Guyana Times - Thursday, February 29, 2024.pdf

Pres Ali says regional leadership; support important to resolving Haitian crisis

…as Haiti PM commits to holding elections by August 2025

President Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the importance of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) as a collective in providing support as well as leadership in resolving the prolonged crisis in member state Haiti.

The Guyanese Leader made this remark in his capacity as Caricom Chairman, following the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government held in Georgetown this week. At the closing press conference on Wednesday evening, President Ali disclosed that more than 20 hours were expended by regional leaders discussing this “difficult” issue.

“It was a very, very frank discussion; it was a very difficult discussion… You have to understand the situation in Haiti…This is of such importance to the Region, and the Region has to provide the leadership on this issue [and] we cannot avoid this at this time,” the Head of State noted.

During the threeday meeting of regional Heads, Jamaica, Barbados, Dominica, and The Bahamas were tasked with pushing discussions on the Haitian crisis. Talks were held between Haitian Prime Minister Ariel

Henry as well as with international partners including Canada, France, the United States, the United Kingdom and the United Nations.

Updates were also given by the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) that was established to represent Caricom’s Good Offices to the Government of Haiti and Haitian stakeholders.

Electoral needs assessment

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis revealed at the press conference, held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, that based on the reports received from

the EPG, they were “deeply concerned” over the continued deterioration of the security, humanitarian and political situation in Haiti. While regional leaders also expressed concern over the delays in resolving the political stalemate in Haiti which has blocked the possibility of free and fair elections, “major steps” were taken to move the political process forward during the discussions with the Haitian Prime Minister.

“[These include], which we think is a significant step forward, holding of general elections to restore a constitutional government and

authority no later than 31st August 2025. I think that was a significant step in the right direction...,” the Bahamian Prime Minister noted.

To this end, Caricom has agreed to set up an Electoral Needs Gap Assessment team in collaboration with the UN and with the support of its partners – Canada, the US and the Organisation of American States (OAS). That assessment committee would be established immediately and is tasked with preparing a report by March 31, identifying and outlining the gaps in Haiti that need

to be bridged in order for the smooth holding of polls next year.

“That assessment team would be there to support the planning and efforts of relevant Haitian institutions, that hopefully would be established for the purpose of holding those elections before August 31, 2025,” PM Davis stated.

He added that an invitation would be extended to all the stakeholders in Haiti to participate in an urgent meeting. While the date and location for that meeting are yet to be ironed out, it was revealed that Barbados

Prime Minister Mia Mottley would be leading those engagements.

The Bahamian leader also dismissed claims of Caricom’s interference in Haiti, pointing out that it was a matter of the country not having the resources or capacity to deal with its crisis situation and having reached out for help. Caricom’s intervention, he stated, is to support institutions such as the Haitian National Police through training and resources so that they can bring some semblance of order in the violence-ridden nation.

Haiti-led solution

Meanwhile, President Ali has called for this meeting to be held urgently and with “great intensity” given the gravity of the situation in Haiti.

“I want this message to be heard by all the stakeholders, that is, we’re urging that each stakeholder must recognise that it will not obtain all they want, but Haiti must obtain what it needs. So, every stakeholder in Haiti must also give, in order for Haiti to get what it needs,” the Guyanese Leader pointed.

(L-R) Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis; Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley; Caricom Chairman and President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali and Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell at the closing press conference on Wednesday evening

…as ART approves 7.1 million

Guyana was on Wednesday issued with 7.1 million carbon credits dating back to 2021, marking the first-time carbon credits have been issued that can be used by airlines in an effort to meet their carbon emission targets for the 2024-2026 period.

The credits were issued by the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART).

In a statement on Wednesday, it was announced that the credits were issued in recognition of Guyana’s successful efforts to reduce emissions from forest loss and degradation and maintain “one of the world’s most intact tropical forests”.

It marks the first time also that credits were issued which could be used by airlines toward their targets in the 2024-2026 phase of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s global emission reduction programme – Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).

“As a result of the authorisation and reporting to the [United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] UNFCCC, Guyana’s TREES credits are eligible for use by airlines to meet their compliance requirements in the first phase of CORSIA, which began on 1 January 2024. One hundred and twenty-six countries are voluntarily participating in CORSIA's first phase, covering roughly 80 per cent of annual emissions from the aviation sector.”

“All participating airline operators with annual emissions over 10,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent of greenhouse gas emissions must monitor and report their emissions, and then purchase carbon credits to offset any remaining emissions that exceed a percentage of their 2019 baseline emissions,” the statement explained.

The statement included comments from ART Executive Director Mary Grady, who noted that the secretariat was pleased to have worked with the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government, to reach this milestone.

“ART was established to unlock finance at scale for countries that successfully protect and restore their forests. We are very pleased to have worked with the Government of Guyana to help navigate the Paris Agreement and ICAO processes and achieve the issuance of the first post-2020 CORSIA eligible credits in the market,” Grady said.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was also quoted in the statement assuring future buyers of these carbon credits that they were verified through a rigorous scientific process aimed at ensuring that all social and environmental safeguards

were followed.

“Guyana’s CORSIAeligible issuance marks the latest milestone in a journey that we began in 2009 when we set out a vision for forging a low-carbon economy in Guyana – while also building a model for the world on how tropical forests can be maintained. The ART-TREES standard, recognised by ICAO, provided the basis to build the bridge needed between forest countries’ work within the United Nations REDD+ framework and Private Sector buyers,” Jagdeo said.

Favourable market

Last year, it was revealed that Guyana has the potential to raise at least US$2.5 billion from its carbon credits over the next 10 years. According to Vice President

Jagdeo, in a presentation at COP28, Guyana can raise US$2.5 billion over the next 10 years, by tapping into favourable market upsides.

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

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

had further explained.

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

In 2022, Guyana signed a contract with Hess Corporation which saw the nation earning US$750 million for 30 per cent of its forest. In Guyana’s agreement, a rate of US$15 per tonne of carbon was secured and so far, 15 per cent ($4.7 billion) is allocated towards Amerindian development.

Already, more than 500 projects that run the gamut from tourism to agriculture are currently being pursued utilising the $4.7 billion, which was given to hundreds of Indigenous villages as part of their share of the US$150 million carbon credits sale.

In addition to its rich biodiversity and ecosystem, Guyana’s total forest cover of some 18.4 million hectares stores more than 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and removes some 154 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. (G3)

ART Executive Director Mary Grady Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Editor: Tusika Martin

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“Changing mindsets”

In a few days, Guyana will join the rest of the world in observing World Hearing Day 2024, themed “Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all!”

This year, the World Health Organization will focus on overcoming the challenges posed by societal misperceptions and stigmatising mindsets through awareness-raising and information-sharing targeted at the public and health care providers.

Ahead of this day, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has already stated, “Hearing loss has often been referred to as an ‘invisible disability’, not just because of the lack of visible symptoms, but because it has long been stigmatized in communities and ignored by policy-makers."

A WHO report in 2021 on hearing had highlighted the increasing number of people living with, and at risk of, hearing loss. It highlighted noise control as one of the seven keys of H.E.A.R.I.N.G. interventions, and stressed the importance of mitigating exposure to loud sounds. WHO has projected that, by 2050, one in four persons will be living with some degree of hearing loss.

In Guyana, noise nuisance has been a sore issue, and has become unbearable; and on many occasions, citizens are crying out for stronger action to be taken against persons disrupting the peace and quietude in their communities.

Over the past few years, there have been several letters to the editor wherein citizens expressed how disgusted and frustrated they are at the level of noise nuisance in their neighbourhoods. It is even more shocking that, even in the midst of a pandemic, persons still carry on with loud music as if they are unconcerned about the persons it might be affecting.

What is even more unfortunate is that no one dares object to this level of disrespect that is being foisted upon citizens. In some cases, when there is a complaint made against a particular liquor shop or individual blasting their music to the fullest, the person making the complaint is verbally or even physically abused. Sometimes out of fear, citizens remain quiet, and are left with no other choice but to endure the level of discomfiture.

There is also a general perception, whether justified or not, that the Police have not been very proactive in addressing these concerns. Several letter writers have expressed that even after several calls to the Police station for action to be taken against the perpetrators, the lawless behaviour still continued. In most cases, even after a warning had been issued by the Police, the perpetrators complied for a while, but, not long after, resumed the same behaviour.

We believe that higher fines and stricter penalties are needed to curb noise nuisance once and for all.

There are several issues which must be considered when updating the legislation, as they may not have been very clearly spelt out or catered for before. Among them are a limit to the number of permits and licences that should be granted within a zoning area; the overall operations of liquor shops, how they are constructed etc; guidelines for hosting social events; criteria used to issue permits for those events, or businesses which are in close proximity of each other; and fines to be imposed when there is a breach of the law. Also, with recent technological developments, it is necessary to go back to the drawing board.

Curbing noise nuisance in the society is a constant struggle which must continue, and all stakeholders must play their part. Policy makers must look into the discomfort of the people, and amend the laws to alleviate this.

In the meantime, we urge citizens who are affected to continue lodging reports of noise nuisance at the nearest Police station or divisional headquarters, so that some form of action could be taken against those found culpable.

As a people, we must also make the conscious effort to abide by the laws and guidelines set out by the Government.

Noise nuisance and hearing loss go hand in hand, and our ability to hear is precious. The mindset change has to start with us.

Be careful what you wish for

Dear Editor, With the teachers on strike to force the Government into collective bargaining negotiations and the Public Service Union threatening the same, it does seem inevitable that everyone is going to have to sit down at the same table at some point; but I fear some have more to gain than others, and the teachers may have more to lose. Let me expound.

The teachers are Government workers, the same as nurses, doctors, Police, Fire, and army personnel; they are distinct from Public Service workers, who are also Government workers but operate under a different regime (The Establishment).

Teachers have managed to outstrip their counterparts with higher salary levels and benefits. Trainee teachers are making $94,000, the same as Police Corporals, while trainee nurses are on $16,000 monthly stipend. Government has to level the field before the teachers can

get more; it would be difficult to convince any sensible arbitrator that teachers should be given more while others in similar sectors languish. The additional benefits: such as the Ministry of Education's request that the Teaching Service Commission and the School Board Secretariat have two senior promotion cycles per year, so that more teachers can be promoted and earn a higher salary; GOAL Scholarships (29% of teachers are on scholarships presently); a general waiver letter that allows teachers to travel abroad during the entire contracted period; and duty-free cars, are among the benefits that may have to be rescinded as part of negotiations. It seems there is no appreciation for benefits given freely.

After we hear of what teachers want and what teachers are getting, there must be a discussion of the other side of the coin; namely, what are taxpayers getting for the billions expended on teachers annually?

Are we getting high-quality teaching? Are our children getting the best possible education? Are all of our teachers qualified to teach?

It is mystifying to see the low bar set for qualifying to teach: 3 CXC passes (Grades 1-3). Such a person needs to be in school as a student, not as a teacher! That is not to say that teachers with better grades/qualifications are better; far from it.

Currently, there is a glut of teachers in the system. One school in Essequibo has 80 teachers employed, and it is not uncommon for two or more teachers to be tasked with teaching a subject to a single class. This has led to the appointment of ‘floating’ teachers in schools to reduce the workload and substitute for teachers who are absent, and the assignment of an assistant teacher to senior teachers in primary and nursery schools. It may be time for those complaining that they are unable to ‘eat’ or take overseas vacations on present salaries to move on

to the greener pastures they ‘deserve’ via the retrenchment route.

