Guyana Times - Saturday, December 23, 2023.pdf

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

Issue No. 5592

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

Pres Ali calls on financial institutions to modernise banking services in Guyana Page 3

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

West Berbice man remanded for murder of P16 villager

– as Demerara Bank opens $485M branch at Leonora

P2 Regional Division 3, CID Headquarters share Best Cop 2023 Award

Essequibo P5 Coast duo busted with ganja during CANU operation President Dr Irfaan Ali and CEO of Demerara Bank, Pravinchandra Dave; Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and Demerara Bank Chairman Komal Samaroo, stand with staff of the newly-commissioned Demerara Bank Branch at Leonora, WCD (Photo by Latchman Singh)

Govt “not rushing” Marriott sale, proper GNBS certifies 30 scrutiny must follow – VP Jagdeo new companies See story on page 7

CoI completes final report into Mahdia deadly fire Page 9

– to hand same over to Pres Ali shortly

3rd suspect arrested as probe Page 9 intensifies into murder of CWC fisherman

Teen feared dead after allegedly falling out of boat See story on page 7

in 2023

P14 – Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments & Fresh Packagers now certified

242 prisoners from 3 countries P13 released under FFTP’s Prison Ministry Programme

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Regional Division 3, CID Headquarters share Best Cop 2023 Award I

n a remarkable achievement for Regional Division 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), ASP Jermaine Grant and Sergeant 22578 Hinds have emerged as the Best Cops of 2023.

The accolades come in the wake of recent tribulations that cast a solemn shadow over the nation—the loss of five Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers. Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Colonel Michael Shahoud, and Sergeant Jason Khan died in a deadly helicopter crash in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) on December 6, while taking items for their troops.

ASP Grant, who is from Regional Division 3, displayed exemplary dedication to duty, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), securing the coveted title of

Sergeant 22578 Hinds

Overall Best Cop for 2023.

The GPF stated that his commitment to maintaining law and order in the region did not go unnoticed.

Sergeant 22578 Hinds, a stalwart from the Criminal Investigation Department headquartered in Georgetown, stood out with

exceptional contributions, earning the title of Overall Best Cop alongside ASP Grant. Hinds' work within the CID showcased a commitment to solving crimes and upholding justice, according to the GPF. The success story contin-

ued with further triumphs, as Lance Corporal 22041 Blackman was recognised as the Best Cop for Region 4A (Georgetown).

Other divisional standouts include Inspector R Chattergoon from Region 2; Sergeant 18482 Dath from Region 1 (Barima-Waini); Woman Corporal 23212 Semple from Region 4C (East Coast Demerara); Constable 23861 McDonald from Region 5 (Mahaica Berbice); Woman Sergeant 19982 Deane Smith from Region 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne); Corporal 21009 Li-a-Ping from Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Inspector Seetaram from Region 8 (Potaro-Siparuni); Inspector K Conway from Region 9 (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), and Constable 22925 Moore from Region 10 (DemeraraMahaica).

During the presentation of the award, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken applauded the outstanding

ASP Jermaine Grant

contributions of Regional Division 3 and the CID, expressing gratitude for their unwavering commitment.

Hicken emphasised the critical role played by ASP Grant and Sergeant Hinds in upholding the standards of excellence within their respective units.

This recognition not only

signifies individual accomplishments but also underscores the collaborative spirit and dedication to duty that defines Regional Division 3 and the CID. As the nation grapples with recent losses, the achievements of these officers serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the entire Guyana Police Force.

3 Pres Ali calls on financial institutions to modernise banking services in Guyana NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, Dec 23 – 01:30h – 03:00h and Sunday, Dec 24 – 02:30h – 04:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Dec 23 – 13:30h – 15:00h and Sunday, Dec 24 – 14:20h – 15:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine and thundery showers during the day. Expect thundery showers at night.

Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 13:45h reaching a maximum height of 2.48 metres.

Low Tide: 07:16h and 19:50h reaching minimum heights of 0.86 metre and 0.71 metre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2023

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

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Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22 2023 DAILY MILLIONS

16 18 21

02 03 LUCKY 3

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Crude Oil

$79.07/barrel

-0.40

Rough Rice London Sugar

$318.24/ton $589.50/ton

+0.31 +0.48

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change %

USD Per Ounce $2052.12 $2046.80 -0.61

$2055.44 $2070.65 -0.03

– as Demerara Bank opens $485M branch at Leonora

A

s Guyana continues its unprecedented developmental trajectory, President Dr Irfaan Ali said the country needs to prepare the framework to operate in the “new world” of doing business, and one such area he highlighted that has to be modernised locally is the financial sector.

“We have to modernise our financial architecture and our financial system, upgrade our regulatory framework and strengthen institutions to provide the support for this. And that is what we have to get ahead of in dealing with financial services because you can have persons with deposits above a certain level, earning even more than their salaries through investment vehicles. And that is the conversation I think the Minister of Finance [Dr Ashni Singh] have soon because we have to modernise and improve the regulations, modernise the legislation and then strengthen the institutions while we work on building the capacity,” the Head of State noted.

President Ali was at the time speaking at the opening of a new Demerara Bank Limited branch, which was built to the tune of $485 million, on Friday at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD). He pointed out that at a time when the banking sector is transitioning into a faceless service, these new buildings still hold importance with regards to modernising the financial sector.

“Two to five years from now, these buildings will be converted into back offices… you will have faceless banks but you will have people in

The newly-commissioned $485 million Demerara Bank Limited branch at Leonora, West Coast Demerara

there doing the important back-office jobs… This building will be providing more jobs because we will create the infrastructure for nearshoring and financial services,” he noted.

According to the President, the Government is hoping to make Guyana a major hub for financial services by modernising the financial sector here. In the future when the cost of data and electricity are significantly reduced in the country, local companies could branch out into providing tax services for other countries. The Head of State noted that the Government is already preparing the skills for this.

“This is where the revenue from oil and gas will go, certifying our young people for higher paying jobs. So, they will be certified brokers, certified public accountants, charted accountants, chartered auditors, certified management specialists, and those jobs will migrate into buildings like these – providing a service for North America, for the rest of the

Region and data is the concept of nearshoring jobs,” he noted.

Only recently, the Head of State announced an initiative that will see the Guyana Government working with Canada to train 2000 young Guyanese next year to take up high-paying jobs here.

New technology

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Demerara Bank, Pravinchandra Dave also revealed plans by the financial institution to shift towards a more technological-based operation.

“We want to improve the banking facility and we also want to promote the easiest access to our banking to each and everyone. For that, what we have to do is we’re trying to have four things in line: we want to have chequeless banking; cashless banking; paperless banking, and faceless banking,” he noted.

Dave, who is set to retire after serving at the bank for over 20 years, noted that

President Dr Irfaan Ali

they are now trying to introduce a money transfer facility for Guyanese who are living abroad, at a low service charge.

“We are also trying to introduce a new technology which will be announced next year and that technology would see [significant] changes in the banking facilities in Guyana,” the outgoing bank CEO stated.

Chairman of Demerara Bank Limited, Komal Samaroo further added, “We are embarking on the utilisation of cutting-edge technology, which will enhance the customer experience in terms of speed, convenience and efficiency, and transforming the banking sector in Guyana – moving in line with what obtains in the developed world.”

“Following an agreement and the preparatory work in 2023, next year we’ll be using one of the world’s leading technology company online platforms, introduced in a very significant way…

Most of your services you will be able to do online.”

TURN TO PAGE 14

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

Views

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

Statistics alone will not convince

T

here is an ongoing debate about whether or not crime has been reduced, as the Police have announced in several of their divisional statistics.

However, statistics alone will not convince citizens; until they actually begin to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, and are not forced to convert their homes into jail cells with the “iron grills” installed over their doors and windows.

While “intelligence-led” policing has been touted as one approach to address the challenge, this is more tactical than strategic.

In his 1982 article, “Broken Windows”, Harvard Sociologist James Q Wilson took a contrarian position to the dominant “root causes of crime” approach. Crime would not decrease, it was asserted, until we first address the social and environmental causes: like poverty, racism, bad housing, poor education, inequality, etc.

Not surprisingly, the Police loved the idea; basically, it absolved them from ever reducing crime in absolute terms.

Their stock answer to the US’ stubbornly high and growing crime figures was: “It was society’s fault.”

In Guyana, there is a persistent section of officialdom that insists on pushing the “root causes” theory of crime reduction. We hope that they will take a look at Wilson’s “Broken Windows” alternative.

The broken windows theory derived both its inspiration and name from a widely-observed phenomenon. “Social psychologists and Police officers tend to agree,” Wilson and his co-author Kelling wrote, “that if a window in a building is broken and is left unrepaired, all the rest of the windows will soon be broken. This is as true in nice neighbourhoods as in rundown ones. Window-breaking does not necessarily occur on a large scale because some areas are inhabited by determined window-breakers whereas others are populated by window-lovers; rather, one unrepaired broken window is a signal that no one cares, and so breaking more windows costs nothing. (It has always been fun.)”

What was true of windows, Kelling and Wilson argued, was also true, more generally, of disruptive public behaviour in a community. Wilson pointed out that culture matters, and if such behaviour is not nipped in the bud, it can quickly develop into institutionalised criminal lifestyles. While Wilson was thinking mostly of urban areas, with our older, densely packed villages joined by newer and larger housing developments with no organic community spirit, the now ubiquitous petty drug dealers and users in the villages might just be our tip-off “broken windows”.

We can already see in our villages the alienation, anonymity and anomie that used to typify towns. Unruly children who are not “raised by the village” grow up to be teenagers who get into fights and bully people on street corners. They drive their cars with their music blaring from their amplified speakers in the middle of the night. Rum shops are opened at every other street corner, and drunks meander the streets panhandling unwary pedestrians.

Fearing that more serious crimes would occur, residents would keep indoors more often, and, very soon, the streets are left to the unruly elements. Kelling and Wilson were arguing that minor crimes, if unpunished, lead to major crimes and massive social breakdown. The goal of “Broken Windows policing” is to allow a neighbourhood to police itself and reduce crime.

In this approach, the role of the Police is to reduce fear through foot patrols, maintaining order and the judicious use of officers’ discretion through “community policing”.

