…as Guyana looks to India for help in vaccine manufacturing …the 2 countries ink MoU to bolster cooperation in health, energy, agriculture
Prison officer faces disciplinary action for inappropriate conduct on roadway
2 Bartica drivers plead guilty to DUI charges, fined $200,000 each
2 men wanted for child rape
ndian Prime Minister
INarendra Modi, in Guyana for a three-day state visit, on Wednesday offered to have his country share its advances, such as nano-technology and other modern practices, with the Caribbean region in order to boost the region’s climate smart agriculture.
He made this offer during the second Caricom-India summit, which was held at the Marriott Hotel on Wednesday.
In his address during the opening ceremony of the summit, Prime Minister Modi outlined areas in which India would like to collaborate with the Caribbean, including in agriculture.
Modi spoke of how India has transformed its own ag-
riculture sector, and noted India’s readiness to share these transformative advances with the region. These advances range from nano-fertilizers, to transforming sargassum seaweed into fertilizers using modern technology.
“We are focusing on nano-fertilizers and on natural farming as well. In order to improve food security, we are promoting millets. On India’s initiative, the UN declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets. Millets are a super food that can grow in any kind of climate. For Caricom countries as well, this can become an effective means of addressing climate change and also improving food security,” Modi detailed.
Modi noted that India has started a number of initiatives in the areas of renewable energy and climate change, such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Global Bio-Fuel Alliance.
He even proposed an alliance with Caricom in space technology, which can also aid the agriculture sector.
“I am pleased that you have joined the International Solar Alliance. I would like to request you to join the other initiatives as well. We are investing in a big way in the area of renewable energy. We propose that we can help make at least one government building solar-powered in each of the Caricom countries,” he expressed.
“India is among the leading countries in space technology. By leveraging space technology, we can work together in areas such as resource mapping, climate studies, and agriculture in Caricom countries,” he said.
India also plans to launch its own satellite for environment and climate observation by 2027. This was first announced at the G20 summit in September 2023. According to Modi, data collected from this satellite would be shared with all countries, in particular countries in the region.
Another area of pro-
posed collaboration was in direct payments and cloudbased solutions. Citing as examples countries like UAE, Singapore, Sri Lanka, France, Nepal and Mauritius, which are now connected to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Modi said, “It is my suggestion that we work together for its adoption by Caricom countries as well. For the common man to be able to store all documents carefully, we have made the cloud based digi-locker platform. We can start this as a pilot project in Caricom countries as well.”
Caribbean Community (Caricom) Chairman Dickon Mitchell, the Prime Minister of Grenada, was highly enthused at what a partnership between the region and India can do, especially for the agri-
culture sector.
“Looking forward, we envision a future where Caricom-India relations continue to flourish and expand. Closer collaboration and cooperation amongst the leaders of Caricom member states and India would serve to further enhance the partnerships and contribute to successfully strengthening our existing economic, commercial, and people-to-people relations,” Mitchell expressed.
“We remain convinced more than ever that closer linkages between Caricom and our trusted partner India are part of the very necessary medication and intervention needed by the Caribbean Community and its citizens to overcome our existing developmental challenges,” he added.
India’s help in the area of agriculture would go a long way towards the region accomplishing the ‘25 by 2025’ goal that was first conceptualized by President Ali, and aims for the Caribbean to achieve a 25 per cent reduction in its food import bill by the year 2025. Because of the Region’s dependency on imported foods, it faces hardships when disruptions occur. And in light of this, the intention is to formulate a sense of food stability and security. As of February, this year, 70 per cent of the ’25 by 2025’ target had been met.
Prime Minister Modi has already held bilateral talks with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and is scheduled to address Guyana’s National Assembly today.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Thursday, November 21 – 20:30 hrs - 22:00 hrs and Friday, November 22 – 21:30h-23:00h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Thursday, November 21 - 8:35 hrs to 10:05 hrs and Friday, November 22 - 9:45 hrs to 11:15 hrs
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 17:55h reaching a maximum height of 2.70 metres.
Low Tide: 11:29h reaching a minimum height of 0.69 metre.
ith the aim of becoming a vaccine manufacturing hub in the Caribbean and Latin America (LAC) region, Guyana will be turning to India to capitalise on its vast expertise and resources in this field.
This was revealed by President Dr Irfaan Ali following high-level discussions with Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, who is on a historic three-day state visit to Guyana. On Wednesday, the two leaders along with their receptive government delegations held bilateral talks at the State House in Georgetown aimed at enhancing the already strong relations between Guyana and India.
During the engagement, President Ali and Prime Minister Modi recommitted to strengthening the partnership between the two nations especially in the areas of ICT, defence, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, health and ayurveda and wellness, and human resources and capacity building.
Moreover, several bilateral agreements were also signed in the fields of hydrocarbons, health, agriculture and technology. Further collaborations on infrastructure, education, human capital development and defence technology transfer were also discussed – all aimed at further bolstering the bilateral ties of the two nations.
In brief remarks following the bilateral meeting at State House, President Ali explained that while collaborations between the two countries already exist in many of these areas, Indian has agreed on further expand cooperation with Guyana including in the health sector.
On this note, the Guyanese Head of State lauded India as a “giant” in vaccine manufacturing – something which Guyana is looking to tap into as it builds local capacity.
“As you know, we also pursuing having vaccine manufacturing here in Guyana to serve all of the region. India is a giant in this field, and that presents tremendous opportunity for us here in Guyana, and this will be part of the collaboration,” President Ali stated.
As part of efforts to make Guyana a medical hub in this region, President Ali had first disclosed plans back in 2022 to build a vaccine factory here. Earlier this year, the Guyanese Leader reiterated this vision, stating that his government is serious about building local capacity to manufacture of vaccines.
“We are very serious about the establishment of a vaccine manufacturing facility in Guyana, to service the entire LAC [Latin America
and the Caribbean] region,” the Head of State had noted during the commissioning of a state-of-the-art telepathology lab at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) back in February.
At the time, the president indicated that Guyana reach been engaging different global partners including the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), and even Cuba on vaccine development and research. Those discussions, Ali had said, signalled his government’s seriousness towards having a vaccine manufacturing plant and a modern health system.
On Wednesday, Guyana’s Health Ministry signed a bilateral agreement with the Indian Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) that will see cooperation on laws and regulations related to medical products as well as in the area of medical products. Another MoU was also inked for cooperation with the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission in medicine regulation and promoting the development of affordable generic medicines, strengthen public health capabilities, and align regulatory frameworks for mutual benefit.
In fact, Prime Minister Modi, during his remarks on Wednesday at the State House, highlighted that India is an important source of pharma products for Guyana. He also announced that his government will work on building
According to a Government of India portal, Jan Aushadhi is an initiative of Department of Pharmaceuticals to provides ensure quality medicines and health care at affordable cost.
Agriculture On agriculture, a MoU was signed to promote collaboration between Guyana and India in agriculture through joint activities, exchange of expertise, and capacity building. It focuses on agricultural crops, climate-resilient practices, value-added products, and advanced technologies, emphasizing a mutual commitment to food security and agricultural innovation.
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Education Minister Priya Manickchand recently announced the introduction of a new resource aimed at helping students prepare for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) exams. This resource, called “The Concise Notes for NGSA”, is designed for students in grades Four, Five, and Six, focusing specifically on social studies and science.
The new resource promises to simplify complex content, condensing dense educational material into more digestible and accessible formats. For years, students have struggled with cumbersome textbooks and numerous exercise books, often overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information they are required to absorb. The Concise Notes for NGSA seek to solve this problem by presenting information in a more compact, userfriendly manner that aims to reduce student anxiety and facilitate better understanding.
Minister Manickchand has emphasized the benefits of this new resource, explaining that it would ease the learning process for both students and teachers.
This initiative comes on the back of the Education Ministry's ongoing efforts to raise academic standards and improve student outcomes across the board. Minister Manickchand has expressed confidence in the potential impact of the new textbooks, particularly in relation to the NGSA exams. According to her, these notes would make students "bang on ready" for the social studies and science exams, provided they use the resources effectively. While the minister's optimism is commendable, she has been quick to note that the success of this new approach would ultimately depend on how well students and educators make use of the materials. “If you use these and you use them effectively, your children will be ready,” she has said.
This point is crucial. Even the best-designed resource cannot guarantee success, unless it is actively engaged by both teachers and students. It would be vital for educators to incorporate these concise notes into their teaching strategies, ensuring that not only are students familiar with the content, but are also able to apply it in real exam scenarios. Likewise, students must take responsibility for their learning, making the most of the tools provided to them.
This rollout comes at an opportune time, especially considering the recent NGSA results. Earlier this year, during the announcement of the NGSA results, Dr. Nicole Manning, the Director of Operations at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), highlighted a significant improvement in social studies scores. A remarkable 62.8% of students achieved over 50% in social studies, and the percentage of students receiving full marks increased dramatically from 17% to 52%. The number of candidates scoring zero has also declined, which is a promising sign of progress being made in this subject area.
However, the same report indicated a slight decline in performance in science. While the average scores remained steady, the percentage of students scoring above 50% has dipped, and fewer students have achieved full marks. This trend highlights an area that requires further attention, and this is where the new resource could prove especially valuable. By simplifying complex scientific concepts and providing a clear and concise framework for study, the Concise Notes for NGSA have the potential to reverse this downward trend in science performance.
It’s worth noting that while these new resources could play a significant role in boosting academic performance, they should not be seen as a silver bullet. They are part of a broader strategy to improve the education system, but success would depend on continued efforts in other areas, including teacher training, curriculum development, and availability of adequate learning materials. Moreover, both students and parents must remain engaged in the educational process, reinforcing what is taught in the classroom, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
The Education Ministry’s efforts to provide resources that are both practical and accessible are a welcome development in the ongoing mission to improve education in Guyana. The Concise Notes for NGSA represent a promising new tool in the arsenal of education reform. While there is cautious optimism surrounding the potential of these Notes, it is clear that their success would hinge on thoughtful implementation and diligent use. If these resources are embraced fully, they could go a long way towards enhancing students’ readiness for the NGSA; and, more importantly, improving their overall understanding of science and social studies, subjects that are crucial to their academic and personal development.
By SuSana WaqainaBete-tuiSeSe
Last month, Mexico and the United States experienced yet another devastating hurricane: in 12 hours, Hurricane Milton went from being a Category 1 to being a Category 5 storm – the most extreme level there is. How? Sustained ocean warming due to human-caused climate change is creating so much ocean energy that storms are happening faster and at much higher intensities, causing billion-dollar hurricane events as frequently as every few weeks.
The oceans, which cover more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface, are rapidly changing, causing devastating consequences for global economies, coastal communities, and the lives of millions of people.
In the Pacific Islands –my home – this reality is felt especially hard on an annual basis. Although this region contributes the least to global emissions that drive climate and ocean change, it is among the most impacted by human-altered climate.
