Guyana Times - Friday, November 3, 2023.pdf

First Lady Arya Ali named Patron of ACMF P13

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5542

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Govt in talks with top 3 of 25 bidders to sell Guyana’s crude – VP …says awardee will be announced soon Essequibo Referendum “useless”, “harmful” See story to Venezuela, on page 2 says its former Ambassador to Guyana

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

WHAT'S INSIDE:

2 critical patients air-dashed from Bartica to GT P18

by GDF

Page 3

“Totally reprehensible” – VP on inhumane treatment of Venezuelans See story on page 7

…says it’s a “manoeuvre” to distract citizens from “failure” of Maduro’s Govt …says no xenophobia must occur in Guyana

Continued P16 blackouts leading to disruption in production – GCCI bemoans disappointment …GPL says blackouts should ease by mid-December

Guyanese detained in T&T, Police seize thousands of camouflage P9 items

Child rape P8 accused freed following retrial

The Human Services and Social Security Ministry on Thursday evening hosted a cultural night for the delegates and regional ministers who are in Guyana for the Ministerial Forum on Gender Empowerment and Equality. The three-day forum, which will be wrapped up today, is being hosted at the Marriott Hotel. Ministers from Trinidad and Tobago, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, St Lucia, and Belize are in attendance

GPL to institute penalties as 99% of shutdowns caused by accidents, construction Page 9

… “atrocious” – Jagdeo on constant power outages

2 remanded over ATM fraud

…alleged mastermind still at large P18

NIS to host outreach in New York this weekend P7

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Essequibo Referendum “useless”, “harmful” to Venezuela, says their former Ambassador to Guyana …says it’s a “manoeuvre” to distract citizens from “failure” of Maduro’s Govt

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former Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana has bashed the Nicolás Maduro Government over its planned referendum that seeks to annex Guyana’s territory of Essequibo, saying the exercise is not only useless, but is a distraction from the ongoing socioeconomic crisis in the Spanish-speaking nation.

“The referendum that the Maduro government has decided to call on the Essequibo claim is not only useless, but harmful to the interests of Venezuela,” Sadio Garavini di Turno said in an opinion piece that was published by several regional media outlets on Thursday.

Last month, the Venezuelan National Electoral Council published a list of five questions it plans to put before the Venezuelan people in a referendum set for December 3, 2023. One question (#5) proposes the creation of Venezuelan State of Guyana Essequibo and

an accelerated plan for giving Venezuelan citizenship and identity cards to the Guyanese population.

However, according to Turno, a former Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana and current advisor to the Opposition in Caracas, this is an unreal question. He noted that it is ridiculous to think that Essequibians, who live in the world’s fastest growing economy, would want to be citizens of a country in the midst of a socioeconomic disaster, and from which its own people – approximately 35,000 – have fled to Guyana and more are coming daily.

Turno noted that this particular question also gives the impression that Venezuela intends to militarily occupy the Essequibo region – something which has already been denounced by Guyana and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries.

Inconsequential

Moreover, the former

Former Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Sadio Garavini di Turno

Venezuelan Ambassador pointed out that two of the questions in the referendum are absolutely inconsequential, and are tantamount to asking “if you love your mother.”

He said that in asking the Venezuelan electorate if they support the 1966 Geneva Agreement as the only instrument to resolve the controversy, the Maduro regime forgot to mention the ongoing process before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Turno asserted that with the question that asked whether one agrees not to recognize the jurisdiction of the ICJ to resolve the border controversy, there is a clear intention to use the probable affirmative answer to get out of the judicial process, in which Venezuela has already

accepted the jurisdiction of the Court by participating in it.

Further, the former Venezuelan diplomat outlined that the World Court, with or without the presence of Venezuela, would follow the process; and in a few years’ time, would issue its ruling, which is mandatory and unappealable. He added that after the decision on the 1899 Award and the definition of the land border, it is very likely that the ICJ would also have to intervene in the delimitation of marine and underwater areas.

According to the former diplomat, the responsible thing is for Venezuela to prepare itself to defend its case before the ICJ. After years of failed good officers’ process, Guyana approached the World Court

in 2018, seeking a final and binding judgement to reinforce that the 1899 Arbitral Award remains valid and binding on all parties, as well as legal affirmation that Guyana’s Essequibo region, which contains much of the country’s natural resources, belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

Guyana’s Spanishspeaking neighbour has laid claim to more than twothirds of Guyana’s landmass in the Essequibo region, and to a portion of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in which nearly 11 billion barrels of oil have been discovered largely by United States oil giant ExxonMobil.

Venezuela has accused the Guyana Government of being a puppet of ExxonMobil and the US Southern Command. But according to Turno, the Venezuelan Government’s position on the oil activities offshore Guyana is “extremely irresponsible”, and “not very serious”, especially since two of the partners in the Stabroek Block – Chinese State Oil Company (CNOOC) and Chevron, which will soon take over Hess’s local operations – also have operations in Venezuela.

To make matter worse, Turno pointed out, the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry, after all its actions,

is now asking the Guyana Government to sit down to negotiate bilaterally.

According to Turno, who is a former Vice Minister of Justice in Caracas, he is of the opinion that the referendum is a manoeuvre to distract public attention from the enormous socioeconomic failure, in view of the announced 2024 elections, by raising the nationalist flag.

Further, he said it is about forgetting the irresponsible and very unprofessional handling of the controversy during these two decades, which has led us to the ICJ, the scenario preferred by Guyana since 1966.

The Guyana Government has already declared its commitment to resolving this longstanding border controversy with Venezuela through the legal process at the World Court. Over the past few weeks, Guyana has been informing regional and international partners of Venezuela’s planned referendum, which has been criticised by the United States, Caricom, and the Organization of American States (OAS), as well as several other nations in the region, including Brazil.

There is a consensus that Venezuela’s referendum threatens the peace, security and stability of the region.

(G8)

NEWS

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Friday, November 3 – 04:00h-05:30h and Saturday, November 4 – 22:00h-23:30h.

Govt in talks with top 3 of 25 bidders to sell Guyana’s crude – VP

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, November 3 – 08:05h-09:35h and Saturday, November 4 – 09:20h-10:50h.

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

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

WEATHER TODAY Light to thundery showers are expected for most of the day, followed by late-afternoon sunshine.

Clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 07:39h and 19:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.22 metres and 2.29 metres.

Low Tide: 13:21h reaching a minimum height of 1.05 metres.

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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…says awardee will be announced soon he Guyana Government will soon be announcing the new company that will market the country’s share of the light sweet crude oil from the Stabroek Block.

Back in September, Government had invited companies to market Guyana’s share of profit oil from offshore where United States oil major ExxonMobil is producing oil from two Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, and is gearing up to start production at its third project in the Stabroek Block before year end.

During his weekly press conference on Thursday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed that 25 bids were received during the tender process.

“Soon, you will be seeing the award for the marketing of our crude and for all three FPSOs. We received 25 bids and now they’re having discussions with the top three bidders,” Jagdeo indicated.

When pressed, he opted not to divulge any further information about the top three bidders, noting that it would be released as soon as the Natural Resources Ministry concludes the ongoing negotiations.

According to the Vice President, the key variable is credibility and price. With the latter, he explained that Government was particularly happy with this bid, since it was able to move from paying a marketing commission, which was introduced during the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) administration, to removing that commission in last marketing contract last year and now getting a premium instead from the new marketer at a price above the international market value.

“They will pay us a premi-

um above the daily Brent average for the five days… So, we’re pleased now we’ve seen a shift now, moving from having to pay a marketing commission to sell our oil to now zero marketing commission and now we’re getting a price for barrel above what the benchmark that we were using is,” he explained.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo added that one of the bidders submitted a proposal for a single FPSO but with a high premium, while another is offering Government an option to pay a portion of the premium along with training, but the option to pay the full premium is still on the table.

“The Ministry is working through this. You’ll get the names of all of the people and an explanation as to how [the marketing will be] done,” the VP related.

Invitation for bids

The invitation for bids issued by the Natural Resources Ministry in September, closed off on October 17, 2023. It had invited eligible bidders to submit their bids for the provision of marketing services for Guyana’s entitlement of oil from offshore production activities. They will have to competitively market and maximise the value of the Government’s crude oil entitlement from developments in the Stabroek Block, and create a competitive market for the Liza, Unity Gold, and Payara Gold blends.

These bids were on a lot basis; hence bidders could have bid for one or more lots.

Last October, United Kingdom’s BP Oil International Limited won the one-year contract to market Guyana’s share of profit oil from the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity FPSOs. In that contract, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government had cut out the marketing commission for this

service.

A marketing commission is a percentage of the revenues generated from the sale of crude, which would go to the third party acting as Guyana’s agent.

Nevertheless, the new contractor that would be selected will now have to market the country’s crude from three FPSOs. Prior to BP Oil, Saudi Aramco was contracted in September 2021 to market Guyana’s share of profit oil from the ExxonMobil-led operations offshore.

Guyana started producing oil in December 2019, and its crude lift was initially marketed by Shell Western, after which Hess International marketed the following oil share.

Currently, Exxon and its co-venturers Hess and CNOOC are producing as much as 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) with the two FPSOs in the Liza field. The Payara development will add another 220,000 bpd when production is regulated in a few months after start-up.

For 2023, Guyana is entitled to 17 lifts.

In September, the Guyana Government released the MidYear Report of 2023, in which it was reported that there were eight lifts of profit oil from the two producing FPSOs during the first half of this year.

Between January and June 2023, Government earned US$705.2 million as revenue from its share of profit oil from two lifts that occurred in the final quarter of 2022, and seven of the eight lifts that occurred in the first six months of this year. Government also earned US$110.8 million in royalties from 2022’s last quarter and from production and sales in the first three months of this year.

According to the report, in July, US$73.8 million was received as a profit oil payment

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

for the Government lift done in June. The cumulative balance, inclusive of interest income of US$35.6 million, at the end of June was US$1723.5 million, after withdrawals of US$200 million each in the months of February and May. It was noted, however, with the price of crude oil declining amid demand-side concerns and financial market disruptions that threaten a global slowdown in economic activity, the forecast for NRF deposits has been marginally downgraded. Petroleum deposits for the year are now projected to total US$1629.3 million, compared with US$1631.7 million estimated at the beginning of the year.

Consequently, the Guyana Government is now projected to earn some US$1410 million from the sale of Guyana’s share of profit oil, and US$219.3 million in royalties. It is anticipated that at the end of the year, the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) closing balance will stand at approximately US$2 billion.

So far this year, Government has withdrawn, in four tranches, some $124.8 billion (US$600 million) from the NRF, which is being held in an account at the New York Federal Reserve Bank in the United States. In the second half of the year, it is anticipated that another $125.2 billion will be withdrawn from the NRF. (G8)

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

Clamping down on sale of firecrackers

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very year, communities and villages are inundated with persons throwing firecrackers during Diwali and Christmas. For years prior to high Police presence, it had almost become customary for the Alexander Village Mandir to come under attack from strangers, who seemed to have made it their task to make the lives of the villagers miserable each year on Diwali Day. In the past, persons had assembled in the village and lit squibs and other types of dangerous firecrackers, which were then tossed towards the mandir, disrupting activities and doing damage. Hopefully, as Diwali approaches, this is a thing of the past, and mandir members can now celebrate peacefully and without fear.

These little devices are no different from bombs. In the past, persons have paid the price for not heeding warnings to desist from playing with these explosives. Persons were left maimed, blind, and without limbs, among other irreparable harm, when the firecrackers exploded in their faces. Sadly, even toddlers and children have suffered severe burns from either playing with firecrackers or coming into contact with those that were lit by other persons. Yet, despite these many disasters, and in the face of repeated warnings, Guyanese still play with these explosives. Our Pet Care columnist, Dr Steve Surujbally, in one of his columns explaining the dangers these devices pose to animals, said, “…whether it is a firecracker or a squib, or any noise-making explosive, it hurts animals. Dogs and cats have sensitive ears. The noise from the explosions disorients and traumatises them. They don’t know what to do. They run indoors and try to hide in secluded places where they think there is security (bathrooms, under beds, in cupboards, etc). They hurt themselves. They run away from home. They jump off the verandah, break their legs or, worse, their necks, or damage their spinal cords, causing paralysis for life.”