While our “community policing” and “neighbourhood police” initiatives have adopted their names from “Broken Windows” policing, they have entirely missed its essence. In Guyana, the community Police is not part and parcel of the official Police Force, and merely rides around in its officially supplied vehicles, throwing its weight around on ordinary residents.

The Public Security Ministry must integrate the two units into one, with the Community Policing unit being dedicated as “beat Police” that patrol “broken windows” neighbourhoods with constant presence.

Ministers Collin Croal and Dr Vindya Persaud distributed toys to the children of Bel Air Village at the Bel Air Primary School in Greater Georgetown. Additionally, hampers were given to a few community members, in keeping with the season of giving

President Ali, First Lady want the best for Guyana Dear Editor, In Guyana, we say, “Good things come to those who wait.” Amid the festive season, Guyanese are much relieved as they go about their preparation for the holidays. Guyana’s “Father Christmas,” President Dr Irfaan Ali, has managed to give the precious gift of love, as he shares it with the invaluable package of peace and non-violence. These priceless ingredients have encouraged the generosity of giving and sharing, after our goodly neighbour had threatened the peace and sanctity of the holiday.

The ever-considerate and thoughtful person that he is, President Ali has pledged to ensure that the safety, security, and success of this nation are guaranteed, and will always be treated with priority since he was sworn-in to power in 2020. The welfare of the Guyanese nation is forever close to his heart.

Christmas was stolen in 2018 and 2019 by the “Grinchier.” President Ali brought back cheer in 2020 to allay the fears and wipe away the tears of the Guyanese people.

After Scrooge had removed bonuses from the shelf, the bonus is again part and parcel of the PPP/C Party and Government holiday package. The going was rough, but the tough fought a cruel battle to come out victorious.

Guyanese say, “Easy lesson good for dunce.” The month of December is synonymous with election in the minds of Guyanese. One of CARICOM’s “Three Wise Men”, who brokered the 1998 Herdmanston Agreement after the impasse of the December 1997 General Elections in Guyana, Sir Shridath Ramphal, a former Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral and AttorneyGeneral of Guyana, had written: “It is utterly regrettable that, despite the highest-level agreement between the political leaders of Guyana and five CARICOM Heads of Government acting for the Community, the invited CARICOM team to oversee the recount of the votes has had to withdraw. Guyana is being deprived of regional and international approval and the opportunity for global respect at a time when it matters most.”

The dark hours of Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections still haunt the sober ones.

President Ali kept his cool, and the hot-tempered losers lost their calm. The battle of brain over brawn was eventual and eventful, and became evident and eminent.

After the Election Petition #88 appeal was dismissed by the Guyana Court of Appeal this week, will the arrogant advocates of lurid lawlessness, facetious frivolity and

vicious vexation learn any lesson?

Another Guyanese saying has merit: “If you cannot hear, you must feel.” Guyana always has a plaster for every sore, especially since the new Health Minister took over in that daredevil year of 2020, when this country was, for five agonizing months, held under siege by a band of outlaws led by a sanctimonious gangster! It was a year when nefarious delinquents ran amok, knowing the sad reality was that they were convincingly trashed and lost the general election.

Those poorly schooled mathematicians tried numerous times to swear-in a president who was “fit and prapa” to rule by foul means, and not fair means. Those squanderers reluctantly then decided to scrape the bottom of the barrel, scrap the search for a ‘might is right’ takeover, and secretly surrender, much to the annoyance of their compadres in disagreement.

Members of a losing party, soured and bruised, licked their wounds and cowered, knowing that they would not enjoy the Presidential post anytime in a hurry, or in the near future.

A Guyanese proverb shines the light at the end of the tunnel: “Moon a run til day ketch am.” This doctors the doctrine of “the arm of the law is long.” The former administration tried a

lot of “jiggery pokery” methods, but their methodology of “Burnham Magic” didn’t work. The US sanctions finally shook them up, and awoke them to a sudden, sad, and severe reality. Their desperate days were numbered, and their sleepless nights couldn’t hide their disappointment!

The heavy boots kicked in, and a begrudged league of dauntless participants caved in to subdue the result of a long-lasting and legitimate battle. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali was sworn-in as Guyana’s tenth President on 2nd August 2020, to lead the administration of the PPP/C Party to govern this land for the next term. All hell broke loose for the bewildered party who fell flat on its face.

The battle was won, but the war continued.

Guyanese warn, “When a bird fly too fast, he does pass the nest.” Selfishness dominated the rulers from 2015 to 2020. Dubbed the “Iron Lady” by a Soviet journalist, Margaret Thatcher, the United Kingdom’s first female Prime Minister, who ruled from 1979 to 1990, had remarked, “You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” The PPP/C Party faced an uphill battle when it began to administer in 2020.

A raped, ravaged and ruined Treasury was the sad reality.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

5

News

Sophia man pleads guilty Essequibo Coast duo to trafficking in narcotics busted with ganja

during CANU operation

J

oshua Josiah Mentore of Pattensen, Greater Georgetown, who was nabbed with a quantity of ecstasy pills, was remanded to prison after pleading guilty to trafficking in narcotics.

Mentore appeared before Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Friday where the charge was read to him.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) stated that on December 20, 2023, at Dennis Street, C Field Sophia, he had 34 grams of ecstasy in his possession.

CANU further stated that during an operation in the area, Mentore was intercepted and searched, when 80 ecstasy pills were

Mitztroy Dash

Confessed drug trafficker Joshua Mentore discovered on his person.

He was arrested and taken to the CANU Headquarters where the

The pills that were intercepted during the operation

pills were weighted and amounted to 34 grams.

The confessed drug trafficker will make his

next court appearance on January 18, 2024, for sentencing following a probation report.

ZARA Awards Ceremony recognizes exceptional contributions to ICT training

I

n a glamorous ceremony held at the Millennium Manor Hotel and Hall at Camp Street, Georgetown on Wednesday, the ZARA Computer Centre of the Guyana Police Force’s Academy celebrated its endof-year 'Awards Ceremony’, which was intended to honour and acknowledge the outstanding commitment and dedication of staff members across all ZARA Computer Centres nationwide.

These centres deliver quality Information Communication Technology (ICT) training to the Guyanese population.

During his remarks, Assistant Superintendent Gladwin Hanover, Coordinator of the ZARA Computer Centres, emphasized that the Awards Ceremony was not a mere celebration, but is a profound testament to the hard work and dedication exhibited by the staff in fulfilling the Centre's mandate.

"Tonight’s Awards Ceremony is not just a mere celebration; it's a cornerstone in our commitment to recognizing and celebrating excellence. It's a testament to the dedication, hard work,

Rayborn Gordon

The cannabis found in the vehicle

T

wo men were arrested following the discovery of a quantity of cannabis during an operation by the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) between Adventure and Good Hope along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Thursday.

CANU stated that on the day in question, it intercepted a motor car and a subsequent search was conducted in the presence of the driver, which led to the discovery of

the ganja and the arrest of a second person.

Mitztroy Dash, 42, of Good Hope, and Rayborn Gordon, 32, of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, were arrested and escorted to CANU’s Headquarters along with the cannabis.

Whilst there, the ganja was weighed in their presence and amounted to 2.4 kilograms with a street value of approximately $1 million.

The two suspects remain in custody pending charges.

Some of the awardees being presented with their awards

and unwavering commitment of our ranks," Hanover expressed.

Further, he described the ceremony as a catalyst: igniting motivation and inspiration within the ranks, and serving as a reminder that every challenge overcome and milestone achieved is acknowledged and celebrated.

One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of outstanding individuals, with Woman Constable Yelena Jairam receiving the prestigious 'Centre Administrator of the Year' Award. She was presented with a plaque and a cash prize of $100,000.

Constable Shaan Hardyal has been honoured as the 'Instructor of the Year', and he received a plaque along with a cash prize of $50,000. Other deserving ranks were likewise rewarded with monetary incentives.

The distinguished event was graced by the presence of notable figures, including Force Training Officer Woman Superintendent Sonia Herbert, Woman Superintendent Nicola Kendall, and Commandant of the GPF Academy’s

Georgetown Campus, Deputy Superintendent Kevin London.

The Awards Ceremony not only celebrated individ-

ual accomplishments, but also served as a testament to the collective journey toward greater heights in the realm of ICT training.

President Ali, First...

Missing records added to the chaos and confusion.

The spread of the hate and race disease poisoned a society nurtured by greed and grouse by a grotesque party, who had vengeance on their agenda because they were left out in the cold.

The ugly face of violence instigated by opportunists surfaced to disrupt peace and stability. But President Ali survived, and reigned in law and order to curb the ambitious band of rebels. The presence of the then US Secretary of State Colin Powell helped to restore faith and confidence in Guyana, relying on a youthful administration presided by a mature and seasoned leader, Dr. Ali. In Guyana, they say, “You can’t keep a good man down.” President Dr. Irfaan Ali rose to international prominence and became the “Man for all Seasons.” It was

FROM PAGE 4

the goodwill of integrity, the reputation of honour, and the prevalence of dignity on which the PPP/C Party rode out the storm embroiled in lies, propaganda and tongue-twisting by dangerous dementors.

Favourable weather fathoms the fashion of Dr. Ali, whose familiar face has been featured to make him famous and a welcoming personality to grace any occasion. In Guyana, peace, progress and prosperity will always prevail to light up the spirit of the festive season as long as you have a few good men and women like President Ali and First Lady Arya Ali, who will forever want the best for Guyana and Guyanese.

Season’s greetings, and do have a safe and happy holiday, Guyana.

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

01:30 04:00 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:40 13:00 14:30 16:30 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 20:30 22:00 23:30

Movie - War for The Planet of Apes (2017) Movie - War Room (2015) Inspiration Time Cartoons Evening News (RB) Stop Suffering Movie - Leo (2023) Indian Movie - Sukhee (2023) Movie - The Naughty Nine (2023) Movie - The Christmas Chronicles 2 (2020) Wheel of Fortune Payless Power Hour Evangelistic Hour Hepzibah The Evening News Explained Movie - Dashing Through the Snow (2023) Movie - Hip Hop Family Christmas (2021) Movie - The Flash (2023)

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

MATH QUESTIONS 18. Which digits will complete the quotient in the division sum below?

