Security officer nabbed with firearm, ammo during police operation
GPS trained over 400 officers in 2024
Papa John’s Pizza opens on Monday with heavy focus on customer service
Javin Luke is Guyana’s 1st male medical physicist
Tapping into Guyana’s waterways: Hydropower plays key role in energy future Sophia duo busted with ammo, knife & stolen cell phone
On the heels of the Government’s recently announced salary increases for all public servants, Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the Disciplined Services will also benefit from a one-month annual bonus – a $1.6 billion injection that will be added to their monthly salary as well as the $100,000 one-off cash grant for adult Guyanese.
During a visit to Base Camp Seweyo for a Christmas lunch on Saturday, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced Christmas bonuses for the joint services. This bonus comes just days after
of the year. The Christmas spirit wraps around our fear. But there is a knowing that we stand for something more’,” President Ali quoted.
“And that is the life of a soldier, our men and women in uniform, knowing that most of the world will be waking up on Christmas morning with their families, but still being happy wrapped around your own fears and Christmas, knowing that you stand for something more.”
Public servants including teachers and sugar workers have so far received a 10 per cent across-the-board salary increase for this year. In addition, President Ali had also announced that they would
ther, announcing that allowances will be provided for individuals with certain qualifications, effective January 1,
President Ali had announced salary increases for public servants, as per an agreement with the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU).
“One of the things that I’m very proud of from the first year, is that when we came back into office, as your Commander-in-Chief we were able to restore the annual bonus. Two weeks of annual bonus, that was taken away from you. One year later, we were able to restore the full annual bonus,” President Ali said.
“And today, I want to announce that this year also, 12,000 of our service men and women will receive again, the annual bonus for our men and women soldiers. So, in addition to your $100,000 grant, you will be receiving this year, one month of annual bonus, which is $1.6 billion transfer to our men and women in uniform.”
President Ali also saluted the service men and women for their service to Guyana, particularly during the Christmas time when they have to be so far away from their families. He quoted from a Danny Rongo song titled ‘A Soldier’s Christmas Song’ to illustrate his point.
“There is a song by Danny Rongo and I will quote a section of that song, that speaks about a soldier’s life. And here is what that song says. ‘Our job is harder at this time
get an eight per cent increase for next year. A two-year agreement reflecting these increases was also signed with the GPSU
The President went fur-
2025. These include a $15,000 monthly allowance for public servants with Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualifications, an additional
$22,000 per month for holders of a master’s degree, and an additional $32,000 per month for holders of a doctoral degree.
During its time in office, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition Government had taken away the one-month tax-free bonus from the joint services, which the PPP/C Administration re-implemented after returning to office. Last year marked the first time that this tax-free bonus was also extended to civilian GDF workers.
The Government’s $100,000 Cash Grant Initiative was announced by President Ali in October and every Guyanese citizen 18 years old and over, with a valid ID or passport, will receive the payout.
The initial distribution process of the $100,000 oneoff cash grant is expected to see about 300,000 Guyanese receiving their cash grants before the end of the year, while the remainder of persons should receive theirs next year. (G-3)
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On the occasion of International Human Rights Day 2024, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), which operates by issuing press releases on subjects it defines as important - without any known interactions, much less consultations, with the “humans” it purports to represent in Guyana - sent out the expected press release via social media. There was not even a press conference where its self-appointed “executives” could be questioned on its claims and assertions.
But the latest release, “Oil wealth changing significance of ethnicity in Guyana”, merely reaffirmed the GHRA’s long-held preconception of the individual. He is no longer the bearer of rights and a moral agent with a will and purpose of his own, but an individual whose interests need external articulation, protection and promulgation by, of course, the GHRA. This reconceptualization created the GHRA’s paternalistic political praxis, where it exercises the asserted rights rather than the individual’s rights.
The GHRA’s fundamental premise in its argument about “the significance of ethnicity in Guyana” is flawed. It asserted “that human rights are the international community’s response to the idea that every person counts, as captured in the reference in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to ‘equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family’. The idea of everyone being equal before the law worked well as long as States were formed from nations of people who spoke the same language, professed the same religion, had the same colour and lived in nature-defined geographic areas.”
The idea of everyone being equal before the law – dubbed the “rule of law” - arose gradually in the West from the 16th century through the 20th as the foundational principle of the Liberal Order when individual countries like Britain were divided along religious, national, and in the case of the US, African slave-dominated lines. So, to contrast such societies with “states formed from the colonial experiences…(where)… culturally different groups were compelled to live together by imperial powers” is fundamentally disingenuous.
In Guyana, while we accept that “ethnic groups” were compelled to live together by Britain, we have been following the steps pioneering diverse liberal countries took in creating a just system under the rule of law. The challenge of the rule of law has always been one of ensuring that if any group is being oppressed along any identifying line by the operations of the law, then that anomaly must be addressed. This is inevitably not an instantaneous event occasioned by the passing of laws and the creation of institutions, but a process that would take time for the goals to be fully realized.
The GHRA’s central claim arising from their flawed premise is that “political ethnicity has determined the quality of life in Guyana over the years, and condemned it to the bottom of most social and economic indicators, the advent of oil has introduced a new and abrasive factor. Electoral victories achieved by moulding ethnic groups into political formations are being superseded by the changing control of the economy to an important degree.” Political ethnicity is a tautology, since there have always been “ethnicities” – different cultural groups in a geographical unit – but it is modern democratic politics of agglomerating political support that created “ethnicity” –where the agglomeration is along ethnic lines.
In Guyana, this occurred in 1955, when Forbes Burnham split the unified nationalist PPP to form the PNC with African and Coloured Guyanese support. After he connived with colonial powers to subvert the democratic process by rigging elections between 1968 and 1985, Burnham and the PNC permanently changed the power structure in Guyana.
The GHRA suggested that “Guyana perhaps needs a national conversation on the economic significance of ethnicity. Priority in such a conversation must be given to the concept of ‘fairness’”. However, the debilitating effects of ethnicity have been already altered by the changing demographics that the GHRA notes. All political parties must adhere to democratic norms, and appeal to all groups, since there are no longer any built-in majorities.
The rights-bearing voters will exercise their right to ensure fairness. We do not have to fix what is not broken.
Dear Editor,
In a retort to a letter I penned, Mr Nigel Bacchus, in another media, appealed, “We must reject the demons of racism” (Nov 28). Who would disagree? But his letter has evidence of shades of racism (against Indians) and is therefore hypocritical.
While I cannot instruct the letters editor of any media on how to do his or her job, or what to publish; and while I do support absolute freedom of the press; greater care should be taken in editing and publishing nonsense.
Bacchus’s letter was very confusing. It is barren of substance. One has to make sense of the nonsense in this message, which raises the question of why it was published. His attack is an old, wornout, partisan tactic: when your argument lacks substance and merit, go on the attack and call them racist!
Bacchus states he travels quite a bit, but offers no relationship of demons of racism with his travels. He writes he is saddened “in Bisram’s letter and in attending meetings at Hamilton Green’s compound”, but does not say how and why.
He said he learned a
lot of history from Green. It is curious why a Mixed African-Indian person goes to an African nationalist to learn Guyanese history of the tragic period from the 1950s onwards. Why not an Indian like Pat Dial, the most respected historian in the country, a man of impeccable integrity and incorruptible honesty? Or why not another respected person like Eusi Kwayana?
It is widely known that Green was, and remains, a controversial and racially divisive figure in Guyanese politics and in the rise of the dictatorship. His name was associated with a lot of anti-Indian violence that is well documented in countless publications. He is also linked to the attempts to derail democratic elections in 1992 and 2020. He told Hoyte not to accept Jimmy Carter's advice and concede defeat. He urged President Granger to disregard the 2020 election, ignore comments from America, and essentially declare a state of emergency.
Bacchus accuses me of trying to divide the country by merely mentioning the names of Indian villages in a retort. What stretch of imagination, logic and reasoning can be invoked to reach such an absurd con-
clusion? This selective critique of my writing out of context perpetuates racism, rather than addresses it.
He said he was told by Green that the names of Ankerville, Leonora, Bath, and other villages led to a “call for partition”. Can he cite literature substantiating that contention? Who called for partition, when, where, and why? My readings referenced one Sydney King suggesting ‘partition’ if the leaders of two main races and the followers could not agree on governance and power sharing. I didn’t call for partition.
And contrary to what Bacchus pens, I didn’t introduce the demon of racism. I have campaigned against racism. It was Green who miniaturised the contribution of Indians in the construction of the National Cultural Center. That is an example of a demon of racism, and not what I penned. Gem Madhoo-Nascimento and many before her, in missives in SN, supported the claim that the Indian Immigrant Fund was used to construct the NCC. Ravi Dev, in GT Dec 1, cited figures showing the fund could build the NCC with money being left over.
Bacchus convenient-
ly ignored the writings of Green. By making an unsubstantiated allegation against me, and not condemning Green’s miniaturization of Indian contributions to culture, Bacchus's letter undermines his appeal to reject the demons of racism. His reliance on Green to know history serves to entrench divisions and alienate the very public to which he appealed to reject demons of racism. Bacchus undermines his own appeal by not holding Green to the same standards that he seeks from others.
I call on Bacchus to join me in condemning the racist comments that the Indian Immigrant Fund was negligible in the cost of construction of the National Cultural Center. As a person of mixed African-Indian descent, he should excoriate Green for minimizing the contributions of Indians. Critiques must foster mutual accountability among all writers.
It would be hypocritical to call on the nation to reject demons of racism if one subscribes to, and harbours, shades of racism.
Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram
Dear Editor
There continues to be confusion created by opposition- aligned operatives as it relates to the withdrawal of monies from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), accountability and transparency thereof, in compliance with the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 (hereinafter “NRF Act”). It is a very simple matter, and the withdrawals from the Fund are made in compliance with the NRF Act.
Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act establishes that:
All withdrawals from the Fund shall be deposited into the Consolidated Fund, and shall be used only to finance
–
a) National development priorities, including any initiative aimed at realizing an inclusive green economy; and
Section 19 (1-3) of the NRF Act sets out the procedures for the “approval of withdrawals from the Fund”, which states that:
(1) The amount that the Minister shall request the National Assembly to approve as the withdrawal from the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year shall be included in the annual budget proposal and shall not exceed for that year, the ceiling calculated in accordance with Section 17 and the First Schedule plus any amount for emergency financing.
Section 20 (1) sets out the contents of the annual budget proposal, which states that the budget proposal shall include―
b) Essential projects that are directly related to ameliorating the effect of a major natural disaster.
a) An estimate of the withdrawal from the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
Dear Editor,
I write in support of the First Lady’s recent Diamond Ball, an event that has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While I understand the concerns expressed about its perceived extravagance, it is important to recognize the value of such events in achieving philanthropic goals and elevating causes in ways that traditional fundraisers, such as BBQ sales, may not.
High-profile events like the Diamond Ball serve a dual purpose: they raise substantial funds and generate widespread attention for important causes. While ticket prices may seem exclusive, the funds from such an event often far exceed what smaller-scale fundraisers can achieve in scope and impact.
Moreover, the event attracts donors who can con-
tribute financially through their networks, influence, and continued support for charitable initiatives.
Additionally, the ball’s elegance and grandeur symbolize a commitment to excellence, and serve as a reminder of the transformative power of generosity. This approach can inspire others to give, multiplying the overall impact beyond what a direct donation might achieve.
Rather than viewing this as a misstep, let us see it as an opportunity to understand the strategic nature of modern philanthropy. The resources raised and awareness created through this event will undoubtedly contribute meaningfully to all the causes the First Lady champions.
Sincerely,
Nutana Singh
Source: Budget Estimates (Various)/Author’s Calculations
b) An estimate of the deposits into the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
c) A detailed estimate of petroleum revenues for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
d) An estimate of the expected nominal total return per annum of the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
e) A comparison of actual withdrawals from the Fund with the amount approved by the National Assembly for withdrawal
from the Fund for the past three fiscal years. The budget proposal comprises the budget speech and the budget estimates (Volumes 1-3). Appendix VII of the budget speech (Pg. 115) is prepared in compliance with Section 20 (1) (a-d) as outlined above.
With respect to the national development priorities set out in Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act, these are included in the budget proposal. It must also be noted that the expenditures as per Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act would comprise 100% of the capital budget, which includes, for example, the capital allocations for the infrastructure sector, health, education,
and housing and water sectors, etc., more so the infrastructure sector.
Towards this end, the capital budget for 2024 amounted to $666.2 billion, accounting for 58% of the total budget. The NRF withdrawal for 2024 amounted to $240 billion, representing 36% of the total capital budget. And notably, the infrastructure budget alone for 2024 was $236 billion, 98% of the NRF withdrawal.
Furthermore, it must be noted that the combined opposition participates fully in the budget debates and approval process in the National Assembly, wherein the budget estimates are scrutinized in detail by the
National Assembly. The opposition chairs the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that scrutinizes the audited public accounts prepared by the Auditor General as well. Therefore, it is disingenuous for the opposition operatives to propagate that the government has failed to comply with the provisions of Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act, when this is done through the budget approval process, and the budget proposal includes the budget speech together with the detailed estimates of the expenditures.
Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2024
Every year, during the Festive Season, veterinarians find it necessary to repeat our advice on the care of pets.
So, let’s get into the fundamental issues that we implore you to heed.
(1) Incorrect feeding
Our fixation with overstuffing ourselves in carried over to our pets. So, we feel that our pets must gorge them with all the junk food (or residues therefrom), which are not part of their normal diet.
Dogs and cats are not humans and would not relish garlic pork and pepper pot on Christmas Day. They would be
I recall a lecturer from the largest pet food manufacturers in the world, and who worked at the foremost companion
just as happy if they received their usual bland fare. [I say “bland” because the food that we give our companion animals should be free of spices, since some spices can trigger an allergic reaction].
animal nutrition research institutes on the planet, advising us that over 50 percent of all ailments among pets stem from incorrect nutrition. That figure would be
much larger during Christmas.
The problem is that the vet has to prise himself/herself up from a favourite chair or recliner to look after a pet which has “just” developed a “life threatening” malady, which is, in truth, just a reaction to a piece of chocolate, spicy food, or several grapes or some such incorrect bit of feeding. The moral of the story is that
there is absolutely no need to over-feed or extra-feed your companion animals during the Holiday Season. Give them the same normal everyday diet as usual!
Of course, since no veterinarian (well, with some few exceptions) can tell the flustered client to go to hell on a Christmas Day, he/she has to deal with the product of the owner’s careless feeding habits.
(2) Scaring pets with explosives
I know that it won’t be Christmas if we don’t throw squibs at each other to see the scared reaction!
Well, dogs and cats have sensitive ears. The noises from the explosions disorient and traumatize them. They don’t know what to do; they can’t cope with the unexpected loud sounds; they run indoors
and into doors, and hide in secluded places where they think there is security (bathrooms, under beds, in cupboards, etc). They jump from verandas; they hurt themselves. They run away from home (you can see them wandering around our roads, lost and with anxious/ frantic looks), and are struck down by uncaring motorists. The idea of tying firecrackers to dogs’/cats’ tails is an offence under the law. One can be charged, and the offender could be incarcerated. Terrorizing dogs and cats is not a joke. A person carrying out such acts is certifiable, and needs psychiatric help.
Simply put, exposing pets to squibs and to any type of
Full stop. No further discussion needed.
(4) Purchasing special toys/ gifts for your pets
I truly am convinced that buying a Christmas gift to be placed under the Christmas tree for your pet is really a method to create happiness for oneself. The first reaction to the “pet’s present” is for ‘Rover’ or ‘Felix’ to destroy the “gift”.
When shopping, there is really no need to buy any toy for your pet; but if you must, please purchase something that: (i) he can’t easily destroy,
explosive is one of the greatest cruelties one can administer to an animal. I will be returning to this theme on the “Pet Care” column of December 29th, 2024, in addressing the perennial issue of the impact of firecrackers on our pets.
(3) Christmas baths
Dogs do not require regular baths. Cats (who groom themselves constantly) hardly ever need baths. It seems that pet owners, having totally cleaned up their houses for Christmas, then turn their attention to their residents. God, help ‘Rover’, the cleaning frenzy is on. ‘Rover’ and ‘Felix’ get dunked in the big basin or under the stand-pipe. Of course, the drying might pose a problem — especially during the December rains. The animal may then be placed in a
(ii) if ingested, will cause him no harm, and (iii) must not be electrical (to be plugged into an electrical outlet).
(5) “Dressing up” the pet Clothing makes the companion animal uncomfortable, especially if the material produces an allergy. Scratching and attempting to remove the colourful clothing can be very discomfiting, and even cause abrasions and serious bruises. Surely, something as simple as a tiara (with the legend of “Happy Christmas”) is enough for a photo op. When that has been achieved, you may remove the ornamental headpiece. Enjoy your pre-Christmas preparations.
The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has come in for high praises, with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Mining Association (GGDMA) lauding its support to the mining sector after signing a two-year agreement for tax waivers on spares for mining equipment and dredges. It was announced in a statement from the GGDMA that a two-year Investment Development Agreement (IDA) had been signed on December 9, 2024, which would allow
for incentives on vehicles and spares. Specifically, Value Added Tax (VAT) would be waived on spares for machinery used in mining, including dredges. Additionally, VAT will be exempted for all industrial grease and hydraulic oils. According to the GGDMA, this will be applicable for miners who sell their gold directly to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), though a further meeting between GGDMA and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) will be necessary to discuss the requirements miners need to qualify for
the incentive.
It was also announced that they have agreed on steps to address the labour shortages in the mining sector, the opening up of lands for small and medium-scale miners through Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) lotteries, quarterly meetings between the Minister of Natural Resources and GGMC and for a mining direct portal between GGDMA, GGB, the Natural Resources Ministry and the GGMC.
GGDMA also noted that three new roads are
Two men were arrested late on Friday evening in Sophia, Greater Georgetown after they were found to have illegal ammunition, a knife, and a stolen cell phone.
Sean Millington, a 48-year-old security guard with no fixed place of abode, and Andel Bovell, a 22-yearold unemployed resident of 'B' Field Sophia, were taken into custody around 23:50h during a routine mobile patrol in the area.
It was reported that Police officers observed the two men walking together along Dennis Street,
Sophia, acting suspiciously. After stopping the patrol vehicle, the officers approached the men and searched.
During the search, a .40 round of ammunition was found in the left pocket of Millington's pants. When questioned about whether he held a firearm licence, Millington responded negatively. He was subsequently informed of the offence and arrested.
Further investigation of Bovell revealed a Blue A25 cellular phone and a black-handled knife in a haversack he was carry-
ing. Bovell was questioned about the cell phone but did not provide any information on its origin. He too was arrested.
Both suspects were escorted to the Ruimveldt Police Station in Georgetown, where the evidence was secured. The ammunition was marked, sealed in an evidence bag, and logged. Similarly, the cell phone and knife were also marked, sealed, and placed into evidence in the presence of the suspects.
Both Millington and Bovell remain in custody as investigations continue.
being built to service the mining sector, as well as $2.2 billion in rehabilitation works currently being done by the GGMC on existing roads that include Toroparau to Kartuni Road, Kartuni to Cuyuni Road, and Toroparau to Makapa Road.
“The GGDMA is satisfied with the support given to the sector by the current Government, noting that several of the concessions that were returned to them since 2020 have been maintained and efforts are being made to expand benefits for miners. The GGDMA is committed to continue working with the Government to achieve joint goals for the sector and stamp out illicit activities that negatively impact the sector,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, challenges such as the recent shortage of mercury, which has seen the price skyrocket and some dealers exploiting the situation, were also raised. Other challenges in the forms of drought and labour shortages were also raised, with GGDMA President Ronaldo Aphonso noting that notwithstanding these challenges, the resolve of the miners re-
mains stronger.