A ban was imposed on all fireworks, and persons caught selling the devices could face fines and jail time, as could persons caught playing with the items. Over the years the Police have been incredibly weak in clamping down on this practice and in preventing the banned products from entering into the country.

This year’s Diwali celebrations are just around the corner, and it is hoped that the Hindu community is not again greeted by an overwhelming number of dangerous firecrackers popping around the country. Over the years, too many citizens had banned firecrackers in their possession on Diwali Day; and although the Alexander Village Mandir was spared the harassment for some time now, various communities were not so fortunate.

In the past, in some areas, young people assembled on the road, lit these explosives, and tossed them, being unconcerned about the dangers in which they were placing innocent people, and the damage they could have done.

Motorists are often times aggravated about this.

The wide use of firecrackers during Diwali and Christmas suggests that the products are easily available on the market.

The Police could say that tracking down illegal products and finding every seller of banned firecrackers in every nook and cranny in the country is difficult, perhaps impossible, to do; but that is not what we had in mind. Our contention is that, when it comes to smuggling, law enforcers are still not on top of the situation. If they were, last year’s Diwali and Christmas celebrations would have been peaceful, or only a small number of firecrackers would have been set alight.

In previous years, when the Police targeted sellers of firecrackers in the lead-up to Diwali and Christmas celebrations, there was a major difference.

Playing with firecrackers is no longer fun. One of the major concerns about the practice is that citizens cannot distinguish between the sound of a firecracker popping and a gun being fired.

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo inspecting ongoing road construction work at Sideline Dam, La Penitence, Georgetown (Office of the VP photos)

A view on the Production Sharing Agreement Dear Editor, Last Friday, October 27, 2023, I was privileged to have a 40-minute-long interview with the Financial Times (FT) on Guyana’s oil and gas sector. The interview was particularly focused on the Petroleum Agreement (2016) and current developments.

However, only about 1% of my contribution was captured in the actual news item that was published on October 29, 2023. As such, I find it necessary to highlight a greater part of my contribution that was not reflected in the FT article.

The first and main question was about my views on the Production Sharing Agreement (2016) (PSA), and whether or not I thought it was a good deal for the country. In responding to that question, I devoted most of the time to explaining the context, which was entirely omitted from the FT article. The context is such that, while the PSA (2016) was heavily criticized, including by myself and the incumbent government while in opposition, the incumbent government gave an undertaking to change the entire framework, and not only the 2016 PSA. I pointed out that the current administration, which was in opposition at that time, had successfully moved a no-confidence motion (NCM) against the APNU/AFC Government

in December 2018, following which, elections were constitutionally due three months thereafter.

However, this did not happen. Instead, elections occurred one year later, coupled with another fivemonth delay in the elections result, inter alia, the 2020 elections fiasco. So, there was effectively nearly one and a half years’ delay in the elections which resulted in a change of Government in 2020.

ExxonMobil Guyana commenced production in December 2019, well ahead of the national elections, bearing in mind that this was a record achievement to move from discovery to production in such a short period of time (just five years), given that, historically, it usually takes about 8-10 years to move from commercial discovery to production. This achievement was of course aided by the deployment of new technologies across the industry. These are some of the primary factors that made it difficult for the renegotiation of the 2016 PSA, considering the stability clause and sanctity of the contract, which have an impact on the overall political risk of the country from a global perspective.

I spoke briefly about the geopolitical risks as well as the ramifications; that is, the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.

Notwithstanding, the Government did deliver on its commitment to change/ renegotiate the entire framework. To this end, a new model PSA was developed with significantly improved fiscal terms (royalty up from 2% to 10%, cost recovery down from 75% to 65%, introduction of a corporate tax of 10%, and the 50% profit share), there was the implementation of the Local Content Act and the Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project, together with the improvement of the terms and conditions of the licences, and the new Petroleum Activities legislation that would repeal the old Act. In particular, I mentioned that the local content legislation and the GTE would translate to an additional US$2 billion (G$400 billion) or 14% of GDP in both direct and indirect benefits through in-country spending and value maximization, under the same agreement.

Moreover, the Government has effectively renegotiated nine (9) other developments that were issued with exploration licences around the same time as ExxonMobil Guyana in 1999, but those have not yet moved to production, as in the case of ExxonMobil Guyana. That means whenever those other developments make any commercial discovery, the new fiscal terms shall apply to those production li-

cences.

Notably, there is one other discovery so far by CGX, which was announced last year; further studies are being undertaken currently to ascertain the commercial viability of same.

In the case of the Stabroek Block, which is an estimated 26,806 km2, I had also noted that after twenty-four years of continuous exploration, and based on the total number of discoveries to date (46 discoveries), these discoveries accounted for less than 2% of the massive Stabroek Block. Therefore, when the exploration licence expires in 2027, an estimated 97% of the lucrative Stabroek Block is likely to remain unexplored, at which point, any new exploration and production licence being sought, the new PSA shall be applied.

Finally, I was asked about ring-fencing and the spending of the resource, to which I went into great detail, explaining my views on the pros and cons of ring-fencing, which I had written about recently, and I explained about the governance structure of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), the withdrawal rules etc. In these respects, I took the opportunity to share with the FT reporter several articles I had written on these topics.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

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Defend Guyana from Venezuelan aggression!

Dear Editor, We, the Guyanese people, do have our differences. Yet, through thick and thin, we have managed to not only survive, but also be on the verge of dramatic forward movement.

Whatever these 83,000 square miles have given us, we have made the most out of it. This is despite centuries of conquest, slavery, indentureship, colonial rule, imperial interference, the toxic dramas of the Cold War, and the gyrating vicissitudes of a world economic order defined by structural inequality between the North and South.

These 83,000 square miles are not only the material source of all we are as a people, but are also the symbolic referent of ancestral courage, of fortitude, of national unity, and of a future

that will be the product of our own choosing. Nowhere does this apply more than to the great Guyanese citizens of Morawhanna, Mabaruma, Juanita, Arakaka, Port Kaituma, Muruwawe Village, Awarabati, Paruima Mission, Baramita, Arau Village, Arawi, and Kikan.

And given the rapacious territorial greed of Nicholás Maduro and his collection of generals and politicos, who are responsible for a failed state, the people of the Essequibo Coast: from Hackney, Charity, Dartmouth, Anna Regina, Queenstown, and all the way down to Supenaam, are also resolved to stand strong against the Bolivarian aggression. So are the folks of Wakenaam, Hog Island, Leguan, and then across the massive mouth of the

Essequibo River to Parkia, and down to the Boeraserie Creek.

I went up the Pomeroon River to Wakapao yesterday, and can tell you that the people of the hinterland areas are proud of their Guyanese heritage and history, and want nothing to do with the failed state run

by Maduro and his generals.

What the people of Guyana should know is that despite their massive oil reserves, President Nicholás Maduro, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, and President of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez, are bent on using Essequibo, which is an integral and indivisible part of Guyana, as a political scapegoat for electoral reasons. Nicholás Maduro’s United Socialist Party of

Venezuela has mismanaged his country’s economic and political affairs so badly that now he must rely on creating a foreign enemy to help him survive. The opposition parties in Venezuela have also caved in to territorial bullyism.

Venezuela has 300 billion barrels of proven oil reserves. This is against Guyana’s 11 billion barrels. Yet Nicholás Maduro, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, and President of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez, are so “Big Eye” that they want ours. The sad thing is that, despite having 30 times our reserves, we are producing more oil than Venezuela.

Why is that so? The answer is simple: because of Nicholás Maduro, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, and Jorge Rodríguez, world-

class incompetents who spent decades promising things to the Venezuelan people but failing to deliver. Even worse, what they did give away, they could not afford.

The Bolivarian Revolution has been run into the ground by this trio, who believe that ideology and free giveaways can substitute for an economy based on solid management of macro-economic fundamentals. The Bolivarian Revolution has no one remotely competent to our own President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, or Senior Minister in the Office of the President Responsible for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. These four stalwarts, along with a superbly qualified Cabinet,

would make Venezuela into an economic miracle if they had access to 300 billion barrels of oil!

The time is now for Guyanese from across the country to stand together against Venezuelan aggression. This includes the dozens of critics who live off division and distrust, and who might be tempted to use Venezuela’s drive for territorial robbery for their own domestic political gains. To date, we have managed to stand as one. Let us consolidate this conjuncture of threats against our national sovereignty to forge a way forward. Let us defend Guyana from Morawhanna to the Boeraserie, and against all enemies, domestic and foreign.

Sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud

Cabinet outreach in Region Review of "Guyanese Badness" 10 was highly successful Dear Editor, Over the last weekend, October 29/30, 2023, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali held a cabinet outreach in Region 10, in keeping with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s policy and principle of engaging the people throughout the country to listen to issues that may be affecting their communities, villages, towns and regions, and also to update the residents on Government’s programmes and plans for the regions and the country as a whole, working towards a one Guyana initiative to benefit everyone.

While the PPP/C always has yearly cabinet outreaches, ministers and senior official are mandated by His Excellency to be in contact with the people at all times.

At the outreach to various communities in Region 10, many developmental and personal issues were raised by residents, which were documented for the cabinet and the RDC to address.

The President, before going out on his visits, commissioned a brand-new, state-ofthe-art x-ray machine at the Mackenzie Hospital. He then went on his visits to several communities, and made several commitments, such as the building of a new primary school at Malali to replace the old school which is always subjected to flooding during heavy rainfall.

Also, a doctor’s quarters will be erected, and the operation of a quarry on the reservation will be approved. A new wharf will also be built at Linden to accommodate goods and service for upper

Demerara riverine communities.

His Excellency also, in keeping with the objective of food security, stated that Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, would place a vital role on a special project of having 10 acres of land to be cultivated, of which 35 per cent of the involvement of the agro-project must be women. Also, 77 solar panels were presented to that village.

Residents of 47 & 58 Miles and Great Falls would also receive solar panels, a bus will be given to the communities to take the children to school, free eye care programme will be rolled out, and several black water tanks would be delivered to the communities, while GWI will be digging wells. Those villages will also benefit from agriculture assistance.

Several issues were also raised in Berbice riverine communities, such as agriculture assistance and request for a secondary school to be built at Wiruni, which will be done.

Many other mega-projects are ongoing in that location, such as the G$150 million wharf project at Tacoma, black eye peas are to be cultivated at Kimbia, barley and millet will also be produced in Berbice riverine areas. Also, the expansion of corn and soya bean cultivation is ongoing.

At Kwakwani, the recreational facility will be upgraded, GWI is to drill a well there, continued agriculture support will be given, also all-weather roads will be done in the village.

The village of Ituni will receive a 30-seater bus to take children to school in Linden, a new primary school will be built, and black water tanks will be given to the residents. Also, assistance will be given to agriculture.

At Coomacka Mines, Three Friends, Siberian and Nottinghamshire villages, the upgrading will continue, agriculture assistance will continue, 45 outstanding land issues will be resolved, and work will be done on the other areas in terms of land titling. 100 black water tanks will be delivered, and the Ministry of Agriculture will work with the residents in developing 20 acres of land for agriculture, of which 35% must be women on the project. Recreational facilities will be upgraded.

At Linden, several issues were raised as to land title, road development, poor waste disposal collection, lease for agriculture lands, requesting CDCs to be formed at back section of Block 22, Prosville and Andy Ville. New homes will be made for three Moblissa teachers. There are other minor issues that would be addressed.

It must be noted that over G$2 billion is being spent on the road network in Linden, and other massive development is ongoing in Region 10, which I will be highlighting in a subsequent report to the people of Region 10 and the nation.

Sincerely, Andrew Forsythe Regional Coordinator

Dear Editor, I recently saw the movie ‘Guyanese Badness’. It was not what I had expected.

