Guyana Times - Thursday, December 21, 2023

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5590

THE BEACON OF TRUTH THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

Guyanese to earn from US$30,000 annually under new training-tojob initiative – Pres Ali Page 3

…2000 locals to benefit from 1st phase in 2024

Massive hotel facility pegged …project to be for Carifesta Avenue undertaken by Qataris Page 7

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Govt made over $10B in capital investments into GPL since 2020

…water subsidies cost $250M annually, over 29,000 pensioners benefiting

P12 Poisoning death of children

Court of Appeal cuts mother’s jail sentence from 98 to 30 P10 years

Regent Street closed to P16 eastbound traffic from Thursday to Sunday Bandits make off with car, $2.2M in valuables P while WBD 14 family sleeps Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project development: 26 km of onshore pipes laid underground, with the Marine Offloading Facility (MOF) completed to discharge power plant modules (Office of the President's photos)

Beware of Mother killed X-mas season by minibus while walking transportation fare hikes – Govt with children Wanted man Rickford Burke served with Defendant Summons at Brooklyn home Page 2

Welder jailed for assaulting 11-year-old P12

Page 14

Mohamed’s P13 Enterprise donates $3M to 17 NGOs P7

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Beware of X-mas season transportation fare hikes – Govt …says no approval given; action taken against 8 speedboat operators “We rely on voluntary compliance and moral persuasion, T but we are not afraid to use the fist when necessary to he Public Works Ministry has made it pellucid that no fare increase has been authorised by the Government, and the public is being warned to be wary of exploitation from public transportation service providers around this Christmas season.

It has been revealed that a number of speedboat operators have already been suspended for engaging in

maintain law and order and protect citizens from being exploited” – Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

the unscrupulous practice of price gouging.

On Tuesday, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill addressed the issue of fare increases by speed-

boat operators and other providers of public transport as he responded to Opposition Member of Parliament Juretha Fernandes, who brought to the attention of the house the practice of price gouging being engaged in by Bartica speed boat operators.

Edghill made it clear that the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has oversight of these boat operators, and no fare increase has been authorised. He therefore made it clear that speedboat operators who have hiked their fares are doing so without the approval of MARAD, and most likely even their association.

“As it relates to the issue

“But as far as we’re concerned, I can assure the honourable member, (neither) MARAD nor the Government of Guyana have…sanctioned, approved, or condoned overcharging on minibuses, speedboats, or even when it comes to aircraft fares; any fare being hiked. As the Minister of Transportation, we pay careful attention to these, and we have been monitoring it. So, if there are unscrupulous operators or there are arrangements between operators and passengers, there’s hardly anything we can do; but it would be a good opportunity to remind the travelling public, especially at Christmas time, when we can have that type

The Government has warned commuters not to fall victim to fare hikes

of charging extra by speedboat operators, all speedboat services in Guyana operate and are regulated by MARAD, of which I’m the minister responsible. The speedboats put themselves into a turn system, and they are organized by their respective associations. So, if there are 40 boats and they have turns, they meet. Who has turn one, two, three, they load on a daily basis and traverse the river based on a principled approach,” he explained.

“Anyone who’s charging more certainly is not doing so with the blessings of MARAD. And I can honestly say, based on my engagements with the speedboat associations, not with the speedboat associations in the various areas,” he declared.

Edghill explained that the Ministry has persons at the stelling checking speedboats as they depart, and documenting their trips. He noted that, in many cases, persons want to leave without the boat being fully loaded, and thus attract extra fees.

of exploitation,” the Minister further explained.

Edghill, moreover, stressed that his message goes not only for speedboat operators, but minibus operators as well. He made it pellucid that action will be taken once public transportation providers are caught hiking fares, and he said, “We rely on voluntary compliance and moral persuasion, but we are not afraid to use the fist when necessary to maintain law and order and protect citizens from being exploited.”

Meanwhile, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, revealed that the Ministry has already taken action against eight speedboat operators.

“Just to add to what Minister Edghill just said: three weeks ago, we had a campaign where eight of those boats were detained, and some of them were suspended because of that practice. So it’s not like we received the reports and we didn’t act; we acted on them,” Minister Indar explained.

(G3)

NEWS

3

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, December 21 – no retraction and Friday, December 22 – 00:30h-02:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, December 21 – 11:40h-13:10h and Friday, December 22 – 12:40h-14:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY Sunshine and light rain showers are expected during the day with many instances of thunder.

Clear to thundery skies are expected at night.

Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 11:55h reaching maximum heights of 2.36 metres.

Low Tide: 17:58h reaching a minimum height of 0.85 metre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2023

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

01

05 08

09

14

18

24

FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

09 11 19

06 08 LUCKY 3

7

9

6

4

Afternoon Draw

5

6

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

10

11

15

02

16

19 20 21

18

SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2023

01 02 04 14 17

02 04 08 10 12

1

13

4

2 Afternoon Draw

FP Afternoon Draw

4

2 Evening Draw

2X Evening Draw

955

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$79.09/barrel

-0.77

Rough Rice London Sugar

$317.61/ton $605.00/ton

-0.06 0.00

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

USD Per Ounce $2026.14 $2036.27

$2027.14 $2036.55

-0.115

-0.01

Guyanese to earn from US$30,000 annually under new training-to-job initiative – Pres Ali …2000 locals to benefit from 1st phase in 2024

W

ith the aim of creating more high-value job opportunities for Guyanese, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced a new training initiative that will be rolled out in the new year and will see high-paying job opportunities being secured for beneficiaries.

During his feature address at the Private Sector Commission’s 31st Anniversary Gala and Awards Ceremony, President Ali disclosed that in the new year, Government would be making a lot of investments in building human capacity, and enhancing institutions and innovations in Guyana.

One such initiative, he highlighted, is a trainingto-job programme that will see Guyanese benefiting from high-paying job opportunities after undergoing training in specific areas.

“So, what we will be doing in 2024 is launching a specific programme where we will be targeting 2000 Guyanese in the first phase, training them in essential skills certified by the best who give those certifications and aligning them with jobs. The average salary for the lower scale of these jobs I’m talking about will be about US$30,000 annually,” the Head of State noted.

According to President Ali, Guyana will be working with its partners from

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Canada to provide these training opportunities for Guyanese.

The Guyanese Leader went on to add that the Government has also engaged several of the large international operators in Guyana to also provide these high-value jobs for locals.

“We have already raised with Exxon and other partners, other major multinationals operating in Guyana, who are outsourcing jobs, that they have to work with us in providing some of those jobs in Guyana. So, they will outsource to Guyana and Guyanese in Guyana,” he explained.

Between 2021 and 2023, more than US$3.5 billion in investments were made in the local Private Sector, thus creating more job opportunities here.

The majority of these jobs were created in the services, agriculture and manufacturing sectors which, according to President Ali, is reflective of his Administration’s push to diversify the country’s economy.

Job opportunities During his presentation to the Private Sector, the Head of State pointed out that there were job opportunities available for engineers, engineering technicians, and doctors as well as nurses. In fact, he renewed calls for persons interested in nursing as a career to join the Government’s programme that will see them not only receiving training but also a stipend during that period along with a guaranteed job upon completion of the course.

After years of losing trained nurses to developed countries, the Guyana Government of recent has been employing various measures to boost the cohort of nurses in the public sector. Only back in July, President Ali pitched a solution whereby Guyana and Canada would be working together to provide the human resource assets needed to address the deficits in healthcare sectors.

He had stated that many local healthcare workers were doing specialised training and studies at various institutions in Canada, whether through distance learning, face-to-face contact, or through trainers coming to Guyana. As such, President Ali had pitched positioning Guyana as a key destination for the provision of human resources for the healthcare sector especially in the Caribbean region.

“I want to position Guyana as an important destination for the provision of regional human resource assets to meet the skill deficit of countries around the Region. And here is where I think there is tremendous opportunity for Canada and Guyana, in which we are building the infrastructure for training institutions to train for global needs,” the Head of State had noted.

TURN TO PAGE 5

4

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

Views

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

Give a thought to persons in need

T

he highly-anticipated and much-preparedfor Christmas Day is approaching. Meals will be prepared, and gifts will be exchanged and unwrapped with excitement. Amidst it all, families will gather to share in all the special moments. All across the globe, the giving season is well underway.

During the festive period, it is also customary for communities as well as individuals to demonstrate their generosity. The benefactors of much of these offerings are usually charities and the underprivileged; they are provided with much-needed food, toiletries, and other essentials.

The spirit of giving is a powerful thing, as we have seen over the past few weeks. Guyanese have once again shown great generosity in countless toy drives and holiday parties, to provide Christmas presents and fun for children who might otherwise have had very little.

The collective response and the charitable giving — of food, money and other resources — have been remarkable, particularly around this time. So, too, have been the efforts of local residents and civic group members, who volunteered their time at local fundraisers and other events. Many of the efforts already undertaken this season have brought much joy and relief to beneficiaries.

In general, local communities are very in-tune with helping others, especially during the festive season.

There is something about this time of year that makes persons reflect on just how fortunate they are. This period is also a reflective time for many, with the year coming to a close.

One of the best aspects of helping the less fortunate is not only that it can change a person’s life, but it allows for personal growth as well. Helping others would always lift spirits, make us feel good, and is something from which we can gather a sense of real accomplishment.

Even as we check off our to-do list in the coming days, we must give a thought to families who might not have as much, and who will struggle to put food on the table in the coming year. We must all do what we can, and encourage everyone we know to give what they can, to help the less fortunate here and even throughout the world. If money is tight, perhaps they can give some time to a church, school, or other organisation in need of volunteers. Whatever it is, what is important is that we continue in the spirit of giving. Even if it is just giving blood at the blood bank, this, too, can help save a life.

Christmas and the story of Christ’s birth still teach each generation the remarkable joy of giving without concern about getting. But so often, the payback is greater than we might ever have imagined. It is comforting to know that all that we give goes to a good cause, and, in the end, we all feel great, because being generous is a gift in itself.

However, after the New Year starts, this spirit of giving disappears. But the question remains: since giving back during the holidays creates universal joy, why don’t we do this all year round? Wouldn’t we become happier if we did?

There are endless opportunities to give back and spread love, and it can be as simple as seeing a friend in everyday life. Holding the door, asking someone how their day is, or just being friendly towards someone can make a bigger difference than you even know; and it is easy to do any day of the year, not just the month of December.

You never know what someone is going through, and treating people with kindness can truly make someone’s life better. There are people in need everywhere, even in your own street, and we should be eager to help them, as we, too, might one day need a helping hand.

British Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Minister David Rutley, paying his respects to the Fallen Heroes – Brigadier (ret’d) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan, in solidarity with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF photo)

2023 has shown us the misery big-power politics creates

By Margus Tsahkna

O

ur rules-based world is the triumph of peace over war. At least, that’s how the story has been told for the past eight decades. The promise of “never again” has been the raison d'être for global institutions such as the United Nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC), which all like to trace their history to the moment when nations emerged from the ruins of the second world war and forged a lasting peace. Rising freedom and prosperity was understood to be the byproduct.

Yet increasing numbers of people around the world no longer believe in that story. Its promise has been broken with the return of full-scale aggression by Russia, along with deteriorating violence and instability around the world. We are witnessing the horrors that this system was supposed to have long ago eliminated.

International institutions now too often seem powerless, at best, to deal with the most serious challenges of our time.

At worst, they are complicit in enabling them. With confidence rapidly fading, the entire system risks collapse. That would mean the return to an age of empires in which “might makes right”, and everyone suffers.

I now hear people around the world ask, with ever-increasing urgency, about how we can save our rules-based international system. I also hear frustrations that not everyone seems to be equally invested in saving it. But we cannot merely hope to save the existing rules-based international system from the crises that this system led us to, nor expect everyone to be passionate about something they do not feel is working for them. If it can fail once, it will fail again. It needs fundamental change.

Russia’s ongoing and barbaric war of aggression against Ukraine did not just break the system. It exploited some of its many flaws to degrade its apparently unenforceable norms and values. If that continues,

we will all eventually lose interest in saving the system.

In saving a rules-based system, we have to admit how, across Africa and parts of Europe, victims of imperial conquest feel disengaged from it. Similarly, during the second world war, the smaller nations of eastern Europe found themselves forced into “spheres of influence” and had horrific aggression unleashed on them.

As someone who grew up under that Soviet occupation, I understand how it feels to be shut off from the world and shut out from decisions affecting your own life and those around you. Our rules-based world is really a continuing story about how we free ourselves from big-power politics and the misery and devastation that it brings to everyone. That’s a story we can all believe in.

We can end big-power politics for good by ensuring everyone has the freedom to contribute to international decision-making.

Individuals, communities, even entire nations and regions currently just don’t have a proper say in the decisions that affect them.

We need to forge an international system far more resilient to aggressors, but also far better equipped to deal with poverty, disease, and the climate crisis. That’s why Estonia is calling for a new global conversation about how to make the world fit for freedom. First, we must strengthen the international rules-based order by admitting its flaws and ensuring it better reflects the realities of the 21st century. That includes reform of the UN. The Security Council needs additional permanent members to better reflect our modern world. It must also be reminded that it has primary, not exclusive, responsibility for international peace and security. We must protect the world from abusive veto-users. We can do that by supporting the French-Mexican initiative on veto restraint and the code of conduct by the accountability, coherence and transparency group on not voting against resolutions aimed at ending

mass atrocities.