As a matter of fact, he noted the importance of the industry continuing its work to build a sustainable model. GGDMA administrator Avalon Jagnandan meanwhile reiterated their dedication to being effective representatives of the miners.
“The GGDMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating on behalf of our members. We will continue to actively engage with the Government of Guyana and all key stakeholders to ensure the interests of the mining community are protected and advanced,” Jagnandan said.
As part of its outreach efforts, the GGDMA hosts regular open days that provide miners with an opportunity to meet with the executive team, raise issues of concern, and seek assistance. Mr Jagnandan encouraged all miners to take advantage of these sessions, underscoring the Association's open-door policy and commitment to addressing members' needs.
The GGDMA’s 40th Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held at their headquarters, with the
event also introducing a mini-exhibition, offering suppliers and service providers a platform to showcase their products and services to the mining community.
In August 2024, GGMC head, Newell Dennison reported a steady decline in gold declarations from 2016 to 2023, citing several contributing factors. However, he expressed optimism, noting that measures are in place to curb smuggling and increase production. Additionally, large-scale gold companies are preparing to begin production.
In addition to Omai, other large-scale foreign gold companies operating in Guyana are Goldsource Mines Inc which operates the Eagle Mountain Prospecting licence in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni), Reunion Gold which operates the Oko West gold project and Romanex Guyana Exploration Ltd (RGEL) which operates the Marudi Mountain Mining licence in Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo). Together, Government is looking to have gold production reach over 1 million ounces by 2030.
ADeputy Chief Security Officer was arrested on Saturday following the discovery of a firearm and matching ammunition during a routine traffic stop in Georgetown.
Avishawn Munroe, 25, who works with Professional Guard Service (PGS), was intercepted by police at approximately 3:45h after the officers found a .32 Taurus pistol and nine rounds of matching ammunition concealed in the waist of his pants.
YPolice stated that a police mobile patrol team had stopped a car driven by Munroe on Cummings Street, Georgetown and requested to search the vehicle during which the firearm and ammunition were found.
Munroe was questioned about whether he had a licence to carry the weapon,
A22-year-old min -
er was brutally chopped to death during an altercation with another man at Nassano Backdam, Region One (Barima Waini).
The dead man has been identified as Jabez Jaazuel Williams also known as 'Beggie,' of Wauna Village, Mabaruma, North West District (NWD). A 25-yearold man has since been ar -
rested for the crime.
Following his arrest, the suspect told detectives that he and the now-dead man had been drinking high wine and Turbo at the worksite on Thursday. He noted that at about 17:00h, they finished working and went to another camp where they started to drink beers.
During that time, he related that Williams be -
to which he responded, "No." He further claimed that the firearm belonged to his place of employment but he was unable to provide any documentation to support this claim.
Munroe was arrested and taken to the Alberttown Police Station. He is expected to be charged in the new week.
came intoxicated and went to their camp, leaving him behind during which he continued to consume more alcohol.
He claimed that he returned to his camp at about 21:00h and found his clothes on the ground and Williams was naked.
“I immediately confronted Williams and asked who placed my clothes and belongings there. An argument broke out between us. Williams then grabbed a piece of round wood and dealt me three lashes to my forehead and shoulder. I then armed myself with a cutlass and dealt Williams two chops -- one to his right-side neck and another to his left hand -- causing wounds and bleeding,” the suspect confessed.
The injured man was later taken to the Pakera Hospital, NWD where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The police were contacted thus leading to a team visiting the crime scene on Friday.
The suspect was found at a nearby camp and he was arrested.
Police and Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) examined the area near the camp, which was described as an outdoor location surrounded by dense foliage.
Evidence collected from the scene included a piece of wood and a cutlass –both of which had blood stains. The suspect was taken to the Port Kaituma Police Station and he is assisting with the investigation.
ou gotta hand it to the GHRA for their sheer barefacedness - what the Jews call chutzpah!! As you know, dear reader, your Eyewitness makes his living – such as it is! - from scouring the dailies with his fine teeth comb in order to glean morsels on which he can comment!! In the more than TEN YEARS he’s been around, he hasn’t been able to see a SINGLE notice of the GHRA holding ANY meeting – much less one where it elects its office bearers!! All he sees are press releasesaccompanied by a pic of a gaunt-faced white fella!! Now, your Eyewitness has nothing against white fellas per se… but if we’ve been decolonizing for FIFTY-EIGHT years, ain’t it past high time that a Guyanese of some other member of our famed “six peoples” become qualified to stand up for our HUMAN RIGHTS??
In fact, with every other facet of Human Endeavour, if the same person was at the head of any institution for the past FORTY-FIVE unbroken years, there woulda been some serious outcries by human rights activists!! In fact, the GHRA fella’s tenure – sinecure? – eclipses even that of the GPSU’s Patrick Yarde - on whom your Eyewitness regularly washes his mouth for overstaying his welcome!! Anyhow, the GHRA’s spear carrier - well, actually pen pusher, since he only throws out press releases!! – just said a mouthful on Human Rights Day, a week ago.
Your Eyewitness will just give his two cents’ worth on one assertion: “[w]e need to prioritize the ambition to create a Guyanese identity with which all ethnic groups can identify…” So, is this the right to “selfdetermination” that we used to hear so much about?? That at independence we “inherited a state but not a nation”?? Well, we heard quite a mouthful about this in the Balkans and the Mid-East, didn’t we?? There was the need to create a unified Yugoslavian identity from which the Croats, Serbs, Albanians, Montenegrins etc could identify. Tito tried manfully using the socialist theory that claimed what mattered in the end wasn’t ethnicity, but being treated equally economically. They ended up fighting some of the most brutal wars to close off the 20th century – and ended up splitting their country into fragments!!
Right now, we’ve got the example of Syria playing out - where the Christians, Muslims, and Druzes had been battered by ISIS - the Islamic State of Iraq and ashSham - who declared that their identity was Islamic, and ended up killing or chasing out half the country. Well, after being checkmated for a decade - theeeere baaack!! Maybe they’ll be united this time – like with the Taliban in Afghanistan!!
Your Eyewitness thinks the GHRA should first remove the mote from its own eyes and constitute a body all Guyanese can identify with!!
…a nest egg
Opposition Leader Norton’s been struggling manfully to remain relevant - even as Pressie and VP Jagdeo have been working as a tag team to really get in some serious body blows. What with Pressie doling out goodies like Father Christmas coming down the chimney EVERY night, Norton tried to deflect the damage by pointing out that, proportionately, the 20% pay raise to public servants ain’t nothing to write home about, compared with the VP’s 20% amounting to multiple times that!!
He must’ve felt pretty pleased – until the VP revealed at his weekly press conference that he draws a salary $1.8M that also was swollen by 20%!! When that’s added to the vacation allowance he gets - plus the duty-free vehicle on top of the millions to run his office, the VP’s question as to what he does to deserve all of this hit him like an uppercut to the solar plexus!!
He couldn’t be spending all of that at Bam Bam Alley!!
…a vocational school
The Bishops’ High School (BHS) has been recognised as a model institution for implementing and delivering the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) programme by CXC. As a Queen’s Old Boy, your Eyewitness always suspected BHS was pedestrian!!
Responding to the use of the term “Girmitiya” by Dr Ganga Ramdas and me in referring to the descendants of Indian indentured labourers in Guyana, my friend Devanand Bhagwan asserted that “Hindustani, not Girmitiya, is the correct and respectful designation for descendants of Indian indentured labourers in the Caribbean”. While the discussion may appear to be esoteric to some, the name of a group conveys much sociocultural information about their identity that has accrued historically. Identity is not a fixed, but rather a dynamic notion, that illustrates the ongoing effort of people to seize agency in naming themselves. Our case is intertwined with our colonized origin and the ongoing decolonizing process.
The British, ruling India from the 18th century, transported individuals within and without the country as indentured labourers, and routinely referred to them as “coolies”. The word became a term of opprobrium, to say the least, equivalent to what we refer to euphemistically today as the “N” word. In Guyana, the cultural activist Rajkumari Singh attempted to valorize the term in her 1973 essay, “I am a Coolie”, by highlighting their efforts to develop Guyana. Today, the Mauritian cultural theorist Torabully has introduced the term “Coolitude” to describe the wider philosophical world view. But “coolie” has not gained traction in self-identification, as say, the word “Black” has done in the African diaspora.
Bhagwan recommends the word “Hindustani”, which, as he says, is widely used in Suriname to identify the descendants of Indian Indentureds there. This usage originated from the Dutch adoption of the word “Hindustan”, which, along with “India” and “Bharat”, referred to the “British Raj” during indentureship. Hindustan had referred to the Moghul-ruled lands east of the Sindhu/Indus River. After independence, the constituent assembly drafting India’s Constitution dropped that name and opted for “India that is Bharat”. In pursuit of its own evolving identity for its 1.4 billion citizens, the present government has signalled it would retain only the name “Bharat”, which originated from ancient times, and refer to its citizens as Bharatiyas, rather than “Indians” or “Hindustanis”.
“Hindustanis” in Suriname, then, was equivalent to the term “Indian Indentureds” sometimes used in British Guiana by British officialdom. “Coolie” was also routinely used in both countries. We should note that the term “Kantraki” is also used in Suriname, as is “Girmitiya” nowadays by scholars such as Ruben Gowricharn”, to highlight the agency of most indentureds in making the decision to leave their country, destroyed by British Colonialism, in signing the indentureship contract or agreement.
As Bhagwan pointed out – and we have done so repeatedly before - “Girmit” is a mispronunciation by Fijian Indian Indentureds of the word “agreement”. The Bhojpurized “Girmitiya” refers to the “people of that agreement” – as does the Surinamese “Kantraki”. What the word emphasizes is the commonality of the living conditions, dictated by the contract under which indentureds laboured on the plantations in each of the countries to which they were shipped.
