PPP/C committed to tackling income inequality – GS Jagdeo
The General Secretary of the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo emphasised that the Government has been working to tackle income inequality among the population with the rollout of several initiatives.
Responding to questions during his weekly press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo explained that one of the main ways of tackling income inequality is by increasing employment among the population. He explained that the Government has opened up tremendous opportunities for job creation over the past four years.
“In terms of finding jobs, more people today have
found jobs than four years ago. At least, they’re earning. Disposable income has gone up…I told you in the public service itself, public servants in total…are taking home US$500 million per year more than they were taking home in 2020.”
Jagdeo noted that it is also about equipping the population with the tools needed to secure higher-paying jobs.
“So, what are the tools? You, first of all, have to be healthy and so investment in healthcare, so you don’t have a cost associated with major healthcare expenditure because poor people can’t afford that…and secondly, you’re better educated, so you can get a higher
paying job.”
Jagdeo, who is also the country’s Vice President referred to the number of training programmes being offered by the Government, free of cost as well as the thousands of scholarships available through the Ministry of Public Service as well as through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL). Jagdeo also pointed to free education at the University of Guyana (UG).
Another way of closing the income inequality gap is through home ownership, he added, saying “$282 billion will be spent on developing 50,000 house lots,
about 30,000 of those will go to people who are getting over $4 million of cash injection building equity because of the cost of develop-
ing the plot versus the purchase price.”
“So, they have greater assets,” he added.
According to the Vice President, another measure
taken by the Government is to ensure people on the “lower end” pay less taxes. This is being achieved by raising the income tax threshold, which currently stands at
$100,000.
He also referenced the tax-deductible measure for adults with children. Under this measure, a parent can benefit from $10,000 per month per child as a deductible on taxes due.
Notwithstanding, Jagdeo explained that in many societies, there is a huge income gap.
“You’re gonna have in society, people getting richer too based on investments.”
“For example, he explained that “If you own Bitcoin, in a single day, they could add maybe US$300 billion to your value…after the elections, Tesla shares got a bump, in a single week, I think Elon Musk got wealthier by over US$200 billion. How do you tackle that sort of thing?”
A new housing scheme being developed
General Secretary of the PPP/C, Bharrat Jagdeo
Citizens at the Dream Realised house lot distribution
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, January 4 – 20:30hrs - 22:00hrs and Sunday, January 5 – 21:00hrs - 22:30hrs.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, January 4 – 7:15 hrs to 8:45 hrs.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
High
Young Professionals Housing Project
Govt terminates services of 15 contractors for delays, substandard works
– over 550 homes constructed, more than 10,000 house lots allocated in 2024
The Government has terminated the contract of at least 15 contractors who continue to provide substandard and delayed works on the Young Professional Housing Project, the Housing and Water Minster, Collin Croal revealed on Friday.
The Minister was at the time addressing media operatives at the Ministry’s end-ofyear press conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.
According to Minister Croal, they have been regularly engaging the contractors to ensure that they deliver the homes on time and in quality condition.
“I think sometime late December, we would’ve brought in all the contractors and one-on-one, engaging [them] to address [those legitimate complaints] …and where we require termination, we have been doing,” he stated.
The Minister further indicated to the Guyana Times, “I’m being advised that at least about 15 contractors we’ve terminated… In fact, I’ve seen on my desk, a number of termination letters over the last couple of weeks for some contractors.”
Among those 15 terminations, the contractors were executing works on young professional homes at La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara (ECD), and along the East Bank Demerara (EBD) corridor at Little Diamond, Prospect and Perseverance.
In addition to the terminations, Minister Croal explained that the Housing Ministry has also strengthened its monitoring unit to ensure that the homes are being built at a high standard.
In the same breath, however, the Housing Minister highlighted the challenges faced by contractors including the rising cost of building materials. He pointed out that the new young professional houses are currently being built at $24 million and if persons were to use the same design and build on their own, then the cost would be way higher.
“So, it’s being done by the contractors for not a great profit margin and that’s why sometimes, we struggle with contractors. From a Government level, we want to keep the cost of the houses at a minimum and to achieve that, obviously, the profit margin would not be [high]… But they have committed to building that, and so where we’ve had to terminate, we [have done so],” he asserted.
Home construction
Nevertheless, despite these issues, Minister Croal highlighted the success of the Home Construction
Programme, which has seen an investment of over $12.5 billion by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government for the construction of some 1,865 houses on the coastland.
These include 867 low-income homes, 398 moderate-income homes, 138 middle-income homes, 330 young professional homes and 82 Core homes under the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme – all of which have been completed and handed over.
In 2024 alone, $4.3 billion of the $12.5 billion was invested in the construction of homes and resulted in over 550 houses being completed and handed over.
“That’s 550 families who have been able to occupy a new area, their new home, their new space and to have that level of comfort [of home ownership] … [So, yes, we’ve] seen some criticism on the quality of work done but it does not take away the impact from the construction of those houses,” the Housing Minister expressed.
In fact, he added that there are another 1,724 houses are currently in progress and are slated to be completed by mid-2025. This is in addition to the new batches of homes that are scheduled to be constructed this year. Only Thursday, contracts were allocated for the construction of another 20 young professional homes.
House lot allocations
When it comes to house lot
allocations, Minister Croal stated that the Government is on track to deliver on its 2020 Manifesto promise of 50,000 house lots by 2025. In 2024, some 10,791 lots were allocated thus taking total allocations by the current administration to 40,290 – all for residential use.
“So, it does not take into consideration our other aspect in terms of commercial allocations. Even if you take that into consideration, you’ll realise we’ve actually allocated about 11,000 in total,” the Minister stated. “We will be surpassing 50,000 in the year 2025. In fact, in the year 2025, we will be allocating far more than 10,000 – that is our target for the annual figure.”
According to Croal, 2024 was the most successful year, accounting for 27 per cent of the overall house lot allocations done to date. The majority of these allocations were done in Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica) – 61 per cent and Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) – 22 per cent.
Regions Two (PomeroonSupenaam) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) received two per cent of the allocations each, while Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) both got five per cent and four per cent of the allocations last year going to Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice). Moreover, 46 per cent of these allocations went to female applicants, joint applicants were 26 per cent and male allocations were 28 per cent of the applicants.
“And that speaks a lot in terms of equality and independence [of women],” the Minister posited.
In addition, the Housing Ministry also processed some 7,118 land titles in the past year – a whopping 113 per cent increase from 2023.
Minister Croal noted that “to date, we have processed over 14,710 titles and that does not include the close to 2,500 certificates of titles to process at the land registrar waiting to be signed off.” (G-8)
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal
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Homeownership
Homeownership is a cornerstone of societal empowerment, fostering economic stability, community growth and personal pride. The Housing and Water Ministry’s achievement of allocating 10,791 house lots in 2024, as announced by Minister Collin Croal, is a testament to the transformative potential of housing policies aimed at national development.
Over the past four years, the Government has allocated an impressive 40,290 house lots, setting the pace to surpass its target of 50,000 by the end of its first term. These efforts underscore the pivotal role of homeownership in building a more prosperous and equitable society.
Homeownership offers a unique sense of stability and empowerment, serving as an anchor for families and a driver of economic growth. When individuals and families own homes, they gain a stake in their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility.
This sense of ownership translates into better-maintained neighbourhoods and safer communities. Additionally, the ripple effects of homeownership extend to local economies, as homeowners invest in property improvements and contribute to economic activity through local businesses.
The Ministry’s focus on housing allocations in Regions Four and Three, which are pivotal economic hubs, is particularly noteworthy. By providing affordable housing opportunities in these regions, the Government is laying the foundation for sustained growth and development. This approach not only addresses the immediate housing needs of citizens, but also facilitates the expansion of regional economies, creating jobs and enhancing living standards.
While the allocation of house lots is commendable, the real measure of success lies in the ability of allottees to access and develop their lots promptly. Minister Croal acknowledged concerns about the waiting time for infrastructure development, which historically averaged two years. The Ministry’s efforts to synchronize allocations with infrastructure development represent a significant stride in addressing this issue. By reducing waiting times and ensuring that essential amenities like roads and utilities are in place, the Government is enabling families to transition from allocation to occupancy more seamlessly.
The investment of $4.3 billion in residential housing construction in 2024 further highlights the Government’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility of homeownership. While there have been criticisms regarding the quality of construction, the initiative’s broader impact cannot be overlooked. Affordable housing provides a critical pathway for families to achieve homeownership, offering security and stability that can transform lives.
The processing of land titles is another critical aspect of homeownership. In 2024, the Ministry processed 7,118 land titles, a remarkable 113 per cent increase from the previous year. This achievement not only validates the Government’s efficiency, but also underscores its dedication to ensuring that allottees can claim full ownership of their properties. Ownership documentation is more than a formality — it is a powerful tool that enables homeowners to access credit, invest in property improvements, and build intergenerational wealth.
