Guyana Times - Sunday, December 3, 2023

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 5572 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

Guyanese united to defend border – PM Phillips See story on page 19

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyana could earn at least US$2.5B in 10 years from carbon credits – VP Jagdeo tells COP28 P3 – says Guyana can leverage market upsides

– says 83,000 square miles will be defended by 800,000 Guyanese

Diamond to Buzz Bee 4-lane road project is top priority for 2024 – Min Edghill

– says construction will commence once bypass road is completed P14

Berbice home set on fire after pensioner complained about noise nuisance

P37

Any action

by Venezuela is an attack on economy, business – Private Sector – reiterates ICJ’s decision must be upheld P27

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Dec 3 – 09:30h – 11:00h and Monday, Dec 4 – 22:00h – 23:30h.

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Guyana could earn at least US$2.5B in 10 years from carbon credits – VP Jagdeo tells COP28 – says Guyana can leverage market upsides

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ice President Bharrat Jagdeo, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28), has revealed that Guyana has the potential to raise at least US$2.5 billion from its carbon credits over the next 10 years.

The Vice President was at the time addressing a COP28 panel discussion on Saturday, held under the theme “Protecting Nature for Climate, Lives, and Livelihoods.” He also shared the stage with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, and Indonesian President Joko Widodo, with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and French President Emmanuel Macron, among others, in attendance and making presentations.

In his presentation, Jagdeo noted the distinction Guyana has earned, through its US$750 million carbon credits deal with Hess Corporation, of being the only forest in the world with jurisdictional scale forest certification. He further noted the potential to raise US$2.5 billion over the next 10 years, by tapping into favourable market upsides.

“We’ve been able to get certified credits and we’ve sold 30 per cent of those credits for $750 million at a minimum. And I say at a minimum because if there is an upside, the credits are traded in secondary markets or if there is any movement in a global market, then we would share 60 per cent of the upside of any increase in prices.”

“So, if we were to sell the remaining 70 per cent of our credits at the same price at which we sold the credits that we recently sold, the 30 per cent, we will raise, over the next 10 years, at a minimum $2.5 billion to come into our country,” Jagdeo explained.

The Vice President further noted that when one considers the size of Guyana’s forests, “bigger than England and Scotland, but tiny compared to Ghana and the Congo and Brazil and many other countries in the world”, it therefore means there is a scale of financing needed to be raised to outcompete alternate use of those forests.

Guyana remains a staunch advocate for a better price for carbon credits on the world market. Only a few months ago, President Dr Irfaan Ali had revealed that the aim remains to push for a US$70 per tonne carbon credit price.

During a discussion at the University of Guyana with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who was visiting Guyana, President Ali had pointed out that there currently ex-

Leaders at COP28 as they stand in solidarity with each other

ists a severe financing gap.

He had further said that the Region requires $2.3 trillion to achieve the essential Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Guyana, according to President Ali, faces further complications when the underwhelming prices for carbon credits on the world market is considered.

“So, what is very critical, as all the studies would have shown, for us to achieve the transition we want with energy, and for us to achieve the shift in development focus, the carbon price must be US$70 per tonne. It is not even US$7. And that is why the market is so important.

We have to fix that fundamentally,” President Ali had said.

Last year, Guyana signed a contract with Hess Corporation which will see the nation earning US$750 million for 30 per cent of its forest within ten years. In Guyana’s agreement, a rate

of US$15 per tonne of carbon was secured and so far, 15 per cent ($4.7 billion) is allocated towards Amerindian development.

Already, over 500 proj-

their share from the US$150 million carbon credit sale.

In addition to its rich biodiversity and ecosystem, Guyana’s total forest cover of some 18.4 million

From left; Ghanian President Nana Akufo-Addo and Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo as they shared a stage

ects that run the gamut from tourism to agriculture, are currently being pursued from the $4.7 billion that was given to the hundreds of Indigenous villages as part of

hectares stores more than 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and removes some 154 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. (G-3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

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

Climate change and Global Stocktake

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he 28th iteration of the annual mega “Conference of the Parties” (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) is well on its way in Dubai. President Ali, VP Jagdeo and a large delegation are in attendance. Since 1994, the UNFCC has been ratified by 198 countries whose leaders’ movers and shakers are supposed to hone in on the goals and gaps in the seminal 2015 COP21 Paris Agreement. There is wide agreement that we have reached an inflexion point for global climate action, and COP28 is supposed to inform us on what has been done to tackle climate change to date, and what is still left to do before we go over the tipping point. This is called a “Global Stocktake”, which began in COP26 and will conclude at COP28.

In the Paris Agreement, the announced critical goal was to hold the global average temperature rise to well below 2°C, and pursue efforts to limit the rise to 1.5°C above preindustrial levels. Subsequent COPS presented a plan to reach the goal and then how to implement the plan. We have reached a stage where there has to be agreement on what to do, and also how to do it utilizing the data that countries have compiled on their efforts towards achieving their specific goals. It is unanimously accepted that, overall, not enough has been done to date, and new “assignments” would have to be undertaken. And this is where the finger-pointing will inevitably surface.

Visiting Antarctica ahead of COP28, the very involved UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted that “an area roughly the size of Portugal, Spain, France and Germany combined” has melted. He warned: “All of this spells catastrophe around the world. What happens in Antarctica doesn’t stay in Antarctica. And what happens thousands of miles away has a direct impact right here.” Global warming is already 1.1°C over pre-industrial levels. We are experiencing more extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, flooding, storms etc. 2023 has been the hottest year on record, and Mr. Guterres warned that if action is not taken now, we are heading towards a catastrophic 3°C temperature rise. With our coastland being below sea level, Guyana is at severe risk.

It was agreed there has to be a 45 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to 2010 levels; Achieving global net zero emissions by 2050; A “just and equitable transition” from fossil fuels (oil and gas) to renewable energy sources, and Increased investments in adaptation and resilience to the climate disruption. But the Secretary-General has already clashed with UAE host Dr. Sultan al-Jaber, who is presiding over the negotiations at COP28. Dr Sultan’s mandate was fast-tracking the energy transition, and slashing emissions before 2030; transforming climate finance by delivering on old promises and setting the framework for a new deal; putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action. Instead, he proposed embracing the continued use of fossil fuels, to which Guterres retorted: “We cannot save a burning planet with a fire hose of fossil fuels. The 1.5-degree limit is only possible if we ultimately stop burning all fossil fuels. Not reduce. Not abate.”

As pointed out by PM Modi of India, there is also the failure of the developed nations – which played an inordinate role in creating global warming – not fulfilling their financial commitments, such as the US$100B in climate finance annually to developing countries. After Paris, countries were supposed to craft nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to indicate their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, figures released last November indicate there is a serious lag in fulfilling commitments; hence the need for the Global Stocktake.

With the Paris Agreement, countries established an enhanced transparency framework (ETF) by which they had to report transparently on actions taken and progress made in climate change mitigation, adaptation measures, and support provided or received. Without getting into the gory details, as stated earlier, we have lagged, and COP28 should be in a position to be much more precise in identifying countries that are “free riders”.

The Fourth Quarterly Run-and-Shoot Fitness Competition was held at Base Camp Stephenson at Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD) where members of the Guyana Police Force’s male and female teams put on a fantastic performance. GDF Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan and Deputy Police Commissioner (Operations) Ravindradat Budhram were among those who witnessed the competition

Not a blade of grass Dear Editor, The ICJ has ruled, and, as expected, Venezuela is barred from taking any action to challenge Guyana’s sovereignty over Essequibo.

And it will come to pass that the 1899 Arbitral Award will be reinforced by the same International Court of Justice, which the Maduro Administration must accept, or be condemned.

However, it would now seem that our greatest challenge are the enemies within, whose Machiavellian lust for power knows no limit. This is not limited to the Opposition, whose support was given relevant only to within the walls of Parliament, but from a few whose hate for the PPP has now made them difficult to discern and understand their duties and responsibilities as citizens of Guyana.

On November 30, an unpatriotic and treacherous article, which can be deemed treasonous, was written by GHK Lall and published in the Kaieteur News. It was supposed to be ‘hard truths’, and was captioned “Annexation by different action”. Stoking fear in his opening statements, he then placed himself in “Maduro’s shoes”, and scripted an unbelievable strategy which he is convinced can be used for the successful annexation of Essequibo. He stated that “manpower, money, military and means are to Guyana’s disadvantage, and even though the international community becomes ‘adversarial’ in the event of an invasion by

Venezuela, the deed would have been done and concluded that nothing can change that thereafter”.

He further stated that Maduro must “seize the moment and deliver what has eluded all other Venezuelan leaders for many lifetimes”.

According to Lall, it is better to move ‘recklessly’ than ‘aimlessly’…take a chance and deal with the consequences later’…since the ‘world will take an eternity to reverse’ whatever has happened.

According to him, the time to invade Guyana is now, rather than later. Lall, in transforming himself into Maduro, has offered Maduro such a great thrust of encouragement and tactical advice that Maduro’s advisors and strategists would have thought twice to offer.

It is unimaginable and incomprehensible that this is coming from a so-called intellectual who is supposed to be defending his country’s sovereignty, and advising and supporting the Guyanese Government and people against Venezuelan propaganda. He concluded his missive by resorting to a new theory of annexation, which was pure rubbish. Will this kind of statement be accepted anywhere in the world?

What if a Venezuelan, openly and in writing, should advise the Guyana Government on what can be done to counter-attack Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo? Why did Lall not put himself in President Ali’s shoes and advise him?

Lall’s hate has now to-

tally consumed him to such an extent that he is willing to commit himself to compromising his patriotic duties. But some people like GHK Lall have no loyalty, except to themselves. This man has attacked religion, ethnicity, culture, and now even his own country of birth. Can he not be classified as a ‘low life’?

The APNU/AFC at-

tempted to barefacedly rig the 2020 Elections in full view of the world, and claimed that it was the PPP which did the rigging.

Should these persons not be labelled as ‘low life’? The ‘hard truth’ is that these persons are the ‘low life’.

Not a blade of grass.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Schools: a safe haven, not a death trap

Dear Editor, My heart is broken! A child, brimming with life and potential has died as a result of the action of a "school bully"!

In recent times, there have been many incidents in which students have been seriously injured as a result of vicious attacks by their peers. Something has to be fundamentally wrong!

A school is supposed to be a haven, not a death trap!

In our days at school, occasional fighting among peers was not uncommon, but it was always a fistic encounter; there was never the use of any instrument or weapon! If we are to find solutions - and that urgently - we must delve deeply!

Rooted in this dilemma is the absence or dearth of family values! Children live what they learn, and this learning should begin at home; but in cases where parenting proves to be difficult or inadequate, there were/are organizations that prove to be beneficial.

There was a time when joining clubs - athletics/

sports, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Sunday School, was a given! There, children learn to share, cooperate, understand the importance of camaraderie, respect for each other, and the fear of God; so, even when there was a deficit of certain values in the home, these activities helped to provide moral moorings.

As a society, we may have become so 'sophisticated' that basic human standards and values are traded for gain (sometimes ill-gotten) and temporary pleasure.

