Guyana Times - Saturday, April 6, 2024.pdf

See story on page 3

"Fiesta Cubana Festival" aims to promote Cuban culture in Guyana

Medical professionals to be trained at state-of-the-art facilities in India, China – Pres Ali ...in preparation for transition to new hospitals in Guyana

No Guyanese onboard narcosubmarine, persons arrested spoke Spanish – CANU Director

Over 250 Santa Mission residents allegedly refuse to evacuate

2 teachers die following 2-boat collision in Moruca River Washington DC, NY & London investors to visit Guyana this month

Teen injured in Easter Monday accident at Enmore succumbs AG holds intellectual property protection talks with US officials Page 11 Page 9 Page 12

Good Hope man busted with ganja in cupboard Vagrant found murdered on city streets

Convicted drug trafficker gets 5 years, fined $17M

2 teachers die following 2-boat collision in Moruca River Good Hope man busted with ganja in cupboard

Two teachers have lost their lives following a collision between two boats in the Moruca River in Region One (Barima-Waini) early on Friday morning.

Adrian Thomas, 18, a former teacher of St. Beeds Primary School and of Kumaka Road in Santa Rosa, and Helen Raybai of Waikrebi Village in the Moruca Sub-Region are the two teachers.

Based on reports received, the accident took place at 06:30h, and one of the boats involved was Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard radar

craft RC 17, which was under the command of a sergeant, assisted by two other ranks, and was en route to Santa Rosa. The other boat, powered by a 75HP outboard engine and captained by Thomas, had four occupants, including Raybai, her child and Thomas, and was on its way to Charity. The collision reportedly occurred as the GDF boat was negotiating a turn. Following the collision, Raybai and Thomas lost their lives while the baby and the other occupant of the boat were taken for medical attention at the

Charity Regional Hospital.

Police have said that the Coast Guard vessel was damaged, and is currently at the Base in the Pomeroon River. The GDF, in a statement after the tragic accident, said an investigation is underway, none of its ranks were injured, but it is extremely saddened at the passing of two occupants of the civilian boat.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, together with officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, has extended sincere condolences to the families

and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.

When contacted, Dawn Torres, a cousin of Thomas, told Guyana Times during a telephone conversation that relatives had received initial information about the accident, and later in the morning received news that two persons had been killed.

She noted that her cousin and other passengers were heading to Charity, but she could not say why.

Thomas had attended the Santa Rosa Secondary School, and after writing CSEC, had applied for a teaching job at St. Beeds in the Barama area.

Torres described him as a very jovial and funny person who always lighted up a crowd. She recalled meeting him on Easter Monday during a family gathering, and said she was fortunate to have been taken on a ride in his boat.

The aggrieved cousin added that while relatives do not have much information on the circumstances surrounding the accident, the family has lost a gem. Thomas leaves to mourn his parents and one brother.

Alvin Roland of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara has been arrested following the discovery of a quantity of ganja at his home.

The Police have said that

ranks conducted an intelligence-led operation at the home of the 23-year-old Roland on Thursday, and unearthed a parcel containing cannabis inside a cup-

board.

He was told of the offence committed, cautioned and arrested. The narcotic was weighed in his presence and amounted to 107.32 grams.

Ranks also took possession of one black motorcycle found at Roland’s residence, suspected to have been illegally obtained or stolen.

He remains in custody pending charges.

The ganja that was found

Dead: Adrian Thomas Dead: Helen Raybai

Medical professionals to be trained at state-of-the-art facilities in India, China – Pres Ali …in preparation for transition to new hospitals in Guyana

As the Guyana Government works on modernising the public health sector, local medical professionals will benefit from training stints at state-of-the-art facilities overseas, according to President Dr Irfaan Ali.

He was at the time speaking at a meeting with senior public health officials and Department Heads of regional hospitals across the country on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

The Head of State explained that these opportunities would allow Guyanese doctors and nurses to function in high-class facilities, preparing them to transition into the state-of-the-art hospitals that are currently being constructed across the country.

“We want to take a few key persons from the system and attach them under the ITEC programme in India and attach them in China to state-of-the-art facilities so that they can have an opportunity to spend a few weeks working in a similar environment so that that transfer is smoother, that transfer is more structurally integrated…,” the President posited.

The Government plans to construct a total of 12 new modern hospitals and upgrade another six existing health facilities in various regions across Guyana. Among these hospitals are two specialised institutions – a US$161 million teaching hospital at New Amsterdam in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and a €149 million Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

According to Ali, he wants the local medical professionals to be fully prepared to work in these institutions, especially the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital. “We have to prepare. I want that [Paediatric and Maternal Hospital] to be managed by our local capability as far as possible,” he stated.

Filling gaps

To this end, the Guyanese Leader underscored the need to identify gaps within the public health sector.

“Knowing the level of service that will come with that facility, [we have to know] what are the gaps now and ensuring that we provide the training and the adjustments in the system so when that facility comes into existence, we will be ready,” he said.

The President further noted that these new regional hospitals will require a greater degree of manage-

with human resource capacity in the country now. There is a shortage in almost every sector. If there are shortages

Nursing training & upskilling doctors

The Government has already implemented several initiatives to fill existing gaps within the health sector, especially for nurses. To encourage interest in the profession, the Government is offering free training along with a stipend for persons wanting to become nurses and guaranteed jobs upon completion of the programme.

Additionally, there are two nursing schools – an $881 million modern training facility for nurses and nursing students at Suddie, Essequibo Coast in Region

ment and greater skillsets. Hence, he told the gathering of medical professionals from across the country that being in the public health sector, they were most equipped to identify and work out a strategy to effectively analyse and bridge these gaps.

“We have a challenge

in the healthcare sector, we have to find short and medium-term solutions whilst we train to meet the future requirements. There is no shortcut to this. It must be planned, structured and targeted, and all of us must be part of this decision-making or idea-development forum,” Ali stated.

Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and another nursing school in Region Six that will be accredited by the University of West Indies (UWI) School of Nursing. UWI will also open a School of Medicine at the new teaching hospital being constructed in New Amsterdam.

A section of the medical professionals and senior officials in the public health sector at the meeting on Friday with President Dr Irfaan Ali

President Dr Irfaan Ali

GPL woes

The complaints coming from both private citizens and the business community about the constant power outages have increased over the past few months. In fact, there have recently been several letters to the editor wherein persons expressed frustration over periods of blackout in their communities, with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) doing very little to convince the populace that blackouts would become a thing of the past.

Despite promises from both the previous and present administrations, that the nation would benefit from improved electricity supply, consumers are yet to see any measurable progress in relation to an affordable and reliable service. In fact, despite major investment under this current administration, the country is still plagued with electricity woes.

We agree with Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who on Thursday, while sympathising with Guyanese who are affected by frequent power outages, said, “The situation is bad, there is no sugarcoating this.”

To quote the VP: “We are not going to say people are not justified in the harsh comments they make, because we feel it ourselves. Because we live here and we are consumers too. It’s not that the Government is aloof from these concerns, (but) sometimes explanations don’t help at that moment…yes, the performance of GPL is atrocious in many cases, but also we are dealing with a real fact: growth demand and old equipment.”

He did, however, disclose that Government is seeking to purchase an additional 40 to 80 megawatts of power for the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc, in order to offset increasing demands.

With the opening up of new housing schemes around the country, there is an increased demand for electricity, which means that more energy has to be generated to satisfy that demand. If serious efforts are not made to produce more electricity to meet this increasing demand, there would always be pressure on the existing systems, resulting in power surges and extended periods of blackout.

Businesses have been very vocal about the huge negative impact the prolonged periods of blackout have had on their operations. While it would be difficult to place a monetary figure on the extent of the economic loss resulting from unstable power, it would be correct to say that the losses in terms of downtime and lost business have been quite significant.

In addition to the disruption to manufacturing and trading, among other industries, there is also the disruption to the night-time entertainment industry.

An unstable electricity supply in any country serves as a deterrent. While some large businesses in the manufacturing sector have opted to provide their own independent power supply, small businesses cannot afford to do so, since the use of an alternative power supply adds significantly to operating costs.

That said, we are not oblivious to the many problems being experienced by GPL. These problems, which include line losses, particularly owing to electricity theft, have been known for decades, and have certainly had a tremendous impact on the company’s ability to provide better services to consumers. The extent of electricity theft in Guyana is shocking, and GPL must continue to tackle the issue frontally. The costs for stolen electricity are passed down to ordinary consumers, who are made to feel the brunt of such illegal actions. All efforts must therefore be made to ensure that persons who are involved in such practices are placed before the courts. No doubt, once such issues are addressed, the company would be in a better position to perform better.

It is unacceptable that citizens are still faced with unexplained blackouts and voltage surges. In fairness to GPL, it is clear they understand the depth of the problem, and how consumers and businesses are affected. However, the company, and by extension the Government, must take the necessary steps to fix the problem of blackouts once and for all. Anything less is unacceptable.

Opposition Leader has to be delusional

Dear Editor,

My attention was drawn to the Opposition Leader’s press conference on Thursday, wherein he was once again asked by a reporter about his party’s oil and gas (O&G) advisory committee. In response to the question, the Opposition Leader somehow found it fitting to insinuate that I am an oil and gas technical resource for the Government, and that his economic advisor Elson Low is on their O&G committee, and that Elson Low destroyed me in a debate. Well, this is quite amusing.

First, let me say that the Opposition Leader has to be delusional to believe that his advisor could destroy anyone in any debate, save and except for his emotive theatrical performances.

Elson Low admittedly embellished his resume by claiming to have worked at Goldman Sachs, cleverly suggesting it was some sort of high-level job. But the truth is that when I cornered him on this, that he worked there as an intern, he admitted. Then when he returned to Guyana, he worked as a junior level analyst at SARA. So, he is a junior, inexperienced functionary, he had never functioned at a high level in any organization prior to his appointment as chief economic advisor.

He is also not an econ-

omist, though he presents himself as one. Elson Low has a bachelor’s degree in economics. To be an economist, one is required to have at minimum a master’s or PhD in economics, neither of which Elson Low possesses; nor does he have any published papers in reputable academic journals.

The debate he is referring to between Elson Low and me was a debate organized by the University of Guyana, and there was no announced winner of the debate; yet, Elson declared himself the winner, although, at the same debate, a high school student asked him of his alternative development plan, a question which he, along with the political party he represents, has failed to produce to the nation to date.

In relation to the insinuation that I am an oil and gas resource to the Government, let me clarify that I am not. I am not an advisor, nor am I employed by either the Government or the party. The Government has extremely competent and qualified oil and gas technocrats within the Ministry, aided by international advisors such as IHS Market.

Additionally, it is worth noting that Elson Low, as the chief economic advisor, has failed to articulate, by way of research and analysis, his party’s position on

ring fencing, the fiscal terms, the Petroleum Activities Legislation, and the new model PSAs. These are all thematic areas on which I have publicly articulated my position.

Another good example is the interest rate question. The Opposition Leader, like the Kaieteur News (KN) publisher, was reportedly asking about the interest rate that ExxonMobil Guyana has contracted their debt financing at. To this end, there was an article carried by KN quoting the Opposition Leader…that “Guyanese deserve to know secret interest rates paid to ExxonMobil.

Now, if Elson Low were a real economist, he would have advised the Opposition Leader that the interest rate is not secret. The implicit interest can be calculated. All he has to do is obtain the financial statements which are filed at the Deeds Registry and conduct the analysis, where he would find that the implicit interest rate, which is something he has to know how to calculate and know how to analyze the financial statements, is 5%.

For ease of reference, here is an article I have written explaining this analysis since last year. https://www. guyanastandard.com/.../idisagree-with-calls.../.

Elson Low has thus far failed to demonstrate his

competence to perform these very basic analyses, so it is perplexing as to how he could destroy anyone, much less debate anything cogently and robustly. But the poor fella is in a unique position, hence my empathy for him.

I understand he needs validation, and the Opposition Leader is the only person from whom he could obtain the much-needed validation that he seeks and requires for his psychological stability, although he is only fooling himself.

Interestingly to note in the Opposition Leader’s favourite “vocabulary” logically, if Low was so good, so competent, and so brilliant, why is he not in Parliament? Why was he not made a Member of Parliament to represent the Opposition on Oil and Gas or Finance? And why was he denied being nominated to represent the Opposition on the Investment Committee for the Natural Resources Fund (NRF)?

By his own admission on his Facebook page, and based on credible sources from within the Opposition, I am duly informed that he wanted to be on the Investment Committee of the NRF badly, but was denied by the very party he serves. So much for being a destroyer in economic debates.

Sincerely,

Joel Bhagwandin

Sport transcends all hindrances to unite our people GMSA congratulates President Dr. Irfaan Ali on being named 2024 Caribbean Global Leader

Dear Editor, All Guyanese welcome home our CARIFTA Games athletes. It cannot be denied that athletics/running is the oldest sporting event. However, in the Englishspeaking Caribbean, powerhouses Jamaica are the true champions. Guyana, with world-class facilities and equipment, are now moving up the ladder. After the 51st CARIFTA Games, Guyana were in fourth position on the Medals table.

Sport is the most attractive business in the world today. It is the purest and most powerful project that we can embark on.

In Guyana, we did not benefit from world-class sports facilities from our colonial masters. However, it was the PPP/C Government that recognized the significance of sport in the development of our people and country.