But we need to be even more creative and ambitious. That’s why, to get started, we propose forming a core group to analyse the course of action to be taken by the General Assembly when a permanent member of the Security Council tramples on the UN charter.

Just as seriously, the ICC has been left without jurisdiction over the crime of aggression, even though it was established as the supreme crime of international law at the Nuremberg trials of the Nazis, and finally defined by all nations in 2010. This is the most striking example of a broken international system that allows the open violation of its most basic of international principles with impunity.

The Rome statute of the ICC needs to be reviewed to ensure accountability for this crime without legal restrictions.

In the case of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, we need to urgently address this weakness now. The General Assembly must take a lead.

It has already repeatedly condemned Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and agreed there must be accountability for international crimes. To enforce this, it must create a special tribunal now to deal with the crime of aggression.

Second, we need to recognise that the countries that most seriously violate international commitments to other countries are also more likely to have already violated their own domestic commitments to their citizenry. The promotion of human rights and basic freedoms needs to become a natural part of global security policy.

Human rights violations cannot simply be ignored in one country when, in reality, they disrupt global inclusion and present dangers to the stability of the wider global system. Fundamentally, it is about ensuring all people are protected from violence.

This is essential for those more likely to face risks of harm as a result of their work, such as human rights defenders and

Journalists. It’s also essential for marginal and vulnerable groups such as women and children, ethnic and religious minorities, refugees, migrants and those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender.

It is also about safeguarding freedom of speech, which includes both the freedom of the media and the freedom of the Internet.

Third, we must expand the inclusivity of international policymaking to make a world fit for freedom. That includes enabling the world’s small States and civil society to have a greater say in international matters that are traditionally decided by big States and blocs.

We are at a pivotal moment in world history. The only certainty is that the existing international system cannot survive unchanged much longer. However challenging the world becomes, remember that it was during the very darkest days of the second world war that the rules-based world was developed in its current iteration.

In the spring of 1941, almost all of Europe had fallen to the totalitarian powers. While victory for the allies was far from certain, representatives of occupied and allied nations met in bombed-out London to – in their words – “define some purpose more creative than military victory”.

The conversation they started gathered momentum globally and led to the creation of the UN, whose charter they began drafting even prior to D-Day, as well as the Nuremberg trials, which laid the foundation for modern international law and the ICC. That conversation should never have been considered finished. We must not wait for a repeat of the devastation that they endured. We can and must continue the momentum that they started and inspire a new global conversation on making the world fit for freedom. (The Guardian) (Margus Tsahkna is Estonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs)

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Chris Ram doubles down on irresponsible aspersions Dear Editor, Once again, in an invited comment to the media, Chris Ram has posited that the lack of ring-fencing of the oil fields is another renegotiation of the 2016 Petroleum Agreement.

Yet, the commentator fails to substantiate his claims by citing which specific provision(s) in the referenced Agreement has/have been violated.

The reality is that the 2016 Petroleum Agreement has no such provision(s) for ring-fencing, hence the reason why it is not applied. If it is not provided for in the Agreement, commonsensically, it cannot be regarded as a violation/

breach or renegotiation of the Agreement.

Now, let’s for a moment examine the implications of not having ring-fencing, to understand and appreciate how the incumbent Government sought to leverage the absence of ring-fencing to achieve the same result, more or less, had there been any ring-fencing provisions.

While indeed ring-fencing has its advantages; that is, to maximize the upfront revenues to the Government, it also has its disadvantages. Chiefly, the disadvantage is that it serves as a disincentive to rapidly scale the level of production and accelera-

tion of exploration activities. As such, the absence of ring-fencing provision allows for future developments to be financed from the operating cash flow, which is an internal source of financing, rather than raising financing from external sources, that are typically more expensive.

Internal sources of financing are always cheaper than external sources of financing.

More importantly, the implication for the country over the long term is that the failure to rapidly explore, develop, and extract the resources could lead to having stranded resources, considering the

global developments such as climate change policies in the context of the global energy transition agenda. These developments will have a bearing on the long-term lucrativeness of the resource from multiple dimensions.

With the foregoing in mind, it therefore means that ring-fencing or no-ringfencing is not the issue. The issue is: What is the tradeoff, and how did the Government leverage the absence of ring-fencing, to ultimately maximize its upfront take? Did they (the Government) do anything in this regard?

And the answer is a resounding yes.

Additionally, with the rapid development of the resources, it also means that the payback period is relatively short. All other things being equal, the exploration and development costs for all of the developments in the Stabroek block are likely to be fully recovered by 2035. By that time, Government’s take shall increase from 14.5% to anywhere from 25% to 30%.

In an article published on October 16, 2023, this author had examined this issue, its implications, and the costs and benefits of the tradeoffs in more detail.

Altogether, regarding

the question of the lack of ring-fencing in the oil and gas operations within the fiscal framework, pursuant to the 2016 Petroleum Agreement, the policy of the Government to rapidly scale development and maintain the momentum has proven to be a successful trade off strategy. In so doing, the policy aims to deliver the same result; that is, to maximize the upfront Government’s take, inter alia, ramping of the scale of production while simultaneously minimizing the cost of financing.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

President Ali's "Midas Touch" Dear Editor, After serving as the eighth US Secretary of State, from 1817 to 1825, John Quincy Adams became the sixth United States President, to preside from 1825 to 1829.

Earning the nickname “Old Man Eloquent”, he was known to refer to Nicole Krauss’s quote, “Better to try and fail than fail to try.”

How often have Guyanese not toyed with this quotation while passing the ball around the field in order for the footballer to score? In this process, Guyanese have also succeeded in conveniently shifting the goalpost in or-

der to arrive at a desired destination. Like they say, “Guyanese are never satisfied.” If you do, you die, and if you don’t, you also die. It’s extremely difficult to please some people, while it’s almost impossible to please others.

President Maduro threw down the gauntlet as his sabers rattled, but he ended up showing the white flag when he returned to Venezuela from the Argyle arena. The distant drums did not deter the brave Guyanese President as he boarded his plane to take him to SVG to do battle with the big bad bully, Venezuela’s President.

Passing the buck is an old political game, but the buck stops with the President. President Ali did not walk the rope alone, as his hope was kept alive with the burning but encouraging words of Trinidad and Tobago’s Opposition Leader, Kamla Persaud-Bissessar.

Her warning to President Maduro was, “My clear message to Maduro is: ‘You touch one, you touch all!’ We unequivocally support the people of Guyana in this crisis. Stay out of Essequibo…”

While some deliberately dodged the bullet with cosmetic excuses and

longed for a certain desire, their pipe dream petered out to be a daydream. The favoured President Ali fearlessly did not throw in the towel, but delivered diplomacy with his dialogue to dent the daring ego of President Maduro and defend democracy in order to save Guyana’s sovereignty. The writing was always on the wall, but President Maduro chose to deny reality and turn a blind eye to the world. The proof is in the pudding, as per the 11-point declaration signed by both Presidents and witnessed by Caricom and UN observers.

There will no annex-

ation of Essequibo, no invasion by intruders, and Latin America and the Caribbean will remain a Peace Zone. What yardstick are Guyanese using to measure success or failure? Some Guyanese should stop clawing the

Guyanese to earn from US$30,000...

air in order to fabricate illusions, save face, and nurture negativity. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has the “Midas touch.”

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

FROM PAGE 3

President Ali went on to encourage Canadianaccredited institutions to establish a footprint in Guyana.

“For the training of nurses to meet your own demand; for the training of medical technicians to meet your own demand, and also to meet the regional demand. This, in turn,” Ali said, “will also benefit Guyana.”

He had outlined, too, that his Government would push to have its training centres for nurses accredited by Canadian standards.

“We’re going to be opening up discussion with our development partners in having our nursing institutions and other institutions accredited by your standard. I believe that if our nurses are good enough to be recruited from the training they received right here within Caricom, we’re good enough to sell that service to train them to the rest of the world. And that is a business opportunity that we’re working on to create in

Guyana, an avenue for global training and global education,” the Guyanese Leader had disclosed.

At the time in July, it was reported that more than 1200 Guyanese were registered in nursing programmes nationally. Government had also launched a hybrid nursing programme which is intended to increase the training of nurses from 150-200 per year to between 1000 and 1500 per year.

Moreover, Government has also been ramping up its training programmes in order to expand and improve its human resource assets in the healthcare sector. In addition to specialised training for nurses via post-graduate programmes there are plans to offer more post-graduate programmes to specialise more doctors in the field of neurology as well as to increase the training for various categories of doctors, including surgeons, gynaecologists, and paediatricians. (G8)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:30 10:00 11:30 12:00 12:05 13:30 14:30 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:45 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 22:00 00:00

(Sign on) Inspiration Time Cartoons Evening News (RB) Stay Woke Guy's Grocery Games BBC Travel Show Stop Suffering Divorce Court News Break Movie - Five More Minutes: Moments Like These (2022) A TVG Christmas The Santa Clauses S2 E6 From the Pavilion Sydney to the Max S3 E1 Austin & Ally S4 E5 The Young & The Restless Peppy's Feature CNN The Evening News Stop Suffering Movie - A Christmas Story 2 (2012) Movie - Office Christmas Party (2016) Sign off

6

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

MATH QUESTIONS

DIY Snow Globe

Similar to vignettes, except this version is definitely more appropriate for younger kids. Once you have the jar you want to use, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Then, arrange your scene using bottle brushes and figurines and glue them to the top of the jar. Now it's time to create some sparkle: and stir. Add some glue to add one to two teaspoons the top of the jar and then of glitter to the jar. Fill it place it on the base, and with distilled water, nearly once dried, flip it to see all the way to the top. Then some magic. (goodhouseadd a few drops of glycerin keeping.com)

Jodina Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, preening in yon lofty trees; Blue-Saki blue is a pretty bird all dressed up in her party blue.

Chirpy chirpy chirpy chirp Flying off in search of her meal.

Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, singing a song of quiet joy.

Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, sitting on yon garden fence, Blue-Saki no recital she sings and never displays like the bold kiskadee.

Chirpy chirpy chirpy chirp Eyes on the look-out for worm or grub, Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, singing a song of quiet joy.

Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, flitting among the shady boughs; Blue-Saki likes a fruit or two to add to her diet for a change.

Chirpy chirpy chirpy chirp Mango or cherry or guava will do.

Blue-Saki blue as the sky above, singing a song of quiet joy.

WORD SEARCH

7 Massive hotel facility pegged for Carifesta Avenue NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…project to be undertaken by Qataris

G

uyana’s hospitality sector will be given a further boost with the construction of a massive new hotel on Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown that will feature world-class conference and entertainment facilities.

This was revealed by President Dr Irfaan Ali during his feature address at the 31st Anniversary Gala and Awards Ceremony of the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

“Outside of the many hotels already under construction, you will see the Urban Renewal Plan which involves the building of a massive hotel, conference and entertainment facility along Carifesta commencing next year, and these are investments from

President Dr Irfaan Ali

the Qatari Group… This is along Carifesta [Avenue] that will open up tremendous opportunities along the Carifesta Highway and will bring into realisation, the plan of a mod-

ern boardwalk along the seawall outside of Carifesta that will support the investments that are coming in,” the Head of State posited.

According to President

Wanted man Rickford Burke served with defendant summons at Brooklyn home

U

S-based Guyanese political activist Rickford Burke, who is wanted in his homeland for a series of crimes, has been served with two defendant summonses to attend the Vigilance Magistrates’ Courts on March 28, 2024, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has said on Wednesday.

On December 3, 2021, a wanted bulletin was issued for Burke in relation to these offences: excitement of hostility or ill-will on the ground of race, contrary to the Racial Hostility Act; sedition and use of a computer system to coerce and intimidate a person, both contrary to the Cyber Crime Act; seditious libel, contrary to common law; seditious libel under the peace, contrary to the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act; and inciting public terror, contrary to the Criminal Law (Offences) Act. The Guyana Police Force had again issued a wanted bulletin for Burke on September 29, 2022, in connection with the crime of conspiracy to commit a felony, contrary to Section 33 of

Wanted man Rickford Burke

the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, concerning the publication of defamatory libel with the intention of extorting money from Afras Mohammed.

Two media workers: Alex Wayne and Gary Eleazar, had implicated Burke in the extortion, according to the Police. Wayne and Eleazar were subsequently charged and released on bail.

Two charges were then filed against Burke for the aforementioned offences in the Vigilance Magistrates’ Courts on August 18, 2023.

However, Burke, who lives in the United States of America, did not show up for court. Consequently, the

presiding Magistrate directed that Burke be served with two defendant summonses to appear in court on March 28, 2024.

Two defendant summonses were subsequently prepared in accordance with the court's order; and on December 13, 2023, Assistant Police Superintendent (ASP) Rodwell Sarabo travelled to the USA to serve Burke with the summonses.

In a meeting with American process server Mark Wesserman on December 16, 2023, ASP Rodwell Sarabo issued both defendant summonses to Burke at his Brooklyn, New York (NY) home address on Maple Street. Both summonses were read to Burke, and he acknowledged understanding them, the GPF said.

The GPF has warned that a similar course of action would be adopted against persons who are outside of the jurisdiction but engage in criminal conduct.

It had been reported earlier this year that Burke's extradition was being sought by the Police. (G1)

The Courtyard by Marriott Hotel under construction near the Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Timehri

Ali, 2024 will be an important year for Guyana as a host country. The year will kickoff with the third edition of the International Energy Conference being held from February 19 to February 22. Also in February, the 46th Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) will be held in Georgetown as Guyana assumes chairmanship of the regional body in January 2024.