Editor, to be pellucid, my recommendation is for the Government to go to the collective bargaining table with the teachers and all other unions at the appropriate time, but any union that enforces the collective bargaining clause should automatically forfeit all salary increases, special treatment, and benefits accrued; start negotiations at ‘ground zero’, a total discard of the incremental, you can't eat your cake and have it too.

I am betting appreciation for the work of Minister Manickchand would soar as the realization of how hard she has endeavored to improve the lot of those in her sectors at the expense of others becomes clear. For those following the pied pipers in the TUC, be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.

Sincerely,

Robin Singh

All GECOM registration transactions are free

Dear Editor,

As the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) continues to fulfill its legal obligation to conduct registration in accordance with the National Registration Act, Cap 19:08, queries in relation to the cost for various registration transactions have been received from time to time.

In this regard, the Commission takes this opportunity to inform the general public that there is absolutely no need for anyone to pay any cost whatsoever for any registra-

tion transaction, including the issuance of a National Identification Card. The Commission also uses this opportunity to remind eligible persons that there is an ongoing registration exercise, which will end on May 31, 2024. During this exercise, any person who would be 14 years and older by the 30th June, 2024 and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalisation or registration, or is a citizen of a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for one year or more, can apply for

registration, provided that he/she had never been registered.

Existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records, such as a request to correct or change their names, dates of birth or occupation, and to update their addresses, are advised that those transactions are also being facilitated during this exercise.

In view of the foregoing, persons desirous of conducting any registration transaction, whether new registrations or changes/ corrections to their partic-

ulars, are required to visit the GECOM Registration Office responsible for their area of residence on or before May 31, 2024, during official working hours to apply.

For further information, persons are advised to visit the GECOM website at www.gecom.org.gy, follow us on Facebook at Guyana Elections Commission, or call 225-0277-9, 223-9653, or 223-1300.

Sincerely, Guyana Elections Commission

Welcoming military ceremony on Wednesday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport for Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. President Lula arrived in Guyana on Wednesday to participate in the 46th Regular Meeting of the Caricom Heads of Government (Office of the President photo)

Would the PNCR elect a new leader at their 2024 Congress?

Dear Editor,

When Aubrey Norton was elected PNCR Leader over Joseph Harmon in December 2021, and was subsequently elected as Opposition Leader in April 2022, there followed a marginalisation of key PNCR members like Basil Williams, Anna Ally, James Bond, Ronald Bulkan, Dr Van WestCharles, Simona Broomes, Carl Greenidge, Winston Jordan, Dr George Norton, and even David Granger.

Has the old PNCR guard been discarded?

From an outsider’s viewpoint, that move was to quell any power struggle that would ensue. Notwithstanding, ruptures began to appear, and there have been periodic reports of a power struggle within the PNCR party. However, while such power struggles tend to vary in frequency and intensity, they are common occurrences among political parties.

What is not common is how power struggles are mediated and controlled. The failure of Aubrey Norton to convene a PNCR Congress by the end of 2023, on the pretext that the party had no funds for this purpose, has been disputed, as the Party was able to fund sev-

eral of its Members’ (MPs) travel to a Washington Conference. Thus, suspicion over the convening of PNCR Congress continues to swirl.

Some names, including Roysdale Forde, SC; Annette Ferguson and Amanza Walton-Desir, have been floating around that they might challenge Norton for his top job as PNCR Leader. For purpose of this analysis, however, we will focus only on one candidate.

Amanza Walton-Desir has become a noted figure in the PNCR party, and she is well known among party members and supporters. She is smart, possesses elements of charisma, and is articulate. Some PPPC members had initially regarded her as an emerging political leader. Unfortunately, their perception of her rise began to whittle consequent to her utterances of derogatory remarks about Indians during a Politics 101 interview with Dr David Hinds.

Desir said: “Part of the political divide, on the PPP/C, have a base that if they [PPP] say this is going to happen…they believe that, because the burden of sorting things out for themselves is too great, and so they re-

mained trapped. All the while, believing that they are free to think and self-determine, they do not have the right of self-determination, because true freedom requires work. It is okay for me to remain in bondage because someone is responsible for me…you have a bunch of mentally lazy people.” (In the local media on 11/29/21)

Dr. Swetha Parthinand (11/29/21) slammed her for making those ugly remarks, noting that she is not qualified to speak on Indian psychology; while the Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) described her remarks as “racially insensitive and offensive” (5/3/21) and referred the matter to the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC). Guyana’s Attorney General, Hon Anil Nandlall, noted: “Her utterances are downright racist, discriminatory, and absolutely repulsive. Utterances like those have no place in any modern, democratic and civilized society.” (Guyana Times: 5/2/21).

Despite these condemnations, Dr David Hinds did not see anything repulsive about Ms. Desir’s remarks, and sought instead to invoke false equivalence to absolve her behaviour.

Dr David Hinds insisted: “I stand in solidarity with her…I say emphatically that the offending statement is neither offensive nor racist.” (5/4/21). Really?!

But former President Hon Sam Hinds provided some insights into Dr Hinds’s subtle application of the race card.

Referring to the bauxite industry, Dr Hinds stated: “The continued subsidizing of the sugar industry in the form of massive bailouts has directly benefited the mainly Indian Guyanese community. The PPP never did the same for sectors heavily populated by African Guyanese. In fact, it sought to remove the electricity subsidy from Linden.” (10/6/2016).

Hon Sam Hinds called out Dr Hinds for making incorrect and race-based arguments, and listed the various measures taken by the PPPC Government to save the bauxite industry, including the annual Gy$3 billion electricity subsidies. The annual per capita subsidy per bauxite worker is more than twice (2.56 times) that for the annual per capita subsidy per sugar worker.

Because Desir has refused to apologize for making those derogatory re -

Shallow criticisms of President Ali’s address

Dear Editor,

There appears to be an observable coordinated shift in focus from the usual constant attacks on Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo to now His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the President.

Of recent, some of the most outlandish, some of the shallowest, most baseless and ludicrous criticisms, of the President have surfaced in certain sections of the media. In particular, an anonymous columnist/column took issue with President Ali’s address at the opening of the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Governments of Caricom. The author expressed his/ her disappointment because he/she was expecting the usual diplomatic-styled rhetoric.

The mystery author then characterised the President’s delivery as “theatrics”.

Contrary to the anonymous author’s opinionated column, President Ali is an authentic, dynamic,

and highly respected leader regionally and globally. The anonymous author is perhaps too accustomed to the usual fluffs and rosy speeches by most leaders. In fact, the recently concluded energy conference had a few such “fluffs and rosy-styled speeches”, that were not necessarily grounded in reality and pragmatism, and were not actionable. To put it nicely, such speeches are academic-type speeches.

This is not President Ali’s style. President Ali is action-oriented, results-driven, and more importantly, he is a realist and pragmatist. This is demonstrated in his consistent scholastic deliveries that are always robust and profoundly passionate; not theatrical.

The mystery author then went on to argue that President Ali outlined unrealistic targets to be achieved by 2030, and that he failed to set out the road map. However, if the author had really paid attention, the President did set

out the framework through which those targets can be achieved. More so, he outlined actionable items for immediate implementation. Furthermore, that was not the forum to lay out a road map. The forum for that was the working sessions that followed.

It is quite unfortunate that Government’s many critics do not even have the capacity to perform a

proper critique; a critique that is robust, constructive and meaningful, together with an alternative menu of solutions, and the pros and cons of each. As a society, there is a great need to improve the quality of discussions, criticisms and debate we advance on issues of national importance.

Yours respectfully,

Joel Bhagwandin

marks, and because she believes that these would evaporate with time, she does not think that this would hurt her political career. Well, a new allegation has arisen which could force her to rethink her position. At her 2024 Budget debate, she was accused of another subliminal attack on PPPC supporters (sugar workers). She claimed that the PPPC can readily find billions of dollars to subsidize sugar workers, but could not find funds to award teachers a better wage and benefits’ package. A top PPPC operative says that Ms. Desir has shown no concern for the plight of the 7,000 sugar workers (most of whom are Indo-Guyanese) who were dismissed, but has expressed unconditional love for the teachers.

When these subtle race-based comments are combined with her fuzzy math, it is not clear if the

PNCR party would regard Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir as a viable candidate, since they must consider whether those allegations might hurt their prospects at getting crossover votes. For the PNCR to have a fair chance of winning the next elections (2025), they must elect a leader who could muster crossover votes as they did in 2015. The PPPC won the 2020 elections by a narrow margin… (The PPPC got 50.69% vs APNU+AFC’s 47.34%, and the other parties got 1.97% of total valid votes).

My sense is that future elections would be competitive. My prediction -based on ongoing reports and anecdotal evidence - is that Aubrey Norton would return as Leader and would consolidate his position.

Sincerely,

Dr Tara Singh

Will the issue of fishing licences be addressed?

Dear Editor,

Now that the establishment of the SurinameGuyana Chamber of Commerce has been formalized, can we hope for affirmative action on the elusive fishing licences for

our Upper Corentyne fisherfolk? Just wondering. It would be a hallmark achievement for the SGCC, were this to happen.

Sincerely,

Shamshun Mohamed

Page Foundation

Solving equations by addition and subtraction

You have learnt about the Equality Properties of Addition and Subtraction, which say that if you add or subtract a number to one side of an equation, you must add or subtract the same number to the other side of the equation. This rule is important when you are trying to solve equations that use addition and subtraction.

Examples:

Problem: x – 17 = 51. Find x Can you add 17 to the left side of the equation to leave x by itself? You can do that, but you also have to add 17 to the right side of the equation.

Step 1: Add the same number to both sides of the equation. x = 51 + 17

Step 2: Add 51 + 17 = 68. So x = 68

Problem: y + 10 = 22. Find y This time, you can subtract 10 from the left side of the equation to leave y by itself? But you also have to subtract 10 from the right side of the equation, too.

Step 1: Subtract the same number to both sides of the equation. y = 22 – 10

Step 2: Subtract 22 – 10 = 12. So y = 12

What you’ll need a square piece of paper googly eyes (optional) red paper for tongue (optional)

Instructions

Start by folding the paper diagonally (both diagonals). Unfold and fold to half. Unfold.

Next is a somewhat tricky part for young soonto-be origami masters –you have to fold the parts that are marked with red dots on the picture towards the centre – getting them in the position showed in the photo above (you’ll get a triangle shape).

Next fold the corner of the triangle (marked with a blue spot) towards the top of the triangle. Do the same with the other corner.

Origami frogs

You should now have the shape displayed on the first picture above. Fold the right corner of the newly-shaped square (marked with the red dot) towards the centre of the square. Do the same with the other corner.

Flip the frog. We have a triangle again (sorry no picture of that one). Grab the corner of the triangle (marked with the blue dot) and fold it inwards as shown on the picture above. Do the same with the other corner.

Grab the spot that’s marked with the red spot on the image and fold it outwards. Do the same with the other side. Flip it over – it’s slowly starting to look like a frog isn’t it?

The last part is a bit tricky, but if you want to

Exercises: Solve

make your frog jump it’s a must. You’ll have to fold the back of the frog twice on places indicated with the blue and red line.

Position the frog as it’s shown on the 4th image (above) and fold it backwards along the red line (you can help yourself with a ruler, etc…). It will now

look like the image number 4 (and 5 if you flip it). Now fold the frog along the blue line (fold it forwards).

All done!