The selection of music was good for the storyline, and the characters were easy to follow. The movie is set outside of the city, and stars a lot of young upcoming actors, who get very into their characters. There is a lot of gunplay and some drug use, highlighting some of what needs to be addressed in our society, and this is also stated by the producer at the end of unfinished work released to the public.

The special effects are still developing, and it reminds me of how, as youngsters, we would play war break; but in the movie, the actors are able to take it from that level to a more serious level, that draws the audience into the developing storyline.

The underlying theme is the thirst for money, which reduces the positive impact the movie could have, but the movie has the potential to replicate what Director John Singleton did with Boyz n the Hood.

Singleton was able to show the tragic nature of violence and the strength of possible upliftment, which brought empowerment to succeed by taking a better, nonviolent path. The producer speaks of his interest in taking the movie in this direction, but he also speaks of the unfortunate reality of not being able to complete the production.

It is nice to see the movie industry starting to develop in Guyana, and it is nice to see the emergence of young talent. Slowing down to cap-

ture the moment, fleshing out the main storyline, and developing the main characters would help to take such projects to the level of the independent film festival. It’s a great effort, and the more positive the message, the more in sync with the current thrust of Guyanese culture the projects would become.

Keep at it, and congratulations on the large number of views attained in such a short period of time.

As actors and filmmakers, you have the opportunity to have a positive impact on

where our society goes and what the youths in the country look up to as role models.

That’s how important a role the movie industry can play in our country’s future development.

Sidney Poitier was a brilliant example of someone from the Caribbean who used his talents to uplift and strengthen people of colour around the world. Guyana also has the talent and the capability of doing this, if we so choose.

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:05 13:35 14:00 14:30 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 23:00 23:30 00:00

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Foundation ◄

Page

Thumb Tourist

Test Questions

Continued Experiment ideas An aquaponic system is an excellent tool for experimentation and proving or disproving a hypothesis.

Following are four theories and experiments that can be done to prove each.

Theory 1 Although an aquaponics system will produce good plant growth, the hydroponic system with precisely measured nutrients will produce faster-growing, higher-quality plants.

Experiment 1

Set up a hydroponic system and an aquaponic system. Monitor and document which one best supports plant growth.

Theory 2 A healthy aquaponic system has ample nutrients for leafy crop growth, but fruiting plants will be lacking sufficient quantities of certain elements.

Experiment 2 Plant a leafy crop such as lettuce and a fruiting crop such as tomatoes and monitor to see which one

does best in aquaponics.

Theory 3 A pH of 7.0 is the best for an aquaponic system.

At a lower pH, nitrification slows down and the water quality will be reduced, stressing the fish, and at a higher pH the plants will be stressed.

Experiment 3 Set up three aquaponic systems. Run each at a different pH, one at 6.0, one at 7.0 and one at 8.0.

Observe and document the plant growth and fish

health at varying pH levels.

Theory 4 Denser fish populations will support more plant growth due to increased fish waste and nutrients in the water.

Experiment 4 Set up two aquaponic systems, stock one with 1” of fish/gallon of water and the other with 1/2” of fish per gallon of water. Observe the difference in plant growth. (Excerpt from aquaponics.com)

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Totally reprehensible” – VP on inhumane treatment of Venezuelans …says no xenophobia must occur in Guyana

V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo has lashed out against the inhumane treatment of Venezuelan migrants who have fled their country to seek betterment in Guyana, warning that such actions could affect the safety of those Guyanese who are still living in Venezuela.

His remarks came in light of a video circulating on social media in which two migrants, accused of being thieves, were bullied into stripping and walking the road. The Guyana Police Force has since arrested a 37-year-old man of Peters Hall, East Bank Demerara (EBD), over the matter.

According to VP Jagdeo, such treatment of the Venezuelan migrants will not be tolerated. He noted that the suspect in this matter would face “serious consequences” for his actions.

“Over the past week, we have seen some reprehensible incidents, targeting Venezuelans; totally reprehensible…We are not going to be part of any movement to promote xenophobia in our country against people,” the Vice President contended during a press conference on Thursday.

Police on Wednesday evening said that their attention was called to the incident following a video circulating on social media.

According to Police, following a public appeal urging anyone with information about the

incident or the individuals responsible to come forward, the man turned himself in about 13:30h at the Providence Police Station, accompanied by his lawyer.

Police said he was arrested and escorted to the Golden Grove Police Station, where he was video-interviewed in the presence of his lawyer.

“He admitted during the interview that he indeed had a cutlass in his hands, instructed the victims to say that they were thieves and ordered them to take off all their clothing and walk naked down the street.

The suspect claimed that he never assaulted the victims, nor was he aware of who made the video,” Police said.

According to Police, the man was confronted with the victims, and they maintained he made the video with a red phone. The suspect was searched and according to Police, a red phone was found on his person.

Police said that it was checked, but no video recording of the incident was found.

The phone was nonetheless lodged and is expected to be sent to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters to check for deleted videos. The man remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Only on Tuesday, Guyana Times reported that the incident captured on video and widely circulated on social me-

dia had sparked outrage among the Guyanese community.

In fact, VP Jagdeo urged Guyanese to show empathy to the Venezuelan migrants here in the country as he reminded that scores of citizens had fled similar conditions in Guyana years ago to seek a better life in Venezuela as well as other countries in the region and around the world.

“We have always insisted that people treat our people with dignity and respect and that [Guyanese] be compliant with the laws of the country in which they go to live… We fought for our people, wherever they are, to be treated decently,” he posited.

According to the Vice President, there are still many Guyanese migrants still living in Venezuela and behaviour such as this could spark a retaliation against them, not only in the Spanish-speaking nation, but other countries around the world too.

“We still have Guyanese who migrated and live in Venezuela. Just imagine if somebody, whatever the accusation is, in this case they said it’s stealing, stripped your mother or daughter or sister and say walk down the road because of who they are – migrants. Just imagine how we’d react here in Guyana to this.

We’d be up in arms outraged by this happening in another country with our people. This here, what they did here, can

harm our people elsewhere where [Guyanese] live if there is retaliation. And people have to understand this,” Jagdeo argued.

He went on to note that most of the Venezuelans coming here are persons who have connections, mainly through their parentage, and are coming here with little to nothing because they feel they can have a better life in Guyana.

“The majority of them who are here come from that; they’re cut from that cloth.

They’re our people. They have Guyanese blood. So, we have to treat them [better]… We don’t know their hardship,” the VP stressed.

Jagdeo, however, acknowledged that there are some Venezuelans with no connections here coming here. He pointed out that they too were entitled to the protection of the State under global refugee conventions.

“They’re economic migrants and you have to treat people with dignity,” he insisted.

But in the same breath, the Vice President is mindful that there could be elements that are coming here with nefarious intentions especially given the fact that there were heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela over the ongoing border controversy.

He argued that mistreatment could not be meted out to all the Venezuelan migrants over fear of infiltration by a few

NIS to host outreach in New York this weekend

T

he National Insurance Scheme (NIS) will be conducting a three-day NIS outreach in New York, United States, from November 4 to 6. The outreach forms part of Government’s efforts to resolve pending cases within the NIS, and provides an opportunity for the Guyanese diaspora to interact directly with the Scheme to have their issues addressed and questions answered.

Day one of the outreach will be hosted at St. Gabriel’s

Episcopal Church at 331 Hawthorne St, Brooklyn, New York; day two at the Guyanese Community Centre (Hindu Temple) at 1052 Pleasant St, Schenectady, New York; while the final day will be hosted at Liberty Palace and Banquet Hall at 130-11 Liberty Ave., South Richmond Hill, Queens, New York. The outreach will be held each day from 09:00h to 17:00h.

President Ali has only recently announced the establish-

ment of a specialised secretariat and a projectised format within the NIS to expedite the resolution process of pending claims.

“I wanted to address this issue. This is an issue that we want to fix, and we want to make every effort in a specialised, projectized manner to get this fix before the end of the year,” the Head of State had emphasised.

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, while delivering remarks recently at the Scheme’s

54th Anniversary ceremony, appealed to the Scheme to raise the standard of operation and to deliver efficient services to ensure that all NIS matters are dealt with in a timely and professional manner. Singh also urged the NIS staff to recommit themselves to ensuring a more efficient and respected entity going forward.

The three-day outreach to the US will be led by the General Manager of the NIS, Holly Greeves.

The Venezuelan nationals mistreated in the viral video

who could potentially threaten Guyana’s sovereignty.

“It’s not that we’re unmindful that we have a border issue with Venezuela and we have to be careful about settling people here… We’ve always maintained that people must be treated decently… We

must safeguard our borders and watch out for any trend where people are not complying with our laws and they will face full brunt of the law… But you can’t threat all of these people in a particular manner and throw them out…,” VP Jagdeo stated. (G8)

8 NEWS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Child rape accused freed following retrial C

ollin Cummings, the man who had been on trial for a second time at the High Court in Demerara for the offence of rape committed on an eightyear-old girl, has unanimously been found not guilty by a jury on Monday.

Cummings, 60, has left the courthouse a free man after the jurors returned a verdict that acquitted him of the offence of rape of a child under the age of 16. He was represented by Attorney-atLaw Kevin Morgan.

Earlier this year, following the Court of Appeal's decision to overturn Cummings's conviction from his first trial before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall, he was scheduled for a second trial before Justice Navindra Singh, which concluded on Monday. Cummings entered an alibi plea at that retrial.

When the jurors had re-

Collin Cummings has been acquitted by a jury on a child rape charge

turned with their unanimous guilty verdict in 2018, Cummings had maintained his innocence, telling Justice Morris-Ramlall, “I am innocent of this charge brought against me.” He had been ac-

cused of sexually penetrating the girl on August 20, 2016.

It was alleged that he had inserted his finger into the child’s vagina, and a medical examination had found that the girl’s hymen was not intact.

Justice Morris-Ramlall had sentenced Cummings to 30 years’ imprisonment, and had ordered that he does not become eligible for parole until after serving 25 years of his sentence.

He had appealed his 2018 conviction by Justice Morris-Ramlall, arguing among other things that the trial Judge had, in several instances, misdirected the jury; and had failed to put his defence of alibi to the jury.

In relation to the ground of alibi in this appeal, Cummings had contended that his mother had testified

that at the time and place the eight-year-old girl had alleged she was raped, her son was at another place.

Back in July 2023, the Court of Appeal of Guyana had unanimously overturned the elderly man’s conviction for rape, finding that the trial Judge had committed errors that rendered that conviction unsafe. The justices had vacated Cummings’s conviction for statutory rape, and had sent his case back to the Demerara High Court to be retried. They had held that a retrial was warranted in the interest of justice.

That appeal had been heard by Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud, and additional High Court Judge JoAnn Barlow. The State had been represented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (ADPP), Dionne Mc Cammon. (G1)

Whatever happened… …to the EPA with the EU?

A

fter the visit by those 250 businessmen and leaders from Africa - flying in on the jet from one of their member countries - to solidify business links with us in Caricom, your Eyewitness experienced a surge of hope that, at long last, neocolonialism was being challenged!!Not to get too heavy, but just before he was assassinated, Kwame Nkrumah – who’d led Ghana as the first African country to gain independence – had emphasised that new forms of domination were being forged by the ex-colonial powers.

He had emphasised the need for a full-blown African Union even before the European Union was formed out of the European Economic Commission (EEC). He was opposed by leaders such as Tanzania’s Nyerere, who felt a more gradualist approach was needed. Well, we have lived to see that the new linkages – such as the Lome Agreement, which was succeeded by the Cotonou Agreement with us lumped as the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific bloc – all basically favouring the old colonial masters, such as Britain, France, and the new hegemon on the block - the US!! And when conditions changed and they didn’t need our cheap raw materials like sugar and cotton, the agreements with their “preferential” clauses that were supposed to last “in perpetuity” were thrown overboard!! The question was “preferential” for whom??

But hold it…as they always did, didn’t the Massas float another mechanism - supposedly for “our good”, but yet always working out in their favour?? They certainly did!!

Remember the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs)??