Moreover, Guyana will be hosting matches during the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup, which will be held in June 2024 in the West Indies and the United States. The country will also host the finals of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) tournament, which coincide with the highly-anticipated Cricket Carnival activities.

In addition, Guyana is set to host several high-level delegations from around the world at the start of the new year. So far, missions from Brazil; Saudi Arabia; Canada; United Arab Emirates (UAE); Qatar; India; Rwanda; United States and possibly the United Kingdom have been confirmed.

“That is how this [new] year will meet us,” the Head of State noted.

These events will drive up the demand for more rooms and accommodation facilities in Guyana. Previously, during world-class events such as the CPL tour

“Entertainment capital”

Currently, there are several internationally-branded hotels that are under construction and work will move into the final phase next year.

President Ali said these initiatives would help bolster

the Guyana Government’s goal of positioning the country as the “entertainment capital” in the Region.

“We will start the process of creating in Guyana, the entertainment capital of the Region, because we are already acutely aware [of] the fact that once we build up the capacity with all these new rooms, new hotels and new restaurants, we have to be able to bring people in, bring consumers in and take care of the new supply.

That demand must be there to match the new supply in the system. And we’re thinking about this already; as to how we must ensure that Guyana – built on a platform as a small population – how can we create that demand by bringing people in this country continuously to feed into all that we’re building,” the Guyanese Leader stated.

In keeping with Guyana’s push to increase the number of hotel rooms that can accommodate visitors to the country, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has been intent on creating an enabling environment for new hotels with the aim of adding some 2000 hotel rooms to the local stock over the coming years.

To this end, the Government, through its Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), had launched an Expression of Interest (EoI) in 2021 for hotel developers.

Consequently, Guyana is to see the construction of at least eight new hotels over the next few years, including globally-recognised hotel brands, such as the Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Radisson and Best Western Hotels.

Currently, works are ongoing on the US$20 million Courtyard by Marriott Hotel at Timehri, East Bank

Demerara. The 140-room hotel, which is located close to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), is expected to be opened in the first quarter of 2024.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed for a US$90 million Hilton Hotel to be constructed at McDoom, Greater Georgetown. The 289-room branded hotel would be constructed in the already busy area, which is home to many businesses such as Gafoors, Pritipaul Singh Investment, Guyana Shore Base Inc, Farm Supplies, and Schlumberger.

Construction was slated to begin in January 2021, and was expected to last for two years.

Moreover, works are underway on the US$32.2 million Hyatt Place Hotel at Providence, East Bank Demerara. The 125-room four-star hotel, located along Red Road in Providence, is also slated to be completed next year.

The US$15 million boutique-style Aiden by Best Western Hotel that is located at Robb and Oronoque Streets in Georgetown is expected to be opened in March 2024. The 150-room hotel will span nine floors of a 74,000 square foot modern building with an executive bar and lounge, executive conference rooms, private dining rooms, and a state-ofthe-art gym, bar, and restaurant.

In July this year, construction work commenced on a Blue Ridge Hotel at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. When completed in 2024, this US$45 million facility will add a further 200 rooms to the 2000 hotel rooms Government anticipates will be created over the next few years. (G8)

8 NEWS 2 years in jail for man nabbed with unlicensed machine gun T THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

wenty-seven-year-old Akeem Bristol was on Monday sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of an Uzi semi-automatic machine gun. The punishment was handed down by Magistrate Rhondell Weever at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

At his initial arraignment on December 11, Bristol, a father of one of North Sophia, Greater Georgetown, pleaded guilty to a charge for the offence of unlawful possession of a firearm.

His plea was accepted by the court.

Magistrate Weever had deferred his sentencing to Monday because she wanted to see the videotaped confession Bristol had given to the Police.

Bristol was not represented by an attorney at either of his court appearances.

At the December 11 court proceedings, Bristol pleaded guilty with an explanation to the charge, telling Magistrate Weever that while cleaning a drain, he found the gun in a bag.

He continued by saying that the Policewoman refused to accept his complaint when he attempted to turn in the gun at the station.

Bristol claimed that when he was stopped by Police ranks on his way home from the Police station, he told them, “I got something illegal to turn in.”

According to the Police prosecutor, Bristol told the Police in a video interview that he had found the pistol four weeks prior and intended to sell it to someone.

Fixing… …a (Surinamese) national wrong

H

The machine gun that was found in the cart

When determining an appropriate sentence for Bristol, Magistrate Weever took into account his early guilty plea, his status as a first-time offender, and his delay in handing over the gun.

She informed him that the day he found the gun, he ought to have brought it to the Police station.

On the day in question, December 7, at about 00:40h, ranks from the Turkeyen Police Station were on patrol in North Sophia, Georgetown when they noticed Bristol pedalling a bicycle through a cross street with a cart attached, a report from Police Headquarters said.

Upon seeing the lawmen, Bristol hopped off the cycle and attempted to run, but due to the quick response by the ranks, they were able to apprehend him.

The ranks searched Bristol but found nothing illegal on him.

They then searched the cart on his cycle and found a black plastic bag containing one Uzi semi-automatic machine

Jailed: Akeem Bristol

gun, with an empty magazine, a Guyana Identification card and a bank ATM card, both in favour of Bristol.

Bristol replied “No”, when the ranks asked if he had a firearm licence.

He was told of the offence committed and cautioned, after which he said: “Sir, I find it in a trench on Sophia Road”.

He was arrested and escorted to the Alberttown Police Station where the firearm was examined and no serial number was found on the frame.

The firearm has since been taken to the ballistics section for examination.

(G1)

opefully, the final foot has been dropped on the decades-long struggle to deliver justice to the relatives of the fifteen civil society activists who’d been murdered over in Suriname in 1982 - on the orders of strongman Desi Bouterse. Those included lawyers, journalists, union leaders, soldiers and university professors. He and some NCOs had staged a “Sergeants Coup” in 1980, and for a while he acted as spokesman, but soon took over the military regime, promoting himself to commander-in-chief and de facto ruler. We’d remember it was the same year Burnham had ordered the assassination of Walter Rodney, then the strongest force that could’ve toppled him in Guyana. Bouterse’s coup would’ve brought home starkly the danger of Rodney infiltrating the GDF – which he knew from plants like Gregory Smith was in the works!!

Well, Burnham’s long dead and gone, but unlike in Suriname, his successors refuse to accept the report of the COI that fingered their Kabaka!!

Over the Corentyne River, Bouterse thought he was able to get away with murder after he stepped aside in 1987 – but then staged the infamous “telephone coup” and officially made himself president!! All he had to do was call the incumbent president on the phone and inform him he was overthrown - and that was that!! He formed a political party and transmuted himself into a politician.

But it would appear that running a country wasn’t enough for Bouterse – he went into the drug smuggling business that shipped the Colombian white lady into Europe. In 1999, a Dutch Court convicted him in absentia to 11 years in prison for one particular shipment – but, as President, he was beyond Interpol’s reach. He kept on with his smuggling – along with his son Dino, who was convicted by a US Court and eventually extradited to serve his sentence. Daddy Bouterse kept on keeping on, and proved that some folks had very short memories, since he ran for elections in 2010 – and won! And ruled till 2020!!

Like that other drug smuggler to our west – Mad Maduro – Bouterse adopted a populist line that pandered to the poor to get their support – never mind he bankrupted the treasury!! Is it a coincidence that in Suriname under Bouterse, Guyana under Burnham, and Venezuela under Mad Maduro, “freeness to the poor” was their claim to electoral fame?? And all three countries went down the gutter!! We note that, once again in Guyana, another party’s basing their appeal on “freeness” - called the Buxton Plan!!

Anyhow, the now 78-year-old Bouterse says he’ll accept the sentence of 20 years – probably expecting his followers to riot and spring him!! Or having had so many pardons, he believes another’s on the way!!

Politics is a real nasty business!! …our threats?

Well, well, well!! So, what’s your Eyewitness’s view of US 4-star Gen (rtd) Wesley K. Clark’s “private” visit on Pres Ali’s invitation?? Now, this guy’s the real deal: West Point valedictorian class of 1966; Masters at Oxford University; medalled for service in Vietnam; Supreme Allied Commander, Europe – after heading SouthCom – and presidential candidate. Were there any more worlds left to conquer??

Well, evidently not, since he retired from the army and opened up his own very pricey private consulting firm - Wesley Clark and Associates. So, what does he consult about? Well, duh!! What he knows about!! He also heads an investment bank; chairs Energy Security Partners that is active in “energy, including oil and gas, biofuels, electric power and batteries, finance, and security.” Now, isn’t that a perfect fit for Guyana?? Especially with that last throwaway item – security – at this point of our history??!!

Maduro would know Clark led the brutal campaign against Serbia to prevent Albanian ethnic cleansing!!

Pressie doesn’t need to pay no heed to that Brooklyn posse!! …response to Maduro Now General Clark ain’t no warmonger. Remember, he was the fella who revealed that the George W Bush Administration was gonna overthrow “seven states in five years” after 9/11?? But he can project power!!

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

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

9

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Poisoning death of children…

Court of Appeal cuts mother’s jail sentence from 98 to 30 years

Jailed: Hosfosuwa Amena Rutherford

By Feona Morrison

I

n a unanimous decision, the Court of Appeal on Wednesday upheld the two manslaughter convictions of 30-yearold Hosfosuwa Amena Rutherford, who fatally poisoned her two children.

However, after concluding that the original jail term was excessive and out of compliance with established sentencing guidelines and the totality principle, the appellate court reduced the trial court's sentence of 98 years to 30 years.

Rutherford becomes eligible for parole after 20 years.

A jury in the High Court of Demerara had found her guilty of two counts of manslaughter regarding the deaths of her two children: four-year-old Hodascia Cadogan and one-year-old Jabari Cadogan, following a trial before Justice Navindra Singh in 2018.

She had fed the children rat poison (aluminum phosphide tablets) on March 27, 2014 at their East Coast

Dead: Hodascia Cadogan

Dead: Jabari Cadogan

Demerara home.

On the first count, for the killing of Hodascia Cadogan, Rutherford had been sentenced to 45 years in jail; while on the second count, for the killing of Jabari Cadogan, she had been sentenced to 53 years’ imprisonment. The prison terms were to be served consecutively, meaning that her cumulative sentence was 98 years, and she was not eligible for parole.

On appeal, Rutherford had claimed, via her lawyer Dexter Smartt, that the Judge presiding over her trial had neglected to consider the voluntariness of the self-incriminating statements (caution statements) the Police said she had made. She had also argued that the 98-year prison term she had received was excessive and not in keeping with established sentencing guidelines.

A ruling on voluntariness is a "condition precedent" that must be fulfilled before any caution statement is admitted into evidence, Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette

Cummings-Edwards, noted while reading the court’s ruling on Wednesday.

She did, however, point out that any jury given the right instructions would have found Rutherford guilty of the charges, given the prosecution's evidence, which was sufficiently convincing even without the caution statements.

In light of this, the Chancellor stated, the trial Judge's failure to make a decision about the voluntariness of the caution statements posed no actual risk of injustice to Rutherford.

Re-sentence

The Court of Appeal chose to re-sentence Rutherford, after concluding that the trial court's sentence was excessively severe. In doing so, it took into account the totality principle, the fact that Rutherford was 25 years old at the time of the crimes, the relevant case laws, and the fact that the offences were the result of comparable circumstances.

The court started Rutherford's sentence at 35

Court of Appeal Judges: Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards (extreme left) and Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory-Barnes and Rishi Persaud

years, deducting two years for her "genuine remorse" and an additional three years for her favourable probation report, leaving 30 years.

As a result, the woman received concurrent terms of 30 years in jail for each of the two charges.

Before she is eligible for parole, Rutherford must spend 20 years behind bars.

The State was represented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Teshana Lake.

Judges Dawn Gregory-Barnes and Rishi Persaud of the Court of Appeal also deliberated on this matter.

At the hearing of Rutherford’s appeal earlier this year, Lake had submitted that “concurrent sentence may have been the way to go, especially since the overall criminality from

the sentences of 45 years and 53 years would have been reflected based on the sentence.” She had agreed with the defence counsel’s argument that the 98 years’ sentence was disproportionate and excessive.

During the woman’s trial in 2018, the State had adduced evidence that she had given each of her children half of a tablet of aluminum phosphide (rat poison) on March 27, 2014 at their home.

Rutherford’s defence was that she had bought cold tablets at the Plaisance bus park in Georgetown from a man who sells rat poison.

Rutherford had been hospitalised for seven days after the poisoning of her offspring, after she had drunk two rat poison tablets after giving the same to her children.

The children’s cause of death was listed as pesticide poisoning.

“No one in this world loves my children more than I do. I love them to my soul.

I am sorry for my shortcomings and my faults,” the convicted children killer had stated at her sentencing hearing.

She had then turned her attention to Justice Singh, whom she begged to have mercy on her.

“Justice Singh, even God in Heaven above is merciful, and I am asking you to grant me a second chance, so I can make things right,” a crying Rutherford had pleaded.

Justice Singh had, however, seemed perplexed as to why the State had indicted this mother for the lesser offence of manslaughter. He had contended that “everything points to murder.”