You can have your leap year frog race by racing origami frogs. (easypeasyandfun.com)

WORD SEARCH

Guyana-Venezuela talks…

President Lula critical to ensuring regional stability – Pres Ali

…Caricom-mediated talks a blueprint for world – Dominican PM

resident Dr Irfaan

PAli has described his Brazilian counterpart, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who is in Guyana for an official visit, as having a critical role when it comes to the maintenance of regional stability, and in particular through the role Brazil played in brokering peace talks with Guyana and Venezuela last year.

The Brazilian President arrived in Guyana on Wednesday for talks with Caribbean Community (Caricom) Heads of Government. When asked by reporters at the Marriott Hotel, President Ali, who is chairing Caricom, emphasised President Lula’s importance to the region.

“I see President Lula’s role in the region as critical. He has, I think, great responsibility on his shoulder to provide regional leadership. He has already been doing so. He has already reached out to Guyana and Venezuela,” President Ali said.

“He has ensured that Brazil participates in the Argyle Initiative led by Caricom, and he is a stabling voice, a voice of reason; and I think his role is, as all others, to ensure that peace and stability remains; to ensure that all parties abide and act within the confines of international law.”

At the height of border tensions last year, President Lula was instrumental in ar-

ranging the December 14th meeting between President Ali and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. And following that meeting, Presidents Ali and Maduro had also agreed to meet again in Brazil within the next three months, to engage in further discussions.

President Ali also spoke about the work done over the past few days during the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of Caricom. According to the Head of State, these are discussions that must move the region closer towards integration.

“(Discussions) that contribute to the development of the region; that contribute to maintenance of peace and stability to this region and work towards a situation where the region is highly integrated and we resolve

issues and work together on the transformation of our people through investment in education, health.

“But, more importantly, I think we have a responsibility to integrate the region through infrastructure investment, and to look at issues of food security and energy security and climate and find common ground and solutions where we can work together,” the Head of State further said.

Blueprint for the world

Only a few days ago, Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit had referenced the amicable way in which the region was able to broker peace between Guyana and Venezuela, and had said this could serve as a global template to resolve tensions around the world.

Skerritt, the preceding Caricom Chairman, made these comments during the

opening ceremony of the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of Caricom as he figuratively passed the baton of Chairmanship to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

Reflecting on his chairmanship, Skerrit noted the way in which Caricom was able to broker the Argyle Agreement between Guyana and Venezuela; back in December, when both parties met in St. Vincent and the Grenadines under Caricom’s watchful eyes.

“When I began this address by speaking of my immense pride, I did so with memories still fresh of what we achieved as a group when we met as a family in December in St. Vincent and

the Grenadines to maturely address the tensions between our two brothers. We made international news, not for unrest, war or violence, but for hosting of mature, proactive deliberations that created a template that others in the world would do well to follow. It is therefore fitting that, with a strong sense of pride in our accomplishments, I pass the baton to His Excellency President Mohammed Irfaan Ali, and assure him of my unstinting support and cooperation,” Prime Minister Skerrit said. PM Skerrit also reflected on other strides Caricom took last year, such as on the international relations’ front. He also recalled the steps taken towards food

security, such as the introduction of new crops in the region, and closer collaboration between regional agriculture producers.

“On the international front, we deepened engagements with international partners, and secured crucial support for our development priorities. But I want to expressly single out the success of the first Caricom-Saudi Arabia Summit, held in Saudi Arabia in November of last year. The summit focused heavily on investment opportunities, with Saudi Arabia pledging to bolster our infrastructure, renewable energy, tourism and agriculture sectors,” Skerritt added. (G3)

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after he arrived in Guyana on Wednesday

Last year’s meeting between Guyana’s President Dr Irfaan Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolás Maduro (File photo)

CJIA 156-lb cocaine bust

Salon owner arrested; husband among 2 others wanted by CANU

Wanted: Gavin Anthony McKie and Tyrone Hamilton

Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) officials have detained a prominent city salon owner while seeking her husband, Gavin Anthony McKie, and Tyrone Hamilton for questioning into the discovery of more than 100 pounds of cocaine at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) earlier this week.

CANU stated, “Acting on information received, CANU officers went to an address at Republic Gardens, East Bank Demerara, where they contacted a lone female occupant. A search was conducted on the premises where traces of a suspected narcotic were found. Jessica McKie of the said address was escorted to CANU’s Headquarters and is assist-

ing with the ongoing investigation.”

CANU agents were initially seeking Gavin McKie, named as a suspect in the recent multi-pound cocaine seizure at the CJIA.

CANU had issued a wanted bulletin for Gavin and Hamilton, whose last known addresses were Lot 295 Republic Park, Peters Hall, East Bank Demerara

(EBD), and Lot 12 Public Road, Kitty, Georgetown, urging individuals with knowledge of their whereabouts to contact the agency.

Hamilton, identified as a businessman and retired national cyclist, is being sought for questioning regarding his alleged involvement in transporting the cocaine-laden bags to the airport.

Reports indicate that CANU agents stationed at the CJIA observed two suspects retrieving four duffle bags thrown over the airport fence by an unidentified male. Upon interception, a search of the duffle bags led to the discovery of 64 bricklike parcels suspected to contain cocaine.

The suspects, identified as 26-year-old Travis Sealey, a shift leader at New Timehri Handling Service (NTHS), and 20-year-old Koby Bakker, a ground security coordinator at Secure Innovations and Concepts (SIC), both residents of Timehri, EBD, were apprehended and escorted to CANU Headquarters, along with the suspected narcotics.

Subsequent testing confirmed the presence of cocaine. The parcels weighed approximately 71.2 kilograms with an estimated street value of $64,000,000 locally. CANU stated that the narcotics were intended for transport on a British Airways flight bound for St Lucia, with a subsequent connection to the United Kingdom. The potential street value of the seized narcotics, had they reached their intended destination, was estimated at over £3,000,000, equivalent to approximately G$679,000,000.

As investigations unfold, the detained woman remains in custody.

Watching out…

…for friends

This Caricom Heads of Government (HoG) Conference has turned out to be quite a bash –attracting all sorts of big ones and then some to join the 15 regional Heads! Leading the charge was the US Representative to the UN; followed by the Secty General of the Commonwealth, US Asst Secty of State, UK’s Minister for the Americas, Canada’s Minister of International Development, and others. They showed up doling out oodles of loans for our development drive; and, not-so-incidentally, to show solidarity with us and our “territorial integrity”.

Brazil’s Lula’s was jetted in yesterday, and met Pres Ali separately: to discuss the Venezuelan border controversy; in addition to addressing the Caricom leaders, Lula would proceed to St Vincent to participate in the opening of the 8th Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) – where he will meet Mad Maduro. It’s been already publicised that he would be trying to dampen the tensions that the latter has created in the last year, which culminated in his “annexation decree” over our Essequibo. There’s nothing wrong with Lula acting as an intermediary in the controversy, but we gotta be careful there aren’t too many wheels within wheels turning.

That is what happened with that other interlocutor, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, at the Argyle Meeting last year. It might just be the pics chosen by the press, but in NONE of them – including those on social media - did your Eyewitness see Ralph and Mia hugging Pres Ali and cooing into his ears!! It was revealed later that Mad Maduro had greased wheels in St Vincent and Barbados, and their leaders had to, at best, straddle the fence in relation to us; or, at worst, lean in Venezuela’s direction.

While Brazil and Venezuela have been historic rivals for bragging rights as #1 in Latin America, we can never allow another country to speak authoritatively for us. Every country will act in its own interest, and we can’t assume that Brazil’s will coincide with ours on all fours. We gotta always act on the assumption in international affairs that we can be sold down the river: in this arena, there are no permanent friends or permanent enemies; just permanent interests. So, your Eyewitness hopes that Lula has been told in no uncertain terms: NOT A BLADE OF GRASS!!

But back to the HoG Conference. With the UK tripling the funds available for accessing as concessional loans from their ExImp facility, and the IDB facilitating a grant from Canada, this just illustrates the axion that money comes to money. With oil money flowing into our coffers, these countries are pretty certain they’ll be repaid.

We just gotta be careful that we balance our anticipated income flow with our debt servicing obligations. Oil prices are VERY volatile!!

…for democracy

But it wasn’t only the Government that was getting the full court press by the foreign big wigs. The US Asst Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs met Guyana’s Opposition leaders to discuss strong U.S. support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, and shared democratic values and emphasis on citizen security.

Your Eyewitness would’ve liked to be a fly on the wall when the fella engaged AFC’s Ramjattan and PNC’s Norton.

Did Ramjattan share with him the secret as to how he’d blown the cover of the Russian spy who’d entered Guyana to rig our elections?? After all, with accusations that Russia had also interfered with US elections in 2020 and elections due there this year, your Eyewitness is sure the Biden Administration wants to know.

As for Norton, maybe he revealed to the guy how the US “installed the PPP regime”, which is ipso facto “illegal”.

And the joinder party?? Whether they’ll “survive in twenty-five”!!

…for recolonization

Trinidad’s been the third fattest country in the world for years. Their Health Minister called out the foreign fastfood outlets: “The Caribbean’s always been colonised in a way that doesn’t serve our best interest. Today, we’re colonised by the brands.” Word!!

Lack of transport connections is biggest obstacle - Pres Lula to Caricom Heads of State

…says integration of Guiana Shield is priority for Brazil …wants to resume diplomatic presence in Caribbean

Integration of the Guiana Shield, which will see Brazil increasing infrastructural connections with countries like Guyana, and consequently its linkages with the Caribbean region, is very much a priority for the Brazilian Government.

This is according to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula DaSilva, who came to Guyana for an official visit on Wednesday.

President Lula participated in talks with regional leaders who are in Guyana for the 46th Caricom Heads of Government meeting, whom he addressed and laid out Brazil’s priorities, particularly when it comes to Guyana, the Guiana Shield, and the Caribbean.

“My friends, I heard from Prime Minister Mia Mottley that Barbados has

27 weekly flights to the UK and the US, but none to Brazil. Our biggest obstacle is lack of connections, whether by land, sea or

air,” President Lula said. Lula spoke of the Guiana Shield, which includes Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, and

described it as a priority for his government. For years, there have been talks and work done at the technical level to forge closer energy,

economic, security and logistical ties between these countries.

According to President Lula, focusing on the Guiana Shield would help Brazil make a positive impact on food security in the region.

“One of the priority integration and development roots for my government is the Guianese Shield, which covers Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela. We literally want to pave our way to the Caribbean. We will open corridors capable of meeting supply demands and strengthening food security in the region,” he said.

Diplomatic presence President Lula also said he wants to see Brazil resuming a diplomatic presence in Caribbean countries. He said Brazil would this year make a contribution to the Caribbean Development Bank, and that one of his country's

policy priorities is "the connection between Brazil, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela."

Closer regional ties

Meanwhile, President Ali, as Chairman of Caricom and host of the Heads of Government, spoke of ways closer regional ties can be promoted with Brazil.

One such way is food security, with President Ali noting that Brazil can provide the region with invaluable lessons in agriculture, while there will also be numerous opportunities for investment in the region.

“(In terms of) food and nutrition security, Caricom has embarked on the 25 by 2025 Initiative with the goal of reducing the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025. We are confident that there are many avenues in which we can collaborate with Brazil,” President Ali has said.

TURN TO PAGE 12

From left: Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Brazilian President Lula DaSilva, Antigua & Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, and Bahamas Prime Minister Phillip Davies

Senior Govt official’s mother shot as gunman opens fire on home

The mother of Deputy Regional Executive Officer Marry Samaroo of Region Six was shot on Tuesday night after a lone gunman open fire on their East Canje, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) home.

