Guyana Times - Monday, May 6, 2024

Irfaan Ali, Bharrat Jagdeo lead list of new 35-member Central Committee

…Congress a “resounding success”, “shock value” left Opposition reeling – GS

PPP Congress unanimously removes socialism & Marxism-Leninism from Party’s constitution …Party not giving up on working-class ideology, but moving closer to reality of today – Jagdeo Guyana will remain carbon negative despite expansion of oil & gas activities – Bharrat

PPP investing in preparing youths in Party, Govt for leadership – GS …says APNU/AFC has severe deficit of young, capable

Construction worker crushed to death in septic tank Man escapes after Police uncover slaughtered stolen cattle

45 healthcare workers graduate from Washington University Double murder-$37M gold heist Pensioner slapped with accessory to murder after the fact charge

Jagdeo rubbishes APNU criticisms of PPP holding Congress at ACCC …says it’s a

Arrival Day 2024 Guyana has emerged as a melting pot of various cultures – Indian High Commissioner Publishing history created with biographies of Guyanese couple who became presidents

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Monday, May 6 – 03:00h-04:30h and Tuesday, May 7 – 03:00h-04:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, May 6 –15:20h-16:50h and Tuesday, May 7 – 15:30h-17:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected until the early-afternoon hours, followed by sunny conditions. Partly cloudy skies and light rain showers are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 15:27h reaching a maximum height of 2.71 metres.

Low Tide: 09:00h and 21:16h reaching minimum heights of 0.43 metre and 0.51 metre.

PPP 32nd Congress

Irfaan Ali, Bharrat Jagdeo lead list of new 35-member Central Committee

…Congress a “resounding success”, “shock value” left Opposition reeling – GS

The

newly-elected Central Committee of the PPP

People’s Progressive Party 32nd Congress witnessed the election of a 40-member Central Committee of the party, including 35 voting members that saw the rise of new faces, even while some more seasoned veterans quietly slid down the voting tally.

Leading the list with the highest votes was President Dr. Irfaan Ali (2308). Coming in a close second was the General Secretary of the party, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo (2257), while the party’s Executive Secretary, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, came third (2174).

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat (2046); Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira (2015) and former Minister of Local Governance and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall (1912) rounded out the top six.

Other Central Committee members also include Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal (1792); Minister within the Office of Prime Minister Kwame McCoy (1721); Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall (1690), Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai (1688) and Shyam Nokta (1616).

Also elected were Ricky Ramraj (1502); Member of Parliament Jennifer Westford (1485), Neil Kumar (1465), Anand Persaud (1372), Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony (1308), Zamal Hussain (1224); Faizal Jaffarally (1221); Bryan Allicock (1213); Human Services Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (1206); Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Charles Ramson Jr. (1155); Karl Singh (1115).

Claire Singh (1088), former President Donald Ramotar (1075), Humace Oodit (981), Region One (Barima-Wini) Chairman Brentnol Ashley (916); Guyana Rice Producers Association (GRPA) President and Member of Parliament Dharamkumar Seeraj (915), former Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran (899); Sheik Ayube (896), former PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee (735) and President of the Women and Gender Equality Commission Indranie Chandarpal (703) are also on the Central Committee.

While the new Central Committee saw some familiar faces returning, several new figures have also joined the helm of the party. They include former Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Paul Cheong (1111); Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Commissioner and Attorney-at-Law Sase Gunraj (749) and Parliamentary Secretaries Sarah Browne (1240) and Vickash Ramkissoon (873).

Meanwhile, five persons were elected to the committee but as candidate members without voting rights. They were Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar (1317); Labour Ministry Permanent Secretary Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas (891), Jason Abdulla (888), Andrew Forsythe (706) and Rion Peters (688).

Resounding success

During the press conference where he announced the results, Jagdeo described the congress as a “resounding success”. He made it clear that the ethnic diversity was there for all to see, also taking a swipe at the opposition which has been critical of the congress.

“Overall, our congress was a resounding success.

I’ve seen some people griping all the time. The shock value of what they saw here. The ethnic diversity, when you go under the tent and you look at the volunteers and the people, we didn’t pay those people. People of every race, coming from Linden and every part of the country. East Coast, Georgetown.”

“The cultural show. Our own comrades from parts of the country, performing. The camaraderie, the spirit of what took place here. When you look at that, its unbelievable. And I think it shook up the PNC. That’s why the gripers went into hyper mode. They saw the writing on the wall.”

At the last congress in 2016, the highest number of votes for a single candidate (Jagdeo) had been 718 votes. Fast forward to 2024 and Jagdeo pointed out that the PPP/C’s membership has grown exponentially between then and now.

“Our party has grown enormously from the time we were in opposition, to this congress. We have had more than twice the number of delegates of past elections. And large numbers of volunteers,” Jagdeo said, going on to thank those who contributed to the congress.

Jagdeo further explained that there were

even more people who wanted to come to the congress. However, he explained that there were limitations on how many can come based on their numerical strength at the party level.

“So, we didn’t have a situation where we had to corral people and force them to attend or, as some would like to believe because they practice the same thing. They fill up the seats with people who are not affiliated with the party… in this case, we had committed members attending the congress.”

“Historically, I’ve gone to congresses. And often, after the vote on the first day for members of the Central Committee, on the second day people would go back home. Many of them. Because they believe they’ve fulfilled their mandate. Today, we had a packed hall. The delegates did not budge an inch. They waited for the discussions and the many resolutions we passed today,” Jagdeo also said.

Meanwhile, the Central Committee is expected to meet to elect the Executive of the party, after which a General Secretary will be elected. According to Jagdeo, this meeting is expected to be held later this week. (G3)

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Continuing the democratic tradition

As the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) completes its Congress where it early announced it would be removing the terms “Socialist” and “Marxism-Leninism from its constitution, it is clear it is moving towards the liberal democratic tradition that we inherited. However, even as the Opposition has promised to hold its Congress in August, there are some who would ignore the long precedence that has been set in that democratic tradition. John Locke (1632-1704) proposed that it was hardly credible (a la his predecessor Hobbes) that people who did not trust each other in a state of nature would repose that trust voluntarily in an absolute ruler, even to guarantee social order. Locke accepted Hobbes’ postulated “state of nature”, but held that “natural law” governed there and made all men free and equal – with the right of “life, liberty and estate”.

To overcome the shortcoming that there would be, at a minimum, severe confusion since everyone can interpret the “law”, he proposed in his version of the social contract that men should first seek to create an independent society and secondly a government. Sovereign power would remain ultimately with the people, who could remove their deputies or government if it did not protect their “life, liberty and property”. Societies and Governments existed to fulfil the rights of man and Governments have a duty to fulfil their side of the bargain.

By the next century – during which slavery in the colonies was abolished and “free” societies were established – the tenets of what was called the ideals of “Liberal Democracy” were established and dominated Britain’s political thought and consequently the model held out in the colonies. JS Mill (18061873) summarised the tenets of liberal democracy. He was in favour of “Representative Democracy” in which the people would govern through their representatives who would be “qualified” to make the decisions of State. The State, liberals assert, exists to safeguard the rights and liberties of individuals who are ultimately the best judge of their own interests. The State must be made as small as is possible in order to ensure the maximum freedom for each citizen. Liberals also focused on the necessity for Government to operate within a constitutional framework that accepted the rule of law. Much of what we call “Westminster” constitutionalism is derived from this phase of English history.

The contextual nature of the development of specific features of democracy can also be seen in the contributions of two Frenchmen. Baron de Montesquieu (1689-1755), extended Locke’s mild suggestion that the power of government ought to be separate and proposed that this “separation of powers” was key to the preservation of liberty. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) proposed that the State is supposed to facilitate the opportunities of citizens to enjoy his rights.

The American extension of the democratic idea arose from their concerns over “factions” seizing power and oppressing the others. Their solution was to utilise and extend the ideas of Montesquieu and divide power vertically and horizontally within a federalist structure that betrays the fact that substantively, many of the founding fathers were stirred by the Lockean prioritisation of “life, liberty and property”. Democracy’s reintroduction in Europe in tandem with the development of the nation-state and capitalism is not coincidental.

The economic middle class, newly-formed by the spreading Industrial Revolution, were demanding greater political power to go with their burgeoning economic worth. The slogan of the French Revolution of 1789 – life, liberty and fraternity has proven durable and has been a beacon for colonised people in the modern era. What we have seen in the survey above is while intuitively “the people” exercising political power shapes democracy, it is not a straightforward, uncomplicated idea that we can take for granted – it is an omnibus value-expression. As such, democracy can never be a static idea: the democratic institutions that we consider to be the standard have only been around for a hundred years or so and even in that time they have been considerably modified.

The PPP is clearly committed to advancing this democratic tradition.

PPP has stood the test of time

Dear Editor,

The PPP now PPP/C is a party that has stood the test of time, they have come through the fire, they have come through the flood and are still here.

This party has had a long arduous journey, one that is filled with many violent obstacles planted in its way, so it would be quite interesting for us to do a brief historical study of this party.

A People's Party formed in the 1950s by Dr Cheddi Jagan and his wife Janet, Burnham was deputy to Cheddi in that first PPP party. Things went well for a period of time, but the insatiable aspirations of Burnham to gain power, coupled with the clear fact of the British and American anti-sentiments towards Cheddi, caused him to sever ties with the PPP and form his own party the PNC.

From this time onwards, Guyana was plunged into turmoil, conflict that was deliberately set by the Americandirected CIA agents to bring Jagan down. The British conspired with the Americans in having the suspension of the Constitution and the forceful removal of Jagan. He and his pregnant wife were put in prison, paving the way for a Burnham takeover.

But it was not so easy a task to accomplish, as the most popular figure in

Dear Editor,

Marking their memory this 186th year after Indian Arrival. They were the first Girmitya women to step onshore in Guyana in Highbury and Belle Vue.

The ship Whitby sailed from Calcutta with eight women among the large number of male (237) passengers. The names of these women were Sadonee, Luckeeah/Suchea, Duchuree, Goolpie, Sheebaah, Jeebun, Jeebun, and Sookurah.

Six of the women were indentured on the Highbury Sugar Plantation located 13 miles from New Amsterdam and two were indentured at Belle Vue Sugar Plantation.

Seven were married and arrived with their husbands and children.

any election would certainly be Cheddi; he simply would not go away. Douglas Hume, writing back to British Prime Minister Macmillan, said, then how could we get rid of Cheddi in a democratic process, to which the answer came back, urge them to form a coalition; that was the union of parties UF and the PNC. Isn't it ironic that the same strategy was employed in 2015?

If ever a party was installed, meaning illegally given the position of power, the PNC was. Burnham was offered the reins of power in a place he never earned, and for that reason he rigged every election thereafter. Rigging became an institutionalised feature of the PNC Regime. Isn't it ironic that the same illegal process to hold office raised its ugly head in 2015 and again in 2020?

The PPP/C stayed in the wilderness for 28 long years while the country drifted further and further into poverty. Once again the cries of the masses led by the grassroots leader Cheddi Jagan came to the fore and free and fair elections were held. As night followed day, the PPP/C was again returned to power and the place that they rightfully belong.

No sooner had they entered office that the destabilising force of violence again reared its head on the Guyana

Only Sadonee came with two children and unaccompanied by a husband. Sadonee and Lukeeah were allotted to the Belle Vue Sugar Plantation. Usually, historians would focus on the paucity of women in relation to the large number of men whom the planters really wanted for their labour. But let’s focus a little on the women. The women were indentured too. They had two jobs, that is working in the fields and the second job of domestic work. They worked long hours in the sun and returned home not to rest, but to domestic chores. Some of these women had children who were just infants and they probably had to take them into the fields or leave them at home for siblings to care for. Sadonee who worked in the fields

Landscape. There were two years of nonstop violence, plus "slow fire moh fiah". You may recall the bloody event that took place at the PPP/C Congress held in the Corentyne when gunmen from Georgetown – a stronghold of the PNC – invaded, shot and killed innocent people. These were violent, destabilising times in our nation's history.

Further to our discussion, every PPP/C presidential candidate was faced with assassination attempts, you are talking about Dr Jagan, Mrs Jagan, Dr Jagdeo and the sitting president Dr Irfaan Ali. These are stark realities of the work of Opposition directives who believe that they can force their way back into power through violent means. But that will not happen, because the Guyana today is not the Guyana of yesterday where division and racial animosity existed, we are promoting a Guyana where peace, harmony and progress exist.

Finally, I will close with the very line I quoted at the beginning, the PPP now PPP/C is a party that has withstood the test of time, long live the PPP/C, let peace, progress and prosperity continue.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

of Belle Vue estate had two daughters, one died and the other was raped on the estate. Indentured Indians suffered terrible abuses on this estate. An investigation was carried, but no one was held accountable and the daughter died as well. Sadonee returned to India taking with her $80, being her savings minus her daughters who were left in the ground of Belle Vue. We can only imagine the pain and sadness of Sadonee and the life she returned to. Did she ever return home to her village or did she remain in Calcutta like some returnees did later – eking out a living in the slums around the Hooghly River.