NEWS

11

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Designs for massive drainage canals to be completed by Feb 2024 – Mustapha …billions to be invested in D&I across Guyana

A

griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has revealed that the start of works on the replica Hope canals may be just around the corner, as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is hoping to complete the designs by February 2024.

During Tuesday’s sitting of the National Assembly, the Agriculture Minister responded to questions on the $6.2 billion supplementary funds that were sought by, and subsequently granted to, his Ministry. The Minister detailed some of the capital works that will be funded from the $5.3 billion being requested for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

Included in this sum is money for a consultant to design replicas of the Hope Canal, a major climate mitigation initiative that has been credited with helping to protect the East Coast from floods in recent years. This project is being replicated in other regions, and according to Mustapha, the designs are expected to be completed

by February 2024.

“We’re doing studies now to do the designs for the Hope-like canals that we want to do. We’re doing a number of those canals in Regions Five and Six. The designs are being done, and we’ve allocated $6.4 million to do that design. And by the end of this year, hopefully by February, we’ll get the entire design done, and works will commence to do those Hope-like ca-

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

The Hope Canal

nals like we did at Hope there,” Mustapha said.

Mention was made of the Government’s intervention in Pomeroon following visits by the minister and President Dr Irfaan Ali, when the residents’ concerns were heard. A sum of $794 million will be spent in that area, according to Mustapha.

“What we have also done, we’ve advertised and we have worked, a number of critical works in the Pomeroon. We want to ensure that Pomeroon becomes a productive

area again. Places like Friendship, Marlborough, Martindale, Hackney, Strong Hope, Abrams Creek and a number of areas.

“What we are doing there, the President and I went there and we looked… people are normally flooded there, we are now lifting the beds to 1.5 metres, so that the floods they suffered over the years will be avoided,” he explained.

When it comes to canals, the Minister further explained that Government will be spend-

ing billions to rehabilitate a number of canals across the country, to better help with drainage and irrigation.

“What we are also doing across the country, there are a number of canals that need rehabilitation. Places like Friendship, Den Amstel, Craig, Belladrum, Plaisance, Profit, New Amsterdam, Manchester,

Bonasika…a number of places where we’ll be doing rehabilitation at a cost of $2.5 billion,” Minister Mustapha explained.

The Hope Canal, or Northern Relief Channel, which is located at Hope/ Dochfour, East Coast Demerara, is a multi-component channel that allows excess water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) to be drained into the Atlantic Ocean via an eight-door sluice, so as to avoid overflowing and possible flooding.

That canal, which cost some $3.6 billion, was conceptualized under the then Bharrat Jagdeo-led PPP Government, and was constructed following the 2005 floods. At the time, excessive rainfall compounded by a breach in the embankment had resulted in Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and

Five (Mahaica-Berbice) experiencing massive flooding, causing significant damage to agricultural and residential areas. After several delays, the Hope Canal project became operational in 2016. Noting its climate mitigation benefits, the Government wants the project replicated in other regions.

As far back as 2021, President Ali had said the Hope Canal was instrumental in preventing massive flooding along the East Coast of Demerara during the unprecedented May-June floods, and he had announced that similar infrastructure would be constructed in other regions to curb devastating floods. These include Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). (G3)

12 NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt made over $10B in capital investments in GPL since 2020 …water subsidies cost $250M annually, over 29,000 pensioners benefiting

T

he Government has, between 2020 and 2023, made over $10 billion in capital investments in the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), as part of its measures to absorb the high cost of power and prevent it from being passed down to consumers.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson had submitted to the National Assembly written questions addressed to Senior Minister in the Office of the President, with responsibility for finance, Dr. Ashni Singh. The first question requested a disaggregated regional list of the number of pensioners benefitting from water and electricity subsidies as of May 2023. Additionally, the Parliamentarian requested the total cost per month on the treasury.

In his written response, the Finance Minister revealed that a total of 29,923 pensioners benefitted from water subsidies as of May 2023. This number includes 1,978 in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); 5,217 in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 13,238 in Region Four (Demerara-

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

Mahaica); 2,939 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 4,708 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); 300 in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); 13 in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) and 1,530 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice).

“In the case of the water subsidy, the total cost to the treasury for the month of May 2023 was $21 million. The total cost of this initiative is estimated at $250 million per annum,” the Finance Minister explained.

When it comes to electricity subsidies, Dr Singh explained, over $10 billion has been invested by the PPP/C Government in GPL from 2020 to 2023 - an

amount that is necessary to allow Government to continue subsidizing the cost of electricity not only to pensioners, but to the entire country.

“It should be noted (that) the PPP/C Government has been continuously absorbing the impact of high fuel prices on the cost of services provided by electricity companies, thereby ensuring that it does not translate into high electricity bills to all customers.

To this end, Government has made over $10 billion in capital investment in the Guyana Power and Light Inc. over the period 2020 to 2023,” Dr Singh said.

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister also reminded Ferguson that it was

The Guyana Power and Light

the former APNU/AFC Government in 2015 that removed electricity and water subsidies from pensioners. By removing that safety net, Dr Singh pointed out, APNU/AFC’s actions foisted over $500 million in costs on vulnerable pensioners.

“It would be recalled that in 2015, the then APNU/AFC Government callously removed the electricity and water subsidies from pensioners, thereby reducing the disposable income of this vulnerable section of our society. This unconscionable act resulted in the loss of over $200 million in water subsidy and $350 million in electricity subsidy to our pensioners annually,” Dr. Singh explained.

Renewable energy

One of the motivations behind Government’s pursuit of renewable energy projects and the Gas-toEnergy project is reducing the heavy fuel oil (HFO) cost on the state coffers, thereby freeing up resources that can be invested in other areas.

In fact, earlier this year, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram

Bharrat, had said that when the gas-to-energy project comes online, Guyana is expected to save between US$150 million and US$200 million in foreign currency that would have otherwise covered the country’s fuel import bill.

In Budget 2023, the gas-to-energy project received a $43.3 billion allocation. This allocation is in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the startup of the transformational project, which includes construction of an integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) Plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant at Wales, WBD. The NGL and 300MW 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.

Meanwhile, the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), which was revived by the PPP/C Government when it returned to office in 2020, will supply electricity to GPL Inc at a cost not exceeding US$0.07737 per kWh, once it comes online.

In October, the

Government had reinvited Requests for Proposals (RFP) under a Build-OwnOperate-Transfer (BOOT) model, to advance the development of the AFHP. The BOOT model is one wherein the company undertaking the project would provide the entire equity required and undertake all the risks associated with the project.

The revival of the 165-megawatt AFHP was one of the promises made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic in its manifesto. The project was initiated under the previous PPP/C Administration, but was scrapped by the coalition Administration which had controlled the National Assembly by a one-seat Opposition majority.

The AFHP was the flagship of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Amaila was expected to deliver a steady source of clean, renewable energy that would have been affordable and reliable, and was envisioned to meet approximately 90 per cent of Guyana’s domestic energy needs while removing dependency on fossil fuels.

(G3)

Welder jailed for assaulting 11-year-old S

unil Ramdeo, a 25-year-old welder of Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), was on Tuesday sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment after being found guilty of assaulting an 11-year-old student.

Ramdeo appeared before Anna Regina Magistrate Esther Sam charged with assault causing actual bodily

harm, committed on the student of C.V. Nunes Primary School on July 16 at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast.

Ramdeo was charged under Section 30(a) of the Summary Jurisdiction Offences Act, Chapter 8:02, and following the trial, the magistrate found Ramdeo guilty of the offence, resulting in the sentence of 12 months’ imprisonment.

Charged: Sunil Ramdeo

NEWS

13

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mohamed’s Enterprise donates $3M to 17 NGOs

Proprietor of Mohamed’s Enterprise, Nazar Mohamed

Nazar Mohamed, Proprietor of Mohamed’s Enterprise, and his son Azruddin pose with representatives of the beneficiary organisations

n keeping with what has been a morethan-decade-long tradition, proprietor of Mohamed’s Enterprise, Nazar Mohamed, has donated $3 million to 17 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including orphanages and special needs foundations.

Among the beneficiaries are Shaheed Boys and Girls Orphanages, Help and Shelter, Enmore Orphanage; MoH Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Center, Joshua House Children’s Centre, Guyana Society for the Blind, Bait

Nazar Mohamed expressed satisfaction with the role each of the organisations plays in society, and commended the various staff members for their dedication and hard work.

Sharing his struggle of growing up in a less fortunate family, Mohammed explained that giving back to the most vulnerable is something that he and his family take pride in doing.

“I always use to look at my parents, who have been a tremendous example to me, because they were not rich people by any means.

My grandfather, he built

I

ur Rahman, St. John’s Bosco Orphanage, Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Dharm Shala, Guyana Islamic Trust Relief Organization, Gifted Hands Learning Center For Special Needs, St Barabas Special School, David Rose School for the Handicapped, MET Pride Academy, and Diamond Special Needs School.

Cheques were presented to the various representatives during a simple ceremony held at the company’s Lombard Street, Georgetown office; where, during brief remarks,

an extra room so people in those days -- I’m from Essequibo, and people use to travel with the bus, and would have to overnight close to the stelling -- so people can go there, they can fresh up and go onward on their journey to joining the ferry…,” he detailed.

“Nothing really matters to me: personal wealth doesn’t matter to me; personal gratification doesn’t matter to me, you know.

My whole objective in life is to touch the heart of someone, bring smiles to someone, bring people out of poverty, whether by a kind

word, whether by a little help,” Mohammed stated.

Mohammed said his hope is that the financial aid given would assist the respective organizations to further provide care for the vulnerable. He noted that the work they do is truly profound, and has major influence on the lives of many youths.

“I’ve usually looked at vulnerable people, vulnerable homes, where one person can inspire a whole generation. You know, one poor person who you can help to give them a little education, and they can

be a nurse, or they can be a teacher, and they can inspire that whole generation to go to school to learn to achieve, and bring them out of a situation where the other generation can follow,” he explained.

Further, he reiterated that the Mohammed family would continue to assist the less fortunate and those in need with the wealth that has been bestowed on them

by God Almighty.

The recipients thanked the businessman for his incredible support over the years, and wished his family the best for the season.

GT sanitation workers call off strike …M&CC agrees to pay retroactive increase, one-off grant T

he Georgetown Mayor and City Council (GM&CC) has agreed to meet the demands of its sanitation workers in order to end a strike which started on Tuesday.

The strike was spearheaded by the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) after a meeting with the M&CC’s Finance Committee on Monday afternoon had not been able to determine when the 6.5 per cent retroactive salary increase and $25,000 one-off cash grant would be provided to the workers. After there had been a second meeting on Tuesday afternoon, City Council agreed to pay the workers the 6.5 per cent retroactive salary increase with effect from January 1, 2023, along with the $25,000 oneoff cash grant announced by Central Government for all public servants.

In an interview with

Guyana Times, Town Clerk Candace Nelson explained that the parties have agreed that given Council’s financial challenges, the retroactive payment for 2023 would be provided to the workers in the first quarter

of 2024.

The workers are expected to return to work today.

“We’re depending on, as we’ve always done, on rates and taxes to come in, to utilize those monies for the increase as well as to do ser-

vices within the various constituencies…we are hoping that by tomorrow things will go back to normal,” Nelson stated.

City Council owes the workers approximately $34 million in retroactive payments and $14 million in one-off grants; and Nelson has said she would be engaging the Finance Committee to discuss new avenues to improve Council’s revenue collection capabilities in the new year.

“So, once that is done, it’s possible that we can come up with new ways of receiving money; but, for now, it’s still dependent on the taxes that are collected,” she explained.

On Monday, representatives of the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) met with the M&CC’s Finance Committee to discuss increases for staff who are responsible for cleaning the city within its 15 constit-

uencies. During the meeting, it was proposed that the municipality pay the workers the one-off grant and a five per cent out of the 6.5 per cent retroactive increase. The union, which did not agree with the proposal, called for its workers to down tools.

In August, the newly-elected Mayor of Georgetown, Alfred Mentore, announced that he was unsure of City Hall’s financial status, and had committed to having an audit of the organisation.

During the City Council’s first statutory meeting after the election of new Councillors, the Mayor blamed his predecessors, the majority of whom were from the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition, for the current questionable financial status.

“I am not going to take blame,” Mentore said, add-

ing: “We don’t want to be taking blame for some previous Councillors.”

Claiming that it is an administrative duty to ensure City Hall’s financials are in order, Mentore maintained that he would not take blame for the local organ’s position.

He related that the Council is ready and willing to outsource the necessary expertise to audit City Hall.

Further, he acknowledged that there are remaining concerns over the selling and leasing of lands in the capital city through the City Council, which is controlled by APNU/PNCR. There have also been reported cases of alleged obscure transactions involving the writing off or wavering of taxes to businesses arbitrarily, without proper records of how amounts are arrived at, or how the agreement came about.

14 NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Mother killed by minibus Bandits make off with while walking with children car, $2.2M in valuables

Dead: Anita Narine

A

nita Narine of Providence, East Bank Demerara lost her life in front of her two children on Tuesday night at about 19:45h, after being struck down by a minibus on the public road at Le Destin, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

Police have said that Narine was struck by minibus BAD 6362, which was being driven by a 41-year-old man of Block 8,

Tuschen, EBE. Their investigations revealed that the minibus was proceeding west along the southern side of the road at a fast rate when the left side front of the vehicle collided with the pedestrian, who was crossing the road from north to south.