Injured is 54-year-old Faye Samaroo of Sheet Anchor Public Road, East Canje.

Reports are that the woman, who was shot twice, is now a patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital in a stable condition.

Guyana Times understands that the incident occurred about 23:55h on Tuesday.

Police said that the woman received gunshot wounds and was hospitalised. At the time of the

shooting, Samaroo and her son were at home.

Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) footage was reviewed and a lone gunman, dressed in black, was seen walking towards the house. He then whipped out a gun and fired several shots at the house.

Samaroo, who was in her bedroom, in the upper flat of the two-storey building was hit to her thigh and back with one bullet lodging in her abdomen.

Samaroo had to undergo emergency surgery at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

The bullet was successfully removed on Wednesday afternoon.

Police have since launched an investigation into the shooting. (G4)

El Paso thief crashes stolen car into hill

Police in Regional Division Eight are investigating a car theft in the village of El Paso, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) which occurred on Tuesday.

Reports are that a 22-year-old man stole the car, HC 5757, about 20:20h on Tuesday from a 48-yearold miner.

The suspect, who is a pork-knocker from the same village, was arrested by Police and has since admitted to sneaking into the Fielder Wagon motor car valued $1,250,000 and driving away. The vehicle was later found crashed on a hill.

Enquiries revealed that around 18:30h, the owner

of the car, Felthon Benn, went home from work and parked his car in front of his house, leaving the car key on the driver's seat. He told Police that he went into his home after which his son told him that "someone gone with the car".

Benn said that he checked outside his home and saw that the car was

indeed missing, so he went in search of the vehicle. He later found the car crashed into a hill in the El Paso village. The matter was reported to Mahdia Police Station. Ranks visited the scene and based on information received, arrested the 22-year-old suspect, who confessed to the offence. He remains in custody pending charges.

The crashed car

Chief Education Officer was not held in contempt of court – AG

…explains ‘circular’ issued not worded in best possible language

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister

Anil Nandlall has debunked claims that the Education Ministry’s Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain was found guilty of contempt of court on Wednesday when he appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon for a memorandum/ circular which has been published advising Regional Education Officers and Principal Education Officers to continue collecting the names of teachers who are absent from work.

The Ministry intends to use the data collected to keep track of teachers who were both present and absent from classrooms during the four-week teachers’ strike spearheaded by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).

During a Facebook live, the Attorney General explained that the circular Hussain published was issued after he had informed the Ministry that the GTU is allegedly spreading misinformation about the case which is before the court.

According to Nandlall, teachers are being told that “no monies will be deducted from their salaries, and the case has concluded”; and to dispel the misinformation, he advised the Education Ministry to “continue to record the absences of teachers, clarifying that the order

of the Judge is temporary, and teachers’ salaries will be deducted for the period they were absent from the classroom, because that is the law”.

Nandlall admitted that he did not review the circular prior to it being sent to REOs and PEOs; however, after careful consideration, he explained, the “circular was not worded in the best possible language”, and he understands why it can be interpreted in multiple ways.

“I will concede that it was not expressed in the best language possible, and it is capable of some unfortunate interpretations… and some of those interpretations can have an adverse impact on the administration of Justice, and even cast aspersions on the court it-

self,” Nandlall said.

Appearance in court

The Chief Education Officer was summoned to court on Wednesday by Justice Sandil Kissoon, to show cause why he should not be committed for contempt.

Hussain, who was represented by Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall, informed the judge that it is not the intention of the Ministry or any of its officers to disrespect the court system, or to disobey any court order.

According to Nandlall, Hussain offered to rescind the circular and to ensure it is worded properly, and as a result, was not held in contempt of court.

“Mr. Hussain was invited by the Judge to speak to explain his position, and he

did so very eloquently and very clearly. I believe that he was able to persuade the Judge that whatever mistake that was made was not intentional. He reiterated his and Ministry’s intentions to never disobey any order of court…he acceded to the contention that the memorandum or the circular was not worded on the best possible language, and he offered to rescinded it,” Nandlall explained.

Mediator

Further, Nandlall disclosed that during his engagements with Justice Kissoon, he was asked to facilitate a meeting between the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Teachers’ Union. He explained that Justice Kissoon would like to see all parties talking and the matter resolved amicably.

The Attorney General has said he would engage all Government stakeholders involved and provide the Justice with an answer on Thursday when the court reconvenes at 15:00h.

“I indicated to the court that the Government would

like to see the teachers in the school. The judge also said that he wants to see the parties at a table talking… The Judge wanted me to give a commitment that this will take place. I respectfully informed the Judge that I act on behalf of a collective, and I need to get the collective’s opinion and guidance before I commit them to any course of action,” the Attorney General explained.

Court case

On February 22, the High Court granted Conservatory Orders block-

ing the Government from cutting the salaries of striking teachers, and also blocking the Government from moving ahead with a decision to discontinue the deduction of union dues from the salaries of teachers for the GTU.

The orders were handed down by Justice Sandil Kissoon, and are to remain in effect until the determination of the substantive case, with the hearing set to commence on March 20.

The State’s case is being led by Attorney General Anil Nandlall. (G1)

Attorney General & Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, during Facebook live Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain

LBI hit-and-run ECD man charged for causing death released on $400,000 bail

Edward Sampson, a resident of Graham's Hall, East Coast Demerara, (ECD), was released on $400,000 bail after a causing-death-by-dangerous driving charge was read to him.

The 37-year-old man

appeared at Sparendaam Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool, who read the charge. He denied the offence and was granted $400,000 bail. The case was adjourned to April 4, 2024.

Reports are that the acci-

dent occurred about 22:30h on September 21, 2023 on the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Railway Embankment, ECD.

Mazaruni Prison officers save 5 miners after boat mishap

Officers stationed at the Mazaruni Prison at Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Tuesday completed a daring rescue operation in saving the lives of five miners after their boat had capsized in the Mazaruni River.

Reports are that the incident occurred at about 12:30h on Tuesday as the mining crew was en route to a mining camp at Itaballi. They were ferrying essential fuel supplies when their vessel encountered perilous waters and became partially submerged.

Fortunate for them, Superintendent of Prisons Carlton Cameron and Prison Trade Instructor McAndrew were returning from Bartica when they spotted the miners in distress. The Prison ranks wasted no time in extend-

In October 2023, Sampson was charged for failing to report an accident, failing to stop after an accident, and failing to provide aid to the injured.

The boat that capsized with the miners

ing a lifeline to the miners, pulling them to safety from the dangerous waters.

The miners were transported to the Bartica Regional Hospital, where they received medical attention.

In wake of the rescue, Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, has lauded the courageous actions of the officers involved, hailing them as true heroes for their selfless commitment to preserving life in the face of adversity.

Charged: Edward Sampson

For those charges, Sampson, a labourer, ap-

peared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Alisha George. After denying the allegations, he was released on $80,000 bail.

Following the accident, which occurred on September 21, 2023, the Police had sought the public’s assistance in identifying the victim. The vehicle involved in the fatal hit-and-run accident, PMM 8295, was later found, and the driver surrendered to the Police.

The victim was found unconscious on the roadway

with visible injuries to his body. Concerned residents notified the Police, leading to the mobilisation of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) for assistance.

The injured man was then transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where, upon arrival, an examination revealed the extent of his injuries, including a fractured right foot and various other bodily traumas. His condition was deemed critical, and despite the efforts of the medical team, he succumbed to his injuries.

Lack of transport connections is biggest...

“And (there are) invaluable lessons we can learn to maximize our agriculture and food production and our economic development. The opportunities for investment are also not to be underestimated,” President Ali outlined.

Prior to President Lula’s visit, President Ali had said the Brazilian Leader’s arrival would help accelerate work on the infrastructure for the deep-water port that would be built to reduce transportation time for food supplies to travel between Guyana, Northern Brazil and the Caribbean region, and improve regional logistics.

This was announced by President Ali during the 12th Annual Consultation with Caribbean Governors of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) last Saturday.

He explained that in addition to Brazil, this infrastructure will link French Guiana to Guyana.

“We’re working with Brazil’s President Lula, who is coming in a few days…to complete the infrastructure to link a deep-water port on the Atlantic, linking Northern Brazil…and reengineering the food supply and logistics hub through Guyana, through Barbados, through Jamaica, through the entire region,

so that we can now move food south to north. So, that’s the new infrastructure we’re building, linking French Guiana. The bridge across the Corentyne River (is) under discussion; a new bridge across the Berbice River…45 bridges being constructed along the highway going into northern Brazil,” President

FROM PAGE 9

Ali said. Another project that will dramatically transform trade between the two neighbouring countries is the Linden-Lethem Road, which is being upgraded to an all-weather road. The contractor, Brazilian company Construtora Queiroz Galvao SA, has already been tasked with producing an asphaltic surface capable of withstanding the heavily laden lorries which currently use the thoroughfare.

The project is being funded by the CDB via a US$112 million loan, a grant to the tune of £50 million (US$66 million) from the United Kingdom under the Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (CIPF), and an input of US$12 million from the Guyana Government. (G3)

Scenes from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Guyana for engagements with Caricom Heads of Government at 46th Regular Meeting

$10M in steel, cement subsidies distributed in Region 6

Some $10 million worth of steel and cement subsidy vouchers were on Wednesday distributed to 130 persons in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) to commence construction of their homes.

Of the 130 vouchers distributed on Wednesday, 90 were distributed at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Office and the others were distributed by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, along with officials from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), when they visited Bush Lot Farm, Wellington Park, and Eversham.

Croal explained that the Government recognised its commitment and mandate to assist with home ownership. Hence, much attention is being paid on the housing and water sector.

The subsidy is an initiative of President Dr Irfaan Ali to provide support to home builders.

According to Croal, it is the administration’s intention to push the drive and have persons commence the process of construction of their houses.

“When you go around in

many communities, you see vacant lots; in our new housing schemes, we allocate and then persons have not built and this is one way we are pushing the housing initiative,” Croal explained.

To date, 1144 persons have been issued vouchers for either cement or steel. In Region Six more than 270

such vouchers have been issued to date.

The PPP Administration, in its manifesto, had promised to make available 10,000 house lots annually during its five-year term in office. Minister Croal said the steel

Region since the Party took office. This, according to Minister Croal, injected $11.3 billion into the region for the construction of houses.

“That means creation of employment, purchase of

and cement subsidy and the building of houses were additions to what was promised in the Party’s manifesto before it took office.

Some 200 houses have been constructed in the

materials for the construction and spin-off benefits for persons in the transportation sector and for those selling refreshments in areas where the houses are being built. Our net venture moves

to Palmyra where we will be commencing the construction of houses for young professionals,” he explained.

At Palmyra, $1.2 billion is being spent on infrastructural development. However, at the regional level, the Housing Ministry has spent $25.4 billion on infrastructural development since taking office in 2020. Of that figure, $14 billion was spent to open up new housing areas at Numbers 75, 76 and 79 housing schemes along with schemes at Hampshire, Ordinance, and Palmyra.

However, Croal noted that in Region Six, it was not enough, as there were about 5000 pending applications for house lots. Currently, land for house lot development close to New Amsterdam where the highest demand is, is not available in the Region. Minister Croal explained that with the high demand for agricultural land, getting new lands for house lot development is challenging in Region Six.

Meanwhile, a new housing scheme is to come on stream at Moleson Creek. The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission is currently doing preparatory work.

