Guyana Times - Tuesday, March 14, 2023

President Ali holds high-level

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, Mar 14 – 22:00h –23:30h and Wednesday, Mar 15 – 22:30h – 01:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, Mar 14 – 12:55h –14:25h and Wednesday, Mar 15 – 09:40h – 11:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 08:52h and 21:38h reaching maximum heights of 2.41 metres and 2.2 metres.

Low Tide: 15:03h reaching a minimum height of 0.83 metre.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, accompanied by a high-level Cabinet team, on Monday met with a delegation led by two visiting United States (US) Government officials at State House, where energy and food security and the transformative Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) were among the topics on the agenda.

According to the Office of the President, the US delegation was headed by Joseph Salazar, Special Advisor for the Western Hemisphere from the Office of US Vice President, Kamala Harris; and Michael Taylor, Deputy Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Office of Caribbean Affairs.

It was explained that during the meeting, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s commitment to democ-

and Economic Department of the US Embassy, Brian Hall.

Meanwhile, members of Guyana’s Cabinet who attended the meeting include Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo; Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips; Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony; Public Works Minister Juan Edghill; Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal; Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond; and Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai.

Also attending the meeting were the Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues; Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud and Director of Presidential Affairs Marcia Nadir-Sharma.

In June 2022, Vice President Harris launched

PACC 2030 and since then the United States has been working with Caribbean nations to develop wide-ranging, long-term energy security and climate resilience solutions.

Since the Summit of the Americas, Vice President Harris has met with six Caribbean Heads of State, including President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, building on the United States partnership with Caribbean governments in defence of our shared values, and to improve Caribbean resilience in all aspects – economic, security, and democracy.

racy was also discussed. Meanwhile, a follow-up meeting is expected at a subsequent date, to discuss PACC 2030 - an initiative launched by Vice President Harris last year to improve cooperation between the US and Caribbean countries.

“The meeting included discussions on food, energy and climate security and Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy. Discussions also focused on the Government’s commitment to democracy and strengthening bilateral relations between Guyana and the United States of America.”

“Salazar and Taylor are expected to meet again with Government officials, business leaders and key stakeholders to discuss topics of mutual interest including the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030),” the Government further explained.

The US delegation also included US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch; Deputy Chief of Mission Adrienne Galanek and Chief of the Political

From left: US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch, President Dr Irfaan Ali, Special Advisor for the Western Hemisphere from the Office of US Vice President, Joseph Salazar and Deputy Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Taylor

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Yes! We can end TB!

Every year Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing World TB Day in March calling for a united end to tuberculosis. The call is very relevant and necessary considering the fact that countries are about to enter the era of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of which a key health target is ending tuberculosis (TB) by 2030.

This year’s theme is “Yes! We can end TB!”

Over 40 per cent of all tobacco-related deaths are from lung diseases like cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and tuberculosis.

Every year, 1.9 million people die from tobacco-induced heart disease and this equates to one in five of all deaths from heart disease, according to the World Health Organisation, World Heart Federation and the University of Newcastle Australia.

A report released by WHO a few years ago sent a strong warning to smokers of the fatal effects such action could have on individuals.

The report’s authors urged all tobacco users to quit and avoid a heart attack, stressing that smokers are more likely to experience an acute cardiovascular event at a younger age than non-smokers.

“Just a few cigarettes a day, occasional smoking, or exposure to second-hand smoke increase the risk of heart disease. But if tobacco users take immediate action and quit, then their risk of heart disease will decrease by 50 per cent after one year of not smoking.”

Chair of the World Heart Federation Tobacco Expert Group, Dr Eduardo Bianco had pointed out that given the level of evidence on tobacco and cardiovascular health and the health benefits of quitting smoking, failing to offer cessation services to patients with heart disease could be considered clinical malpractice or negligence.

He noted that cardiology societies should train their members in smoking cessation, as well as to promote and even drive tobacco control advocacy efforts.

Of note too is that the report shows that smokeless tobacco is responsible for around 200,000 deaths from coronary heart disease per year. Many young people are misled to believe that E-cigarettes are not as harmful as the traditional cigarettes, but experts have warned that they are equally damaging as they raise blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Moreover, high blood pressure and heart disease increase the risk of severe COVID-19.

In a more general sense, tobacco is responsible for over seven million deaths per year worldwide. This includes approximately 900,000 persons who die from diseases related to exposure to tobacco smoke.

Guyana’s tobacco control law, enacted in 2017, follows several of the articles of the WHO Convention and mandates the adoption and implementation of a series of tobacco control policies that make it one of the most complete tobacco control laws. These include: 100 per cent smoke-free environments in all indoor public spaces, indoor work spaces, public transportation and specified outdoor spaces to protect people from exposure to tobacco smoke; a ban on all forms of advertising and promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products; health warnings featured on 60 per cent of tobacco product packaging, including images. It also includes a ban on the sale of tobacco products to and by minors, prohibition on vending machines sales; and a ban on the manufacture and sales of toys and candies, and any other goods in the form of tobacco products.

However, there is still much work to be done to win the battle against tobacco as approximately 78 per cent of all deaths here are caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs); some of which we all know are strongly related to tobacco use.

We had pointed out several times before that having the necessary legislation in place is a good starting point, but there are many other challenges which health authorities here must address if Guyana is to really reduce the number of persons dying or becoming ill due to tobacco use or exposure. These challenges relate to monitoring and compliance, and enforcement of the legislation to ensure that the population is protected from the dangers of tobacco use.

Condemn racist remarks & call for violence against Govt, Indians

Dear Editor,

The public must condemn in the strongest words possible the remarks (delivered March 9) of a long-time African WPA political activist advocating violence against the Government and its traditional Indian supporters. Tacuma Ogunseye made claim of racial discrimination against his African kith and kin but offered no supporting documented evidence to buttress the claim. If there is some injustice against a group, the claimant must make the case - of how the rights of his kith and kin have been violated.

Discrimination against any person or group or entity must be condemned. Everyone must be treated fairly and equitably and be given equal opportunities. None must be favoured over another on account of ethnicity unless it is to redress a historic grievance or achieve a greater good or promote equity. But one cannot make wild willy-nilly allegations of discrimination without documented evidence.

Our country has had a long history of racial issues. Politicians bury our racial elephant under the carpet believing that if we ignore it, it will disappear. But merely saying there is racial discrimination against a group does not make it factual. It behoves anyone or organisation or political entity or claimant that believes there is discrimination to provide hard facts including data

to back the claim. Indians and Amerindians claimed discrimination during PNC rule between 1965 and 1992 and again between 2015 and 2020. Evidence to support the claims were provided on varied outlets and organisations including by the churches and political parties and international agencies. If groups feel discriminated, their leadership should make a compelling case with supporting verifiable data. Tacuma failed in this regard.

It was shocking to hear the bile and biliousness coming from this distinguished member of the WPA who had a history of combating political victimisation and injustice meted out against his party and himself. He ought to know better not to spit venom against others. Dr Rodney, founder of WPA, Tacuma’s leader, would be turning in his grave hearing such remarks.

As an erudite scholar recently penned on a chat site in response, responsible public figures should promote social and ethnic cohesion and healing in this divided country rather than the kind of bile that was uttered last Thursday evening in Buxton. As the scholar stated, such bilious comments and hate speech will only result in greater disharmony, discordance, and dividedness that can only serve to further the cause for conflict in a country already reeling from political and social disorder.

We must praise media houses and politicians and everyone who condemn ethnic hate and who dissociated themselves and their political party from what was expressed last Thursday evening.

In particular, I commend the PNCR MPs Messrs Hon Ganesh Mahipaul, Hon Natasha Singh-Lewis, Mr Daniel Seeram, JP – Regional Chairman – Region 4, Pt. Ubraj Narine, His Worship the Mayor of Georgetown, for dissociating themselves from and strongly condemning the remarks of the WPA execu-

tive member and another person. They found the remarks derogatory, distasteful, and hurtful to the Indian community. They penned: “We want to make it clear that we condemn and distance ourselves from any attack on any race in Guyana, including our African brothers and sisters.”

The statement issued by the PNCR members suggests that they are independent minded and are empowered and confident and are not mere tokens of the party.

Yours truly,

Vishnu Bisram

Civil society, PNCR, AFC must condemn WPA's racism and violent rhetoric

Dear Editor, The Guyanese public is constantly treated to the voice of so-called civil society groups and personalities in the press, not least so in Kaieteur News and Stabroek News. The groups and persons have made big names for themselves, and many have become local celebrities. Some time ago I introduced the idea that many of the big names seem to be pursuing jouissance,

meaning involvement in anti-government activities simply for the pleasure of doing so.

Well, now is the time for those who claim to have an interest in our national well-being to speak up.

The occasion is the recent whiplash racism and treasonous pronouncements aired by senior WPA personalities, the most wellknown of them being Tacuma Ogunseye.

Special Advisor for the Western Hemisphere Joseph Salazar from the Office of Vice President Kamala Harris meeting Guyana’s Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday at State House. Also in photo are Guyana’s Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill and Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai (Office of the President photo)

Safety is of paramount importance to us at GYSBI

Dear Editor, Please permit me space in your publication to respond to a letter published captioned, “I was accosted by three intimidating men at the gas-to-energy civil works’ landing site,” penned by Ms Elizabeth Deane Hughes.

In her letter, Ms Hughes stated, “On Saturday 4, March, 2023 while I was on the public road, in the permitted civic works area where the landing site is for workers being transported to this location, via

the Demerara River, I was accosted by 3 men who had on white hard hats. They claimed I had no right to be there. They acted in an intimidating manner. Fearing for my safety, I was able to escape with my photographs intact.”

When she was observed having entered the construction site, Ms Hughes was approached by members of our staff, who explained to her the dangers of being there, especially without the required Personal Protection

Equipment (PPE). There was no physical altercation during this time.

While Ms Hughes posited that these are public areas and are not advertised as closed locations to citizens, you would agree with me, Editor, that any active construction zone requires access controls. An unannounced, unprepared visitor creates danger for themself as well as workers at the site. Ms Hughes drove onto the site in excess of the location’s speed limits before abruptly

Utilise resources available at GPHC to file complaints

Dear Editor, The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation is aware of the claims made by the relatives of Ms Shaliyah Darlington, a patient with a high-risk pregnancy who was referred to the GPHC’s care from a private hospital one day prior to delivering prematurely. While the GPHC sympathises with Ms Darlington and her family in their time of bereavement, we wish to categorically emphasise that any

patient being managed in an intensive care unit is considered critical until they have been discharged into a step-down unit. In this case, Ms Darlington's baby was being managed in the Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU), as premature babies are at great risk due to the inability of their organs to function the way they should. The capable and competent neonatal team at the GPHC is always committed to keeping

babies alive - unfortunately, sometimes babies succumb to illness.

As always, we encourage our patients, and their relatives to utilise the resources available at the hospital as a first resort for getting information or making complaints, so that appropriate and timely recourse can be taken.

Sincerely Jai Lall, PRO, GPHC

parking at the truck-turning location. By doing so, she placed herself in immediate danger and endangered our truck drivers and equipment operators who could have been startled by her sudden presence and her excitable movements around the site. Safety is of paramount importance to us at GYSBI.

Our employees are trained and equipped to carry out their work safely. We are uncompromising in returning them safely to their families at the end of every workday. “Everyone gets home safe” has always been and remains our motto. We remain open and committed to engaging

anyone who wishes to learn more about our operations and projects, but request that this be done in a safe and engaged way.