The impact of that collision threw Narine on the roadway, and she sustained injuries to her body. She was picked up by the driv-

er, placed in the minibus, and rushed to the Sheriff Hospital at Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD), where she died while receiving treatment.

Her body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home at Best Village, West Coast Demerara, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the driver, and .05% and .04% of alcohol were detected in his system. He is currently in Police custody, assisting with further investigations.

A relative told Guyana Times that Narine was stuck down in the presence of her son, daughter, and mother-in-law. The relative said the woman’s husband revealed that she had gone home from work, and was on the road with her children and mother-inlaw at the time of the accident. She had made a stop, had gone to acquire something, and was crossing the road when she was hit by the minibus.

Narine had worked as a secretary to attorney-at-law Kamal Ramkarran. (G9)

while WBD family sleeps A family of seven allegedly fell victim to a robbery, losing a car and valuables valued at over $2M on Wednesday morning at their residence in Dairy, La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Pretima Khan, one member of this family, in recounted the harrowing experience, said the robbery occurred at some time around 03:00h, while family members were asleep.

Khan recalled that members of the family had secured the home and retired for the night at around 10:00h, but were jolted awake at about 04:00h by a concerned neighbour raising suspicions that something was awry. Upon investigating, Khan discovered that the door to the home had been opened.

Recounting the unsettling moment, she said, "I felt my neighbour come and touch me on my leg, and tell me it looked like we got robbed. Everybody in the house woke up, started looking around, and realized that some of our things were missing."

Among the items stolen are jewellery belonging to Khan and her husband totalling $800,000, as well as $100,000 in cash.

Additionally, her mother's earrings valued at about $45,000, and $190,000 in cash are reportedly missing. Khan said her brother-

This car has been stolen from the family

in-law's iPhone, valued at $105,000, is also among the items stolen.

The family suspects the robbers had calculated their approach in executing this crime, and Khan has said, "I believe someone sprayed (us); because the house is wood, and if somebody walks, you can hear it, but we didn’t hear anything.

Plus, my brother-in-law's phone was by his head, they cut the netting and took it out."

This robbery has been

reported at the La Grange Police Station WBD, and Khan has said that law enforcement officers are now actively reviewing CCTV footage and conducting searches for the missing car.

Members of this family are urging anyone with information regarding the robbery or the whereabouts of their car to contact them on (592) 695-4339, or 7072838, or kindly give the information to the nearest Police station.

NEWS

15

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ERC rounds off 2023 sensitisation efforts in Bartica

Residents attending the meeting with ERC commissioners

Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack and Commissioner Deon Dick (Ras Khafra) with children during distribution of toys in Bartica

T

he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has rounded off its regional senitisation initiatives for 2023 in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Wednesday at the Bartica Community Centre Ground.

During the outreach, stakeholders were edified on the functions and workplan of the Commission, and further informed of efforts to execute its mandate as outlined in the Constitution of Guyana.

The team engaged

with residents from central Bartica and surrounding areas, inclusive of Agatash, Byderabo, Dagg Point, Potaro Road, Mora Camp, Kalcoon and other riverine areas. Residents were able to engage the commissioners on meaningful discussions, which aids in the advancement of the work of ERC. The commission, a release on Wednesday evening said, took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to promoting harmony and good relations among all the people of Guyana.

The session was also attended by regional officials, the mayor, senior members of the Police Force, and local media, among other stakeholders.

The ERC team was led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, Commissioners Deon Dick (Ras Khafra), Norris Witter, Ashton Simon, Chandrowtie Sarran; CEO Gomin Camacho, and secretariat staff.

The team also distributed toys to over 300 children residing in the town and nearby communities

in an effort to spread the joy of Christmas.

The visit to Bartica

concludes a myriad of outreaches across Guyana, which were conducted by

the Commission since being reconstituted in March of this year.

Corentyne farmer at wits’ end with destruction of cash crop by cattle

The damaged water system

A

Corentyne cash crop farmer is claiming that cattle entered his farm and destroyed a significant portion of his cultivation. He is now worried by the slow response by authorities.

Apart from vegetable and other crops farming equipment was also damaged by the animals.

Ravi Rohan Lall of Grant 2129 Crabwood Creek (CWC), Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-

Corentyne) cultivates a fiveacre plot at Torani Canal CWC growing cash crops, suckers, cassava and sweet potatoes.

The 41-year-old farmer told Guyana Times that on December 12, when he visit-

ed his farm which is located in the backlands several sections were destroyed.

“When I go in the farm, then I really see what the cows do. At the said moment I become frustrated because I had planted some

pak choi the day before and I went there to make a shed for them. I already cut the branches and carry them in to make the shed.”

Lall said as he looked around, he noticed that other sheds erected to cover some of his crop from the sun were pulled down.

“There was no part of the farm that the cows did not walk and tramp,” the farmer said.

“The cassava, the root out – they had 10-15 cassava on one root; some ready to harvest now and some in a months’ time.”

Lall added that he invested in sprinklers to ensure adequate water supply for his crops and these too were damaged.

Following the discovery, Lall made contact with officials in the region, the Ministry of Agriculture and also the Police so that an appraisal could be done in order for him to claim damages.

However, one week later, he had still needed to wait on a visit or phone call indicating when the visit to the farm would be made.

“Even the Police say that they would go the same time with NAREI [National Agricultural Research and

Extension Institute]. When you make a report at the station, the Police should go immediately to see what is damaged,” the farmer added.

In order to gain access to the farm, the animals would have to swim across a canal.

There is a barbed wire fence to the front of the farm. Lall said he was forced to install the fence, because one year ago animals entered the farm and destroyed all of his crops.

At that time, he had corn, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, bora, squash, eggplants and peppers, which were all destroyed.

According to Lall, his investment was aided by a loan from the Institute of Small Enterprise Development (IPED), adding that the loan was secured last year for his previous crop.

The farmer is estimating his damages for each crop at about $500,000.

“I didn’t even pick one bora from the last crop and now I planted bora again and the same thing,” the frustrated farmer said.

Lall has been able to ascertain the brands on some of the cattle and is hoping for authorities to intervene swiftly. (G4)

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Serious crimes decline in Regent Street closed to eastbound traffic from Thursday to Sunday Region 2 – Police stats

Commander, Region Two, Supt. Khemraj Shivbaran

R

ecent statistics from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have revealed that Regional Division Two (PomeroonSupenaam) has recorded a decline in serious crimes.

According to the latest data reported by Region 2 Commander, Superintendent Khemraj Shivbaran, in an episode of "Police and You”, there has been a notable 13.6 per cent decrease in serious crimes, compared to the same period last year.

In 2022, the division had reported 38 cases of serious crimes, and for the comparable period in 2023,

there has been a 45.7 per cent decrease, with only 19 cases reported. This statistic indicates a significant improvement in the overall security situation, highlighting the efforts of law enforcement in the area, Shivbaran said.

Among the details is a drastic reduction in specific crime categories, he noted, adding that murders have seen a notable decline, with only one reported case this year, compared to the same period last year. Similarly, incidents of rape have decreased from 13 cases to one.

He said that break

and entry cases, which remained constant at 11 incidents in both years, suggest a need for targeted efforts to address this specific type of crime.

According to the commander, one of the most promising aspects of the report is the impressive 52.6 per cent rate achieved by law enforcement officers in solving reported cases.

Commander Shivbaran further emphasised that these positive outcomes did not happen overnight.

Instead, they are the result of continuous interaction and engagement with the public, as well as ongoing efforts to edify community members on crime prevention and safety measures.

“We are doing this to bring them [members of the public] into the view or picture of what the Guyana Police Force is doing,” he said.

As the region celebrates these encouraging statistics, the Commander believes it is evident that the commitment of law enforcement, combined with community involvement, plays a crucial role in creating a safer and more secure environment for residents. (G9)

I

n an effort to control the smooth flow of traffic, Regent Street Georgetown, between Vlissengen Road to the east and Avenue of the Republic

traffic during the heightened Christmas shopping,” the GPF explained. “This will take effect from Thursday December 21st and run until midnight on Christmas

On Wednesday, Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration' Calvin Brutus, Traffic Chief

to the west, will be closed to eastbound traffic from tomorrow until Christmas Eve, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced.

This is “in an effort to maximise a smoother flow of

Eve,” the GPF added.

Road users are being urged to pay attention to traffic ranks who will be placed at various points along the roadways, and to adhere to directions.

Mahendra Singh and Inspector Gavin Boyce visited Regent Street, Georgetown as they sought to implement better traffic management.

NEWS

17

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

East Bank residents to benefit from 24-hour treated water

H

ousing and Water Minister Collin Croal has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to enhancing water service by 2025, noting that significant investment is being made to ensure Guyanese have access to treated water on a 24-hour basis.

Croal made this disclosure on Wednesday during an inspection of water

Minister Collin Croal during his inspection of water treatment facilities along the East Bank of Demerara on Wednesday

treatment plants at Eccles, Covent Garden, Diamond, Grove, and Caledonia, all East Bank Demerara communities.

He explained that the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is working with a five-year strategic plan from 2021 to 2025, the overall aim of which is having 90 per cent treated water by 2025.

“On the coastland, we must have 100 per cent access of water to households, and similarly in the hinterland. That is our objective, that is our target that we are trying to achieve, and we have about two more years to ensure that we achieve that,” Minister Croal is quoted in a DPI report as saying.

The water treatment facility At Covent Garden

Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount in merger talks

W

arner Bros Discovery and Paramount Global are in early talks to merge, according to multiple media reports.

The deal would see the owner of HBO channels and CNN team up with the studio behind the Mission Impossible films and CBS News.

Warner chief executive David Zaslav and Paramount chief Bob Bakish discussed a possible deal over lunch in New York this week, as first reported by Axios.

Talks are at an early stage and a deal may not happen, sources told the FT. The deal would bring together two of Hollywood's "Big Five" studios, with Warner and Paramount's combined market value standing at $38bn (£30bn).

Streaming of shows and films has meant that traditional media companies have

had to invest quickly to compete with the likes of Netflix, Amazon Video and Apple TV. Warner and Paramount have had to commit to some deep cost-cutting, as they try to minimise losses running into the billions of dollars from their video streaming services.

As a result, their stock prices continue to trade well below their highs in the early days of streaming.

According to Axios, the chief executives discussed over lunch how each company's main streaming service, Paramount Plus and Max (formerly HBO Max), could merge to better take on rivals Netflix and Disney Plus.

Paramount is under a lot of pressure to find a buyer or strategic partner because of its levels of debt accrued in recent years whilst bulking up its streaming service.

Analysts say Warner has a slightly better cash po-

sition, partly due to some shrewd mergers.

Last year, AT&T's WarnerMedia unit and Discovery merged to become Warner Bros Discovery, with a portfolio that included Discovery Channel, Warner Bros. Entertainment, CNN, HBO, Cartoon Network and franchises such as Batman and Harry Potter.

Media reports suggest that more consolidation is coming in the industry.

The dominance of Netflix and other big technology companies in the media space is undeniable - not just in terms of their financial performances but also through their extensive portfolios of shows and subscriber numbers.

According to Statista, Netflix added 5.9m paid subscriptions worldwide between March and June in 2023 and 8.8m from July to September.

The company's crackdown on account-sharing in these months led to new accounts created, mostly in the US, Canada and the Europe, bringing its total number of subscribers to 247.2 million globally.

In comparison, Paramount Plus total subscribers stand at 63.4 million and Warner Bros Discovery 95 million as of November 2023. (BBC)

is functional. However, it is undergoing massive upgrades which will see the drilling of a new well and the development of two new water treatment tanks to boost accessibility and improve capacity. Upon completion, the plant will be interlinked with the Diamond water treatment facility.

The new water treatment system located at Sixth Street, Diamond will be active by Friday, December 22, 2023. Croal highlighted that drilling of the well was done in-house

by Guyana Water Inc (GWI), and has been deemed successful. Currently, the GWI team is connecting that well to the main distribution line in Diamond.

Similarly, at the Golden Grove Water Treatment

Plant, a new well is being drilled to double the water output.

Upon completion, residents receiving water from that facility would gain access to 24-hour service. That well would also be interconnected to the Diamond Water Treatment Plant.

Additionally, major development is ongoing at the Caledonia Water Treatment Plant, which will see the resuscitation of the old storage tank, construction of a new storage plant, the construction of three filter systems and the drilling of a new well commencing in the new year. When that is completed, communities between Soesdyke and Garden of Eden will receive treated water on a 24-hour basis.

The project is part of

the Ministry’s massive programme that aims to construct seven new treatment plants for 2025.

Meanwhile, in Region Four, the Ministry is building three plants at Caledonia, Cummings Lodge, and Bachelor’s Adventure.

Additionally, five new treatment plants are currently out to tender, as part of the Ministry’s second phase of work. The tender is expected to close in January 2024.

“The programme that we have for treated water is basically from Charity all the way to Moleson Creek, and that is the coastal programme to ensure all the households are getting treated water,” Minister Croal has pointed out.

18

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Venezuela frees dozens, Brazil’s Supreme Court suspends US$2B fine on JBS owner including Americans, in prisoner swap A

V

e n e z u e l a ' s Government is freeing at least 20 Opposition-linked prisoners and 10 Americans in exchange for the US release of an ally of President Nicolás Maduro, two US officials and Venezuelan sources said on Wednesday.

The Maduro ally is Colombian businessman Alex Saab, who was granted clemency by US President Joe Biden and returned to Venezuela on Wednesday.