The development of over 75 new housing areas in four years, including 19 in 2023 alone, demonstrates the Government’s commitment to expanding housing opportunities across the country. Communities like Wales, Good Hope, and Amelia’s Ward are becoming vibrant neighbourhoods, contributing to Guyana’s social and economic fabric. These developments are not just about providing homes; they are about building communities wherein citizens can thrive.
The focus on commercial allocations alongside residential housing also reflects a holistic approach to development. By creating mixeduse areas that combine housing with commercial opportunities, the Ministry is fostering environments wherein residents can live, work, and play. This integrated approach enhances the quality of life while supporting economic growth.
At its core, the Government’s housing drive is about empowering individuals and communities. Homeownership instils pride and a sense of achievement, enabling families to build secure futures. It also addresses broader societal challenges, such as poverty and inequality, by providing a tangible asset that can uplift families from generation to generation.
The challenges of quality and timely access to infrastructure are not to be dismissed. However, the Ministry’s proactive measures, coupled with substantial investments in housing and infrastructure, demonstrate a clear commitment to overcoming these obstacles.
By addressing these issues, the Government is ensuring that its ambitious housing programme delivers not just numbers, but meaningful impacts.
The Ministry of Housing and Water’s achievements in 2024 represent a significant milestone in the journey towards a more empowered and equitable society. By prioritizing homeownership and addressing the challenges that come with it, the Government is laying the foundation for sustained national development. The promise of homeownership is not just about building houses; it is about building lives, communities, and a brighter future for all Guyanese.
As the Ministry continues its work, it is essential to maintain this momentum and address lingering concerns. In doing so, the Government would solidify its legacy as a champion of homeownership.
Jimmy Carter and Bharrat Jagdeo
Dear Editor,
The late President Carter is credited with helping to restore democracy in Guyana. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo held Carter in high regard, and paid laudatory tributes to him. The late President may have played a role in Jagdeo’s rise from being a Junior Minister of Finance to his promotion to Minister of Finance, and ultimately President.
Carter led the observer mission to Guyana in 1992 for the first democratic elections post-independence.
Carter became familiar with the improvement in Guyana’s economy. Jagan had continued the economic liberalisation programme (ERP) embraced by Desmond Hoyte. The policy was continued by Asgar Ally, whom Jagdeo replaced. Carter credited Jagdeo for improvement in the economy.
When Carter met President Cheddi Jagan, he showered accolades on the young Jagdeo for his stewardship of the economy. He told Jagan he was quite impressed with the young man’s handling of the economy, and stated there was a
bright future for him.
Jagan had put Jagdeo in charge of the negotiation of debt repayment that was sucking some 92% of the revenues to pay the interest on the debt of US$2.2 billion left by the PNC regime.
Jagdeo was credited with gaining debt relief from the Paris Club nations that were cancelling debts of heavily indebted countries like Guyana. Over US$1 billion was cancelled. Most of the rest of the debt was subsequently either cancelled or paid off; Trinidad and Tobago, India, and some Middle Eastern countries also cancelled debts.
Jagdeo’s handling of the economy created a solid reputation with the Jagans, which led to his endorsement by Janet Jagan as a ‘youth’ figure of the A-Team for the December 1997 elections, following Cheddi’s sudden passing earlier in the year. The PPP won a comfortable victory. Unfortunately, the Opposition rejected Janet Jagan as President, resulting in violence and political instability. Janet resigned in August 1999, and Jagdeo succeeded her.
Carter was a friend of
freedom in Guyana, and Guyanese in the diaspora as well as in Guyana remember him for his contribution to democracy. He was lobbied by the diaspora in the USA as well as by Cheddi Jagan and Opposition parties in Guyana to help secure free and fair elections. Without his involvement, there would not have been democratic elections. And without his presence in Guyana to douse the flame of violence stirred up by a thuggish strongman, there would not have been a change in administration in October 1992.
Cheddi Jagan honoured Carter with the country’s highest award for his role in restoring democracy in Guyana, and for being a champion of human rights and peace globally.
Carter had recommended several constitutional changes to address ethnic issues and conflict. Regrettably, these were not implemented. But the late American President left his mark on the Guyanese nation with free and fair elections. He inspired the Guyanese nation to have democratic elections. Rigging was rejected, as was attempted in March
2020. Carter’s grandson, Jason, whom I had the honour of meeting almost daily in late February 2020, and for almost a week after the March 2 elections during daily press conferences to condemn manipulated voting counts, continued the great work of his grandfather.
The Carter Center, through Jason’s presence in Guyana and his role in Atlanta, helped to protect the democratic outcome of the March 2, 2020 vote, although it took five months. Jason was denied a request during Covid to return to Guyana for the recount of votes, but he stayed in touch with observers who remained behind. Thank you, Jason!
Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali were (are) beneficiaries of Carter’s legacy in Guyana and the role of the diaspora from the USA that lobbied the Carter Center to take up the cause of free and fair elections in the homeland. They and the country owe the late President a debt of gratitude.
Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Two young fishermen preparing their nets to head out for their daily trade along the Pomeroon River, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) (Abel Harris photo)
Homeless man gets 18 months on armed robbery charge
– probation report outlines difficult life as teen
Ezekiel Kevin Grant, previously identified in court documents as ‘Kevin Charles’, was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment on Friday after appearing virtually before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
The sentencing followed the presentation of a probation report that not only detailed his troubled upbringing but also revealed his true identity and age.
The probation report disclosed that Grant, who is 20 years old and hails from Lamaha Springs, Georgetown had grown up in an abusive household with no meaningful relationship with his father and a mother struggling with alcoholism.
He dropped out of school in second form due to financial challenges and eventu-
ally left his father’s home after a series of conflicts. With no stable residence, Grant lived in an abandoned house in Sophia and later moved in with friends.
It was during this time that he began using alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana, which, combined with peer influence, led to his involvement in petty crimes for survival.
The report also revealed that Grant is a self-taught construction worker but has a history of theft that caused his mother’s partner and other family members to distance themselves. Residents and relatives described him as having a habit of stealing and displaying hostile behaviours.
Grant’s latest offence involved the armed robbery of Davindra Singh on November 30, 2024.
Police stated that Grant,
along with an accomplice, robbed Singh of a Samsung phone and a black wallet containing $10,000. During his court appearance in December, Grant admitted to committing the robbery under the influence of alcohol.
He initially claimed he acted alone but later identified his accomplice as Dominique Eastman. Grant admitted to using a knife during the robbery, holding the victim by his jersey while Eastman retrieved the wallet.
While Grant claimed the belongings were returned, he admitted to spending some of the cash. He also disclosed that he had been living on the streets since the age of 14, with no family to support him.
During Friday’s hearing, Chief Magistrate McGusty referenced Grant’s proba-
tion report and acknowledged his difficult upbringing. While he begged for a second chance, she noted that he could work and needed to address his behaviour. She questioned him about how he would feel if someone robbed him of his earnings, to which he initially said he would do nothing, before acknowledging he would report the matter to the police.
The Magistrate emphasised that while she understood his circumstances, his continuous involvement in criminal activities needed to be addressed. She encouraged him to take advantage of the rehabilitation programmes and vocational training offered in prison to better himself. She expressed hope that the time spent in prison would provide an opportunity for him to learn a trade, read, and
G/t man further remanded on multiple fraud charges
Quacey Kitt, the 33-year-old resident of Subryanville, Georgetown who has been charged with multiple offences of fraud, has been further remanded to prison after virtually appearing in the court of acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty on Friday.
In pleading for the cases to be dismissed, Kitt cited delays by the prosecution and lack of interest from the virtual complainants. He argued that the prosecution had failed to submit statements within the two weeks they had requested, and said he was unsure of the reason for the delay. He argued that the time for submitting statements had passed, and that his prolonged detention was unfair. And he declared that he deserved a free and
fair trial.
The Chief Magistrate, however, dismissed his arguments by explaining that procedural delays were justified and that his remand was primarily due to his alleged involvement in additional fraud cases while out on bail for similar charges.
Kitt was initially remanded to prison in November 2024, after facing accusations of multiple fraudulent schemes targeting victims. In one case, he allegedly approached a woman at the Providence Police Station with a promise to secure her husband’s release from prison in exchange for $400,000. The woman later discovered that no such arrangement had been made, and that Kitt had disappeared with the money.
In another instance, Kitt reportedly convinced Khaleel Buell to part with $1.9 million by claiming he could expedite the acquisition of a plot of Government land; but after receiving the payment, Kitt failed to deliver on his promise.
Kitt is also accused of defrauding Desi Hiliman of $1 million by promising to facilitate the purchase of raw gold. He allegedly approached Hiliman through a mutual friend, presented a deal involving gold from the interior, and received the money. Afterwards, Kitt ceased communication, and failed to provide the gold or a refund.
