Guyana Times - Monday, April 24, 2023

WCD man dies in 3-vehicle collision

Atragic accident which occurred on Friday evening along the La Union Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD), has resulted in the death of 53-year-old Vickram Persaud, a resident of Harlem, WCD.

Based on reports received, Persaud reportedly drove his motor car, PNN 8879, onto the public road without observing the flow of traffic thus resulting in a collision with motor lorry GAD 1723, driven by a 39-year-old man of Cove and John, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The impact of the colli-

sion caused Persaud's car to spin and thereafter collide with the front portion of minibus BYY 7195, driven by a 51-year-old resident of Zeelugt South, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

Nevertheless, due to the collision, Persaud sustained injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the EMT team while the driver of the motor lorry was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) where he is being treated for a fractured right leg.

An investigation is underway.

The accident which occurred at La Union, WCD

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, Apr 24 – 04:15h – 05:45h and Tuesday, Apr 25 – 04:15h – 05:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, Apr 24 – 06:05h – 07:35h and Tuesday, Apr 25 – 06:40h – 08:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and sunshine during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies and thundery showers at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South-Easterly to Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 06:41h and 19:11h reaching maximum heights of 2.59 metres and 2.37 metres.

Low Tide: 12:44h reaching a minimum height of 0.65 metre.

US$12.7M North West ferry

MV MA LISHA important for Guyana's development – Pres Ali

...says vessel will open up agricultural, value-added opportunities

By Jarryl Bryan

The long-awaited MV MA LISHA ferry, which was built by Indian firm Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) at a cost of US$12.7 million, has officially been commissioned and will now ply the North-West, Region OneGeorgetown route.

During the ceremony to mark the commissioning of the vessel, President Dr Irfaan Ali shared the stage with dignitaries including Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar – who was on a three-day visit to Guyana that concluded on Sunday.

In his feature address, the President spoke about the important role MV MA LISHA is expected to play in Guyana’s development. He noted that, among other things, the vessel will serve as an important conduit for trade between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago and by extension, the wider Caribbean Region.

“Guyana is transitioning itself to be the food capital of the Region. One of the greatest hindrances in

LOTTERY NUMBERS

Trinidad and along the rest of Caricom,” the President said.

He noted that with the ship’s cold storage capability, commodities like crab meat can be transported from Region One to Georgetown. This is a commodity that is in high demand in the oil and gas industry. As such, the vessel will open up opportunities for value-added food pro-

centre, while at the same time bringing a higher level of service to the people of these regions.”

Friendship President Ali also revealed that the naming of the ship was of crucial importance, as the name that was chosen – Ma Lisha – is a Warrau word that means friendship. As such, the ship’s name serves as a cel-

what is the foundation of the One Guyana.”

The President, meanwhile, assured India that Guyana would be steadfast allies, as the country values friendship. And accordingly, he revealed that India has committed to providing help with maintenance for the vessel.

Meanwhile, Dr Jaishankar spoke about the ferry as the continuation of a longstanding collaboration between Guyana and India. This includes collaboration on projects that included the cricket stadium, the centre of excellence, and the installation of solar traffic lights.

“It’s important that we look at this ferry and actually consider the larger context. Which is a longstanding development partnership between India and Guyana. Our cooperation is human-centred. It reflects the priorities of the people and the Government of Guyana,” Dr Jaishankar said.

us fast tracking our food potential is our transportation system. Now, this vessel took about 59 hours to sail from Trinidad to Guyana. From Region One, it will take about 15 hours to Trinidad. We are very futuristic in what we’re thinking.”

“Region One has the potential to produce all the cassava, eddoes, sweet potatoes, yams, turmeric, ginger, and cage culture fish that the entire Trinidad and Tobago can utilise. Region One alone has this capacity. So, this ship… is an opportunity to open up a new discourse with India. That is the replacement of our fleet, but more importantly, making use of this opportunity of trade between Region One and

duction. Additionally, primary products like ginger and turmeric can also be transported. There is even an opportunity for high-demand crops to be exported to international markets.

Among the other advantages of the new vessel is that it will be more fuel efficient. President Ali revealed that the operating costs of current vessels – such as MV Kimbia – is almost $12 million per month, most of which can be chalked up to fuel costs.

“This vessel is estimated to use substantially less fuel, than the Kimbia So, this vessel will also reduce the operating cost for Transport and Harbours Department. This will improve efficiency, and reliability and reduce our cost

ebration of Indigenous heritage.

“When we were thinking about naming the ship, a lot of names came forward. And I called many leaders in our Amerindian community. And because of where this vessel will be serving, the overwhelming sentiment was that it should be a Warrau word. Naming of vessels is not an insignificant decision.”

“Because that vessel and that name, must demonstrate what it took to bring the vessel to where it is and what the vessel represents itself. And that is why friendship, not only between Guyana and India but friendship among the coast landers and hinterland, friendship among every single Guyanese, is

Earlier this month, the vessel arrived in Port Georgetown, after it sailed from Kolkata to Chennai and then made its way through the Atlantic Ocean to Trinidad. The new North West bound ferry has a capacity of up to 276 passengers, along with 18 crew members, and also carries 14 sedan-type vehicles and two trucks. It can also accommodate up to 250 tonnes of cargo with cold storage facilities.

It also comprises a front loading/offloading ramp that can accommodate easy loading and discharging of cargo at ports she will call on. The vessel also has a side boarding capacity. A total of 19 navigational, mechanical, and auxiliary staff of the Transport and Harbours Department were trained in India in 2022 and earlier this year, to operate the new ferry vessel.

The cutting of the ribbon which symbolises the commissioning of the ferry

The MV Ma Lisha ferry docked in Port Georgetown

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Mother Earth must be saved

Saturday, April 22 was “Earth Day 2023”, observed under the theme "Invest in our Planet." This marks the 53rd year the event has been commemorated since massive 1970 protests erupted in the US against their Government’s complicity in environmental degradation. It was the birth of the “environmental movement” that took as its mandate, a commitment to prevent further damage to the planet that is the only home for sentient beings in the trillions of planets in the universe known at this time.

It was fitting the event was launched in the West which created, and continues to create, the most extensive environmental damage to the planet. For millennia before the West’s global conquest, other cultures had placed the need for coexisting with their environment at the centre of their cultural practices, but all of this was swept away with a worldview that insisted “man has dominion over all he surveyed”.

When Columbus encountered the continents of the “New World”, he found peoples who lived in harmony with nature. Because the forests had not been cleared, Europe declared the peoples “uncivilised”, giving them the “right” to assume sovereignty over these lands, and lay waste to them in their divine “mission civilisatrice”. The same assessment was later made and the same process was attempted in Africa and Asia with varying levels of “success”. However, most insidiously, the arrogant premises of the Europeans towards the earth in terms of “development” were inculcated in these populations with devastating effects that persist into the present.

In Guyana, as we commemorate “Earth Day”, the descendants of the Indigenous, African, Chinese, and Indian Peoples must be reminded of their ancient but now “modern” view of Mother Earth. The Hindus from India, for instance, worship the Earth as “Dharti Mata” or “Prithvi Mata” (literally “Mother Earth”) as a necessary and prefatory rite before each ceremony to worship God in whatever manifestation. Africans and Indigenous Peoples also have an organic unity with the Earth.

This remembrance of our own traditions will allow us to indigenise our commemoration and revalidate ourselves in the long process to emerge from the debilitating mental shackles placed over our minds during the colonial period and into the present. It is perhaps not coincidental that Guyana led the world in environmental concern through the sequestering of the Iwokrama Rainforest back in 1989 and the Low Carbon Development Strategy in 2009 that has now been rebooted. It would appear that the urge to save and revere Mother Earth survives in our collective cultural genes.

While the theme for Earth Day 2023 is “Invest in our Planet”, unfortunately, there appears to be a growing and studied effort to reduce environmental spending in the “developed” countries, whose practices led to our global environmental and climate degradation. It has been over five years after 196 countries signed the Paris Agreement and agreed to cut their carbon emissions in an effort to keep the increase of average global temperatures to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. But while for instance, the US had agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its economy by 26% over the next decade – leaving it at 28% in 2025 when compared to 2005 levels, Trump refused to even accept that climate change is grounded in reality. Not surprisingly that goal will not be met. We have seen the same backtracking on commitments by the EU nations.

But this does not mean we must give up on our efforts to save Mother Earth: it is the moral duty of all nations to do what we can to reduce carbon emissions. It is very positive that our government will now go ahead with the Amaila Falls Hydro Project. In the meantime, the new rising economies of China and India will have to accept that while they may not have caused the problem, they have to put their shoulders to the wheel and reduce their carbon footprints.

Either we all cut back emissions together or we all burn together.

The connection between race and politics is overstated

Dear Editor,

I write with reference to the Kaieteur News editorial on April 23, 2023, under the title “Race and Politics in Guyana.” The editorial makes several major claims, none of which can stand up to basic examination by those who know something about “race.”

The overarching point made is that “…foreigners [are] coming to prosper from our many patrimonies [and] make fools out of us by encouraging the pitting of one group of Guyanese against the other.” There are indeed grounds to talk about foreign interference in Guyana. Our history is one of colonial conquest, imperial machinations, and of direct foreign inference in the years leading up to, and since independence. No one doubts, for instance, that Cheddi Jagan was removed from office by Western covert operations and constitutional trickery.

No one doubts that Mr Burnham and the PNC were installed, petted, and fattened by foreigners. No one doubts that the formation and consolidation of the PNC itself was bankrolled due to the politics of the Cold War. No one doubts that Rabbi Washington, a foreigner, was imported to practice violence against the political Opposition in Guyana, including against the PPP and WPA.

Yet, I suspect that kind of foreign interference, and divide and rule, is not what the editorial has in mind. Rather, the focus is on Exxon and the EEPGL conglomeration. Well, we have a problem of mischaracterisation here. The oil companies have invested over US$30 billion in this country. Without these massive investments in oil and gas, Guyana would still be leaning on the traditional commodities for export earnings and employment – sugar, rice, bauxite, fish and shrimp, and gold and diamond.

The so-called foreigners, who are in truth astute foreign investors, are giving the Guyanese people the opportunity to stop fighting over the crumbs bequeathed to us through the political economy of plantation capitalism. Moreover, readers should know that oil & gas per se is only the leading edge in a whirlwind of FDI, all with significant local content protections. There is a vast secondary sector in services that now employs thousands of our people. Guyana’s historic problem with employment and underemployment is beginning to disappear, and in fact, we are beginning to have a reverse problem with shortage of (skilled) labour.

Exxon, Hess, and CNOOC are not here to extract or cultivate racial antagonism. They are here to make, and have already made, extremely difficult and expensive investments that are changing our economic and social landscape. What is worrisome is that editorials like the one under consideration are the real engines of racial engineering.

The editorial cannot be taken seriously on empirical grounds when it comes to a racialised political economy because it has no empirical grounds. On this score, I would like refer readers to an outstanding article by Neville Bissember, (“Is apartheid being practiced in Guyana?” Stabroek News, April 6, 2023) in which he systematically demonstrated that there are no grounds to talk about things like apartheid and ethnic cleansing in Guyana, as sometimes charged by irresponsible race merchants who are trying to earn their political stripes.

What the editorial does do is to concatenate foreign calamities, in this case US race politics, with political developments in Guyana. Apropos, the editorial posits that “[r]

ace and politics prevent us from the life-giving exercise of BREATHING (my emphasis).”

Well, we are all obviously “living and breathing,” in the literal sense. But the editorial’s real intent is to appeal to the politics and memory surrounding the dramatic murder of George Floyd by Police officer Derek Chauvin in May 2020, in Minnesota. Floyd’s murder was taped by a teenager and the video showed the suffering of, yet another Black man murdered by the very institution that was supposed to protect him.

The Black Lives Matter movement globalised Floyd’s murder. The universe heard George Floyd calling out for his mother, crying out – “I can’t breathe.” The KN editorial attempts to link this dastardly foreign racial trauma to Guyana. By doing this, it is Kaieteur News’ editorial that is using ‘the foreign’ to cultivate, legitimise, and reproduce narratives of racial division in Guyana. “Breathing,” as used in the editorial, is the deployment of a sign, in the semiotic sense of structural linguistics, and Baudrillardian cultural analysis.

On the economic side of the equation, since the editorial cannot disprove the fact that Guyana has one of the highest growth rates in the world, it resorts to a form of ‘jumbie’ social-economic theorising. Here are the exact words on this score – “The reality is that Guyana has not even gotten off the mark, with Guyanese still on their knees, due to the paralyzing hammer blows that race and politics have delivered on the head of each citizen.”