The initiative of Bharrat Jagdeo, as Finance Minister, certainly kick-started the development of sports facilities

in Guyana. It is due to his tremendous efforts and genuine interest in sport that this country was able to develop its sports infrastructure around the country. Today we can celebrate the fact that our young population has access to a world-class athletics track at Leonora, which is fully equipped with all the requirements for track-andfield events.

Further, it is most heartening to know that our citizens in UpperDemerara /Linden are now beneficiaries of a modern athletics track, and our citizens in Berbice, Regions 5 and 6, will soon have access to a world-class facility at New Amsterdam. These massive investments will certainly give rise to more well-trained and equipped athletes participating in sports. As a result, we will have a higher level of local competition, which would lead to better performances on the international stage.

Our sportsmen and women are benefiting

greatly from the tremendous assistance offered by our Government. Better and world-class facilities, international equipment, international exposure and coaching, and mental and physical preparedness training are all vital resources that are now available to our athletes.

Sports, preparation from the cradle to the grave is now available to our sports personalities.

The Sports Resource Center at Woolford Avenue must now be fully operable. Coaching and training in all aspects of sports development must help to strengthen our sports development programme. Our club structure must be more organized, and we must have nurseries at all clubs. We must have competitive sports at an early age. Our children must be exposed to a variety of sports disciplines, so they can develop a positive attitude towards sports, and then genuine interest will be seen in specific disci -

plines.

As a very young age, our children should develop an interest in a particular sport discipline, the coaches and trainers will follow up with the appropriate guidance to produce great athletes.

All eyes are now on Tianna Springer, Athaleyha Hinckson, Malachi Austin, Narissa McPherson, Nelson Gill and Kaidon Persaud. However, we need to bring back the competitive county and country games. The early exposure, along with competitive training, would give rise to champions.

Sport is a must. It transcends all hindrances to the unity of our people. We must remember that an active nation is a healthy nation, and a healthy nation is a wealthy nation!

The realisation of President Ali’s vision of One Guyana will certainly be hastened and strengthened by our success in sports.

Sincerely,

Neil Kumar

Medical professionals to be trained ...

With these two new nursing schools set to come on stream, President Ali is looking to tap into the expertise of doctors within the local health sector. This move, he pointed out, will also benefit the doctors.

“If there is a training certificate that we can give, especially [to] our junior doctors that allows them also to lecture in a nursing programme or other programmes, then we want to do that. We want to upgrade your skillset and allow you to be part of this programme so that it adds value and we build more local talent, and more training of trainers. We want also to look at key assets that we can train in healthcare administration and healthcare management. These are key things that we want to do,” he noted.

Bridging language barriers

Another initiative that the Head of State mentioned that will be pursued to enhance healthcare delivery is targeting language barriers. As part of an arrangement with the Cuban Government, cohorts of Guyanese medical students are sent for training in the Spanish-speaking island nation and in exchange, Cuban doctors come here for work.

Last year, through this partnership, some 192 Cuban Medical Brigade workers came to Guyana. Earlier this year, it was announced that Guyana plans to increase the number of

workers under the Cuban Medical Brigade to at least 500 this year inclusive of doctors, nurses, and technicians.

With more Spanishspeaking professionals expected, President Ali plans to utilise the bilingual skills of Guyanese doctors trained in Cuba to effectively take full advantage of the medical capabilities of the Brigade workers.

“We want now to align your capability with the nurses and doctors who are Spanish-speaking in the system… so that we have …communication channel and support in terms of the capability that they bring and ensuring that that capability is not hindered because of language gaps and challenges,” he stated.

Nevertheless, with these massive investments the Government is making to enhance healthcare delivery throughout the country, the Guyanese Leader said it was expected that worldclass health care is delivered to citizens.

“In making these investments, the population and the Government expect that in a short period, we must be able to deliver efficient, reliable and quality healthcare – world-class health care to the citizens of Guyana in the first instance...”

“Now, I don’t have any difficulty with your talent being utilised in Private Sector and regional health care but I want us all to agree that once we’re in

the public healthcare system, there must be a minimum standard and a minimum set of deliverables and hours that constitute support to the public healthcare system. I’m not going to be the person who would run down doctors. I believe that we can find a healthy balance. I believe that we can work towards finding a solution that maximises your potential… [and] how your talent is maximised without injuring or without affecting the delivery of health care in the public health system,” President Ali stressed. (G8)

The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) extends warm congratulations to His Excellency, the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on being named the 2024 Caribbean Global Leader.

This prestigious recognition underscores President Ali’s exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to advancing Guyana’s position on the global stage.

President Ali has received this distinguished award just three months after being honoured with the Global Africa Leadership Award in January, and receiving the Order of Freedom of Barbados Award, demonstrating his commitment to strength-

ening ties between Guyana and the Caribbean community. This rapid succession of accolades highlights his unwavering dedication and remarkable leadership in advancing Guyana’s interests, while fostering regional cooperation and collaboration.

The GMSA also commends Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados for securing the second spot on the list of Caribbean Global Leaders, and congratulates all the distinguished leaders who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Caribbean region. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of Caribbean leaders in advancing the region’s interests, and fostering collaboration on regional and global issues.

Page Foundation

Circles cont’d

A circle’s circumference and area are calculated by using a special long decimal, written as the Greek letter π, pronounced pi. To make calculations easier, pi is often rounded to 3.14. Pi is the ratio of a circle’s diameter to its circumference – a ratio that is exactly the same for every circle.

Calculating the circumference and area of a circle is actually fairly easy to do. A circle’s circumference = pi times its diameter (πd). A circle’s area = pi times the square of its radius (π r2).

If a circle has a radius of 5cm, you can find its circumference by multiplying the radius x 2 and then multiplying that number x π. Its circumference = (2 x 5) π cm = 10 π = 31.40cm

To find this circle’s area, you have to raise its radius to the second power and then multiply that times π. In this example, its area = (5 x 5) times π square cm = 25 times π = 78.5cm.

Example: Exercises: Calculate

1) Calculate the circumference of the circle below. Use 3.14 for π.

2) Calculate the circumference and area of a circle with a radius of 3m.

4) Name the chord shown in the figure below.

3) Calculate the circumference and area of a circle with a diameter of 53cm.

To build awareness of how you see and use water, keep a daily water journal.

Younger kids might draw a way they see water in their home or environment.

Share their journal entries with a partner or with the class.

Making a journal: 1. In a notebook, list all the places where you encounter water in the environment. (eg: rivers, rain, shower)

5) What is the perimeter, or circumference, a circle whose diameter is 24cm.

By Walt Whitman

13

Sing on, sing on you gray-brown bird, Sing from the swamps, the recesses, pour your chant from the bushes, Limitless out of the dusk, out of the cedars and pines.

Sing on dearest brother, warble your reedy song, Loud human song, with voice of uttermost woe.

2. Place a bucket outside to measure and record rainfall or place a graduated cylinder of water in a room and measure the amount that evaporates each day.

3. List the ways you use water each day.

4. Discuss the connection between the water we see outside and the water we use inside. Where does the water in your house come from?

How does it get there?

5. Discuss why it might be important to conserve water. Challenge yourself to use less water the following day.

O liquid and free and tender! O wild and loose to my soul—O wondrous singer!

7. At the end of the week, consider making a graph of the total amount of water that your family used each day. (Adapted from chicagochildrenmuseum.org)

You only I hear—yet the star holds me, (but will soon depart,)

Yet the lilac with mastering odor holds me.

WORD SEARCH

Govt to bring in “specialised help” to clear medical backlog

– to prioritise women, children

President Dr Irfaan Ali has pledged investments by his Government into clearing the backlog of surgeries in the public health sector with a focus on women and children.

During a meeting with senior health officials and Department Heads of hospitals across the country on Friday, the Head of State asked for a list of the surgeries that needed to be done and committed to having the needed specialists brought in to do them.

“We have been receiving several requests to support our healthcare system from different stakeholders. I want us, together, to agree which are the key areas in which we have a backlog. If we have a backlog in a specific area, which are these areas and which areas you require us to bring in specialised help, so that we can clear those backlogs,” Ali told the gathering at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

According to Ali, surgeries for women and children

ing to the Head of State two months ago, the Government is in the advanced stages of planning another 150-plus cardiac operations for children in Guyana within the next year and a half.

In 2023, paediatric cardiac surgery was established as a regular programme at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with some 12 children benefiting from open-heart surgeries.

These efforts are expected to be bolstered when the $32 billion (€149 million) Guyana Paediatric and Maternal Hospital that is being constructed at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), is completed in the last quarter of 2025.

The facility, financed by the United Kingdom’s export credit agency – UK Export Finance (UKEF), is being built by Austria-based Vamed Engineering. It will feature 256 beds and will be a referral centre for women and children.

It will specialise in maternal, neonatal, and paediatric care with a huge imag-

will be a priority in clearing these backlogs.

“I want us to spend time clearing backlogs, especially issues affecting women and children. I want us to identify the areas of backlog and we’re going to invest in clearing those backlogs,” he declared.

Only back in February, President Ali had announced plans to collaborate with international partners to zero in on the backlog of children who require cardiac surgeries in Guyana.

Last year alone, 18 such surgeries were done with the assistance of international specialised help and accord-

ern laboratory, and surgical suites.

Throughout last year, the GPHC fielded a total of 17 surgical missions and was able to reduce the backlog for specialised surgeries by 12,495. A total of 876 elective surgeries were executed, 587 minor surgeries, 845 emergency surgeries and 56 surgeries for hernias. Procedures included complex spine, vaginal, skin, neurological, ligament reconstruction and joint replacement surgeries.

At the GPHC end-of-year press conference in December 2023, Head of General Surgery, Dr Shilindra Rajkumar explained that while the Hospital recorded an increase in surgeries, many procedures were avoided this year following the procurement of gold-standard machinery for the department. This resulted in many neurological procedures being conducted swiftly without the need to open the skull or spine of patients.

Dr Rajkumar noted that these provisions have reduced the waiting time for surgeries across the board with most procedures now being done within seven days instead of 37 days. Notably, diagnosis capabilities also improved following the employment of skilled pathologists, radiologists, lab technicians and trauma response physicians, among others.

ing suite for services such as CT scans and MRIs, a mod-

Meanwhile, at Friday’s meeting, President Ali said the investments that the Government was making in

done here as well as the type of equipment being procured for use in the local health sector.

These investments by the State, according to the Guyanese Leader, have to be integrated into the investments being made by the local Private Sector in healthcare delivery.

Back in April 2023, President Ali announced a programme that saw the Government paying private hospitals to conduct echocardiogram and ultrasound tests, as there was a backlog in the public health sector.

Additionally, he noted that efforts were being un-

art forensic, biochemistry, and pathology laboratories.

dertaken to advance the level and type of surgeries being

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 2000 persons were on the wait list for ultrasounds and another 3000

cardiograms.

the GPHC would see the institution getting state-of-the-

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing medical professionals and health officials at a meeting on Friday

A multidisciplinary team at the GPHC conducted a life-saving surgery on a 47-year-old female patient with a massive pelvic intra-abdominal mass in December last year

The Paediatric and Maternal Hospital being constructed at Ogle

were waiting for echo-

(G8)

Convicted drug trafficker gets 5 years, fined $17M

Well-known drug trafficker Lena Narine was on Friday slapped with a fiveyear sentence of imprisonment after Georgetown Magistrate Rondell Weever found her guilty of trafficking 11.4kg of cocaine back in 2022. A fine of $17.1 million has also been imposed on her.

Narine was among five persons nabbed with cocaine and ecstasy pills worth $12.9 million, and they were accordingly charged, but were subsequently released on cash bail. They were jointly charged with allegedly having 11.4 kilograms of cocaine at Shantiniketan Street, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown

577, a gold-coloured Toyota Allex motor car with a “Sheriff Taxi” logo, parked

on March 29, 2022. The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) has said that on the day in question, ranks conducting an operation at Shantiniketan Street in Prashad Nagar, Georgetown observed HC

along the side of the road. Shortly after, motor car PSS 4046 pulled up beside that car, and parked opposite the aforementioned address.

One Herbert came out of the car with a black plastic bag in his possession, and

went into a house where Lena Narine was standing at the front door. At this point, CANU agents went into the yard and entered the house, where they saw one Butcher, Jamal Narine and Gregory Faria, and found a black plastic bag on a plastic chair. Several brown parcels with green markings and containing cocaine were found in the black plastic bag.

A further search was conducted in the house in presence of those found therein, during which another set of brown parcels containing a quantity of cocaine were found under three chair cushions.

The drug enforcement agents also searched motor car HC 577 after they saw Lena Narine placing a pink bag therein. That bag contained a quantity of grey, yellow and orange ecstasy pills. As a result, the five persons were arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters, where the il-

licit drugs were weighed and marked in their presence.

The cocaine involved carried an approximate street value of $12.5 million, and CANU estimated that the ecstasy pills were worth $400,000.

Lena Narine was among three persons who, in January 2023, were nabbed by CANU with 1.05 kilograms of narcotics. They were each sentenced to a two-year term of imprisonment, and were each fined $1.7 million.

It was reported that Lena Narine, 63, Sherlan Edmonson, 54, and Earl Branch, 49, were charged with the offence of trafficking 1.050 kilograms (2.3 pounds) of cocaine at their residence at Lot 295 Shantiniketan Street, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown. The drug has a local street value of $1.1 million.

She has since secured High Court bail in relation to that case.