During the November 2024 hearing, Chief Magistrate McGusty had refused to grant Kitt bail on ground of the seriousness of the offences. The prosecution
had argued that his repeated fraudulent behaviour while on bail had demonstrated a disregard for the law and posed a risk of further crimes being committed.
Kitt had raised concerns about his safety in prison during that hearing, but the Chief Magistrate had assured him that he would be taken care of.
At Friday’s hearing, Kitt continued to argue that the prosecution’s delay was an attempt to stall the trial. However, Kitt was informed by the Chief Magistrate that his next court date is January 17, 2025. Kitt had reportedly appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in August 2023 to answer several charges related to obtaining money by false pretence.
improve his life.
The probation report also highlighted Grant’s history of petty crimes and revealed that he had been remanded for six months in 2024 despite not being officially charged at the time. In that case, he had claimed to be 19 years old, though the report confirmed his current age as 20.
This sentencing follows a history of legal troubles for Grant, including a February 2024 robbery where he and Eastman allegedly stole an iPhone and cash on Water
Street. The prosecution objected to bail at that time, citing his lack of a fixed address, but he was later released. Months later, Grant was implicated in the November robbery, leading to his remand in December and his subsequent sentencing.
Grant’s behaviour and repeated offences prompted the Magistrate to impose the 18-month sentence, stating that his actions required firm intervention. He will remain in prison until his sentence is served.
06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time
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09:00 Movie - Puffin Rock and the New Friends (2023)
10:30 Indian Movie - Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005) 13:30 Movie - When Love Strikes (2024) 15:30 Movie - Treasure Trackers (2024)
17:00 Payless Power Hour
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Quincy Kitt, hiding his face while being escorted from court in November
Ezekiel Kevin Grant, known as Kevin Charles
Page Foundation
Circles
A circle is a 2-dimensional figure with every point on its circumference an equal distance from its centre point, or origin. A circle’s circumference is its perimeter, the distance around it.
A line segment that starts at the circle’s origin and extends to its circumference is called a radius. The plural of radius is radii. In a circle, all radii are equal in length.
A chord is a line segment that has both endpoints on the circumference. A diameter is a special kind of chord that passes through the origin. It is always equal in length to 2 radii.
Exercises: Estimate
1) What is the radius of a circle if the diameter is 12cm?
2) Identify the chord in the figure below.`
below?
5) What is the perimeter, or circumference, a circle whose diameter is 24cm. Circumference = 2πr. Π = 22/7.
Sticking to your New Year’s resolutions
For instance, setting goals requires the ability to imagine yourself in the future. And while this skill begins to emerge around age five, it doesn’t really take off until kids are well into primary school.
“Kids, especially preschoolers, are really drawn in by what’s going on in the present,” says Cristina Atance, a psychology professor at the University of Ottawa. “Even the shortterm future, like ‘after dinner’, doesn’t make much sense to them.”
And while many five-year-olds can plan for the future, Atance says they only begin doing it unprompted at about age eight. That’s also the age when other executive function components blossom, such as working memory – the ability to keep a goal
in mind while you’re working on something else.
The ability to make complex plans with interdependent steps takes even longer. It fully emerges at around age 12, according to 2013 research published in the journal Psychology and Neuroscience.
Psychologists also recommend setting ‘implementation intentions’ – if-then statements that support your goals. So, if your goal is to make new friends, your implementation intention might be, “If we see a neighbour, then we’ll take time to chat with them.”
Don’t sweat the setbacks
When you succeed at meeting your goal,
by Thomas hardy (OLD STYLE)
Our songs went up and out the chimney, And roused the home-gone husbandmen; Our allemands, our heys, poussettings, Our hands-across and back again, Sent rhythmic throbbings through the casements On to the white highway, Where nighted farers paused and muttered, "Keep it up well, do they!"
The contrabasso's measured booming Sped at each bar to the parish bounds, To shepherds at their midnight lambings, To stealthy poachers on their rounds; And everybody caught full duly The notes of our delight, As Time unrobed the Youth of Promise Hailed by our sanguine sight.
II
(NEW STYLE)
CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY
be sure to celebrate. If you fall short, it is recommended thinking about what went wrong and ways to setting yourself up to do better. It’s also a good time to learn how to deal with the disappointment and prepare for success in the future.
“A lot of people have this dichotomous view of success in personal goal-setting, like, either you succeed, or you don’t, and once you’ve failed, you’ve failed forever,” Martin Oscarsson, a psychologist at Stockholm University and author of a 2020 study on New Year’s resolutions, says. “It’s important for kids to learn you’re going to have setbacks, but you can learn from them and get back on track.”
(Adapted from natgeokids.com)
We stand in the dusk of a pine-tree limb, As if to give ear to the muffled peal, Brought or withheld at the breeze's whim; But our truest heed is to words that steal From the mantled ghost that looms in the gray, And seems, so far as our sense can see, To feature bereaved Humanity, As it sighs to the imminent year its say:—
"O stay without, O stay without, Calm comely Youth, untasked, untired; Though stars irradiate thee about Thy entrance here is undesired. Open the gate not, mystic one; Must we avow what we would close confine? With thee, good friend, we would have converse none, Albeit the fault may not be thine."
Identify the 2 radii below.
What are the six chords formed by inscribing a hexagon inside the circle
Electronic Single Window System
13 applications approved, over 300 being processed – Min Croal
– major oil & gas projects among applicants
Less than a year since becoming operational, the Electronic Planning and Development Single Window System has already approved over a dozen applications while more than 300 applications are currently being processed including several for major oil and gas projects.
The Housing Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) launched the Electronic Planning and Development Single Window System in June 2024 with the aim of consolidating the various applications needed for the construction permitting process and having them approved through one portal.
“To date, we have over 346 active applicants who have registered on the Single Window System. Of this total, about 132 of them have not made their payments so obviously their application process could not move… In terms of approval, at the Board level through the Electronic Single Window, we have approved over 13 applications,” subject Minister Collin Croal disclosed on Friday.
In 2024 alone, he added, approximately 872 applications were received through this single window portal and a total of 892 applications were processed – the excess being rolled over applications from the previous year.
Of these, he added, “…14 relates to major investments in the oil and gas sector.”
According to the Housing Minister, the electronic single window system has been transformational in easing the process of setting up businesses in Guyana.
“It takes away, obviously, the archaic system of one going through the hassle in terms of [dealing with several different] local authorities. You can be anywhere and file that. I know someone overseas who’s been following up over the last two years on their approval. But you can be anywhere in the world and have your approval done,” he stated.
However, Croal disclosed that this programme is not without hiccups as they have encountered is-
sues with local authorities including the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC). However, he noted that these are being addressed.
“Through the Planning Department, they’ve had a number of engagements and so now, they have identified a [representative] and I think it’s moving now or should be moving. But we did not have the support of the municipality. In fact, when persons were turning up to [get] their plans etc., they were being sent to CH&PA. But the local authority still has their responsibility of ensure the plans are approved,” the minister posited.
Another issue that affects the efficacy of the single window portal is the timeless response from
the various partner agencies that need to do their part in processing applications. The Minister said efforts will be placed on fixing this.
“We will be moving, in this year, to ensure that agencies that have a time-bound responsibility – which is one of the tenants of the single window… to have timely responses from these agencies. Because many times when persons complain that they’re waiting [for] many months on CH&PA, yes… but CH&PA’s approval has to have, based on the application, the involvement of other agencies,” Minister Croal noted.
The platform, which was introduced less than a year after the Planning and Development Single Window System Act was passed in the National Assembly in July 2023, allows applicants to submit their documents at several state agencies at a single portal and track the progress of their applications as they undergo approval.
At the launch of the electronic Planning and Development Single Window System in June 2024, President Dr Irfaan Ali said, this new portal will remove the bureaucracy and red tape in the current fragmented planning and approvals process.
He had disclosed that this project has been in the works since 2013 and got fast-tracked when
the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) returned to office in 2020 and found that over US$50 million in private sector investments were being stalled due to the lengthy processing time for permits – as much as three years.
According to the Head of State, the introduction of this single window system will not only reduce the red-tape but also identify which agencies and individuals are the ones lagging in processing these building permits.
“We will have agencies that are not pulling their weight and then the entire system faces the burden of the inefficiency. In this approach now, there is a time set and if you don’t submit your comment, it is taken as approval… silence is taken as approval. And then you will be held accountable as to why you did not submit your approval. That’s an important part of the system; it’s time-sensitive. So, no one can hold your application on their desk anymore and believe they have all of God’s life to approve it,” President Ali had related.