I join with the parents of Mark Harripaul in "… pleading that other parents instill values in their children to do the right thing…"

"Boys will be boys", some say, but boys will be men someday! May we, in our homes, villages, clubs, and churches, "train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

Sincerely, Claudia Heywood

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

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God, “One Guyana” Pres Ali at Cop28 Under is united and free

Dear Editor, Allow me to extend a hearty “Welcome home!” to President Irfaan Ali on his return from the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).

It must be a testament to Irfaan Ali’s leadership style that there was so much Guyanese anxiety caused by his 6-day absence. He must be cognizant of this going forward, for even though Vice-President Jagdeo, at a recent press conference, went to great lengths to explain “where the President would be leading when we have a side event at COP, the President has to return to Guyana because of the impending referendum in Venezuela, he would come back here before that referendum, he wants to be here for the referendum, but he will be at COP the first couple of days next week”, there was still consternation caused by claims from political opponents and social media activists that “dem boys beat out”, and were on an unplanned jaunt to Dubai.

What then was so important about COP28? And why did President Ali prioritize this at such a delicate juncture, with a jittery population looking for his comforting style of leadership?

A quick look at the photos of President Ali and VP Jagdeo meeting with world leaders - such as Narendra Modi of India; The Emir of

Qatar, Mohamed bin Thani; UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron; King Charles III; regional leaders and influential businessmen such as Mukesh Ambani - at a time when our nation’s border controversy engaged the attention of the ICJ, shows the importance of our leaders’ attendance to press the flesh, press the nation’s case, use the ICJ decision to show we are pursuing a lawful pathway to resolution of our border controversy, and lobby directly for support of major nations all in one place.

COP28 was fortuitously timed for Guyana. Consider the positives of face-toface meetings at a gathering where Guyana punches above its weight, due to the presence of Bharrat Jagdeo, who gained international recognition for his position on environmental issues within his country and on the global scale, and who was awarded the UN Environmental Programme’s Champion of the Earth for Biodiversity, Conservation and Ecosystem Management in 2010.

This is a rock star in the world of climate activism; a man for whom the room falls silent when he speaks on these issues. What better forum to remind the world’s leaders of Guyana’s worth and contribution to the global fight against climate change and the value

in protecting her against an aggressive neighbour?

The alternative approach would see our leaders jetting to different capitals in a time of crisis, a friend in need, a different footing to the status we enjoy at COP28.

The option to travel easily to world capitals still resides with VP Jagdeo, who has a longer stay and agenda at COP, which is his forte.

President Ali demonstrated complete confidence in our Prime Minister, Brigadier (retd) Mark Phillips, when he left him in charge. This is not the first such occasion, as our President is abroad usually about 45-60 days a year on aggregate.

That said, however, the President’s public relations office must do better in disseminating information on H.E’s diplomatic forays overseas, and the value these trips bring to our nation. Let people know that it was better to be there with the leaders of the world, gaining their support, than to be home dealing with the Opposition and its silly scaremongering scenarios of doom and gloom.

Once again, Mr President, “Welcome home!” from the residents of all three counties: Berbice, Demerara, and Essequibo.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

Dear Editor, It is, and will be, “One Guyana” under God, united and free. This is our theme, this is our motto, One People! One Nation!

One Destiny!

Last Friday, our nation saw the manifestation of that oneness when we stood united as “One Guyana”, an indivisible whole. In this way, we will stand triumphant over any obstacle that may come our way.

On Friday, 1st December Anno Domini 2023, the International Court’s ruling ordered Venezuela not to take any action that interferes with Guyana’s control over the Essequibo; and, further, urged Caracas to respect international law.

It was a unanimous decision by the court, something we had expected; nevertheless, we echo the terms of that ruling loud and clear to all in Venezuela.

We are not totally out of the woods yet, but already we resound the theme, “Thanks be to God Almighty! Thanks be to Allah, Jah, or Om Namah Shivaya! Again, we say, “Thanks to The Divine One”.

We look forward to building on that platform

of peace, togetherness, and progress as we move forward into the future.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Sunday, December 03, 2023

06:00 (Sign on) Jewanram Rel. Hour 07:00 Cartoons 08:00 Shekinah Ministry 08:30 Evening News (RB) 09:30 Fast & Loud 10:30 Cartoons 11:00 David Persaud Religious Program 11:30 Blippi Educational 12:00 Movie - A Pinch of Portugal (2023) 13:30 Movie - Fred Claus (2007) 15:30 Forged in fire 16:30 Payless Power Hour 17:30 The Healing Touch 18:00 Wheel of Fortune 18:30 Week-in-Review 19:00 Lucifer S5 E11 20:00 Arrow S5 E11 21:00 Riverdale S5 E9 22:00 Unsolved Mysteries 23:00 Stand-up Comedy 00:00 Sign off

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MISUSE OF PET MEDICATION – FINAL CONSIDERATION

O

ver the last two weeks, we have documented (what I thought was) comprehensively enough the issue of misuse of pharmaceuticals on our pets. On occasion, these interventions may even be successful. Well, you know, dear reader, even a blind hen now and then will find a grain of corn.

Readers of the column have found it necessary to remind me that I had not mentioned some meds that

mented just because the pet caregiver has been researching on Google or ChatGPT. Moreover, there are many laws governing the usage of hormones in Veterinary practice.

COMMONLY (MIS)USED ANTI-INFLAMMATORY MEDICINES AND ANTIHISTAMINES (ANTI-ALLERGY) ANTIHISTAMINES

These groups of chemicals work against those inflammatory processes that cause, inter alia, an itching sensation, and consequently scratching. It must be noted that the animal’s body responds to these chemicals

VITAMINS, MINERALS AND TRACE ELEMENTS

scratch syndrome may be caused by many other factors and disease agents.

Healing of a specific/complicated condition may not be achieved by the introduction of just any antihistamine acquired over the counter (OTC).

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS

are used on pets, often deleteriously.

Other callers pointed out that I have not dealt with herbs which the “old” people had used on their sick animals for ages with great success(?). One pharmacist gave me a valuable printout on an article she once wrote on the very subject of misuse of drugs on humans.

Let us now look at some of the other medications that find themselves in the arsenal of those needing a cure for their pets’ ailments.

in different ways, and with varying intensities.

Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and stomach/intestinal upsets.

Worse, an incorrect dose (for example, an overdose) can result in death. It is also important that the pet’s caregiver must ascertain – via discussion with the vet, who may even expose the animal to specific trials - what is the antihistamine which would give the optimal results for the specific ailment.

Of course, the itch-

There are several drugs on the market (again, often sold OTC) that have an anti-inflammatory function.

One drug (for example, a corticosteroid) may be highly effective in preventing and suppressing inflammation, but may also work against the body’s immune system.

Using such a medication by itself is looking for trouble.

Let only your vet prescribe such a drug, together with the concomitant necessary supportive medications.

Other medicines performing anti-inflammatory functions, which are not steroids, are called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They, too, relieve

pain and inflammation, and do not cause the side effect of reducing the body’s own immune (defence) system. But, here again, the pet caregiver should not decide to introduce these pain killing anti-inflammatories.

These drugs do have serious adverse effects. Cats have a notorious reputation for reacting badly to drugs such as Aspirin and Acetaminophen (Tylenol).

HORMONES

I beg caregivers of especially female dogs (and cats) not to ever attempt to introduce hormones to prevent pregnancy, or terminate pregnancy, or enhance the possibility of the adult pet becoming pregnant.

Such an exercise is fraught with dangers and calamities, and deleterious consequences. Animals come in so many shapes, sizes and breeds that one type of hormone intervention does not fit all animals. Haphazard hormone interventions cannot, and must not, be imple-

How often have I heard this request from companion animal caregivers! My answer is usually the same: If you feed your dog a balanced and appropriate diet, there is no real need for supplementing same with vitamins and minerals. Of course, as the animal gets older (senior citizen), you may raise the matter with your veterinarian.

Several factors would then have to be taken into consideration; eg breed, general health status, level of oral hygiene, energy levels, body mass indices.

Every pet has to be assessed individually during discussion with your vet in order to arrive at a specific protocol relative to provid-

ing vitamin/mineral/ trace elements’ supplements.

USE AND MISUSE OF HERBS AND OTHER FOLK MEDICINE

My take on this is simple: unless the actual curing ingredients (in leaves, barks, roots, etc.) have been isolated, and after extensive research has been carried out, dosage rates and methods of introducing the herbs into and on the animal’s body have been definitively established, I would not greatly advocate the usage of herbs as a significant part of pet medicine.

Similarly, I do not advocate the usage of old engine oil (waste oil) on the skin as a remedy to cure mange in dogs.

MISUSE OF DIURETICS

These drugs are used to remove excess water from dogs and cats (and other

mammals, of course) which exhibit swelling (edema) on the limbs or fluid (volume) overload. These symptoms are usually associated with kidney failure, and even heart failure. So often clients arrive in the vet’s clinic boasting that they have used drugs and the swelling has appreciably been reduced.

Commendable.

However, the causative origin has not been removed. In fact, the introduction of the drug and waiting for the efficacy to kick in means loss of time for the vet to tackle, say, the kidney failure, which caused the ailment in the first place. This may not end well.

I think by now the message has been documented and delivered comprehensively enough – as to why companion animal caregivers must not take it upon themselves to use medications on their pets without firstly consulting with a veterinarian. Also, I know that I have not touched all the many medications that are administered to pets sup-

posedly to effect a cure for a perceived ailment. In this category would fall the home treatment for cancers and tumours, the use of antiviral drugs and drugs to treat urinary incontinence, even psychotropic agents. The “home” application of drugs to treat lung and airway disorders (e.g., cough suppressants) is well known, and should not be used, unless the matter is thoroughly ventilated with one’s veterinarian. My advice always is to consult your veterinarian before you introduce any medication that has not been prescribed for the ailment.

As we approach the Holiday Season, it is imperative that we reiterate and reinforce the advice on providing optimal care to your pets about feeding, presents, and noise nuisance. We will start the discussion next week.

NEWS

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

All options on table if Venezuela violates ICJ order – VP Jagdeo – points to military alliances, support of int’l community W

ith the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) recent ruling barring Venezuela from taking any action to seize Essequibo while the Court makes its decision about the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has warned that all options are on the table if Venezuela violates this order.

He made these comments while doing an interview with the Newsroom that was broadcast on Saturday, on the sidelines of the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai.

According to Jagdeo, Guyana will continue with its military alliances and will pursue every available avenue of defending itself should the need arise.

“If they do not respect that and they work or act in contravention of the ruling of the court and have aggressive intents on our country, then all options are on the table for

the defence of our country.

We’ve so far robustly explored the legal route and we’ve had success there. We have explored the diplomatic route and we’ve had overwhelming success there, where the world supports us.”

“And we’re now exploring defence cooperation with several countries. And we’re not a belligerent country.

But if any country, particularly Venezuela, thinks they can alter the boundary established by the 1899 tribunal unilaterally, then we’d defend our country by any means whatsoever,” Jagdeo said.

