Guyana Times - Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Culture Ministry relaunches

PYARG's bronze expedition programme

Guyana looking to supply all regional agro-chemical needs – Pres Ali

Man wanted by Interpol arrested in Georgetown nightclub

GTU’s proposal for teachers’ back pay to 2019 unreasonable –Teixeira

“No chances taken” in apprehending ‘desperado’

– Home Affairs Minister

…as FAO begins Latin America & Caribbean conference in Guyana

US

Govt gives US$300,000 to fight narcotics trafficking, crime in Guyana

…FBI, DEA to lend support in border strengthening, capacity building

“We’re very concerned about the violence”

Berbice pensioner dies in motorcycle collision

– Caricom Chair on Haiti’s spiralling violence …says progress being made on presidential council

1.1 tonnes ganja, 75kg cocaine seized so far for 2024 –

Eco in talks with over 9 oil companies for farm-in to Orinduik Block

…Canadian company looking to explore potential light oil “sweet spots”

Queen’s College student launches water purification system at school

1.1 tonnes ganja, 75kg cocaine seized so far for 2024 – CANU

Just under three months into 2024, the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) has seized a startling 1.1 tonnes of marijuana and over 75 kilograms of cocaine from various operations across the country.

Director of CANU, James Singh spoke with media operatives on Monday, and gave this breakdown. A majority of the marijuana is from the Andean region of South America that includes Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.

“We have over 75 kilos of cocaine and close to 1.1 tonnes of marijuana. Of the marijuana, about 90 per cent is foreign marijuana that came from the Andean region, known as “Creepy”,” Singh informed.

In contrast, CANU had seized approximately 1363.28 kilograms of narcotics over the course of 2023, and cannabis sati-

va (ganja) accounted for 94 per cent of the total seizure. From 18 operations conducted, 75.17 kilograms of cocaine were seized.

Meanwhile, Singh also responded to recent concerns that the increase in seizures is an indication that drugs are coming into Guyana, as he reminded that Guyana was

a transshipment point. Consequently, he encouraged persons to share information, which can lead to the dismantling of such operations.

“A lot of the narcotics coming in is going to other regions, both marijuana and cocaine. And sometimes we rely not only on the press but the public to share information. All too often, we arrest persons and those representing them are saying ‘don't say anything, remain silent’. You can expect me to do my job when you're also supposed to be helping us but then you tell your client or other members don’t say anything.”

“It's their right, but, at the same time, if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem. So, we encourage as you guys just know, we encourage persons to call in and share information as opposed to saying don't call, people will come

after you. You have a right as a citizen to give information if it can help you live a safer life, safer community. After all, we're looking at one safe Guyana,” the Director underscored.

Currently, there are four extradition requests from other countries for persons,

who were arrested here by CANU for involvement in drug trafficking, trade or other narcotics-related offences.

However, Guyana is taking the lead to process these persons here through the judicial system before they are handed over to overseas counterparts.

“We have persons arrested that the US had expressed interest in and that is still ongoing, because their matters are still ongoing here. Before anyone leaves Guyana, we will put them through the judicial process here and when we're finished with them, whoever is interested, they can then apply for them. We have to demonstrate that we are doing this on our own, again with the support of our foreign counterparts, but persons must know what it is like to go to jail first here in Guyana,” he explained.

The CANU Head revealed that persons who have been recently arrested for drug offences here would have also been of interest to other territories or were linked to previous shipments within the last two years in overseas territories.

Drug busts

For 2024, there were several notable busts which led to the interception of large quantities of drugs.

Last month, more than 100 pounds of cocaine were discovered at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), for which Gavin Anthony McKie and Tyrone Hamilton were wanted for questioning. The latter

turned himself in days later. However, his accomplice is still at large, according to Singh.

“We're still waiting on him to come in. We understand that he's outside of Guyana. We’re working with our colleagues to try and arrest him,” he indicated.

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

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

Subsequent testing confirmed the presence of cocaine. The parcels weighed approximately 71.2 kilograms, with an estimated street value of $64,000,000 locally.