Currently, the processing of all construction permits from the various state agencies takes about three months. This time has now been massively reduced to one month with the newly launched Single Window System. (G-8)
DPP disposed of 332 cases in 2024
– 134 cases to be heard in Demerara Criminal Assizes for January 2025
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Friday stated that some 332 cases have been disposed of in 2024. Of this total, 218 received attention in the High Courts of Demerara (134), Berbice (43) and Essequibo (41); while 114 were nolle prosequi by the DPP.
In categorising these cases, the DPP reported that 72 were for the offence of murder; 18 were for manslaughter; 78 were for sexual offences; 46 were for attempting to commit murder; three were for abduction, and one was for accessory after the fact of murder.
There was a total of 39 convictions; 81 formal notguilty verdicts; 59 not-guilty verdicts by jury; 64 guilty pleas; six hung juries; one quashed indictment, and two aborted trials. A total of 149 accused persons made their appearances in the three High Courts.
In addition, for 2024, the DPP’s Office received 228 committal documents, of which 137 were for Demerara, 42 for Berbice and 49 for Essequibo.
“Of these 228 depositions, 137 have been indicted; charges for eight were discontinued, because there was not sufficient evidence for the DPP to prefer an indictment; 79 are receiving attention; 3 were remitted
to the Magistrates’ Courts for additional evidence to be taken for matters which we had previously received; and one was a discharged matter,” a release from the DPP stated.
Further, the DPP’s Office preferred legal advice in 3,905 files received from the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
Demerara Criminal Assizes
The Demerara Criminal Assizes for January 2025 would be opened on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 with 134 cases listed to be heard by Justice Navindra Singh, Madam Justice JoAnn Barlow, Madam Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Madam Justice Zamila AllySeepaul and Madam Justice Damone Younge. Additionally, Justice Peter Hugh will continue the Essequibo Assizes of October 2024 in January 2025 until February 2025, when the February Criminal Assizes will commence on February 18.
Madam Justice Zamila Ally-Seepaul will also continue the October Assizes in January 2025.
Court of Appeal
The Office of the DDP alsostated that it appeared in 44 appeals in the Court of Appeal for 2024. These matters were represented by the Director of
Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, and Assistant DPPs (ADPP) Dionne McCammon, Diana O’Brien, Teshana Lake, Mercedes Glasford, Natasha Backer, Lisa Cave, Tiffini Lyken and Abigail Gibbs.
Of these 44 appeals, 11 were for the offence of murder; 12 were for sexual offences, six were for manslaughter; three were for causing death by dangerous driving; there were 2 each for the offences of trafficking in persons (TIP); possession of narcotics for trafficking; attempted murder, and simple larceny; and there was one each for the offences of assault causing actual bodily harm; robbery under arms; receiving stolen property, and possession of firearm without licence, a release from the DPP Chambers related.
Of the 44 appeals, 14 ap-
plications were made for bail pending appeals against conviction and sentence; of which seven were withdrawn, four were granted and three were denied.
However, three applications were granted for an extension of time to file and serve notices of appeal.
In addition, 17 appellants sought leave to appeal against their convictions and sentences, of which 16 were granted while one is pending.
Five other appellants were allowed their applications to appeal against conviction and sentences. Two of these were allowed in part; in one case, the COA refused his appeal against the conviction and upheld the two life sentences imposed, but reduced his eligibility for parole from 35 years to 20 years. In the other appeal, with two appellants, the Court upheld their conviction but reduced the sentences from 55 years to 32 years, and from 62 years to 37 years’ imprisonment. They become eligible for parole after each would have served 15 years.
Another five appellants were refused their applications against conviction and sentences.
Also in 2024, 10 matters were heard in the Demerara Full Court - five of which were for the offence of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, and there was one each for the offences of conspiracy to defraud, unlawful wounding, fraud, felonious wounding, and possession of firearm without licence.
The DPP Chambers stated that two of these applications were allowed in part, where the convictions were upheld but their sentences were varied.
“Another 3 applications for bail were granted, while 3 others were denied. Two applications were withdrawn.
The Berbice Full Court heard 2 applications for bail pending an appeal against conviction and sentence: for a cybercrime matter, and for possession of narcotics, the DPP Chambers released.
Ignoring…
…Burnham??
The PPP is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its formation as your Eyewitness wrote yesterday. But seems that PNC folks are pretty miffed that the comrades (?) from Freedom House didn’t even MENTION their founder leader Burnham - who was there at the PPP’s formation!! While your Eyewitness ain’t miffed, he’s certainly surprised at this omission. He believes you gotta always give Jack – or Forbes - his jacket – even if it’s a stink and dutty jacket!! And boy, was Burnham’s jacket stink and dutty when he was in the PPP!!
Burnham’s claim to fame was to’ve won the Guyana Scholarship when he attended the elite Queen’s College and topped the Senior Cambridge rankings in 1942. At a time when class and colour went hand in hand, Negro-Guyanese – as they insisted they be called then – were over-the-top that one of their own had beaten the sons of the Whites and Coloureds who were above them on the food chain!! The ongoing WWII delayed Burnham’s trip to England to pick up his scholarship till 1945 – when he did; and became a lawyer in 1949, after winning the “Best Speakers Cup” at his Uni!!
Meanwhile, back in Guyana, Jagan had returned in 1943, while Forbes was swotting away at his external BA. As one who’d written - at the age of 12 – he’d be a leader not only of Guyana, but of the Caribbean, one can imagine Burnham’s consternation at Cheddi’s move to organize the intelligentsia for Independence!! Be that as it may, when the latter’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC) was about to be launched as the PPP, Jagan had Ashton Chase step aside as the “African” face in favour of Burnham, who had a bigger profile – and was recommended by the Communist Party of Britain!!
Burnham returned in 1949, and stepped into a structure that was already in place – but he immediately began jockeying and manoeuvring to be the Top Gun in the PPP!! Interestingly, it was Eusi Kwayana – then Sydney King – who held him off at the pass on two occasions!! But he connived with the Yanks and Brits to deny Jagan the leadership, and split the PPP in 1955. As such, while the ethnic cleavages were there, this callous and cynical move by Burnham served to split the electorate – and engender bitter IndoAfro hostilities and riots into the present.
That’s actually Burnham’s contribution to the PPP – to destroy the nationalist movement that could’ve created a more unified and prosperous nation. Your Eyewitness believes Pressie erred in not mentioning this role - especially since PNC types and fellow travellers have been working assiduously to scrape off the muck from Burnham’s legacy to burnish his image.
Burnham should be an object lesson on the dangers of plucking leaders to represent others.
…safety?
Some folks have their bucktas and drawers all in a knot because the Min of Infrastructure levelled with the nation and said that, rather than the promised end of March completion, the new DHB won’t be operational till end of August. Now, this is a bridge on which over 9000 vehicles –at this time, but growing exponentially! – would cross daily, transporting commuters between the West Side and Reg 4. Do they want us to be singing our variant of the old ditty, “London Bridge is falling down”??
The minister said the delay is due to the need for “concrete – presumably for the girders now being laid across the piles - to be cured”. Now, we may know that this curing period shoulda been factored in by the Chinese bridge builder from the beginning, but from where your Eyewitness sits, he’d rather the builders be safe than sorry!! Cause, in this case, it won’t just be some pontoons floating upriver with cars on them, but concrete sections collapsing into the river!!
…previous repairs
Your Eyewitness just read that, according to Stabroek Market, the Bourda Market is up for rehab. Your Eyewitness wants to know what happened to the PNC’s $32M in 2019. Gone like the billion-dollar Jubilee Stadium??
EPA monitoring power ship emissions – Parsram
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently analysing air safety measures relating to the newly anchored power ship along the Demerara River in the vicinity of Bank DIH Limited.
This was according to the Head of the EPA, Kemraj Parsram who admitted that Banks DIH is already emitting gases from its daily production and with that from the ship, can cause an environmental hazard.
According to Parsram, the evaluation of the power ship’s emitted gasses is part of their authorisation process while emphasising that the necessary measures are being implemented to ensure that emission levels remain insignificant.
“We are assessing the emissions as part of the au-
thorisation process, making sure the safeguards are in place. We recognise the urgency, importance, and national interest of this project and we are working with the ship owners and the Government to ensure that emission levels do not pose significant risks to nearby residents,” Parsram stated.
He added that no significant problems have been identified thus far in the initial stages of analysis. “Right now, we are in the preliminary phase, and there haven’t been any significant results indicating hazards,” Parsram said.
However, if any challenges arise concerning emissions, the agency has committed to promptly notifying the public. “If any hazards are detected, we will address them immediately, but so far, we have not encountered any issues,” he assured.
In addition to air emissions, there are also concerns about gases being released into the water, which could pose other environmental risks.