Sea-surface temperatures in the Southwest Pacific have risen three times faster than the global average, and marine heatwaves have doubled in frequency, intensity, and duration since 1980. Rising sea levels are eroding our land and pushing the ocean into our homes. Climate change is also affecting fisheries, which are a major source of income for our nations. The sustainable industrial fisheries in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, which provide over half of the world’s tuna catch, are starting to collapse, as tuna populations are moving east. This could lead to losses of fishing access fees of up to $140m annually by 2050, robbing Pacific economies of up to
17 percent of their annual government revenue, and pushing already vulnerable economies to the brink.
But the impact of climate change on the Pacific Ocean is not just concerning to its inhabitants. The world’s oceans absorb one-third of the planet’s atmospheric carbon, so, like the Amazon, the largest forest and lungs of the planet, the Pacific – the largest and deepest ocean – should also be understood to be the lungs of our blue planet.
The urgency is undeniable: without immediate intervention, the Pacific will face an ecological and economic catastrophe in the next 30 to 40 years. In the face of these growing challenges and threats, Pacific Islanders are not waiting for the world to act. Instead, we are leading.
Often referred to as “small island developing states (SIDS)”, we know ourselves to be “large ocean states”. We are stewards of half of the world’s oceans, and care deeply about our marine ecosystems; they are connected to our way of life.
That is why we have embraced marine protected areas (MPAs). They replenish fish stocks, support local economies, and protect biodiversity.
Pacific peoples have known this for generations. Indigenous traditions of marine protections date back millennia, from Fiji to Samoa, Aotearoa New Zealand, Tahiti, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Hawaii. MPAs create a “spillover” effect, wherein fish stocks in protected areas help increase catches in nearby areas, benefitting both local fishers and the broader economy.
Recent global studies of over 50 MPAs in more than 30 countries have shown that marine protections can boost both fishing and tourism rev-
enues. In some cases, profits have reached billions of dollars, proof that conservation and economic growth can go together. It is undeniable that society’s enlightened self-interest is better served by supporting the creation of protected areas to sustain marine life, local livelihoods, and economic interests.
The people of Samoa have reaffirmed this belief by launching a Marine Spatial Plan on October 24. That plan aims to protect 30 percent of their ocean space by 2030, while ensuring sustainable management of the entire 120,000-square-kilometre (46,300-square-mile) area.
This ambitious strategy, built through extensive consultation with the Samoan people, reflects their commitment to balancing conservation, livelihoods and economic development, and is a key part of their national ocean strategy policy framework.
The plan would establish nine new, fully protected MPAs, while incorporating a network of community-led marine-managed areas and traditional fisheries reserves. This initiative would safeguard Samoa’s ocean space for future generations, while accommodating sustainable activities like fishing and tourism.
Ocean management in the Pacific embraces cultural principles of Indigenous communities based on values of respect for others, devotion to family, and deep appreciation for traditional stewardship in preserving natural resources for future benefits. Sustainable financing of such integrated systems is critical to ensure lasting impact.
Across the Pacific, countries like Niue, Fiji and the Solomon Islands are also championing traditional ocean management practic-
es, proving that Indigenous knowledge is vital to sustaining the health of our oceans. To scale and continue these efforts, the Pacific Islands need global support. Despite their leadership, the Pacific Islands receive only one percent of global climate funding, with even less reaching Indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) who are essential to the sustainability of these efforts.
Samoa’s marine plan requires significant investment to succeed. It would impact local ocean users who rely on these waters for their livelihoods; so, to ensure sustainable stewardship, we are developing a financing framework to support alternative livelihoods, capacity building, and traditional marine management practices. This is where the international community must step in. Larger nations, those responsible for most of the emissions driving climate change, must partner with Pacific Island nations to fix the crisis they created.
The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), which is currently under way, presents critical opportunity for countries to pledge their support for Pacific Island nations’ progressive efforts to deliver on their commitment to protect the ocean. The time for action is now. By investing in Pacificled solutions, the world can ensure the sustainability of our shared ocean, and protect the Pacific for the benefit of us all.
The Pacific Islanders are doing their part to safeguard our ocean, but we cannot go it alone. Now is the moment to act; let us seize it. (Al Jazeera) (Susana WaqainabeteTuisese is the Vice-President of Conservation International’s Pacific Regional Programme)
Dear Editor,
I join in mourning the loss of a dear friend of more than 35 years, a bond forged since our days in Prep A at Mackenzie Primary School. His tragic death, caused by an accident involving two speeding trucks, highlights the devastating consequences of reckless driving, an unwelcome and constant feature on our roadways.
To his family and loved ones, I extend my heartfelt condolences during this painful time.
This tragedy among many other underscores the urgent need to address the irresponsible and reckless use of our roadways, particularly by some truck drivers whose behavior cannot and must not be condoned.
Truck drivers carrying lumber, construction materials, sand, and stones are among the worst offenders, especially along the LindenSoesdyke Highway, the East Bank and the East Coast
corridor. Overloaded beyond the recommended weight, poorly maintained vehicles, combined with drivers who are often reckless, fatigued, or untrained, pose a serious threat to the lives of innocent road users. This menace demands immediate and decisive political and administrative action.
It is time more than ever to hold drivers accountable. Truck operators must be held to higher standards of responsibility and accountability. Stricter penalties should be imposed for overloading vehicles, failure to maintain road-worthiness, and blatant disregard for traffic laws. Licensing bodies, hence the police must ensure that only welltrained and certified drivers operate these vehicles, while companies employing truck drivers must be held liable for violations. The culture of reckless disregard for safety must end.
It is very evident
that there is need for the strengthening of more police presence and enforcement.
The Guyana Police Force must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to reckless driving. A sustained and visible police presence on high-risk roadways is essential to help curb speeding and irresponsible behavior. Strategic placement of patrols, speed traps, and checkpoints, particularly in accident-prone areas, will act as a deterrent. Officers must be equipped and trained to identify dangerous driving behaviors and intervene swiftly to prevent potential tragedies.
Traffic laws must be enforced rigorously, with severe penalties for violations, including speeding, overloading, and operating unfit vehicles. Those found guilty of endangering lives should face consequences commensurate with the risks they pose to society. Additionally, the need to prioritizing lifesaving emer-
Dear Editor,
The PNC and its minions are in desperation mode, due to the mounting evidence stacked against them, it is a sure call that they are going to lose the next elections, and in this regard, they have become nervous and belligerent. In sheer desperation they are trying every means at their disposal to either postpone the inevitable, or create chaos and confusion in the electoral system. But this is not going to happen, because all the safeguards in the machinery are already in place for a smooth process.
However, as typical PNC irritants, they persist issuing veiled threats and ultimatums to the government. There is this one who said he has written to The International Community on constitutional changes he wants government to enact, before the next elections and if these changes are not met "there will be difficulties."
Another idiot, this time The Opposition Leader, states that he plans to block persons, whom he claims to be "Foreigners" from voting.
In either scenario, those actions constitute violent confrontations which cannot be allowed in a democracy.
Please be informed, that security personnel are on high alert to do what is necessary to ensure a peaceful and democratic process to take its course, any at-
tempts to derail that peaceful process would be met with appropriate action.
The Opposition does not have a legal leg to stand on, and making violent insinuations would not help their pathetic position either, so,
stop the foolish talk and get on board and let us have a smooth and peaceful election exercise in this country.
Respectfully, Neil Adams
gency response must be a constant feature in traffic related accidents and incidents.
In recognizing that accidents will occur despite our best efforts, lives can still be saved with efficient emergency responses. The Guyana Fire Service must collaborate with the Police Force to establish a robust and well-coordinated system capable of dispatching ambulances and first responders to accident scenes promptly. This requires investment in equipment, training, and resources to ensure timely assistance.
Further, to reduce the number of unfit vehicles on the road, mandatory safety inspections for all commercial vehicles should be enforced. These inspections must be comprehensive and frequent, ensuring that vehicles meet all safety standards. Non-compliant vehicles must be barred from the road until repairs are completed. This measure
will significantly reduce the risks posed by overloaded and poorly maintained trucks.
The loss of lives on our roads has reached the place of it being a national crisis, that demands urgent and decisive action.
Reckless driving and poorly maintained vehicles are avoidable hazards, and all stakeholders must commit to addressing them.
The Guyana Police Force and Fire Service must lead the charge with stronger enforcement, better driver education, and enhanced
emergency response capabilities.
As citizens, as fellow Guyanese we must demand accountability from truck operators and support measures that prioritize road safety. Every life lost to reckless driving is a preventable tragedy. Let us work together to make our roads safer and ensure that no more lives are senselessly cut short.
Yours sincerely, Hon
Jermaine Figueira MP
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024
06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time
06:30 Cartoons
07:00 Evening News (RB)
08:00 Stay Woke
08:30 Food Network
09:30 BBC Travel Show
10:00 Stop Suffering
11:30 Divorce Court
12:00 Movie - Passport to Paris (1999)
13:35 Wheel of Fortune
14:00 The Loud House S7 E15
14:30 Spongebob Squarepants
15:00 From the Pavilion
16:00 Young Sheldon S5 E22
16:30 When Calls the Heart
17:00 The Young & The Restless
18:00 Aljazeera
19:00 The Evening News
20:00 Stop Suffering
20:30 Stand-up Comedy
21:00 Grey's Anatomy S6 E9
22:00 Peaky Blinders S4 E6
23:00 Emily in Paris S4 E7
23:30 Arrested Development S1 E13
00:00 Sign off
Scientific notation is a way to express any number as a decimal greater than 1, multiplied by a power of 10. For example: 250 can be expressed as 2.5 x 102 and 30,000 can be expressed as 3.00 x 104
How do you find a power of ten to use? Look at the number in standard, or regular, notation. Place a decimal point at the far right of that number. Move the decimal point left until you create a number that is greater than 1 but less than 10. Then count the number of places you had to move the decimal point. That is the power of 10 to use for a particular number.
When dropping zeros in a decimal, you may not drop any zero that has a number anywhere to its right. For example: In 2.00010, you may drop the final zero, but you may not drop the zeros between the 4 and the 1.
Example: Express in 40, 500, 000 in scientific notation
Step 1: Place a decimal point at the right of the number 40, 500, 000.
Step 2: Move the decimal point left until you create a number that is greater than 1 but less than 10: 4.0500000
Step 3: Count the number of places you moved the decimal point. An easy way to do this is to count the number of places to the right of the decimal. In this case, 7 places.
Step 4: Drop all zeros at the right end of the number: 4.05
Step 5: Express the original number in scientific notation: 4.05 x 107
Exercises: Convert to scientific notation (round to six decimal places to the right of the decimal) 1) 2175 2) 11 3) 0.2 4) 85 5) 0.03497 6) 912 7) 46.78 8) 201,450 9) 8238.23 10) 9
BY EmilY Dickinson
One Sister have I in our houseAnd one a hedge away. There’s only one recorded, But both belong to me.
One came the way that I cameAnd wore my past year’s gownThe other as a bird her nest, Builded our hearts among.
She did not sing as we didIt was a different tuneHerself to her a Music As Bumble-bee of June.
Today is far from ChildhoodBut up and down the hills I held her hand the tighterWhich shortened all the miles -
And still her hum The years among, Deceives the Butterfly; Still in her Eye The Violets lie Mouldered this many May.
I spilt the dewBut took the morn,I chose this single star From out the wide night’s numbersSue - forevermore!
