Guyana Times - Sunday, March 19, 2023

Irfaan Ali, with US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch and the visiting US Congressional Delegation – Congressman Jason Smith; Congresswoman Terri Sewell; Congresswoman Carol Miller; Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach; Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne; Congressman Mike Carey, and Congressman Kelly Armstrong – at Friday’s reception

United States is a “trusted, important, strategic partner” to Guyana – President

President Dr Irfaan Ali

on Friday evening reiterated the strong bilateral relations that Guyana shares with the United States, telling a bipartisan congressional delegation that his Government is committed to upholding this partnership.

“You are a trusted partner. I want to make this clear… you are a trusted partner. You are our partner. We are proud of our partnership and we are going to work together to make Guyana

and the US stronger together,” the Head of State said at a reception hosted by at the US Ambassador’s residence in Georgetown in honour of the visiting seven-member US congressional delegation.

The team, headed by Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, Congressman Jason Smith, included Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Congresswoman Carol Miller, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach, Congresswoman Beth Van

Duyne, Congressman Mike Carey, and Congressman Kelly Armstrong.

They arrived in Georgetown on Thursday evening with an agenda to meet with Government officials and Opposition leaders to discuss issues related to governance, economic matters, and the importance of bipartisan cooperation.

Earlier on Friday, President Ali and his Cabinet colleagues hosted the congressional delegation for a State Lunch during which

a number of priority areas were discussed.

“We had the distinct pleasure of examining different issues and challenges. We spoke about our experiences in housing. We spoke about the model in Singapore. We spoke about how we can advance the transformation – human resource transformation, and ensure that the human resource transformation is linked to the infrastructure transformation, healthcare, education. But importantly, we said [on Friday] that our mission is to catalyse the revenues from oil and gas to position Guyana to function in a world 2030 and beyond that will be very, very different – ensuring that we’re sustainable, ensuring that we’re resilient and ensure, most importantly, that we’re competitive.”

“For us to be a viable state, we must be able to be

competitive and that’s what we’re investing in [and] applying the technology that is applicable for a world in the future, today because we cannot do this in a straight-line fashion. We don’t have the luxury of time to do that…

I even ask the congressional delegation to ensure that Guyana and the US can advance the strategic partnership formally on energy security for the United States and Guyana, and on climate security and on food security,” the Guyanese leader posited.

He went on to say that Friday’s meeting between the Guyana Government and US House Committee Members reinforced the values of the two nations. These values, the President added, are geared towards producing the best for the people of both countries, in terms of democracy and regional and global leadership.

Opportunities available

The Head of State also highlighted the opportunities available for US participation – at both the Government and private sector level – in Guyana’s economy that is on the cusp of unprecedented transformation.

“Let me assure you that our relationship with the United States is based on principles. It is based on a value system that we share. It is based on respect, and you have nothing to fear. Guyana is and will continue to be an important strategic partner of the United States and the opportunities here are open to all – open to the United States and your private sector, and we want to see greater participation from the US private and the US here in Guyana… This is a clear strategy of the Government,” President Ali stated.

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President Dr Irfaan Ali, along with First Lady Arya Ali and US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch, at Friday’s reception

Public healthcare must offer services comparable to private hospitals – Ali

…says Govt making necessary investments in human resource, tech

…as Dr Balwant Singh Hospital launches Histopathology Lab, 128 Slice CT scanner

Acknowledging the importance of a worldclass healthcare system in the overall development of a country, President Dr Irfaan

Ali has assured that his People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is working hard to ensure public hospitals can offer services on par with private hospitals.

The President gave this assurance during the launch of a Histopathology Lab & 128 Slice CT scanner at Dr Balwant Singh Hospital on Saturday. The lab will, among other things, be used to prepare tissue samples for analysis by the specialists. It features non-touch controls and disposal of tissue.

put a value on healthcare that is both quality and affordable. He emphasised that the Government is intent on ensuring that the public healthcare system keeps pace.

“The public healthcare system in Guyana must complement the private healthcare system. It’s not running on two different tracks. This is what we must get accustomed to.

And that is why we have Mount Sinai here, helping us to examine fully the whole health ecosystem and then differentiate what public should do for us and how does it integrate into private healthcare.”

“Public healthcare must be able to deliver efficiently and in a reliable manner… the healthcare system must respond to people at the grassroots. It must give them access and opportunity to view health as something important and not use sickness as the reason for good health. In our country you don’t go to the doctor unless you’re sick.”

When it comes to the enabling environment created by the Government for the private healthcare system to thrive, President Ali noted that the Histopathology Lab bears witness to the wisdom in this approach.

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President Ali noted that this investment adds value to Guyana’s healthcare.

“I value this investment being made here. I value this move to modernise our healthcare system. And I understand how it interplays with our overall healthcare plan and development of the overall healthcare system, to deliver better healthcare to the people of our country,” President Ali said.

“We have made it very clear that the revenues from oil and gas must do a few things. One, it must give our people the best possible education… whether it’s auditing services, whether it’s outsourcing services, medical services, telemedicine, we’re going to build a telemedicine service that the entire Region can rely on. And the second is healthcare.”

According to the President, one of the reasons many people migrate is due to an inadequate healthcare. He noted that this is something the Government is intent on changing, since persons

President Dr Irfaan Ali during his address at the Balwant Singh Hospital

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For the Common Good

There is no dearth of explanations or reasons proffered for our anaemic post-Independence development: underdevelopment of our economy and our society by the departed colonials; squabbling politicians; lack of capital; ethnic/racial divisions; brain drain, etc. But for each of the identified constraints, and then some (for instance, lack of physical resources), other countries, such as S. Korea, Singapore, and others in the Far East, have yet jumped from Third World to First World status. We should study them, now that we have the wherewithal to permanently change our fortunes.

As such, we would like to place on the agenda one factor that somehow has not received the attention that we believe it should have: the need for us to have a strong desire to work for the common good. Now, it might be said that this is a consequence of the divisions in our society; but Malaysia, for instance, also has these divisions, and was able to leapfrog divisions to knock on the doors of First World status. If the successful ‘developed’ and developing countries are analysed, more often than not, one would discern a strong sentiment of ‘doing it for my country.’

This emphasis can be measured by the degree to which people, emotionally or consciously, agree that a common good justifies restrictions on the individual, including oneself. It could also be described as the degree to which the members of a society are willing to forego individual advantages if thereby a larger advantage is secured for the community. Can we say we have this sentiment widespread in Guyana?

A decade ago, noted CUNY political scientist Richard Wolin visited China, and asked one worker, “What do people here do on weekends?” The reply, to his surprise, was, “We have no weekends. We have to work hard to pass America!” On his tours across many campuses and cities, he found the same sentiment very widespread. The people were willing to work for what they saw as the good of their country. Because of such an orientation, China has been able to maintain a double-digit growth rate for three decades, and is now the second largest economy in the world – just behind the US.

Japan, which led the thrust for ‘miracle growth’ in the post WWII era, was also helped by a strong patriotic fervour among its people. Many people conveniently forget that the Industrial Revolution in Britain and Europe followed their consolidation as nation states, where the people were willing to sacrifice for ‘King and country”. While the US overthrew the king, its citizens also rallied for the national cause.

In Guyana, we are still at a point where the feeling of ‘we the people’ has not been inculcated into the psyche of our people. In the absence of such a sentiment, individuals will act only in the interest of their sub-group or themselves on an individual basis. Looking out for “No 1” becomes the rallying cry. It is up to the leaders in our society to mobilise these individuals for the ‘common good’.

The PPP is attempting to change this with the “One Guyana” strategy. Unfortunately, the recent contretemps in and out of Parliament demonstrate that the Opposition is far from harking to this ideal. Whatever one’s political orientation, one has to concede that President Ali’s aggressive moves across “the divide” is more in consonance with the common good than the divisive calls to the Disciplined Forces. Guyanese should compare the differential rates of development in the Far East, where exertion for the common good is commonplace, and that of let’s say Africa, where most countries are riven along ethnic lines. We must do better.

In societies lacking an ethos of the common good, people do what is advantageous for themselves, and have no qualms in abandoning principles or changing sides when it is beneficial to them. This expedient behaviour also encourages corruption. Corruption is not just a problem of political systems, it an attitudinal problem; persons little inclined to accept personal disadvantages for the common good are easily corrupted.

Violent incitement: Sociological facts and political reality

supports his racist extremism, both belong to a political party that just a mere two and a half years were in power in Guyana.

By Freddie Kissoon

If anyone from a faroff country that never heard about Guyana was listening to Tacuma Ogunseye’s advocacy of the African overthrow of the PPP Government with the urging of support of what Ogunseye referred to as the African-dominated security forces, then only one thought would have crossed his/her mind.

It would have been that there is an exclusive Indian government representing 80 percent of the ethnic demography of Guyana, and that Government was an unelected oligarchy pursuing graphic oppression of a minority ethnic community.

There is one sociological dimension that the foreign listener would have not known about, and a political reality that they would never believe existed in Guyana. We will deal with the political reality first.

The man named Tacuma Ogunseye, who stood on a canter truck last week reeling off exhortations of African attacks on the Government, and the man named David Hinds, who

The foreign listener would get a heart attack if and when they know this. The party of Ogunseye and Hinds were in power, with three of the WPA’s powerful leaders holding huge chunks of power and Mr. Ogunseye and other second tier leaders in the WPA exercising subordinate power themselves.

And while the WPA were in power from May 2015 to July 2020, vast jurisdictions of the state authority were used against the Guyanese people. African youths from Sophia where jailed for the mere possession of two grams of marijuana.

The 2015 campaign promise by APNU and WPA and the AFC to amend the draconian legislation, which was drafted by Mr. Nigel Hughes and put on the Parliamentary Order Paper, was cancelled. Taxi drivers, a substantial amount of whom are Africans, were not allowed to purchase used tyres, whose importation was banned.

There was a gargantuan rise in license fee for horse-drawn vehicles, a majority of which come from Sophia, where Mr. Ogunseye lives. The WPA, Hinds and Ogunseye have not apologized to African Guyanese to date. If any Government from 2015 was oligarchic, it was the regime that Ogunseye and Hinds served. This Government, in

one swoop, retrenched 7000 sugar workers, destabilising in the process the lives of 42,000 persons in the sugar estate communities. The 7000 ex-employees had to take Mr Ogunseye’s Government to court to receive monies that were legally due.

We could go on, but let’s move on to sociology. It is ironic that Ogunseye will be charged for his dangerous and illegal racist incitement. Why is it ironic? Because African Guyanese will not listen to Ogunseye, whom the young population of Guyana does not know about.

Ogunseye chose Buxton to deliver his racist diatribe. Why Buxton, when Georgetown has around 200,000 citizens, most of whom are African Guyanese? The answer is simple. He and Hinds would have had a poor attendance if they had located their meeting in South Ruimveldt, Charlestown, Lodge, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, or any district south of Princes Street in Wortmanville and Werken-Rust.

Why the attendance would have been poor? Because the sociology that Ogunseye and Hinds portray to African Guyanese does not exist. It exists only in the dangerous imagination of fantasists who have become irrelevant in a country with one of the world’s largest oil discoveries, for which the country is reaping immense benefits.

It was the WPA stalwart Clive Thomas, on a social media programme with

David Hinds, who said that with the oil economy, there will now be some measure of poverty alleviation, but he is sad because such an economy has fallen into the hands of the PPP.

So Ogunseye’s leader has admitted that Guyana now has money to spend on the long elusive dream of the Guyanese people. Anyone who comes from another planet and looks down on Guyana’s sociology and how African Guyanese go about their business will be forced to conclude that the advocacy of the ethnic overthrow of the Government is dangerous fantasy at work.

There is no industrial action in years from any African- dominated trade union. There is no industrial action in years from the African- dominated Public Service. The University of Guyana, an Africandominated institution, has not engaged in ethnic denunciations.

There have been countless grounding sessions with African villages by President Ali that have resulted in formidable transformation of the economies of those villages. Peruse the 2023 edition of “Who Is Who in Guyana’s Business” and you will see the proliferation of an African professional middle class and the making of an African business community.

The enemies are at the gates alright, but they are a tiny bunch. They are a sad nihilistic reversion to a bygone age. Last time I checked, Guyana was living in the 21st century in the year 2023.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, First Lady Ariya Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips at a dinner on Friday evening at the US Ambassador’s residence in honour of the visiting US Congressional Delegation (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

Opposition taking racial and divisive politics too far

Dear Editor,

The PNC/WPA assemblage of the Coalition of sorts are at their lowest ebb, and being in that diminished capacity, they are lashing out in notoriously dangerous forms. That motley group is now making violent and divisive remarks at public fora, trying desperately to foment strife and discord in our society.

It is a well-known fact that this has always been a strategy used by the PNC, but in recent times it has become a more pronounced form of approach.

Now, herein lies the problem: Why this sudden appeal to violence and racial slurs hurled at Indians? Well, it does not take a Rocket Scientist to figure that out. Norton, for his own part, is on the ropes if not on the canvass, and, as such, he will do anything to shore up his image. In that desper -

ation mode, he is calling on the lowest of the low in the WPA to appeal to the thugs that are still around to “turn their guns in the right direction.”

When others chided him for his stupidity, such as Geeta Chandan, this other idiot David Hinds took up the mantle and attacked her with the racial assertion that she is a “slave catcher.” This statement was meant to humiliate her. It was a strong message that she, being an Indian, needs to stay out of “African” Liberation struggle in Guyana.

In the first place, there is no “African Liberation” struggle in Guyana. If there is, it is a PNC survival struggle, a struggle for relevance in a Guyanese society which has long since ostracised them. Secondly, I ask Hinds not to forget that it was his own kind who caught black men and women and made them

Sunday, March 19, 2023

slaves, then marched them through the African bush to the slave ports, where they were handed over to the white slave owners. The Indian had no part in that humiliating saga, it was purely the work of idiots like Hinds who did this just for a piece of trinket.

