary Fung-A-Fat.

Ms. Prashad, in a brief comment, said the company was elated to be on board with this internationally flavoured event, which would see athletes from six nations competing for supremacy on

April 15-16 at the National Aquatic Centre and the National Park.

“We at Yellow Mines Hydraulics see this support as part and parcel of giving back to the community. And what better way than to support our athletes? We encourage fans and supporters of the sport to come out in their numbers and cheer the athletes on.”

Fung-A-Fat thanked Prashad and her company for partnering with them for an event that she boasted would be the best of its kind in Guyana.

Meanwhile, over 5 million in cash and prizes would be up for grabs in the Individual showdown, while weightlifting equipment would be at stake for the top-performing teams at this year’s competition.

Demerara are Senior Inter-County 4-Day champions

Ricardo Adams receiving the MVP Trophy from Colin Stuart of the GCB

Mohamed’s Enterprise injects $1M+ into Kashif and Shanghai futsal

The 32-team Kashif and Shanghai “One Guyana” Futsal tournament was on Thursday morning given a massive boost, compliments of Mohamed’s Enterprise, as the two parties continue their decades-long relationship in good faith.

A simple presentation ceremony at the company’s Lombard Street, Georgetown office saw proprietor Nazar “Shell” Mohamed handing over a monetary donation and trophies to members of the organisation.

Mohamed’s Enterprise will be sponsoring the Futsal tournament’s $1 million grand prize.

In brief remarks, Kashif Muhammad spoke of the company’s longstanding relationship with the footballing organisation.

“When the Kashif and

Shanghai football started in 1989, we asked for sponsorship and from 1989 until today, “Shell” was there with us. He’s our longest-standing sponsor, he was there every single time. There was never a time that we asked Mohamed’s Enterprise or Team Mohamed’s for support and we didn’t get it,” Muhammad shared.

The renowned football organiser further stated, “So, we’re extremely grateful for still being with “Shell” today.”

In his remarks, Mohamed continued on the topic of longevity, while highlighting the unifying impact of the sport.

He expressed, “It has been approaching four decades and that has been a really long time and as the honourable chairman says, longevity and sustainabil-

ity are exactly the two words that I thought about even before I got here and

could’ve lived so long to support this organisation, because sport is important and they also have demonstrated longevity. They have their own challenges too and it’s not easy, but they stood out among all the other organisations and organisers of sport in this country and I really want to commend them, because sport is important.”

“Sport is the building block that can cement and unite people,” Mohamed concluded.

The Kashif and Shanghai Futsal tournament is set to kick off on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023 with teams from Georgetown, West Demerara, the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara, Berbice, and Linden. The tournament is set to conclude on Saturday, May 20, 2023.

Shabazz “has options” for Golden Jaguars captaincy

Guyana’s senior men’s national football team, the Golden Jaguars will take to the Dame Flora Duffy Sports Complex, Devonshire, Bermuda on Saturday, March 25 for their anticipated clash with the home team in the CONCACAF Nations League 2022-2023.

With the Golden Jaguars’ two impending international assignments being “mustwin” games, the leadership on the field is ever important.

On that note, Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz shared that he has quite a few options, from both the local and international pools for captaincy.

“Well, it’s a strange scenario. The team is going through a changing of the guards, right. We have [Sam] Cox, who is now elevated as a coach/player, of course, we know he will get some playing time, but we don’t know how it will pan out,” the Golden Jaguars Head Coach told Guyana Times Sport

He added, “So, we keep the captaincy open, he’s a clear leader. Daniel Wilson is a clear leader, Colin Nelson, Jeremy Garrett, young Nathan Moriah-

Welsh, Emery Welshman. So, we have a lot of options.”

However, the Head Coach is not trying to lock down a captain too far in advance, noting that the team have the right amount of balance needed to excel.

Shabazz told this publication exclusively, “At the

“We’ve also tried to go with a good mix of young players – Elliott Bonds playing overseas, Bayli Adams, young player playing overseas – and some experience, because we think that balance is important,” the Coach further stated.

The Golden Jaguars

end of the day, when the 11 takes the field, we would decide, you know, the night before basically, ‘this person

will battle Bermuda on Saturday at 14:00h local time. After which they will head to Barbados, where

will wear the armband’. We really do have a lot of leadership in the squad and that’s a good thing to have.

they will face Monserrat on March 28 in their final Nations League game.

(Jemima Holmes)

this is what Mohamed’s Enterprise stand for. If we are with you, we are with

you. “I am really honoured, I’m really happy that I

Nazar Mohamed of Mohamed’s Enterprise making a presentation to Aubrey “Shanghai” Major in the presence of Kashif Muhammad

Golden Jaguars Head Coach Jamaal Shabaz

Colin Nelson (on ball) was another “potential leader” singled out by Coach Shabazz

Defender Jeremy Garrett was one of the “potential leaders” that Shabazz pointed out

West Indies 4-Day Championship...

stand tall after Smith’s 5-wicket haul

– Johnson ends unbeaten on 150

Smith bags 5

Guyana

Harpy Eagles are in pole position against Jamaica Scorpions after Nial Smith's fourth five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket. Led by Tagenarine Chanderpaul's unbeaten 60 and Tevin Imlach’s unbeaten 50, Guyana are equipped with a lead of 301 runs heading into day three of the West Indies Championship fourth-round match.

Guyana opted to bat again, after bowling out Jamaica for 115, with the Berbice express Smith impressing again, with a steamy 5-39 in 7.5 overs.