The anomalous penal clause for civil breaches by the indentureds; the abysmal ranges/barracks/logies in which they were housed; the disparity in women shipped-in etc., inevitably played an outside role in shaping their culture and concomitant identities. It is not by accident that alcoholism, suicide and domestic violence are pathologies in Girmitiya societies, along with the vaunted economic successes.
The attenuation of caste and regional loyalties are thus the tip of the multitudinous changes that were generated, which made it almost impossible for those who repatriated to India to reintegrate into that society.
I was personally first exposed to this commonality of identity at the “Global Organization of People of Indian Origin” (GOPIO) launch at the Sheraton in NYC in August 1989. I was Co-Chair of the “Conference on Political Participation”, and then led a breakout session of the Girmitiya countries, in which Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan, TT’s Basdeo Panday, and delegates from Fiji and South Africa et al participated. Some of us later met at my home in New Jersey, where we were amazed at how much we had in common, in addition to the “dhall and rice” we ate with our fingers.
With heightened consciousness, assisted by improved communications, the term “Girmitiya” is spreading rapidly far beyond Fiji and Mauritius, which had early contacts. Presently, South African Indentureds are experiencing a renaissance under the Girmitiya banner. India itself has begun referring to “Girmitiya countries”.
There is no “correct” was to refer to oneself; simply that which is felt to be most appropriate, depending on the place, time and circumstances.
The Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has confirmed that the second power ship, acquired to meet the growing demand for reliable electricity in Guyana, will be fully operational and connected to the national grid before Christmas.
The 75-megawatt (MW) power ship, which arrived in the Demerara River on Tuesday, is part of a two-year
contract between GPL and the Joint Venture of Turkishbased Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC.
In its first phase, the ship will contribute 60MW to the grid, with an additional 15MW to follow once an extra transmission line is completed.
GPL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kesh Nandlall
during a telephone interview on Saturday assured that the project is on track. “The works are ongoing and there’s a lot of work to be done. The power ship is here. It’s docked already’”.
The second power ship will add to the 36MW provided by an existing floating power plant in the Berbice River, significantly increasing the country’s power generation capacity. GPL’s
peak electricity demand has surged to 187MW, up from nearly 100MW in recent years, driven by new housing developments, industrial facilities, and commercial investments.
Ongoing preparatory works, including the construction of a 3.9-kilometre transmission line by a private contractor, are progressing on schedule.
It is not often that a pre-teen male chooses the ‘joys’ of preparing dish es in the kitchen over the excite ment of participating in outdoor games and other boyhood ac tivities, but Tahal Ganesh used to enjoy helping his mother prepare meals for his family when he was 11 years old.
Now, many decades later, his love for cooking has led him to become a selfmade chef whose services are in demand at weddings and religious functions.
Tahal, now 54, recalled that he and his younger brother were raised by a single-parent mother, who spent her days working to earn money to send her children to school and provide necessities to keep them happy.
“Both of my sisters were married, so
While attending the Enmore /Hope Primary School and then the Annandale Secondary School, he said, his lunch hours would include visits to the market to purchase ingredients to cook in the afternoons.
“As I grew and continued to cook, I developed a love for it, and started to try different dishes,” he told Guyana Times.
His entry into the world of work was as bartender at the Enmore Estate when he was 18 years old, and he later mixed drinks at Palm Court on Main Street, Georgetown before taking his skills to his employment at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown .
Tahal said he would use his break times to visit the kitchen to learn how to prepare the dishes being served there.
“Everything I know, I look and learn and went home and tried it out myself. The girls there (would) also take the time to teach those willing to learn,” he said.
After his marriage and the subsequent birth of his children, he began cooking for religious functions, parties, family gatherings and other social activities; and his cooking was praised by all who attended those events. Thus, many people began reaching out to him to cater for their social events
“This is something I do for friends and family. I still use my fireside, which I have set up in my back yard,” Tahal has confessed. “I am known for cooking the ‘seven curry’ for Hindu weddings, but I enjoy making any type of curry and creole dishes,” Tahal has said.
Currently, “Mr. Tahal”, as he is called, works as a driver with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). On his second day on the job, in 2021, he had the opportu-
nity to showcase his culinary skills when the GNBS held its monthly cookout exercise; and he was lavishly praised by all who had tasted his food. It was during this time that he began cooking the famous “seven curry” for Hindu weddings.
In preparing the popular channa-and-potato curry; or a dish of curried pumpkin, boulanger, eddoes, mangoes or katahar; and dhal with rice, this devoted member of the Shiv Mandir at Enmore, ECD says, he scrupulously observes all religious requirements. He says he also prepares “sweet meats”, among which are sweet rice, mithai, parsad, and others, along with local finger foods such as pholourie, byganie and others.
Tahal is urging anyone who is thinking of becoming a cook or chef to explore ways of preparing various types of food.
Married and having fathered two children, Tahal says, on weekends he remains the main cook in his home, helping his wife prepare lunch for his family. Tahal has also won two duck curry competitions. Tahal says he takes the time to give back to his community; in that he is a member of the Enmore Community Policing Group, the Treasurer of the Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club, and a former Councillor of the Enmore-Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council, where he has served for eight years.
Javin Luke, an engineer with in the Health Ministry, graduated on Friday as the best graduating student in the Master of Advanced Studies in Medical Physics program at the International Centre for Theoretical Physics at the University of Trieste in Italy.
Apart from maintaining high grades throughout the two-year Master's program, Luke also scored maximum points in his thesis, titled "Development of an updated quali ty control protocol (QCP) for fixedtype digital x-ray equipment man aged by Ospedaledi Circolo, Varese, Italy".
The graduation ceremony was attended virtually by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana to Switzerland, Dr Leslie Ramsammy.
Javin Luke is the first male
vices, the availability of local medical physicists becomes critical. Presently, almost every public hospital is equipped with digital X-rays. All new hospitals will be equipped with digital X-rays, totally eliminating analogue X-rays. There already are six CT scanners which would be installed in the six new regional hospitals to add to the GPHC CT scanner. Each of the hospitals being constructed in the hinterland would have CT scan-
Between 2025 and 2027, at least three MRIs will be installed: at GPHC, New Amsterdam, and at the new Paediatric and Maternal Hospital. In addition, the establishment of modern cancer diagnostic and treatment centres would guarantee that nuclear capabilities would be established in the health
TURN TO PAGE 19
Amidst Guyana’s rise as a global player in oil and gas, the country is strategically rolling out renewable energy options, powering a green revolution, with hydropower being the new focus.
Guyana’s vast water resources position the country to harness power from rivers, creeks and falls. However, due to the remoteness of some potential sites, it is a challenge to readily make hydropower a reality.
Guyana’s hydropower potential, estimated at over 7000 megawatts (MW), positions the country as a leader in renewable energy production in the region. The current renewable power plants just scratch the surface of Guyana’s hydropower generating capacity and potential.
According to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) website, there are 67 potential sites for hydropower generation.
“Guyana Energy Agency will continue to assess the potential and suitability of hydropower development based on the location of sites, distance to load centres and the demand at those load centres,” Agency Head, Dr Mahendra Sharma explains.
Within Regions Eight and Nine, homes to predominantly Indigenous People, three hydro-power plants, one recently commissioned and two under construction, are in place to generate undisrupted power to homes and businesses.
These power plants contribute less than 1 per cent of Guyana’s energy supply. However, they represent a significant step toward meeting the country’s 2016 Paris Agreement commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Hydropower generation is a part of the Government’s multi-pronged approach to meeting climate commitments and implementing cleaner energy sources.
Touted as the most mature, reliable and cost-effective renewable power generation technology, it has four benefits.
The GEA on its website explained, “it is renewable, it produces negligible amounts of greenhouse gases, it is the least costly way of storing large amounts of energy, and it can easily adjust the amount of electrical energy produced to the amount demanded by con-
sumers.”
New era of energy for Central Rupununi
In Lethem, Central Rupununi, Region Nine, where electricity is already being supplied through fossil fuel, the aim is to reduce the township’s dependence on Heavy Fuel Oil energy generation and transition to renewable power generation.
“The aim of the renewable energy (RE) plants is to reduce dependence on fossil-based fuels while maintaining stable and reliable energy supply,” the Guyana Energy Agency Head explains.
The town, which sits on the Guyana-Brazilian Border now has an energy mix system with a 1 MW solar farm, 2 MW diesel generators, and the hydropower plant delivering a total capacity of 3.7 MW. The township power generation capacity will climb to 5.2 MW when the Kumu power plants come online. The aim is to ultimately reduce dependence on fossil fuel for energy generation.
“It is estimated that hydropower and solar PV (photovoltaics)will provide a total of 89 per cent of Lethem’s energy demand,” Sharma noted. An estimated annual savings of close to 26,000 barrels of fuel will be saved from the Lethem Power Grid when the 1.5 megawatts at Kumu, and the 0.7 megawatts in the MocoMoco Village come online.
The Moco-Moco hydro generating power plant was recently re-commissioned by Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips. The first hydropower station commissioned in 1999, generated 500 kilowatts (kW). It became defunct subsequent to a landslide in 2003. The new hydropower plant was supported through financing from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)and built by Vidullanka PLC of Sri Lanka.
The Kumu Falls Hydropower plant is scheduled to commence generation by February of next year.
“In Lethem, at your maximum capacity right now, you are only using 2 megawatts. You will have almost two and a half times the amount of electricity that you can use right now… this is the development that we’re talking about, bridging the divide, the development divide, and we have successfully bridged the energy divide with this one project.” The Prime Minister said during the commissioning.
Mayor of Lethem, John Macedo explains the transition is timely and plays an integral role in the town’s rapid development where there is a demand for power. He also explained that the transition will play a part in eliminating low shedding.
Moreover, he said the transition will also make the township an eco-friendly one adding to its tourism package.
“With more than 15,000 tourists yearly we need energy for this sector. Even if it is an hour a tourist is stopping, we need energy for that hour. A reliable and clean energy source can help us to meet that need,” he said.