But far more interesting is the motive behind the WPA’s servile remarks. They are doing Norton’s dirty work in elbowing out Indians and moderate blacks out of the party.

The PNC leadership was never comfortable with Indians in the inner sanc -

tum of the party, and if you take a good look at the way that race was treated since the Charrandas incident, you will get my drift.

From information gathered, the general sentiment in the party is that the Indians had overstayed their welcome. Their sole purpose was to garner the Indian votes, while the PNC is left to dominate the scene thereafter. They lost the 2020 Election, so there was no need for the Indians in their midst anymore.

But what I want to tell them is that getting rid of

the Indian members would not help their situation either, the PNC is destined to fail, Indian or no Indian.

The fact of the matter is: What are you doing there? We told you so, don’t you people realize that the PNC Party is a bunch of hooligan thugs where Indians and moderate educated blacks are not welcomed? When would you people ever learn? But this is the sad state of affairs of a group of individuals who have become trapped in this racial imbroglio. It is an abysmal situation that no one would like to find

oneself.

So, as I close, I must tell my readers that in a modern and enlightened society such as ours, the PNC and its pathetic claptraps are finding themselves alienated from the mainstream concept of One Guyana. In this regard, they will see how hopeless their standing will be in the upcoming Local Government Elections and on the wider general elections stage.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Hour

17:30 The Healing Touch

18:00 Maths is Fun

18:30 Week-in-Review

19:00 Lucifer S3 E14

20:00 Those People

21:00 American Idol (ABC)

23:00 The Office S2 E14

23:30 Grace & Frankie S4 E10

00:00 Sign off

Further considerations associated with canine aggressive biting

The most frequent question I, and I imagine most practising small animal (pets) clinicians, am asked regarding the curbing and prevention of canine aggressive biting is whether certain dog breeds are especially prone to exhibiting such abnormal aggressive behaviour.

In the previous columns on this issue, we advised on some practical and commonsense methods to reduce canine viciousness.

The ‘breed” question must be dealt with specifically. Scientific studies have been carried out on this subject. However, I do not think that the methodologies applied in these studies can conclusively yield definitive results. For example, often, the sample size is questionable. Also, much empirical observations are considered without delving into the psychological background of the animals in the study group. Nevertheless, I will share with you the general and common results of some of the studies.

A study on Small Animal Veterinarians’ perceptions, experiences and views revealed that Pit Bull types, Mastiffs and Bull Terriers top the list. Interestingly, one of the

studies revealed that the Chow Chow is the most aggressive and vicious of

sturdy stature, easy-tocare-for short coats, and wonderful temperament.

all dogs. Conversely, the Golden Retriever was perceived to be the most appropriate for families with children. While up to recently the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever were considered the most popular breed in the USA, a very recent declaration by the American Kennel Club (March 2023) has found that the French Bull dog is the most popular breed, due to its

Notwithstanding the above, I am compelled, after 54 years of dealing clinically with dogs, to let you know that the only occasions when I have been actually bitten (skin broken, blood oozing) were by Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Dachshunds. I have a theory about the first two breeds: because of their tiny size, their aggression is an automatic

reaction (you know the colloquialism: “Don’t trouble me if you don’t want me to trouble you”). They need to prove themselves. In humans, it is referred to as the Napoleonic Complex. The research in humans has not led to conclusive findings, but you can be assured that it will be referenced many times over when persons of small stature act aggressively. But the truth is I have never been bitten by a Rottweiler, Doberman, German Shepherd, Mastiff

or any of those large breeds, whose jaws can detach a finger (or hand) in one fell swoop. Admittedly, I am much more careful and circumspect when dealing with these breeds.

The Dachshund is a different case altogether. This dog was consciously, and with motive, bred to kill. In German, the word “Dachs” means weasel; and “Hund”, means dog. Many decades ago, weasels would steal chickens, eggs and lambs from the farmstead, and carry their bounty into their warrens and complicated burrows to devour and store. Farmers/Scientists would breed these elongated dogs (“sausage” dogs) to chase the weasels into their warrens and kill them. Dachshunds were bred to be vicious beasts. It is only at the beginning of the last century that these “cute” Dachshunds become lap dogs (they were a great accompaniment for the elderly, who would keep them on their laps). Well, that vicious streak is still maintained in their genes. Friends of mine love them, but it is not by accident that their “pets” are named “Diablo”. “Terror” and “Snapper”.

Let me continue the discourse on those breeds which seem to have acquired the reputation of being vicious. Well, let’s face it, Pit Bulls, Bull Terriers, for example, were bred to be savage and to brutally maul each other to death – for human enjoyment.

So, it is a little more that a reputation. Dog fighting in Guyana has been banned by law, but this activity still brazenly continues – as

to shreds.

The Bull Terrier has not only been bred genetically to fight, but it is the only breed I know which has been trained to fight with a strategy. The “battering ram” head hits its opponent with great force in the chest, and when the dog falls over, the Bull Terrier goes for the neck, where the huge jugular and carotid blood vessels are located. End of fight!

Yet, despite all of the above, many of my colleagues argue that the breeds (used for fighting and bred for aggression) should not be specially targeted in those countries which have implemented legislation for dangerous dogs. Such laws demand castration and spaying of mature dogs of these manmade aggressive breeds, with the ultimate objective of removing these targeted breeds from the international list of breeds. Humane Societies follow suit and advocate for these laws, and consequently are reluctant to accept Pit Bull and other listed dangerous breeds into their Shelters for subsequent rehoming. My current view is that we require much more studies, and consequential practices must be instituted, before demonising and removing an entire breed, which may have other positive and useful attributes. Since canine aggressive biting can have serious repercussions and public health problems, we will continue this topic next week by further documenting useful interventions which can reduce the incidence of canine viciousness.

Bull Terrier

New model PSAs…

Oil companies will be required to develop excess gas

While priority will be given to using gas in oil production, such as for reinjection purposes, oil companies will be required under the new model Production Sharing Agreements (PSA) to develop and submit plans for developing excess gas.

The new model PSAs were released by the Government last week to the public for feedback. The agreements, which cover both deep and shallow blocks, also contain provisions for handling gas finds.

In the agreements, the operator is required to develop excess gas, and to submit plans to the Government on how they will go about this. The plan incorporates both utilisation and commercialisation of natural gas, as well as the markets.

According to the agreements, the plans must describe “utilization and commercialization of associated gas. Description of natural gas markets and infrastructure development in the case of non-associated gas discovery.”

The PSA states that if the contractor believes that the associated gas found in the field has commercial value, that investor will be required to make the investment to utilize it under cost recovery terms. The contractor will also be required to complete feasibility studies on using the gas within two years of submitting development plans.

“If there is any excess associated gas in the oil field after utilization pursuant to Article 19.1(a), the contractor shall carry out a feasibility study regarding the utilization of such excess gas. Such feasibility study, if completed before submittal of the development plan of an oil field, shall be included in the development plan.

Oil companies will be required to both study and develop commercially viable excess gas

“The contractor’s feasibility study shall be completed no later than two years following the submittal of the development plan. If the contractor believes that excess associated gas of an oil field has commercial value, the contractor shall be required to make further investment to utilize such excess associated gas, subject to terms (that include) cost recovery as recoverable contract costs for such further investment.”

This is a similar arrangement that obtains with Guyana and ExxonMobil, which is covering the initial costs of the Gas to-Energy pipeline. These costs, amounting to approximately US$1 billion, will be recovered by the oil company over a period of 20 years.

In budget 2023, the Gasto-Energy Project received a $43.3 billion allocation. This allocation is in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the start-up of the transformational project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) Plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant at Wales, WBD.

The NGL and 300 MW power plant components of the Gas-to-Shore project are meanwhile expected to

cost US$759.8 million, and will be financed through sources that include budgets and loan financing.

The scope of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.

It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that will run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara.

The pipeline would be 12 inches wide, and is expected to transport per day

some 50 million standard cubic feet (mscfpd) of dry gas to the NGL plant, but it has the capacity to push as much as 120 mscfpd.

The pipeline’s route onshore would follow the same path as the fibre optic cables, and will terminate at Hermitage, part of the Wales Development Zone (WDZ) which will house the gas-to-shore project.

The new PSAs for both the deep and shallow blocks contain much of

the terms the Government had previously hinted at. Under the new conditions, Guyana stands to benefit from as high as US$20 million signature bonuses for the deep-water blocks and US$10 million for the shallow-water blocks.

A perusal of the agreements show that the royalty rate has been increased from the meagre two per cent the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change

(APNU/AFC) Government agreed to in 2016 to a fixed rate of 10 per cent in both deep and shallow blocks.

Additionally, the model PSAs also include the retention of the 50-50 profit-sharing after cost recovery.

According to the draft agreements, the cost recovery ceiling (limit to which the oil company can recover cost oil) has been lowered to 65 per cent, from the previous 75 per cent. (G3)

United States is a “trusted...

Meanwhile, with the House Committee on Ways and Means having jurisdiction over US trade relations, Congressman Smith noted that this visit to Guyana provides the opportunity for the members to work with Guyanese partners.

“The friendship and the partnership that the American people have with this country will only get stronger. We want to see you all become so successful and have the most amazing infrastructure and quality of life, and you’re going to do that… Remember that you have friends in Washington. We are all in the same time zone. We are all friends. We are all neighbours. There is no country that cares about your stability and your prosperity more than the United States,” Congressman Smith indicated.

Additionally, US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch further pointed out that this “highly productive” visit created the opportunity for the Congress officials to witness the strong ties that have been built between the US and Guyana as well as the continued promise of increased partnership.

“Leveraging our close economic links to bring greater prosperity and greater opportunities for the Guyanese people is an important cornerstone of our engagement here and we will continue to work with the Government and the people of Guyana on these issues,” the Ambassador stated.

She added that, “United States wants to remain Guyana’s largest trading

partner by far… But even more importantly, we want to help produce tangible results with you that benefit the lives on both shores of the Caribbean and every island in between.”

The US bipartisan Congressional delegation wrapped up a three-country tour which saw them visiting Mexico and Ecuador before their arrival in Georgetown.

The House Committee on Ways and Means is the oldest committee of the United States Congress and is the chief tax-writing committee in the House of Representatives. Since 1795, the committee has exercised jurisdiction over revenue and related issues such as tariffs, international trade policy, and the bonded debt of the United States. (G8)

…must complete feasibility studies within 2 years of submitting plan

Frequency resulting from lack of maintenance – Chairman

The frequent power outages, common-

ly called “blackouts”, being experienced by residents of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) are a result of poor maintenance of the electricity network. This is according to Region Six Chairman David Armogan.

The Chairman, who was responding to questions during a recent Regional Democratic Council (RDC) meeting, said that during the period when the previous administration was in office (2015–2020), there was very little maintenance to the network system.

He said the maintenance crew is now on a robust campaign to fix faults to the power lines and util-

ity poles on the road. This process, he told the RDC, requires power outages.

Throughout the Region, residents have been forced to cope with prolonged hours of blackout on almost

a weekly basis. Armogan pointed out that there is now a greater demand for electricity in the Region.

“…in terms of new housing areas, and the capacity has not increased. So, now

we have to build capacity, because the demands are more that the present capacity. It would take some time before the situation is rectified,” he said.

“So, what you find they are doing is blacking out some areas. They have to do scheduled blackouts to make sure that the system gets up-to-date, because nothing was done for a long time.”

He noted that even though there was a new power generator installed at the Canefield Power Plant by the previous administration, it never functioned until the current administration took office.

“It was just there like a white elephant,” the Chairman said. (G4)

…“festering problems”??

Following the call to arms by those whom Burnham described as the “Worst Possible Alternative”, Burnham’s present successor in the party he founded has been desperately seeking to extricate his foot from his mouth. After a resoundingly deafening silence, when he followed the “caller to arms” on the (truck bed) platform, he now says the fella’s call to arms is protected free speech!! And imagine this fella’s been in politics for 50 years!! No wonder Hoyte threw him out of the party!!

Even in primary school, your Eyewitness was taught that while we all enjoy “freedom of speech” – like with ALL freedoms, there are limits!! For instance, your freedom to swing your arms ends at my nose!! You pass and hit my nose, you could be thrown into the clinker for ‘assault’!! With freedom of speech, one famous limit is popularly stated, ‘You can’t yell, “Fire!!” in a crowded theatre!!’ Makes sense, doesn’t it?? Can you imagine the pandemonium that would ensue?? Bodies crushed and bones broken in the mad scramble to the exits!!

Similarly, by asking the army and Police to support their plan to throw out the legally elected Government!! Jeez!! These are institutions of the state, and their duties are defined by the constitution!! They’re supposed to DEFEND law and order, not subvert it!! But ironically, they’re encouraging the same mindset they complain about when the armed forces personnel do their own thing against civilians!! They aren’t following their chain of command THEN, and they certainly won’t be following it when they listen to the Worst Possible Alternative!!

Anyhow, the PNC leader is further arguing that we must “understand” why the statements were made. So, what exactly are the gripes we should “understand”??

That the PPP rigged the elections even though practically every country in the world gave it a clean bill of health??

How much time are they gonna be wasting on this wild goose chase?? Wouldn’t their cause be better served if they started to get their target constituency better prepared to improve their lot in this new economy??

Jeez!! One of their soulmate organizations had been collecting $500 million every year since 2018 to assist that constituency. Couldn’t they have been doing some of that preparation, instead of continuously moaning “We wuz robbed”?! That would’ve also addressed another gripe – that the PPP is marginalising that constituency economically!! Point of the matter is we’re operating in a free market dispensation – ever since Hoyte signed on back in 1989.

Rather than having folks marching up and down in the hot sun – which probably makes them irritable, so they take out their frustrations on hapless folks in their way! – wouldn’t it be better to train them for jobs?? And resolve “festering”??