Hafeeza Ali receiving her voucher from Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

Hafeeza Ali receiving her voucher from Minister Colin Croal

Pres Ali says regional leadership; support important to resolving...

President Ali went on to note that Caricom’s continued support for Haiti was not only monetary but also extended to humanitarian and security assistance. He added that during “frank” discussions with international partners, commitments were made to fulfil prior pledges while new commitments were made.

“We have committed ourselves to continue the mobilisation of resources, whether

and the resources needed has many moving parts. It is a difficult situation for Haiti.

It is a complex situation for the Region. It is a situation in which we have to navigate between international community, Haiti and of course, the Region issues that we still have to confront…”

“What is important to note is that we’re facilitating a Haitian-led solution and that is key… We’re approaching Haiti as a collec-

it’s for humanitarian support, whether it’s to finance the operations of Caricom in Haiti, to support the operations in Haiti, whether it’s going to be direct support to the efforts of Haiti. – these are all things that engaged our attention and things we’re committed to,” the Head of State noted.

While he further noted that many resources were being expended on training and resourcing the authorities, the Guyanese Leader disclosed that many of the international partners are now requesting to push more financing into the multinational force that is being established for Haiti.

“So, this issue of Haiti

tive. There is collective effort… Haiti is a priority and we're approaching Haiti from a regional perspective,” President Ali stated.

Battered by a series of natural disasters over the years, Haiti has been experiencing an escalated and protracted political, economic and social crisis that has led to mass violence along with food shortages and fuel shortages for several years, which was exacerbated by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. Only earlier this month, gang-related violence in the Caribbean nation escalated.

During his engagements on the sidelines of the Caricom summit, Haitian

Prime Minister Henry also met with US Representative to the UN, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who was also in Guyana earlier this week.

On Monday, she told reporters at a press conference that extensive discussions

with Prime Minister Henry centred on the needs of the Haitian people. She also related that Benin, a West African country that shares commonalities with Haiti such as language and religion, has offered to join the coalition looking to help restore

order in Haiti, with the contribution of up to 2000 troops to the multinational force.

Kenya and Rwanda, along with Caricom countries such as Jamaica, have volunteered their troops to provide training and other support to the multinational force, which is

being funded through financing from international partners like the US.

In fact, the US committed some US$200 million towards these efforts, along with other support, such as provision of equipment.

(Vahnu Manikchand)

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis

Hinterland students participating in ‘Whiz Kids’ for 1st time

For the first time, hinterland students are participating in the Guyana Learning Channel’s ‘Whiz Kids’ programme.

According to the Head of the Guyana Learning Channel, Anieshaw Mohamed, the move is part of the agency’s quest to

make educational opportunities equal throughout Guyana.

The ‘Whiz Kids’ programme was designed to innovatively test the ability of Grade Six students gearing up for the National Grade 6 Assessment (NGSA) in May 2024.

According to Learning Channel, this now reaffirms channel’s dedication to student success with the ongoing rollout of educational programs tailored to support this demographic. With initiatives like Whiz Kids, Spell It, and the upcoming Mathletes, the

channel said that it remains steadfast in its mission to foster academic excellence through engaging and accessible content.

Now in its third season, Whiz Kids, a game show format challenges participants from diverse backgrounds, including for the first time, students from the hinterland regions.

This expansion, the learning channel said on Wednesday, underscores the channel's dedication to equitable educational opportunities, aligning with the vision of the Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, and the Government.

Further, another project that seeks to complement Whiz Kids is the NGSA

Booster program, which is a comprehensive resource tailored to the NGSA curriculum.

According to the channel, serving as a virtual tutor accessible to every household, the NGSA Booster seeks to ensure that students are well-prepared for this pivotal academic milestone.

This program equips students with essential skills and knowledge through accessible lessons covering every topic pertinent to the NGSA.

The Guyana Learning Channel said that it remains dedicated to promoting educational excellence and empowering students to unlock their full potential.

Among the programs offered by the channel are Spell It, advancing in English, La Escuelita de Espanol, READ, Infobits and Cybersmarts.

Region 1 man nabbed with illegal gun, ammo, drugs

A35-year-old man who claims to be a businessman resident at Port Kaituma, North West District and in William Street, Kitty, Georgetown was on Tuesday evening apprehended by Police ranks at Port Kaituma with an unlicensed firearm, matching ammunition, and a quantity of marijuana in his possession.

The Police have said the search of this businessman’s possessions was conducted between 19:05h and 19:50h on Tuesday at his residence at Train Line, Port Kaituma.

During the search, ranks uncovered a 9MM pistol with six matching rounds of ammunition, besides a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be marijuana.

Asked whether he owns a firearm licence, the man opted to remain silent, and was consequently apprised of the allegations, arrested, and escorted to the Port Kaituma Police Station; where, in his presence, the suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to 299.7 grams.

He remains in custody pending charges. (G9)

The ganja found during the raid

The gun that Police found

Behind-the-scene shot of ‘Whiz Kids’ programme (Education Ministry photo)

Hinterland students on set of ‘Whiz Kids’ (Education Ministry photo)

512 traffic offence charges filed in 5 days

…1441 tickets issued

In its latest update on traffic enforcement and education endeavours, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has published a detailed report encompassing activities conducted across various regions throughout the week.

That report has revealed that for the period February 24 to 28, a total of 512 charges have been filed, and 1,441 tickets have been issued, providing insight into ongoing efforts to enhance road safety. A closer examination of the data by region highlights distinct levels of enforcement and incidents experienced across different areas. Notably, Region 4C (East Coast Demerara) emerged as a focal point, registering a significant 905 cases and prominently featuring numerous in-

stances of speeding violations, totalling 364.

Friday emerged as a particularly active day for law enforcement personnel, with 17 DUI cases reported, marking the highest count for the week. Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) notably stood out with 22 DUI cases, emphasizing the imperative for sustained vigilance and enforcement actions.

Sunday conversely witnessed the highest overall case tally, with 420 incidents reported. In tandem with enforcement measures, the Guyana Police Force has prioritised educational endeavours, delivering a total of 44 lectures targeting drivers, schools and establishments serving alcohol.

These educational initiatives are aimed at fostering awareness and en-

couraging responsible conduct on the roads.

Enforcement actions were extended beyond fines and citations, in that the Police Force also executed 60 warrants, amounting to $720,500.

Overall, the weekly report underscores the multifaceted approach adopted by the Police Force in tackling traffic-related challenges, and it emphasizes both enforcement and education. As Guyana contends with a surge in traffic violations, motorists and pedestrians alike are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the fundamental principles of road safety.

With speeding identified as a primary contributor to accidents, the Police Force has emphasized that it is imperative for all road users to prioritise safe-

ty and exercise restraint while driving.

According to the GPF, it is only through collec -

tive responsibility and unwavering dedication to road safety that Guyana can hope to mitigate the

frequency of traffic-related incidents, and safeguard the lives of its citizens. (G9)

“Spleen” wanted for robbery at Shell Gas Station

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has issued a wanted bulletin for 31-year-old Howard Rambarose, also known as “Spleen”, who is wanted for questioning in relation to a simple larceny committed at the Shell Gas Station at Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara on February 8. The last known address of Howard Rambarose, aka Spleen, is listed as Lot 6 Second Street, Meadow Bank, EBD.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Rambarose, or with information that may lead to his arrest, is asked to contact the Police on the following telephone numbers: 261-2760, 216-0254, 216-0251, 226-6978, 225-8196, 226-2870, 226-7065, 229-2750, 227-1149, 226-7065, 225-6940, 226-9834, 226-2417,

226-2407, 225-2694, 911, or at the nearest Police station.

The GPF has indicated that all information would be treated with the strictest confidence.

In 2021, Rambarose was acquitted of the 2016 Emancipation Day killing of Orin David, after a no-case submission had been made by Attorney George Thomas and upheld by High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon.

Rambarose had been on trial along with Jermaine Jeffords for that murder, which occurred on August 1, 2016 in Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt. The judge had ruled in favour of Rambarose due to insufficient evidence, leading to a not-guilty verdict.

However, Jeffords, who had been asked to present his defence, was subsequently handed a life imprisonment

Wanted: Howard Rambarose, called “Spleen”

sentence for the 2016 execution-style killing of David; but in June 2021, he moved to the Court of Appeal to overturn his murder conviction.

The 33-year-old Orin David had been fatally shot in front of his Georgetown home after five men had exited a car and opened fire on him.

Reports are that, prior to the execution, David and Jeffords had been involved in an argument over money. (G9)

Police officers conducting a traffic enforcement exercise

Guyana delegation attends workshop on future of ports in C’bean

Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill is currently leading a Guyanese delegation at the United States Department of State and Deloitte Advisory LLP workshop, titled “Shaping Tomorrow’s

Ports: Integrating Security, Technology, and Economic Resilience”, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.

The workshop aims to highlight leading practices necessary to ensure the economic viability, security, and strategic positioning of ports in the Caribbean region. This strategic positioning is crucial for increasing port competitiveness and at-

tracting trusted investors through robust governance mechanisms.

The event features a series of presentations and panel discussions, covering critical topics such as investment screening and its effects on national security, green shipping, investment analysis, US foreign aid and infrastructure investment, good governance mechanisms to enhance port performance, and port cybersecurity and digitisation.

National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia and Director of Ports and Harbours, Maritime Administration

Department, Louise Williams, have joined the minister.

Delegates from various Caribbean nations, including Antigua, Barbados, The Bahamas, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, are also participating in this significant event.

In a release on Wednesday, the Public Works Ministry said the workshop underscores the collective commitment of Caribbean nations to enhancing the resilience and efficiency of their ports, thus contributing to regional economic growth and stability.

At least 17 people died and roughly a dozen more were left injured in an accident involving two buses on a highway in western Honduras, first responders said on Wednesday.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro sent condo-

lences to the families of the victims in a post on social media.

Around 14 injured people were transported to the Western Regional Hospital in the city of Santa Rosa de Copan, the hospital's spokesperson Lesbia Villeda told local media, adding that

Barbados is on board with the effort to integrate environmental and trade policies, but its Government is wary about the potential negative impact of measures like carbon border taxes.

Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Kerrie Symmonds voiced the concern on Tuesday while reinforcing the country’s commitment to a global trading system that protects and preserves the environment in accordance with sustainable development, and its support for trade-related actions to address the environmental, health and economic impacts of plastics pollution.

He was speaking on Day 2 of the World Trade Organisation’s 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussion (TESSD) is one of the agenda items at MC13. It focuses on trade and environmental sustainability, complementing the work of other WTO committees and bodies.

Speaking during a TESSD-related press conference, Symmonds said that as a small island developing state vulnerable to the climate crisis, Barbados believed it was import-

two of the injured had died, including a minor.

Security officials told local media one vehicle was a public bus completing a regular route, while the other was returning from a private service to bring migrants to the border.

(Reuters)

Honduras bus crash leaves at least 17 dead Barbados urges caution on climate-related trade measures

ant “to associate ourselves with some of the work that TESSD is doing”.

However, he made it clear that “we still feel very strongly in the Caricom Community, for example, that climate measures in trade have to be treated very cautiously.

“We are still very wary, for example, of the emergence of carbon border taxes. While one understands the environmental concern, one is afraid of the glacial creep. It begins there, but where does it end? What we do not want is a new form of protectionism to arise,” he cautioned.