“I believe this transition is and will be very beneficial for the town because we are experiencing rapid development. It will help every sector of our local economy and help us to be a sustainable and green town,” the Mayor asserted.
The energy transition will also result in residents paying
Community (CARICOM) last month that Guyana’s energy future lies in renewables.
Speaking during CARICOM Energy Week, he highlighted the Government’s substantial investments in both utility-scale and smallscale renewable energy solutions aimed at reducing the nation’s reliance on fossil fuel-powered energy sources.
The country is looking to incorporate hydropower, solar, natural gas, and wind into its clean energy sources. This energy mix will lead to more than 500 MW of newly installed capacity for residential and commercial users and foster energy transformation.
Guyana’s push towards cleaner energy is not only on international climate ob-
less for electricity. When the township relied solely on fossil fuel generation, residents paid approximately $80 per kW. This was due to the cost of transporting fossil fuel into the region that was factored into the price for electricity.
In addition to power plants in Region Nine, a third hydroelectric plant is being constructed at Kato, Region Eight. These plants collectively will generate over two MW of power to supply the grids of local indigenous communities.
It not only powers the communities but provides a reliable source of electricity on a long-term basis. The topography of Guyana prevents Indigenous communities from being easily connected to the national power grid.
‘Guyana’s energy future is renewables’
Despite being a leading global oil producer, Prime Minister Phillips emphasised in his address to the Caribbean
ligations but also on its revised 2030 Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), from which money is earned through the sale of carbon credits.
The LCDS states energy demands of the country are projected to increase fivefold the current energy demand by 2030. Currently, at a peak, the country requires approximately 205 MW of power. By 2025 the energy demand is projected to increase to 407 MW.
Using the multi-pronged approach, in which hydropower is a cornerstone, to bridge away from heavy fuel oil, greenhouse gas emissions are projected to stay relatively flat, even as the energy demands increase.
Moreover, with the integration of hydropower into the energy mix, the Government not only aims to meet climate targets but also to mitigate the environmental impact of fossil fuels, balancing energy expansion with ecological
preservation.
Addressing concerns about the environmental impacts of hydroelectric dams, Sharma said Environmental Assessment and Management Plans were prepared for hydro stations and environmental permits were secured.
In his explanation, he dismissed cause for concern and said in Region Nine “The two hydro stations have weirs and not dams or reservoirs. While a dam stores water for release at times of need, the weir allows continuous natural flow while diverting some water for power generation.”
Sharma further explained that the power plants in Region Nine are run-of-river (RoR) hydropower plants, which have significantly lower environmental impacts compared to dam-based projects.
“Unlike dams, ROR plants avoid large reservoirs, preserving aquatic ecosystems, minimising habitat loss, and maintaining natural river flows. There is no stagnant water to generate methane and there is less impact on water quality and sediment flow. These projects require less land and there is no displacement of communities and cultural sites,” he clarified.
A similar model is used for the Kato,0.15 MW project along the Chiung River. While these hydropower projects contribute to global commitments, their immediate impact on Guyana’s hinterland communities is equally significant.”
For a local community, especially in Guyana’s hinterlands where power generation is limited, a project of this magnitude provides improved access to electricity from a renewable source (reliable and clean), reduced reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation, reduces in carbon emissions and promotes local employment and skills development, enhances community development, education delivery and healthcare among others.
Hallmark of hydropower
Meanwhile, the Government has repeatedly stated the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), which is the hallmark of hydropower in Guyana, will be constructed despite the many
delays.
“The Government of Guyana is currently reviewing proposals for the development of a 165-megawatt hydropower plant on the Kuribrong River, Region Eight, under a Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model,” Sharma explained. Last December four companies, Rialma S.A. (Grupo Rialma) from Brazil, China International Water & Elec. Corp, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc, and a group made up of OEC, GE Vernova and Worley tendered their proposals.
The Request for Proposals (RFP) outlines the Scope of Works for the development of a 165 MW hydropower project. This includes the construction of a hydro dam, power plant, and associated infrastructure; a 270-kilometre double-circuit 230 Kilovolts (kV) transmission line from Amaila to Sophia; 230 kV substations at Linden and Sophia; a 23-square-kilometre storage reservoir; and upgrades to access roads and bridges, comprising 85 kilometres of new roads and 122 kilometres of existing roads. The developer will assume all geotechnical risks and provide guarantees related to the reservoir, dam, and transmission towers. Under the BOOT model, firms are required to specify the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for power delivered to Sophia, Georgetown, over a 20-year BOOT period commencing from the commercial operations date. The developer will bear all project costs up to commissioning, after which ownership will transfer to the Government at no cost. Proposals must detail assumptions, including capital costs, equity, debt, and operating expenses. A 2030 completion date is touted for the project which has the potential to supply up to 90 per cent of the country’s electricity needs. When online, the projected fuel savings are 1,570,500 barrels of heavy fuel oil per year. The benefits to the grid will be a reduction in the use of fossil-based energy sources, cost savings, energy security and environmental benefits, the Energy Agency Director stated.
There’s a well-known saying that “diamonds are formed under pressure,” and this perfectly reflects the journey of a family-run business: L. Seepersaud Maraj & Sons (LSM), which was established some 88 years ago and had operated in the Stabroek Market.
This jewellery store opened its more convenient location at Middle Street, Georgetown on Saturday, and this development marks a new chapter for the Maraj family. Proprietor of the business, Vead Persaud, spoke with <<Guyana Times>> on the history and future of this household name in jewellery.
According to Persaud, the business was started by his grandfather in the Stabroek Market in 1935, and this is the first time it has moved to a new location.
However, we maintain the Stabroek Market prices even outside the mar ket,” he explained.
“Our establishment has been around for
moved outside of Stabroek Market in the brand’s history. LSM Jewellers is an independent venture, distinct…and showcases more modern, intricate craftsmanship,” he
Giving an in-depth background into the genesis of the business, he related that, over the years, the business has always experienced competition within the industry.
“Competition is one of the biggest challenges,” he said. “The jewellery industry has evolved, shifting between traditional and modern styles over the years. It’s like fashion; it’s always changing.”
The business is being led and guided by the vibrancy of this young and dynamic leader Vead Persaud, who relayed that LSM Jewellers is set to offer patrons a more intimate and modern jewellery experience, moving away from the traditional approach for which the brand had been commonly known.
“We’ve always been able to adjust adaptively to the market’s needs,” he declared. “Here, at LSM Jewellers, we can do anything: from traditional to modern, and anything in-between. It’s about offering a more intimate custom jewellery experience.
Renowned for traditional items such as bangles, the business has recently gone into making dia mond-styled pieces, with the owners having even invested in new ma chinery to train their craftsmen to use the latest technologies in creating high-quality diamond jewellery. However, just for its patrons, the business has gone to lengths to make hand-made gold items through a skill derived from India and passed down by the indentured labourers who came to Guyana. The Maraj fam ily, having adopted this tradition, have started to mass produce items in Guyana.
“However, we still do the filigree handwork, and we’re one of the jewellers in the country who still maintain this tech nique; but our specialty beyond that is dia mond jewellery and custom-made pieces,” Persaud explained.
Asked about the sourcing of gold and diamonds to make these products, Persaud emphasized how important it is for his business to purchase materials from legal authorities. “The gold we use is purchased from the Guyana Gold Board, and the diamonds are sourced from multiple locations. Everything is done in-house, and almost all of our items are handcrafted locally. This ensures the best quality in gold and diamond jewellery,” he said.
Persaud has currently set his sights on the future of his company, and has revealed plans to expand the range of his business. “In the future, we plan to expand our range and continue to adapt to market demands. For now, we’re focusing on modern intricate designs. Whatever design you may have in mind, we can likely create it for you,” he declared.
you’re willing to spend. We’ve always maintained Stabroek Market prices, even at this new location. I know many Guyanese in the diaspora visit us specifically for the same quality items at affordable prices. We’ve made it easier for them by bringing the same products to this new location,” he explained.
“I’m confident that when they shop with us, they’ll find the best prices on the market. As an emigrant from Canada, I came back to Guyana because I believed in the potential of Guyana’s economy, and we knew it was the perfect time to make such a large investment,” he disclosed.
As this family-run business continues to expand, Vead Persaud is emphasising that this venture is a significant investment, one that reflects both his confidence in the economy and his commitment to offering high-quality, modern jewellery to the public.
In anticipation of these developments, the GoG engaged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) which readily invested to enhance Guyana’s healthcare capabilities in the field of Medical Physics, which plays a crucial role in patient care and treatment quality. The IAEA also donated five mammography equipment.
The Guyana Mission in Geneva has said it is thrilled to celebrate Mr. Luke's graduation as the Best Student in his cohort. His achievement reflects not only his hard work and perseverance, but also underscores the com-
mitment of the Government of Guyana to foster talent within our healthcare system. Mr. Luke's skills will greatly benefit Guyana’s medical services and contribute to the advancement of health outcomes.
As Guyana continues to elevate its healthcare services, the Government of Guyana has said, it remains dedicated to creating pathways for education and specialization in critical areas of medicine and health technology.
In a meeting of Guyana Government representatives with IAEA representatives last week in Geneva, the
Javin Luke, Guyana’s 1st male medical physicist
IAEA committed to working with Guyana to further
enhance Guyana’s capacity to utilize radiology, radio-
therapy, and nuclear diagnostics. The Geneva Mission will continue to engage and strengthen the partnership with the IAEA.
The Mission took the opportunity to thank the IAEA for the sponsorship of Luke to complete the Master's Program in Medical Physics, and for the donation of five pieces of mammography equipment.
The Government of Guyana has expressed deep gratitude to the International Atomic Energy Agency for facilitating this invaluable opportunity. The Mission has expressed its gratitude to
Surujpaul for the liaison work she did with the IAEA to make the sponsorship possible, and expresses its gratitude to the Honorable Ministers of Health and Public Service for ensuring that Luke was released to pursue studies. Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony gave his complete support and endorsement, and the Minister of Public Service at the time, Sonia Parag, ensured that Javin was released to pursue his studies abroad. The Mission congratulates Javin Luke, and wishes him a successful career as a Medical Physicist.