The High Court dismissed a legal challenge filed by Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) Christopher Jones and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, who sought a declaration that Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s parliamentary seat be deemed vacant due to alleged prolonged absence from the National Assembly.
The case, which hinged on constitutional provisions and parliamentary standing orders, was dismissed on Wednesday by Justice Nareshwar Harnanan.
The judge upheld arguments presented by Jagdeo’s legal team, led by attorneys Devindra Kissoon, Natasha Vieira, and Abhimanyu Dev of London House Chambers, that the matter was premature as the Speaker of the National Assembly had not yet determined whether the conditions for vacating a seat
were met.
The Opposition MPs had argued that Jagdeo, absent for 11 consecutive sittings between December 11, 2023, and February 1, 2024, had violated Articles 54 and 156(1) (b) of the Constitution of Guyana, along with Standing Order 106(2).
These provisions state that an MP’s seat shall be vacated if they miss more than six consecutive sittings within two calendar months during a session of Parliament.
In their application, Jones and Sarabo-Halley contended that such absences undermine good governance and called on the court to make declarations regarding Jagdeo’s compliance with these legal requirements. They were represented by Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde.
However, on April 23 2024, Jagdeo filed a Notice of
Application disputing the jurisdiction of the Court to hear and the determine the Fixed Date Application.
Justice Harnanan sided with Jagdeo’s argument that the matter must first be addressed by the Speaker of the National Assembly. He emphasised that under Article 156(1)(b) and Standing Order 106(2), the vacation of a seat is not automatic but subject to determination by the Speaker. The Court could only intervene if there was evidence of non-compliance with the standing orders, which had not been established.
“The vacation of a seat under Article 156(l)(b) of the Constitution and Standing Order 106(2) is not automatic by operation of law as it is the Speaker’s responsibility to determine whether the threshold has been met. As the Speaker did not make
“In food security, India’s support in advancing our rice industry through technology, innovation and research. India has also committed to supporting us in our sugar industry, not only from an infrastructure perspective, but also from a human resource and technical perspective. They will support us in expanding our corn-soya [cultivation] and looking at wheat farming and production here in Guyana, food processing. And important to all of this is research and development. [With] the use of technology and innovation in agriculture, India has distinguished itself among all other global competitors in this area, and we also will be benefiting from this,” President Ali pointed out.
Technology
Moreover, the agreements inked on Wednesday will also see Guyana also benefitting from capacity building and technology transfer from India.
“The innovation, digitization, technology transfer, those are key elements of what we are going to work
on. The transfer of technology, the rolling out of our own 2030 digitization plan to improve governance, efficiency, reliability, the advancement in our healthcare system focusing on telemedicine, those are also areas that are key to India’s development in which they have mastered the art of providing these services, and we will be a beneficiary of those services,” the Guyanese Leader added.
The MoUs signed between Guyana and India caters for the sharing of successful digital solutions implemented at population scale for digital transformation as well as for enabling the deployment of Unified Payment Interface (UPI)-like-real-time payment system in Guyana. According to the Guyanese Head of State, Guyana and India will also enhance the long-shared rich cultural heritage.
This was reiterated by Prime Minister Modi, who spoke about strong people-to-people ties Guyana and India share. In fact, he announced that the two nations have agreed to a cultural exchange agreement
such a decision, there can be no vacation, and thus the Fixed Date Application is premature,” Justice Harnanan stated.
Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall and Speaker Manzoor Nadir, represented by Satram and Satram Chambers, supported Jagdeo’s application to dismiss the case.
In dismissing the application, the judge ordered the Opposition MPs to pay $250,000 each to each respondent by December 31, 2024.
The decision is a significant affirmation of the proce-
dural role of the Speaker in determining matters related to parliamentary seats and highlights the boundaries of judicial intervention in par-
liamentary affairs. The ruling also reinforces the necessity for political matters to first be resolved within established legislative processes.
FROM PAGE 3
(2024-2027) that will further strengthen those people-to-people ties.
“The people who arrived in Guyana from India 180 years ago, laid the foundation for our relations. Today, the Indian community in Guyana is making a very important contribution to [Guyana’s] development.
President Irfaan Ali, himself, is a great brand ambassador of the Indian community. This is a matter of great pride for me and for 1.4 billion Indians. The fervor with which the Phagwah festival is celebrated in Guyana demonstrates the incredible confluence of cultures of India and Guyana. There are many such examples that can be seen all across Guyana,” a live English translation of PM Modi’s address, which was done in Hindi, stated.
Meanwhile, to advance these commitments made by President Ali and Prime Minister Modi, a working group has been established to ensure that the bottlenecks and systemic hindrances will be removed in order accomplish these cooperation agreements.
Two Bartica residents appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohammed at the Bartica Magistrate's Court earlier this week, where they pleaded guilty to separate charges of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. Both individuals were fined $200,000 each or face an alternative sentence of three months in prison.
In the first case, Joel Sumrah, a 50-year-old driver and resident of Fourth Avenue, Bartica, admitted to driving a motor vehicle while his breath alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. Sumrah’s charge was filed under Section 39A (1) of the Motor Vehicle and
Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02, as amended by Act 17 of 2022.
Shortly after, 25-year-old Nathaniel Burrowes, a labourer of Agatash Village, Bartica, also faced the court on an identical charge. Like Sumrah, Burrowes pleaded guilty and accepted the penalty set by the law. His charge was similarly filed under Section 39A(1) of the amended Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act.
The charges stem from the legal requirement for drivers to maintain breath alcohol levels within the prescribed limit to ensure safety on the nation’s roads.
Both men have the choice of paying the $200,000 fine or serving three months of imprisonment.
The penalties for driving under the influence
(DUI) have seen a significant increase, with firsttime offenders now facing a $200,000 fine, up from the previous $30,000, and repeat offenders subject to a $300,000 fine. Additionally, those convicted of DUI offences will have their licenses suspended for 12 months, a harsher consequence than before.
In tandem with the revised penalties, amendments to the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act of 2022 have placed greater responsibility on bar owners. They are now legally obligated to prevent drunkenness on their premises and are prohibited from selling, giving, or bartering alcohol to individuals who are already intoxicated. Failure to comply with these rules will result in increased fines. (G9)
propriate behaviour while driving one of the service's minibuses.
The footage, recorded by a member of the public, was widely shared on social media platform Facebook, drawing significant public attention and prompting an internal investigation by the GPS.
In a statement, the GPS confirmed that Senior Superintendent of Prisons and Acting Officer-inCharge of the Lusignan Prison, Kofi David, has been directed to ensure that disciplinary measures against DeSouza are taken swiftly and decisively.
After the release of a video showing alleged misconduct,
(GPS) has announced that Prison Officer Marvin DeSouza will face disciplinary action for inap-
India’s PM is on a State Visit to Guyana. Now, a State Visit doesn’t just mean a head of state is visiting a country –like Pres Ali does when he goes up to the US to “press the flesh” with our diaspora. In a State Visit, ahead of state – like with India’s PM Modi right now – is invited by another – here Pres Ali – to the latter’s country. In State Visits, all kinds of protocols have gotta be observed, since it’s one of the oldest forms of diplomacy, involving highly ceremonial engagements like 18-gun salutes/military guard, diplomatic meetings, dinners, etc. So, the fella who griped about all the “hoopla” over Modi’s visit is a very uncouth lout, who clearly just crept out from under a rock located in some remote cave!!
Another comment came from that old PNC thug and Burnham enforcer, Hamilton Green; who griped sourly that the PPP officials hosting Modi won’t mention Burnham, who’d invited Indian PM Indira Gandhi here back in 1968!! Now, why would the PPP want to mention that old rigger and assassinator in the presence of the PM of the largest democracy in the world?? Just to regurgitate our shameful history of racial dictatorship? Green also clearly wants to forget that Modi won’t mention Indira Gandhi, because when she declared that “Emergency” in India in 1975-1977, she jailed all opposition figures – and banned Modi’s RSS!! Modi had to disguise himself as a Sikh to move around during what he calls those “dark days when all India was a prison”!! Lastly, Drupadi Murmu - not Modi - is President of India, and is addressed as “Your Excellency”!!
Commenting on the incident, Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot emphasised the GPS’s commitment to professionalism and integrity, noting that such behaviour would not be tolerated.
“The GPS expects all of its officers to carry out their duties with respect, integrity, and accountability. Misconduct not only damages public confidence but undermines the core values of the service,” Elliot stated.
The prison service has reaffirmed its pledge to uphold ethical standards and maintain public trust, with assurances that all officers will be held accountable for their actions. (G9)
The investigation also identified lapses in oversight by Cadet Officer Keon David, who was in charge of the vehicle. As a result, the GPS will be initiating disciplinary action against him for failing to properly supervise operations.
Now for the visit itself. You gotta hand it to Modi – who’s 74 years old – for the energy displayed after touching down at Timehri at around 9pm from Brazil. There he’d engaged in a series of intense interactions at the G20 meet with Pres Biden, Pres Xi and Pres Lula, among so many other highlevel leaders!! And he’d gone THERE straight from a visit to Nigeria, where he’d fulfilled a packed itinerary of official duties. Yet, you would’ve thought he had had a full 8-hour sleep as he did the meet-and-greet with our officials, who were led by the also indefatigable Pres Ali!! Pressie’s over THIRTY YEARS younger than Modi, but the secret, your Eyewitness was told, is Modi practises a daily regimen of Yoga – not to mention not smoking or imbibing alcohol!!
Yesterday, Modi met with the Caricom leaders, most of whom were at the Marriott to greet him, and then visited some significant cultural sites -- like the Gandhi statue in the Promenade Gardens, and the Indian Arrival Monument’s replica of the Whitby at the Merriman Mall. Go Modi!!
Well, Trump hasn’t even yet been sworn in as President, but the other foot has fallen on Mad Maduro in Venezuela! Four months after the disputed election, in which Mad Maduro claimed victory amid accusations of fraud, the US - in the person of Sec of State Blinken - has declared that it recognizes opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia as "president-elect" of Venezuela!!
On X, Blinken emphasized that the Venezuelan people "spoke resoundingly" to make Gonzalez the presidentelect. And in what should be of great interest to the PNC and AFC - who ignominiously tried to rig our elections in 2020 - Blinken declared: "Democracy demands respect for the will of the voters"!! Not surprisingly, Mad Maduro tried to bluster his way out - claiming weakly that the US’ recognition of the Opposition Leader was "ridiculous"!! What was ridiculous was Biden not taking this step earlier – and doing so only after he attended the G20 meet in Brazil -- where Lula had earlier blocked the Madman’s application to join BRICS+because of his undemocratic action!!
…PNC’s misdirection
The PNC and AFC are doubling down to lay the groundwork for claiming “fraud” after they lose the 2025 elections. Knowing that, constitutionally, our voters list must include overseas Guyanese who’re registered, they keep screaming, “Bloated list!!”
In an effort to boost the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) ocean economy potential, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pitched a proposal for India to supply passenger and cargo ferries to the region as part of seven key pillars for closer India/ CARICOM ties.