This is bunk because it is not only patently false, but also patently dangerous. Quite probably, the author of this editorial would not have read “Why Nations Fail” by Daron Acemoglu and James A Robinson. In this highly

regarded work on development, the authors show that strong, democratic, inclusive political institutions are critical to economic advancement. Inclusive political institutions in turn are based on sustaining pluralism. On this basis, editorials such as that discussed here, are anathema to pluralism, and certainly to strengthening our political institutions. On this basis alone, the editorial is divisive. The only Guyanese on their knees are the ones who are offering prayers. They are doing so in a country where freedom of secular and religious expression is not only guaranteed, but alive. Readers would have picked up by now that far from foreigner investors being the perpetrators of political division, it is in fact the editorialising practices (literally) of some broadsheets in Guyana that are the purveyors of doom. They are the ones that are contributing to weakening our political institutions. Guyana has serious political divisions, but they are not based on race, per se. The real issue is that this country has strong social forces and agents of authoritarianism that are determined to keep their old ways marked by election rigging and various forms of intimidation. That is what KN should fight.

I rarely make comments that border on the ‘personal’ attributes of writers. I will, however, make an exception today. I taught ‘race relations’ for the better part of four decades at the undergrade and graduate levels. Based on that, I am humbly asking the publisher of Kaieteur News not to allow unqualified people to write on issues of such national importance. It is not worth it bro!

Sincerely,

Dr Randolph Persaud

The 10 finalists vying for the title of Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2023 were on Saturday evening officially sashed at a grand ceremony at the Umana Yana, Kingston Georgetown. The contestests are Denica Henry, Tamia Dodson, Siani Archer, Kayla King, Tamasha Oxford, Jasmaine Assanah, Quissieana Odle, Keri Duncan, Shemina Peroune and Lisa Hassan (POTSALT MEDIA photo)

Reg 5, we must stand up to PNC bullying tactics

Dear Editor, Now that the heat is on for the upcoming Local Government Elections, we must join together in ensuring that there is clean campaigning from all. Recently we saw the intimidation and bullying tactics once again come into play by some PNC destructive elements in Region 5. We must not allow the PNC to destroy or may I

say steal our local democracy like the way they tried to, in stealing the 2020 elections, and they failed. Local Government Elections (LGE) are very important to all of us because it gives us the perfect opportunity to vote for someone that we trust and who has confidence in representing us at the local level towards having a better community when it

comes to development.

Not only does LGE allow us to vote for a person of our choice but also it gives us the perfect opportunity to vote for a political party that has development at heart and that we have full confidence in.

The PNC, and I will say PNC because we all know that APNU is PNC and they have done nothing over the years at the

Local Government level. The PNC lack proper representation at the local level and because they know that voters are moving away from them, they will try to do anything that would bring race hate and intimation to our people.

We the residents of Region 5 should not and must not tolerate the threats and intimations by a few well-known trouble -

makers in the PNC within Region 5. We must all stand together and unite against the PNC bullying tactics and send a strong message that we are not afraid to stand up and we are all for “One Guyana”.

Residents, especially voters of Region 5, come LGE vote with your heart’s feelings, vote for the person you have confidence in, vote for development, vote

for a party that has you at heart at the very local level, and vote for a better community and vote for more development.

With all those above, if you voted with your heart, it will leave you with no other choice but come LGE 2023 you will vote PPP/C.

Respectfully, Abel Seetaram

GOAL programmes – invaluable for the country

Dear Editor, I recently read that “Seniors (over 60), enrolled at York (in Canada) may have all, or part of their academic fees waived at the domestic fee rate, for York University degree credit courses. What a wonderful way to go. It’s a start, but how much better this would have helped if this offer had been extended to say people in their younger days, even if not the full ‘fee coverage.’

So here in Guyana, we have to be very grateful that we have the ongoing GOAL, devoid of any monetary and age prohibition or exclusion. It is simply

free, but not to be taken for granted, not slighted. I note that along this line, back in January of this year, Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag, had to defend the Government’s Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme against criticism from Opposition Members of Parliament. At the time, she detailed that “… the Opposition Members have criticised this initiative (GOAL), including the fact that the University of Guyana is not part of the GOAL programme”, they are also beneficiaries of it. Imagine! I love the fact that she had

to elucidate that “Guyana is developing at a rapid pace, and to satisfy the growing needs of the labour market, we need to act fast to produce the professionals that are required to take advantage of the growing opportunities.”

I mean this is how visionaries and planners operate. ‘Knee-Jerk’ reactions always leave chaos. Guyana is preparing for some unprecedented happenings. In fact, Guyana’s landscape has changed significantly in the last three years or so. I am talking here about road works, construction, waterways, airport and so many oth-

er infrastructural developments. I think of the fact that we can no longer limit ourselves to the University of Guyana, and like she pointed out, “While the University of Guyana is an excellent institution run by brilliant minds, we acknowledge that it has a far way to go, and the Government is committed to providing the requisite support for it to advance.”

Thus, I agree with her that “GOAL is an exceptional platform that offers wider and more convenient opportunities for a higher education.”

If I were to compile a list

Joining the PPP/C is not a summer holiday!!!

Dear Editor, Last Nomination Day, there was a large gathering of people from all walks of life and from every region represented on the Guyana landscape. There were people from every ethnic, religious, political, and social background marching in strict solidarity with the PPP/C party. Among those in that grouping, were notable personalities and crossovers from the PNC party, chanting emphatically "One Guyana, vote for the PPP/C."

There was a quick reaction coming from the PNC, who launched a scathing attack on those in the PPP/ C's team, being expressly severe on the crossover candidates. In their usual PNC humiliating style, they came out swinging, calling the PPP/C supporters house slaves and soup drinkers, among other derogatory comments; I will deal with the last name-calling first.

Now, coming over to the PPP/C is the first step in the right direction, the second step is a sure call to work. Joining forces with the PPP/C is an enlistment into a party of hard labourers, joining team PPP/C is not, I repeat, not going to a summer camp or going off to a leisure cruise, it is being enrolled in a party that will be on the ground working for the betterment of all Guyana. Be it in the field, office, or fac -

tory, it is the answer to a call to work. Being a member of the PPP/C's team is making a clear statement that you are joining hands with a team of labourers whose sole aim is to build a strong and prosperous Guyana for all Guyanese.

So, if anyone coming over to the PPP/C's side would ever think that it is a stroll in the park they need to think again because that attitude would not be entertained. These were of the mistaken belief that a crossover meant one incompetency would be tolerated, well, theirs was a sad disappointment when they woke up to the reality of their calling, that is, incompetence and corrupt practices will not be tolerated.

Yours truly would also be returning to make my contribution towards a better Guyana. Well of course I am always a PPP, not a civic, mind you, and it has always been my aspiration to return to build Guyana. I have repeatedly told my friends, who are mainly PNC supporters, that I would be a member of that group of individuals who will make a change in a new and democratic Guyana. Of course, the racial aspect of their response came first, telling me "Banna you goin join wid them people," that is in referral to the PPP/C party.

My response was a blunt yes, they are the only par -

ty that can and will build Guyana. It is a party that has a vision and is well on a mission to build a formidable nation, strong and democratically sound. The PPP/C is the only party that will build this coun -

try based on firm economic principles. Guyana will become the new Singapore of the Caribbean.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

of the benefits of GOAL, it may take quite some doing. However, just run through these few: creating more employment opportunities; securing a higher income; developing problem-solving skills; improving the economy; providing a prosperous and happy life; giving back to the community; creating modern society; bridging the borders; creating equal opportunities; creating equal opportunities; and introducing empowerment.

Thus, I firmly support GOAL and advise that the nation capitalise on it. According to the feedback from many beneficia -

ries, “The programmes offered by the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) are playing a huge part in bolstering the capabilities of the education system in Guyana, as more teachers complete these courses to advance their skills in the classrooms.”

And this is just in one category. As a caveat, I ask that the facilitators of GOAL run more awareness campaigns, and also keep open the deadline until May. Guyana needs to rein in as many as possible.

Yours truly, H Singh

14:30 Star Wars: The Clone Wars S3 E8

15:00 Indian Soaps

16:00 Power Rangers: Super Ninja Steel S1 E10

16:30 That Girl Lay Lay S2 E5

NGSA Math Questions

Guyana is ripe with opportunities –Finance Minister tells Indian delegation ...talks up advantages of geographical continuity for investors

contiguity with continental South America… Suriname and beyond; Brazil and the rest of South America and Latin America,” he noted.

Dr Singh added, “…as a result of being a member of Caricom, and producer based in Guyana enjoys privileged access to Caricom Markets and to other external markets with whom Caricom has trade or economic agreements.”

English-speaking nation in South America.

In a bid to attract investors, Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh told the visiting high-level delegation from India of the bountiful opportunities that are available in Guyana and the advantages such investments will bring to them.

External Affairs Minister of India, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is leading a delegation from his country that comprises representatives from the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) including its Chairman, Jai Shroff.

On Saturday, an IndiaGuyana business roundtable event was hosted at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre in Georgetown with visiting officials. The engagement was aimed at creating partnerships and investment opportunities as well as discussing areas of economic cooperation, and strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.

During his remarks, Minister Singh pointed out that the current and next phase of the relationship between Guyana and India will be defined by the economic and business ties that are being forged.

He noted that Guyana’s blooming oil and gas industry has catapulted positive spillovers into nearly

all other economic sectors in the country, and the Government has been cultivating the conditions necessary to secure a widely diversified economy.

To this end, he stated that the visit of the Indian delegation is “timely and opportune. He noted that Guyana presents a unique opportunity for Indian businesses looking to establish a presence or expand their presence in this hemisphere.

“Irrespective of what you do in India, whether you manufacture the paperclip or the aeroplane, or whether you produce goods and services, whichever sector you’re operating in, if you’re looking for external opportunities then Guyana is ripe with such opportunities…,”

Dr Singh posited.

Dr Singh encouraged Indian businesses, particularly manufacturers and producers, to establish operations in Guyana and take advantage of the duty-free movement of goods within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) common market as well as other trade agreements that the regional grouping has.

“An investment in Guyana or the development of a trade, commercial or investment relationship or presence in Guyana… is not to be viewed only as a presence in Guyana [especially] because of our geographical

He further highlighted that Guyana also enjoys the peculiar advantage of present first-movers’ opportunities. In fact, he explained that with Suriname also now developing oil and gas potential, a number of the companies that are establishing their operations in Guyana see this move as an opportunity to not only serve the local market but also other neighbouring markets in this part of the world.

In fact, he indicated that many of the service providers to United States oil major – ExxonMobil, who is currently producing oil offshore Guyana, have declared that they see Guyana as the centre of their operations for Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Columbia and elsewhere.

“And so, a presence in Guyana is not only to be viewed from the perspective of the opportunities within the domestic boundaries in Guyana but a presence in Guyana is to be viewed in the context of opportunities that lie within our neighbours, within the entire of the Caribbean, and North and South America, and beyond,” the Finance Minister informed the Indian delegation.

According to Dr Singh, there are also other advantages of doing business in Guyana for Indian companies including the linguistic advantage, especially with Guyana being the only

“I know a lot of Indian companies are looking to establish a presence in Latin America… [We’re] the only English-speaking country on mainland South America so automatically, Indian enterprises establishing a presence in Guyana will find an environment from that perspective. And also, from the perspective of our Commonwealth, constitutional, jurisprudential and legal environments, which will be very familiar to Indian businesses,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Indian External Affairs Minister said at the event that strong economics will complement shared values in taking the India-Guyana partnership to a new level. Minister Jaishankar added that the presence of the CII delegation is also a reflection of India’s growing engagement with Latin America.

In fact, CII Chairman, Jai Shroff, outlined a series of areas with the potential for enhanced bilateral economic cooperation between

Guyana and India, including oil and gas, which he said has immense scope for cooperation and collaboration.

Other areas highlighted by the Indian official were agriculture and food processing, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), education and tourism.

“Going forward, we look forward to bilateral engagements that go beyond trade investment and encompass innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. We must examine these altogether, and to build close equations, and to derive mutually productive outcomes,” Shroff posited.

He further indicated interest by CII members in industrial developments here and forging partnerships with Guyanese stakeholders.

The CII has also signed cooperation agreements with Guyana’s Private Sector Commission and the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC).

According to its web-

site, CII is a non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organisation, with around 9000 members from the private and public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect membership of over 300,000 enterprises from 286 national and regional sectoral industry bodies.

CII works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the development of India, partnering with industry, Government and civil society, through advisory and consultative processes.

Saturday’s business roundtable event was also attended by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd, Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar; Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr Peter Ramsaroop, along with other Government and private sector officials. (G8)

Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh

Confederation of Indian Industries Chairman Jai Shroff

Man wanted for ex-lover’s murder found floating in Canje River

neck. The couple reportedly shared a relationship and has a 10-year-old child together.

However, since the gruesome discovery, Durga had not been seen or heard from and as such, family members launched a frantic search for him.

According to his brother, Chowdharilall Rameshant, checks were made along the Canje River on Saturday but nothing was found.

When it rains… …Georgetown drowns

The body of 50-yearold Shyam Durga also called “Sunil”, who was wanted in connection with the murder of Telisha Domandeo, was on Sunday discovered floating in the Canje River, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Police stated that acting on information received, ranks went to Brotherson

Village, Canje River, Berbice, where the body of Durga was seen floating in the Canje River face down.