Lorry driver released on $1M bail for causing death of former Massy employee

Lorry driver Deodat Ramandat of Good Hope, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara was last Tuesday placed on $1 million bail for causing the death of Temeca Kerr, who was killed in an accident along Brickdam, Georgetown.

The 42-year-old Ramandat appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates Courts and was not required to plead to the charge, which stated that on February 25 at Brickdam, Georgetown, he drove motor lorry GMM 9622 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Temeca Kerr.

Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman placed him on bail, and set May 22 for his next court appearance. Ramandat was represented by Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry.

Following…

…the 4 horsemen

In the Bible, we’re told about the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. The first one rides a white horse, and brings pestilence; the second one rides a red horse, and is the creator of war, conflict and strife; the third is a food merchant riding a black horse, and symbolizes famine; while the last is pale and accompanied by the god of death. Well, here we are in 2024, and we’re still in the throes of COVID-19 recovery following the pestilence of the White Horse in 2020!!

Can you believe that the most developed country on planet Earth – the US of A - was the one that was struck the hardest? ONE MILLION, ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-SIX THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-ONE Americans perished – out of a worldwide 7 million - from a virus that we still aren’t sure whether they were in cahoots with the Chinese lab where it was created!! And we’re still not sure if that horse has trotted off; since, in addition to the “long-term effects”, there are still occasional eruptions. Then, of course, there’s the certainty of new pestilences!!

The red horse – Chestnuts, we also call them –bringing war is running wild right now. Over Ukraine, the West has been waging its proxy war against a revanchist Russia since early 2022 - and it looks like they’re gonna fight to the last Ukrainian!! They’re throwing everything, including the kitchen sink at US$380 BILLION and counting, but no warm bodies – even as their own economies are careening out of control!! But they still have a long way to go to match the US$ TRILLION the US spent in Iraq and Afghanistan!! Russia, in the meantime, remains determined not only to recover territory, but to create strategic depth.

Then, of course, the chestnut horse couldn’t avoid the Middle East, could it?? Hey!! They’ve been fighting over that piece of real estate for three thousand years!! So, the Israelites show no sign of easing their slaughter of Palestinians - the score’s now past 30,000 Palestinians slaughtered, plus the 1200 Jews massacred in the beginning, last October. Now, everyone thought that the old saying, “Who owns the dog can call off the dog, would apply and the deep-pocket Americans would rein in the Israelites if things got outta hand. But to continue the analogy, it looks like the tail isn’t only wagging the dog – but its owner as well!!

The Black horse of famine is certainly following the Chestnut horse, and stalking Palestine, where it’ll become more rampaging. However, because of Ukraine’s size and agri resources, they’ve been able to hold off mass starvation. The constant, of course, is that the Pale horseman always gets his piece – and it’s a big piece!!

…in Ukraine

In politics, one’s gotta be careful about making very precise predictions. Even for no other reason than ergodicity in the real world. Fancy word, eh?? All it means is we’ll NEVER know all the variables when human beings are concerned, like with, say, colliding atoms, but not colliding humans – as in the war in Ukraine!! Yet, with all his experience, President Biden had boasted of driving Putin from power, destroying Russia’s capacity to make war, and halving the size of the Russian economy!!

Kerr, a Massy Distribution Limited employee, succumbed to her injuries almost one month after being involved in that accident. She was reportedly driving a car when she became involved in a collision with a sand truck in the wee hours of February 25. At the time of that accident, Natoya Amanda Campbell and two others were in the car, and Campbell sustained severe head injuries. She remains hospitalised.

tained minor injuries.

It was reported that that accident occurred when a speeding sand truck collided with the vehicle that Kerr was driving as she manoeuvred her vehicle from Brickdam onto Camp Street. The impact of that accident had left both Kerr and Campbell with grievous head injuries and other serious wounds across their bodies. The other occupants of Kerr’s vehicle had sus-

The occupants of Kerr’s vehicle had been taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where the seriously injured Kerr and Campbell had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Sometime after that accident, Campbell had started to exhibit signs of progress. She had regained consciousness, and although still in serious condition, had eventually been trans-

ferred out of the ICU.

However, Kerr’s condition necessitated that she be transferred to the National Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, where she remained in critical condition, showing minimal signs of improvement despite the best efforts of medical staff.

Tragically, her battle for survival came to an end two Saturdays ago without her ever regaining consciousness.

Now, everyone should concede your Eyewitness was right - it ain’t gonna happen. Not because your Eyewitness likes Putin or anything – that has absolutely nothing to do with it!! Very brutally, some of Biden’s advisors badly miscalculated the strength of Ukraine’s defenders and the weakness of Russia’s capacities! So, what’ll happen now? Well…what happens in ANY war when one side concedes they ain’t gonna win – they negotiate. So, we’ll be back to what was offered at the beginning.

Russia’s gonna demand strategic depth!! And get it!

…on “handouts”

The WPA tail that dreams of wagging the PNC dog still wants to give away the grandaddy of handouts - $1 million annually to every Guyanese family!! Never mind when the oil runs out we’ll have no infrastructure or jobs!!

The pills that were found during the operation back in 2022 Convicted drug trafficker Lena Narine

The 11.4kg of cocaine found in the Prashad Nagar home

Charged: Deodat Ramandat

Dead: Temeca Kerr

AG holds intellectual property protection talks with US officials

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, S.C., recently held discussions on the intellectual property landscape in Guyana with visiting officials from the United States.

Representatives of the United States & Foreign Commercial Service of Guyana, along with representatives of their sister agency the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), are in Georgetown engaging local stakeholders. The USPTO is the federal agency for granting U.S. patents and registering trademarks in key foreign markets.

On Thursday, the visiting delegation met with Minister Nandlall at the Attorney General’s Chambers on Carmichael Street Georgetown, and engaged the Attorney General to learn about the local landscape and activities happening on the intellectual property front. They also ad-

vocated for the promotion of greater intellectual property protection.

The USPTO offered assistance necessary to enhance the local intellectual property rights landscape in Guyana, to enhance the ease of access in dealing with intellectual property transactions.

In response, AG Nandlall thanked the delegation for initiating the engagement, and updated them on the wide-ranging statutory and other legal reforms taking place in Guyana. He highlighted modernisation of the commercial architecture as a priority, noting that patents, trademarks and intellectual property are among the areas for review.

However, the Legal Affairs Minister emphasized, “The Government of Guyana will chart the direction in which these reforms will unfold, with priority being given to CARICOM model type legislation. All assistance of-

fered, especially in the form of training and capacity building, will be welcomed by Guyana.”

During the engagement, the Attorney General was accompanied by the Registrar of Commerce of the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority, Reza Manraj.

On the visiting delegation were Regional Intellectual Property Attaché for Mercosur, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname U.S. Patent and Trademark Office/ U.S. Commercial Service, David Kellis; Regional Intellectual Property Advisor for Mercosur, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname, Maria Beatriz Dellore; Senior Commercial Officer U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service - Guyana, Daniel Gaines; and Commercial Assistant - Budget Analyst U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service in Guyana, Tocoma Alexis.

As part of their visit to Georgetown, the officials from the United States

Patent and Trademark Office also met with the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) and the Guyana Bar Association on Thursday.In that session, GAWL President Alanna Lall actively engaged in discussions focused on enhancing strategies to safeguard the intellectual property rights of citizens as well as the business community in Guyana.

Current intellectual property and copyright laws in the country are archaic, dating back to the 1956 British Copyright Act that Guyana inherited when it gained independence from Great Britain in 1966. Though the current Act does protect literary, musical, dramatic and artistic works, the fines are extremely low, ranging mostly from £5 to £50 (Gy$1300Gy$13,000).

While there has been a push from stakeholders, especially those in the creative and music industries

in Guyana, for modern legislations to protect their work and earn them money, the Government has warned about the implications that such laws could have.

In an interview with the state-owned Guyana Chronicle back in November 2020, AG Nandlall explained that intellectual property protection is important, but pointed to the social and financial ramifications that could stem from implementing such laws.

“A society must be careful in the type of laws that it promulgates. It cannot, it should not, promulgate laws that will impose hardships on the majority of its citizens. It should not promote laws which do not meet the aspirations and the way of life of a majority of its citizens… A DVD, for example, will have to be sold for approximately US$20, which is above the [daily] minimum wage in Guyana,” Nandlall was quoted as saying in the article.

Push cart vendors and other businesses that sell CDs and DVDs had decried efforts by the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government to modernise the protection of intellectual property and copyright.

Back in 2018, the Coalition Administration had received assistance from the Switzerland-based World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to draft a National Intellectual Property Strategy (NIPS). At the time, the Government was also working with the Caribbean Community (Caricom) in addition to the WIPO, a United Nations specialised organisation, to draft local intellectual property and copyright legislation.

Meanwhile, in January this year, Shadow Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Nima Flue-Bess had renewed calls for modern copyright legislation in Guyana.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, S.C., engaging the US officials at his office on Thursday

No Guyanese onboard narco-submarine, persons arrested spoke Spanish – CANU Director

As investigations continue into the interception of 2,370 kilograms (5000lbs) of cocaine some 150 miles off the coast of Guyana, Director of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, has confirmed that no Guyanese was on board the self-propelled semi-submersible (SPSS).

In a brief comment to Guyana Times on Friday, Singh noted that the persons who were arrested spoke Spanish primarily, which might suggest that they are Venezuelans. The men and vessel are expect -

ed to be taken to the United States, where charges would be instituted.

The United States Embassaid Georgetown on Thursday said a joint operation by the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Georgetown Country Office, the Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATFS), Guyana Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU), and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) intercepted the vessel with 2,370 kilograms of cocaine. At the time of the seizure, four individuals were on board.

This landmark SPSS seizure will be prosecuted in the United States. The U.S. Government remains committed to its support of the Government of Guyana and its Caribbean partners in developing ever-greater capacity to disrupt illicit trafficking and transnational crime to advance citizen security,” the statement from the embassy said.

On March 29, 2024, Venezuelan nationals Jose Felix Lindore, 32, and 33-year-old Javier Perez were busted with US$2.6 million worth of cocaine

in a boat at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo. They were subsequently charged, and remanded to prison after they pleaded not guilty to having 536 kilograms (1181lbs) of cocaine in their possession.

The operation was conducted by CANU and the Guyana Defence Force’s Coast Guard.

It was reported that on the day in question, the two entities conducted a joint operation during which

they intercepted a go-fast vessel. At the time, there were two occupants on board. A search of the vessel led to the discovery of a large quantity of narcotics, along with a quantity of fuel and other items. The narcotics were tested for cocaine and weighed.

CANU has said that the local street value of the haul is estimated at US$2.6 million. However, had the cocaine been trans-shipped to its intended destination,

it would have had an estimated street value of €20 million.

Singh, only last week, also told the media that the drug enforcement unit seized a startling 1.1 tonnes of marijuana and over 75 kilograms of cocaine from various operations across the country. He noted that most of the marijuana had come from the Andean region of South America, which includes Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Interception of cocaine off Guyana’s coast 2nd annual communication training programme launched

– participants drawn from nine administrative regions

The Guyana Media and Communications Academy, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister, on Friday initiated its annual communication training programme aimed at equipping participants with the basic tools needed to enter into the field of communications.

During the official opening at the Umana Yana, Director of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority, Carlton James spoke about the development of media in Guyana from colonial days to the present.

“It’s important to have an idea of where we were to guide us to where we go ahead,” he said.

He commended the State for providing young people with such avenues to gain

the basic tools needed to be successful in the area of communications.

In addition, the Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy stated, “It is not only important for the Government to provide opportunities for Guyanese but also provide programmes and systems that will allow them to reap the full benefits of them.”

McCoy also underscored that Guyanese must have the knowledge and information to be able to function in society, to operate at the highest levels, and to make the best decisions.

Further, he emphasised that communication was an important pillar in the development of a transformational country.

McCoy also highlighted

the Government’s efforts to provide the necessary educational programmes to include all Guyanese while referencing the participants drawn from nine of the 10 administrative regions.

In an interview with Guyana Times Roshana Lewis, 19, an aspiring journalist, commended the Guyana Media and Communication Academy and the Office of the Prime Minister for providing such an opportunity to the youths.

“I want to get into the journalism or the communication sector, so this initiative will be very beneficial to persons like myself. It will provide us with the basic knowledge and skills that will allow us to transition smoothly into the working sector.”

The training will last for two months and will see participants learning about journalism, public relations, interviewing skills, photography, and videography. Upon completion, the participants will receive certificates and more importantly, doors will be opened for possible employment in some of the leading news entities and Government offices.

The self-propelled semi-submersible

The large quantity of cocaine found onboard the self-propelled semi-submersible

Some of the participants during the launch of the programme

Washington DC, NY & London investors to visit Guyana this month

Ahigh-level delegation of investors is scheduled to visit Guyana this month to explore opportunities in the country's rapidly expanding economy.

ACE Consulting Group (ACE) – a premier strategic advisory and local consulting firm – is partnering with ACG Analytics to bring the group of experienced international investors from Washington DC, New York, and London.

According to a press statement issued on Friday, the delegation travelling to Guyana represents hedge funds with collective assets under management of approximately US$200 billion and will meet with policymakers and business leaders on the rapidly-changing investment landscape.

ACG Analytics is a distinguished policy advisory firm in Washington, DC and is renowned for its expertise in advising asset managers primarily located in New York City, Miami, and London.