Sincerely, Banmattie Ram

President Dr Irfaan Ali showing off his dance moves at the cultural show on Saturday evening at the now-concluded People’s Progressive Party’s 32nd Congress, which was hosted at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown

Land exchanged with Indentureds for return passage

We have seen that one of the conditions of the indentured contract was a guaranteed return passage to India, which in the early days cost $60 and with inflation increased later. There have been persistent claims by some that the Indian indentured immigrants “got” land – implying the land was given free. This is absolutely untrue – there were no free lands to Indentureds. What happened is that the planters did not want to bear that cost and did everything they could to avoid it.

As early as 1850 they influenced the local legislature to pass ordinances to exchange the return passage for land. Court of Policy No. 21 – British Guiana – 1850, Appendix, No.14 “An ORDINANCE further to Regulate and Encourage the Immigration of Coolies”

Preamble 8; – And be it enacted, that where any Cooly immigrant shall be desirous to commute his right to a free passage for the value in land to the amount of the cost of such passage, and the Governor shall see fit to grant to such immigrant out of the Crown lands of the colony a piece or parcel of land equal in value, at the upset price

of Crown lands, to the amount of the cost of such return passage, such immigrant shall have the same in lieu of his right to a free passage.

The first effort to exchange land for return passage was in 1860. Mr Mohammed Shahabudeen, in “From Plantocracy to Nationalisation”, commented: “here the idea had been around since 1850, but its implementation started only in the 1860s, and then with the almost absurd suggestion that a portion of the somewhat “gelatinous territory” at Plantation Best, West Coast Demerara be allocated in one-acre grants.” In his footnote, Shahabudeen noted, “…the provisions were not acted upon and were omitted from subsequent ordinances.”

Carl Greenidge, in his book, “Empowering a Peasantry in a Caribbean Context: the case of land settlement schemes in Guyana (1865-1985)”, agreed with Shahabudeen. By 1869 30,000 indentureds were eligible for repatriation and another attempt was made at Plantation Nooten Zuil, ECD as a “settlement”, but was abandoned because of poor drainage. The efforts were renewed between 1880 and 1903, and five settlements were launched, but by the following year, all the settlements were dubbed as “failures”.

In total, out of the 163, 964 indentureds who remained and were eligible to exchange their return passage for land offered, only 3853 or three per cent took the offer and were granted a total of 4240 acres. Invariably, the average cost to develop these lands were always LESS than the return passage. In these settlements, when the complaints were later addressed, Indians purchased plots at market prices.

"INTERNAL MIGRATION AND SETTLEMENT OF EAST INDIANS IN GUYANA. 1870-1920" LESLEY MARIANNE POTTER

Without a doubt, Dr Ali is best for Guyana

Dear Editor,

His Excellency, Dr Irfaan Ali, has delivered to every citizen of our great country Guyana. Guyanese throughout the land and Diaspora are thrilled with his purposefulness, his urgency in tackling persistent issues and his unbreakable bond with the common people. The insightful leadership of Dr Ali has not only augmented the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, but it has ushered new life into our economy. His unflinching pursuits to unify every community are noteworthy and they point to his selfless service to humanity.

It is not unexpected that our President is receiving acclamations from regional and international organisations. His drive and excellent management of Guyana will only bring about prosperity and goodwill to the entire region.

The People’s Progressive Party stands at the cusp of an enormous victory at the upcoming General and Regional Elections. This is largely due to the deliv-

ery of manifesto promises, the extraordinary developments in all sectors, and the upholding of democratic principles and institutions.

Not surprisingly, the shameless Opposition would jump on some social media platforms spewing hate and pretending to be human rights activists. How disgraceful! The country has an opposition with a seditious history, a party known for dictatorial regimes and one which only recently sought to steal elections once more. Guyanese are more informed and will reject the many attempts by the Opposition to polarise our populace. Guyana is united!

Dr Ali means unceasing possibilities to every boy and girl, to every man and woman, and Guyanese will agree that it’s a period of unrivalled prowess. My community stands with you, without a doubt.

Yours sincerely, Rajiv Kadarnauth Regional Councillor –Region # 3

I am happy for these hard-working sugar workers

Dear Editor,

The sugar workers at Rose Hall Estate staged a two-day legitimate strike for wages owed to them. At the end, their voices were heard and management agreed to pay such wages. Some 7000 people were left for years to go hungry after the closure of this very estate by the PNC Government.

President of the Teachers’ Union, Mark Lyte may not be pleased with the outcome of the sugar workers two-day strike because

the teachers who were on an illegal strike for 29 days did not get similar treatment. It is simple, the sugar workers performed their duties and the teachers were on the picket line when they should have been in their classrooms. I am hearing this one thing over and over: no work, no pay. The former deserved their pay and the latter must work for their pay.

Regards, Kenneth Singh

State buildings were painted in party colours under the coalition

Dear Editor,

So, flying of party flags, as the ruling party holds its congress, has brought out the ire of the Opposition.

When the Opposition was in Government, the painting of state buildings.in the coalition colours outside of election periods, State House and Office of the President come to mind, even when it was pointed out this was against established proto -

col was not seen as insulting nor was there any condemnation then from those crying foul now. This act was seen as preserving party paramountcy over the State. The same as a previous act where a party flag was flown above the premises of a state neutral institution. So, what's the huge cry about now?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

Return Passage exchange: Location, Area and Population of Land Settlement Schemes

Page Foundation

1. Of a class of 32 students, 17 study Music and 20 study Art. What is the LEAST number of students who could study BOTH Music and ART?

2. The simple interest on $400 at 5% per annum for

CSEC MATHS

3. The cost price of a refrigerator is $1850.00. A buyer who is given a discount of 5% for cash purchase will pay (A) $1942.50 (B) $1845.00 (C) $1757.50 (D) $1350.00

4. A plot of land is valued at $18000. Land tax is charged at the rate of $0.70 per $100. What is total amount of tax to be paid for the land? (A) $110.00 (B) $126.00

5. An article bought for $125 was sold for $175. The percentage profit was (A) 28.6 (B) 40 (C) 50 (D) 71.4

Once Upon a Time

Once upon a time, son, they used to laugh with their hearts and laugh with their eyes: but now they only laugh with their teeth, while their ice-block-cold eyes search behind my shadow. There was a time indeed they used to shake hands with their hearts: but that’s gone, son. Now they shake hands without hearts while their left hands search my empty pockets.

‘Feel at home!’ ‘Come again’: they say, and when I come again and feel at home, once, twice,

Identify Title: Poet:

Speaker/persona:

By GaBriel Okara

there will be no thricefor then I find doors shut on me.

So I have learned many things, son.

I have learned to wear many faces like dresses – homeface, officeface, streetface, hostface, cocktailface, with all their conforming smiles like a fixed portrait smile. And I have learned too to laugh with only my teeth and shake hands without my heart.

I have also learned to say,’Goodbye’, when I mean ‘Good-riddance’:

Type of verse: Metre: Rhyme scheme: Theme:

to say ‘Glad to meet you’, without being glad; and to say ‘It’s been nice talking to you’, after being bored. But believe me, son. I want to be what I used to be when I was like you. I want to unlearn all these muting things. Most of all, I want to relearn how to laugh, for my laugh in the mirror shows only my teeth like a snake’s bare fangs! So show me, son, how to laugh; show me how I used to laugh and smile once upon a time when I was like you.

Mood: Poem type:

6. A salesman is paid 5% of his sales as commission. He made sales of $2 020 . How much commission was he paid? (A) $ 11.00 (B) $ 20.20 (C) $101.00 (D) $110.00

7. Mary invested $200 for 3 years at 5% per annum. John invested $300 at the same rate. If they both received the same amount of money in interest, for how many years did John invest his money?

(A) 1½ (B) 2 (C) 3 (D) 10

Literary devices: Tools used by writers to hint at larger themes, ideas, and meaning in a story or piece of writing. There are many styles of literary devices, each serving a different purpose. Some operate at the sentence level, while others serve the piece of writing as a whole. Writers often use multiple literary devices in tandem.

Allegory: used to express large, complex ideas in an approachable manner. Allegory allows writers to create some distance between themselves and the issues they are discussing, especially when those issues are strong critiques of political or societal realities.

Allusion: used to develop characters, frame storylines, and help create associations to well-known works. Allusions can reference anything from Victorian fairy tales to popular culture to the Bible and the Bard. Take the popular expression “Bah humbug”—an allusion that references Charles Dickens’ novella A Christmas Carol. The phrase, which is often used to express dissatisfaction, is associated with the tale’s curmudgeonly character, Ebenezer Scrooge.

8. After a 20% increase an article costs $270. The original cost of the article is (A) $216 (B) $225 (C) $250 (D) $324

9. Given that a *b = 2a − 3b , then 2*(−3) = (A) 13 (B) 3 (C) −5 (D) −7 10. (−8a)×(−3b) = (A) −24ab (B) −11ab (C) 11ab (D) 24ab

Anachronism: Imagine reading a story about a caveman who microwaves his dinner, or watching a film adaptation of a Jane Austen novel in which the characters text each other instead of writing letters. These circumstances are examples of anachronisms, or an error in chronology—the kind that makes audiences raise their eyebrows or do a double-take. Sometimes anachronisms are true blunders; other times, they’re used intentionally to add humor or to comment on a specific time period in history

Cliffhanger: It’s a familiar feeling: You’re on minute 59 of an hour-long television episode, and the protagonist is about to face the villain—and then episode cuts to black. Known as a cliffhanger, this plot device marks the end of a section of a narrative with the express purpose of keeping audiences engaged in the story.

Dramatic Irony: Remember the first time you read or watched Romeo and Juliet? The tragic ending of this iconic story exemplifies dramatic irony: The audience knows that the lovers are each alive, but neither of the lovers knows that the other is still alive. Each drinks their poison without knowing what the audience knows. Dramatic irony is used to great effect in literature, film, and television.

Extended Metaphor:

Extended metaphors build evocative images into a piece of writing and make prose more emotionally resonant. Examples of extended metaphor can be found across all forms of poetry and prose. Learning to use extended metaphors in your own work will help you engage your readers and improve your writing. Learn more about extended metaphors here.

Foreshadowing: At its core, storytelling has one ambition: to capture and sustain your reader’s attention and keep them reading your story. Foreshadowing, or slyly indicating a future event, is one technique a writer can use to create and build suspense.

Imagery: If you’ve practised or studied creative writing, chances are you’ve encountered the expression “paint a picture with words”. In poetry and literature, this is known as imagery: the use of figurative language to evoke a sensory experience in the reader.

When a poet uses descriptive language well, they play to the reader’s senses, providing them with sights, tastes, smells, sounds, internal and external feelings, and even deep emotion. The sensory details in imagery bring works to life

Irony: Irony is an oftmisunderstood literary device that hinges on opposites: what things are on the surface, and what they end up actually being.

Analogy: An analogy compares one thing to something else to help explain a similarity that might not be easy to see.

Hyperbole: Hyperbole is using exaggeration to add more power to what you’re saying, often to an unrealistic or unlikely degree.

Metaphor: Similar to an analogy, a metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things to show their similarities by insisting that they’re the same.

Mood: A story’s mood is the emotional response the author is targeting. A writer sets the mood not just with the plot and characters, but also with tone and the aspects they choose to describe.

Onomatopoeia: Words that represent sounds, with pronunciations similar to those sounds.

Oxymoron: An oxymoron combines two contradictory words to give them a deeper and more poetic meaning.

Paradox: Similar to an oxymoron, a paradox combines two contradictory ideas in a way that, although illogical, still seems to make sense.

Personification: Personification is when an author attributes human characteristics metaphorically to nonhuman things like the weather or inanimate objects. Personification is strictly figurative, whereas anthropomorphism posits that those things really do act like humans.

Puns: Puns are a type of comedic wordplay that involve homophones (different words that are pronounced the same) or two separate meanings of the same word. (Excerpts from Masterclass and Grammarly)

PPP investing in preparing youths in Party, Govt for leadership – Jagdeo

…says APNU/AFC has severe deficit of young, capable leaders

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP), whether at the level of the party or government, is focused on preparing the youths and exposing them to opportunities for experience and growth, knowing that they will one day lead party and country.

This was expressed by PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo, during a press conference to mark the conclusion of the party’s 32nd congress. According to Jagdeo, there was a massive turnout of young people at the party’s workshops. Nor are these passive members. Instead,

he said that they are quite vocal on critical issues.

“Now we need to equip them more with the tools. And that’s why we said, these party members. I think we need to equip them more with training. On social media. On artificial intelligence. On all of the things that matter

Power-sharing requires trustworthiness – Jagdeo says APNU cannot be trusted

General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party, Bharrat Jagdeo on Saturday said his party is not against power-sharing, but this requires attributes including “trustworthiness.”

During his address at the opening of the PPP’s 32nd Congress, Jagdeo spoke of engaging in power-sharing with the Opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He said it is important to work with all political parties but the APNU has proven many times that they cannot be trusted.

“APNU Supporters don’t even trust APNU because they fail to implement the

manifesto promises. They can’t even get trust from their own supporters because they failed them,” he said.

Referring to the Cummingsburg Accord signed between the APNU and AFC to form the last Government, the General Secretary said; “the cummingsburg accord promised to the AFC, chairing of Cabinet, naming of Ministers; the ink had not dried on the Cummingsburg Accord and their partner in crime – the AFC- was...reduced to a rubberstamp.”

“How can you trust a party of that nature, how can you trust a political party that refuses to admit that

it attempted to rig the 2020 elections and still claim that they have the SOPs (Statements of Poll) in a little box and can show they win,” he added.