During Wednesday’s opening ceremony of the second CARICOM-India
economy, Prime Minister Modi proposed that India play a key role in helping the region to improve its connectivity, by supplying passenger and cargo vessels to CARICOM states. This offer is especially significant since CARICOM is currently working on establishing a regional ferry of its own, which will connect Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago.
“The sixth pillar is O.
additional scholarships be provided to the region. This involves the expansion of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) to accommodate an additional 1,000 students over the next five years, from CARICOM member states.
This move would help with capacity building by providing technical training and skill development. According to the PM, the
Prime Minister Modi also offered his country’s support for renewable energy projects in the Caribbean region. Additionally, the Prime Minister made an offer to build a forensic centre for CARICOM.
summit held in Georgetown at the Marriott Hotel, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid out the future of relations between the two sides.
This future, according to Modi, rests on seven key pillars, which together spell out the acronym CARICOM. They are Capacity building, agriculture, renewable energy, innovation, cricket and culture, ocean economy and medicine.
Zeroing in on the ocean
Which stands for ocean economy and maritime security. For India, you are not small island states. In fact, you are large ocean countries. I propose that in order to enhance connectivity in this region, we supply passenger and cargo ferries. Together, we can work on Maritime domain mapping and hydrography, also,” Modi further explained.
The Prime Minister also proposed that a thousand
Technical Development Centre in Belize, can be expanded to accommodate students from other CARICOM countries.
Another proposal by the Prime Minister, was for an online platform patterned after India’s Integrated Government Online training (iGOT) portal, to be provided for the CARICOM member states so that civil servants can receive training in areas such as technology, law and education.
Another pillar addressed by the Prime Minister is in the area of culture. For instance, he proposed that film festivals be organised between India and CARICOM countries. In the area of cricket, the Prime Minister offered for training to be provided to 11 female cricketers from each CARICOM nation, in an effort to foster female empowerment.
Modi also spoke of direct payments and cloud-
based solutions. He gave examples of countries like United Arab Emirates (UAE), Singapore, Sri Lanka, France, Nepal and Mauritius, which are now connected to the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
“It is my suggestion that we work together for its adoption by CARICOM countries as well. For the common man to be able to store all documents carefully, we have made the cloud based digi-locker platform. We can start this as a pilot project in CARICOM countries as well,” Modi said.
Deep bonds
President Dr Irfaan Ali meanwhile used the occasion to thank Prime Minister Modi for supplying the region with its first batch of COVID-19 vaccines. In his address, he highlighted the deep bonds between the region and India.
“The ties between India and the Caribbean are deeply rooted, in shared history and enduring cultural connections. Guyana, like some other Caribbean nations, owes much of its rich cultural tapestry, to the arrival of indentured immigrants from India, who over a century ago crossed vast oceans, worked on sugar plantations under colonial rule.
According to President Ali, the journey of hardship and resilience embarked on by these indentured Indians transformed into an amazing legacy. The Head of State noted that even now, India shines bright on the world stage and he lauded Prime Minister Modi for using that influence to advocate for the developing world.
“Under your visionary
leadership, India has an influential voice in the global community. Your launching of the Voice of the Global South, his recent chairmanship of the Group of 20, India’s pivotal role in BRICS and (PM Modi’s) steadfast advocacy for the developing world underscores your commitment to advancing the aspirations of the Global South.”
“These initiatives have elevated India’s stature and place the concerns of developing nations, including the small island and low-lying coastal states of the Caribbean, firmly on the global agenda,” President Ali added.
On Tuesday evening, Guyana had honored Modi soon after his arrival in Guyana by presenting him with the keys to the city of Georgetown. The presentation, done in front of the Marriott Hotel, followed a grand cultural welcome hosted by President Ali, accompanied by Members of Cabinet, along with special invitees such as Barbados Prime Minister Mia Motley and Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, who also serves as CARICOM Chairman.
CARICOM, with the previous summit having been held in India. Modi’s participation in the summit is part of his three-day state visit to Guyana, which concludes on Friday.
While Modi previously visited Guyana before he became Indian PM, it marks the first visit by a sitting Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in 56 years. The last Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana was the late Indira Gandhi, who visited Guyana as India's Prime Minister in 1968. (G3)
about “prospects
collaboration”
The Indian Government, which has been long eyeing Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas industry especially the light sweet crude being produced here, is now pushing for a long-term partnership as the two countries ink a cooperation agreement that opens up a host of opportunities for collaboration.
As part of the historic visit of India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to Guyana, several bilateral agreements were signed on Wednesday morning at State House in a number of areas including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Cooperation in the Hydrocarbon Sector.
This MoU, which was inked during a high-level engagement between President Dr Irfaan along with his Cabinet Ministers and Prime Minister Modi along with his visiting delegation at State House, establishes a framework for Guyana and India to enhance bilateral collaboration in the hydrocarbon sector.
It encompasses investment promotion, technology transfer, joint studies, and capacity building across the entire hy-
drocarbon value chain.
Delivering remarks to members of the press at State House following those bilateral talks and the exchange of the signed agreements, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of Guyana’s oil and gas sector to India’s high-demand energy needs.
“Guyana will play an important role in India’s energy security,” a live English translation of PM Modi’s address, which was done in Hindi, stated.
It was further noted that that India plans to move forward as “natural partners” with Guyana to advance energy cooperation between the two nations. In this regard, the Indian Prime Minister disclosed that a roadmap for a long-term partnership will be created and that the energy pact will further strengthen on this front.
Guyana currently has an estimated 11 billion barrel of oil equivalent in the prolific Stabroek Block, where United States oil major ExxonMobil along with its co-venturers has been producing oil since 2019. Exploration activities are also ongoing in other oil blocks off-
shore Guyana.
India, the world’s third largest oil consumer and importer as well the one of the biggest oil refiners, has been looking to diversify its crude sources. Currently, the energy-hungry nation imports nearly 85 per cent to 90 per cent of its crude oil.
In fact, India has already bought some US$149 million of Guyana’s crude between 2021 and 2022, and has been seeking a multi-year deal. As a result, the Cabinet in New Delhi, back in January, had approved the signing of a fiveyear MoU with Guyana.
In a statement at the time, the Indian Government said that “The proposed MoU covers the complete value chain of hydrocarbon sector including sourcing of crude oil from Guyana, participation of Indian companies in Exploration and Production (E&P) sector of Guyana [and] cooperation in the areas of crude Oil refining.” It further caters for capacity building, strengthening bilateral trade, collaboration in natural gas sector, collaboration in developing regulatory policy framework in Guyana’s
In fact, Secretary at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Jaideep Mazumdar, who is a part of PM Modi’s visiting delegation, was asked by local reporters at State House on Wednesday whether his government is disappointed that they were unable to secure an exclusive deal to buy Guyana’s crude.
“There are so many prospects for cooperation that we don’t really [need to] express any disappointment. The future is open. We have so many prospects for cooperation in this area… projects like hydrocarbon, like petroleum refinery projects, gasification projects and also capacity building of people from Guyana,” he pointed out.
oil and gas sector; and cooperation in the area of clean energy including biofuels as well as renewables sector including solar energy, etc.
While in India in February of this year, Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, had told reporters on the sidelines of the Energy Week in Quitol, Goa, that Guyana’s Cabinet would have to approve any long-term partnership deal for the sale of Guyana’s crude to India.
Prospects for cooperation Minister Bharrat had noted too that Indian companies were interested in acquiring stakes in Guyana’s budding petroleum sector through negotiations rather than the bidding process – a route which the Guyanese Government has opted to use in expanding offshore developments to promote transparency and accountability.
According to Mazumdar, there was not discussion during Wednesday’s high-level engagement on why that exclusive deal was not approved. Nevertheless, with both private sector and public sector oil companies in India interested in participating in Guyana’s petroleum industry, the visiting official indicated the Indian government’s preference for a government-to-government arrangement.
“We are in the process of exploring what we can do bilaterally. We would like to have a more direct G2G (government-to-government) kind of relationship with Guyana. But it is for Guyana to decide how they wish to proceed,” the Indian Secretary posited.
He went onto explain that a G2G type of collaboration would allow for “greater predictability” in a potential deal between the two nations.
“For example, even in the offtake of crude, we need large quantities and we were to know well in advance that the quantities are available, the contracts would be much easier to conclude. And also, the transport is another aspect because it’s a very long way so the use of VLCC (very large crude carriers) would be more predictable,” the official explained.
Currently, ExxonMobil and its partners are operating three Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels – Liza Desting, Liza Unity and Prosperity –in the oil-rich Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana. The Guyana Government had estimated that the US oil major will produce some 228 million barrels of oil equivalent this year. Based on local reports, Government has already received over US$2 billion in revenues to date from the sector with several hundred million more before the end of 2024. (G8)
The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has processed more than 750,000 passengers in 2024, according to Public Works Minister Juan Edghill.
In 2023, international passenger movements were 17 per cent increase when compared to 2022.
This surge in activity at CJIA Edghill said reflects the increased global inter-
est in Guyana as a premier travel destination, fueled by its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and burgeoning oil and gas industry.
“To date, we have pro-
Aformer teacher, who was cleared of sexual misconduct charges in Guyana over a decade ago, now faces jail time in Bermuda after pleading guilty to multiple sex offences. Ronald Forde, 38, admitted last week in Bermuda’s Supreme Court to sexually exploiting a young girl while in a position of trust, luring a minor, and accessing child pornography. The offences are believed to have occurred earlier this year.
Forde, a Guyanese residing in Southampton, Bermuda was scheduled for sentencing last week. However, Puisne Judge Juan Wolffe granted an adjournment at the request of Forde’s defence attorney, Elizabeth Christopher, citing the need to fully consider the gravity of the offences.
The prosecution has called for a significant sentence, with Cindy Clarke, Bermuda’s Director of
Charged: Ronald Forde
Public Prosecutions, noting that this case could establish a sentencing precedent for luring offences involving individuals in positions of trust. Under Bermuda’s Criminal Code, amended in 2020, luring a minor while in a position of trust carries a maximum penalty of 15 years on indictment.
Forde is now set to re-
turn to court on December 11 for sentencing. In the interim, he has been remanded in custody.
This is not the first time Forde has faced allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2012, he was discharged in Guyana after being accused of having sexual relations with a 14-year-old student at the Fort Wellington Secondary School, where he taught. The charges were dismissed on a legal technicality after Guyana’s acting at the time Chief Justice Ian Chang ruled that the preliminary inquiry was unconstitutional under the country’s Sexual Offences Act.
The ruling nullified the proceedings and led to Forde’s discharge, though Justice James BovellDrakes had acknowledged that Forde could be recharged. At the time, the allegations involved claims of penetrative sexual activity with a minor while Forde held a position of trust.
Wanted: Galard Gill
TWanted: Devendra Persaud
he Guyana Police Force has issued wanted bulletins for two men accused of committing sexual offences against minors under the age of 16. Galard Gill, also known by his alias “Daddy Boy,” is wanted in connection with the rape of a child under 16. The 28-year-old is from Silver Hill, Soesdyke, Linden Highway. Meanwhile, Devendra Persaud, also known as “Anwar,” is also wanted for
the rape of a child under 16. The 31-year-old’s last known address is Lot 47 Industry, East Coast Demerara.