Respectfully, Gomatie Gangadin, Public Relations Manager Guyana Shore Base Inc

Civil society, PNCR, AFC must...

I call on the following organisations/groups and persons to openly and without reservation condemn in the strongest possible terms the abject racism and violent rhetoric of the WPA: Mike McCormick and the Guyana Human Rights Association; Yog Mahadeo and Article 13, Lincoln Lewis and the Trades Union Congress; Melinda Janki, Janet Bulkan, Mike Persaud, Charles Sugrim, A Brandli, Alissa Trotz, Norman Browne, Troy Thomas, Vanda Radzik, Alfred Bhulai, Danuta Radzik, Kenrick Hunte. The same call goes to the entire PNCR and AFC, best especially Opposition Leader Norton, Leader of AFC Khemraj Ramjattan, MPs Annette Ferguson, Cathy Hughes,

Amanza Walton-Desir, Sherod Duncan, Roysdale Forde, Vincent Henry, NN Flue-Bess, Vinceroy Jordan, and others.

Though failure to condemn the WPA's violently-racist rhetoric and their call for subversion does not necessarily mean approval, your silence could be interpreted as personal and political weakness, and lack of courage in a time of clear

threats to the Indian population of this country. You cannot and will not have any credibility to speak in the name of national unity, national progress, and national well-being. And most certainly, you will be severely compromised in asking up-standing Guyanese for their votes.

Sincerely, Dr Randolph B Persaud

NGSA Math Questions

Investors' interest in corn, soya cultivation growing – Mustapha

…says Tacama project could expand to 3000 acres by year-end

Following on the heels of the success of corn and soya cultivations such as the Tacama project in Upper Demerara-Berbice, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has said that investor interest in such projects is growing.

In fact, the Minister revealed to this publication in an exclusive interview that the Government is in talks with these investors, who are looking to get into the industry. He explained that overseas-based investors are especially interested in cultivating corn and soya.

“There are a number of other investors who are coming into the country and who are saying they are interested in (investing). So, we are looking at these invest-

ments. We are partnering with them and seeing how we can increase. But there are a number of those people

who are saying they want to get into corn and soya.”

When it comes to the cultivation of the 1200 acres of soya bean at Tacama, under the auspices of a consortium that includes local and foreign investors, Mustapha was hopeful that the yield can be increased by year-end to 3000 acres.

“If you look yesterday, I said to the press that the silos will be completed by May. The drying facilities. We did the road and a number of other infrastructure work will be done there. This crop, the consortium will be harvesting close to 1200 acres of soya beans. I’m hoping by the end of this year, that will increase to 3000 acres,” Minister Mustapha said.

The soya bean at Tacama

Cop shot to head by cousin during row at Linden bar

A32-year-old Police Sergeant is now hospitalised after he was allegedly shot by his cousin during an argument at a Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) bar.

Injured is Jermain Semple, who is stationed at the Tactical Services Unit.

Reports are that the cop and his 27-year-old building contractor cousin of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden, were at the Crown and Anchor Grill and Bar in Linden on Sunday when an argument ensued.

According to investigations, at about 21:00h, Semple, along with his brother Dervon Semple and the suspect, were at the Crown and Anchor Grill and Bar when a fight emerged between the cop and his brother.

During the altercation, the cousin went to make

Injured: Jermain Semple

peace and a fight then ensued between the victim and his cousin.

Police in a release said that as a result, the cousin took out his licensed handgun, a .32 pistol, at about 21:30h and discharged two rounds in the victim’s direction.

One struck the victim in his head, causing him to receive severe injuries. He was then rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was treated but was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation due to the seriousness of his injury.

Police in a statement said that the cousin was arrested, and the firearm was retrieved, which contained four live rounds in the magazine and one live round in the chamber.

The suspect received injuries to his left elbow and right ear during the fight and was escorted to the hospital for medical attention. He was subsequently discharged and is currently in Police custody assisting with the investigation.

The scene was canvassed, and two .32 empty spent shells were found. Investigations are ongoing.

is being cultivated by a consortium that includes Guyana Stockfeed Limited, Edun Farms and Bounty Farm Limited. Other investors are Royal Chicken, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch, and the Brazilian-owned N F Agriculture.

Bounty Farm Assistant Managing Director David Fernandes had recently told this publication that the soya bean crop was on course to be harvested in late March or early April, with an expected 1200 tonnes of soya bean slated to be harvested.

It was further explained by Fernandes that this crop would be used strictly for livestock feed. He also made it clear that he was optimistic about the sector, notwithstanding some of the challenges initially faced.

The large-scale trial cultivation of corn and soya bean by private investors was announced by the Government in 2021. In the feed industry, Guyana imports close to US$30 million in products annually. The aim is to not just attain

self-sufficiency but establish the country as a net exporter of soya.

The key stakeholders in the massive corn and soya bean project include the Government, farmers, and private companies. The Government has played a crucial role in supporting the growth of the industry, with a commitment of over $1.2 billion to infrastructural development in the Tacama area.

Last year, the Government improved access to the area by constructing 40 kilometres of road, with the remaining seven kilometres scheduled to be completed in 2023. Additionally, the Government invested in a drying and storage facility for corn and soya bean which will be completed by the first quarter of this year, establishing the first such facility in the country.

In 2021, the Government started the trial of 125 acres of corn and soya bean, which showed major success. Previously, Mustapha

had said that the intention was to continuously increase production to cover at least 25,000 acres by 2025. The Minister had expressed the belief that the aim of becoming self-sufficient by 2025 was ambitious, but with the continued support of the Government and the private sector, it was achievable.

The Government’s investment in infrastructure and facilities is expected to significantly increase the yields and profits of farmers, and boost the country’s economy. Minister Mustapha has already announced his Ministry’s plans to start cultivating corn and soya bean in Moco Moco Village, North Rupununi.

The Ministry is also assessing the capacity in other regions, with the aim of taking the project there in the future. Meanwhile, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has provided farmers with subsidies and training programmes to help increase their yields and improve their livelihoods.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

The soya bean under cultivation at Tacama, Upper Demerara-Berbice

Fisherman remanded for reputed wife’s murder

Ricardo Kattow, called “Otis” has been arraigned before the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, for allegedly killing his common-law wife at their home in Hope Estate, East Coast Demerara (ECD). He was charged with the capital offence of murder.

The charge against the 27-year-old man read that

appeared before presiding Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Monday.

He was remanded to prison until April 25.

Police Headquarters had reported that Kattow stabbed his partner to death after accusing her of infidelity. He then consumed a poisonous substance.

Police stated that Ishmael and Kattow, who lived together, had an ongoing domestic dispute after he would oftentimes accuse her of being unfaithful.

Based on reports received, the woman left her home on Friday, March 3, and went to a friend’s house at Better Hope, ECD, where she spent several days.

However, she returned home at around 10:00h on the day in question, in the company of her sister, Fazeela, to collect her belongings, but she was confronted by Kattow, who asked her not to leave.

and instructed her to run. Upon doing so, Kattow gave chase and caught her in the yard. It was then, he stabbed her in the neck, the left side face, and both hands.

…census

We heard some throat-clearing noise from the census undertaken last year! While in many countries censuses are just another bureaucratic bean-counting exercise, in Guyana its results are awaited with bated breaths!! And no, Dear Reader…it’s not because we are a nation of bean-counters. Nah…it’s because –with good reason – our election used to be called “ethnic censuses”!! – since we voted according to our ethnic identities!

Ishmael and Kattow and took them to the Nabaclis Hospital where they were both admitted.

But if it’s one thing we should know by now is that “change” is the only constant in history. So, if our politics was influenced by our ethnic breakdown, we gotta assume if the ethnic breakdown changes, then the political strategies would change, right?? Well, that’d be true in a universe where political leaders made decisions according to reason and common sense! Unfortunately, some Opposition Guyanese politicians live in an alternate universe. Or in a metaverse of their making that they’ve convinced themselves is real!!

Remanded: Murder accused Ricardo Kattow

on March 6, in the East Demerara Magisterial District, he murdered his partner, 26-year-old Aneeza Ishmael.

The accused was not required to plead to the indictable charge after which he

She reportedly informed him that she had only gone to the house to collect her personal belongings and would not stay. This allegedly angered her reputed husband, who whipped out a knife from the waist of his pants, and attacked the now-dead woman.

Upon seeing this, the victim’s sister pushed her away

He then turned his attention to the victim’s sister, but she put up a fight during which she received a wound to her left thumb.

After committing the act, Kattow reportedly inflicted several wounds on his body and consumed a poisonous substance.

He too fell to the ground. By this time, neighbours had alerted the Police. Upon their arrival at the scene, Police detectives picked up

Ishmael, nevertheless took her last breath at about 12:20h while receiving treatment. On the other hand, Kattow was escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted as a patient under guard.

At the scene, a red and black-handled knife with bloodstains along with an empty bottle suspected to have contained the poisonous substance that Kattow had consumed were found.

(G1)

Sexual offences against minors dominate cases at Essequibo Criminal Assizes

Sexual offences against minors have dominated the list of cases for trial at the February 2023 Essequibo Criminal Assizes which is being held at the High Court in Suddie, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). Of the 92 cases listed for trial, 37 of them involve persons indicted for cases regarding sexual offences committed against minors. These offences include rape of a child under the age of 16 and sexual activity with a child family member. Thirty persons are

listed to be tried for the former offence while eight will face a Judge and jury for the latter offence.

There are another 18 rape cases concerning 19 accused persons.

Ivan Hill also known as “Felonsie” and Antonio Fernando called “Uncle” have each been indicted for three and four counts of rape of a child under 16 years, respectively.

Lloyd Edmond is facing two counts of sexual activity with a child family member and a third count for rape of a child under 16, while Teon Torres c/d “Shortman” has been indicted for one count each of sexual activity with a child family member and rape of a child under 16.

Mark Gobin, Marcus Anthony King, Corwyn Mingo, William Johnson called “Uncle” and Rueben Wilson are each facing a count of rape. Meanwhile, Lancelot Captain, otherwise known as “Junior” and “J” is facing two counts of rape. In addition, William Johnson c/d “Uncle” has been indicted for first count—rape, and second count—assault with intent to commit a felony.

Then there is Larry Hector Johnny, who has to be tried for one charge each for the offence of rape and abduction. Most of the accused persons in the sexual

offences matters are males.

The remaining individuals are to be tried for varying offences, ranging from the capital offence of murder, manslaughter, attempt to commit murder, and causing grievous bodily harm.

A total of 15 persons are to be tried for murder and nine for manslaughter. Approximately another dozen individuals are facing indictments for attempt to commit murder.

Included among the murder accused are Joshua Connell, Kirt Beaton, Kishan Brijmohan, Norlando Brown, Christopher Lyte, Nandram Persaud, Orin King, and Ceyon David. Robert Daniels, Donald Hodgson, Adrian Levi and Edward Emanuel are some of the manslaughter accused. (G1)

Now let’s look at some past censuses to illustrate what we mean. In 1960, Indians were 48% so Burnham didn’t need the results of the 1964 elections to tell him if he wanted to dump the UF, he had to rig to win!! And in the 1980 census (there were no 1970 census) – which Burnham couldn’t rig because his government didn’t conduct it!! –with Indian Guyanese now over 50% of the population, he had to rig again! Hoyte took a chance – with not a little arm twisting by the Yanks!! – not to rig the 1992 elections even though the 1991 census showed Indian Guyanese were only a whisker below 50%!! And he lost!!

