Guyana Times - Monday, December 25, 2023

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

Issue No. 5594

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

Our next edition will be on Thursday, December 28, 2023

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Christmas serves as a reminder of transformative power of love, compassion, hope – President Ali

Region 7’s Batavia: where teamwork & community are at core of Christmas P14 season

See stories on pages 3&7

…lauds brave men & women in uniform for sacrifices …as PM urges reflection on triumphs & challenges in 2023

Banks urged to expand credit line to encourage more persons into business …Govt will continue creating environment for business growth – Finance Minister Page 21

Pedestrian dies P9 after being struck by motorcyclist P Over 2000 19 treated by Digicel in holiday joy outreaches

Unidentified man shot dead during attempted robbery on Campbellville P12 business

Getting the right ingredients for the Christmas Day meal: Guyanese flocked to the Bourda Market on Christmas Eve Day for their last-minute Christmas shopping (Pres Ali's FB photo)

UK to send Mother of 4 warship for hoping for joint exercises a Christmas Page in Guyana miracle 13 Diamond man shot dead by reputed – suspect recently released Page wife’s lover from prison for murder 13 Page 25

Buxton man P21 nabbed with ganja during Police operation Mohamed's gifts brand-new home to WCB family for Christmas P22

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 Christmas serves as a reminder of transformative power of love, compassion, hope – Pres Ali NEWS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, Dec 25 – 03:30h – 05:00h, Tuesday, Dec 26 – 04:30h – 06:00h and Wednesday, Dec 27 – 04:00 – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, Dec 25 – 15:00h – 16:30h, Tuesday, Dec 26 – 15:40h – 17:10h. and Wednesday, Dec 27 – 16:15h - 17:45h.

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 during the day.

Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 15:16h reaching a maximum height of 2.58 metres.

Low Tide: 08:50h and 21:21h reaching minimum heights of 0.81 metre and 0.62 metre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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USD Per Ounce $2052.12 $2046.80 -0.61

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…lauds brave men & women in uniform for sacrifices

I

n extending greetings for a joyous, holy and peaceful Christmas to all Guyanese at home and abroad, President Dr Irfaan Ali is reminding everyone of the transformative powers that this season brings.

“Christmas holds profound significance for Christians worldwide, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of love, compassion, and hope,” President Ali said in a message from himself, First Lady Arya Ali and their two children.

He noted that Christmas is a special period on the Christian calendar as it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

According to the biblical narrative, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in a simple stable. This modest beginning, the Head of State said, is considered symbolic of the humility and accessibility of God's love.

“Christ’s birth was a ray of hope – a hope that transcends the darkest of times. This child, Jesus, born in a manger, would grow to be a symbol of love and peace. Peace remains the great aspiration of human civilisation.

Unfortunately, today, in many parts of the world, including in Bethlehem, where Christ was born, peace is threatened by the shadows of war and conflict. I invite all to pray

within our nation and peace with all our neighbours. May the teachings of Jesus inspire us to foster unity in our diverse nation, to overcome the challenges that lie ahead, and to build a future filled with promise and peace.”

Reach out to less fortunate

for an end to the suffering wrought by conflict.”

Reflecting on Guyana, the Head of State noted that the country often faces adversity but in those times of such challenges, the nation can draw strength from the manger.

He said the nativity reminds that greatness can emerge from the humblest beginnings and that even

in the face of despair, hope can be found.

“The story of Bethlehem teaches us that hope is not contingent on favourable circumstances but rather on the will to rise above adversity. Guyana today is rising to confront its challenges and bring peace and prosperity to our country.

Guyana remains wedded to the ideal of peace, peace

Additionally, the President urged that the nation embody Jesus’ teachings by reaching out to the less fortunate and extend a helping hand to those in need. He asked that support be given to those who are feeling the weight of loneliness, offering them the warmth of friendship and understanding. Embrace, especially, all those who are grieving the loss of loved ones or grappling with misfortune, he added.

The Guyanese leader also encouraged Guyanese to spare a thought and reserve an act of caring for those who are sick and ailing. Through these and other acts of kindness, both collectively and individually, he said Christ can be honoured.

“As we send Christmas greetings to all of Guyana, we must, for a moment, understand the challenges and the circumstances that our country withstood during this year.

TURN TO PAGE 7

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

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

In true Guyanese spirit, message of love is apt this Christmas – PPP

Christmas 2023 T

W

hile Christmas 2023 in the land where it all began might not be “merry” as is usually associated with Christianity’s celebration, that in itself can be a lesson for all of us to continue striving for a world where there is “peace in the land”, since we can see with graphic clarity the destruction that war can wreak. Christmas, of course, is supposed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in the humblest of circumstances in Jerusalem over two millennia ago.

He offered a new philosophy of love and compassion for all mankind, which is summarised as the Golden Rule precept from his Sermon on the Mount: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” This rule of conduct is a summary of the Christian's duty to his neighbour and declares a fundamental ethical principle.

In the same Sermon, Jesus also instructed, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Unfortunately, many have not made the connection that it is perhaps through observing the Golden Rule that the Kingdom of God might be achieved. Surely neither side in the war between Hamas and Israel would want to be treated as both have treated the other. It would appear that the guiding philosophy in the land of Jesus’s birth is the Old Testament’s “An eye for an eye”, which, in our Guyanese parlance translates into, “Do fuh do nah obeah.”

In fact, in Israel, the story of what God commanded in that spirit be done to a people who had ambushed the Israelites is invoked to justify their scorched-earth policy in Gaza today. “Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way when he came up from Egypt. Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass.

And Saul gathered the people together, and numbered them in Telaim, two hundred thousand footmen, and ten thousand men of Judah.” He attacked the Amalekites but spared their king and their fattest animals, which displeased God who insisted that his commandment be obeyed to the “T”. Saul then had to consummate the total genocide of the Amalekites. That this story is the basis for the top rap song for youths in Israel shows how deep the “eye for an eye” concept predominates.

Now it is not our intention to get involved in textual exegesis and hermeneutics of the Bible. But this Christmas – when its words so conflict with Jesus’s central message, it does beg the need for some overriding perspective to ensure that Gandhi’s observation – “an eye for an eye leaves everyone blind” – be reflected on. We do believe that in our small country of less than one million people, however, a perspective is evolving that we can share with the rest of the world – if we can be true to it. This would represent true soft power.

And most pertinently, this perspective does not come out of mere words but from the hard-learnt lessons of lived experience in our history. The Dutch first enslaved Africans and brought them to labour on their plantations to enrich themselves and their country. The mass genocide of the Africans was justified by any number of quotations from the Bible to “show” that their enslavement was justified. That belief, however, was jettisoned through the struggle of Africans following the abolition of slavery to have the question, “Am I not a man and a brother?” answered.

The Indigenous Peoples, and the Indentured who followed Africans were also treated abominably and exploited by Europeans. But together we are evolving a society in which, by and large, we are respectful of each other and would not tolerate the Amalekites’ option here. Let us resolve to deepen this oneness as a people even as we respect our differences.

Merry Christmas.

he season of Yuletide is here, a time when families gather in affectionate embrace, and friends and neighbours warmly share the joy of the season by celebrating in different ways. Our children especially look forward to the treats, the gifts, and of course the special dishes. It is in this spirit, that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends Christmas greetings to all Guyanese and more particularly our brothers and sisters

in the Christian Community.

The birth of the Christ child was meant to revive hope, and turn sorrows and mourning into celebration, knowing that the world would no longer be in darkness because that bright star did ap-

pear to guide mankind to new hope. In the journey of Jesus’ life from abject poverty and a mere unknown; born in a manger, to a life of becoming an ineffable figure, he crossed barriers, broke down walls of prejudice, embraced the outcasts, defended the voiceless, and engaged the powerful and by doing so, he brought salvation to the whole world.

Our wish is that in this season, our elderly, differently-abled, and underpriv-

ileged will be especially remembered, and in our caring and sharing, our arms be extended to even the stranger.

In the true Guyanese spirit, as a multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious society, the message of love is apt.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic joins with all Guyanese in the celebration of the birth of the Christ child while reflecting on its true meaning and significance.

Merry Christmas!

Let this Christmas season bring us closer together in spirit of love & care – PNC

T

his Christmas season, we in the PNCR and the parliamentary Opposition extend warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to each and every Guyanese at home and abroad. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, let us remember the values of compassion, tolerance, and sharing. Let this Christmas season bring our families, friends, and communities even closer together in the

spirit of love and care.

Despite whatever hardships we face, let us remind ourselves that Jesus came on earth to give us love, joy and hope. Let our hearts therefore be filled with warmth, kindness, and generosity. During this season of giving, let us therefore not only exchange gifts from a store but also share the gift of goodwill.

No doubt, many of us in Guyana had hoped to enjoy

a happier Christmas this year. No doubt, there should have been more festivity in-

side and outside our homes.

But let us make the most of what we have in the hope of a better tomorrow. Let us give thanks unto the Lord for enduring another year.

In closing, we wish you and your families the very best for the season. May the spirit of Christmas ignite hope and inspire us to build a bright and prosperous future for all Guyanese.

Merry Christmas to all Guyanese!

We hope warmth & joy of the “Prince of Peace” reign in hearts everywhere – AFC

T

he Alliance For Change extends Season’s Greetings to all Guyanese, our members, and friends at home and abroad.

Merry Christmas to you and your family. This year has held its unique challenges for Guyanese. We have listened to the concerns of Guyanese whether it was the seller and buyer at Vreed-enHoop, Guyanese in the diaspora, or the resident at Imbertero on our western border with Venezuela.

We’ve navigated a year characterised by a high cost of living - our valued public

servants salaries have not increased exponentially, and inflation is at an all-time high in the fastest growing economy in the world! Our citizens are eking out a living as the IDB statistics reveal that approximately 50% of Guyanese are living below the poverty line.

The UN report reveals that Guyana leads in child malnu-

trition across the Caribbean and Latin America, what an irony in oil rich Guyana.

Governance institutions are failing especially in public procurement inequality of contract awards; marginalisation is glaring as the gap between the rich and the poor is wider at this time when Guyana is rich in oil resources.

It is troubling that Guyana’s resources are mismanaged when prosperity should be afforded to all citizens. And added to those, fears are running high on issues relating to our territorial integrity.

More than ever before the

message of the Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, resonates: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders,” the Holy Bible assures us.

And further, “He will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” We hope the warmth and joy of the “Prince of Peace” reign in the hearts of men everywhere, and that our actions today and the New Year are imbued with His thoughts, purpose, and love towards you and your family.

Reflect on the true essence of Christmas – ERC

T

he Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends warm Christmas greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Christian brothers and sisters.

As we celebrate the festive season hallmarked by peace, harmony and goodwill, let us also reflect on the true essence of Christmas; the exultations of selflessness, compassion, and forgiveness as embodied

by Christ.

Christmas, as with all reli-

gious observances, plays a significant role in promulgating harmony within our multicultural society and has become an enduring tradition celebrated by all Guyanese.

The beautifully decorated homes, the sumptuous meals and cherished gifts that we share with each other are testaments to the unanimity that pervades during this period.

As we embrace each other, let us take this opportunity to help those who are less for-

tunate to share in the benevolence that characterises this season.

It is the fervent hope of the Commission that we also con-

tinue to spread this generosity, compassion and camaraderie in the forthcoming year.

May we also, in commemorating the birth of Christ, remember our fallen heroes and their legacies which have left an indelible mark in unifying our resolve.

The ERC extends heartfelt wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and a New Year brimming with optimism, kindness and shared blessings.

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

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

No legal authority to serve Magistrate summons outside of Guyana Dear Editor, As democracy in Guyana continues to stumble, recent actions by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have sent shockwaves through the very fabric of our nation’s democratic principles.

The deeply troubling incident in question involves the serving of a defence summons overseas to an outspoken Government critic, Rickford Burke, marking another disconcerting chapter in what appears to be a series of actions constituting transnational repression.

In a published statement, which appeared in our dailies the Guyana Police Force stated inter alia:

"As such, the Magistrate ordered that the 'defendant summons' be prepared and served on Rickford Burke to attend the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court on the 28th day of March 2024.

As such, pursuant to the order of the Court, two (2) defendant summons were subsequently prepared and on the 13th day of December, 2023, an officer of the Guyana Police Force, ASP Rodwell Sarabo left Guyana and travelled to the United States of America with both defendant summons in his possession.

On the 16th December 2023, ASP Rodwell Sarabo met with Mark Wesserman, a Process Server based in the United States of

America and they served both defendant summons on Rickford Burke at his home address at Maple Street, Brooklyn, New York. Both defendant summons were read to Rickford Burke and he said he understood."

The jurisdictional extent of the Courts of Guyana and the Guyana Police Force's authority to act in any manner is defined by the geographical limit of Guyana unless specifically and expressly conferred by law.

There is absolutely no legal authority conferred on the Magistrate’s Court to order service of a defendant’s summons outside of Guyana and the Guyana Police Force to serve a defendant’s summons outside

of Guyana.

Therefore, the conduct of the Guyana Police Force is utterly unconstitutional, void and of no legal validity.