Law enforcement officials are urging members of the public to come forward with any information that may lead to the arrest of these men.
If seen, or if anyone has knowledge of their whereabouts, they are asked to contact the nearest police station or use any of the following phone numbers: 227-1149, 225-8196, 2271611, 268-2328/268-2329, 226-3405, 225-6978, or 3333876. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
(G9)
cessed over 750,000 passengers at CJIA which is 20,000 more that than all of 2023… We have increased seat capacity; we’ve added another 206,000 airline seats and 105,000 more passenger movement in 2024 alone.”
“By the end of this year we are anticipating the processing of over 1 million passengers at all ports of entry in Guyana” Edghill said.
Edghill explained that the influx of passengers is attributed to several factors, including the booming oil and gas industry, which has drawn thousands of international investors and workers, as well as government initiatives to promote tourism.
New and expanded routes by major airlines, including American Airlines,
JetBlue, and Caribbean Airlines, have contributed to the increase in international traffic. Furthermore, the government’s ongoing efforts to position Guyana as a hub for business and leisure travel have borne fruit.
The minister noted that CJIA’s performance aligns with broader national goals to modernize infrastructure and boost the aviation sector.
“We have attracted numerous international airlines and we are expanding connectivity to key destinations. This growth is driven by strategic investments in infrastructure, increased demand for air travel and the country is emerging economic prominence” he said.
“Guyana’s aviation sector is thriving and is driv-
en by increased connectivity. We continued our infrastructural development that must accompany the growing demand for air travel. By the 31st of December we would have significantly advanced the commercial centre that is being build out and we hope by then that we will be able to have a number of concessions in place”.
Cargo Meanwhile, CJIA has seen an increase in the amount of cargo handled by the airport.
According to Edghill, the increase in cargo movement at CJIA is driven by the thriving agricultural industry, particularly, the need for air cargo services to swiftly transport crops and agricultural products to international markets.
“Those who are in the airline business knows that passengers are not the real cream of the business but cargo is and we have also been seeing growth in the movement of cargo. At CJIA, we have processed 11,276 tonnes of cargo in 2023- a 20 percent increase in 2022. In 2024, cargo movement have increased by a further 19 percent and we are expected to close 2024 with 13,500 tonnes”. (G1)
President Dr Irfaan Ali has conferred Guyana’s highest National Award – the Order of Excellence – on India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in recognition of his “exception service” to the global community.
Currently leading a high-level delegation on a historic three-day state visit to Guyana, Prime Minister Modi has had the first full day of his visit packed with high-level engagements; and it culminated in an evening State Dinner hosted by President Ali at State House in Georgetown.
Following more than an hour of cultural presentations displaying Guyana’s rich diversity, the Guyanese Head of State presented Prime Minister Modi with the national award on Wednesday evening. The Indian Leader has thus been conferred with the Order of Excellence in recognition of his contributions as a visionary statesman, for his sterling leadership in championing the voices of developing countries on the global stage, and for advancing international cooperation.
In brief remarks, President Ali applauded Prime Minister Modi for his
exceptional service to the international community, especially in the Caribbean region. He said,
“The greatness of any human being…is to give of their very little when they are most in need, and Prime Minister Modi has fulfilled this test with distinction during the COVID-19 pandemic when they gifted (the Caribbean) region 500,000 vaccines when India itself was rallying to meet their own needs. Here, in Guyana, we were fortunate to receive 80,000 of those vaccines,” the Head of State noted.
According to the Guyanese Leader, India’s commitment to this region has been demonstrated during the India-Caricom Summit held earlier in the day, during which there was a mutual commitment to helping each other overcome challenges, rather than competing with each other.
“It is this type of thinking that will change the world: when we seek to help each other to overcome the many challenges that are before us,” President Ali has said.
President Ali highlighted that Guyana has benefitted enormously from India’s
expertise, with human capital training through scholarships, military exchange programmes, concessional loans and grants, it’s first international stadium, investments from the Indian EXIM Bank, cultural exchanges, and support in the medical field, among other things.
“In every sphere of national development, we can point to physical, institutional, and systemic support from the Government
and people of India. And we salute you, Prime Minister Modi and the people of India, and we thank you gratefully on behalf of all the people of Guyana and on behalf of the people of this beautiful region. Continue to lead, continue to be bold, continue to demonstrate the type of spine that is required in this very complex global environment, and know that in Guyana and in Caricom you will have the support to ensure that we
all win, and win together in the interest of the people of our countries,” President Ali has posited.
Prime Minister Modi has expressed gratitude to President Ali for the conferral of Guyana's highest award. He has described it as an honour that belongs to all 1.4 billion Indians, and has said it is a reflection of the strong ties that exist between the two nations.
“This is a living proof of your deep commitment towards our relations, which will continue to inspire us to move forward in every field. Friends, India-Guyana relations are based on our shared history, cultural heritage, and deep mutual trust,” a live English translation of PM Modi’s address, which was done in Hindi, has stated.
According to the Indian Leader, President Ali has immensely contributed to taking these bilateral ties to unprecedented heights; and under his leadership, India-Guyana relations would continue to move forward in every direction.
“India is also ready to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with Guyana in every field. Our cooperation, as two democracies, is important
not only for bilateral relations, but also for the entire Global South,” PM Modi noted.
Recognising Guyana as ‘The Land of Many Waters’, PM Modi outlined the important role rivers of both countries played in their civilization, and how water acts as a social and cultural tide in the two nations.
“There are many such examples of similarities between India and Guyana which further deepen our historical and cultural relations…I dedicate the honour bestowed upon me today to these very historical relations between India and Guyana, and our unbreakable friendship,” the Indian leader has said.
Besides Guyana, Dominica also conferred its highest National Award -Dominica Award of Honour -- upon Prime Minister Modi during the Caricom-India Summit held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has said this accolade is a tribute to the Indian Prime Minister’s enduring legacy of leadership, his commitment to humanity, and the indelible mark he has left on nations, including Dominica, far beyond India’s shores.
The United States (US) has vetoed a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israel is embroiled in conflict with Palestine. Promulgated by Guyana and nine other non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC): Japan, Malta, Mozambique, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Algeria, Ecuador, Slovenia and Switzerland, the resolution had called for the “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” of the Gaza conflict. Release of the hostages was also demanded separately.
The resolution met a swift end when it was put to the 15 member UNSC for vote, with Deputy US Ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood, voting against it. According to
Wood, the US would only support a resolution that explicitly demands the immediate release of hostages as part of the ceasefire.
“A durable end to the war must come with the release of the hostages. These two urgent goals are inextricably linked. This resolution abandoned that necessity, and for that reason, the United States could not support it,” Wood has said. Further, he explained that, based on its language, the proposed resolution would have sent a “dangerous message” to Hamas: that they did not need to return to the negotiating table.
In the meantime, the Administration of US President Joe Biden, who demits office early next year, continues to provide Israel with diplomatic and military support, even as
efforts from the US to broker a ceasefire deal between the two sides have fallen through.
The US’ rejection of the resolution has been criticized by members of the UN Security Council, with China, France and Malta expressing regret that an agreement on an immediate ceasefire could not be reached.
It is not the first time that the US has failed to support a resolution put forward by elected members calling for a ceasefire. In March 2024, the US was the lone country to abstain from voting on such a resolution.
At a UNSC meeting earlier this year, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, had joined in denouncing
the actions of the Israeli Government. Noting that the war crisis is in the occupied Palestinian territory, she had also called for an international probe into the incident.
“It had seemed that the Gaza crisis could not get any worse, until we learned of last Sunday’s events in Tal al-Sultan in Rafah, where displaced Palestinians sheltering in tents were set on fire after Israeli airstrikes. People were injured and burned alive, and all of this (occurred) in a designated safe zone – a chilling reminder that there is no safe place in Gaza,” she had asserted.
“Guyana calls for a swift, independent and international investigation to establish the facts sur-
rounding this incident, including to identify the perpetrators. This Council must not continue to accept the all-too-familiar explanations of these incidents being mistakes or miscalculations,” Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett had also said.
She had, also, said there is no justification for the killing of innocent civilians, and had pointed to Israel’s continued disregard for the international rule of law. Moreover, she had renewed calls for a two-state solution to end the decades-old war between Palestine and Israel, and had noted that the Palestinian people must exercise their inalienable right to self-determination, and it is the UN that must
guarantee the exercise of that right.
In addition to calling for a ceasefire, the Guyana Government had pledged, back in February, the sum of US$150,000 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), in support of Palestinians who have been displaced and affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Another US$80 million in donations had been raised by local stakeholders during the month of Ramadan in April.
Since the October 7, 2023 attacks, more than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 100,000 injured – many of them being women and children.
Guyana is currently hosting a training workshop on fisheries statistics and data analysis. The workshop, which will end today, commenced on November 11 and was organised by the Fisheries Department of Guyana, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the University of the West Indies (UWI), and the EU-funded project, FISH4ACP programme.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) the main goal of this workshop is to enhance the capacity of fisheries professionals from Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Head Trainer at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Yann Laurent explained that the workshop will serve as a platform to educate stakeholders within the fishing industry about advanced and modern data collection methods.
“This training is es-
sential for fisheries officers and extension workers to understand advanced methods used for collecting quality data from the field—particularly from remote or difficult-to-access fishing communities along the coastlines of Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago,”
Dr Laurent added that “it’s important to gather information on activities such as catch volumes, frequency, and more, which often occur in isolated communities. This data will help us monitor fishing activities at the country level. By the end of this training, those managing data from landing sites will be able to estimate a country's official fish population statistics. These estimates will be reliable, timely, and trusted, forming the basis for policy-making, adapting to sector dynamics, supporting other studies, measuring levels of exploitation, and more.”
Participants are learning theoretical concepts and practical statistical software and sampling techniques,
which are cutting edge and which can improve the precision of estimates. With this training, the participants gain insights which they will use to operate digitalized and upgraded data collection system, CALIPSEO.
Desha Husbands Spellen, a staff member of the Guyana Fisheries Department, noted that previously, data collection and storage took a lot of time and space to process. However, since the implementation of CALIPSEO, the Fisheries Department has been able to consolidate data from various sub-divisions—including Statistics, Aquaculture, Legal, and Inspectorate. She emphasized that training in data analysis is essential for her department and welcomed the opportunity to enhance their capacity to better utilize the fisheries data they collect. “This training, which starts from basic to advanced levels, will improve our ability to produce specific reports and estimates, thereby enhancing our efficiency,” She added.
Gaushimi Poeran, a par-
ticipant from Suriname shared, “The small-scale fisheries sector in Suriname is growing rapidly, and it’s crucial for us to improve our data collection and ensure that it meets international standards. Suriname is currently digitizing data for our artisanal fisheries, and with this training and FAO’s best practices, we now have better tools to improve and deliver our data in a more
quantitative way.”
Lara Ferreira, Fisheries Officer from the Trinidad and Tobago Fisheries Division added, “We appreciate this training, which is helping us to enhance our skills in fisheries data collection, storage, and analysis, leading to better-informed decision-making. A representative from Tobago is also here, and we’re working together to integrate
data from both islands.”