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

Ranks also recently made a major drug bust on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two when they unearthed 660 brick-like parcels of foreign marijuana, commonly known as “Creepy”.

Reports are that the ranks found the drug at Fisher Village, Essequibo Coast after they observed a multi-coloured speedboat operated by two individuals. According to CANU, the ranks pursued the boat, causing the individuals to run aground, but they subsequently made good their escape on foot. (G12)

Director of CANU, James Singh

Marijuana recovered during a drug bust in Essequibo this month

all our veterinary needs here in Guyana, all our agro-chemical needs for the Region, right here in Guyana and those discussions are at an advanced stage, as we seek to build out an eco-system and infrastructure that will serve the collective fold.”

revealed that bilateral talks were well advanced for Guyana to be able to, among

Then there is the issue of export markets, particularly

Research Corporation (EMBRAPA), through which Guyana is working with Brazil on agricultural development.

“We understand also that as our production increases, we have to look at markets and technology. For this reason, we have engaged the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the US, Dominican Republic,

other things, supply all the agro-chemical needs of the Region.

FAO kicked off its 38th Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean on Monday, with Guyana as the host country. During the opening ceremony at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the keynote speech was delivered by President Ali, who said that Guyana was actively partnering with various countries when it comes to building agricultural capacity.

There is the issue of export of agro-chemicals, which would include fertilisers and pesticides. According to the President, Guyana is collaborating directly with Cuba on this and talks are well advanced between the two countries.

“Recently, we’ve started to work with Cuba in an aggressive way, to build out the system using the technology for what is known there as a bio-farming industry, but building out an industry that we would look at producing

since external markets for exports will be needed if regional food production outstrips regional demand. Special mention was also made of the Brazilian Agricultural

China, Canada and of course, Brazil, through EMBRAPA. These are all important partners we’re working with,” the Head of State said.

Investment plans

Meanwhile, FAO Director General QU Dongyu revealed that the Organisation was working closely with 14 countries in the Region, in the development of investment plans that will total as much as US$772 million.

“(By) mobilising resources to, among others, develop with the bank and Private Sector as well as public investment in priority areas defined by the territories and the Hand-in-Hand initiative. The Hand-in-Hand initiative has also launched two regional initiatives, namely the dry corridor initiative, which was launched at a Hand-in-Hand investment forum in 2022 and has been expanded,” he said.

Also speaking at the opening ceremony was Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who noted the important role played by the FAO. As the Region continues to work closely with the FAO, Mustapha said the Organisation’s regional priorities and strategic endeavours must align more closely with the national and regional policies to support and enhance capabilities and knowledge.

“There is a need to improve initiative, financial support, and concrete action to increase the resilience and sustainability of the agri-food system to overcome the impacts of climate change and food insecurity in light of the Region’s high vulnerability,” he emphasised.

TURN TO PAGE 5

President Dr Irfaan Ali

FAO Director General QU Dongyu

A section of the delegates deliver a standing ovation at the FAO conference

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Trauma underestimated

This issue of domestic violence, its trickle effects and impact on society have, on numerous occasions, been reported in Guyanese media, but unfortunately, this continues despite awareness efforts. In several cases that have been reported locally, some women and even family members used the mechanisms available to help domestic violence victims, but, in many instances, all systems failed.

Domestic violence has been described as “behaviour which causes one partner in a relationship to be afraid of the other. Domestic violence can take the form of physical or sexual abuse, and forced social isolation away from friends and family members.”

There is more than a subtle irony in the continuance of this societal scourge in spite of the relentless efforts and the plethora of available mechanisms to inform and educate.

The problem appears much larger as reflected in the news as many cases go unreported. This speaks to the reality being underestimated.

Many reasons have been made known for what can deter an abuse victim to not seek the intervention of the law. Among them are aspects of culture, shame, dependency and its redounding lack of empowerment for some, and the absence of confidence in law enforcement precipitated from the reported trivialising of the issue in some instances.

The magnitude of the impact cannot be underestimated. Many persons have cruelly been made witnesses to the horrific assaults. Those ghastly images, especially when life was snuffed out, are not only lasting, but profoundly traumatising.