The Guyanese started their second innings with a lead of 163 runs. However, it was a rough start as Test seamer Marquino Mindley

who made 150 not out in the first innings, was caught behind for two. To the naked eye, the ball looked to have hit the ground and then bounce in the keeper's hand, but that was not the case as he was given out. Kevlon Anderson, who had a start like he did in the first innings, was bowled by Mindley for 22.

Chanderpaul and Imlach then joined forces and rebuilt the innings after Mindley's new-ball burst. The duo took Guyana to stumps with an unbroken 105-run partnership, displaying solid batting in the last session. Chanderpaul struck nine fours in his 162-ball 60 while Imlach stroked five fours in his 50 from 92 balls.

Earlier, Guyana resumed the second day on 268-9 with skipper Johnson on 142. The

In Jamaica's response, they were rocked by the Guyanese pacers Smith and Ronsford Beaton. The quicks made the ball talk, and Smith in particular extracted movement with the new ball. He bowled Tevin Gilzene for a duck and Test player Nkrumah Bonner for four before peeling off the edge of Test Vice Captain Jermaine Blackwood for a duck.

Beaton worked his magic on the other end with his raw pace, and he was also re-

103-9 at lunch. Green and Nicholson Gordon added 51 runs for the final wicket, batting for more than 17 overs, taking Jamaica to 115 all out. Smith had returned to mop up the innings, ending with 5-39 in 7.5 overs. Permaul had 3-22 in 11 overs, while Beaton had 2-22 in seven overs. Green top-scored for Jamaica with 42 from 89 balls.

In the other fixtures, in Trinidad and Tobago, Windward Islands Volcanoes

SCOREBOARD

Jamaica 1st Innings

Leroy Lugg c Imlach b Beaton 16

Tevin Gilzene b Smith 0

Nkruma Bonner b Smith 4

Jermaine Blackwood c Johnson b Smith 0

Paul Palmer c Johnson b Smith 0

Abhijai Mansingh c

Savory b Permaul 8

Aldane Thomas c

cleaned up Guyana’s top order. At tea, Guyana reached 37-4. Matthew Nandu was bowled by Mindley for a duck, and Kemol Savory was again trapped at the crease for one.

Captain Leon Johnson,

Guyanese added 10 runs to their overnight score, and s Johnson added eight to his personal tally. Johnson ended unbeaten on 150 while last man Nial Smith was trapped for a duck. Mindley ended with 3-34 in 14.1 overs.

warded. Scorpions were tottering at 24-6 in 6.4 overs. Abhijai Mansingh and the veteran Derval Green added 30 runs for the seventh wicket, taking the score to 54-7 in 13.2 overs. Mansingh was caught at cover by the legend, Veerasammy Permaul for eight.

Green continued to stand tall, but he lost his partners, Ojay Shields (07) and Mindley (00) to Permaul. The extra 30 minutes was taken with Jamaica on 64-9 in 17.4 overs. Jamaica reached

are fighting back against Leeward Islands Hurricanes at Brian Lara Cricket Academy. Alick Athanaze is unbeaten on 105 and Kavem Hodge is on 85 as Windwards closed the day on 206-2 in 44 overs. Leewards had earlier posted 382-9 declared, with Kofi James scoring 107 and Karima Gore hitting 93. Sherman Lewis had 3-75 in 21.5 overs.

At Queen's Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago are 31-2 after posting 203 all out in their first innings. Barbados

Imlach b Beaton 0

Derval Green c Johnson

b Smith 42

Ojay Shields c Imlach

b Permaul 7

Marquino Mindley c Anderson b Permaul 0

Nicholson Gordon not out 22

Total (10 wickets, 35.5)

(16 extras) 115

FOW: 5/1 (1.4) Tevin Gilzen 18/2

(5.3) Nkruma Bonner 18/3 (5.4)

Jermaine Blackwood 18/4 (5.6)

Paul Palmer 24/5 (6.3) Leroy

Lugg 24/6 (6.4) Aldane Thomas 54/7 (13.2) Abhijai Mansingh 64/8 (17.1) Ojay Shields 64/9

(17.4) Marquino Mindley 115/10 (35.5) Derval Green

Bowling Ronsford Beaton (7-1-22-2)

Nial Smith (7.5-1-39-5)

Veerasammy Permaul (11-3-22-3)

Gudakesh Motie (10-0-24-0)

Guyana 2nd Innings

Tagenarine Chanderpaul not out 60

Matthew Nandu b Mindley

Kevlon Anderson b Mindley 22

Kemol Savory lbw b Mindley 1

Leon Johnson c Thomas b Mindley 2

Tevin Imlach not out 50

Total (4 wickets, 48.0) (3 extras) 138

FOW: 1/1 (0.4) Matthew Nandu

27/2 (6.3) Kevlon Anderson

31/3 (8.3) Kemol Savory

33/4 (10.4) Leon Johnson

Bowling

Marquino Mindley (11-1-30-4)

Nicholson Gordon (9-4-14-0)

Derval Green (10-0-31-0)

Ojay Shields (2-0-13-0)

Abhijai Mansingh (9-2-19-0)

Jermaine Blackwood (6-1-20-0)

Paul Palmer (1-0-9-0)

made 271 all out, with Zachary McCaskie scoring 92 and Imran Khan claiming four wickets.

Matches will continue today from 10:00h Eastern Caribbean time.

Leon Johnson ended unbeaten on 150

Tagenarine Chanderpaul lets one go off Marquino Mindley

Nial Smith picked up his second five-wicket haul of the season (Brandon Corlette photos)

Guyana destroyed Jamaica on day two