Improved performances expected from GuySuCo, GPL – VP
…says massive investments being made, results needed
With significant upgrades come greater expectations and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has made it clear that the Government will be expecting greater performances from agencies such as the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).
During his press conference on Friday, the Vice President explained that in the case of GuySuCo, where the Government has invested billions of dollars, he noted that improvements are expected at the entity.
Between 2020 and 2024, the Government invested a
whopping $45 billion in the sugar industry, to revitalise the sector and make it a vital component of the country’s developmental plans.
The focus has been on modernising operations, including the mechanisation of estates, with almost 40 per cent of the estates now automated.
Additionally, efforts have been made to recapitalise the industry by replacing broken infrastructure and systems to improve efficiency. However, despite these efforts, the sugar industry has struggled to meet the production target of 63,276 tonnes of commodity
this year.
When it comes to GPL, the Government has brought in two power ships that have resulted in some 67 Megawatts (MW) of reserve power being installed in the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS). This was done with the aim of contributing to reliable power.
“They were complaining all along, that they were very tight on generating capacity. So now that they have that, I anticipate that the President will be looking for performance. And the performance, for us, is how much they keep the power on. Its not a
big, fancy metric. We want to make sure that people have power in their homes,” Jagdeo said.
“And they don’t have frequent black outs that are so irritating and debilitating to people. Now that they have the generating capacity, it would be easier to isolate what is management, from what was scarcity of generating capacity.”
Meanwhile, in the case of GPL, the Government is working on implementing massive upgrades to the grid. He even noted the necessity of the Government implementing a smart grid, as well as the US$159 million Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contract signed with Kalpataru Projects International Limited (KPIL) that includes massive upgrades to the elec-
trical grid.
“The problem is that we don’t have redundancy. You have one line taking the power to Berbice. So, if something goes wrong with that line, it takes down some areas. If you have a circuit, then you can take power both ways. So that’s what we’re building in the future. And right now, we’ve tendered for a 230 kilovolt-amps (KVA) line to run from Georgetown, all the way to Crabwood creek.”
“Because with us generating 500, 600 MW here, we need to move that. And the 69 KVA line can’t move that amount of power all the way to Berbice. We’re doing the same now to take power to Linden. A 230 KVA line would go into that area. So that’s part of the grid improvement system,” Jagdeo added. (G3)
The Guyana Sugar Corporation
The Guyana Power and Light building
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, December 28 –03:00h-04:30h and Sunday, December 29 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, December 28 –14:40h-16:10h and Sunday, December 29 – 15:15h-16:45h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Better systems needed for $100,000 cash grant distribution – Jagdeo
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has admitted that there needs to be better systems in place for the distribution of the 100,000 one-off cash grant cheques to Guyanese.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
His remarks come on the heels of the chaos that ensued earlier this week when hundreds of teachers were made to line up in the scorching sun for long hours to collect their cash grant cheques. The situation sparked public outrage and criticisms over the treatment of the teachers – some of whom did not receive their cheques.
The Vice President explained during a press conference on Friday that there was a rush to get the cheques out to as many public servants as possible before the end of the year but contended that the situation with the teachers should have never happened.
According to Jagdeo, after persons registered for the cash grant, a verification process is then activated and once that is done, the cheques for those persons are printed and sent for distribution. In the teachers’ case, the Education Ministry invited all the teachers within the Region Four district to uplift their cheques when cheques were there only for those verified registrants.
“What happened is that they invited everyone out and they said come and collect. So, the 20 per cent of people who did not have their cheques cut for that day, they showed up too in some cases and they were disappointed. And it should’ve never happened. We should’ve had a better system to identify those and only invite those in [whose cheques were printed]… We need to devise, in the Ministries, better ways of communication with people…”
“So, we’ve spoken with the Ministry of Finance and they have to move to a better system or have a more conscientious way of approaching it by the managers of the different agencies. So, I agree that there may have been issues with people waiting too long and all of that... We do have to find ways of getting the distribution better,” the VP posited.
Currently, approximately 366,473 persons have registered for the cash grant thus far with some 245,436 cheques printed. Of these, just over 100,000 cheques have been delivered in mostly the five hinterland regions across the country.
During Friday’s press conference, Jagdeo gave a breakdown of the regional cheque disbursement.
In Region One (BarimaWaini), 78 per cent of the
16,035 cheques printed have been delivered. While distribution have recently commenced in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), about 70 per cent of the 6,538 cheques were distributed in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). In Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), just over 90 per cent of the cheques have been disbursed to date.
According to the Vice President, the distribution in the hinterland regions have been “more smoothly” since they are handover by communities and/or subdistricts.
Meanwhile, about 90 per cent of persons within the public sector have already received their cash grants and from Monday, distribution will commence for pensioners.
The VP explained that the Finance Ministry is currently overloaded with the cash grant exercise while
simultaneously working on putting together the 2025 national budget.
“They will start soon in the other five regions of the country… This exercise is moving forward… be patient,” he urged Guyanese.
Jagdeo also used the opportunity during Friday’s press conference to debunk and rebuke claims by the opposition that dead persons were listed as registrants to collect the cash grant as well as allegations that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is using the exercise to collect citizens’ data for electoral purposes.
The Finance Ministry has already declared that there are safeguards such as the photo requirement of registrants – which are taken on the spot, to prevent any fraudulent claims.
Nevertheless, with over mover 245,000 cheques printed to date, it is antici-
pated that this figure will go up by the end of the year. In fact, Government had initially catered for 300,000 cheques to be disbursed in this first phase and had drawn down $30 billion for this.
VP Jagdeo explained on Friday that Government would make provisions for the second phase of the cash grant in the 2025 budget, which is slated to be presented in January and expected to be passed the following month.
Moreover, in addressing concerns about the cash grant, the Vice President assured that those who missed the registration period would still be able to get their money. Similarly, he said for those who are out of the jurisdiction during the distribution exercise, arrangements will be made for them to get their cheques when they return.
“We’ll make sure we announce a supplementary kind of approach where people would be able to maybe go to the post office wherever …but you’re not gonna lose the money if you didn’t get an opportunity to register… So, the fishermen don’t have to worry or the miners…”
“And we’re not gonna take back the cheques so when they come back [into the country, they’ll get it]… So, we’re gonna make sure that people get their money. The idea is once, you’re registered and you’re Guyanese. We’re not begrudging our people or trying to shaft them. We’re making sure, if they’re Guyanese they’ll get it,” Jagdeo asserted.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Health boats in remote communities
The recent commissioning of two specialised maternal health boats by the Health Ministry, with support from GAVI and UNICEF, marks a transformative moment for healthcare in Guyana. These boats, valued at some $9 million, signify an innovative approach to addressing the healthcare disparities faced by remote communities in Regions Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and One (Barima-Waini).
By bringing essential maternal and neonatal healthcare to the doorsteps of riverine populations, this initiative demonstrates the profound impact of targeted, well-conceived interventions.
The significance of these boats extends beyond their monetary value. Designed over two years to meet the specific challenges of Guyana’s rugged geography, these vessels embody a marriage of practicality and advanced healthcare solutions. Equipped with maternal transport cots and solar-powered vaccine refrigerators, the boats are tailored to address both immediate maternal health needs and longer-term immunisation goals. Such foresight in design ensures that the boats are not only functional, but are also aligned with global best practices for healthcare delivery in hard-to-reach areas. Their deployment stands as a testament to Guyana’s commitment to equitable healthcare access, particularly for its underserved populations.
The Health Ministry’s targeted strategy for these boats is commendable. In Region Eight, communities along the Ireng River, including Wipa Village, would directly benefit from enhanced access to maternal and neonatal care. Similarly, in Region One, the boats would serve eastern riverine and island populations, filling a critical gap in healthcare provision. By prioritising areas with the greatest need, this initiative underscores a commitment to making healthcare accessible for all, irrespective of geographical barriers.
One of the standout features of these boats is their solarpowered vaccine refrigerators. This innovative feature addresses a persistent challenge in remote healthcare delivery: maintaining the cold chain necessary for vaccine efficacy. By ensuring that vaccines remain viable during transportation, the boats bolster immunisation efforts in areas that have traditionally been underserved. This aligns perfectly with Guyana’s broader public health goals, particularly in combatting preventable diseases among children.
The inclusion of maternal transport cots is equally noteworthy. These cots would facilitate safer and more comfortable transportation for expectant mothers, reducing the risks associated with childbirth in isolated communities. For women who had previously had to endure arduous journeys to access basic healthcare, these boats represent a lifeline. They embody the principle that no woman or child should be left behind in the pursuit of health equity.
At the handing-over ceremony, the presence of key stakeholders — including Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, Dr Oneka Scott, and representatives from UNICEF — highlighted the collaborative nature of this initiative. Partnerships between the Government, international organisations and local communities are critical to addressing the multifaceted challenges of maternal and neonatal health. The boats are a tangible outcome of such collaboration, reflecting a shared commitment to improving lives.
The potential impact of these boats extends beyond the immediate communities they would serve. As unique healthcare delivery models, they may inspire similar initiatives in other countries facing geographical and logistical challenges. The lessons learned from their deployment in Guyana could inform global best practices, reinforcing the idea that innovative solutions can drive progress even in the most challenging circumstances.
While the launch of these maternal health boats is undoubtedly a milestone, it also serves as a reminder of the work that remains to be done. Sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, ongoing training for medical personnel, and robust monitoring systems would be essential to maximise the impact of this initiative. Additionally, continuous engagement with the communities served by these boats would ensure that their needs and feedback are incorporated into future healthcare strategies.
As Guyana celebrates this achievement, it is important to acknowledge the broader implications of this initiative. These boats represent a commitment to bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to lead a healthy life.
Benefits of gas-to-energy power plant
Dear Editor,
As the global community increasingly recognizes the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, Guyana stands at a crucial juncture in its energy development journey. The Government’s recent embrace of Natural Gas as a primary energy with the proposed 300MGW Power Plant that is currently under construction at Wales, West Bank Demerara offers a promising avenue for addressing both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Gas-fired power plants, characterized by their efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared with traditional fossil fuel sources, present significant advantages for Guyana’s energy landscape. This shift has not only the potential to meet rising energy demands of a growing manufacturing and services sector, but also aligns with international commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on the benefits of gas-fired power plants, such intervention can foster energy security, stimulate economic diversification, and mitigate the environmental impacts currently associated with the reliance on oil and other fossil fuels.
Editor, as Guyana transitions into a new phase of economic development, understanding its energy needs and current energy land-
scape becomes imperative. Historically reliant on fossil fuel-driven generators, the energy infrastructure of Guyana Power and Light Inc faces challenges, including insufficient generation capacity and an increasing demand driven by industrial expansion. This situation is exacerbated by the recent discoveries of significant offshore oil reserves, prompting discussions about diversifying energy sources and enhancing grid stability.
In this context, potential integration of gas-fired power plants emerges as a strategic solution.
Not only could gas-fired plants provide a reliable and efficient means to meet rising energy demands, they also present an opportunity for broader climate change mitigation efforts by aligning with the call of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for effective climate finance mechanisms.
Further, leveraging existing frameworks could ensure legitimacy and accountability in the energy transition.
The economic benefits of gas-fired power plants in Guyana extend beyond mere electricity generation to significantly impacting the nation’s energy landscape and economic growth. As a cleaner alternative to oil-based electricity generation, gasfired plants lower operational costs and mitigate volatile fuel prices, which are crucial
for a developing economy that is dependent on electricity to drive industrialization and infrastructure development.
Editor, for instance, the potential for gas to become a stable energy source can reduce reliance on expensive imported fuels, thus enhancing energy security and fostering long-term pricing stability. Moreover, the transition towards gas not only promotes job creation in construction and operation, but attracts foreign investments due to the perceived lower risk and enhanced sustainability.
These facets collectively support a more resilient economy, showcasing gasfired power as a vital component of Guyana’s strategic energy transition and Sustainable Development Goals, aligning with broader trends in renewable energy technologies.