Well in 2002, Indian Guyanese had dropped to 43% so it meant that the incumbent PPP couldn’t count on their base to get them across the line on their own. And we saw them intensifying a strategy to court Amerindian votes through a welter of initiatives to help their situation. Land Titling was a big one!! The 2012 census showed the Indian Guyanese dropping below 40% for the first time in a century and we shouldn’t have been surprised that in the 2011 elections the PPP was outvoted by the PNC and AFC combined!!

The PNC had looked at the census numbers and rationally concluded they needed some votes from across the ethnic divide. So, for the 2015 elections, they courted and then hitched up with the AFC that had garnered some Indian Guyanese votes. And voila!!...they formed the government!! It was only because of some sorta death wish by David Granger when he kicked those voters in the groin by throwing some 7000 mostly Indian sugar workers into breadlines!!, that they lost in 2020.

So we now hear there’s been “significant population shifts” in our demographics from “preliminary” numbers.

New Opposition political strategies??

…political (suicide) strategy

There’s this political party, which -- in the context of the above-described changing demographics – have folks scratching their heads. But if you think about their history, there’s a method to their apparent madness!! Now, what has been their history?? A rather ignominious one when it comes to garnering votes. This isn’t very surprising because in a bi-communal society when the “other side” have greater numbers than yours, even folks who like you ain’t gonna “split the votes”. So what to do?? Well, one strategy is to take extreme positions for “your side” which MAY wean away some votes, but WILL push the big party in the extreme direction!! Win-win, no??

But in the changed demographics, an extreme position guarantees no cross-over votes – and remaining in the Opposition wilderness!! So why does the fringe party persist when they know they and their constituency’re gonna suffer? It’s called the Strategy of “Gambling for Resurrection”.

Back-to-back, belly to belly ah doan give a damn, a done dead a’ready!!

…lash

The “Obstreperous 8” – Opposition MPs who’d violated the hallowed Chamber of Parliament – lost their resort to the Courts to protest the Privileges Committee’s imposed suspension. So not receiving their monthly salaries, they gotta pay $350,000 costs!! Ouch!!

Magistrate Fabayo Azore Dead: Aneeza Ishmael

The High Court in Suddie, Essequibo

BOSAI suspends operation as search continues for missing operator

…PM, Ministers visit Linden site …probe launched by Labour Ministry

The search for missing BOSAI Minerals operator, Neptrid Hercules continued on Monday – after he was consumed by quicksand on Saturday at the site – and his family has been assured that everything humanly

possible is being done to find him.

Prime Minister, (ret’d) Brigadier Mark Phillips and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill spoke with family members at the BOSAI site in Linden, where the area was still being combed.

Minister Edghill said an active investigation is ongoing with multi-agency collaboration to make headway.

“The assurance that they (BOSAI) have given us is that they will do everything that is humanly possible to make sure we get to this. The Ministry of Labour has an active investigation that is going on so as to verify what happened, to ensure there is no foul play or whatever the issue is. The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, which is the oversight body for persons involved in mining have been rendering the necessary technical advice,” the Minister told concerned family members.

The Government, he added, will continue addressing and engaging all stakeholders to conclude this matter.

While on the ground, the

Prime Minister assessed the area and also met with officials of Bosai who briefed him on the current status of the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts.

He also addressed concerns about search-and-rescue endeavours, indicating that on the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission's recommendation, search operations in the region were suspended throughout the night for safety considerations.

He explained that “The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission has advised them not to do any work during the night for a safety concern. So, the plan is that

they didn’t do any work last night based on that advisory and that they will continue their search and rescue mission today. We are here on site because we want to find out more about what transpired. You have our support; we are here with you; we share your concerns.”

The Prime Minister also used the occasion to stress the significance of accurate information and updates regarding the ongoing efforts of BOSAI Mining Group Guyana, and he urged all necessary steps to be taken in the rescue of Hercules.

On site, family members stood with bated breath, waiting for word on the

missing man.

“I don’t think any of us would rest and feel comfortable and to have closure until we get to where this matter really occurred and to find out why. We want to ensure that we do this collectively and the Government of Guyana stands ready to work with BOSAI and the wider community,” Edghill shared.

Hercules’ family has called for a complete scan of the worksite, to determine the location of the equipment. However, the company has communicated that metal detectors are being used to pick up any signs of such.

TURN TO PAGE 16

Minister Vickram Bharrat inspecting the site

Prime Minister, (Retired) Brigadier Mark Phillips and Minister Juan Edghill speaking to family members of the missing operator

Missing BOSAI Operator: Neptrid Hercules

Prime Minister Mark Phillips receiving updates from BOSAI officials

Bartica fire leaves 2 homeless

Moneychanger’s murder 4 witnesses testify so far in trial

Four witnesses have testified so far in Kerwin Dos Santos and George Hope’s murder trial over the death of Water Street, Georgetown moneychanger, Sean Nurse, called “Fabulous”.

Their trial is progressing before Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall and a mixed 12-member jury at the High

Hope, both 26, of Freeman Street La Penitence, Georgetown, have pleaded not guilty.

The defence lawyers are from the law firm Hughes, Fields, and Stoby.

Attorneys-at-Law

Marisa Edwards, Tanesha Saigon, Abiola Lowe, and Delon Fraser are the prosecutors and they have so far

Afire of unknown origin has destroyed a house at Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), leaving two persons homeless.

Reports are that at about 15:36h on Sunday, the Bartica Fire Service was alerted to a fire at Lot 40, Second Avenue Bartica. Two water tenders from the Bartica Fire Station were immediately dispatched to the location.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed a one-storey wooden and concrete building engulfed in flames.

The building was owned by 57-year-old Bhagwanttie Rohit-Joseph. It was occupied by 31-year-old Bheesham Rohit and 25-year-old Camacy Hendricks.

Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the building and its contents were destroyed. Due to radiated heat, two

houses located on the northern and southern sides of the building of origin suffered damage to a quantity of window panes, PVC guttering, and roof facing.

Additionally, a motorcycle and boat engine belonging to Bheesham Rohit were also destroyed.

Two jets were used to extinguish the fire. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire. (G12)

Court in Demerara. They have been jointly indicted for the capital offence of murder.

The indictment states that on February 4, 2018, in the county of Demerara, they murdered Nurse during the course or furtherance of a robbery. Dos Santos and

called four witnesses.

Nurse, a well-known moneychanger and father of three, of Lot 33 Shopping Plaza, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was sitting in a chair at the corner of Avenue of the Republic and America Street in Georgetown when he was approached by a man armed with a handgun.

The man demanded that Nurse hand over a bag containing an undisclosed sum of local and foreign currencies. Nurse, 47, resisted, and in retaliation, the bandit pulled the trigger, shooting him once in his head. He collapsed, and died almost immediately. The alleged culprit then escaped on foot, north on Avenue of the Republic and then east into Charlotte Street.

Police Headquarters had said that a 9mm spent shell was found at the scene, and that several persons were questioned as to the description of the shooter. Reports stated that the man who shot and killed Nurse was clad in a red hoodie and a pair of brown trousers. (G1)

Charred debris after the fire was extinguished

Murder accused: Kerwin Dos Santos

Murder accused: George Hope

Dead: Sean Nurse

45 homes built by MoM for vulnerable persons in 2022 …over 70 pending requests

As we speak, we have in excess of 26 essential requests and we have more than 70 requests total. We’re looking at these requests. The intention is to roll out these activities as early as possible,” the Chief of Staff told the media.

The Chief of Staff clarified that when a request is made for someone requiring assistance, certain criteria must be met to ensure transparency. There are also screenings for the most vulnerable to benefit.

Men on Mission has garnered support from hundreds of males

The Men on Mission (MoM) initiative, a President Dr Irfaan Ali-led effort that has sparked widespread support from stakeholders countrywide, was able to construct 45 homes last year for persons in need, which included single parents and the elderly in the majority.

Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Godfrey Bess informed at Monday’s press conference that there are over 70 requests for a better home. These requests are filtered based on immediate need and other factors.

The direction of President Irfaan Ali is to

5040 Paxlovid pills

arrive in Guyana for COVID-19 treatment

construct at least 50 homes in 2023. Single parents, persons with disabilities, elderly individuals and victims of natural disasters are the priority groups targeted.

While a budgetary allocation of $500 million was set aside for MoM this year, Bess indicated that a specific amount has not been earmarked for such project. Thus far, homes have been constructed primarily through donations from stakeholders.

“The intention and our criteria have been very objective and we will continue to work in this manner.

“We have recognised the importance of ensuring we have criteria so that the most vulnerable and needing persons benefit from these homes. Our assessment will ensure homes are prepared for needy persons and based on a standard that our planning committee has worked on.”

He added, “I must say we’re very conscious about duplicity and the good thing about Men on Mission is that we’ve got partners in all organisations in Guyana.”

Some of the requirements include, apart from the formal request, proof of ownership of the land, birth certificate and one other form of

identification. Photographs of the existing structure and recommendation from persons in the community are also requested.

“Among our Men on Mission, we have established an assessment team which comprises of persons from the various sectors. We have qualified and objective persons who would look at these assessments,” Brigadier Bess relayed.

The intention of the Men on Mission initiative was to

involve one thousand men from various segments of society including the Joint Services, the sport fraternity, the entertainment industry, community workers, the religious fraternity, the business sector, among others. Volunteers have been appearing from all parts of Guyana – some of whom are still waiting to contribute. A system has been established for them to add their input in specific areas according to skills and expertise. (G12)

The Health Ministry on Monday received a donation of 5040 doses of Paxlovid from the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), to be used for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

The medication, valued

between UNICEF and Pfizer BioNTech for the oral antiviral medicine to be procured at a lower cost, enabling greater access.

During his brief remarks, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said these pills will interrupt the lifecycle of

at $100 million, is meant to reduce the hospitalisation timeframe of persons infected with the COVID-19 disease. This was made possible through an agreement

the COVID-19 virus, causing a reduction in the length of the disease. Presently, Guyana’s infection and hospitalisation rates have been at a steady low.

President Irfaan Ali with an elderly woman in her new MoMconstructed home

Paxlovid will now be used to treat COVID patients in Guyana

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony receiving the pills from UNICEF Representative Irfan Akhtar

MoM to establish facilities for homeless, focus on men’s health

Arigorous work programme for 2023 has been laid out under the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative, examining facilities for the homeless, working to promote men’s health and enacting behavioural change among the male population.

Chairperson of the MoM National Committee and Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Godfrey Bess on Monday updated on the progress made since their launch in October, which saw them successfully addressing issues of gender-based violence, and offering mentorship for young men.

For 2023, they are ready to further impact the country with their work programme following guidance from President Irfaan Ali. Five focal areas are being targeted, namely: male behavioural change through character building, men’s health, environmental transformation,

capacity building for emergency relief efforts and rehabilitation.

In the area of rehabilitation, efforts will seek to create facilities to provide practical shelters for the homeless in the city, and towns. This will be done through rehabilitation of buildings or establishment of new ones. An inventory is being done to identify available locations.

He highlighted, “The objective is to ensure a design and level of comfort that reduces the efforts by these persons to return to the public streets. The facility would also provide a different level of hygiene, healthy meals daily and access to quality healthcare. The lives of these citizens should be significantly improved by the proposed MoM efforts.”