Jagdeo further noted that even as Venezuela presses forward with its referendum, the international community is what matters and thus, Venezuela will have no choice but to respect the process, lest the international community come down on the Spanishspeaking country.

Last month, the Venezuelan National Electoral Council had pub-

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

lished a list of five questions that it plans to put before the Venezuelan people in a referendum set for December 3, 2023. The referendum will seek the Venezuelan people’s approval to, among other things, annex Essequibo and create a Venezuelan state.

It also seeks the citizens’ approval for Venezuela to grant citizenship and identity cards to residents of Essequibo.

In its ruling, the ICJ dealt

with the fifth question of the referendum, which refers explicitly to “the creation of a Guayana Esequiba State, and for an accelerated plan to be developed for comprehensive attention to be paid to the present and future population of that territory, which would include, among other things, the granting of Venezuelan citizenship and identity cards in conformity with the Geneva Agreement

and International Law, consequently incorporating said State on the Venezuelan map.”

The Court further observed that Venezuela’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice (STJ) has confirmed the constitutionality of the questions to be posed in the referendum and that Venezuela has stated during the oral proceedings that it “will not turn its back on what the people decide in the referendum”. The STJ is known to be severely compromised by the Executive.

Additionally, the Court noted that, on October 24, Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro publicly stated that the referendum “is the first time that all arguments: political, diplomatic, legal, historic, territorial, are given to our people so that we take a collective decision as a country.”

Other official statements suggest that Venezuela is taking steps to acquire control over and administer the

territory in dispute. For instance, on November 6, 2023, the Minister of Defence of Venezuela, General Vladimir Padrino López, appealed to “go to combat” concerning the territory in question.

Furthermore, Venezuelan military officials announced that Venezuela is taking concrete measures to build an airstrip to serve as a “logistical support point for the integral development of the Essequibo,” the Court outlined in its ruling.

Over the past few weeks, Guyana has been informing regional and international partners of Venezuela’s planned referendum, which has been criticised by the United States, Caricom, and the Organisation of American States (OAS), as well as several other nations in the Region, including Brazil. And following the ruling, these international partners and more, have urged Venezuela to abide by the Court’s orders.

(G-3)

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Goldminer, 21, remanded for shooting underage “girlfriend”

A

ccused of shooting his 14-year-old “girlfriend”, Leion Garraway, a 21-year-old gold miner of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, appeared on Friday before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer the following charges: discharging a loaded firearm with intent to maim, disable, or cause grievous bodily harm; and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

He denied both charges, and his defence attorney requested that bail in a reasonable sum be granted his client.

However, the Police prosecutor strongly objected to Garraway being placed on bail, disclosing that Garraway had previously been prosecuted for identical offences.

The prosecutor detailed that Garraway and the underage girl are acquainted, and she is being referred to as his "girlfriend."

The prosecutor detailed that, accompanied by Garraway, the girl had gone to a party at her friend's house at Lot 69 Norton Street Lodge, Georgetown, on Saturday, November 25, at

Recalcitrance...

The pistol which was found in Leion Garraway’s back yard Remanded: Leion Garraway

about 23:00 hours. And while there, Garraway, who was carrying a.32 pistol, pulled it out, aimed it at the girl, and fired multiple shots, one of which hit her in the left thumb.

After receiving treatment at the Kitty Health Centre, the injured girl was eventually allowed to return home. The incident was reported to the Police and Garraway was arrested.

When Police ranks turned up at his house to conduct a search, Garraway led them to the back yard, and they recovered the gun and one live round of .32 ammunition. Police said the serial number of the gun had

been filed off.

In response to being asked whether he had a gun licence, Garraway had replied "No”. And he disclosed that one "Anthony" had given him the gun after he was told by the Police of the crimes committed.

As such, he and the firearm were taken to the East La Penitence Police Station; where, in his presence, the said firearm and ammunition were marked, placed in a gun evidence box, sealed, and lodged to be taken to the Ballistics Section for examination.

Police Headquarters had said in a report that the 14-year-

old girl had been shot by her 15-year-old friend’s boyfriend.

Police had said she was staying with her 15-year-old friend who resides with the man at Norton Street, Lodge Georgetown.

“The victim said she observed the boyfriend playing with a firearm, when suddenly she heard a loud explosion and subsequently felt a burning sensation to her left thumb, which then started to bleed. She related that Garraway then went to his back yard, where he hid the firearm among some concrete blocks,” Police Headquarters had said in a statement.

Magistrate Daly has remanded Garraway to prison, and set his next court date at January 19, 2024.

W

…from Maduro

ell, now that the World Court has delivered its BINDING judgement: that Venezuela should forget about the referendum today, did you, dear reader, think it’d change anything for Mad Maduro??

If you did, then you must be one of those eternal optimists who believe Manna’s gonna drop from the sky one day!!

In other words, you’re living in la la land!! This is a man who, in the face of 98% of his country now living in poverty because of his policies, yet boasts about the “success” of the Chavez Revolution!!

Maduro had already thumbed his nose at the ICJ when he denied their jurisdiction on deciding the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award. So now - in a surreal turn of events - he doesn’t invoke any jurisdictional overreach, but announces that the Court ruled in his favour!! In such a sensitive matter, your Eyewitness doesn’t want anyone to think he’s biased so he’ll quote the Court’s decision verbatim!!

1: unanimously pending a final decision in the case (on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award), the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby the Cooperative Republic of Guyana administers and exercises control over that area; and 2: unanimously, both parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court, or make it more difficult to resolve.”

Which part of “Venezuela shall refrain” from changing the status quo on Essequibo doesn’t Mad Maduro understand? And what’s that status quo?? Heck…we’re occupying every square inch of it right now, aren’t we – and pumping and shipping those 11 billion barrels of oil under its offshore!! But he’s like those little kids who believe that if they close their eyes the world disappears!! And if they stamp their feet long enough, they’ll get their way - cause Mommy’s gonna be frustrated!

But he forgets there ain’t no Mommy who’s gonna hand him Essequibo – even if he screams himself hoarse!!

Every country that counts – especially Brazil, to its south – has verbally bitch slapped him for his arrogance.

They know if they don’t put a stop to Maduro’s craziness, they’re gonna be next!! So, the question is “what next?”

Sadly, we should know that the only way the ICJ can enforce its rulings is to submit them to the UN Security Council for them to take appropriate action – including force!!

But we know that ain’t gonna happen, don’t we? Cause Russia – which invaded Ukraine to seize territory - wouldn’t want to set a precedent. They’ll veto!! So, we’ll just have to put up with Mad Maduro’s foot stamping and screaming!!

Unless America bitch slaps him physically!! …confronted Yeah…that’s right!! Let’s face it, America’s the only power that can manners Mad Maduro and return some stability to the hemisphere. Firstly, his misguided policies have sent 7.7 million refugees (and counting!!) flooding far beyond its neighbours – including the US. The magnitude’s causing all sorts of disruptions. Colombia – with its drug challenges – now gotta deal with 2.5 million Venezuelans looking to make a living any way they can!! Including crime!!

And that’s America’s reality too, innit?? They’ve been trying to straighten the dictator for a decade - using sanctions for even drug running!! But Russia and China have been conniving with Maduro to evade those sanctions.

Unlike back in the day, America’s trying to get him out with the “STICK” of democratic elections – knowing the majority of Venezuelans are now sick and tired of him and his oily promises!!

The CARROT was licensing Chevron to start pumping oil again – and bring in some hard currency. If the referendum’s ON TODAY, the licence should be OFF! …Israel We’ve been so caught up with the bully in the west that we forgot the truce between Israel and Hamas is over. How do we know?? Israel’s once again bombing civilians herded into areas they defined as “safe havens”!!

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

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

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NEWS

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US Ambassador urges PublicPrivate Sector collaboration to tackle mercury, fuel smuggling – during workshop aimed at combatting transnational illegal mining

Maduro gambling T for resurrection L

ast week we wrote that Maduro’s bellicosity towards our Essequibo was “all political”; without a shred of legality supporting what in effect would be an annexation of two-thirds of our national territory. And it is for this reason that he and his predecessors have refused to entertain a judicial settlement of the controversy they created, but insist on direct “negotiations” Ravi Dev between the two countries, where they could browbeat us because of their superior military capabilities. It should surprise no one that Venezuela have dismissed the ICJ’s ruling on their “referendum”.

However, there is the truism that “all politics” is local: meaning that, invariably, actions at the macro level are driven by local contingencies. In the case of Venezuela, utopian populism, reinforced by bad governance, corruption and incompetence, intensified after Chavez succumbed to cancer in 2013. Maduro barely squeaked into office on a razor-thin majority.

And it went downhill from there, following Chavez’s degutting of the national oil company PVSA to install army cronies, which coincided with lower oil prices. Production plummeted from 2.5 million barrels daily to barely 500,000 barrels. Agreements with foreign oil companies, which had been induced to make the massive investments to extract and process Venezuelan heavy crude oil, were now arbitrarily scuttled to bolster sagging state coffers.

The companies like Exxon baulked, left, and later had to be compensated via court action. Venezuela’s GDP shrank by three-quarters between 2014 and 2021; debt doubled to more than $150B, while hyperinflation skyrocketed 130,000 percent by 2018, and devastated savings. Maduro clung to power increasingly through political repression, censorship, and electoral manipulation. The 2018 elections, for instance, which he “won”, were widely considered fraudulent. Under his regime, almost 8 million Venezuelans fled, and 94% of those remaining live below the poverty line. Maduro knew he could not hold on to power through democratic elections.

A week after Exxon announced, on May 20, 2015, it had struck a massive seam of oil extending into Essequibo’s territorial waters, Maduro issued a decree claiming the entire 200 miles based on their Essequibo Border Controversy.

Since then, he escalated the rhetoric and hostility until our Government decided to utilize the terms of the Geneva Agreement that Venezuela had signed and requested the UN Secretary-General to choose one of the dispute resolution measures from Art 33 of the UN Charter. The latter chose the judicial route via its ICJ affiliate, whose jurisdiction Maduro contemptuously rejected.

I suggest that Maduro’s bellicosity is not because he coveted the 1B barrel of oil then discovered by Exxon: Venezuela already had over 300B barrels reserve. Their challenge was not oil reserves, but exploiting those reserves. Rather, Maduro was following the very well-known “diversionary theory of war”.

As explained succinctly by one scholar: “…unpopular leaders generate foreign policy crises to both divert the public’s attention away from the discontent with their rule, and bolster their political fortunes through a rally-around-the-flag effect…

Because people tend to react to territorial issues intensely, the embattled leader could attempt to manipulate and exploit this proclivity by launching specifically a territorial conflict”.

The unpopular Maduro already had on hand the 1899 Arbitral Award Border controversy Venezuela had raised in 1962, but which Chavez had downplayed. He was counting on the populace emotionally rallying around the flag to even ignore objective facts about his ineptitude and dictatorial actions. Maduro truculently dismissed the ICJ’s jurisdiction over the Border controversy, and has raised the ante by defying the ruling of the ICJ to go ahead with today’s provocative referendum.