The establishment of gasfired power plants in Guyana stands as a pivotal opportunity for job creation and local economic development, particularly in the wake of the challenges posed by global economic disruptions. By investing in energy infrastructure, the Government would not only address energy demands, but stimulate the job market through construction, maintenance, and operational roles. These positions are essential for both skilled and unskilled work-
ers, promoting workforce development in communities often contending with high unemployment rates.
Editor, the environmental advantages of gas-fired power plants are particularly significant when considering the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, especially in the context of Guyana’s energy sector. Primarily, gas-fired power generation emits lower levels of carbon dioxide compared to coal and oil, thereby contributing to an overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which is crucial for mitigating climate change. In contrast to fossil fuel combustion, Natural Gas combustion produces fewer pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, leading to improved air quality and reduced health risks for local populations.
This transition from more polluting fossil fuels to natural gas can serve as a transitional strategy towards even more sustainable options, such as renewable energy.
As Guyana seeks to enhance its energy infrastructure, the adoption of gas-fired technology offers a viable pathway to align economic growth with environmental stewardship, positioning the nation as a proactive player in global efforts to combat climate change.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, and Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo shared a light moment at the First Family’s Christmas Cheer, which was held on Christmas eve in front of State House on Main Street, Georgetown (Office of the Prime Minister photo)
$100,000 cash grant AMCHAM Guyana congratulates on largest-ever infrastructural loan
Dear Editor,
The $100,000 cash grant being offered by Government is one representation of a caring Government giving back to the people of this country in a tangible way as part of the people’s sovereign wealth.
I say one representation because the Government’s initiatives are multifaceted, taking into focus massive development in many sectors; key areas include infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and many other transformational features sweeping the length and breadth of this country.
It is a significant way of showing what proper planning and the execution of
those plans are. Kudos to the PPP/C Administration!
This is in marked contrast to what an APNU/ AFC Coalition Government did when they were in office. After two months, they raised their salaries by 50%, while introducing 200 new taxes on the people who voted them into power. If that is not what we commonly call “peeing in one’s eyes and calling it rain,” then what is?
The Coalition’s performance in office was a blatant manifestation of how little emphasis was placed on people and how much was placed on themselves; and it is something they would have to live with, and
one we would not forget. But I digressed, so let me get back to our main discussion of the cash grant, its verification and disbursement.
From my vantage point, I can see one temporary difficulty: registration of the recipients of the grant. What we see is a mad rush to get registered, and persons from other regions are travelling to those regions where registration is ongoing in order to get themselves registered. This is not an abnormal occurrence because you are talking about cash - something that people need - and everyone wants to know that they are instantly locked in. We cannot blame them for that.
So, what the authorities would see is a moderate, if not drastic, increase in the allocations for the various regions where registration is in progress. The Government’s logistical data of individual regions would see a change in numbers; for example, persons from regions Five and Six getting registered in Region 4; this is sure to happen. I think Government would have learnt from the hiccups encountered with the present cash disbursements and made the necessary adjustments for future disbursements.
Respectfully, Neil Adams
Benefits of gas-to-energy...
The transition from fossil fuels to gas-fired power plants in Guyana offers significant potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which is crucial for addressing climate change. According to studies, gas plants emit approximately 50% less carbon dioxide than coal-fired power plants, and this is a significant reduction compared to oil-based energy sources, underscoring the environmental benefits of natural gas as a cleaner alternative.
This shift not only contributes to lower atmospheric pollution, but also mitigates the impacts associated with burning of fossil fuels, which are major contributors to global warming. Moreover, gas-fired plants can serve as a reliable energy source while supporting the integration of renewable technologies, further enhancing sustainability within the energy sector. Thus, the implementation of gas-fired power infrastructure in Guyana is a strategic move towards a more environmentally friendly energy landscape, promoting long-term ecological benefits and energy se-
curity.
Editor, the establishment and utilization of gas-fired power plants in Guyana present a multifaceted solution to the country’s energy demands and environmental challenges. These plants not only offer a more stable and reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional fossil fuel sources, but they also facilitate a transitional phase towards renewable energy alternatives. As demonstrated, the competitive costs associated with gas generation, especially amid fluctuating global oil prices, underscore the economic viability of this technology.
The potential to integrate gas-fired systems with other renewable sources enhances energy security and mitigates dependence on imported fossil fuels. The insights gained from this assessment illuminate the importance of strategic energy planning that embraces gas as a bridge to a more sustainable future, highlighting the urgent need for policies that support infrastructure development while addressing environmental concerns, thus en-
suring a resilient energy landscape for Guyana.
The adoption of gas-fired power plants in Guyana represents a pivotal shift in the Government’s energy strategy, promising a multitude of benefits and significant future implications. Primarily, these plants offer a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a more sustainable energy mix, thereby aligning with global environmental targets.
Economically, utilization of local natural gas resources can lower energy costs and foster energy independence, facilitating industrial growth and attracting
foreign investments. In the long term, by positioning itself as a leader in energy transition, Guyana can enhance its geopolitical standing while ensuring energy security for its populace. Further, development and expansion of gas infrastructure may yield employment opportunities, stimulating local economies. Consequently, the strategic shift to gas-fired power generation not only addresses immediate energy needs, but also sets the groundwork for an environmentally responsible and economically prosperous future.
Sincerely, Mahindra
Ishri
Dear Editor,
AmCham Guyana applauds the historic approval of a US$527 million loan from the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) to support the critical Gas-to-Energy project in Guyana.
This landmark agreement marks the largest-ever infrastructure loan in the Caribbean, signifying a growing confidence in Guyana’s prosperity and deepening the US-Guyana partnership.
The Gas-to-Energy project is poised to transform Guyana’s energy landscape: enhancing energy security by diversifying energy sources, and reducing reliance on
imported fuels. Further, it will accelerate the nation’s transition to cleaner and more reliable energy sources as it drives sustainable economic growth and development.
AmCham Guyana commends the Government of Guyana, the US Embassy, and all stakeholders involved in this ground breaking achievement. We look forward to supporting US EXIM’s continued engagement in Guyana, and to fostering further economic cooperation between our two nations.
Sincerely, AmCham Guyana
Page Foundation
Bar Graphs
Graphs are useful ways to display information or data. A bar graph uses bars to compare two or more things, people or places. The bars in this type of graph may be horizontal or vertical, not both. Each bar represents a number. Because the data is shown visually, the bars can be compared to one another. Sometimes, different coloured bars that represent different things are used.
Examples:
Each student at Central High voted for his or her favourite kind of Christmas cake.
The key tells you that the black bars stand for boys and the grey stand for girls. The horizontal line, or axis, at the bottom of the graph names different types of cakes. The vertical axis tells you how many boys and how many girls voted for that kind of cake.
How many boys voted for fruit cake?
Step 1: Find fruit cake on the horizontal axis. Look at the top of each bar in the fruit cake section and follow that line back to the vertical axis to find out how many boys voted for fruit cake. 250 boys voted for fruit cake.
How many students voted for sponge cake?
Step 1: Find sponge cake on the horizontal axis. Look at the top of each bar in the sponge cake section and follow that line back to the vertical axis to find out how many boys and how many girls voted for sponge cake. 400 boys + 300 girls = 700 students.
Exercises:
1) Use the graph below to identify the third most-liked fruit at the time of the year.
2) According to the bar graph below, what was the least favourite holiday drink for students?
By Matt Goodfellow
Something’s moving in, I hear the weather in the wind, sense the tension of a sheep-field and the pilgrimage of fins. Something’s not the same, I taste the sap and feel the grain, hear the rolling of the rowan ringing, singing in a change. Something’s set to start, there’s meadow-music in the dark and the clouds that shroud the mountain slowly, softly start to part.
New Year’s Eve noisemaker
Materials: 2 sturdy paper plates wax paper confetti, glitter, small bells, or anything that is festive and/or makes noise
Glue
Star Template Scissors number stickers party bits washable paint
Here’s how to make the noisemaker: Place the numbers 2025 onto the back of the paper plate and glue them in place I used a hot glue gun to make sure they stayed on.
Cut out a 10-centimetre (4-inch) star and paste it onto the paper plate.
Place confetti and glitter in the centre of the paper plate. Add the small bells and other noisemakers.
Next, glue another paper plate on the first, rim to rim. Make sure there are NO cracks!
Lastly, if you want it to look super sparkly, paint it with glitter paint! (Adapted from teachingmama.org)
Repayments for US EXIM Bank’s US$526M
GtE loan not to begin until 2031
…interest at 4% over 15 years
With the United States (US) Export Import (EXIM) bank recently confirming final approval for a US$526 million loan for Guyana’s Gas to Energy (GtE) Project, Guyana will start repaying this loan from 2031, over a span of 15 years.
This was confirmed by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, during a press conference on Friday where he expressed satisfaction with the approval of the loan and also revealed that the interest rate for the loan was four per cent. He explained that the principal repayment for the loan involves 30 semi-annual installments due each November and May, for the next 15 years.
These repayments, according to Jagdeo, kick in from May 1, 2031. When it comes to why the Government chose to borrow this sum to help finance the US$2 billion project, Jagdeo reminded that the loan only contributes to about 25 per cent of this sum.
“We’re happy that the loan has been approved. For those people who’ve been asking why we need to borrow, I want to remind them that this project will cost about US$2 billion and the loan is only about 25 per cent of the project. So, it’s not 100 per cent of the project.”
“The rest is financed by our own resources and through an arrangement with ExxonMobil, on the pipeline. Then the second thing
for those who were (trying) to find something negative, they asked why we borrowed. I need to remind them that oil revenue is just 30 per cent of the total budget,” the Vice President said. Jagdeo also drew the attention of the public to what the EXIM bank itself said in its press statement, when it referred to the GtE Project as a transition to more reliable, clean energy. Additionally, the project will have a significant impact on the country’s balance of payments, as well as substantial savings for Guyanese citizens and companies.
“We will save 460 tonnes of carbon being emitted into the atmosphere, by the implementation of this project. That is equivalent to one million
barrels of oil per year. Now if you take 1 million barrels of oil per year and you’re saving that. And the cost of a barrel of bunker is US$100, that’s a $100 million saving per year. Just on fuel.”
“And this all came out of the press release that was issued here. And further, I pointed out that if you sell electricity at the price we’re going to be selling it, at 11 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is half the price that is currently obtained, the consumers will save $250 million per year. So, they will save that from lower electricity cost. We will save $100 million from just lower fuel costs.”
Feasibility
The Vice President further pointed out that contrary to
the claims that no feasibility study for the project was done, EXIM bank in fact contracted their own consultants to do feasibility studies of a technical and environmental nature, before the loan even went to the board.
“This loan went to the United States congress. It could have been blocked by the US congress, if we did not have adequate answers, if the project was not a feasible one. So those who have been saying (the project wasn’t approved) all along, I don’t want to rub their noses in the dust. But this is a vindication of all we’ve been saying all along,” Jagdeo said.
The Vice President also contended that nothing stopped the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government
from launching a similar project when they were in office but they lacked the vision to do so.
The approval of the loan was announced by the Office of the President on Boxing Day, which said in a statement that “His Excellency the President Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali received a telephone call from the President and Chair of the US Export-Import (EXIM) Bank, Ms Reta Jo Lewis.”
“The EXIM Chair informed President Ali that the Board of EXIM has approved the loan for the Gas-toEnergy Project valued at over $526 million at their Board Meeting held earlier today having completed the thirtyfive-day congressional notice period,” the statement also said.
Earlier this month, US Assistant Secretary of State
for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian Nichols, had confirmed that initial approval was given for the over US$500 million loan for the GtE Project back in November. Nichols’ comments came on the heels of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo himself announcing since last month that the loan had been approved. At the time, Jagdeo had said that the Guyana Government had been waiting on the US finance institution to make the announcement first.
However, Jagdeo’s comments had subsequently been challenged by opposition elements such as Alliance For Change (AFC) Member of Parliament David Patterson, who had claimed approval wasn’t given, based on a “source”.