Jagdeo alluded to the opposition’s attempts to rig the 2020 General and Regional Elections which were widely reported on, noting that the PPP believes in freedom for people to choose their government.

“How could we engage in any meaningful dialogue like what Cheddi Jagan always wanted...there must be willing partners and there must be some attributes to those partners and trust worthiness is a key one,” the general secretary noted.

most to their development. And for the propagation of the party,” Jagdeo explained.

“We’ve also offered everybody a chance to improve themselves in Guyana. About 50,000 people. Through four programmes. GOAL, GROW, WIIN and BIT. Have been training since we got back into office. And so, we want these members to also do that. But apart from that, one issue came up is the party school and the leadership training.”

According to Jagdeo, they want to focus on not only teaching members the core philosophy and history of the party, but also preparing them for leadership. Jagdeo was heavily critical of the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) government, for not giving their younger members a chance to gain experience in governance.

“We want the next generation of leaders to take over basically or lead the party in the future. But we’re also doing this at government level. We’re exposing a whole range of young

people, to positions of power.”

“You can only develop experience if you’re given responsibility. And you’re trusted to discharge those responsibilities. APNU suffered enormously in power, because they kept all the geriatrics in every position and did not give young people a chance. And not like they did not have young people.”

Jagdeo cited specific APNU leaders, including current Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, who served as a Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment under the David Granger government; Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul, who was a Community Development Officer and his fellow parliamentary colleague Amanza WaltonDesir, who was the General Counsel to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

“They suffered for it. That’s why I point, Mahipaul in parliament. You think he has any experience to run anything? (He was) a junior man knocking around. Shurwayne

Holder, their Chairman, I don’t know…”

“Amanza was a junior person there. Norton was even a junior functionary. Where is the experience to run a country? If they go to tackle oil and gas, you think they can sit and speak with Exxon the way we speak? Or definitively answer questions on policy issues,” Jagdeo said.

The PPP Congress is the highest decision-making forum of the Party, and this year’s biennial congress was the largest in the Party’s history with over 3000 persons registered.

The two-day Congress included seven workshops focusing on key issues relating to strengthening the Party, politics and Parliament, social and economic policies, local Government, social media, international relations, and youth and gender.

The last Congress was held in 2016 when the PPP was in Opposition. This year’s Congress is being hosted ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections, where the ruling PPP will be seeking a return to office. (G3)

A scene from some of the workshops

Man escapes after Police uncover slaughtered stolen cattle

Afarmer's search for his vanished cattle has led ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to a disturbing scene, the cows slaughtered at an abattoir in Nabaclis, East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

According to Police, on Friday at about 11:15h, a 28-year-old cattle farmer of Victoria Village, ECD, visited the Cove and John Police Station and reported that on Wednesday at about 08:00h, he left his brown heifer and bull to graze at Oil Mill Road, Cove and John, ECD but upon returning to check on them at about 14:00h, he discovered that the animals were missing. The man further reported that he later received information that a resident of Nabaclis, ‘Line Top’, had possession of his bull and heifer.

Subsequently, a report was made, and a team of

police went to the Nabaclis Railway Embankment, but the suspect was not found. However, ranks then visited the Nabaclis Abattoir, where they saw the suspect. Upon seeing the ranks, the suspect fled into a nearby canal and escaped.

According to Police, the abattoir was then checked, and two men, ages 48 and

23, along with a 25-year-old female, were seen. They had in their possession the carcasses of several cows and a pig.

“They were asked for their notices of intention to slaughter but remained silent. They were further asked for the skins of the animals that were slaughtered and only produced

one, a dark brown. A further search revealed four cow heads,” the report stated.

As a result, the police photographed and took possession of all the carcasses, which were then taken to the Cove and John Police Station. A veterinarian was summoned, and he inspected the meat.

The vet revealed that two of the animals were below 18 months old, one was three years old, and the other was 10 years old.

Investigations are ongoing. (G9)

Working…

…and playing hard

Your Eyewitness didn’t need an announcement that the PPP was removing “Marxism-Leninism” from its constitution. After looking at the dancing, music, singing and general festive goings-on by the more than 3000 delegates at their Congress, even a visitor from Timbuktu would realise this was no get-together of those traditional austere Marxist-Leninists. They’d feel they were betraying the cause if they cracked a smile!! Quick, now….did you ever see a pic of Marx, Lenin or Stalin smiling?? They had to show they were burdened by the teeming masses of the “working class” under the boots of those rapacious, blood-sucking capitalists??

No smiling matter, that!! As a matter of fact, Stalin took his cue from the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland, whose favourite phrase was “Off with their heads!! He separated some 20 Million heads in the Russian Republics who didn’t quite get the idea that their property should be shared with all and sundry!! To think otherwise was to “betray the cause”!! Not exactly inspiration for that vigorous Russian Cossack dance!! Or Swan Lake!!

Anyhow, seems that the organisers of the PPP Congress must’ve decided that “all work and no play” makes their delegates dull boys and girls – of all ages. The “play” was led by no other than Prezzie himself. He must’ve been channelling Michael Jackson as he combined the moves of the king of pop with some good old-fashioned Caribbean dancehall moves!! You can move the man from Leonora to the State House but can’t remove the moves of the bottom-houses of Leonora. So, really, Dear Reader, the PPP didn’t have to TALK about their connection to the ordinary man and woman – they SHOWED it!! And “show” is always better than “tell”!!

Your Eyewitness was also pleased with the combination of the tassa, Amerindian and Congo drums?? What better way to signal the long-talked-about UNITY of our peoples than having them move together in rhythm?? Most significantly, THERE WERE NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES served during all the merry making!! This is as historic as removing the term Marxism-Leninism!! One of the scourges in the land is, of course, demon alcohol…and your Eyewitness hopes when these Delegates return to their villages, they’ll take back this message!!

Your Eyewitness noticed that the Opposition sycophants are making a mountain of the molehill that the PPP’s Congress’s party flags were flying in the Convention Centre that’s being used for the National Assembly sittings!! Now you know the Opposition’s desperate when they’re obviously trying to equate this act with Burnham’s PNC flying its flag over the Court of Appeal!! Really??!!

It's the PUBLIC BUILDINGS that symbolise the seat of the legislature. The Convention Center can be rented by anyone!!

…voting for the CC

The PPP has retained the principle of “democratic centralism” in terms of its party structure and its operations. The principle was popularised by Lenin in 1917 and basically holds that all directing bodies of the party shall be elected; These party bodies shall give periodical accounts of their activities to their respective Party organisation; there shall be strict Party discipline and the subordination of the minority to the majority and all decisions of higher bodies shall be absolutely binding on lower bodies and on all Party members. Lenin described democratic centralism as consisting of "freedom of discussion, unity of action".

Democratic centralism is illustrated by the election of the 35 members of the Central Committee yesterday. Each party group, after full discussion, would’ve nominated a number of delegates to the Congress based on their membership size. These party groups would’ve also nominated their choices for the CC and at Congress would vote for 35 persons from the list of nominees –this time 93. And that’s it!!

…now on to the Ex-Co

The Central Committee members will now meet later this week and elect the 15 members of the Executive Committee (Ex-Co). The number of votes received during voting for the CC is a good indicator.

The carcasses that were found by police at the abattoir

PPP Congress unanimously removes socialism & Marxism-Leninism from Party’s constitution

…Party not giving up on working-class ideology, but moving closer to reality of today – Jagdeo

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has formally removed Socialism and Marxism-Leninism from its constitution – a move which General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo says has brought the party closer to the reality of the modern day.

Over the weekend, the ruling PPP held its 32nd Congress – the party’s largest decision-making body – during which a number of Resolutions were adopted. Among the proposals made was the removal the Socialism & MarxismLeninism ideology from the party’s constitution.

Marxism-Leninism is a political philosophy founded on ideas of Marxism and Leninism, often used specifically to refer to the state ideologies of communist nations.

At press conference on Sunday to update the media on the outcome of the threeday congress, GS Jagdeo explained that the PPP had long moved away from the “alien concept” of Socialism and Marxism-Leninism and party members have unanimously supported the removal of these concepts from its founding and core principles.

“When the question was put to amend the resolution to remove MarxismLeninism from our constitution and to remove Socialism from our constitution, that proposal or list of amendments to our constitution got unanimous support… not a single person was opposed to it and we had a full house there. It was a unanimous decision of our Congress,” he noted.

But according to the PPP General Secretary, this does not mean that the party has given up on its history or working-class ideology which is already part of its constitution.

The PPP constitution states: “The Party's strategic objective is to create a fair and equitable society. This objective will find expression in the establishment of a national democratic state that will embrace political and ideological pluralism, political democracy, cultural diversity, racial equality, and mixed economy. Such a state, with a multi-ethnic and multi-class plural government, will fight to prevent foreign domination of any kind and to preserve

the full democratic rights of the people.”

“The People's Progressive Party is guided by the ideology of the working class. The Party will ensure that the primary objective of its policies and programmes is to improve the lives of working people, the poor, and the dispossessed. This shall be achieved through a propoor approach to economic growth and development. Further, the Party will be organized on the basis of Democratic Centralism which is in line with the democratic principle of majority rule.”

Jagdeo pointed out that already the PPP’s track record – both national and within the party – reflects these practices particularly those relating to inclusion and diversity.

“You can be anybody, you can be a person who believes in socialism – a third way, you can believe in capitalism but you have a place in the party. You can be from the business community, you can be a worker, a farmer, a fisherman, a bauxite worker, you can be an intellectual – you will find place and a home in the PPP,” he posited.

Moreover, another aspect of the recommendations made is the removal of teaching the principles of Marxism-Leninism to member and this was replaced with now teaching the party’s founding principles, political philosophies, core values, history, struggles and achievements.

According to the PPP General Secretary, this removal of these ideologies from the constitution has placed the party on par with current day reality not only within Guyana but also global practices.

“If you look at member-

ship of party, the party’s ideology and its belief cannot be divorced from the reality of the country, the reality of the world and the reality of our own membership… The world has moved on from the cold war era and the era of ‘isms’… So, in that sense, we are bringing our constitution more in line with the prevailing ideology in the world, where you do have parties and countries that practice working-class ideologies or philosophies or are guided by those without having to mention an ism behind them. They are characterised by a set of policies that are pro-poor, pro-working class but at the same time don’t contradict the creation of wealth by the private sector. And that is really the reality of Guyana today,” Jagdeo stated.

Other resolutions

Meanwhile, during the two-day session, the PPP Congress also adopted a number of other resolutions including to formally cement the party’s presence in the hinterland regions. Historically, the party did not have a strong presence in areas such as Regions One (Barima-Wini); Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) hence its constitution did not cater for establishment of party regions there.

However, this no longer the case since out of the 3000 Congress participants, more than 800 were delegates from hinterland regions. Consequently, the PPP updated of constitution to create party organisational structures in these five regions. This will see the establishment of a regional committee that will be comprised of district com-

mittees within each region. Jagdeo said these committees will do party work, be given more tools to carry out their mandates and hold leaders more accountable while also building on local management in these regions rather than having centralised management of their work.

Another major change coming out of last weekend’s Congress is the creation of a

group, whose members will be selected by the party’s Central Committee, to review the PPP Constitution, which was adopted in 1979 and amended some 20 years.

The group will examine areas to update and present these at the county conference in a year’s time for adoption. This new party programme would outline a series of tasks for the party

to undertake over the next decade.

According to the General Secretary, “That will be a major update of our party’s programme… Now, when you examined the current programme, a lot of the tasks we set ourselves have been completed and overachieved hence the need for a new programme that reflects current-day realities.” (G8)

A section of the gathering at the PPP 32nd Congress held from May 3-5 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo

Publishing history created with biographies of Guyanese couple who became presidents

Jamaican publisher Ian Randle believes that he is set to create publishing history this year.

Less than a year ago, the company he established

over three decades ago published the biography of British Guyana’s first premier, and later President of Guyana, Dr Cheddi Jagan, Cheddi Jagan And The

Cold World, 1946 to 1992, by Dr Clem Seecharan.

This year, Ian Randle Publishers Ltd, is set to publish what is said to be “a glowing biography” of Dr

That biography is set to be on bookshelves by next October, which is her birth anniversary, publisher Ian Randle revealed in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times

life, through their biographies, on a bookshelf; inseparable in life, inseparable in death and in print.”

Born on March 22, 1918, Dr Cheddi Jagan became British Guiana’s first premier from 1961 to 1964. He was elected President of Guyana in October 9, 1992, until his death on March 6, 1997.

of state,

wife, and Guyana’s only

“Less than a year ago, we published the biography of Dr Cheddi Jagan…I know of no precedent in which one publisher, in the course of a year, had published the biographies of a husband and wife, who were both elected presidents of their countries.

“I have visions of Dr Cheddi and Janet Jagan coming together in a new

His wife, Janet Rosenberg Jagan, was born on October 20, 1920. She became the sixth President of Guyana on December 19, 1997, until August 11, 1999. She passed away on March 28, 2009.

Errant drivers taking advantage of lack of Police digitalisation – Road Safety Council Chair

…calls for urgent digitalising in Police Force

In a bid to combat rising road traffic violations

and improve law enforcement efficacy, Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert, has emphasised the urgent need for digitalisation within the Guyana Police Force.