While it is always heartening to hear that surviving victims and witnesses to such horrific incidents would be counselled, it would be very informative for all to know the extent of what is available and offered. While expectations would be for what obtains in the developed nations, realistically, there must be something tangible in keeping with available resources with upgrades foremost in planning.

This is not in any way suggesting that there is not an effective mechanism. However, counselling can be an extensive process for some depending upon the circumstances. Given the plethora of incidents that, unfortunately, continue and which would make added demands on the system, the question of adequacy of trained staff, needed facilities and support systems, becomes more pertinent.

While there is a disadvantage in accurately quoting figures based on extensive research, if available, on the number of people lost, injured and disfigured and those scarred for life as a result of domestic violence must be extremely high in proportion to our population. Clearly, the highest number would be those who are left traumatised.

This, therefore, must be seen as a serious cause for concern and a compelling reason for consideration for declaring domestic violence a national priority. This is an apolitical issue and is not confined to any one group thereby making it less difficult to garner national support. In such small societies, the impact permeates throughout.

As this newspaper has previously said, persons reading and learning about incidents through television and social media are in many ways impacted too, especially if one of their own is affected. In the context herein, the pervasiveness and impact of trauma cannot, and must not, be underestimated. Its mitigation has to uncompromisingly be immediate, holistic, effective, and sustained. Persons within communities most often do not think it is their business to report instances of abuse, but proper and timely intervention could save someone’s life.

Plundered and corrupted for 200 years, Haiti was doomed to end in anarchy

By Kenan MaliK

In December 1914, the USS Machias dropped anchor in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Eight US marines disembarked, sauntered to the Banque National de la République d’Haïti (BNRH), removed US$500,000 worth of gold belonging to the Haitian Government – US$15 million in today’s money – packed it in wooden crates to carry back to the ship and thence to New York, where it was deposited in the vaults of the investment bank, Hallgarten & Co.

The BNRH was Haiti’s central bank. It was also a foreign private corporation. Originally set up in 1880 through a concession granted to a French bank, pressure from America brought in US investors. By 1920, the BNRH was wholly owned by the American National City Bank. Haiti’s central bank it may have been, but the Haitian Government was charged for every transaction and the eye-popping profits spirited off to Paris or New York.

Political turmoil in Haiti in the 1910s led to Wall Street demanding action to protect its investments. Washington obliged, sending in the marines. A year later, the marines returned in force, remaining there for the next 19 years, in an often brutal occupation. “I helped make Haiti… a decent place for the National City Bank boys to collect revenues,” Maj Gen Smedley Butler, a leader of the American forces in Haiti, wrote in 1935.

The almost forgotten story of the bank robbery organised by the US State Department is a small but illuminating moment in Haiti’s history. The forced resignation last week of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, the collapse of civil life and gang warfare on the streets have returned Haiti to international headlines. To make sense of the latest events, we

need to understand not just where Haiti is today, but also how it got there.

The history of Haiti is one in which the nation’s governing classes have exhibited a contempt for the masses extraordinary even by the standards of the global south. It is also one in which foreign powers have never shrunk from repression and bloodshed, or straightforward theft, in pursuit of their aims, sometimes in alliance with local elites, sometimes in opposition to them. Haiti is now the poorest nation in the Americas and among the most unequal in the world.

The tragedy of Haiti is not just the devastation wrought on its people, but also that, while today it may be a symbol of corruption and lawlessness, 200 years ago it symbolised, indeed was the living embodiment of, the opposite: the possibilities of human emancipation. Haiti was born in 1804 out of a 13-year revolution in which the enslaved people of the then French colony of Saint-Domingue dismantled their chains, and defeated, in succession, the armies of France, Britain and Spain, and established a new nation. Their astonishing success turned the revolution into an inspiration for those resisting slavery and colonialism across the globe.