But Maduro would know that in the modern state system, annexation of another country’s territory would not be accepted, especially when he is threatening a very powerful American corporation – ExxonMobil. Powerful neighbours like Brazil and Colombia would also not brook opening up the Pandora's Box of settled borders. So why take this risk?

He is “gambling for resurrection”. Here, leaders who see defeat staring them in the face of competition or conflict take high-risk actions that would be considered “irrational” in normal circumstances, because the high costs of defeat “objectively” outweigh the low probability of victory.

Maduro would have concluded that the democratic elections insisted on by the US would be fatal, and so would continue his bluff. Even though the old Yankee bogeyman might even boost the “rally round the flag” effect, the US must reimpose sanctions to introduce free and fair elections that would remove Maduro. Enough Venezuelans have not been duped.

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

here are several problems being caused by transnational illegal mining and the smuggling of dangerous chemicals into Guyana, and United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot has urged that the Public and Private Sectors collaborate to tackle these scourges.

The diplomat made these comments during a recent two-day workshop organized by the Organization of American States (OAS) with funding from the US Department of State and held at Cara Lodge in Quamina Street, Georgetown.

According to Theriot, the US remains committed to partnering with Guyana to address shared security challenges such as transnational crime. She noted that the US would continue to help Guyana build an effective criminal justice system in Guyana to better combat crime and illicit trafficking. It has not been lost on the ambassador that these crimes not only threaten Guyana’s stability and investment climate, but US national security as well. As such, she has urged the Government and Private Sector to collaborate.

“It is no secret that transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) exploit Guyana’s rich natural resources, such as its gold reserves, to advance their illicit activities, which have negative consequences for Guyana’s economy and development. Even more concerning, TCOs smuggle precursors - such as mercury, gasoline, and highly polluting chemicals - into Guyana,” she disclosed.

She described those precursors as having the ability to devastate Guyana’s pristine biodiversity and public health.

(2nd from left) US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot; Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, and Attorney-at-Law Prithima Kissoon

“Effectively addressing the transnational nature of the illegal gold trade and its international financing requires regional collaboration from both the Public and the Private Sectors,” Theriot has said.

Also attending the workshop were Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat and Attorney-atLaw Prithima Kissoon of the Attorney General’s Chambers, who delivered remarks at the opening ceremony to an audience that included both Public and Private Sector stakeholders.

Earlier this year, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn had identified transnational crime as a significant challenge. He had noted that old crimes are being replaced by a new wave and the issue of transnational crime, with which the system is now faced.

“We have challenges with new forms of crime; new challenges. The Police have to deal with issues of transnational organised crime.

The old crimes we are accustomed to doing, having to deal with the question of men and youth. It’s a big challenge.

I would say, personally, we missed a big gap when we should have been in a better place,” Benn had posited.

In August of this year, Guyanese stakeholders as-

sociated with the control of weapons and ammunition had embarked on a course on Combating Trafficking in Arms and Ammunition (CTAM) at the Roraima Duke Lodge, Kingston Georgetown.

Conducted in a collaboration between the Government of Guyana and the United Nations Regional Center

for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC), the three-day course was conducted to help build the capacity of states to tackle transnational crime and support implementation of international arms control commitments.

TURN TO 15

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Diamond to Buzz Bee 4-lane road project is top priority for 2024 – Min Edghill

– says construction will commence once bypass road is completed

A section of the road being widened at Grove, EBD

T

he construction of the Grove main access road along the East Bank of Demerara will commence once the bypass road from Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam is completed.

This was announced

by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a recent televised programme where he noted that the current structure of the road has fully deteriorated since it was not initially constructed to facilitate

heavy-duty traffic above eighty tonnes.

The last set of rehabilitation works on the roadway was done back in September after it collapsed for the third time for the year thus far.

Edghill related that the Government is committed to resolving this issue in 2024, through his Ministry’s Special Projects Unit.

While a specific time was not provided for the commencement of works, it was noted that the road will be closed temporarily to facilitate excavation works.

In this regard, a minimum of five feet of materials will be dug up and disposed of, and the stretch of road will be filled again with sand and loam to raise the level of pressure and then be paved.

“For us to deal with that, what we would have done is build a bypass road that you can come through Diamond then come out either at Jimbo bridge or we’re now going all the way to Buzz

Resilient Infrastructure Development programme.

Apart from this, the Government has awarded contracts totalling $11 billion for the continuation of the new East Bank Demerara four-lane highway from Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam in Craig. This will be eventually extended to Timehri.

Public Works' 2023 work programme

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

Bee Dam. Once we’re able to get that completed with the bridges across those canals at Grove to connect Diamond and so we can drive over then, we’ll be able to do the work there,” the Minister stated.

Further, he added that when completed, the road will ease traffic congestion on the East Bank but more importantly, will facilitate the heavy-duty vehicular traffic.

On another note, he reinforced the need for commercial traffic to stop traversing community roads, if infrastructure projects are to be sustained.

“These community roads are not built with the same specifications as highways and main access roads.

There’s a different design and community roads are meant for cars, buses, canters – light loads.”

The Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam Road bypass road project involves the construction of concrete drains at Grove, the widening of Back Street, Diamond; Third Avenue, Diamond; and First Bridge, New Grove.

Other phases include the building and widening of bridges to link New Grove to Kaneville and Grove to Good Success.

These projects are funded by the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) US$100 million loan under the Support Climate

Over 136 billion dollars was allocated in this year’s budget for 'transformative' roads and bridges, to enhance the transportation sector and ease traffic congestion.

This includes upgrades to Corentyne Highway from Palmyra to Crabwood Creek, East Bank Highway from Prospect to Timehri and the rehabilitation of the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

According to Minister Edghill, the Government’s mandate to modernise and transform Guyana’s infrastructure is on schedule, and an average of 700 contracts were recently awarded for the construction of roads in Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10.

Through this provision some 2500 community roads were constructed along the East and West Bank of Demerara, and the East and West Coast of Demerara, in a matter of months.

Additionally, 62 concrete roads are being constructed in Linden, and the hinterland road network project has improved significantly.

Minister Edghill explained that the roads which are part of the Public Works Ministry 2023 work programme, are playing a pivotal role in advancing the health, agriculture, transport and logistic sectors.

Further, the built-out road networks are opening new ground for residential and commercial lands, and this is crucial for the Government’s housing drive.

NEWS

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Govt laying foundation for a strong, competitive non-oil economy – Finance Minister tells IDB GM – lauds Bank’s commitment to continued partnership with Guyana

IDB Resident Representative in Guyana, Lorena Solorzano-Salazar, and Anton Edmunds during the meeting with Dr Singh

F

inance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh on Friday while welcoming the new Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) General Manager for the Caribbean Country Department (CCB), Anton Edmunds, also lauded the Bank for its continued support to Guyana through its efforts to partner with this country in terms of development in both the public and private sectors.

Dr Singh met and held discussions with the IDB official during a courtesy call at the Ministry of Finance by the latter, who was accompanied by a team from the international financial institution, led by IDB’s Resident Representative for Guyana, Lorena SolorzanoSalazar.

During the meeting, the Finance Minister recalled that the IDB has been a longstanding friend to Guyana over the years, even during the country’s most challenging periods and continues to be supportive now that Guyana has moved from being a Heavily Indebted Poor Country (HIPC) to one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

He also spoke of the increasing role the IDB has played in terms of not only continuously supporting in-

vestments in the public sector, but also now playing an increasing role in the private sector through IDBInvest.

For his part, Edmunds reaffirmed the IDB’s commitment to Guyana, pointing out as well that the IDB-Invest’s success in the Caribbean is underpinned by the successful transactions it has executed in Guyana.

IDB-Invest has been increasing its financial support to Guyana through loans to the private sector for various projects including in the transport, agri-business and tourism sectors.

Dr Singh posited that Government is laying the foundation for a strong and competitive non-oil economy to ensure that Guyana is not an economy solely dependent on oil.

“We are using this period to make the strategic investments that are necessary to ensure that in the medium to longer term Guyana is not an economy that is solely dependent on oil,” Minister Singh reiterated, adding that this period is being used by Government “to invest in things like infrastructure to improve connectivity with our neighbours, increase the

US Ambassador urges ...

FROM PAGE 11

Another challenge has been eradicating the use of mercury in mining. Mercury, also known as quicksilver, is a highly toxic chemical used in mining to bind gold together. Exposure to mercury fumes affects the nervous and reproductive systems, and damages brain function.

Guyana signed on to the United Nations Minamata Convention on Mercury in 2013, and ratified the convention in 2014. Over the years, the Ministry of Natural Resources has partnered with the WWF and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to draft a National Action

Plan (NAP) which would see a phased reduction of the use of mercury in the mining sector until its complete elimination by 2027 through the implementation of a phased mercury reduction strategy.

The NAP captures several objectives and strategies as outlined in the Minamata Convention. These include mercury-use reduction; increasing the viability of small- and medium-scale mining; management of mercury waste; environmental assessment; contaminated sites; public health aspects, and public information awareness and education. (J-3)

economic space in which we are operating, and therefore lay the foundation for more trade”.

Government holds lead responsibility for food security in the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Region, and Dr

Singh added that any support to this country to fasttrack this will also allow for the development of two other interlinked areas in the Region, such as transport as well as improvement in trade and commerce.

Guyana is currently working to also improve trade links with its South American neighbours Suriname and Brazil through its efforts to complete a road to Brazil and construction of a bridge over the Corentyne River to Suriname.

Recently, the Board of Directors of the IDB approved a new Country Strategy with Guyana for the period 2023-2026 focused on resilient infrastructure, human capital development, with an emphasis on improving health

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh greeting the new IDB General Manager, Anton Edmunds and education outcomes and social services, and strengthening institutional capacity.

The new Strategy also

supports Guyana to implement the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and its decarbonisation objectives.

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NEWS

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Guyanese united to defend border – PM – says 83,000 square miles will be defended by 800,000 Guyanese

Prime Minister Mark Phillips addressing the gathering

P

rime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips is confident that the Guyanese populace is united under the banner of vigilance and patriotism, emphasising their collective strength in times of heightened tension between Venezuela in the decades-old border controversy.

Addressing the National Stakeholder Forum for Civil Society Engagement on the Venezuela/Guyana Border Controversy at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Friday, Phillips who is carrying out duties as President, expressed gratitude to the public for their display of national patriotism and for standing in solidarity with Guyana’s position of peace towards Venezuela’s claims on Essequibo.

“This is not a war in the sense that we want to cross borders and fight Venezuela.

We are defending our territory with all that we have, all our resources; 83,000 square miles will be defended by 800,000 Guyanese.”

Welcoming the favourable ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to prevent any actions by Venezuela under its referendum from unlawfully annexing Guyana’s Essequibo region, Phillips emphasised the importance of unity and urged citizens to rise above their differences and come together in solidarity.

“It is through unity that we will prevail; through unity that we will stand strong; through unity, we will emerge victorious against adversities that come our way.

Patriotism and nationalism are the bedrock of our resilience. We must love our country, cherish our heritage, and defend our territorial integrity with unwavering dedication. In the face of the ongoing border controversy, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles that bind us together as proud Guyanese.