US Prosecutors had accused Saab of siphoning off some US$350 million from Venezuela via the United States in a scheme that involved bribing Venezuelan Government officials. He denies the charge.

As part of the deal, all six Americans classified by the US as wrongfully detained in Venezuela were released and are on their way home, along with four other Americans, according to the US officials, who declined to be named.

Venezuela also returned to the United States the

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro embraces Alex Saab, who was facing US bribery charges, after he was released by the US Government, at the Miraflores Palace, in Caracas, Venezuela, December 20, 2023 ( Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria)

fugitive Malaysian businessman Leonard Glenn Francis, known as "Fat Leonard", who is implicated in a US Navy bribery case, the officials said.

The deal, the result of months of negotiations mediated by Qatar between Venezuela and the United States, came after the White House said it would need to see progress on prisoner releases in order to continue with energy sanctions relief for Caracas.

Sanctions relief was unveiled in October in response to an agreement by the Venezuelan Government to hold fair elections in 2024.

Although the releases could be seen as a step

by Maduro to comply with US demands, the return of Saab marks a victory for Maduro. Saab had not yet been convicted and his return to Venezuela was previously seen as unlikely.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Surinamese court upholds ex-President's conviction over activist murders in 1982

A

three-Judge panel in Suriname on Wednesday upheld the conviction of former President Desi Bouterse for his role in the execution of 15 persons in the former Dutch colony in December 1982, though no arrest warrant was immediately issued.

Bouterse, 78, who dominated Suriname's politics for decades and left office in 2020, faces 20 years in prison.

He has denied the charges and this was his final possible appeal.

The Government said the verdict was "an import-

ant moment of healing" and called on citizens to accept it, but added that the court had not ordered immediate imprisonment.

"The Government will in the coming period, in close consultation with the relevant authorities, in compliance with the legal provisions, take up the follow-up to the verdict pronounced," it said in a statement.

Bouterse's lawyer Irvin Kanhai told reporters as he left the court that he had not yet spoken to his client.

The verdict is "disappointing, but let me read it first," Kanhai said.

The court ruled in 2019

that Bouterse had overseen an operation in which soldiers abducted 16 leading Government critics, including lawyers, Journalists, union leaders, soldiers and university professors, from their homes.

Fifteen of them were murdered at a colonial fortress in the capital Paramaribo. One trade union leader survived and gave testimony against Bouterse.

Bouterse has said in the past the murdered men were connected to an invasion plot involving the Netherlands and the United States.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazilian Supreme Court Justice suspended a 10.3 billion real (US$2.10 billion) fine on J&F, the firm that controls the world's largest meatpacker, JBS, according to a decision seen by Reuters on Wednesday.

The court's decision was not made public, and the court did not immediately respond to requests for comments. J&F declined to comment.

J&F had agreed to pay the fine in 2017 under a leniency agreement over its role in corruption scandals.

Its founders, Joesley and Wesley Batista had confessed, in a plea bargain deal, to running a political

bribery ring.

The company had requested the court to suspend the fine, arguing that prosecutors were biased and had taken "clearly persecutory actions".

J&F's request came after the Justice overseeing the case, Dias Toffoli, ruled in September to annul all evidence related to a similar leniency agreement with the construction firm formerly called Odebrecht, based on messages that indicated collusion between the Judge on that case and Prosecutors.

In the ruling on J&F's case, dated Tuesday, Toffoli argued that there was "at the very least, reasonable doubt" as to wheth-

er the company adhered to the agreement with Federal Prosecutors voluntarily, "which justifies, for the time being, the suspension of payments."

According to a source with knowledge of the case, J&F has already paid 2.9 billion reais of the total fine.

However, depending on the evidence, the fine could be reduced to an amount lower than already paid.

Toffoli also gave the company permission to reevaluate terms of the agreement reached with Prosecutors through the country's comptroller general's office to "correct any abuses" that could have been committed.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Alleged Hezbollah member charged over 1994 Buenos Aires bombing

T

he United States has charged an alleged Hezbollah member, Samuel Salman El Reda, with giving material support to a “terrorist group”, accusing him of providing assistance for a 1994 bombing in Argentina.

Federal Prosecutors announced charges against the 58-year-old on Wednesday, linking El Reda to the truck bombing of the AMIA Jewish community centre in Buenos Aires, which killed 85 people.

“This indictment serves as a message to those who engage in acts of terror: that the Justice Department’s memory is long, and we will not relent in our efforts to bring them to justice,” Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the US Department of Justice’s National Security Division said in a press release.

The US has long characterised the 1994 bombing as an example of the far reach of the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, which at the time of the bombing was locked in

The aftermath of the incident

a deadly battle with Israeli forces occupying southern Lebanon.

Iran and Hezbollah denied responsibility for the attack, which sent shockwaves through the city’s Jewish community. Small commemorative tiles with the names of those killed can still be seen on sidewalks around Buenos Aires.

US authorities said El Reda, a dual LebaneseColombian citizen, has

helped coordinate the activities of Hezbollah’s Islamic Jihad Organisation in South America, Asia and Lebanon since at least 1993.

The statement from the Justice Department said El Reda is based in Lebanon and “remains at large”. The US Department of State sanctioned him in 2019 and offered US$7 million for information regarding his whereabouts. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Colombia announces winners in “historic” 5G Farm, rail companies urge reopening of data services auction

US-Mexico crossings shut over migrants C

D

ozens of major US agricultural groups on Wednesday urged the US to reopen two rail crossings on the TexasMexico border in an effort by businesses to restore the trade routes shuttered due to increased migrant crossings.

In a sharply-worded letter to US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the growers –representing corn, milk, rice and soybean producers, among others – said the crossings could be easily reopened and that closures already had caused steep export losses.

"Each day the crossings

Migrants wait at a processing centre in Eagle Pass, Texas, US, December 19, 2023 (Reuters/Cheney Orr)

are closed we estimate almost one million bushels of grain exports are potentially lost along with export potential for many other agricul-

tural products," the groups wrote, adding that blocking food heading to Mexico could lead to inflation or food insecurity there.

Railroad companies and business groups – including the US Chamber of Commerce - in recent days have pressed US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to reopen the two rail bridges in Eagle Pass and El Paso after US border authorities closed them on December 18 in order to "redirect personnel" to process migrants crossing the border.

Among the groups signing the agricultural business letter were the National Grain and Feed Association, US Wheat Associates, American Soybean Association and National Corn Growers Association.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

olombia picked four telecommunications firms as winners of a fifth-generation (5G) data services auction on Wednesday in a bid to attract investment and join regional peers like Argentina and Mexico, where 5G is already available.

Claro, Telecall Colombia SAS, WOM and Union Temporal Colombia MovilTelefonica, a partnership between the operators of Movistar and Tigo, won concessions up for grabs in the auction, the Communications Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry added that the auction will raise more than 1.5 trillion pesos (US$381 million), coming in

below a prior government estimate that the South American country's first-ever 5G auction would raise about US$500 million.

"Historic! 5G is a reality for Colombians," said Mauricio Lizcano, the Information Technology and Communications Minister, in a post on X, adding that the roll-out would begin next February.

Investment in Colombia's 5G over the next decade should now reach some 28 trillion pesos (around US$7.11 billion), said Lizcano.

Colombia closed 2022 with some 80 million mobile subscribers, largely on contracts with America Movil's Claro. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Hamas says 20,000 killed as UN delays truce vote

Oil settles up on T Red Sea tensions; gains capped by US stock builds

O

il prices settled slightly higher after a choppy trading session on Wednesday as investors worried about global trade disruption and tensions in the Middle East following attacks on ships by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi forces in the Red Sea. Limiting price gains were a surprise US crude inventory build, larger-than-expected fuel stocks gains and record domestic oil production.

Brent crude futures settled up 47 cents, or 0.6 per cent at US$79.70 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled up 28 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to US$74.22 a barrel.

Both benchmarks briefly turned negative following the EIA report and the possibility of a new ceasefire after the leader of Hamas paid his first visit to Egypt in more than a month.

Early in the session, the benchmarks rose by more than US$1 as major maritime carriers chose to steer clear of the Red Sea route, with longer voyages increasing transport and insurance costs.

On Wednesday, Greece advised commercial vessels sailing in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to avoid Yemeni waters. Greek ship owners control about 20 per cent of the world's commercial vessels in terms of carrying capacity.

"The possibility of a significant price downturn would appear likely on first suggestion of stabilisation of cargo transits through the Red Sea corridor," said John Ritterbusch, President of Ritterbusch and Associates LLC in Galena, Illinois.

On Tuesday, Washington launched a task force to safeguard commerce in the region. Sources including shipping and maritime security officials told Reuters that few practical details are known about the initiative or whether it will directly engage in the event of further armed attacks.

The Houthis vowed to defy the US-led naval mission and to keep targeting Red Sea shipping in support of Palestinian enclave Gaza's ruling Hamas movement.

About 12 per cent of the world’s shipping traffic passes up the Red Sea and through the Suez Canal. Although oil supply has been realigned, no shortages have yet emerged, analysts said.

"As long as production is not threatened, the market will eventually adjust to changing supply routes," said Ole Hansen, an analyst at Saxo Bank.

Recent data suggests central bank action to quell sticky inflation in Europe had made a meaningful difference.

German producer prices fell more than expected in November, data showed on Wednesday, a day after it was confirmed that eurozone inflation slowed sharply to 2.4 per cent last month on a year-on-year basis.

A European Central Bank policymaker cautioned it was "rather unlikely" interest rates would be cut during the first six months of next year. (Reuters)

he Hamas-run Gaza Government says 20,000 persons have been killed there since Israel launched its military campaign against the militants.

Israel took action after Hamas broke through the heavily-guarded Gaza perimeter on October 7, killing 1200 persons and taking 240 hostages, some of whom have been freed.

In Cairo, talks between Hamas and Egyptian negotiators ended for the day without results after Hamas insisted there could be no new prisoner exchange deal before a final ceasefire.

The United Nations Security Council further

T

tive-led US Supreme Court could overturn.

Donors and political analysts from both major parties said the ruling would inflame Trump's political base, fuel his argument that he is the victim of a partisan legal process, and fill his campaign coffers, as happened earlier this year when he was indicted on a bevy of felony charges for attempting to overturn the 2020 election among other alleged crimes. Those charges did not include insurrection.

postponed a meeting to discuss calls for "urgent humanitarian pauses" in Gaza.

A draft resolution by the United Arab Emirates also called for the return of hostages and a two-State

solution for Israel and the Palestinians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said anyone who thought Israel would stop the war before achieving its goals was "not

Houthi leader threatens to attack US warships if Washington targets Yemen

T

he leader of Yemen's Houthis warned on Wednesday they would strike US warships if the Iranian-backed militia was targeted by Washington, which this week set up a multinational force to counter Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

The Houthis, which control vast amounts of territory in Yemen after years of war, have since last month fired drones and missiles at international vessels sailing through the Red Sea, attacks it says respond to Israel's assault on the Gaza Strip.

The US-led security ini-

Angolan billionaire hit with £580M asset freeze

A

n Angolan billionaire who has been described as Africa's richest woman has lost a High Court battle to stop her assets being frozen.

Isabel dos Santos, the daughter of a former President, is being sued by telecoms firm Unitel.

The Angolan company is seeking damages of $733 million (£580 million) arising from financial decisions taken by Dos Santos during her time as a director of the firm.

Trump barred from Colorado primary ballot for role in US Capitol attack he latest legal challenge to Donald Trump's campaign for a second term as President seems likely to hand the 2024 Republican frontrunner even more firepower in his quest to win his party's nomination.

The Colorado Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that the President was barred from its state ballot for engaging in "insurrection" due to a rarely-used constitutional provision, an unprecedented decision that the conserva-

Smoke was seen billowing over the border area following Israeli bombardment

connected to reality".

French President Emmanuel Macron has said fighting "terrorism" does not mean to "flatten Gaza or attack civilian populations indiscriminately".

Speaking to broadcaster France 5, he called on Israel to end its current battlefield tactics "because it is not appropriate, because all lives are worth the same and we defend them".

According to the AFP news agency, Macron also acknowledged "Israel's right to defend itself and fight terror", and called for the protection of civilians and a "truce leading to a humanitarian ceasefire".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

"Trump is celebrating," said John Morgan, a Florida attorney and key fundraiser for President Joe Biden, a Democrat. He forecast a "fundraising bonanza" for the Republican.

Trump vowed to appeal to US Supreme Court the Colorado ruling that the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution bars him from seeking office. The top court's 6-3 conservative majority includes three Trump appointees. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Dos Santos says the case is a political vendetta.

Critics of Dos Santos have long claimed she used her position of influence in Angola to enrich herself at the expense of the State – allegations she has strongly refuted.

The BBC has reported on leaked documents alleging she made her fortune through corruption and exploiting resources in Angola during her involvement with some of the country's largest companies.

Dos Santos said at the time that the claim was "based on fake documents and false information, it is a coordinated political attack in coordination with the 'Angolan Government'".

Her father José Eduardo dos Santos ruled the south-western African country for 38 years until he stepped down in 2017, before he died last year.

He was succeeded by his hand-picked successor João Lourenço, under whom several of Dos Santos' relatives have been prosecuted on various charges, which they deny. His son Zenu was jailed for five years for fraud.

As of 2020, Ms Dos Santos was based in London.