Speaking on male behavioural change, the Chief of Staff shared there remains an urgent need to see transformational behavioural change. Through

the mentorship programme in 2022, sessions were conducted with the male population to provide guidance on conflict resolution. In this case, positive feedback had been reported from communities.

“It is clear that rates of domestic violence, sexual abuse, male unemployment and under employment, crime, and road

5040 Paxlovid pills arrive...

“It’s really an antiviral medication and as you know, SARS-Cov-2 is a virus; and so, at critical points in its life cycle it would interrupt that life cycle and by doing so, prevent the virus from replicating and it has been quite effective in doing so…Making this medication available to Guyana is another milestone in our fight against COVID-19. We acknowledge the role of UNICEF in strengthening the COVID-19 campaign,” the Health Minister stressed.

Deputy Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname, Irfan Akhtar underscored that UNICEF is committed to ensuring equitable access to COVID-19 therapies.

“These life-saving medicines have not been widely accessible to low and middle-income countries because of cost and availability. Our partners have been working to ensure that these countries benefit, including Guyana,” Akhtar committed.

The Paxlovid medication will be distributed across

FROM PAGE 11

various regions of Guyana to treat patients with COVID-19.

Paxlovid, developed by Pfizer, and Molnupiravir, by Merck and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, have proven to significantly reduce both hospitalisation and death. The pills work to interrupt the life cycle of the virus by hampering its replication. The enzymes can produce enough errors to render it incapable of infecting people. The pills can be used to treat mild to severe case of the novel coronavirus.

violence are unsustainable for our society. MOM will continue to work with men and boys across the country to address the underlying reasons for these dysfunctions and make the necessary interventions to bring about lasting change. Under this area of focus, MoM will mount a series of sessions called Stages of Hope.”

In addition, a series of One-Week Boys’ Camps during the August school vacations will be hosted for five weeks.

It was detailed, “These camps will be geared towards a total of about 500 boys. The camps will include instructional sessions, group activities, and other components that are designed to encourage the healthy growth and proper development of boys into men. In an effort to cut down on repeat offences, there will also be a camp for young men

who have previously passed through the criminal justice system.”

In the area of men’s health, Men on Mission will, with the support of the professionals who work for the Ministry of Health, operate a series of men’s health clinics with the goal of providing diagnosis, screening, and treatment for male health issues. Testicular and prostate exams, tests for chronic diseases, and counselling on a variety of men’s health concerns will be some of the

services offered at these clinics.

On the environmental landscape, MoM will launch an exercise called the Colour of Life. The aim of this exercise is to support homeowners along Guyana’s primary corridors to fix their fences, paint their buildings and fences, and to plant flowering and colourful plants. The first corridor identified for this exercise is the first few miles of road from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri. (G12)

Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess

TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$1.7B in contracts signed to advance Govt’s agri agenda

The Agriculture Ministry on Monday signed six contracts totalling $1,793,905,190 for several projects across the country to advance the Government’s agricultural agenda.

These included two contracts totalling $1,332,575,112 for the rehabilitation and supervision of one drainage catchment area at Liliendaal and two of the same at Ogle, East Coast Demerara; a $185,000,000 contract for the procurement of 100 tunnel houses, $199,662,358 for the construction of an office and laboratory for the Guyana Food Safety Authority (GFSA), $19,621,960 for the construction of a revetment along Lamaha canal and a $57,045,750 contract for the construction of a drainage structure at Palmyra, Region 3.

Flood risk management

The rehabilitation of the drainage catchment areas falls under the World Bank’s US$26 million financing to support the ongoing Guyana Flood Risk Management Project, which is aimed at improving the drainage in the coastal areas in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), reducing their vulnerability

to flooding.

According to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, these catchment areas will benefit the entire eastern part of Region Four. “This project…will help the entire…eastern part of Region Four and it will contribute to the easing of flooding in these areas,” Mustapha remarked.

He made reference to the 2021 floods which affected every region in the country, noting that since that national disaster, the Government has made significant investments to improve drainage nationwide.

“Guyana, over the years…we have seen a

number of areas that were flooded. In 2005…here in Georgetown and the East Coast would have suffered one of the most serious floods and then in 2021 we would have suffered the most devastating floods in the history of our country. So as a Government, we are very cognisant of the fact that we have to improve our drainage system, over the years we have been doing that. Over the last two and a half years, we have seen a number of pump stations, new pumps, canals, kokers, sluices and other areas…have been rehabilitated. As we are improving the…drainage and irrigation aspect,

the flood risk management of our country, we are seeing more and more development especially in the agriculture sector,” he explained.

Agricultural innovation entrepreneurship

Of the $200 million allocated in this year’s budget for the President’s Agricultural Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP), a sum of $185 million will be expended for the procurement of 100 tunnel houses. The $185,000,000 contract was awarded to Agrosol for the procurement of these houses, which would be placed in areas across the country, as

the Ministry seeks to expand the AIEP programme.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha boasted that his Ministry has received a number of requests from young people who are interested in joining the AIEP.

“I was able to look at a number of requests, coming from young people in various parts of the country where they are interested in… these areas. We are encouraging young people to be… in agriculture, we want [to] make agriculture more modern [and] less labour intensive. I am happy to see the interest being exhibited by young people coming into the agriculture sector,” The Minister shared.

This AIEP, which was launched in January 2022 by President Dr Irfaan Ali in an effort to bolster the agriculture sector, empower youths and create jobs, is fully financed by the Government and participants can earn from the produce they harvest.

The programme currently has some 100 participants. It was previously disclosed that the initiative earned more than $10 million to date, since its launch in January 2022 by President Dr Irfaan Ali.

Interested persons who are between the ages of 1835 can apply to join this programme via email at aiep@narei.gov.gy or contact the team at (592) 608 0527. Additionally, persons outside of Region Four can also write to the Agriculture Minister stating their interest.

Office, laboratory for GFSA

According to Mustapha, the construction of the office and laboratory for the GFSA is very essential for the organisation to carry out its duties.

“This is a very important project because, as Guyana advance, we are now looking at the Food Safety Authority to be housed in one building, and all the regulations must fall under the Guyana Food Safety Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture has that responsibility,” Mustapha remarked.

The Minister boasted that currently, Guyana is driving the Agri-Food System in the Caribbean, and the entire eastern Caribbean and Caricom are looking forward to that leadership. He added that the Ministry will also be hosting another investment forum in August, so investments can continue coming into the country.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha standing with the group of contractors following the signing on Monday

Condemnation continues to mount as FITUG slams WPA race-baiting

“dust bin

Days after a controversial public meeting in which a Working People’s Alliance (WPA) leader went as far as to suggest that the Disciplined Services should use their guns against the state, condemnation continues to flow against the party.

Joining the condemnation was the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG). The union made it clear it was “deeply disturbed and appalled” by the utterances of Dr David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye, during a recent public meeting organised by the WPA.

Asserting that their utterances are an attempt to stir racial excitement, the federation noted that both men have crossed “several moral and ethical boundaries. According to the union, while it supports free speech, their comments rightly attracted a national outcry.

“We are firm that such sentiments have no place in our society and their racial overtones may have well run afoul of our legislation seeking to promote ra-

cial harmony and cohesion. Given our country’s difficult past of tenuous race relations, the expressions by the leaders of the WPA demand our widest condemnation.”

“They have no place and should be confined to the dust bin of history. To engage in such narratives, in our view, demonstrates how far the WPA has drifted from its multi-ethnic moorings. Indeed, its founders must be turning wherever they maybe,” FITUG said.

According to the union, the comments of the WPA

leaders are also indicative that the political grouping has run out of anything constructive to contribute to the national discourse and have instead chosen the low road in order to remain relevant.

“At this time, the FITUG call on all peace-loving and decent-minded Guyanese to reject the false narratives being peddled by personalities who are looking at self-interest rather than the national well-being,” FITUG further said.

During the public meeting, Ogunseye made a reference to the use of guns in the hands of the Disciplined Services.

Inflammatory President Dr Irfaan Ali, who is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, had described the comments as inflammatory in a video broadcast on Saturday.

“Your President will stand up every single day for what is right. Will stand up every single day in support of democracy. In support of unity. In support of development. Because all the guns he’s talking about, let him turn them to me,”

President Ali had said.

“Because no gun or bullet will stop us on this path of unifying our people. On this path of developing our country. On this path of

uplifting the lives of our people. This is clear hate, terrorism and racism, that come off of that stage. All of Guyana should be upset. Imagine the Joint Services had to issue a statement!”

Condemnation for the WPA statements have come even from the Opposition camp. Former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) General Secretary Geeta Chandan-Edmonds had also joined President Ali and members of civil society in condemning the comments made during the meeting.

Other members of her party have also distanced themselves from the utterances. PNCR parliamentarians Ganesh Mahipaul and Natasha Singh-Lewis, Georgetown Mayor Ubraj

Narine and Region Four Chairman Daniel Seeram, had released a statement of their own following the meeting.

The four PNCR members, who are of IndoGuyanese descent, took issue with another part of the meeting in which a speaker denigrated the origins of Indo-Guyanese and distanced themselves from the remarks made.

In their statement, the four PNCR officials had condemned these comments made on stage. They also expressed disappointment that these comments were not challenged by any subsequent speaker. These subsequent speakers had included Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton. (G3)

…says party leaders’ utterances should be confined to

of history”

WPA’s Tacuma Ogunseye FITUG Head Carvil Duncan

Local fishermen complain of “increased fees”

…as Suriname Govt yet to issue licences

The Agriculture Ministry is in receipt of reports that some fishermen operating in the Corentyne River are now being forced to pay increased fees as they continue to wait on the Surinamese Government to honour a commitment made to the President Dr Irfaan Ali Administration to issue licences to stakeholders in the Guyanese fishing industry.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha told this publication that to date, the impasse on the issuance of the fishing licences still exists, despite a number of bilateral talks on the matter between Guyana and Suriname.

Mustapha said he plans to soon engage Guyana’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd, to “deal with the matter and look at a way forward”.

The Agriculture Minister indicated that this is particularly important since, “some fisherfolks are saying they have to pay increased fees now to their counterparts in Suriname.”

Despite promises by

Suriname at the bilateral level to issue licences to Guyanese fishermen to operate in their waters, this has not materialised. In fact, licences were supposed to have been issued in 2021.

Following the high-level meeting in Guyana during August 2021 between President Ali and Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the two leaders issued a joint press statement indicating that the age-old issue of licences for Guyanese fisherfolk to operate in Suriname’s territorial waters would be addressed.

These fishermen operate from the Corentyne coast and have to use the Corentyne to get access to the Atlantic where they get most of their catch. The Corentyne River is considered Surinamese territory. A situation had arisen whereby the licences were being issued to Surinamese businessmen at US$100 per year and rented to the Guyanese fisherfolk at US$3000 annually. This fee has now apparently increased.

Email correspondence

sent from high officials in the Surinamese Government, to their Guyanese counterparts, revealed that Suriname had promised Guyana, that the fishing licence for Guyanese to fish in Surinamese waters would have been issued on January 1, 2021.

In the email dated December 13, 2020, which was seen by this publication, Surinamese Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Prahlad Sewdien had written to Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture, informing him that the fishing licences would be issued from January 1 of the next year and that they would try to have preparations completed within two weeks.

The email also acknowledged the list of fishermen that Mustapha had sent to Sewdien, while also suggesting various actions that should be taken to complete the process of issuing the licences, under Surinamese law.