The second power ship has been injecting an additional 60 megawatts (MW) of electricity into the national grid. The arrival of this second power ship comes after a contract signing last month between Guyana Power and Light (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 245 MW, ensuring reliable electricity during the holiday season and beyond. The first power ship had been deployed to Guyana in May of last year and is currently stationed at Everton in the Berbice River. (Misheal Henry)
The power ship emitting gas
Director of the EPA, Kemraj Parsram
T&T company joins GuyanaBarbados food terminal project – project slated for 2026
completion
Plans for the GuyanaBarbados food terminal have been expanded with the inclusion of a Trinidad-based company as a third partner, set to bolster the development and operations of the facility.
This was revealed by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, during his end-of-year press briefing last week. Initially announced in 2022, the food terminal aims to enhance food security, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and boost economic growth in the region.
Originally planned for construction at Lears, St Michael, Barbados, the multi-purpose facility will feature 45 containers, cold storage, packaging and processing plants, a large water reservoir, and land designated for crop production.
According to Mustapha, the Agriculture Ministry is highly looking forward to the completion of this initiative by the end of 2026.
“That food terminal is still ongoing. We have seen the private sector getting involved and the construction in Barbados is still ongoing and that is still a project in progress and we are hoping that we can get this finished by the end of next year (2026).”
To top it off, he added that the new Trinidadian company will also be assuming work in Guyana.
“I should have men-
tioned this too - the same company that is now part of this project between Guyana and Barbados, that company will be coming to Guyana to set up and we are already working closely with them so it will not only be a project between Guyana and Barbados, it will be Guyana, Barbados and the private sector company from Trinidad.”
When it comes on stream, the project should provide a boost to both the Barbadian and Guyanese economies, while also contributing to regional food security efforts.
As such, with this facility coming on board, export revenue is expected to double for the country.
Back in May of 2022, Guyana Times reported that President Dr Irfaan Ali, and
Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley, visited the site where the Guyana-Barbados Food Terminal will be built.
President Dr Irfaan Ali relayed that the initiative will see the two countries seeking to address the hurdles of transportation and logistics in the Region and is not only aimed at helping the movement of products and reducing the cost of local produce but also providing the opportunity to access new markets. He revealed that it’s important for the two countries to believe that the initiative can be undertaken.
“We must believe that we can do it. We must stop thinking narrowly that we cannot achieve these things… We’re setting bold targets. We are working on bold and innovative ideas. At the end of it, it is only bold thinking, bold initiatives, and pursuing those initiatives and ideas that would ensure we are successful,” Ali had asserted. According to the Head of State, the aim is to create a value chain for development in the region. He further dismissed naysayers who are claiming that the region’s plan is too ambitious, noting that there needs to be proactive action by all stakeholders.
There are also plans for Guyana and Barbados to set up Trade and Investment Facilitation offices in each other’s countries.
Rowley to step down as Prime
Minister before general election
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has officially announced that he will be stepping down as Prime Minister before the end of his term this year and will not be offering himself to represent any constituency in the upcoming general election.
Dr Rowley announced at a news conference in Tobago which he called to address matters related to the ongoing State of Emergency.
He has been an active politician for the last 45 years and had strongly suggested during the country’s Budget debate in Parliament in October that he would not be returning to the Parliament when the last session ends.
The Cabinet is holding a retreat in Tobago this weekend and Dr Rowley told reporters that he would be telling them of his decision there.
“I will not be offering myself again to represent anyone either in Trinidad or in Tobago. Forty-five years is a long time and I would like at this time to say thanks appropriately along the way to all those who have supported my effort,” Dr Rowley said.
He will oversee screen-
ing for the Tobago West and Tobago East candidates on Saturday before the retreat on Sunday and Monday.
He also thanked the people of Diego Martin West who have represented him from 1991 to now and said he will thank them appropriately when the time is right. He then announced his intention to resign as Prime Minister.
“Before the end of the legal limits of this term, I will resign this office and go off
to my family,” he said before bringing the news conference to an end.
Dr Rowley has been the country’s seventh Prime Minister, having first been elected into office on September 09, 2015, and again following the August 10, 2020, general election. He has led the People’s National Movement (PNM) since May 2010 and was Leader of the Opposition from 2010 to 2015. (Trinidad Guardian)
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley
New Corentyne River Bridge will boost economic development between Guyana, Suriname – Dr Ramsaroop
– urges both countries to forge partnerships at upcoming business conference
As the Governments of Guyana and Suriname work to improve connectivity between the two countries with a new bridge across the Corentyne River, the Head of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) Dr Peter Ramsaroop highlighted that this pertinent piece of infrastructure will also bolster economic development between the two nations.
In a recent televised interview, Dr Ramsaroop highlighted that both Governments had made commitments to strengthen bilateral and economic ties while adding that the joint
venture will serve as a crucial link to do so.
“You know, just recently, the big discussion that
has been on bridging the Corentyne River between the two countries and that is moving rapidly ahead. I
think that brings together the synergy that will allow the economic development, both in trade and in joint projects that will benefit both countries.”
Just recently, Guyana and Suriname had settled on Chinese construction company, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), as the preferred contractor for the link.
Moreover, as the Suriname leg of the International Business Conference (IBC) is set for next month, Dr Ramsaroop called for industry leaders from both countries to form alliances, noting that the two countries have various areas in which they can partner.
“Twinning of our products is very, very important. Both Suriname and Guyana are known for green economy or climate security, but between our forests is significant or ecotourism between the two countries have a lot of synergies.”
One area in which the seasoned business official highlighted that both countries can dominate the global market is agriculture. Providing an example, Dr Ramsaroop explained that by collaborating, Guyana and Suriname could create a pepper product capable of
competing with some of the famous regional and international brands.
“Agriculture has a lot of synergies. I believe the more and more we open our minds to the twinning of a product, I mean, for example, we grow peppers, Suriname grows peppers. You know if we can have a South American-flavored Caribbean pepper sauce. If we put the capacity together, we could compete against the Tabascos of the world.”
He added that the eco-tourism sector also has great potential.
“Recently I initiated a conversation between the eco side of Suriname and the eco side of Guyana. So, the Baganara evergreens were the target of a local eco operator in Suriname. And then they combine a product, you know, a couple of days in a swamp, and then a couple days on an island in Guyana. And everybody gets a piece of the pie.”
As it relates to agriculture, he noted that the two counties collaborating could significantly slash the CARICOM region food import bill.
“The import bill alone within the regions is billions of dollars in food. Why is that the case? Why can’t we package our corn in cans? Why do we buy the corn from outside the region? So as you look at how we build the standards, we don’t have to go far to capture that billion-dollar market. And again, I think, Suriname and Guyana, because of our agriculture lead, we can take charge of that food bill by 25 by 25.”
As the two countries push to strengthen bilateral arrangements the Chief Investment Officer (CIO) noted that the Suriname leg of the IBC will provide Guyanese investors with a chance to understand the similarities between the business environments of both countries.
“The success of the Guyana conference with Suriname showed a lot of businesses from Suriname
coming into Guyana. I mean, I think the numbers ranges to 50 plus. Suriname businesses now want to do business in Guyana. I think you’ll see the other way around with this conference where Guyanese business needs to learn a lot more about the Suriname environment, their investment code, similar to the Guyanese Government investment climate, where you can repatriate all your profits, your capital, your investment is safe, is protected by law.”
Moreover, as Suriname gears up to become a major oil producer, Dr Ramsaroop noted that Guyana could play a significant role in the development of the country’s oil and gas sector given its expertise.
“I believe that Guyana has a leading role to play initially in getting Suriname to the next level. And it’s not taking over the market in any way. It’s really how do we leverage our knowledge base from what we have learned over the last five years to help a partner… It’s not a competitive environment. It’s really how we bridge that gap. And literally, we’re bridging the two countries.”
The IBC stands as a distinguished gathering dedicated to enhancing the facilitation of business operations and advancing foreign capital investments in Suriname and Guyana. With a primary focus on crucial topics such as policy, trade, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, finance, and technology, this conference serves as a pinnacle event for driving foreign investments and nurturing economic prosperity. The upcoming second edition of IBC is to be held from 4-6 February 2025, and will take place in Paramaribo, Suriname. This year’s summit aims to unlock new avenues for business growth and strategic advancement for both local and international enterprises, while simultaneously igniting economic progress in the region.
Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr Peter Ramsaroop
The proposed design of the Corentyne River Bridge
Guyana Energy Conference extends deadline for essay competition to Jan 15
The Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) on Friday announced an extension of the deadline for its inaugural essay competition to January 15, 2025.
With over 150 submissions received thus far, the extension paves the way for secondary school students in the hinterland areas as well as those in Regions Three, Five and Six to submit their entries.
Chairman of the Guyana Energy Conference (GEC), Anthony Whyte, underscored the importance of this extension, stating, “Guyana’s youths are
among some of the brightest minds in the world. With this extension, we hope to attract more of our students to engage in a spirited contest of creative and innovative thinking…The ideas generated by this competition will not only enrich the national discourse on building a sustainable future but also demonstrate that our youths can and must be active participants in the development of this nation.”