In the independent Haiti, though, the necessities of a class-driven world ensured that the new ruling class governed as would any elite, whether in Haiti, France or America. Its objectives were to maintain power, suppress dissent and enforce the exploitation of labour. A weak and divided ruling class ensured that Haitian political life was punctuated by a succession of coups and insurrections. The suppression of democratic movements became the constant thread of the nation’s history.

The ruling elites in Europe

and America, meanwhile, fearful that the Haitian example might embolden others struggling for freedom, sought to isolate the new nation, refusing for decades even to recognise it.

In 1825, France demanded, as the price of recognition, reparations of 150 million francs (the equivalent, according to different estimates, of between US$4 billion and US$21 billion today) to compensate for loss of property, including human chattel. Along with the demand, it sent 14 warships.

France was compelling enslaved people and their descendants to pay their former masters for having freed themselves from servitude. Though the figure was eventually reduced to 90 million francs, it remained well beyond Haiti’s capacity to pay, forcing it to take out loans from French banks at exorbitant rates, adding to the burden. By 1914, 80 per cent of the Government budget went to repaying the debt. Year after year, money that might have been spent on schools or hospitals, industry or agriculture, in one of the world’s poorest countries (though, admittedly, much of it may also have gone into the pockets of Haitian oligarchs) was purloined instead to fill the treasury of one of the richest nations of the world.

Western nations have not only impoverished Haiti, they have also constantly intervened, propping up politicians who enforce “stability”, undermining those whose democratic demands seem threatening. François Duvalier, or “Papa Doc”, came to power in 1957, a vicious dictator whose reign was built on ferocious violence. US leaders cavilled at Duvalier’s brutality, but saw him as an important asset against communism, especially Fidel Castro’s Cuba. And so the aid poured in.

Jean-Bertrand Aristide,

a leftwing priest, with mass support among Haiti’s working class and poor, elicited a different response. Twice, in 1990 and 2001, waves of public support propelled Aristide to the presidency. And twice, in 1991 and 2004, he was ousted in bloody coups.

After the first coup, Aristide returned to power with US support. Nevertheless, many of the coup leaders were on the CIA payroll and the agency did not hide its hostility. A decade later, opposition to Aristide’s economic and social policies led America to force him out of office (though Washington implausibly insists that it played no role in Aristide’s voluntary “resignation”).

Today, the Haitian state barely exists. Its functions, from policing to health, from education to social services, have been outsourced to what researcher Jake Johnston calls the “Aid State” – NGOs, UN bodies, development banks, private companies. Especially since the devastating earthquake of 2010, this “parallel state” has been the source of power in Haiti. Ariel Henry was not voted into office, but appointed by the socalled “Core Group”, a collection of foreign ambassadors who effectively run the country.

The result has been a complete rupture between those who govern and those who are governed; a rupture visible in everything from the gangs on the streets to the hunger that haunts its people.

“We have become the subjects of our own history,” Aristide claimed in 1987; “we refuse from now to be the objects of that history.” The tragedy is that the opposite has happened, that the people of Haiti remain excluded from the governance of their country. Until that changes, Haiti will not change. (The Guardian)

(Kenan Malik is an Observer columnist)

Dancers performing at the opening ceremony of the 38th FAO Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean on Monday at the Arthur Chung Conference centre (DPI photo)

Teachers

for bringing

Dear Editor,

The teachers of this country owe tremendous gratitude to the PPP/C Government for all the good things they have done for them. But sadly, this is not to be, instead, they have become the most ungrateful lot, all because they chose to be led as political pawns in the hands of their union leaders. It is a very distressing part of our history that the teachers have to face up to.

So, let me refresh our memories, let us go down memory lane, during the authoritarian, backward, rundown reign of the PNC, teachers – public servants on a whole – were forced into a system called "trading". Now for those who might want to be conveniently amnesiac, trading was a system where public servants, mainly teachers, took flight to neighbour -

ing Caribbean Countries to purchase items for resale at exorbitant prices at home. The exorbitant prices were used to buy a return ticket as well as to maximise profits; all of this was done while our children were neglected, and denied valuable contact time by their teachers.