Labourer beaten to death, wife in custody
Police are investigating the murder of Ivor Thornhill, a 36-year-old labourer of ‘E’ Field Sophia, who died on Thursday after being beaten and wounded on Christmas night.
Investigations disclosed that Thornhill was living at ‘E’ Field Sophia with his common-law wife, a 38-year-old sales representative, for the past four years.
According to a report from the Police force, the woman told officers that her husband would constantly accuse her of being unfaithful and would verbally and physically abuse her.
The woman said that on Christmas morning, she and Thornhill had a misunderstanding at Kitty Market, where he again accused her of being unfaithful. As a result, the woman left Thornhill at the market and went home.
At about 19:00h on Christmas Day, she left home and went to the Pink Shop located at ‘E’ Field Sophia, where she saw Thornhill at the said shop, consuming alcohol.
She claimed that Thornhill approached her and started accusing her of being unfaithful to him while he was working in the interior after which an argument ensued between them during which she alleged that Thornhill threatened to
kill her. Thornhill picked up a Lucozade bottle and threw it at her. The woman said she walked away and began heading home on ‘E’ Field Dam.
A short while after, she said she saw her husband waking on the dam and hiding himself in some bushes. She claimed she then saw two men on the dam and told them that Thornhill was following her and she was fearful for her life.
She said the two men told her to walk home and they were going to look for Thornhill. Shortly after, she said she saw the two men in a scuffle with her husband on the dam.
Police in a statement on Thursday said that the woman reported that she then ran away in the direction of her home and a while after she returned to the area and saw her husband, covered in blood, being placed into an ambulance.
She said she left the scene and went home. At about 12:00h on Boxing Day she went to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) where she learnt that Thornhill died while receiving treatment. As a result, she went to the Turkeyen Police Station and reported the matter.
Meanwhile, an eyewitness reported that on the night of the incident at about 19:40h, he was at home when he heard his dogs barking which caused him to make checks. As he stepped outside of his home, he used his flashlight and saw an unidentifiable man ride past his home on a bicycle, heading west.
The 37-year-old weeder said that he exited his yard and heard a male voice calling for help on the dam and he went to the area where he saw Thornhill lying on the dam in blood. As a result, he ran to the front of the dam and raised an
alarm. He also saw Thornhill’s reputed wife Leslyn Norton sitting on the dam a short distance from where the deceased was lying. He said he told her what happened and claimed that she replied “Is good fuh he, he should f*#@ing (expletive) dead.”
The man said he immedi-
ately called for an ambulance which later arrived on the scene and took Thornhill to GPHC.
The scene was processed by detectives and a knife was found at the scene. The body was examined, and multiple wounds were seen to his face, stomach and ear. Several persons in the area were questioned. Checks were made for the suspects but they were not located. The body is currently lying at GPHC’s mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination (PME). The man’s reputed wife was taken into custody as investigations continue.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
A model of the Gas-to-Energy Project
SOCU withdraws bail revocation application against ACP Brutus
The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has withdrawn its earlier application to revoke bail for embattled Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus, during a hearing on Friday before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
The initial application was made after it was alleged that Brutus attempted to flee the country on
December 16 via Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).
The Home Affairs Ministry last week reported that Brutus was intercepted near the Takutu Bridge in a vehicle with Brazilian registration plates. The Ministry claimed that at the time of his interception, he did not present himself to immigration authorities at that port.
One of the conditions for granting bail was that the senior police not leave the jurisdiction. On this note, the Ministry further stated that Brutus’ action violated that condition.
Brutus is currently facing 231 charges, including misconduct in public office, fraud, and money laundering.
However, Brutus’ defence, led by attorney Eusi Anderson, vehemently refuted the claims, describing them as “hollow, vexatious, and unsupported by evidence.” Anderson argued that Brutus had legitimate reasons for travelling to Lethem, emphasising that
no proof existed to suggest an intention to flee.
In court documents, Brutus maintained his innocence, asserting that he had complied with all legal requirements. “Mr Brutus is resolute in his innocence and will fight these charges in court,” Anderson said after Friday’s hearing. Nevertheless, the proceedings took an unexpected turn when SOCU’s prosecutors informed the court of their decision to withdraw the application to revoke bail. Despite requests from Brutus’ legal team for an explanation, SOCU declined to provide one, citing instructions from “higher authorities.”
Following the hearing, Anderson criticised the lack of transparency in the State’s approach.
The case adds another layer of complexity to the legal troubles surrounding Brutus and his wife, Adonika Aulder. Aulder, who faces money laundering charges, left Guyana earlier this month for medical treatment in the United States (US). She was expected to return by December 18, 2024, but has not yet done so.
Her attorneys have promised to provide medical documentation to justify her continued stay abroad.
Brutus was initially granted bail of $6.2 million in October for 31 charges related to alleged financial crimes. That sum was increased to $10.05 million in November after 201 additional charges were filed, bringing the total number of accusations against him to 231.
As the case unfolds, Brutus remains free on bail, facing a lengthy legal battle that has captivated national attention.
New…
…energy source
While Pressie’s been Santa to the Guyanese nation -- bringing joy into their lives with a plethora of initiatives that are putting more money into their pockets -- the year’s closing off with Uncle Sam complementing his role from outside!! The US$$526M loan - towards the construction of that transformational 300MW natural gas-to-energy (GtE) plant at Wales – has been approved by the US Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank).
While the Government worked strenuously to give us a blackout-free Christmas by renting two ships to deliver a total of 105MW of power, we all know this was a stopgap measure. The GtE project would simultaneously take care of our rising energy demands, due to the incredible pace of Govt’s infrastructural and private enterprise projects, and significantly cut costs to users!! That’s tantamount to eating your (energy) cake and having it too!! High and erratic energy costs and supply have been two of the highest hurdles businesses in Guyana have had to confront!!
These lower energy costs – initially projected at 50%, but which would come in a tad higher – would also be passed on to household consumers and leave a sizeable chunk of money in their pockets!! The Govt has announced a “Phase II”, that would add another 250MW!!
As the US EXIM Bank noted, this project’s gonna significantly REDUCE our carbon footprint - since the natural gas the plant would be burning releases much less deleterious waste products than the heavy fuels we’ve been burning up to now.
Some in the Opposition’s been saying we should be switching more into “renewables”. That’s more than ironic, since they torpedoed - as far back as 2013 - the Amaila Falls Hydro that would’ve delivered 165MW of clean energy!! Everything was in place; and now, even though the Govt has again placed it on the front burner, financing and logistical issues have delayed it. In terms of solar, while the Government is committed to – and has embarked on - this route, only the GtE project can handle our present needs in a viable time-frame.
Now the Opposition has also raised all sorts of objections about the GtE project, and even petitioned the US Govt and EXIM Bank to cancel the loan!! Good thing the two parties - which spent months conducting their due diligence - withstood their huffing and puffing; unlike the private company Sithe, which folded in 2013!! The US loan will finance the power plant and the plant to purify the natural gas - brought ashore by the pipeline being constructed by Exxon from their FPSOs.
The pipeline cost should come out of our cost oil. Most critically, natural gas gonna kick-start a petrochemical industry to produce from fertilizers to proteins!!
The Opposition is also kvetching about the location. They should reveal who owned the land for THEIR proposed GtE site!!
…power blocs
As foreseen by Gibbons since the 18th century - writing about the Romans - empires will rise and fall.
Some see the American Empire - hegemonic since WWIIright now falling. And since it’s also said that power vacuums are never left as such for long, it’s not surprising that there’s no shortage of aspirants to its position!! Chief among these is actually not a country but a grouping – BRICS+.
Serendipitously, a British economist published an article in 2001 about “emerging economies”, and gave the acronym BRIC to the top four he identified: Brazil, Russia, India and China. By June 2009, these countries had actually met and launched BRIC for real - which kept on growing. South Africa joined in 2011; Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates joined in 2024; and come Jan 1, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan would also be joining the grouping. With 41% of the global economy and half the world’s population under their control, they’ll surely give the US a run for its money. Should we join??
…strongman
When the Netherlands gave Suriname a golden handshake of US$2+billion at independence in 1975, it spurred fierce competition to capture government and that stuffed cookie jar!! Strongman Desi Bouterse, who emerged on top after a coup and executions, has just passed away!!
Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus and his wife Adonika Aulder
Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus
PSC lauds US$526M EXIM Bank loan for Guyana’s GtE Project
The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has praised the United States (US) ExportImport Bank (EXIM) for approving the US$526 million loan to advance Guyana’s Gas to Energy (GtE) Project.
The project includes constructing a natural gas separation plant, a 300 Megawatt (MW) combined-cycle gas turbine power plant, and a gas supply pipeline. Once completed, it is projected to double Guyana’s installed electric capacity, significantly cut
carbon emissions, and bolster economic activity by creating jobs and expanding infrastructure.
In a statement on Friday, the PSC highlighted the collaborative efforts between the US, ExxonMobil, and joint venture partners Lindsayca and CH4 Systems. This partnership leverages advanced technology and expertise, positioning Guyana as a leader in energy security and economic diversification within the region.
Chairman of the PSC,
A model of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy Project
Komal Singh, underscored the importance of this investment, stating, “The Private Sector Commission acknowledges the US EXIM Bank’s commitment to advancing energy solutions that align with Guyana’s development agenda. We believe this project will serve as a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth and support the aspirations of our people.”
The PSC also commended the US Embassy in
Guyana for its instrumental role in fostering bilateral partnerships and securing investments critical to Guyana’s sustainable development. The Embassy’s ongoing support has been key to aligning international collaborations with the nation’s growth priorities.
The PSC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for initiatives that drive innovation, sustainability, and a stronger private sector role in national develop-
ment.
In a statement on Boxing Day, the Government announced that President Dr Irfaan Ali received a telephone call from the President and Chair of the US EXIM Bank, Reta Jo Lewis to inform him that the Board of EXIM has approved the loan for the Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project valued at over US$526 million at their Board Meeting held earlier in the day having completed the thirty-five-
day congressional notice period.
In the statement it noted that President Ali expressed to Chairman Lewis and the EXIM Bank as well as all other US Government agencies and authorities involved, including Ambassador Theriot and her team at the US Embassy in Guyana, the Government’s strong appreciation and thanks for the approval granted and for the confidence shown in this GtE Project and in Guyana.
Shortly afterwards, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot in a social media post on the Embassy’s page in Georgetown said that it is a historic moment for Guyana and the US.
“I am thrilled that the Board has approved the financing for this groundbreaking project.” She added, “By working with US companies, Guyana will benefit from a first-in-class power plant where quality and safety are at the forefront. We look forward to even more transformational projects where US and Guyanese companies can partner for the benefit of the Guyanese people,” the post read.
“Guyana will not offer a flag of convenience for vessels” – MARAD
…as US Treasury Department sanctions vessels fraudulently using Guyana’s Flag
Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has clarified that the Syrian-owned oil tankers that have been sanctioned by the United States (US) Department of Treasury were fraudulently registered under the Guyana Flag.
This clarification came on the heels of reports that five oil tankers registered under the Guyana Flag, which are linked to a Syrian conglomerate company in Iran and Syria, and also connected to Venezuela, were sanctioned by the US Treasury Department.
But in a statement on Thursday, MARAD indicated that, “These ships are not registered in Guyana; thus, they are false and fraudulent registrations.”
It was explained that Guyana, through MARAD
operates a closed registry. Therefore, the registration of vessels under the Guyana flag is limited to ships owned by Guyanese nationals, residents, citizens of Caribbean Community states (CARICOM), and corporate bodies established under the laws of Guyana.
According to MARAD, none of the purported owners of the five oil tankers in question falls into any of these categories.
In fact, MARAD outlined that since 2021, incidences of false Guyana registrations have come to the fore. It said the perpetrators of this fraud have targeted several countries including Guyana, Panama, and regional states. MARAD and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continue to share information on these false registrations, which come into their possession, with all
United Nations (UN) member states and relevant regional and international maritime associations.