…Ways and Means

In American politics, the “separation of powers” isn’t just a slogan. For instance, while a lotta attention’s paid to the President – and he does have considerable powers – Congress have powers to ensure their views can’t be ignored. Take, for instance, the House “Ways and Means” Committee – the oldest in the House!! They’re the ones who make the final decision as to how money’s raised and spent (ways and means) in the States. And we all know that it’s money that makes the world go around!!

Well, the Chairman of that Committee and eight of his members flew over to our dear Mudland to have discussions with the Government, the Opposition, and all others who are involved in building this new economy on our oil revenues. But it’s not just seeking to get more business from their neck of the woods.

It’s also – and maybe more so – about keeping out those pesky Chinese who’ve got a jump on them and are now in pole position!! Get out the rum-and-coke, not lo mein!!

…free speech

Evidently, “free speech” ain’t so free in the Opposition camp!! Some Indo PNC members criticised some of the Worst Possible Alternative speakers, but were dubbed “slave catchers” by the latter worthies!! Free speech only free for some!!

Region Six Chairman, David Armogan

Guyana to receive expert assistance in agriculture sector – Mustapha

…as India offers support for sugar, rice & hemp industries

Guyana will be receiving expert level assistance from overseas in a number of areas throughout the agriculture sector, including in sugar, rice and hemp. This is according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, Mustapha said that help from India would not be limited to the sugar industry, but rather will be extended to these other industries. In fact, he noted that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Guyana to receive this technical assistance will be signed soon.

“Not only in sugar but a number of areas in the agricultural sector, we’ll receive help for. We know for a fact an MoU will be signed shortly. For example, we’ll start very shortly planting hemp. We might have a specialist coming from India. In the rice industry we’re looking at them to help us in tissue culture.”

“We know that our nursery that we have cannot keep up with the needs. Although we are always trying to upgrade it, I think tissue culture is one of the important aspects where we can cater for the needs of expanding production in the agriculture sector,” Mustapha said.

Tissue culture refers to the cultivation of plant cells under controlled circumstances, in some cases allowing a plant to be regenerated from a single cell. When it comes to the sugar industry, the Minister further emphasised that this is in addition to the help Guatemala is expected to provide.

“In the sugar industry we’re looking also and we’re looking to get better yield canes so that we can plant those in Guyana. And we know that Guatemala also has told us that they can help us improve the sugar industry,” the Minister added.

Government’s focus on agriculture is down to the vision of making Guyana the bread

basket of the Caribbean and reducing the regional food import bill. Last year, President Dr Irfaan Ali had declared that his Government would be pursuing an aggressive campaign to dismantle regional barriers to agricultural trade and that in the next four years, with the assistance of more diversified crops, Guyana would aim to reduce Caricom’s food import bill by 25 per cent.

It was reported last month that member states of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have collectively achieved a significant 57 per cent of the target set to realise “Vision 25 by 2025”. This announcement was made during the first Caricom Ministerial

Task Force (MTF) on Food Production and Food Security meeting for 2023.

A statement from the Agriculture Ministry stated that countries submitted reports detailing their production data for 2022 for targeted commodities, as Caricom moves towards lowering the regional import bill by 25 per cent by the year 2025.

It was reported that products such as cocoa, dairy,

meat, root crops, fruits, and poultry have already reached 96.13 per cent, 84.36 per cent, 72.28 per cent, 70.91 per cent, 70.77 per cent and 70.19 per cent, respectively, for the targeted production volume set for 2025.

Moreover, countries such as Guyana, Belize, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Dominica, and Jamaica have

made significant advances in the production of commodities such as ginger, turmeric, corn, soya bean, root crops, fruits, cocoa, poultry, meat, fish, table eggs, and dairy.

The report also indicated that for 2022, Guyana produced some 20,195 metric tonnes of ginger and turmeric, 144,289 metric tonnes of root crops, 21,870 metric tonnes of fish, and 40,749 metric tonnes of coconut. (G3)

President Irfaan Ali and Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister of India, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, during a previous meeting

St Cuthbert’s Mission will be a model for integrated farming – Ali

President Dr Irfaan

Ali said that Pakuri Village (St Cuthbert’s Mission) will be a model for integrated farms for small communities across the country and the Government will help to expand its ongoing agricultural projects.

The Head of State made the statements during an impromptu visit to the community as they celebrated their 134th anniversary on Saturday.

During the visit, the President also visited and inspected ongoing agricultural and infrastructural works. “I will say in another year, this community will be a model community for integrated farms, and to show how small communities can be an important part in the food production system and can be an important part of in the whole ecosystem of producing food not only for themselves,” President Ali is quoted as saying in a DPI re-

port.

Currently, the community has embarked on an agricultural project on approximately 12 acres of land where they are constructing an 80×40 shade house that will be used to grow high-value crops. They are also planting red beans on approximately 10 acres of

land. During an address to the residents, the President explained that when he visited last year, he made several commitments that, from his inspection, have been met. In addition to those commitments, the President said that there are other initiatives that are essential for the further advancement

and development of the community.

This, he said, will include another commitment of partnering with the village to increase their current red beans production by 25 acres. The President also noted that the community will be supported by the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) that will provide the market for their produce. “We are building a country in which all of us will be proud. There will be no conversation in the world on energy security without the name Guyana mentioned. There will be no conversation in the world on food security without the name Guyana mentioned, and there will be no conversation in the world on climate security without Guyana be mentioned in the world. That is what we are doing. We are providing global leadership, we are providing regional leadership, we are placing Guyana on the global agenda.”

The President emphasised that Pakuri is “an integral part of our development agenda” and that no community would be left behind.

“Whether you’re on the highway, whether you’re in the hinterland, the riverine community, you’re in an urban centre, we are going to go there, we are going to meet you. This is my third visit to this community. And every single community we are trying to visit, every single community we’re trying to get into, because we want to hear from the people

themselves.”

Other developments

The President also explained to the residents that in addition to the agricultural projects, the Government will partner with the community, especially the residents, to train them and use their skills and labour to construct concrete roads for the community. This project, the President said, will start within the next two months. The President also added that the community’s ICT hub will be connected to the internet within the next four weeks and a GWI team will return to the community to inspect and improve residents’ access to water.

“We are also going to work with you on the development of your tourism sector. Not only the guest house that is under construction for the backpack type of tourism but I believe that on the landing, we can have some eco lodges, where families can come and rent those lodges, prop-

er state-of-the-art eco lodges that will support your development here.”

The President said that the aim is to have the community “self-sufficient” by the end of next year in the production of food. To make this a reality, the President explained that the Government will work with the community on the Black Giant Chicken project to ensure that all of the eggs that are used in the community are produced locally.

“One of the other things that we’re going to work with you on is to set up an all-weather surface for sports. We recognise that in the community itself, we have to bring people together and we know that we have the climatic challenges. So we’re going to work with you on setting up a hard surface, an all-weather hard surface to support sports, like volleyball, basketball, and so on.”

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat was also a part of the visit.

President Dr Irfaan Ali and his son Zayd at St Cuthbert’s Mission on Saturday

19 more hinterland communities to benefit from telemedicine

Gambling for resurrection

Guyana is still digesting the WPA’s Buxton meeting of March 9, where Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton was a featured speaker. He agrees with Tacuma Ogunseye’s assessment of the situation in Guyana and his “solution”, even though he averred he wouldn’t have used the exact words.

Dev

Tacuma’s assessment was that the PPP was a “dictatorial” regime targeting African Guyanese for execution and for economic marginalisation. Solution wise, Tacuma rejected democratic electoral politics: “We cannot wait on elections cycle to resolve this matter”. Instead, he revealed, “…for the WPA, in this present campaign, we have some clear objectives. The first objective is to get the African team in a state of battle readiness…the Afro-Guyanese Police and soldiers… would stand with Afro-Guyanese in resisting mainly Indo-Guyanese supporting the PPP/C.” He left no doubt about what was expected of the Armed Forces (“with guns in their hands”) towards the Indo-Guyanese PPP supporters: like past Home Affairs Minister Gajraj, they were big targets and difficult to miss.

What Tacuma was describing was the classic “Indian Guyanese Ethnic Security Dilemma” that we had described as far back as the 1990s. While the Indian-supported PPP might be able to achieve political office because of their votes in a democratic polity, they could never be secure in office, since real power lies in the African-dominated Security Forces. But the WPA is now rejecting democratic politics to achieve office, even though the classic conditions of the “African Ethnic Security Dilemma” that had been used by Burnham to justify using nondemocratic means was no longer present: a built-in Indian majority stymieing PNC’s electoral chances. As was confirmed by the 2012 census, the Indian population had slid from 50+ percent in 1980 to below 40%, and continues to decrease. Using a coalition strategy, the PNC was able to win office politically in 2015.

But even with the kindest interpretation of the WPA’s strategy – that they meant the armed forces wouldn’t shoot African Guyanese using “civil disobedience” – wouldn’t they simply be repeating Hoyte’s post-1998 “slow fyaah; mo’ fyaah” strategy?? Hoyte also had invoked the Armed Forces “kith and kin” loyalty imperative. But as occurred in several PNC protests then, wouldn’t the certainty of the mob-psychology of crowds breaking loose be an ever-present danger?? Wasn’t the “peaceful” Mon Repos protest of 2022 an echo of the July, 2002 PNC march that also started at Golden Grove and ended with the storming of the Office of the President? Two were killed and ten wounded – all from Linden and the ECD villages being presently mobilised.

How exactly would the plan for the Armed Forces to “stand with Afro-Guyanese in resisting mainly Indo-Guyanese supporting the PPP/C” work? Does the WPA consider Indian Guyanese “resisting” their “civil disobedience” campaign by merely going about their lives? As, for instance, on Jan 12, 1998 in the PNC’s first iteration – or at West Coast Berbice and Mon Repos in the present, when they were subjected to condign beatings and robberies? Do they expect Caricom to once again broker a settlement with the PPP that would truncate their term of office and make further power-sharing concessions? And the Americans, who just signalled their concerns about their strategic economic interests here, to simply nod benignly?

Frankly, as I had pointed out after the PNC attempted to seize power in the 2020 elections by using a state institution (GECOM) that was also staffed overwhelmingly by “kith and kin” African Guyanese, David Granger was “Gambling for Resurrection”. In this strategy, taken from International Relations, 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 would outweigh the low probability of victory. It was once succinctly stated by Forbes Burnham in our vernacular: “Back to back, belly to belly. Ah doan give a damn, Ah done dead a’ready”! Ironically, the WPA is once again following Burnham’s lead.

Unfortunately, in our ethnically divided polity, the strategy can lead to widespread death and destruction, as we saw in the Buxton-based post-2002 tragedy. Is it worth it? I believe most Guyanese – including African Guyanese - think not.

The Government, through the Ministry of Health, will be expanding the telemedicine initiative to 19 remote communities across Regions One, Seven and Eight, to increase access to quality healthcare.

The government has allocated a sum of $1.8 billion towards the expansion of the programme to the additional hinterland regions in Budget 2023.

Appearing on a weekly virtual programme, ‘The Guyana Dialogue,’ on Thursday evening, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony disclosed that works would soon commence to ensure those hinterland regions are outfitted with the advanced medical technological system.

“We are trying to go to every remote area where care is extremely difficult to access, and by putting in

this system, it is making a tremendous difference,” Dr Anthony stated.

Currently, the telemedicine programme is being piloted in four Region Nine communities – Masakenari (Gunns Village), Nappi, Yupukari, and Parikawarinau. The telemedicine centres in

these villages have been equipped with the requisite technological devices which give Community Health Workers (CHWs) 24-hour access to medical specialists from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). These include a digital stethoscope, pulse

oximeter, infrared thermometer, blood pressure monitor, mobile ultrasound, and examination cameras.

The pilot programme spans six months, and an evaluation will be subsequently conducted to examine the expansion to other communities. Already, two lives were saved in Gunns Village, after specialists identified two patients who were in need of emergency medical interventions.

“We sent in the plane, we were able to pick up the patients, and they got treatment. And because we did that, those patients are alive today,” Dr Anthony revealed.

The telemedicine programme was officially launched in December 2022. Among other things, the initiative aims to provide equitable healthcare to Guyanese in remote communities.

Ravi

File photo: A patient and a Community Health Worker utilising the telemedicine programme at the Gunns Village Health Post in December 2022

Public healthcare must offer...

last month, the Woodlands Hospital launched its stem cell services and immunotherapy – becoming the first in the country to offer such ground-breaking medical technology to the population. At the time, President Ali had made a commitment that by 2030, Guyana will offer healthcare services that are internationally recognised.

“When we speak of healthcare system, its public and private. The role of the Government is to facilitate growth and development. To put the programmes and policies in place to enable the private sector and citizens to make

investments in response to those policies. And here is an example of the private sector responding, again, to the policy agenda of the Government.”

Advances in the healthcare system in Guyana have been galloping along. Just

“In the next seven years, we are not trying to, by the grace and help of God, in the next seven years we are building in Guyana, a first world healthcare system for our citizens and a healthcare system that is fit for purpose and one that will provide global healthcare services for the rest of the world. Mark this night,” the Guyanese leader had declared.

“There is no rest in this sector in getting it to where we want to be.”

Moreover, he said as more and more innovations take place in the sector, he

called in financial and medical specialists as well as policymakers to start discussions on modern health insurance plans. He had also announced

the forthcoming establishment of a National Medical Scientific Council. This council, President Ali had noted, would bring the country’s best medical tal-

ent to investigate “not old technology but the best-inclass medical science development that can be applied in Guyana to help us here”. (G3)

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr Madhu Singh

Over 2 years later Cop still ‘missing’ after leaving home

It has now almost been two and a half years since Police Constable Quincy Lewis went missing after leaving his La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara home for work, and his disappearance still remains a mystery.

Lewis’s relatives in a recent interview told Guyana Times that there have been no developments in the case, and they are hoping to get an update on the investigation soon.