ACG Analytics’ Chris Czerwinski, Director of Macro Policy, who will be accompanying the group, has underscored the market interest in Guyana.

“In my years working with investment funds in macro, special situations, and event-driven strategies, I have rarely seen so much across-the-board interest in a single market and a gov-

ernment so committed to the responsible and conscientious development of its transformative energy discovery. We are excited to see first-hand all of the good things that are happening in Guyana," he said.

President of ACE Consulting Group, Dr Rosh Khan expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration.

He is quoted as saying, "This trip is a milestone in Guyana's journey towards

sustainable economic development. It’s no secret that the world’s eyes are on Guyana, including Wall Street. We’re excited to facilitate this high-level delegation and explore various avenues for critical investments in Guyana.”

Meanwhile, Vice President of ACE Consulting Group, Wazim Mowla, who runs the Group’s

Washington, DC operations, notes that “the trip shows that the attention of experienced investors has moved from “interest” to “action” when looking at the country’s market. There’s a steady pipeline of project opportunities in Guyana and we hope that the group joining us in Guyana is one of many.”

ACE Consulting Group

and ACG Analytics are orchestrating a series of high-level meetings with key stakeholders across various sectors in Guyana.

Leveraging ACE's extensive network and deep-rooted expertise, the partnership is expected to convene meaningful dialogues that address critical issues and explore untapped opportunities for growth and development.

President of ACE Consulting Group, Dr Rosh Khan

Vice President of ACE Consulting Group, Wazim Mowla

Errant minibus drivers fined over $500K, 3 licences suspended

Recent enforcement efforts by the Traffic Department in Division 4A (Georgetown) have led to significant penalties being meted out to errant minibus drivers, with fines totalling some $500,000 and three licence being suspended.

Speaking on a recent episode of the GPF’s “Traffic and You" programme, Sergeant Williams highlighted the department's crackdown on road violations, and emphasised its success in holding accountable those who flout traffic laws.

"Some of these minibus drivers treat small roads like runways, but we have systems in place to deal with those drivers," Sergeant Williams stated during the interview.

Further, he emphasised the department's resolve to prosecute those drivers who disregard traffic regulations, and noted that the knowledge these drivers have of the law sometimes surpasses that of police officers.

"Those are some of the challenges we face, and we are up for the challenge," Sergeant Williams affirmed.

In addition to the fines and suspensions, Sergeant Williams expressed concern about safety issues such as overcrowded buses and schoolgirls being allowed to sit on the laps of male passengers. He labelled those practices unacceptable, and highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of the law in order to ensure passengers’ safety.

Further, Williams noted that ongoing efforts to address challenges such as school chil-

dren lingering at minibus parks instead of attending school promptly underscore the department's commitment to promoting safer commuting experiences for all road users.

"When we visit the parks after 9:00h, they are still there, and we have to ensure they board buses to get to school," Sergeant Williams remarked.

To combat the alarming rate of road fatalities attributed to drunken and reckless driving, the National Assembly has enacted the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill. This legislative measure places a heightened emphasis on revocations, suspensions, and increased fines aimed at deterring such dangerous behaviours; and not only seeks to enforce stricter penalties, but also aims to cultivate a cultural shift in attitudes towards road safety and the responsible use of roadways.

With the passage of this Bill, a new charge, “motor manslaughter”, has been in-

troduced, targeting individuals who cause fatalities while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Further, the legislation imposes harsher penalties for cases involving grievous bodily harm resulting from driving under the influence. Presently, offenders face fines ranging from $30,000 to $60,000, or up to 12 years' imprisonment.

Under the new provisions, first-time offenders would incur a fine of $200,000, escalating to a minimum of $300,000 for repeat offences; and individuals convicted under this section would be barred from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence for 12 months.

Moreover, the Bill mandates a significant increase in fines for driving or attempting to drive with blood alcohol levels exceeding the prescribed limit. The penalty has been increased from $7,500 to $200,000, underscoring the Government's commitment to curbing alcohol-related road accidents and promoting safer driving practices.

Teen injured in Easter Monday accident at Enmore succumbs

Four days after she had been injured in an accident at Enmore, East Coast Demerara, 17-year-old Anjalie Khemraj succumbed while receiving medical treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The teenager and two others -- Krishna Samaroo, 14, and Reece Persaud, 11 -- were struck down by an allegedly drunken car driver who had reportedly been racing with a minibus. According to eyewitnesses, the driver of motorcar PAE 3091 had been recklessly speeding alongside a minibus at about 19:00h on Monday when he lost control of his vehicle and it collided with the victims, who were sitting on an electric bike in front of their home after just returning from kite flying. The impact of that accident had left the three children critically injured. Following the acci-

der the influence of alcohol.

jected to a breathalyzer test, which confirmed he was un-

dent, emergency services were summoned and the injured were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) for treatment. The driver was arrested and sub-

Guyana Times was informed that Khemraj had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the GPHC following the accident, and her family had later been notified that because she had suffered severe injuries to her head and to other parts of her body, she had only a slim chance of survival. She waged a valiant battle for her life until she regrettably succumbed on Friday.

This publication has been informed that Samaroo and Persaud, the other two victims, are still hospitalized, and investigations into the accident are still ongoing.

Vagrant found murdered on city streets

Sergeant Williams

Dead: Anjalie Khemraj

The car that was involved in the accident

Anjalie Khemraj had been hospitalized after the accident

Over 250 Santa Mission residents allegedly refuse to evacuate – as wildfire creeps closer to inhabited area

As wildfire creeps closer to inhabited areas in Santa Mission, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), some 250 residents have refused to evacuate the Amerindian settlement. Thirty-eight women, children and senior citizens evacuated by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are presently housed at the Timehri Primary School. Some residents, Guyana Times understands, chose to stay with family members along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway and in Linden.

However, the majority of the population remains at their respective homes, citing fear of losing their livestock and other valuables. Speaking with this publication, a member of the community who is integrally involved in the firefighting efforts and who asked to remain anonymous related that despite the authorities pleading with the residents to evacuate, they refused to do so.

This is worrying as the wildfire is creeping closer to where houses are located.

“When the fire started, it was like 800 feet from the village, but now it is closing in fast, and right now it is about 300 feet from where houses are located…this is quite hazardous because of the thick smoke and despite us telling the residents of the health complications, especially for the young children, they refuse to leave the village,” the source stated.

The source, who is also a member of the Village Council, explained that the fire started two weeks ago and as fast as it is put out, it reignites with the assistance of the heavy breeze.

“We have the firefighters battling with it… between 03:00h and 09:00h, the entire

village is consumed in smoke, then it eases a little then at about 13:00h, it starts all over again… this makes it difficult to even traverse in the creek… it is not like roads, where vehicles can use their hazard lights, we have to use flashlights and pray that we stay on course,” the source said.

It was further explained that they would join the firefighters in the evening to put out the fire. “Currently, 10 water pumps are operating to get the water to the affected areas… but the challenge is to get the manpower to fight the wildfires… we can only assist to an extent…”

In some instances, the raging wildfire has reached a critical point thus rendering it impossible for firefighters to access the affected areas to extinguish the blaze.

This is what prompted the Joint Services teams to shift their focus to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents through swift evacuation measures.

Economic losses

The wildfire has started to severely affect the livelihood of residents. Farming is one of the main economic activities of Santa Mission and the fire has already swept through many acres of farmland. “The palm trees are collapsing and this is one resource that is of great economic benefit to the community…”

If the smoke persists, then it will be even more detrimental to the community as livestock will start to die.

“It will be too much to move as persons in the community also rear meat birds and layers…these are just some economic losses the residents will have to deal with.”

The source, nevertheless, stressed the importance of getting the entire community evacuated. A team of medical personnel was expected to travel into the community Friday or Saturday to attend to the children who remain with their parents.

This was confirmed by Toshao of the village, Hilton

Williams, who added that they were monitoring the situation and despite the Joint Services recommending a full evacuation, the villagers were holding out that until it got unbearable, they would remain.

Williams also noted that the fire has tremendously affected their tourism drive while referencing weekends as being the busiest time. He added that they continued to support the Joint Services members by providing the ne-

cessities.

Wildfires continue to rage in several communities across Guyana, and several critical agencies have been mobilised to help affected citizens including the Health Ministry, the Joint Services, and the Civil Defence Commission (CDC).

Guyana has experienced over 1300 wildfires since January, and these are the direct result of the El Niño phenomenon, which is responsible

for the prolonged dry season. One thousand of these fires occurred in communities located in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). The regions with the lowest incidence of wildfires are Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), which both had fewer than 200 fires.

Joint Services teams are utilising satellite imagery surveillance to monitor fires countrywide, while land and air techniques are being used to prevent fires from escalating. Resources are stretched thin, but efforts are ongoing to procure advanced firefighting equipment specifically tailored to combat wildfires.

The Guyana Fire Service is urging citizens to avoid deliberately setting fires to either burn garbage or for land clearing, noting that such acts are punishable by law. The Fire Service, in a statement, said it is working to combat several wildfires reported at Coverden and along the Heroes Highway on the East Bank of Demerara; as well as at Port Mourant, East Berbice-Corentyne; Lovely Lass Village, West Coast Berbice; and in Linden.

Any fire or emission of excessive smoke should be reported to the Fire Service via 912.

Rotaract Club promotes mental well-being at boys’ orphanage

In its continued efforts to promote mental well-being in the lives of youths, the Rotaract Club of Garden City (Georgetown) has erected two mental health benches and a peace pole at the St John Bosco Home

in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The benches and pole signify more than just physical structures but are representations of collective aspirations for a more peaceful and inclusive society within

Guyana and, by extension, the world.

More specifically, they are tangible resources for the boys at the orphanage to find solace and support during challenging times. Through this initiative, the Rotaract

The benches and pole that were placed at the facility

Club aims to promote mental well-being and create a safe and nurturing environment for the boys to thrive.

Speaking at the event, Rotaract Club District Governor Brian Glasgow emphasised the necessity of prioritising mental health. He expressed great happiness with the boys' positive reception of the message and the initiative undertaken.

Glasgow also noted his appreciation for initiatives like this, highlighting the importance of ensuring boys receive equal attention and support, as girls typically receive priority in such endeavours.

The Rotaract Club of Garden City stated that the presence of the peace pole offers a beacon of light, inspiring the boys to embrace

peaceful resolutions, cultivate empathy towards others, and strive for positive change.

Moreover, the peace pole serves as a tangible expression of the collective aspiration for a world free from violence and conflict, inviting all who encounter it to reflect on their roles as peacemakers and ambassadors of goodwill.

District Governor Brian Glasgow (middle) surrounded by members of the Rotaract Club of Garden City

Fiesta Cubana Festival aims to promote Cuban culture in Guyana

To celebrate and integrate Cuban culture in Guyana, the first-ever Cuban and Latin American cultural festival is slated to be hosted at the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown on May 4, 2024.

Dubbed Fiesta Cubana Festival, it is being hosted through the collaborative efforts of the Journey and Destination Management Company, Global Tours and Travel, and the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Guyana.

At a media launch on Friday, event organisers Alfredo Ballesteros and Waynewight Orderson were excited to reveal the concept behind the festival and more importantly, emphasised the cultural integration that came with it.

This event, they hope, will become part of Guyana’s calendar of events to boost tourism.

They also expressed that the local organising committee saw an opportunity to celebrate the rich tapes -

try of Latin American culture while fostering tourism and cultural exchange especially as Guyana transitions from a country of emigration to an immigrant destination with a significant number of Latinos living here.

The event, they added, will provide visitors with the Latino experience while promoting sustainable tourism development, cultivating global citizenship by fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, and promot -

ing Cuba and other Latin American destinations as exciting new business and leisure travel destinations for Guyanese travellers.

Another event organiser, Yaquelin Gonzalez Ricardo emphasised that the festival would showcase a wide array of mouthwatering Cuban-style dishes, highlighting that this culinary experience for Guyanese originated from Cubans living in Guyana, who were introduced to the diverse culinary traditions

of the country.

In return, they also vowed to introduce Guyanese to their own culinary styles. “Just as Cubans residing in Guyana have embraced new dishes like eggballs and cookup, we want to reciprocate by inviting Guyanese to explore our unique style of cooking.

Aside from the various foods, Gonzalez noted that Guyanese would also be treated to the sounds

of Latino music, from pulsating Reggaeton to sultry Salsa and everything in between.

Meanwhile, Gonzalez further elaborated that the event would not only welcome Cubans but also the entire Latino community, including Venezuelans, Brazilians, and other Latin American expatriates residing and working in Guyana.

Guyana and Cuba established diplomatic relations on December 8, 1972.

Donate towards Palestine during observance of Lailatul Qadr at National Ramadan Village

The organisers of the National Ramadan Village – the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO), and the Government of Guyana –will be hosting “Qiyaam Lailatul Qadr” – A night of Prayer for Global Peace, Guyana and Palestine”.

The historic event, at the MYO Ground, Woolford Avenue, will commence with the breaking of the fast this evening and conclude with the Fajr Prayers on the morning of Sunday.