He added, “I therefore wish to encourage secondary school students nationwide to seize this opportunity and let your perspectives be heard at the most spectacular and revered confer-
ence of the region.”
Students participating in this competition will have the chance to compete for a US$10,000 scholarship, compliments of the Chairman, which can be applied to any field of study.
Notably, telecommunications giant and exclusive private sector partner on this initiative, One Communications, will also be offering a US$1,000 cash prize for first-place winners in all the categories.
The company will also generously provide US$500 and an iPad for second-place winners in all the categories, and US$250 and a mobile phone for third-
place winners in all categories.
One Communications will also join the Secretariat in awarding all prizes to the winners on February 18, 2025, during Day One of the GECSCE.
Chairman of the Guyana Energy Conference, Anthony Whyte
APNU reiterates calls for GECOM to implement biometrics for 2025 polls
Two months after Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud had presented to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) a feasibility study on the use of electronic fingerprint biometrics for registration and voting in the next elections, a decision is yet to be taken in regard to biometrics.
The Opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has reiterated its preparedness to support the necessary stages to arrive at an outcome, including enacting constitutional and statutory changes, if necessary.
“We believe that the technical and other concerns the CEO has identified in his report do not amount to insurmountable or irresolvable issues. We stand ready to engage in all necessary discussions at the GECOM level, the parliamentary level, and/or at the inter-party level, to resolve these concerns to the satisfaction of all stakeholders, including the
Guyanese people,” the party maintains.
The use of biometrics technology in Guyana, the APNU has stated, would provide more robust protection and safeguards against voter impersonation, multiple voting, and electoral manipulation. As such, it has called on GECOM to urgently advance the process to ensure the use of fingerprint biometrics becomes a reality for the 2025 elections.
The party has reminded GECOM Chairperson Claudette Singh that her role as chair must extend far beyond that of a glorified returning officer, and that she must see her role as a mission to guarantee accurate and credible elections.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton GECOM Chairperson Justice (retired) Claudette Singh
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
APNU reiterates calls...
Further, the APNU has accused the PPP and its appointed commissioners of running out of excuses, as that party claims the PPP’s latest effort to use the lack of time as an obstacle to implementing biometrics technology is another sham.
“We in the Opposition believe, from experiences in other countries (such as Ghana), that GECOM can ensure there is biometrics. Ghana, during COVID-19 and all the challenges it posed, implemented biometrics in under two months. It is important to note that Ghana has 17 million registered voters in comparison to Guyana’s 750,000,” APNU stated in a release on Friday.
Addressing the issue, GECOM Chairperson Justice (ret’d) Claudette
Singh reported that despite the matter being brought up for discussion at several meetings, there has been no decision on the way forward.
She explained that the three Governmentnominated commissioners and the three Oppositionnominated commissioners have differing positions on how to proceed. One side is pushing for there to be consultation with stakeholders before this new system of biometrics is introduced, while the other is contending that GECOM must first take a position before any consultations.
This latter position, which the GECOM Chair – who has a tie-breaking vote on the seven-member Elections Commission – agrees with, requires the Commission to first discuss
PAGE 16
the findings of the feasibility study.
Further, as the Opposition parties intensify their demands for the introduction of digitised biometrics, the General Secretary of the ruling PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, had rejected these proposals, contending that the PPP would never support proposals that hinder the process, and would not fall for the traps being set by the Opposition to delay the holding of elections in 2025.
Jagdeo, who serves as Vice President in the current PPP/C Administration, has said his administration is open to expanding the authority and responsibilities of Presiding Officers ahead of the 2025 elections, to ensure greater transparency and accountability during the voting process.
Over $700M awarded in contracts for recycling centre, hazardous waste cell at Haags Bosch
In a major step toward advancing environmental sustainability, contracts valued at over $700 million have been awarded for the development of a state-of-the-art recycling centre and a hazardous waste cell at Haags Bosch at
Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD). The projects, which are part of the Government’s broader strategy to enhance waste management and promote eco-friendly practices, will transform Haags Bosch into a hub for sustainable waste processing.
Haags Bosch sanitary landfill facility
Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag
$402M tissue culture lab to be operational by March – Mustapha reassures
Astate-of-the-art tissue culture lab at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD) valued at $402.5 million is set to become operational within the first quarter of 2025, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha reassures.
Tissue culture, a cutting-edge technique in agriculture, enables the growth of plant cells, tissues, or even entire plants in a controlled, sterile environment. This method facilitates the rapid multiplication of genetically uniform plants, enhances disease resistance, and ensures superior quality.
During his end-of-year press conference late last year, Mustapha explained that the country cannot currently achieve such yields through its existing nurseries.
“We are hoping that this building will be operational by the first quarter of 2025. Now, when this is completed, it will have the capacity to produce millions of planting materials, or plantlets, as you call it. As it stands now, we are producing just below 15,000 plantlets annually because we have nurseries across the country—approximately 11 nurseries—but they can’t produce at this level.”
It is envisioned that the lab will produce a variety of crops that the country traditionally imports.
“This lab will be a game
changer for Guyana because it will produce several crops that we want, such as pineapple, plantain, breadfruit, sweet potato, coconut, blackberries, and other products, even cane plants. It will also enable, for the first time, large-scale cultivation of crops like cassava, citrus, cut flowers, roses, ginger, turmeric, strawberries, and raspberries—crops that we normally import.”
These crops will also be free from pests and diseases that crops are usually susceptible to when being planted outdoors.
“And also, these planting materials will be produced without pests or diseases. Normally, these materials attract such issues, but this will help us diversify Guyana’s agricultural output,” the Minister stated.
The Minister also highlighted how the lab will be a significant contributor to re-
ducing Guyana’s food import bill.
“This will help us reduce our food import bill with the type of planting material we’ll be producing at the tissue culture lab. This will also help us diversify Guyana’s agricultural output and support the growing demand for both local and export markets.
He added, “With the leadership being extended by Guyana in agriculture, we have seen several countries looking to us to help develop their agricultural sectors. As the President has said, we are not just building these facilities for Guyana, but also for regional countries, which will benefit from them.”
The construction of the tissue culture laboratory is part of the Sustainable Agricultural Development Project (SADP), funded through a US$15 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Police arrest prominent sports official on rape allegations
Police on Friday arrested a prominent sports official in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) about several rape allegations brought against him. His arrest came days after, a 10-day part-time worker reported to the police that she was repeatedly sexually abused by him.
It was reported that the victim was raped for the first time back in January 2023 when she was invited to the suspect’s office to uplift a food hamper. She had stated that when she arrived, she was made to wait until everyone had left and then she was invited into the office where she was sexually assaulted.
“I was so shocked and scared that I didn’t scream,” she told this publication.
Then in March 2023, the victim visited the perpetrator’s
office again where she was offered a job to earn $40,000 per month. She was also offered an additional $20,000 monthly to work six days at the sports organisation. She is now claiming that she never received the additional payment and was frequently being sexually violated. The last time she was molested was in November 2024.
“I was afraid to tell my mother that he does be forcing himself on me because he threatened that if I told anyone, I would lose my 10-day work,” she told this publication.
On the other hand, the victim’s mother related that the official visited her home and complained that her daughter was not being very cooperative and was not pleasant at the office.
She said she confronted the sports official after being told what was happening with her daughter and was told that he was sorry.
“I called him and he came and told me that he was sorry and it would affect him if I take my daughter to the police because he has a wife and children,” the victim’s mother explained.
“He didn’t think of what he was doing to my daughter, just because we poor… How many others he probably did it to? He begged me not to go to the police but I told him I was going to the welfare department first,” the frustrated mother related.
A report was first made to the welfare department and the police on Monday. The victim was then taken to the hospital for a medical checkup.
A tissue culture facility
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha
Guyana achieves UNAIDS 1st 95-95-95 target – Health Minister
Guyana’s battle against the HIV/ AIDS epidemic has been gaining international recognition as the country emerges as one of the leaders in the fight against this deadly virus.
In a bid to combat the HIV scourge globally, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) launched the 9595-95 targets in 2024 aimed at diagnosing 95 per cent of all HIV-positive individuals, providing antiretroviral therapy for 95 per cent of those infected and achieving viral suppression for 95 per cent by 2030.
On Tuesday during the Health Ministry’s yearend press briefing, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony highlighted that the country has made a remarkable achievement in the fight against the disease last year.
According to the Minister in 2024, Guyana had achieved the first UNAIDS 95-95-95 target with a total of 95 per cent of persons living with the disease knowing their status.
“We’ve also been making significant progress in infectious diseases in terms of HIV… For this year we have 95 per cent of persons knowing their status and that’s the UNAIDS objective to have at least 95 per cent of persons with HIV Knowing their status.”
On this point, the Minister noted that significant progress has also been made on antiretroviral therapy and viral suppression targets.