On June 19, 2020, Lewis visited his home to uplift a few pieces of clothes since he was supposed to be inline. After collecting the items, he boarded a motor car and left, and was not heard from since then.

The man’s brother, Revon Jordon, had told this publication that he became aware that his brother was missing when the owner of the car he left in, came looking for him four days later.

Lewis’s family at the time said they were under the impression that he was inline since they did not hear from him. They revealed that it was usual not hearing from him when he was inline.

However, when they contacted his place of work, they were told that he did not turn up for work. Several efforts were made to contact Lewis’s phone but they were all futile.

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance recordings revealed that Lewis crossed the Demerara Harbour Bridge, which is less than a 10-minute drive from where he was stationed. He was last seen entering Greenfield Park, East Bank Demerara.

A few months after he disappeared, Lewis’s cell phone was found in the Timehri, East Bank Demerara area with the screen cracked.

Last year, Police said they are hunting two men in relation to the cop’s disappearance. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said while Police are still investigating the officer’s disappearance, it appears as though the suspects involved in the case might have fled the jurisdiction.

The family is pleading with those who have information with respect to the whereabouts of the cop, to come forward so that he can be reunited with his family. (G9)

Missing: Constable Quincy Lewis

"I don't want my kids to struggle the way I did” – mother of triplets

lets to stay and to provide for their needs.

"I am hoping that I can get some assistance because it is very challenging, the situation in which I'm staying," she said, tears welling up in her eyes. "I have no family members that I can go by, and I want to give my children a better life."

Twenty-six-year-old Christine Crystal Hope's life has been a series of struggles and hardships. However, when she gave birth to her three beautiful baby boysAkeem, Akeen, and Akeno - it was a joyous occasion. However, that bliss quickly turned into worry as she thinks about her and the babies’ future. Abandoned by her family for years,

Christine was left to face life's challenges alone.

The young mother's situation is dire. She has no family, no permanent home, and no means of income. Currently, she and her four children, including her triplets and a 19-month-old daughter, are living in a cramped space called 'The Camp’, in Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice),

after being displaced by floods.

They are staying with her former partner's mother, along with her nine children, but to further complicate the situation, Christine has a sick brother to take care of, adding to her financial burden.

Despite her difficult circumstances, Christine remains hopeful and determined to provide a better

life for her children.

“I don't want my kids to struggle the way I did as a child," she said, her voice cracking with emotion. "Every time I call my mother for help, she never wants to help. My dad, I don't even know where he is. After mom left for Suriname, my father took us in, and he had us moving from house to house. I didn't get to finish school. I came out of form four. But I always wanted to become a nurse, and I hope that when I am back on my feet, I can get a job and pursue my dream.”

The journey to achieving her dream seems daunting, and Christine knows that there is a great challenge ahead. But she is determined to do her best to provide for her children, de-

spite the obstacles she faces. She recalled that while living in people's homes, she and her brothers were sometimes ill-treated.

"Sometimes you don't get the treatment you expect, and it was very hard," she saysid, her voice trembling.

She is hoping to receive assistance to provide a proper place for her trip-

Christine's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity. Let us come together to support this young mother and her triplets, and ensure that they have a brighter future. They deserve the chance to thrive and succeed, despite the difficult circumstances they face. Persons who are desirous of helping the new mother can contact her on telephone number (592) 699-5392. (G9)

Charity businessman arrested after ganja found in shop

Abusinessman from Charity, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), is now in Police custody after he was found with drugs in his shop on Friday evening.

Police said at about 19:45h on Friday, ranks were on mobile patrol, supervised by a senior rank, and while in the vicinity of Charity Back Street, Essequibo Coast, they saw a man in his shop acting suspiciously.

As a result, the ranks went into the business place and requested to conduct a search on his person and his shop to which he agreed. During the search, the ranks said the 29-yearold man of Charity Scheme, Essequibo Coast, was questioned.

According to Police, as the ranks continued their search, a black bulky plastic bag was found on the counter of the shop. It was opened in the presence of business owner and contained 54 small transparent zip-lock plastic bags

with a number of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

He was arrested and escorted to the Charity Police Station along with the suspected cannabis, where the suspected cannabis was weighed in his presence and amounted to 59.2 grams.

Only a few days ago, ranks in Essequibo Coast discovered a quantity of marijuana while they were on patrol in the district.

It was reported that cops stationed at the Charity Police Station along with Community Policing Group (CPG) members who were on patrol in the vicinity of Charity Backstreet, Essequibo Coast, while conducting searches on several stalls, found a transparent plastic bag.

Upon opening the bag, Police said it contained several small zip-lock plastic bags. Those were opened, and a number of leaves, seeds, and stems were found suspected to be cannabis. (G9)

The three bouncing baby boys born to Christine Crystal Hope

Christine Crystal Hope, mother of triplets

The ganja that was found by Police

Racist, divisive comments Region 5 APNU/AFC Councillor lambasted for supporting WPA’s position

The meeting of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) on Thursday, saw the condemnation of an APNU/ AFC Councillor, who sought to defend the widely condemned racist and violent remarks attributed to representatives of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA).

In so doing, Councillor Muhammed Ishmael received immense backlash from his colleagues on both sides of the political divide.

Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance Tacuma Ogunseye at a public meeting at Buxton, East Coast Demerara on March 9, uttered remarks that sought to incite racial hostility and violence.

The statement has already faced widespread condemnation from a wide cross-section of civil society, including some Opposition Members such as Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Ganesh Mahipaul, Daniel Seeram and Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine.

Opposition Leader

Aubrey Norton defended the remarks, saying that the politician’s right to free speech must be respected.

APNU/AFC Councillor on the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five Muhammed Ishmael during a meeting on Thursday also sought to defend the WPA member’s remarks.

“The statement that that brother had made, persons are blowing it out of proportion and making a big issue out of it but it is clear and straight that there are two ways to deal with a Government, it is through the ballot or the barrel of a gun,” Ishmael

told the RDC.

As the Councillor uttered the words, there were sounds of “no” coming from the floor as Councillors sat in disbelief.

However, Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal immediately called on the Councillor to retract his statement.

“Because I as head of this Council and this meeting will not encourage anyone in making statements that will fuel violence. Please retract your statement.”

Councillors from both sides of the political divide also tried to distance themselves from the statement.

Vice Chairman Ryan Pieters took the floor on a point of order after Ishmael had again taken the floor after being asked to take his seat. However, he said he was withdrawing the statement.

Before he took his seat, Councillor Ishmael, not satisfied that he was forced to withdraw the statement, went on the make threats to former Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth, say-

ing that he would deal with him after the meeting.

The Vice Chairman said if the second statement was not withdrawn, he was going to table a motion to have him suspended from the Council.

with this after the meeting. Mr Chairman, the Chief Whip would have just spoken about violence in our schools and here we have elected officials standing before this honourable house and publicly supporting violence in our community, violence in our country; we cannot support such behaviour in this honourable house or this region or this country,” the Vice Chairman said. (G4) APNU/AFC

“Mr Chairman I am speaking to the threat that was just uttered to this honourable member. Mr Chairman, the honourable member indicated that he will be dealing

Councillor Muhammed Ishmael

very uncomfortable right now”

mom on current living conditions

The Men on Mission (MoM) has partnered with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MONR) to construct a two-bedroom house for a single mother of three, Sandra Lewis of Christiansburg, Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

Lewis said she has been residing in the dilapidated house for over nine years.

The woman explained that due to the uncomfortable living conditions, she was

prompted to contact the MoM and the Natural Resources Ministry for assistance.

“I got on to the Men on Mission and they come forward… Me and my three kids are living there and it’s very uncomfortable right now,” Lewis explained in an interview with Department of Public Information (DPI).

The team began constructing the new structure aback Lewis’s old house on March 2.

Meanwhile, the Chief

Inspector of Wismar Police Station, Mark Lyte stated that they are seeking further assistance from the corporate society to push the home-building project.

“Ms Lewis would have made contact with several persons within the community. She eventually reached out to the Police, along with the Minister of Natural Resources and the Permanent Secretary. Through this proj-

ect, about two weeks ago, we came and laid some blocks. We also donated another set of blocks for the construction and the wood for the roof,” the Chief Inspector disclosed. He noted that the team is motivated to help vulnerable families and also reaffirmed the “One Guyana” vision, which speaks to the inclusion of every Guyanese in development. “We are working on a ‘One Guyana’ theme from

the Men on Mission to make every Guyanese feel comfortable and loved by the members of the community and the Government,” he noted.

The Police Inspector added that despite Lewis’s situation, her son is an ‘A’ student at the Mackenzie High School.

“We’re happy about that despite the situation that she is living, she is still making an effort to ensure her children have a proper education and making sure they are on top of it.”

To date, approximately 40 houses have been constructed through the MoM initiative, while another 50 houses will be built in 2023. The Men on Mission, which is the brainchild of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, is an initiative that seeks to combat toxic masculinity by fostering a good environment and a safe space for men, as well as fostering integrity, productivity, and accountability, through mentoring and humanitarian engagement.

“It’s

single

…to get new house through MoM

Men on Mission meeting Sandra Lewis and her children

Works ongoing on the new house

Sandra Lewis’s house

Govt invites bids to construct processing facility at Orealla

The Agriculture Ministry on Friday issued an invitation for sealed bids from qualified and eligible bidders for the construction of a processing facility for the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) at Orealla, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The engineer’s estimate for the duration of the work is $15.5 million, and the construction phase lasts 120 calendar days, DPI stated in a report.

A minimum of three jobs of a comparable sort must

have been completed in the previous three years, and other requirements include having a valid company licence and NIS and GRA compliances.

Interested and eligible bidders can get additional information from GMC’s Agriculture Complex at LBI Sugar Estate Compound, East Coast Demerara, Region Four.

Interested bidders may obtain the entire set of bidding papers (in pdf format on a CD) by sending a written request and paying a non-refundable fee of

$2500.

All bids must be delivered before 9:00h on March 28, 2023, to the Chairman at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, Ministry of Finance, Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown.

The GMC received a $37 million investment in July 2022, considerably increasing Guyana’s capability for agricultural processing.

To the advantage of all farmers who need help processing their produce, funding is made available to guarantee that agro-pro-

cessing facilities become operational.

At Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice, a cutting-edge food processing facility valued $37 million was officially opened.

In addition, a $15 million agro-processing complex was also commissioned at St Ignatius, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), in November 2022.

By doing this, the nation’s food security will be improved, exports will rise, and employment will be created.

File photo: This agro-processing facility in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was commissioned in November 2021

Region 5 RDC condemns “inciting” calls by WPA

The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) has condemned racially inciting calls made by members of the Working People’s Alliance at a recent public meeting.

The RDC has now joined the growing list of individuals, groups and organisations that have criticised the statements that could cause public violence.

During Thursday’s sitting of the RDC, Region Five Chairman Vickchand Ramphal received the support of the Council in condemning a recent call by Working People’s Alliance (WPA) member Tacuma Ogunseye at a public meeting at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, for the use of guns against the Government.

The utterances have already faced widespread condemnation from a wide cross-section of civil society, including some Opposition Members such as Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Ganesh

Mahipaul, Daniel Seeram and Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine.

However, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton defended the remarks, saying that the politician’s right to free speech must be respected.

But when RDC Councillor Muhammed Ishmael sought to defend the WPA member’s remarks during Thursday’s meeting, the Region Five Administration remained committed to unity.

Ishmael was forced to withdraw his statement that there are two ways to deal with a Government; it is through the ballot or the barrel of a gun.

Lead Councillor of the Opposition’s side at the RDC, Emmerson Benjamin declared that this is the time to unite, as he spoke of development taking place in communities that are not known to support the current Administration – a view that was also shared

by Ishmael.

Former RDC Chairman, Bindrabhan Bisnauth, who is now a councillor, also took the opportunity to make a call for condemnation of Ogunseye’s public statement.

“As Councillor Benjamin said, we should all be leaders. A member of the WPA made an erroneous statement calling for violence in Guyana and trying to use our brothers and sisters as pawns. In no uncer-

tain terms, we as leaders in Region Five should condemn that statement with one voice.”

Meanwhile, Ramphal said people should be calling for unity and not violence, making mention that all are aware of the issue Bisnauth referred to.

“When we speak of violence and what is happening in our society, we must reflect on the statements that are being made by some leaders in this country. Let me say that from the level of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Five that we fully condemn those statements that were made inciting violence and with an intention to bring disunity among our people. We must remain united for Guyana to move forward in peace and unity,” he said.

Vice Chairman Ryan Pieters called for leaders to lead by example and as responsible people. He pointed out that we are living in a period when politicians, who he referred to as responsible

people, are publicly speaking violence and hate. “We need to confront these issues. We cannot support responsible people generating hate and violence among us. Our kids are learning from us and absorbing what is happening in our society and around them. We have to lead by example as adults and responsible people.”

During the WPA meeting held in Buxton, East Coast Demerara on March 9, Ogunseye had made incendiary remarks.

Despite the mounting criticism over his remarks, Ogunseye is being backed by his party – the WPA, which has defended him.

Moreover, he is also receiving support from the APNU Opposition with APNU/PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton saying Ogunseye’s right to “free speech must be respected”. The Opposition Leader further described the utterances from the WPA camp as just “poor choice of words”.

(G4)

Region Five RDC meeting

Assisting Venezuelan migrants is a matter of priority – Guyana to international conference

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister

Hugh Todd has highlighted the coordinated response taken by the Government of Guyana to address the situation of migrants from Venezuela, which he said is being executed through the Multiagency Coordination Committee.

Todd on Friday participated virtually in the international conference in solidarity with Venezuelan refugees and migrants and their host countries and communities – an event held in a hybrid format in Brussels. He indicated that, as a matter of priority, the Government continues to offer registration and regularisation services for socio-economic and cultural integration into the Guyanese society, the provision of healthcare, education for migrant children, referrals to protective and social services, and necessary support for the vulnerable.