The official programme will be held after the Taraweeh prayers (specific to the holy month of Ramadan) today, Saturday, April 6, 2024. It will include supplications, recitation and translation of verses from the Holy Quran, an explanation of Lailatul Qadr, Quaseedas and remarks by Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Resident Coordinator of the UN in Guyana, Yesim Oruc. This is the first time that Lailatul Qadr, generally observed on the 27th Night of the Holy Month of Ramadan, will be marked with openair supplication and prayers here in Guyana. Following the official pro-

gramme, supplications and prayers will be facilitated throughout the night and into the morning. Suhoor (morning meal) will be provided for all those who will commence their fast on Sunday.

Lailatul Qadr is the night when Muslims believe the Quran was first sent down from heaven to the world and also the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). It is described as better than a thousand months of worshipping.

A key component of “Qiyaam Lailatul Qadr” would be the facilitation of donations to the people of Palestine. This is an effort to provide some assistance to those who continue to suffer and have been displaced

Yaquelin Gonzalez Ricardo

Event organisers Alfredo Ballesteros and Waynewight Orderson

SHOUT 2.0 to ignite passion, innovation in environmental advocacy

Recover Guyana and the Education Ministry have teamed up to launch the second edition of SHOUT, an initiative that seeks to inspire environmental passion and innovation among Grades Nine and 10 students in secondary schools across Guyana.

SHOUT aims to involve more young people in environmental action, encourage dialogue, and initiate improvements in school environments. It is supported by ExxonMobil Guyana.

During the launch event at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel in Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), Assistant Chief Education Officer for Secondary, Sheldon Granville, highlighted the significance of providing a platform for children to develop awareness and solutions for addressing envi-

ronmental challenges.

“We will see our students being able to think critically on their feet. We will see

Police meet dead end in shooting death of taxi driver

Almost two months after the death of 41-year-old taxi driver Eon Holder, the police have said there still is no information on the identity of the perpetrators or their vehicle.

Holder was killed at about 04:40h on February 24 in the vicinity of Bourda Market.

Holder had been working his motor car, PRR 271, at a taxi service when he was hired by a 50-year-old businessman of Queenstown, Georgetown to be taken to the Bourda Market to purchase vegetables.

Dead: Eon Holder

On arrival at Alexander Street, the businessman exited the car and walked towards the market, while Holder looked for a parking space. About five minutes later, the businessman heard a loud explosion, and as he turned around, he saw Holder lying helpless on the ground about 15 feet away from his car. At the time, two men –one armed with a handgunwere seen running away from

the scene.

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) arrived on the scene and pronounced Holder dead. During an examination of his body, a gunshot wound was seen on his face.

Police said that several persons were questioned, and based on information received, it is alleged that the taxi driver argued with the suspects after he parked his car in the centre of the road, blocking vehicles from passing. During the argument, one of the suspects drew a handgun and discharged a round at the taxi driver.

These suspects remain on the run as investigations continue.

healthy competition. We will see the students’ abilities to use rhetoric and to use rhetoric skilfully. We will see a demonstration of the use of persuasive language, tone, and the ability to connect with the audience,” Granville added.

President of Recover Guyana, Dr Dave Lalltoo emphasised that SHOUT transcends traditional classroom learning, providing a dynamic and interactive platform that nurtures critical thinking, research, and public speaking skills, among participants.

He said, “SHOUT is more than a competition; it is a journey we embark on together. A journey towards

a sustainable future, where every speech delivered is a seed planted for a greener tomorrow.”

In the initial phase, schools are encouraged to think ambitiously by creating one-minute videos that propose bold, sustainable changes within their environments, without being hindered by financial constraints.

Meanwhile, following a thorough evaluation, the top 30 schools will progress to present their environmental speeches, with 90 seconds allotted to convey their insights and solutions on a fixed topic.

The competition, which commences on April 8, will be rolled out in four parts and culminates on World Environment Day on June

5, with the LIVE speech segment.

The winners will receive $3 million in cash and prizes, including a cash grant of $500,000 for the winning school to kickstart their Environment Enhancement Project. Other prizes include free fibre and Internet service for one year, laptops, vouchers, and more.

World Environment Day is themed “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience”. British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller; Vice President of Recover Guyana, Dr Latoya Gooding; Representative of ExxonMobil Guyana, Tenesha Lea Flores and other officials were also at the event.

From left: President of Recover Guyana, Dr Dave Lalltoo; Vice President of Recover Guyana, Dr Latoya Gooding and Dr Omesh Balmacoon

Assistant Chief Education Officer for Secondary, Sheldon Granville

President of Recover Guyana, Dr Dave Lalltoo

Minister Parag lambastes M&CC’s negligence for current state of Stabroek Market

– says ministry would intervene to alleviate some challenges

Local Government and Regional Development

Minister Sonia Parag has again called on the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown (GM&CC) to honour their responsibility to maintain the drainage infrastructure and upkeep a tidy environment in the capital city.

She made those remarks on Friday during a walkabout at the Stabroek Market, accompanied by several city councillors and officials of her ministry. In

that exercise, she interacted with vendors and stall owners, and was made aware of several structural issues within the market.

The roof of the Stabroek Market is apparently leaking in several places, causing damage to vendors’ goods and equipment. In responding to the concerns of vendors, the Local Government Minister affirmed that Central Government would do all it can to assist, but criticised the APNU+AFCrun Mayor and City Council

for abandoning its responsibilities.

“What we are doing is that we are looking at it [and] seeing what the situation is. We are very well aware that there is a City Council that has the oversight of all of this, and year

after year [the vendors] are in the same situation,” she said.

Parag pointed out that some interventions would immediately be made to ease the strain on vendors, while other projects would be assessed and completed shortly.

“Some vendors asked for lights for a particular area in the market that is dark at

night, so we are going to ensure that is done next week from the ministry level,” the minister explained.

“I am calling on the [Georgetown Mayor and City Council] to do their part in terms of assisting these vendors. These are people who are plying their trade, consumers have to go there all the time. These people are relying solely on these

things to earn a living, [and] they can’t do so in a condition that is barely fit for human beings,” she emphasised.

Central Government has been working on constructing and rehabilitating markets across the country, with $1.3 billion having been allocated for works at the Corriverton, Kumaka, and Suddie Markets.

Man wanted by SOCU for financial crimes arrested

Dave Rajeshwar Persaud, for whom a wanted bulletin had been issued, has been arrested by members of the GPF Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) on Friday.

Persaud, also called ‘Raj Persaud’, of Hubu Back, East Bank Essequibo and of Lot 10 Public Road, Prospect, East Bank Demerara, was among

three persons wanted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in connection with money laundering and other financial crimes. The other two are Jason Van Lange and Swastie Singh.

The last known address of Jason Van Lange is believed to be 20th Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, while Swastie Singh’s last known address is Hubu, East Bank Essequibo.

The police have said that Persaud has a history of involvement in financial

misconduct, having been remanded on February 25, 2019 in connection with an investigation related to obtaining money by false pretence, wherein, under the guise of a Police officer, he allegedly collected significant sums of money from individuals by promising assistance in Police-related matters.

Subsequent investigations revealed he had purportedly engaged in the unauthorized sale of vehicles and properties that did not belong to him.

Educators trained to tackle reading challenges among children

The Education Ministry has taken a significant step in hosting a oneday workshop to engage officers of the National Literacy Department and Regional Literacy Coordinators in a specialized training session on Scholastic Guided Reading.

Hosted in the auditorium of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development in Kingston, Georgetown, the workshop was facilitated by Majorie Solorzano of Scholastic Inc.

This training underscores the Education Ministry’s commitment to addressing reading challenges among young learners.

Over the years, Guyana has made substantial progress in literacy, with the national average for English Language climbing from 32 per cent to approximately 64 per cent.

The educators and trainers at the reading workshop

However, persistent challenges remain, notably the 40 per cent of students entering Grade Seven still struggling with reading comprehension. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Ministry has invested in the Scholastic Inc. Guided Reading Focus Fiction A to D Series, to provide vital support to the reading curriculum.

Scholastic Guided Reading offers a comprehensive collection of books organized by genre and difficulty level, and spanning 26 levels from A to Z. This series, proven effective in fostering reading skills, equips educators with the tools needed to tailor instruction to individual student needs. Among its advantages are the facilitation of flexible grouping, assessment of student progress, and a foundational book collection expandable over time.

Further, the ministry

has procured 460 kits for Levels A to D, and these would be deployed to primary schools for use by teachers and Literacy Support Specialists in pull-out sessions with Grade 1 learners. Each kit includes essential resources such as a Teacher’s Guide, storage bins, levelled books, and teaching cards with lesson ideas for each title.

The training session are

aimed at empowering national and regional literacy leaders with knowledge, skills and resources necessary to effectively implement the Guided Reading A to D materials. By providing comprehensive training and ongoing support, the Ministry ensures that educators feel confident in utilizing these materials to enhance literacy instruction in their classrooms.

Jason Van Lange and Swastie Singh

In custody: Dave Rajeshwar Persaud

Minister Parag has identified structural damages in the ceiling of the Stabroek Market

The minister engaging a vendor at the Stabroek Market

Majorie Solorzano of Scholastic Inc.

Village elections must be lawful – Min Sukhai urges ROs

Regional Executive Officers (REOs) from the 10 administrative regions, who will act as Returning Officers (ROs) for the upcoming Amerindian Village Council elections in May, were urged to ensure the elections were fair, transparent, and lawful.

The Amerindian Affairs Ministry conducted training for the ROs at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown on Friday to ensure the process runs smoothly and is free from discrepancies.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on Friday, Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai emphasised the role these administrators play in ensuring the elections were conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with provisions outlined in the Amerindian Act of 2006.

She highlighted that this important process was not merely a formality but a fundamental expression of

the democratic values that the Government held closely.

“It is through these elections that the voices of our people are heard, their concerns later on addressed, and their aspirations realised. In this case, the key and critical support team, according to the Amerindian Act, will be the Returning Officers, who play a vital and pivotal role in ensur-

ing that this process is conducted in a fair, transparent [and] inclusive manner,” Minister Sukhai underscored.

ROs were encouraged to get acquainted with the provisions outlined in the legislation since several breaches of the Amerindian Act were recorded in past elections.

For example, Toshao and council elections were done

Global investors along with regional business leaders and innovators can expect “less talk, more business” when the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) 2024 is held July 10-12, 2024 in Guyana.

CIF, now in its third year, is an annual forum created by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) that draws global investors to the Caribbean and presents them with exciting, bankable investment opportunities from across the Region.

During the launch event held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, and streamed online, over 300 investors, business leaders and Journalists heard how this year’s event has been designed to help secure major investments for regional projects in the critical areas of Technology & Innovation, Sustainable Agriculture, and the transition to a Green Economy.

When asked what makes the Region a lucrative investment hub for global investors, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, Deodat Maharaj, explained, “People think of the Caribbean as being small, individual island states. Actually, together with the Dominican Republic, we have a market size of 30 million people, that’s one. Secondly, in the year 2019 before COVID, and we’re seeing the numbers return, we had over 32 million stay-over tourist arrivals –this is non-cruise ship visitors. So, when you look at our market size, you’re looking at a market of 60 million. We have free trade agreements with Canada, with the United States of America, with that lucrative half-abillion market in Europe, with Colombia, with Costa Rica, with Cuba. Take the Caribbean as a beachhead to access these markets as well. People who are here in Guyana, and viewing us from

overseas and thinking about coming to the Caribbean Investment Forum, think size, think scale, think using the Caribbean as a beachhead to access fantastic new markets.”

Head of Cooperation of the European Union’s Delegation to Guyana, Suriname and Caribbean OCTs, Joan Nadal Sastre stated that the EU fully supported the forum and its mission.

Sastre added that the EU’s 2022 Global Gateway Strategy was helping to bridge the Caribbean’s investment gap by using EU public financing to “leverage private capital and investment for projects that deliver on key public policy objectives”.

“One thing is clear – the European Union wants to do more business with the Caribbean. We want more EU companies to see the Caribbean as an investment opportunity. We want to be a key business partner for you

by a show of hands in some villages, contrary to the provisions outlined in the legislation.

She explained, “In the act, it is specific, that the Toshaos elections are by secret ballot and the councillor elections are by secret ballot…We have to be careful with that…It has been one of the issues that we have been grappling with.”

Permanent Secretaries

within the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Local Government and Regional Development, Ryan Toolsiram and Miguel Choo-Kang, respectively, also delivered remarks at the opening.

Management Development Officers (MDOs); Community Development Officers (CDOs) and Community Support Officers (CSOs) will act as observers during the elections as well as representatives from the National Toshaos Council (NTC).

These elections, which are mandated by the Amerindian Act, are held every three years and involve the selection of new council members for over

200 villages and communities across the country.

It is important to note that the election of an Amerindian leader is different to the election of the councillors. Voting is done by secret ballot.

According to the Act, villages should have already publicised their list of voters for villagers to scrutinise on March 15, 2024, three months before the election date.

The legal corporate bodies are responsible for administering the villages’ affairs, including providing for the planning and development of the village and national representation for their respective communities, among other functions.

and we have a lot to put on the table.”

Meanwhile, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond, during her address, told the attendees and viewers that the Region was seeking a particular kind of investor.

“We wish to attract the investor who’s committed to the sustainable development of the countries and communities within which he or she operates and from which they derive value. We seek those who will remain with us through thick and thin, and, as we experience those inevitable external shocks that are the reality of our Caribbean existence. In short, we wish to see patient investment which prioritises long-term returns that emanate from the sustainable, resilient economies that we hope to build, rather than cashing in on short-term windfalls. Our ideal investor has a long-term horizon for return on capital as opposed to the infamous quarterly earnings targets which are manifestly ill-matched to the realities of our economies and our existence.”