The threat to Guyanese Diaspora and/or persons living outside of Guyana as stated in the Guyana Police Force's statement that: "Finally, the Guyana Police Force wishes to make it known that a similar course of action will be adopted against persons who are outside of the jurisdiction and engage in criminal conduct," is of no substance.

There is no remaining doubt that the Guyana Police Force is nothing more than an instrument of repression and an agent

of the PPP/C Government.

It is to be noted that the PPP/C's Attorney General has not only cowardly refused to condemn a patent and flagrant breach of the laws of Guyana and of international laws and convention but also he has sheepishly refused to comment.

In a democracy, the right to criticise the Government is not only a cherished privilege but also a foundational and fundamental pillar of a healthy and robust political discourse. Citizens have the right to express dissenting opinions without any fear of persecution, especially when those opinions are voiced abroad.

Therefore, this recent attempt by the Guyana Police

Force to serve a summons overseas is not just a studied attack on an individual; it is a vicious assault on sacred democratic values.

I call on all Guyanese, particularly those living in the diaspora to take to social media to express and magnify their condemnation of the actions of the repressive, discriminatory and authoritarian PPP/C Government. Our collective voice must reverberate against any attempt to suppress dissent and curtail the rights and freedoms of individuals, whether within or beyond our borders.

Sincerely, Roysdale Forde, SC Member of Parliament

Roysdale Forde’s letter disingenuous and contrary to common sense Dear Editor, The ‘stop the press’ statement by Opposition Member Roysdale Forde SC to decry the law enforcement and judicial agencies of Guyana serving a summons on a defendant and to heap accusations of political excess is self-contradictory. It’s disingenuous and contrary to common-sense.

It has been established in English law from as far back as the Magna Carta that every defendant is entitled to a hearing at his trial. The principle is recognised by the latin words audi alteram

partem, its translation being ‘let the other side be heard’.

The service of a summons to attend court on Rickford Burke is to make him aware of the hearing. At the very least it would make him aware of the charge(s) he is facing in the Magistrate Court and affords him, if he wishes, to be heard in defence of the charge(s). This is very different to a warrant which seeks to arrest/ detain someone for them to be produced in court. An important distinction.

A summons can be served on anyone, anywhere since

it is to satisfy the court that the defendant is aware of the proceedings and is given the opportunity to be heard. The defendant can refuse to participate and defend his case but then risk consequences which he may not like, including affecting his options on appeal. If a conviction results, that can be enforced in accordance with law.

However, it’s baffling that those who wish to shout accusations about all and sundry on social media and elsewhere do not want to defend what they have said.

Freedom is not free. Free speech is protected once it does not breach the laws and constitution of Guyana.

Truth is a complete defence to any charge of bullying and false utterances. If you are so willing to shout it on social media, why are you afraid to back it up in court?

Is it because you feel secure in another country hiding behind a keyboard and perverse “free speech” assertions that you think you can say what you want? No Sir. Justice must be open and transparent, not be

bogged down by all sorts of tricks and games to prevent the true issues being resolved. In this regard, the wise words of the Caribbean Court of Justice in Watson v Fernandes is instructive “The attainment of true jus-

tice is over the highway of realities and not through the alley of technicalities”.

Yours faithfully, Sanjeev Datadin Attorney-at-Law Member of Parliament

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

1:05

Movie - Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) 3:30 Movie - Devotion (2022) 6:00 Inspiration Time 6:30 Cartoons 7:00 Evening News (RB) 7:30 Cartoons 8:00 Stop Suffering 8:30 Stay Woke 9:00 Anthony Persaud – Season Greetings 10:00 Jewanram's Gospel Hour 11:10 Movie - Journey to Bethlehem (2023) 13:00 Movie - Miracle on 34th Street (1994) 15:00 Nothing To Laugh About 14 16:00 Movie - Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever (2023) 17:00 Movie - Home Alone (1990) 19:00 Movie - Home Alone 2 (1992) 21:00 Movie - Candy Cane Lane (2023) 23:00 Movie - Gran Turismo (2023)

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

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Foundation

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ong ago, about 2000 years, when King Herod ruled Judea (now part of Israel), God sent the angel Gabriel to a young woman who lived in the northern town of Nazareth. The girl's name was Mary and she was engaged to marry Joseph.

The angel Gabriel said to Mary: “Peace be with you! God has blessed you and is pleased with you.”

Mary was very surprised by this and wondered what the angel meant. The angel said to her “Don't be afraid, God has been very kind to you. You will become pregnant by the Holy Spirit and give birth to a baby boy and you will call him Jesus. He will be God's own Son and his kingdom will never end.”

Mary was very afraid but she trusted God. “Let it happen as God chooses.” she replied to the angel. Gabriel also told Mary that her cousin, Elizabeth who everyone thought was too old to have children, would have a baby boy whom God had chosen to prepare the way for Jesus.

Mary said goodbye to her family and friends and went to visit her cousin Elizabeth and her husband Zechariah. Elizabeth was very happy to see Mary. She knew that Mary had been chosen

by God to be the mother of his Son. An angel had already told Zechariah that Elizabeth's baby would prepare people to welcome Jesus. He was to be called John. Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then returned home to Nazareth.

An angel visiting Joseph Joseph was worried when he found out that Mary was expecting a baby before their marriage had taken place. He wondered if he should put off the wedding altogether. Then an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said: “Don't be afraid to have Mary as your wife.”

The angel explained that Mary had been chosen by God to be the mother of his Son and told Joseph that the baby would be named Jesus which means “Saviour” because he would save people. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel had told him to do and took Mary as his wife.

At this time, the land where Mary and Joseph lived was part of the Roman Empire. The Roman Emperor Augustus wanted to have a list of all the people in the empire, to make sure they paid their taxes. He ordered everyone to return to the town where their families originally came from, and enter their names in a register (or census) there. Mary and Joseph travelled a long way (about 70 miles) from Nazareth to Bethlehem, because that is where Joseph's family came from. Most people walked but some lucky people had a donkey to help carry the goods needed for the journey. Joseph and Mary travelled very slowly because Mary's baby was due to be born soon.

Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus When they reached Bethlehem they had problems finding somewhere to stay. So many people had come to register their names in the census, that every house was full and every bed was taken in all of the guest rooms. The only place to stay that they could find was with the animals. People often kept animals in the

saw him, they told everyone what the angel had said and everyone who heard the story was astonished. Then the shepherds returned to their sheep, praising God for sending his Son to be their Saviour.

When Jesus was born, a brand new bright star appeared in sky.

Some Wise Men in faraway countries saw the star and guessed what it meant. They were very clever men that studied the stars and had read in very old writings that a new star would appear when a great king was born. They set out to find the new king and bring him gifts.

The Wise Men followed the star towards the country of Judea and when they got to the capital called Jerusalem they began to ask people: “Where is the child who is born to be king of the Jews?”

Herod, the king of Judea, heard this and it made him very angry to think that someone might be going to take his place as king. Herod sent for the Wise Men to come to him. He told them to go on following the star until they had found the baby king.

He said: “When you have found him, let me know where he is, so that I can go and worship him.” But Herod did not tell them that he really had an evil plan in mind to kill the new king.

house, especially at night, and used them like 'central heating'!

People normally slept on a raised/upper level with the animals below to give them extra warmth.

So in the place where the animals slept, Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God. In those days it was the custom to wrap newborn babies tightly in a long cloth called 'swaddling clothes'. Jesus' bed was the manger that the animals ate their hay from.

In the hills and fields outside Bethlehem, shepherds looked after their sheep through the long night. As the new day began, suddenly an angel appeared before them and the glory of God shone around them. The shepherds were very, very scared, but the angel said, “Don't be afraid. I have good news for you and everyone. Today in Bethlehem a Saviour has been born for you.

You will find the baby lying in a manger.”

Then many more angels appeared, lighting up the sky. The shepherds heard them praising God singing: “Glory to God in highest, and peace to everyone on earth.”

When the angels had gone, the shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem to see what has happened.” So the shepherds went to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph. The baby Jesus was lying in a manger as they had been told. When they

The Wise Men visiting Baby Jesus The Wise Men followed the star towards Bethlehem (where it said that the king would be born in the old writings). It seemed to stop and shine directly down upon the place where Jesus was.

The Wise Men entered the house where they now lived and found Jesus with Mary; they bowed down and worshipped him.

The Wise Men spread the gifts they had brought before Jesus.

The gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Wise Men were warned in a dream, by God, not to go back to Herod. So they returned home to their countries in the East by a different way.

Mary, Jesus and Joseph in Egypt When the Wise Men had gone, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” the angel said, “Take Jesus and Mary and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for Jesus to kill him.”

So Joseph got up, took Jesus and Mary during the night they left for Egypt, where he stayed until Herod died.

When Herod realised that he had been tricked by the Wise Men, he was furious and he gave orders to kill all the boys aged two or younger in Bethlehem and the surrounding area. This was to try and kill the new King, as his plan to find the location of the new king from the Wise Men had failed.

After Herod had died, Joseph had another dream in which an angel appeared to him. The angel said, “Get up, take Jesus and Mary and go back to Israel, for those who were trying kill Jesus are dead.”

So Joseph got up, took Jesus and Mary and they went back to Israel. But when he heard that Herod's son was now king of Judea, he was afraid to go there. So instead they went to Galilee, and lived in their old town of Nazareth.

Nazareth. (whychristmas.com)

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BLACK CAKE FRUIT CAKE GINGER BEER

NEWS

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

PM urges reflection on a year of triumph & challenges amid Christmas season …reaffirms Govt’s commitment for inclusive economic growth

D

escribing 2023 as a year of both triumph and challenges, where Guyana grabbed headlines around the world for its economic growth and border troubles, Prime Minister, Brigadier Retired Mark Phillips used the occasion of his Christmas greetings to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to ensuring prosperity for all while urging citizens to reflect on the year.

In the Prime Minister’s Christmas Day message, he noted that beyond the glitz and glamour of Christmas and the gifts to be exchanged, it is important that citizens remember and reflect on the val-

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips

ues that unite the nation.

“To my fellow Guyanese, I want to extend warm and heartfelt greetings as we celebrate this joyous sea-

son. Christmas is a time to reflect on the values that unite us as a nation and cherish the moments spent with our loved ones.

Beyond the glitz and exchange of gifts, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the spirit of love, compassion, and hope.”

“This season encourages us to reflect on our blessings while being thankful for the simple but invaluable moments spent with those who matter most in our lives. In Guyana, Christmas holds a special place in our hearts as we embrace our rich cultural heritage.”

In light of some of the tragic moments of the

year, such as the loss of five Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers and the injuries sustained by two more, the Prime Minister urged citizens to also take a moment of silence and reflect on the year gone by.

“Amidst the festivities, I urge you to take a moment of silence to reflect on the year gone by.

In these moments, let us express gratitude for both the triumphs and the challenges we have faced as a nation.”

“It is through reflection that we gain strength, and it is through gratitude that we find contentment.

I wish to reaffirm the Government's unwavering commitment to Guyana's

continued development and prosperity as we look towards the future.

The Prime Minister further reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensure inclusive growth and prosperity for the citizens of Guyana, as well as urged them to let the festive spirit fill their hearts whether they live in Guyana or abroad.

“Our traditional Guyanese Christmas is marked by the savoury aroma of signature dishes like Pepperpot, the delightful taste of Garlic Pork, and the refreshing zing of our Ginger Beer and sorrel drink. May these culinary delights add an extra layer of warmth to

your celebrations, wherever you may be,” the Prime Minister further said.

“We stand united in our dedication to building a nation that thrives on inclusivity, progress, and opportunities for all Guyanese. May we stride confidently into the coming year, working hand in hand towards a brighter and more prosperous future for our beloved nation. May this Christmas season bring you joy, peace, and an abundance of blessings. From my family to yours, and on behalf of the entire Government, I wish all of Guyana a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Govt anticipates another 1000 acres in coconut production this year

G

uyana’s coconut industry is slated for further development, as the Government anticipates achieving another 1000 acres in coconut production at the end of 2023.

The country continues to produce coconut on a large scale, to make it one of the most significant crops in the nation as a result of the sector’s diversification.

This year, Guyana received some 13,000 high-yielding Brazilian green dwarf coconut seed nuts for $12 million to expand coconut production.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha recently told media operatives

that Guyana is in the process of bringing in another 13,000 coconuts, specifically since nurseries are being constructed across Guyana.

“We have seen an increase of over 5000 acres in coconuts since we assumed office in August 2020. This year, we are hoping that we can achieve

Christmas serves as...

FROM PAGE 3

In all our challenges, in the loneliest of moments, what stood out the most was our love for our country, our patriotism, nationalistic fervour, our love for each other, our unity, and our commitment to each other and our country. This is the year we dug deep and renewed that love and commitment for our country and each other.”

Sacrifices

President Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, remembered the country’s loyal and brave men and women in uniform, including those who are patrolling Guyana’s borders and waters, and who are unable at this time, because of the call of duty, to be at home with their families. He also paid special homage to the five servicemen – Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton; Lieutenant

Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles and Sergeant Jason Khan – who died in the horrific helicopter crash on December 6.

“I thank them and all others for the sacrifices that they are making in the cause of peace. So, as we move in this season, I cannot help but remember our heroes – our five heroes who today stand tall in the history book of our country and this region. Their sacrifice is a lesson and a guide to us. Let us all come together in strength and unity, love and peace, as we build a stronger, more prosperous Guyana for all of us.”