During a recent program focused on traffic management, Lambert highlighted the deficiency in technological advancements within the police force, particularly in comparison to other nations. He emphasised the

importance of equipping officers with body cameras and technology capable of detecting nearby cameras, citing their effectiveness in deterring reckless driving behaviors.

"We have been pushing for some modern effect to come into play…we don’t have that as yet, and our drivers are taking advantage of it”, he said.

Lambert further addressed concerns raised by police officers regarding undue interference from influ-

ential individuals, resulting in leniency towards traffic offenders. He asserted that the implementation of body cameras would mitigate such incidents, fostering transparency and accountability within law enforcement.

Concurrently, Kester Huston, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), echoed Lambert's sentiments, emphasising the transformative potential of digitalisation.

“Digitalisation in Guyana is one that is needed. It is a big gap that needs to be filled fast. It will make a lot of things more efficient and will raise the bar on how we present ourselves as a nation. Technology will make the dissemination of information easier and access to data”, he said.

Huston emphasised the importance of intentional enforcement measures, advocating for a cultural shift within the police force. He acknowledged forthcoming plans to introduce speed cameras and body cameras but stressed the necessity of accompanying these initiatives with a broader cultural transformation.

"A cultural shift has to happen… the enforcement agencies must be intention-

but what is missing is the will”, he said.

Both Lambert and Huston underscored the critical role of digitalisation in enhancing road safety and law enforcement effec-

al about how they approach things. I think there is a lot of work that has to be done and every single officer has to play a part in that. There is long way to go…the private sector is there to support the police force. We can adopt from other countries,

tiveness, calling for concerted efforts from stakeholders to drive meaningful change in Guyana's policing landscape.

Earlier this year, a whopping $44.8 billion was approved for the Ministry of Home Affairs, a signifi-

cant chunk of which will go towards strengthening the capacities of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS).

The sum of $30.3 billion was approved for the GPF, for which $1 billion will go towards the procurement of additional vehicles, including motorcycles, boats and engines, to boost the response capabilities of this entity.

An additional $5 billion has been set aside for the rehabilitation of Police stations, while sums have also been budgeted for the procurement of some 300 body cameras for Police ranks.

Moreover, the sum of $1 billion has been allotted to advance construction of the new US$28 million 12-storey Brickdam Police Station, which is envisioned to become the new GPF Headquarters.

Significant investments would also be made in training of Police officers, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn told the Committee of Supply during the consideration of the budget estimates. (G9)

Jagan’s

female head

the former President Janet Jagan, A Biography of Janet Jagan by Professor Patricia Mohammed.

Former President Janet Jagan

Late President, Dr Cheddi Jagan

Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert

Kester Huston, President of GCCI

Net Zero by 2050 Agenda

Guyana will remain carbon negative despite expansion of oil & gas activities - Bharrat

Guyana is poised to lead the Net Zero by 2050 Agenda, through its robust plans for energy security and renewable generation, while continuously recording increased economic prosperity.

The United Nations Global Roadmap sets out the target that the world must achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and involves balancing the amount of greenhouse gas produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere.

More than 80 per cent of Guyana’s 18 million hectares of forests are estimated to store approximately 20 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

According to Natural Resource Minister Vickram Bharrat, Government is still exploring all avenues to cut emissions despite being a net carbon sink.

net zero by 2050 but whether they can afford not to.

Small and low-lying coastal states, he added, are the least contributors to rising temperatures. Yet, they face

“We are going to strike a balance; we are going to ensure that we explore and produce our natural resources and at the same time we prioritise the environment.

The minister, who was at the time speaking at a Press Conference for the Plant Town Hall Forum at the Pegasus Cooperate Suites in commemoration of World Press Day 2024, posited that other countries should not be asking how they can achieve

the brunt of adverse effects from climate change, varying from floods, rising sea levels, drought and extreme weather events. Net zero, he added, would only be possible if the global system rectifies its inherent disparities and unevenness.

Some people may say it’s impossible but look at Guyana model because it is possible,” Minister Bharrat told the gathering.

Oil exploration

With six oil projects lined up to operate simultaneous-

Double murder - $37M gold heist

ly by 2027, Guyana’s oil production trajectory is well on the way to exceeding 1.3 million barrels per day. The Guyana government believes the country can keep its long-standing environmental credentials, and according to Natural Resource Minister Vickram Bharrat, “we will remain carbon negative even when we are producing 1.5 million barrels per day.”

The idea is that all the carbon emissions generated from offshore petroleum operations and onshore industrial operations would not be higher than the volume of carbon captured and stored by Guyana’s green lungs.

“With our partners and with our revenue coming in through the sale of carbon credit, we’re in a better position than any other country to deal with mitigation and mostly adaptation…We are playing our part even though we are one of the newest oil producing countries in the world and we are still ensuring that we live up to our responsibilities of transitioning

to renewable,” the Minister added.

Carbon credit sales

Guyana has been able to develop forest-based carbon credits for sale internationally, which is certified by Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) and are among the most robust in the world.

Guyana is advocating for greater global recognition for the role played by highly forested countries in the journey to net zero, through the regularisation of markets for the sale of credits.

Following the announcement of the certification of some of Guyana’s credits by ART, Hess Corporation has committed to purchasing 12.5 million credits for the years 2016-2030, in a deal valued at least US$750 million. With payments already kicked off more than a year ago for 2021-2025 credits, Guyana is dedicating the funds to low-carbon projects and climate adaptation and mitigation measures.

In fact, Guyana received its first tranche of carbon credit monies, totalling US$75 million in 2023, of which US$22 million was directly invested in Amerindian villages, whom developed some 811 projects, which are being implemented in 242 indigenous villages.

Moreover, Guyana has already earned US$37.5 million for the sale of high-quality carbon credits for 2024, from the multi-year agreement with United States energy-major Hess Corporation.

A carbon credit is a tradable permit or certificate that allows the holder of the credit the right to emit a stated tonnage of carbon dioxide or an equivalent of another greenhouse gas. Countries and companies that exceed their permitted limits can purchase carbon credits from nations that have low emissions such as Guyana.

It is estimated that if Guyana is able to secure the same value as it did with Hess, the country could raise some US$2.5 billion. (G1)

Pensioner slapped with accessory to murder after the fact charge

Apensioner is the latest person charged in connection with the murder of two miners at Arimu Backdam, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) last month. Joseph Thomas, 70, of Liverpool Village, Corentyne, Berbice, was charged with the offence of accessory after the fact of murder contrary to section 105 of the Criminal Law Offences Act Chapter 08:01. He appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Friday before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed and was not required to plea to the charge. The pensioner was released on $600,000 bail and the case was adjourned to May 31.

On March 3, the two masked bandits killed Zaheer Mohammed Sheriff, a 50-year-old Gold Miner

of Byderabo Road, Bartica, Region Seven, and Donvan Washington, a 26-year-old Porter of Lot 11 Seventh Avenue, Bartica, at the Arimu Backdam, Cuyuni River.

The bandits also carted off with 102 ounces of raw gold valued at $37 million and two licensed firearms – a .32 pistol and a 12-gauge shotgun – all property of Sheriff, who was also

a senior official of the Small Miners Association. Only last month, the police charged two other persons in connection with the murders of the two men.

Teddy Thomas, 44, a taxi driver of Itaballi Landing, was remanded to prison for the offense of murder in the course of furthering to a rob-

bery, contrary to Section 100 (1) (c) (i) of the Criminal Law (offences) Act chapter 8:01.

Paul James Derrick, 20, a miner of Onderneeming Sandpit, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was also remanded for the offence of accessory after the fact to murder contrary to section

105 of the Criminal Law (offences) Act chapter 8:01.

One week prior, the Guyana Police Force had issued wanted bulletins for two other individuals for the miners’ murder.

Wanted are 21-yearold Kellon Fredricks of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast as well as of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo; and 19-year-old Romain Henry of Best Road, West Bank Demerara.

Already, 32-year-old Travis Fredericks and his 28-year-old brother, Fernando Fredericks, both of Tuschen Housing Scheme, were charged and remanded to prison in connection with the murders of Sheriff and Washington. The duo was charged separately with the offence of being an accessory after the fact to the murders. (G9)

Charged: Joseph Thomas

Murdered: Zaheer Mohammed Sheriff and Donvan Washington

Natural Resource Minister, Vickram Bharrat addressing gathering at Plant Town Hall Forum

Jagdeo rubbishes APNU criticisms of PPP holding Congress at ACCC

…says it’s a convention centre, not Govt building

People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo on Sunday rubbished criticisms emanating from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), over the ruling party’s use of the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC) to host its 32nd Conference.

In a lengthy statement, APNU had criticised the PPP for practising party paramountcy. But while APNU compared ACCC to government buildings, Jagdeo set the record straight that the building was actually a convention center, available to anyone for rental.

“The PNC had to say something about our congress. So now (it’s) about the party flag flying here. It was the national convention centre, built by the People’s Progressive Party, in the time when I was President. They changed the

name, to the Arthur Chung Conference Center. They did lots of name changes, put names on buses, etc.

“It’s a convention centre! It is a convention centre. We rented the convention centre. You know what convention centres are rented for? They’re rented for people to hold activities. Weddings. How many weddings we’ve had here? So, next thing they’re gonna say is don’t let the pastor come in here. You’re desecrating the building. It’s only because we’re a secular state. And the pastor can’t perform a ceremony in the foyer of the building, because it’s a secular building. Pure nonsense.”

Jagdeo explained that the Party took a decision to rent the centre. He also hit back at criticisms over the party’s proud display of its flags, noting the important symbolism behind the tri-colour flag.

“So, we rented this building and we decorated it with our beautiful party flags that have a meaning. (They said) we’re putting up German flags. The black signifies our strength and the fight for freedom. The red spoke about our struggles. And the gold was for the bright future. From the beginning we set it up. Now suddenly it became German flags? They have nothing of substance to speak of.”

He pointed out the illogical nature of APNU’s arguments that the building could not be used for party functions due to Parliament being held there. According to Jagdeo, Parliament only meets in the dome once every two months.

“So, we must stop using the dome, for everything else, because Parliament meets in the dome once every maybe two months, three months? It is nonsense, pure

pettiness. For a major political party to reduce itself to this sort of pettiness.

“It’s shocking. They couldn’t find anything of substance to talk about. Sent out this long statement. How we can’t fly our flags at a government building. It’s a convention center,” Jagdeo added.

In the face of the Opposition’s letter, which was critical of the fanfare accompanying the PPP’s 32nd Congress, Party Executive Member Gail Teixeira had said on Saturday that her party would continue to display its colours and flags across the country at any time of the year.

She was at the time responding to a statement from Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, who was condemning the PPP for hoisting its party flags at the ACCC and

on utility poles across the country. The flags were on display as the ruling party hosted its 32nd Congress last weekend.

In its statement, APNU had accused the PPP of sending a message of party paramountcy, and of “weakening the fabric of society”. It further noted that outside of elections, the PPP cannot prominently display its flags, though it quoted no law against this.

However, Teixeira argued that the Opposition’s own practices were worse during its time in office, from 2015 to 2020.

“The Leader of the Opposition has brought out a statement, an official statement, saying that the PPP is violating the constitutional law and democracy by putting up our party flags on the Convention Center

and outside and across the country. What nonsense! They got short memories!” she said.

“When the PNC flag hung over the Judiciary and the Guyana Defence Force and every ministry in this country, and you had to wear the party colours under Granger, you did not dare go with red to any public office between 2015 and 2020! How dare they?! We will fly our flags, we will fly our Guyana flags inside and outside of elections, because we are the true party of the people,” Teixeira said, adding that she wished the PNC luck and that the Opposition party has “real problems”. Teixeira’s reference to APNU’s “real problems” are likely a reference to the infighting that has beset the main Opposition party in recent weeks. (G3)

Construction worker crushed to death in septic tank

Aconstruction worker is now dead after the wall of a septic tank in which he was working, collapsed and crushed him.

The incident occurred at about 09:55h on Sunday at Eccles Industrial Site, East Bank Demerara.

Reports are that 52-year-old Zheng Shun Liu was an employee of L and P Construction company and was working alone inside a septic tank that is

being built at a bond under construction.

According to the police, the wall on the western side of the tank collapsed, pinning Zheng. Other workers at the site rushed to render assistance and managed to remove, the injured man from the tank.

The Police and Emergency Medical Technicians were then summoned and Zheng was examined at the site, where

he was pronounced dead by a doctor.

The scene was processed by detectives and Crime Scene Investigators.

Zheng’s body was examined for marks of violence. Injuries were seen on the left side of the nowdead man’s body, which has since been escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination (PME).

GTA conducts first aid, CPR training for service providers

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in its bid to improve and advance the local tourism sector has embarked on a series of training programmes in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) targeting persons involved in the sector.

The first aid and CPR training that was done which was the first of its kind for the year by the GTA

was conducted last week.

The training was for persons working in the tourism industry whether directly or indirectly.

Thirty persons from the New Amsterdam area were certified having successfully completed the examination.

Training and Tourism Development Officer of GTA Chetnauth Persaud said the goal is to ensure persons

working in the industry can sustain an injured person’s life until help can be received.

With more hotels being opened up in Region Six, there is a need for more persons to be employed in the tourism industry. According to Persaud, more persons are traveling to the region for tourism-related activities than ever before.