CIF Guyana 2024 will feature a special app that will allow attendees to book B2B sessions with investors and business leaders. Attendees will participate in plenary sessions, gain insight into thoroughly vetted, bankable projects, and learn more about regional products and services through an investment village and expo which will include booths from companies and startups from across Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

T he Private Sector Commission (PSC) extended its warmest congratulations to His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on being voted Best Caribbean Global Leader among his

A section of trainees at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC)

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai addressing those in attendance

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond and other officials at the launch on Wednesday

Regional Venezuela to allow safe passage to Argentina for Machado aides, government source says

Venezuela's Government will allow six aides of Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado who are currently at the Argentine Embassy in Caracas to travel safely to Argentina, a Government source said on Friday.

The aides, including campaign manager Magalli Meda, previously tipped as a potential replacement for Machado in this year's presidential election, sought protection at the Embassy in March after the Attorney General's office announced warrants for their arrest.

"We have granted safe passage to those six people. We are waiting for Argentina to take them to Buenos Aires," the Government source said. "The Venezuelan Government has exceptionally allowed them to leave the country for humanitarian reasons."

While the aides will be allowed to leave, the criminal

case against them will continue, the source added.

Venezuela's Attorney General, Tarek Saab said in March that two persons close to Machado had been arrested, while seven other members of her team had warrants out for their detention. The arrests and warrants were for alleged involvement in planned conspiracies, Saab said.

Machado has denied any allegations of misconduct by her team.

She told Journalists that safe passage for the aides was "being managed between the Foreign Ministries of Argentina and Venezuela",offering no further details.

Last week, the office of Argentine President Javier Milei said it was concerned about the persecution of political Opposition Leaders in Venezuela, shortly after Argentina confirmed the six persons were at the embassy.

Argentine Foreign

Minister Diana Mondino told an event on Friday that Milei's Government was working to bring the six aides to Argentina.

"We're working on it, it's not so easy," Mondino said.

Venezuela's Opposition is subsumed in internal negotiations about how to run a candidate in the July 28 election and who that candidate could be.

Machado, who resoundingly won the Opposition primaries last October, cannot run because she is barred from holding public office, a decision she says is unfair. Machado named Corina Yoris as her successor, but the 80-year-old academic was also unable to register her candidacy.

Two Opposition candidates were able to register and possible substitutes can be named until April 20.

At least six other persons from Machado's team have been arrested since January. (Reuters)

Mexico gives political asylum to former Ecuador VP amid diplomatic spat

Mexico has granted political asylum to former Ecuadorean Vice President Jorge Glas, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday, a day after Ecuador's Government made Mexico's Ambassador persona non grata amid growing tensions between the two countries.

Glas, convicted twice for corruption, has been holed up in Mexico's Embassy in Quito since seeking political asylum in December, arguing he is being persecuted by the Attorney General's office.

Ecuador's Foreign Ministry said later on Friday it would not grant Glas safe passage out of the country and that Mexico

was violating political asylum agreements.

Ecuadorean authorities had sought permission from Mexico to enter the Embassy and arrest Glas, who was sentenced to six years in prison in 2017 after he was found guilty of receiving bribes from Brazilian construction firm Odebrecht in exchange for awarding it Government contracts.

"The granting of diplomatic asylum, in this case, constitutes an illicit act of the State which grants it, supports an evasion of justice by Ecuadorean State and promotes impunity," Ecuador's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Ecuador does not per-

secute people for their political affiliation, the statement added, referring to a common complaint by Glas, who was last released from jail in November 2022, but is now facing other charges.

Ecuador's government did not refer to Glas in its statement announcing its decision to expel Mexico's Ambassador on Thursday, citing instead "unfortunate" comments from Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Ecuadorean officials were angered by Lopez Obrador's comments on the South American country's bloody elections last year, in which a presidential candidate was assassinated.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Arsonists torch 15 vehicles at T&T dealership

Arsonists torched 15 vehicles on the compound of HSM Motors in Chase Village, Carapichaima, on Thursday, in an attack that left the owner puzzled.

HSM Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Director Mikhail Hosein was left counting millions in damage, since the fires, set to vehicles in at least two separate areas on the compound, spread to buildings as well.

Speaking to Guardian Media at his dealership, Hosein said, “Three individuals would have entered the compound crossing over from Pastor Cuffie’s side where they firebombed several vehicles on the compound.”

As the CEO recounted what transpired, he said CCTV footage showed the

perpetrators pouring a liquid, suspected to be fuel, on the cars, breaking the glasses to wet inside, then setting them alight.

A total of 15 high-end vehicles, including a Tesla and Hosein’s personal vehicle, a Toyota Supra, were burnt out.

The fire spread to two buildings, including HSM’s showroom and service centre.

Hosein said the fire

started around 03:00h and the Fire Service arrived around 04:00h and managed to save most of the cars and the infrastructure.

Asked why someone would go to such extreme measures to destroy HSM property, Hosein said he could not think of anyone who would want to destroy his company or threaten his life. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Argentina battles dengue surge and repellent shortage

Argentina is facing an insect repellent shortage as the country prepares for its worst-ever dengue season.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus that can be deadly, or cause serious illness, in some cases.

A vaccine for dengue has been developed, but its rollout is still in early stages and most people still rely on preventative measures to avoid the virus.

Residents report that it is almost impossible to buy repellent.

Many supermarkets and pharmacies have dis-

played "no repellent" signs, and in the few places where it is still available, especially online, resale prices are astronomical.

The Government has attributed the problem to a "bottleneck" that will be corrected in the coming days.

But many citizens, particularly in the capital Buenos Aires, are fearful at a time when hundreds of thousands of Argentines have already been infected.

A shortage of repellents began to be noticed in March.

Sources from one of the companies that produce repellents in the country told BBC Mundo that the shortages were due to a forecast error and that manufacturing the product took months.

Health Minister Mario Russo told Radio Continental that it was a "problem between supply and demand".

Dengue is most common in tropical and subtropical climates and its symptoms include a high fever, severe headaches, swollen glands and rashes. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Colombia seeks to join Gaza genocide case against Israel at World Court

Colombia has asked the International Court of Justice to allow the country to intervene in South Africa's case accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip, the court said Friday.

In its application, Colombia called on the court to ensure "the safety and, indeed, the very existence of the Palestinian people".

The ICJ, the highest UN court, can allow States to intervene and give their views. Several States have said they would also seek to intervene in the case, but so far only Colombia and Nicaragua have filed a public request.

Last week, ICJ Judges ordered Israel to take all necessary and effective action to ensure basic food supplies arrive without delay to Palestinians in Gaza.

In January, the ICJ, also known as the World Court, ordered Israel to refrain from

International Court of Justice (ICJ) holding a hearing to allow parties to give their views on the legal consequences of Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories before eventually issuing a non-binding legal opinion in The Hague, Netherlands, February 19, 2024 (Reuters/Piroschka van de Wouw photo)

any acts that could fall under the genocide convention and to ensure its troops commit no genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel denies targeting Palestinian civilians,

saying its sole interest is to annihilate the militant group Hamas. Lawyers for Israel have dismissed South Africa's case as an abuse of the genocide convention. (Reuters)

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado, who is barred from holding public office, addressing the media after Venezuela's Opposition coalition failed to register a candidate to run in the country's July presidential election, in Caracas, Venezuela March 26, 2024 (Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria photo)

A total of 15 high-end vehicles, including a Tesla and Hosein’s personal vehicle, a Toyota Supra, were burnt out

Around the World OIL NEWS

Biden presses for hostage deal ahead of weekend talks; Israel fires 2 over strike on aid workers

Oil prices

climb

more than US$1 per barrel on supply risk

The Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil benchmarks rose more than US$1 a barrel during trade on Friday as markets watched for signs of any direct conflict between Israel and Iran that could further tighten supplies.

Brent crude settled at US$91.17 a barrel, up 52 cents, or 0.57 per cent. WTI crude finished at US$86.91 a barrel, up 32 cents, or 0.37 per cent.

Both benchmarks settled on Thursday at their highest levels since October.

Brent and WTI are set to notch more than four per cent gains this week after Iran, the third-largest Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) producer, vowed revenge against Israel for an attack that killed high-ranking Iranian military personnel.

"If Iran directly attacks Israel, that's never happened before," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group. "It's just another geopolitical risk domino about to fall."

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack on Iran's Embassy compound in Syria on Monday.

Ongoing Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries in Russia may have disrupted more than 15 per cent of Russian capacity, a NATO official said on Thursday, hitting the country's fuel output.

OPEC and allies led by Russia, known as OPEC+, this week kept its oil supply policy unchanged and pressed some countries to increase compliance with output cuts.

"Further clampdowns on adherence to quotas should see output fall further in Q2," ANZ analysts Daniel Hynes and Soni Kumari wrote in a note.

"The prospect of a tighter market should see a drawdown in inventories during the second quarter."

Meanwhile, US job growth soared in March, easily beating expectations, according to official data released on Friday which also showed a steady increase in wages.

The gain of 303,000 jobs last month points to likely robust oil demand, but potentially delays anticipated interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve later this year.

Global oil demand is expected to grow by 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in the first quarter, JPMorgan analysts wrote in a note.

US energy firms this week cut the number of oil and natural gas rigs operating for a third week in a row for the first time since October, energy services firm Baker Hughes said in its closelyfollowed report on Friday.

The oil and gas rig count, an early indicator of future output, fell by one to 620 in the week to April 5, the lowest since early February. (Reuters)

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia names and shames customers over bank glitch money

An Ethiopian bank has put up posters shaming customers it says have not returned money they gained during a technical glitch.

Notices bearing their names and photos could be seen outside branches of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) on Friday.

The bank says it has recovered almost three-quarters of the US$14 million it lost, its Head said last week.

He warned that those keeping money that is not theirs will be prosecuted.

Last month, an hourslong glitch allowed customers at the CBE, Ethiopia's largest commercial bank, to withdraw or transfer more than they had in their accounts.

Most of the money was reportedly withdrawn by university students and 490,000 transactions were made before CBE realised there was a problem.

One student at Jimma University in western Ethiopia told the BBC's Amharic service: "I know someone who bought a smart phone and a laptop and has no money at hand to return.

"There are some who bought Internet packages for a year and others who paid off their debts."

Since the CBE demanded the money be returned and threatened those who don't do so with arrest, thousands have voluntarily given back excess funds, the bank said.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

US President Joe Biden on Friday urged the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to pressure Hamas militants to agree to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal ahead of a fresh round of talks this weekend in Cairo.

CIA Director Bill Burns will lead the US delegation to the Cairo talks, a US official said.

A senior Biden Administration official said Biden wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal".

Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday during which they discussed ongoing hostage negotia-

tions and the round of talks in Cairo.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Biden told Netanyahu to empower his negotiators in Cairo so that a deal can be reached as soon as possible.

The United States and its allies view a ceasefire as essential to allowing more humanitarian aid to get into Gaza amid fears of famine among the Palestinians there.

Under the most recent proposal, Israel and Hamas would agree to a six-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of sick, elderly and wounded hostages held by Hamas. Progress on a deal has been stalled for weeks.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military dismissed two officers and formally reprimanded senior commanders after an inquiry into the killing of seven

aid workers in an air strike in Gaza this week found serious errors and breaches of procedure, the military said.

The inquiry found Israeli forces mistakenly believed they were attacking Hamas

gunmen when drones hit the three vehicles of the World Central Kitchen aid group late on Monday night, and that standard procedures had not been followed. (Excerpt from Reuters)

New York and beyond rattled by rare East Coast earthquake

New York and cities on the US East Coast are assessing the impact of a rare earthquake that swayed landmarks and cracked roads.

The magnitude 4.8 quake struck at 10:23 local time (15:23 GMT) near Lebanon, New Jersey, and could be felt from Pennsylvania to Connecticut.

Residents spoke of being rocked by a violent rumbling that threw objects around their homes and damaged walls.

Officials are now conducting safety assessments of infrastructure.

At least six aftershocks were reported by residents and the United States Geological Survey, including one with a 4.0 magnitude felt around 18:00 local time.

In New York, the Statue of Liberty was seen swaying during the initial earthquake, while workers and residents across the city's five boroughs reported violent rumbling.

Slovaks pick between Fico ally and pro-Western diplomat for President

Slovaks go to the polls today to pick a new President, choosing between pro-Western Opposition candidate Ivan Korcok and Peter Pellegrini running for the ruling nationalist left coalition.

At stake is whether Prime Minister Robert Fico, who took power in October for the fourth time, will get an ally in the presidential palace or an opponent who could challenge his pro-Russian stance and plans to reform criminal law and the media, which have raised concern over weakening the rule of law.

The election is expected to be tight, according to final opinion polls published ahead of a moratorium on campaigning from Thursday. Bookmakers made Korcok, who surprisingly topped the first round two weeks ago, the slight favourite on Friday.

Slovak presidents do not have many executive powers, but can veto laws or challenge them in the constitutional court. They nominate constitutional court judges, which may become important in upcoming battles over Fico's reforms that would dramatically ease punishments for corruption.

For Korcok, 60, the main battle cry has been not to give Fico and his coalition all executive positions.

Pellegrini, 48, has tried to portray Korcok as a war-monger for his support for arming Ukraine and suggested he may take Slovak troops into the war, which Korcok denies.