He also underscored

the commitment of the Government of Guyana to render humanitarian assistance to all migrants from Venezuela.

The Conference was organised by the Government of Canada and the European Union, mainly the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Inter-Agency Coordination Platform for Refugees and Migrants from Venezuela

(R4V).

The principal objectives of the conference were to maintain the visibility of the crisis, and to continue to generate resources to support host countries in Latin America and the Caribbean that are undertaking the task of integrating Venezuelan refugees and migrants into their societies.

The conference featured the participation of a broad range of actors, including host governments, inter-

national organizations, UN agencies, donors, the Private Sector, and civil society.

One week ago, the Foreign Affairs Ministry convened a meeting of the Multi-Agency Coordinating Committee (MACC) to address the influx of migrants from Venezuela into Guyana. The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and was attended by Committee members from Government agencies and international organisations resident in Guyana.

Discussions centred on

initiatives currently underway to ensure the coordinated and appropriate response of the Government of Guyana to the needs of the migrants from Venezuela. With over 20,000 Venezuelan migrants in remote hinterland areas, the UNHCR has been underscoring the need for humanitarian presence and support from the international community to aid with the Government of Guyana’s response to the needs of these communities.

Last year, President Dr Irfaan Ali posited that Government is work-

ing to address the situation of migrants in Guyana from a humanitarian perspective, and not refugee camps. Government had signalled its intention to work in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IMO) to draft a Migration Policy for those Guyanese who have returned to Guyana from Venezuela. It would entail a holistic plan to deal with those Guyanese returning from Venezuela, and those Venezuelans who have fled their country due to the political and economic crisis. (G12)

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, virtually attending the conference

US medical team creates impact on backlog of surgeries

…learns from Guyana’s malaria, dengue treatment

The Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT), which was sent on an exchange programme to Guyana, has been able to work with local professionals to conduct a number of surgeries and assist those who were waiting in the system.

The team has been able to work at two institutions – the Georgetown Public Hospital and the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

The medical assistance team includes 10 army personnel of ER doctors, surgeons, anthologists, clinical nurses, and surgical technicians, along with 19 Air Force members consisting of dentists, biomedical technicians, dental technicians, and force protection technicians, among others.

General Surgeon Dr Cheman Ramdharry

shared that approximately 45 surgeries were completed by the team. With collaboration from local surgeons, almost 60 cases were completed in one week.

“We will be operating on simple and complex cases, mostly abdominal pathology… Hopefully, we’re able

to create some sort of impact on the patients who have been waiting for surgery for a period of time,” Dr Ramdharry asserted.

“With the technology resources that they have, they’re able to share that skillset and knowledge with us. We’re grateful for

that sort of benefit…We appreciate such collaboration that could bring development, progress through education and training,” he added.

Through this collaborative effort with the Health Ministry, the team has been able to gain knowl-

edge on how the country is treating cases of malaria and dengue – diseases which are seen commonly in the health facilities.

Emergency Physician Captain Jacob Braun appeared on the Health Matters programme and shared that it has been a different experience in Guyana. While cases of malaria and dengue are rarely seen in the United States, persons in Guyana would appear for emergency treatment – most times after suffering from the condition for a long period, he said.

“We’ve been seeing a fair amount of complicated malaria patients, dengue patients, leptospirosis, which are not common cases I see in the United States…Seeing the complications has been a very eye-opening experience for me. Seeing the expertise

of the Guyanese emergency specialists and how they approach these problems is something I’ll take to practice back home,” Braun expressed.

The team was able to reach out to the Diamond Hospital, where important X-ray equipment was repaired, restoring their capacity to 100 percent. Children and adults who needed dental care were also assisted.

“Our region has had its fair amount of challenges. We see this as an opportunity to progress with our development. We’re able to provide standardised care for patients needing surgical assistance. We’re grateful for the opportunity of rapidly performing surgeries over a short period of time for a number of patients,” Dr Ramdharry shared on the programme. (G12)

Dr Cheman Ramdharry, Staff Sergeant Dreason Bodkin, and Captain Jacob Braun appearing on the Health Matters programme this week

Accelerating Change

“Thousands have lived without love, not one without water.”

— W. H. Auden

All plants and animals need water to survive. Water is used for a variety of life-sustaining functions: from removing waste from the body to transporting nutrients. Humans rely on water for many things beyond biological functions – transportation of goods, manufacturing, agriculture, recreation, and much more.

Be the change you want to see in the world

World Water Day is celebrated annually on March 22, to raise awareness on freshwater issues, and to encourage action to protect the world’s water resources. This year, the focus of Water Day is on accelerating change to solve the water and sanitation crisis, given that, globally, we are far behind on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals specifically related to water -- Clean Water and Sanitation.

The global campaign called “Be the change” encourages people to take action in their own lives to change the way they use, consume, and manage water.

Managing water resources in Guyana

Guyana is one of four countries which host the Guiana Shield, one of the most pristine rainforest landscapes in the world. The Guiana Shield stores around 18% of the world’s tropical forest carbon and 20% of the world’s fresh water. Further, Guyana’s ocean area – more than half of Guyana’s terrestrial area – offers a new frontier for sustainable development through the expansion of the Ocean/Blue Economy (LCDS 2030).

The importance of water management has been recognised by the Government of Guyana in the updated version of the Low Carbon Development Strategy as a new incentive for a low carbon economy. The LCDS aims to upgrade Guyana’s water and other sectors, including transportation and energy, on a low-carbon, non-polluting trajectory.

In the Land of Many Waters, there are a number of state agencies with responsibility for water resources management. The EPA has an overarching role in the management of freshwater resources under the Environmental Protection Act Cap 20:05 and Water Quality Regulations 2000. These include:

* Preventing or controlling pollution

* Establishing, monitoring and enforcing environmental regulations

* Promoting and encouraging a better understanding and appreciation of the natural environment, and

* Ensuring that development activities that may have a negative impact on the environment are assessed.

What can you do to be the change?

Bathrooms:

* Do not let the water run while shaving or brushing teeth.

* Turn off the water flow while soaping or shampooing.

* Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it - such as watering a plant or garden.

Kitchen and Laundry:

* Keep drinking water in the refrigerator instead of letting the faucet run until the water is cool.

* Wash fruits and vegetables in a basin. Use a vegetable brush.

* Do not use water to defrost frozen foods, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

* Use a dishpan for washing and rinsing dishes.

* Scrape, rather than rinse, dishes before loading into the dishwasher.

* Add food wastes to your compost pile instead of throwing them out

* Use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.

Outside:

* Sweep driveways, sidewalks and steps rather than hosing off.

* When using a hose, control the flow with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

* Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.

Equipment:

* Repair all leaks. A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons per day. To detect leaks in the toilet, add food colouring to the tank water. If the coloured water appears in the bowl, the toilet is leaking.

* Install ultra-low flow toilets, or place a plastic container filled with water or gravel in the tank of your conventional toilet. Be sure it does not interfere with operation of the toilet’s flush mechanism.

* Install low-flow aerators and showerheads.

* Consider purchasing a high-efficiency washing machine, which can save over 50% in water and energy use.

Sources https://lcds.gov.gy/executive-summary/ https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Water/Water-Quantity/Tips-forConserving-Water https://www.worldwaterday.org/ https://www.unwater.org/news/world-water-day-2023

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O Communications, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Lusignan Prison inmates being relocated from Holding Bay

In order to transition inmates into the new state-of-the-art facility at the Lusignan Prison, the relocation of inmates from the Holding Bay has commenced.

Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim,

along with senior officers of the various prison locations, on Saturday visited the Lusignan Prison estate to get a first-hand understanding of the transitioning process, and view the progress of ongoing construction projects at the location.

“The relocation of prisoners from the Holding Bay to the new facilities had already commenced,” a statement shared.

Pilgrim said the visit also gave the senior officers a clear understanding of the dynamics of the new facility, since the prison system has undergone a massive process of change over the last few years. He noted that upon the completion of many projects, the GPS will be closer to achieving its essential goal, which is to transition from a penal system to that of a correctional facility. Once fully operational, the new facilities would allow for some 1,000 prisoners to be accommodated in keeping with international requirements.

The $1.2 billion facility is fulfilment of a commitment of the PPP/C Administration following the destruction of sections of the Georgetown and old Lusignan prisons. It also forms part of the administration’s manifesto promise to create safer prisons with improved conditions.

In 2017, some 1,000 prisoners were transported to the Lusignan facility following a mass fire

that gutted the Camp Street Prions, and a holding area was constructed to temporarily house those inmates. This new, modernised building was created with a fire suppression system that would have access to adequate water, and adheres to the specifications for the housing of prisoners.

It was reported a few days ago that Phase One of the Mazaruni Prison Expansion has been completed, and will house 220 prisoners. Phase Two is ongoing, and would be completed by the end of the year. Another 150 inmates would be housed therein.

At Lusignan Prison, three buildings have been completed to house over 900 prisoners. Another three structures will be completed within a few months. A new facility will be constructed for female prisoners at Lusignan, and would house 80 inmates. Meanwhile, motion sensor devices and a security fence were installed at Lusignan penitentiary. An infirmary annex at the facility has led to improved healthcare services for inmates.

Some $2.2 billion of the Guyana Prisons Services’ $5.5 billion allocation in Budget 2023 has been used to advance prisons being constructed at Mazaruni and Lusignan, and to commence reconstruction work at the New Amsterdam Prison. (G12)

A section of the new Lusignan facility

Dr. Tariq Jagnarine Family meDicine, enDocrinology/DiabeTes

The holy month of Ramadan is a special month of the year for Muslims around the world. This is a time when Muslims connect more deeply with their religion, reflect on themselves, and give back to their communities.

There are different kinds of Muslims, and different traditions within the religion. When it comes to Ramadan, fasting is a ritual shared by nearly all. Fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from food and water between sunrise and sunset for the entire month.

Ramadan provides the reward of self-growth and the opportunity to learn more about the Muslim religion and Muslims. These spiritual rewards require hard work and dedication to praying, a commitment to charity, and willpower when fasting.

Muslims follow a calendar based on the motion of the moon. Every year, Ramadan falls 15 days earlier than the last. Depending on where they live in the world, the days may be short or long.

The month often begins with optimistic energy, and practitioners may set many spiritual goals. However, it can be easy to falter as they try to maintain their health while fasting and balancing their regular day-to-day responsibilities.

Here are some practical tips and tricks to support a safe, successful fast during Ramadan.

* DON’T SKIP MORNING MEAL

There are only two opportunities to eat during Ramadan: in the early morning before sunrise (Suhoor), and after sunset in the evening (Iftar). The morning meal can be easy to skip, as it’s difficult to have an appetite so early in the morning. The food choices Muslims make will affect their energy throughout the day. Most times, people will turn to simple carbohydrates (fruits) for the morning meal; howev -

HEALTH TIPS

PRACTICAL TIPS TO SAFELY FAST DURING RAMADAN

er, simple carbohydrates will not provide long-term energy. Instead, eat whole grains paired with healthy fats and proteins as well as fruits and veggies. These include dishes such as:

* Savory oatmeal

* Power pancakes

* Strawberry-chocolate overnight oats

* Porridges

* HYDRATION

Drinking water is vitally important, and has many health benefits. Not drinking enough water can result in a poor mood and increased tiredness. This can affect energy levels and memory.

Maintaining water intake can also help manage chronic health conditions, and has a role in preventing and treating headaches, migraines, kidney stones, and constipation, as well as maintaining blood pressure.

There’s also some evidence that staying hydrated lowers appetite. This is especially useful when not eating for the entire day!

Use the time before sunrise and after sunset as an opportunity to rehydrate and meet the recommended water intake. Keep a water bottle closed throughout the night, and drink whenever possible.

It can also be helpful to pay attention to the foods eaten. While sweets during Ramadan can be very tempting, try to choose foods with high water content instead.

Integrate water-filled fruits and vegetables into the evening meal. Fruits such as:

* Pineapples

* Bananas

* Mangoes

* Guavas

* Strawberries

* Watermelons

* Cantaloupes

* Cucumbers

* Zucchinis

* Bell peppers

* Tomatoes

If Ramadan falls during a warmer season, dress cool and try to avoid direct sun.

* BE CONSCIOUS OF PORTIONS

Traditional foods are very important for Muslims, especially during Ramadan. Try to be mindful of portions, as cultural foods can be very oily and heavy. Even though it tastes amazing, it can result in people feeling exhausted and tired the next day if they overdo it.

Ramadan isn’t a oneday event, it’s a month-long event. While breaking the fast is a celebration, eating traditional foods every evening may not be the

best idea. After a whole day of not eating and feeling hungry, overeating is also common. This may lead to morning tiredness and weight gain over the month.

Break the fast by eating a date, some fruit, drinking some water, pausing, and completing the evening prayer before diving into any food.

The natural sugars from the fruit will allow the body to register that it has had food. Persons won’t feel like they are starving, and they are less likely to overeat.

For the evening meal, use the plate as a guide. Try to distribute food as follows:

* Vegetables or salad: Half a plate.

* Carbohydrates: Quarter of a plate. If persons choose to eat refined carbohydrates, be mind -

ful to keep them to a minimum.

* Protein: Quarter of a plate.

* UNDERSTAND YOUR HEALTH

Having a chronic medical condition doesn’t mean that people aren’t able to fast. It does mean that it’s essential to plan ahead, and make the necessary adjustments, though. Most medications can and should be continued while fasting. However, the time they are taken should be adjusted to fit the fasting schedule of the evening meal and morning meal.

If fasting worsens the medical condition even after modifying the medication schedule, patients should not fast. This includes critical illnesses like those requiring hospitalisation; diabetes, that requires

a consistent supply of food and drink to manage blood sugars; and certain cancers.