We were decoupled into regional blocks – like us signing on as Cariforum, or some West African nations doing so as a block – for the old “divide and conquer” to play out. The EPAs were supposed to replace “aid with trade”, where we were gonna be on an equal footing!!

Yeah, right!! History does not repeat itself, but it certainly rhymes!! It was just another variant of Nkrumah’s “neo-colonialism”, where everything’s slanted to benefit the old Massas, and we’re left holding the bag!!

But you’d remember, dear reader, that at the time we were supposed to sign along the dotted line, around 2007, Jagdeo, then President, smelled a rat and balked.

TT’s Manning was very snarky, as he was sure TT would’ve been able to capture European markets!! Jagdeo, however, pointed out just what we stated above – the terms were too one-sided. We were now gonna be held to “European standards” – which they alone determined, of course - not only for the goods and services to be traded – but in sociopolitical development!! So, here we are – CariForum’s EPA has gone nowhere, as have all the other EPAs with Africa and the Pacific!!

But we now got Africa independently collaborating with us to develop ourselves!! Amandla!! …PetroCaribe??

Remember PetroCaribe?? The Venezuelan initiative launched by Chavez in 2005, wherein they supplied oil to a host of nations in Caricom and around the Caribbean – including Cuba - on soft terms?? 5%-50% up front, with a grace period of one to two years; the remainder to be paid through a 17-25-year financing agreement - with 1% interest if oil prices are above US$40 per barrel? In our case, we pretty much bartered our rice - at a very high price, thank you – for the up-front payment.

The Venezies broadened the relationship beyond oil in 2013 as the “Bolivarian Alliance for the Americas” (ALBA), and attempted to become regional leaders through their oil largesse. Buying friends!! A number of our Caricom colleagues fell for the bait. With the collapse of the Venezuelan economy by 2019, however, the matter became moot. The question for us now is: if the moves by the Americans succeed in reviving their oil production, where will Caricom stand on the Border Controversy??

There are no permanent friends… …to Lil Joe? Your Eyewitness was (pleasantly) surprised to see “Lil Joe” Harmon at the Afreximbank gathering. With all the talk of elections to select a new PNC leader, is he about to throw his hat into the ring??

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

NEWS

9

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyanese detained in T&T, GPL to institute penalties as 99% of shutdowns caused by accidents, construction Police seize thousands of camouflage items

… “atrocious” – Jagdeo on constant power outages

Bank of Demerara, which later came into contact with the 69,000-volt transmission lines. This also fed back into the Garden of Eden power plant, also causing damage to the engines.

“It’s high voltage. We have to now bring up back these engines and change out parts. While that is happening, thousands of customers are out of power.

That’s insult to injury,” the Minister stressed.

GPL Director of Power Generation and Delivery, Bharat Harjohn

I

n 99 per cent of cases where the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has experienced a total shutdown for 2023, it was as a result of human interference with the transmission lines.

At a press conference on Thursday to shed light on the recent spell of power outages, GPL Director of Power Generation and Delivery, Bharat Harjohn told media operatives that there have been countless instances of such.

Most cases include damage to the network as a result of vehicular accidents.

In other cases where a construction zone is nearby, Harjohn elaborated that simply disrupting a certain

Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar

area around the line can send a trigger to the protection system in place, causing a shutdown.

Consequently, the power company has taken a decision to institute penalties for these actions.

“Of recent, we started to implement penalties…

These are things that we will be taking a no-nonsense approach…For the year so far, we had 99 per cent of the cases of total shutdowns as a result of people or vehicles coming in contact with the network,” Harjohn relayed.

Tremendous damage

Recently, an excavator came into contact with a high voltage wire in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), and the

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

13,000 volts fed back into the Kingston plant.

Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar added that this caused tremendous damage to three engines.

“One excavator swing and hit the high voltage wire. When you have that high voltage going through, it feeds back into the substation and the substation shuts down to protect itself, but the cylinders on the engines were damaged. That’s two engines at 5.5 megawatts…You know how many thousands of customers had to be out of power because of that incident?” Indar questioned during the presser.

In another instance, an incident involved someone cutting bamboo trees at Friendship on the East

Tough action

Meanwhile, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has lashed out at the dismal performance of GPL Inc in light of the increasing spate of power outages across the country on a daily basis. He signalled tougher action on the part of Government in ensuring the utility company functions smoothly.

During his press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo said Government is concerned about the situation, which he described as atrocious. In the same breath, however, he explained the current Administration has had to deal with the lack of investments by the former Government to upgrade the country’s generation systems coupled with increased demand.

TURN TO PAGE 11

O

Some of the items that were seized (Photo courtesy: TTPS)

fficers seized thousands of camouflage items, including clothing and caps, following the execution of a search warrant in Port of Spain on Wednesday.

Police reports said between 14:00h and 20:30h, officers conducted an exercise in the downtown Port of Spain area based on information received. The exercise involved the execution of a search warrant at a location on Frederick Street, Port of Spain in the presence of a 39-year-old female Guyanese national, who was named on the warrant.

During the search a quantity of camouflage clothing

was reportedly found and seized.

Officers then proceeded to an adjoining warehouse located on Queen Street, Port of Spain where a quantity of camouflage clothing was also found.

Police said the items seized included 1,282 camouflage caps, 233 camouflage pants, 127 camouflage fisher hats, 21 pairs of camouflage slippers, 13 camouflage t-shirts, and one camouflage bag. The items were handed over to the Customs and Excise Office and the woman was detained for further questioning.

Enquiries are continuing. (T&T Guardian)

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt wants clear, across-the-board terms for City Hall’s tax amnesty …AG says legal compliance paramount

agencies, must comply with the country’s laws.

Clerk requesting that the financial regulation that authorises the conduct of the amnesty be provided, as well as the ground on which the decision to offer the amnesty is based. The minister also requested that the amnesty be halted while its lawfulness is being determined.

Rubbished

Threatened

T

he Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown (M&CC) will have to submit clear terms and conditions of the planned tax amnesty before the exercise is approved by the Government.

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday said this matter will have to be watched with “hawk eyes”, since amnesty exercises at the City Hall in the past have been sources of corruption, whereby oneon-one deals were made.

“If they need an amnesty, they should have an amnesty, but it should be announced what are the terms of the amnesty, so there [will be] no need to meet with people,” he noted.

According to Jagdeo, the Town Clerk or the City Treasurer can apply these terms. He pointed out that it should be determined

whether there would be a waiver of the late charge and/or part of the principal amount. This, he added, should also be an acrossthe-board offer to everyone.

“That is how we want it approached, if they do want an amnesty; but not where the mayor and others can sit in a room and you have to meet them and they then can say, ‘Oh, we’ll give you 20% and you will get 30%’.

That is a big problem, and that is something we have to watch,” VP Jagdeo stated.

The Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown wants to offer a tax amnesty in order to raise funds to pay off a court judgement owed to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). However, following the advice of the Attorney General, Local Government Minister Anand Persaud last month wrote the Town

In response, Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore, who is aligned with the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Opposition, has threatened to take legal action against the Government for ‘blocking’ the amnesty. He also accused Government of wanting City Hall to go into bankruptcy – a claim which Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, S.C., has dismissed.

The AG has argued that the Local Government Minister was merely trying to ascertain whether the legal requirements set out in the governing statue are being complied with by the City Council.

“Those requests which were made of the Town Clerk are all requirements of the law, contained in the relevant provisions of the Municipal and District Council Act by which the Georgetown Mayor and City Council is bound. The Minister was not asking for

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC

whimsical and arbitrary information,” Nandlall stated during his weekly programme of Issues in the News.

He went on to warn the Georgetown City Council that legal consequences would follow if they are to go ahead with the amnesty without first meeting certain legal requirements catered for in the law.

“But if [the mayor] wishes, he can go ahead and violate the law and grant the amnesty. But then the law will have to take its course, because someone will have to be held responsible for all the monies waived,” the Attorney General has stressed.

According to the AG, while Government has no intention of interfering with the autonomy of the M&CC, the body is not above the law, and like all other state

Nandlall went on to rubbish the Georgetown Mayor’s allegation that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration is deliberately pushing City Hall into bankruptcy, in order to have the city properties go up for sale and have their “investment friends” buy them up.

“It is the most asinine but yet dangerous and divisive allegation made without any basis whatsoever,” the AG argued.

Back in December 2021, former Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine had announced an amnesty for taxpayers who have outstanding rates and taxes for

the municipality and have failed to fulfil these obligations. This was after the Council approved, via a majority vote, the Municipal Amnesty Policy.

“The Municipal Amnesty Policy is to establish and maintain orderly procedure for ratepayers, who will receive pardons on a percentage of their tax liability, and for the city to receive outstanding taxes in the form of an agreement that can benefit citizens, organisations, and the Council,” Narine had explained.

In recent years, billions have been owed by taxpayers and commercial businesses to the Council. The then mayor had said the Council is focused on improving revenue collection for the city. (G8)

GPL to institute penalties as 99% of shutdowns...

FROM PAGE 9

“It does affect our people and the president has made it clear to GPL because we believe that some of it is not just because of the availability of the generating sets but also because of some negligence. We have to take tough action,” Jagdeo contended.

On this note, the Vice President said that Government is working on a medium-term fix that will see electricity cost lowered

and power regularised in the coming years through the 300mw power plant to be constructed as part of the Gas-to-Energy project.

“We’re trying to fix it in the medium term definitively with lower power but we have to struggle to where we’re struggling through.

That is largely because of APNU. That is not an excuse. That is the reality and analysis.” (G12)

12

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3,, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Brand-new SUV up for grabs First Lady Arya Ali named in Massy Stores’ Christmas Patron of ACMF Gala Jackpot Promotion F

From L-R, Christpen Bobb-Semple, Assistant Vice President of Massy Stores Guyana, presenting the keys to a new 2022 Nissan X-Trail to Colin Weekes, winner of the 2022 Christmas Jackpot promotion

O

ne lucky customer will have a chance to win a brandnew MG ZS motor vehicle in this year’s Massy Stores’ Christmas Jackpot Promotion.

The MG ZS is a stylish, modern, compact SUV that combines cutting-edge technology with comfort and performance. With its sleek design, advanced safety features, and spacious interior, the MG ZS offers an exceptional driving experience for the lucky winner.

In addition to this grand prize, customers also have the chance to win weekly prizes at each Massy Store.

Prizes vary from electronics to home goods to local trips, and more.

The promotion will run from November 3, 2023 until January 31, 2024.

Customers will receive one

entry for every $5,000 spent at any of the five Massy Stores across Guyana. The more entries you have increases your chances of winning weekly store prizes, or the grand prize.

“We are beyond excited to announce the launch of the Massy Stores Christmas Jackpot Promotion! This promotion is our way of expressing our gratitude to our valued customers who have been loyal to us throughout the years. This year, we’ve taken our commitment up a notch by introducing the brand-new MG ZS as the grand prize, and offering weekly prizes from each Massy Store!”

Marketing Supervisor of Massy Stores, Chrystel Taylor, has said.

“We believe this promotion will bring joy and excitement to our custom-

ers, while providing them with the opportunity to win amazing prizes to enhance their holiday celebrations.”

Customers can participate by shopping at any Massy Stores location in Guyana and accumulating entries based on their total spend. The winners will be selected through a random draw, ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection process.

The grand prize draws for the MG ZS motor vehicle and the store prizes will take place in February 2024. Winners will be notified via phone call, and announced on our official website and social media channels.

Last year, Colin Weekes won a 2022 Nissan X-Trail, which was the grand prize of the Christmas Jackpot Promotion.

irst Lady Arya Ali has been the Patron of this year’s American Caribbean Maritime Foundation (ACMF) Gala and Anchor Awards, held at the Lauderdale Yacht Club in Fort Lauderdale under the theme “Talent in your backyard”.

Invited by the ACMF to serve as the event’s Patron, Mrs Ali delivered remarks at the ceremony on Thursday. She said: “I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Patron for the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation’s Anchor Awards this year.

The work of maritime agencies and partners like the ACMF remains crucial to our Region’s development.”