Addressing concerns about misinformation, Prime Minister Phillips urged the public to rely on official sources for accurate information about national security and public safety. He emphasised the need to verify news before sharing, especially in the face of fake news intended to sow panic and confusion.

“Be cautious of misinfor-

mation that can harm our unity and stability. The public must remain calm and keep themselves informed through reliable channels, even as we assure you that our Government is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our people and the victory of our country.”

The Prime Minister also affirmed the Government’s resolute commitment to following international law to protect Guyana’s territorial integrity, while asserting that “Venezuela’s attempts to undermine our sovereignty, particularly through the unlawful manipulation of the forthcoming referendum, will not prevail.”

He also lauded organisations such as the Caribbean Community (Caricom), the Commonwealth, the United Nations, and the Organisation of American States (OAS) for supporting territorial integrity and sovereignty.

“Essequibo belongs to Guyana. Let that be our guiding mantra even as we move towards a peaceful resolution of this matter.”

M e a n w h i l e , Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, Gail Teixeira reminded that Guyana as a country will always follow international law and is one that will not be easily defeated.

“We’re a peaceful people. We’re not aggressive but also, don’t take our peacefulness for granted. Don’t ever do that. We as a people have a strength and a personality that keeps on going regardless of what happens. We have shown that over and over in our history we are not easily defeated. We may take a long time to get to where we want to, but we do it and we keep on doing it,” she affirmed.

After abiding by the 1899 Arbitral Award for almost half a century, Venezuela in 1962 claimed that the Essequibo area of Guyana belonged inside its borders. Guyana has noted that the boundary between the then-colony of British Guiana and Venezuela was determined by the Arbitral Award as a “full” and “final” settlement.

Last month, the Venezuelan National Electoral Council had pub-

Guyanese demonstrating their patriotism at the national forum

lished a list of five questions that it plans to put before the Venezuelan people in a referendum set for December 3, 2023. The referendum will seek the Venezuelan people’s

approval to, among other things, annex Essequibo and create a Venezuelan state.

It also seeks the citizens’ approval for Venezuela to grant citizenship and identity cards

to residents of Essequibo.

However, Guyana had approached the ICJ, which on Friday barred Venezuela from taking action to challenge Guyana’s sovereign-

ty over Essequibo, but in a subsequent release issued by the Venezuelan Government, it stated that the referendum will proceed as planned. (G-12)

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Govt threatens legal action against Opposition Leader over ‘chicken smuggling’ comment …importing chicken was necessary to meet demands – MoA

T

he Agriculture Ministry has refuted, in the strongest possible terms, the malicious, false, and libellous claims and allegations made by the Office of the Leader of the Opposition in regard to the smuggling of chicken.

In a missive to the press, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has said that a major corruption has been unearthed in the Agriculture Ministry, and he is alleging that the Minister and at least one other senior official have been accused of smuggling truckloads of chicken.

The Opposition Leader has stated that, based on information he has received, several senior Police officers were instructed to allow trucks carrying huge amounts of smuggled chicken from Suriname to deliver same to the Guyana Marketing Corporation.

“A Police source said that the scheme involves over 50,000 pounds of chicken and over 1400 boxes of Rockingham chicken leg quarters. Apart from be-

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

ing a criminal activity, such amounts threaten the local chicken industry and rob the country of valuable tax reve-

The MoA added that the decision to import chicken was to not only ensure an adequate supply, but also

These documents were necessary to facilitate the importation of chicken

nue”, the Opposition Leader has charged.

The Agriculture Ministry (MoA), in response to this allegation, has said the decision to import chicken was made by the Government of Guyana, since the local consumption of chicken has been vastly increased, resulting in the local supply being unable to meet the growing demand.

“In addition to the increased local consumption, the local chicken industry was seriously affected by an outbreak of Avian Influenza in the United States of America earlier this year.

That outbreak, in turn, negatively affected the importation of hatching eggs, which led to the depletion of an already inadequate supply of chicken in Guyana,” the MoA release added.

to stabilize prices in order to protect consumers. In the circumstances, the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), a public corporation owned and controlled by the Government of Guyana, and which falls under the supervisory authority of the Ministry of Agriculture, was duly instructed and authorised to import chicken to meet the demand of the local market.

The MoA has said that, as a result of the foregoing, the Office of the Leader of the Opposition is hereby called upon to withdraw this baseless, reckless, and libellous allegation immediately.

“The statement has already been sent for legal advice. Unless withdrawn, legal proceedings will be instituted,” the MoA has warned.

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NATIONAL COMMISSION ON DISABILITY Message: International Day for Persons with Disabilities, 2023

Theme: “United in Action: Advancing DisabilityInclusive Policies for the Achievement of the S DGs” Ganesh Singh Chairman – National Commission on Disability

A

s we commemorate another International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3, 2023, it is my honor as the Chairman of the National Commission on Disability (NCD), to address the imperative need for unity and concerted action in the pursuit of inclusive policies and legislative amendments. These astute actions are likely to propel Persons with Disabilities towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme for this year, “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities,” underscores the urgency and collective responsibility we bear to empower and uplift the over one billion persons globally. This marginalized minority group continues to face daily challenges due to the lack of inclusive policies and services. Approximately fifteen percent (15%) of the World’s population continues to be excluded from the development agenda however; inclusion can serve positively towards achieving the SDGs.

As a country, we are on the correct path of working to achieve the SDGs. We continuously promote the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities and afforded them the opportunity to share their opinions at the decision-making table. Over the past few years, we have witnessed an increase in consultations with the population of Persons with Disabilities, not just on Disability related issues but on national strategies and plans.

As a Commission, we are pleased with this inclusive approach by the Government, to in-

clude and consult with one of the largest minority groups within our society. Further, as a country we have made significant strides in recognizing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; through the enactment of legislation to promote and fulfill the rights of this group.

We are only one of a handful of countries in the Caribbean and the first to do so. We have a legal framework, Guyana Disability ACT, 2010 to protect the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and facilitate their meaningful participation in all aspects of society.

We have witnessed improvements in the Education sector, with more Children with Disabilities having the opportunity for an education. More Special Education Needs (SEN) schools and Special Education Needs (SEN) Resource Units are being established across the country. We have also seen the introduction of an Associate Degree in Special Education needs (SEN) at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) and; a Bachelor’s Degree in SEN through the Government Online Academy of Learning (GOAL). Through these training programmes, the human resource capacity of the Ministry of Education will be positively impacted and the quality of SEN education improved.

Staying in the field of education, more Persons with Disabilities are graduating with Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Qualifications and are attending tertiary institutions.

There are also more opportunities for Persons with Disabilities to acquire skills training through the Ministry of Labour, Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security through their Learning Lab for Persons with Disabilities.

With the aforementioned improvements in Education and

Training for Persons with Disabilities, there is now an increase in Employment opportunities for this minority group. This is either full time or part-time employment both in the public and private sectors. There are even more Persons with Disabilities who are self-employed; accessing loans and grants from the Small Business

Bureau; among others. Ideally, we are not where we would want to be as it relates to financial security and independence for Persons with Disabilities but we are on the right path.

In the field of access to Health care and Rehabilitation services, people with Disabilities are able to access various types of rehabilitation services in all Administrative Regions of Guyana. These include Speech and language therapy, Occupational therapy, Physiotherapy and Audiology services. Further, there is now a system of early identification and intervention through the Regional SEN Disability Diagnostic and Treatment Center and the Ministry of Health school screening programme. Persons with Disabilities are now able to access assistive and mobility aids at no cost through both the Ministries of Health and Human Services and Social Security. These measures have enabled Persons with Disabilities to be more independent and productive.

With the plethora of measures implemented by the Government of Guyana to enhance the lives of Persons with Disabilities, the National Commission on Disability (NCD) has been a significant partner in this process.

Through our National Database of Persons with Disabilities, we were able to provide the data to inform plans and programmes. NCD has also been actively involved in the Sensitization of members of var-

ious government ministries and agencies on the rights of Persons with Disabilities. Additionally, we have been and continue to monitor the implementation of the contents of the Guyana Persons with Disabilities Act. As Chairman of NCD, I am pleased with the work of the Commission in supporting the Government’s development Agenda and the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in this process of working to achieve the SDGs as a country. As a person with a disability, I know we have a long way to go to achieve full inclusion and an equitable society; in which Persons with Disabilities can reach their full potential and live independent productive lives. However, I am optimistic of the future for Persons with Disabilities in Guyana. All the signs are pointing in the right direction. Disability is slowly becoming mainstreamed and normalized.

As we observe and celebrate on this December 3 in observance of this United Nations designated International Day for Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on where we came from as a society, what is the current disability landscape, what positive changes we have witnessed and where we should be in the future; to ensure that Persons with Disabilities can be seen as equal citizens of this great independent sovereign state. All of us Guyanese have a role to play to ensure that Persons with Disabilities are included and face limited or no discrimination in a barrier free society. Let us accept and fulfill this role since, Disability affects all of us.

I wish to state that the National Commission on Disability stands in solidarity with the Government of Guyana and all Guyana as we work to repel any aggression to claim any part of our territory.

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Guyana Council of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) Message for International Day for Persons with Disabilities

O

n this International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), I extend warm greetings to all Guyana and a message of hope to all Persons with Disabilities on behalf of the Guyana Council of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD). As the umbrella organization for all Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in Guyana, we are dedicated to advocating for the Rights and well-being of Persons with Disabilities across the nation. This is in keeping with the contents of the Guyana Persons with Disabilities Act, 2010.

This year’s theme, “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities resonates deeply with our mission and current plans.

Let us remember that the community of Persons with Disabilities remains a vulnerable and marginalized group, living on the fringes of our society. The number of issues plaguing the lives of PWDs are still present, although we have seen major improvements in the delivery of services to this population.

Each year we highlight the circumstances of this marginalized group with the hope of long term structural sustainable changes through policy formulation and implementation.

We do acknowledge, that over the past three years, much has been done by the Government of Guyana to include Persons with Disabilities in the development thrust and: implementation of measures to improve PWDs lives as we work to achieve the SDGs. While the community of Persons with Disabilities have access to improved services, we are still far away from the achievement of full inclusion. This can only be achieved through the implementation of the contents of the Guyana PWD Act 2010 in a timely manner.

most of these structures are inaccessible for Persons with Disabilities. Our building codes are not properly enforced, and these building owners are allowed to construct buildings that are inaccessible; hence discriminating Cecil Morris – Chairman: Guyana Council of Organizations for against PWDs. Remember Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) PWDs have the right to access and have a desire to be independent. This is only possible if our public buildings are accessible. Note, not just the entrance, but the interior of these buildings. We must have accessible washrooms with wide doorways as well.

It must be highlighted that our sidewalks are an absolute nightmare for PWDs to traverse. Persons who are Blind and persons who are wheelchair users cannot use these walkways. They are forced to use the roadways, putting themselves in the path of danger.