21. The perimeter of the shape in Figure 3 is (A) 10 (B) 15 (C) 26

(D) 65

22. How many whole numbers are in the set of numbers greater than 104 but less than 110?

(A) 3 (B) 4 (A) 709

(B) 097

(C) 97

(D) 09

(C) 5

(D) 6

23. Which element is in neither A nor B?

By Hilton Hemerding

19. Which diagram shows the chord of the circle?

20. 6.579 m express in centimetres is (A) 0.6579 (B) 65.79 (C) 657.9

(D) 6579

Use Figure 3 below to answer question 21.

Vintage paper ornaments For added dimension, mix a bunch of paper ornaments with multicolored baubles.

To make, draw the shapes pictured onto card stock and cut them out. Decorate to your liking with glitzy pipe cleaners and snowflake cutouts. Finally, punch a hole, add a ribbon and hang ‘em on your Christmas tree. (goodhousekeeping.com)

There’s a land just off the Atlantic, Land of jungles, waterfalls and sweet scenery, Where poor people farm the lands and hunt the waters, And all live in peace and harmony.

This is Guyana, beautiful Guyana.

This is Guyana, beautiful Guyana.

Diamond seekers go in the Interior, Pulling their corials under the falls, Singing sweet calypso as they heave on their way To dig up the diamond and the gold.

With Kaieteur tumbling to the river, How I love to see your foaming tide; I listen to the chirps of the cheerful kiskadee As they throw their yellow breasts to the sky.

O Guyana, land where I was born, O sweet land shining in the sun, I could hear the monkey chatter up in a tree And the parrots singing this melody.

O Guyana, beautiful Guyana, O Guyana, independent and free,.

O Guyana, beautiful Guyana.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt “not rushing” Marriott sale, proper scrutiny must follow – VP Jagdeo

B

The Marriott Hotel

efore Government seals the deal on the sale of the Marriott Hotel, the transaction must be properly scrutinised in

protecting the country’s interests.

Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo made this disclosure during his press

conference on Thursday, stating that there is no rush on Government’s end at the price of inadequate public scrutiny, and that of the Audit Office of Guyana.

His comments came amid concerns raised by American businessman, Ramy ElBatrawi regarding the pending conclusion of the transaction. El-Batrawi’s company – X, LLC – had emerged as the successful bidder with his US$90 million proposal to buy the Kingston, Georgetown hotel during the public tender process.

However, Jagdeo outlined,

Car stolen during WBD robbery recovered in Soesdyke

I

n a swift response to an alleged robbery in Dairy, La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), ranks of the Timehri Police Station on Friday successfully recovered the stolen silver Toyota RunX with registration number PNN 7422.

The vehicle was found abandoned at a sand pit behind Chan Sand Road in Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD), at approximately 16:00h, the owners said.

The stolen car was reportedly part of a larger incident that occurred on Wednesday morning, where Nafiza Khan and her family were allegedly robbed while they were asleep.

According to Khan's daughter, Pretima Khan, the robbery took place between 04:00h at their residence in Dairy.

The family was alerted to the incident by a neighbour, who discovered the robbery and notified them. Upon waking up, the Khans searched and found that several valuables, including jewellery, cash, a cell phone, and the aforementioned Toyota RunX, were missing.

Among the stolen items were $100,000 cash, 2 gold

“We’re not rushing anything because there is no desperation for money from this deal.

The asset remains 100 per cent Government. We went out to tender; we want the agreement concluded but it must be concluded in a manner that would reflect public scrutiny and scrutiny by the Audit Office.”

“Let me make it clear that this company put in a bid.

They have to remain faithful to the bid. Our negotiators have to ensure that this country’s interests are protected in those negotiations, that the original concept of the bid is reflective in the signed agreements to conclude the sale.”

The Vice President also indicated that his Administration wants the matter concluded but the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) is involved at the technical level to ensure its finality.

“Once the bid was out, we left it to NICIL and their lawyers to deal with the negotiations at the technical level.

We want the matter concluded but the executive will not intervene unduly into a tech-

nical process unless we believe that something is not being addressed to the satisfaction of the original bid.”

In a notice back in December 2022, NICIL had announced its intention to sell the State’s shares in Atlantic Hotels Incorporated (AHI), the State-owned holding company for the Marriott Hotel.

AHI is the NICIL special purpose company that fully owns the 197-room hotel, whose financing structure had depended on a casino and entertainment centre to make enough money to repay up to US$30 million in debts to the banks and other creditors.

During the initial bidding round, X, LLC had submitted the highest bid of US$65 million. Among the other bidders were Pegasus Hotel Guyana, which bid at US$55.5 million; Georgetown Investments and Management Services Inc, which bid at US$50M; Muneshwers Ltd, which bid at US$25 million; Integrated Group Guyana Inc, which bid at US$55 million; and NCB Capital Markets Limited, which bid at US$33 million.

In April, the Guyana

Government said the bids received were “too low”, and decided not to pursue any of them. NICIL then wrote the six companies, informing them that a base price of US$85 million was set, and as such, recommended that they resubmit bids reflecting this new figure.

However, only two of the six companies responded by the May 16, 2023 deadline.

New offers were received from X, LLC at US$90 million and Integrated Group Guyana Inc at US$86.1 million.

VP Jagdeo argued at the time that if the Government had gone ahead with any of the first set of offers submitted for the Marriott Hotel, then it would have lost out on as much as US$35 million in revenues from the sale of the property.

The Guyana Marriott Hotel, which opened in 2015, was constructed to the tune of US$58 million. A feasibility study conducted by a Miamibased firm, HVS Consulting, back in 2010 had outlined that the Marriott Hotel is likely to be sold ten years after its operationalisation at some US$76.1 million. (G12)

Teen feared dead after allegedly falling out of boat T

The car that went missing during the robbery

chains, two wedding rings, 1 gold band, and 1 silver and gold band, collectively valued at $800,000. Additionally, an iPhone worth $105,000 was taken from Pretima's brother-in-law, and $190,000 cash along with 3 pairs of gold earrings were stolen from Nafiza Khan.

The matter was subsequently reported to the La Grange Police Station, and a search for the vehicle was launched until the discovery on Friday afternoon. Investigations continue as Police are now on the hunt to apprehend the perpetrators involved in this unfortunate incident.

he Guyana Police Force (GPF) is currently investigating the death of a 13-year-old girl who allegedly drowned at Port Kaituma Riverfront, North West District (NWD), on Thursday.

The teen has been identified as Dellyssa Ramitt, a student at North West Secondary School.

According to reports, at about 13:00h on Thursday, Ramitt along with her sister and brother-in-law left home for their farm in a wooden boat powered by a 75 Yamaha

outboard engine with Jairam Samsundar as the captain.

Sources reveal that on their way to the farm, waves generated by a passing speed boat caused Samsundar's vessel to tilt. Unfortunately, this sudden movement resulted in Ramitt, positioned towards the bow of the boat, falling into the river and subsequently going under the water.

Despite efforts to locate her, these attempts proved futile.

A search continued on Friday but there were no signs of the teen’s body.

Feared dead: Dellyssa Ramitt

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Comparing… …US’ vs China’s financing

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ome folks – esp the Yanks - had implied Guyana was getting too chummy with China – especially after signing on to that country’s Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI). It’s no secret America sees China as its major threat to its numero uno position in the world. And that’s not just economically – in which China has practically already pipped them – but militarily, where China still has quite a way to go!! So, with its 200-year-old Monroe Doctrine, it isn’t surprising the Yanks look askance at countries tightening ties with China – especially in this hemisphere.

“Monroe Declaration”??

So, here we are with that loan that built the new CJIA; several highways; the Demerara Bridge, and so on – all with Chinese financing. They insist their B&RI lending has “Chinese Characteristics”. And what are these characteristics? Well, they say that having been at the receiving end of Western “loans and aid” - from institutions like the IMF and World Bank - like the rest of the developing world, they know where the shoe pinches. And they strive to remove those pinches. The first thing they do is to declare right up front that all of their loans would be on concessional terms!!

Now that’s quite a commitment – since, with the Western institutions, to get concessions on interests or default penalties etc, you have gotta stand on your head and wring your ears while accepting “conditionalities” that pretty much is tantamount to sacrificing your firstborn!!

The second difference is they’re committed to helping developing countries improve their infrastructure, and, as such, don’t ask too many questions on feasibility etc. Now, the West didn’t take all of this sitting down – especially since the Chinese were doling out the funds they owed China for becoming their workshop!! China was outcompeting them for influence with their own money!! So, they pushed the line that Chinese loans were too much of a good thing!!

The catch was that the projects weren’t viable, and on defaulting, the Chinese would walk in and take over the infrastructure!! Sounded reasonable – save that there weren’t that many projects that the Chinese actually took over!!

Well, after being pulled up by the Yanks, last year, our Government signed a US EXIM MOU for US$2B to finance infrastructure etc – obviously with US companies. This July, they applied for a US$660M loan to help finance the Wales Gas-to-Shore power generation plant – for which they had already signed a contract with an American firm. But no approval yet!! What gives? US EXIMBANK consultants gotta complete their “assessments” and “analyses” - with on-site inspections. THEN US Congressional approval AND final approval by US EXIMBANK’s board have to be granted.

Meanwhile, our Govt has already sunk US$100M in the project!!

By now the Chinese would’ve financed three generating plants!! America’s gotta do better!! …politics in plural societies The judicial reaffirmation of Bouterse’s conviction for murder of fifteen of his opponents back in 1982 reminds us that their more open acceptance of ethnic politics hasn’t done that much for them, has it?! Unlike us, from the beginning they embraced ethnicity - and their political parties were all openly ethnically-based. Even to the point where Maroons had their own party – different from the Mixed and Creoles!! Then, of course, they have their “Hindustani” party for Indians – including Indian Muslims!

And their Javanese party.

One positive outcome of this open acceptance of diversity – their motto is “Unity in Diversity” – was that coalitions became an acceptable option for forming government.

Unless, of course, one party could get a majority on its own. But one weakness of coalition governments was also exposed – and which has brought Suriname to its knees – featherbedding!!

This is where all party’s supporters have to be given some sorta reward – invariably from the Government treasury - which ain’t infinite!! …Mad Maduro and Stalin Stalin killed about 6 million of his people - rising to 9 million if foreseeable deaths arising from policies are taken into account. By this December, Mad Maduro’s policies have forced 8 million Venezuelans to flee.