(Excerpt from Nation News)

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, along with National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia and Director of Ports and Harbours, Maritime Administration Department, Louise Williams, at the workshop

Around the World OIL NEWS

US oil futures settle lower as Fed takes stock before cutting rates

US crude oil futures settled lower on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve held firm on its decision to hold off cutting interest rates in the near future, while growing US crude stockpiles added further pressure.

Brent crude futures settled three cents higher, or up 0.04 per cent at US$83.68 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures settled 33 cents lower, or down 0.42 per cent at US$78.54. Both benchmarks had fallen US$1 in earlier trading.

US crude inventories rose by 4.2 million barrels last week, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) said, surpassing analysts' expectations of 2.74 million.

Stockpiles have risen for five consecutive weeks due to unplanned refinery outages following a winter storm in January, along with planned plant turnarounds.

"An above forecast rise in US weekly crude inventories has yet again dragged oil futures lower," Gaurav Sharma, an independent analyst, said.

US refinery utilisation rates edged up 0.9 percentage points last week to 81.5 per cent of total capacity, but were below the 10-year seasonal average. Refineries have operated below 83 per cent utilisation rates for the past month, their longest streak in nearly three years.

"Refiners are still sidelined to a great degree, and not making a real effort to rapidly come out of the shutdowns experienced in the aftermath of the cold snap," John Kilduff, partner at New York-based Again Capital, said.

An ongoing outage at BP's 435,000-barrel-per-day Whiting refinery in Indiana, the largest plant in the Midwest, has also reduced fuel stock levels, Kilduff said.

Gasoline stocks, in turn, have drawn down for a fourth straight week to a two-month low at 244.2 million barrels and about two per cent below the five-year average for this time of year, the EIA said.

"If this trend continues for the next six to eight weeks, we could see gasoline inventories tighten up as we go into the driving season," said Andrew Lipow, President of Lipow Oil Associates in Houston.

Reports on Tuesday that the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies led by Russia (OPEC+) will consider extending voluntary oil output cuts into the second quarter likely provided a floor to falling prices.

And hostilities in the Middle East may have provided some support, after Hamas called for Palestinians to march to Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque at the start of Ramadan, raising the stakes in ongoing negotiations for a truce in Gaza, which US President Joe Biden hopes will be in place by then.

However, signs that interest rates in the world's largest economy would remain elevated offset potential gains.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams said that while inflation pressures have ebbed to a notable degree, he was not yet ready to say the central bank has done all it needed to do to get inflation back to the Fed's two per cent target.?

Williams' comment was in line with Fed Governor Michelle Bowman's signals on Tuesday – that she was in no rush to cut U. interest rates, given continuing inflation risks. Higher-forlonger rates could dampen economic growth and suppress demand for oil.

Players in the oil market will be looking for clearer direction from today's January US personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation and a key factor in rate decisions.

"In case US PCE reading comes in above expectations, a temporary top might have been found for oil," Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM said in a note. (Reuters)

Hamas raises stakes in Gaza truce talks by calling for Ramadan march

Hamas called on Wednesday for Palestinians to march to Jerusalem's AlAqsa Mosque at the start of Ramadan, raising the stakes in ongoing negotiations for a truce in Gaza, which US President Joe Biden hopes will be in place by then.

The call by Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh followed comments by Biden that an agreement could be reached between Israel and Hamas as soon as next week for a ceasefire during the Muslim fasting month expected to start this year on March 10.

Israel and Hamas, which both have delegations in Qatar this week hammering out details of a potential 40-day truce, have said there was still a big gulf be-

gious holidays.

With war raging in Gaza, Israel has said it may set limits to worship at Al-Aqsa during Ramadan, according to its security needs. Many Palestinians reject any such restrictions on their access to the site.

"This is a call on our people in Jerusalem and the West Bank to march to AlAqsa since the first day of Ramadan," said Haniyeh.

Israeli Government spokesperson Tal Heirich described Haniyeh's remarks as "very unfortunate" and accused him of "trying to drag us to wars on other fronts".

tween them, and the Qatari mediators say there is no breakthrough yet.

Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem's old city, one of the world's

Top US court will rule on Trump's immunity claims

The Supreme Court will decide if ex-President Donald Trump is immune from being prosecuted on charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election.

The 6-3 conservative majority court decided on Wednesday to hear Trump's claims that he should be shielded from criminal liability.

The ruling marks the first time the court has weighed in on such a case.

A US Court of Appeals panel has already rejected Trump's argument that he enjoys presidential immunity.

Trump had claimed in the landmark legal case that he was immune from all criminal charges for acts he said fell within his duties as President.

But the appeals court ruled unanimously against the 77-year-old, writing that: "We cannot accept former President Trump's claim that a President has unbounded authority to commit crimes that would neutralise the most fundamental check on executive power – the recognition and implementation of election results." He appealed the case to the Supreme Court and asked to put that decision on hold.

On his Truth Social site, Mr Trump welcomed Wednesday's decision and contended that without immunity "Presidents will always be concerned, and even paralysed, by the prospect of wrongful prosecution and retaliation after they leave office".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Trinidad moves swiftly to combat gang violence in school zones

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) says it is taking “swift action” to contain the violence spilling into school zones after an 11-year-old student was shot and killed by a stray bullet last week.

Senior Police Officers, including those from the Community Oriented Policing Section, held discussions with principals and representatives from over 20 primary schools located in East Port of Spain on Tuesday.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Education’s regional office, was in response to the recent increase in gang violence around schools in

the area, including what the Police have described as “the senseless murder of 11-yearold Ezekiel Paria, who was killed by a stray bullet last week”.

The meeting comes after Amoa Howe, 50, was shot and killed in the vicinity of a primary school in Belmont in east Trinidad last week forcing classes to be dismissed early on that day.

The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) President Martin Lum Kin said then that staff members and students were deeply and rightfully tramautised over the shooting death.

(Excerpt from CMC)

holiest sites for Muslims and the most sacred for Jews, has long been a flashpoint for potential violence, particularly during reli-

"We certainly don't want that. We certainly will do whatever it takes to keep the calm," she said.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Mitch McConnell to end long tenure as top US Senate Republican

Top US Senate Republican Mitch McConnell said on Wednesday he will step down this year from his leadership role, ending a record-setting tenure and ceding more influence to Donald Trump and the hardliners who have come to define the party.

McConnell, who has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985 and has been his party's leader since 2007, gleefully embraced the nickname "Grim Reaper" for his willingness to use the levers of power to stonewall Democratic goals, whether as majority leader or, as is currently the case, minority leader.

"I turned 82 last week. The end of my contributions are closer than I prefer," McConnell said on the Senate floor, his voice breaking with emotion.

"Father Time remains undefeated. I'm no longer the young man sitting in the back hoping colleagues remember my name. It's time for the next generation of leadership."

His tenure of nearly 17 years as a Senate party leader is the longest on record.

McConnell played an outsized role in helping Trump cement a 6-3 conservative majority in the Supreme Court, paving the way for landmark rulings cheered by conservatives ending the recognition of a constitutional right to abortion and expanding gun rights.

Meanwhile, top US lawmakers reached a tentative deal to avert a partial Government shutdown ahead of a Friday deadline to approve funding.

Four funding bills will now be extended to March 8 while the rest of the budget will be extended to March 22.

"We are in agreement that Congress must work in a bipartisan manner to fund our Government," top US lawmakers said in a joint statement.

The House is expected to vote on the stopgap measure as early as today.

(Excerpts from Reuters and BBC News)

Displaced Palestinians wait to receive free food at a tent camp amid food shortages, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues in Rafah in the Southern Gaza Strip, February 27, 2024 (Reuters/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa photo)

US Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) (Reuters/ Elizabeth Frantz photo)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Let's get physical. Embrace a new fitness routine and make a change that empowers you to move forward confidently. Refuse to let others' actions interfere with what's best for you.

Don't get worked up. If you overreact, you'll lose control. Establish what you want and figure out how to make it happen. Call on an expert for advice, but do the work yourself.

Talks will lead to trouble. Concentrate on what needs to be done and take steps to complete anything you've left undone. Measure your progress letting anxiety take control.

Let your creativity lead the way and see what transpires. You will benefit the most if you share your vision. Find something that makes you feel passionate.

Don't fight the current; surrender and see where it leads. Learn to use what's available, and you'll gain ground. Set a budget that allows you to build a brighter future.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Start where you left off and finish what you started. Change requires a clean slate and no regrets. Tidy up and make way for what's to come. Embrace what's new and exciting, and enjoy the moment.

Don't pay someone to do something you can do yourself. The best way to avoid unsavory situations is to handle responsibilities swiftly and efficiently. Establish a sound budget.

Keep the peace. Concentrate on getting things done and initiating improvements. An unusual pastime will change how you relate to others and how others view you.

You'll accomplish more by working alone. Don't give anyone a chance to steal your thunder. Don't let anyone persuade you to go overboard or spend more than you can afford.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Distinguish between work and play, and refuse to let one interfere with the other. Change what's necessary and proceed. Balance and discipline will help you maintain your equilibrium.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Emotional decisions will leave you second-guessing yourself. Slow down, rethink your strategy and simplify your original plans to fit your lifestyle and budget. Choose peace over chaos.

Consider your lifestyle and what you spend money on. Devise a plan to lower your overhead and manage your money. It's time to live life your way, but first, you must make some domestic changes.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

PICKLES

ARCHIE

Cricket Equipment Guyana fulfills promise to DCB U19 tournament

While members of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) would again sponsor the Demerara Cricket Board’s (DCB’s) Inter-Association Under-19 Cricket Tournament, Cricket Equipment Guyana has materialized their support for the tournament in their own way.

At a simple ceremony held recently, Chanderpaul Mohamed, Manager of Cricket Equipment Guyana, presented the balls to Vicky Bharosay, Treasurer of the DCB.

Cricket Equipment

Guyana, a popular sports store operating out of the Bel Air Rubis Service Station, will provide red balls for the entire tournament. The balls are original SS Sunridges Cricket World made by Sareen Sports Industry of Meerut, India. Cricket Equipment Guyana is the authorized distributor of all SS-branded cricket equipment in Guyana.

Mohamed has thanked the DCB for giving his company another opportunity to support this very important tournament. He also said the sports store is hap-

py to be part of the development of young cricketers in Demerara, Guyana, and the West Indies.

Bharosay has thanked this generous sponsor for his contribution to this very important championship.

The GFSCA, known for pioneering softball cricket locally and internationally, is the primary sponsor of the quickly approaching U19 tournament. The tournament would involve the five associations: Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara

Beijing to host 2027 World Championships

The World Athletics Council has selected Beijing, China to host the 2027 World Athletics Championships.

The decision was made at the 234th World Athletics Council Meeting, held in Glasgow ahead of the World Athletics Indoor Championships (1-3 March).

The 2027 World Athletics Championships would welcome the sport’s biggest stars back to Beijing, 12 years on from the Chinese capital’s successful staging of athletics’ flagship event, and almost two decades on from the Beijing Olympic Games.

China will also host next year’s World Athletics Indoor Championships, in Nanjing.

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe has said: “Congratulations to Beijing on their successful bid to host the World Athletics Championships in 2027, 12 years after our athletes lit up the National Stadium for the 15th edition of our global showpiece.

“With a population of more than 1.4 billion, China is one of the biggest sports markets in the world. It was the top performer for Wanda Diamond League broadcast consumption in 2023 with a cumulative audience of 368.9 million. This poses a massive opportunity to grow our sport and fan base in one of the biggest commercial markets in the world.