The body was subsequently pulled from the water but upon examination, no marks of violence were detected. The body was taken to the Arokium Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The body of 36-yearold Telisha Domandeo of Crabwood Creek was found at Creek Dam Betsy Ground Village, East Canje, Berbice, on Friday. Soon after, the Police issued a wanted bulletin for the now dead man.

Upon discovery, the woman’s body was wrapped in a blanket with her head almost severed from the

However, he explained that they were informed about the discovery of his brother’s body and immediately went to the area where they saw Durga lying face down in the river.

Rameshant related that they subsequently informed the Police and waited for them to retrieve the body. “There were no marks of violence. The Police say no foul play unless he drowned or drank poison,” the brother indicated.

When you cut to the chase, it really hasn’t stopped raining for a couple of years, has it? Yet your Eyewitness had learned by rote in Lil ABC: “Guyana has two rainy seasons – May-June and December-January”. But he gotta admit that was MANY moons ago!! And since then, attention has been focused wonderfully on this thing called “Climate Change”. And rainfall in general being part of the “climate”, he isn’t surprised that it’s become topsy turvy. Not only here, but across the world. Some get more rain – like us and Pakistan – and some get less – like California. On Friday, Georgetown learnt once again what it meant by “raining like a river” as its every street became “Water Street”!! And this after the interventions by Central Government!!

But isn’t this what COPS 1 to 27 were all about – to plan how we’ll be dealing with these changes? So what are we to do about this flooding here – when we live in a trench with a sea wall on the north and a back dam seven miles to the south? Well, none of this is new, is it? The Dutch, who carved out this coast from the mangrove swamps, understood that living here was always going to be tricky. They’d done this before in their native Holland. And it’s because of their experience, they mandated and built their homes on stilts – and canals be cleared continuously. Have we forgotten that Georgetown was once all plantations?? But the network of drains and canals, etc, unfortunately, have mostly been filled up!! There’s a reason why the Dutch didn’t build paved walkways apart from Brickdam as they extended Stabroek into a town! But we don’t have to go that far back, do we? How about the “Great Flood” of 2005?? Didn’t we learn anything then? Weren’t there new regulations issued about houses being built at least 4’ ABOVE the ground? About keeping drains free of garbage – especially all those Styrofoam cups and plates? And weren’t the NDCs supposed to be using some of those rates and taxes they collect to keep those drains clean??

But the problem – like everything else in Guyana – is that the moment a crisis is over, we revert to the same ole, same ole! We gripe about politicians not changing, but think about the fact that like with our drains, we don’t clean them out regularly!! But seriously folks, shouldn’t we take some responsibility for taking care of our living space so that we don’t have to be living in flooded filth?? It ain’t healthy! But looking at the immediate future, the City gotta get serious about enforcing the building code and regulations on drainage. Or move to Silica City!!

…it pours for PNC

It may appear that your Eyewitness is beating up a lot on the PNC recently. But it’s called “tough love,” folks!! Remember when your mother had to lance that “hard boil” you developed when you were a kid?? Tough love!! Had to be done for your own good!! Look what a mess the LGE Nomination Day exposed within the party. Isn’t there an adult in the room who can put their hand up and say, “Ok fellas…let’s get our act together!!”

How about the Sanctimonious Gangster who’s retreated into petulant seclusion at Pearl?? He’s still the leader of the list of who can remove or add PNC MPs to the National Assembly. Shouldn’t some kind of disciplinary action be taken against all those MPs who sat in their homes when they should’ve been in the streets mobilising the troops?? Or is he behind their “strike action” against the present PNC leader?? When will this pettiness end??

Will he never forgive Norton for not backing him for the leadership??

…even Uni lecturers strike Universities are our highest centres of learning. So you’d think the lecturers would have some “higher” moral responsibility towards the next generation, no??

But yet, UWI Lecturers are withholding exam papers ‘till they get a raise!! Go figure!!

Dead: Shyam Durga also called “Sunil”

Murdered: Telisha Domandeo

Works progressing on both ends of US$106M Ogle-to-Eccles road – Min Indar

...Indian External Affairs Minister among high-level delegation to visit site

During his visit to Guyana, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, visited the Indian-funded Ogle-to-Eccles Road Linkage Project on Saturday where it was evident that work is progressing at both ends of the 7.8-kilometre alignment.

The US$106.3 million project, which will provide a direct, four-lane road link between the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), is being funded by the Indian Export-Import (EXIM) Bank.

On Saturday, Dr Jaishankar and Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar toured the site where they were briefed by contractor,

Ashoka Buildcon Limited on the progression of the project.

They were accompanied by senior officials from the Public Works Ministry, and other Government Ministries and agencies, as well as top public officials from India including the Chief Scientist and Head of the International S&T Affairs Directorate (ISTAD) of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Dr Rama Swami Bansal. India's High Commissioner to Guyana Dr KJ Srinivasa was also part of the delegation.

In an interview with Guyana Times after the tour, Minister Indar noted that the progress at the worksite, despite the challenges, was extremely positive. In particular, he pointed out that

works are progressing on both sides of the 7.7-kilometre alignment, including at Eccles, EBD.

“I’m extremely happy that the External Affairs Minister, Dr Jaishankar was here. And to visit the site as well. Ashoka Buildcon has been progressing with the work as we saw the physical work on the ground.”

“So, we continue to work with the contractor to execute this very important link between the East Coast and the East Bank,” Indar said.

During a recent visit by President Dr Irfaan Ali earlier this month, it was explained that land-filling activities started last year and that up to that point, 6.5 kilometres had been completed. Asphaltic concrete is expected to be used on the main

alignment, similar to what currently obtains on the East Bank and railway embankment.

The multi-million contract was signed last year with Ashoka Buildcon, an Indian company, to construct the four-lane road. It was announced in January 2022 that Ashoka Buildcon Limited won the contract to construct the road, ahead of two other Indian companies. Ashoka has previously built a number of bridges and roads in different jurisdictions.

According to the company’s website, it even built a bridge in 38 days, namely the Mandve Bridge near Pandharpur, India. According to the company, the bridge was supposed to be built in 12 months.

In February 2021, the

Government of India approved the new scope of works for the redesigned bypass road project that would link the ECD at Ogle to Haags Bosch in Eccles, on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). This new road link will also be connected to key communities in Georgetown and along the East Bank of Demerara.

RITES Limited, an engineering consultancy company based in India, had undertaken a 10-month design consultancy, which produced a Detailed Project Report (DPR) outlining the draft final design of the bypass road. It is this report which recommended a four-lane highway as most feasible.

Back in 2015, the Indian Government had provided a US$50 million Line of Credit (LOC) for the road link that

was initially slated for Ogle to Diamond, EBD. However, the project cost was driven up to over US$208 million by the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government and the project languished under them.

However, when the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government took office in 2020, it redesigned the project into two phases to fit the LOC – first from Ogle to Haags Bosch road, which is about 48-50 per cent of the project, and then from Haags Bosch to Diamond – in order to fit the US$50 million LOC. Because of these changes in the scope of the project, additional approvals were required from New Delhi, and after several months, this was obtained. (G-3)

India's External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (left) and Guyana’s Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar during the visit to the site

Work continues even when dusk falls

Guyana participates in 53rd WTCA General Assembly

ternational platform and to provide other Guyanese businesses, especially small and medium size enterprises with access to training, information on emerging global trends, and guidance on strategies for finding new markets. Of course, it also provides an opportunity to highlight the developments taking place in Guyana and the range of investment and joint venture opportunities currently available as our economy grows,” Samaroo,

who is also Executive Chairman of DDL, said.

This year, the GA will include roundtables and discussions on key trade issues, including keynote remarks from Vice President of the Republic of Ghana,

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and special remarks from Secretary General of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA)

Secretariat Wamkele Mene today.

The General Assembly

is attracting more than 200 delegates drawn from around the world and is featuring an exhibition and a series of business-to-business meetings among companies and centers with mutual interest.

Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) is currently repurposing its former headquarters on High Street, Kingston, in the capital Georgetown, to house a state-of-the-art World Trade Center facility.

Banks DIH signs MoU with GTI to promote student development

Guyana, through its World Trade Centre Georgetown, is participating in the 53rd annual General Assembly of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), which opened Sunday and runs until Friday in Accra, Ghana.

It is the first time Guyana will be represented at a WTCA General Assembly which is being held under the theme "Towards African Economic Integration and Enhanced Global Presence".

The licence is held by Demerara Distillers Limited

(DDL), a leading manufacturing entity in Guyana and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) with a reputable global footprint.

WTC Georgetown Executive Director Brian Wesley Kirton is participating in the General Assembly which will feature new WTCA members at a session on Tuesday.

The WTCA General Assembly is the Association's premier annual event and brings together WTCA members and their global business networks consist-

ing of leaders from business, Government, academia, media, and international organisations, reflecting the WTCA's diverse global footprint.

WTC Georgetown Executive Chairman Komal Samaroo said this meeting offers tremendous opportunities for businesses to network and connect in the quest to expand global trade.

“Our participation provides for DDL to highlight and promote our range of products on yet another in-

Banks DIH Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Government Technical Institute to promote student development, academic partnerships, and knowledge transfer between the two institutions.

The MoU was inked between Banks DIH Human Resources Director, Andrew Carto and Banks DIH Limited Operations Director Gavin Todd with Government Technical Institute (GTI) Principal, Dr Renita Crandon Duncan on Monday last.

Under this agreement, Banks DIH Limited and GTI will explore opportunities for student scholarships, exchange of expertise, and knowledge transfer in areas of mutual interest. The partnership will also facilitate the exchange of students and faculty members for research, training, and education purposes.

“We are delighted to partner with GTI to leverage our strengths and expertise to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the industry and the emerging need of both

institutions. This partnership will provide us with access to talent while enabling us to contribute to the advancement of students, the institution, and education,” Carto stated. However, Duncan noted that “We are excited to partner with Banks DIH Limited to advance research and education in areas of mutual interest. This collaboration will provide our students and faculty members with valuable industry experience while also contributing to the creation of knowledge that benefits Guyana.”

The World Trade Center in Accra, Ghana, where the General Assembly is being hosted

Principal of GTI Dr Renita Crandon Duncan, Human Resources Executive of Banks DIH Limited Andrew Carto and Gavin Todd after the signing of the MoU

ExxonMobil conducting 3D/4D seismic surveys in Stabroek Block

– to continue mapping block throughout 2023

With an estimated 11 billion-plus barrels of oil equivalent (boe) recoverable resource, it is widely believed that there is more oil to be found in the Stabroek Block. As such, ExxonMobil is currently conducting both 3D and 4D seismic surveys, with a view to determining where that oil is.

The Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) released a notice in which they announced that as of April 20, 2023, Exxon subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) would be conducting its 3D/4D seismic surveys in the Stabroek Block.

It was explained that the surveying will conclude on December 31, 2023, and will use five vessels - seismic survey vessels Sanco Spirit , OSV Moonrise G , MPV Rem Saltire , seismic support vessel 7 Oceans

and the OSV Atlantic Liberty

“The survey area is situated approximately 85.58 nautical miles (158.0 kilometres) from the coast of Guyana, and covers an area of 2527.25 square nautical miles (8668.23 square kilometres) … All mariners are required to stay clear of these vessels and navigate with extreme caution when in the vicinity,” MARAD said.

Back in 2021, ExxonMobil had contracted Norwegian company Petroleum and GeoServices (PGS) to provide one of their Titan class ships for 4D seismic surveys in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. EEPGL is currently seeking authorisation from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for 35 exploration/appraisal wells in the Stabroek Block. According to EEPGL’s application, if all requisite approvals are granted then

the drilling of the wells is expected to start in the third quarter of 2023, with the proposed drilling campaign coming to an end by the fourth quarter of 2028.

The Cumulative Impact Assessment (CIA) of the 35 exploration/appraisal wells planned for the Stabroek Block, was done by ERM Guyana, which conducts environmental, health, safety, and risk assessments. It had said that no major environmental impacts would result from the project.

Guyana, with US oil giant ExxonMobil as the operator, began producing oil on December 20, 2019, in the Stabroek Block. Guyana’s oil revenues are being held in the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) at the New York Federal Reserve Bank, where it is earning interest.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). EEPGL is the operator

and holds 45 per cent interest in the Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

Since last year, Guyana has been recording weekly lifts in the Stabroek Block with oil production now at 340,000 barrels per day from the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels. With EEPGL making weekly lifts, Guyana’s crude entitlement of one million barrels occurs monthly from the two FPSOs.

ExxonMobil has said it anticipates at least six projects offshore Guyana will be online by 2027. Production has already started in the second phase, with the Liza Unity FPSO vessel in operation.

The third project – the

Payara Development – will target an estimated resource base of about 600 million oil-equivalent barrels and was at one point considered to be the largest single planned investment in the history of Guyana.