People with common medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension can still fast, as long as their conditions are stable and controlled. However, they’ll need to closely monitor blood sugars and blood pressure, ensure adequate hydration, and adjust the timing of their medications.

Above all, have an open and communicative relationship with a healthcare professional to ensure that it’s safe to fast. Also, discuss adjusting medications.

If fasting doesn’t align with one’s health during Ramadan, do not worry.

Ramadan can still be honoured by making up fasting days later, or through charity.

* BOUNCE BACK

After Ramadan is over, it can be difficult to resume regular eating habits. Our bodies may have become accustomed to not eating for long periods of time during the day, and having heavier meals in the evening.

Try out intermittent fasting, and ensure to hydrate throughout the day. If persons are leaning towards snacking, consider setting consistent mealtimes instead.

Ramadan is a time for celebration and spiritual growth. It’s also a challenging time as Muslims undertake the trial of fasting for the month. Use these tips to stay energised while fasting during the day, and enjoying cultural foods when the sun goes down.

RAMADAN MUBARAK!!!

Ex-US President Donald Trump expects to be arrested on Tuesday

Donald Trump says he expects to be arrested on Tuesday and has urged his supporters to launch mass protests.

However his lawyer said there had been no communication from law enforcement and the former president’s post was based on media reports.

Prosecutors have been looking at a possible indictment of Mr Trump. Reports say it could come next week.

If he is indicted, it would be the first criminal case ever brought against a former US president.

This case focuses on al-

leged hush money paid on Mr Trump’s behalf by his lawyer to porn star Stormy Daniels prior to the 2016 presidential election.

It is one of several cases in which the 76-year-old is currently being investigated, although he has not yet been charged in any and denies wrongdoing in each.

Mr Trump has pledged to continue his campaign to become the Republican nominee in the 2024 presidential election, even if he is indicted.

Past efforts to investigate him, including two impeachment trials, the Russia inves-

tigation and the Mar-a-Lago raid, have tended to make him more popular with his base, so an indictment could have a similar effect.

It is not yet known if he is going to be criminally charged this week or even, beyond broad strokes, what those charges might be.

But with the former president predicting an arrest, and calling for mass protests, this is a journey into unknown territory.

Mr Trump has a loyal base of followers, and the 6 January 2021 attack on the US Capitol by his supporters following his

repeated calls to protest has proven that a fraught situation can quickly escalate into violence. On Saturday Mr Trump wrote on his social networking site Truth Social that “illegal leaks” from the Manhattan district attorney’s office “indicate” he would be arrested on Tuesday.

The district attorney’s office has not yet commented. Mr Trump’s lawyer, Susan Necheles, said her team had not heard anything from law enforcement officials.

“Since this is a political prosecution, the district attorney’s office has engaged in a

practice of leaking everything to the press, rather than communicating with President Trump’s attorneys as would be done in a normal case,” she said.

The Republican Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, has hit out at the investigation, calling it “an outrageous abuse of power by a radical DA [district attorney]”.

In a tweet, he also promised to investigate whether federal money was being used

to interfere in elections “with politically motivated prosecutions”.

Any indictment would create a complicated calculation for Mr Trump’s rivals within the Republican Party, as they decide whether to up their attacks on the former president while he is potentially distracted or keep their heads down and hope for the best.

If history is any guide, it will be the latter. (BBC)

Bullying results in 15-year-old girl’s death

A question of paternity, which escalated into bullying, is said to have led to the death of 15-year-old Holmwood Technical High School student Nastacia Turner in Mendez Town, Trelawny, on Tuesday.

The girl’s 15-year-old cousin was taken into custody in relation to her death immediately after.

Initial reports were that the two girls were fighting when they both fell and Turner hit her head.

But according to Nastacia’s mother, Latoya Reece, the father of her daughter had refused to accept paternity and this resulted in his niece bullying her at school. The mother told the Jamaica Observer that she made multiple visits to the school after receiving complaints from her daughter. However, the issue was never addressed due to its nature and she sought ways to protect her daughter.

“Even though I went to the school and spoke to them, I noticed that she was still being bullied. So one day I went to school and explained to the principal that I want a transfer,” Reece said.

Her attempt at switching schools, she said, was met with roadblocks.

“The principal wrote two letters and gave them to me — one to give to Christiana High and the other to Spalding High. But the schools said that they can’t take students in the middle of the school term,” Reece explained.

The alleged bullying did not stop and the mother said she was forced to escalate the matter to the police as her daughter shared that she could not bear it any more.

“She still had issues with her cousin. They were saying bad things about her and would constantly pick on her,” Reece said.

“I remember one evening I was at a hairdresser shop and she came crying that they are troubling her and she cannot take it any more,” the mother recounted.

“She said that she was not going back to school. I called someone at the school and they said that I should report it to the [police] station. I went to the Christiana Police Station and the police gave me a receipt to visit the Wait-ABit Police Station. The Wait-ABit police went with me to one of the kids’ house to speak to her parents. That child did not bother Nastacia any more, but her cousin continued to trouble her,” the mother said. She

also said that her appeals to her daughter’s paternal family did not yield any results.

“I went to aunt, grandma, father and nothing was ever done. I don’t see who I didn’t ask to help me. The father said that they are just children. He didn’t care,” Reece told the Observer.

She said that on Tuesday, moments before the tragedy, her daughter had shared more concerns regarding her return to school. She said that Nastacia had said her cousin and friends hid her school bag.

“She turned to me and said that she is not going back because she is not sure she is going to make it. She said that she was sick and tired. She was anaemic and was also on her period, so she said that because she was in the sun walking around trying to find her bag, she felt very weak,” Reece said.

“She told me to get two painkillers for her. So I went to ask my sister for the pain pill and I saw her cousin coming down the road,” Reece said, adding that that was the start of the incident which changed her life.

“I don’t know where she went but I saw her coming back. She started to sing a [rude] song when she saw that I was coming up the hill, but I didn’t pay her any mind. My other daughter is always sitting down the road. I heard her scream out and when I looked down the road, I saw her rolling down the hill. She said that the cousin pushed her down into the bush,” said the mother as she fought back tears.

“I ran to take her out of the bush and Nastacia also came to help me with her sister. The cousin came back over and was standing in front of Nastacia like she wanted to fight. Nastacia asked her why she can’t behave herself,” Reece told the Observer.

Pointing out that Nastacia did not attempt to fight her cousin, the mother said she could not believe what she saw next.

“I saw when the cousin pushed her and she dropped on her head,” the mother claimed.

Reece further told the Observer that while her daughter was lying on the ground, her father came to pick up his niece and took her to the police station.

The incident, she said, has left her traumatised.

“I have not slept or eaten since my daughter died,” she said. (Jamaica Observer)

Wife stabs husband to death

Amother of three on Saturday morning

stabbed her reputed husband to death at their Fourth Street Alberttown, Georgetown home.

Dead is 23-year-old Esan Hamilton.

Reports are that the stabbing occurred at about 06:30h at Lot 57 Fourth Street Alberttown,

Georgetown. According to Police, investigations revealed that Hamilton and his reputed wife, who is a waitress, occupied one of three bedrooms on the upper flat of a family house with their three children.

Police said that Hamilton’s aunt reported that she was in the kitchen, when she saw her nephew

Judge orders calypsonian to sing ‘sanitised version’ of song or face contempt charge

rushing out of his bedroom holding his left side abdomen saying “Look what Dacia did to me”.

According to the aunt, she placed her nephew to sit in a chair in the living room and saw that he had a stab wound to his left side lower abdomen.

Police said that the woman reported that she then saw her nephew’s reputed wife exiting the bedroom with a silver knife in her hand.

She said as she waited on a taxi to arrive to take her nephew to the hospital,

Former calypso monarch Weston “Cro Cro”

Rawlins will only be allowed to perform a sanitised version of his 2023 calypso, Another Sat is Outside Again, at two shows this weekend in San Fernando and Port of Spain.

In an emergency hearing on Saturday, Justice Frank Seepersad issued a wider injunction against the calypsonian in a lawsuit filed by businessman Inshan Ishmael.

Ishmael initially wanted the court to prevent Rawlins from singing the song at the Naparima Bowl and Government Campus Plaza but then asked that both shows be stopped.

While the veteran calypsonian can sing his 2023 offering, he cannot repeat any of the words complained of as offensive and defamatory by Ishmael until the court determines if the words are, in fact, about Ishmael and defamatory.

He can rewrite the song but cannot recreate any references to the businessman, the judge’s order says.

“The defendant is a former calypso monarch, he has an extensive musical portfolio and is not a “one-hit wonder.” It is likely that the defendant‘s fans would enjoy his performance even if he does not perform the imputed calypso.”

Ishmael was represented by Nigel Trancuso and Richard Jaggasar while Rawlins was represented

by Senior Counsel Gilbert Peterson and Kareem Marcelle at Saturday’s virtual hearing.

The injunction will continue until the trial of the matter or otherwise directed, Seepersad ordered.

“The artform has fashioned the way we live, think and socialise and the commentary it offers can catalyse awareness and change. Creative licence, however, cannot be used as a sword to engage in ill-informed or baseless attacks which can decimate an individual’s character or integrity.

“We strive to live in a civilised space where freedom of expression must be balanced and must be engaged in a reasonable, fair and proportionate manner which ensures that the fundamental rights of others are not eviscerated.

“This court will not condone or accept any position which advances a narrative that social media comments or commentary by calypsonians is sacrosanct and that people should be free to say whatever they feel as they ‘speak their minds’ even if the content is divisive, derogatory, deceitful, dishonest or defamatory.”

The judge also warned that if any part of his order was violated, a no-tolerance approach will be taken and he will not shy away from finding anyone in contempt of breaching any court order. (Excerpted from T&T Newsday)

she tried to enquire from the suspect what occurred but received no answer.

Hamilton was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he subsequently died while receiving treatment.

Police said that two knives were removed from the scene. Hamilton’s body is presently at the GPHC mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. His reputed wife has since been taken into custody as the investigation continues.

Dead: Esan Hamilton

Calypsoian Weston “Cro Cro” Rawlins

T&T religious leaders tell top cop to pray but fix crime too

Religious bodies in Trinidad and Tobago agree with Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher’s call for citizens to pray for divine intervention in the fight against crime. However, they also believe every citizen, starting with the CoP, needs to take the necessary action to eradicate the crime scourge.

“There is nothing wrong in trusting in God and turning to God... for strength and courage and wisdom and guidance but it must never be seen as a reason for us to abandon our respective responsibilities - whether it be Police Commissioner, whether it be Prime Minister, or Dharmacharaya or a parent or a teacher,” spiritual head (Dharmacharaya) of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS), Dr Rampersad Parasram, told Guardian Media yesterday.

His comments came in

the wake of the CoP’s claim on Wednesday, at a breakfast meeting hosted by the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce, that it would take more than anti-crime plans for the T&T Police Service to eradicate the current crime problem.

“An evil has spread over the land and we must recognise, those of you who are spiritually inclined, you must recognise that this is beyond the physical and unless we seek the intervention of that greater spirit, whatever we may call him, we know we have different religions, so who will call him God, who will call him Allah, or Krishna, all of us, if not all of us, 99 per cent of us believe in a superior being and we need to invoke the help of that being, if we need to really bring Trinidad and Tobago back to that place where we want it to be,” Harewood-Christopher told the audience.

She added, “Because the police can come up with whatever strategy, but unless we enlist the help of God, we will be working in vain.”

Yesterday, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Portof-Spain, Fr Martin Sirju, also suggested both prayer and an effort at ending the problem were needed, adding while faithful believe we ought to rely on God and Him alone, “we cannot dis-

count the fact that we must work and pray. It’s not either or, it’s an ‘and’.”

In a Catholic TT article, he referred to the traditional motto of the Benedictine monks: Ora et labora (pray and work), reminding citizens that they all have a responsibility to do the “hard work,” as well as “cooperate” with God.

“So, we can’t shun the responsibility and just make it seem magical and throw

arms up in the air for divine intervention,” Fr Sirju said.

As a testament to the need for further action, the president of the InterReligious Organisation (IRO), Lloyd Sirju, said all spiritual bodies have always prayed for crime to end in T&T. He too believes individuals need to take up the fight, and in some instances, other ways.

“I mean, I don’t want to say what Government should do or what Government shouldn’t do, but people need to be allowed to protect themselves,” he said.

The public relations officer of the Anjuman Sunnat ul Jamaat Association (ASJA), Imam Raffaic Mohammed, agreed with

the Commissioner’s call but questioned if the current society is God-fearing or spiritual enough to accept it.

“There is no spirituality in the people right now in the whole world. People just mechanical...the world is only about money or worldly things and they not concerned about praying and getting themselves committed to God,” he said.

It’s also a concern for SDMS General Secretary Vijay Maharaj, who also cited behaviours witnessed from some of the country’s leaders.

“Yes, we have to turn to God but we are no longer a God-fearing people in my opinion,” he said. (T&T Guardian)

Ukraine Black Sea grain export deal extended, UN and Turkey say

Adeal allowing the export of Ukrainian grain over the Black Sea, which had been due to expire on Saturday, has been renewed, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the United Nations have announced.

The agreement was concluded after talks with Russia and Ukraine, Erdogan said in a speech in the western city of Canakkale on Saturday, but he did not specify how long the extension of the deal was for.

Russia said it had agreed to a 60-day extension, while Ukraine’s infrastructure minister said the deal had been extended for 120 days.

The deal between the two warring sides, brokered in July by Turkey and the UN, has seen more than 11 million tonnes of agricultural products shipped from three of Ukraine’s Black Sea ports, including 4.5 million tonnes of corn and 3.2 million tonnes of wheat.

“This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply,” Erdogan said in televised comments. “I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn’t spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general.”

Before the war, Ukraine was one of the world’s top farm producers, and the so-called Black Sea Grain Initiative has helped soothe the global food crunch triggered by the conflict.