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

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

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CoI completes final report into Mahdia deadly fire

– to hand same over to Pres. Ali shortly

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali (second from left) with members of the Commission of Inquiry into the Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory fire: Retired Major General Joe Singh (extreme left), Attorney-at-Law Kim Kyte-Thomas (second from right) and NTC Chairman Derrick John

T

he final report into the Mahdia Dormitory Fire, which took place in May and claimed the lives of 20 children, has been completed by the Commission of Inquiry (CoI).

This was confirmed by Secretary to the

Commission, Javed Shadick on Friday. When contacted, he told Guyana Times that the report would be handed over to President Irfaan Ali. President Irfaan Ali had ordered a CoI into the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident. The ToR detailed that the com-

mission would inquire into and report on everything leading up to the dormitory fire that claimed the lives of the 19 girls and the 5-yearold son of the dorm parents.

The May 21, inferno, which caught the attention of international media, resulted in the deaths of 19 fe-

male students between the ages of 12 and 17 and a fiveyear-old boy, who was the son of the dorm parents.

The dormitory housed students from the communities of Karisparu, El Paso, Micobie, and Chenapao, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

At the time of the fire, there were 56 females and a five-year-old boy inside. The remaining students had gone home for the weekend.

The dormitory’s 26 windows were heavily grilled and the five doors were locked when the fire broke out.

According to the surviving female students, they were awakened from sleep by screams, and upon checking, they saw fire and smoke in the bathroom area. This quickly spread in the building, causing several students to receive burns to their bodies and to suffer from smoke inhalation, while several managed to escape. Several girls were air-dashed to Georgetown hours after for emergency

treatment. One of them was later sent to New York at a specialised burn care facility for treatment owing to the severity of her condition.

A 15-year-old girl was charged in June with 20 counts of murder for the arson. She has since been detained at a juvenile holding facility. She was charged with the murders of Tracil Thomas; Lisa Roberts; Delicia Edwards; Lorita Williams; Natalie Bellarmine; Arriana Edwards; Cleoma Simon; Subrina John; Martha Dandrade; Loreen Evans; Belnisa Evans; Mary Dandrade; Omerfia Edwin; Nickleen Robinson; Sherina Daniels; Eulander Carter; Andrea Roberts; Bibi Rita Jeffrey, and five-year-old Adanye Jerome.

During his closing submission last month, Counsel to the CoI, Keoma Griffith had concluded that the Mahdia tragedy was a disaster waiting to happen – a deduction drawn after

it was found that reports of the dormitory’s condition and need for intervention were overlooked by authorities, primarily the Guyana Fire Service and the regional administration.

As it relates to emergency response and intervention, the Commission’s Counsel also highlighted that the Government displayed concerted efforts to provide key assistance and support to grieving families, the injured, survivors, responders, and members of the community among other categories.

With the evidence collected, the cause of the fire at the dormitory is consistent with the reports of professionals who investigated the cause.

The panel heard that the fire was not caused by electrical malfunctions associated with the building and secondly, the cause of the fire was malicious and caused by a teenager who was already slapped with 20 murder charges.

3rd suspect arrested as Duo on trial for murder of probe intensifies into Corentyne businessman murder of CWC fisherman A s Police intensify investigations into the murder of 37-yearold Ghowcharran Persaud, whose body was found in a shallow grave aback Crabwood Creek (CWC), a third person was arrested. This was confirmed by a senior Police officer of Regional Division 6 during a telephone interview on Friday.

Initially, it was reported that the father of two of Grant 1805 CWC had gone on a fishing expedition with two others on December 16, and never returned. But on December 19, the body was discovered in the shallow grave in the backdam.

Police have since arrested the two men – “Ameer” and “Bharrat” – but on Friday, a relative of one of the men was arrested. Members of the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) stated that the third person reportedly removed a motorcycle that his relative allegedly rode of out the backdam.

He was reportedly taken to CID Headquarters in

Dead: Ghowcharran Persaud

Georgetown, where the other two are being interrogated. When contacted, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told Guyana Times that the file was sent for legal advice at the Director of Prosecutions (DPP) and once recommendations are made, the investigators will act.

It was reported that Persaud and his two fishing buddies were supposed to return in three days but on Saturday morning only “Ameer” turned up and claimed that “Bharrat” fired

five shots at himself and Persaud but two of them struck Persaud.

The fisherman told family members that he was able to get to his motorbike and escape even though he had a flat tire.

The dead man’s brother, Pravesh Persaud, told this publication that “Ameer” even showed him the bike which was parked in his yard with a flat tire.

When Police subsequently went to get the bike, it was not there. When questioned by investigators, “Ameer” reportedly said that he did not ride the bike home but rather left it on the dam after coming out of the backlands.

Meanwhile, hours after “Ameer” had reported that Persaud might have been shot, a search party which included Police officers, went to the location in search of the missing man during which they stumbled upon a bloodstained spot, thus raising some suspicions. An autopsy was conducted on the body of Persaud on Friday.

Murder accused Satram Kushlay

Dead Lomenzo Johnny

Murder accused Bilall McLennon

wo men who are jointly charged with the murder of Rose Hall Town, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) grocer, Lomenzo Johnny are currently on trial at the High Court in Berbice.

Thirty-year-old Satram Kushlay and Bilall McLennon, 33, are accused of murdering 49-year-old Lomenzo Johnny called “Sham”, of Lot 11 Portuguese Quarters, Corentyne, during the course or furtherance of a robbery.

They are on trial before Justice Sandil Kissoon and a mixed 12-member jury.

State Counsel Muntaz Ali is presenting the prosecution’s case.

Johnny, called “Sham”, of Lot 11 Portuguese Quarters, Corentyne, operated a grocery store located in the same yard as his home.

On February 27, 2020, his body was discovered in a yard where a building was under construction; it was located some 400 metres from his home.

His feet were bound together with a shoelace. The sweater he was seen wearing the evening before was found a few feet away from

the body.

A pair of scissors and a piece of wood were also found near the body. There was a wound to the back, and bruises to his hand, while his head and face appeared to be swollen. When Police went to his home, they found that the front door was not locked.

The inside of the house was ransacked. A safe along with other items were reportedly removed from the building. Investigators subsequently received information about the whereabouts of the safe, which contained an undisclosed amount of cash.

T

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“No formal decision” taken to hire retired US four-star General – VP Jagdeo T

he Government has not taken any formal decision on whether it will hire retired United States Four-Star General Wesley Clark, who met with President Irfaan Ali this week.

This is according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday, adding that the meeting between Guyanese officials and Clark at State House was a fruitful one.

“We had a good meeting with General Clark. There has been no formal decision taken as to whether he’d be hired or not. But he is a solid person. He was Head of SouthCom, NATO, and a former US presidential candidate; a very knowledgeable person,” he outlined.

President Ali met with the retired Four-Star General in the company of Vice President Bharrat

Retired General Wesley Clark meeting Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo this week

Jagdeo and Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Omar Khan.

According to the Office

of the President, discussions focused on hemispheric security and geopolitical relations within the Western Hemisphere.

Meanwhile, the Vice President has indicated that the Government is continuing to pursue investments on the military

front to bolster its defence capabilities. Some of the radar and interceptor devices, for example, would assist with monitoring and exercising sovereignty over the Exclusive Economic Zone and Guyana’s landmass.

“We would have to increase our investments in the military but our investments are purely defensive.

We have planned this and we have already started implementing this…That process will continue.”

This week, supplementary funding was approved in the National Assembly towards expanding the work programmes in various Ministries, agencies and regions. Specifically, money was sought for $1.2 billion for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), which is presently on high alert amid threats to Guyana’s territory of Essequibo from

neighbouring, Venezuela.

Since the uprise in Venezuela’s aggression to annex the Essequibo region, Presidents Ali and Nicolas Maduro have agreed that both countries, directly or indirectly, will not threaten or use force against one another in any circumstances, including those consequential to any existing controversies between the two States.

In a Joint Declaration following a meeting this month, the two Heads of State also agreed that any controversies between them would be resolved in accordance with international law, including the Geneva Agreement dated February 17, 1966.

The two countries have also committed to the pursuance of good neighbourliness, peaceful coexistence, and the unity of Latin America and the Caribbean.

242 prisoners from 3 countries released under FFTP’s Prison Ministry Programme

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total of 242 non-violent prisoners will this Christmas experience the joy of freedom, all thanks to Food For The Poor (FFTP) and the compassionate donors who have steadfastly supported the charity’s Prison Ministry Programme.

FFTP has, for over two decades, been committed to transforming lives and fostering hope by facilitating the release of non-violent offenders; providing them with a second chance to rebuild their lives.

For all that time, FFTP has been honouring the tradition of securing the release of non-violent offenders twice a year by paying their accumulated fines, at Christmas and at Easter.

Many who were arrested for stealing to feed their families, or for something that would be considered a minor offence, were later held in some of the most notorious prisons in Latin America and the Caribbean, being unable to pay the fines for their release.

“At Food For The Poor, we believe in the power of redemption and the inherent dignity of every human being,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine has said. “Our Prison Ministry Programme is not just about paying fines; it’s about restoring hope and offering a path to redemption for those who have made mistakes,” Raine explained.

“By reuniting these individuals with their families during the holiday season, we aim to inspire positive change and break the cycle of poverty and despair,” he declared.

Between November, 9 and November 15, a total of 237 prisoners were released from six different prisons located in the northern and central parts of Haiti. In Jamaica, four prisoners were released on Dec. 13, and one was released in Guyana on

“We believe that when individuals are incarcerated, especially for minor offences, they deserve a second chance,” Vincent said. “This is an opportunity for you to do good for others, and I hope you make the right decisions going forward.”

Augustine, who was imprisoned for a minor offense of larceny and his inability to pay the required fines, expressed gratitude to FFTP for the chance to celebrate Christmas with his family, particularly with his son.

After the ceremony, he received a hamper containing personal care items, a Bible, Chief Executive Officer of Food for the Poor Guyana, Kent Vincent, and the prisoner who was released

December, 18.

Herline, a native of Terrier-Rouge, Haiti, who has three children, was admitted to Cap-Haitien civil prison in November 2021, accused of stealing four basins. Initially, she was expected to be imprisoned briefly, but her stay was extended to two years, and she lacked legal representation.