However, as this is being done for Guyana, President Ali also asked that we do not forget that we have a responsibility too, to call upon all those who are involved in

war, all those who continue to use conflict and war and force as a means of bringing peace, to halt their action and give peace a chance.

“Let us stop the slaughter of children and women across the world, the slaughter of children and women in Palestine, and acts of terrorism. We must stop it.

We must find a way to resolve these conflicts and bring peace to those families because peace around the world depends on each of us as a country, as individuals and as citizens of the world.”

“Let us not allow this season to go without a recommitment from each of us as we seek to build a stronger, safer, fairer and more prosperous world. May the warmth of Christmas engulf all of us and keep us safe during the holidays. I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and peaceful Christmas.” (G8)

another 1000 acres. And this came about because we have seen a great interest in the coconut industry,” the Agriculture Minister stated during an interview at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

Even though there

are ten coconut nurseries spread across Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Six, Nine, and 10, the Agriculture Minister said the Government intends to expand the initiative to other regions due to the excellent potential for coconuts.

He highlighted that value-added components of the waste material from coconuts are now being used in the agriculture sector for mulching and other agriculture-related purposes, including coconut cultivation.

“We have also brought in these fibre machines where we are now using the byproduct of coconuts, and we are helping farmers’ groups across the country by making it available where they are using the husks for several pur-

poses…A lot of by-products we will be creating from coconut. The industry is well poised,” he stated.

As a way of assisting Guyana and accelerating growth in the industry, two specialists from India who recently visited Guyana conducted a study, where a report was compiled.

In addition, Minister Mustapha expressed hope about receiving the report in a few weeks, to consider some of the recommendations.

Meanwhile, he emphasised the enormous potential for Guyanese farmers to export in the substantial market, which includes the Caribbean, as well as North America and Europe, given the high level of interest in the coconut industry.

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Finally…

F

…the Brits step up

or years, your Eyewitness has been hammering away at the point that it was the Brits who left the Venezuelan sword of Damocles – today in the form of Mad Maduro – hanging over our Essequibo. Now he’s not even thinking about any moral responsibility they should have towards us: in relations between States amorality – and even immorality! – is the rule!! Your Eyewitness has identified Art VII of the 1966 Geneva Agreement – which both we and Venezuela accept as the basis for going forward – as declaring that Britain remains a party to the agreement!!

As such, when the Brits were cosying up to us to get a piece of the oil action, he didn’t think giving us visafree entry was enough. Heck, back in the day when we were still a colony we didn’t only have visa-free entry but British passports!! But a fat lot of good it did us!! All that changed was moving from doing all the grunge work in the colonies to doing the same in Britain!! Nah…your Eyewitness was expecting a helluva lot more in the face of Mad Maduro’s annexation of two-thirds of our national territory!!

So when British junior Foreign Minister David Rutley declared: "I am in Guyana... to offer the UK's unequivocal backing to our Guyanese friends", he felt we were getting somewhere. But was the “unequivocal backing” only gonna be warm words and a firm handshake – like we’ve been getting from our erstwhile friends in Caricom?? Well, yesterday they made their offer a little more concrete: one of their Royal Navy’s battle ships – the 2000 ton <<<HMS Trent>>> – will be steaming into Port Georgetown in a show of force!!

Now, we’re getting somewhere!! Let’s not forget that the Brits already has experience with the evident Latin proclivity to settle old border claims with force – in the Falkland Islands annexed by Argentina!! Like Mad Maduro, they also claimed the Falklands were theirs because it was once part of the Spanish Empire!! Margaret Thatcher showed her mettle moved beyond straightening out British Labour Unions and gave a good hiding to the Argentines – who ignominiously surrendered within a couple of months!! Britannia still ruled THOSE waves!!

So, does your Eyewitness expect the deployment of a single warship will dissuade Mad Maduro from his frenzied efforts to rally Venezuelans behind him to win next year’s elections?? Nah!! But it’s a beginning of visible measures through our strategy to align with the Western powers – rather than China and Russia who’re arming Mad Maduro to his fangs!! Combined with those joint military exercises by our GDF and US Southcom forces, Mad Maduro should be thinking twice that taking over Essequibo will be a cakewalk!

Ouch!! …infiltration exposed In case you’ve forgotten, Dear Reader, a brutal war’s still going on in Europe after Russia attempted to annex parts of the Ukraine!! But what we’re discovering is that the annexation and invasion is only one part of Russia’s expansionist strategy – for which their ally Mad Maduro’s been their staunchest supporter. Which strategy, of course, he’s been aping towards us. What Finland – which also borders Russia up north – identified is a new tactic being practised by the Ruskies towards them which they’ve dubbed “hybrid warfare”.

It's the massive number of “migrants” crossing their borders into Finland - which they’ve traced to Russian operatives!! The plan obviously is to send over enough people with Russian lineage to the border region who at some point can provide Russia with the rationale for invading to “rescue” folks who prefer to be part Mother Russia!! After Finland closed its borders the Ruskies have switched to sending “migrants” from Belarus and Turkey!!

A hint to Beneba mek Quashie tek notice. Vet dem Venezuelan migrants!! …Maduro’s rescue exposed So, getting the US’ ok to exploit Venezuela’s Dragon Gas Field – we’re not hearing about T&T bartering for goods any more. Looks like Mad Maduro’s gonna be getting cold cash.

Is he being brought in from the cold? Merry Christmas??

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

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

9 Diamond man shot dead by reputed wife’s lover NEWS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– suspect recently released from prison for murder

Thirty-one-year-old Ketezel Bazillo from New Young Professionals Housing Scheme, Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was shot dead by his reputed wife’s lover in the wee hours of Sunday.

Following the shooting incident, the Police are on the hunt for the prime suspect, Muammar

Jabbar also called “Omar Jabbar” of Albouystown, Georgetown. He was reportedly released from prison for murder about two weeks ago.

According to information received, Bazillo lived with his 38-year-old reputed wife, Wanda Jones, and four children (the youngest 12 and the eldest 16 years

old).

Jones told investigators that around 22:00h on Saturday evening, she was decorating the home for the holidays when she contacted Jabbar, with whom she shares a relationship and asked him to buy some KFC and take it to the house.

Jabbar arrived at her

Pedestrian dies after being struck by motorcyclist

A

pedestrian lost his life on Sunday after he was reportedly struck down by a motorcyclist along the Rupertee Access Trail in Aranaputa, North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The dead man has been identified as 56-yearold Charles Dookram also of Aranaputa, North Rupununi.

Police stated that on the day in question at about 03:40h, Vice Chairman of the Rupertee Community Policing Group and a resident of Rupertee Village, Wesley Roberts was awakened by a loud noise outside his home.

As he went to investigate, he observed someone lying motionlessly on the roadway.

Upon a closer look, he realised that it was Dookram.

At the time, severe injuries were seen on his head and body.

Also at the scene, he observed a motorcycle with its rider – Alivius John, a 22-year-old labourer of Annai

village, North Rupununi, who was also injured.

The injured pedestrian was picked up and taken to the Annai Health Centre, where he was treated and referred to the Lethem Regional Hospital where he later succumbed.

The motorcyclist was arrested and he is assisting with the investigations.

Wanted: Muammar Jabbar called “Omar Jabbar”

home with a bucket of chicken and she invited him inside the house where he stayed the night.

However, at about 04:00h on Sunday morning, Bazillo returned home and called out to his wife for her to open the front door, but she hesitated.

Bazillo became annoyed and he questioned the delay in his request.

She reportedly told him that Jabbar was inside the house and this angered him more. He then questioned the reason for her having a convicted criminal in his house.

After she refused to open the door, Brazillo went to the eastern bedroom window where he removed several louvre panes to gain entry into the house.

Upon doing so, Bazillo and Jabbar were engaged

Dead: Ketezel Bazillo

in a confrontation during which, the latter whipped out a handgun and discharged a round at Bazillo who subsequently fell to the ground.

Jabbar then went over him and discharged another round at the injured man. After committing the act, the suspect made good his escape.

The Police were summoned to the

scene where they found Bazillo’s body lying in a pool of blood with two gunshot injuries to his neck and chin area.

The detectives have since recovered a .32 spent shell from the bedroom. In addition, several broken louvre panes were seen in the bedroom. Police are continuing their investigation.

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12 NEWS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Unidentified man shot dead during attempted robbery on Campbellville business

A

n unidentified man was shot dead by a security officer while attempting to break into a container filled with imported fruits and vegetables at the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Delph Street, Georgetown.

According to Police, at about 00:05h on Sunday, a 31-year-old Supernumerary Constable attached to Bently Security Service observed the male near one of the containers belonging to a popular import establishment.

Police stated that the intruder, armed with a chopper, was reportedly seen attempting to force open the padlocks which had secured the container containing a consignment of various fruits and vegetables.

However, the security officer reportedly warned the man and instructed him to leave the area. Despite

The area where the man was shot and killed

The unidentified man shortly after he was shot and killed

the warnings, the intruder purportedly turned towards the officer and aggressively advanced in his direction armed with the chopper in his hand.

The guard, feeling

threatened, discharged a round from his Glock 19 pistol, thus fatally shooting the alleged intruder.

The injured man reportedly took a few steps towards the officer before

collapsing to the ground.

At the time, the now dead man was clad in a pair of blue short pants, a white jersey, white socks, and a pair of red slippers.

At the scene, upon inspection of the man’s body, detectives found a gunshot wound to the left side of his face. A black-handled chopper was also found lying beside him.

Additionally, several pieces of smoking utensils were found on his person - one in his pants pocket and another in his pants crotch.

The man was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Meanwhile, the security officer was taken into custody as investigations continue.

Authorities have since confiscated the firearm used in the fatal shooting.

FEATURE

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hoping for a Christmas miracle

By Andrew Carmicheal

A

n Ankerville, Port Mourant single parent who bravely faces the challenges of life, simply yearns for a place to call home on this Christmas Day as she currently lives in a makeshift house.

The situation is so dire that her 12-year-old daughter is beating the masquerade drum in order to provide needed finances including funding for her eight-month-old brother’s diapers.

Her 14-year-old daughter has since made other living arrangements for

her to school because it is three of them I have with me,” Lloyd said.

With her mother’s permission and in her mother’s presence, this publication spoke with the child after being treated to some of her masquerade drumming.

“Me does try fuh get money to buy things for Christmas and help out mummy,” the child said.

The young girl said she wants to be able to return to school.

After sitting the National Grade Six Assessment earlier this year she has not returned to school.

“In school you get ed-

Anita Lloyd

herself.

In the quiet corners of Ankerville, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), amidst humble homes, lives 35-year-old Anita Lloyd.

For Lloyd, it is a daily struggle as she works under the Government parttime worker initiative earning $40,000 monthly.

“Thing is very hard by the time I buy lil grocery...

It is me alone have to find grocery and I have to put baby portage stuff and then send my son to school, so I don’t really get no money – it is only one job I am doing.

When my salary runs out before pay day, sometimes we have to stay without food. Many days sometimes me and my children don’t get food. Sometimes we ask neighbours and if they give, they give.”

This publication met Lloyd after her 12-yearold daughter was beating a drum with a masquerade mask in the vicinity of the Port Mourant Market after 18:00h.

When approached, the young girl said she needed to raise $3000 so she could assist her mother to purchase diapers for her eightmonth-old brother.

“I don’t afford to send

ucation so that you can do something good in life,” she said but noted that it has been several months and now she no longer misses her school friends.

Since 2018, Lloyd and her family have been living on GuySuCo reserve. She applied for a house lot in 2014, but could not afford to pay for the lot when she received the call from the Housing Ministry.

The family's daily struggles extend beyond education. With a heavy heart and trembling voice, Lloyd broke down in tears as she revealed that there are days when they go without a meal.

“Sometimes I can only give my son sugar water and sometimes I beg neighbour for food...”

“I feel bad but I can’t do better. For this Christmas I would like if I can get my house because when rain falls the whole place does flood and water would be on the ground. The other day when my daughter went and beat masquerade, I get money and concrete the floor and my friends give me some curtains just so that my children can be a lil comfortable,” the brave woman said even as tears rolled down her cheeks.

After presenting a series of incidents which forced her to take her eldest daughter to the child welfare department and sessions of counselling, the woman said she has now allowed her to make her own living arrangements and she now seems to be settled.

“I don’t have no family member. My mother passed away and I don’t know who is my father. I get a sister but it is just like I get none and I get a brother living in Suriname – nobody don’t check on me,” she said, making it difficult to see through the tears which by then had settled in my eyes.

Persons who are interested in helping Anita Lloyd can contact her on telephone (592) 663-9767.

The makeshift house in which Anita Lloyd and her children live

14 FEATURE

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Jarryl Bryan

I

t is often said that Christmas has lost its true meaning amid the hustle and bustle of last-minute shopping and the search for holiday deals.

However, in the Region Seven Indigenous village of Batavia, there is a strong undercurrent of community during the Christmas season.