The annual Anchor Awards of the ACMF honours stalwarts in the cargo and cruise industry for their accomplishments and positive impact on the Caribbean shipping and maritime sector. Funds

First Lady Arya Ali

from the event support scholarships for aspiring Caribbean maritime professionals. Currently, 42 Guyanese are benefitting from scholarships through the ACMF. The scholarships have been awarded through MATPAL Marine Institute and the Atlantic Alliance Maritime and Offshore Training Institute (AAMOTI).

Since assuming the role of First Lady, Mrs Ali has played an increasingly important role in Guyana’s maritime sector. She has since awarded one hundred scholarships to women from

hinterland regions to pursue maritime training at AAMOTI. Launched in 2016, the ACMF has focused on creating a cadre of seafarers and maritime professionals from Caricom to take up officer, engineering, navigational and other positions in the sector.

The ACMF is a USbased, non-profit, tax-exempted organization that is dedicated to sponsoring academic scholarships and grants to aspiring Caribbean and Caricom maritime professionals and seafarers.

14

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

E L T TI

E

leven young ladies from communities along the East Bank of Demerara are set to represent their respective villages on Saturday, November 18, when the Miss East Bank beauty pageant is hosted on the Tarmac of the Kings and Queens Multicomplex Mall at Soesdyke

Delegate # 1

glish Name: Kimberley En Age: 20 Village: Kuru Kururu

Junction.

The 11 delegates are currently undergoing rigorous training leading up to pageant night. The competition kicks off with the Intelligence segment on Wednesday, November 15, and the delegates will also be judged on their respective presentations

Delegate # 2

rgeant Name: Jennelle Sa Age: 23 Village: Pearl

Delegate # 7

ricks Name: Deneita Fede Age: 23 ge Villa : Providence

Delegate # 8

on their villages.

On pageant night, these ambassadors will compete in four segments: casual wear, talent, swimwear, and evening gown.

Following those four segments, five finalists will be announced, and these will be asked the final

Delegate # 3

vis Name: Empress Da Age: 19 Village: Mocha

igues Name: Odessa Rodr Age: 18 ond Village: Great Diam

Delegate # 9

question.

A ticket for the grand coronation costs $2000, and can be obtained from Platinum Taxi Service at Grove Public Road; Ziggy's Burger and Grill at Soesdyke Junction; Power Braff Go Green at Soesdyke Junction; and Roxy Tasty Treats

Delegate # 4

Name: Joel Perry Age: 19 Village: Coverden

Blair Name: Demetreia 20 e: Ag dyke/ Village: Ideal, Soes Linden Highway

on the Soesdyke Public Road, next to Soesdyke Secondary School. Persons can also contact DiversGy Entertainment on telephone number 654-9999 in regard to the purchase of tickets.

Tickets go on sale from today, and the pageant is expected to start at 20:00h.

Delegate # 5

ols Name: Krystyn Nich Age: 19 Village: Soesdyke

Delegate # 10

er Name: Shemya Arch Age: 23 Village: Friendship

Delegate # 6

Name: Lisa Hassan Age: 19 ove : ge Villa Diamond/Gr

Delegate # 11

pson Name: Ranette Sim Age: 25 : Yarrowkabra ge lla Vi

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

16 NEWS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Continued blackouts leading to disruption in production – GCCI bemoans disappointment …GPL says blackouts should ease by mid-December

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he Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Thursday stressed its disappointment with the continued spate of power outages in Guyana, as it weighed in on the negative impact to businesses and production.

In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce highlighted that constant power disruptions are having an acute impact on the productivity of enterprises.

The GCCI has also noted that this is cascading into general underperformance of enterprises.

“This continued loss of productive time, disruption to production and an overall hindrance to the smooth functioning of business will

GCCI President Kester Hutson

impede both growth and investment prospects,” said the Chamber.

At this time, the entity underscored its unwavering support for investments that will create a sustainable energy mix for Guyana

including the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, the Gas-to-Energy Project and solar farms.

“These projects, in the view of the Chamber, represent the future of Guyana’s energy supply. However, the Chamber of Commerce also calls on the Guyana Power and Light and, by extension, the Government of Guyana to employ measures that will bridge the current generation shortfall,” the GCCI said.

According to the Private Sector body, better forecasting, planning and investments into the energy sector will profoundly mitigate this bugbear on the life of the Guyanese people.

“Power outages have been decades-long feature

of life in Guyana and, it is the hope of the Chamber of Commerce that this does not translate into life in our newfound status as a rapidly emerging economy.”

Mid-December

Meanwhile, state-owned GPL is projecting that Guyanese will expect an ease to the current situation until mid-December when supplemental generation comes on stream.

On Friday, the utility company publicly announced that it had reached a historic peak in electricity demand, recording an unprecedented 182 megawatts (MWs).

It reasoned that this situation was not unique to GPL, as countries around the Caribbean have recorded significant increases in demand due to rising temperatures in the region.

GPL’s Development and Expansion Plan 20232027 projected 186.6 MWs in 2023. Given this projection, the company began acquiring additional generation through public tenders early this year. This process resulted in the procurement of 28.9 MWs of generation as an interim solution in anticipation of the 300MW Natural Gas Power Plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

“This supplementary generation will become operational in mid-December, bolstering GPL’s ability to meet the increased demand,” GPL communicated

on Thursday.

Currently, the daily peak demand has been surpassing our existing generation capabilities. In order to prevent total system shutdowns resulting from insufficient generation, the company has been temporarily de-energising some distribution feeders daily during peak demand periods to maintain grid stability. Regrettably, these service disruptions are driven by the daily monitoring of generation availability and demand.

GPL acknowledges the inconvenience these service interruptions are causing and wishes to reassure customers that it remained committed to resolving the situation in mid-December.

Last month, GPL announced that large consumers of electricity, who each have a power-generating capacity, would be removed from the grid during the period 18:00h to 22:00h in order to prevent widespread service disruption for the population.

Initially, large industrial customers with self-gen-

erating capacity were asked to produce their own power during peak demand hours.

However, only a small percentage responded positively.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had explained during his press conference that at this point in time, demand exceeds the capacity to supply. This increase came about due to expansion of businesses, increased housing development, and more recently, the heated conditions, which has prompted consumers to use air conditioners and other cooling devices.

However, the ‘biggest worry’ is large consumers flooding the grid. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Government had moved the excise tax on fuel from 50 per cent down to zero per cent in a bid to combat increasing global prices for oil and the impact those increases were having on the local economy. As such, self-generation became more expensive, and many companies opted to use the GPL supply to capitalise on the subsidised costs. (G12)

17 $700M Mazaruni Prison upgrades 75% complete – PS told during visit NEWS

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…reiterates Govt’s commitment to ongoing initiatives hensive overview of the facility’s ongoing developments and innovative initiatives.

Upon completion, the facility will aid in the minimisation of overcrowding while meeting international standards. In addition, the construction of the Phase II fence which is being done at a cost of $66 milPhase 2 under construction

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he construction of Phase II of the $700 million Mazaruni Prison – a vital project aimed at enhancing the correctional infrastructure is now about 75 per cent completed.

This was relayed to the Permanent Secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry, Andre Ally during a visit to the facility on Wednesday during which he received a compre-

The staff building

PS Ally is being briefed by Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim

lion is 95 per cent completed.

This project is a significant step towards fortifying the security infrastructure of the prison, ensuring a safe and controlled environment within the premises.

During the visit, Ally was thoroughly briefed on the status of ongoing projects including a diverse range of initiatives designed to enhance the infrastructure, living conditions, and overall functionality of the prison.

Apart from the construction of Phase II, the extension

of 10 living quarters dedicated to the prison officers, totalling some $89 million is about

95 per cent completed. This aims to significantly improve the residential facilities for the

staff, thereby ensuring an optimised working environment.

TURN TO PAGE 18

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

News

2 critical patients air-dashed 2 remanded over ATM fraud

by GDF from Bartica to GT …alleged mastermind still at large T he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Wednesday evening successfully medevacked two critically ill patients from the Bartica Regional Hospital to Georgetown.

A 43-year-old man who developed complications following major abdominal surgery, and a female with post-delivery complications are the two patients.

It was important for them to be transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) to receive advanced care.

The helicopter proved ideal, as transporting them via water or in another aircraft could have caused them undue distress and possibly worsen their conditions.

Upon their arrival at Base Camp Ayanganna, GDF medics assisted in moving them into the ambulance, after which they were transported to the hospital. A family member of one of the patients and a nurse were also onboard the flight.

The 8R-AYA is retrofitted to transport up to three

Remanded: Bhojnarayan Gopaul

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The patients being removed from the helicopter after it landed at Base Camp Ayanganna

patients, along with medical personnel and equipment.

The GDF extends best

wishes to the patients for a speedy recovery, and is grateful to have been able to be of assistance.

$700M Mazaruni Prison...

FROM PAGE 17

The Permanent Secretary’s visit concluded with a positive outlook, emphasising the strides made by the Prison administration, not just in construction but in fostering innovative programmes contributing to the rehabilitation and skill enhancement of inmates.

Meanwhile, Ally ex-

Some crops grown by inmates

Additionally, the construction of the evolving boundary fence and watchtower is at 50 per cent completion while the officers' , which is being done at a cost of over $57 million, is five per cent completed.

Noteworthy was the ongoing rehabilitation of the administrative building – a colonial building, which is 78 per cent complete.

The Ministry stated that Ally's visit did not only focus on infrastructure but also captured the essence of rehabilitation initiatives.

“He was given a detailed tour of the Phase I prison, showcasing an exemplary model facility within the compound. Furthermore, Mr Ally witnessed firsthand the innovative programme engaging prisoners in learning practical skills, such as constructing a speedboat. Led by workshop instructor Mr Benn and an inmate, this voca-

wo men accused of being part of a gang behind fraudulent attacks on automated teller machines (ATMs) in Georgetown have been refused bail, and were remanded to prison after their arraignment before Chief Magistrate (ag) Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus in that Georgetown magistrate’s court on Wednesday.

These two men, who each entered a not-guilty plea to the offence of conspiracy to commit a felony, are Bhojnarayan Gopaul, called ‘Sandeep,’ a 37-yearold resident of Coldingen, East Coast Demerara; and Tulsie Ramprashad, a 26-year-old resident of Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

The prosecutor emphasized that the Police are still looking for another suspect, who is thought to be the mastermind of the operation, and that the Sparendaam Magistrates' Court is currently hearing

Remanded: Tulsie Ramprashad

a similar case involving one of the accused.

As a result of the disclosures made in court, Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus remanded the two men, and scheduled their next court date at November 30.

After a report had been made that persons were targeting the ATMs of several commercial banks in the capital city, detectives of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters arrested Gopaul, a technician; Ramprashad, a welder/fabricator; and Akashmati Ramnaraine, a 37-year-old female resident of Coldingen, East Coast Demerara, who works as a Superbet cashier. The arrests, made at about 00:15h on Sunday, were effected after the trio, who were under surveillance, were observed visiting ATM outlets around the city.

They were first observed visiting the Citizens Bank ATM at the Giftland Mall

at Turkeyen, ECD. Police have said the trio were in black Fielder Wagon PAE 364, driven at the time by Gopaul. Dressed in a black hoodie and red short pants, Ramprashad came out of the car and went into the ATM outlet, where he spent about 40 seconds before returning to the car.

The trio then left Giftland and went to the Citizens Bank ATM at OMG restaurant on Sheriff Street, Georgetown, where Ramprashad was again observed exiting the car and entering the ATM outlet, where he spent about 45 seconds before returning to the car.

At that point, the Police have said, detectives intercepted the car and carried out a search on the occupants, unearthing one Bank of America Visa Debit Card, one New York State Medicaid Recipient Card, and two blank cards.

Police investigations are ongoing. (G1)

Police issue wanted bulletin for man who attacked soldier

Another building under construction

tional training represents a transformative approach towards prisoner rehabilitation,” the Ministry added.