Poverty, civil unrest, and gang violence in Haiti have taken a toll, making day-today living nearly impossible for destitute families in that Caribbean country.

The released inmates have each received a hot meal and drink, rice, beans, and canned fish to take home; and money to cover travel expenses to get home.

When, on November 10, Herline was released because of the intervention of the Prison Release Ministry, she expressed her gratitude to FFTP. She hopes the charity will continue to assist other prisoners in similar situations.

In Jamaica, each newly freed person received a food

package and travel money to return home. One of the inmates released was a 47-yearold operator of an aluminium fabrication business. Charged with fraudulent conversion, he began serving a ninemonth sentence on October 4 because he could not afford to pay a $200,000 fine.

“I prayed about this moment from the first night I spent here,” he said. “It was on the concrete. I woke up like every 20 minutes. Your hand is your pillow, the floor is cold, and you are wondering about your safety. That sleepless night brings you to a point where you must pray.

Prayer works.”

This former inmate has said he is happy to be reunited with his family, and to get back to earning an honest living.

“I am going back to complete the unfinished jobs I had out there,” he said. “My children are my motivation.”

In a ceremony at the Prison Service Headquarters in Guyana, FFTP-Guyana CEO, Kent Vincent, said the charity has a heart for people.

and a loaf of bread.

Prison Welfare Officer Dawn Summers has said she is optimistic that the Guyana Prison Service’s training programmes would help with Augustine’s rehabilitation and lead to his making better decisions in the future.

To support FFTP’s Prison Ministry Programme, checks payable to Food For The Poor can be mailed to 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. Please include reference number “SC# 074122” to ensure your donation is correctly routed, or make an online donation here.

Food For The Poor, one

of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty, primarily in 17 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.

This inter-denominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training and micro-enterprise development assistance.

For more information, please visit FoodForThePoor. org.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GNBS certifies 30 new companies in 2023 – Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments & Fresh Packagers now certified

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he Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) closed off 2023 with 30 new certifications under its Bed and Breakfast, Made in Guyana, Laboratory and Product Certification programmes which aim at promoting quality in the local manufacturing and services sectors.

Recently, the final two certifications were awarded to Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments under the Bed and Breakfast Certification programme and Fresh Packagers under the Permit to use the Made in Guyana Certification Mark programme.

Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments, located at Lot 30 Henrietta Public Road, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam) was certified on Thursday last under the Bed and Breakfast

(L-R) Owners of Fresh Packagers, Radesh Paul and his mother Sursattie Paul, receiving the certificate from GNBS Technical Officer Yan Yi Zhu and Head of Certification Keon Rankin Manager of Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments, Sharay McKenzie, receiving her certificate from GNBS Technical Officer Latchman Mootoosammi

Fresh Packagers' products that are certified

(B&B) category after fulfilling the requirements of the Guyana Standard.

The certificate was handed over to Manager of the

facility, Sharay McKenzie

by GNBS Technical Officer, Latchman Mootoosammi.

During a simple ceremony at the facility, McKenzie expressed gratitude to the

GNBS team for working with the management of the business to meet the requirements of the standard.

She explained that the facility has two fully furnished two-bedroom apartments for short-term and long-term rental, and work is currently being done on three others.

In accordance with the standard, the apartments are equipped with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, blackout curtains, distilled water and other necessities. There is also convenient parking, security, a caretaker and provisions for pest control.

Meanwhile, the GNBS certified Fresh Packagers of Lot 6 First Street, Kaneville

Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, to use the Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their locally manufactured packaged products.

These products include Fresh Packagers’ Geerah, Ground Mix Massala, Achar Massala and Black Pepper, Chinese Spice, Ginger Powder, Cinnamon (Ground and Stick), Clove (Ground and Stick), Nutmeg (Ground and Stick), Ground Turmeric, Barley (Ground and Whole), Plantain Flour, Split Peas Flour, Sago (Whole), Hot Sauce, Chinese Sauces and Mango Achar.

is long overdue, I cannot describe how happy I am.”

The certificate was handed over in the board-

One of the apartments at Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments

One of the bedrooms at Atlantic Suites Luxury Apartments

Proprietress of the company, Sursattie Paul was elated to achieve this milestone. She said: “I am honoured and overwhelmed by this presentation. I have waited very long, and this

Rankin, who extended congratulations to the recipients and urged them to work towards maintaining the re-

room of the GNBS Head Office, National Exhibition Complex, Sophia, Georgetown, by GNBS Technical Officer, Yan Yi Zhu and GNBS Head of Certification Services, Keon

quirements of the certification programme and pursuing continuous improvement.

The certifications are valid for one year pending renewal. Several companies were recertified in 2023, with companies such as Sterling Products Limited and Roopan Ramotar Investment receiving their certificates this week under the Made in Guyana Programme.

Through its Laboratory Certification Programme, the GNBS certified nine new laboratories to the National Standard GYS 170 “General requirements for the operation of a laboratory,” while two hollow blocks manufacturers and one new gold jeweller were certified under the Product Certification Scheme.

Pres Ali calls on financial institutions...

In recent years, Demerara Bank has been working closely with the Guyana Government to provide low-interest loans to stakeholders in several sectors across Guyana – something which President Ali recognised during Friday’s commissioning ceremony.

As of November 2023, private sector credit grew by 13.7 per cent when compared to the previous year. Similarly, deposits were 15.1 per cent higher at the end of November 2023, standing now at almost $769 billion. Of this amount, 77.9 per cent were deposited by the private sector while de-

posits from residents grew by 22 per cent.

In the last 3 years, profits in the banking sector increased from $9.9 billion to $19.8 billion, reflecting a more than a hundred per cent growth.

“What we need to do now is to have a conversation with the banks because this growth is going to continue to expand as to how we plough back and reinvest these profits into the system to continue the expansion and diversification of the economy,” the Head of State noted.

According to President Ali,

FROM PAGE 3

there are a lot of idle finances out there such as in co-op societies and pension funds.

This, he noted, is where the ‘back-offices’ will have to focus on utilising the monies.

“We have to take an approach as to how we will continue to increase personal income and disposal wealth…

We gotta move this concept to investment bankers… We can capitalise that money in public financing too… [But] we have to get innovative on the financing and that is what these back-offices will have to start doing,” the Guyanese leader posited. (G-8)

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West Berbice man remanded for murder of villager

Murder accused Nascio Allen

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he man who is accused of stabbing his friend at a West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) bar was remanded when he appeared at the Weldaad Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

Twenty-six-year-old Nascio Allen, a labourer of Lot 14 Golden Fleece Village, WCB, was not required to plea to the indictable charge which states that on December 19, at Paradise Village, he murdered Dwayne Byass.

Both the accused and victim resided in the same village. Allen was unrepresented when he appeared in

court. Presiding Magistrate Peter Hugh remanded the accused until January 5, 2024.

It had been reported that Byass, who attended school with Allen, had an altercation with him during which he was stabbed.

Police had reported that the two men were at a shop playing dominoes when an argument erupted between them and quickly escalated into a fight during which Allen pulled out a knife and stabbed Byass in his abdomen. After committing the act, he escaped from the scene.

Byass reportedly collapsed in the shop and was picked up by his cousin, who rushed him to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

According to the Police, Allen, called “Buck Boy” subsequently turned up at the Weldaad Police Station where he reported that it was the now dead man who attacked him first with a piece of wood.

The Police at the time said Allen told them that it was Byass who ran into the knife he was holding in his

Murdered: Dwayne Byass

hand at the time.

It had also been reported that persons who were at the scene claimed that no game of domino was being played at the time of the incident.

Before Allen was placed before the court, this publication had reported that he arrived at the shop with a box of food which he was trying to share with those who were present. Further, as Allen approached Byass with the food, he collected it and threw it onto the ground, claiming that it was sour.

As a result, an argument broke out between the two men after Allen hurled de-

Alleged phone thief granted $50,000 bail

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harged with stealing a woman's cellphone on Regent Street, Georgetown, Chad Shivrattan of Diamond, East Bank Demerara has been hauled before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in that Georgetown Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

The 21-year-old market vendor is alleged to have stolen a Samsung smartphone worth $89,000 from Elaine Norton on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at

Regent Street, Lacytown, Georgetown.

Friday’s court session was not attended by the virtual complainant, and Shivrattan, without legal representation, refuted the accusation and told the magistrate he is being falsely accused.

The prosecution did not object to this defendant being placed on bail, and has been placed on $50,000 bail.

Shivrattan’s next court appearance has been fixed for February 2, 2024. (G1)

Charged: Chad Shivrattan

Duo charged for stealing household items from Providence store

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ast Ruimveldt Squatting Area residents Kevin Pitt and Kevin Thompson were on Wednesday arraigned before acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus in that Georgetown Magistrate’s Court on a charge alleging that they stole a quantity of household items from The Home Store at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The Police have said that between November 1, and December 16, 2023, at Block M Providence, EBD, they stole $1,890,037 in household items from the store.

The 29-year-old Pitt, a father of three; and the

Kevin Thompson

32-year-old Thompson, a security guard and father of five, have both denied the charge.

The Police prosecutor

opposed bail being granted these defendants on the ground that they had led investigators to a house where the stolen goods were found.

Notwithstanding the prosecution’s argument, Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus ordered each accused to post $100,000 bail. While on bail, they must report to the Ruimveldt Police Station on the fourth Friday of every month pending the hearing and determination of their trial.

Failure to abide by the court’s orders would result in the revocation of their bail.

The case will be called again on February 7, 2024.

The area where the fatal stabbing occurred

rogatory words against the victim’s mother. An eyewitness also claimed that prior to Allen arriving at the

shop, he was imbibing at a wedding house.

An autopsy conducted on the body of the victim gave

the cause of death as shock and haemorrhaging due to a stab wound as well as a cut to the abdomen.

Man charged for threatening woman

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wayne Chance appeared on Friday before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in that Georgetown Magistrate’s Court to answer two charges in relation to threatening a woman.

It is alleged that on December 20, 2023, at Middle Road, La Penitence Georgetown, he used abusive and threatening language towards the woman, thereby causing a breach of

the peace. Chance and the woman are acquainted with each other.

Chance pleaded not guilty to both allegations; and because the prosecution raised no objection to him being granted his pre-trial liberty, Chance has been placed on $20,000 bail on each of the two charges; and has moreover been placed on a bond to keep the peace.