President Ali has previously expressed that his Government is not happy with the way fisherfolk

Suspect in NA fatal chopping arrested

The suspect in the fatal chopping incident in New Amsterdam on Sunday has been apprehended by Police in Berbice.

Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus said at about 11:30h, an intelligence-led operation headed by an Inspector, set up a roadblock exercise at the eastern side of Berbice Bridge Access Road.

The 34-year-old murder suspect of Smythfield, New Amsterdam, who was a passenger of a hire car, was arrested for the murder of Kevin Small Jr.

The Commander said the suspect remained silent after being cautioned but was nevertheless taken to Central Police Station where he was placed into custody as investigations continue in to the murder of Small, which occurred on Sunday at Budhan Housing Scheme, West Canje, Berbice.

Meanwhile, an autopsy performed on the body of Small by Government Pathologist Dr Vevakanand Brijmohan gave the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage due to incise wound to the forearm.

The body of 22-year-old Small Jr called “Padeye” of Patrick Dam, Mount Sinai, was discovered at a home at Caracas – the neighbouring community to Mount Sinai.

Reports are that on

Sunday morning at about 10:30h Small, Shamar Wilson and another friend left Mount Sinai for the Canje River at Caracas to swim.

Upon their arrival, three other youths approached them, during which an argument ensued, which subsequently resulted in a fight.

In his bid to escape, Small jumped into the river but was grabbed by one of the attackers, who started firing chops.

The Police said Shamar Wilson jumped in to help his friend but one of the attackers turned his attention to him and wounded him with a cutlass.

Reports are that Wilson was subsequently assisted to the hospital.

Meanwhile, Small fled the scene and went into hiding and his body was discovered at a home at Caracas.

The dead man’s father, Kevin Small Snr, told this publication that there were reports of a chopping incident in the community on Friday evening and while he was at a shop in his street on Saturday evening playing games, three youths armed with cutlasses entered.

“My son don’t lime there but they come there looking for other people who they say names calling. They see me and say ‘look he father deh here’ but nobody ain’t try doing me nothing. This morning I get up early because he does sleep upstairs by his mother, get up early to tell he wha going on and me ain’t see he.”

The 51-year-old Small said he went to work and on his way home, he was told that his son was chopped.

“I ask them where he is and nobody could give an account of where he deh. So we launch a search and when we come down at the back here we see he. He does deh in that house – is one of his friend house he does rest; he don’t live there though. They see he brace up at the back on the wall, he didn’t fully dead. He went bleeding and they put he to lie down on the sheet and that is where he pass out,” Small told this publication. (G4)

are currently treated. The Guyanese Head of State had even revealed that he reached out to representatives of the Surinamese private sector on the issue. “I called key members of the Surinamese private sector myself to let them understand we treat everyone equally here, we give everyone an opportunity here and

that they should ensure that similar treatment is accorded to Guyanese,” he explained to the media in September 2022.

Guyana’s Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo is on record saying that the Guyana Government has suspicions why the Santokhi-led Administration is not honouring its pledges.

“Sometimes they go back and forth because the right people are making a lot of money off of these licences over there, so, they don’t want to give them [to Guyanese]. Therefore, they are fighting. Even when there is goodwill at the level of the Government, there is a problem at other levels,” Jagdeo had contended.

Bosai suspends operation as...

“We are not finished scanning all the area. We are doing it gradually with the help of the GGMC and the Government,” an official shared.

Public Relations Officer at BOSAI, Sherry Domer informed that the incident occurred at about 04:00h on Saturday. Hercules, who has been working with the company for over 40 years, was operating a bulldozer. The operator and the equipment were observed missing and a search and res-

cue team was deployed. The family was immediately informed and brought to the site.

Manual probing using steel rods was done in a bid to locate the machinery. Two hydraulic excavators were sent to remove overburden along with metal detectors. Due to risks of secondary movement on Saturday night, the search team ceased its pursuit.

GGMC personnel arrived on the site with a highly-advanced magnetic

device on Sunday, which detected strong indication of metal mass some 15 metres below the surface. The company was advised to use excavators to remove debris, which continued on Monday morning.

Meanwhile, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat and a team also paid a visit to Region 10, where he met with family members of Hercules. He also visited BOSAI'S operations and the site of the accident. (G12)

President Ali holds high level...

During a follow-up meeting in September 2022, President Ali and several Caricom leaders met VP Harris in Washington to further discuss the commitments they made at the Summit of the Americas last June to partner with the Region to promote energy security, access to finance, and food security in the Caribbean – three areas that the leaders identified as their top priorities.

President Ali is the lead on agriculture and food security in the Caricom quasi-Cabinet. He is also co-chairing the US-CaricomDominican Republic SubCommittee on Food Security and Agriculture – one of three committees established during the 2022 Summit.

Consequently, the Guyanese leader used the opportunity last September to lobby the United States Government for some US$25 million in assistance to further push the food se-

curity and agriculture agenda in the Caribbean, especially among specific groups such as women and youths.

This request is in addition to US$28 million that the United States Government already injected for shortterm activities aimed at supporting an increase in food production and further improving agriculture in a Region. This assistance is one of the pledges made by the US under the new “Zero Hunger Caribbean Plan” to address the Region’s urgent food security needs. Other interventions include mobilisation of experts to explore biofertiliser production as well as developing operational logistics and supply chain models to streamline intraregional trade, among others.

Moreover, the September meeting also saw an agreement to tackle intraregional trade barriers and those that exist with the US. The leaders also discussed at length, research and devel-

opment extension services and investment opportunities in agriculture and food production systems within Caricom itself.

With regards to energy security, talks surrounded an integrated energy plan in which the Caricom leaders proposed a joint approach to ensure regional sustainability in the energy mix and energy framework that includes natural gas, fossil fuel, and renewables.

Meanwhile, on the access to finance end, the issue of dealing with the debt crisis, post-COVID recovery, and financing for mitigation were among the issues that the regional leaders and US Vice President had substantial discussions on.

The Biden-Harris Administration has committed to continue work to expand access to US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) financing for private sector-led projects in the Caribbean. (G3)

Dead: Kevin Small Jr

“I lost everything”: Cyclone Yaku unleashes destruction in Peru

Powerful Cyclone Yaku has unleashed torrents of rain on Peru's northern region in recent days, burying homes and cars in mud and leading to the deaths of at least six people.

In the northern coastal towns of Trujillo and Lambayeque, residents waded through knee-high water and cars crawled through inundated streets. Brown water cascaded down pedestrian steps.

"My house was filled with water up to the waist," an unidentified woman from Trujillo emotionally told reporters.

"It reached us, we have lost everything, I lost everything. I don't even have anywhere to sleep, where to sit."

The cyclone is the latest crisis hitting Peru, where anti-Government protests have rocked the country

since Congress removed former President Pedro Castillo from power in December.

The Government of President Dina Boluarte declared a state of emergency in 400 districts as it seeks to bring relief from the effects of the cyclone. Nearly 60 people have died since the start of the rainy season,

Brazil's Bolsonaro will be subpoenaed in jewellery scandal – Minister

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro will be called to testify as part of an investigation into accusations he tried to illegally bring US$3.2 million of jewellery into the country, Justice Minister Flavio Dino said on Monday.

"We have enquiries in progress, hearings taking place, and at some point, the former President will be subpoenaed," Dino told reporters after an event in Rio de Janeiro.

There was no deadline or date set for Bolsonaro to be subpoenaed, the

according to the National Institute of Civil Defence (INDECI).

"It is sad and painful. Families are trapped in the mud, rice crops are flooded, and you can't even see the river's course; it's lost," Boluarte said. "This can't continue."

(Reuters)

Frustrated migrants storm Mexico-US border

Hundreds of migrants tried to rush into the United States from Mexico on Sunday.

The sudden crush prompted opponents of President Joe Biden to call for better border security.

The group of mostly Venezuelan nationals attempted to cross a bridge connecting Ciudad Juarez with El Paso, Texas.

The migrants broke through Mexican security, but were stopped by barbed wire and US border agents in riot gear.

"We all ran, and they put a fence with barbed wire around us," said Jackson Solis, a 23-year-

old Venezuelan who went to the bridge on Sunday.

"They threw tear gas at us."

Videos posted on social media showed the crowd, which included several children, attempting to cross the bridge before retreating back to the Mexican side.

The incident prompted criticism from Republican leaders. Texas Senator John Cornyn accused Biden of failing to work with congressional leaders to stem the flow of migrants.

"I think part of the President's policies are attracting more illegal immigration and what the Border Patrol calls 'pull

factors', in other words, the perception that there are no consequences associated with coming here outside of legal immigration channels," he told Fox News.

In a statement, US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) said that the group posed "a potential threat to make a mass entry".

A record total of 2.76 million migrants were stopped from entering the United States in the year ending September 2022.

The high levels continued until January, when there was a sharp drop, according to the latest available figures. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T&T to respond to death row inmate's bid for freedom

The High Court Judge hearing the application of convicted killer Daniel Agard, who wants his death sentence vacated and to be removed from death row, says she wants to hear from the State, as the claim was of great public importance, with far-reaching consequences.

On Monday, Justice Joan Charles ordered the State to respond to Agard’s affidavit by April 6 and reply to his Attorneys' submissions by April 20.

The matter will come up for hearing again on May 5.

In addition to wanting his death sentence vacated and his removal from death row, Agard also wants Charles to sentence him.

Agard’s case will have implications for other

death-row inmates who have spent more than five years awaiting execution.

He has applied for an interim declaration that any attempt to carry out the death sentence imposed on him on September 13, 2013, and his continued detention on death row will contravene the Constitution.

Agard, 39, was twice convicted of the brutal

murders of the Cropper family in 2001.

He first went to trial in 2004, when he and another man, Lester Pitman, were convicted and sentenced to hang for the triple murders of Maggie Lee, Lynette Lithgow-Pearson and John Cropper on December 11, 2001.

Agard was the great-nephew of John and the late independent Senator Angela Cropper, while Lee was his great-grandmother and Pearson his great-aunt.

Agard successfully appealed his convictions and a retrial was ordered. He was again convicted on September 13, 2013 and three death sentences were again imposed on him, which he appealed and lost in July 2019. He did not appeal further. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Minister said, adding that if the former President –who is in self-imposed exile in the United States – fails to testify, Brazil "may or may not" seek international legal cooperation.

Luxury jewellery gifted to the then-President and his wife Michelle Bolsonaro by the Saudi Government was seized by customs officials in October 2021 after it was found in the backpack of a Government aide.

Several officials from the Bolsonaro Administration unsuccessfully tried to re -

cover the jewellery from customs, according to local media.

Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing. According to the Minister, Police will conclude the investigation whether or not Bolsonaro attends a hearing.

"The deposition is an opportunity for his defence... We are facing facts that have documentary proof, images, film, officers and papers, material evidence, and there are hearings, oral evidence," said Dino. (Reuters)

Colombian President accuses criminal group of breaking ceasefire

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Monday said the Clan del Golfo, the country's largest criminal organisation, has broken a ceasefire and there is no possibility of negotiations with the group if it continues attacks.

The ceasefire with the Clan – also known as the Gaitanista Self-Defence Forces (AGC) – was part of efforts to end the group's part in Colombia's internal conflict, which has killed at least 450,000 people.

In a radio interview, Petro accused the group of destroying a municipal aqueduct in Antioquia province amid roadblocks connected to protests by informal gold miners.