Outgoing President Zuzana Caputova, a human rights lawyer who is not seeking a second term, criticised the war rhetoric in a television address on Wednesday.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Jane Coxwell told the BBC she felt a "rattling" like a train passing while she was in a building in lower Manhattan. "Living in New York I have become accustomed to rattling from the subway. That's what I thought it was," she said.

"Then I realised I was on the ninth floor. It was a bit unsteady for sure. It felt like a passing train."

Brooklyn and the Bronx residents reported rattling cupboards, doors and fixtures.

Charita Walcott, a 38-year-old from the Bronx, said the quake felt "like a violent rumble that lasted about 30 seconds or so".

"It was kind of like being in a drum circle, that vibration," she said.

Another New York resident told the BBC's US partner CBS News how their lazy morning suddenly turned. "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," the resident said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine war: 6 Russian planes destroyed by drones, says Kyiv

Ukraine has carried out a drone attack against targets in southern Russia and claims to have destroyed six Russian planes at an airbase in Rostov region.

Security sources told BBC Ukrainian eight more aircraft were badly damaged, while 20 service personnel could have been killed or injured.

The Morozovsk base houses Su-27 and Su-34 aircraft used on the front line in Ukraine, the sources said.

There has been no word from Russia on reports of an airfield attack.

The BBC has been unable to independently verify the reports.

However, Russian officials said that more than 40 drones had been aimed at the region, which borders Ukraine.

BBC Russian military an-

alyst Pavel Aksyonov says an attack by so many drones over a short space of time could have overwhelmed air defences.

Meanwhile, four people were killed and over 20 wounded in Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, Ukrainian officials said.

The eastern city of Kharkiv also came under air attack, with Mayor Ihor Terekhov reporting explosions on Friday evening.

In Zaporizhzhia, regional governor Ivan Fedorov said several high-rise blocks and private homes were damaged.

Two missiles struck first, and then – after rescuers and Police arrived – three more hit, he added. Ukrainian media said several Journalists were among the injured.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Palestinians walk past the ruins of houses destroyed during Israel's military offensive, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Gaza City, March 20, 2024 (Reuters/Dawoud Abu Alkas photo)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Do your best to finish what you start. If you force your will on someone, it will backfire. Your best option is to let your results speak for you. Adopt a “what you see is what you get” attitude.

Focus on personal improvement, fitness and honing your skills. Embrace change and use whatever you discover to further your interests. Put your energy into making worthwhile connections.

Be careful whom you trust. Misinformation will leave you in an awkward position if you act in haste. Do your due diligence and connect the dots until you are satisfied with where things are heading.

Focus on what you want. Step outside your comfort zone if it will give you the edge you need to reach your goal. Trust your instincts and make changes that will give you more freedom.

Be a leader, not a follower. Take the path that feels right. Adjust your schedule to fit your goals and alter your mindset and appearance to suit the role you need to play. Change begins with you.

Unique people and pastimes will grab your attention. A change of heart will lead to educational pursuits, travel opportunities and overdue upgrades. Partnerships will lead to good things.

Address domestic situations that need attention. Liven up your surroundings or deal with relationship matters. Make health, romance and your appearance your priorities.

Call the shots and follow through with your plans. Don’t dawdle or give someone a chance to dismantle your efforts. Put pressure on yourself before someone else steps in and takes charge.

You’ll be taken advantage of if you are too accommodating. Focus on taking care of yourself and stop anyone who tries to interfere with your decisions. Distance yourself from temptation.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Know what you want and what’s best for you. Refuse to let anyone interfere or make decisions for you. Take a close look at your expenses, and you’ll discover how to lower your overhead.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Work to improve your lifestyle. Don’t let anyone dictate what you should do. Consider what you enjoy doing most and who fits into your plans. A physical activity will boost your morale.

Make a difference in your community. Changing how you earn a living or handle money will encourage you to reduce financial stress. Consider your options, and you’ll discover a way forward.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES PICKLES

Judges not overwhelmed as elite CrossFit athletes descend on Guyana

…Action commences today at the National Aquatic Centre

Some of the best names in CrossFit are set to descend on Guyana for the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championships, which will be held on April 6 and 7.

The judges in charge of ensuring those athletes correctly perform all of the rigours of the tasking are not overwhelmed by the presence of top-tier athletes on show, as they have spent years becoming best qualified and prepared for the event.

One of the Judges, Lee Fung-A-Fat, is motivated by his role, as he believes the event would further showcase Guyana’s ability to host major CrossFit events in the future.

Fung-A-Fat indicated that the judges have been prepared through an in-depth course, and while these athletes are very experienced,

the judges are more than equipped to ensure the event maintains high standards.

This year’s event has already attracted attention of top athletes from the Netherlands, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Suriname, Bahamas and French Guiana; and Dubai has been showing interest.

By attracting high-calibre athletes, Kares CrossFit has collaborated with Competition Corner, a dynamic registration, planning, and scoring software built for functional fitness and weightlifting competitions globally.

In August-September, the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship aims to host a scaled event in Trinidad and Tobago, while the 2025 edition of its main event is headed to the United Kingdom. On April 6, athletes will

Some of the best athletes in the world are in Guyana to compete in the two-day event which starts today

head to the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal for a series of workouts, and would

return to action on April 7 on the National Park tarmac from 11:00h.

General admission

G$1,000, while VIP tickets cost G$7,000 each.

Sunrisers Hyderabad boss Chennai Super Kings

– helped by slower balls and Abhishek's fireworks

Sunrisers Hyderabad sussed out the conditions quicker than Chennai Super Kings on a black-soil surface, and cruised to their second successive win at home. In the absence of Mustafizur Rahman, who has returned to Bangladesh to sort out his US visa for the upcoming T20 World Cup, and Matheesha Pathirana, who is nursing a niggle, a depleted CSK side have slid to their second successive defeat on the road.

4-0-39-1

Pat Cummins 4-0-29-1

Mayank Markande 2-0-21-0

Shahbaz Ahmed 1-0-11-1

Jaydev Unadkat 4-0-29-1

Last week Hyderabad had rolled out a red-soil pitch that produced a contest in which 277 for 3 were contested against 246 for 5. Friday's pitch was a whole lot slower, and Sunrisers' seamers used it to their advantage by bowling one cutter after another into it.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (T: 166 runs from 20 ovs)

Travis Head c Ravindra

b Theekshana 31 Abhishek Sharma c Jadeja

b Chahar 37

Aiden Markram lbw

b Ali 50 Shahbaz Ahmed lbw

b Ali 18

Heinrich Klaasen † not out 10

Nitish Kumar Reddy

Deepak Chahar 3.1-0-32-1

Mukesh Choudhary 1-0-27-0

Maheesh Theekshana 4-0-27-1

Tushar Deshpande 2-0-20-0

Ravindra Jadeja 4-0-30-0

Moeen Ali 3-0-23-2

Rachin Ravindra 1-0-3-0

After Pat Cummins and others had taken CSK to 165 for 5, Sunrisers smashed 78 for 1 in just the powerplay, with Abhishek Sharma clattering 37 of those runs off just 12 balls.

CSK had scored 30 runs fewer in their powerplay, and their batting machine was shut down in the slog overs too. They eventually completed their chase with six wickets in hand

over the top for boundaries in the powerplay, but he struggled to get the ball away once it became softer and the field was spread out in the middle overs.

Shivam Dube, though, got cracking immediately against spin. He launched the third ball he faced, from Shahbaz, for six, and scored 25 off his first ten balls, from Shahbaz and legspinner Mayank Markande.

and nearly two overs to spare, Aiden Markram doing the heavy lifting with a 36-ball 50.

Dube does Dube things Rachin Ravindra was dismissed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar for 12 off nine balls in the fourth over. Ruturaj Gaikwad got off to a start, but Shahbaz Ahmed, the left-arm fingerspinner, had him swiping a catch to long-on for 26 off 21 balls.

Ajinkya Rahane hit Cummins and Bhuvneshwar

Dube also lined up T Natarajan, who was returning from injury, for back-to-back sixes, before Cummins stopped him on 45 off 24 balls.

The Sunrisers captain hid a slower short ball away from Dube's swinging arc, and had him popping a catch to backward point.

SRH pin down CSK CSK could score only 50 runs in their last seven overs. Cummins, Natarajan and Unadkat kept taking pace off

the ball. CSK's power-hitters failed to manufacture pace for themselves on the night.

Rahane was undone by a 105kph slower delivery, while Mitchell fell to an on-pace Natarajan delivery that stopped in the pitch. Ravindra Jadeja's down-the-track swatted four off a 111kph cutter from Unadkat was only an aberration.

The decibel levels soared when MS Dhoni came out to bat at No.7, ahead of Moeen Ali, with just three balls left in CSK's innings. But even he could manage only one off two balls.

Head, Abhishek tear up the powerplay

With the target in front of them and the knowledge that the pitch would become even slower later in the night, Sunrisers maximized the powerplay.

According to ESPNcricinfo's logs, Sunrisers attempted in the powerplay to hit 16 balls to the boundary. CSK, on the

other hand, had looked to hit only eight balls to the boundary during that phase.

Travis Head stayed leg-side of the ball and cracked Deepak Chahar and Tushar Deshpande through the off side. He finished with 31 off 24 balls. He could have been dismissed on zero in the very first over, had Moeen not dropped him at slip.

Abhishek faced only half as many balls as Head did, but produced a bigger impact, pumping 37 at a strike rate of 308.33. Twenty-seven of those runs came in the first over from left-arm seamer Mukesh Choudhary, who bowled like someone who was playing his first competitive game since December 2022.

After Head and Abhishek departed, Markram controlled the chase with a half-century. Moeen trapped Markram (50) and Shahbaz (18) lbw with the old ball, but it was too late for CSK. Sunrisers had already inflicted irreparable damage in the powerplay. (ESPNCricInfo)

is

Nitish Kumar Reddy finished the proceedings with a six

Shivam Dube hit two fours and four sixes in his innings

Cricket West Indies appoints Subasinghe as Academy Head Coach

official with New Zealand Cricket.

to excellence in cricket development.

Following an extensive and meticulous selection process, Ramesh Subasinghe has emerged as the ideal candidate to lead the WI Academy into a new era of performance and growth.

Before his appointment to CWI, Subasinghe, a former Sri Lankan first-class cricketer, served as Head Coach of the New Zealand Cricket Men’s Development Programme and the Otago Cricket Associations Pathways Head Coach and Talent Development Manager. He holds an ICC Global Level 3 coaching qualification, and is a qualified Coach Development

Besides his qualifications, Subasinghe has exhibited significant expertise in critical areas, including developing and implementing high-performance systems, technical remediations and sports bio-mechanics, team and individual holistic skills development, injury prevention, and bowling loads management.

The recruitment process for the Head Coach of the West Indies Men’s Academy attracted significant global interest, with 53 applicants vying for the position. Through a stringent vetting process, 12 candidates were shortlisted, representing diverse cricketing backgrounds and expertise. Ultimately, 6 individuals hailing from Guyana, Jamaica, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Sri Lanka were identified as finalists, re-

flecting CWI's dedication to inclusivity and global talent scouting.

Enoch Lewis, CWI Board Director and Chair of Cricket Development & Performance Committee; Miles Bascombe,

GBA Easter tournament serves off

The Guyana Badminton Association’s (GBA’s) Annual Easter Tournament kicked off on Thursday evening at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue Georgetown, as players and fans alike gathered to witness the commencement of the competition.

With a sense of anticipation in the air, the courts came alive with the sound of shuttlecocks and the energy of the competitors. As the matches unfolded, attendees were treated to displays of skill and strategy.

In her opening remarks the Vice-President of the GBA, Mrs. Ayanana Watson welcomed all the participants, coaches and spectators. She expressed her thanks to the sponsor, Mr. Darrell Carpenay of GUMDAC, who made the event possible, this being the tenth year since he has been sponsoring this tournament.

She extended a warm welcome and thanked the members of the newly formed Demerara Badminton Club and the Berbice Badminton Club for their participation. She wished the players best of luck and reminded all to play hard, play fair and have fun.

The categories being competed were Men’s Doubles, Women Doubles, Mixed Doubles.

Results for Matches Day 1 –April 4th, 2024: (Winners are in bold)

Women Doubles: Ayanna Watson/Shivannie Persaud vs. Genieve Bookram/Gianna Ramnarine: 21-13, 21-4

Men Doubles: Hemant Ramdhani/Leslie Liu vs. Ruel Rambiriche/Avinash Ramnarine: 21-15, 21-10

Women Doubles: Leshaunte

Berkley/Gabrielle Felix vs. Jefina James/Priya Henry: 2117, 21-6

Men Doubles: William Holder/Jason Khalil vs. Jonathan Robinson/Raah Russell: 21-12, 21-12

Men Doubles: Nkosi Beaton/ Frank Waddell vs. Vinai Datt/ Mohamed Farouk: 21-6, 21-3

Men Doubles: Gavin Cao/ Lim Huat Tat vs. Gabriel Felix/ Nikolas Pollard: 21-12, 21-18

Women Doubles: Anna Perreira/Ashley Khalil vs. Priyanka Shvinauth/Joanne Tan: 21-7, 21-3

Mixed Doubles: Akili Haynes/Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Shane Birkett/Ihatiah Frank: 21-1, 21-1

Mixed Doubles: Jahiem Carmichael/Jefina James vs. Omkar Persaud/Genieve Bookram: 21-13, 21-13

Men Doubles: Avinash Odit/ Javid Rahaman vs. Yonneil Benjamin/Christopher Jordan: 21-5, 21-7

Mixed Doubles: Raah Russell/Tyra Gomes vs. Gabriel Felix/Malia Haley: 21-12, 16-21, 21-7

Mixed Doubles: Colin Bowry/Priya Henry vs. Ruel Rambiriche/Gianna Ramnarine

Mixed Doubles: Tyrese Jeffrey/Ambika Ramraj vs. Avinash Ramnarine/Neveah Eastman: 21-8, 21-9

Mixed Doubles: Wenyuan Chen/Shivannie Persaud vs. Vishal Gopaul/Gabrielle Felix: 21-12, 21-12

Mixed Doubles: Frank Waddell/Leshaunte Berkley vs. Jason Stephney/Harshini Muralidharan: 21-16, 21-19

Men Doubles: Matthew Klautky/Omkar Persaud vs. Egan Bulkan/Ethan Bulkan: 21-8, 21-14

Women Doubles: Priyanna Ramdhani/Mishka Beharry vs.