He will make his next court appearance on February 1, 2024.

Dwayne Chance

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Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS UN pushes for more aid into Gaza, Israel widens offensive Oil eases ahead T

of Christmas break on possible future Angola output increase

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il prices eased on Friday ahead of the long Christmas holiday weekend on expectations Angola could increase output after leaving OPEC, but rose for the week on positive US economic news and worries Houthi ship attacks would boost supply costs.

Brent futures fell 32 cents, or 0.4%, to settle at US$79.07 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 33 cents, or 0.5%, to settle at US$73.56.

That left both benchmarks up about 3% for the week after gaining less than 1% last week.

In the Middle East, more maritime carriers said they were avoiding the Red Sea due to attacks on vessels carried out by the Iranian-backed Houthi militant group, which says it is responding to Israel's war in Gaza.

Major shippers Maersk and CMA CGM said they would impose extra charges linked to re-routing ships.

The attacks have caused disruptions through the Suez Canal, which handles about 12% of world trade.

"Direct pauses to supply are not the only reason oil prices will be moved by the Red Sea situation; freight rates and insurance costs are increasing," said PVM analyst John Evans about the impact of the disruption.

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

"It will take time for Angola oil production to rise even if China moves in there in a big way," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group, noting that the US inflation data and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea should be more supportive of oil prices than any future increase in output from Angola.

In Iraq, meanwhile, Oil Ministry spokesman Asim Jihad affirmed Iraq's support for the OPEC+ agreement and its commitment to voluntary oil cuts.

OPEC+ includes OPEC and allies like Russia.

In the US, a key inflation reading came in softer than expected, boosting investor optimism that the US Federal Reserve (Fed) would lower borrowing costs next year.

Lower interest rates cut consumer borrowing costs, which can boost economic growth and demand for oil.

Expectations that the Fed is more likely to cut interest rates next year also helped reduce the US dollar to its lowest since July against a basket of other currencies for a second day in a row.

A weaker dollar can boost oil demand by making the fuel more expensive for buyers using other currencies. (Reuters)

At least 7 Peru gold mine workers die in believed accident

A

t least seven workers at a small gold mine in southern Peru have died in what is believed to be an accident, local Police reported on Thursday.

The victims' bodies were discovered 1.5 km (0.93 mile) deep in the mine with injuries to their extremities, local Police Chief Enrique Felipe Monroy told radio station RPP. Monroy said that initial evidence pointed to a collapse in the mine, in the town of La Rinconada.

In the region, hundreds of small mines operate, many of them without proper legal

permissions.

In Peru, the world's second-largest copper producer and seventh-largest gold producer, collapses or accidents are frequent at informal or illegal mines, where workers dig out ore without following safety or environmental regulations.

Earlier this month, nine security employees of a major gold producer in northern Peru were killed in an armed attack on the mine, which the Government and the miner blamed on "criminal gangs" acting on the behalf of illegal miners.

(Reuters)

he UN Security Council approved a toned-down bid to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza on Friday that stopped short of a call for a ceasefire, hours after Israel signalled it was widening its ground offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The US, which is Israel's main ally and had threatened to veto the Security Council motion during days of wrangling, chose instead to abstain after language was changed on hostilities and monitoring aid, a move that let the vote go through.

Washington has regularly backed Israel's right to defend itself, but has grown increasingly critical over the suffering of Gaza's 2.3 million people amid a soaring death toll and a humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

In its latest update on casualties, Gaza's Health Ministry said 20,057 Palestinians had been killed and 53,320 wounded in Israeli strikes since the conflict started.

The adopted Security Council resolution "calls for urgent steps to immediately allow safe, unhindered, and expanded humanitarian access and to create the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities". The initial draft had called for "an urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities" to allow aid access.

The US and Israel oppose a ceasefire, believing it would only benefit Hamas.

Washington instead supports pauses in fighting to protect civilians and free hostages taken by Hamas.

The resolution also no

Israeli army operating in a location given as Beit Hanoun, Northern Gaza Strip, in this screen grab taken from a handout video obtained on December 22, 2023

longer diluted Israel's control over all aid deliveries to Gaza. Israel monitors the limited aid deliveries via the Rafah crossing from Egypt and the Israelicontrolled Kerem Shalom crossing.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's

Government has vowed to eradicate Hamas, the Islamist group that runs Gaza, after the group's fighters launched a cross-border raid into southern Israel on Oct 7, killing 1200 people and taking 240 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Netherlands to deliver 18 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine

T

he Netherlands will deliver 18 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine to help its battle against Russia's invasion, the Dutch Government said on Friday.

"Today I informed President Zelenskiy of our Government's decision to prepare an initial 18 F-16 fighter aircraft for delivery to Ukraine," caretaker Prime Minister Mark Rutte said in a post on social me-

dia platform X. "The delivery of F-16s is one of the most important elements of the agreements made on military support for Ukraine."

The delivery of the fighter jets is still pending on an export permit by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the fulfilment of criteria for staff and infrastructure in Ukraine, Rutte added without giving a timeline

for these decisions.

But the announcement made it possible to reserve funds and people to prepare the planes for delivery, the Government said.

"I spoke with Mark Rutte to thank the Dutch Government for its decision to start preparing the initial 18 F-16 jets for their delivery to Ukraine," Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskiy said on X.

The Netherlands sent its first US made F-16s to a new training facility for Ukrainian pilots and staff in Romania last month.

Denmark, Norway and Belgium have also announced they will give F-16 jets to Ukraine, after the US Government approved sending them to defend against Russia as soon as pilot training is completed. (Reuters)

Under US pressure Cuba quietly authorises euthanasia over fentanyl, Mexico wages “imaginary C war on drugs”

uba on Friday became the second country in Latin America and the Caribbean to authorise euthanasia, following Colombia.

The Communistrun country’s National Assembly passed the measure as part of legislation updating the nation’s legal framework for its universal and free healthcare system.

“The right of people to a dignified death is recognised in end-of-life decisions, which may include the limitation of therapeutic effort, continuous or palliative care, and valid procedures that end life,” the final draft of the legislation stated.

Euthanasia and medically assisted suicide, opposed by most religions, sparks huge controversy around the world where just a handful of countries allow the practice and some equate it with murder.

The Cuban Roman Catholic Church was not immediately available for comment.

At Havana's Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology, the country's leading cancer centre, Dr Alberto

Roque, who has a Master’s in bioethics, welcomed the measure and said it established the "legal framework for future euthanasia in any of its forms, that is, active euthanasia or assisted suicide."

There was barely a mention in Cuba’s state-run media that the Government would approve the practice, and no public debate, though Dr Roque said that would change as regulations were drawn up.

Outside the cancer institute, 47-year-old nurse Suaima Lopez, suffering from rectal cancer, said she favoured euthanasia in case she or other patients did not recover.

“Families want to keep loved ones alive until the very, very last moment but one has to think of those suffering,” Lopez said.

Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Canada, Australia, Spain, Germany, New Zealand and some states in the United States also allow euthanasia and, in some of these countries, medically assisted suicide where there is great suffering but no terminal illness.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

M

exico's army appears to be raiding only a handful of active drug labs every month, despite US pressure to crack down on fentanyl trafficking, with facilities that were already out of use accounting for 95% of seizures this year, according to Defence Ministry figures obtained

by Reuters.

Reuters revealed in March that Mexico had dramatically revised upward the number of lab raids by including hundreds of inactive labs on its seizures list since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office in 2018. At the time, the news agency was unable to establish what percentage of the raided labs were operational when they were captured.

New data obtained by Reuters in August from the Mexican Defence Ministry (SEDENA) after a freedom of information request shows that out of the 527 labs raided by Mexico's army in the first seven months of this year, only 24

laboratories, or less than 5%, were "active" labs.

That dataset also revealed a similar pattern in the first four and a half years of Lopez Obrador’s Administration, with inactive labs accounting for 89% of 1658 raids carried out by the army from December 2018 to August this year. The data did not specify how long those labs had been out of use.

Smothering the flow of illicit fentanyl from Mexico has become a top priority for the Biden Administration, which has ratcheted up pressure on Lopez Obrador's Government to intensify the hunt for clandestine labs on Mexican soil.

Adding discoveries of inactive labs - which may have been abandoned for years - to Mexico's tally of seizures had the effect of inflating Lopez Obrador's record amid pressure from Washington, says Guillermo Valdes, Mexico's civilian spy chief from 2007 to 2011. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

DAILY HOROSCOPES Travel, communication and reunions will get you thinking about your future and what you want to pursue. Share your thoughts with someone you love and respect. Trust your instincts.

(March 21-April 19) Take a step forward, make the first move and share your intentions with a loved one. Be sure to stick to a budget and stay on top of paperwork. Positive action will get the results you want.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Don't let anyone limit what you can do or say. Keep your finger on the pulse when dealing with investments or joint ventures. Don't respond to outside pressure. Work at your own speed.

(May 21-June 20) Join the festivities and have fun.

Your conversations will be interesting, but verify information before passing it along or getting involved in something that may not be right for you.

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22) Keep life simple, practical and within your means. You can have fun and enjoy work-related festivities without overspending. Wise decisions will build strong relationships.

(July 23-Aug. 22) Refuse to let someone upset you.

Anger won't solve problems. Ask yourself what's important to you. A change of scenery will offer the clarity you need to get back on track.

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

Stop worrying and start doing what makes you happy. You can't change the past, but you can live life with a positive attitude. It's time to take control and pursue your dreams, hopes and wishes.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Pay homage to the people you love.

A kind word or gesture will make someone's day and boost your reputation.

Work with what you have, and you'll save money. Make a money-saving home improvement.

Don't deviate from the truth, and question what you hear. Pay attention to what's happening around you and prepare to act quickly. A stern attitude will help you navigate the festive season.

Preparation will pay off. Open your doors to friends and family, and use your imagination when offering kind gestures of gratitude. Balance and integrity are essential. Romance is favored.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Listen, and you'll gain insight into what others want and what they are worth. Your time and energy are precious, so follow the path that brings you joy. Be yourself.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Be honest with yourself and you'll feel good about your accomplishments.