In September, Batavia

Gifts being distributed to children in the village

A villager as she cooks a Christmas pot for her fellow villagers

hosted Heritage Day at its Arian Island. The village has long been recognised for its hospitality and its natural tourism appeal, including the waterfalls at Batavia, which include the

River and it is fitting that the river banks that hosted Heritage Day only a few months, are also a popular recreation spot during the Christmas season for families to get together and en-

The Region 7 village of Batavia

Five Star Falls and the Small Matope Falls.

There is also the wildlife the village teems with, including the majestic Harpy Eagle, and is surrounded by extensive forests that offer an eco-tourist the experience of a lifetime. Batavia is located along the Cuyuni

joy the season.

The economic activities in Batavia include hunting and fishing, farming and logging. The village also contains persons involved in the teaching and medical profession.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

FEATURE

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FROM PAGE 14

In cases where their jobs take them out of the village, however, they usually come home for the Christmas holidays.

Much more than its tourism appeal, Batavia is a village that takes its community bonds and the role they play in uniting villagers very seriously and this is all the more apparent around Christmas time, with the Village Council purchasing gifts for the children and arranging cooking, tree light-ups and other activities. In an interview with this publication, Batavia Toshao Orin

we go home.”

In fact, the village just had its Christmas tree light-up and gift distribution. This was made possible not only by the villagers in fact, but also part-time workers who were hired under the part-time jobs initiative, and Community Service Officers (CSOs), who provide support services to villages in the hinterland. Cooking, according to Williams, is also a community activity, that will not only feed the residents but also bring them closer together.

When Christmas day

The tree lights are up in Batavia

Williams emphasised that the village comes together and make Christmas what it is.

“At this time everybody comes home. And the Village Council purchases gifts and we come together as a village, prepare the different foods, including our traditional dishes. Tuma Pot for example and our other dishes such as cook up. Curry. And the other dishes that we all know about. And we come together, invite out the village. Children and adults.”

“And we dress up the Christmas tree and we have a light-up. And we call the church leaders to the village. And they pray and bless the village.

Blessings on the country and our leaders. After that, we eat together, we drink together. And then

comes, however, Williams noted that barring a few villagers who go out on the beach, most persons will have a quiet Christmas at home with their families.

A common theme through the holiday week, however, is eating, drinking, spending time with family… and religion.

“To end the Christmas, everybody goes to church.

Old Year’s Night. That is where we reach and celebrate into the new year.

People don’t usually have a lot of sporting on old years night. Most people go to church. And form church, back home. Some people, on New Year’s Day, might do the same thing.

Come out on the beach, play games,” Williams explained.

“We have some beaches in the river, right in

Another area in the village

the village. Like on the island where we had heritage games. Relax.

Communicate with relatives and friends, using the internet service we have presently. So, most likely we would mostly be out of our houses on New Year’s and Boxing Day. But Christmas, everybody stays at home.”

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NEWS

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 2000 treated by Digicel in holiday joy outreaches D

igicel ushered in the holiday season by spreading joy to over 2000 children from diverse regions across the country.

From the scenic Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) to the bustling towns of Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and Georgetown, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) to the coastal beauty of Essequibo and Berbice, Digicel has made it a mission to bring the magic of Christmas to children.

The company's team embarked on a series of festive events, spreading cheer and happiness throughout various communities.

One of the highlights of Digicel's Christmas outreach was the heartening engagement with children, where the team distributed toys, painted smiles on little faces with vibrant face painting sessions, and entertained the youngsters with the beloved Grinch mascot. The Grinch, a timeless symbol of Christmas, added an extra dash of excitement to the celebrations, cre-

ating lasting memories for the children.

"We believe in the power of giving back, especially during the holiday season when the magic of Christmas has the potential to bring people together," Communications Manager at Digicel, Gabriella Chapman said.

"By reaching out to children in communities across Guyana, I can say for a fact that this is more

than a seasonal event for Digicel. It's a reflection of our ongoing commitment to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve."

On Sunday, the company in a release said that its commitment to spreading Christmas cheer extended to both urban and remote areas, including the Rupununi, Bartica, Linden, Essequibo, Berbice, Georgetown and beyond. It added that the initiative underscores its dedication to corporate social responsibility and community engagement.

20 NEWS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Safety net $1.2B programme for vulnerable extended by IDB until 2025 A

n Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) programme that sought to help the Government provide assistance to the vulnerable has been extended to March 2025 by the bank in an effort to provide more time for supporting systems to be established.

This was revealed in the Auditor General’s 2022 report, which delved into a sum of $1.2 billion that was allotted for the Human Services Ministry in that year’s budget for capital expenditure under the capital programmes of the Ministry.

Those programmes include the Safety Nets for Vulnerable Populations programme, and according to the Auditor General, as of 2022

mains is budgeted for the procurement of hardware and software for the Management Information System Unit, as part of the strengthening of the Ministry through its IT system. This process has commenced with some components currently being advertised,” the Ministry explained. As part of its recommendation, the Audit Office reaffirmed the need for executing projects in a timely

Additionally, money is supposed to go towards putting the digital infrastructure in place at the Ministry, to better support the rollout of the strategy, as well as a Data Protection Bill that would protect the data of those who benefit from the social safety net.

Last but not least, the money will go towards supporting gender empowerment and providing services

abilities. Transportation will be provided for the institution. Most importantly, the entire area will be transformed into a complex, with other facilities yet to be added. The building will also be supported by a residential facility for the children.

Through facilities and financial grants, the Ministry has been actively expanding its safety net for those persons

within this bracket. Some 5000 children in Guyana live with various forms of disabilities – data garnered from the Government’s one-off distribution of the disability grant.

Last year, President Dr Irfaan Ali had approved a one-off 100,000 cash grant for children living with disabilities. This was outside of the public assistance monthly grant. Across the country,

persons living with disabilities are being trained in their communities.

From the target of reaching 600 persons for training, it had been reported earlier this year that 55 per cent has been achieved. The areas of training offered include social media marketing, garment construction, graphic designing, and videography among others. (G3)

Charlestown labourer arrested for participating in illegal horse cart racing

The Learning Centre for Persons with Disabilities

year-end, $889.6 million had been spent from the amount, leaving an unspent balance of $336 million.

In its response, the Ministry explained that the Safety Nets for Vulnerable Populations and the Technical Assistance, both IDB/Government projects, have been extended by 24 months until March 9, 2023.

According to the Ministry, it sought and received this approval in order to procure equipment for the Ministry's Management Information System Unit. And in fact, at the time of the audit, procurement had already started.

“The balance which re-

manner.

It was only in November that the IDB had announced the approval of a US$30 million loan by its Board of Executive Directors, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada for Guyana to provide assistance to its vulnerable populations. The loan came with a grace period of over five years and an amortisation period of 20 years.

The initiative is aimed at persons living with disabilities and includes plans for a learning lab to teach skills that will help them earn a living, as well as increasing access to the already existing public assistance programme.

to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Trafficking In Persons (TIP) victims.

Further, 400 women who are participating in the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) will receive support for their business plans.

The Government had opened a learning lab for persons living with disabilities, at Mahaica on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). Both the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) contributed $5 million towards outfitting the building with furniture.

The institution will cater to persons with diverse dis-

E

Eion Bennons just before he was arrested by cops on Sunday

ion Bennons, a 36-year-old labourer from Charlestown, Georgetown, was apprehended by the Police on Sunday morning whilst participating in unauthorised horse racing along the Prospect, East Bank Demerara (ECD) Public Road.

The Police also revealed that he possessed an un-

registered horse cart. The arrest was initiated at about 06:30h. Reports had been received by the Police regarding unauthorised horse racing in the area, prompting a swift response to suppress this illicit activity.

Officials from the Guyana Police Force have confirmed that Bennons will be charged with offences related to the operation of an

unregistered cart on public roads, endangering public safety, and violating traffic regulations.

Eyewitnesses have indicated that horse cart racing is a frequent event in the area and often involves substantial sums of money.

These races are organised sporadically to avoid attracting Police attention.

NEWS

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Banks urged to expand credit line to encourage more persons into business …Govt will continue creating environment for business growth – Finance Minister

A

s private sector and economic growth continues at a rapid pace, the Government has urged banks and financial institutions to continue expanding their loan portfolios, ensuring that much-needed capital reaches those with profitable businesses ideas anxious to join the business sector.

During the opening of Demerara Bank’s spanking new $485 million branch at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD), Senior Minister in the Office of the Presidency with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh spoke of the record-breaking economic transformation Guyana is currently undergoing.

“Whether it be banks, malls, privately-owned hospitals, service providers. In every single sector of economic activity, whether it be public sector or private sector, we are witnessing a transformation of Guyana at a speed that has scarcely been seen in other place around the world, and at any other time in economic history.”

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

“We hear a lot about Guyana being the fastest growing economy in the world. But you just have to look around to see how rapidly the face of our country is changing, to understand what that economic growth means for day-to-day life,” he said.

Moreover, Dr Singh emphasised the Government’s commitment to continuing to create an enabling environment that would allow banks and other lending institutions to continue to provide capital

to persons in the private sector. The Finance Minister also called for the continued expansion of loans, to those with good and potentially profitable ideas.

“Our Government’s commitment is to ensure that we maintain this extraordinary growth that we’re seeing, into the medium term.

Our commitment is that we’ll maintain, not only the macro-economic, but the legal and regulatory environment that remains so essential in ensuring a well-regulated, well and

Policemen charged with armed robbery conspiracy & bribery get bail

A

fter being accused of conspiring to rob a Chinese national, two Policemen who were remanded to prison on their first court appearance have since been released on bail.

Constable Julian Smartt, 30, represented by Attorneyat-Law Patrice Henry and Constable Winston Williams, 25, represented by Attorney-at-Law Jevon Cox, made their second court appearance before acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus last week.

It is alleged that that on November 29, 2023, while at Prashad Nagar, Georgetown, they conspired together along with two others to rob Qi Li Lin, of $8 million in cash.

It is also alleged that on the day in question at the Prashad Nagar Police Outpost, while being agents of the Government, they attempted to obtain $150,000 from Qi Li Lin as inducement from the said Qi Li Lin to forgo prosecution for the following offences: restriction on handheld device use while driving; uninsured motor vehicle; and unlicensed motor vehicle; an act relating to their principal duty.

It is further alleged that on the same day, Constable Williams obtained $30,000 from Qi Li Lin as inducement from the said Qi Li Lin to forgo prosecution for the above-stated offences - an act in relation to his principal duty. Both Smartt and Williams have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

At the duo’s last court appearance on December 6,

Julian Smartt

2023, their attorneys made renewed applications for reasonable bail, stating that their clients posed no flight risk and that they would comply with any conditions recommended.

However, Police Legal Advisor, Attorney-at-Law Mandel Moore opposed to the two being released on bail, relying on his previous objections.

He had previously made reference to the defendants’ oath of service and protection as members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and that the offences are serious and carry a severe penalty.

After listening to submissions from both sides, Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus on Wednesday indicated that she was inclined to grant bail to Constables Williams and Smartt. Bail was set for each accused at $500,000 on each of the three charges.

They were given bail with the stipulation that they periodically report to the Brickdam Police Station as well as lodge their passports with the Clerk of

Winston Williams

Court.

Constable Smartt, of Guyhoc, Georgetown, and Constable Williams, of Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), have both been interdicted from duty.

Police Headquarters had reported that receiving a report of an alleged $8 million robbery, a thorough probe carried out resulted in the arrest of Constable Smartt and Constable Williams.

The Police have said that evidence has revealed that these Police Constables had both conspired with the principal offenders to rob the virtual complainant of his property. Police have said they are on the hunt for the principal offenders.

“Detectives have evidence showing Constable Smartt taking the suspects to the crime scene. After the robbery was committed, Smartt and Williams (both of whom were on motorcycles and in uniform) were seen escorting the suspects to an area known as Rasville [in Georgetown],” a statement from the Police Headquarters had said.

The Govt says it remains committed to continuing to create an enabling financial environment

soundly supervised financial sector, but one that is conducive to growth.”

“And I was pleased to hear Mr Dave recognise and I know he recognises and believes this and has been fighting to address this. The need for greater credit penetration. Because there are a lot of non-financial private sector operators out there, with very good bankable ideas. And they need a little bit of help to bring them into the bank.

And to help them translate their ideas, into good, realised and profitable projects.”

Dr Singh recalled that only a couple of weeks ago, a brand new four-lane highway was commissioned along the East Bank of Demerara, prompting commuters to comment on the dramatic reduction in travel time between Diamond and Georgetown.

The Finance Minister pointed out that the conceptual vision for this project was being laid since President Ali was Minister of Housing and Water. According to him, this goes towards exemplifying that Guyana’s record-break-

ing economic growth is driven not by chance, but by deliberate policy.

“All of this transformation has taken place under Irfaan Ali’s presidency.

You may wake up and think it’s the same village. The same Leonora. It’s not the same Leonora. Leonora has emerged in the space of two and a half years, to be a major centre of economic activity.”

“And that didn’t happen by magic or accident or by luck or chance. It happened because of deliberate policy choices that were made, deliberate decisions that were made by our President and his Government. And that story is being replicated throughout the country,” he further said.

It was only in October that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had released a report showing that Guyana will record 38.4 per cent of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth this year, against a regional growth average of 2.3 per cent.

This was contained in their new Regional Economic

Outlook report on the Western Hemisphere, to which Guyana belongs. But Guyana’s growth figures make a stark contrast to the 2023 average growth estimates for the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Region.