“Ukraine is one of the world’s largest exporters of sunflower oil, also wheat and grain,” said Al Jazeera’s Stephanie Dekker, reporting from the

outskirts of Kyiv. “What is produced here – and what gets exported – has a direct effect on food prices around the world.”

Russia’s full-scale invasion in February last year saw Ukraine’s Black Sea ports blocked by warships. But the grain deal has allowed for the safe passage of exports of critical grain supplies to combat a global food crisis. The initial agreement was extended in November for 120 days.

Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said the latest extension was for another 120 days. Ankara had previously said it wanted a 120-day extension while Russia was in favour of a 60-day extension.

Kubrakov thanked the UN and Turkey for adhering to the agreements in the grain deal.

“[The] Black Sea Grain Initiative agreement is extended for 120 dayss,” Kubrakov said on Twitter. “Grateful to Antonio Guterres, the United Nations, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, [Defence] Minister Hulusi Akar and all our partners for sticking to the agreement.”

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said: “We are seeing reports from parties to the ‘grain deal’ that the deal has been extended for 120 days.

“We have repeatedly stated … that the Russian side has notified all parties to the deal that it is extending the deal for 60 days,” Zakharova said in remarks carried by the Interfax news agency. (Al Jazeera)

Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher

Magnitude 6.8 earthquake shakes Ecuador, at least 4 deaths reported

Amagnitude 6.8 earthquake shook a coastal region of Ecuador and northern Peru midday Saturday, leaving at least four people dead and resulting in some structural damage.

“I call for calm and for people to get informed through official channels,” said Ecuadorian President Guillermo Lasso in a tweet.

The quake, which the US Geological Survey (USGS) measured at magnitude 6.8, struck at a depth of 66.4 km (41.3 miles) about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from the city of Balao in the province of Guayas.

The earthquake did not appear likely to generate a

tsunami, authorities said.

Ecuador’s Secretariat of Risk Management said in a statement that a wall had collapsed onto a vehicle, killing one person, in the city of Cuenca. In the community of Machala, three people were killed and multiple structures collapsed, including a two-story home and a wharf, while multiple communities lost power.

The earthquake also led to structural damage in two other provinces, including a collapsed wall in a supermarket, and was felt in more than half of the country’s 24 provinces, the Secretariat said.

The agency said that state-run oil company Petroecuador had evacuat-

US leans on Honduras to rethink China switch, hopes for reprieve

ed and suspended activities in multiple facilities out of precaution, but had not reported damage.

“We all ran out into the streets... we were very scared,” said Ernesto Alvarado, a resident of Isla Puna, an island near the epicentre, adding that some homes had collapsed.

The initial quake was followed by two weaker aftershocks in the following hour, according to the Geophysics Institute of Ecuador.

Peruvian authorities said that the quake was felt in the country’s northern region, and that there were no immediate reports of harm to people or structures. (Reuters)

The United States is trying to discourage Honduras from following through on its plan to switch diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China, sources close to the matter say, hoping the lack of a formal agreement yet may leave the door open for a change of heart.

The ongoing US diplomatic pressure comes after Honduran President Xiomara Castro said on Tuesday her country would establish formal ties with China, following up on a pledge she made in her presidential campaign in 2021. Then, in 2022, her Government appeared to walk back the policy.

Officials and former officials from the US and several Central American countries said Castro’s provisional announcement contrasted with how countries in Latin America have tended to make public shifts in alliance from China to Taiwan.

“We truly don’t know whether it will be days or weeks or months,” a US

Government official told Reuters on background. “Is it a negotiating tactic? We don’t know for sure, but we will continue to make our case.”

Since 2016, when Tsai Ing-wen was elected Taiwan’s President, Panama, El Salvador and most recently, Nicaragua, have changed sides. All announced the switch as a fait accompli.

In another unusual turn, Honduras’ ambassador to Taiwan, Harold Burgos, met with Taiwanese Foreign Ministry officials on Wednesday after Castro’s announcement, something which Nicaragua’s ambassador had declined to do during her country’s switch in 2021, two diplomatic sources in Taipei said.

Reuters could not ascertain the outcome of the meeting, though Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said publicly it told Burgos his country should “carefully consider the matter so as not to fall into China’s snare and make a flawed decision.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

A damaged car and rubble from a house affected by the earthquake are pictured in Cuenca, Ecuador. March 18, 2023

The flags of Taiwan and Honduras flutter in the wind outside the Taiwan Embassy in Tegucigalpa, Honduras March 15, 2023

Around the World North Korea claims almost 800,000 have signed up to fight against US

North Korea claims that about 800,000 of its citizens volunteered to join or reenlist in the nation’s military to fight against the United States, North Korea’s state newspaper reported on Saturday.

About 800,000 students and workers, on Friday alone, across the country expressed a desire to enlist or reenlist in the military to counter the United States, the Rodong Sinmun newspaper reported.

“The soaring enthusiasm of young people to join the army is a demonstration of the unshakeable will of the younger generation to mercilessly wipe out the war

maniacs making last-ditch efforts to eliminate our precious socialist country, and achieve the great cause of national reunification without fail and a clear manifestation of their ardent patriotism,” the North’s Rodong Sinmun said.

The North’s claim came after North Korea on Thursday launched its Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in response to ongoing USSouth Korea military drills.

North Korea fired the ICBM into the sea between the Korean peninsula and Japan on Thursday, hours before South Korea’s President flew to Tokyo for

a summit that discussed ways to counter the nuclear-armed North.

The North’s ballistic missiles are banned under United Nations Security Council resolutions and the launch drew condemnation from governments in Seoul, Washington and Tokyo.

South Korean and American forces began 11 days of joint drills, dubbed “Freedom Shield 23”, on Monday, held on a scale not seen since 2017 to counter the North’s growing threats.

Kim accused the United States and South Korea of increasing tensions with the military drills. (Reuters)

Menindee: Millions of dead fish wash up near Australian town

Residents in a regional Australian town have woken to find millions of dead fish in their river.

The large-scale fish deaths were first reported on Friday morning in the New South Wales (NSW) town of Menindee.

The state’s river authority said it was a result of an ongoing heatwave affecting the Darling-Baaka river.

Locals say it is the largest fish death event to hit the town, that experienced another significant mass death of fish just three years ago.

In a Facebook post, the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) said the heatwave put “further stress on a system that has experienced extreme conditions from wide-scale flooding”.

Heatwaves have become more frequent, more intense, and last longer because of human-induced climate change. The world has already warmed by about 1.1C since the industrial era began and temperatures will keep rising unless gov-

ernments around the world make steep cuts to emissions.

Speaking to the BBC, Menindee resident Graeme McCrabb described the deaths as “surreal”.

“It’ll probably be a bit more confronting today,” he said, as he warned that locals were anticipating that even more fish would die as the already decomposing fish sucked more oxygen from the water.

Around 500 people live in the town in far-west New South Wales. The DarlingBaaka river is a part of the Murray Darling Basin, Australia’s largest river system.

The Murray Darling Basin authority said agriculture, industries and communities have used water from the river system which has resulted in less water flowing through the river.

It also said the Basin is prone to extreme weather events and has a highly variable climate that makes it vulnerable to both fires and droughts. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Troops take part in a military parade to mark the 75th founding anniversary of North Korea’s army, in Pyongyang, North Korea February 8, 2023, in this photo released by North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency

“There’s about 30 kilometres of dead fish,” local resident Graeme McCrabb told the BBC

PICKLES

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 28June 20)

CANCER

Think big and follow through. Prepare for whatever you must do to turn your idea into a reality. Use your strength, courage and skills to get what you want. Share your success with a loved one.

Research will lead to someone who can shed light on your options. Be observant and listen. Don’t feel the need to act fast or give up too much to get what you want. Focus on self-improvement.

Slow down, think matters through and adjust your itinerary to ensure you reach your destination. Start a side business that can bring in cash and give you peace of mind.

Use your imagination, skills and talents to gain approval and interest. Attend a conference or pick up supplies to motivate you to follow your dream and pursue what brings you the most joy.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

A disciplined financial plan will help you get back on track. A heart-to-heart discussion with an expert will lead to better decisions. Don’t take any kind of risk. Do your research.

Take control of matters. You’ll figure out how to get what you want with the least amount of interference. Take care of responsibilities first, then engage in something that interests you with someone you love. Romance is on the rise.

Proceed cautiously. Don’t take a risk or trust someone else to look out for you. Gather information and be blunt regarding what you are willing to do or how much you’ll pay for something.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22Jan. 19)

AQUARIUS

(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Do what brings you the most satisfaction with the people who bring out the best in you. You can take a creative hobby to the next level. A physical change will enhance your life. Romance is favored.

Refuse to let anyone play with your heart or disrupt your plans. Spend time at home. Do what makes you happy and walk away from anyone looking for a fight.

Reconfigure anything that isn’t working for you. Move things around at home or discuss what you want with someone who can help make your life better. Self-improvement will boost your confidence.

Take precautions to avoid an argument or accident. Don’t agree with or participate in a change that doesn’t serve your needs. Go about your business and focus on getting caught up.

You’ll make headway if you start a domestic project. Declutter, move things around to suit your needs, and give away or sell items you no longer use. Put your health and emotional well-being first.

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

SUNDAY,

Neither Tucville Secondary nor Lodge Secondary disappointed supporters in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Blue Water U15 Girls’ Development League, as they played to a thrilling nil-nil draw on Friday, March 17, at the Georgetown Football Club ground.

Tucville and Lodge

Secondary schools are two of the strongest teams in the league, and with both teams maintaining strong defensive strategies, on several occasions strikers on both sides came close to scoring, as teammates, fans and coaches

cheered them on. However, after the final whistle, there was genuine respect on the pitch between students and coaches.

Launched in Georgetown in May 2022, the GFF-Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls Development League is a five-year partnership between the GFF and Blue Water Shipping.

The league, which aims to increase the number of young girls playing football, identify new talent, raise the profile of female football, and provide coaches with more hours to work with young female footbal-

The Girls of Lodge Secondary

lers, is also being played in Linden, the

mental programmes, including the Blue Water U15 Girls’ Development League.

Rupununi and New Amsterdam.

GFF President Wayne Forde and the Council are committed to elevating wom-

The Girls of Tucville Secondary

Blue Water U15 Girls football Development League 2023…

Guyana men’s, women’s tennis teams qualify for CAC Games

The Guyana senior men’s tennis team have progressed to the main draw of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Qualifier tournament after placing second in their group. In their action, Guyana defeated Honduras 3-2 after winning the doubles. Shemar Britton picked up the first single and Jonathan Van Lange came back to win the deciding game.

The women’s team of Chelsea Edghill OLY and Natalie Cummings defeated the Trinidad and Tobago pair 3-1, winning the doubles and winning their singles matches. Later on, they went down to Spanish pow-

erhouse Dominican Republic. They now play Costa Rica for a place in the semifinal of the tournament.

Both teams have qualified for the CAC Games, to be held in San Salvador in June of this year. This was the first of a few objectives of GTTA coming into this month of table tennis action.

Commenting on this, GTTA President Godfrey Munroe stated, “This was the ultimate goal, qualifying for these Games; the focus now is on placement for the remainder of this tournament.

The performance is a good precursor in preparation for the Senior Caribbean tournament and other en-

Glimpses of the CAC Qualifiers at the National Gymnasium

gagements for the teams.”

The Men’s Team comprises Shemar Britton, Jonathan Van Lange, Joel Alleyne, Elishaba Johnson

and Paul David. The Women’s Team comprises Chelsea Edghill OLY, Natalie Cummings, Priscilla Greaves, Thuraia Thomas,

and Jasmine Billingy. The qualifier will conclude on Sunday 19th March with the semifinals and finals, beginning at 16:00 hrs.

The tournament is streamed on the official Facebook page and YouTube channel of the GTTA from 10:00hrs.

Twofold benefit to additional female coaches - Forde

With the development of the women’s game in focus for 2023, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde has shared one of the Federation’s strategies for ensuring young girls have a safe space in their Academy Training Centers (ATC).

In November of 2022, the GFF conducted a ‘Women’s- only’ CONCACAF Coaching course, at the time presumed to be geared at ensuring Guyana had more home-grown female coaches. However, in a recent interview with Guyana Times Sport, the GFF President highlighted a small issue that the presence of more female coaches can solve.

“Last year we did our first women’s-only coaching programme, and the strate-

gy behind that is that many of those women who were part of that initial coaching education programme will be assigned to the Academy Training Centers across

the regional associations,” Forde divulged.

He went on to explain to this publication, “And the reason why we’re doing that is because we’ve discovered that mothers in particular, parents, have been hesitant to send the girls out to the Academy programme, for obvious reasons.”

As such, Forde went on to opine how producing more female coaches can not only benefit capacity building, but the participation of more female players.

“We felt that not only is having this women’s coaching programme done

helped us to expand the women’s coaching capacity, but we believe if we have a female in the academy that is taking care of young girls when they come out on weekends to work with the coaches, that we can see a greater comfort level among the parents to allow the young girls to participate,” Forde explained.

The GFF Boss added, “But I believe the pool of

local female coaches will grow over the next couple of years, and we expect to see them featuring more in our national teams and other key developmental activities.”

A total of 24 female coaches were trained last year, with a number of those coaches now participating in the GFF-Blue Water Girls’ U15 development league.

GFF president, Wayne Forde

WI Tour to SA 2023: ODI Series, Game 2 of 3…

Hope’s majestic century leads West Indies to big win over South Africa

For an ODI with nothing riding on it, this one had a little bit of everything.

Temba Bavuma struck his second successive international century, third in 2023, and notched up a career-best 144, but Shai Hope, captaining West Indies for the first time, trumped the home captain’s effort.

Hope brought up his 14th ODI century, and anchored West Indies to post their highest score against South Africa in the format, and the second highest at Buffalo Park. It proved enough, as West Indies registered a 48-run victory over South Africa, seven years after the last completed ODI between these two, in June 2016.