The much-needed training is a vital step toward building a strong foundation for evidence-based fisheries management in these countries. By equipping fisheries professionals with the latest tools and techniques, it supports a sustainable fisheries sector that can contribute to improved food security and better livelihoods for smallscale fishers.
Leoner Gonzalez, a 26-year-old Venezuelan appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday to answer charges of narcotics possession with intent to traffic.
Gonzalez faced separate charges for the possession of cocaine and can-
nabis, contrary to Section 5(1)(a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, Chapter 10:10. The miner pleaded guilty to both charges and was sentenced to 40 months in prison for the possession of cocaine and 36 months for the possession of cannabis. The sentences will run concurrently.
President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi engaged with representatives of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) and it Chair, Vishnu Doerga, to discuss strengthening economic collaboration, advancing infrastructure projects, and fostering regional integration.
This meeting, held on Wednesday at the Pegasus Corporate Center, reinforced the SGCC’s pivotal role in driving economic cooperation and promoting meaningful initiatives that benefit both nations. By prioritising strategic projects and fostering collaboration, Suriname and Guyana continue to pave the way for a prosperous,
interconnected future.
One major focus was the Suriname-Guyana Bridge project and the privatization of the Canawaima Ferry. SGCC proposed as -
suming management of the ferry system to enhance efficiency and ex -
pand cross-border connectivity while the bridge is under construction.
President Santokhi assured the Chamber that these proposals would be carefully reviewed, recognizing the need for improved infrastructure to support trade and mobility.
Also on the table for discussion was the Chamber’s milestones and outlined plans for the International Business Conference (IBC) Suriname 2025, a major event supported by the Suriname Investment and Trade Agency (SITA).
The IBC will spotlight opportunities in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, green energy, and local content development.
Its innovative networking app is set to facilitate critical B2B engagements, making it a cornerstone for fostering trade and investment between Suriname, Guyana, and beyond.
President Santokhi played an active role in shaping the IBC agenda, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships and economic diversification.
While acknowledging the significance of oil and gas, he called for parallel strategies to develop other sectors, including bauxite, housing, and food security.
His Cabinet’s participation in the conference was confirmed, signaling strong governmental backing for the initiative.
After nearly a decade of awaiting justice, Ganesh Dhanraj, known as "Jango," has been found guilty of felonious wounding in connection with a Boxing Day stabbing that had left his victim seriously wounded. The verdict was handed down on Tuesday by a jury before Justice Navindra Singh at the Demerara High Court.
The incident occurred on December 26, 2014, when Clinton Babooram, was standing outside a rum shop opposite his home. Witnesses testified that Dhanraj approached
Babooram in a sudden and violent manner, wielding a knife. Dhanraj stabbed Babooram in the groin and fled the scene.
Babooram collapsed and was rushed to the St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital by nearby residents. Babooram was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he underwent emergency surgery to save his life. The injuries had left Babooram hospitalized for three weeks as he fought to recover.
The case against Dhanraj was prosecuted by attorneys Muntaz Ali and Christopher Belfield, who laid out the series of events
and presented evidence to the jury. Defense attorney Adrian Thompson represented Dhanraj, arguing against the initial charge of attempted murder. Ultimately, the jury returned a guilty verdict on the alternative count of felonious wounding, a lesser but still serious charge. The court heard details of how the victim’s life was profoundly impacted by the attack, with Babooram enduring not only physical pain but emotional trauma as well.
Justice Navindra Singh has set sentencing for December 16. (G9)
Exxon Mobil Corp. withdrew from an oil exploration block off the coast of Suriname, not far from where it discovered more than 11 billion barrels in Guyanese waters.
Exxon will transfer its 50% stake in the block to Malaysia’s Petronas, the operator of the project and owner of the remaining 50%, according to a statement from Staatsolie, Suriname’s state-owned oil company. Exxon confirmed its exit in a separate statement.
Suriname, a former Dutch colony on the northeast tip of South America, is hopeful that it will one day transform its economy into a major oil producer like neighboring Guyana.
TotalEnergies SE and APA Corp. recently approved a $10.5 billion project that’s expected to begin pumping crude as soon as 2028.
Still, converting exploration success into tangible oil production has been more challenging than in Guyana, in part due to the high natural gas content of
crude from Suriname. Exxon and Petronas made a gas discovery on the block in 2020 and drilled a second well for appraisal purposes earlier this year, Staatsolie said. “Staatsolie expects Petronas to continue the activities in Block 52 without interruption.” (Bloomberg).
AKenyan-led police force trying to restore order in gang-ridden Haiti should be turned into a UN peacekeeping mission, the United States said Wednesday, pressing an idea opposed by China and Russia.
il prices edged higher on Thursday due to supply concerns triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
Brent crude futures for January rose 28 cents, or 0.4%, to $73.09. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures for January rose 28 cents, or 0.4%, at $69.03.
Ukraine fired a volley of British Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia on Wednesday, the latest new Western weapon it has been permitted to use on Russian targets a day after it fired U.S. ATACMS missiles.
Moscow has said the use of Western weapons to strike Russian territory far from the border would be a major escalation in the conflict. Kyiv says it needs the capability to defend itself by hitting Russian rear bases used to support Moscow’s invasion, which entered its 1,000th day this week.
Meanwhile, U.S. crude stocks rose by 545,000 barrels to 430.3 million barrels in the week ended Nov. 15, the Energy Information Administration said, compared with analysts’ expectations in a Reuters poll for a 138,000-barrel rise. Gasoline inventories last week rose more than forecast, while distillate stockpiles posted a larger-than-expected draw.
Adding to supply, Norway’s Equinor (EQNR.OL), opens new tab said it had restored full output capacity at the Johan Sverdrup oilfield in the North Sea following a power outage.
Meanwhile, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies led by Russia, the group known as OPEC+, may push back output increases again when it meets on Dec. 1 due to weak global oil demand, according to three OPEC+ sources familiar with the discussions. OPEC+, which pumps around half the world’s oil, had initially planned to gradually reverse production cuts with minor increases spread over several months in 2024 and 2025.
However, a slowdown in Chinese and global demand, coupled with rising output outside the group, have potentially thwarted this plan. (Reuters)
Russia and US battle for advantage in Ukraine war ahead of Trump’s return
In a matter of days US
President Joe Biden’s administration and Russia have made separate - but significant - moves aimed at influencing the outcome of the war in Ukraine, two months ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
There is a sense of Moscow maximising its gains and of Biden abandoning long-held red lines before Trump seeks to deliver on his claim to end the war in 24 hours.
Ukraine has already acted on Biden’s decision to let Kyiv fire first long-range ATACMS missiles deep into Russian territory. As Kyiv struggles to hold on to its territory in the east, Biden has promised to send anti-personnel landmines, too.
What prompted Biden’s change of heart appears to have been the arrival of thousands of North Koreans deployed to the front line, which the US sees as a “massive escalation”.
But Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has ratcheted up the tension still further by loosening the con-
ditions of use for Russia’s nuclear weapons. That “effectively eliminates” defeat on the battlefield, claims Moscow.
One Russia commentator suggested Putin might view the current situation as an “in-between” moment that gives him the sense he has the upper hand in Ukraine. At the start of this week, Russia launched its biggest aerial attack on Ukraine for almost three months. Amid fears of a renewed strike on Wednesday, several Western embassies closed their doors.
“It’s all connected,” says Mykhaylo Samus, head of the New Geopolitics Research Network in Ukraine. He argues Russia has been stockpiling hundreds of Iskander and Kinzhal missiles for weeks to enable it to carry out strikes and thus send a psychological message ahead of the transfer of power in Washington DC. Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, may have been spared on Wednesday, but the message got through. (BBC)
The current force is under-staffed and under-equipped as it takes on Haiti’s powerful, wellarmed gangs, and shifting to a formal UN mission would provide more money, personnel and logistical support, said Dorothy Shea, the deputy US ambassador to the United Nations.
A year ago, the United Nations approved the creation of the multinational force headed by Kenya. It started deploying in June and now has 400 officers, out of a planned total of 2,500.
Haiti currently has no president or parliament and is ruled by a weak transitional body, which is struggling to manage extreme violence linked to criminal gangs, poverty and other challenges.
The gangs regularly carry out kidnappings, rape, robberies and other crimes, and the UN said Wednesday they had extended their control to about 85 percent of the capital city Port-auPrince.
The Kenya-led force is
supported by the United Nations, but is not a full UN mission.
The UN Security Council rejected a similar US bid to upgrade the mission in September.
Haiti’s transitional body has made the same request since then.
“We urge the members of the Security Council not to turn your backs on Haiti, on my region, on the Latin American region, and the Caribbean region,” said Andres Efren Montalvo Sosa, the deputy ambassador of Ecuador.
Gautam Adani, the billionaire chair of Indian conglomerate Adani Group and one of the world’s richest people, has been indicted in New York over his role in an alleged multibillion-dollar bribery and fraud scheme, U.S. prosecutors said on Wednesday.
Authorities said Adani and seven other defendants, including his nephew Sagar Adani, agreed to pay about $265 million in bribes to Indian government officials to obtain contracts expected to yield $2 billion of profit over 20 years, and develop India’s largest solar power plant project. Prosecutors also said the Adanis and another executive at Adani Green Energy, former CEO Vneet Jaain, raised more than $3 billion in loans and bonds by hiding their corruption from lenders and investors.
According to an indict-
ment, some conspirators referred privately to Gautam Adani with the code names “Numero uno” and “the big man,” while Sagar Adani allegedly used his cellphone to track specifics about the bribes. Adani Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside business hours in India, where the charges were announced early Thursday morning.
India’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Lawyers for the defendants could not immediately be identified.
Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and Jaain were charged with securities fraud, securities fraud conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy, and the Adanis were also charged in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission civil case. (Reuters)
Several Security Council members support the idea of a UN peacekeeping mission for Haiti, but Russia and China — both with the power of a veto — are against it.
The role of UN peacekeepers is to “maintain peace and not to fight crime in urban areas or to save a dysfunctional state that has been plunged into domestic conflict,” said Russian Deputy Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy. (AFP)
Canada’s employment minister resigns after shifting his claims of Indigenous ancestry
Canada’s employment minister has resigned from the cabinet after weeks of scrutiny over his business dealings and his shifting claims of Indigenous ancestry.
Moments before question period on Wednesday, Justin Trudeau’s office said Randy Boissonnault would “step away from cabinet effective immediately” and will “focus on clearing the allegations made against him”.
Boissonnault’s claims to Indigenous identity were the subject of an investigation by the National Post in early November, which revealed that a company he co-owned positioned itself as Indigenous-owned or “Aboriginal” while bidding on federal contracts.
Boissonnault, the minister for employment, workforce development and official languages, blamed his former business partner and denied any knowledge of the claims.
The Alberta lawmaker never explicitly said he was Indigenous but often described himself as “non-status adopted Cree”. He also spoke often about his great-grandmother as “a full-blooded” Cree woman.
In 2018, Boissonnault told a parliamentary committee that as a child, his great-grandmother told him: “We come from the land, Randy, and some day we’ll go back to the land, and the land will be all shared in the future.”