Showing affection and kindness will bring you closer to the people who matter to you. Lend a hand and you'll reap the rewards.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

21

Pakistan vs Australia 2023 Test Series…

KHAWAJA SAYS ARMBAND WAS FOR “PERSONAL BEREAVEMENT”

– not in support of Gaza civilians

A

ustralia opener Usman Khawaja has said the black armband he wore during the first Test against Pakistan was for a "personal bereavement", and not in support of civilians in Gaza.

The 37-year-old Khawaja has been charged by the International Cricket Council on Thursday for wearing the armband. He says he will contest the charge, but will not wear the armband during the second Test, starting on 26 December.

"I followed all the regulations and past precedents," Khawaja said.

"The ICC asked me what it was for, I told them it was for a personal bereavement; I never ever stated it was for anything else," he added.

"Guys have put stickers on their bats, names on their shoes; done all sorts of things in the past without ICC approval, and never been reprimanded. I will be asking them, and contesting they make it fair and equitable for everyone, and they have consistency in how they officiate. That consistency hasn't been done yet," he said.

In the days leading up to the first Test, Khawaja - who has posted on social media about the conflict in Gaza - was

in response to a cross-border attack by hundreds of Hamas gunmen on October 7. In that attack, at least 1,400 people were killed and about 240 others taken hostage. Gaza's Hamas-run Health Ministry has said that more than 20,000 people have been killed in the

with Khawaja to find an alternative way to express his support for humanitarian issues.

Australia lead the threematch Test series 1-0, with the second Test set to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on 26 December. (BBC Sport)

Man City make history with FIFA Club World Cup win Khawaja spoke to the media in a news conference on Friday before the second Test against Pakistan, which begins on 26 December

pictured in training wearing shoes with the words "all lives are equal" and "freedom is a human right". He had intended to wear the shoes on the field, but opted not to after the ICC told him the shoes were against ICC regulations.

The ICC deemed him in breach of its clothing and equipment regulations for wearing the armband. The ICC said: "Usman displayed a personal message (armband) during the first Test match against Pakistan without seeking

the prior approval of Cricket Australia and the ICC to display it, as required in the regulations for personal messages."

Under ICC regulations, players cannot display messages of political, religious, or racial causes during international matches.

"The shoes were for a different matter, I'm happy to say that," Khawaja has said.

"But the armband [reprimand] made no sense to me."

Israel has launched a major military campaign in Gaza

Manchester City have won five trophies in 2023

Suarez reunites with Messi J at Inter Miami U ruguay striker Luiz Suarez has joined MLS side Inter Miami for the 2024 season. He is now reunited with former Barcelona team-mates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Suarez, 36, has joined as a free agent, after leaving Brazilian side Gremio. "I look forward to reuniting with great friends and players," Suarez has said.

Inter Miami chief business officer Xavier Asensi has described the ex-Liverpool striker's signing as "another monumental moment" for the club.

Suarez, who has also won league titles with Nacional, Ajax and Atletico Madrid, scored 17 goals in 33 games as Gremio finished second in Brazilian Serie A in the 2023 season. The veteran forward's performances have led to him being voted the league's best player. However, the two-year contract he signed with Gremio in 2022 ended early because Suarez felt he could not play another full season in Brazil with a knee problem and the travelling distances for games.

Inter Miami, partly owned

territory since Israel launched its retaliatory campaign.

Khawaja, who is Muslim, has said his message is a "humanitarian appeal", and not a political statement.

Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley has said the organisation is working

Luis Suarez has won trophies with Nacional, Ajax, Liverpool, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Gremio

by former England captain David Beckham, have signed Messi, Busquets and Alba during the 2023 season, and the trio has helped the franchise win a first trophy with the Leagues Cup in August.

"I'm very happy and excited to take on this new challenge with Inter Miami," added Suarez. "I can't wait to get started, and I'm ready to work to make the dream of winning more titles with this great club a reality. I'm optimistic about what we can achieve together with our shared ambition."

Widely considered one of the best strikers of his genera-

tion, Suarez won four La Liga titles at Barcelona - alongside Messi, Busquets and Alba - between 2015 and 2019.

These four players were also an instrumental part of the Barca team that won the Champions League and FIFA World Club Cup in 2015.

Inter Miami finished second from bottom in the MLS Eastern Conference last season. They made a poor start under the management of former England international Phil Neville, who was sacked in June, before a resurgence followed Messi's arrival. (BBC Sport)

ulian Alvarez scored twice as Manchester City won the FIFA Club World Cup for the first time by beating Brazilians Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.

Pep Guardiola's side, taking part in the tournament after winning last season's Champions League, made the ideal start, as Alvarez struck after 40 seconds, chesting in from close range after Nathan Ake's long-range strike hit the post.

They added a second in the 27th minute, when Nino turned Phil Foden's cross into the back of his own net.

England's Foden then got on the scoresheet himself in the second half, when he darted through the middle to prod in Alvarez's cross; before the Argentine forward got his second in the 88th minute with a clinical strike into the far corner.

Success meant City emulated Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea in lifting the FIFA Club World Cup, but City became the first English side to win five trophies in a calendar year. The treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League last season was followed by the UEFA Super Cup in August.

"It was an incredible year," Guardiola has said. "Today we closed the chapter, we won everything we could. Now (it’s)

time to try again."

Some of the shine was taken off their victory by the sight of Rodri - so influential for the side - going off injured towards the end of the second half.

Meanwhile, Egyptian side Al Ahly has claimed third place with a 4-2 win against Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan.

City seal another title to round off memorable 2023 City's win in Jeddah has completed a trophy-laden and unforgettable year for the club.

Although winning the FIFA Club World Cup has often carried less importance for English sides, Guardiola had spoken of his determination to "close the circle" and lift the trophy he believed would complete City's collection.

While this was their first appearance in the tournament, Guardiola had won it before with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, and underlined his desire to triumph again by naming a strong line-up. The outcome was a dominant display by the reigning Premier League champions, with goalkeeper Ederson largely untested aside from a Jhon Arias header just before half-time, and a late John Kennedy strike.

"We were a little lucky at the start. We got the ball and scored early, and then they had an incredible 10-12 min-

utes that made you realise how tough it would be," added Guardiola. "The second goal helped us, but maybe we didn't deserve it. We adjusted something in the second half, and we were much, much better."

City will celebrate before switching focus back to domestic matters, with their next game being an away trip to Everton on Wednesday, 27 December.

With one win in their last six Premier League games, they will hope to use the momentum of their confident victory and accolades of being crowned world champions to get their title defence back on track.

Rodri concern after midfielder limps off While City fans will be pleased to see another piece of silverware added to their trophy cabinet, they will be concerned by midfielder Rodri going off in the 74th minute.

The midfielder was hurt by a challenge from Alexsander, and looked in pain as he received treatment. Rodri was able to get back on his feet, and attempted to continue, but was substituted to avoid risking him further.

City had struggled when the Spaniard was absent this season, and their three defeats in the Premier League came without him being in the side.

(BBC Sport)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

Captain Rovman Powell says:

WINDIES “RESPONDED LIKE CHAMPIONS” – to secure England T20I series’ victory

W

est Indies T20I Captain Rovman Powell has praised his team’s ability in performing under pressure to secure a 3-2 series victory over England on Thursday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

The West Indies won the first two games of the series relatively comfortably, before England produced a pair of magnificent batting performances to tie the series heading into Thursday’s decider.

The West Indies first restricted England to 132 all out in 19.3 overs - their lowest score of the series before holding their nerve to reach 133-6 with four balls to spare, thereby securing another series win under Powell’s leadership in international cricket’s shortest format.

“I think we played very well today. After England came back in the series and

Rovman Powell

put us under pressure, I think the guys responded like champions,” Powell said in a post-match interview.

He especially credited his bowlers for keeping Player of the Series, Phil Salt, in check. Salt, who hit hundreds in both the third and fourth T20Is, made 38 on Thursday to finish the series with 331 runs.

"It was very important for us to control him.

Yesterday we sat in our team room and tried to have some one-on-one discussions with the guys to try our best to come up with collective plans to control him. For the last two games, (England) scored 70 in the powerplay to totally write us off," Powell said.

Powell added that he feels like his side are well prepared for next year’s T20 World Cup, but he mentioned there’s still work to be done, particularly in the bowling department.

“I think we are prepared, but we still have areas we need to sharpen up, especially our bowling. Two games, back-to-back, where England beat us badly as a bowling unit. Hopefully, over the next few months, we can sharpen up and get those ar-

eas sorted,” Powell said.

Powell also heaped praise on opponents England, noting that the reigning World T20 Champions have an excellent chance of defending their title next year.

“England is a world class team, and they have world class players to come into their squad; so that is always going to boost them.

All they need to do is get familiar with the conditions.

Because they are such a quality team, if they get fa-

NBA ROUNDUP…

Short-handed Jazz send Pistons to 25th straight loss

T

he Detroit Pistons have suffered their 25th straight loss – one short of the NBA single season record – as Kelly Olynyk scored 25 points to lead the short-handed Utah Jazz to a 119-111 victory on Thursday.

Detroit missed nine of ten 3-pointers in the fourth quarter, and were 9 of 31 overall from long range, as they remained winless since Oct 28.

The 2010-11 Cleveland Cavaliers and the 2013-14

19 points and Ochai Agbaji added 18 for the Jazz, who played without four of their top-seven scorers: Lauri Markkanen, Jordan Clarkson, Keyonte George and Talen Horton-Tucker, on the second night of a back-to-back, after losing at Cleveland on Wednesday.

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Cade Cunningham has faith the Detroit Pistons can turn their form around, after a 25th successive loss has seen them close in on an un-

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Detroit are just one defeat away from matching the single-season record for consecutive losses shared by the Cleveland Cavaliers of 201011 and the Philadelphia 76ers of 2013-14.

The 76ers hold the outright record for successive de-

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The Bucks have picked up a 6th straight win

Philadelphia 76ers share the record at 26, which the Pistons will try to avoid owning on Saturday in Brooklyn.

The 76ers hold the overall mark of 28, having experienced a skid that started in 2014-15 and was carried over into 2015-16.

Collin Sexton scored

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Cunningham keeping faith

Pisons’ Cade Cunningham

miliar with conditions, they will be difficult to beat,” he said.