Meanwhile, the Yellowtail Development, which will be oil giant ExxonMobil’s fourth development in Guyana’s waters, will turn out to be the single largest development so far in terms of barrels

per day of oil, with a mammoth 250,000 bpd targeted. The Uaru oil development, which will be the fifth one for the company offshore Guyana, is targeting between 38 and 63 development wells, including production, water injection, and gas re-injection wells. Exxon had previously also made known that they anticipate the first oil from the Uaru development by late 2026 or early 2027. (G3)

Sanco Spirit, one of the vessels that will be used

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam

Among the events Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar participated in was a dinner hosted by President Jagdeo at his private residence. The Minister also visited the Indian Monument in Berbice as well

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's 4-day visit to Guyana

President Dr Irfaan Ali at State House, as well as a reception hosted by Vice President Bharrat well as participated in a tree planting exercise at the Botanical Gardens among other activities.

Exploring Guyana’s hidden gems with Touring Guyana

Rupununi River. When putting together a package, Gulchand considers several factors: the travel time, ensuring it’s not too tedious, if the location has a wow factor like a waterfall or specific attraction that it is known for, if it incorporates a historical element and if it offers a chance for those interested to swim.

Growing up in Cove and John on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) was what Shivana Gulchand described as a simple environment with most people being farmers including her father but more importantly, it was an area where many women got married at a very young age and rarely worked.

Her mother, however, was the exception, being the only of her ten siblings to pursue an education and eventually become a Grade Six teacher. Gulchand always knew she wanted more than the simple life and believes seeing her mother venture out in what was at the time considered an unfamiliar path, was somewhat responsible for her career-oriented mentality.

“She was the one that broke that barrier and made the exception that you had to get an education and a

job, and I guess that kind of broke the path for my siblings and me,” Gulchand said. Now, the 35-year-old holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, several previous jobs within Information Technology (IT), and a new tour agency under her belt.

“As a child growing up, people always bragged about places in the US, Trinidad, and Suriname but nobody ever said anything about Guyana,” Gulchand said. “I wanted to see more; I figured it couldn’t have just been this coast that I'm accustomed to seeing.”

Her first trip out of the coastland was in 2009 during one of her first jobs as a secretary at Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute which involved capacity-building studies for single and abused women. This trip to Kamarang, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was

the first of many she’d take across Guyana.

“It was quite remarkable to see how different it was: the rainforest and the jungle that you often hear about and not only the scenery but how different life was compared to the very protective home I grew up in,” Gulchand said. “It was like an eye-opener and I just wanted more of that.”

As she started earning more, she started saving and conducting research on other trips she wanted to go on. “Every year, I would put aside money to go somewhere new I hadn’t been before or somewhere I just heard about and it was mainly just that curiosity to

see more faces...While everybody else wanted to go out of Guyana to see other countries, I wanted to see more of Guyana.”

Given the travel component of her jobs, she was awarded even more opportunities to explore the country. During her first three months in the IT department at the Ministry of Finance, she travelled to all ten regions in Guyana. “When I finished with my work at the end of the day, I’d always find out from the locals what there is to see and do.”

She had accumulated so many photos and notes about her experiences on her trips that she needed a space to share them, leading her to create an Instagram page aptly titled “Touring Guyana.”

“Guyana's natural, unapologetic beauty was what captured me. I love the peace, quiet and tranquillity

of nature…I think that drove my passion and I just started to share pictures of the different places, a description as to where it is, and so on.”

Naturally, she grew a following and when people started reaching out for travel recommendations, she began informally putting together packages for them until her husband urged her to start doing so professionally. In 2021, she launched her first tour of Dhandarry Nature Resort on the Abary River in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) following a personal visit the year before and a conversation with the owner to begin a partnership.

Now, Gulchand works full-time at Touring Guyana in a team of five – including three tour guides – and organises about 10 trips per month, the most popular ones being to Kaieteur Falls, Mazaruni River and

Some places, like Dhandarry Resort, are already established while others require her to find vendors and train tour guides, a process that she works with the Guyana Tourism Authority to ensure is done correctly. Owning her own business has its fair share of challenges: finding the right suppliers to partner with, dealing with disagreeable customers, and investing her time and money into the venture. “It requires a lot of patience and customer skills to ensure that everything goes okay.”

But the young woman has done what many may hope to: turn a passion into a profit.

In July, Touring Guyana is planning to launch two new tours: one along the Demerara River and another going from Pomeroon in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) to Santa Rosa in Region One (Barima-Waini).

“When I see the smiles on people's faces and how excited they are to get somewhere, it just reminds me that this is why I started this and this is why I’m doing this.”

M&CC demolishes illegal structures around G/T

In a move aimed at preventing flooding, Georgetown’s Mayor and City Council conducted a demolition exercise on Sunday to remove illegal structures that were affecting the city's drainage system. The exercise was carried out in several areas throughout the city, including Regent Street, Water Street, and around the Bourda Market area in

Georgetown.

Town Clerk (ag) Candace Nelson explained that the exercise comes as the city prepares to clear critical drains in anticipation of the rainy season. Nelson explained that the targeted structures were those which impeded the flow of water and debris, causing flooding during heavy rains.

Nelson emphasized that vendors were given ample notice of the exercise and

were expected to remove their structures by 18:00h on Saturday before the demolition exercise took effect.

Vending hours are set between 6:00h and 18:00h and vendors are not allowed to erect permanent structures on public property.

To ensure that vendors were aware of the planned demolition exercise, a Notice of Removal was published on the council's Facebook page, Nelson said. The no-

tice outlined the areas to be targeted and warned vendors to remove their structures to avoid their demolition.

The exercise was carried out by a team of council workers, accompanied by Police officers. The team used heavy equipment to demolish the structures made of wood, metal, and other materials.

The council has come under criticism from vendors

and residents who argue that the demolition exercise is unfair and unjustified. Some vendors claim that they were not given enough notice to remove their structures, while others say that the structures were not affecting drainage and were only being targeted to make way for large businesses.

However, the council has defended the exercise, stating that it is necessary to prevent flooding and en-

sure the safety of residents and businesses. The council has also called on vendors to comply with the by-laws and avoid erecting structures on public property.

As the city prepares for the rainy season, the council has promised to continue its efforts to clear critical drains and prevent flooding. It has also urged residents to be vigilant and report any structures that are affecting drainage to the council.

Shivana Gulchand, founder of Touring Guyana

A group of Touring Guyana clients during a trip to Iwokrama Rainforest

A group of Touring Guyana clients during a trip to Amatuk Falls, Potaro River in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni)

Council workers demolishing the stalls along Regent Street and Bourda Market (NCN photo)

CSOs, GWI staff in Reg 1 complete water sanitation training 25 women in Reg 10 to benefit from training, entrepreneurship programme

Approximately 30 Community Service Officers (CSOs) and six Guyana Water Inc (GWI) employees in Region One (Barima-Waini) successfully completed a Water Sanitation and Hygiene training programme on Friday.

This two-day training programme aimed to equip them with the skills to better manage, operate and repair the water systems in their respective communities. These are Four Miles, Matthews Ridge, Falls Top, Canal Bank, Yarakita, Citrus Grove, Koberimo Hill, Port Kaituma, Baramita, Arakaka, Kamwatta, Whitewater, Sebai and Oronoque in the Matarkai

and Mabaruma districts.

Led by GWI engineer Khemraj Persaud and Quality Analyst Sewnarayne Bisesar, the training covered four main components: Water Quality Monitoring and Sampling, Understanding Photovoltaic Systems, Management and Operations of Water Distribution Systems and Reporting.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley and GWI Director of Hinterland Services Ramchand Jailal presented the CSOs and GWI staff with certificates of completion during a simple ceremony.

Minister Croal remarked that as the Government is developing more water systems, training is required to guarantee that these systems are adequately maintained.

Meanwhile, Ashley encouraged the certified employees to share their knowledge with others to ensure the quality of water delivery increases throughout the region.

This training programme was done in collaboration with the Amerindian Affairs Ministry to ensure Indigenous communities have continued access to safe, hygienic water and so that issues, should they

arise, are detected and addressed promptly.

This initiative continues the work the Housing Ministry has been engaging in for the past years to improve the quality of water throughout the country.

In March 2022, 64 CSOs from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) participated in a similar twoday training to improve the maintenance of water delivery across the 32 villages in Central, South-Central and North Rupununi they hailed from.

That training was primarily funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and it included practical exercises such as solar panel connection and maintenance, leak repairs and water sampling and analysis.

In November 2021, 18 CSOs from Region One also completed training that was done as a part of Phase Two of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme.

WASH Phase One launched in 2019 in hinterland communities to improve sanitation, hygiene and access to potable water for residents and Venezuelan migrants in Region One, Two and Seven.

2 motorcyclists die following head-on collision at Timehri

Two motorcyclists are now dead following a head-on collision at Timehri Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Saturday evening. The dead men are 20-year-old Romeo Reid of Hyde Park Timehri, EBD, and 31-year-old Leonardo Reevers of Block R Sarah Johanna, EBD.

Based on reports received, the accident occurred at about 21:30h and involved motorcycles CJ 7405 and CG 9504, the former being ridden by Reid, and the latter by Reevers.

Police stated that at the time of the accident, Reid had a pillion rider, Leon Burnette, and was riding at a fast rate of speed. Neither of them was wearing a helmet at the time.

However, Reevers, who

was riding motorcycle CG 9504, was proceeding along the roadway in the opposite direction, also at a fast rate of speed without a helmet.

Police stated that

Reevers overtook a motor car and ended up in the path of motorcycle CJ 7405, thus causing a head-on collision.

As a result, both motorcyclists and the pillion rider fell onto the roadway and received injuries to their heads and bodies.

They were all picked up and escorted to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where Reid and Reevers died while receiving treatment.

On the other hand, Burnette was treated and admitted as a patient in the male surgical ward suffering from pain in the body and lacerations to the face. His condition is regarded as stable. Investigations are continuing.

Twenty-five female entrepreneurs from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) will be participating in a fourmonth Dream Builder training and entrepreneurship programme to advance their business skills and attain greater levels of financial freedom.

Courses within the Dream Builder programme provide the central curriculum under the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) which was launched in Linden on Thursday in a second collaboration between WeLead Caribbean and the United States (US) Embassy in Georgetown.

This is a part of the US Embassy’s ongoing effort to empower women in Guyana to fulfil their economic potential and create conditions for increased stability, security and prosperity for all Guyanese people, according to a WeLead press release sent on Friday.

The 25 women – who either already started businesses or are in the process of starting a business – will gain skills in personal development, food safety, label and package development, marketing and branding, and building and financing their dream.

Upon completion of the training, participants will be provided with practical tools to start their businesses and be engaged in a mentorship programme provided by the Cherie Blair Foundation.

“Take advantage of these training sessions and

you will see new opportunities emerge as you progress through the programme, and you will come out better equipped to manage your businesses,” said Abbigale Loncke-Watson, founder of WeLead Caribbean during the AWE launch.

US Ambassador SarahAnn Lynch commended the efforts of Loncke-Watson in increasing the number of entrepreneurial opportunities available to women in Linden and reiterated the Embassy’s commitment and support of these efforts.

“The Embassy is committed to increasing inclusion of minority groups in the social, economic and political spheres,” Lynch said. “This programme is part of our continued effort to promote prosperity for all Guyanese.”

This programme will be coordinated in Region 10 in partnership with The NICO Consulting Inc, a boutique strategic and operational

management firm.

“As a Lindener, today, I join you with great excitement at this opportunity,” said Michelle Nicholas, founder and president of The NICO Consulting.

“I am sure you will agree with me that the main purpose of an opportunity is to serve as the basis for any action that results in profit and business growth,” Nicholas said. “And it is these opportunities that allow businesses to create and implement ideas and innovations and improve their performance.”

Other speakers at the launch, who all encouraged the participants to grasp the opportunities provided through this programme, included Regional Chairman Deron Adams, Mayor of Linden Waneka Arrindell and President of the Linden Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Development Lyndon Younge.

woman killed in hit-and-run in Vergenoegen

Forty-five-year-old Selena Sooklall was on Saturday evening killed following a hitand-run accident along the Vergenoegen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The accident reportedly occurred at about 22:55h and involved a red pick-up, with the registration number unknown.

Police stated that Samantha Manohar, 26, of Meten-Meer-Zorg, West

Coast Demerara (WCD), was driving her motor car, PKK 6534, along the Vergenoegen Public Road when she observed Sooklall kneeling on the roadway.

She related that before bringing her vehicle to a complete stop, the red motor pick-up overtook her and collided with Sooklall, dragging her about 50 feet.

After the collision, the vehicle reportedly stopped several feet away from the

victim but almost immediately fled the scene. Sooklall suffered head and body injuries and was motionless when first responders arrived on the scene.