The visit not only highlighted the progress of infrastructure, but also underscored the prison’s commitment to rehabilitation and skill development, aiming to provide inmates with opportunities for productive reintegration into society.

This will aid in minimising recidivism and encapsulated Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn's Fresh Start initiative.

pressed his appreciation for the work being done and reiterated the Ministry's commitment to supporting these vital initiatives, signifying a promising future for the inmates and, by extension, Guyana.

He was accompanied by the Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim and Head of Strategic Management Department of the Guyana Prison Service, Rae-Dawn Corbin.

The tour of the correctional institution was facilitated by the Officer in Charge, Calton Cameron.

Wanted: Roman Roberts

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he Guyana Police Force on Wednesday issued a bulletin for Roman Daniel Roberts, who is wanted for questioning in connection with the attack of a soldier.

A video that circulated on social media showed a soldier in uniform being attacked by a man who claimed to be a gang member. Following that revelation, the Police said they were looking for Daniel Roberts, whose last known address has been giv-

A photo of the wanted man taken from a video on social media

en as Lot 38 Samaroo Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

The Police are asking anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Roman Daniel Roberts to contact them on any of the

following telephone numbers: 225-6940, 225-8196, 226-7476, 225-2317, 2258196, 227-1149 or at the nearest Police Station. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality they promise.

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

19

News CWC wildfire…

Region seeks Agri Ministry’s help to assist farmers T

he Agriculture Ministry has been called on to determine the level of intervention it can provide to help farmers who have lost their crops to a wildfire raging for days at Crabwood Creek on the Corentyne in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

At least three farmers have told the publication over the weekend that the fire has consumed a large portion of their farms, and bearing plantain suckers have been destroyed. Farmers reported on Thursday that the fire was still burning.

In a comment to this publication on the situation, Region Six Chairman David Armogan said the Agriculture Ministry has been contacted after farmers at Torani Canal at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne reported that wildfires had destroyed some of their crops.

Farmers discovered last week Tuesday that the vegetation adjacent to cultivated fields was burning. The following day, aided by the wind, the fire crossed the canal and started burning sections of the cultivated area.

One farmer said seven acres

Regional Chairman David Armogan

of his cultivated plot was destroyed, while another farmer said five of his 15-acre cultivated plot was destroyed; and yet another farmer reported that the fire had consumed a significant portion of his plantain cultivation.

More than 50 farmers cultivate land at Torani Canal, with most of it being under plantain and citrus cultivation currently.

One farmer has said that, as at Thursday, fire was raging in an uncultivat-

ed area with plantain fields on both the left and right sides. According to that farmer, the situation is not likely to change by today.

Chairman Armogan has said the Region 6 Administration is in receipt of reports from those farmers in relation to the damages their farms have suffered.

“We have reported that to the respective authorities, and so they are looking at it, because those people lost heavily. One man said that he lost $7 million, so it is in the hands of the Ministry of Agriculture,” Armogan said in an invited comment on Thursday. Apart from plantains, a lot of citrus crops have been affected by the wildfire.

There are reports that the fire was set by a cattle farmer. The Regional Chairman has warned that this is not the time to be lighting fires, as the country is currently experiencing extremely dry El Niño conditions.

“The Fire Service has reported that there are over 20 cases of wildfires within the region. Have to be very careful during this dry weather period; they are

not to light garbage heaps all over the place, and light fire in the grass,” he said as he made mention of a recent fire which destroyed two houses at Mount Sanai in New Amsterdam last week.

“Somebody lit the grass to get rid of the grass, and they end up burning down two buildings. So, we have to be very careful,” he warned.

In an appeal to the pub-

on their cigarettes are extinguished before the butt is discarded. “At the same time, we all have to be careful at how we are lighting garbage heaps, because (those fires) can spread. You see what is happening to the Municipal Dumpsite in New Amsterdam? The methane gas is rising there, and so even when you get it out, about two days after, the

Meanwhile, farmers at Torani Canal have said they requested the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) to assist them with the digging of drains between the forested area and the cultivated area, so as to prevent the fire from spreading east to the cultivated area. They said there has so far been no positive response to their re-

A farm that was destroyed by wildfire at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne)

lic, the Regional Chairman pointed out that smokers should ensure that the fires

fire catches again; and the smoke is very dangerous as well,” he added.

quest, despite the agency having an excavator in the area. (G4)

NA municipality to upgrade wharf to assist riverine communities Mayor McIntosh has said.

Among those raising concerns with the mayor were vendors in the fisheries section of the market, who requested that the transparent zinc sheets be replaced.

The mayor assured that, before the end of this month, at least two sheets would be replaced.

Poor sanitation in that section was also raised with the mayor, and it was contended that some fish vendors have knowingly been discarding their waste in an irresponsible manner.

“Persons that are in breach are to be fined for such callous acts being per-

The Mayor meeting with vendors

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he New Amsterdam municipality is set to upgrade its wharf facility to accommodate persons from riverine communities who visit the town to trade.

This is according to Mayor Wainwright McIntosh, who has also arranged to meet with aggrieved market vendors to address some of their concerns.

The New Amsterdam Market falls under the ambit on the municipality, but many vendors have raised concerns over illegal vending, which they say in negatively impacting their businesses.

They argue that shoppers are reluctant to go into the market when there are persons vending the same commodities on the pave-

ment outside of the market.

Mayor McIntosh visited the market on Wednesday and was able to meet with several vendors. One vendor, Bishranauth Alvin, who has been vending in the New Amsterdam Market for more than 40 years, said, “You can’t be complaining all the time. When you only make $10 you are crying out, but if you make $15,000 you are not telling nobody.”

Some market vendors say the council has allowed supermarkets to operate in close proximity to the market, which is in contravention of the bylaws governing the town. There are three supermarkets in the vicinity: one is next door to the municipal market, another is three buildings away, and the third is obliquely opposite the market.

Following his walkabout on Wednesday, the mayor said he would like to meet all of the vendors at one time, and he has arranged to meet with them next Wednesday.

“Because most vendors would have closed their stalls on Wednesday, I would have decided to engage persons vending in the market for a general meeting which is scheduled for next Wednesday.

In that meeting, we will be listening to the issues and concerns of residents, and we will be exploring an amicable solution or alternative solutions to those issues and concerns raised. We endeavour to raise the standards of the New Amsterdam Municipal Market to ensure that vendors are comfortable,”

ics behind roadside vending and the need for persons to ply their trade is fully understood by officials of the municipality. “We will endeavour to have vending done in an organised manner, and we will be consulting with vendors for us to explore possibilities of working together and to come up with solutions to these challenges that we are being faced with.”

After the walkabout in the market, the mayor visited the municipal wharf.

Residents of Canje and Berbice riverine communities use the New Amsterdam Municipal Wharf to get

can exit.

Wain Fraser, who lives at Waruni in the Berbice River and operates a boat service, explained that there is need for a platform to facilitate persons and goods on and off vessels when the tide is low.

“They need to build a platform, and plant some piles so that you can be guided to know that something is there under the water when the tide is high,” the boat captain has opined.

Millions of dollars in supplies are shipped on a weekly basis from the Municipal Wharf in New Amsterdam to villages along the Upper

Street vending taking place outside of the New Amsterdam Market

petrated by them. Outside the fisheries, persons would have shared their concerns about roadside vending.

That is an issue in which the Municipality would be carrying out a campaign in the not-so-distant future,” the mayor has said.

He said the econom-

their produce to the market, and also as a facility to take goods onto their boats.

Currently, when the tide is low, they are challenged to use the facility. On many occasions persons would have to remain in their boats at the wharf for hours, until the water rises, before they

Berbice River.

McIntosh, in agreeing that the current wharf facility should be upgraded, has said efforts would be made to minimise the challenges being faced by persons from riverine communities who do business with the town.

(G4)

20

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

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Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Israel says it has Kazakh fuel export ban triggers crisis in Tajikistan

A

Kazakh ban on LPG exports has resulted in a fuel shortage in Tajikistan, causing increased taxi fares and putting pressure on food prices.

Tajikistan’s reliance on fuel imports and market monopolies exacerbates the fuel crisis, despite low official inflation rates.

Speculation surrounds the potential impact of a new Chinese-backed oil refinery, while experts question the feasibility of alternatives to Kazakh and Russian fuel sources.

In the second-largest Tajik city, taxi drivers are complaining of a slowdown in trade as their customers struggle to pay the higher fares linked to a sudden car-fuel shortage that is putting pressure on food prices.

“Fuel prices have gone up, but we need to work and earn a living. It’s hard for passengers to endure,” a Khujand-based taxi driver told RFE/RL’s Tajik Service.

“We propose the [new] fare to the passenger. If he agrees to the proposed amount, good; if not, then we part ways,” he said.

The story was the same more than five hours south in the capital, Dushanbe, where Sairambi Gulmirzoeva told RFE/RL’s Tajik Service that she had been waiting for two hours to find a suitably priced taxi to the southern city of Kulob after fares rose from the equivalent of around US$5 per seat to around US$7 in recent weeks.

And at a Dushanbe hub for long-distance taxis heading to Kulob and east toward the Rasht Valley, driver Rahmonali Jononov complained that customers were few and far between as passengers opted to defer nonessential trips rather than pay the higher fares.

“Passengers complain that it is expensive,” Jononov said.

“But we are feeling it, too.”

Fuel shortages happen periodically in Tajikistan, but became acute toward the end of last month after the Kazakh Energy Ministry announced on October 20 a three-year ban on exports of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), propane, and butane.

That decision had a disproportionate effect on Tajikistan, which at the time of the ban relied on imports from Kazakhstan for nearly all of its gas, which in turn accounts for more than half of all fuel consumed by cars in the country.

Experts argue that the local market could avoid such shocks – and their resultant impact on prices for a range of goods – with more competition in the market for fuel distribution, where Russia’s Gazprom and companies close to the ruling Rahmon family dominate.

The impact that a soon-to-begin Chinese-backed oil refinery will have on the local fuel market, meanwhile, is a topic of some speculation.

Autumn is a time of abundance in Tajikistan, where the climate is favourable for large fruit and vegetable harvests. But this year it has brought a harvest of grumbling at the country’s bazaars over food price increases.

Official statistics for inflation give little away in this regard.

Inflation for Tajikistan in 2022 was officially listed at just over 4 percent -- a very conservative figure given that neighbours such as Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan posted double-digit figures as the region reeled from the fallout of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and related international sanctions on one of its top trade partners.

(Excerpt from Oilprice.com)

encircled Gaza City I

sraeli forces on Thursday encircled Gaza City – the Gaza Strip’s main city – in their assault on Hamas, the military said, but the Palestinian militant group resisted their drive with hit-and-run attacks from underground tunnels.

The city in the north of the Gaza Strip has become the focus of attack for Israel, which has vowed to annihilate the Islamist group’s command structure and has told civilians to flee to the south.

“We’re at the height of the battle. We’ve had impressive successes and have passed the outskirts of Gaza City. We are advancing,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. He gave no further details.

Palestinians gather at the site of Israeli strikes on houses in Bureij in the central Gaza Strip, November 2, 2023 (Reuters/Mohammed Fayq Abu Mostafa photo)

Amid heavy explosions in Gaza, Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told reporters his country’s “troops completed the encirclement of Gaza City, which is the

focal point of the Hamas terror organisation”.

Brigadier General Iddo Mizrahi, chief of Israel’s military engineers, said troops were encountering mines and booby traps.

“Hamas has learned and prepared itself well,” he said.

Abu Ubaida, spokesperson for the armed wing of Hamas, said in a televised speech on Thursday that Israel’s death toll in Gaza was much higher than the military had announced.

“Your soldiers will return in black bags,” he said.

Israel has said it has lost 18 soldiers and killed dozens of militants since ground operations expanded on Friday.

Hamas and allied Islamic Jihad fighters were emerging from tunnels to fire at tanks, then disappearing back into the network, residents said and videos from both groups showed.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Iran’s appointment to UN votes to end chair UN rights meeting embargo on Cuba; draws condemnation US and Israel oppose

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he United States and rights groups complained on Thursday that it was “insulting” to allow Iran’s envoy to chair a United Nations. human rights council meeting in Geneva, citing violations by Iranian authorities, especially those against women.