Additionally, more tour guides and persons are entering the industry as service providers. Persaud said that is why it is pivotal to have more persons trained in first aid and CPR.

Two similar training programmes conducted in the Region last year resulted in about 50 persons being qualified to provide first aid and CPR.

However, he noted that it is also essential for persons to be trained as tour guides which will make them marketable.

“Persons from the first tour guide training were a part of this class getting their first aid licence. To be a tour guide those are the two major training that they would need; their tour guide training and also their first

aid and CPR training.” Persaud noted that about four persons have already approached tour companies and at least two have since been employed with Touring Guyana.

“This is basically because they have completed the training and Touring Guyana has seen value in them being a tour guide,” Persaud said. (G4)

GTA Training and Tourism Development Officer Chetnauth Persaud during one of the sessions with tourism service providers on the Upper Corentyne

The flags in the Arthur Chung Conference Center compound

Scenes from PPP's 32nd Congress

EBD men face larceny, B&E, felonious wounding charges

Three men from different communities on the East Bank Demerara (EBD) found themselves before the Diamond/Grove Magistrates’ Court, facing various charges stemming from separate criminal incidents.

Shafeek Alli, a 22-yearold laborer of Cow Pen Street, Eccles, EBD, was arrested on April 30 for the offense of simple larceny under Section 164 of the

Criminal Law (Offense) Act Chapter 8:01. Alli, who appeared before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce on Friday, admitted guilt. Consequently, he was fined $75,000 or faced three months imprisonment. The charge was related to theft from a 68-year-old pensioner, Eddie Jaikisun, which occurred between April 24 and April 30.

Jaybez Harrypersaud, a 20-year-old labourer of

Public Road, Providence, EBD, was arrested on Wednesday in a separate incident.

He faced charges of breaking and entering and larceny under Section 229 (a) of the Criminal Law (Offense) Act Chapter 8:01. Unlike Alli, Harrypersaud pleaded not guilty when the charge was read before Senior Magistrate Scarce on Friday.

He was granted bail in the sum of $300,000 with

Mon Repos resident busted with ammo

…toy gun found in home

The ammunition and toy gun that were found during the search

A29-year-old resident of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara has been taken into custody after being busted with ammunition at his premises. Reports are that a party of police officers went to the home of the suspect on Saturday, between 16:30h and 17:00h and conducted a search of the mechanic’s Mon Repos Pasture, East Coast Demerara home. During the search

ranks found four 2-gauge cartridges and a toy gun in a chest-of-drawer in a bedroom. The 29-year-old man was arrested. Police are continuing their investigations.

the condition to report to the Providence Police Station every Saturday. The offense was allegedly committed against a 60-year-old housewife on April 30, on the Providence Public Road, EBD. His case was adjourned to May 28. Lastly, Clifton Hinds, a 38-year-old unemployed man from Sarah Johanna Squatting area, EBD, was arrested on April 28, for the offense of felonious wounding under Section 57(a) of the Criminal Law (Offense) Act Chapter 8:01. Hinds, who also appeared before Magistrate Scarce, pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of $500,000.00. The charge stemmed from an incident involving a 29-year-old labourer, Collin Fraser, on April 5, in Sarah Johanna. Hinds' case was adjourned to May 31. (G9)

Improvised weapons found during Mazaruni Prison raid

Several prohibited items were on Saturday found during an exercise at the Mazaruni Prison, Mazaruni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

The operation was conducted by the members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS).

During the raid, six cellular phones, six lighters, seven improvised weapons, and one pair of scissors were found.

The items were confiscated and an investigation was

launched into the discovery.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot recently said that additional security measures would be employed within the confines of each prison location in a bid to end the continued flow of contraband into the prisons.

The prison head also indicated that persons’ movement near the prison locations would be restricted and, in some cases, a “stopand-search” exercise would be conducted.

Director Elliot also indicated that the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) would

also be erecting signs at strategic points outside the prisons, warning the public to desist from such acts and the consequences attached to them.

Meanwhile, Elliot warned that there would be no let-up in bringing down corrupt prison officers, family members and friends of inmates who are bent on breaking the law.

“Public safety is a key component of the prison system, and all efforts will be made to achieve such a task,” the prison head said. (G9)

Charged: Clifton Hinds, Jaybez Harrypersaud and Shafeek Alli

The items found during the raid on Saturday

45 healthcare workers graduate from Washington University

In an effort to enhance the services provided by healthcare workers throughout Guyana, 45 healthcare workers graduated from the Washington University E-Learning

Program.

During the graduation ceremony on Friday, Health Minister Frank Anthony, in congratulating the graduates, emphasised the need for continuous learning to

enhance patient care services and achieve better outcomes at health facilities across Guyana.

“I think for us in the health sector, we need to be constantly learning. If

we don’t keep ourselves updated constantly, then we can have problems. I want to encourage people to keep doing it because it is going to help you to widen your horizon and to be able to

Prison Service sees 16 new recruits

The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has now added 16 new recruits to its roster after they completed a threemonth Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at the Prison Training Centre at Mazaruni, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

Of the new recruits, 11 are males and five females obtained training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the job such as basic prison lectures, impromptu speech delivery,

armed and unarmed combat, human rights education, family life training, and English.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, indicated that staffing plays a critical role in the daily management of prisoners as it serves as an assist in how they function.

“It is important that new staff become aware of rule and regulations and basic prison management practices before they are posted to the various prison, this

will assist them in the way they operate,” he advised.

Additionally, acting Deputy Director of Prisons and Head of the Staff Training Department, Kevin Pilgrim indicated that the work of a Prison Officer is demanding and involves working with men and women who have been deprived of their liberty, many of whom are likely to be mentally disturbed, suffering from addictions, have poor social and educational skills and come from

marginalised groups in society.

Hence, the training of the new officers is important in order for them to understand their role and function.

He said in dealing with different groups of inmates who have been deprived of their liberty and face confinement, there is a need for the Prisons Officers to be patient and treat the inmates kindly as per international protocols and standards.

better perform at whatever job you are doing in the Ministry,” Anthony stated.

He further emphasised that with the ministry having identified 117 interventions to be implemented at the primary healthcare level, therefore, all healthcare providers must be equipped with the necessary tools and provide a conducive working environment to ensure positive patient care outcomes.

Meanwhile, Chargé d’affaires of the United States Embassy, Adrienne Galanek, highlighted that the USAIDs have thus far invested $189 million in Guyana since 2004 to support HIV prevention, testing, care, and treatment services.

The ceremony was held for 45 healthcare workers who completed several co-

horts of courses in either Project Management, Policy Management and Advocacy for Global Health, Economic Evaluation in Global Health, Fundamentals of Implementation Science, Leadership and Management in Health and Monitoring and Evaluation, all from the University of Washington.

The courses form part of a capacity-building initiative funded by USAID. The beneficiaries who are from both the public and private health sectors were certified yesterday, allowing them to better contribute to the evolving healthcare industry.

Additionally, over four hundred healthcare practitioners and providers have completed the courses since its establishment in 2021. (G2)

Mahaica man suffers skull fracture after being hit by car

A31-year-old man from Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD), is recovering after being hit by a car on the Unity Old Road in Mahaica, according to police.

The accident occurred on Thursday at about 19:50h, resulting in Emel Robinson suffering a fractured skull and being hospitalised.

The accident involved Robinson and motorcar PWW 2670 driven by a 40-year-old man from Lancaster Village, Mahaica, ECD.

According to the 40-yearold driver, he was proceeding west along the said road in his vehicle, PWW 2670 when he allegedly felt an im-

pact on his vehicle.

The man reportedly stopped the car, and upon checking, he observed the 31-year-old victim lying on the southern driving lane of the road with injuries on his face. The injured man was picked up and placed into the said motorcar and taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he was initially examined. Thirty-one-year-old Robinson was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. A breathalyzer test conducted on the driver of the car showed his blood alcohol content as 0.004%. The 40-year-old driver remains in custody as investigations continue. (G9)

Deputy Director of Prisons and Head of the Staff Training Department, Kevin Pilgrim and other officials with the 16 recruits

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and Chargé d’affaires of the United States Embassy, Adrienne Galanek along with senior health sector officials and the 45 graduates

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony presenting a certificate to one of the graduates

Arrival Day 2024

Guyana has emerged as a melting pot of various cultures – Indian High Commissioner

India’s High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Amit Telang on Sunday said that the unique identity of Guyana should be one of unity and bringing everyone together and celebrating that unity.

His comments were made at Highbury on the East Bank of Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) at a ceremony to commemorate the arrival of the first set of East Indians to Guyana.

It was in Plantation Highbury, that the first set of East Indian Indentured labourers landed on May 5, 1838. On that day, two ships, Whitby and Hesperus, landed in the then-British colony (Guyana) with approximately 423 East Indians.

The high commissioner noted that many of the celebrated in Guyana are multi-religious and multi-ethnic and this should be applauded.

He called on young persons to further develop what he referred to as “Guyana culture” as the country is on a developmental trajectory.

“There is now more expectation from Guyana to be an example of what a multi-religious and multi-cultural society should be. You can be an example not only for the

people here in Guyana but also the Caribbean and parts of South America and let them see that people from different ethnicities can come together and despite that, a very nice composite culture has evolved,” the high commissioner said.

According to Dr Telang the, over the six months since taking up the position as high commissioner he has noticed that despite differences in cultural origin, which include different religions, Guyana has emerged as a melting pot of various cultures.

“The six peoples that makeup Guyana have all played their part in developing what he referred to as a unique cultural blend,” he pointed out.

Arrival Day – though largely associated with

the arrival of East Indians - has been set aside as a reminder of all ethnic groups, who would have been brought to the country.

Dating back to the late 17th century, history books tell that the Dutch first brought Africans in Guyana to acquire wealth. They were brought as slaves and later others arrived as indentured labourers. The first group of Chinese arrived in Guyana on January 12, 1853. In 1530, the Spaniards became the first Europeans to arrive in Guiana, but the Dutch established the first European settlement in 1616.

The first group of Portuguese arrived in Guyana May 3, 1835. They were brought as indentured labourers.

Meanwhile, High Commissioner said that there is a need he said to celebrate the sacrifices made by those who en -

ture that we see today in Guyana.”

He said the unique feature of Indian culture also helps to bring people to -

celebrating that unity.”

tered Guyana on May 5, 1838.

“Despite all of the difficulties, despite the harsh climatic conditions, they not only survived but, in a way, they also sowed the seeds of this beautiful cul -

gether.

“Persons might be practicing different religions and may have different roots. The unique identity of Guyana should be one of unity and bringing everyone together and

The high commissioner noted that many of the celebrated in Guyana are multi-religious and multi-ethnic and this should be applauded.

Berbice Indian Cultural Committee organised the event at Highbury which has been an annual feature. (G4)

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang

Members of Golden Om Dharmic Dance Group

Members of D'Edward Dance Group

Members of Golden Om Dharmic Dance Group

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine

When it comes to having a healthy pregnancy, it’s never too soon to start planning. A significant number of pregnancies — an estimated 40-50% — are unplanned. All reproductive-age women should be on a reliable form of birth control, so that when they’re ready to start family planning, they have the option to discontinue the contraceptive and make lifestyle changes to support a healthy pregnancy.

PLAN FOR PREGNANCY

The most crucial time for organogenesis — when the fetus forms organs — occurs very early in the pregnancy. If the pregnancy is unexpected, there is a higher chance of fetal exposure to modifiable risks like medications/ drugs or alcohol.

Planning for a pregnancy can also help parents and their physicians ensure any chronic health conditions they have (such as high blood

HEALTH TIPS

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

pressure) are well-managed. If needed, doctors can help switch to medications that are safer during pregnancy.

GET EARLY PRENATAL CARE

Planning to start a family, or having just found out that you are expecting, good prenatal care is essential for you and the baby. Finding a primary care doctor at the nearest health centre or OBGYN with expertise in prenatal care is a great first step. During the first visit, doctors will be able to confirm the pregnancy, and screen for certain medical conditions that could lead to complications.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET

While it’s okay to occasionally give in to cravings during pregnancy, it’s important to keep in mind that mothers typically need only an additional 300 calories per day. Make sure you are getting enough protein and calcium each day, and avoid deli meats in order to prevent yourself from consuming bacteria that could harm your baby.

TAKE PRENATAL VITAMINS DAILY

Ask a doctor which prenatal vitamins are best for you and your baby, particularly how much folic acid and calcium you’ll need. Prenatal vitamins ensure you are giving your baby the important vitamins and nutrients it needs, like folic acid, iron, calcium and DHA. These vitamins play an important

role in bone, vision and brain development.

EXERCISE REGULARLY

Regular daily exercise increases the chance of having a vaginal delivery, and helps you manage the common discomforts of pregnancy. Exercise can also aid in postpartum recovery. However, if you did not exercise regularly before becoming pregnant, check with a doctor before starting an exercise regimen.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY

The first and third trimesters come with fatigue, which is your body’s way of telling you to take it easy. So, listen to your body, and

Trump accuses Biden of

running

“Gestapo administration”

Republican presidential candidate

Donald Trump accused Democratic rival

President Joe Biden of running a "Gestapo administration" in a private address to donors in which he also attacked prosecutors involved in his criminal indictments, according to a recording heard by US media outlets.