Unitel had asked London's High Court to grant a worldwide freezing order over her assets.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

tiative will see Washington and ten other, mostly NATO countries patrol the Red Sea to deter and respond to future Houthi attacks that have so far led to major global shipping lines rerouting around Africa instead.

"We will not stand idly by if the Americans are tempted to escalate further and commit foolishness by targeting our country or waging war against it," AbdelMalek al-Houthi said.

"Any American targeting of our country will be targeted by us, and we will make American battleships, interests, and navigation a target for our missiles, drones, and military operations," he said

in a televised speech.

The crisis in the Red Sea has grown out of the war between Israel and Gaza's ruling Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, the latest conflict in the Middle East to pit the US and its allies against regional power Iran and its Arab militia proxies.

Iranian proxies including the Houthis and Lebanese Hezbollah have fired rockets at Israel since the conflict began. The Houthis, meanwhile, have stepped up their Red Sea attacks, threatening to target all ships heading to Israel and warning shipping companies against dealing with Israeli ports.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

DR Congo elections: Voting marred by “chaos” and lengthy delays

V

oting in the Democratic Republic of Congo's high-stakes presidential election has been marred by lengthy delays and claims of fraud.

Some polling stations did not open all day, leading to widespread frustration.

Voting has been extended into Thursday in some areas.

Four Opposition candidates have called for the election to be cancelled.

One of them described the poll as "total chaos", following violence during the campaign.

President Félix Tshisekedi faces 18 candidates as he seeks a second term.

Some 44 million people were eligible to cast their ballots, following a campaign dominated by worsening conflict in the mineral-rich east.

DR Congo is roughly four times the size of France, but lacks basic infrastructure – even some of its main cities

are not linked by road. About two-thirds of the country's 100 million population live below the poverty line, earning US$2.15 (£1.7) a day or less.

The United Nations, Egypt and neighbouring Congo-Brazzaville helped fly election material to remote areas.

Polls had been due to open at 06:00 local time, and close after 11 hours. But widespread delays were reported.

One woman in Kinshasa told the BBC she had had to fight inside the polling in order to vote. "There was chaos," she said. "I was trampled underfoot."

Another voter said he went home after polls still hadn't opened by 18:00 local time, when there was a power cut. "Some people have been here since 04:00, but we were told there was a problem with the machines," he told the BBC. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Take the initiative to pick up information to help you get ahead. Visit someone who can offer inside information. Taking a short trip or reconnecting with a friend will pay off. Romance is favored.

Doors will open if you promote yourself. Be bold and negotiate, and you'll impress the right people. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Make changes in your life.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Be careful whom you trust. Someone will use emotional tactics and twist your words around. Ask questions, get the truth and distance yourself from people trying to exploit you.

(May 21-June 20) Pay attention to detail, and you'll gain recognition for your astute and unique approach. Embrace change or an offer you receive; it will enhance your security and put your mind at ease.

PEANUTS

(June 21-July 22) Don't worry about the little things or let someone's decisions ruin your mood.

Stay in tune with what's important to you and use your skills and experience to get where you want to go.

(July 23-Aug. 22) The more you achieve, the better you'll feel about yourself. Don't wait for someone to make the first move. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, take the initiative to get things done.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Keep your emotions in check. Don't give anyone a chance to take advantage of your vulnerabilities. Keep your home life private and your money matters to yourself. Invest time and money in yourself.

Don't take anything for granted. Do your due diligence to ensure you get what you want. A passionate approach to life, love and happiness will help you convince others to assist you.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Be careful whom you trust. Don't share personal information or let anyone scam you into something you don't need or want. Focus on self-improvement, health and securing your position.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Seize the moment. Do whatever makes you happy and inspired. Don't wallow in someone else's misfortune when your state of mind and accomplishments should be the focus.

YESTERDAY'S WORD - COLISEUM

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Go after what matters to you and what you want to achieve. Use your connections and communication skills to help you pursue your dreams. Don't give in or get trapped by emotional blackmail.

Learn and adjust to ensure that you get things right. Find what motivates you most, and don't lose sight of your goal. An energetic approach to your pursuits will be key.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

21

Returning Ja Morant dazzles with 34 points, winning shot at buzzer J

a Morant scored 34 points in his season debut, including a spinning dribble in the lane to set up a game-winning floater as time expired, to lift the Memphis Grizzlies to a 115-113 victory Tuesday over the New Orleans Pelicans.

Morant didn’t look rusty in his return, shooting 12 of 24 from the field with eight assists and six rebounds to help Memphis snap a five-game losing streak. His points total was the most in NBA history by a player coming back from an absence of at least 25

games.

The Grizzlies went 6-19 during Morant’s suspension for his social media antics with guns. Jaren Jackson Jr. had 24 points and Desmond Bane added 21 for Memphis.

Brandon Ingram poured in 34 points and Jonas Valanciunas had 22 and 4 rebounds for the Pelicans, who had a fourgame winning streak stopped.

Zion Williamson

Kane scores to continue record-breaking Bayern run

the 20th time in 21 games.

Warriors outlast Celtics in overtime

The Grizzlies celebrating with Ja Morant

was limited by foul trouble and was limited to 13 points.

Lillard has 40 to power Bucks past Spurs

Damian Lillard scored a season-high 40 points to reach 20,000 and Giannis Antetokounmpo had a triple-double to lead the Milwaukee Bucks to their fifth straight win, 132-119 over the San Antonio Spurs.

Harry Kane has scored 25 goals and assisted eight in 22 games for Bayern in all competitions

H

arry Kane stayed on course to break the record for Bundesliga goals in a season with his 21st strike as Bayern Munich beat Wolfsburg.

Jamal Musiala headed Bayern ahead from Thomas Muller’s cross. England captain Kane then smashed in a wonderful effort from 25 yards out in only his 15th German top-flight game.

Maximilian Arnold’s long-range strike just before the break gave Wolfsburg hope, and he was denied an injury-time equaliser by goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Kane, 30, wrote on social media: “Perfect way to sign off for the winter break! Have loved my first few months at Bayern and in Munich. Looking forward to a rest, then back in the new year to go again.”

Boss Thomas Tuchel said: “If you look at his goal and the way he played in the second half, he was our first defender. How he holds on to the ball, tracks back, defends - his performances have been top. He’s a top personality, leader, top player - the complete package.”

The summer signing from Tottenham is the first

player to score as many as 21 Bundesliga goals in his first 15 games in the competition.

When Robert Lewandowski scored a record 41 Bundesliga goals in 2020-21 for Bayern, he was on 20 goals after 15 games.

Including the second half of last season with Tottenham, Kane has scored 38 league goals in 2023, four above second-placed Kylian Mbappe in Europe’s top five leagues.

With five assists included, Kane has been involved in 26 Bundesliga goals this season, as many as the player with the most goal involvements in the whole of last season, Randal Kolo Muani.

Despite Kane’s goalscoring exploits, Bayern go into the winter break four points behind surprise leaders Bayer Leverkusen.

Xabi Alonso’s side beat Bochum 4-0, with Patrik Schick scoring a hat-trick, his first three Bundesliga goals of the season.

Leverkusen are unbeaten after 25 games in all competitions, a record for a German professional team from the start of a season.

(BBC Sport)

Lillard increased his career points total to 20,034 to become the 51st player in NBA history – and eighth active player – to accumulate 20,000 points. He is the 17th-fastest player to reach that milestone.

Antetokounmpo had a career-high 16 assists, 14 rebounds and a season-low 11 points for his second triple-double this season and

37th of his career.

Milwaukee is 5-0 on its season-long, six-game homestand that concludes Thursday against Orlando. The Bucks have won 14 straight games at Fiserv Forum for their longest home winning streak since a 20-game run from April 19, 1990-Jan. 8, 1991.

The Spurs played without rookie Victor Wembanyama (sore right ankle) and lost for

Stephen Curry scored 33 points including seven straight in overtime, and the Golden State Warriors defeated the Celtics 132-126 to end Boston’s five-game winning streak.

Klay Thompson had 24 points, Jonathan Kuminga added 17, and Trayce JacksonDavis contributed 10 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists as the Warriors won their third in a row.

Derrick White scored 30 points and Jaylen Brown had 26 points, eight boards and six assists for Boston, which dropped its third straight road game.

Al Horford’s 3-pointer with 36 seconds left in overtime drew the Celtics within 127-126, but Curry drilled a 3 with the shot clock winding down with 12 seconds to play and added a pair of free throws in the closing seconds.

(Sportsmax)

England keeping T20 World Cup places open for Stokes and Archer

M

atthew Mott suspects the bulk of England’s squad in the Caribbean will return to the region for the T20 World Cup next year, but places will be kept open for Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer.

Stokes is convalescing from surgery to a longstanding left knee problem, and the England Test captain hopes to return to full all-rounder status in 2024, having functioned as a specialist batter recently.

His unbeaten 52 in the T20 World Cup final 13 months ago got England over the line, and Mott admitted that reserving Stokes a spot for next year’s title defence represents something of a no-brainer.

The England white-ball head coach is also keeping close tabs on Archer, who it is hoped can return to full fitness in time for the T20 World Cup in June, after a string of injuries to his right elbow.

“Ben, aside from his incredible match-winning ability in every department, is that ability to have a seam bowler in that top-six gives you so many options with your team balance,” Mott said. “A lot of the times you have to give up something. If you win, everyone says, ‘Oh, they got it right’. If you lose, it’s ‘they were a bowler short or a spinner short’.

Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer

“When you’ve got a seam bowler in your top-six, it makes selection a hell of a lot easier. So (choosing him at the T20 World Cup) is a given.

Every team in the world wants someone like that, and they’re rare.

“In terms of Jofra, you’ve just got absolute box-office pace, change of pace, bowl any over in the innings. Him on the park is massive, everyone would agree with that.”

England, without regulars Dawid Malan, Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood, have fought back from 2-0 down in their T20 series against the West Indies to level at 2-2 and force a decider in Trinidad on Thursday.

And Mott gave a strong

indication that the majority of the players involved in this series will be on the plane when England return for the T20 World Cup in June in the Caribbean and United States.

“We always said with this series we’d go pretty close to the side we’re looking for,” Mott said. “Otherwise, why would they be here? We don’t get many opportunities to play together before the World Cup.” Phil Salt has made an irresistible case to open alongside Jos Buttler for the foreseeable future, with match-winning innings of 109 not out in Grenada on Saturday and an England record 119 in Trinidad.

While he has flickered in an England shirt before, Salt

is reaping the benefits of continuity in selection, having been on the fringes of both whiteball sides before this breakout tour.

“I’ve always thought he was an amazing player,” Mott said. “He does stuff that not many people can do and we’ve seen it at domestic level for a long time and we’ve seen glimpses of it internationally.

“It was funny: after he got the first hundred, I said, ‘It’s a habit now’, and he had true belief in it. You could see a different look in his eyes, it was like, ‘Not only do I belong, but I’ve got this’.

“You don’t know what you’ve got until you’ve achieved it. All of a sudden, he’s away, his international career is flying, and he’s in the record books forever.”

England’s two wins have taken some pressure off Mott after their group-stage exit at the 50-Over World Cup and ODI series defeat to the West Indies.

“I’ve been around the game a long time, and I know it’s like the share market. Your stocks go up and down all the time,” the Australian added.

“When you get into coaching, you realise you shouldn’t take too much credit for the success, and not too much blame for the failures.”

(Sportsmax)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

boxers for Youth World President Ali hints at hosting 2Boxing Cup in 2024 Women’s CPL next year O

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

G

uyana is currently in the negotiation phase for hosting the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League 2024, as revealed by President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The Head of State made the revelation at the Private Sector Commission Awards this week, as he discussed new additions to sports infrastructure in Guyana.

“This is a year that we’ll move forward on the building of three new stadiums, the completion of the Stadium in Anna Regina; and by the way, we’re in the final stages of negotiating hosting the Women’s CPL in Essequibo next year,” President Ali divulged.

He then went on to confirm Guyana’s hosting of ICC T20 World Cup matches,

and reminded of the hosting of the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (Men’s) final.

The Massy Women’s CPL will head into its third installment in 2024, with the Barbados Royals being the reigning champions. Guyana is represented in the tournament by local franchise the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) Women.

Former Reggae Girlz boss Donaldson appointed Chicago Red Stars Head Coach

Newly appointed Chicago Red Stars Head Coach, Lorne Donaldson

I

t hasn’t taken long for Lorne Donaldson to secure a new job. The former Reggae Girlz Head Coach has been appointed Head Coach of Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Donaldson previously coached Jamaica women’s national team, which he led to their historic run to the knockout rounds in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The 68-year-old Donaldson has coached various youth teams from club level to international level.

He spent time as Jamaica’s U17 head coach, and was a U20 and full national team assistant before being named fulltime head coach of the Reggae Girlz.

“Lorne is the right person to lead us next season,” said newly appointed club president Karen Leetzow.

“Lorne’s experiences as a decorated player and as a winning coach on the youth, professional, and interna-

tional level will be invaluable for our players, coaches, and staff, who have the opportunity to learn from him.”

Donaldson, whose contract was inexplicably not

renewed following the success of the Jamaica senior women’s team, expressed his delight at being selected to lead the Red Stars.

“I’m excited to work with this talented team that includes some of the NWSL’s best players, to turn the Chicago Red Stars into a championship club both on and off the pitch,” he said.