“The sanctions being applied by the United States of America, the United Kingdom and other Western States are part of the said
2-motorcycle collision claims life of Sophia man
Acollision between two motorcycles at the intersection of Croal Street and Winter Place, Georgetown claimed the life of 25-year-old Mikel Blair of ‘D’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown on Thursday evening.
Based on reports received, at the time of the accident, the now-dead man was driving motorcycle CL 9507 while the other motorcycle was driven by Tavel Jonas of Arapaima Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown.
Police stated that the Brickdam Police Station received a report about the accident at Croal Street and Winter Place and as such, several traffic ranks were deployed to the scene. However, upon arriving at the location, there was
reportedly no evidence of a crash.
Shortly after, the police were contacted by Police Outpost at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) informing them that two individuals believed to be involved in the accident were being treated at the institution.
Police found Blair receiving treatment in an unconscious state and despite efforts to save him, he subsequently succumbed to his injuries.
On the other hand, Jonas who suffered a fractured right leg was treated for his injuries and admitted a patient. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.
response to the threats posed by these false registrations,” the MARAD missive detailed.
It went onto state that, “The Government of Guyana makes it pellucid that there is no sinister plot afoot to operate or have a separate ship registry and Guyana does not, has not, and will not offer a flag of convenience for vessels. In this regard, it continues to take steps to protect the
sovereignty and integrity of Guyana.”
Back in January 2022, a ‘Guyana-registered vessel’ was intercepted in the West African country of Senegal transporting three containers of ammunition worth more than US$5 million.
The motor vessel, named EOLIKA, has been detained in Dakar, Senegal, and the crew arrested after a search by Customs officials there unearthed the weapons.
It was found that Guyana Flag registration was issued by International Maritime Safety Agency of Guyana (IMSAG), which had dubbed itself as a company providing maritime services on behalf of Guyana.
However, the Guyana Government, through MARAD, had subsequently distanced itself from IMSAG. It was explained that there was an undertaking between MARAD and IMSAG but this was immediately brought to a halt after the discovery of the fraudulent representations and illicit conduct of these entities.
It was further noted that the fraudulent issuance of registration under the Guyana Flag is a deliberate criminal design to sully the good image of Guyana, which the Government has worked tirelessly to rebuild and maintain, and will not condone it.
Moreover, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) had been working with Interpol on this matter.
But despite this, however, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) earlier this year flagged two fraudulent shipping registries – one being the IMSAG-administered Guyana registry.
According to reports, the IMO in April 2024 had warned that IMSAG registry continues to operate, issuing fraudulent certificates of registration and authorising recognised organisations, even though the contract was terminated between MARAD and Aryavart Corporation, whose subsidiary is IMSAG.
Dead: Mikel Blair
$9M vaccine boats to boost maternal healthcare in remote communities
The Health Ministry on Friday received two specialised maternal health boats from United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to enhance healthcare delivery in Guyana’s remote regions.
Valued at $9 million and funded by the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation (GAVI) through UNICEF, the boats were officially handed over during a ceremony at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Wharf. These vessels were meticulously designed over a twoyear period to address the unique healthcare challenges of Regions One (Barima-
Waini) and Eight (PotaroSiparuni), with a particular focus on maternal health and immunisation needs in riverine and remote communities. The boats will serve numerous villages, including Kamwata, Parakeese, Karaburi, Santa Rosa, and Waramuri Islands in Region One, as well as Wipa, Sandhill, Kaibarupai, and Orinduk in Region Eight.
Equipped with solar-powered vaccine refrigerators, maternal transport cots, life jackets, retractable beds to transfer emergency patients, and 200HP engines, these boats represent a significant leap forward in addressing healthcare access.
The boats are expected to provide essential services, including emergency transportation for pregnant women and children, vaccine delivery, and general healthcare outreach to underserved areas.
During the handover ceremony, UNICEF Operations Manager, Abdul Saleh explained that the vessels are certified as safe for transport by the Maritime Authority, and are set to begin operations immediately.
“These vaccine boats are a testament to our commitment to the children and families of Guyana. It embodies our dedication to en-
suring that every child in Guyana has equal access to vaccines and life-saving medical care, regardless of where they live or their socio-economic status,” Saleh said.
Receiving the boats, Director General of the Health Ministry and Member of Parliament, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo expressed gratitude to UNICEF for their partnership in ad-
dressing the healthcare needs of Guyana’s hinterland communities.
He added that the initiative underscores the power of partnerships in tackling healthcare inequities and highlights the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of location, have access to essential medical services.
“Our mandate has been
clear to do whatever is necessary to bring healthcare in the hinterland on par with what is on the coast,” Dr Mahadeo said.
He noted that the Ministry has intensified its efforts to improve healthcare delivery in riverain communities by prioritising the training of medical professionals who serve these remote areas.
2 brutally chopped, stabbed in failed robbery attempt
Twenty-five-year-old Rocky Katwaru, a construction worker was attacked and brutally chopped on Christmas night by a group of armed men during an alleged robbery attempt at Kaneville, Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
Guyana Times understands that Katwaru and a friend were conversing when they were confronted by a group of men who demanded that he hand over the keys to his motorcycle.
He reportedly refused to do so and it was at that time, that they were brutally attacked and chopped about their bodies.
“On Christmas night two guys passed and they pulled out a gun and tried to rob us … they left and they go home for a cutlass and then they come back. One of them
hold me down and the next one started chopping me”, Katwaru stated.
The injured man who remains hospitalised told the
Guyana Times “I am not the only person they chopped. My friend Imraj Khan who is also a construction worker was chopped.”
Katwaru suffered multiple chops to his head, severe lacerations on three fingers, and three broken bones in his left leg. “They chopped out a piece of meh bone,” he explained.
This publication was also told that the suspects allegedly tried to wrestle the keys to Katwaru’s motorcycle out of his pocket but were unsuccessful. They however, managed to snatch his cell phone, which someone at the scene later retrieved.
During the incident, Katwaru was rescued by another friend, who transported him to the Grove Police Station.
Officers subsequently rushed him to the Diamond Hospital for emergency treatment, and he was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) due to the severity of his injuries.
Katwaru’s friend was reportedly stabbed in his rib, his back, hand, and head. He was treated and discharged the following day. Police are investigating the attack, but no arrests have been made thus far.
Katwaru is urging authorities to take swift action. “I need justice. I want them to find the persons that did this,” the young construction worker added.
Maternal and Child Health Officer Dr Oneka Scott showcasing the retractable bed on one of the vaccine boats
Rocky Katwaru
Much effort required in 2025 – outgoing CARICOM Chair on Haiti
…as Barbados set to take over chairmanship
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) will have to step up its efforts in the new year to ensure safety and security for the people of Haiti.
This is according to outgoing Chairman of CARICOM, Dickon Mitchell – the Prime Minister of Grenada.
In his year-end statement on Friday, PM Mitchell recalled that CARICOM leaders focused on resuming functional governance and security in Haiti during this past year, through engagement with Haiti’s political leadership, and facilitation with political, religious, private sector and civil society stakeholders by the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group (EPG).
“These engagements with key Haitian stakeholders led to consensus on the formation and installation of a Haitian-owned and led Transitional Presidential Council; selection of a Prime Minister and a Cabinet of Ministers; and the arrival of the first troops of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission. The consensus remains very delicate and will require much effort in 2025,” the outgoing CARICOM Chair stated.
Despite in the installation of the new transitional Government back in April and the deployment of an international force by the Kenyan police officers in June, Haitians continue to suffer from heightened gang violence which were exacerbated after the 2021 assassination
Garbage
of President, Jovenel Moïse.
According to international reports, an estimated 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince is still under gang control.
The United Nations (UN) said some 5,000 people have been killed in violence in Haiti this year alone.
In fact, only earlier this month, between December 6 to 11, over 200 Haitians including older people and vodou religious were killed by a gang in the Wharf Jeremie neighbourhood in Cite Soleil.
Then on Tuesday, two journalists and a police officer were killed by another gang at the reopening of the country’s biggest public hospital in Port-au-Prince. It was reported that the hospital had recently been recaptured from gangs by the Haitian Government in July.
Meanwhile, during the past year, PM Mitchell noted that CARICOM held true to the commitment to decisive leadership and collective action as intrinsic pillars to propel the prosperity and well-being of citizens of the Region.
This strong sense of Community, he added, was especially evident during this year’s Atlantic Hurricane Season, when CARICOM Member States rallied to support those who were adversely affected by Hurricane Beryl and other weather systems.
The Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) hosted
in May saw a new ten-year programme of action, the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, being articulated. There were also key high-level international meetings to address the ongoing challenges of the impact of climate change.
On Digital Resilience, the Grenadian Leader championed the Strategic Digital Resilience Framework 2030 at the July Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government. “This was supported by existing plans for the CARICOM Single ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) Space, including digital skills and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Further bold and decisive action is particularly crucial as we prepare for 2025 and beyond, where the pace of regional and global change will demand a CARICOM that is digitally capable and resilient,” he stated.
To support food and nutrition security efforts, a regional agricultural insurance product was launched to assist CARICOM farmers. We ensured the involvement of women and young people with CARICOM BOOST – a twoyear $1.6 million project to enhance sustainable production, climate resilience, and profitability for women and youth farmer groups across 10 CARICOM Member States. Additionally, a Regional Youth in Agriculture Strategy also heightened focus on education, capacity-building and market linkages.
Allied to the objective of re-
Outgoing CARICOM Chairman, Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell
ducing the food import bills has been efforts to increase air and maritime connectivity, to support, among other things, the regional transportation of food. Consequently, the Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA) is now in force in almost all Member States, and there has been significant increase in regional airlift and connectivity. Moreover, progress has been made on sea transportation following the announcement from Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago of a new ferry service.
“Underpinning all these activities has been attention to health and well-being; human and cultural capital development; youth participation, empowerment and development; and crime prevention
collection under control – M&CC Solid
Director of Solid Waste Management at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC)
Walter Narine has assured residents and business proprietors that garbage collection services are under control, even amidst the heightened waste disposal activities that accompany the Christmas season.
In brief interview with this publication, the Solid Waste Director emphasised that strategic measures had been implemented to ensure timely collection and disposal of garbage across the city. This proactive approach was taken to address the usual surge in waste generation during the festive period.
“We have the contractor work in two shifts, morning and afternoon. They remove the refuse that is scattered on the roadside by the vendors and the business owners. So far, we have done successfully Christmas Day. We run back and do a sweep
yesterday, which is Boxing Day and today trucks are out already, along the commercial area.”
“The commercial area is basically Constituency Seven and that is Newtown, Central Georgetown, basically Regent Street, Rob Street, Charlotte Street, North Road, King Street, Wellington, all the way up to Regent Street,” Narine shared.
He also noted that additional resources, including manpower and vehicles, were allocated to handle the increased workload during the holiday season. These measures were instrumental in preventing any significant disruptions in waste management services.
“The money that was recently allocated is for the household. Every household receives garbage collection prior to Christmas and after Christmas. Alright, so nobody has delays, everybody’s working fine”.
and justice reform. A key activity in this regard was the Second Regional Symposium on Crime and Violence, hosted by Barbados in Guyana, in November, which advanced critical knowledge sharing on successful preventative interventions for crime and violence in the Caribbean,” PM Mitchell stated.
He went onto to mention the continued partnerships with Third States, as CARICOM hosted a series of successful high-level engagements to discuss cooperation, including a Summit with the Republic of India, an engagement with Brazil, meetings with Canada and Japan, and representation in critical international fora such as the Fourth International SIDS Conference, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, COP29 in Azerbaijan, the UN Summit of the Future, and the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
“Through it all, our modus operandi has been to speak with one voice and to premise all our interactions on the vision of a Caribbean Community, which is truly “A Community for All”,” the outgoing CARICOM Chair posited.
PM Mitchel will now be passing on the CARICOM Chairmanship to Barbados’s Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley, expressing confidence that under her leadership, the Community will decisively further its integration goals.
Waste Director
“The state is not looking that bad but you know, remember, today it’s all first professional working day, so you’re going to have more garbage again this afternoon. But what we have in place is two shifts, morning and afternoon shifts, in the commercial area,” he added.