“In terms of those persons who know their status and are on treatment that has now increased to at least 75 per cent so we still have a
percentage where we need to work on people coming in to get treatment. Of those who are on treatment, we have 41 per cent of them are virally suppressed meaning that they cannot transmit the infection.”
Additionally, the Minister noted that the Ministry has also improved prevention and testing measures for citizens. He revealed that persons now have access to Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) which is a medication that can reduce the risk of contracting HIV.
“We have introduced some new things which include PrEP. So if somebody believes that they are at risk for HIV then they can use these medications and prevent themselves from getting HIV”
Previously, this drug was only available to “serodiscordant couples” (a couple where one person has HIV and the other does not). In 2024 alone, more than 30,000 patients have had access to PrEP treatment, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to control
the virus.
As it relates to testing, the Health Minister revealed that, in a bid to get more persons tested the Ministry has introduced self-test kits.
“We have also introduced something called self-testing. You can obtain those kits from us; you can now pick up a kit and test yourself and if you’re positive then you come into us.”
Meanwhile, Recent reports indicate that Guyana has achieved one of the lowest rates of new infections, particularly among its youth. This success is an important example for other nations in the Caribbean and around the world.
The impressive strides made by Guyana were underscored by the Programme Manager of the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS), Dr Tariq Jagnarine. Dr Jagnarine responded to a report published last September by the United Nations (UN) and Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which suggested that a significant spike in HIV infections among young
Over $700M awarded in...
The recycling centre will focus on reducing landfill waste by sorting and repurposing recyclable materials like plastic, while the hazardous waste cell will provide safe disposal and treatment of toxic substances, mitigating risks to public health and the environment.
Speaking at the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development (MLGRD) end-of-year press conference, Minister Anand Persaud stressed the importance of the Haags Bosch landfill project.
“The hazardous waste cell has to do with Exxon Mobil with the treated waste that will come offshore and then treated by GAICO, we will then take it over to the landfill site and make sure it is disposed of properly,” Minister Persaud explained.
The projects have been awarded to two contractors following a competitive bidding process. The recycling centre is pegged at $210 million while the hazardous
waste cell amounts to $556 million and both companies are expected to adhere to strict timelines and quality standards.
Outside of this particular landfill site, the Ministry has reportedly expended over $4 billion from 2020 to 2024 to improve solid waste management as well as maintain and open new landfills.
According to Minister Sonia Parag, the sum of $809 million was expended in 2024 to maintain 13 landfill operations, while $22 million was spent on procuring over 100 brush cutters and 130 tractors and trailers.
“We also facilitated the following works in relation to solid waste management. Preparation of a temporary area for accepting waste in Region Seven, closure and restoration of the Lima dumpsite, closure of D Edward Cotton Tree dumpsite, upgrade of Kara-Kara in Linden. Combine the to-
people, aged 15 to 24, had occurred.
According to the report, this age group accounted for 28 per cent of new HIV infections in 2023, while the Caribbean region overall contributed to 27 per cent of the 15,000 new infections reported.
However, Dr Jagnarine refuted these claims, pointing out that Guyana, along with Suriname, had some of the lowest HIV rates among its youth. He clarified that the report’s findings were based on erroneous data, which failed to accurately reflect the situation in these countries.
HIV self-testing
According to Dr Jagnarine, the apparent rise in infections was not a trend seen in Guyana, which has been making significant progress in reducing new cases of HIV among young people. He emphasised that Guyana remains focused on its vulnerable youth population and continues to work diligently to ensure the prevention and treatment of HIV in this group.
While HIV rates among young people in the Caribbean remain a serious concern, Guyana’s success is a direct result of the country’s ongoing commitment to a comprehensive national HIV strategy.
FROM PAGE 18
tal expenditure for solid waste management in 2022 is $1.2 billion,” she briefly said.
The Haags Bosch landfill, established in 2011, has long been a focal point of waste management in Guyana. With this new development, it is poised to become a model for sustainable waste practices in the region.
The Government has assured continuous monitoring and support for the projects, signalling its dedication to environmental protection and sustainable development.
The sum of $400 million was set aside for the construction of the cells at the Haags Bosch. It was noted that the cells are part of a strategic plan devised by the MLGRD to eliminate the stench emanating from the dumpsite, which affects residents in surrounding areas and commuters utilising the Eccles to Mandela and Heroes highways.
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony
India vs Australia, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Test 5 of 5…
Australia dominate play on green pitch
– as Boland leads the charge
Off-field chaos swirled around India in the lead-up to the Sydney Test. Their on-field batting performance on the opening day in Sydney was just as chaotic, after Rohit Sharma dropped himself in a nearly unprecedented move in Indian cricket, and Jasprit Bumrah took over as captain.
After Bumrah chose to bat, India struggled in the face of relentless bowling from Australia, and eventually were dismissed for 185, just before close of play.
Bumrah produced the final twist to the day’s play when he got rid of Usman Khawaja off the last ball of the day, and Australia went to stumps on 9 for 1.
Boland leads the charge Scott Boland led the line for Australia, returning staggering figures of 20-8-31-4. His metronomic accuracy and mastery of length, with the new ball as well as the old one, was too much to handle for India's batters. He hardly bowled a bad ball, and kept generating sharp seam movement off a lush-green Sydney pitch that also offered variable bounce.
Mitchell Starc had gone
too full in search of swing in the first over, while Pat Cummins erred on the shorter side with the new ball. Boland, though, located the perfect length in his first over, and never veered away from it. He struck with his fourth ball, when he put one on a good length and got it to seam away to have Yashasvi Jaiswal nicking off to debutant Beau Webster at third slip for 10.
By then KL Rahul had already been dismissed for 4, having chipped a legstump half-volley from Starc straight to Sam Konstas at square leg in the fifth over. And Shubman Gill, who had replaced Rohit in India's XI, started well, but his innings was cut short at 20 when he advanced at Nathan Lyon only to offer a catch to slip off what turned out to be the last ball before lunch. Gill has reached 20 three times in four innings on this tour, but hasn't passed 31.
Virat Kohli could have been out with the first ball he faced, but he survived by the skin of his teeth. Boland had Kohli wafting an outside edge to second slip, where Steven Smith dived low to his right and appeared to
have grabbed the ball close to the ground before somehow scooping it up to gully, where Marnus Labuschagne completed the catch. After much rocking and rolling, TV umpire Joel Wilson deemed that the ball had touched the ground before Smith lobbed it to Labuschagne.
Kohli then left the next ball, and 16 more balls, before Boland sucked him into nicking another one, and Webster held on to this chance with his bucket hands at third slip. Kohli has been dismissed seven times in this BorderGavaskar series, and all his dismissals have followed a
Ravindra Jadeja briefly repaired the innings with a 48run partnership for the fifth wicket in 25 overs, before Boland damaged India again, this time with a double-blow. He first had Pant splicing a pull to mid-on, and next ball he had Nitish Kumar Reddy, India's hero from the MCG Test, caught at second slip for a duck. Boland was denied a hat-trick, but remained a threat, nipping even the old ball off the seam from both over and around the stumps.
No breathing room Pant played an unusually subdued knock, manag-
pattern: edging behind to the keeper or the cordon. It was also the fourth time in six Test innings that Boland had bested Kohli.
Kohli had gone to great lengths to avoid this pattern. He had ditched his open stance for a more side-on one, but it proved unavoidable, as he fell for 17 off 69 balls.
Rishabh Pant and
ing 40 off 98 balls. After being caught on the boundary in both innings at the MCG,
with his failed first innings’ scoop drawing particularly severe criticism, he sat back and relied more on his defensive technique. In a rare show of aggression, however, he stepped out to Webster and launched him over the sightscreen for six. It was only the sixth boundary for India in 46 overs.
The depth and skill in Australia's attack meant there was no breathing room for India's batters. Webster, the allrounder who had switched from offspin to medium-pace during Covid-19, put in a tidy shift, coming away with figures of 13-4-29-0, and his slip catching was even more memorable.