“With the announcement of China as our next host, our last four World Athletics Championships have now been awarded to the world’s four largest economies; the USA (Oregon), the EU (Budapest), Japan (Tokyo) and China (Beijing).”

Wang Nan, World Athletics Council Member and Vice President of the Chinese Athletics Association (CAA), said: “Thank you to World Athletics for the recognition and trust in China and Beijing. The CAA will work together with the Beijing Organising Committee to make every effort to prepare for the Championships, ensure that the Championships will be held to the highest quality standard, and strive to present

a wonderful World Athletics Championships to make more contributions to the development of athletics across the world.”

Zhao Wen, Director of the Beijing Sports Bureau, said: “We thank World Athletics for the trust and support of Beijing. After the 15th World Athletics Championships in 2015, Beijing is honoured to host the 21st World Athletics Championships, the world’s highest-level athletics event, in 2027.

“Following the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, Beijing has become the first city in the world to have held both summer and winter Olympics. Sports has given life and vitality to this ancient capital. We are very much looking forward to the World Athletics Family returning to Beijing to feel and experience the charm of the ancient and modern capital.

“With the guidance and assistance of World Athletics, Beijing will do its best to prepare for the Championships and present the world with an extraordinary athletics event.”

The last edition of the World Athletics Championships was held in Budapest in August, while Tokyo will host the 2025 event.

Safeguarding Policy

Following on from the robust policies that have been implemented and are taking effect, the World Athletics Council received an update on progress made in relation to safeguarding.

Detailed safeguarding event plans will be in place for all World Athletics Series events and the new online Safeguarding Essentials train-

ing course is being promoted for everyone in athletics to take.

A revised version of the World Athletics Safeguarding Policy was approved, and will be uploaded to the World Athletics Library shortly.

The principal changes are to make it mandatory for Area Associations to have their own safeguarding policies and procedures by the end of 2024, and for there to be consequences for Area Associations and Member Federations if they do not have their own safeguarding policies and procedures by the deadlines set by the Council.

Competition updates

The World Athletics Council has approved a proposal to restructure the summer track-and-field season from 2025 onwards. This will create a season-long narrative that builds to the natural crescendo of the World Athletics Championships each year, while at the same time allowing for a more consistent global calendar to be established. Each season from 2025 onwards will end with the World Athletics Championships, meaning there is a clear season climax during a defined window in mid-September.

The World Athletics Council has also approved the systematic use of all nine lanes (when available) for semifinals and finals in the laned events (sprints and all races up to and including 800m) at the World Athletics Championships. This will be built into the race progression conditions from 2025. This new policy will see the first three from each semifinal advance to the final, where nine athletes/teams would compete. (World Athletics)

Cricket Equipment Guyana making presentation to DCB Treasurer Vicky Bharosay

and Georgetown, and would be played on a round robin format with the top two teams qualifying for the final. The final will be live streamed across the globe. The tournament is the main yardstick use by the selection panel to

select the Demerara team for the GCB Inter-County Under-19 Tournament.

The tournament will be branded Trophy Stall/ Ramchand’s Auto Spares/ Ariel Enterprise/Rohan Auto Spares/Steve’s Jewelry/

Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend/ Cricket Equipment Guyana/ General Marines/ Terry Mathura.

The DCB has taken this opportunity to extend heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors for coming on board.

T&T, Jamaica to use friendlies as prep for Copa America playoff

…CNL semis against Canada, United States

Trinidad and Tobago’s senior Soca Warriors will be seriously intensifying their preparations for the upcoming Copa America qualifying assignment when they tackle Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz in a two-match friendly series on Friday and Sunday.

The games are scheduled to be played at the Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella and the Larry Gomes Stadium in Arima, and both are set to be contested at 4:00pm Trinidad and Tobago time. Both games will assist Angus Eve and his Soca Warriors to gauge their readiness for the upcoming Copa America qualifying encounter against Canada, scheduled for March 23.

The games would also assist Heimir Hallgrimsson and his Reggae Boyz, who are also in preparation mode for their Concacaf Nations League (CNL) semi-final engagement with United States, set for March 21.

Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica met three times last year, twice in friendly matches in Montego Bay, and those were followed by their Concacaf Gold Cup clash in June. The Soca Warriors won the second friendly 1-0, after the first match ended goalless.

However, Jamaica came away comfortable 4-1 winners in the Gold Cup group stage meeting, and were responsible for sending Canada into the Copa America playoff match by virtue of the away goal rule, after they rallied to secure a 4-4 aggregate scoreline in the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal in November.

Like Canada, Eve’s Soca Warriors also missed out

Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago in action during last year’s friendly series

on an automatic place at the 2024 Copa America, as they lost 2-4 on aggregate to United States, despite winning the second leg 2-1 in Port of Spain. Eve has since backed his team to remain competitive, and by extension build on that momentum from the win against the United States.

“Like the US team, the Canada team is built up the same, (with) a lot of European-based players. Some of the players (are) playing in the MLS (Major League Soccer), some playing back home, but most of the players are playing in Europe, and they are playing with good teams,” Eve assessed in a recent interview.

“But we think we can go in there. We think we can compete with anyone right now, and we want to show that. We want to show that confidence that we could go out on the park and compete with anyone,” he added.

Eve believes that, with the right application, the team would compete strongly against Canada as well as

in the Concacaf World Cup qualifiers, which promises to be both demanding and exciting.

“We just have to be tactically aware. A coach can only give instructions. When the players go out there, they have to have the mindset to play the position, to play the role that the coaches give them to the best of their ability, because a coach could never tell a player what to do for every second of every minute of a game,” he reasoned.

“We will use those games (against Jamaica) as the final two warm-up games going into the CONMEBOL playoff match; and when that happens, then we will pick that final squad,” Eve declared.

The winner of the playoff between Trinidad and Tobago and Canada will join Jamaica, United States, Mexico, Panama and either Costa Rica or Honduras as the Concacaf representatives at the prestigious Copa America, which will be hosted in the United States from June 20 to July 14.

(Sportsmax)

One of the venues that would host the Championships in 2027

Glories Business flew the Canje flag high at Jumbo Jet horse race meeting

…Dream becomes reality

Wishful thinking, or dreams, take different forms and courses. Only when the dream becomes a reality do some recognise or believe an external force had answered their prayers. Others believe in determination.

For businessman Glen (Big G) Seubaran, it was a combination of both when, on Sunday, Glories Business gave him his first success in the Sport of Kings - horse racing.

Coming from a very humble background and a similar environment in #2 Village, East Canje Berbice, where villagers owned horses for the fun of it, Seubaran has nurtured a childhood desire to one day own a racehorse; and his dream has become reality.

Iyer,

Big ‘G’ as he is famously known, related, “I always love horse-racing. I grew up in an environment (East No 2 Village East Canje, Berbice) where the people had racing and horses all the time, and that influenced my thinking when I was about 13 years old.”

Big G, a leading supplier of lumber in Canje, recalled, “I will dream, as any youngster would, about what they want to do or become. My desire was to own a race horse, and I was fortunate to own more than one horses, and to enjoy the pleasure of having one win a race for me.”

Reliving the feeling and joy when Glories Business passed the finish line at Rising Sun Turf Club (RSTC) in Sunday’s sixth race (E Class Sprint)

over 1,100 metres, beating the highly regarded Early Bird, Big G recounted, “It was a joy, and feeling that is unexplain-

Glories Business impressed on Sunday last able. I am a successful businessman in the lumber industry, but the thinking of owning a racehorse coming from a very humble upbringing produces tears of joy and happiness 23 years later.

– Sharma, Kohli, Bumrah and Jadeja retained in the top category

The top tier of the BCCI’s annual central contracts has remained unchanged, with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja in the A+ category.

But Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were not part of the list of 30 contracted players - the list has been expanded from 26 in 2023.

Iyer, who was one of the key performers in India’s run to the World Cup final last November, lost his Grade B contract despite fulfilling the minimum criteria set by the board in terms of matches played. Since last October, when the latest contract period started, Iyer played four Tests, 12 ODIs and two T20Is.

Two of those Tests were the first two of the ongoing series against England, where he struggled for form, and was left out for the remainder of the series.

Not long after that, Iyer informed the Mumbai Cricket Association that he had been suffering from back spasms, and would not be available for the Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Baroda. Iyer has since made himself available, and is part of Mumbai’s squad for the semi-final against Tamil Nadu on March 2.

Kishan had a Grade C contract last year. In the last contract period, he played two Tests, 19 ODIs and ten T20Is, and in the ongoing cycle, he has played only two ODIs and three T20Is, though he was part of various other India squads. In December, while on tour in South Africa, he sought a personal break, which was granted by BCCI. However, he has since not featured in any competitive cricket organised by the board.

On Tuesday, he made headlines when he turned up to play at the DY Patil T20 Cup, a privately organised tournament in Mumbai.

A BCCI release on Wednesday said Iyer and Kishan “were not considered for the annual contracts in this round of recommendations”, along with a reiteration of its recent stance that “all athletes give precedence to participat-

ing in domestic cricket during periods when they are not representing the national team”.

Rahul, Hardik in second tier; Suryakumar, Pant in Grade B

The second tier of the central contracts (Grade A) has R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya. Grade B has a new entrant in 22-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal. It is his first BCCI central contract, and it recognises his work in Test cricket since debuting in July 2023. He struck back-to-back double-centuries in the ongoing series against England.

Along with Jaiswal, the other members of Grade B are Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.

The final tier is populated by a lot of T20 specialists, including Rinku Singh, Tilak Verma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Jitesh Sharma, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, KS Bharat, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan and Rajat Patidar.

Siraj, Rahul and Gill are the new names in Grade A, all of them having been promoted from Grade B. Pant, who hasn’t played in over a year since a horrific car crash in December 2022, and Axar have moved down to Grade B from Grade A.

Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Deepak Hooda and Yuzvendra Chahal have been omitted altogether, while there are a host of new names taking over: Jaiswal in Grade B; Rinku, Tilak, Gaikwad, Dube, Bishnoi, Jitesh, Mukesh, Prasidh, Avesh and Patidar in Grade C.

The BCCI did not mention the amounts for the four contract categories, but ESPNcricinfo understands that they are likely to go up from the previous year, when A+ was INR 7 crore, A was INR 5 crore, B was INR 3 crore, and C was INR 1 crore.

The BCCI added that, as in previous years, all cricket-

ers who play a minimum of three Tests or eight ODIs or ten T20Is within the specified period “will automatically be included in Grade C on a pro-rata basis”.

“For instance, Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan, having played two Test matches so far, will be inducted into Grade C if they participate in the Dharamsala Test match [against England],” their statement explained.

Contracts recommended for five fast bowlers

Additionally, the selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar has recommended fast-bowling contracts to five players: Akash Deep, who made his debut in the fourth Test against England in Ranchi; Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal and V Kaverappa.

ESPNcricinfo has learned that the main idea behind the selectors’ proposal is to ensure these fast bowlers are insured in case of injury. Providing such a cover would ensure security for these bowlers, who could then do rehab at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, the selectors told BCCI. It is understood the BCCI is working out financial incentives in the form of a salary so they could get the fast bowlers to focus on staying committed to playing first-class cricket.

Full BCCI central contracts list

Grade A+: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja

Grade A: R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya

Grade B: Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Grade C: Rinku Singh, Tilak Verma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Jitesh Sharma, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, KS Bharat, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar.

“I am dedicating Glories Business’ win to the people of Canje and the fans. I want him to become the Champion Sprinter in Guyana this year. This success will not be possible without the teamwork of my trainer Seetahal Samaroo and his staff. These are the people who are least recognised, but they deserve to, because of their dedication and hard work” Big G declared.