As the Christmas season winds down, M&CC is shifting its focus to monitoring other areas across the city to maintain cleanliness and sanitation. The Waste Management Department has reassured citizens that they will continue to address any outstanding garbage
collection issues promptly.
Approximately two weeks ago, the municipality allocated an additional $8 million for garbage collection in four high-demand constituencies, catering for twice-weekly pickups.
The programme, which began on November 27, will run for eight weeks and will incur an additional $8 million in costs. Guyana Times understands that this is in addition above the $21 million normally spent each month on waste collection.
The four constituencies identified for the increased service are Constituency 8 (which includes Wortmanville, Werk-en-Rust, and Stabroek); Constituency 10 (Albouystown and Charlestown); Constituency 11 (East and West La Penitence); and Constituency 13 (East and West Ruimveldt).
During a recent press conference held by the
Georgetown City Council, Narine had said that an analysis of waste patterns by the council revealed that these areas accumulate more garbage, particularly during the Christmas season. He also stressed on the fact that the initiative that they would have put in place is data-driven and takes into account population density.
“Based on data we’ve gathered over the years, we’ve recognised that these four constituencies generally generate more waste, especially during the Christmas period, for a number of reasons,” the Director said at the time.
The Council has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing waste management services as it transitions into the New Year, noting that efforts to improve waste management infrastructure and operations remain a top priority for 2025. (G1)
Head of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine
Usual bulky garbage not present on Princess Street as of December 27
Household waste on Durban Street
Over 60 MW of reserve power now in electrical grid – Jagdeo on power outage relief
…says GPL to leverage redundancy to do much needed equipment maintenance
With over 60 Megawatts (MW) of reserve power in the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is making hay while the sun shines, using this redundancy as a reprieve to do much needed maintenance on its generating sets without causing excessive blackouts.
This is according to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who explained during a press conference on Friday that with the addition of the second power ship to the grid, they now have over 200 MW of installed capacity in the system and 67 MW of reserve power.
“We have made significant investments. We’re adding maybe 100 MW of
installed capacity. Through fossil fuel and solar. And now, we have purchased and have installed nearly 100 MW, through the power ships. So maybe 200 MW of capacity we’re adding to the system,” Jagdeo explained.
“The transmission mains are still old, but now, given what happened the last week where the power ship sailed into the Demerara
River and was connected to the grid a few nights ago. And that has allowed us, we have 200 MW of power installed. With the demand in October was about 205 MW, peak demand. It is now about 200 MW. So, we have about 67 MW of reserve, for the first time in a while.”
As such, Jagdeo explained that GPL can use part of its reserves to carry out much needed maintenance on various generator sets, without having to compromise on power. According to the Vice President, these are transitional measures until the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project is up and running.
“We’re expecting, as the president said, better levels of performance now that they have the adequate amount of power to meet the demand. In fact, they have way beyond what the peak demand is,” Jagdeo explained.
“So, I’m glad this has happened in the past weeks.
And we don’t expect to have blackouts the way we had. Because of shortage of power, there may be blackouts associated with faults in the transmission system from time to time. A pole falls or anything of that sort. But it should not originate from the lack of power.”
The arrival of the second power ship came after a contract signing last month between GPL and the Joint Venture of Turkishbased Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC JV, to charter a second power ship with a total installed capacity of 75 MW for two years.
In the first phase, the power ship will dispatch 60 MW to the grid in approximately six weeks followed by an additional 15 MW, once works are completed on an additional transmission line. The contract requires GPL to pay the Joint Venture 8.52 US cents per Kilowatt-hour (kWh) as a monthly charter
fee for the new power ship. It also requires a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh, based on electricity generated. Under the contract, GPL is also responsible for providing Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) for the operation of the ship’s generators.
The addition of the second power ship will boost GPL’s generation capacity to 207 MW, ensuring reliable electricity during the holiday season and beyond. The first power ship had been deployed to Guyana in May of this year and is currently stationed at Everton in the Berbice River.
The floating power plant has been supplying 36 MW of electricity to the DBIS. As part of that agreement, GPL had paid a US$1 million mobilisation fee, a fee of 6.62 US cents per kWh as a monthly charter fee for the vessel, and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh based on electricity generated. (G3)
Bandits shoot worker, rob boutique in daring daylight robbery
Adaring daylight robbery on Regent Street, Georgetown on Thursday carried out by two motorcycle bandits targeted a popular Chineseowned boutique, escaping with an undisclosed sum of cash and leaving a worker injured.
The incident occurred at approximately 13:25h at the “Nice To You” Boutique, operated by 50-year-old businessman, Zhenz Sh Fa of Lot 48 Regent Street, Georgetown.
According to reports, the suspects, one armed with a handgun, arrived on a redand-black motorcycle. The
boutique, which was open for business at the time, had customers inside, along with a security guard from Swat Protection Services stationed near the southern entrance.
Witnesses said the armed pillion rider approached the 34-year-old security guard, searched him, and confiscated a toy gun he had tucked in his waistband. The men then stormed the boutique, ordering everyone inside to remain still while one suspect raided the cashier’s drawer, seizing the day’s earnings.
During the robbery, a Chinese national and em-
ployee of the boutique, Zhao Peiming, attempted to intervene. The armed bandit fired a shot, which struck Zhao in his right thigh. The suspects then fled the scene on their motorcycle, speeding eastward along Regent Street, Georgetown. Zhao was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he is receiving treatment. Police investigating the incident recovered a 9mm spent shell at the scene. CCTV footage from cameras in the area is being reviewed as cops work to identify and apprehend the suspects. Investigations are ongoing.
Pres Ali pledges another $1M to Dharm Shala to boost operations – announces
more interventions in
President Dr Irfaan Ali presented $1 million to the Dharm Shala on Christmas Day during a luncheon with the residents of the institution. This donation will allow the Dharm Shala to continue providing its compassionate services to the elderly.
“Today (Wednesday), we’re going to give the institution another million dollars that we always leave at the end of the year. We’re going to continue to support this institution. We’re going to expand this support next year.”
According to the President, this support will
boost the century-old Dharm Shala institution, enhancing its mission of providing free humanitarian services to those in need.
The Head of State topped it off by further announcing that, in addition to this donation, two additional interventions will be introduced in 2025 to strengthen the organisation’s efforts.
“I’ve already communicated to Mr Boyer that, in addition to the subvention, I will try to see how I can make two other interventions during the year that will support the institution.”
Ali also acknowledged the challenges that the el-
2025
derly face in Guyana and commended the unwavering work of those taking care of them at the facility.
“It is not that these persons, brothers and sisters, who are part of this institution, are a weight on society or a weight on this institution. They are as much equal as we are. They are part of this family of humanity. Many times, our elderly in our community face the challenges of family and community, and these sisters, do enormous work with the support of their staff.”
It has been a yearly tradition for the President to visit the institution on Christmas Day to share in the festivities and reinforce the Government’s firm sup-
“Before I meet to my husband he already dead” – wife recalls fatal accident
…drunken driver charged, released on $150,000 bail
Aman who police said had 68 micrograms of alcohol in his system based on a breathalyser test, was on Friday granted bail in the sum of $150,000 for causing the death of a pedestrian with his car.
Brian Mahadeo 24, of Hampshire Village Corentyne appeared before Magistrate Tuana Hardy on Friday at the at the Whim Magistrate’s Court on a charge of causing death by dangerous driving. He pleaded not guilty and was placed on $150,000 bail with condition that his passport be lodged.
Mahadeo will have to return to court on January 13.
Police reported that Jermaine Fraser, 40 of Auchlyne Village Corentyne, walked into a speeding car on Christmas Eve night and his head was crushed.
The incident occurred at about 23:30h.
In a release, the police said Fraser was standing beside the right front door of a stationary lorry whilst motorcar besting registration number, PSS 9882 was proceeding on the opposite side of the road allegedly at a fast rate of speed when
Dead: Jermaine Fraser
the Fraser proceeded to cross the road. According to Police, the right front of the car collided with him, causing him to fall onto the road surface and receive injuries. Reports are that the car wheel rolled over his head, smashing his skull.
Fraser was picked up by public spirited citizens and taken to Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The police also stated a breathalyser test was conducted on the driver, recorded 68 and 62 micrograms,
respectively.
Meanwhile, Fraser’s wife, 31-year-old Sherry Persaud, explained that she, along with Fraser and other family members, had gone to Rose Hall Town to celebrate Christmas Eve and were returning home when the unfortunate incident occurred.
She explained that she was in the lorry when her husband stopped and said he was going into a bar to meet some friends.
“He say that it is a new place open and he wouldn’t be long… his friends they leave Rose Hall same time with us but they were in front and they stop there.”
The woman said Fraser had just opened the door of the vehicle and gotten out when he saw the speeding car coming towards him.
“The car leave where he was driving and go over to my husband lane where he park and hit him in front of the truck door. He didn’t have a chance to lock the door or a chance to move off from the door… the car pull him about 100 feet away… I run out from the truck and before I meet to my husband he already dead,” the woman said. (G4)
port. He also distributed toys to the children of the community in the spirit of spreading joy during this season.
Meanwhile, Vice President of the Dharm Shala, Pamela Ramsaroop, highlighted some of the challenges the institution faces daily.
These issues include the parapet near their office and home, which is now a horse stable with two to three horses at any one time. More dangerously, there is the practice of tethering horses and horse carts to the electrical lantern posts on the parapet near the King Edward Street Bridge.
This pulling by horse and cart will eventually weaken
the posts, upset the wires, and potentially cause a fierce conflagration, she related.
To top it off, flies and urine smells are always present, posing an ever-serious health problem to the occupants at the facility.
Although the affected parapets were thoroughly cleaned during the recent Government cleanup drive, they are being overwhelmed by a daily barrage of rubbish, turning the area into a dumping site.
“This is a very upsetting spectacle,” she said. “The possible reason for this is the lack of consistent monitoring or arrests of offenders. The site remains a great deterrent to visitors, both local and foreign.”
However, amidst this, the institution continues its work and remains thankful for the investments.
Ramsaroop emphasised that residents are provided with daily meals, clean and comfortable accommodation, as well as social and religious fulfilment.
“As in previous years, the Dharm Shala has been visited by a few local visitors and those from overseas, all bringing with them small monetary donations, which are all gratefully received by management. Owing to the age of the Dharm Shala, and always with the safety of residents in mind, repair and maintenance work of the Dharm Shala is continuous,” she related.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Vice President of the Dharm Shala, Pamela Ramsaroop
President Dr Irfaan Ali distributing meals to residents of the Dharm Shala
“We must continue to carry out our mandate” – Ambassador Brotherson to CARICOM
As the new year approaches Consul General of Guyana to New York, Ambassador Michael Brotherson has called upon CARICOM to continue its efforts to carry out its mandate. He at the time made these remarks at the Guyana Consulate in Manhattan where scores of diasporans and members of CARICOM gathered for a Christmas social event.
“We have been able to carry out our mandate with much alacrity. It is something that we must continue doing. Our mandate comes directly from His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali. He’s keenly interested in having the diaspora served with dignity and respect. I am happy to see so many of you here, my friends and schoolmates, and everyone who came to celebrate with my wonderful staff and me.”
Meanwhile In his brief remarks, the ambassador spoke highly of the Consul General of Jamaica to New York, Alsion Wilson, chair of the CARICOM Consular Corps, calling her his boss and a wonderful lady who
has been playing a key integral role.
“She has been a leader for us. We have interacted and have pursued several projects together to enhance the lives of our diasporans. Alsion has been a beacon in our efforts to serve our collective Caribbean people,”
Wilson replied, “Ambassador, thank you so much for all that you do for not only the Guyanese in New York but for the Caribbean as a whole, said Wilson. “We have a long-standing relationship, and Jamaica is here in full force. Thanks for the support we receive from you and your fantastic staff,” said Council General Wilson.