“I look forward to partnering with Laura Ricketts and Karen Leetzow, who are committed to creating a culture of excellence and accountability. What I have most enjoyed in my career is coaching elite athletes and helping them reach and exceed their fullest potential.” (Sportsmax)

n the heels of two boxers recently competing in the World Junior Boxing Championships, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) is seeking to persist in its emphasis placed on international competition, a feature that was substantial and evidentiary in 2023, according to the Association.

As such, this mantra will continue in the impending year, as a two-member fight roster has been selected to participate in the prestigious Youth World Boxing Cup from March 3rd–11th 2024 in Budva, Montenegro.

Pugilists Joshua Thambaran of the Rose Hall Town Jammers (RHJ) Gym and Shakquain James of the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) Gym will enter the squared circle at the Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort in representation of Guyana, with technical officer and national coach Lennox Daniels serving in his traditional capacity.

For eligibility, the tournament stipulates that all fighters must have been born during the period 2006–2007.

The boxers will also be exposed to a pre-tournament camp, which is scheduled to be conducted from February 17th to March 3rd. The competition, which is being administered in accordance with IBA Rules and Regulations, will feature 13 weight categories for men, namely: 48kg, 51kg, 54kg, 57kg, 60kg, 63.5kg, 67kg, 71kg, 75kg, 80kg, 86kg, 92kg, and +92kg.

Meanwhile, 12 weight divisions have been drawn up for women, comprising 48kg, 50kg, 52kg, 54kg, 57kg, 60kg, 63kg, 66kg, 70kg, 75kg, 81kg, and +81kg.

In accolades to look forward to, each division-

King now ranked sixth on T20 list; England’s Adil Rashid takes pole

T

he current five-match Twenty20 series between West Indies and England in the Caribbean has triggered changes in the ICC World rankings for the format.

This as West Indies batsman Brandon King climbed into the top 10, and England spinner Adil Rasheed assumed the new World number one ranking.

King, who stroked an unbeaten 82 in Barbados that gave West Indies a 2-0 series lead, is up six places to sixth, while Nicholas Pooran is up two spots to 12th.

Rashid has been rewarded for his good, consistent form in the Caribbean, as he moved

Brandon King

up two places to take the top spot from Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein is the sixth-ranked T20 bowler.

Meanwhile, there remains only one West Indies

player holding a top 20 position in the latest One-day International (ODI) rankings, with West Indies skipper Shai Hope being the highest rated at 11th on the batting list.

(Sportsmax)

Shaquain James

al winner will be awarded a gold medal, while silver and bronze medals will be presented to the second and third-place finishers.

Special accolades will also be presented to the boxers adjudicated best.

Touching on the Association’s development agenda, GBA President Steve Ninvalle underscored the successes that have come from that agenda.

“The developmental agenda of the GBA is an unending exercise. 2024, like the empirical undertakings of 2023, must and will continue in this manner as we strive to build on our accomplishments, so that a breakthrough, which has become a familiar occurrence on the regional circuit, can be realised and achieved once more on the international plane,” Ninvalle said in a comment.

Recognised as the most vocal administrator in Caribbean boxing, Ninvalle added, “This tournament is the strongest youth championship globally, given the calibre of opponents that frequent its squared circle. In the previous two iterations, a total of 15 champions and 35 medalists from various world championships, inclusive of titleholders emanating from European, Asian, and Pan American events, confirmed the competitive and prestigious nature of the event. This is the high level of international participation that is required for development.

“This development not only applies to the fighters, but also to the technical officers, who must match their wits and strategies with those of similarly versed technocrats in their bid and effort to achieve the common goal of success.

“Guyana must embrace this level of challenge and adversity if we are to continue to evolve in the right direction and not stagnate and be relegated to simply regional supremacy.”

Adding to the GBA’s drive to expose the duo to next year’s opportunity is the fact that Akeelah Vancooten and Tiquan Sampson recently received World ranking on the Youth sphere, after com-

Joshua Thambaran

peting in the World Junior Boxing Championships.

CLASSIFIED ADS ACCOMMODATIONS Aracari Hotel, West Bank Demerara (Versailles – between Harbour Bridge and Vreed-enHoop) – Air Conditioned Comfort.

Amenities include TV, Restaurant, Bar, Swimming Pool, Gym. Free Parking, Free WiFi. Spend 7 nights and get 1 Free. Rates from $65 US. Breakfast included. Long term rates available. Phone : 264-29469. www.aracariresort.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Restaurant for Rent – West Bank Demerara, (at Aracari Resort, Versailles – between Harbour Bridge and Vreed-n-Hoop). Turn key Business. Covid-19 Reduced Capacity 60; Furnished and equipped.

Phone 264-2946; 626-5290.

ENTERTAINMENT Swimming Pool Family Fun & Picnic – Crystal Clear Pool. Kids and Adult Sections. Very Safe. Aracari Resort: West Bank Demerara (Versailles, Vreed-en-Hoop) – Every Weekend, DJ Music. Groups and Excursions welcome – Phone 264-2946-9.

Sunday ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET 11 AM – 3 PM. Adults $3,000 Kids $1,000.

WANTED Wanted one night security and one handyman 7 days per week Call 612-2125

VACANCIES VACANCY FOR HOTEL MANAGER – Aracari Resort. Must be mature and experienced.

Contact 592-264-2946 or 592-628-8619.

Send CV to manager@aracariresort.com.

Caption: Evin Lewis and Rashid Khan were teammates at St Kitts & Nevis Patriots last season

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 223-7230-1

Ext 19

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

5 Guyanese headline West Indies Test Squad for Australia tour

23

…Holder, Mayers opt for T20 franchise opportunities

C

ricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Men’s Selection Panel on Wednesday announced the 15-member squad to travel to Australia to play a two-Test series as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) from January 17th to 29th, 2024.

The squad boasts five Guyanese players, namely Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Tevin Imlach, Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie and Shamar Joseph.

The West Indies will again be led by Captain Kraigg Brathwaite, with fast bowler Alzarri Joseph named as the new Vice Captain. The squad will arrive in Australia on December 30th, and will hold a preparation camp from January 2-9 in Adelaide, followed by a four-day First Class warm-up match against a Cricket Australia XI at the Karen Rolton Oval (KRO) in Adelaide from January 10-13.

of six to play in the new 20232025 ICC WTC cycle. The Test Series against Australia will be the first of three away series that West Indies will play in the WTC. West Indies drew one Test match and lost one against India in August.

Following the Test Series, West Indies will face Australia in three One-Day Internationals and three T20 Internationals, and these squads will be announced at a later date.

Shamar Joseph has earned a maiden call-up to the Test team

Kavem Hodge and Kevin Sinclair; as well as fast bowlers Akeem Jordan and Shamar Joseph.

Speaking about the makeup of the squad, CWI Lead Selector, The Most Honourable Dr. Desmond Haynes, said: “The squad has been affected by the unavailability of some key players. However, we have had a very strong red-ball pro-

the opportunity to showcase their skills in the Test arena.

Australia away is always a challenge, but we are confident in our team.”

The two teams will again compete for the Frank Worrell Trophy – named in honour of the legendary West Indies allrounder and captain. The first Test will be a red ball fixture at the Adelaide Oval from 17 to 21

Kevin Sinclair has earned a maiden call-up to the Test team

NOTES: Jayden Seales is unavailable for selection due to a shoulder injury. Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers are unavail-

Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (Start time: January 15-20 7:30pm Eastern Caribbean/ 6:30pm Jamaica)

FULL SQUAD

1. Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain) 2. Alzarri Joseph (Vice-Captain) 3. Tagenarine Chanderpaul 4. Kirk McKenzie 5. Alick Athanaze 6. Kavem Hodge 7. Justin Greaves 8. Joshua DaSilva 9. Akeem Jordan 10. Gudakesh Motie 11. Kemar Roach 12. Kevin Sinclair 13. Tevin Imlach 14. Shamar Joseph 15. Zachary McCaskie

Gudakesh Motie able, as they have expressed a preference to explore T20 franchise opportunities in January.

Match Schedule (start times in brackets) January 17-21: 1st Test at

January 25-29: 2nd Test at the Gabba, Brisbane (Start Time: 12 midnight Eastern Caribbean (January 24-28 11pm Jamaica)

KFC Goodwill International Series…

Tagenarine Chanderpaul

The selectors have named several uncapped players in the squad. These are: batter Zachary McCaskie, wicket-keeper Tevin Imlach; allrounders Justin Greaves,

Tevin Imlach has earned a maiden call-up to the Test team

gram being run over the past year, which has unearthed significant talent throughout the region. The selected players have passed each test given to them, and must now be given

January, and the second would be a pink ball day/night contest at the Gabba in Brisbane from 25 to 29 January.

This is West Indies second Test Series out of a total

Clarendon, St. Benedict’s to meet in Friday’s final

Bowling in focus at Windies vs England series-decider today

Windies bowling attack will need to come good in today’s series-decider

A

ll eyes will be on the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago from 16:00hrs today, as the fifth and final, and coincidentally series-decider between West Indies and visitors England is played.

Having conceded the fifth high T20 International score in history, 267-3, in their last game on Tuesday, and then 226 in the previous match on Saturday last, the West Indian bowling attack has been a spot of bother for pundits and fans alike.

Similarly, the lacklustre bowling has caught the attention of the team, as Captain Rovman Powell admitted in a pre-match press briefing on Wednesday, it is a point for concern.

“Yeah, definitely, it’s a concern for the team; but you know, one of the things we can look on is our execution hasn’t been up to par. You know, as much as the wickets are good, they aren’t 260 wickets. That in itself gives us an opportunity, once we execute properly, we’ll be okay,” Powell shared, noting that the use of variations and skill-sets like yorker execution will do the Windies bowlers well.

Quizzed on what he feels will be the key in today’s game and sealing the series which West Indies were leading 2-0 at one point, Powell again revisited the topic of bowling.

He related, “I think a lot of emphasis is placed on the bowling. For the last two games or so, we haven’t done well as a bowl-

ing group. You know, tomorrow provides an opportunity for us to do that, and we must bowl better. It is no two ways about that. As a batting group, we just have to continue to try our best to put scores on the board; or whatever we get, we just have to try to run it down as a batting group.”

The West Indies T20I Captain then went on to reveal how the back-to-back losses have affected the squad, even though not by much.

“Maybe not much unsettled, but you know, plans have to be altered. We have come up with plans in the first set of games against these English batters, and they were successful; and it seems as if those plans aren’t successful no more. so, it’s for us now to sit down, come up with better plans, and also pay special attention on executing those plans,” Powell divulged.

The 5-match series is levelled owing to the West Indies winning the first two games by 4 wickets and 10 runs respectively, while England bagged the next two victories by 7 wickets and 75 runs respectively, on the account of back-to-back T20I centuries from Phil Salt.

Today’s game will bowl off at 16:00hrs local time.

A look at the battle between Clarendon College (blue) and VMO 4

I

t will be a clash between Jamaica’s Clarendon College and Trinidad and Tobago’s St. Benedict’s College for the KFC Goodwill International Series championship, after the finalists were decided in contrasting fashion on Tuesday night.

Clarendon College came up against Suriname’s VMO 4 in the first semifinal, and they eased their way to a 3-1 win to book their spot in Friday’s final. Jamaica’s Romarion Thompson opened the scoring in the 16th minute for Jamaica, after which Daniel Clark made it a 2-0 game in the 31st.

The Surinamese boys managed to keep their Jamaican counterparts quiet for the remainder of the half, and began the second mounting a successful attack, which led to Justin Jackson netting a goal for VMO 4 in the 50th.

However, VMO could not find the equalizer, while Jamaican Captain Deandrae Gallimore added the cherry on top with a 90+2 strike to seal the 3-1 win.

The second semifinal resulted in heartbreak for many, as the lone remaining Guyanese school in the com-

petition was ousted in anticlimactic fashion.

In a game that was fit for a final, Chase’s Academy and St. Benedict’s College matched strides on the pitch and put on a riveting display of talent. Both keepers had their work cut out for them, as both sides sent shot after shot into the area. However, the finishing for both teams

goal, with the ball bouncing into Chase Keeper Duquain Samuels’s hands and rolling out for the lone goal of the game.

Seconds later, the final whistle was sounded, ending the thrilling battle in disappointment for the local team.

The KFC Goodwill International Series final is scheduled for the Ministry of Education Ground (MoE) on Friday evening, where the two schools, Clarendon and St. Benedict’s College, will battle for a Gy$500,000 (US$2500) grand prize, while Chase and VMO 4 face-off in the third-place playoff.

Second, third and fourth place will pocket Gy$300,000 (US$1500); Gy$200,000 (US$1000) and Gy$100,000 (US$500) respectively; a first for the competition.

The tournament is sponsored by KFC Guyana,

It was a close encounter between Chase’s Academic Foundation (blue) and St. Benedict’s College was off, resulting in the scores being deadlocked well into the 90-minute timeframe.

During added time, St. Benedict’s Josiah Ochoa took an off-chance shot at the

ExxonMobil, Ansa McAl’s Lucozade, MVP Sports, Pacaraima Golden Suites, and Trophy Stall, with support from the Ministries of Education and Culture, Youth and Sport.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

West Indies Test Squad for Australia tour Pg 23

KFC Goodwill International Series…

Clarendon, St. Benedict’s to meet in Friday’s final

Pg 23

2 boxers for Youth World Boxing Cup in 2024

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

Pg 22