Trump, whose own rhetoric has drawn accusations of fascist tendencies from civil rights groups and other critics, made the comparison with the Nazi Police in Germany's World War Two regime at a donor retreat Saturday night at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

The comments came after Trump reprised his complaint that the multiple indictments against him were politically motivated. He had just concluded 11 days of a New York hush-money trial in which he is charged with falsifying business records to cover up a US$130,000 pay -

ment made to a porn star.

"These people are running a Gestapo administration," Trump said, according to an audio recording heard by the New York Times and the Washington Post. "And it’s the only thing they have. And it’s the only way they’re going to win, in their opinion, and it’s actually killing them. But it doesn’t bother me."

ELIMINATE ALCOHOL AND LIMIT CAFFEINE

It’s important to take good care of the body during pregnancy. Avoid alcohol, limit caffeine intake, and steer clear of any nonprescription drugs throughout the pregnancy. Indulging in alcohol can adversely affect the baby’s brain or spinal development, too much caffeine has been linked to a higher instance of miscarriage, and nonprescription drugs can lead to birth defects or behavioural problems.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the reported remarks.

The former President, who held office from 2017 to 2021, faces an array of legal troubles in criminal and civil cases while he seeks to regain the presidency in the November 5 election. He denies wrongdoing in all the cases.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

LIMIT YOUR EXPOSURE TO HARMFUL SUBSTANCES

If you work around chemicals or other substances known to cause birth defects, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect the baby. It’s also important to use non-toxic household cleaning solutions throughout the pregnancy, to limit your risk of exposure.

VISIT A DENTIST

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can leave you with an increased risk of

avoid tanning beds.

KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR

If you have any of the following symptoms, contact a doctor:

• Vaginal bleeding or leaking of fluid

• Contractions that are 20 minutes apart or less

• Pain of any kind

• Strong cramps

• Heart palpitations

• Dizziness or fainting

gingivitis. Increased progesterone and estrogen levels interact with the bacteria in plaque, leading to swollen, tender or bleeding gums.

WEAR SUNSCREEN

Your skin is more susceptible to sunburn and chloasma (dark, blotchy spots on the face) when you are pregnant, so it’s important to apply a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 or higher, and

• Decreased activity of the baby

• Shortness of breath

Pregnancy and the time after you deliver your baby can be wonderful, exciting, emotional, stressful, and tiring all at once. These feelings may cause you to overeat, not get enough calories, or lose your drive and energy. Being good to yourself may help you cope with your feelings and follow healthy lifestyle habits.

sit back with a good book or take a nap when you are feeling tired.

Former President Donald Trump with his lawyers talks to the press outside the Manhattan Criminal Courtroom in New York, US, May, 3, 2024. Trump faces 34 counts of falsifying business records related to the hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels (Reuters/File Photo)

Regional

Death toll from southern Brazil rainfall rises to 78, many still missing

The death toll from heavy rains that have caused flooding in Brazil's southern state of Rio Grande do Sul has risen to at least 78, local authorities said on Sunday, with more than 115,000 persons displaced.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva arrived in Rio Grande do Sul on Sunday morning with most members of his Cabinet to discuss rescue and reconstruction works with local authorities.

"Bureaucracy will not stand in our way, stopping us from recovering the state's greatness," Lula said at a press conference.

"It is a war scenario, and will need post-war measures," state governor Eduardo Leite added.

The death toll could still substantially increase as 105 persons were reported missing on Sunday, up from about 70 the prior day, according to the state civil defence authority. It also said

it was investigating whether another four deaths were related to the storms.

Flooding from storms in the past few days has affected more than two thirds of the nearly 500 cities in the state, which borders Uruguay and Argentina, leaving more than 115,000 displaced, according to authorities.

Floods have destroyed roads and bridges in several cities. The rains also triggered landslides and the partial collapse of a dam at a small hydroelectric power plant.

More than 400,000 persons were without power on Sunday evening, while nearly a third of the state's population was without water, authorities said.

In Porto Alegre, the state capital, the Guaiba lake breached its banks, hitting the highest water level on record, according to the national geological service.

Porto Alegre's international airport has suspended all

flights since Friday.

In the city of Canoas, near Porto Alegre, Julio Manichesque, 76, was rescued by volunteers after he had stayed since Friday on the roof of the house where he has lived for 52 years.

"I have never seen that much water," Manichesque said.

Many volunteers also have been risking their own safety during the rescue efforts, using small boats, jet skis, and kayaks.

Fabiano Saldanha, 30, said he and three friends have used jet skis to rescue about 50 persons since Friday in islands that are part of Porto Alegre.

During his weekly address to crowds in St Peter's Square in Vatican City, Pope Francis said on Sunday he was praying for the people of the state.

"May the Lord receive the dead, comfort their families and all those who had to leave their homes," the Pope said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Vote counting begins in Panama presidential race focused on economy, corruption

Panamanian officials began counting votes after polls closed on Sunday in a general election to pick the next President, a tight contest where attention has centred on a former leader holed up in Nicaragua's Embassy.

Pollsters believe the eight-person race is too close to call, with the new leader facing the daunting task of mending social divisions and regaining the faith of an electorate fed up with political graft.

Following weeks of campaign events that featured catchy reggaeton songs and popular entertainers, over

three million voters were expected to decide who was best placed to fix Panama's pressing economic problems, tackle corruption, and restore the country's reputation as an investment haven.

Jose Raul Mulino, a former Minister who replaced popular ex-President Ricardo Martinelli on the ballot after Martinelli was barred from running due to a money-laundering conviction, is leading in opinion polls.

Mulino has promised to usher in prosperity and to keep out of jail Martinelli, who has played a key role in the elections from with-

in the walls of Nicaragua's Embassy in Panama City.

Nicaragua granted the former leader asylum, but Panamanian authorities have blocked him from leaving the country. Mulino visited Martinelli at the Embassy after casting his vote.

Romulo Roux, in his second bid to win the presidency, and ex-President Martin Torrijos have alternated between second and third place. Trailing closely behind is Ricardo Lombana, who also ran in the past election, and current Vice President Jose Gabriel Carrizo. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Cubans lured to Russian army by high pay and passports

Russia has likely been recruiting Cuban nationals to fight in its army in Ukraine, research by the BBC has shown.

In September and October 2023, passport details belonging to more than 200 Cubans who allegedly joined the Russian army were leaked online by a pro-Ukrainian platform called InformNapalm.

The passport details were obtained, the site said, by hacking the emails of a Russian military recruitment officer in Tula, south of Moscow.

A Facebook search has shown that 31 of the names mentioned in the Ukrainian

leak match accounts whose owners appear to be in Russia or linked to the Russian army.

Some, for instance, have posted photos of themselves wearing Russian military uniform, or in locations that bear Russian street signs or Russian number plates. Others list Russia as their current place of residence.

Many of those Facebook users started posting Russiarelated content in the second half of 2023, indicating when they might have arrived in the country.

Since launching its fullscale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has suffered heavy

losses on the battlefield.

A BBC investigation confirmed the names of more than 50,000 Russian troops killed in Ukraine – but the real number is likely to be much higher. Ukraine's own estimate puts the number of Russian soldiers killed or wounded in the war at nearly 500,000.

Recruiting foreigners to replace some of the losses also helps the Kremlin avoid the risks posed by trying to mobilise Russians by force. When Russia declared a partial mobilisation in 2022, hundreds of thousands of men left the country. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Trinidad: 4 dead, 8 wounded in Cocorite bloodbath

Four persons are dead and eight people were wounded after a mass shooting in Powder Magazine, Cocorite, Trinidad.

The deceased have been identified as Shaquille Ottley, 22; Antonio Jack 57; Sadiki Ottley, 31 and Jonathan Osmond, 36, all of Phase 1, Powder Magazine.

Police say about 23:00h on May 4, 12 persons were liming at Building F when a dark-coloured car, of unknown make, model and registration number, drove onto the compound, turned around and stopped at the entrance.

Two men in dark clothes got out of the car and started shooting indiscriminately, then escaped.

Parents of tourists presumed killed in Mexico to try identifying bodies

The parents of an American and two Australian surfers presumed to have been killed in northern Mexico have arrived in the country and will try to identify the dead bodies believed to be their children, a Mexican regional official said on Sunday.

Authorities in the Baja California state are conducting forensic tests on three corpses they found in a well this week and which they believe to be Australian brothers Callum, 33, and Jake Robinson, 30, as well as American Carter Rhoad, 30.

But those tests are taking some time and Baja California's state Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade said the parents were currently filling out paperwork to see if the bodies can be "physically identified, that is to say, in plain sight".

If the parents are able to identify the bodies, it would void the need for DNA tests, Andrade said at a press conference.

The three foreigners went missing while on a va-

cation surfing near the popular tourist town of Ensenada, about 90 minutes south of the US-Mexico border on the Pacific coast.

On Saturday, Andrade said there was a "high grade of probability" that the three bodies found earlier in the week belonged to the surfers. Andrade said that while the bodies were found in an advanced state of decomposition at the bottom of a well more than 15 metres (50 ft) deep, "some physical descriptions give us that high probability".

A source from the attorney general's office told Reuters that all three bodies had a shot in the head. The three surfers were last seen on April 27 and reported missing a couple of days later, when authorities launched a multi-day search with the help from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (Excerpt from Reuters)

Blinken to travel to Guatemala on Tuesday, US State Dept says

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken will travel to Guatemala on Tuesday to lead a delegation to the ministerial meeting of the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, the State Department said on Sunday.

Blinken will meet with Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo and other leaders to discuss enforcement, migration management and refugee integration, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. (Reuters)

People are rescued by residents after the floods in Canoas, at the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, May 5, 2024 (Reuters/Amanda Perobelli photo)

Shaqulle and Sadiki Ottley, as well as Jack, were taken to the St James Medical Facility, but they died.

Shaquille Ottley and Jack were declared dead on arrival and Sadiki Ottley died shortly after. (Trinidad Newsday)

Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher speaks with a resident at Powder Magazine, Cocorite, on May 5 (Ryan HamiltonDavis photo)

US oil and gas production continues to shatter records

OIL NEWS

Israel attacks Rafah after Hamas claims responsibility for deadly rocket attack

Three Israeli soldiers were killed in a rocket attack claimed by Hamas armed wing, near the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, where Palestinian health officials said at least 19 persons were killed by Israeli fire on Sunday.

Hamas's armed wing claimed responsibility on Sunday for an attack on the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza that Israel said killed three of its soldiers.

crossing, but did not confirm where it fired them from. Hamas media quoted a source close to the group as saying the commercial crossing was not the target.

More than a million Palestinians are sheltering in Rafah, near the border with Egypt.

Shortly after the Hamas attack, an Israeli airstrike hit a house in Rafah killing three persons and wounding several others, Palestinian medics said.

Last year marked a record for US oil production with an average daily production of 12.93 million barrels per day (bpd). That record was five per cent greater than the previous record of 12.31 million bpd set in 2019.

However, current data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that average daily production thus far in 2024 is 13.12 million bpd — 7.1 per cent ahead of the production level of a year ago and 1.4 per cent higher than last year’s record pace.

US natural gas production tells a similar tale. The EIA recently confirmed that 2023 marked a record for US natural gas production at 125 billion cubic feet per day (CFD). That was four per cent ahead of the previous record set in 2022.

Natural gas data isn’t reported as often as petroleum data, but January’s natural gas production level was 124.6 billion CFD. That followed a monthly production record in December 2023. It was slightly behind last year’s record level, but there are some seasonal effects in natural gas production. If we compare January 2024 to January 2023, this year’s production level was 1.1 per cent higher than a year ago.

The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude is currently hovering around US$85 per barrel, which is about seven per cent higher than a year ago. That should help keep US oil production levels elevated. The number of rigs drilling for oil and gas in the US is nearly 20 per cent lower than a year ago, although the rig count has been relatively stable from the previous quarter (down one per cent).

However, the decline in rig count is more pronounced in the number of rigs drilling for natural gas (down 35 per cent) than for oil (down 14 per cent).

In summary, US oil and natural gas production have continued their upward trajectory, with both ahead of year-ago levels. Despite a slight decline in rig count, elevated crude oil prices are expected to support continued production growth. (Excerpt from Oilprice.com)

Israel's military said 10 projectiles were launched from Rafah in southern Gaza towards the area of the crossing, which it said was now closed to aid trucks going into the coastal enclave. Other crossings remained open.

Hamas's armed wing said it fired rockets at an Israeli army base by the

The Israeli military confirmed the counter-strike, saying it struck the launcher from which the Hamas projectiles were fired, as well as a nearby "military structure".

"The launches carried out by Hamas adjacent to the Rafah Crossing ... are a clear example of the ter-

rorist organisation's systematic exploitation of humanitarian facilities and spaces, and their continued use of the Gazan civilian population as human shields," it said.

Russian attacks on Kharkiv, surrounding

area

kill 1, injure 17 – officials

Russian attacks on Orthodox Easter Sunday killed a woman and injured 24 in Ukraine's north-eastern city of Kharkiv and the surrounding region, regional officials said.

Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said six persons were injured in an overnight drone attack on the Osnovyanskyi district of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city.

Fake videos of Modi aides trigger political showdown in India election

Manipulated videos are taking centre stage as campaigning heats up in India's election, with fake clips involving two top aides of Prime Minister Narendra Modi triggering Police investigations and the arrest of some workers of his rival Congress party.