“We love Guyana. The relationship we shared over the past years will continue as we serve the Jamaican and Guyana diaspora here in New York. Please remember that I have leaned on you so many times for advice and support, you can continue to do the same,
Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, who also serves as Guyana’s High Representative for the United Nations Security
Council (UNSC) Affairs and Co-chair of the USCaribbean High-Level Action Committee on Food Security, extended festive greetings to Ambassador Brotherson, the Consulate, and Mission to the UN Staff members, representatives from CARICOM countries, expatriates, and community leaders.
He also brought greetings from President Irfaan Ali, the Government, and the people of Guyana.
He spoke of Guyana’s transformational and economic growth and urged nationals to play their part in making the mind and the health of the country one in which all will continue to win the admiration of not
only its people within the country but wider afield.
“I want also to encourage the staff and commend them for the work that they’ve been doing. Give them a round of applause,” he encouraged, adding, “The consulate belongs to you too. This is not only the property of the Government of Guyana, but also the proper-
ty of the people of Guyana.” He added, “I want you to ensure that the ambassador and his team deliver, but especially as we go into 2025 and given the great things that are going to be happening in our country, we also have to have that greater outlook in how we serve people, how we engage, and how it is that we try to facilitate development and support every single day.”
The cheerful evening’s proceedings, included the handing over of a Proclamation from New Jersey Senator Britnee Timberlake and Plaques from the Guyana American Heritage Foundation, NJ, presented by the organisation’s president, Lady Ira Lewis. The accolades went to Ambassador Michael E. Brotherson and Fazel Yussuff, Diaspora Unit, Consulate.
The Annual Christmas Social also served as a wonderful opportunity for the Consulate to showcase its commitment to fostering cultural exchange and strengthening ties between Guyana and the United States (US).
Jamaican MP strengthening ties with Guyanese women
Member of Parliament for Jamaica and former Miss World, Lisa Hanna has strengthened several ties with local Guyanese women by sharing her expertise in leadership and advocacy.
She at the time fostered this strengthening of ties when she recently visited Guyana at the invitation of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG).
These insights she shared spun around resource de-
velopment, mentoring, and strategic collaborations to strengthen support for women, children, and families in Guyana.
Hanna and the WCCIG engaged with two key organisations, Blossom Inc and Women Across Differences (WAD), shared insights on resource development, mentoring, and strategic collaborations to strengthen support for women, children, and families in Guyana. In attendance representing WCCIG were Rowena Elliot, President; Josephine
Tapp, President- elect; Shamela John, Treasurer; and Martina Johnson, Director of Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Following discussions, Dalgety-Dean expressed the honour it was to host the Jamaican member of parliament at the event to bestow her knowledge on persons present at the event.
At Blossom Inc, an organisation founded to support the Childcare and Protection Agency in Guyana and help children and families affect-
ed by trauma, discussions with its founder Dr Ayodele Dalgety-Dean, centred on bridging gaps in expertise through mentorship and advocacy support, as well as fostering networks to bolster existing programmes.
Also representing Blossom were: Leanna Thompson (Programme Manager), Ronetta Knights (CAC & Extended Services Operations Coordinator), and Kerri Lambert (Education & Outreach Officer).
During the subse-
quent meeting with WAD, Hanna and WCCIG executives engaged in discussions with Clonel SamuelsBoston, Coordinator at WAD and Denese Griffith, Administrative Assistant, along with two young women who were once participants in the teen mothers’ programme and who are now volunteers.
Hanna commended the WAD team for their impactful work and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting their efforts.
Hanna and the WCCIG
team heard details about some of the challenges women and girls face in Guyana, while the two young volunteers shared their stories, how their challenges impacted their lives, and how WAD helped them cope and become more resilient and successful.
The meeting provided a platform to explore future collaborations between WAD and the Women’s Chamber, emphasising shared goals of advancing women’s empowerment and community development in Guyana.
Communications Officer of the Jamaica Consulate, Christopher Benjamin, left, a guest, CG Michael
E Brotherson, CG Alison Wilson, and Sheldon Peter Anthony, Consul General of Dominica, during a festive social at the Manhattan Consulate on December 18
Lisa Hanna at Blossom
Lisa Hanna and WCCIG at WAD
Around the World
OOil settles up over 1% on large draw from US crude stocks
OIL NEWS
2 reporters, police officer killed in shooting at Haiti hospital reopening
Two reporters and a police officer were killed and others injured on Tuesday when armed men opened fire on a group of journalists who gathered for a government press conference scheduled to announce the reopening of Haiti’s largest public hospital.
Street gangs forced the closure of the State University of Haiti hospital early this year
and authorities had pledged to reopen the facility in the capital, Port-au-Prince, on Christmas Eve. But as journalists gathered to cover the event, the gunmen opened fire.
Johnson “Izo” André, considered Haiti’s most powerful gang leader and part of a gang coalition known as Viv Ansanm that has taken control of much of Port-au-Prince,
posted a video on social media claiming responsibility for the attack.
The video said the gang coalition had not authorized the hospital’s reopening.
Video posted online showed reporters inside the building and at least three lying on the floor, apparently wounded. The video could not be immediately verified.
Robest Dimanche, a
spokesperson for the Online Media Collective, identified the killed journalists as Markenzy Nathoux and Jimmy Jean. The Haitian Association of Journalists confirmed two reporters and a police officer were killed, and seven reporters were wounded in what it called “a macabre scene comparable to terrorism, pure and simple”. (Excerpted from The Guardian)
il prices settled more than 1% higher on Friday and recorded a weekly gain in low trading volume ahead of year-end, buoyed by a larger-than-expected drawdown from U.S. crude inventories last week.
Brent crude futures rose 91 cents, or 1.2%, to settle at $74.17 per barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 98 cents, or 1.4%, to $70.60 per barrel.
On a weekly basis, both Brent and WTI crude gained about 1.4%.
U.S. crude oil inventories fell by 4.2 million barrels in the week ended Dec. 20 as refiners ramped up activity and the holiday season boosted fuel demand, data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration showed on Friday.
Analysts polled by Reuters had expected a 1.9 millionbarrel drawdown, whereas figures from the American Petroleum Institute released earlier in the week estimated a 3.2 million-barrel draw, according to market sources.
Optimism over Chinese economic growth has also sparked hopes of higher demand next year from the top oil importing nation.
The World Bank on Thursday raised its forecast for Chinese economic growth in 2024 and 2025. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities have agreed to issue special treasury bonds worth 3 trillion yuan ($411 billion) next year, sources told Reuters this week, as Beijing acts to revive the sluggish economy. The war between Russia and Ukraine, which had become an afterthought in energy markets due to stagnant global oil demand, seems to be returning to the forefront after numerous events this week that could impact supplies next year, fuel distributor TACenergy's trading desk wrote on Friday.
NATO said on Friday it would boost its presence in the Baltic Sea, a day after Finland seized a ship carrying Russian oil on suspicion of causing internet and power cable outages. Meanwhile, Dutch and British wholesale natural gas prices rose amid fading hopes for a new deal to transit Russian gas through Ukraine.
Tensions have flared in the Middle East too, after Israel raided a north Gaza hospital on Friday and struck targets linked to the Houthi movement in Yemen on Thursday, but these events are unlikely to affect oil prices much heading into next year, StoneX analyst Alex Hodes said.
Instead, the largest risk in the Middle East is from sanctions enforcement that will likely occur with the incoming Donald Trump administration in the U.S., he said. (Reuters)
Man charged with murder, arson in NYC subway killing
Prosecutors have formally charged a man in the death of a woman set alight on a New York subway train.
On Friday, Sebastian Zapeta was indicted on charges of murder and arson, though he did not appear during the brief court hearing.
Mr Zapeta, 33, is accused of setting fire to the woman, who may have been asleep on the train, and fanning the flames with a shirt. The victim has not been identified.
The suspect has been held without bail since his arrest shortly after the incident.
The BBC has contacted Mr Zapeta's lawyer for comment.
Police say the woman was sitting on a stationary train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue Station in Brooklyn
on Sunday morning when she was approached by a man who used a lighter to ignite her clothing.
There was no interaction between the pair before the attack and police believe they did not know each other.
Officers extinguished the flame, but the woman died at the scene.
The man got off the train as police officers on patrol in the station rushed to the fire, but he did not flee immediately and his face was captured on police body cameras. At a news conference earlier this week, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the incident as "one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being". (BBC)
Trump asks US Supreme Court to pause ban-or-divest law for TikTok
resident-elect Donald
PTrump has urged the US supreme court to pause implementation of a law that would ban popular social media app TikTok or force its sale, arguing he should have time after taking office to pursue a “political resolution” to the issue.
The court is set to hear arguments in the case on 10 January.
The law would require TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell the platform to an American company or face a ban. The US Congress voted in April to ban it unless
ByteDance sells the app by 19 January.
TikTok, which has over 170 million US users, and its parent company have sought to have the law struck down. But if the court does not rule in their favor and no divestment occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the United States on 19 January, one day before Trump takes office.
Trump’s support for TikTok is a reversal from 2020, when he tried to block the app in the US and force its sale to American companies because of its Chinese ownership.
It also shows the significant effort by the company to forge inroads with Trump and his team during the presidential campaign.
“President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute,” said D John Sauer, Trump’s lawyer who is also the president-elect’s pick for US solicitor general. “Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump’s incoming
administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case,” he added.
Trump previously met with Shou Zi Chew, the TikTok CEO, in December, hours after the president-elect expressed, he had a “warm spot” for the app and that he favored allowing TikTok to keep operating in the United States for at least a little while. The president-elect also said he had received billions of views on the social media platform during his presidential campaign. (Excerpted from The Guardian)
Survivors on Azerbaijani plane say they heard bangs before it went down
Two passengers and one crew member on the Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed in Kazakhstan told Reuters that they heard at least one loud bang as it approached its original destination of Grozny in southern Russia.
Flight J2-8243 crashed on Wednesday in a ball of fire near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan after diverting from an area of southern Russia where Moscow has repeatedly used air defence systems against Ukrainian attack drones. At least 38 people were killed while 29 survived.
"After the bang...I thought the plane was going to fall apart," Subhonkul Rakhimov, one of the passengers, told Reuters from hospital.
He said he had begun to recite prayers and prepare for the end after hearing the bang.
"It was obvious that the plane had been damaged in some way," he said. "It was as if it was drunk - not the same plane anymore."
Another passenger on the plane told Reuters that she also heard a loud bang.
"I was very scared," said Vafa Shabanova, adding that
there was also a second bang.
She was then told by a flight attendant to move to the back of the plane.
Both passengers said there appeared to be a problem with the oxygen levels in the cabin
after the bang.
Flight attendant Zulfugar Asadov said landing was denied in Grozny due to fog so the pilot circled at which point there were bangs outside the aircraft. (Reuters)
T&T 2-time wife killer jailed for 27 years
The brutal, heinous and callous killing of his wife earned a 27-year sentence for a Barrackpore lorry driver who had also killed his previous wife.
However, Ramesh “Blood” Sieunarine will serve a term of 13 years, five months and 22 days for killing his common-law wife Tricia Ramsaran–Ramdass on June 9, 2020. This was the sentence he was left with after receiving discounts for his guilty plea and the time he has already spent in prison awaiting trial.
Justice Lisa RamsumairHinds sentenced him, accepting a plea-agreement deal with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions which allowed him to plead guilty to
manslaughter based on provocation.
He was initially charged with Ramsaran-Ramdass’s murder. According to the judge’s sentencing ruling, Sieunarine killed RamsaranRamdass in a drunken stupor during an argument about her fidelity.
“The papers suggest that he killed this wife because he couldn’t bear to visualise that she had performed fellatio on some other man.
“With all due respect, courts must signal a strong message to all persons in society that women cannot be killed simply because they wish to exercise sexual autonomy.
“If the relationship is no longer a loving, committed and thriving one, the aggrieved party is free to leave and move on. The statistics suggest that we are not meeting the deterrent effect,” Ramsumair-Hinds acknowledged.