The self-made businessman, who rose from being an ordinary citizen to becoming one of the leading entrepreneurs in the lumber industry, advised, “Never give up!

There will be struggles, such as finances, customers and the supply chain. Those challenges are what makes you strong and prepare you for success.”

He then explained, “As I grew older, I started to learn the intricacies of business. I became a contractor, and from there I saw the opportunity to supply lumber, and I now provide services from forest to your home, and my business developed over the last 13 years, and that is when my dream of owning a racehorse, turned into reality.”

Getting into ownership of a race horse, he revealed, “The first horse I owned was a Guyana-bred (named) Free Money, but it should have been named No Success. I had no success. Then the next horse I bought was Pocoyo, a Trinibred colt. He finished second,

and then I bought USA-bred colt Glories Business, and now I am smitten by the racing bug to own more horses. “

Explaining what advice he could impart to those who want to get involved in the sport, and what he would like to see done in the horse racing industry, he stated,

“I am in the sport for the love of it. Yes, it costs money, but it creates employment also. I want to see our industry grow to international level. I also want horses that are being imported or bred in Guyana to be offered at reasonable prices for the ordinary man to live his dream and own one like me. There are plenty more people who have that dream.”

In closing, Big G thanked two young men and an elderly gentleman for developing the sport, and for their will to keep it alive, pointing out, “Jumbo is the person who continue to support the sport, and he is blessed with a son like Junior (Nasrudeen Mohamed). Chris Jagdeo’s son Turbo (Therbhuwan Jagdeo) is also doing a great job for us across the bridge. The sons of the soil and their fathers are blessed. These boys are dedicated to see the sport improve, and recognized for One Guyana.

“I am calling on sponsors to get on board and help sponsor the sport, as it is an industry that creates lots of employment. Horse racing will bring overseas visitors to Guyana, and businesses will benefit from it. So, please, start giving up to get.”

The Hardware Depot commits multi-year deal with Nexgen

Chairman of The Hardware Depot, Mr. Bonny Singh, and top executives of the Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf met at the Academy on Woolford Avenue over the past weekend to enter into a major promotional agreement that would see the development of golf around Guyana.

As a first gesture of their support, The Hardware Depot donated a thousand golf balls, yardage markers for the driving range, and a commitment to supporting the Region Three Easter celebrations at the Westside Golf Course in Vreed-en-Hoop.

Highlights of the partnership between the entities include branding of all facilities operated by Nexgen Golf, and sponsorship of events for the development of the junior and beginner golf programmes that are sweeping the nation.

“All my family have learnt to play golf as a result of the

efforts by Mr. Aleem, and the joy we experience is something that must be shared. The passion we have for our business mirrors what Aleem has for development of golf in Guyana, and we will support him and his team,” said Mr. Singh.

The Hardware Depot is a fully authorized Grainger re-seller with over 20 years in business, and is possibly the largest wholesaler of industrial and commercial supplies, with access to more than 120,000 products ranging from health and safety equipment used in the electricity, water, telecommunications, mining, manufacturing, construction and oil and gas sectors.

The Guyana Golf Association has, over the past two years, grown the sport to include thousands of secondary school students, trainee teachers, members of the Guyana Defence Force, and hundreds of first-time players.

GFF/KFC Elite League… TKR/CPL powers Trinidad’s T20 Festival

Western Tigers, Ann’s Grove start campaign on high note

With both teams being under new management, Western Tigers and Ann’s Grove United have romped to emphatic wins on Tuesday night, when the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/KFC Elite League 2024 moved into its second game day.

After a less-than-impressive run in last year’s League, new coaches Calvin ‘Fluman’ Allen and Travis Bess steered Ann’s Grove United to their first win of the season against the reputable Fruta Conquerors. Following much back-and-forth in the opening minutes of the game at the Federation’s National Training Center (NTC) at Providence, East bank Demerara, Kevin Williams broke the ice for Ann’s Grove in the 37th minute, for a 1-0 score at the half.

Not long after the second

segment began, an own goal added to Ann’s Grove’s tally in the 59th, while a Jaden Vangronigen strike in the 77th made it a 3-0 affair, sealing the win for the East Coast outfit.

Later in the evening, the former team of Allen and Bess, Western Tigers FC, now again under the watchful eyes of Coach Charles Pollard, sent a strong message to the rest of the league with a commanding 10-0 victory over Buxton United FC.

Western Tigers got the scoring started pretty early, and finished with 6 players adding their names to the scoresheet, with four of the set scoring doubles. Andew Murray struck first in the 4th minute, and soon after made it a 2-0 game in the 11th.

Four minutes later, Trayon Bobb found the back of the net to complete a 3-0 halftime score

for Western.

In the second half, however, the goals rained down on Buston United. Randolph Wagner netted back-to-back goals in the 53rd and 57th to push their tally to five, while Chai Williams had his first in the 66th.

Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams, a recent addition to the Western outfit, netted his first for the team in the 77th, followed by a double strike from Jermaine Beckles in the 83rd and 90th.

In the 90th +2, Williams completed his brace to secure the 10th and final goal for Western Tigers.

Though the first round of games is not yet completed, Western Tigers now lead the table with three points, sharing the summit with Slingerz and Guyana Defence Force, who also have three points. However, Western Tigers’ (+10) goal difference is superior to those of Slingerz (+7) and GDF (1).

The KFC Elite League continues tomorrow, with a single game set for the same Providence, East Bank Demerara venue. There, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC will take on Den Amstel FC from 19:00hrs.

The competition is fierce, with participating teams aiming for the coveted top spot and the substantial G$2,000,000 first-place cash prize. The second, third, and fourth-place finishers are set to receive G$1,200,000, G$800,000, and G$500,000, respectively.

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR), celebrated champions of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20, are main sponsors of the upcoming T20 Festival this year.

The CPL and the Knight Riders Group of India have been praised for continuing to provide talented cricketers in the West Indies with a platform to develop and launch lucrative careers on the international circuit.

The owners of Trinbago Knight Riders, the most successful franchise in CPL history, with several world-rated T20 stars, have been commended for their timely intervention.

CPL’s Chief Executive Officer Pete Russell was also highly acknowledged for embracing the Caribbean cricket product as a major stakeholder, which has been welcomed by Cricket West Indies.

Venue changes for West Indies Championships

Cricket West Indies (CWI) today announced venue changes for the upcoming rounds of the West Indies Championship, due to the unavailability of the Diego Martin Sports Complex in Trinidad.

The changes affect rounds 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the competition, with venues being shifted to ensure the tournament match schedule proceeds as planned.

These adjustments are part of the CWI ongoing effort to provide the best possible conditions for competitive first-class cricket, and to showcase the talent within the region. We look forward to welcoming fans to the new venues, and encourage their continued support for their teams throughout the championship.

CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said, “We have witnessed three very exciting rounds of first-class cricket, with thrilling team and individual performances. The stage is now set, going into rounds four and five, for some teams to try to build on their momentum and others to gather some, having had the chance to regroup and rejuvenate.

“CWI will continue to work with WIPA, our host Boards, and venues to ensure that conditions for play are the best on offer, given the constraints, and that in the end the championship will be decided by the contest between bat and ball."

Every West Indies Championship match will be streamed live, with ballby-ball commentary on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel. Fans can follow every game from their mobile devices, computers, or connected TVs, including access to live ball-by-ball scoring on the Windiescricket.com live match centre.

Updated Schedule:

Round 4 (March 13-16):

CCC vs Leeward Island Hurricanes will now be hosted at the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground (UWISPEC) in Trinidad.

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - Queen’s Park Oval (QPO), Trinidad.

Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Barbados Pride has been

moved to the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua.

Jamaica Scorpions vs West Indies Academy will take place at Sabina Park in Jamaica.

Round 5 (March 20–23):

Jamaica Scorpions vs Leeward Island Hurricanes has been relocated to Sabina Park in Jamaica.

Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Windward Volcanoes has been relocated to CCG in Antigua.

CCC vs West Indies Academy will now be contested at UWI SPEC in Trinidad.

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Barbados Pride –QPO in Trinidad.

Round 6 (April 10-13):

CCC vs Trinidad and Tobago Red Force is now scheduled for UWI SPEC in

Trinidad.

Jamaica Scorpions vs Guyana Harpy EaglesSabina Park, Jamaica.

Leeward Hurricanes vs Barbados Pride - Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (SVRS), Antigua.

West Indies Academy vs Windward Islands VolcanoesCCG, Antigua.

Round 7 (April 17–20):

CCC vs Guyana Harpy Eagles will take place at UWI SPEC in Trinidad.

Jamaica Scorpions vs Trinidad &Tobago Red ForceSabina Park, Jamaica.

Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - SVRS, Antigua.

West Indies Academy vs Barbados Pride - CCG, Antigua.

The occasion for the disclosure has been described as “historic” and “momentous” when Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board President Azim Bassarath

a hugely successful cricket franchise around the world, which will translate into the biggest and most entertaining T20 Festival.”

The event was held at

announced to the media the exciting partnership with the CPL/Trinbago Knight Riders for this year’s Trinidad T20 Festival.

Commenting on sponsoring the Trinidad T20 Festival this year, Venky Mysore, CEO and MD of Knight Riders Group, said, "By embracing the rich cricketing talent of the Caribbean, the Trinidad T20 Festival, powered by the collaborative spirit of the Knight Riders Group and the Caribbean Premiere League, stands as a beacon of opportunity for emerging cricketers. Trinbago Knight Riders are committed to nurturing the next generation of stars, providing them with a platform to shine brightly in the world of cricket.

“Our partnership is a testament to our shared vision of fostering a winning culture and sustaining the legacy of Caribbean cricket. Together, we pave the way for aspiring talents to follow in the footsteps of legends and carve their own path to greatness."

Bassarath, also VicePresident of Cricket West Indies, said, “The valuable sponsorship of the premier T20 club tournament will ensure the emergence of a new generation of cricket stars.

It is a significant input both the TKR and the CPL will be making to develop and sustain the Caribbean cricket product in the medium and long term. The TTCB is optimistic on the model created by the CPL and TKR for

the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, and present were CPL CEO Pete Russell and Natalie BlackO’Connor, Head of Branding and Hospitality. Russell was equally confident that the partnership would provide great benefit to the up-and-coming cricketers who are eager to make a name for themselves. He said, “Opportunities will be provided for the youngsters to emulate Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran, Lendl Simmons, Akeal Hosein, and others who have blazed a trail on the international cricket landscape.

“While the TTCB has pioneered the development programmes to produce world class cricketers, it depends on the goodwill and corporate responsibility exemplified by the CPL and the Knight Riders Group. Performances in the TKR/CPL Trinidad T20 Festival will answer the crucial question of where the next generation of talent will come from.”

Russell also gave assurance that CPL, owners of the “Greatest Party in Sport”, watched by millions and second only to the Indian Premier League, will continue to work in the Caribbean territories to engender a winning culture.

Bassarath also commended the input of Russell, whom he said that since his appointment as CPL Chief Executive has forged an excellent relationship with the CWI for the betterment of Caribbean cricket.

Some changes have been made for the remaining rounds of the West Indies Championships

A look at the lopsided battle between Western Tigers (yellow) and Buxton United

CPL CEO Pete Russell and TTCB President Azim Bassarath with other Trinidadian cricket stakeholders after the announcement

TTCB President Azim Bassarath sharing a light moment