The National Post also found instances in which Boissonnault would speak a few words in Cree when making funding announcements for the governing Liberal party.
“That is Cree for: ‘Guests you’re welcome, there’s room here,’” Boissonnault told an Edmonton crowd in 2019.
“And if my great-grandmother, full-blooded Cree woman Lucy Brenneis were here, she may well welcome you in exactly that same way.”
Last week, Boissonnault apologized for “not being as clear as he could have been” about his heritage. Days later, Boissonnault’s office acknowledged his adoptive great-grandmother’s had Métis lineage, not Cree, after being presented with census records by the Post.
A spokesperson for the minister said his “own understanding of his family’s heritage was inaccurate”.
(The Guardian)
Listen to reason, verify information and get involved in activities. A competitive attitude will put you in the spotlight and encourage others to stand aside while you do your thing. Do what feels right.
You’ll face opposition if you are too forceful with your demands. Honesty, integrity, compassion and fairness will promote stellar results and loyal connections.
Look at the big picture don’t feel that you must make or follow an allor-nothing decision. Consider what you want and discard what isn’t helpful. It’s up to you to make changes that suit your needs.
Take your skills and knowledge to the next level. Whether you add to your qualifications or learn to use your skills in a new way, the outcome will boost your morale and reputation. Strive to get ahead.
Participate in something that moves you. The insight you gain into others will help you decide with whom to spend your time. Refuse to let the changes others make disrupt your plans.
Go somewhere new or inspirational, and let your mind wander. The ideas you conjure up will encourage you to improve your community and your relationships with loved ones.
Communication, travel and gaining experience is in your best interest. Protect your health and home, but don’t neglect to get out and enjoy what life offers. Trust your instincts and rely on your strengths.
Play to win. Know who and what you are up against and prepare accordingly. Step away from anyone asking for too much and offering too little. Mistakes will lead to anger and poor judgment.
Get on the express and keep the momentum flowing until you are satisfied with the results. Let your competitive nature kick in, and you’ll outmaneuver anyone who tries to get in your way.
Figure out what things cost and set a suitable budget. A change at home can save you time and money. Don’t give power to someone else or take a risk that can cost you physically.
Put pressure where pressure is due. You can positively impact situations and people if you are honest and dedicated and devise a plan that is easy for others to adopt.
Study the manual and follow instructions carefully. Getting things right the first time will give your reputation and confidence a boost. Reach out to someone you admire.
Waramuri Secondary have beaten Sebai Primary by five wickets to win the Region One (Barima-Waini) Under-13 Inter Schools T10 Tapeball competition, which has recently been concluded at the Fitzburg Recreational Ground in Port Kaituma.
Taking first strike, Sebai Primary posted 100-8 from their allotted 10 overs. Dwayne John led the scoring with 39 runs, which included one four and five sixes, while Ryan Smythe and Ricardo Moses each made 12. Bowling for Waramuri, Denzel John took 3-24 and Sunil Thornhill took 2-9.
Waramuri Secondary responded with 103-5 in 9.2 overs. Usain Fredericks top-scored with 43 runs, which included three fours and four sixes, while Wade Ferreira made 18 not out, which included two fours and one six. Javed Williams, the standout among Sebai’s bowlers, took 2-9.
Usain Fredericks was named man-of-the-match and player-of-the-series, and was presented with a bat and a bicycle. Derwin Williams was presented the prize for the best wicket-keeper, while Denzel John received the prize for the most wickets taken. Other prizes were presented to sub-regional winners and runners-up, and to other participating teams.
The winning team took home $300,000, two fibreglass bats, a trophy, and medals; while the runner-up team took home $200,000, a pair of fibreglass bats, and a trophy. For placing third, Hobodeia Primary received $100,000, a pair of fibreglass bats and a trophy.
The following results were obtained in earlier matches: Matthews Ridge Primary beat Falls Top Primary by 61 runs.
Batting first, Matthews Ridge Primary made 127 for 2 off their allotted 10 overs, with opening batsman Stephon Daniels scoring an unbeaten 80 (9x4, 5x6) while Ainsley Mc Garrel chipped in with 21(4x4). Bowling for Falls Top, 8-yearold Anthony Henry took 2 for 13 off 2 overs.
In reply, Falls Top scored 66 all out from 9.4 overs. Aston Dalgetty took 3 for 3 from his 2 overs, while Kenraul Beharry took 2 for 2 and Glastone Melville took 2 for 9.
Sebai Primary defeated Baramita Primary by 160 runs. Sebai Primary batted first and accumulated 213 for 8 off their maximum 10 overs.
Ricardo Moses made 67, Ryan Smythe made 50, and captain Randolph Hutson made an unbeaten 40.
Bowling for Baramita Primary, Captain Vishal
Water Minister
Fredericks took 4 for 25, including a hat-trick; while Shemron Thomas supported with 3 for 34 from 2 overs.
In reply, Baramita Primary were bowled out for 53. Randolph Hutson took 3 for 3, Dwayne John took 3-5, and Javed Williams took 3 for 13.
Canal Bank Primary beat Arakaka Primary by 81 runs.
Batting first, Canal Bank Primary made 137 for 2 from their allotted 10 overs, with Amrol Rodrigues making 46,
Jonathon Joseph making 36 not out, and Eon James making 23.
In reply, Arakaka Primary were bowled out for 56. Bowling for Canal Bank Primary, Ken James grabbed 4 for 8 and Clive Welcome grabbed 2 for 6.
The match between Port Kaituma Secondary and Port Kaituma Primary was the final playoff, and Port Kaituma Secondary won by 4 runs.
Port Kaituma Secondary made 71, with Glenrick Hercules bagging 5 for 12
and Orzel Mc Lennon bagging 2 for 5. In reply, Port Kaituma Primary made 67 all out. Bowling for Port Kaituma Secondary, Cameron Ashby and Davin James each took two wickets. President of the BarimaWaini Cricket Committee, Sherlon Rodrigues, has expressed gratitude to the following persons: Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; coordinators in the three Sub-Regions, Donna Ganesh, Sports Officer in
Moruca; Schools Welfare Officer Ms. Ingrid Harris, District Education Officer Orlando Domingo, Sir Earl Domingo, Sir Ammon Thom, Vijay Bacchus, Ms. Rayanna Chu, Ms. Melissa Innis, Sports Officer Micquel Perez, Ms. Rose Benn, Regional Democratic Councillor with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport; Breeze Enterprise, Randy France, Supreme Construction, Treasure Alana James Amin, Romario Shepherd, Keemo Paul, Orlando Rogers of Sky West Charter Service, Frontier Pharmacy, Brian Thomas, Victor D’Oliveira, Toshao Sharmain Rambaju, International Imports and Supplies, Regional Executive Officer, Sonno’s Fuel Station, Ministry of Labour, International Organization for Migration, Ms. Rose Benn, ASP Chandradat Kooldeep, Pro Red Resources, Matthews Ridge CDC, Citrus Grove CDC, AREO of Matarkai, DEO Maureen Rebeiro, the CPG of Port Kaituma, Micquel Perez, AREO of Moruca, DEO Orlando Domingo of Moruca, Ammon Thom of Mabaruma, Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, Beacon’s International Hotel, Brother Joshua James, Oronoque CDC Chairperson, Danny Benjamin, and Enoch Benjamin.
Rodrigues has said that next year’s finals would be held in Moruca.
Rain couldn’t completely dent Bangladesh’s only practice match on their tour of the West Indies, as the visitors had a pretty good outing against a Select XI team in
Coolidge. After a delay of four and a half hours on the second day, Bangladesh reduced the hosts to 87 for 9, with rookie left-arm spinner Hasan Murad bagging a hattrick. Murad removed Daniel Beckford, Navin Bidaisee and Chaim Holder with consecutive deliveries in the 28th over, after which Bangladesh coach Phil
Simmons immediately signalled the end of the match.
The Bangladesh bowlers had a moderate workout on the second day. Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud took two wickets each, while Shoriful Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz each took one. One of Mahmud’s strikes, which came on the first evening, took the wicket of West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who was also leading the West Indies Select XI. That might end up boost-
for 73.2 overs on the first day before declaring on 253 for 7. Jaker Ali and Mahidul Islam had retired on 48 and 41 respectively. Litton Das, who had missed the second Test against South Africa at home last month due to fever, retired on 31 to kickstart the West Indies tour. Mominul Haque, Bangladesh’s most experienced cricketer on tour, also made 31.
Bangladesh’s concerns, though, would continue to revolve around the opening bat-
Holder had each taken two wickets, while Kimani
top-scored with 23 when they batted. (ESPNCricinfo)
Bangladesh 1st Innings
Batting R Mahmudul Hasan Joy c Johnson b Lewis 8
Zakir Hasan c Greaves b McAllister 15
Mominul Haque c †Imlach b Edward 31
Shahadat Hossain b Greaves 25
Litton Das † retired not out 31
Jaker Ali retired not out 48
Mahidul Islam Ankon retired not out 41
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c) st †Imlach b Holder 11
ing Mahmud’s confidence ahead of the first Test against West Indies, which starts in Antigua on Friday.
Bangladesh had batted
ters Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Zakir Hasan, who both got out cheaply. For the West Indies Select XI, Jair McAllister and Chaim
Taijul Islam not out 15
Hasan Mahmud c Bandoo b Holder 0 Taskin Ahmed b McAllister 7
Extras (b 5, nb 15, w 1) 21
Total 73.2 Ov (RR: 3.45) 253
Did not bat: Hasan Murad, Nahid Rana, Shadman Islam, Shoriful Islam Fall of wickets: 1-29
(Mahmudul Hasan Joy, 5.2 ov), 2-38
(Zakir Hasan, 9.5 ov), 3-85 (Shahadat Hossain, 20.6 ov), 4-101 (Mominul Haque, 25.3 ov), 4-133* (Litton Das, retired not out), 4-214* (Jaker Ali, retired not out), 4-224* (Mahidul Islam Ankon, retired not out), 5-230
(Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 66.3 ov), 6-230
(Hasan Mahmud, 68.2 ov), 7-253
(Taskin Ahmed, 73.2 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Jair McAllister 9.2-1-48-2
Shaaron Lewis 7-1-24-1
Nathan Edward 12-2-35-1
Ryan Bandoo 7-0-37-0
Justin Greaves 8-1-20-1
Chaim Holder 17-3-48-2
Navin
The Guyana Rugby Football Union announced the 15-member squad that travelled to Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday morning for the Rugby Americas North (RAN) 7s being hosted in the twin- island Republic of T&T this weekend.
The team comprises: Captain Godfrey Broomes, Vice-Captain Lionel Holder, Vallon Adams, Matthew Talbot, Godfrey Pollydore, Rickford Cummings, Shawn David, Renaldo Niles, Yannick Williams, Scott Garraway, Odida Douglas, Kelvin Grant, Owen Adonis, Tyreese Prescod and Gavin McPherson.
The team is being coached by Claudius Butts, and Elwin Chase is his assistant; while
Although the West Indies have suffered a 3-1 loss to England in their recent five-match T20I series, West Indies captain Rovman Powell and Shai Hope have both been moved up the ICC Men’s T20I Rankings.