She was taken to Leonora Cottage Hospital but was pronounced dead. The Police have since collected CCTV footage which will be reviewed. Sooklall’s body was taken to Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and Region One Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley with certified Community Service Officers (CSOs) and Guyana Water Inc (GWI) staff on Friday

Participants of the Dream Builders programme and speakers at the launch

Dead: Leonardo Reevers

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

‘Kneeling’

US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch at the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs launch in Linden

WeLead Caribbean Founder Abbigale Loncke-Watson at the launch of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A second chance at life: The miraculous recovery of a Journalist after deadly smash-up Govt aims at protecting 30% of Guyana’s land mass –

B y L a ’W anda M c a LL ister

Shemar Alleyne, a journalist, never expected to become the subject of a news story, as he was accustomed to reporting on events, not being the one involved in them.

However, fate had other plans for him when he was involved in a devastating accident that left him and others fighting for their lives.

The accident occurred on March 6 last along Greenwich Park on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE). Shemar had his heart set on getting an Indian outfit for Holi, and when the store didn't have his size, he decided to take a bus to another location.

Little did he know that this decision would change

his life forever. As he settled into the minibus, Shemar could not help but feel a sense of familiarity with the driver, Vernon Prowell.

"My mother had been travelling with him for years, so I knew him well," he said. However, the journey up to Parika was anything but familiar. As the bus picked up more passengers, the rain started to fall harder, and the roads became treacherous.

Suddenly, a truck collided with the bus, and Alleyne went blank. When he woke up, he heard people screaming and the smell of gasoline. He knew something terrible had happened. As firefighters rushed to cut open the bus to rescue the passengers, he could feel the excruciating pain in his body.

"I thought to myself, 'this can't be happening to me'. But it was real, and it was terrifying," he said.

The aftermath of the accident was chaotic as some passengers had lost their lives, while others were fighting for survival.

Alleyne was among those rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he underwent two surgeries to repair the damage to his body. According to him, it was the worst pain he has ever experienced, but he knew he had to be strong for himself and his loved ones.

The accident took the lives of five passengers, including the minibus driver, Vernon Prowell. The other passengers who lost their lives were Margaret Kennedy, Olga Reddy, Elvis Charles and seventy-

one-year-old Tella Parhoo.

Several passengers in the minibus were seriously injured, including Alleyne. In addition to him, other passengers were admitted to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

They are 46-year-old Samuel Ramda of Tuschen, EBE; Selmont Brisport, 64, of Tuschen, EBE; Samuel Ramdas of Ruby Backdam, EBE; Junior Jack, 25, of Tuschen, EBE.

The impact of the crash also caused a Guyana Power and Light pole to break and fall into a house in the area. Fortunately, no one was injured in the home.

Following the accident, the 38-year-old truck driver, Ewart Stewart of Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, was slapped with several charges for causing death by dangerous driving. He was remanded to prison.

Weeks after the accident, Alleyne is still on the road to recovery. He admits that the journey has been tough, but he's grateful for the support he's received from his family, friends, and the community.

"I never thought I would be the subject of a news story, but here I am," he related. "Life is unpredictable, and we never know what's going to happen. But I'm grateful for every moment, and I'm determined to come back stronger than ever."

Healthcare call centre to be in operation by year end

commitment by the PPP/C Government to add thousands of new jobs to the industry. He estimated that this Industry can sustain a minimum of 15,000 jobs across Guyana by 2025.

“We are building four new call centre shells in Essequibo and Berbice, in addition to refurbishing the Enmore and Tuschen call centres. We are also pleased that the call centre in Linden, Region 10, that was signed with Midas is functioning and young Guyanese have access to jobs that were terminated by the last Government,” Ramsaroop said.

PAC Chairman

The Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest), the investment agency of the Government of Guyana, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will see a healthcare call centre being operational here this year.

Indian-based Decipher Health Records Inc inked the agreement for the call centre.

This is a direct result of the recent visit to India by President Dr Irfaan Ali in February of this year. The

Head of State was joined by Chief Investment Officer of Guyana and Agency Head of GO-Invest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop.

Those meetings were facilitated by Dr KJ Srinivasa, High Commissioner of India to Guyana. Decipher Health Records Inc, headquartered in Bengaluru, India, provides offshore back-office services to medical doctors in the United States of America.

Founded in 2000, Decipher has been providing real-time scribing, revenue

cycle management services and allied transcription services. In India, Decipher operates out of 4 cities, employing over 750 people, to render these services. All of Decipher’s facilities are HIPAA-compliant, with state-of-the-art technology.

Dr Ramsaroop indicated that President Ali had made Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) sector a priority, given Guyana’s qualifications of nearshore to the Americas, time zone, and a young educated population, in addition, the

Foreign Secretary and Chairman of the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) Board of Directors, Robert Persaud on Saturday outlined the Government’s efforts to identify and increase the number of protected areas.

mitment to environmental preservation.

In his Earth Day message, he pointed to the significant investments already made in clean and renewable energy and improving Guyana’s capacity to tackle pollution in a

Decipher Health Records is visiting possible locations and working through the implementation stage for the establishment of the call centre. Its target once fully operational is 300 seats.

Dr Ramsaroop further stated that “This signing is an indication of the Government of Guyana initiatives to create employment throughout the country and facilitate the rapid expansion of economic activities countrywide to boost the economy and support the diversification of the non-oil sector.”

This is as the country joined in observing World Earth Day 2023 under the theme “Invest in Our Planet”.

Speaking at a tree planting exercise in the Botanical Gardens, Georgetown, the Foreign Secretary noted that, “The Protected Areas Commission, as part of the Government’s policy, is working with international and local partners to identify certain areas for protection. So far, close to 17 per cent of the national area has been identified as protected areas, and the Government aims to increase this to 30 per cent by 2030.”

The Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 is the guiding document for achieving the objective of striking the balance between the country’s development and the protection of the environment.

Highlighting that Guyana has the second-highest forest density and cover in the world, with its intact rainforest almost the size of England, Persaud said this demonstrates the country’s com-

more effective manner.

“In spite of these achievements, there is much more work to be done and, in this regard, Guyana stands ready to partner with Government, non-governmental institutions, and States to restore and build back a better planet for present and future generations,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who is on an official visit here, noted the cumulative effect of planting multiple trees and the significant difference it makes.

Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally.

Indian High Commissioner, Dr K J Srinivasa, PAC Commissioner Jason Fraser, other staff of the PAC, and senior Government officials and stakeholders were also in attendance.

GO-Invest CEO, Dr Peter Ramsaroop with an official from Decipher Health Records Inc after signing the MoU on Saturday

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar

PAC Board of Directors Chairman Robert Persaud

The accident which occurred along Greenwich Park on the East Bank of Essequibo

Journalist: Shemar Alleyne

Govt mulls permanently closing Georgetown Prison – VP Jagdeo

The Guyana Government is considering the permanent closure of the Georgetown Prison, which is located on Camp Street, in the heart of the capital city.

This was revealed by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference on Thursday.

A massive fire which was started by inmates had destroyed the Camp Street penitentiary in July 2017, which was holding nearly 1000 prisoners at the time. A section of the facility has been reconstructed, and is currently housing approximately 293 prisoners, both remanded and convicted.

VP Jagdeo has told reporters that Government is mov-

ing towards shutting down the prison facility, However, he noted that no formal decision has been made as yet.

“The idea is to concentrate all of our activities there. I don’t know if we’ll shut it down totally as yet but the idea is that soon most of the prisoners would be out of there. So, we’ve not made a formal decision as yet but it seems as though it’s heading that way,” he related.

According to the Vice President, this move is being considered given the encumbrance the prison facility is posing to surrounding residents and businesses.

“I know that the locking down the road [and streets surrounding the prison] has

affected a lot of the businesses around the area. They complain a lot that when you lock off the road it’s affecting their businesses; the people complain to us all the time that their business ventures are being affected,” Jagdeo noted.

Back in July 2017, a massive fire at the city penitentiary completely destroyed and flattened wooden structures in the prison compound. That fire resulted in a riot at the facility during which five inmates escaped and one prison officer was killed.

That incident had followed another fire the previous year. In March 2016, some 17 prisoners were burnt to death at the Camp Street facility after inmates had set

Gun-toting bandits rob taxi driver of car in South Ruimveldt – Police accuse driver of planning robbery

son if I can come and pick him up. I told him alright and he tell me that if I can't make it let me send a wagon for him so I said I will be there in 15 minutes."

Rampersaud related after picking up the customer and while in the vicinity of Back Road in Georgetown, he asked to be taken to South Ruimveldt where he claimed he had to pick up someone. The taxi driver stated that while waiting for the person, the customer asked him for a call since he did not have credit in his phone.

"When I gave the man my phone, a masked man walked up to me holding a gun and demanded that I get out of the car and hand over the keys."

The man carrying the gun then entered the car and they drove off, leaving Rampersaud on the roadway.

several fires in their holding cell in protest of the conditions of the prisons.

Since the Camp Street Prison was rehabilitated, there were several other similar incidents at the city penitentiary with two reported in 2020 alone.

However, the Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Prisons Service, Rajiv Bisnauth, told Guyana Times that with expansion works ongoing at the Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, and Mazaruni, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) Prisons, there would no longer be need for the Camp Street facility.

Only last month, it was

reported that overcrowding at prisons across Guyana would be significantly reduced with the completion of expansion works at existing penitentiaries, which would accommodate hundreds of inmates.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot had disclosed that Phase One of the Mazaruni Prison Expansion has been completed, and will house 220 prisoners; while Phase Two is ongoing, and will be completed by the end of the year to house another 150 inmates.

Meanwhile, at the Lusignan Prison, the construction of three holding buildings has been completed,

and over 900 prisoners would be accommodated, while another three structures will be completed by the end of this year. In addition, a new facility will be constructed for female prisoners at Lusignan, resulting in 80 inmates being housed.

Motion sensor devices and a security fence were also installed at the Lusignan penitentiary, and an infirmary annex at the facility has led to improved healthcare services for inmates at the East Coast Demerara penitentiary.

In Budget 2023, some $2.2 billion of the Guyana Prisons Services’ $5.5 billion budget is allocated to advance prisons being constructed at Mazaruni and Lusignan, and to commence work for the reconstruction of New Amsterdam Prison.

The Guyana Government’s Overall Reform and Modernisation Programme for the Guyana Prison Service targets the transformation of the Prison Service from a penal to a correctional service and promotes an environment wherein custodial safety is assured, and inmates are rehabilitated and successfully reintegrated into society.

EPA investigating release of waste oil at Coverden

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting a thorough investigation following the release of waste oil in the Coverden, East Bank Demerara area.

Annand Rampersaud, a 31-year-old taxi driver from Annandale, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was relieved of the black Toyota Fielder Wagon, HD 3422, that he was driving on Thursday evening by gun-toting bandits in the vicinity of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

In an interview with Guyana Times on Sunday, Rampersaud said on Tuesday evening last at about 22:00h, he was at the PY Taxi base at Lusignan, ECD, when a man came and requested a car.

"I picked him up and, on the way, he was telling me that he is having problems with his girlfriend and that she gone out and drink up. He told me that he working with some oil company and so I dropped him off on Sheriff Street by the roundabout and when I drop him off, he ask me for my number. I tell [him] I don’t give out my number and he say

man he really needs it for when he needs help with the taxi. So, I gave him my number and he left."

Rampersaud said the following day he saw a strange number calling him which he presumed was the customer he had dropped off but he did not answer since he was dealing with some important matters. He alleged that the next day while working, the number called him again.

"When he called me he said what happened budday, I calling you all the time and you not answering me. Like you don’t want wuk from me. I told him I didn’t work Wednesday night because the rain was falling. He then tells me that he was in town and he has to go and pick up somebody at Ogle and drop them at Sleep-Inn, and then pick up his company bus at Providence Red Road. I told him that I have somebody in the car and he asks if when I finish dropping off the per-

The matter was later reported to the Police but Rampersaud was left in shock and disbelief after he instead was arrested and accused of setting up the carjacking.

The taxi driver recalled 24 agonising hours in Police custody before being released.

"How can somebody go to make a report and get arrested… the Police arrested me and put on them chain bangles on my foot… My mother went and bring all my receipts and everything to show them that I own the car and why I would plan to rob myself. The officer said that he don’t want to see that and he locked me up the whole night with chain on my foot," Rampersaud stated.

Rampersaud's family and friends have rallied around him, expressing their anger and frustration at the manner in which the Police handled the situation. Attempts to get a comment from the Guyana Police Force on the matter proved futile. (G9)

EPA in a statement said it received the report on Friday, April 21, 2023 and environmental officers were immediately dispatched to the area and determined that the waste oil was being released from a facility owned by a company.

The facility is manufacturing concrete bricks and is not authorised by the EPA.

The agency said the volume of waste oil released is undetermined as further investigation is needed in order to establish the amount.

An initial site clean-up was carried out by workers of the company with assistance from EPA.

The EPA will issue a Clean Up Order directing the operator to clean up all contaminants and a Prohibition Notice will also be issued for the operator to cease all activities at the location.