Director of Cricket; Graeme West, High-Performance Manager; and Oneka MartinBird, HR Manager, were all part of the selection process, and all contributed to a comprehensive assessment of each candidate's qualifications, experience, and vision for cricket development in our region.

Reflecting on the rigorous selection process, Miles Bascombe remarked, "It was a rigorous and transparent exercise, ensuring that only the most qualified and capable candidates were considered for this position. We were given a clear mandate to choose the best talent at our disposal, and we’re confident the most suitable candidate was identified."

The unanimous decision

of the interview panel, endorsed by the Board of Directors and HR Committee, underscores Ramesh Subasinghe's exceptional qualifications and suitability for the role of Head Coach of the WI Men’s Academy. Bascombe affirmed the appointment, stating, "We are continuously striving to elevate standards at CWI, and I am confident that Ramesh Subasinghe embodies the expertise and leadership necessary to drive our cricket development initiatives forward."

On becoming the new Men’s Academy Head Coach, Ramesh Subasinghe stated, “Joining CWI presents an incredible opportunity for me to contribute to the organisation's new strategic vision, and build on their

existing High-Performance programmes working with their best young cricketers. I look forward to collaborating with the exciting natural talent and the passionate cricketing communities in the West Indies.”

Subasinghe's appointment represents a significant investment in the future of West Indian cricket, as he brings to the role a wealth of technical knowledge, strategic insight, and a passion for player development. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of cricketing talent in the region. Subasinghe will start his role on 1 May 2024 and will be based fulltime at the CWI Headquarters at Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Georgetown Guinness MVP receives spoils

Anna Perreira/Ashley Khalil: 21-15, 21-17

Men Doubles: Grandison

Robinson vs. Troxley Cutting vs. Gavin Cao/Lim Huat Tat: 21-12, 21-3

Men Doubles: Colin Bowry/ Jahiem Carmiael vs. Hemant Ramdhani/Leslie Liu: 21-16, 2113

Men Doubles: Jason Stephney/Andrew Browne vs. William Holder/Jason Khalil: 21-13, 21-16

Women Doubles: Neveah

Eastman/Malia Haley vs. Tyra

Gomes/Aaliyah Bacchus: 21-13, 21-12

Men Doubles: Wenyuan

Chen/Marlon Chung vs. Vishal Gopaul/Haresh Persaud: 21-5, 21-10

Men Doubles: Akili Haynes/ Tyrese Jeffrey vs. Shane Birkett/Percival Chester: 21-1, 21-5

Women Doubles: Alimah

Eastman/Asiyah Eastman vs. Leshaunte Berkley/Gabrielle

Felix: 21-15, 21-17

Men Doubles: Marcus

Samuels/Jamal Sinclair vs. Matthew Klautky/Omkar

Persaud: 21-8, 20-22, 16-21

Mixed Doubles: Nkosi

Beaton/Anna Perreira vs. Colin

Bowry/Priya Henry: 21-12, 2113

Mixed Doubles: Jason

Khalil/Ashley Khalil vs. Yonneil

Benjamin/Aaliyah Bacchus: 219, 21-2

Mixed Doubles: Roseann

Bulkan/Egan Bulkan vs. Frank Waddell/Leshaunte Berkley: 21-7, 21-9

Mixed Doubles: Avinash

Odit/Mishka Beharry vs. Raah

Russell/Tyra Gomes: 21-7, 21-9

Mixed Doubles: Nikolas

Pollard/Alimah Eastman vs. Jaheim Carmichael & Jefina

James: 12-21, 21-13, 21-14

The tournament continues tomorrow at the National Gymnasium.

Bevney Mark, the most valuable player (MVP) of the recently concluded Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship, was officially presented with a pair of football boots by Colours Boutique on Wednesday for his exploits during the tournament.

Mark was pivotal in Laing Avenue winning the championship for the first time in their history following a 2-1 victory over former champion North Ruimveldt in the final at the National Park tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Speaking at the simple but significant presentation held at the Colours Boutique Robb Street location, Mark expressed delight in receiving the pair of shoes and winning the prestigious championship, adding, “It’s [the tournament] a great impact in the community for the young ones coming up and the supporters. For me, they know I do play good football, so they are depending on me.”

The soft-spoken forward declared that the team will continue to train and prepare for the impending national championships, and disclosed, “Well, we are not waiting; we have a church yard, and the boss does allow us to have a night session, so the same thing we do in the Guinness is the same thing we do among ourselves.”

According to Mark, the event was a wonderful initiative, and the team, following their victory, donated a portion of their winnings to the com-

munity. He explained, “We invested in the community, so we separated and took a couple of youths, bought kites, and took them out on the field, and they feel very grateful about it.”.

Meanwhile, Terrence Nero, captain of Laing Avenue, said, “It feels great, especially to me, my players, and also the community. It gives us that extra boost to elevate and go and win more in the years to come, or the future, as you may say. Also, it gives us a little more recognition in the community, and with other players and teams out there. “We know that it will be harder for us going forward because the bigger teams and the underdogs, as they would call them, will be gunning for us, but we will be prepared.”

Queried about the reception afforded to the team by the community following their victory, Nero disclosed, “I can’t explain that; it was so nice to know the entire community supported us throughout everything, and we had a very good turnout in terms of support. For the youths out there, we are like idols to them because ever since we won, they are like we are next and we are going to take your place.

“I feel very nice to hear that from the youths coming up under us.”

Probed if the camaraderie and overall social cohesion within the community have been strengthened since their triumph, he disclosed, “I believe so because it has already started because, eleven years

after we won the Guinness of the Streets, we are getting a lot of opportunities and people are asking what you guys need and those things and if we need any help.”

According to Nero, “I would like to say that it’s a very good job they're doing, and I hope that they keep it up. Let it be bigger so that more teams will be recognized. All we know is that when football comes, especially this, the youths out there keep themselves out of trouble, and it keeps a lot of togetherness with them in the sport. I would hope and pray that banks continue doing what they are doing, which is doing a very great job, especially for the youth, and I expect them to continue.”

Asked about the team’s objective for the impending national championship, he said, “We will be training to get even better, working harder to keep our fitness in so that we can become the national champs.”

Ramesh Subasinghe

The competitors for the GBA Easter tournament

Laing Avenue’s Bevney Mark, the MVP of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship, receiving his prize from Safisha Hope, Supervisor of Colours Boutique

GCB says disappointed at snub of Guyanese trio

Following the non-selection of Guyanese

Ashmini Munisar, Plaffiana Millington and Shabika Gajnabi, top performers in the recently concluded CWI Blaze T20 and Super50 Cup tournaments, the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) is questioning Cricket West Indies’(CWI) criteria/ measuring stick used for selection.

Munisar, Millington and Gajnabi were among the leading ladies in the recent CWI Women’s Super50 and T20 tournaments, either with bat, ball, or both; but were somehow strangely overlooked ahead of the Pakistan tour.

CWI released the names of the 15-member squad ahead of the upcoming eightmatch Series which bowls off on April 6 in Pakistan, with Guyana skipper Shemaine Campbelle being named vice-captain and all- rounder Cherry-Ann Fraser being the other of only two Guyanese in the Windies team.

The non-inclusion of Munisar, Millington and Gajnabi comes as a shock, the trio always having played outstanding cricket throughout. In the batting department, Guyana had 3 players in the top 5 for the Blaze T20, with Gajnabi, Campbell and

Mandy Mangru occupying spots 2, 3 and 5 respectively.

Gajnabi, a regular face in the Windies Women’s team, finished as the second leading run-scorer overall in the T20 Blaze and top run-getter for Guyana, with 138 runs at an average of 34 and a top score of 52.

Campbell, who was selected for Pakistan, ended as the 3rd leading scorer behind Gajnabi, with an aggregate of 128 runs, also ended with the most dismissals by a wicket-keeper (6).

the leading wicket-taker with 12 victims and a best of 5-15, which was also the best figures of the Super50 by any bowler.

Munisar finished the Women’s Super50 Cup as

She was followed by countrywoman Niya Latchman the next best wicket-taker in the 50-Over tournament with 11 wickets, as the latter also had a selection-warranted season with the ball.

The Guyanese trio statistically outplayed almost all of the other selectees for the upcoming tour, with the non-selection of three premier performers in both the T20 and 50-Overs now being questioned by the GCB.

Government investment key to athletes' future success – Jagdeo

Over the las weekend, two Guyanese sports contingents have reaped success in the disciplines of Hockey and Athletics, with Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo acknowledging their efforts and congratulating them on their success.

During his weekly press briefing on Thursday, VicePresident Jagdeo spoke on the investment made by the Government in sports, noting that it is key to athletes' success.

“Our athletes are doing

KFC Elite League…

better, and I am sure that in future years they will not just continue to do well, but they will continue to do extremely well because of the scale of investment in the infrastructure and support services that we are putting in place now to promote sports and culture,” the Vice-President shared.

Assuring that the Government would continue to invest in sports, Jagdeo related, “It is consistent with our manifesto to invest more in sports, and we will continue to do it

despite the occasional objection that we get from those who believe we are over-investing in sports facilities.”

Guyana’s 23-member CARIFTA Games contingent copped a total of eight medals, inclusive of four gold, two silver, and two bronze at the 51st edition of the event, which was wrapped up in Grenada on Monday last.

To add to this success in sport, the Over-45 Male Hockey team finished second to hosts England in the Masters Hockey World Cup.

Fruta, Slingerz pick up 3 points

…Police hold on to points table lead

It was euphoria for Fruta Conquerors Football Club on Tuesday night, as they cruised to their third win of the season against a hapless Buxton United FC when the KFC Elite League continued.

Less than a week prior, Fruta Conquerors had suffered an 8-0 drubbing at the hands of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC, making the 4-0 victory even more meaningful.

After Buxton United held off Fruta Conquerors for about half an hour, 4 quick-fire goals came in the space of 10 minutes to dampen the East Coast outfit’s spirits.

First Makhaya Jarvis found the back of the net in the 30th minute, after which Owayne Jones made it a 2-0 game in the 33rd. Antwon Denny pushed Fruta Conquerors’ tally to 3 in the 37th, while Jarvis returned in the 40th to complete his brace.

The half-time scoreline of 4-0 eventually became the game’s result as Buxton United failed to capitalize on what little chances they had, while Fruta also

squandered a few.

The following game saw Slingerz FC bounce back from a tough first-half out ing to pummel Ann’s Grove United 5-0.

The first 45 min utes ended with the scores reading nil- all af ter Ann’s Grove United’s back 5 put on an im pressive perfor mance to keep Slingerz strikers at bay, even when the team em ployed the ‘high press’

strategy.

However, Slingerz wasted little time in the second half. Marcus Tudor finally broke the ice in the 51st minute, and then moved up to a brace

4 minutes later.

Ann’s Grove again got into their defending, until the 83rd minute, when a rocket shot from defender Jerome Harrigan made it a 3-0 affair. Jamal

Codrington added his name to the scoresheet in the 89th, while Gabriel De Souza did the same in the 90th+2 for Slingerz’ 5.

The League will continue today, Saturday, April 6, with a blockbuster clash featuring defending champions the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC from 21:00hrs.

Prior to that game, the GFF Women’s Division 1 League resumes with the GDF Women getting into action against Fruta

Conquerors’ ladies, set to kick off at 18:30hrs at the GFF’s National Training Center, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Currently, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC lead the points table with 18 points from a perfect 6 games. closely following is Slingerz FC with 15 points from 5 games, also unbeaten, while Western Tigers complete the top three with 9 points from 5 games, inclusive of 2 losses.

Western Tigers rank above defending Champions

GDF only on account of goal difference, as the soldiers have three wins from 3 games, resulting in 9 points. In fifth is Fruta Conquerors FC, with 9 points from 7 games played, while Den Amstel FC have 7 points from 5 games.

With 2 wins in their 6 games, Santos FC have 6 points while Ann’s Grove United have 4 from a win and a draw in 5 games. both Buxton United and Monedderlust FC are yet to add any points to their tally after 5 games played.

Plaffiana Millington Ashmini Munisar

The 2024 Over-45 Guyana Male Hockey Team Marchus Tudor (green and red) netted a brace for Slingerz FC

A look at the battle between Fruta Conquerors (orange) and Buxton United