According to the IMF, the LAC Region, with the exception of Guyana, will record just 2.3 per cent growth. It is even more glaring when the report zeroes in on the Caribbean alone. According to the report, the Caribbean, with the exception of Guyana, will experience moderate growth of 1.9 per cent in 2023.

Lending to those in the non-oil sectors have seen dramatic increases in Guyana, with President Dr Irfaan Ali revealing on Friday that credit to the rice milling sector increased by 59.2 per cent since 2020. He also revealed that credit to the agriculture sector grew by 34.9 per cent within that period, while credit to mining grew by 25.1 per cent, credit to the construction sector grew by 23.4 per cent and credit to the real estate sector, 21.8 per cent.

Buxton man nabbed with ganja during Police operation

A

38-year-old man from Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was in the wee hours of Sunday morning arrested with a quantity of ganja in his possession.

Police stated that around 2:00h on the day in question, Police ranks went to Friendship, ECD, where they contacted the suspect, who resides in Buxton.

However, a search was conducted on his person during which 38 transparent Ziplock bags containing cannabis were found in two Pringles containers. In addition, a quantity of transparent Ziplock bags containing “fronto and bamboo leaves” were discovered.

As such, the suspect was cautioned, arrested

The ganja and other items found during the search

and taken to the Vigilance Police Station where the narcotics were weighed

and amounted to 119 grams. He remains in custody pending charges.

22 FEATURE

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Writing letters to Santa Claus with their most fervent wish lists for gifts is one of the most cherished Christmas customs.

Santa Claus always rewards children for their good behaviour and is generous with his gifts. With the Christmas season upon us, Guyana Times contacted several children and asked them what gift they expected from Santa Claus this year.

Arielle dreams of being taken on a space voyage by Santa.

My Name is Nickloi, and I would like to have a pool from Santa.

I would like to have a mortal gecko flashlight – Zakiel.

All Mikayla wants for Christmas is a smartphone.

Zakari is hoping Santa brings him a Black Panther suit.

Christopher wants the white-bearded man to gift him a digital camera.

Neymar says, “Santa please bring me a skateboard.”

Cousins, Talia (left), and Kezia: For Christmas, Talia hopes to see her father, and Kezia wants her parents to be happy forever.

Mohamed's gifts brand-new home to WCB family for Christmas

A

fter experiencing what she described as a difficult 2023, during which her house was destroyed due to a freak storm and battling other personal issues, 48-yearold Ayesha Daniels has received the gift of a brand-new house for Christmas.

The two-bedroom building, situated in No 28 Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), was constructed from scratch with funding from businessman, A Mohamed.

The house, which Daniels will share with her grandson, was handed over during a simple ceremony on Sunday (Christmas Eve).

After being presented with the keys, an emotional Daniels expressed gratitude

The businessman and Daniels in her new home

for the kind gesture extended to her.

She stated that it has been a very rough year for her but thanked God for answering her prayers by send-

ing Mohamed, whom she described as a genuine and compassionate individual.

After the unfortunate incident, she recalled receiving a telephone call from Mike

Gonsalves, a member of Team Mohamed’s late one evening who told her that Team Mohamed’s would reconstruct her home.

With joy in her heart, she breathed a sigh of relief and thought that God works in mysterious ways. She could not find enough words to

thank the businessman for his generosity and promised to care for the gift which gave her a new lease of life.

Now that she has a roof over her head, she intends to restart her small food business within the village so that she can take care of herself and her grandson.

On the other hand, Mohamed was extremely happy to assist yet another Guyanese family so that they could live a comfortable life, especially during this season of sharing and giving.

He urged the mother of three to take good care of the house and extended a very merry Christmas to her and her family. (Team Mohamed’s FB page)

23

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

24 NEWS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Victoria man remanded for killing fellow villager A

fter being detained on December 18, Ruel Ward, a 23-year-old labourer of Lot 143-150 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was charged on Friday with murder.

William Montrose, 26, a miner and construction worker from Side Line Dam Victoria, ECD, was allegedly killed by him.

When Ward appeared before Magistrate Christel Lambert at the Vigilance Magistrates’ Courts, he was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge.

Bail was refused and he was remanded to prison until January 15, 2024.

Police said 24-yearold Youfie Eusi Bobb of 51 Victoria, ECD, and Montrose, were killed after a celebration in the village turned deadly on Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Twenty-five-year-old Delex Skeete, a plumber, and 19-year-old Siani McFarlene, a mason, both

Dead: William Montrose

from Victoria, ECD, sustained injuries during the brawl.

Reports are that the men were all at a construction party called “Bank On It” in the area when at about 03:15h on December 17, Bobb along with Skeete

amined, and three wounds were seen on the forehead, one to the left side upper chest, and two to the rightside jaw.

Police said one black-handled knife was found tucked in his left side waist. The body was escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital and pronounced dead on arrival.

According to eyewitnesses, while at the party, they saw a group of men walk up to Montrose, attack him, and rob him of his jewellery and other valuables. This allegedly led to a brawl between Montrose and the group of men, who all chopped and stabbed at each other. (G1)

Dead: Youfie Eusi Bobb

and McFarlene allegedly attacked Montrose and took his 30-pennyweight gold chain.

Police said that during the attack, Bobb along with the others dealt Montrose several stabs about his body. According to Police,

Montrose then left and returned with a cutlass and dealt Bobb, McFarlene, and Skeete chops about their bodies, after which he escaped.

Bobb and the two others were escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where Bobb was pronounced dead on arrival while the other two were admitted as patients.

The ranks then combed the area of the scene and discovered the body of Montrose in a trench about 500 feet north of the scene.

His body was facing upwards.

The body was fished out of the trench and ex-

Murder accused: Ruel Ward

Driver in Montrose fatal accident gets $500,000 bail

D

wayne Williams, a 44-year-old driver attached to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts on Friday, charged with the offence of causing death by dangerous driving. He was granted $500,000 bail.

The accused of Kuru Kururu, Linden-Soesdyke Highway, denied the charge after it was read to him. It is alleged that on Monday, December 18, he drove motor pick-up PAD 1720 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of 29-year-old Daniel McCalmon.

The matter was postponed until December 29, 2023.

McCalmon, a construction worker of West La Penitence, Georgetown, died following an accident involving two motor pickups – one registered to the NIS and another, GMM 8060.

Dead: Daniel McCalmon

At the time of the accident, the NIS vehicle was being driven by Williams, while an 80-year-old man from Dasrath Street, Triumph Village, ECD, was the driver of the other.

Police stated that the NIS vehicle was proceeding along the Montrose Public Road, ECD, at a fast rate and whilst in the process of negotiating a left turn, the driver lost control and collided with the centre median of the roadway.

As a result, the vehicle ended up in the other lane, thus colliding with McCalmon, who was at the time doing roadwork.

As a result of the collision, McCalmon was dragged by the NIS vehicle, which subsequently collided with GMM 8060, which was proceeding in the opposite direction.

Both vehicles came to a halt, with McCalmon pinned under the NIS pick-up. The injured man was picked up in an unconscious state, placed into a vehicle, and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A breathalyser test was conducted on the driver of the NIS vehicle, which showed that he had alcohol in his system. He was arrested and subsequently charged. Meanwhile, McCalmon’s cause of death was given as multiple injuries, consistent with a motor vehicle accident.

NEWS

25

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

UK to send warship for joint exercises in Guyana T

he UK is preparing to send a warship to Guyana in a show of diplomatic and military support for the former British colony, the BBC has learned.

It comes after neighbouring Venezuela renewed its claim for a disputed part of Guyanese territory that is rich in oil and minerals.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed HMS Trent would take part in joint exercises after Christmas.

Guyana, a Commonwealth member, is South America's only English-speaking nation.

HMS Trent - an offshore patrol vessel - had been deployed to the Caribbean to search for drug smugglers but was re-tasked after Venezuela's Government threatened to annex the Essequibo region of Guyana earlier this month.

This raised fears that Venezuela might invade and spark the first interstate war in South America since the Falklands Conflict in 1982.

Venezuela has long claimed ownership of Essequibo, a 61,000-squaremile region which comprises about two-thirds of Guyana.

Its hills and jungles are rich in gold, diamonds and bauxite, while huge oil deposits have been found off its coast.

While Guyana's economy is growing fast, Venezuela's is suffering.

Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela, staged a referendum on December 3 to assert popular support for his country's

Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana (left), and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro have agreed not to use force but tensions remain

claim to Essequibo.

The result was widely challenged and disputed but he nonetheless published new maps and legislation showing Essequibo as part of Venezuela, named a new governor and offered identity cards to those living in the sparsely populated region.

He has also ordered the state oil company to issue extraction licences.

Maduro has subsequently met Guyana's President, Irfaan Ali, and agreed not to use force, but he has maintained his territorial claim and both sides are still at odds over how the border dispute could be settled legally.

This week, the Lloyd's insurance market in London added Guyana to its list of riskiest shipping zones.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson told the BBC: "HMS Trent will visit regional ally and Commonwealth partner Guyana later this month as part of a series of

engagements in the Region during her Atlantic Patrol Task deployment."

HMS Trent has a crew of 65, a top speed of 24 knots and a range of 5000 nautical miles.

It is armed with 30mm cannon and a contingent of Royal Marines. It can also deploy Merlin helicopters and unmanned aircraft.

HMS Trent left its home port of Gibraltar in early December and is currently alongside in Bridgetown, Barbados for Christmas.

The warship is expected to anchor off the capital of Guyana, Georgetown, and conduct visits, joint activities and training with the country's navy and other allies. It cannot go alongside because the port is too shallow.

The vessel is mainly used for tackling piracy and smuggling, protecting fisheries, counterterrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and search and rescue oper-

ations, but the Royal Navy says it is also designed for

matic support for Guyana.

This week the Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron, said the UK would "continue to work with partners in the Region to ensure the territorial integrity of Guyana is upheld and prevent escalation".

David Rutley, the Foreign Office Minister for the Americas, visited Georgetown on December 18, the first G7 representative to do so since Venezuela renewed its claim.

He promised Guyana the UK's "unequivocal backing" and welcomed Venezuela's promise to avoid using force.

Rutley continued: "The border issue has been settled for over 120 years. Sovereign

Region, as well as through international bodies, to ensure the territorial integrity of Guyana is upheld."

Venezuela's Foreign Minister, Yvan Gil, criticised the visit, accusing the UK of destabilising the Region.

In a post on X - formerly Twitter - he said: "The former invading and enslaving empire, which illegally occupied the territory of Guayana Esequiba and acted in a skilful and sneaky manner against the interests of Venezuela, insists on intervening in a territorial controversy that they themselves generated."

Venezuela disputes the border which was established under an internation-

HMS Trent, an offshore patrol vessel, will take part in exercises off the coast of Guyana

border patrols and defence diplomacy.

The decision to send HMS Trent to Guyana is part of a growing UK effort to show international diplo-

borders must be respected wherever they are in the world.

"The UK will continue to work with partners in the

al agreement in 1899.

Guyana was formerly known as British Guiana before it secured its independence in 1966. (BBC World)

A mother's Christmas plea: Closure on missing son

A

mid the festive season, Denise Josiah's heart carries an indescribable heaviness, for it has been a year of uncertainty, pain, and an agonizing search for her missing son, Teejay Roxroy Prince. As the Christmas lights twinkle, Denise's eyes are clouded with tears, her thoughts consumed by the absence of her beloved son.

Teejay, a 31-yearold of Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD), vanished without a trace on December 17, 2022. A son, a brother, a vital part of a family now trapped in the relentless grip of despair.

Denise, though grappling with the speculation surrounding Teejay's disappearance, clings to hope. Hope that her son, whom she used to hear from every day, might still be alive.

Every day is a battle for Denise, who pours her heart into pleading for answers.

While whispers of potential foul play circulate, she remains resilient, urging those who may have information to come forward. The uncertainty gnaws at her, leaving her desperate for closure. "It is God keeping me," she whis-

Teejay and his mother in happier times

pered in an interview with Guyana Times, a testament to the strength she finds in her faith amidst the storm of uncertainty.

Denise revealed that the pain was not only personal but shared by her entire family, who, despite their efforts and the involvement of the Guyana Police Force, find themselves in a maze of unanswered questions.

“This is not easy for me at all. Every day I cry, every time I am left alone, I cry. I

just want to know where my son is and what happened to him,” she said.

Teejay's sister, Carleena Prince, shared the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on the family member, as they grapple with the mysterious circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

The last contact with Teejay was on December 14, 2022, and Denise yearns for the sound of his voice this Christmas. She plays his old voice messages, finding so-

Missing: Teejay Roxroy Prince

lace in the echoes of the past.

Food, once a source of joy, has lost its flavour, a painful reminder of Teejay's absence.

“I can’t even eat because I am always thinking about my son. I still have and play the voice messages he used to send me every day. If he didn’t send me one or call was because something serious happened,” she said.

The family's journey to seek justice has been met with challenges. Anonymous

calls hinting at Teejay's demise and a potential location in the Buxton Backdam have intensified the family's distress. Despite their pleas for a deeper Police investigation, they feel a lack of support.