EPA will also determine other enforcement actions against the developer. The agency continued its investigations on Saturday,

April 22, 2023, in conjunction with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and other relevant authorities.

The agency stated that further information will be provided upon the conclusion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the CDC, after being alerted by the EPA, deployed a team to assess the situation and support the EPA in the emergency response on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

The CDC said the team met with EPA representatives and held discussions with the management of the company who informed that a waste management truck was en route to begin the clean-up of the spilled oil in the waterways.

According to the CDC,

the residents claimed that the oil was in the drains for over a decade and flows whenever it rains heavily.

The CDC assessed the households for damages and distributed 34 cleaning hampers to aid in the clean-up of the yards and homes impacted by the oil in the floodwaters.

There were 12 households of 37 individuals including 16 children affected by the incident.

The CDC reported that most of the impacted area has been cleaned and residents continue to wash away the oil from their dwelling places.

The CDC remains committed to supporting the EPA in this incident.

Waste oil dumped in the water

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

The car that was hijacked

– CDC assists with clean-up, distributes hampers to affected residents

Brazil hopes for conclusion to EU-Mercosur trade deal this year

Brazil hopes the Mercosur trade deal with the European Union (EU) will be concluded this year, a Government official said on Sunday, ending years of delay and opening the way to increased trade between the two regions.

The EU and the Mercosur bloc of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay completed negotiations in 2019, but the deal has been on hold due to concerns, particularly in France, about Amazon deforestation and Brazil's commitment to climate change action.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has promised to overhaul his country's climate policy.

While Germany has pushed for a swift conclu-

Marcio Elias Rosa

sion, France has said it is waiting to see progress in Brazil.

Speaking in Lisbon, a top secretary at Brazil's Development and Industry Ministry, Marcio Elias Rosa, said negotiations with the EU were ongoing and coun-

Trinidad: Common-law wife scores victory in Privy Council

tries were discussing the "socio-environmental requirements" imposed by the bloc.

"The signs are very positive," Elias Rosa said. "Details are missing, but I believe we will close the deal and the agreement will be good." Elias Rosa said all Mercosur nations were working with the same purpose of concluding the deal, but they needed to agree on some of the requirements.

"Brazil already complies with the socio-environmental requirements related to labour legislation," Elias Rosa said. "It is necessary others also agree but we are very close to that.

"I would say we will close (the deal) this year."

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Peru's Toledo returns home to join 2 other former Heads of State in jail

Acommon-law-wife has scored a major victory in the Privy Council for her share of her late common-law husband’s property.

On Thursday, the Privy Council delivered its final order on costs in the claim filed by Lauralee Ramcharan against the executor of her late common-law husband’s estate and his children.

The costs order stipulates that Dr Ramraj Deonarine, the executor of Seeram Seejattan’s estate and the latter’s children, Terance, Laura, Gina, and Lisa are to pay Ramcharan’s costs which cannot be recovered or

claimed against the estate.

The order finalised the court’s declaration on the equal distribution of Seejattan’s estate.

Ramcharan appealed to the Privy Council after the High Court and Appeal Court failed to make a finding on the validity of an agreement between her and Seejattan’s children over his assets, leaving her with nothing.

In 2021, the Privy Council held that the agreement was valid and binding.

Seejattan died on March 21, 2008. Four days before his death, he made a will appointing

Deonarine as executor and directing that his entire estate be sold and the proceeds distributed among his four children.

Seejattan spent more than 30 years in Florida where he established businesses and acquired property but returned to Trinidad in his later years, where he had also acquired further properties.

When he died, Ramcharan paid the funeral expenses and she said in her lawsuit, he always promised her that his property in Trinidad, Laura Valley, would be hers. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Former CoP to Rowley, PersadBissessar: Let me help

Former Peruvian

President Alejandro Toledo returned on Sunday to Peru from the United States, becoming the third Head of State to be imprisoned as the South American country seeks to shake off years of corruption by its rulers.

Toledo, 77, has been ordered to serve a pre-trial detention of 18 months inside a Police base on the outskirts of the capital Lima, an official statement said.

Former Presidents Alberto Fujimori and Pedro Castillo are held at the

same prison.

Citing health issues, Toledo's lawyer told reporters that he would seek permission for him to be placed under house arrest instead.

Toledo, President between 2001 and 2006, had turned himself in on Friday for extradition and arrived on Sunday morning at the airport in Lima.

Peruvian authorities have accused Toledo of receiving US$35 million in bribes from the Brazilian construction company Odebrecht in exchange for winning the construction of

the Interoceanica Sur highway.

He denies the allegations of corruption by Prosecutors, whose charges include money laundering and collusion. They have requested a 20-year prison sentence.

The extradition process began in 2018. Toledo had been declared a fugitive in his country the previous year when he travelled to the United States amid corruption investigations against him and others. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Mexican President tests positive for COVID-19 for 3rd time

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Sunday that he had tested positive for COVID-19, the third known infection, adding that while he was not seriously ill he would take a few days off.

Lopez Obrador, 69, who had a serious heart attack in 2013, reported mild symptoms from both of his previous bouts of COVID-19 at the height of the pandemic.

"It's not serious," he wrote on his official Twitter

account. "My heart is at 100%."

Lopez Obrador said Interior Minister Adan Augusto Lopez would host his regular morning news conference.

In January 2022, Lopez Obrador underwent cardiac catheterisation and was found to be in good health.

Back then, the Government said the President has regular check-ups that include lab tests, electrocardiograms, stress tests, and CT scans.

(Reuters)

Political Leader of the National Transformation Alliance, former Commissioner of Police (CoP) and former Minister of National Security Gary Griffith has written to Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar asking them to put politics aside and let him help in the fight against crime.

In a video message sent out on Sunday, Griffith said he had a proven track record of reducing crime from his time as both National Security Minister and Commissioner of Police.

“The team that worked with me previously can get this done,” Griffith said. “We do not need a posts or positions. I have the capability not only to guide those in authority to do what is required to peg back the criminal elements, but also to bring

together a team who previously worked with me to manage a similar scenario and get it done again.”

He didn’t specify who, exactly the team would comprise. Griffith is calling for a meeting, he said, “to discuss the implementable strategies that worked previously and to identify ways to provide the sup-

port and expertise required to respond to this current crime crisis in our country.”

He said having a regional crime conference could do so much, but for shortterm solutions there must be dialogue with the relevant stakeholders as quickly as possible. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

In surprise move, Peru's President names 4 new Ministers

Peruvian President Dina Boluarte on Sunday swore in new Ministers of Justice, Education, Work and External Trade in a surprise move in the South American nation that has endured intense political infighting for years.

Peruvian President Dina Boluarte

Boluarte assumed power in December when then-President Pedro Castillo illegally tried to dissolve Congress and reorganise the judiciary. Protests against Boluarte taking power became violent and 50 people were killed.

She made the announcement of the Cabinet changes in a ceremony broadcast on State television on the same day as former President Alejandro Toledo was extradited from the United States, becoming the third Head of State to be currently imprisoned on corruption charges.

Boluarte swore in Daniel Maurate as Minister of Justice, Antonio Varela as Minister of Work, Magned Marquez as Minister of Education and Juan Carlos Mathews as Minister of External Trade. (Reuters)

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador

Around The World OIL NEWS

China's big refineries crowd out teapots for discounted Russian oil

Chinese state oil giants and major private refiners are sweeping up more Russian crude, supporting prices and forcing smaller independents to seek out cheap alternatives such as Iranian oil, according to trade sources and shipping data.

The demand from China's biggest buyers, which had shied away from Russian crude in the immediate aftermath of Western sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, shows growing confidence in the trade after state refiners PetroChina and Sinopec resumed imports in February.

Large private oil refiners Hengli Petrochemical and Jiangsu Eastern Shenghong Co started receiving Russian crude from March, attracted by wide discounts for the oil, according to traders and ship tracking data from Refinitiv, Kpler and Vortexa.

Four cargoes of about 740,000 barrels each of low-sulphur ESPO crude discharged at Hengli's Dalian berth in March while another two arrived in April, the Kpler data showed. Shenghong imported a Urals crude cargo of about 720,000 barrels in March and 1 million barrels in April, Kpler showed.

In April, PetroChina received a Urals crude cargo of 1 million barrels via Myanmar's Made Island port, which is linked by pipeline to its Yunnan refinery, the Kpler data showed.

China's overall Russian crude imports, including pipeline and ships, rose to a record 9.61 million tonnes, or 2.26 million barrels per day (bpd) in March, customs data showed on Friday.

"China's imports of Russian Urals are on track to break March's record (in April) as more refiners start to tap on the discounted crude from Russia's Baltics," said Vortexa analyst Emma Li.

Around 700,000 bpd of Urals may reach China in April, up from 600,000 bpd in March, she said.

Russia's oil exports from western ports will rise to the highest since 2019, despite Moscow's pledge to cut output.

Discounts for Urals crude arriving to China in July have narrowed to about US$9-US$10 a barrel to ICE Brent futures on a delivered ex-ship (DES) basis, from around US$14 a barrel for March arrivals, traders said.

Similarly, ESPO for June delivery has traded at discounts of about US$5.50 a barrel to ICE Brent futures, they added, up from discounts of US$6 and US$8.50 a barrel for cargoes arriving in May and March, respectively.

Smaller Chinese independent refineries, known as teapots, snapped up almost all of the ESPO supplies between November and January when others steered clear of Russian oil around the start of the European Union ban on Dec 5.

With the return of big buyers, price-sensitive teapots are looking for alternatives such as Russian Arctic grades, Iranian and Venezuelan oil.

Shandong province, home to most of the teapots, imported a record 4.2 million barrels of Varandey crude from the Russian Arctic in March, Kpler data showed, as Europe shut the oil out.

China's customs data showed no crude imports from Iran and Venezuela in March as these cargoes are often rebranded as oil from other countries to evade sanctions.

But 1.07 million bpd of crude were shipped from oil transfer hub Malaysia to China last month, up 64% from the average during the January-February period.

China imported about 409,000 bpd of Iranian crude in March, more than double January's volume, Kpler data showed. Vortexa has a higher estimate for March at about 800,000 bpd and expects volumes to increase in coming months.

Iranian oil for June-arrival is priced at a discount of about US$11 a barrel against ICE Brent futures, slightly cheaper than Urals, traders said.

Prices of diluted bitumen, a catch-all phrase for what is typically Venezuelan crude mixed with other oils that is claimed as exported from Malaysia to avoid sanctions, have also strengthened on robust demand from teapots, the traders said.

Discounts for the oil for May delivery have narrowed to about US$17 a barrel against ICE Brent futures, versus about US$27 a barrel for February delivery, according to traders. (Reuters)

Paris, Kyiv, Baltic states dismayed after China envoy questions Ukraine sovereignty

France, Ukraine and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania expressed dismay after China's ambassador in Paris questioned the sovereignty of former Soviet countries like Ukraine.

Asked about his position on whether Crimea is part of Ukraine or not, Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye said in an interview aired on French television on Friday that historically it was part of Russia and had been offered to Ukraine by former Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.

"These ex-USSR countries don't have actual status in international law because there is no interna-

tional agreement to materialise their sovereign status," Shaye added.

France responded on Sunday by stating its "full solidarity" with all the allied countries affected, which it said had acquired their independence "after decades of oppression".

"On Ukraine specifically, it was internationally recognised within borders including Crimea in 1991 by the entire international community, including China," a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that China will have to clarify whether these comments reflect its position or not.

The three Baltic states and Ukraine, all formerly part of the Soviet Union, reacted along the same lines as France.

"It is strange to hear an absurd version of the 'history of Crimea' from a representative of a country that is scrupulous about its thousand-year history," Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior Ukrainian presidential aide, wrote on Twitter.

"If you want to be a major political player, do not parrot the propaganda of Russian outsiders."

China's Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Foreign states rush high-risk Sudan evacuation, some foreign citizens hurt

The armed forces of the United States and the United Kingdom have evacuated embassy staff from Sudan, while other nations rushed to get their citizens to safety as rival military factions battled in the capital Khartoum on Sunday.

The eruption of fighting eight days ago between the army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group has triggered a humanitarian crisis, killed 420

people and trapped millions of Sudanese without access to basic services.

As people attempted to flee the chaos, countries began landing planes and organising convoys in Khartoum to pull out their nationals. Some foreign citizens were injured. Gunfire rang out across the city and dark smoke hung overhead, a Reuters reporter said.

The warring sides accused each other of attacking a French convoy, both

saying one French person was wounded. France's Foreign Ministry, which had earlier said it was evacuating diplomatic staff and citizens, did not comment.

France said a French plane carrying around a hundred people including the European Union delegation in Khartoum along with other nationalities had left for Djibouti, and a second plane with a similar number aboard was due to take of shortly.

The risks were also evident in army accusations that the RSF looted a Qatari convoy heading to Port Sudan. In separate incidents, an Iraqi citizen was killed during clashes and Egypt said one of its diplomats had been wounded.