Hope, who was brought in for the last three games in St Lucia, has moved 16 spots up to 21st, on 599 rating points, following his half-century in the penultimate contest, and he also looked steady in the last contest before rain had the final say.
Powell, who had three tidy knocks of 43, 54, and 38 in the series, inched one place up to 33 on 575 rating points.
Although he slipped three places, Nicholas Pooran remains the best-ranked West Indies batsman (624 rating points) at 12, a position he now shares with Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis and Australia’s Josh Inglis.
Brandon King is the next best Caribbean batsman on the list, although he also slipped three places to 16th on 613 rating points. Johnson Charles (587 rating points), who slipped seven spots to
26th, is the only other West Indies batsman in the top 50.
India’s Hardik Pandya has returned to the top of the T20I all-rounders Rankings after making significant contributions to his team’s successful 3-1 series triumph over South Africa.
It is his second time at the top of this list this year, he having been so placed for the first time following India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory in the USA and West Indies.
Pandya moved two places to reach the top with 244 rating points, swapping places with England’s Liam Livingstone, who slipped to third place with 230 points, just one point shy of Nepal’s Dipendra Airee, who holds second place with 231 points.
Tilak Varma’s sensational exploits with the bat have seen him leap 69 slots to the top 10 of the batters’ list for the first time, taking over third place with 806 points from his skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who fell one spot to take fourth.
Sanju Samson has also made significant gains after his remarkable back-to-back
centuries, jumping 17 spaces to 22nd place among the batters.
South Africa’s Marco Jansen shot up 65 spots to reach a career-best 14th position among the all-rounders, with his captain Aiden Markram moving up one place to number nine. Their teammate, Tristan Stubbs, continued his rise among the batters, and has moved three places to 23rd.
The bowlers’ list has seen a lot of movement as well, with Australians Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis making significant gains following their three-match series sweep against Pakistan.
Zampa rose five slots to third place with 693 points, while Ellis mounted 15 slots to 11th on 628 points.
India’s Arshdeep Singh went up three places to ninth position (656 points), while teammate Axar Patel has sailed 10 spots to 13th (632 points). Pakistan’s Haris Rauf went from 24th to 20th with 601 points. Marco Jansen also featured with a 20-slot jump to 25th place among the bowlers with 576 points. (Sportsmax)
Ryan Gonsalves has been named Team Manager, and Ronaldo Griffith is his deputy.
Guyana’s first match of the tournament is on Friday, November 22nd, when they take on Canada at 13:44hrs. That match is the opening encounter in the Tier 1 segment.
Scheduled for play at the Larry Gomes Stadium from November 22nd to 24th, the RAN 7s tournament would see eight teams competing in Tier 1: namely Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, and hosts Trinidad & Tobago.
This weekend’s event is being seen as the regional qualification event for the HSBC Sevens Challenger series.
“Test cricket is something I’ve always dreamed of”
– Matthews eager to parade skills in longest format
Hayley Matthews has always dreamed of parading her skills in cricket’s longest format. As such, the West Indies women’s captain, one of the best players in the world, has expressed delight at the Caribbean side’s return to playing Test match cricket, as they are set to face Australia in 2026.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced this match recently, when they unveiled the Women’s Future Tour Programme. This will mark the 50th anniversary of West Indies women’s Test cricket since the first Test between the two countries was played in Jamaica in May 1976.
The last Test match the West Indies women have played was away to Pakistan in 2004.
“Test cricket is something I’ve always dreamed of. Wearing the whites with the badge on your chest would mean a lot. Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game, so being afforded the opportunity to wear whites and put on that ‘baggy’ maroon cap is going to be a huge honour,” Matthews said in an interview with Philip Spooner, the former Head of Media at Cricket West Indies.
“When I heard Test cricket was announced, I was very excited. Playing Test cricket has been an ambition of mine for a very long time, so to be able to get this opportunity to play a few Tests over the next few years is something I’m looking forward to,” she added from her base in Australia.
Matthews is currently on another stint with the Melbourne Renegades in the 10th edition of the Women’s Big Bash League. Her best outing so far was against the Adelaide Strikers,
when she took two for 28 from four overs and made a match-winning 85 not out off 54 balls in the big win.
Matthews has disclosed that there is great anticipation among the other players, and she is hoping the fans would come out and embrace the longest format.
“There has obviously been a lot of talk over the last year or two about us playing Test cricket, seeing that so many of the other teams are also playing Test matches. Now that it is confirmed for us, we are very happy it has been locked into the schedule,” Matthew said.
“I hope it does excite the fans a lot. Women’s cricket has grown a lot in the West Indies in recent years, and fans have been paying a lot of attention and focusing on our games. Hopefully, we can have a lot of success before we reach that Test, specifically the ICC Women’s World Cup next year (India), and that would entice the fans to come out and support us even more,” she noted.
The ICC Future Tours Programme also shows the West Indies playing Tests against England in 2027 and in South Africa in 2028, which would mark the first contest between these two teams. (Sportsmax)
Guyana’s senior men’s national football team, the Golden Jaguars, are set to feature in their third CONCACAF Gold Cup Preliminaries next March, after ending their twomatch home and away PlayIn series against Barbados in the 2024/ 2025 CONCACAF Nations League with a 9-4 aggregate, by which they clinched a spot in next year’s Gold Cup Preliminaries.
The nail-biting return match, hosted at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC) on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), produced both highs and lows for the Golden Jaguars, who were met with a fighting Barbados opposition.
Head Coach Wayne Dover opted for a starting XI that read: Captain Daniel Wilson, Goal Keeper Quillan Roberts, Reiss Greenidge, Jalen Jones, Liam Gordon, Leo Lovell, Curtez Kellman,
Nathan Moriah-Welsh, Isaiah Jones, Osaze De Rosario and Omari Glasgow. Barbados looked a more composed outfit than on Friday last, and they managed to hold off the Guyanese for almost half of the first segment. However, Guyana was slowly building momentum with a few near misses between the 20th and 25th minutes. Then a Moriah-Welsh service from the corner met with Jalen Jones’s head before Osaze De Rosario added the finishing touches with another butt for Guyana’s first goal in the 26th minute.
In the 41st minute of the game, De Rosario capitalized on an ill-controlled ball from a Barbadian midfielder, as he sprinted forward to beat the defense and the keeper with a left-footed shot into the back of the net.
De Rosario completed his hattrick in the 45th+1 with another header from a Moriah- Welsh freekick, to hand Guyana a 3-0 lead at the half.
However, fireworks flew in the second segment, and what had hitherto been a one-sided affair came dangerously close to being a balanced one when Thierry Gale of Barbados opened the segment with a strike in the 49th minute by sprinting past Guyana’s Leo Lovell to tuck the ball in.
But while the Barbadians celebrated pulling one back, the Guyanese players raised their hands to appeal that
the goal was offside without being called.
Then Omari Glasgow gave Guyana another 3-goal cushion by tucking a wellplaced set piece into the corner of the net in the 57th minute; but
Niall Reid-Stephen and Gale returned in the 63rd and 67th minutes to give Barbados hope with back-toback goals.
First Reid-Stephen found himself on the winning side of a 1vs1 against Guyana’s
feels good just showing my talent. Given the opportunity, I take it; so, it’s obviously a great feeling to get a hattrick.”
The forward added, “Guyana has a lot of talented players. I have to give respect to the players on the pitch like, you know, the prolific Omari and the newcomer Isaiah. These are quality attackers, so bringing my talent to the attack is a push forward in the right direction.”
In discussing Guyana’s performance, Coach Dover admitted that he would have appreciated conceding less goals.
“We would’ve liked to have a 9-0 aggregate, but, of course, we didn’t play with ourselves, we played against a very competitive outfit. And, you know, there’s no room for errors, and we show where there’s a lot of work to be done defensively in our organisation, in our pressing to the ball generally in transition,” Dover related.
The Golden Jaguars have now qualified for the CONCACAF Gold Cup Preliminaries, and are scheduled to take on Guatemala in March 2025. The draw was arrived at by CONCACAF who placed together the CONCACAF Nations League Quarterfinal losing teams, League A Group Stage thirdplace finishers, League A Group stage fourth-place finishers, League B two best second-place finishers and the four teams who won their Play-In series.
Liam Gordon, pulling off a cut shot to secure the goal. Then, 4 minutes later, Gale sent from outside of the 18yard box a rocket shot into the back of the nets, and Quillan Roberts could not get his hand on it. Nevertheless, the Guyanese held on, and after a few close calls in the dy-
ing minutes of the contest, Isaiah Jones set the cherry on top of the proverbial cake as Barbados conceded an own goal in the 90th+4 for the 5-3 result.
In a post-match interview, De Rosario shared thoughts on his hattrick and current role in the Golden Jags’ setup by disclosing, “It
The teams were then arranged 1-14 based on their latest CONCACAF rankings, and then seeded with the highest team facing the lowest team (1 vs 14, 2 vs 13, 3 vs 12, etc).
In March, the teams will compete in the home and away format, with the winner advancing to the Gold Cup Group Stage.
(Jemima Holmes)
here has been
Ta change to the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) schedule, with the final now set to take place on 6 December. There has also been a change to the match between Hampshire Hawks and Victoria, which will now take place at 10am on 5 December.
All the matches will take place at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, with the tournament set to get underway on Tuesday 26 November. The five participating teams are Hampshire Hawks, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Lahore Qalandars, Rangpur Riders and Victoria.
Sir Clive Lloyd, Chairman of the GSL, has said: “While the squads for the West Indies ODI series against Bangladesh have not yet been announced, we wanted to ensure that there was no chance of a clash between the conclusion of the GSL and the preparations for that series. This decision has been made after discussions with Cricket West Indies (were had) to ensure the integrity of both the West Indies vs Bangladesh se-
ries and the GSL.” Holders of tickets for the two matches for which dates have been changed can still use their existing tickets to gain entry to these matches. Those who have bought tickets for these games but can now no longer attend are enti-
tled to be fully refunded. The revised fixtures are below, with the changes to the schedule highlighted.
New Schedule: Tuesday 26 November, 7pm: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Lahore Qalandars Wednesday 27 November, 7pm: Hampshire Hawks vs Rangpur Riders Friday 29
November, 7pm: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Victoria Saturday 30 November, 10am: Hampshire Hawks vs Lahore Qalandars Sunday 1 December, 10am: Rangpur Riders vs Victoria Sunday 1
December, 7pm: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Hampshire Hawks
Tuesday 3
December, 7pm: Victoria vs Lahore Qalandars
Wednesday 4
December, 7pm: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Rangpur Riders
Thursday 5
December, 10am: Hampshire Hawks vs Victoria
Thursday 5
December, 7pm: Lahore Qalandars vs Rangpur Riders
Friday 6 December, 7pm:
Final – First Place vs Second Place
About Global Super League
The Global Super League is an annual T20 tournament that takes place in Guyana featuring T20 teams from around the world. The inaugural event will take place at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, EBD. Five teams will compete for a US$1million prize fund across 11 matches that take place from 26 November to 6 December 2024.