The anguish deepens as they question the adequacy of the search efforts and pray for Teejay's safe return.

“I just want the Police to do something, let them do some deeper investigation to know what happened to

Teejay,” the woman said as she burst into tears.

This Christmas, Denise’s only wish is for closure – for answers that will alleviate the unbearable weight on her heart. As we celebrate with our loved ones, let us remember Teejay Roxroy Prince, a missing son whose family's desperate plea echoes in the holiday air. May their plea reach those with the power to bring clarity and peace to this fractured family.

26

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Migrant caravan spends Tobago Police Division gets Christmas on the road reinforcements from Trinidad after crime surge before heading to border P T housands of migrants arrived on Sunday in the southern Mexican town Alvaro Obregon to spend the Christmas Eve in a public square without shelter before making their way north to cross the country and reach the border with the United States.

On Sunday, the group of mostly Central American and Caribbean migrants had walked 15 kilometres (more than nine miles) from the southern border city Tapachula to get to Alvaro Obregon, with plans to set off again around 04:00h the next day.

Migrant rights activist Luis Garcia Villagran urged that migrants must not become political bargaining chips in the upcoming presidential election in the United States, where migrants were heading.

“We won’t be stopped, we’ll keep walking,” he said.

Local authorities esti-

On Sunday, the group of mostly Central American and Caribbean migrants had walked 15 kilometres (more than nine miles) from the southern border city Tapaculo (Edgar Hernandez Clemente/AP photo)

mated the size of the caravan to average about 8000 people per day. A Reuters witness travelling with the group said most migrants were from Central and South America but also the Caribbean.

Haitian migrant Ysguel Jean, who was carrying a white cross with “Christ” painted in red letters, said he had left his home country because of rampant crime and corruption, and because he wanted to provide for his two daughters.

“Three months in Tapachula trying to get

papers and I still have nothing,” he said. “I’m tired of waiting around in Tapachula, being hungry, and unable to earn a living.” Like others, he said he wanted to reach the United States.

In 2018 and 2019, large caravans mostly comprised of Central Americans crossed Mexico to reach the United States. These were followed by smaller groups in recent years.

Last year, record numbers of migrants attempted to cross the US-Mexico border illegally. (Reuters)

olice Officers from Trinidad have been sent to Tobago to provide reinforcements to the Tobago Division to increase safety and security on the island during the Christmas season and beyond.

Residents and the business community were left horrified by the number of murders recorded in Tobago in under 24 hours last week, pushing the island’s toll to 13 so far for 2023.

On Tuesday, a Signal Hill woman was found dead in a drain in Mt Irvine. Less than 24 hours later, Police responded to a double murder in Crown Point. By Friday, two men were injured in a drive-by shooting.

After an alleged member of a Tobago Sixx Gang was shot and killed at the Crown Point establishment, a release issued by the T&T Police Service’s Head of Homicide, Senior Superintendent Rishi Singh said Police were preparing for possible reprisals.

Guardian Media was told that whilst the number of officers will not be disclosed

B

a region where Suzano already has operations. Some 50,000 hectares of the acquired land are considered “usable”, Suzano said, adding that the area is planted with eucalyptus trees of varying ages.

The transaction takes place only days after rival Klabin announced the acquisition of land and forests in Parana state from a Chilean seller, for US$1.16 billion. That deal took the market by surprise and aims to reduce dependence on third-party wood.

Suzano will pay the

agreed value in cash on the deal’s closing date in 2024. The amount will be converted into dollars if the transaction closes after March 31, it added.

The acquisition price may be adjusted to reflect the condition of the targeted assets at the closing date, as is customary in this type of operation, Suzano said.

In a separate filing on Saturday, Suzano raised its investment projection for 2024 from 14.6 billion reais to 16.5 billion reais.

(Reuters)

he Met Office has warned of high levels of Saharan dust across the country.

On Saturday and Sunday, members of the public took to social media to complain of hazy conditions and allergies, owing to this.

In its recent forecasts, the Met Office said there has been a “significant concentration of Saharan dust”.

“Conditions may be unhealthy for sensitive persons, so caution is advised,” it added.

In addition to this, it said the 2024 dry season rainfall

S

er of Caribbean Journal, declared Sangster International Airport as the standout choice for the prestigious title.

Caribbean Journal applauded the airport’s recent makeover, resulting in a superior, more digitised passenger experience, enhanced services, and an upgraded Food & Beverage offering, featuring the world’s first-ever Bob Marley-branded restaurant. Notably, the commendation also acknowledged Club MoBay, one of the finest airport lounges in the wider Caribbean, and SIA’s remarkable contribution to the region’s fast-growing airlift net-

works.

Shane Munroe, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MBJ Airports Limited, expressed his excitement upon learning of the award.

“We are thrilled to be named Caribbean Airport of the Year by a publication that focuses on Caribbean Travel.

This award acknowledges our airport’s ongoing growth and development, our commitment to providing an exceptional passenger experience, and a further testament to our dedication to excellence,” Munroe stated. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

business community is still calling for an urgent meeting with Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher as the island’s murder rate reached a record high last week.

Chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce (Tobago Division), Curtis Williams told Guardian Media the situation was frightening and crime has cost Tobago millions in losses in 2023. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

shows “strongly-enhanced signals for suppression of rainfall towards drier-than-usual conditions in the first half of the season, followed by wetter than usual for the second half of the season for both islands.”

While there will be near-normal rainfall in December, it said below-normal is expected for JanuaryMarch and above-normal from March-May. “The expected drier-than-usual conditions in the first half of the dry season will negatively impact surface and groundwater recharge rates

and stream flow rates.

“Initial drier than usual and warmer than usual conditions at the beginning of the dry season may lead to an increase in breeding areas for insect vectors such as mosquitoes due to uncovered water storage devices.”

It added that the conditions will increase chances for bush, forest and landfill fires.

“This will likely reduce air quality and negatively affect persons with existing respiratory and other ailments.”

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Work on Bahamas Nat’l Development Plan to resume in earnest in new year

Sangster International Airport N named Caribbean Airport of the Year angster International Airport (SIA) has been named Caribbean Airport of the Year in the 10th annual Caribbean Travel Awards.

The announcement, made by Caribbean Journal, the world’s largest website covering Caribbean travel, highlighted SIA’s exceptional achievements and transformation into one of the Caribbean’s premier aviation hubs.

In a statement released on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, Alexander Britell, editor-in-chief, and found-

because of the sensitivity of the operation, members of the Inter-Agency Task Force and Guard and Emergency Branch from Trinidad are part of the operations currently in Tobago.

Officers conducted a mobile/foot patrol in the downtown Scarborough area where several vehicles and people were stopped and searched, however, nothing illegal was found.

These exercises will continue across the island.

Meanwhile, Tobago’s

T&T: Met Office warns of “high concentration” of Saharan dust

Brazil’s Suzano buys forestry assets for US$376M T razilian pulp and paper company Suzano has acquired certain forestry assets from two special-purpose firms managed by BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group, according to a securities filing.

The deal was valued at 1.826 billion reais (US$375.7 million) and requires regulatory approval, Suzano said in the filing late on Saturday.

The target companies own approximately 70,000 hectares of land in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, in

Police Officers on the streets of Tobago

ational Development Plan (NDP) Steering Committee Chairman Felix Stubbs said work on the plan would resume in earnest early in the new year.

Stubbs said the delay has been in finding a team who can man the secretariat.

“We wanted a couple of people who could do report writing, research; we want a couple of economists, and it seems that those people are very difficult to find; and so, I think now we’ve identified some persons who could be the executive director,” he said.

“I hope to get that approved very shortly, and once that is done, then they could [move forward] on getting the others. So, as a steering committee, we thought it would be useless to meet unless we had

a technical arm backing us up doing the technical work, so that has been the delay.

“We know that it is critical that we get this thing done. I’m a little disappointed that it has taken so long because I don’t want it to run into another election year like it did last time. We need to get this thing completed and up and running operationally because the work of the National Development Plan is so important to the economic growth of the country.”

In June, Prime Minister Philip Davis announced that the Government reappointed the National Development committee, selecting a Chairman to complete the plan, then prepare an implementation plan.

The original commit-

tee, comprised of individuals from a broad cross section of Bahamian society, did substantial work on the plan during the last term of the Christie administration.

While then Free National Movement Leader, Dr Hubert Minnis had supported the work of the NDP committee in opposition, the Minnis Administration failed to resume work on the plan.

But the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), prior to the 2021 general election, pledged to restart the effort.

While wrapping up debate on the 2023/2024 budget in the House of Assembly, Davis said, “We are currently reviewing recommendations for the steering committee to oversee the work. (Excerpt from Nassau Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

27

Around the World

Netanyahu vows to fight on in Gaza; OILNEWS OIL NEWS Islamic Jihad joins Cairo talks Oil reports biggest weekly gain in 2 months on Red Sea attacks, Angola output forecast; Brent settles at US$79/bbl

I

sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed on Sunday to fight deeper into Gaza after his troops endured one of the worst days of losses of their ground war, while militant group Islamic Jihad joined talks in Cairo, a sign diplomacy was still alive.

The arrival of a delegation in Cairo headed by Islamic Jihad's exiled leader Ziad al-Nakhlala followed talks attended by Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in recent days. Islamic Jihad, while smaller than Hamas, is also holding hostages in Gaza.

The militant groups have so far said they will not discuss any release of hostages unless Israel ends its war in Gaza, while the Israelis say they are willing

to discuss only a temporary pause in fighting.

But neither side has publicly walked away from talks that Washington last week described as "very serious", even as fighting has intensified throughout the Gaza Strip since a truce collapsed at the start of December.

Hamas and Islamic Jihad, both sworn to Israel's destruction, are still believed to be holding more than 100 hostages from among 240 they captured during their Oct 7 rampage through Israeli towns, when they killed 1200 people.

Since then, Israel has besieged the Gaza Strip and laid much of it to waste, with more than 20,400 people confirmed killed, according to Gaza authorities, and

Mourners attend the funeral of Israeli soldier Captain Oshri Moshe Butzhak, who was killed in the Gaza Strip during the Israeli army's ongoing ground operation amid the conflict with Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, at a cemetery in Haifa, Israel, December 24, 2023

thousands more believed dead under the rubble. The vast majority of the 2.3 million Gazans have been driv-

en from their homes and the United Nations says conditions are catastrophic.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine celebrates first Christmas on 25 December

C

rude oil posted the biggest weekly gain since October as attacks in the Red Sea forced hundreds of ships to take safer but longer routes, delaying the delivery of oil cargoes. Oil prices also eased expectations Angola could increase oil output after leaving the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) cartel, but rose for the week on positive US economic news and worries Houthi ship attacks would boost supply costs.

Brent futures fell 32 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to settle at US$79.07 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 33 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to settle at US$73.56, according to news agency Reuters. This left both benchmarks up about three per cent for the week after gaining less than one per cent last week.

Back home, on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), crude oil futures due for a January 19 expiry, settled higher by 0.02 per cent at ?6164 per bbl, having swung between ?6126 and ?6247 per bbl during the session, against a previous close of ?6163 per barrel.

Crude is headed for its first annual drop since 2020 as surging production from the US and elsewhere counters efforts by the OPEC cartel to support prices through output cuts. The outlook for demand is also fragile, with the International Energy Agency forecasting that growth will slow sharply next year.

So far this week, only about 30 tankers, including crude oil and fuel carriers, have entered the Bab al-Mandab Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea, according to vessel-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg.

In the Middle East, more maritime carriers said they were avoiding the Red Sea due to attacks on vessels carried out by the Iranian-backed Houthi militant group, which says it is responding to Israel's war in Gaza. Major shippers such as Maersk said they would impose extra charges linked to rerouting ships.

The attacks have caused disruptions through the Suez Canal, which handles about 12 per cent of world trade. In Iraq, Oil Ministry spokesman Asim Jihad affirmed Iraq's support for the OPEC agreement and its commitment to voluntary oil cuts.

In Africa, Angola's decision to leave the OPEC cartel could open the way for Beijing to increase investment in the country's oil and other sectors. Angola produces about 1.1 million barrels per day of oil.

The US inflation data and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea should be more supportive of oil prices than any future increase in output from Angola, according to analysts.

In the US, a key inflation reading came in softer than expected, boosting investor optimism that the US Federal Reserve would lower borrowing costs next year. Lower interest rates cut consumer borrowing costs, which can boost economic growth and demand for oil.

Expectations that the Fed is more likely to cut interest rates next year also helped reduce the US dollar to its lowest since July against a basket of other currencies for a second day in a row. A weaker dollar can boost oil demand by making the fuel more expensive for buyers using other currencies. (Mint. com)

U

krainian Orthodox Christians are preparing to celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time this year.

Ukraine has traditionally used the Julian calendar, also used by Russia, where Christmas falls on January 7.

In a further shift from Russia, it is now marking Christmas according to the Western - or Georgian - calendar, which it uses in everyday life.

Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelensky changed the law in July, saying it allowed Ukrainians to "abandon the Russian heritage" of celebrating Christmas in January.

In a Christmas message issued on Sunday evening, Zelensky said all Ukrainians were now together.

"We all celebrate Christmas together. On the same date, as one big family, as one nation, as one united country."