The irresistible aroma of freshly baked pizzas now travels through the corners of Vlissingen Road and Garnett Street in Georgetown, thanks to the newly established Papa John’s Pizza.
Known for their slogan “Better Pizza, Better Ingredients,” Papa John’s is offering a diverse menu that includes not only their signature pizzas but also wings and special desserts. The establishment is nevertheless committed to providing customers with top-notch service starting Monday.
On Saturday, the fast-food outlet engaged media operatives for a pre-opening special to get a first glance. At the launch, the Manager, Melanie Benjamin, shared insights into the steady process behind creating the brand’s top-tier
pizzas.
“Our pizza is incredible, and we can’t wait to share it with the public. The whole operation at Papa John’s is different. For instance, our dough is not made in our restaurant. We actually have a production centre that produces the dough, which is then delivered to the restaurant. We also have the amazing dough-slapping technique. As you can see here, ladies are slapping their dough.”
She also highlighted a main focus for the company, emphasising that customer care is a high priority for the business.
“When you come to Papa John’s, first of all, the customer service you will receive is incredible. I know a lot of Guyanese complain about customer service in Guyana, but I can assure you that when you come to Papa John’s, we have friendly, welcoming staff, and
Guyana.
“Our tagline again is ‘Better Pizza, Better Ingredients.’ And before that,
you will have an amazing experience here.”
She also explained how they plan to stand out from other food businesses in
we offer a wide variety on our menu. We have wings, which are going to be a great seller because most of the other franchises do not offer
that. We also have a variety of items that most Guyanese are not accustomed to, but we plan to get them used to them, they’re all excellent.”
Lending her perspective on the desserts, she mentioned that they have excellent sellers, including cinnamon pullapart, which is delicious.
On that note, the manager explained that while the company is an international franchise, hiring locals for the business was key. “Yes, we did provide 25 jobs for the staff here, and we’re still hiring even in our site where the dough is made, we have local Guyanese working and Local Guyanese managers as well.”
The establishment will officially open to the public on Monday, December 16, and has accommodation for up to 32 people to dine in.
On Sunday last, consumers in sections of Greater Georgetown experienced an 8-hour interruption in electricity supply as GPL conducted preparatory works for the arrival of a second power ship.
According to Nandlall, workers are operating in shifts around the clock to meet the Christmas deadline.
“It’s board and the transmission lane has been constructed and they’re working around the clock on that. So now, as we said before, the power ship will be connected before Christmas,” the GPL boss added.
Only recently Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh noted the urgency of meeting skyrocketing electricity demand.
“There are new housing areas with hundreds of houses that are being brought
onto the grid; we have new industrial and commercial investments includ-
ing things like hotels, factories, warehouses, processing plants, etc. all of whom are
coming onto the grid and demanding electricity. This has resulted in the skyrocketing electricity demand,” he said at the time. Meanwhile, Nandlall had previously told this publication that two generators with an aggregate capacity of 13MW that are unavailable due to major overall will be back online by December 10 and 21. This he said will boost the generation capacity in the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) to 207MW
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.
Apoliceman and a ci-
vilian are now facing charges following a two-vehicle collision along the Good Hope, Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD) in the wee hours of Saturday.
The accident involved a motor pick-up vehicle, belonging to the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Police stated that the accident occurred at about 03:45h and involved the GPF's motor pick-up bearing registration number PAC 5250 which was at the time being driven by Jamal Thompson, a 28-year-old Lance Corporal, and motor car, PVV 6015, driven by Reinaldo O'Selmo,
a 29-year-old from Belfield, ECD.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the Police vehicle was proceeding East along Good Hope
Railway Embankment with flashing lights while the motorcar was proceeding out of Good Hope Access Road. However, police claimed
The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) achieved a historic milestone in 2024, training over 400 officers through 30 diverse programmes and implementing pioneering initiatives designed to modernize rehabilitation and elevate the correctional system to international standards.
This was announced during a televised programme ‘Prison in Focus’ on Friday by Assistant Superintendent of Prisons and Prison School Administrator Abeid De Cunha. De Cunha who is at the forefront of these efforts, emphasised the significance of the service's advancements in officer training, inmate education, infrastructure development, and reintegration strategies.
“We’re reshaping what the prison service means for both officers and inmates,” De Cunha said. “The goal is not only security but rehabilitation and reintegration, equipping both groups to meet international standards.”
The Government’s $6.5 billion budget for GPS in 2024 was pivotal in driving these changes. Approximately $2.8 billion was directed toward infrastructure upgrades, with significant projects underway at the Lusignan and New Amsterdam prisons.
These include expanded facilities, new cellblocks, and enhanced living quar-
ters for both inmates and officers. Upgrades to fire suppression systems and administrative buildings also ensure safety and efficiency across facilities.
“The new structures will support a new operational dynamic,” De Cunha explained. “Modern facilities, coupled with well-trained officers, ensure a safer, more rehabilitative environment.”
Central to the GPS’s transformation is the unprecedented scale of officer training. Over 400 officers participated in various training programmes in 2024, ranging from human rights practices to technical and vocational instruction. Notable among these efforts is the groundbreaking Prison Trade Instructor Training Programme launched in partnership with the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPC).
For the first time in the region, prison officers are being formally trained as educators. Thirty officers are currently enrolled in CPC’s programme, which equips them with teaching methodologies tailored to adult learners. Upon completion of the Level One and Level Two programmes, participants will progress to an associate degree in education.
“This initiative is revolutionary,” De Cunha said. “Instead of relying on civilian instructors, we are empowering our officers to deliver high-quality education
and training directly to inmates.”
The service also partnered with the University of Guyana (UG) to develop specialised prison management courses for officers eligible for promotion. These programmes are designed to align the service with global correctional practices, enhancing leadership within the GPS.
Education for inmates has been another focal point of the GPS’s reforms. Through a collaboration with the Education and Home Affairs Ministries, 41 inmates and prison officers across multiple facilities are pursuing five CSEC-level subjects, including Mathematics, English, Social Studies, Human and Social Biology, and Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM).
The courses, delivered online, are scheduled to culminate in examinations in 2026. This academic initiative is part of a broader strategy to prepare inmates for life beyond incarceration, offering them pathways to higher education or vocational careers.
“Inmates who pass these exams can matriculate into universities or technical programmes,” De Cunha explained. “This opens doors to opportunities in fields like healthcare, entrepreneurship, or further studies, significantly reducing the likelihood of recidivism.”
Educating inmates
In addition to academic courses for prison officers, De Cunha said the GPS has prioritised vocational training to equip inmates with practical skills. Partnerships with the Guyana Technical Institute (GTI) and the Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) have enabled inmates to learn trades such as welding, carpentry, and culinary arts. Graduates return to the prison system as skilled workers, facilitating rehabilitation programmes for their peers.
This year, 15 recently released inmates received vocational starter kits tailored to the skills they acquired during incarceration. These kits have already yielded success stories, with recipients starting businesses and reintegrating effectively into their communities. Remarkably, none of the recipients have returned to prison.
“These kits represent a fresh start,” De Cunha said. “They’re not just tools but symbols of a second chance, empowering recipients to rebuild their lives and con-
tribute to society.”
Human rights and rehabilitation at the core Rehabilitation efforts are deeply rooted in the principle of human dignity. Through the support of the Home Affairs Ministry and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the GPS trained over 300 officers in human rights practices this year.
“Every inmate is a human being, and our programmes are designed to treat them as such,” De Cunha said. “This shift in mindset is crucial for effective rehabilitation.”
The GPS also employs an innovative assessment process, where inmates are evaluated upon entry and throughout their sentences. The assessments consider educational background, skills, and interests, enabling officers to assign inmates to programmes tailored to their rehabilitation needs. Progress is reviewed quarterly to ensure maximum impact.
Fostering family bonds and community reintegration
Recognising the impor-
tance of social support, the GPS has expanded its family bonding programmes, fostering stronger connections between inmates and their families. This initiative has proven transformative, with families often surprised by the profound changes in their loved ones.
“We’ve had countless stories of families reconnecting and supporting inmates’ reintegration journeys,” De Cunha said. “This is critical for reducing stigma and ensuring ex-offenders have the support they need.”
The service also actively monitors released inmates, providing guidance and resources to help them succeed. This hands-on approach has led to a significant reduction in repeat offenders.
Building on 2024’s successes, the GPS plans to scale its initiatives in 2025. This includes expanding partnerships with Government agencies and introducing additional programmes for both officers and inmates. Key priorities include further vocational training, more educational opportunities, and new infrastructure projects.
“The goal is to make rehabilitation accessible to all,” De Cunha said. “Every programme we implement supports our national mandate of nation-building, ensuring that individuals leaving prison are equipped to contribute positively to society.”
The year 2024 marked a turning point for the GPS, with its comprehensive reforms setting a new standard for correctional practices. (LaWanda McAllister)
The United Kingdom (UK) has reiterated its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and development projects here – a message that was relayed by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who is on his first official visit to Guyana since his appointment in July.
Lammy, who is the son of Guyanese immigrants, is currently on a three-day visit to Guyana. On Friday evening, President Dr Irfaan Ali and several senior Government officials engaged the British official and his delegation at State House, Main Street, Georgetown.
During the meeting, the Office of the President said the discussions centred around enhancing partnerships in climate change, environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and child care.
The Guyanese Head of State also hosted a cocktail reception in honour of Lammy, who had visited Guyana several times in recent years.
During the reception, the UK’s support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, developmental projects, and security collaboration was emphasised by the British Foreign Secretary. In his brief remarks, Lammy expressed his enthusiasm for the potential future partnerships between Guyana and the UK. Meanwhile, President Ali highlighted that this partnership has been strengthened by the efforts of the British High
Friday morning to inspect the progress on the US$190 million Linden to Mabura Hill Road expansion – another project that is being funded by the British Government via the CDBadministered United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UK-CIF), alongside a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan and financing from the Guyana Government.
Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, and other senior Government officials along with other stakeholders were present at the event.
In the past, Lammy had been vocal on his support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and only last December, he condemned Venezuela’s threat of aggression against Guyana in the UK Parliament.
Friday was a packed day for the British official who visited the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital construction site at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The UK is funding the EUR$149 million (GUY$31.9 billion) project which will see
the 256-bed facility completed by the final quarter of 2025.
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said the visit underscores the UK’s commitment to supporting healthcare advancements and fostering collaboration in critical sectors such as paediatric medicine.
During the tour, the Foreign Secretary engaged with construction staff. This project is creating job opportunities for workers in both countries. The visit highlighted the importance of partnerships in strengthening healthcare systems, with discussions on potential collaborations in training, capacity building, and medical technology.
As part of his official visit, Secretary Lammy also travelled to Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) on
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar joined the UK officials for that visit, which commenced with a working breakfast in Linden. High Commissioner Miller as well as the contractor and supervisory firm for the Linden-Mabura Road Project also participated in the working breakfast.
This was followed by a site visit to the Linden-Mabura Road Project, where the officials were updated on the progress of the project.
Minister Indar also joined the visiting officials for a community engagement at Rockstone Village, Essequibo River, where he said the British Foreign Secretary announced the launch of the UK-PACT (Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions) programme – the Amazon Regional Fund, which provides financing for projects supporting the agriculture, forestry and other land use.
The Foreign Secretary said the fund will support sustainable livelihoods in the Amazon to halt deforestation and keep forests standing.
“Guyana is at the forefront leading,” Lammy stated as he commended Guyana’s impeccable forest management that has seen the country boasting the lowest deforestation rate in the Amazon.
Guyana will be one of the beneficiaries of the programme alongside Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. The programme will boost UK-PACT’s ongoing work in Brazil and Columbia.
Region 10 Chairman, Deron Adams, was among the local officials including village leaders to welcome the visiting delegation to Rockstone. He said the support provided by the UK over the years has been instrumental in the development of Region 10, with projects like the upgrading of the Linden to Mabura Hill Road bringing about transformative changes.
“We are truly grateful for the collaborative efforts that will pave the way for progress and prosperity through the announcement of a new Amazon Regional Fund to assist in managing the forest. The new programme will help protect the forests and tackle illegal logging, helping protect vital natural habitats,” Adams stated.
Moreover, it was noted that Secretary Lammy held fruitful discussions with local leaders on addressing issues of common concern such as the climate crisis.
According to the Region 10 Chairman, “The UK’s persistent support for Guyanese territorial integrity, particularly in the face of illegitimate Venezuelan claims to Essequibo, is also deeply appreciated and valued.” (G-8)
TAURUS (April 20May 20)
GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)
VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)
Take a step in a different direction. Enlighten yourself about something that has caught your eye. Envision what you want, and then find a way to make it happen.
Look over your options, start rearranging your schedule and manage what you need to process and complete to ensure you reach your goal. Be cordial; anger will slow you down.
Simplify your life by refusing to add more to your schedule. Focus on what’s important to you and the people you care about most. Say no to temptation and scammers trying to take advantage of you.
(June 21July 22)
Let your imagination take the reins and your common sense keep you grounded, and you’ll formulate a plan that will excite you. An opportunity to use your skills uniquely will pique your interest.
LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)
SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)
SAGITTARIUS
(Nov. 23Dec. 21)
(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19) LEO (July 23Aug. 22)
PISCES
(Feb. 20Mar. 20)
Refuse to let the changes or choices others make disrupt your plans. Go about your business and do what feels right and best for you. An energetic approach will lead to informative social events.
Do your best to get along with others. Someone will likely annoy you or create uncertainty regarding your feelings for them. Indulgent behavior will make matters worse.
Live and learn. Get out and see what’s happening in your neighborhood. Learning from your experiences will broaden your scope of what’s possible. Update your surroundings to suit your mood and add to your convenience.
Don’t believe everything you hear. Someone will lead you astray to make a point or to talk you into something you shouldn’t pursue. A lifestyle change will lead to you meeting someone unique.
Time spent positively enhancing your living space or lifestyle will lead to pleasing results. Personal agreements will lead to better living conditions.
Take the time to do some research before you engage in discussions that include joint ventures, investments or contracts. Make your home more suited to your needs and do whatever it takes to add to your convenience.
A receptive attitude will lead to fun. Get out and socialize or sign up to lend a helping hand to a cause that concerns you. It’s time to do something for yourself.
You’ll be battling temptation. Don’t let down your guard or succumb to something someone’s overselling. Emotions will surface, but the conversation will be misleading.
Tom Latham raised a half-century
Half-centuries from Tom Latham and Mitchell Santner have added some gloss to a battling New Zealand innings on the opening day of the third and final Test against England in Hamilton.
Whereas the second Test was a maelstrom of match-shaping moments, this Test has progressed at an altogether more believable pace, but the situation at stumps has been similar, with New Zealand having blown a position of strength in the face of a persistent England performance that left the day evenly poised; thanks in no small part to Santner’s unbeaten fifty off 54 balls with his side nine wickets down.
In Wellington, New Zealand ended the first day on the back foot at 86 for 5 in response to their opponents’ 280, clawed back from 4 for 43. Here, an opening partnership of 105 between Latham and Will Young - standing in while Devon Conway is on paternity leave - had the hosts in unfamiliar territory for this series, before they lurched to 231 for 7, losing five wickets for 59 runs.
But a neat cameo of 23 in 10 balls from Tim Southee in his farewell match, which
included three sixes to take his tally to 98 from his 107Test career, and Santner’s late charge lifted them to 315 for 9 at the close, the Black Caps having added 76 runs off the last eight overs of the day.
England’s bowlers lacked penetration in the first session, but they frustrated New Zealand through the middle session, and lured them into some loose shot selection during the evening.
Latham’s half-century underpinned the hosts’ steady start, after Young failed to add to his 42 runs after lunch - a staggering 40 of those coming in fours - and Kane Williamson couldn’t convert, falling for 44 when he was bowled in slow-motion trying in vain to kick a Matthew Potts delivery away from his stumps.
Were it not for Santner’s freewheeling knock, New Zealand could have been in a worse state, with no other batter passing Southee’s score from #10.
New Zealand’s re calibrated opening partnership of Latham and Young expertly navigated the morning session, reaching lunch at 93 without loss, after being sent in by England under skies which had turned from bright to overcast within the hour before play, then returned to blazing sunshine after the main meal break.
watchful start, facing 10 deliveries before he got off the mark with four off Potts, himself making his first appearance of the series in replacing Chris Woakes.
Young was into his work after that, no doubt to the delight of New Zealand fans who had been willing his inclusion after his Player-ofthe-Series performance on the Black Caps’ successful tour of India; which was just a matter of weeks ago, but felt so distant as their side slid to a 2-0 deficit against England.
He was streaky to begin with, his next two boundaries coming off the edge through backward point and piercing the cordon. But by halfway through the morning session, Young and Latham had negotiated a nibbling pitch
and was prised out by an excel lent Gus Atkinson delivery which drew an edge to Harry Brook at second slip.
an involuntary grin from Stokes, who conceded 17 off the over. Seemingly determined to reach his ton of maximums, Southee slammed the first delivery with the second new ball for another six over deep midwicket off Atkinson, and a fumble on the boundary by Duckett resulted in four off the next ball. Two balls later, however, Southee’s fun was over when he tried to go down the ground and skied to Carse at mid-off.
Williamson - unaccustomed to
Young made a
Williamson tried in vain to prevent the ball from bouncing back on to his stumps
way to 46 without loss, already more than double New Zealand’s previous best opening partnership this series.
Shortly after the first drinks break, Young helped himself to six fours all up, punishing Brydon Carse twice in one over as the England quick struggled to nail his lengths.
Latham was dropped on 12 and 53 by Ben Duckett on either side of England breaking his stand with Young,
waiting so long to be called upon in this series - pulled a Carse short ball through deep backward square for four. And when Potts finally had Latham caught down the leg side, it looked like Williamson would again need to stand up for his team, albeit from a superior position of 142 for 2. Having burned a review as he hopefully sought to have Latham out, caught behind off his own bowling, the England captain Ben Stokes wisely overruled wicketkeeper Ollie Pope’s insistence that he’d snaffled Williamson down the leg side off Stokes for 20, and replays vindicated Stokes’s decision.
in trying to fend Potts back down the pitch, only to lose the ball behind him as it evaded his searching boot and dribbled into the base of middle stump, the loose wickets continued.
Daryl Mitchell picked out Stokes at mid-off; Glenn Phillips swung wildly at a Potts ball outside off and sent it straight to Zak Crawley at backward point; and Blundell chipped Carse to cover point, where Jacob Bethell took a strong catch above his head.
It took some special fielding by Brook to remove Matt Henry as he hooked Stokes to the young England star, who pulled the ball down inside the boundary rope and parried it up before he went over, jumping back in to complete the catch.
A four off Potts in the final over drew Santner within reach of his fifty, and he grabbed it in style, launching the last ball of the day for six over long-off. Potts ended with 3 for 75, and Atkinson with 3 for 55. (ESPNCricinfo)
Rachin Ravindra spooned Carse straight to Duckett at gully for a soft dismissal, and apart from Williamson’s freakish dis-
Santner, brought in as a frontline spinner for this game at the expense of Nathan Smith, was hit on the top of the helmet by a Stokes bouncer, but he shrugged off the blow to play a key role in New Zealand’s recovery.
Southee delighted his home crowd when he swung Stokes for back-to-back sixes, eliciting
The curtains have come down on another exhilarating and highly-contested Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) One Guyana Open tournament, which had been contested over the last fortnight.
The biggest tennis event ever contested in Guyana has seen participation of 43 players from six singles categories, and a record-number of 13 players participating in the Men’s Novice Singles.
Afruica Gentle and Gavin Lewis have successfully defended their singles titles to become backto-back champions at the GTA One Guyana Open, and have each earned themselves G$400,000 in prize money.