The efforts to extract foreign residents frustrated some Sudanese who felt the rival factions showed less concern for the safety of locals. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Kenya cult deaths: 47 bodies found in investigation into 'starvation cult'

Nine teenagers were shot early Sunday at an after-prom party in Jasper, Texas, prompting what will be an increased Police presence at the town's high school this week, officials said.

None of the gunshot wounds were life-threatening, the Jasper County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that offered few other details about the shooting at a residence in Jasper, a town of about 7200 people some 134 miles (215 km) northeast of Houston.

The victims were taken to two hospitals, the sheriff's office said, without reporting on the number of shooters.

"This investigation is ongoing and people of interest are being questioned," the statement said.

The victims ranged in age from 15 to 19, KBMT-KJAC television news reported.

Jasper High School held its prom, a right of passage for American secondary schools, at a church meeting hall on

Saturday night, the TV news reported.

The superintendent of the Jasper Independent School District, John Seybold, pledged full cooperation with any law-enforcement investigation "to bring these perpetrators to justice."

"There will be a much larger law enforcement presence this week to ensure student safety, as well as counsellors on hand for any students who need their assistance," Seybold said in the statement as reported by local media.

A week ago, four people were shot dead and 32 wounded at an Alabama "Sweet 16" birthday party in the small town of Dadeville. Five suspects have been charged with murder in that shooting.

Firearms have become the leading cause of death for US children and teens, surpassing motor vehicle accidents, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported last year.

(Reuters)

Kenyan Police have exhumed 47 bodies near the coastal town of Malindi, as they investigate a preacher said to have told followers to starve to death.

The bodies of children were among the dead. Police said exhumations are ongoing.

The shallow graves are in Shakahola forest, where 15 members of the Good News International Church were rescued last week.

Church leader, Paul Makenzie Nthenge is in custody, pending a court appearance.

State broadcaster KBC described him as a "cult leader", and reported that 58 graves have so far been identified.

One of the graves is believed to contain the bodies of five members of the same family - three children and their parents.

Nthenge has denied wrongdoing, but has been refused bail. He insists that he shut down his church in 2019.

He allegedly told followers

to starve themselves in order to "meet Jesus".

Kenyan daily, The Standard, said pathologists will take DNA samples and conduct tests to determine whether the victims died of starvation.

Police arrested Nthenge on April 15 after discovering the bodies of four people suspected of having starved themselves to death.

Victor Kaudo of the Malindi Social Justice Centre told Citizen TV “When we are in this forest and come to an area where we see a big and tall cross, we know that means more than five people are buried there".

Nthenge allegedly named three villages Nazareth, Bethlehem and Judea and baptised followers in ponds before telling them to fast, The Standard reports.

Kenya is a religious country and there have been previous cases of people being lured into dangerous, unregulated churches or cults.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Chinese Ambassador in France Lu Shaye attends the MEDEF union summer forum renamed La Rencontre des Entrepreneurs de France, LaREF, at the Paris Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, August 29, 2019

Nine injured in shooting at Texas high school prom party

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Refuse to let someone play with your emotions. Take time to get the lowdown and determine what's true. A change at home may be trying, but the results you get will pay off.

PICKLES

(March 21-April 19)

Pick up the pace, finish what you start and chat with people who can offer insight into a venture you want to pursue. Embrace something new and exciting that promises to enrich your life.

(April 20-May 20)

Don't be a sucker for a sob story. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of your kindness and generosity. Learn from experience and focus on what will benefit you most.

(May 21-June 20)

Your suggestions will impact someone needing good advice. Don't hesitate to share your wisdom, and help someone you love and respect. A kind gesture will lead to a closer relationship.

(June 21-July 22)

Take the back roads if it will give you more time to digest what's happening around you. Getting the facts straight and your response tailored to fit the circumstances will be essential.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Address emotional issues before a situation spins out of control. Make changes to keep the peace that also allow you to follow your dream. Be open regarding your intentions.

Keep moving and stay fit. Don't give up or give in. Know what you want and be willing to say what's on your mind to ensure you get it. Selfimprovement will result in added confidence.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Someone who inspires you to do things your way will command your attention. Let your imagination lead the way, and your ideas will manifest into something new and exciting. Set goals.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Protect your home and family, and don't believe everything you hear. Avoid situations that rob you of your cash or squander your valuable time. Pay attention to what's important to you.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Make concessions that will please others and simplify your life. Focus on your loved ones and building your future. Don't share personal information with colleagues.

Discipline will make your life easier. Concentrate on getting things done. A proactive approach will have the most influence on the people you want to recruit.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Put more effort into bringing in cash. Look for other outlets for your skills and services. Connect with individuals who can offer insight and valuable connections. Avoid health risks.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

when he could not quite get the elevation off Varun Chakravarthy, but Dube got into the act with two massive hits in the same over. The first of those was a 100-metre hit to deep midwicket when Varun attempted a carrom ball into the pitch. Then, when Varun went full, he was tonked down the ground, over the sight screen.

Rahane takes the attack to Umesh

For a while, the Indian Premier League (IPL) record for most sixes in an innings (21), which was coincidentally set on this day in 2013, was in danger of being toppled. Chennai Super Kings fell just three short of that mark, but muscled a record firstinnings score at Eden Gardens courtesy swashbuckling knocks from Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, and Devon Conway.

Kolkata Knight Riders lost two wickets inside the first three overs and merely played catch up for much of their chase. They eventually stumbled to their fourth successive loss. This meant MS Dhoni's men are now top of the leaderboard with five wins in seven matches, two clear of a logjam that has five teams on eight points apiece.

CSK set the pace

Leading the six-hitting spree was Rahane, who smashed five of them in a 29-ball 71 to take Super Kings through the gears in the middle order, along with Dube.

The raw numbers from their partnership read like this: 85

runs, 32 balls, four fours, eight sixes. This came on the back of another stellar knock from Conway, who hit a fourth straight half-century to set the innings up with Ruturaj Gaikwad. Their 73-run opening stand in just 7.3 overs was another fine exhibition of timing, power, wrist work, and plenty of muscle.

KKR's bowlers went with length into the pitch up front when they discovered there was not much swing, but it backfired as Conway was superb at picking lengths and hitting them square on both sides.

Suyash's strike offset by sustained aggression

All the elements that make for compelling viewing when a legspinner is on were at play in Suyash Sharma's first over – drift from wide of the crease, flight, rip and turn to beat the inside edge. Gaikwad was stunned. But the relief was quickly offset with Conway skipping down to launch Sunil Narine for a massive six down the ground.

The 100 was up in the 11th over and CSK seemed bullish.

Conway eventually perished

SCOREBOARD

CSK Innings

Ruturaj Gaikwad

b Suyash Sharma 35

Devon Conway c

Wiese b Varun 56

Ajinkya Rahane not out 71

Shivam Dube c Roy

b Khejroliya 50

Ravindra Jadeja c Singh b Khejroliya 18

MS Dhoni (c)† not out 2

Extras (nb 1, w 2) 3

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 11.75) 235/4

Fall of wickets: 1-73 (Ruturaj

Gaikwad, 7.3 ov), 2-109 (Devon

Conway, 12.1 ov), 3-194

(Shivam Dube, 17.3 ov), 4-232 (Ravindra Jadeja, 19.4 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Umesh Yadav 3-0-35-0

David Wiese 3-0-38-0

Varun Chakravarthy 4-0-49-1

Kulwant Khejroliya 3-0-44-2

Sunil Narine 2-0-23-0

Suyash Sharma 4-0-29-1

Andre Russell 1-0-17-0

Kolkata Knight Riders (T: 236 runs from 20 ovs)

Narayan Jagadeesan †

c Jadeja b Deshpande 1

Sunil Narine b Akash Singh 0

Venkatesh Iyer lbw b Ali 20

Nitish Rana (c)c Gaikwad

b Jadeja 27

Jason Roy b Theekshana 61

Rinku Singh not out 53

Andre Russell c Dube

b Pathirana 9

David Wiese lbw

b Deshpande 1

Umesh Yadav c Conway

b Theekshana 4

Varun Chakravarthy not out 0

Extras (lb 1, w 9) 10

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.30) 186/8

Did not bat: Kulwant Khejroliya

Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Sunil Narine, 0.4 ov), 2-1 (Narayan Jagadeesan, 1.2 ov), 3-46 (Venkatesh Iyer,

7.1 ov), 4-70 (Nitish Rana, 8.2 ov), 5-135 (Jason Roy, 14.3 ov),

6-162 (Andre Russell, 16.4 ov),

7-171 (David Wiese, 17.3 ov),

8-180 (Umesh Yadav, 18.3 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Akash Singh 4-0-29-1

Tushar Deshpande 4-0-43-2

Maheesh Theekshana 4-0-32-2

Moeen Ali 1-0-20-1

Ravindra Jadeja 3-0-34-1

Matheesha Pathirana 4-0-27-1

In the very next over, the 14th, Rahane made it three sixes in a row for CSK when he played a stunning pick-up shot, using Umesh Yadav's pace and letting his wrists take over. It was instinct-driven batting out of the top drawer, free of any shackles that might have been holding him back in previous seasons. He seemed to feed off this role clarity. He was an anchor no more; he was instead unlocking his destroyer avatar.

The over would fetch another six that would be hoisted over fine leg and one of the most gorgeous extra cover drives you could see – feet to the pitch, leaning into the stroke and lacing the ball through the off side.

That was the start of a fascinating passage as Rahane and Dube – another batter who seems empowered to play the

game he has long threatened to – had fun and made the bowling attack look pedestrian. Rahane got to his fifty off 24 balls, Dube off 20. The last five overs went for 75 as KKR went into the break a deflated lot.

KKR stumble early Narine saw his off stump

cartwheel in the first over of the chase and N Jagadeesan was out to Ravindra Jadeja's athleticism in the second. Venkatesh Iyer and Nitish Rana then swung hard and connected from time to time, before Moeen Ali and Jadeja struck in consecutive overs. Venkatesh was out lbw sweeping a full ball,

Rana dragging a slog sweep to Gaikwad at deep midwicket.

Roy's blitzkrieg

Jason Roy came in at this point, and hardly took time to settle in, going 6, 6, 6 off his second, third and fourth balls –all off Moeen. The first two were powerful slogs to the leg side, and when Moeen fired one full in trying to correct his line, he was reverse-swept behind point. Roy was in the mood to mow the ball down and connected more often than he missed to race away to a 19-ball halfcentury. By then the equation had touched 109 off 36.

Sri Lankan flavour to finish Roy continued to hit out. After taking Maheesh Theekshana for two fours to begin the 15th though, he was out off the third ball to a full delivery that dipped and slid underneath his powerful swing. Even after all that magic, KKR's win percentage was less than one per cent.

Two overs later, when Theekshana's Sri Lanka teammate Matheeshan Pathirana sent back Andre Russell, you got the sense that it was game over. And so it was, despite everything Rinku Singh did at the other end to make a half-century of his own. (ESPNcricinfo)

Narine, Russell fail as CSK beat KKR Man United beat Brighton on penalties to reach final

Manchester United set up a first FA Cup final against Manchester City after beating Brighton in a tense penalty shootout at a rain-lashed Wembley Stadium.

In a match that finished goalless after extra time, it fell to United defender Victor Lindelof to score the decisive spot-kick after Solly March sent his effort high over the bar.

The result means Erik ten Hag's side have reached their second domestic final of the season, having won the Carabao Cup in February.

In a scrappy semi-final that fell short of expectations, both goalkeepers excelled, with David de Gea making several fine saves and Brighton's Robert Sanchez brilliantly turning away Marcus Rashford's deflected effort in extra time.

March's miss came after 12 successful penalties, before Lindelof stepped up to set up a mouth-watering allManchester encounter back at the national stadium on June 3.

United battle through United had to show reserves of stamina and resilience to

Manchester United are into the final

come through against a fine Brighton side who went into this match as favourites in the eyes of many.

And in the aftermath of their embarrassing Europa League collapse against Sevilla, there was additional pressure on Ten Hag's men.

It proved a stop-start affair with too many interruptions to allow any proper rhythm, although there were moments of excitement at either end before matters were settled from the spot.

United now have the opportunity to go toe-to-

toe with City in the final, an encounter both sides – and the city of Manchester – will relish.

It certainly adds extra sheen to this season for United, who are in a good position to secure a place in next season's Champions League via the league and now have the chance to add a second piece of silverware against their archrivals at Wembley.

Heartbreak for Brighton

Brighton's players did their best to console a tearful March after his penalty miss –a heartbreaking moment for

a man who has been such an integral part of the Seagulls' superb rise.

March's name was chanted loudly amid the disappointment felt by Brighton's fans – and the pain will be even more acute for Roberto de Zerbi's side after coming into this match in superb form.

Brighton had chances to reach their first FA Cup final since losing to United in 1983, forcing De Gea into saves from Alexis Mac Allister and Julio Enciso and seeing Danny Welbeck head a presentable opportunity over, but overall could not quite summon their usual momentum.