West Indies, who have played all their World Cup Super League matches, and barring Sri Lanka and South Africa being blanked by New Zealand and Netherlands respectively, are certain to participate in the qualifiers in Zimbabwe in June, will be pleased with the way they acquitted themselves in this match. On a slow surface, their batters adapted well, and there were three half-century stands in their innings; while Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph and Akeal Hosein made good use of the

done. Of the three new batters - Ryan Rickleton, Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs - the first two were foxed by spin, and Stubbs was victim to a short ball. The bowling newbie Gerald Coetzee was South Africa’s most successful and joint-most economical bowler, but was run-out as he failed to slide his bat in late in the piece. That’s a harsh criticism, with more attention to be put on Lungi Ngidi’s lack of variations, Marco Jansen’s uncertainty

themselves on 71 for 3 in the 11th over.

It was up to the current and former captains - Hope and Nicholas Pooran - to rebuild. They took on the spinners with good use of the feet, and Jansen, who continued to struggle to find the right length, and shared a stand of 86 runs off 80 balls before Pooran dragged a short, slower Coetzee ball to Rassie van der Dussen at midwicket, to depart for 39 and bring T20I captain Rovman Powell to the crease. Powell should have been out on six, when he drilled the ball back to Tabraiz Shamsi, who could not hold on his follow through, and went on to cost South Africa 40 runs. Powell put on 80 for the fifth wicket with Hope before he bottom-edged another Coetzee short ball onto his stumps, and South Africa could apply a squeeze. They gave away just eight runs in the next 22 balls, including a scoreless over from Jansen to keep West Indies fairly quiet at a crucial stage.

ance at the SA20 almost six weeks ago, showed no signs of rust. He latched onto anything overpitched - and West Indies offered plenty in the first five overs - or on the pads.

South Africa brought up fifty in six overs, de Kock survived an lbw appeal from Holder, which was reviewed, and was then given out on 48, to expose an inexperienced middle order that Bavuma marshalled. He brought up his third ODI

fifty with a clean strike off Mayers over extra cover that went for six, similar to the stroke that took him to a second Test century last week. West Indies used the second and last review at the end of that over, when Mayers thought he had Bavuma lbw in similar fashion to de Kock, but ball tracking showed it was missing leg stump.

South Africa were 123 for 1 at the first drinks’ break when West Indies brought on their legspinner Yannic Cariah. With his first ball, he beat Rickelton’s inside edge with a quick legbreak and got the lbw decision. Rickelton reviewed reluctantly and unsuccessfully, to bring another debutant, Tony de Zorzi, to the crease. De Zorzi almost played the second ball he faced onto his stumps, but it squirted past for four. He played some sweet strokes before being bowled by a flat, quick ball from Hosein.

Rassie van der Dussen never looked comfortable at the crease, and survived an lbw appeal and a stumping chance before pulling a Joseph bouncer to fine leg.

Tristan Stubbs, on debut, top-edged a short, slower ball from Odean Smith straight up, and Hope took a simple catch to open up South

SCOREBOARD

West Indies (50 ovs maximum)

Brandon King b Fortuin 30

Kyle Mayers c Rickelton

b Fortuin 36

Shamarh Brooks b Coetzee 0

Shai Hope (c)† not out 128

Nicholas Pooran c van der Dussen b Coetzee 39

Rovman Powell b Coetzee 46

Jason Holder lbw b Shamsi 15

Akeal Hosein lbw b Jansen 2

Odean Smith b Shamsi 1

Alzarri Joseph not out 13

Extras (b 1, lb 5, nb 2, w 17) 25

short, slower ball and spin respectively to sufficiently challenge South Africa. As a result, they earned their sixth win in 28 ODIs in South Africa, and 16th in 64 meetings.

South Africa are also in a precarious position in terms of automatic qualification for this year’s 50-over World Cup, and will reflect on this match as a test of their depth and the work still to be done. They fielded four debutants as a result of squad rotation, injuries and illnesses, and will know there’s work to be

on his lengths, and the composition of the attack, which had only five bowlers and not enough slower bowling options.

West Indies cruised to 66 without loss in eight overs before left-arm spinner Bjorn Fortuin was introduced. At domestic level, Fortuin has made a habit of taking wickets in his opening over, and he did exactly that, albeit not with his best ball. Mayers pulled a half-tracker to Rickelton at deep midwicket to spark a mini-collapse. West Indies lost three wickets in 12 balls, and found

Hope neared the 90s with sixes off Fortuin and Ngidi, and put on 42 with Holder, who was dismissed on review to Shamsi. Hope also lost Hosein to an inswinging Jansen yorker, and then brought up his hundred off the 104th ball he faced.

West Indies scored 93 runs off the last ten overs, including 40 runs off the last three overs, and Hope hit 28 runs off the last nine balls he faced to set South Africa a steep target.

They were required to complete their fourth-highest successful chase, and started well. Quinton de Kock, who had not played a competitive match since his last appear-

TOTAL 50 Ov (RR: 6.70) 335/8

Fall of wickets: 1-67 (Kyle Mayers, 8.3 ov), 2-71 (Shamarh Brooks, 9.4 ov), 3-71 (Brandon King, 10.1 ov), 4-157 (Nicholas

Pooran, 23.3 ov), 5-237 (Rovman Powell, 37.2 ov),

6-279 (Jason Holder, 44.1 ov),

7-288 (Akeal Hosein, 45.1 ov),

8-293 (Odean Smith, 46.2 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Lungi Ngidi 10-0-76-0

Marco Jansen 10-1-77-1

Gerald Coetzee 10-0-57-3

Bjorn Fortuin 10-0-57-2

Tabraiz Shamsi 10-0-62-2

South Africa (T: 336 runs from 50 ovs)

Quinton de Kock

†lbw b Mayers 48

Temba Bavuma (c) c †Hope b

GMR&SC’s Roshandin predicts success...

Some of the best local competitors are also confirmed to participate, among them being Mark Vieira, Andrew King, the father and son duo of Kevin and Kristian Jeffrey, Danny Persaud, Steffon Jeffrey and Chet Singh, while the Superbike category could provide nerve-tingling rivalry as well.

Over twenty (20) races are slated for the day, and the organisers, in their

planning, have pushed back the starting time to 11:00hrs to cater for competitors and fans who might be affected by the expected traffic congestion heading to the track.

“We have had complaints from both competitors and fans, who’ve said that they were forced to miss a few events due to the traffic situation which usually occurs; and in order to correct this, we made the

decision to start a little later, to accommodate everyone,” Roshandin assured. According to him, the deferred start will in no way affect the day’s proceedings, since in some cases two categories will be run simultaneously, with the winners parading two chequered flags, while race officials will ensure that the scheduled start of races is adhered to.

Quizzed on the level of

support being offered by the business community, Roshandin said it has been steady, and he expressed optimism that, in the few weeks left, it would increase significantly.

He cited the Group 1 and 2 categories to provide riveting excitement, while the other groups are expected to provide similar rivalry.

Some of the sponsors on board are: Secure

Africa’s lower order.

Jansen’s first runs came off an outside edge, leaving Bavuma on strike, on 99, at the start of the 31st over. He sent Hosein through extra cover for a single to bring up his fourth ODI century, and second this year. South Africa still needed 121 runs off 115 balls.

West Indies would have thought the game was up when Jansen holed out to long-on and Fortuin was stumped later that over, but Bavuma took it deep. He surpassed his previous career-best score of 113, and then hit three sixes off a Cariah over, and confidently rotated strike with Ngidi. Their ninth-wicket stand reached 49 before Bavuma gloved Joseph down leg to end a valiant effort.

South Africa were bowled out two balls later when Shamsi nicked off and Joseph finished with three. (Espn Cricinfo)

CLASSIFIED ADS

FOR SALE

Commercial Land for Sale

Joseph 144

Ryan Rickelton lbw b Cariah 14

Tony de Zorzi b Hosein 27

Rassie van der Dussen

c Brooks b Joseph 8

Tristan Stubbs c †Hope b Smith 6

Marco Jansen c Powell b Hosein 17

Bjorn Fortuin st †Hope b Hosein 1

Gerald Coetzee run out

(Hosein/Smith) 1

Lungi Ngidi not out 12

Tabraiz Shamsi c †Hope b Joseph 0

Extras (lb 3, nb 1, w 5) 9

TOTAL 41.4 Ov (RR: 6.88) 287

Fall of wickets: 1-76 (Quinton de Kock, 8.4 ov), 2-123

(Ryan Rickelton, 16.1 ov), 3-184

(Tony de Zorzi, 24.4 ov), 4-200

(Rassie van der Dussen, 27.3 ov), 5-210

(Tristan Stubbs, 29.5 ov), 6-229

(Marco Jansen, 32.3 ov), 7-231

(Bjorn Fortuin, 32.6 ov), 8-238

(Gerald Coetzee, 33.6 ov), 9-287

(Temba Bavuma, 41.2 ov), 10-287

(Tabraiz Shamsi, 41.4 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Alzarri Joseph 8.4-0-53-3

Jason Holder 7-1-45-0

Kyle Mayers 6-0-40-1

Akeal Hosein 10-0-59-3

Yannic Cariah 5-0-47-1

Odean Smith 5-0-40-1

FROM BACK PAGE

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Meanwhile, an entrance fee of $2,000 and $1,000 will be charged for adults and children respectively, while V.I.P will be $20,000 and $10,000 for the same categories of attendees.

Pursuant to Order of Court dated the 29th November, 2022 and entered on the 5th January, 2023 before the Honourable Mr. Justice Gino Persaud in Action No.2020-HC-DEMCIV-FDA-489. The Office of the Public Trustee/Official Receiver situated at Lot 91 Middle Street, Georgetown is hereby authorized to offer for sale property situated at Lot lettered 'C' being a portion of Lot numbered 7, being a part of Good Hope, in the La Reconnaisance-Mon Repos Village District situate on the East Sea Coast of the County of Demerara, in the Republic of Guyana bearing 840acs. or 36,590.40 sq/ft forming part of the Estate of Fareeda Nesha Gafoor aka. Fairda Nesha Yassim aka. Farida Nesha aka. Farida Gafoor, deceased. Expression of interest and/ or Request for bids in the developed parcel of commercial land as described above is to be submitted beginning at GYD$182,000,000.00 (one hundred and eighty-two million dollars), the current market value of the aforesaid property. For more information contact 231-7388 or email to admin.publictrustee@mola.gov.gy.

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West Indies pulled off a big win

West Indies 4-Day Championship 2023…

Guyana prevail against Trinidad and Tobago

Darren Bravo missed out on his third century of the tournament, while Amir Jangoo scored an even fifty, but they could not prevent the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force from suffering a 143run defeat to the Guyana Harpy Eagles on day four of their match, being played at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

This win means the Guyana Harpy Eagles continue to reign supreme at the top of the West Indies Championship table after three rounds.

The Red Force started

the day on 106-3, and lost their fourth wicket quickly, as Jyd Goolie was run out for 18 in the 48th over with the score on 119. Tion Webster then joined Bravo at the crease, and the pair put on 25 before Webster was bowled by Veerasammy Permaul for 16 in the 55th over.

Bravo was next to go, falling agonizingly short of his third hundred of the season when he was dismissed by Permaul for a well-made 170-ball 95 in the 61st over.

The very next ball saw Permaul removing Imran Khan for a golden duck, to

leave the Red Force reeling at 165-7.

Bryan Charles was next to go, falling for one with the score on 174. Red Force were 175-8 at lunch, needing a further 247 runs to win, with Amir Jangoo (10) and Uthman Muhammad (0) at the crease.

Jangoo and Muhammad continued to fight after lunch, until Muhammad was dismissed by Ronsford Beaton for 25 with the score on 211 in the 83rd over.

The last pair of Jangoo and debutant Justin Manick put on a valiant 57 for the last wicket, before Manick

went for 22 off the bowling of Kevin Sinclair. Wicket-keeper Anthony Bramble suffered a nasty blow to his face while taking a Ronsford Beaton-delivery. He was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Jangoo ended on 50 not out as the Red Force were bowled out for 268 in 97.5 overs. Guyana will now return home to play Jamaica Scorpions from Wednesday March 22 at Providence. Test players Gudakesh Motie and Tagenarine Chanderpaul are expected to feature in the starting XI for Guyana in the next match.

GMR&SC’s Roshandin predicts success for season-opener

Vice-President of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC), Shairaz Roshandin, in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport expressed confidence that the season-opening circuit Meet scheduled for today, March 19, will be a success.

Roshandin, who will be an active participant in the day’s racing, revealed that his predication is based purely on the excitement and eagerness being expressed by all the competitors, while early feed-

back from fans on all the social media platforms has mirrored sentiments uttered by drivers and riders slated to compete.

Roshandin said the recently resurfaced track, which is 1.6 miles long, is one of the main features creating the buzz among competitors, while the incentives to be derived for outstanding performances have added to the anticipated excitement expected on race day.

“Competitors have said that they can’t wait to get

another chance to compete on the new surface, which many agreed is a joy to drive on; while the smoothness allows for better handling and high speed at the corners,” Roshandin stated.

Since being resurfaced, the track was used last November for the traditional biggest Meet of the racing calendar, and most competitors have been champing at the bit to get another opportunity to tame what has been described as a fast track and an enjoyable one to race on.

Roshandin, who can be considered a veteran competitor in the Group 2 category, was unwilling to give any prediction of his own chances of doing well during the interview, but assured that every race is expected to provide keen rivalry.

“We are going to see the reintroduction of the ‘Rookies’ Class, which caters for new entrants to the sport, and this category historically creates a lot of buzz and excitement for the fans,” Roshandin said. He revealed that Team

Guyana are the table leaders in the tournament

Darren Bravo

GMRSC Vice-President Shairaz Roshandin

team would be a strong one aiming for huge successes against the locals.