In what has been dubbed

as India's first AI election, Modi said last week fake voices were being used to purportedly show leaders making "statements that we have never even thought of", calling it a conspiracy "to create tension in society."

Indian police – already investigating the spread of fake videos showing Bollywood ac-

tors criticising Modi – are now investigating a doctored online clip that showed federal home minister Amit Shah.

Shah responded on X, posting his "original" and the edited "fake" speech. The Minister said "directions have been issued to the Police to address this issue." (Excerpt from Reuters)

Prosecutors in Kharkiv region said 15 more were hurt in an attack later in the day by aerial bombs on the city centre.

"The next time it could hit my house. Why did it hit here? Just who is here? And on such a holy day. How? I cannot grasp it at all..." Natalia AvilovaPatrikeyeva said outside an apartment building with shattered balconies and windows blown out.

"I thought that at least on this day it would re -

main calm. At four in the morning, there also was a strike. I don't sleep, I don't sleep at all."

After midnight, public broadcaster Suspilne reported power cuts in parts of Kharkiv region. It also said there had been power cuts in adjacent Sumy region after reports of drone attacks and explosions.

Kharkiv withstood a weeks-long Russian onslaught in the early days of the February 2022 Russian invasion and has been a

frequent target of attacks in recent weeks.

Russia says it does not target civilian sites, but attacks have hit apartment blocks, schools and medical institutions.

Stunned residents milled about the courtyard outside a block of flats or surveyed debris in apartments or in stairwells. Forensic experts combed the ground for pieces of shrapnel. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Al Jazeera office raided as Israel takes channel off air

Israel's Government has moved to shut down the operations of the Al Jazeera television network in the country, branding it a mouthpiece for Hamas.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Cabinet agreed to the closure while the war in Gaza is ongoing.

Police raided the Qatari broadcaster's office at the Ambassador hotel in Jerusalem on Sunday.

Al Jazeera called claims it was a threat to Israeli security a "dangerous and ridiculous lie".

The channel said it reserved the right to "pursue every legal step".

Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi said equipment had been taken in the raid.

A video posted by the Minister on X shows Police Officers and inspectors from the Ministry entering a hotel room.

A BBC team visited the scene, but was prevented from filming or going into the hotel by Police.

According to Reuters news agency, the Israeli satellite service Yes displayed a message that read: "In accordance with the Government decision, the Al Jazeera station's broadcasts have been stopped in Israel."

The blockage is effectively only partial, how -

ever, as the channel is still accessible through Facebook in Israel. The shutdown of Al Jazeera in Israel has been criticised by a number of human rights and press groups.

The Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) said they had filed a request to the country's Supreme Court to issue an interim order to overturn the ban. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Hamas denies it uses civilians as human shields. Sunday's attack on the crossing came as hopes dimmed for ceasefire talks under way in Cairo. (Excerpt from Reuters)

An Israeli medic walks near soldiers and an ambulance after Palestinian Islamist group Hamas claimed responsibility for an attack on Kerem Shalom crossing, near Israel's border with Gaza in southern Israel, May 5, 2024 (Reuters/Amir Cohen photo)

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath attend an election campaign rally in Kanpur, India, May 4, 2024 (Reuters/Francis Mascarenhas photo)

Media equipment was seen being taken out of the Ambassador Hotel, where Al Jazeera's Jerusalem office is based [Reuters]

SUDOKU

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Channel your energy and finish what you start. Organization powered by insight and fortitude will help you avoid anyone trying to sidetrack you or get in your way. Don’t take risks.

Think before you act. Consider the consequences and deal with a potential problem before it morphs into something too big to handle. Look for alternatives you can fall back on, and forge ahead.

Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground. Think before you act and trust your instincts over what others try to convince you to believe. Take charge and focus on your needs.

Get organized and initiate your plans. Seek out people you would like to work with. Be the force that pulls everyone together and gets things done. Your efforts will be appreciated.

You must be self-reliant and double-check information. Someone will confuse you by making an unexpected or last-minute change. Be prepared to go with an alternate plan.

An open mind will help you make better decisions. Embrace changes that suit your schedule and help you learn. Bide your time and cover every angle.

Make your plans and schedule available to those who lean on you for help. Assign small jobs to those who can do them. A partnership will require clarity regarding responsibilities.

Participate in events or activities that spark your imagination and offer you the chance to connect with people heading in a similar direction. Be open to suggestions.

Establish your priorities and put a feasible schedule in place. Stand by your word and put your energy where it makes sense. Work hard to appease someone’s demands.

Size up situations, learn all you can and refrain from discussing your intentions prematurely. Delve into what interests you most, and implement changes that help you adjust your schedule.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) (June 21-July 22) (July 23-Aug. 22) (March 21-April 19) (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) (May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20) (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Be careful when dealing with domestic issues; not everyone will agree with your decisions. The less you share, the easier it will be to get things done your way. Let your heart lead the way.

Pay attention to financial and domestic matters. Focus on details and running your home efficiently. Ask for help to ensure you bring about positive change.

Jadeja stars with bat and ball as CSK climb to 3rd

Punjab Kings showcased their very best and worst selves all in the course of about 45 minutes and in the end, the bad outweighed the good as they lost to Chennai Super Kings by 28 runs.

Sam Curran's men had dominated proceedings right from the toss. A target of 168 should've been well within their reach, especially when they strung together a period of play where they hit six boundaries in 18 balls between the fifth and the seventh overs.

The equation at that point was 112 off 78 with eight wickets in hand. This was not the time to collapse but collapse they did, losing both their set batters, their Captain and their finisher. They tumbled from 62 for 2 to 78 for 7. And CSK rose from fifth place to third place.

CSK stutter

It all began with CSK ticking every box they shouldn't tick in a batting innings in T20 cricket. They lost a wicket in the powerplay. Ajinkya Rahane's poor Indian Premier League (IPL) continued with his fifth score of 15 or less. Then just as they were recovering – backing up overs that went for 19 and 9 runs –they lost three wickets in 11 balls, including their top-scorer Ruturaj Gaikwad (32 off 21) and their spin-hitter Shivam Dube (0 off 1). Then just as they were recovering from that – backing up overs that

went for 11 and 9 runs – they lost another wicket. Ravindra Jadeja, batting at number six, was in during the ninth over and made sure to stay there almost through to finish. His 43 off 26 balls was crucial to the total CSK ended up with.

Chahar's masterclass

Rahul Chahar was once again at the forefront of the PBKS bowling performance, even though he was facing a line-up full of left-handers. He coped by trusting his googly and by staying out of their hitting arcs. These are defensive skills and they are proving more and more valuable. Fifteen of the legspinner's 24

SCOREBOARD

Chennai Super Kings (20 ovs maximum)

Ajinkya Rahane c Rabada

b Arshdeep Singh 9

Ruturaj Gaikwad (c) c †JM Sharma

b Chahar 32

Daryl Mitchell lbw

b Patel 30

Shivam Dube c †JM Sharma

b Chahar 0 Moeen Ali c Bairstow

b Curran 17

Ravindra Jadeja c Curran

b Arshdeep Singh 43

Mitchell Santner c Curran

b Chahar 11

Shardul Thakur

b Patel 17

MS Dhoni †

b Patel 0

Tushar Deshpande not out 0

Richard Gleeson not out 2

Extras (lb 1, w 5) 6

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.35) 167/9

Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Ajinkya Rahane, 1.5 ov), 2-69 (Ruturaj Gaikwad, 7.1 ov), 3-69 (Shivam Dube, 7.2 ov), 4-75 (Daryl Mitchell, 8.5 ov), 5-101 (Moeen Ali, 12.4 ov), 6-122 (Mitchell Santner, 15.6 ov), 7-150 (Shardul Thakur, 18.4 ov), 8-150 (MS Dhoni, 18.5 ov), 9-164 (Ravindra Jadeja, 19.4 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Kagiso Rabada 3-0-24-0

Arshdeep Singh 4-0-42-2

Sam Curran

Harpreet Brar

Punjab Kings (T: 168 runs from 20 ovs)

Prabhsimran Singh c sub (Sameer Rizvi) b Jadeja 30

Jonny Bairstow b Deshpande 7 Rilee Rossouw

b Deshpande 0

Shashank Singh c Simarjeet Singh b Santner 27

Sam Curran (c) c Santner b Jadeja 7

Jitesh Sharma † c †Dhoni b Simarjeet Singh 0

Ashutosh Sharma c Simarjeet Singh

b Jadeja 3

Harpreet Brar not out 17

Harshal Patel c sub (Sameer Rizvi)

b Simarjeet Singh 12

Rahul Chahar

b Thakur 16

Kagiso Rabada not out 11

Extras (lb 5, w 4) 9

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 6.95) 139/9

Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Jonny Bairstow, 1.3 ov), 2-9 (Rilee Rossouw, 1.6 ov), 3-62 (Shashank Singh, 7.6 ov), 4-68 (Prabhsimran Singh, 8.6 ov), 5-69 (Jitesh Sharma, 9.4 ov), 6-77 (Sam Curran, 12.1 ov), 7-78 (Ashutosh Sharma, 12.3 ov), 8-90 (Harshal Patel, 14.4 ov), 9-117 (Rahul Chahar, 17.3 ov) • BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Santner 3-0-10-1

Tushar Deshpande 4-0-35-2

Richard Gleeson 4-0-41-0

4-0-34-1

1-0-19-0

Rahul Chahar 4-0-23-3

Harshal Patel 4-0-24-3

Ravindra Jadeja 4-0-20-3

Simarjeet Singh 3-0-16-2

Shardul Thakur 2-0-12-1

deliveries arrived outside the batter's off stump, or even wider, and fetched him all three of his wickets.

Harshal back to his old self 181 runs. That's how many Harshal Patel gave up in his first four games of this season. 181 runs. That's also how many Harshal has given up over his last seven games

swing from as early when he came on to bowl, in the 10th over. Later, in the evening, the new ball started to deck around. It offered extra bounce, which interfered with the shots that Gaikwad and Dube tried to play, but also kept low, without which Daryl Mitchell might not have been lbw. When the ball got old, it held in the pitch and took

this season. He's also picked up 13 wickets along the way. He's become a bowler transformed – or so it seems. Really though, a death overs specialist runs the risk of splits like these. It's the difference between executing what you want perfectly and missing your mark by a few inches. Harshal secured two of his three wickets with slow, sharply-dipping yorkers. One of them was MS Dhoni for a first-ball duck. He spoke about how he doesn't rely on technique as much as feel, which is why he wasn't at his best at the start of the season; he was rusty. But with overs under his belt, he has gotten better and better.

A strange pitch

This pitch, on first sight, seemed to be pretty good for batting. But eventually it became clear that it was playing some tricks. Harshal mentioned that since it was a day game and the square was so dry, he was getting reverse

turn. Both Chahar and Jadeja produced double-wicket overs.

CSK's bowling leader

CSK have lost Deepak Chahar and Matheesha Pathirana to injury, but have been able to stay in the race for the IPL play-offs because Tushar Deshpande has improved beyond sight. He was the one selecting the ball that they were going to use at the start of the game. That is typically the responsibility of a very senior player. This guy was once their net bowler. His rise has been phenomenal. Deshpande took out PBKS' two big guns in the top order – Jonny Bairstow and Rilee Rossouw – in the same over. His first six balls of the match increased CSK's chances of victory by 18.66 per cent.

The recovery

The thing with defending small totals is everybody has to be perfect. CSK had one bowler who was nailing his lengths. Constantly looking to

hit the deck, which is where all the vagaries were coming from, whether it was extra bounce, or the ball holding up, or keeping low. Deshpande's upright seam position also helped him get sideways movement. The Rossow ball nipped in against the angle and left his stumps splayed before he could even react. Beaten for both pace and movement.

But overs five, six and seven cost CSK as Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh went on the offensive. They were pulling off jaw-dropping shots. A ramp over third man for six when there was no room and the ball was climb-

years. He only came in because Mustafizur Rahman had to leave early and Pathirana, and Chahar were injured. Still, he is a player who knows his strengths and he backed them, bowling nice and tight on the stumps and asking the batters to hit him to the longer boundary, down the ground. That's how he got Shashank.

In the next, the ninth over, Jadeja took out Prabhsimran. In the next over, Simarjeet Singh got rid of Jitesh Sharma and so on and so on. Five wickets. Sixteen runs. Twenty-eight balls. PBKS kept trying to hit themselves out of trouble. They were un-

ing. An inside-out drive over cover for four when the ball was darted in on or even outside leg stump.

The collapse Mitchell Santner has a history of putting in high-impact performances. In his second game for CSK, he hit the last ball for six to win the game. But being a left-arm spinner in a team that already has Jadeja, he tends to ride the bench. This was his 16th game for CSK in five

able to soak the pressure; unable to bat at a different gear.