In the area of Employment, qualified and skilled working age Persons with Disabilities are still unable to access employment in this modern age. The lack of employment opportunities can be attributed to employers being uninformed about the capabilities of PWDs. Most persons are of the view that these individuals are unable to work and cannot be productive. This lack of awareness of the abilities of PWDs is grounded in the culture that exists in which PWDs are viewed as dependents and objects of charity.

Resulting from this misconception and inequity, the majority of PWDs live in poverty and are dependent on charity for their surIt is no secret that this community of vulnerable people has al- vival. This is not the way Persons with Disabilities want to live in a developing society. ways been forced to live as unequal citizens in our society, resulting from the stigma, discrimination As we observe International Day of Persons with Disabilities and social barriers they must face daily. We do recognize and appreciate the strides we have made as a country to promote and ful- 2023, one of our main focus should be on creating a permanent fill the rights of Persons with Disabilities. We are one of only a few rift in the intimate relationship between disability and poverty. countries with a specific legislation to protect and promote the in- For two long, we have allowed this relationship to flourish causing herent rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, implementa- great hardship on a community of approximately forty-eight thoution of the contents of this document is severely lacking. sand (48,000) persons (2002 National Population Census).

As we move forward to build a better and inclusive Guyana For this missive, the focus would be on three rights areas, Accessibility, Education and Employment. It is explicitly stated in in an oil and gas economy, we should ensure that Persons with the Guyana PWD Act, 2010 that all public buildings should be ac- Disabilities are not left behind and are included in all aspects of development and society as equal partners. We need all stakeholdcessible for all PWDs. ers to work in unison to ensure Persons with Disabilities have an Unfortunately, this is not the reality. PWDs who are wheelchair equal opportunity to live independent productive lives. Guyana do users and with mobility challenges are unable to access most pub- remember anyone can acquire a disability at any time. lic buildings. Sadly, there is no movement to make these existing In closing, I must add that GCOPD stands in solidarity with the buildings accessible and wheelchair friendly. We are seeing an increase in the construction of new buildings for public access, but Government and people of Guyana as we defend our territory.

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Any action by Venezuela is an attack on economy, business – Private Sector – reiterates ICJ’s decision must be upheld

G

uyana’s Essequibo county is the backbone that drives the country’s economy and any action by Venezuela to forcibly annex this vast piece of resource-filled land will plunge the country into unsustainability.

Chairman of the Services subsector at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Dr Carl Niamatali made these remarks at the National Stakeholder Forum for Civil Society Engagement on the Venezuela/Guyana Border Controversy on Friday.

He added that any action by Venezuela is an attack on business. This was supported by the simple example of the Eugene F Correia International Airport, which would not be viable without the Essequibo.

The private sector official underlined, “Any action by Venezuela is not just an attack on our land.

It is an attack on the economy, business, and our

PSC Chairman Komal Singh

way of life. Essequibo, with its small population, is not the market but Essequibo is the means.”

On behalf of the Association, he zeroed in that action on the physical landscape of the county of Essequibo fundamentally alters the way of life in every part of the country for Guyanese.

Dr Niamatali underscored, “An Essequibo-less Guyana will be plunged into poverty and unsustainability by the loss of the protection and the valuable resources it pro-

vides. We have to fight for Essequibo because every day, Essequibo fights for us and provides for us.”

Meanwhile, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) stated that the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting international agreements to ensure a peaceful resolution of territorial disputes.

“We commend the ICJ’s unanimous decision, clearly articulating that, pending a final judgement, Venezuela must refrain from taking any actions that would alter the current situation in the disputed territory. This territory, where Guyana administers and exercises control over the Essequibo region, is subject to the binding ruling on Venezuela as a signatory to both the UN Charter and the Statute of the Court,” the PSC penned in a statement.

As the private sector, the commission under-

Chairman of the Services subsector of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Dr Carl Niamatali

scored the importance of respecting international law, as it provides a framework for peaceful coexistence and dispute resolution. It contended that the principles outlined in the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, must be upheld to maintain the status quo in the Essequibo region.

“We urge the Government of Venezuela to comply strictly with the ICJ’s order, refraining from any actions that may jeopardise the peaceful admin-

istration and control exercised by Guyana over the Essequibo region. It is our firm belief that adherence to international law is crucial for fostering stability and promoting economic development in the region.”

The private sector body recommitted to supporting the Government’s efforts in pursuing a peaceful and legal resolution to this territorial dispute through established international mechanisms, such as the ICJ.

“We believe that diplomatic channels, guided by the principles of justice and the rule of law, are essential for resolving disputes between nations.

Furthermore, we call upon the international community, particularly our sister countries in Caricom and the broader global community, to continue supporting the principles of justice and international law in relation to the controversy over Guyana’s border with Venezuela. The solidarity of the international community serves as a powerful force in upholding the United Nations Charter and ensuring the peaceful settlement of disputes.”

The Private Sector Commission maintained optimism that, through diplomatic dialogue and a steadfast commitment to international legal norms, a fair and enduring resolution to this dispute will be attained. We eagerly anticipate a comprehensive and definitive settlement by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to bring about a conclusive end to the matter.

(Rupa Seenaraine)

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Berbice home set on fire after pensioner complained about noise nuisance

T

he home of a Berbice pensioner was reportedly set on fire on Wednesday evening after his constant complaints about noise nuisance in the village.

Dashrat Mohabir of Number 59 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), said he and his son were not at home when the incident occurred.

According to him, when he arrived home, the Fire Service and Police officers were already

on the scene but he subsequently learnt that it was some of his neighbours who were able to put out the fire which was set to several parts of the building.

The interior of the house was severely damaged. From all indications, the mattresses in all three bedrooms were also set on fire.

“Downstairs, they set fire to the cupboard and my rice and other things I had in the cupboard. The house was ransacked both upstairs and down-

stairs. The window was broken.

The mattress also had fire to it but luckily for me, some of the neighbours assisted me, if not my house would have been flat.”

The pensioner expressed his gratitude to his neighbours.

He believes that the fire was an act of arson and also claimed that someone retaliated to his complaints about noise nuisance in the community.

“The Commander came

and spoke to them and it is the same thing, sometimes that have cars would come and they would be playing loud music.”

“My issue is music. Because I am old, I can’t take it and my son is sick and I guess that is why they are doing this thing,”

he said.

“This is not the first time something like this happened.

It is more than one time; my car was burnt, then it was broken up and now my house burned,” the 73-year-old man said.

“I feel that because I am

constantly telling them about loud music has created the problem.”

Following the fire, the house is not habitable. Mohabir and his son have since sought accommodation with a relative in East Canje.

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MMA Scheme expected to break rice production records in 1st crop of 2024 – Min Mustapha

A

griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has expressed optimism that the Mahaica-MahaiconyAbary (MMA) scheme will achieve record-breaking rice production acreage in the first crop of 2024.

This ambitious goal is fuelled by significant investments and various tangible initiatives being implemented to support farmers in the area.

Addressing the annual open day on Saturday at the Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary – Agricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA) at Onverwagt in Region Five, Mustapha highlighted the achievements and transformation plans that are paving the way for this record-breaking harvest.

“This is a scheme that helps us to increase our agricultural

food production in the MMA scheme.

Recognising the exorbitant costs faced by some farmers due to land rental, Minister Mustapha announced that a document outlining proposed solutions is being prepared by the Chairman of the land committee, Andrew Bishop. This document will be presented to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Cabinet for consideration and approval.

In a step towards addressing land access issues, a total of 12 approved land leases were handed over to farmers.

The Agriculture Minister stressed, “We are trying to bring down the costs of production. When you bring down the cost of production, you, the farmers will enjoy a better profit. You will have better income and also the population

Minister Mustapha handing over leases to two farmers

output production, productivity and growth in the agriculture sector. We will continue to put systems in place to ensure that farmers receive the necessary support,” he assured the farmers.

In three years, farmers in the scheme have significantly benefitted from various initiatives, as they received 31,659 bags of fertiliser and 11,688 bags of seed paddy to increase their yield.

The developmental plans, Minister Mustapha stated, will contribute to Guyana attaining food security.

To further develop agriculture in the region, the Minister alluded to the 20,000 acres of new land that will be developed in the scheme.

“We can work with farmers who do not have lands, so that we can give them land.

We are hoping that for the first crop of 2024, we will see a record-breaking production acreage be cultivated too, but we will have to have proper irrigation or enough irrigation water,” Minister Mustapha underlined.

He emphasised that the region has six brand-new excavators to improve drainage and irrigation, which boosted

will enjoy cheaper prices.”

Shortly, the region will benefit from the construction of a hydroponics farm, where hundreds of young people will be involved in the production of high-quality, leafy vegetables.

Meanwhile, the Quality Control Manager at the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Marsha Hohenkirk, said the GRDB will continue to work in close collaboration with MMA-ADA to improve rice production in the area while improving the livelihoods of farmers.

Over 100,000 acres of rice is cultivated per crop, producing over 3 million bags of paddy.

For the first crop of 2024, approximately 95,000 acres of land have been prepared, which is an increase of 5000 acres over the second crop of 2023.

Vice Chairman of the MMA-ADA Board of Directors, Mohammed Rafeeoodeen, during brief remarks, urged farmers to conserve fresh water, especially for the 2024 crop.

New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), GuyDrones, Guyana Sugar

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha addressing the gathering at the Open Day

Corporation (GuySuCo), University of Guyana, and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) had various agricultural products on display at the open day.

NAREI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jagnarine Singh, Chief Fisheries Officer, Denzil Roberts, NDIA Chairman, Lionel Wordsworth, Region Five Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal, Member of Parliament, Faizal Jafferally, and other technical officers and staff of the Ministry were also at the event.

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44 NEWS GPHC team conducts Woman busted while attempting to smuggle ganja life-saving operation to remove massive tumour into Camp St Prison for son SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The massive tumour was surgically removed by a skilled team at the Georgetown Public Hospital The illegal drug that was found during the search

Lotoya Lynch

A

46-year-old woman identified as Lotoya Lynch from Eccles, East Bank Demerara, found herself in hot waters after she attempted to sneak marijuana into the Camp Street penitentiary.

Police stated that the woman was intercepted on Friday when she attempted to smuggle 70 grams of cannabis in a bowl containing food for her son, Kenkosie Lynch, who is an inmate at the facility.

The arrest occurred

during a routine search at the prison, which revealed the illicit substance hidden in the bowl. The discovery led to immediate legal consequences for Lynch, who is now set to face court proceedings scheduled for this week.

The incident follows a recent stern warning issued by Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, who emphasised the severe repercussions for anyone involved in smuggling contraband into prison facil-

ities. Despite heightened monitoring and surveillance efforts, Elliot highlighted ongoing attempts by members of the public to breach prison security.

Elliot stressed that such actions violate Section 53 (1) of the Prison Act, carrying potential fines or imprisonment. The crackdown on corruption extends beyond external actors to encompass prison officers, family members, and friends of inmates who choose to engage in illegal

activities.

As the legal process unfolds, Lynch’s case serves as a stark reminder of the stringent measures in place to maintain the integrity of prison security, especially during the holiday season.

According to prison officials, her upcoming court appearance will shed light on the consequences awaiting those who attempt to compromise the strict regulations governing Guyana's prison system.