The roadblocks have affected up to 300,000 people across 12 municipalities in two provinces, resulting in shortages of fuel, food, and medicine. Police lifted the

majority of the roadblocks last week.

"By breaking the pipes, they have left Taraza without drinking water. The Clan del Golfo versus humble people," Petro said in a Twitter message on Sunday.

The group "has broken the ceasefire," he said.

In a separate radio interview on Monday, Petro said there was "obvious -

ly no possibility of negotiation" with the group if it were not capable of setting aside illegal business interests.

The group did not immediately respond to Petro's statements.

Gold miner Mineros SA has suspended operations in the region until it can guarantee security, it said in a statement. (Reuters)

Commitment to be sought on leading a Haiti security force

Biden Administration officials are pressing their Canadian counterparts to make a decision on whether Ottawa will lead a multinational force into Haiti to assist the crisis-racked Caribbean nation in its battle against gang control, US and diplomatic sources said.

They are hoping that a visit to Canada by President Joe Biden next week will settle months of debate over the matter. In October, the United States proposed a resolution at the United Nations Security Council – with the support of the United Nations Secretary General and the Haitian Government – for the deployment of a rapid-action, multinational force to Haiti to help the country’s embattled Police break the stranglehold of armed gangs spreading

across the country.

At the time, State Department officials said they were confident that a country would step up to lead the initiative by November. And in January, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that Canada had “expressed interest in taking on a leadership role”.

A US official familiar with the matter told McClatchy and the Miami Herald that the resolution was drafted on the hope and expectation that Canada would lead the effort. But as Haiti’s security crisis worsens with hospitals forced to cease operations owing to escalating violence and kidnappings and with Police abandoning their posts in the face of deadly gang attacks, Canada has yet to

make any public commitment to do so. Instead, the country’s leaders — including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has personally engaged with Caribbean leaders on the topic — have been casting doubts in private discussions and in press interviews.

During a meeting with members of the 15-member Caribbean Community (Caricom) in the Bahamas last month, Trudeau stopped short of agreeing to deploy his military. Instead, he announced a slate of new Canadian Government support, including the deployment of two warships off the coast of Port-au-Prince, and more sanctions against those his government believes are contributing to the destabilisation.

(Excerpt from Miami Herald)

View of damaged houses in the aftermath of the Moche River overflowing after torrential rains caused by Cyclone Yaku, in Trujillo, Peru, March 13, 2023 (Reuters/Randy Reyes)

Colombian President Gustavo Petro (Reuters/Arnd Wiegmann)

Justice Joan Charles

Oil prices fall 2% in choppy trade as banking fears rattle markets

Oil prices fell over 2% in volatile trading on Monday as the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank roiled equities markets and raised fears of a fresh financial crisis, but a recovery in Chinese demand provided support.

Brent crude futures settled down US$2.01, or 2.4%, to US$80.77. The global benchmark earlier fell to a session low of US$78.34, its lowest price since early January.

US West Texas Intermediate crude futures (WTI) dropped US$1.88, or 2.5%, to US$74.80 a barrel. WTI earlier declined to US$72.30 a barrel, its lowest price since December.

US authorities launched emergency measures on Sunday to shore up confidence in the banking system after fears of contagion from the failure of Silicon Valley Bank led to a selloff in US assets at the end of last week and state regulators closed New York-based Signature Bank on Sunday.

US stocks indexes also traded choppily as investors weighed a possible pause in interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve in March.

The sudden shutdown of SVB Financial triggered concerns about risks to other banks resulting from the Fed's sharp rate hikes over the last year, but has also spurred speculation about whether the central bank could slow the pace of its monetary tightening.

"It was kind of surprising today to see the big drop in oil considering the fact that the Fed more than likely will have a harder time raising interest rates aggressively and that should cause weakness in the dollar," Price Futures Group analyst Phil Flynn said.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against six other currencies, fell nearly 1% as short-dated Treasury yields tumbled. A weaker greenback makes oil cheaper for holders of other currencies and typically supports oil prices.

Worries about further Fed monetary tightening have been exacerbated by high US crude oil inventories.

Crude oil production in the seven biggest US shale basins is expected to rise in April to its highest since December 2019, the Energy Information Administration said. (Reuters)

Israeli teachers' racist WhatsApp chat caught by pupils

Around the World

ICC to launch war crimes cases against Russians over Ukraine

The International Criminal Court is expected to seek the arrest of Russian officials for forcibly deporting children from Ukraine and targeting civilian infrastructure, a source said on Monday, in what would be the first international war crimes cases arising from Moscow's invasion.

The source said the arrest warrants could include the crime of genocide, and were expected to arrive in the "short term" if the court prosecutor's request was approved by a pre-trial judge at the Hague-based court. It was unclear which Russian officials the prosecutor might seek warrants against.

Moscow would be certain to reject any arrest warrants against any of its officials. But an interna -

tional war crimes prosecution could deepen Moscow's diplomatic isolation and make it difficult for those accused to travel abroad.

Konstantin Kosachyov, Deputy Speaker of Russia's Upper House of Parliament,

said the ICC had no jurisdiction over the country since Moscow withdrew its backing in 2016. "The ICC is an instrument of neo-colonialism in the hands of the West," he said.

Russia denies deliber-

ately targeting civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, saying its attacks are all intended to reduce Kyiv's ability to fight. It has not concealed a programme under which it has brought thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia, but presents it as a humanitarian campaign to protect orphans and children abandoned in the conflict zone.

Kyiv says thousands of deported Ukrainian children are being adopted into Russian families, housed in Russian camps and orphanages, given Russian passports and brought up to reject Ukrainian nationality.

The UN genocide convention defines "forcibly transferring children of the group to another group" as one of five acts that can be prosecuted as genocide.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Storm Freddy kills more than 100 on return to Mozambique, Malawi

Mozambique and Malawi on Monday were counting the cost of Tropical Storm Freddy, which killed more than 100 people, injured scores and left a trail of destruction as it ripped through southern Africa for the second time in a month over the weekend.

Freddy is one of the strongest storms ever recorded in the southern hemisphere and could be the longest-lasting tropical cyclone, according to the World Meteorological Organisation.

It pummelled central Mozambique on Saturday, ripping roofs off buildings and bringing widespread flooding around the port of Quelimane, before moving inland towards Malawi with torrential rains that caused landslides.

The full extent of the

damage and loss of life in Mozambique in particular is not yet clear, as the power supply and phone signals were cut off in some parts of the affected area.

The storm has killed 99 people in Malawi, including 85 in the main commercial hub of Blantyre, said the commissioner of

the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, Charles Kalemba, at a press briefing.

The total number killed by storm Freddy in Mozambique, Malawi and Madagascar since it first made landfall last month is now around 136.

The central hospital in

Blantyre had received at least 60 bodies by early afternoon, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) country director Marion Pechayre told Reuters by telephone, adding that some 200 injured were being treated in the hospital.

Mozambique has seen more than a year's worth of rainfall in the past four weeks.

Malawi has been battling the deadliest cholera outbreak in its history, and UN agencies have warned the situation could now get worse.

Scientists say fossil fuel-driven climate change is making tropical storms stronger, as oceans absorb heat from greenhouse gas emissions and when warm seawater evaporates heat energy is transferred to the atmosphere. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Israel's Education Minister has apologised to Ethiopian Israeli schoolgirls whose teachers mocked them in a WhatsApp group on a school trip.

The girls spotted the teachers messaging each other in a chat group they created called Black School Trip.

One of the girls filmed the chat over a teacher's shoulder, then shared it on social media, calling the teachers "a disgrace". The teachers involved were suspended and the incident is being investigated.

There are about 150,000 citizens of Ethiopian origin in Israel, the first of whom arrived in sizeable numbers in a series of top-secret Mossad-led operations in the 1980s.

The Ethiopian Jews' integration in Israel has been

challenging, with the community suffering disproportionately high levels of unemployment and poverty as well as discrimination, although their situation has shown signs of improvement in recent years.

Last Monday, teachers and pupils from a religious high school in Netivot, southern Israel, set off on a threeday trip.

Girls sitting behind one of the teachers saw her messaging in the group chat, which contained disparaging comments towards the Ethiopian Israeli pupils.

One of the pupils took a video of the chat in action without the teacher realising. A pupil then shared a message to the perpetrators on social media, attaching pictures of the offensive messages.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Biden promises “whatever needed” for US bank system as SVB shock hammers stocks

Bank stocks around the world plunged on Monday even as President Joe Biden vowed to take whatever action was needed to ensure the safety of the US banking system, after the sudden collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.

Biden's efforts to reassure markets and depositors came after emergency measures by the United States to guarantee deposits at both banks failed to dispel investor worries about potential contagion to other lenders worldwide.

First Republic had been

able to meet withdrawal demands on Monday with the help of extra funding from JP Morgan Chase, the mid-cap lender's Executive Chair Jim Herbert told CNBC, adding

that it was not seeing a massive deposit outflow.

Shockwaves were also felt in Europe, where the STOXX banking index closed 5.7% lower. Germany's Commerzbank fell 12.7%, while Credit Suisse slid 9.6% to a new record low.

Swiss financial regulator FINMA said it was closely monitoring banks and insurers, while a senior European Central Bank supervisor said the board overseeing the euro zone's biggest banks did not see any need for an emergency meeting.

Biden said his Administration's actions

over the weekend meant "Americans can have confidence that the banking system is safe", while also promising stiffer regulation after the biggest US bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis.

Shares in US banking giants JP Morgan Chase, Morgan Stanley and Bank of America nevertheless weakened.

In the money markets, indicators of credit risk in the US and euro zone banking systems edged up. Europe's volatility index jumped to its highest level since October 2022. (Excerpt from Reuters)

International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan visits a residential building damaged by a Russian missile strike late November in the town of Vyshhorod, outside Kyiv, Ukraine, February 28, 2023

Men dig in search of survivors and victims in the mud and debris left by Cyclone Freddy in Chilobwe, Blantyre, Malawi, March 13, 2023

US President Joe Biden

Ethiopian Jews in Israel have long integrated but many still suffer discrimination

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Stick to the truth, question anything that sounds untrue and verify information before passing it along. You’ll have plenty of opportunities, but not all will be long-term.

(March 21-April 19)

Avoid joint ventures, lending or borrowing, or paying for someone else’s mistake. Pay attention to your needs and what you are trying to accomplish. You are better off working alone at present.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Don’t get angry; get moving. What you do, not what you say, will impact others. Getting along will be key, especially when dealing with emotionally unstable people.

Read between the lines, consider every detail and don’t be afraid to do things your way. Pay attention to your gut; you’ll know what to do to get what you want. Don’t let a peer take charge.

(June 21-July 22)

Mix business with pleasure and have fun. Your ability to connect with people and show them a good time will pay off and encourage you to challenge anyone who tries to stand in your way.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Don’t allow anyone to surpass you. Stand up for yourself, vouch for your ability to deliver on your promises and do whatever it takes to make a positive difference. Arguing will not help you excel, but solutions will. Aim to please.

Talks will reveal someone’s true colors. Take a backseat, be a friendly observer and gather information that helps you find the most beneficial path. Romance is favored.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Make money your priority. Go through the proper channels to ensure you don’t have any issues. Abide by the rules and regulations and call in favors. You can both save more and earn more.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Home is your haven and where you’ll get the most accomplished. Redecorate, declutter or plan something special for a loved one. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you. Know when to say no.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Rethink your objective, and you’ll gain insight into unique ways to gain momentum. Not everyone will agree with you, but the people who do will help you get things up and running.