This esteemed tournament has been the first in local tennis history to offer high incentives to the winners and rewards to players who reached at least the quarterfinals.
The GTA has said it continues to collaborate with the National Sports Commission (NSC); the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS); the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), and by extension with the Government of Guyana, in promoting and developing tennis throughout Guyana.
Among the awardees: Men’s Singles Champion: Gavin Lewis
Men’s Singles Finalist: Seanden David-Longe Semifinalists: Sandeep Chand and Benjettan Osborne Quarterfinalists: Immanuel Barker, Jonathan Jackson and Kareem Wilson Ladies’ Singles Champion: Afruica Gentle Ladies’ Singles
Finalist: Paula Kalekyezi
Semifinalists: Kalyca Fraser and Shawna Gentle
Men’s 35 & Over Singles Champion: Leyland Leacock
Men’s 35 & Over
Singles Finalist: Sandeep Chand
Semifinalists: Rondae Hawker and Aubrey Younge
Men’s 45 & Over
Singles Champion: Andre Lopes
Men’s 45 & Over Singles Finalist: Sunil Bianchini
Ladies’ Novice Singles Champion: Justine Kennedy
Ladies’ Novice Singles Finalist: Akiko Sunaga
Men’s Novice Singles Champion: Kyle Edghill
Men’s Novice Singles
Finalist: Osafa Dos Santos
Semifinalists: Akil Gittens and Amuniki Haley.
India Tour of Australia 2024/25: Test 3 of 5… – after Khawaja, McSweeney hold steady for 13.2 overs
Only 13.2 overs were possible on a rain-hit first day in Brisbane, where India strove without success after choosing to bowl first in the third BorderGavaskar Test match.
Overcast conditions and a grassy pitch prompted India to insert Australia after winning their third straight toss, and perhaps recent history informed their decision too, with the team bowling first having won six of the last seven Tests at this venue.
It took a while for India’s quicks to find their lengths, however, and the openers looked mostly untroubled in the first 5.3 overs, before a drizzle sent the players off the field, with Usman Khawaja putting away any-
thing a touch too straight or short while getting to 13 off 22 balls.
Play resumed after a half-hour interruption, and the bowlers began to ask more questions, shifting their lengths fuller and finding more movement. Akash Deep, who came into the side in place of Harshit Rana, looked particularly impressive as first change, swinging and nipping the ball into the right-handed Nathan McSweeney, and getting the odd ball to climb awkwardly too. But just as the contest was beginning to heat up, with India conceding only nine runs in 7.5 overs after the break, the rain returned, this time with greater intensity.
The fast-draining Gabba
outfield promised a quick resumption as and when the rain stopped, but the wait for that to happen dragged on and on, taking in both the lunch and tea breaks. The downpour relented at around 3pm, but returned soon after, and play was eventually called off at 4.13pm.
Apart from Akash Deep, India brought Ravindra Jadeja into their side, for his first appearance of the series, in place of R Ashwin. This change meant they had played three different spinners in each of the first three Tests.
For Australia, Josh Hazlewood returned after recovering from his side strain, displacing Scott Boland from the pace attack.
(ESPNCricinfo)
Jordan Crooks of the Cayman Islands continued his rich vein of form at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m), as he clocked a new World Record of 19.90 seconds in the men’s 50m freestyle semi-finals in Budapest, Hungary on Saturday.
The 22-year-old, who copped the Caribbean’s first medal at the championships when he won bronze in the men’s 100m freestyle final on Thursday, is the defending World champion in the 50m freestyle, and he duly asserted his class against rivals to book a spot in the finals.
He is the first person ever to go sub-20s over 50m in the pool, and if his performances so far are anything to go by, then Crooks looks
primed to defend his World title from Melbourne 2022.
Crooks’s blistering semi-final swim eclipsed his own record of 20.08s set earlier in the preliminaries, where he surpassed then-former World Record holder Caleb Dressel of the United States by .08 seconds, with the American having also set the previous all-time best in this same Duna Arena pool in Budapest, Hungary.
“I’m just going to stay on the same process and prepare for tonight, where I hope to do even better,” Crooks told World Aquatics following his record-breaking swim.
The men’s 50m freestyle final is scheduled for the final night of racing for these championships. (Sportsmax)
Five teams: namely, eventual Champions Rangpur Riders, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Lahore Qalandars, Cricket Victoria and Hampshire Hawks, converged on the Guyana National Stadium one week ago for an inspired T20 tournament that would bring the world together.
With the inaugural edition now in the rearview mirror, the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 can be considered a resounding success that culminated in Bangladesh’s Rangpur Riders coming from behind to clinch the inaugural trophy in a nail-biting final; a script that embodies the shorter format of the game. When asked about their thoughts on the Guyanese tournament, Championship winning Captain and Coach Nurul Hasan and Mickey Arthur both shared glowing reviews of the GSL T20.
The championship-winning captain Nurul Hasan shared, “It’s a great tournament, and I really want to thank the Guyanese people. They’re very friendly. I was
here in 2022, so I love this place, and I think it’s a great tournament and the management was really good. They worked hard for this tournament. I played a lot of international matches as well, and no difference with that. So, I think it’s a great tournament.”
Including a bit of his own vision for the future of the event, Rangpur Riders Head Coach Mickey Arthur related, “It’s been fantastic! I think it’s been a great tournament. I see it going from strength to strength. I know every one of the teams here, the players have had wonderful experiences; so, I just see it going bigger and bigger. It’s been fantastic!”
Closer to home, Amazon Warriors captain Imran Tahir thanked stakeholders for their vision in putting Guyana on the world map with its own league.
“It’s been a great competition! I’m pretty sure Guyana is going to be on the map of the world playing their own league, and I’m sure everyone here - we’ve been talking to the teams - they’re really, really enjoying the hospital-
ity from Guyanese people and all the people who have been putting this effort together: Dr. Ramroop and Mr. Irfaan Ali, President of the country. So, it’s a great effort, and I have no doubt that this competition is going to go very far,” Tahir detailed.
Meanwhile, Lahore
ing Guyana across the world stage. I think it’s an excellent move, it’s brilliant.
“You see, people from Australia, England, Pakistan; people from Bangladesh, they all are watching this tournament (and) they all are learning about Guyana. In the broadcast, you see they’re show-
Qalandars Owner and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Sameen Rana, described Guyana’s objective of promoting the country through cricket as ‘brilliant’. He opined, “I think the objective of this league is a little bit different. I believe number 1 is the promotion of Guyana, which is the right objective. Through sports, His Excellency is promot-
ing those amazing waterfalls and the culture. Through us, they are actually (promoting) Guyana’s hospitality,” he detailed.
“So, it’s a wonderful concept to promote Guyana as a destination of choice and for the people to get interested in this place.”
heroics in the tournament, Rana opined that the tournament has rightly given upand-coming talents an opportunity to showcase their skills.
Divulging the interest in Mirza that arose out of his wicket maiden over against Cricket Victoria, Rana explained, “Look at the teams. Majority of them have young talents, upcoming talents, which is exciting. With all due respect to the League, which is like a different level, where you have all the superstars playing, sometimes you have so many leagues happening it becomes repetitive, the excitement goes down. For example, if you see one superstar playing in PSL, then CPL, then in Big Bash league, BPL, ILT, South Africa, then in IPL; how many times you gotta see the same guy in different uniforms? So, I think the cricket is becoming too much and the superstar element is going, but it’s getting too much.
“With this league, the good thing is you will not only see the superstars, you see the upcoming raw young talent. You see what a great opportunity this tournament has provided for any youngster to come, showcase their skill, and live their dream. This is what Qalandars is all about; so, it’s a perfect match of our vision and this tournament,” the Lahore Qalandars owner added.
The five teams in the ExxonMobil Global Super League (GSL) T20 competed from November 26 to December 6 for a US$1M prize pool.
Referencing the recent interest in Pakistani player Salman Mirza after his
Two venues in Georgetown will today create all the buzz surrounding the sport of football as the KFC Goodwill International tournament kickstarts its expanded fifth edition.
The Queen’s College and Ministry of Education (MoE) Grounds, located on Thomas Lands and Carifesta Avenue respectively, will host 8 teams for 4 games in the first round of the group stage today.
Prior to today’s kickoff, the teams were presented with their complete sets of branded uniforms and balls in a practice that has become a custom for the Petra Organisation. Presentations were made at the title sponsors’ Vlissengen Road Head Office, where Marketing Assistant Charmaine Farnum not only emphasized the value of the tournament, but also expressed the fast-food giant’s commitment to future endeavours.
“We’re happy to have given our continued support for the KFC Goodwill International tournament. Now in its fifth year, we proudly sponsor this exciting event that celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and community,” she said.
“For the past 5 years, the KFC Goodwill International tournament has brought together talented athletes from diverse backgrounds, fostering both competition and camaraderie,” Farnum shared with the players, team personnel, and stakeholders gathered.
The Marketing Assistant added, “As a longtime sponsor, we remain committed to providing opportunities for young players to showcase their skills, building lasting friendships and experiences through the power of teamwork. This year’s tournament promises to be bigger and better. It’s also an important platform for developing both the athletic and personal growth of participants.”
While the march-past exercise and official opening ceremony will take place at 12:30hrs, the competition gets going at 13:30hrs with a clash between defending champions Clarendon College of Jamaica and Region 9’s Annai Secondary.
At 15:30hrs, Trinidad
and Tobago’s Speyside High will take on Guyana’s Dolphin Secondary. Both games will be hosted at the Queen’s College ground.
Then at 17:00hrs at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Chase’s Academic Foundation would do battle with Suriname’s Henry Hassankhan School. the curtains will come down on the day’s action with a clash between St. Benedict’s College and Region 7’s D.C. Caesar Fox (Waramadong) Secondary, billed to start at 19:00hrs. The tournament continues during the week with the semifinals set to take place on Friday, December 20th and the grand finale on Sunday, December 22nd.