In the capital Kyiv, married couple Lesia

Shestakova, a Catholic, and Oleksandr Shestakov, who is Orthodox, are celebrating Christmas together.

"There is finally a day in Ukraine which my husband and I can spend together in the cathedral and thank God that we are together, alive and in good health," Lesia told Reuters news agency.

Ukraine's Orthodox Church, a newly created independent church that held its first service in 2019, has also changed its Christmas

date to December 25.

It formally broke away from the Russian Orthodox church over Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

People prayed and lit candles across the country on Sunday.

In the western city of Lviv, which has been little damaged by the war, children in traditional costumes sang carols and took part in festive processions on the streets. (BBC News)

Beijing breaks a 7-decade Indonesia nickel smelter furnace fire kills cold-weather record 13 workers, injures 46

C

hina's capital Beijing has broken its record for hours of sub-zero temperatures in December dating back to 1951, after a cold wave swept swathes of the country and brought blizzards in its wake, sending temperatures towards historic lows.

Northern and northeastern parts of the country have experienced a record-breaking chill since last week, with some areas in the northeast hitting minus 40 Celsius and Fahrenheit and below, as biting cold air flowed down from the Arctic.

As of Sunday, a weather observatory in Beijing had recorded more than 300 hours of below-freezing temperatures since Dec 11, the most for the month since records began in 1951, according to state-backed Beijing Daily.

The capital has also endured nine consecutive days of temperatures below minus 10 C (14 F) in this period, the Beijing Daily added.

Several cities in the cen-

tral Chinese province of Henan, southwest of Beijing, are in the grip of a winter heating supply crunch, with thermal power suppliers in the city of Jiaozuo under pressure to ensure supplies.

Heating boilers at JiaoZuo WanFang Aluminum Manufacturing, one of the major suppliers in the city, have broken down, leaving some areas in urgent need of more heat supply, state media reported on Sunday.

The supplier is scrambling to fix the malfunction and expects to resume supply on Dec 26, state media reported, without specifying the number of boilers that have broken down.

The city will suspend heat supply for most businesses except essential service providers such as hospitals and senior centres to prioritise residential heat usage. However, some residential compounds will still be affected during the device maintenance period, the media reports added. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T

hirteen workers were killed and 46 injured on Sunday in a fire at a nickel smelter furnace owned by Indonesia Tsingshan Stainless Steel (ITSS) on Sulawesi island, the owner of the industrial park where the smelter is located said.

The fire occurred when workers repaired the furnace and installed plates at 5:30 am on Sunday (2130 GMT on Saturday), killing nine Indonesian workers and four Chinese workers, Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) said in a statement. The fire was extinguished at 9:10 am local time, it added.

It had said earlier that an explosion killed eight Indonesian and five Chinese workers.

The furnace was shut off the day before to prepare for maintenance, IMIP said, but during the maintenance process excess iron slag flowed from the furnace.

"The furnace walls then

collapsed and the remaining iron slag flowed out, causing a fire and resulting in some workers at the location suffering injuries and even fatalities," IMIP spokesperson Dedy Kurniawan said in the statement.

The workers were injured by hot steam from stainless steel slag and the burning fire, Dedy told a separate interview with local station Metro TV. There was no explosion or oxygen canister on site, he said, revising the company's earlier statement.

IMIP is a nickel-focused industrial park owned by China's Tsingshan and its local partner Bintang Delapan Group, which produce stainless steel and carbon steel. ITSS is one of the tenants at the industrial park, IMIP said.

IMIP will coordinate with related parties to investigate the incident and cover all treatment costs for victims, the company said.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

28

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Learn all you can. Being informed will spare you from getting involved in something costly or emotionally taxing. Make decisions that can help you achieve your objective. Follow the facts.

(March 21-April 19) Listen to someone’s proposal, but don’t buy into something you don’t need.

Giving everyone the chance to do things their way will buy you time to decide what you want.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Don’t flip back and forth when stability is necessary. Size up situations, get the facts, and make direct decisions that help you avoid trouble. Use your strengths to get things done.

(May 21-June 20) Live in the moment and immerse yourself in positive thoughts. Emotional dynamics will determine your course of action. Offer peace and love, and work to improve the world.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Offers will tempt you, but before jumping into the fast lane, consider where you’re heading. There is safety and comfort in familiarity. Resolve unfinished business.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Family dynamics are complicated, and being honest with yourself and others will be necessary. An opportunity that offers change is in your best interest. Discipline and common sense will be key.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Learn all you can before conversing with someone who doesn’t share your beliefs. Keeping the peace will speak volumes about your character to those waiting and watching to see what you do next. Plan your journey thoughtfully; take the high road.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

Consider your goals and make things happen. Don’t fear criticism; be yourself, and don’t apologize for who you are or what you want. Be honest if you want to reach your goal.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Get into a positive frame of mind and have fun with the people you love. A kind gesture, word or offering will make someone’s day and encourage you to do more for others.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Tune in to what’s happening in your circle, and you’ll discover information or insights that will help you make a positive move. A positive change at home will warm your heart.

LAST PUBLISHED WORD -- SMOLDER

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Put comfort and convenience first.

Refuse to let the actions of others influence the decisions you make. A congenial attitude will help set the tone. Offer peace and love.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Observation will provide insight into family dynamics. Look for the good in everyone. Do your best to minimize stress and tension. Let romance and love brighten your day.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

29

Manchester United: Sir Jim Ratcliffe agrees deal to buy 25% stake B

ritish billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has agreed to buy a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United for about US$1.3 billion (£1.03 billion).

Ratcliffe's Ineos Group will take control of football operations.

The 71-year-old will also provide US$300 million for future investment into the club's Old Trafford stadium.

The announcement comes 13 months after the club's owners, the Glazer family, stated they were considering selling to "explore strategic alternatives".

The American family bought the club for £790m in 2005.

The only other publicly declared bidder, Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani withdrew his offer to buy 100 per cent of the club in October.

United have struggled on the pitch this season and have not won the Premier League since 2013, while there have been regular protests against the Glazer ownership.

Manchester-born Ratcliffe is Chairman of petrochemicals company Ineos and says he is a "lifelong supporter of the club". He tried and failed to buy Chelsea last year..

In a statement, he said: "Whilst the commercial success of the club has ensured there have always been avail-

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's deal is expected to see significant funds used to upgrade the club's training ground and Old Trafford stadium

able funds to win trophies at the highest level, this potential has not been fully unlocked in recent times.

"We will bring the global knowledge, expertise and talent from the wider Ineos Sport group to help drive further improvement at the club, while also providing funds intended to enable future investment into Old Trafford.

"We are here for the long term and recognise that a lot of challenges and hard work lie ahead, which we will approach with rigour, professionalism and passion. We are committed to working with everyone at the club – the Board, staff, players and fans – to help drive the club forward.

"Our shared ambition is clear: we all want to see

Manchester United back where we belong, at the very top of English, European and world football."

The club say the deal is "subject to customary regulatory approvals", but are "hopeful it will be completed as soon as possible".

There is initially going to be a six-to-eight week process for the deal to be ratified, which includes being signed off by the Premier League.

How will the deal work?

Ratcliffe has agreed to buy 25 per cent of the club's class B shares, largely held by the Glazer family, who own 69 per cent of the club, and contain almost all the voting rights, and up to 25 per cent of its class A shares, which are listed on the

New York Stock Market. The shares are worth US$33 per share.

It means the Glazer family will retain a majority stake in the club.

Taking on sporting control at the club means Ineos will oversee the men's and women's football operations and academies.

They will also get two seats on the Manchester United PLC and Manchester United Football Club Boards.

Subject to necessary approvals, Ratcliffe will delegate his seats on the PLC Board to John Reece, a shareholder of Ineos, and Rob Nevin, Chairman of Ineos Sport.

On the UK club board he will delegate his seats to former British Cycling chief Sir Dave Brailsford and former Juventus and Paris StGermain executive JeanClaude Blanc.

United's Executive CoChairmen and Directors Avram Glazer and Joel Glazer said: "Sir Jim and Ineos bring a wealth of commercial experience as well as significant financial commitment into the club.

"Through Ineos Sport, Manchester United will have access to seasoned high-performance professionals, experienced in creating and leading elite teams from both inside and outside the game.

"Manchester United has

talented people right across the club and our desire is to always improve at every level to help bring our great fans more success in the future."

Ineos already owns French Ligue 1 club Nice, who are currently second in the table and well placed to qualify for next season's Champions League, and Swiss club Lausanne.

Its sporting portfolio also includes high-profile sailing team Ineos Britannia – led by Sir Ben Ainslie – which is aiming to win the 2024 America's Cup for Great Britain.

Ineos also has a five-year partnership with Formula 1 team Mercedes, owning a third of the team – and took over the British-based Team Sky in cycling in 2019.

'Trawlers Limited' -- the company owned by Ratcliffe which is making the acquisition – was inspired by the famous quote by former United striker Eric Cantona.

10 years of struggles Fans opposed to the Glazers' continued involvement at United have held a series of protests inside and outside Old Trafford over the last 12 months of a process which people close to it confidently predicted would be concluded by the end of last season.

The past decade, since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, has seen inconsistency on the pitch

despite a high transfer spend, and several big-name managers hired and sacked.

United are again inconsistent this season under Dutch manager Erik Ten Hag, having lost 13 of their 26 games in all competitions, sitting eighth in the Premier League and having finished bottom of their Champions League group and been knocked out of the EFL Cup. Manchester United Supporters' Trust (Must) said "fans have very mixed feelings today" and that the Glazers' ongoing role was "a cause for serious concern".

The Trust added that it wished Ratcliffe's stake was more than 25 per cent and that it was a "puzzle how any organisation can put its very core business in the hands of a minority shareholder, and how that meaningfully works in practice".

"It is now incumbent on the club's owners and management to properly explain how this new structure will work, where the new investment will be directed and how it will benefit the team on the field.

"Today might – just might – be a step forward for Manchester United after some very difficult years. But with the Glazers still in charge, people should understand that United fans will remain sceptical and wait for the proof in the pudding." (BBC Sport)

Curran's appeal dismissed by BBL with 4-game ban upheld

T

he Big Bash League (BBL) has dismissed Tom Curran's appeal to have his four-match ban for umpire intimidation overturned, with the Sydney Sixers all-rounder saying he deeply regrets the way he acted towards match official Muhammad Qureshi.

Curran was suspended by Cricket Australia for four BBL matches after being charged and found guilty of a Level 3 offence under CA's Code of Conduct for an incident before Sixers' match against Hobart Hurricanes on December 11 in Launceston.

Sydney Sixers appealed the decision with Captain Moises Henriques, stating that he was "struggling to comprehend" the ban.

But the BBL confirmed Curran's appeal had been dismissed on Sunday and the ban would remain, meaning the all-rounder will miss the Sixers' next three matches against Melbourne Stars, Sydney Thunder, and Brisbane Heat, having already missed the win over Adelaide Strikers on Friday.

Curran will be available again for the January 3 clash with Heat in Coffs Harbour.

BBL General Manager Alistair Dobson said that Curran's remorse had been acknowledged in the appeal process, but respect towards umpires was imperative.

"Umpires are part of the lifeblood of cricket and it is essential they are respected and appreciated by players at all levels of the game," Dobson said. "We acknowledge the remorse Tom's shown following the appeal and look forward to seeing him back in Sixers colours.

"Tom has been a long-time contributor to the BBL and is a clear fan-favourite and someone we hope will continue to play an integral role in the competition moving forward."

Sixers released a lengthy statement with Curran expressing regret for his actions.

"I have had a lot of time to reflect on my actions and the incident that occurred in Launceston on December 11," Curran said.

"Across my decade long professional career I have always sought to have a friendly and respectful relationship with match officials, which I believe is reflected in the lack of prior code-of-conduct

Tom Curran's appeal to have his four-game ban overturned was dismissed

breaches across the world.

"Until the moment of the incident, my interactions with Umpire Qureshi on December 11 commenced in a manner consistent with the rest of my professional career, we shared a laugh as he worked through his duties measuring bats in the changeroom.

"My preparation for every fixture is deeply methodical and my focus is intense during the warm-up. Part of my preparation is to do a run through and gauge my run-up

on that particular surface. I've done this before every match and for me it's part of my routine for every match.

"The interaction with Umpire Qureshi took me by surprise at a time when I was very focused on my pre-match routine. I didn't expect the stand-off that resulted.

"I deeply regret the way I reacted to it and the resultant impact for Umpire Qureshi, the Sydney Sixers ,and myself personally.

"My intention was always

to veer off to Umpire Qureshi's right, in a similar way to my run-up at the other end. I had never considered running into him and never considered that he would think that was my intention. However, on reflection, I should have repositioned my runup a metre or so to my left. I would not do the same if the situation arose again, and I am sorry.

"With the benefit of hindsight, I also could have approached Umpire Quereshi during the fixture to discuss the interaction, hear his perspective and offer mine. I regret not doing this.

"I am genuinely sorry that I chose to continue to practice my run-up in the direction of Umpire Qureshi and if he ever thought I sought to make physical contact with him.

"I would like to apologise to everyone that this has affected and thank those who have supported me through this incredibly difficult time, particularly Hannah Barnes, Greg Mail, Rachael Haynes, and all of the Sixers' players and staff.