Be careful what you reveal. Focus on making opportunities that will help you get ahead financially. An energetic approach to life will keep you healthy, wealthy and wise.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Don’t let your emotions dictate how well you do today. Let go of any animosity you feel. Approach discussions and problems with optimism, solutions and a smile on your face.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Women’s Development League Playoff…

Police, Fruta Conquerors bag quarter-final wins

The Guyana Police Force and Fruta Conquerors Football Clubs recorded thrilling wins on Saturday in the quarter-finals of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Women’s Development Football League Playoff.

The Guyana Police Force Football Club dominated visiting team Potaro Strikers 7-0, with striker Lakesha Pearson scoring the first goal just two minutes after the start whistle at the GFF Training Centre, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

A strong attacking strategy by the winning team allowed Pearson to score four more goals, with team-mates Tiandi Smith and Honicia Adams also securing one goal each before the final whistle.

Pearson credited the victory to her team following the plays practised during training sessions.

“It was an excellent game. We came out and did what was taught on the training field. We executed the game plan well. We underestimate no opponent. We came to give our A-game today and we got a victory,” Pearson shared.

Adams, who plays in midfield, added: “It was a nice win. We train three times a week. Every training session we

(are) playing to win.”

In the second game, Fruta Conquerors Football Club thrashed Milerock Football Club, another visiting team, 7-3.

Conquerors’ Jessica Teasdale scored the first goal 13 minutes into the game, giving her team early control of the match. She scored her second goal at the 30-minute mark.

Teasdale said the team played a great game, executing what they have done in training.

“The girls played really, really well together today. Lots of moving the ball around, really keeping possession of the ball,

lots of shots from anywhere,” she noted.

The Georgetown team’s high pressing and fluid attacking strategy allowed Sandra Johnson to secure three goals and Jalade Trim to capture two goals against the Essequibo club.

Johnson shared that she was excited that her team has advanced to the next round.

The Linden, Region 10 Milerock Football Club’s three goals were scored by Seanica Camoron, Donella Rice, and Shenessa Cornelius.

Fruta Conquerors and the Guyana Police Force Football

Bartica Easter Regatta 2023 “We Outside”…

BK Int’l Group of Companies makes solid financial donation

Over the decades, it has become one of the most anticipated events on the Easter calendar of activities in Guyana, and this year, it is anticipated to be one of the biggest and most colourful ever.

So says the Regional Chairman of Region Number Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Kenneth Williams, who received a solid financial boost towards the successful hosting of the event from the BK International Group of Companies.

Williams, who chairs the Organising Committee, said that it was always a challenge to garner adequate finances to host the multi-event extravaganza, which sees a number of sporting events and other activities culminating with the highly-anticipated power boat races on Easter Sunday and Monday.

“We are, therefore, very pleased to have BK Int’l Group of Companies on board with us once again as we seek to make this year’s event, the most memorable. We are hosting it under the theme, “We Outside” and this is, of course, after the fact that COVID-19 took a heavy toll on the event. However,

we are committed to hosting the biggest Easter Regatta of them all, and corporate, as well as governmental and other support, is critical towards attaining this goal.”

Kyle Tiwari, Chief Executive Officer of the BK Int’l Group of Companies, who made the presentation to Williams, in a brief comment shared that the company has a proud track record of partnering with the organisers of the Easter Regatta

over the years, and this year would be no different.

“We are committed to fulfilling our role as a corporate partner in aiding the development of our people through sports and other productive activities. We wish the organisers and all who would participate in this huge activity the best.”

This year’s Easter Regatta would be hosted from April 8-10 in Bartica.

Clubs were clearly the superior teams this weekend.

Twelve clubs, featuring senior and junior national players, made the cut for the GFF Women’s Development League Playoff sponsored by MVP Sports and Urban Life. The

league was launched in June 2022 with 37 teams from across Guyana to give female players more match minutes.

The 12 clubs are Bartica

All Stars FC, Potaro Strikers FC, Essequibo All Stars FC, Foxy Ladies FC, Milerock FC,

Coomacka FC, Pakuri Jaguars FC, New Amsterdam United FC, Guyana Police Football Club, Guyana Defence Force FC, Fruta Conquerors FC, and Santos FC. The much-anticipated championship match will be held on March 23.

Establishing a new Cricket West Indies (CWI) commercial arm to unlock millions of dollars is a priority of Dr Kishore Shallow, as he continues to discuss plans following the launch of his CWI Presidential Manifesto.

In the "Pushing the Boundaries" manifesto, Dr Shallow, who has a doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Financial Management, posited, "CWI has yet to access the full potential global market significantly, so many untapped resources remain available. To improve the organisation's economic situation, there must be an intervention targeting revenue generation. The commercial and marketing activities must be modernised and culturally sensitive with immense intensity."

Some of the listed plans under the Commercial and Marketing pillar are: (i) diversify CWI revenue stream; (ii) enhance public relations to promote cricket as the number one sport in the Caribbean, (iii) create a

membership fan club, and (iv) strengthen relationships.

Dr Shallow also stated his intention to "assemble a group of business and marketing experts to identify new commercial opportunities to increase revenue for CWI".

CWI’s revenue is generated substantially through media and broadcast rights, the International Cricket Council (ICC) subvention, cate receipts, and commercial partnerships. While other cricketing nations have monetised T20 leagues, most notably India with the Indian Premier League (IPL) and recently Women's Premier League (WPL), Australia’s Big Bash, and England’s The Hundred, CWI is limited in terms of such opportunities owing to its longterm contractual agreement with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

"My sentiments on CWI's finance remain consistent, with the realisation that there is a necessity to generate more revenue. It is an opportune time for some commercial exploits

that could afford the organisation to implement more systematic and sustainable programmes for the cricket development pathway for our girls and boys,” said Dr Shallow.

He added, "What is required is innovative and bold thinking outside of the box, with consequential leaders and experts in commercial affairs. I have no reservations that a formula exists to unlock millions to propel our cricket."

Under Dr Shallow's leadership, both St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association and the Windward Islands Cricket Board have enjoyed financial stability. He was instrumental in establishing the first commercial partnership with Dream11 for a T10 league (Vincy Premier League) in the Caribbean, which paved the way for similar financial arrangements with Dream11 and other regional cricket bodies.

CWI holds its presidential elections on March 25, 2023.

Dr Shallow is nominated for the presidency.

Region Seven Chairman Kenneth Williams (left) receives the sponsorship cheque from Kyle Tiwari, CEO of the BK Int’l Group of Companies

Lakesha Pearson (on ball) led the onslaught for Police FC against Potaro Strikers

A glimpse of the action between Fruta Conquerors and Milerock

It was chaos at the finish line in the National Park, Georgetown on Sunday afternoon as Devaun “Scooby” Barrington crossed the finish line first in the Open race of the Jefford’s Classic Mile.

Barrington clocked 4 minutes 20 seconds for first place, having last won the mile back in 2012. The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) athlete, overwhelmed by cheers

Barrington, Harvey ace Jefford’s Mile

of support, finished ahead of clubmate Marlon Nicholson (4 minutes 23s) and Police Progressive Youth Club’s (PPYC’s) Cleveland Thomas (4 minutes 26s), who took second and third respectively.

Following the race, Barrington shared that he was prepared for the challenge and stuck to his game plan.

“Everybody who knows me and

Milo U18 football tournament…

was following athletics in the whole in Guyana, knows that I’m an athlete who, for some reason, can’t stay healthy and injury-free, but God has been good to me. I’ve been able to train from November to now, so I know coming into this race, I was mentally, physically and spiritually where I needed to be,” an overjoyed Barrington shared. He added, “I knew in this race all I had to do was to bear the pace

CWSS, 8th of May, Santa Rosa among weekend’s winners

Afull weekend of Milo Schools’ Under-18 football saw defending champions Christianburg Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) sending a strong warning to all challengers in this year’s competition; but the likes of Essequibo’s 8th of May Secondary and Region One’s Santa Rosa Secondary showed they are ready to rumble.

On Saturday, at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue, Cummings Lodge Secondary edged St Cuthbert’s Mission 2-1 in the first game.

Keyshawn Millington’s opener for Cummings Lodge in the 22nd minute saw a swift reply from St Cuthbert’s Eyon Simon in the 24th. However, Dequan Thom netted the game winner in the 47th. 8th of May Secondary thumped Vryman’s Erven 7-3 in the following game. Doubles from De Angelo Davidson (10th, 15th), Simeon Douglas (20th, 52nd) and Sachel Marks (38th, 50th) along with one from Leon Farrell (60th) accounted for the 8th of May’s 7, while Akeem Hosannah (17th, 57th) and Joshua Dougall (55th) shared the goals for Vryman’s Erven.

Defending champions

CWSS mauled West Demerara Secondary 6-0. Kelvin Hintzen (13th, 20th), Kristian Louis (40th, 56th), Amani King (47th) and an own goal were responsible for those goals.

Meanwhile, St Stanislaus College edged Dolphin 2-1. Omarie Nelson opened the scoring for Saints in the 17th minute, while Cadwell Peters found the reply and what would be Dolphin’s consolation goal in the 20th minute. However, LeBron James found the back of the net in the 45th minute, to hand Saints the victory.

On Sunday, Santa Rosa Secondary opened the day with an 8-0 assault on New Amsterdam Secondary. Roy Vonslytman (10th, 50th, 53rd) led with a hat-trick,

while Deon Chappelle (15th, 46th) netted a double. Rockwell Harris (17th), Nelon Lucas (70th) and an own goal in the 34th minute accounted for the remaining three goals.

Afterwards, Mackenzie High thumped President’s College 4-1. Jevon Dennis (5th), Joel Siland (31st), Azainneo Benjamin (34th) and Aaron Murray (60th) were the scorers for the Linden outfit.

On the other hand, Elton Lewis netted PC’s lone goal in the 49th.

Five goals off the boots of Elijah Sattaur (7th, 12th, 16th, 53rd, 63rd) led the way for an 8-1 win for West Ruimveldt over Vergenoegen Secondary. Adding to Sattaur’s five was Donovan Welcome with a brace in the 34th and 55th minutes, while Jaden Jackson added another to West Ruimveldt’s tally.

Quon Jackman was the lone scorer for Vergenoegen in the 37th.

Also on Sunday, Charity Secondary and New Central High played to a 1-1 draw. Kenneth Gordon found the back of the net first for New Central in the 34th minute, but Keiron Mendonza equalised for Charity in the 58th, resulting in the draw.

The Milo action will continue this weekend at the same venue.

up front and wait for the last 200. I stuck to the plan, executed well, and came out victorious today.”

In the distaff, youth sensation Attoya Harvey stamped her authority with a 5-minute 31s finish for first place. The Running Brave athlete came in ahead of Police’s Jelesa Wright, who crossed the line in 5 minutes 54s and Delicia Tinnis (PPYC) who took third in 6 minutes 57s.

In the 18-19 category, Odida Parkinson dominated the field of competitors, finishing in 4 minutes 38s. Second and third in that race went to Samuel Henry and Akandy Van Maalson, who clocked 4 minutes 39.1s and 4 minutes 39.4s respectively.

Tiana Springer was the female 1819 winner, in 5 minutes 54s, while

Teresha Baynes and Rosemond Harvey completed the podium with times of 6 minutes 15s and 6 minutes 44s respectively.