Ramsaran-Ramdass was strangled to death and also suffered head trauma during
an argument with Sieunarine at their Sukhan Trace, Barrackpore, home. The judge rejected his entreaty that his behaviour was caused by his abuse of alcohol as a coping mechanism for his stress. While acknowledging that “alcoholism is a disease and can be a maladaptive coping mechanism for the stressors of life,” she said when it “results in family violence and even extreme acts of violence, I cannot, in the circumstances of this prisoner, countenance it as a mitigating factor.”
She also considered his previous conviction for the unlawful killing of a previous wife in 2006, for which he was put on a bond. (T&T Newsday)
Ramesh “Blood” Sieunarine
The Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed in Kazakhstan
SUDOKU
Do your part to help those less fortunate. Be a good listener and offer suggestions that give hope to others. Refrain from providing donations you cannot afford to organizations you aren’t familiar with.
Restructure your daily routine to ensure you pay attention to whatever brings you the most valued return. Set goals and focus on whatever helps you satisfy your soul.
Your actions will set the pace for those following in your footsteps. Your input will gain momentum and attract positive attention. Ask for what you want and get written agreements.
A money matter puts you in a vulnerable position. Avoid getting involved with someone who doesn’t play fair. Use your skills resourcefully, and you will outmaneuver anyone in your way.
Stay on top of matters using handson tactics to ensure you hold the interest of those whose opinions matter to you. A heart-to-heart talk will maintain equality and respect.
Look through your closet and household items; you’ll find the perfect items to help you ring in the new year with pizzazz. Say no to temptation and yes to opportunities.
Looking out for your best interests will make you feel good and keep you healthy, wealthy and wise. Trips, educational pursuits and exploring your options will lead to exciting prospects.
Avoid getting into a heated debate with someone as staunch as you. Nowin situations prevent you from reaching your full potential. Sidestep controversy and do what you do best.
Consider what you can do differently moving forward. There is always room for improvement, so be open to suggestions. Opportunity is apparent, but so is pretense.
Adjust your surroundings at home to make your space more relaxing. Setting boundaries will help curb anxiety. Channel your energy into fitness and healthy living.
A professional opportunity or chance to raise your profile in your community is within reach. Take advantage of a platform that allows you to promote what you enjoy and do best.
Question anything that doesn’t suit your needs. Put safety first and say no to manipulative tactics. Trust your judgment, not someone trying to lure you into something questionable.
ARCHIE
Windies
Deepti Sharma turned in a superb all-round performance to help India seal the ODI series 3-0 in Vadodara. She first took 6 for 31 as West Indies folded for 162; then, with India in choppy waters, she provided a calming influence with an unbeaten 39 to help the team home by five wickets.
While Deepti dug in for
the hard grind, aided with luck when she was dropped by Hayley Matthews at slip on 21, Richa Ghosh lent the finishing touches to the win. Having walked in to bat with India at 129 for 5, Ghosh allayed fears of a collapse by hitting one four and three sixes in her brisk 11-ball 23. This included back-to-back sixes off legspinner Afy Fletcher to see off India's chase.
SCOREBOARD
West Indies Women (50 ovs maximum)
Qiana Joseph c †Ghosh
b Renuka Singh 0
Hayley Matthews (c)
b Renuka Singh 0
Shemaine Campbelle †
c Pratika Rawal b Sharma 46
Deandra Dottin
b Renuka Singh 5
Chinelle Henry
b Sharma 61
Zaida James c Kaur
b Sharma 1
Aaliyah Alleyne c Rodrigues
b Sharma 21
Mandy Mangru c Rodrigues
b Renuka Singh 9
Afy Fletcher c Rodrigues
b Sharma 1
Ashmini Munisar
b Sharma 4
Karishma Ramharack not out 3
Extras (w 11) 11
Total 38.5 Ov (RR: 4.17) 162
Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Qiana Joseph, 0.1 ov), 2-1 (Hayley Matthews, 0.6 ov), 3-9 (Deandra Dottin, 4.3 ov), 4-100 (Shemaine Campbelle, 21.1 ov), 5-102 (Zaida James, 23.4 ov), 6-141 (Chinelle Henry, 31.3 ov), 7-150 (Aaliyah Alleyne, 33.6 ov), 8-152 (Afy Fletcher, 35.3 ov), 9-158 (Ashmini Munisar, 37.6 ov), 10-162 (Mandy Mangru, 38.5 ov)
Bowling
Renuka Singh
O-M-R-W
9.5-0-29-4
Titas Sadhu 7-1-28-0
Tanuja Kanwar 9-0-44-0
Priya Mishra 3-0-30-0 Deepti Sharma 10-3-31-6
India Women (T: 163 runs from 50 ovs)
Smriti Mandhana c Munisar b Alleyne 4
Pratika Rawal c Ramharack b Matthews 18 Harleen Deol c †Campbelle b Dottin 1 Harmanpreet Kaur (c) b Fletcher 32
Jemimah Rodrigues c Dottin b Ramharack 29
Deepti Sharma not out 39
Richa Ghosh † not out 23
Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 19) 21
Total 28.2 Ov (RR: 5.89) 167/5
Did not bat: Tanuja Kanwar, Titas Sadhu, Priya Mishra, Renuka Singh Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Smriti Mandhana, 5.3 ov), 2-23 (Harleen Deol, 6.1 ov), 3-55 (Pratika Rawal, 9.4 ov), 4-73
(Harmanpreet Kaur, 12.6 ov), 5-129 (Jemimah Rodrigues, 24.4 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Deandra Dottin 5-2-27-1
Aaliyah Alleyne 4-0-28-1
Hayley Matthews 9-1-31-1
Afy Fletcher 4.2-0-42-1
Karishma Ramharack 5-0-29-1
Ashmini Munisar 1-0-9-0
Women’s Tour of India 2024/25: ODI Series, Game 3 of 3…
Deepti's all-round heroics hand India series’ sweep
Poor performance
Under leaden skies, and on a surface that got progressively tougher to bat on, with the odd ball keeping low and turning big, West Indies were left to rue another poor batting performance.
Barring Chinelle Henry and Shemaine Campbelle, who put together 91 for the fourth wicket, there was little else of note from the batting unit.
The collapse began in the very first over, when Renuka Singh removed Qiana Joseph with a faint tickle down leg, and the in-form Matthews with a superb in-ducker four balls later. When Deandra Dottin was bowled in attempting a hack into the leg side to Renuka, the visitors were at 9 for 3 in the fifth over.
Renuka finished with a four-for eventually, coming back later to clean up the lower order amidst the Deepti show.
Under the shadow of a collapse, Henry, playing her first ODI of the series, rebuilt the innings. She struggled to get bat to ball early on, pottering to 3 off 17. Then, from nowhere, she brought out a release shot for six off
debutant left-arm spinner Tanuja Kanwar to get going; and during the course of her third half-century, she played some neat little cuts and glides.
At the other end, Campbelle showed positivity against spin. She took the at tack early to legspin ner Priya Mishra, hitting her for three boundar ies in her second over. After using her feet to launch into two stunning drives - one down the ground and the other through covershe rocked back to pull Mishra for a third drive as she dropped short. This 91-run stand for the fourth wicket ap peared to have revived the visitors as much as it frustrated India.
The Deepti Show That was when Deepti came into the game, and made a telling contribution.
Consumed by a rush of blood, Campbell was lulled
into the big shot by Deepti, only for Pratika Rawal to take a comfortable catch at
In the following over, Zaida James was caught superbly at slip by Harmanpreet, as Deepti had her driving from the rough. It could've been a triple-strike for India, had Renuka not dropping the simplest of return catches via a leading edge to reprieve Aaliya Alleyne on zero. Alleyne made only 21, though, before falling to a tame chip to short midwicket.
Alleyne's wicket came hot on the heels of Henry's dismissal for a third ODI half-century, when she was out bowled by a straighter one; and West
Indies went on to lose their last 5 wickets for 21. India's reply began in nervous fashion, as they lost Smriti Mandhana and Harleen Deol early in the powerplay against the moving ball. Pratika Rawal also missed out on a great opportunity to build on a solid foundation from her first two ODIs when she holed out to mid-on in an attempt to hit out against the offspin of Matthews.
India captain Harmanpreet then picked up the pieces and put together a fantastic exhibition of cover driving. Having begun with two fours off the first five deliveries she faced, she went on to pierce a packed off-side ring as she hit Dottin for three fours in the ninth over to quickly take her score to 23 off 13. Harmanpreet looked in rip-roaring form when she played back and was bowled by a skidder from Afy Fletcher.
The wicket briefly galvanised the visitors, but India weren't to be denied, as Deepti, Jemimah Rodrigues and Ghosh all played neat hands to see them home. (ESPNCricinfo)
Jamaica Olympic Association is now National Association of Jamaican Olympians
…Dr Neil Gardner elected President of NAJO
Dr Neil Gardner, the 1996 Olympian, has been elected President of the National Association of Jamaican Olympians (NAJO), formerly known as the Jamaica Olympian Association (JOA), having been so elected at that association’s Annual General Assembly last week.
That meeting began with a vote that allowed attending members to change the name of the association with the aim of achieving an image that is more representative of its members. Once that was completed, next on the agenda was electing a new president, and Gardner, who represented Jamaica at the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996 as a semi-finalist in the 400-metre hurdles, was the candidate selected, succeeding Marvin Anderson.
Gardner has emphasized the importance of starting with determination, and announced the first committee meeting would be held in early January with the aim of charting the organization’s de-
Dr Neil Gardner
velopment path.
"I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and the executive team," Gardner has said.
From now on, the head official would be supported by a leadership team that includes Toni-Ann Williams as vice-president, Cathy Rattray Samuel as general secretary, and Allan Marsh as treasurer.
Additionally, the committee includes distinguished members such as Aleen Bailey, Kaliese Spencer Carter, Vilma Charlton, Christine Day, Winthrop Graham, Zara
Northover, Garth Robinson, and Ruth Williams Simpson.
The new leadership's goals include rebranding the association, defining a strategic plan, and strengthening its image as an influential entity in Jamaican sport.
The meeting continued with the unanimous adoption of a new constitution. Included is an amendment allowing Jamaica Olympic Association President Christopher Samuda to hold an ex-officio position on the executive committee as a non-voting member.
"The position will allow the alignment of Olympic values, political considerations, and developmental initiatives of both entities, while also deepening Olympic ties and fostering coordinated action in the interest of the nation," Samuda has said.
"In many ways, this is a new and purposeful chapter in the lives of our Olympians, as the current National Association of Jamaican Olympic Athletes has been set in motion with the intention of adapting its strategic and developmental goals. With the support of the executive and under Gardner's leadership, I trust we can transform an association into an institution, and an institution into a movement," he added.
Founded in 2024, NAJO is composed exclusively of athletes who have competed for Jamaica in the Olympic Games, and it has a mission to unite and represent Olympians, advocate for their interests, and promote the values of Olympism on the island. (Sportsmax)
Renuka Singh took two wickets in the first over
Chinelle Henry resurrected West Indies' innings
Shemaine Campbelle steadied the innings after early setbacks
National Gymnasium to see fantastic basketball action
The “One Guyana” Basketball League being played at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown continues today under supervision of the Guyana Basketball Federation, and it is anticipated that former and current national athletes would continue to showcase their unique skills in this sporting discipline.
The clash between Raven and Masters would start today’s action, and the worst kept secret is that each team is gunning to exercise dominance over the other after the previous losses they have suffered. Thus, the Ravens would expectedly be an offensive unit spearheaded by the rampaging Nikkoloi Smith and Shamaar Huntley, while the Masters would be looking to torpedo the Ravens’ inten-
tions by the efforts of the former national players representing them.
The University of Guyana Trojans and the Bounty Colts, as undefeated sides, are expected to employ their proverbial ballistic missiles in the closing game of the night. Each team has a high level of athleticism; each team has experienced and energetic players; and it is anticipated that each team would be looking to secure a win, if only for bragging rights’ sake.