Starc and Cummins then took care of India's lower order. Despite battling back issues, Starc cranked it up to 147kph and discomfited India's batters in using the uneven bounce to his advantage. He first pinged Pant on his bicep and left him with a bruise, before knocking him
SCOREBOARD
India 1st Innings
Yashasvi Jaiswal c Webster
b Boland 10
KL Rahul c Konstas
b Starc 4
Shubman Gill c Smith
b Lyon 20
Virat Kohli c Webster
b Boland 17
Rishabh Pant † c Cummins
b Boland 40
Ravindra Jadeja lbw
b Starc 26
Nitish Kumar Reddy c Smith
b Boland 0
Washington Sundar c †Carey
b Cummins 14
Prasidh Krishna c Konstas
b Starc 3
Jasprit Bumrah (c) c Starc
b Cummins 22
Mohammed Siraj not out 3
Extras (b 7, lb 13, nb 6) 26
Total 72.2 Ov (RR: 2.55) 185
Fall of wickets: 1-11 (KL Rahul, 4.6 ov), 2-17 (Yashasvi Jaiswal, 7.4 ov), 3-57 (Shubman Gill, 24.6 ov), 4-72 (Virat Kohli, 31.3 ov), 5-120 (Rishabh Pant, 56.4 ov), 6-120 (Nitish Kumar Reddy, 56.5 ov),
7-134 (Ravindra Jadeja, 62.4 ov), 8-148 (Washington Sundar, 65.6 ov), 9-168 (Prasidh Krishna, 68.2 ov), 10-185 (Jasprit Bumrah, 72.2 ov) • DRS
Bowling O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 18-5-49-3
Pat Cummins 15.2-4-37-2
Scott Boland 20-8-31-4
Beau Webster 13-4-29-0
Nathan Lyon 6-2-19-1
Australia 1st Innings
Sam Konstas not out 7 Usman Khawaja c Rahul b Bumrah 2 Extras 0
Total 3 Ov (RR: 3.00) 9/1
Yet to bat: Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey †, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland Fall of wickets:
on his helmet. Pant copped a number of blows on his body during his painstaking stay. Ravindra Jadeja's vigil (26 off 95 balls) came to an end when Starc pinned him lbw. Cummins then wrapped India up for 185.
Bumrah had some fun with the bat in clubbing his way to 22 off 17 balls. He had more fun with the ball when he struck with the final ball of the day. He celebrated it animatedly by spinning around and roaring at Konstas, the non-striker, who had been involved in a fiery exchange with him moments before Khawaja's dismissal. The onfield umpire had to intervene to diffuse the tension.
Bumrah and Konstas promise more entertainment on day two at the SCG. (ESPNCricinfo)
Scott Boland finished with figures of 4 for 31 in 20 overs
Rishabh Pant launching down the ground
Virat Kohli driving through the off side
Beau Webster and Scott Boland being congratulated by their team mates
Maid Marian Women’s Cup to conclude today
Weeks of intense women’s football action would culminate today, Saturday January 4, with the staging of the semifinals and final in the Maid Marian Women’s Wheat Up Cup.
At the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, EBD, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC ‘A’ will take on Guyana Police Force FC ‘A’ in a semifinal match that commences at 15:00hrs; and GDF FC ‘B’ would be
going up against Fruta Conquerors in the second semi-final match which would be played at the same time.
Losers of the semifinal matches would compete in the third-place playoff that is set to be kicked off at 17:00hrs. The anticipated final match would follow at 18:30hrs. These seven-aside matches have a 60-minute time frame.
At the end of Group stage competition, GDF ‘A’ emerged top of Group A with a perfect 9 points
from 3 games, while Fruta Conquerors emerged as runners-up in the group with 6 points from 3 games.
GDF ‘B’ topped Group B with a squeaky-clean 12 points from 4 games played, while GPF ‘A’ picked up 9 points from 4 games played.
The teams are competing for a grand prize of $500,000, while second-place winner would pocket $200,000 and the third-place winner would receive $100,000. Trophies for individual prizes are also up for grabs.
Bangladesh Women to visit West Indies in white ball tour from January 19
Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Friday announced the schedule for the Bangladesh Women’s team’s white-ball tour of the West Indies, set to be held in the island state of St Kitts and Nevis (SKN) from January 19 to January 31, 2025. The tour would fea-
Altaf Ali is latest beneficiary of Cricket Gear Initiative
Altaf Ali, a 13-year-old leg spinner of Bush Lot Cricket Club, West Coast Berbice, is the latest cricketer to benefit from the Cricket Gear initiative being jointly managed by Anil Beharry and Kishan Das of the USA.
Ali’s coach Rajbance Hemraj approached this project for assistance, and has been gifted one pair of cricket shoes for Ali. The Cricket Gear initiative has said it is pleased to be part of the development of Altaf Ali and of every other youth in Guyana.
“Our aim is to keep young people off the streets, and get them actively involved in sports, cricket in particular”, it has said.
Total cricket-related items received/purchased so far is as follows: $460,000 in cash, thirteen coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, thirty-one pairs of cricket shoes, thirty-five pairs of batting pads, forty cricket bats, thirty-six pairs of batting gloves, twenty-six thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, twelve cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one fiberglass bat, one pair of floppy hats, thirteen boxes of white cricket balls, eleven boxes of red cricket balls, and twenty-eight footballs. In addition to the above, over $600,000
in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former national wicket-keeper/batsman.
All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.
To date, 90 young players, male and female from all three counties of Guyana, have benefitted directly from cash, seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, thirty-three bats, four boxes, six helmets, thirty-four pairs of cricket shoes, twenty-one pairs of batting pads, twenty-four thigh pads, one bat grip, thirty-five pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicketkeeping pads and three pairs of wicketkeeping gloves. Many others have benefited indirectly.
In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area have benefited from receipt of two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard have also each received one box of red cricket balls; Cold Fusion Cricket Club received thirteen coloured uniforms, while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, two sets of stumps and bails.
Other beneficiaries are: the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one
box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area; # 65 Young Titans have received 30 T-Shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple, Leguan Cricket Committee, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each), Kendall’s Union Cricket Club with two boxes of red balls, Lower Corentyne, Corentyne
Comprehensive and JC Chandisingh Secondary schools with twelve red balls each. Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country, and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth programme would also benefit.
ture three CG United OneDay Internationals (ODIs) & three T20 Internationals (T20Is), all to be played at Warner Park in Basseterre.
The Bangladesh team would arrive in SKN on 14 January, ahead of the first CG United One-Day International (ODI) scheduled for 19 January. The ODI series would be continued with the second match on 21 January and conclude on 24 January.
Following the ODI series, the teams would compete in three T20I matches on 27, 29, and 31 January.
CWI Acting Chief Executive Officer Lynford Inverary, in expressing his enthusiasm for hosting the matches at Warner Park, has said: "Warner Park has long been a significant venue for West Indies cricket, and we are pleased to host the Bangladesh Women's team for this series. These matches not only provide a platform for high-quality cricket, but also contribute to the development of the sport in St. Kitts and the wider Leeward Islands. We encourage the local fans to come out in full support, cre ating an electrifying atmo sphere throughout the se ries."
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, in re marks highlighting the im portance of the series, has said: "This series against Bangladesh is crucial for us as we continue our campaign in the 2025 ICC 50-Over Women's Championship. The ODI series carries significant weight for our World Cup qualification hopes, while the T20I matches will provide valuable preparation as we continue to build depth in our squad.
pect com petitive cricket from both teams, and these matches will be vital for assessing our progress and fine-tuning our strategies for the challenges ahead in 2025."
A strong performance against Bangladesh, particularly in the ODI series, is crucial to acquire automatic qualification. However, there would still be another opportunity to qualify through the World Cup Qualifying Tournament scheduled a few months before the event. West Indies Women will be seeking important Women's Championship points in the ODI series.
The tour schedule includes dedicated practice sessions for both teams, ing ses9:30am to and afternoon sessions from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. Some evening practice sessions are also scheduled from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Ticket and broadcast information for the coming home series will be announced in the coming weeks.
Match Schedule: - January 19: 1st OneDay International -January 21: 2nd OneDay International -January 24: 3rd OneDay International -January 27: 1st T20I -January 29: 2nd T20I - 31 January: 3rd T20I
A look at what to expect today
West Indies’ Women will take on Bangladesh later this month
Rajbance Hemraj presenting Altaf Ali with his shoes
Women’s Cup to conclude today
Monedderlust Football Club created an upset of great proportions by beating Police FC on Thursday night to reach the final of the Candy Boss 8-a-side Invitational Football Tournament, being played at the All-Saints Ground in New Amsterdam, Berbice.
Two goals by Tyron Delph helped Monedderlust secure a 2-0 win over Police FC in their semi-final match. Delph scored in the 44th and 48th minutes to hand the defending champions their first defeat in the tournament, in which they have participated for a third year.
Monedderlust will meet Cougars Under-20 in Saturday’s (today’s) final, while Police FC would try to salvage some pride when they come up against Cougars’ Senior team in the third-place play-off during the double-header.
Cougars U20 battled their senior counterparts to a 5-3 win on Wednesday to qualify for Saturday’s final. Sixteen teams participated in this year’s tournament, wherein over $1M in cash and other prizes are up for grabs.
In today’s final, Cougars U20 will be depending heavily on the accurate Quacy Mickle and Gary Innis’s quick pair of legs. Good support is also expected from John Reid and Shaquille Semple.
Monedderlust, on the other hand, will be depending on Lumar Reid playing the midfield and Ray Ruddock up front, along with Alton Brown and Jadon Thom. (G-4)
Monedderlust FC upset defending champions Police FC 2-0