Meanwhile, Javon Roberts was the 16-17 male winner in 4 minutes 40.1s. Trailing Roberts were Jamol Sullivan (4 minutes 40.9s) and Lestron Lovell (4 minutes 47s).

For the Under-14 athletes, Ester McKinnon was the female winner, clocking 5 minutes 41s for the victory, while Kaymayara Lacon took second in 6 minutes and Joanna Antwon, third, in 6 minutes 17s.

Ebo McNeil was the male winner, stopping the clock in 5 minutes 8s. Paul Clarence came in second in 5 minutes 17s and Shaquan Sheperd was third in 5 minutes 20s.

Guyana National Under-21 Men’s Hockey Team selected

After months of intense training and continuous fitness and skill tests, the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) has approved an 18-member Under-21 men’s team to represent Guyana at the Junior Pan American Championships, scheduled for Barbados from April 10 to April 18, 2023.

The team consists of 14 players who travelled to Barbados in December last year and defeated the host country’s junior team in a four-match series. There are also four newcomers who will be making their international debuts. Guyana’s first group match will be against the USA on April 10 followed by Barbados on April 11 and concluding with powerhouse Canada on April 13.

Speaking on his expectations of the team, Head Coach of the national men’s programme, Robert Fernandes said, “All credit to the boys for putting in the work, I think we have a great group of youngsters who are capable of executing at a high level. I’m confident that we will be competitive and hopefully pull off some upsets to advance from the group phase.”

The team have been working on strength and conditioning with former national rugby captain-turned- physical trainer Theodore Henry. Fernandes noted: “We were struggling for a while after our longtime trainer Barrington Browne migrated, but Theodore has had a great impact on the boys’ fitness since he started working with

them. Our philosophy is that “we cannot control the absence of an artificial turf to train and play and our inexperience, but we can control how fit we are and how hard we work on the field.”

Although fairly well-balanced, the team’s strength comes from their midfield three of Shaquan Favorite, Tahrea Garnett and Shakeem Fausette. The dramatic improvement of players like Oshazay Savory, Simeon Moore, and Vladimir Woodroffe has also contributed to the high expectations surrounding this team. The players will be accompanied by team manager and former national captain Marisha Fernandes, Coaches John Abrahams and Robert Fernandes, as well as team doctor Charlyn Elliot.

The team are grateful to local sporting bodies for their financial support and will be reaching out to corporate Guyana for assistance in making this journey a successful one.

National Junior Men’s Team Jamal Gaskin, Raoul Whittaker, Baraka Garnett, Daniel Woolford, Jabari Lovell, Javid Hussain, Leroy Geer, Nandalall Persaud, Oshazay Savory, Quinn Tobin, Samuel Woodroffe, Shakeem Fausette, Shaquon Favorite, Simeon Moore, Tahrea Garnett, Vladimir Woodroffe, Warren Williams and Yonnick Norton.

Standby players – Donnel Alleyne and Robert Marcus.

Attoya Harvey crosses the finish line to win the female open category

Sportsman of the Year Desmond Amsterdam (white shirt) got in on the athletics action in the open race

Flashback to Guyana’s Under-21 men’s team which defeated Barbados in a series in December 2022

This afternoon, representatives of eligible voters will gather at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) headquarters at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown to vote on the future leaders of the vital sport organisation.

The GOA’s Electoral General Meeting (EGM) has been a work in progress for some time, since members of the Association voted to adopt constitutional changes that would see former President KA JumanYassin being ineligible to lead the organisation.

On the eve of the election, Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr, during an in-

vited comment to Guyana Times Sport, indicated that he has been paying attention to the goings-on, but has been careful to avoid interference.

“I’m aware that the GOA election is happening, but from a Government standpoint we stay very far away from that, because I don’t want anybody to say that, you know, we’re interfering. But I’m very happy to see that they are having an election,” Ramson Jr told this publication.

As such, the Minister went on to say that “it’s about time” the election happened, given the public interest it has garnered over

the past few months.

The Sport Minister shared, “We want to see the election happen, because it’s about time. Having had their Constitution amended last year, maybe around the middle of last year or so, it was expected that these elections would have happened even sooner.”

“I was following what was happening, what was happening in relation to the delay, because this is something that the country is interested in. A lot of people have asked me about why is this not happening and so, I have to have that interest to give them a response,” he added.

After the sport associations go to the polls later this afternoon, Ramson Jr will be awaiting the opportunity to collaborate with the new GOA leadership, since, he reminded of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s charge for the bodies to work together for sport’s development.

“Also, when His Excellency [President Irfaan Ali] had made a statement towards the end of the year, last year, when one of the issues arose about the treatment overseas for athletes and it was discussed for our sports conference; we have made some commitments coming out of that, but it has to be on the basis of having

that engagement with the new GOA,” he divulged.

Ramson Jr further stated, “So, we look forward to the conclusion of the election. I’ll meet with them shortly thereafter, so that we could know how we could partner in continuing to develop the sport and having the kind of representation for the country that’s important to all of us.”

Reportedly, Guyana

Table Tennis Association (GTTA) President Godfrey Munroe and Robin Singh will be contesting the GOA Presidency, while the Presidents of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) and Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) Steve Ninvalle, Cristy Campbell and Phillip Fernandes respectively will be vying for the Vice President position.

Squads announced for Round 3 of the West Indies Championship

…West Indies players to feature in matches in Trinidad and Guyana starting on March 15

Members of the West Indies Test squads from the recent tours to Zimbabwe and South Africa are expected to feature in the upcoming matches in the West Indies Championship. Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced the six franchise squads for the third round of matches which start on Wednesday, March 15.

Left-handed batter Alick Athanaze will return to captain Windward Islands Volcanoes against Jamaica Scorpions, who will have experienced batter Nkrumah Bonner back in their lineup for the match at the Guyana National Stadium.

Devon Thomas, the versa-

tile wicketkeeper-batter, has been named in the Leeward Islands Hurricanes 13-member squad for the match against Barbados Pride at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad. The third match of the third

round will see Trinidad and Tobago Red Force hosting the Guyana Harpy Eagles at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. Entering the third round, Athanaze is among the leading batters with 244 runs (av-

P&P assists Francis for Easter Invitational Karate

P&P Insurance Brokers & Consultants Limited, a long-standing supporter of sports in Guyana, recently made a monetary contribution to Karateka Malcolm Francis, as he embarks on the Easter Invitational Open Karate Championships, set to be hosted next month.

During a simple presentation ceremony, P&P Account Executive Urmila Shamsundar handed over the cheque to Francis at the company’s Lamaha Street, Georgetown corporate office.

Francis will be representing the Association Do Shotokan Karate (ASK) Guyana at the Easter Invitational Open Karate Championship being held in St Vincent & the Grenadines from April 5 to

P&P Account Executive Urmila Shamsundar makes a presentation to Karateka Malcolm Francis

10, 2023. The ASK was hoping for at least 10 karatekas to attend and compete at next month’s event. One karateka already confirmed is Guyana Police Force (GPF)

Assistant Superintendent Keith Beaton.

The Easter Invitational is organised by the Hairouna Karate Federation, and will be hosted at the West St George Secondary School.

erage 61). He made his maiden First-Class century (141) against Guyana Harpy Eagles last month. He is second spot behind Trinidad and Tobago Red Force skipper Darren Bravo, who has scored 261 runs (average 87) – which included twin centuries against Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

Third on the list are young openers Kimani Melius of Windward Islands Volcanoes and Matthew Nandu of Guyana Harpy Eagles, who both have 204 runs (average 51). Both scored breakthrough maiden First-Class centuries in the first round – Melius made 192 against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Nandu got 126 against Barbados Pride. Melius will, however, miss the third round with an injury.

In the bowling department, the leading wicket-taker after two rounds is Akeem Jordan, the Barbados Pride pacer, who picked up 12 wickets and was named in the Test squad for the tour of South Africa. Next is Veerasammy Permaul, the experienced Guyana Harpy Eagles leftarm spinner with 11 wickets – which included his 500th at the First-Class level for his country. Three bowlers are tied on 10 wickets – Rahkeem Cornwall of Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Ryan John of Windward Islands Volcanoes and Bryan Charles of Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.

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

The new Headley Weekes Series will follow the

West Indies Championship and will feature three matches and three teams. Team Headley and Team Weekes will select from the best performers in the 2023 West Indies Championship and players outside the starting West Indies Test XI. The new West Indies Academy will provide the third team in the new Series.

WEST INDIES CHAMPIONSHIP

ROUND 3 – FULL SQUADS:

Barbados Pride: Shane Dowrich (Captain); Camarie Boyce; Jonathan Carter; Dominic Drakes; Jonathan Drakes; Chaim Holder; Jair McAllister; Zachary McCaskie; Shayne Moseley; Roshon Primus; Ramon Simmonds; Shamar Springer and Kevin Wickham.

Guyana Harpy

Eagles: Leon Johnson (Captain); Antony Adams; Kevlon Anderson; Anthony Bramble; Ronsford Beaton; Tevin Imlach; Shamar Joseph; Matthew Nandu; Keemo Paul; Veerasammy Permaul; Kemol Savory; Kevin Sinclair and Nial Smith.

Jamaica Scorpions: Paul Palmer Jr (Captain); Nkrumah Bonner; Tevin Gilzene; Derval Green; Nicholson Gordon; Patrick Harty; Leroy Lugg; Kirk McKenzie; Abhijai Mansingh; Jamie Merchant; Marquino Mindley; Ojay Shields and Aldaine Thomas.

Leeward Islands

Hurricanes: Jahmar Hamilton (Captain); Colin Archibald; Larry Audain; Sheeno Berridge; Rahkeem Cornwall; Karima Gore; Montcin Hodge; Kofi James; Jeremiah Louis; Kieran Powell; Akeem Saunders; Devon Thomas and Hayden Walsh Jr.

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force: Darren Bravo (Captain); Bryan Charles; Jyd

Goolie; Amir Jangoo; Imran Khan; Justin Mannick; Jason Mohammed; Vikash Mohan; Uthman Muhammad; Khary Pierre; Keagan Simmons; Jeremy Solozano and Tion Webster.

Windward Islands

Volcanoes: Alick Athanaze (Captain); Sunil Ambris; Teddy Bishop; Kenneth Dember; Larry Edward; Justin Greaves; Kavem Hodge; Johan Jeremiah; Ryan John; Shermon Lewis; Preston McSween; Jerlani Robinson and Tevyn Walcott.

FULL MATCH SCHEDULE

GNS – Guyana National Stadium, Guyana

BLCA – Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad QPO – Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad

ROUND 3: March 15 to 18

Jamaica Scorpions v Windward Islands Volcanoes at GNS

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v Guyana Harpy Eagles at BLCA

Leeward Islands

Hurricanes v Barbados Pride at QPO

ROUND 4: March 22 to 25

Guyana Harpy Eagles v Jamaica Scorpions at GNS

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v Barbados Pride at QPO

Leeward Islands

Hurricanes v Windward Islands Volcanoes at BLCA

ROUND 5: March 29 to April 1

Guyana Harpy Eagles v Leeward Islands Hurricanes at GNS

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force v Jamaica Scorpions at BLCA

Barbados Pride v Windward Islands Volcanoes at QPO

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr has weighed in on the GOA election set for today

Devaun “Scooby” Barrington crosses the finish line amid cheers from