A

n extraordinary success story was recorded at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) when a colossal intra-abdominal mass was removed – a condition which triggered multiple organ failures and placed the patient’s life on a precarious edge.

The 47-year-old female patient arrived at the hospital’s doorstep with a daunting case in the form of a massive pelvic intra-abdominal mass.

This tumour compressed the kidneys, ureters, and urinary bladder, rendering her anuric (not producing urine).

The hospital added that

Venezuela, Guyana share historic, cultural connections – Home Affairs Minister

H

ome Affairs Minister Robeson Benn during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony hosted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Friday evening alluded to the fact that Venezuela and Guyana share historic and cultural connections.

During his address, he emphasised that Guyana views Venezuela not as an adversary but as a ‘cousin’ while reiterating that Guyana will not resort to violence.

“We do not want to fight with Venezuela, we view them as our cousins and brothers because we have relations in Venezuela for many of our people and we want Venezuela to also be prosperous, safe, and at peace.”

While the Christmas tree was lit up with festive colours, the shadow of the impending referendum cast a serious tone on the gathering. Minister Benn acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly with the planned annexation of the Essequibo region by Venezuela. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Guyana Police Force in maintaining peace and order during these uncertain times.

“When we talk about peace, the Guyana Police

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn addressing the gathering on Friday Force is at the tip of the spare. The good book says blessed are the peacemakers and I believe that the Guyana Police Force… are fundamentally the peacemakers,” he said.

M e a n w h i l e , Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken also took the opportunity to address the gathering, assuring citizens of the Force's commitment to protecting the nation.

The elephant in the room, the longstanding border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, traces its roots back to historical and territorial claims.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on

Friday added another chapter to this complex saga.

Guyana had approached the ICJ in October 2023, seeking orders against a referendum Venezuela had planned for December 3.

That referendum will seek to, among other things, annex Essequibo and create a Venezuelan state.

After hearing arguments from both Guyana and Venezuela on the former’s request for protection, at the Court’s seat in The Hague, Netherlands, on Friday, the President of the Court, Judge Joan Donoghue, announced that the Court has decided in favour of Guyana.

She therefore read the

unanimous orders to the parties, reminding them that decisions issued in accordance with Article 41 of the Court’s statute are binding on all parties, and impose international legal obligations on them. The ICJ’s decisions are final, binding, and without appeal.

During the hearing of Guyana’s application for provisional measures on November 14, Carl Greenidge, Guyana’s agent in the case, presented an opening statement on behalf of the country to the court. Meanwhile, Guyana’s legal arguments were presented by Attorneys-at-Law Paul Reichler and Professor Emeritus of the University of Paris Nanterre, Allain Pelley.

Both lawyers had laid out convincing arguments for why Venezuela’s referendum, as presently constructed, threatened Guyana’s sovereignty and international law. The Court was also informed of Venezuela’s mobilisation of its military on the border with Guyana, highlighting the urgency of the ICJ expediting its order.

Reichler had told the court of the tragic fate that awaits Guyana should Venezuela be allowed to go forward and act on the inev-

itable results of the referendum, particularly question 5 which would seek to annex two-thirds of Guyana.

Meanwhile, Professor Pelley provided evidence of the actions of the Venezuelan National Guard, a heavily armed contingent that patrolled the Cuyuni River in Essequibo on October 3. According to him, this Venezuelan contingent claimed to be patrolling in “our Essequibo” and parroting the Venezuelan slogan that “the sun of Venezuela was born in Essequibo.”

Specifically, Guyana sought an order from the court that Venezuela shall not take any actions that are intended to prepare or allow the exercise of sovereignty or de facto control over any territory that was awarded to British Guiana in the 1899 Arbitral Award.

The final ruling's implications and how both nations navigate the aftermath will undoubtedly shape the future of their relations.

As Guyana continues to navigate these challenging waters, Minister Benn's message of diplomacy and unity echoes the sentiments of a nation looking towards a peaceful resolution amidst the looming threat of the referendum.

the ovaries and other abdominal organs faced compression, resulting in bowel and hepatic dysfunction. The compression syndrome of the aorta and vena cava further complicated matters, impacting corporal irrigation and drainage.

The tumour’s extensive reach even pushed against the diaphragm, limiting lung capacity and causing shortness of breath and poor oxygenation. To add to the complexity, the tumour pressed against the heart, restricting cardiac ejection function to less than 20 per cent.

Her journey began in the Gynaecology Unit and progressed to the Cardiac and Intensive Care Unit, marking the patient as critically ill with a reserved prognosis.

However, GPHC’s unwavering commitment to patient care took centre stage.

Under the skilled leadership of Dr Rafi Rozan, Consultant and Chief of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, a multidisciplinary team orchestrated a life-saving surgery.

“The meticulous planning and strategic management involved nursing, anaesthesiology, cardiology, and intensive care. The patient's family was integral to the decision-making process, understanding the gravity of the situation. With trust and confidence placed in Dr Rafi Rozan and his team, the surgery unfolded—a complex endeavour due to the tumour’s size and fused adhesion with surrounding structures,” the hospital outlined.

Postoperatively, the patient's recovery has been nothing short of remarkable.

She has regained normal bodily functions and has been discharged from the hospital, ready to spend the Christmas season with her loved ones.

Dr Rozan, reflecting on the experience, highlighted the power of positive attitude, strength, and determination in facing such challenging cases.

The institution also added, “This success story stands as a testament to the collaborative effort of combined specialty services. At GPHC, we celebrate not only medical triumphs but also the spirit of teamwork that paves the way for success, even in the most challenging cases.”

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

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India vs Australia T20I Series 2023: Game 5 of 5…

LAST STOP BENGALURU – as each team looks to end series on a high

B

ig picture: 4-1 or 3-2?

After three runfests, Raipur finally provided an even contest between bat and ball, and India sealed the five-match series with a game to go. But expect the runs to start flowing again, and with some intensity, as India and Australia travel to Bengaluru for the fifth and final T20I. A turnaround time of under 48 hours isn’t ideal, but the Australians -- Travis Head, Tanveer Sangha and Matthew Short in particular -- might not complain.

The trio are the only ones in the current squad who have been in India since the start of the ODI World Cup: Head as part of the 15-man squad, Sangha and Short as travelling reserves, and they will keenly be looking forward to going back home.

Australia have tried as many as 19 players so far in the series, ringing in the changes in a bid to give some

been as clinical, what would please Suryakumar Yadav the most is the individual players standing up under pressure. Jitesh Sharma, playing his first game of the series, came in and smashed a 19-ball 35 in Raipur, while Rinku Singh showed that he was not just a finisher, and had the technique to set up a total as well.

The fast-bowling unit is probably one area where the boxes haven’t been ticked, but Deepak Chahar’s return after an injury layoff will give India reasons to be happy. He didn’t have the best of starts to his spell, but came back well later and struck two important blows.

The team management would hope for a more rounded show from the fast-bowling attack today.

In the spotlight: Yashasvi Jaiswal and Aaron Hardie Barring the third T20I, Yashasvi Jaiswal has given India a quick start in every

Yashasvi Jaiswal has a powerplay strike rate of 174.62 in the series so far

of their exhausted players a break. They made five changes for the Raipur T20I, but the reinforcements coming in failed to level the series.

While they’ve taken the fast bowlers to the cleaners consistently, the Australian batting has been found wanting against the spin duo of Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel.

As Australia look to end their tour of India on a high, they could, however, expect some respite from the Bengaluru pitch, which has historically not aided spin as much as some of the other surfaces they’ve played on.

While India haven’t

game this series, but is yet to make it out of the powerplay. No other batter in the series has scored more runs in the first six overs than Jaiswal, while his strike rate of 174.62 during this phase is second only to Head’s 194.11.

However, the Indian management might want him to convert his starts into something more substantial.

Jaiswal has had a terrific start to his T20I career - two fifties and a century in 11 innings. Bengaluru gives him a chance to add to those numbers.

Aaron Hardie hasn’t yet set the T20I stage on fire, but

Jitesh Sharma gave a good account of himself in his first game of the series

the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is probably one venue where he would feel most at home. He likes pace on the ball and the ball coming onto the bat, and the conditions in Bengaluru are likely to provide him with that.

Hardie had a tremendous 2022-23 BBL season, finishing as the top run-getter. He hasn’t fully shown that big-hitting potential in the two T20Is that he has batted this series, but the surface in Bengaluru and the boundary dimensions could help him unleash some of those hit-through-the-line maximums. A few wickets with the ball, and Hardie could well be the player to watch out for.

Team news: Expect more changes India made four changes to their side for the fourth T20I, and with the series in the bag, could well make a few more for the final game.

They might be tempted to give Washington Sundar a game in place of either Axar or Bishnoi, while Tilak Varma could also get a game, in case the team management wants to rest any of the players in the top order.

India went with Mukesh Kumar, Chahar and Avesh Khan as their fast-bowling options in Raipur, and are unlikely to make any changes on that front.

India (probable): 1 Yashasvi Jaiswal, 2 Ruturaj Gaikwad, 3 Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, 4 Suryakumar Yadav (capt), 5 Jitesh Sharma (wk), 6 Rinku Singh, 7 Axar Patel/Washington Sundar, 8 Deepak Chahar, 9 Ravi Bishnoi, 10 Avesh Khan, 11 Mukesh Kumar.

Australia don’t have the scope to make a lot of changes, considering they

have only 13 players in the squad left. They could consider bringing in either Kane Richardson or Nathan Ellis

in place of Sangha.

Australia (probable): 1 Josh Phillippe, 2 Travis Head, 3 Ben McDermott, 4

Aaron Hardie, 5 Tim David, 6 Matthew Short, 7 Matthew Wade (capt,wk), 8 Ben Dwarshuis, 9 Chris Green, 10 Jason Behrendorff, 11 Tanveer Sangha/Nathan Ellis/Kane Richarson.

Pitch and conditions: Another run-fest in the offing. Runs, runs and runs have been the theme at the Chinnaswamy Stadium of late. With short boundaries and a placid surface, another run-fest could well be on the cards today. In the IPL this year, scores in excess of 180 were breached in nine of 14 innings; and even in the ODI, World Cup batters enjoyed their time here.

While overhead conditions are likely to remain cloudy, there is no threat of rain, with the temperature expected to hover around the 18-to-22-degree mark on the Celsius scale. (ESPNCricnfo)

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GFF’s 6th Elite League Promotional Playoffs…

Monedderlust, Winners’ Connection aiming to restore hometown pride

By Jemima Holmes

T

he action is set to begin on December 17, and two spots in the 6th edition of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) Elite League Promotional Playoffs will be up for grabs.

With nine Regional Member Association (RMA) champion teams lined up to compete, stakes are high, and the level of competition will be even higher as teams participate in one of their toughest tournaments yet.

Thus far, the only Linden-based team, Milerock FC, has been relegated from the League in 2023, while no team from the Ancient County of Berbice is in the Elite League. As such, the respective causes for Monedderlust FC and Winners’ Connection will be greater as they set out

Todd and Johnson standing among the nine representatives of teams that would compete in this year’s Elite League Promotional Playoffs

out there for the first time.