“We realized something with the English batters: once you put them on the good wickets, they’re very good; but when the pitch starts assisting the bowlers, it becomes a little bit tricky for everyone. For us Caribbean players, we’ve been playing on bad wickets for such a long time, so we know how to play on it,” he added.

The West Indies’ next T20I assignment will be a three-match away series against Australia, lasting from February 9-13.

feats, having lost 28 straight games across the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons.

Cunningham, though, believes the Pistons still have the quality to turn matters around.

"We're not 2-26 bad; no way are we that bad," said Cunningham, who finished with a double-double of 28 points and 10 assists. "I think we can turn this around.

We can play a much better brand of basketball. We had a chance to win it down the stretch, and we just weren't solid enough. This is history no one wants to be a part of."

While Cunningham was upbeat ahead of Saturday's meeting with the Brooklyn Nets, coach Monty Williams had to hold his tongue.

"I want to be careful with my words, because this one (loss) hurts more than most of them," Williams said. "A team that played last night got [50] points off turnovers and rebounds. It is unbelievably hard to understand

how we can get outworked in those categories."

Jazz coach Will Hardy, meanwhile, hailed a big win for his team, who were without four of their top seven scorers. Hardy said: "That's a really, really good team win for us. That's a hard game to play, second night of a backto-back on the road with a bunch of guys out."

Bucks propelled to 6th straight win

Giannis Antetokoumpo tallied 37 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, and the Milwaukee Bucks completed a perfect six-game homestand with a 118-114 win over the Orlando Magic.

Damian Lillard added 24 points and eight assists for the Bucks, who have won 15 straight games at Fiserv Forum. That’s the Bucks’ longest single-season home win streak since they opened 18-0 at home in 1991-92.

Franz Wagner scored 29 points and Paolo Banchero

had 23 for the Magic, who have lost four in a row.

Clippers’ 9-game streak snapped

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 31 points and Chet Holmgren gave the Thunder the lead for good with a dunk he threw off the backboard to himself, and Oklahoma City ended the Los Angeles Clippers’ nine-game winning streak by the scoreline of 134-115.

Holmgren’s flashy jam with 8:43 left in the third quarter gave the Thunder a 74-73 lead and sparked a decisive 13-0 run. Holmgren finished with 23 points, and Lu Dort added 21 for Oklahoma City, which has won three straight, and five of six.

James Harden scored 23 points and Paul George had 22 for the Clippers, who played without leading scorer Kawhi Leonard, due to a bruised right hip.

(Sportsmax)

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

23

Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League 2024…

Jamaica Tallawahs said to be replaced by Antigua-based franchise S

everal reports circulating on Thursday have indicated that the Jamaica Tallawahs franchise will not compete in the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League; a new franchise is set to be established in Antigua and Barbuda.

It has been reported that Guyanese businessman Kris Persaud, based in Florida, had owned the Tallawahs franchise but has sold it back to the CPL. "The owners were left with no option but to sell the Tallawahs back to CPL, as they could not find a way to operate the team sustainably," a CPL spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo.

The Jamaica Tallawahs franchise will reportedly be replaced by an Antigua-based franchise in 2024, but that franchise does not yet have a name. The island hosted a franchise named Antigua Hawksbills in the first two CPL seasons, but they won only three matches and were replaced by St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in 2015.

ly have to sit down and have a conversation about that."

The island has not hosted any CPL games since 2019.

CPL's chief executive, Pete Russell, told the Jamaica Observer last year that he found the Government's reluctance to engage with cricket "baffling".

He said: "It's always disappointed me that we've never been able to break through in terms of with our discussions."

The 2024 CPL season is expected to start in mid-August, and will run into September.

(ESPNCricinfo) Antigua and Barbuda once had a CPL franchise, the Hawksbills

Earlier this week, Daryll Matthew, the Minister of Sports in the Antigua and Barbuda Senate, revealed plans to host a franchise in 2024.

"We can expect very easily and conservatively to generate approximately US$6 million per year by simply having a CPL franchise based in Antigua and Barbuda," Matthew has said, as reported

by the Antigua Observer.

The CPL intends to relaunch a Jamaica-based franchise in years to come.

"The CPL remains committed to having a team based in Jamaica, but this will be in 2025 at the earliest," a spokesperson said. "In 2024, there will be six teams taking part in the CPL, with franchises based in Antigua & Barbuda, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis,

‘An indication of the President’s commitment to sport’ - Ninvalle on KFC donation

A

n announcement was made regarding President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s commitment to donating the first and second prizes for the KFC International Goodwill series on Thursday evening; and promptly on Friday morning, Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, made the presentation to organizers at his Middle Street, Georgetown office.

This, according to Ninvalle, is an indication of President Ali’s -- and by extension the Guyana Government’s -- commitment to sport.

“It’s the worst kept secret that sport is moving forward in the country, and the President, being the leader of the Cabinet, has been someone who’s spearheading that developmental drive across all the sports disciplines. So, every single sport discipline can say they have been embraced by the National Sports Commission; the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; and by extension, the Government and the Cabinet of Guyana,” Ninvalle stated during the simple presentation.

“So this is just another indication; some might want to call it small, some might want to call it large, but it’s an indication of just how well sports sits with the Government and the Cabinet of Guyana,” the Director of Sport declared.

Further, he posited, “This is more or less part and par-

Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago."

West Indies T20 captain Rovman Powell, who led Tallawahs to their second CPL title in 2022, has said it is "disappointing" for his home island to leave their franchise.

"Jamaica is the biggest island in the Caribbean, a proud nation, a proud cricketing nation," he said. "For those things to be happening is a little bit disappointing."

Sabina Park, the main stadium in Jamaica's capital city Kingston, will not host any games in next year's T20 World Cup, and last staged international cricket in August 2022.

"Obviously I'm a Jamaican, and I want to play in front of my home crowd, but for the last few years, I haven't," Powell said. "The West Indies Cricket Board and the Jamaican Government real-

New CPL franchise to be based in Antigua and Barbuda for 2024 A new Caribbean Premier League (CPL) cricket franchise will be based in Antigua and Barbuda for the 2024 edition of the International T20 tournament, scheduled to run from August 17 to September 25.

This was revealed by Minister of Sports, Daryll Matthew, who announced during his presentation on the 2024 budget on Tuesday, stating that the yet-to-benamed franchise will replace the Antigua Hawksbills based here between 2013 and 2015.

“Over the last year, we’ve been having discussions with the CPL, and we are now at a stage where I can announce that, come 2024, a CPL franchise will be based right here in Antigua and Barbuda once again. At the time, the debate was that it was costing too much money, and I think at the time they [Government] were paying $250,000.00 per

year, and they decided they could not recognize that by having CPL, which was at the time a new enterprise taking place in West Indies cricket. They could not see what it could have become, and you fast forward a few years and CPL is now the biggest thing in regional cricket,” he said.

The Sports Minister also revealed that, based on a report he commissioned from the Ministry of Finance, the presence of a CPL franchise in Antigua and Barbuda could generate in excess of US$5.5 million in revenue on an annual basis.

“This data from St Kitts and Nevis and St Lucia; we’re looking at 2015 data, and so it’s likely to be higher now, but we can expect very easily and conservatively to generate approximately US$6M per year by simply having a CPL franchise based in Antigua and Barbuda. There will be a competition that is commissioned to name the team and to design a logo for the team, and that will be announced in the coming days,” Matthew said.

Matthew hinted that CPL matches will be hosted here in September next year.

The Hawksbills franchise was one of six teams that were established for the inaugural CPL season in 2013, and was the only one located in the Leeward Islands.

The Hawksbills placed fifth in 2013, and then last during the 2014 edition of the CPL, winning only three of out its sixteen games during that time.

(Sportsmax)

“One Guyana” King and Queen of the Sand football tourneys

BAKEWELL AMONG SPONSORS

T President Dr Irfaan Ali

cel of the President supporting where he said he would have and to; as also being a sports-loving person, that when the members of Petra reached out to him, he immediately - and I want to underline - he immediately said that he was coming on board.”

While voicing appreciation on behalf of the organizers, Petra’s Co-Director Troy Mendonca had high words of praise for President Ali’s commitment to youth development.

“The Petra Organization is elated that President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali recognize our effort, and we would like to say a special thank you for his input at this juncture. We reached out to him because we would’ve recognized his effort in capacity building, especially among youth, and this gesture is a demonstration

of his efforts over the years,” Mendonca related.

The football organizer further stated, “And so we applaud his initiatives, and we are very -- and I know the football fraternity, the school football programme, would be -- very happy to welcome on board Dr. Ali’s contribution to the sport.”

The KFC final was scheduled for Friday night, with Jamaica’s Clarendon College and Trinidad and Tobago’s St. Benedict’s College battling for a $2500 USD ($500,000 GYD) grand prize. The second-place finisher will receive $1500 USD ($300,000 GYD), while the winner of the thirdplace playoff between Chase’s Academic Foundation and Suriname’s VMO 4 will pocket $1000 USD ($200,000 GYD).

Fourth place receives $500 USD ($100,000 GYD).

hrough Managing Director Rajindranauth Ganga, Bakewell recently took the opportunity to register its support for the Linden inter-block beach football tournaments dubbed “One Guyana” King and Queen of the Sand, being promoted for Linden communities by His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. These tournaments, which kicked off in the mining town of Linden weeks ago, and are set to be concluded on January 6, 2024, boast 28 male and 12 female teams, with the men competing in a round-robin format that is divided into eight groups. The winners and runners-up of the men’s tournament would be advancing to the knockout format. The female teams are playing in a straight knockout format.

The tournament is being played inside the PPP-C Linden office compound.

Bakewell has said it continues to support sports across the nation as a form of giving back to the various regions and communities across

Bakewell Managing Director Rajindranauth Ganga handing over a cheque to Collin “BL” Aaron, one of the tournaments’ organizers, at Bakewell Head Office at Triumph, East Coast Demerara. Mrs Monette Aaron is witnessing the proceedings

Guyana, and in order to help boost sports in general.

Bakewell is also keen to give full support to this initiative of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. “One Guyana” initiatives are bringing Guyanese of all races together, and each sporting activity

is being used as a vehicle to help achieve this objective.

The King of the Sand tournament entered its knockout stage on Thursday December 21, while the Queen of the Sand tourney has begun at the same venue. Admission is free for the entire tournament.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2023

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

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Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League 2024…

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