This is the kind of situation that CSK thrive in. So, even when there came a point where Ashutosh Sharma was dropped very poorly by Moeen Ali, they had Jadeja up their sleeve and he produced a wicket off the very next ball, Sam Curran falling to another big shot, and then in the same over, Ashutosh too succumbing to a wild swing. That was 78 for 7 and that was the game. (ESPNcricinfo)

Ravindra Jadeja turned in an all-round performance

Rahul Chahar took two in two in the eighth over to dent CSK

Shashank Singh's early hitting was as spectacular as it was risky

Ruturaj Gaikwad and co walk back after completing their win

KKR go top of the table after commanding Narine-led win over LSG

the end of the fourth over, bludgeoning a Mohsin Khan short ball over deep square-leg, clubbing Krunal Pandya over deep midwicket not long after, and later thrashing Yash Thakur over the squareleg boundary. In the middle overs, he dealt almost exclusively in sixes, and by the end of his stay, he had walloped seven, to go with six fours. He holed out to long-off attempting another six off LSG's best bowler Ravi Bishnoi, who was the only one to finish with an economy rate lower than

Sunil Narine crashed 81 off 39 deliveries and Ramandeep Singh got only six balls to face and smashed 25 in those. In addition, Phil Salt, Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Shreyas Iyer played aggressive innings. All of which meant that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) surged to 235 for 6 in their 20 overs, which in Lucknow – one of the lower-scoring venues in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 – was always going to be incredibly difficult to surpass. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) innings didn't really take off. There was a 50-run second-wicket partnership between KL Rahul and Marcus Stoinis, but even that went at too slow a pace (they took 33 balls) to cause serious problems for KKR. Once that stand was broken, the innings

three wickets each. Andre Russell took two. And Ramandeep claimed two catches, the first of which was one of the most spectacular of the season.

Narine crushes it in the first 12 overs Salt was the first aggressor, hitting 24 off the first nine balls he faced.

Ramandeep plays a cameo to remember LSG had a good period between overs 14 and 18, where they conceded only 45 while taking three wickets. Thanks to Narine, Salt and Raghuvanshi, with whom Narine shared a 79-run partnership, KKR were headed for a mammoth score. But the slight slowdown might have giv-

fell apart quickly, the last nine wickets falling for 67 runs, as the required rate ballooned out of control.

Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana took

But he was soon out for 32 off 14, and from then, it was the Narine show.

Narine warmed up with five fours, then started getting the big hits going at

en LSG a foot in the door. Ramandeep pushed the total back into gargantuan territory in spectacular style. He took a two in front of square on the leg

side to start with, bashed a six over cow corner second ball, bludgeoned one over long-on fourth ball, ramped a four over short third next, then thumped a full toss over midwicket to finish the innings. To recap, he went 2, 6, 1, 6, 4, 6.

As if scoring at a strike rate of more than 400 wasn't impressive enough, he also pulled off one of the catches of the season to get rid of Arshin Kulkarni. Speeding towards the boundary from point, he kept his eyes on a leading edge that had gone high into the air, and put in a

spectacular dive to get his hands on a ball whose trajectory he did not seem like he would intersect. He took another catch at deep point later, to dismiss Rahul, the other LSG opener.

And then LSG crumble

With a required rate of almost 12 set from the start of the innings, LSG were always going to struggle, given the quality in KKR's attack. They scored 13 off the fourth over, bowled by Mitchell Starc, but then Narine came in with a four-run fifth over, and by the end of the powerplay,

SCOREBOARD

Kolkata Knight Riders (20 ovs maximum)

Phil Salt † c †Rahul

b Naveen-ul-Haq 32

Sunil Narine c sub (D Padikkal)

b Ravi Bishnoi 81

Angkrish Raghuvanshi c †Rahul

b Yudhvir Singh 32

Andre Russell c sub (K Gowtham)

b Naveen-ul-Haq 12

Rinku Singh c Stoinis

b Naveen-ul-Haq 16

Shreyas Iyer (c) c †Rahul

b Yash Thakur 23

Ramandeep Singh not out 25

Venkatesh Iyer not out 1

Extras (w 13) 13

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 11.75) 235/6

Did not bat: Mitchell Starc, Harshit

Rana, Varun Chakravarthy

Fall of wickets: 1-61 (Phil Salt, 4.2 ov), 2-140 (Sunil Narine, 11.6 ov), 3-167 (Andre Russell, 14.2 ov), 4-171 (Angkrish Raghuvanshi, 15.1 ov), 5-200 (Rinku Singh, 17.6 ov), 6-224 (Shreyas Iyer, 19.3 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Marcus Stoinis

Mohsin Khan

Naveen-ul-Haq

2-0-29-0

2-0-28-0

4-0-49-3

Yash Thakur 4-0-46-1

2-0-26-0

Krunal Pandya

Ravi Bishnoi 4-0-33-1

Yudhvir Singh 2-0-24-1

Lucknow Super Giants

(T: 236 runs from 20 ovs)

KL Rahul (c)† c Ramandeep Singh

b Harshit Rana 25

Arshin Kulkarni c Ramandeep Singh b Starc 9

Marcus Stoinis c Harshit Rana b Russell 36

Deepak Hooda lbw b Varun 5

Nicholas Pooran c †Salt b Russell 10

Ayush Badoni c Starc b Narine 15

Ashton Turner c & b Varun 16

Krunal Pandya c †Salt b Harshit Rana 5

Yudhvir Singh c Russell b Varun 7 Ravi Bishnoi lbw b Harshit Rana 2

Naveen-ul-Haq not out 0

Extras (lb 1, w 6) 7

TOTAL 16.1 Ov (RR: 8.47) 137

Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Arshin Kulkarni, 1.6 ov), 2-70 (KL Rahul, 7.3 ov), 3-77 (Deepak Hooda, 8.2 ov), 4-85 (Marcus Stoinis, 9.1 ov), 5-101 (Nicholas Pooran, 11.2 ov), 6-109 (Ayush Badoni, 12.3 ov), 7-125 (Ashton Turner, 13.6 ov), 8-129 (Krunal Pandya, 14.4 ov), 9-137 (Yudhvir Singh, 15.6 ov), 10-137 (Ravi Bishnoi, 16.1 ov) • BOWLING O-M-R-W

Vaibhav Arora 2-0-21-0

Mitchell Starc 2-0-22-1

Sunil Narine 4-0-22-1

Harshit Rana 3.1-0-24-3

Varun Chakravarthy 3-0-30-3

Andre Russell 2-0-17-2

the required rate was up near 13.

When LSG tried to hit out, wickets fell rapidly. At no point did they seem to have the measure of this chase. On a slow track, on which KKR's slower bowlers were effective, Rahul's wicket set off a collapse.

(ESPNcricinfo)

ENTERTAINMENT

Like a boxer punching the air, Andre Russell celebrates the wicket of Nicholas Pooran

Naveen-ul-Haq finished with a three-for

Marcus Stoinis muscled Mitchell Starc in the powerplay

KFC Elite League…

Anticipated GDF-Slingerz clash ends in stalemate

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Football Club and Slingerz FC, after an intense battle on Saturday night, have both remained unbeaten in the ongoing KFC Elite League Season Six, as there was no separation between the two ‘big clubs’ after a stalemate result.

The clash went down at the Guyana Football Federation’s National Training Center (NTC), Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), witnessed by hundreds of spectators, who braved the intermittent rains.

The defending champions, GDF, looked to be the more technical of the two teams; however, this separation in their styles on Saturday night could also be chalked up to the absence of Slingerz Head Coach Alex Thomas, who was issued a red card during the club’s encounter with the Guyana Police Force

(GPF) FC a week prior.

In spite of their missing piece, Slingerz FC’s defence managed to stand up to the test of GDF. Abumuchi Benjamin was a menace to GDF’s defence on the wing, often meeting in one-on-one battles with Leo Lovell. While Benjamin was good enough to win a number of those battles, his passing was off and as such, a number of his crosses into the box bore no fruit.

Jeremy Garrett and Quincy Adams were formidable at the back for Slingerz, thwarting a number of GDF advances. In the midfield, Slingerz’s Job Caesar was often outsmarted by his equal Kelsey Benjamin, who in turn created a number of opportunities for the defending champions. However, a number of Benjamin’s advances were eventually gobbled up by Slingerz’ keeper, Akel Clarke.

One Slingerz player who found success in the midfield

area was Darron Niles, who was visibly given the assignment of marking GDF’s power midfielder Ryan Hackett. Though smaller in stature compared to his mark, Niles was able to shut down Hackett on a number of oc-

Archery Guyana, Miss Guyana unite sport and fashion at sashing ceremony

Archery Guyana has proudly joined forces with Miss Guyana Culture Queen in a groundbreaking collaboration that fused the worlds of sport and fashion at the sashing ceremony of the 10 contestants on Sunday, April 29, 2024. The event witnessed a convergence of elegance and athleticism as the partnership was forged, celebrating the synergy between archery and haute couture.

Renowned fashion guru Randy Madray took centre stage, captivating the audience with his impeccable sense of style and sophistication as the beautiful young ladies were formally introduced and sashed.

In a moment of true partnership and empowerment, Madray stood with representatives from Archery Guyana, with President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon on his right and Roshini Boodhoo-

Persaud on his left, flanked by the delegates. Together, they symbolised the union of sport and fashion, embodying strength, grace, and elegance.

President PersaudMcKinnon expressed her delight at the collaboration, emphasising the empowering nature of archery and its alignment with the world of fashion. She remarked, "This collaboration represents more than just an event; it signifies the coming together of two powerful forces that empower individuals to express themselves, both physically and artistically."

Legendary fashion designer Madray, in this year's cricket focus, opined that "the sashing ceremony not only celebrated the contestants of Miss Guyana's Culture Queen but also served as a testament to the limitless possibilities when sport and fashion

unite". As Archery Guyana continues to champion empowerment through athleticism, this collaboration with Miss Guyana highlights the commitment to innovation and inclusivity.

According to President Persaud-McKinnon, "in an exciting fusion of athleticism and elegance, the Miss Guyana Culture Queen contestants are set to embark on a thrilling archery experience. Details are currently being finalised for an exclusive session that will see these remarkable young women stepping onto the archery range."

As archery meets fashion, this unique collaboration promises an unforgettable blend of grace, precision, and style. Stay tuned as Archery Guyana unveils more details about this upcoming event, where beauty will meet skill in a celebration of strength and sophistication.

casions and coupled with Hackett’s seeming inability to get it right, GDF were even more unable to convert their chances.

Another player who looked like a shell of themselves on Saturday night was Slingerz’ forward Marcus Tudor, who had to fend off the likes of ex-

perienced Colin Nelson and Amos Ramsey to even attempt a break through.

All in all, the defensive lines on both ends of the pitch were virtually impenetrable and even when the shot got through, it was the goalkeeper’s skills, off-side calls or sheer luck that kept the

score at 0-0 for the regulation 90 minutes and 5 minutes of added time.

In the other fixture on Saturday night, Santos FC pulled off an astonishing 3-2 victory over Western Tigers FC. Randy Roberts opened the scoring for Santos in the 6th minute, after which Randolph Wagner levelled the scores in the 23rd minute. Roberts later put Santos ahead again in the 51st, but Wagner pulled Western Tigers level again in the 74th minute. Santos’ Stefan Reynolds ended the see-saw once and for all in the 90th+4, capitalising on a loose ball that the Western keeper failed to hold on to.

The KFC Elite League will continue tomorrow, Tuesday, May 7 with a clash between Western Tigers FC and Den Amstel FC at 19:00h, which will mark the conclusion of the first Round of Season Six. The League will, thereafter, take a short break and resume on Saturday, May 18.

Nexgen Golf shines bright with success of its 1st-ever night event

Nexgen Golf, a pioneer in innovative golf experiences, celebrated a remarkable milestone over the weekend with the triumphant debut of its inaugural Night Golf Event.

Golf enthusiasts and novices alike gathered at the Scout Association Ground on Woolford Avenue for two unforgettable evenings of fun. In attendance was 2023 Miss India Worldwide Aruna Sukhdeo, who, along with Merrick and Veonita Needham, presented prizes to the winners.

One of the highlights of the event was the Glow Ball Competition, where participants competed for prizes by showcasing their accuracy and finesse under the cloak of darkness. Spectators cheered as competitors’ neon balls traced dazzling arcs through the night sky.

The Night Golf Event

drew participants of all skill levels, from seasoned pros to beginners eager to try their hand under the stars. With music playing softly in the background and refreshments available, the atmosphere was lively and convivial throughout the night.

Winning the men's category and prizes provided by Guyana Beverages Inc and Pegasus Hotel & Suites was Rohan Albert, with Karlo Jerez second; and Steve Mohitram third. Marisa Morgan-Bonie took the female honours with a prize from Sterling Products Ltd. All the junior players received large snack packs, compliments of Sunshine Snacks.

Female players also received bottles of Barefoot Wine from ANSA McAL as a part of the grand two-day event.

"As we reflect on the success of our Night Golf Event, we are energised by the enthusiasm and passion of our participants," said Nexgen Golf's Aleem Hussain. "This event marks just the beginning of our journey to revolutionise golf in Guyana and inspire a new generation of players. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible."

Nexgen Golf extended its heartfelt thanks to all participants, sponsors, and partners who helped make the Night Golf Event a resounding success. Special thanks were expressed to Sterling Products Ltd, Sunshine Snacks, ANSA McAL, Balance Wait Services, Guyana Beverages Inc and Pegasus Hotel & Suites.

Santos FC stunned Western Tigers with a 3-2 victory

Fashion designer Randy Madray (centre) flanked by Archery Guyana

President Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon (on his right) and Chair of its Social Media Committee, Roshini Boodhoo-Persaud (on his left)