A UN-appointed rights expert alleges incidents committed by the Islamic Republic during a crackdown on protests since last year may amount to crimes against humanity.

Iran rejects allegations of discrimination against women.

Iran’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Ali Bahreini was named the Chair of the two-day meeting because he was the only person nominated, following a submission from the Asia-Pacific group, a UN rights council spokesperson told Reuters.

Washington’s envoy to the 47-member council, Michèle Taylor boycotted the meeting, calling the appointment an

“affront to the collective conscience of the global community”.

“Any discussion led by representatives of a regime that continually, and with impunity, infringes upon its own citizens’ human rights is not just fruitless, but an insult to our shared ideals,” she added.

The United States and its Western allies have stepped up pressure on Iran’s Shi’ite Muslim clerical rulers over Tehran’s crackdown on protests triggered by the death in Police custody of a young woman last year. The establishment violently ended the protests, accusing its foreign foes of igniting the monthslong protests to weaken the Islamic Republic.

The two-day meeting called the “social forum” is an annual meeting that aims to improve dialogue between Governments and civil society groups, with this year’s theme devoted to technology and human rights.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

T

he United Nations General Assembly called for the 31st time on the United States to end its decades-long trade embargo against Cuba as the communist-run island suffers its worst economic crisis in decades, with shortages of food, fuel and medicine.

The non-binding resolution was approved by 187 countries and opposed only by the United States and Israel, with Ukraine abstaining.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said in a speech before the assembly that the “blockade prevents Cuba from accessing food, medicines, and technological and medical equipment.”

Havana is also prohibited from exporting to the neighbouring United States, Rodriguez said, curtailing ac-

cess to a massive market for its goods and costing Cuba nearly US$5 billion in losses in 2022 alone.

“The blockade (embargo) qualifies as a crime of genocide,” said Rodriguez, who said the US policies were deliberately aimed at promoting suffering among the Cuban people in order to force change in the Government.

The trade embargo was put in place following Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution and has remained largely unchanged, though some elements were stiffened by former President Donald Trump. The web of US laws and regulations complicate financial transactions and the acquisition of goods and services by the Cuban Government. (Excerpt from Reuters)

“Genocide”, Colombia says as Latin American States Putin revokes Russian ratification condemn Israel over Gaza

of global nuclear test ban treaty

R

ussian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday signed a law withdrawing Russia’s ratification of the global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests, a step condemned by the organisation which promotes adherence to the landmark arms control pact.

The move, though expected, is evidence of the deep chill between the United States and Russia, whose ties are at their lowest level since the 1962 Cuban missile crisis over

the war in Ukraine and what Moscow casts as Washington’s attempts to stymie the emergence of a new multipolar world order.

Washington expressed deep concern about Russia’s decision and it was a step in the wrong direction.

“Russia’s action will only serve to set back confidence in the international arms control regime,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

Moscow says its de-

ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) is merely designed to bring Russia into line with the United States, which signed but never ratified the treaty. Russia will not resume nuclear testing unless Washington does, say Russian diplomats.

Nor, they say, will the move change the nuclear posture of Russia, which has the world’s largest nuclear arsenal, or the way it shares information about its nuclear activities as

Moscow will remain a treaty signatory.

But some Western arms control experts are concerned that Russia may be inching towards a nuclear test to intimidate and evoke fear amid the Ukraine war.

Putin said on October 5 that he was not ready to say whether or not Russia should resume nuclear testing after calls from some Russian security experts and lawmakers to test a nuclear bomb as a warning to the West. (Excerpt from Reuters)

C

olombian President Gustavo Petro has condemned Israel’s bombardments of Gaza, calling its war in the besieged Palestinian enclave that has so far killed more than 9000 persons “genocide”.

Petro’s remarks came in a post on X on Wednesday, accompanied by a picture of victims of the Israeli air attack on the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza that killed at least 195 people. At least 120 people are also missing, according to Gaza’s officials.

“The Head of the State who carries out this geno-

cide is a criminal against humanity,” wrote Petro. “Their allies cannot talk about democracy.”

Petro’s comments were posted a day after Colombia, along with Chile, which has the largest Palestinian population in Latin America, recalled their Ambassadors to Israel in condemnation of Israel’s bombardment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

Chile’s President Gabriel Boric cited Israel’s “unacceptable violations of international humanitarian law” for the move.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

21

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Handle others with care. You will not get what you want if you aren't sensitive to people's needs. Someone will use manipulative tactics to take advantage of your enthusiasm.

(March 21-April 19) Seek out friends and family. Share your thoughts and feelings, and you'll get meaningful feedback. An unexpected opportunity will give you something to consider.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Don't judge others, or you'll face similar circumstances. Bide your time, do your best to keep the peace and don't make impossible promises. Say less and do more.

(May 21-June 20) Let your imagination run wild today.

Your insight will increase your profile.

Your compassion will change how others feel about you. Don't shy away from taking charge.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Collect your thoughts and go over your plan. There is no room for error or sloppiness. If you don't have everything in order, postpone your plans. You can expect to face opposition.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Don't be shy; call the shots and make things happen. Speak up and share your intentions, and the input you receive will help you plan your next move.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Don't be shy; call the shots and make things happen. Speak up and share your intentions, and the input you receive will help you plan your next move.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Talk to experts, get the lowdown and develop a strategy that promotes your vision. The option to work alongside someone who understands your viewpoint will inspire you.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Pay attention to cash flow. It's OK to help others, but don't leave yourself short. Think outside the box to devise a plan that will lower your overhead.

Keep up with professional trends.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

YESTERDAY'S WORD -- SECTION

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

A positive change is within reach.

Consider what's important to you and how much you can achieve. Take control, and bring about changes that offer opportunities to use your skills meaningfully.

Focus on learning, self-improvement and opportunities that align with your dreams. Put a plan and timeline in place, and don't stop until you reach your goal. Don't fall prey to temptation.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Plan to have fun. Socialize, take part in an event, attend a reunion or invest time and money in yourself. Don't wait for things to come to you; create opportunities yourself.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

CG United Regional Super50 Tournament…

Rain keeps Scorpions winless A s the rains have forced a no-result in the match between Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Jamaica Scorpions in the CG United Regional Super50 tournament, the Scorpions have been left winless, and will not advance to the semi-final round.

Red Force won the toss and inserted the defending champions, Scorpions, who recorded 213 for nine after 48 overs were possible. Promoted up the order, West Indies’ Test vice-captain Jermaine Blackwood could hit only a consolation boundary, as he managed just 10 runs from 22 balls, while his opening partner Chadwick Walton was run out for a run-a-ball 23, as both openers fell in the eighth over with 34 runs on the board.

This brough Nkrumah Bonner to the crease, and he showed the experience of his 16-year career with his second half-century of the tournament and 14th in List A

Nkrumah Bonner scored 74 for the Jamaica Scorpions (CWI photo) cricket. Having featured in 15 Tests and six One Day Internationals for West Indies, the 34-year-old righthander followed up his 72 in the previous match with 74.

Bonner, who at this lev-

el has four tons and over 2200 runs to his credit, stroked seven boundaries and added 36 for the third wicket with Andre McCarty, who struck three boundaries during his 13-ball 19 before being giv-

en out leg-before-wicket to Narine immediately before the drinks break was signalled.

Bonner was joined by his captain Rovman Powell, who forged an 88-run stand for the fourth wicket. Powell rotated the strike well with Bonner, hitting just two fours and a six during his 69-ball 48 before nicking a faint edge to Nicholas Pooran behind the stumps.

With the Scorpions being slung on the ropes at 197 for nine after 46 overs, rain interrupted the match for over an hour, and when play resumed, the match was reduced to 48 overs a side.

In the final over, a few lusty blows off the bowling of Khary Pierre saw Dennis Bulli adding valuable runs to the Scorpions’ tally.

The two most established spin bowlers in the Red Force line up, Sunil Narine and Akeal Hosein, ended with three wickets each, for 30 and 34 runs respectively.

Sunil Narine took 3-30 for Trinidad and Tobago Red Force (CWI photo)

ICC World Cup 2023: India vs Sri Lanka…

SRI LANKA SHOT OUT FOR 55

-as Siraj, Shami, Bumrah seal India's 7th successive win, spot in the semifinals three figures, India's fans were probably entertaining thoughts of double-hundreds from both batters.

But Madushanka returned to the attack, and didn't even let the batters reach triple figures. The leftarm seamer then showed that he's no one-trick pony; he bounced Suryakumar Yadav out with an on-pace bouncer. Shreyas Iyer then hit full throttle, but he also fell agonisingly short of a hundred. He latched on to anything that was remotely full, and sent it disappearing from his sight. When Kasun Rajitha pitched one in the slot outside off, Iyer Mohammed Shami cleaned up Angelo Matthews to pick up his fourth wicket of the day

I

ndia's fast-bowling trio were so sensational with the new ball that the scores of Sri Lanka's top five batters read like a line of binary code: 0, 0, 1, 0, 1. When Shami also had #7 and #8 for ducks with the score on 29, Sri Lanka were in serious danger of folding for the lowest total in ODI cricket.

They were eventually dismissed in 19.4 overs, as India completed the fourth-biggest win in the format, and Shami's 5 for 18 made him India's highest wicket-taker in World Cups.

This is the third time that India have dismissed Sri Lanka for less than 100 in ODIs in 2023, and their second 300-plus-run victory against them this year.

The very first ball from Bumrah was a portent for the carnage that was to follow. He went wide of the crease, got a full ball to angle in, and then swing away late to thump the back pad.

Siraj also struck with his first ball, pinning Dimuth Karunaratne lbw. Four balls later, with a reinforced cordon, Siraj had the in-form Sadeera Samarawickrama caught at third slip.

But it was the dismissal of captain Kusal Mendis

ten instruct bowlers to hit that bail-trimming length: too short to drive, yet not short enough to pull or cut. Siraj not only hit that bail-trimming length to beat Mendis's outside edge, he also broke the bails.

At 3 for 4, with just one of those runs coming off the bat, Sri Lanka's batting line-up was also broken. Angelo Mathews and the lower order tried to fix it, but all they could do was drag Sri Lanka to 55 - five runs more than what they had managed in the Asia Cup final at the Premadasa in September earlier this year.

The performance of India's fast bowlers overshadowed that of their batters and Dilshan Madushanka's maiden five-wicket haul in international cricket.

Madushanka had hushed the Wankhede with his second ball - a Mustafizur Rahman-esque cutter that sent Rohit Sharma's off stump cartwheeling. Four of Madushanka's five wickets were down to his ability to roll his fingers across the ball. But the rest of Sri Lanka's attack continued to leak runs, as has been the case throughout this tournament.

to join Sachin Tendulkar at the top of this list with 49 ODI hundreds at a venue where a statue of Tendulkar was unveiled on the eve of this game. The Wankhede waited expectantly, but Madushanka had other ideas, dismissing Kohli 12 short of the landmark. Sri Lanka could have cut Kohli's innings short on 10 had Dushmantha Chameera hung on to a return catch in the sixth over.

Shubman Gill was also reprieved in the powerplay when Charith Asalanka dropped him on 8 at cover-point. Gill then combined with Kohli to punish Sri Lanka with a 189-run partnership on a hot afternoon.

Kohli got cracking with his trademark cover-drives, while Gill often stepped out of his crease to manufacture scoring opportunities. And when Sri Lanka's fast bowlers shortened their lengths to Gill, he put them away with his rasping short-arm pulls.

Legspin-bowling allrounder Dushan Hemantha, who is essentially a like-forlike replacement for the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, couldn't stem the flow of runs either.

When Kohli and Gill matched each other shot

launched it over long-on for a 106-metre six - the biggest in the tournament so far.

Iyer brought up his half-century off 36 balls, and later lined up even Sri Lanka's best bowlers on the day - Madushanka and Chameera. Iyer took Madushanka for 18 off nine balls before holing out.