The “One Guyana” tournament commenced with 27 teams in the Harpy Eagle and Jaguar Conferences, and with a projected 56 to 63
games having to be played. These teams are expected to play teams from their conference twice, with the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs. The number oneranked team plays the fourth-ranked team, and the number two team plays the thirdranked team. Winners of the playoff games would then advance to their conference finals, where the winners of the best two of three games would advance to the National Finals.
The tournament-winning team would receive $1 million along with trophies, while the runners-up would receive $500,000 plus trophies.
Britton, Moore, McNeil, Utoh emerge category champions
Shemar Britton, Malachi Moore, Ebo McNeil and Obinner Utoh have emerged victorious in the respective categories that they contested in the GTTA Christmas Table Tennis Tournament, played at the National Gymnasium on December 21st and 22nd, 2024.
Demonstrating class with the racquet, Shemar Britton defeated Krystian Sahadeo in the men’s singles finals 11-3, 11-4, 11-5 (3-0). In the semifinals, Britton defeated Van Lange 11-7, 11-3, 11-3, (3-0), and Sahadeo defeated Malachi Moore 3-2.
receiving
Mahaica Determinators impress on opening night
The annual year-end, 8-a-side Invitational Football tournament promoted by Candy Boss got off to a flying start on Thursday night: with four teams taking to the field at the All Saints Ground on Princess Elizabeth Road in New Amsterdam, and a goal-feast characterising the opening night, with 15 goals being scored in the double-header.
The opening game saw Paradise Invaders going down 3-1 to Cougars ‘B’, the team which replaced Orealla in the tournament.
Dave Singh opened the scoring in the 9th minute to send Cougars ‘B’ into the lead, but that advantage was shortlived as Haysew Mingo found the back of the net in the 25th minute to equalize for the Invaders. However, Quacy Auldeo sealed the issue with goals in the 32nd and 48 minutes, ensuring the Cougars ‘B’ win by 3-1.
In quarter-final action, Britton defeated Jaden Mahaica Determinators outplayed Black Sharks 11-0
trophy Trotman 3-0, Van Lange defeated Ebo McNeil 3-1, Sahadeo defeated Colin Wong 3-1, and Moore beat Levi Percival 3-0.
In group matches, Malachi Moore upset Van Lange, the number 2 seed in the tournament, 3-11, 12-10, 11-7, 5-11 and 11-7 (3-2).
The second game turned out to be a one-sided affair, as Mahaica Determinators outplayed Black Sharks of Fyrish 11-nil.
Julius Hamilton scored a treble and Brian James a double; while Samuel Vandyke, Shemol McPherson, Jason Smith, Bevan Mansfield, Christian James and Michael Lewis each found the back of the net, while Fyrish had no answer for this onslaught.
The tournament continued on Friday evening with two more matches. In the opener, Ann’s Grove came up against Monedderlust, while the night’s feature involved New Amsterdam United doing battle with Rainbow Generation.
Melanie attempted to
resist being arrested by the Police Force, while Ithaca battled the Trafalgar Titans, and the feature game of the evening saw the Eagles taking on Mahaicony.
Tournament final is set for January 4 at the same venue. Over $1M in cash and prizes are up for grabs. (G-4)
In the “B” Class Open finals, Moore defeated Sahadeo 7-11, 11-9, 11-5, 7-11 and 11-6 (3-2); joint 3rd place went to Levi Nedd who lost to Sahadeo 1-3, and to Colin Wong, who lost to Moore 1-3.
In quarter-final action, Moore defeated Akira Watson 3-1, Wong beat Umar Percival 3-2, Levi Percival beat Akeem Hall 3-2, and Sahadeo defeated Ebo McNeil 3-2.
In “C” Class Open singles finals, Ebo McNeil defeated Akira Watson 11-7, 11-3, 3-11 and 11-8 (3-1); joint third place went to Kayden Meusa, who lost to McNeil 2-3, and to Rainford Benfield, who lost to Watson 2-3.
In the quarter-finals, Meusa beat Akeem Hall 3-1, McNeil beat Yeudistair Persaud 3-1, Benfield defeated Jaden Trotman 3-1, and Seona Barker lost to Watson 3-0.
In Novice Open finals, Obinner Utoh defeated Alex Garraway 13-11, 11-2, 12-10; joint third place went to Mark Fraser who lost to Garraway 2-3, and to Sunil Barron, who lost to Utoh 1-3.
The quarter-finals saw Fraser defeat Jimmy Carpio 3-0, Garraway beat Jhonny Carpio 3-1, Utoh beat Alexis
Winners of the tournament
Shamaar Britton
his
Curdy 3-0, and Barron beat Yonnic Norton 3-0.
K&S/One Guyana National Futsal Championships 2024…
Bent Street, Road Warriors, Sparta Boss, Back Circle to contest semis on January 1
…After riveting Round of 16 & quarterfinal action
The reopened Cliff Anderson Sports Hall
(CASH) has seen exhilarating Futsal action earlier this week, as teams competed in the Round of 16 and semifinal segments of the “One Guyana” National Futsal Championships.
Each winner on the quarter-final night did so in fantastic style, none scoring less than 5 goals in marching into the semifinals and the business end of the inaugural Kashif & Shanghai/“One Guyana” National Futsal Championships.
On Boxing Night, the second night that competitive sports made a grand return to the refurbished Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), not only were the quarters hosted, but the first two matches in the female segment of this competition were hosted as well.
Using the home-and-away format which will see the top two teams on aggregate contesting the final on January 3rd 2025, Lady Canaimas trounced The Lioness 11-0, while Lady Royals tamed Tucville Terrorists 7-0.
Lady Canaimas were led by Sandra Johnson with 5 goals (7th, 9th, 11th, 17th, 22nd), and Glendy Lewis hit in a helmet-trick (2nd, 6th, 18th, 19th), while one each came from Shanic Thornhill (11th) and Glengie Lewis (24th).
Amanda McKenzie led Lady Royals with a hat-trick (7th, 12th, 16th), Shontell Greene had a double (8th, 21st), while there was one each for Ashantie Aaron (8th) and Tiandi Smith (15th).
The teams will collide again on January 1st with the overall winner advancing to the championship match.
The most rousing clash on the night was
Team Cruel’s Samuel Garnett scored an own goal in the 9th minute to get Bent Street’s goal tally underway, and it was not until the 20th minute that it was doubled through a Daniel Ross effort, his first of two.
Second half strikes by Pernel Schultz (26th), Jobe Caesar (29th), Daniel Ross (35th) and Colin Nelson (40th) kept intact the Bent Street boys’ hopes of a place in the championship match.
Team Cruel’s enterprising run in the championships came to an end with this loss, as their three goals: from Jamal Codrington
Once Sparta Boss had equalised in the 23rd minute through Omari Glasgow with the first of his brace, there was a steady procession back to the centre circle to restart the ball by Stabroek Ballers.
Glasgow scored again in the 27th minute, as did Curtez Kellman. Kelsey Benjamin added his in the 34th minute, and Jermaine Junor did so two minutes later. Nicholas McArthur hit in number 6 one minute before the final whistle.
Burnette was on target again in the 39th
the Road Warriors/Gold Is Money match, which saw the Warrior lads from Brazil/ Lethem schooling one of the more seasoned futsal teams in Guyana. Even the fans in the stands and VIP booths were so appreciative of the style of play displayed by the Road Warriors that they were constantly on their feet to applaud exciting moments and the quality of goals that were scored following meticulous moves on court, which ended in some scintillating goals.
Leading the Warriors to the biggest margin of victory on the night was Wendrecky De Souza with a hat-trick (23rd, 26th, 37th) which has now taken his tally in the championship to 11. Matheus De Souza (7th, 19th) and Daniel Alves (3rd, 25th) each scored a brace, and Dionathas Pereira (6th) and Erilson Cadete (34th) each contributed one.
The lone goal scored by Gold Is Money came from Shomar Kouley in the 8th minute.
Road Warriors will meet with Bent Street ‘A’, which defeated Team Cruel of BV 6-3.
(28th, 33rd) and Dequan France (32nd), were not enough to negate Bent Street’s path to victory.
The championships’ leading goal-scorer, Beveney Marks, has maintained his ability to score in every game. He scored in the 19th minute, his 22nd overall in Back Circle ‘A’s 5-2 triumph against North East. That win sealed the Back Circle’s semifinal clash with Sparta Boss, which got past a tough Stabroek Ballers ‘B’ by a 6-3 margin.
The other scorers for Back Circle ‘A’ were Darren Benjamin (5th), Stephan McLean (6th), Akil Plass (30th), and Steohon Reynolds (32nd). Jaldew Hamilton (11th), and Tyrese Dennis (15th) were the scorers for North East. Stabroek Ballers ‘B’ held the first-half advantage when Gerry Burnette’s 17th minute strike sailed past goalkeeper Omar Jones. The Ballers had looked destined to create a huge upset, but the experienced Sparta side gradually ramped up the momentum, and eventually wrested both advantage and control from the
Hamilton in the 3rd and 20th minutes.
did make initial amends when he also scored his team's first goal in the 7th minute to tie the score at 1-1.
Kelvin Moore blasted the first two of his three goals in the 10th and 16th minutes, with Lennox Cort (11th) and Calvin Moore (17th) handing North East the advantage for a good period of time.
But the battle was not yet ended. Adrian Martinez tucked in a brace in the 26th and 27th minutes to bring Espanyol within striking distance, and with one minute to the final whistle, Carlos Gill tied the score at 4-4.
When all felt that the game was destined for extra time, a late surge by North East, which turned out to be the final rundown of the game, produced a stunning winner off the boot of Kelvin Moore, his third of the match. This goal would be remembered for a long time, as it led his team to a nerve-racking 5-4 win and a date against Back Circle ‘A’ in the final eight.
Back Circle ‘A’ boasts the championship’s leading goal-scorer in Beveney Marks, and he continued his dominance with 5 more goals, taking his overall tally to 23 while orchestrating another massive win for his team, 16-1 against Timehri Warriors.
Back Circle ‘A’ conceded their first goal in three matches, and they have scored a total of 44 goals against 3 opponents, equalling their highest margin of victory - 16-0 - against Vryheid’s Lust.
Marks was on target in the 6th, 22nd, 24th, 36th and 38th minutes. Cecil Jackman supported well with a hat-trick (29th, 34th, 36th), while there were doubles each from Stephen McLean (8th, 26th), Stephon Reynolds (9th, 32nd), Ravin Naughton (16th, 30) and Darren Benjamin (17th, 39th).
Nigel Joseph netted Timehri Warriors’ consolation goal in the 39th minute.
minute, a minute after Mark Jahlu had netted the second for Stabroek Ballers ‘A’, whose efforts were not enough to thwart the Sparta push.
Meanwhile, Futsal action was equally as entertaining on Christmas Night, when teams advanced to the afore mentioned quarterfinals.
Easing their way into the quar terfinals to join Bent Street ‘A’, Team Cruel, Gold Is Money, and Road Warriors were Stabroek Ballers ‘A’, North East, Back Circle ‘A’, and Sparta Boss.
The most exciting battle of the night was the encounter between Espanyol and North East. Espanyol’s first two goals were own goals, scored compliments of North East’s
Stabroek Ballers ‘A’ were also in ripping form in the night’s opening match, blanking Unstoppable 14-2. Scoring three goals each were Sharmar Welch (1st, 8th, 35th), Marcus Tudor (6th, 32nd, 39th) and Deon Alfred (12th, 28th, 28th). Mark Jahlu (3rd, 27th), Dorwin George (22nd, 40th), and Dwayne James (25th) accounted for the other goals.
Derwin Bourne (17th) and Leandre Arthur (21st) were the only players on target for Unstoppable.
The night's final game produced a 5-2 win for Sparts Boss over Bent Street ‘B’. Curtez Kellman (2nd, 4th) and Omari Glasgow (14th, 25th) scored two each, with Derron Niles converting the other in the 2nd minute. Tyrese Lyle and Randy Roberts (40th-minute penalty) responded for Bent
Ballers.
Jalden
Hamilton
Back Circle 'A' and North East going head-to-head
Road Warriors' Daniel Alves on the move against Gold Is Money