We’re going to work hard and show our nation that we can do it, and we can make our region proud,” Todd added about bringing a sense of pride to Linden.

A similar level of opti-

Jamal Johnson of Monedderlust FC

Malachi Todd of Winners’ Connection FC

to ensure there is representation of their hometowns in the country’s top-flight league.

Following the Group draw last week, Guyana Times Sport caught up with Malachi Todd of Winners’ Connection, who spoke about how valuable the opportunity is, and about making Linden proud. Todd said the golden opportunity the promotional playoff presents is “a great experience, and we were waiting for this opportunity for a very long time”.

“Every day and every week we’re pushing towards being in this competition; and it feels good to be here,” he said. “I think we can, because every day we’re putting in the works, you know. Everybody might not be there, because they have jobs and everything, but everybody doing their individual work.

“I think it’s a good opportunity, because we’re meeting new talents, new faces and new teams; and I think it will be a great competition,” Todd declared in articulating his expectations. “We’re going

mism has been expressed

by Jamal Johnson of the Berbice team Monedderlust FC. He said stiff competition is expected, but the team is focused on recapturing its spot in the League, having last competed in 2017.

“For me, I expect this competition to be a little more challenging than the previous one that we would’ve come out from, right? But the guys are well prepared and ready to take on any sort of challenge that comes their way,” Johnson told Guyana Times Sport.

Sharing on the team’s preparation, he said, “To be honest with you, we’ve been preparing for over a year.

So, the guys are physically fit and their technical ability is up to standard. So, we’ll have some good performance from the team coming from Berbice.”

Besides regaining a spot in the Elite League and being the only team from Berbice, Johnson divulged, “Well, definitely, since there is no Berbice team in the Elite League, this is our chance to make

it, right? So, with all due respect, me and the guys, we’ll do whatever it takes to put ourselves in the top spot.”

Monedderlust FC has been drawn in Group A of the Promotional Playoffs, alongside Buxton Stars and Bartica’s Beacon FC; while Winners Connection is in Group C, with Dartmouth and Slingerz FC. Group B comprises Tabatinga FC, Herstelling Raiders, and Georgetown’s Beacon FC. In the promotional competition, each team in the three-member group will play a home-and-away game during the preliminary round, after which the group winners and best second-place team will advance to the semi-finals.

The semi-final draw has been fixed so that the winner of Group C would play the best second-place team in semi-final 1, while the winners of Group A and B will compete in semi-final 2.

The winning team of the tournament will be promoted to the Elite League in place of Milerock FC, while the losing finalist will have a second shot at the Elite League. That team will play Victoria Kings, who finished ninth in the 2023 edition, for the other available spot in the League.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

47

Start of a new cycle beckons after forgettable World Cup for England, West Indies Shimron Hetmyer will continue his return to favour in West Indies’ ranks

Big picture - Caribbean reboot

T

he return to action hasn’t been quite so jarringly immediate as it was for India and Australia in the wake of the World Cup final, or indeed for England’s T20 World Cup winners in Australia last winter. And let’s face it, a four-island jaunt to the Caribbean in December is a reasonably palatable assignment after the indignities that preceded it.

It’s still only three weeks since Jos Buttler’s browbeaten squad limped back to Blighty with their World Cup dreams in tatters, and less than a fortnight since their four-year reign as 50-over world champions was formally ended in Ahmedabad. Whatever way you look at it, it seems a curious juncture in the global cycle to be undertaking another three-match ODI series.

Shimron Hetmyer is back in favour with the selectors, the decision to move on from the veteran Darren Bravo feels peculiar in light of the reasons given for Hetmyer’s absence in Zimbabwe.

Though he is already 34, and therefore unlikely to feature in 2027, Bravo was still the leading run-scorer in this year’s Super50 Cup, as he captained Trinidad and Tobago to victory in the final.

In the bigger picture, it feels as though there’ll be significantly more at stake for these two teams, come the T20I leg of the tour later in the month, when the narrative shifts from two World Cup also-rans to a clash of the defending champions versus the impending hosts of the 2024 tournament next June.

Nevertheless, all revivals have to have a starting point, and in the 50-over stakes,

In the spotlight - Shimron Hetmyer and Will Jacks There are quite some players with a point to prove in this series, but Shimron Hetmyer’s back-story takes some beating. He’s been powerless to influence not one, but two recent World Cup campaigns. In 2022, he was axed on the eve of West Indies’ T20 World Cup campaign, after missing a connecting flight to New York. Then last summer he was overlooked for the ODI qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe because the selectors decided to stick with the players who had made their mark on the tour of South Africa earlier that year. And we all know how that decision panned out.

Never mind that Hetmyer’s absence had been due to his forceful displays for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, or that in 2019, on his pre-

Team news - Rookies to the fore Bravo may have been a notable omission, but his Trinidad and Tobago teammate Kjorn Ottley - only a year younger, at 33 - is back in favour for the first time in three years, and looks set to open alongside Brandon King.

Shai Hope, the captain and wicketkeeper, is by some distance the most experienced man in their ranks, although Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph and Oshane Thomas offer a decent spine to a side that could feature two new ODI caps, including the talented allrounder Matthew Forde, 21, who impressed for the Academy side in the Super50 Cup. West Indies (probable): 1 Brandon King, 2 Kjorn Ottley, 3 Alick Athanaze, 4 Shai Hope (capt, wk), 5 Keacy Carty, 6 Shimron Hetmyer, 7 Sherfane Rutherford, 8 Yannic Cariah, 9 Alzarri Joseph, 10 Matthew Forde/Gudakesh Motie, 11 Oshane Thomas.

All changed for England after their World Cup ca-

tastrophe, although how much of it will be permanent remains to be seen. For now, only Jos Buttler remains from the class of 2019, but with the ink still drying on a host of multi-year ECB contracts including for the likes of Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Mark Wood and Adil Rashid - you’d

suspect one or two of the old guard aren’t quite done yet.

That said, there ought to be at least seven names in this opening XI who played no part in the tournament just

gone, including the same top three who finished the series against Ireland - Will Jacks, Phil Salt and Zak Crawley and potentially a maiden cap for the Lancashire left-arm spinner Tom Hartley.

England (probable): 1 Will Jacks, 2 Phil Salt, 3 Zak Crawley, 4 Harry Brook, 5 Ben Duckett, 6 Jos Buttler (capt & wk), 7 Sam Curran, 8 Brydon Carse, 9 Rehan Ahmed, 10 Tom Hartley, 11 Gus Atkinson.

Pitch and conditions The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium is not traditionally the most high-scoring of Caribbean venues, with just three scores in excess of 300 in 20 previous matches, and none higher than the 322 for 6 posted by Ricky Ponting’s all-time-great Australia in the venue’s maiden fixture during the 2007 World Cup. It’s been an intermittent host for ODIs in recent years, however, with just three matches since 2017. Local knowledge suggests the pitch will take spin. (ESPNCricinfo)

Chase’s Foundation poised to be crowned Limacol Champions …As final round is contested today

West Indies will take on England today

And to judge by the inexperienced squad lining up against them, West Indies might be in broad agreement.

Not only did they miss out entirely on the World Cup just gone, having fallen short in the brutal qualifying tournament that took place in Zimbabwe in June and July, it now transpires that that failure has condemned them to onlooker status at the 2025 Champions Trophy as well.

The road to 2027 will feel all dimmer and more distant without that staging post to aim for.

Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder are among the big names who have opted out of ODIs since the qualifiers, seemingly indefinitely, while Shane Dowrich’s retirement only days after his recall - having played his one previous ODI back in 2019 - was further evidence of the format’s lowly standing within the region at present.

Rovman Powell, Dominic Drakes, Kyle Mayers and Jayden Seales are among the other familiar names missing for this campaign; and while

that begins at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua this afternoon.

From England’s perspective, it’s a shot to nothing. A chance for a cast of talented fringe players to impress their captain (and indisputable white-ball GOAT, notwithstanding his recent struggles) Buttler, and make the case for a 2015-style cleaning-out of the stables - even if Ben Duckett, one of the players with most to gain in the coming weeks, has played down the likelihood that any longterm places are up for grabs in the coming days.

And for the West Indies, at least it’s a return to the fray after their telling absence in the months just gone.

Financially, if not necessarily competitively, England’s visit - and moreover the hordes of supporters that are sure to accompany them - offers significant compensation for the recent dents in their coffers.

And besides, it’s cricket in the Caribbean with Christmas drawing nigh. What’s not to enjoy?

vious ODI tour of India (the venue for the World Cup that West Indies missed), his fifth and most recent century had helped to secure a startling eight-wicket win in Chennai.

He’ll no doubt be eager to make up for that lost time.

Of all the England players who might believe their time has come, few have a better case than Will Jacks. As a hard-hitting opener for Surrey and Oval Invincibles, he had been outshining the mighty Jason Roy at a domestic level long before the selectors decided that Roy’s lock on a World Cup place was untenable. Jacks wasn’t awarded a central contract in the recent round of deals, but that fact has the potential to work in his favour at this early juncture. With nothing to lose, he has everything to win next time out if he can set about making a long-term case. And to judge by his forceful 94 from 88 balls against Ireland in September, he offers an unfettered attitude to top-order strokeplay that wasn’t adequately replicated in Roy’s absence last month.

A glimpse of what to expect at today’s culmination of the Limacol Schools’ Football League

T

he curtains will come down on this year’s edition of the Limacol Schools’ Football League today, when the final three games are contested at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown.

As it stands, Chase’s Academic Foundation, out of Georgetown, are poised to take home the coveted title; while the likes of Carmel Secondary and Bartica Secondary are close to qualifying for the KFC International Goodwill Series coming up next month.

Bartica Secondary will, from 13:00hrs, embark on a must-win encounter with Ann’s Grove Secondary if they are to secure a position in next month’s KFC-

sponsored tournament.

They currently sit on 12 points, with Santa Rosa Secondary close behind on 10.

Mackenzie High School will do battle with Christianburg Wismar Secondary in a highly anticipated all-Linden clash from 15:00hrs.

The final game, scheduled for kickoff at 17:00hrs, will see table leaders Chase’s Academy going head-to-head with Santa Rosa Secondary. As obtains in the case with Bartica, if Santa Rosa are to qualify for next month’s international tournament, they will need a victory over Chase, with equal hopes that Bartica miss out on points.

Chase’s Academy are, however, unbothered. With

16 points heading into the 7th round, even if they come out on the losing side, Chase are likely to surpass second place team Carmel Secondary (with 13 points heading into round 7) on account of goal difference.

Further down the table, Mackenzie High complete the top 5 with 8 points from 6 Rounds.

The champions who will be crowned today would receive $300,000 for a school project, along with a trophy and medals. The second-place finisher will pocket $150,000 for the same school-project purpose, while the third- and fourthplaced teams would respectively receive $75,000 and $50,000 for the same purpose.

Individual prizes would also be up for grabs.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023

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Pg 47

to be crowned Limacol Champions Pg 47

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