Iyer's assault was central to India racking up 93 off their last ten overs.

Ravindra Jadeja also did his bit with the bat in those slog overs, but he was barely needed with the ball on a night that belonged to India's quicks.

(ESPNCricInfo)

SCOREBOARD India (50 ovs maximum) BATTING R B Rohit Sharma (c) b Madushanka 4 2 Shubman Gill c †Mendis b Madushanka 92 92 Virat Kohli c Nissanka b Madushanka 88 94 Shreyas Iyer c Theekshana b Madushanka 82 56 KL Rahul † c Hemantha b Chameera 21 19 Suryakumar Yadav c †Mendis b Madushanka 12 9 Ravindra Jadeja run out (Samarawickrama/†Mendis) 35 24 Mohammed Shami run out (†Mendis) 2 4 Jasprit Bumrah not out 1 1 Extras (b 5, lb 6, nb 1, w 8) 20 TOTAL 50 Ov (RR: 7.14) 357/8 Did not bat: Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Rohit Sharma, 0.2 ov), 2-193 (Shubman Gill, 29.6 ov), 3-196 (Virat Kohli, 31.3 ov), 4-256 (KL Rahul, 39.2 ov), 5-276 (Suryakumar Yadav, 41.3 ov), 6-333 (Shreyas Iyer, 47.3 ov), 7-355 (Mohammed Shami, 49.3 ov), 8-357 (Ravindra Jadeja, 49.6 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Dilshan Madushanka 10-0-80-5 Dushmantha Chameera 10-2-71-1 Kasun Rajitha 9-0-65-0 Angelo Mathews 3-0-11-0 Maheesh Theekshana 10-0-67-0 Dushan Hemantha 8-0-52-0

Sri Lanka (T: 358 runs from 50 ovs) BATTING R B Pathum Nissanka lbw b Bumrah 0 1 Dimuth Karunaratne lbw b Mohammed Siraj 0 1 Kusal Mendis (c)† b Mohammed Siraj 1 10 Sadeera Samarawickramac Iyer b Mohammed Siraj 0 4 Charith Asalanka c Jadeja b Mohammed Shami 1 24 Angelo Mathews b Mohammed Shami 12 25 Dushan Hemantha c † Rahul b Mohammed Shami 0 1 Dushmantha Chameera c †Rahul b Mohammed Shami 0 6 Maheesh Theekshana not out 12 23 Kasun Rajitha c Shubman 17 Gill b Mohammed Shami 14 Dilshan Madushanka c Iyer b Jadeja 5 6 Extras (b 5, lb 1, w 4) 10 TOTAL19.4 Ov (RR: 2.79) 55 Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Pathum Nissanka, 0.1 ov), 2-2 (Dimuth Karunaratne, 1.1 ov), 3-2 (Sadeera Samarawickrama, 1.5 ov), 4-3 (Kusal Mendis, 3.1 ov), 5-14 (Charith Asalanka, 9.3 ov), 6-14 (Dushan Hemantha, 9.4 ov), 7-22 (Dushmantha Chameera, 11.3 ov), 8-29 (Angelo Mathews, 13.1 ov), 9-49 (Kasun Rajitha, 17.6 ov), 10-55 (Dilshan Madushanka, 19.4 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Jasprit Bumrah 5-1-8-1 Mohammed Siraj 7-2-16-3 Mohammed Shami 5-1-18- 5 Kuldeep Yadav 2-0-3-0 Ravindra Jadeja 0.4-0-4-1

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

CG United Regional Super50

23

Young optimistic after dominant win over GHE I

n a thrilling encounter, the West Indies Academy team led by their captain, Nyeem Young, secured a convincing 92-run victory over the Guyana Harpy Eagles, further advancing their position in the race for a spot in the semifinals of the CG United Regional Super50.

With key contributions from several players, the Academy team showcased their talent both with the bat and the ball.

Matthew Forde displayed his prowess with the

bat, scoring a solid 52 runs from 55 balls, while Teddy Bishop provided valuable support with 48 runs.

Young himself contributed to the team’s total with a commendable 42 runs.

With the ball, Ackeem Auguste emerged as a hero, taking four wickets for 47 runs, and Nuremberg Young also made a significant impact by claiming three crucial wickets for just 18 runs.

Following the impressive win, Young expressed his satisfaction, saying, “I

am happy to get over the line. Guyana and us are tied on the same points, so coming towards the end, it takes us higher on the table with some valuable points.”

Young went on to praise the performances of his teammates, highlighting Matthew Forde’s batting display and Joshua’s vital contributions with the bat.

He also acknowledged the remarkable bowling performances of Matthew and Ackeem, emphasizing their crucial wickets in the middle overs.

CG United Regional Super50 Tournament…

Auguste happy to be among the wickets

A

ckeem Auguste, known more for his batting, emerged as a leg-spinner and made a stunning mark in List A cricket with a sensational bowling performance against the Guyana Harpy Eagles. Auguste, who was bowling in only his third List A innings, exhibited remarkable control and poise as he claimed four wickets for just 47 runs.

Auguste's sensational figures came as a result of his splendid bowling technique and his unwavering consistency. The young leg-spinner showcased his talent by taking crucial wickets at crucial junctures, thereby ensuring a significant advantage for his team.

"I was happy to take the wickets, but the areas that I bowled were more consistent, and I was just really happy to get the job done for the team," said Auguste in a post-match interview. These sentiments echoed the sentiment that a leg-spinner, by nature, possesses the unique ability to break partnerships and take wickets, and Auguste did just that.

This remarkable performance showcased his growing prowess and his ability to deliver under pressure. It's not often that a bowler makes such an impact in his early List A career, and Auguste's achievement did not go unnoticed.

Moreover, Auguste was quick to acknowledge the camaraderie and unity within his team. He praised the dynamic group of players, highlighting the diverse personalities and the strong team spirit that have been instrumental in the team's success.

"It's a good bunch to work with, the camaraderie among the boys is really good, it's a dynamic bunch, lots of different personalities, so it’s really good to be a part of this group," he added.

Ackeem Auguste's extraordinary performance in his List A debut will undoubtedly be remembered as a breakthrough moment in his budding cricket career. As he continues to develop his skills and maintain his consistency,

Nyeem Young

With their sights set on the upcoming match against the Windward Islands Volcanoes, Young emphasized the importance of securing another victory to ensure their place in the semifinals. “There is a next game against Windwards, and we need to play that

and win it to ensure that we do qualify into the semi-finals, but I am looking forward to it, and I know the team is very excited and up for it,” he remarked.

The West Indies Academy team’s recent success has undoubtedly boosted their confi-

dence and chances of progressing in the CG United Regional Super50. With the captain’s optimism and the team’s determination, fans can expect an exciting clash in their next match as they continue their pursuit of the coveted semifinal spot.

Pan American Games 2023…

Esport is ‘out of the ordinary’ experience – Persaud Ackeem Auguste (centre) celebrating a wicket

it won't be long before he becomes a crucial asset for the Caribbean in various formats of the game. The future looks

bright for this talented young cricketer, and his journey in the world of cricket promises to be an exciting one.

I

n what was a first for the Pan American Games being hosted in Santiago, Chile this year, the discipline of Esport got underway on Thursday morning.

Guyana is being rep-

aspire to have this experience, he opined.

“The experience here in Chile, the first Pan Am Games, it’s quite an amazing experience. It’s out of the ordinary, to be honest. You

National Gymnasium is venue for “One Guyana” basketball games on Saturday

“

One Guyana” Basketball tournament returns to the National Gymnasium on Saturday with three exciting games. The Jaguar Conference will kick off the action at 17:00h with McDoom/Prospect Kobras Basketball Club battling against Lamaha Springs/Park Pepsi Sonics.

This game will be followed at 19:00h b y the young and trending Kwakwani Untouchables going up against the Wortmanville Pacesetters in a battle for top seed in the Harpy Eagle Conference.

To end the day’s action, Stabroek Eagles will battle Meadowbrook Nets in a very competitive matchup, as both teams have good young talents.

The tournament kicked off with 14 teams in the Harpy Eagle and Jaguar Conferences, with a projected 56 to 63 games. The tournament will see teams from the Jaguar and Harpy

Eagle

Conferences playing the teams within their conference twice, with the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs. The number one-ranked team plays the fourthranked team, and the number two team plays the third-ranked team.

Winners of the playoff games will then advance to their Conference Finals,

where they will p l a y the best two of three games to determine who advances to the National Finals.

The tournament-winning team will receive $1 million along with trophies, while the runners-up will receive $500,000 plus trophies.

The tournament was made possible by sponsorship from the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry; G-Boats Guyana; the National Sports Commission; Guyana Basketball Federation, and Georgetown Basketball Federation.

not only eFootball, there’s other games such as Mortal Kombat, fighting games, and I think the list will grow,” he said.

“Most of our players in Guyana, we play FIFA. I’m a FIFA player, but, you know, I jumped into something new. It’s a new hobby, I try to play when I get time, but that’s the experience so far,” he disclosed.

Quizzed about his expectations for the tournament, the Guyanese underscored that it’s just about bringing exposure to the country.

“To be honest, to try and win as much as possi-

Ronnie Persaud

resented in the Esport arena by lone competitor Ronnie Persaud, who is accompanied at the Games

by Manager/Coach Shoaib Juman-Yassin. In his first outing on Thursday, Persaud picked up an opening win in eFootball.

In a best-of-3 games format, Persaud defeated his Venezuelan opponent on account of penalties in their first game, after regulation time ended with the game being drawn 1-1. Persaud wrapped up the overall victory with a whopping 9-0 win in the second game.

Guyana was drawn in Group C of the competition with Venezuela, Panama and Puerto Rico. Following the victory against Venezuela, Persaud went down to Puerto Rico, winning one of the 3 games in the set.

Persaud has described the Pan American Games experience as a good one; upand-coming gamers should

Ronnie Persaud in action

know, back home in Guyana, we would host tournaments, and it would be very small because the gaming community in Guyana is not as big, but this is an amazing experience and exposure for the young gamers that are coming up,” Persaud shared.

In a word to up-and-coming gamers, he added, “Hope you guys can see this as an opportunity, if you want to be like a professional gamer.

You know, if you like video games in general and you’re competitive, this is definitely a route for Esports. And it’s

ble and bring exposure to Guyana, because Guyana is new to Esports. This is my second year, last year was Paraguay, the Asuncion Games, and this year it’s Chile. So, it’s very new to Guyana,” Persaud said about his expectation for the tournament.

The first-place finisher in each group of the competition will move on to the next round, while the second-place finishers will have another chance to play in order to stay alive in the competition.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023

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

Esport is ‘out of the Young optimistic ordinary’ experience after dominant - Persaud win over GHE Pg 23

Pg 23

Archibald comes up short in 200M final G

uyana’s campaign on the track at the Pan American Games came to an anti-climactic end on Thursday evening when Emanuel Archibald finished 8th in the Men’s 200M final event.

Archibald, who qualified for the final the night prior, clocked 21.38s. The race was won by Brazil’s Renan Correa in 20.37s.

Dominican Republic’s Jose Gonzalez, who bagged gold in the 100M event, added silver to his tally with a time of 20.56s, while Nadale Buntin of St. Kitts and Nevis copped bronze in 20.79s.

After the race, Archibald summed up his outing at the 2023 Games in Chile, which includes a bronze medal performance in the Men’s 100M. He said, “It was a good

Emanuel Archibald is caught in the frame as Brazil’s Renan Correa celebrates his victory

Games, can’t complain, making two finals. Even though I finished 8th, my body was tired, it was a very long season. So, just rest up and come again next year.”

He added about contemplating going for the medal in the 200M, “At one point yeah, but because I was not doing enough work for it, I don’t feel I could’ve medaled today.”

Archibald went on to share his takeaways from this year’s Pan Am Games.

“That I can compete with the rest of the world. I just need to stay focused, stay patient, and execute, as my coach would say,” he stated.

While the Track athletes have completed their events, Leslain Baird will be in action in the field events on Saturday, as he takes on the javelin throw.

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