"I look forward to rejoining my teammates and returning to the field on January 3 in Coffs Harbour."

Head of Sydney Sixers, Rachael Haynes, defended her club's decision to appeal the ban, but accepted the result.

"We accept the findings of the Code of Conduct Commissioner and the sanction imposed," Haynes said.

"While we support Tom as a valued member of the club, in no way do we condone any sort of disrespect towards match officials. This was a regrettable situation and one that Tom has shown remorse for.

"We sought to appeal the original decision based on previous Code of Conduct cases.

Whilst not disagreeing that Tom had breached the code through his conduct, we felt that the charge was inconsistent with other offences.

Following the ruling, we respect that not to be the case.

"Both the club and Tom would also like to apologise for being unable to speak about the incident until after today's appeal was heard, as we progressed through the judicial process.

"We will continue to support Tom through the season and are looking forward to our next match on Boxing Day." (ESPNcricinfo)

30 Dramatic play-off crowns Khan National Chess Champion MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

T

affin Khan emerged victorious after a nail-biting threegame play-off, snatching the coveted title of National Chess Champion, against the formidable Loris Nathoo. Both players had tied with 7.5 points each during the 2023 National Open Championships which led to this final head-to-head showdown.

The play-off event, hosted at the Ocean Spray Hotel in Georgetown, was proudly sponsored

by Gaico. The confrontation began with a coin toss

by Tournament Director and FIDE Arbiter Irshad Mohamad, to determine on which side of the board the players would start the first game. Nathoo won the toss and elected to play with the white pieces.

The first game, with a time limit of 20 minutes per player, was a tactical battle that ended in a hard-fought draw. Game two, played with 10 minutes on the clock, saw neither side gaining an advantage until Nathoo’s time expired, giving the point to Khan.

Game three, a five-minute blitz, would be the deciding game of the 2023 championship. With only a half point against Khan’s 1.5 points, Nathoo needed to win this one to claim the title. Candidate Master Khan played a solid line, quickly liquidated the major pieces and reduced any possibility of an attack on his fortified positions. The game ended in a draw, with a final score of two points to one in favour of CM Khan.

Nathoo commented,

Taffin Khan and Loris Nathoo in action Taffin Khan receives his prize from Tournament Director Irshad Mohamad

“It is never easy playing against CM Taffin, but it’s always enjoyable. Taffin is a wonderful competitor that brings out the best in you.”

Nathoo went on to say that he thoroughly enjoyed the tournament and was looking forward to continuing the battles next year.

CM Khan related that Game 1 was the most difficult since he ended up with a Queen and Bishop against Nathoo’s Queen and Knight. Aware that with a Queen and Knight, a mating net can be set up, he quickly exchanged his Bishop for the Knight, resulting in a draw.

The play-off culminated a successful season for the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), marked by strong game development among

junior and senior players alike, and a surge in interest from new members.

The Federation expressed its immense pride in these advancements, attributing them to the dedicated efforts of the Board and its members.

The season ended with a prize-giving ceremony for the top three of the National Open Championships: CM Khan, the new 2023 title holder; second-place winner Nathoo, and third-place finisher Keron Sandiford.

Prizes were also awarded to the top three finishers in the National Women’s Championship: Jessica Callender (first place); Sasha Christina Shariff (second place); and Aniyah Couchman (third place).

Prizes were awarded as well to the top 10 up-and-coming Junior Nationals of the season: Keron Sandiford, Kyle Couchman, Ethan Lee, Matthew Singh, Oluwadare Oyeyipo, Ricardo Narine, Ronan Lee, Nicholas Zhang, Alexander Zhang, and Kishan Puran.

Kataleya Sam was also recognised for her exceptional performance at the XIV CAC Youth Chess Festival held in Trinidad and Tobago last August.

Sam placed third in the Under-10 female division and earned a Conditional Women’s title for outstanding performance. Sam will have to earn ELO rating points of 1800 to claim her title. She was presented with a gift voucher during the prize-giving presentation.

A notable mention

was Women’s Champion Jessica Callender, who placed third in the online Blitz 2023 WIM Deborah Richards-Porter Ladies’ Chess Tournament held on December 3, 2023.

The Chess Federation extends its gratitude to the management and staff of Ocean Spray Hotel for facilitating the play-off and granting the use of the facilities on short notice.

The GCF wished to also extend gratitude to all its sponsors, parents, teachers and friends who have helped in the successful development and growth of the game throughout the year. Best wishes for a safe, peaceful and enjoyable Christmas from the Board and Executive Management of the GCF to all members, parents, sponsors and chess enthusiasts.

New records expected at Boxing Day horse racing

N

ew records will be set during the Boxing Day seven-race card at Port Mourant race course, Corentyne, Berbice.

Traditionally Boxing Day races were held at the Kennard Memorial Turf Club race course, Berbice.

This year, the event has been graciously taken up by the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC).

Thurbhuwan Jagdeo reacted to Mrs Kennard’s offering of tomorrow’s Boxing Day meet for PMTC saying, “I will like to take this opportunity to wish everyone(horsemen and race fans), and the people of One Guyana all the best in this festive season. Praise has to be heaped on Mrs Kennard for her kind gesture. She is an icon in this country, and a stalwart in the industry.

Her heart is with the sport, and her gesture to offer us the day, tells the story of such a noble person. I will like to personally thank her openly for her kindness, and

A glimpse of what to expect at the Boxing Day horse race

love for the sport.”

Jagdeo continued, “I have to thank all sponsors who have come on board to make this day a very lucrative one for horsemen.

Special mention to sponsor Metro, who has remained loyal to the Boxing Day card when staged at Judge (Cecil) Kennard’s track.

This company is the sponsor of the feature event over one mile.”

Promoter Turbo, as Jagdeo is known in the

racing industry, added, “Bossalina who beat (last year’s Guyana Cup winner) Alado when they last met at this track earlier in the month is the star attraction. She will clash with Jumbo Jet Stable’s Spankhurst, who won the 1200-metre Sprint Classic on Guyana Cup day. There are four other runners in the race amongst whom is recent Canadian import Stolen Money owned by Simple Royal Stable, and

trained by Dennis Deoroop, who was also the trainer of Scores Even, a multiple Guyana Cup winner.”

Could Deoroop rewrite the history he achieved with Scores Even?

That will be answered in the day’s finale at Port Mourant. Turbo is advising race fans to leave home early to get to the track.

He said the star-studded card will also showcase Red Ruby who in her last race earlier this month beat Firecracker, who won the Guyana Derby on Guyana Cup day.

Red Ruby has a new challenge in trainer Fazal Habibulla’s recent speedy import Angry Bird, who is a half- sister to Early Bird, and Super Bird (a champion in Trinidad). Angry Bird will make her racing debut in the five-horse race in her bid to topple Red Ruby.

In closing, Turbo announced, “I have to thank those who have invested in the importation of a num-

ber of horses in the country to build the sport. The industry is improving, and we have a number of plans that we are working on to take the sport to a higher level.

I can assure those owners who imported horses… we (the promoters) are giving an assurance to them. We will have more race days in the New Year which marks the start of the racing season.”

He pointed out, “For example, New Year’s Day racing will be staged at Rising Sun Turf Club, Rising Sun, Berbice. This day will be promoted by Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Committee.

A number of young future stars are expected to make their debut on that day.

Again … thanks to all those involved in making the Boxing Day card a success, and the 2023 season.”

“Blessings to all, and best of luck in the new year, and thanks to all the people of One Guyana,” Turbo ended.

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Ext 19

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

Story and Photos by Jemima Holmes

T

here are no age limits on dreams and for some, the desire to feverishly pursue a personal goal can begin at a tender age. For one 11-yearold lad of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, this Christmas season is a chance to get his hands on tools that can push the pursuit of his goals to new heights.

“Everybody got to begin them dreams, let them do what they dreams tell them to do,” Clive “Edu” Jacobs told Guyana Times Sport in an exclusive sit-down.

The budding goalkeep-

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Initially, the stubby young man began playing in the defensive positions, but soon enough, his love for guarding the nets developed.

“Not really, youse get injure and them things,” he said in explaining why he did not spend too much time playing defence.

He added: “I just wanted to” be a goalkeeper.

While the pre-teen started plying his trade at a club in his community, his desire to reach to higher heights resulted in him being introduced to the Coach of Fruta Conquerors Football Club, Sampson “Boniah” Gilbert.

He divulged, “Me friend, Ayesha, she invite me to go

Clive “Edu” Jacobs

Edu going through his paces

nets.

“Too short to be a goalkeeper” are words that he has heard time and time again, but the lad is no longer bothered by what others have to say about his abilities.

“Is not about what people saying, is about what your mind go to. Nuff people, but I just keep me mouth shut and leave them,” Edu shared about persons who often tell him he’s ‘too short’ to be a keeper.

And of course, there are times when it doesn’t work in his favour. For instance, when Jacobs competed at last year’s U11 tournament in the final, the winning shot soared over his head, when his line of sight was being blocked by another player.

Discussing how that loss impacted him, Jacobs

returning home from school, Edu would get his gear from home and make the anticipated walk over to Tucville.

Though some might see it as a long trek for the 11-yearold, he doesn’t mind, since it gives him the opportunity to master the art of handling the ball in a kick-dominated sport.

“The walking is really reasonable. Tired sometimes, but I just push myself to go,” Edu related.

He added with a wandering smile, “‘Cause I love playing football and I enjoy it.”

Goalkeeping can someer is a Grade Six student of St Pius Primary and hopes to one day man the nets for Guyana’s senior men’s national team, the Golden Jaguars.

The first glimpse of that dream came just months ago when Jacobs, along with his teammates at St Pius, clinched the Petra-organised Under-11 football title.

Now, instead of the regular toy cars that most boys his age would want to see under the Christmas tree, Edu is hoping his gifts can tie in to, and help him boost his football.

How the dream started

“I see my cousin, my uncle and all of them playing football and I ask them if I could play and they said ‘yeah, they gon let I play’.

And I start going on. Next I go to a club, then I went to a next club, and stick with Fruta Conquerors,” Edu told this publication when quizzed about how he got into the sport of football.

to Boniah and then afterwards, I start going all the time.”

Learning his craft

By now, one might realise that the youngster, who resides in East Ruimveldt, would have to travel all the way to Tucville, on the opposing side of Mandela Avenue to train. On afternoons, after

31

times be seen as one of the hard jobs on the pitch, but Jacobs doesn’t view it that way; in fact, for him, it comes easily.

“The training is really reasonable, but everybody thinking it hard, hard. It really a little easy, easy.”

However, the job does come with its ups and downs; occurrences that he accepts

and learns from.

Describing one time this year when he was beaten by a shot and felt disappointment, Edu shared, “This year I went to the goal post and I see the ball cross me and I look at the ball and the ball roll and go over me top.”

Nonetheless, steady encouragement is something the lad thrives on.

“Coach man is always telling me, don’t bother with that, next time we gon get them,” a relaxed “Edu” recounted.

“Short Man” the Keeper

If lined up next to his peers, the one thing that would stand out about Edu is his height; a fact that may make the youngster appear to be an easy target in the

shared, “I was feeling sad all the time. Coach man tell we, we will come back next year and win the tournament.”

“He keep telling we, we will make it and then all of we were studying in our minds and that’s how we come back and win,” the youngster added.

This time, around, there was no stopping the St Pius team, even though they may have stumbled at the start of the tournament.

Edu is confident and committed in his training to ensure his team get over the line.

Talking about how confident he was that his team would win this title this time around, Edu said, “Yes. ‘Cause of how I was. I went

home and study. Then I go and train, I keep training, training, training. That’s how I help win.”

“Everybody was glad, everybody went smiling, some people was crying.

Everybody was glad they get something,” he said of his redemption moment, when St Pius won the tournament.

A keeper’s Christmas wish

By now, it must be evident what is on Edu’s Christmas wish list.

Eagerly responding to the question as though he has gone over it thousands of times, Edu said, “What I want for Christmas now, is a bicycle, a gloves and a new football boots.”

Last year, his goalkeeping gloves were stolen and since then, he has been using a pair that was loaned to him by his Coach.

“Because the gloves that I get right now, it loosing up,” Edu said about the rationale behind his Christmas gift choices. On the matter of the bicycle, he explained that it would make his travel to training much easier, since he could ride.

“It would mean a lot to me,” the youngster said in a more sombre tone.

Revisiting the topic of his dream, the 11-year-old passionately spoke about his plan as he aims to balance the National Grade Six Assessment and football over the next few months.

While Edu is not too eager to secure a spot at the top two schools in the country, he does want to do well enough to go to a good school.

Maintaining good grades is also a part of his plans, since it is the key to securing a football scholarship at his dream school Chase’s Academic Foundation.

Quizzed about why he would rather go to the private institution, Edu responded, “‘Cause they does play good football. I like how Chase does play.”

It seems the youngster has all the steps carefully planned out and it all starts with what he looks forward to seeing under the tree this morning.

“You got to work your way up. Sometimes, somebody buy you and you go to a better club. Sometimes, Boniah could carry you to a same national team. That’s my dream.”

Though just a dream, it can slowly become a reality…beginning this Christmas.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2023

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

Pg 31

Pg 30

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