They did at least have the game's outstanding player in the superb Moises Caicedo, but that will be no consolation after a cruel defeat.

There is still plenty for this exciting Brighton side to play for in the remainder of the season as they are in contention for a European place - but this will be a bitter pill to swallow with hopes and expectations so high. (BBC Sport)

Shivam Dube goes big

Ajinkya Rahane was Player of the Match for his top knock

Quiet day for Hetmyer as Maxwell, du Plessis set RCB up for tight victory

SCOREBOARD

Royal Challengers Bangalore (20 ovs maximum)

Virat Kohli (c)lbw b Boult 0

Faf du Plessis run out (Jaiswal) 62

Shahbaz Ahmed c Jaiswal b Boult 2

Glenn Maxwell c Holder b Ashwin 77

Mahipal Lomror c Padikkal b Chahal 8

Dinesh Karthik †c

Buttler b Sandeep Sharma 16

Suyash Prabhudessai run out (Jaiswal/†Samson) 0

Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva run out (†Samson/Sandeep Sharma) 6

David Willey not out 4

Vijaykumar Vyshak c Hetmyer

b Sandeep Sharma 0

Mohammed Siraj not out 1

Extras (lb 3, w 10) 13

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 9.45) 189/9

Harshal Patel showed composure at the death as Royal Challengers Bangalore sealed a nervejangling seven-run win against Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The experienced seamer was handed the ball for the final over as Rajasthan needed

20 runs for victory, and despite conceding 10 runs from the first three deliveries, Harshal then applied the brakes, dismissing Ravichandran Ashwin on the way to completing figures of 3-32.

RCB lost Virat Kohli to a firstball duck as the match began, pinned lbw by Trent Boult, but it

got better for them. They totted up 189-9 to set a testing target, with their innings propped up by the twin pillars of Faf du Plessis (62) and Glenn Maxwell (77). Du Plessis and Maxwell collaborated for the highest third-wicket partnership for RCB in the IPL, putting on 127 runs.

Both thrashed the ball around with gusto, probably wondering why nobody else was following suit as Dinesh Karthik, who made 16, was the only other home player to reach double figures.

Mohammed Siraj then bowled Jos Buttler for a duck in the first over of Rajasthan's reply. A second-wicket stand of 98 between Yashasvi Jaiswal (47) and Devdutt Padikkal (52) looked to have tilted the match

Rajasthan's way, but the end of that alliance heralded a slowing of the run rate.

Captain Sanju Samson fell for 22 and Rajasthan needed 61 from the final four overs, with their task made all the more difficult when Shimron Hetmyer was brilliantly run out by Suyash Prabhudessai.

Dhruv Jurel (34 no) went on the attack and the Royals required 20 from the last set of six, which soon became 10 runs from three balls, but then Ashwin holed out to deep midwicket to give Harshal his third wicket, and a pair of singles from the next two balls left Rajasthan short.

This defeat at M Chinnaswamy Stadium means Rajasthan, who led the IPL at the

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Virat Kohli, 0.1 ov), 2-12 (Shahbaz Ahmed, 2.1 ov), 3-139 (Faf du Plessis, 13.2 ov), 4-156 (Glenn Maxwell, 14.6 ov), 5-163 (Mahipal Lomror, 16.3 ov), 6-163 (Suyash Prabhudessai, 16.5 ov), 7-180 (Wanindu

Hasaranga de Silva, 19 ov), 8-184 (Dinesh Karthik, 19.2 ov), 9-184 (Vijaykumar Vyshak, 19.3 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W Trent Boult 4-0-41-2

start of the day, have followed a run of three wins with back-toback defeats, having also lost last time out against Lucknow Super Giants. Home hero Harshal was introduced to this contest as an impact substitute for Du Plessis, having been unable to bat because of a finger injury, and he made his mark in grand style by removing Jaiswal and Samson before completing the job.

Maxwell's third fifty-plus

Sandeep Sharma 4-0-49-2 Ravichandran Ashwin 4-0-36-1

Yuzvendra Chahal 4-0-28-1 Jason Holder 4-0-32-0 Rajasthan Royals (T: 190 runs from 20 ovs)

Yashasvi Jaiswal c Kohli b Patel 47 Jos Buttler b Mohammed Siraj 0 Devdutt Padikkal c Kohli b

score of this IPL season was the pivotal performance, with his 77 runs coming in just 44 balls. His previous two fifties came in losing causes, so this will have come as sweet relief. Du Plessis is enjoying a stunning campaign and showed his pedigree again, extending his lead in the list of the IPL's top run-scorers with his fifth half-century of the 2023 tournament, moving to 405 from seven innings. (Sportsmax)

Deo cops Chung's Global Inc golf title

Twenty-five of Guyana’s top golfers came out to do battle on Saturday in the Chung's Global Inc golf tournament. However, in the end, experience prevailed, and Maurice Deo was able to outplay his much younger opponents.

The results were as follows:

● 1st: Maurice Deo – HC 26, Gross 93, Net 67

● 2nd: Jordi Pinol – HC 27, Gross 98, Net 71

● 3rd: Mike Mangal – HC

7, Gross 79, Net 72

● Nearest to Pin: Ayube Subhan

● Longest Drive: Gavin

Todd

● Best Net Front Nine: Maurice Deo 32

● Best Net Back Nine: Jordi Pinol 34

● Best Gross: Mike Mangal 79

Speaking on behalf of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) at the end of the tournament was Vice President Brian Hackett, who said: " Chung's Global Inc is a friend of… Lusignan Golf Club. We've known him for quite a number of years. And I think since we approached him and made the requests, he [the proprietor] had no hesitation, he came on board right away and in a big way as we saw more than 25 players coming out. It was an exciting day. It was cool, the sun was not up and I think the players really had a good time. It

was a real good partnership with Chung's Global and we can see a future development with them and the Lusignan Golf Club in the years to come. So, we look forward for more cooperation with Chung's Global."

Chung's Global Inc is located on Mandela Avenue, opposite the Dynasty Restaurant, and has been in the construction industry for more than 15 years and specialises in a variety of construction and civil engineering services. These services range from construction of commercial and private properties, land and foundation preparation and construction of parking lots, bridges, and culverts. At Chung's, the

company believes in providing construction solutions for a better world. It also provides general maintenance services which can be tailored to suit any business or residential property and customers can customise their maintenance

which includes weeding, cleaning of drains and trenches, landscaping, pressure washing, etc. CGI operates from Monday to Saturday from 08:00h-17:00h (8am to 5pm) and is reachable on numbers 218-5120-22 or 603-541.

The winners’ row

Maurice Deo bagged first place

Virat Kohli and Trent Boult share a moment after the game

Glenn Maxwell reverses one for four

Faf du Plessis continued his sublime form

Seven Seas National Indoor Archery championships set for tomorrow – close to 60 talents will be on show

the body in seven key ways: supporting your muscles, heart, brain, bones, vision, metabolism and energy levels. The Perfect 7 Plus Woman aids the body in seven key ways: supporting your brain, skin & nails, hair, vision, heart and hormonal activity.

The 2023 Seven Seas National Indoor Archery Championships is set to commence tomorrow, Tuesday, April 25 at the National Gymnasium.

The Ranking Rounds will be shot between April 24 and April 29, and the finals will be hosted on Sunday, April 30 at the same venue.

Close to 60 of Guyana’s best local talents will be on display, aiming for the bragging rights of Indoor National Champion.

The sponsor of the event, Seven Seas has been at the forefront of supplements and vitamins since 1935, when a co-operative of fishing

trawler owners from Hull started producing bottles of pharmaceutical-grade cod liver oil. Fast-forward to today, they are determined to support your complete health through the power of omega-3.

Karen Connell, Pharmaceuticals Manager of Massy Distribution, and Dileya Deonarine, Pharmacist/Brand Manager of the Seven Seas portfolio in Guyana, explained that their tailored range supports an active lifestyle that focuses on the health of your bones, cartilage, muscles, and connective tissue. All these products start with

Omega-3 & Glucosamine, with the addition of Chondroitin, Calcium, and Turmeric to suit your specific joint care needs.

One of the featured products, Joint Care Max, has been specifically formulated to support an active lifestyle.

BCB to construct 5 batting cages with sponsorship from Peter Lewis Construction and Dr Denbow

The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) would shortly be constructing five batting cages as part of a massive countywide developmental programme.

The Board over the next few months would be involved in several major projects as it strived to make sure that every cricket talent in the county is developed to their full potential.

The building of the five cages, which would be constructed locally, was made possible with sponsorship from popular contractor Peter Lewis and overseas medical doctor Alstein Denbow. Lewis is sponsoring the construction of four of the cages at the cost of $800,000 while Dr Denbow would sponsored one at US$1000.

The cages would be distributed across Berbice with one at West Berbice, one at New Amsterdam/Canje and one at Upper Corentyne while two would be in the Lower Corentyne area. BCB President Hilbert Foster stated that the cages would be a major boost for youth batsmen to practice across the county. The BCB has already acquired four bowling

machines at the cost of $1.6 million, and they would be used together with the cages.

The machines and cages would

projects including its annual cricket academy and coaching programmes for the different sections of the game. Clubs in the county would also receive donations of cricket balls to assist them to fulfil their mandate.

Dr Denbow, a renowned medical doctor, stated that he was very pleased to support the very active cricket board. Dr Denbow played a major role in bringing Sir Curly Ambrose to Berbice for a week-long fast bowling clinic last year. This clinic was attended by Shamar Joseph, Slyus Tyndall and Demetri Cameron.

It supports cartilage, bones, muscles and connective tissues to help in four important areas of joint care. It also contains our highest level of Glucosamine, at 1500 mg. Deonarine, who is also the

Perfect 7 Plus line Pharmacist, explained that that product line brings together the benefits of a daily multivitamin and Omega-3 to help support the demands of modern life and your busy lifestyle.

The Perfect 7 Plus Man aids

Since founding of this brand, Massy Distribution and Seven Seas have striven to provide customers with the best quality products, and have committed to putting ‘you’ at the centre of everything we do.

According to Deonarine: “We feel it is our obligation to not only produce great products, but to also share our 88 years of expertise in vitamins and minerals with you!”

Gratitude has been expressed by Archery Guyana President Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon for Seven Seas’ collaboration as a competition sponsor.

“Remain focused” –RHTY&SC tells Anderson in congratulatory message

remain property of the BCB, and Foster stated that regular checks will be made on them to make sure that they are looked after. The main objectives of the combined projects are to improve the ability of Berbician youth batsmen against fast bowling, to allow better practice sessions and to allow even one player to practice at a time.

The BCB intends to undertake several other developmental

Lewis has been a strong supporter of Berbice cricket under Foster’s leadership, and stated that he was confident that the cages would be a major boost towards the development of more exciting batting talent across the county. Lewis is the leading contractor in the county and is heavily involved in road construction and drainage works. The four bowling machines were donated by Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh, Dr Terrence Blackman, and Region Five Vice Chairman Rion Peters.

The President and members of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) have congratulated club member Kelvon Anderson on scoring his maiden First-Division century, 153 versus the Headley XI in the Cricket West Indies Headley/Weekes cricket series.

In a statement, it said the club was full of pride and joy at Anderson’s achievement and was confident that it would be the first of many more to come in the future.

Anderson joined the RHTY&SC in 2011 when he accompanied his older brother to practice and in 2013, his talent was recognised when he was named the Cricketer of our 13th annual cricket academy , which attracted more than 100 youths from across the county. Anderson represented

the club at the Under- 15, -17, -19, -21 and -23 levels in the intermediate, Second and First Divisions.

He presently serves as Captain of the Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour First-Division team and has been one of the top performers with the bat over the last five years. He is one of several exciting young players who have emerged from the RHTY&SC as a result of a carefully-developed plan.

The others include West Indies player Kevin Sinclair, Amazon Warriors all-rounder Junior Sinclair, promising pacer Slyus Tyndall, offspinner Jonathan Rampersaud, and West Indies players Sheneta Grimmond and Shabika Gajnabi, Matthew Pottaya and Jermey Sandia among many others.

The RHTY&SC saluted the official sponsors of the club who have all contributed to the development of Anderson over his cricketing career – Farfan and Mendes Ltd, Bakewell, DDL/Pepsi, Gizmos and Gadgets, and NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour. A special thank you was also extended to the numerous coaches who worked with the club’s youths especially Winston Smith.

The club said it was committed to upholding its pattern of excellence and looked forward to producing more players like Kelvon in the future. It also urged him to remain focused and to remember the club’s formula for success as he advanced his career – faith in God, hard work, honesty, discipline and dedication.

Seven Seas Pharmacist/Brand Manager Dileya Deonarine (centre) signing the official sponsorship documents with Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon. Witnessing is Archery Guyana’s Competition Chair, Jeewanram Persaud

Kevlon Anderson bats during his knock of 153 last week

A representative of Lewis Construction, N Hoyte hands over the sponsorship cheque to BCB President Hilbert Foster

A batting cage similar to those that would be built