For those of us who travelled, Guyanese teachers were the eyesore at Caribbean ports, I am talking about teachers shuffling huge "Suriname Shopping bags" around most of the time sleeping at the airports to cut cost. As a Guyanese, it was a sight that I was most ashamed of, and for which Guyanese were called the vile names, and for which we were afforded the most dehumanising treatment from other nationalities right here in the Caribbean. It was the worst of times.

Those who could not afford an airline ticket tore exercise leaves from the free exercise books to sell "crisis cakes," plantain chips and cook-up rice. By chance Granger made similar remarks when speaking to University graduates, that they can find ways as listed above to gain employment.

Not forgetting the fact that a teacher driving a motor vehicle was a rarity, and even if you've seen one, that person had to be a relative or friend of a politician or a "Friend" who would have had to grant special favours to attain that distinction. Interesting indeed! This is the way we were as teachers.

All of the above changed when the PPP/C Government came into power in 1992, from that time to the present, the

lives of teachers have dramatically changed for the better. For starters, "trading" came to an abrupt end, as teachers spent quality time now with their students. Financially their pay cheques moved upwards continuously while other benefits such as health, housing, the ability to get a loan at the bank and vehicular ownership saw upgrades.

So, it is with great concern that we view the strike action called by the GTU, bearing in mind they are walking away from a Government that has done so much for teachers; therefore ,this stops nothing short of "biting the hands that fed you." I want you to hear me and hear me well; this is a teacher's union that never held a strike during those horrible, slavish years of the PNC, they took their hard -

Guyana looking to supply all regional...

FROM PAGE 3

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Mustapha further explained that the transition of the conference into the ministerial segment was set to foster even greater cooperation, strategies, and essential topics including sustainability, transformation, and food security, while addressing climate change issues for future plans.

The 38th session of the FAO Regional Conference

for the LAC community, will last from March 18 to March 22. The conference will include field visits by top FAO officials to the Burma Rice Station, the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

Each year, agriculture ministers and other dignitaries from member states

of the region convene at the FAO regional conference to deliberate on matters pertinent to food and agriculture. Guyana’s hosting of this significant event underscores its leadership in regional agriculture and food security efforts.

With 33 countries slated to participate in the high-level session at the ACCC, and

an expected attendance of more than 100 delegates, including officials from various organisations such as the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the conference promises to be a pivotal platform for shaping the future of agriculture and food security in Latin America and the Caribbean. (G3)

poverty

ships in silence, never to utter a dissenting voice. There were no strikes then, although there were numerous militating factors that lent themselves for strikes.

During the Granger years, the same silent tones existed, they never called out the teachers in a strike, which tells us that the four weeks’ long strike was a politically-orchestrated plan by those in the executive of the union.

Precisely so, because that union could have so callously walk away from the collective bargaining table thinking they could strong arm the Government into submitting to their inordinate demands.

In closing, I shall again call on the union to return to the bargaining table and let good sense prevail; there is no other way.

Respectfully,

Neil Adams

Let’s establish a benchmark for all villages in Guyana

Dear Editor,

I applaud the First Lady Arya Ali, who recently commissioned two recreational parks as part of the National Beautification Initiative. However, the First Lady cannot do it alone for all of Guyana. There are others whose job is to see the all-round improvement in the villages and country.

Of particular, I refer to the clearing of drains and surroundings in my village, Cornelia Ida. It’s a sight for sore eyes. After works are done, water is left lodged in the drains

and weeds emerge within three to four days. This has been ongoing for years. It sickens my heart to know the Government has been spending quite a lot of money to have these works done properly, yet those whose job it is do not seem to care or do not know what to do.

I am suggesting a senior official of the Government to come and let’s establish a benchmark for Cornelia Ida and all the villages in Guyana.

Respectfully,

Seenanan Sooknanan

Page Foundation

Metric Units of Mass

The basic metric unit of mass is the gram (g). There are also milligrams (mg); centigrams (cg) and kilograms (kg). Since you know about metric prefixes, you could probably make the following list yourself!

1cg = 10mg

1g = 100cg

1kg = 1000g

Remember

All metric units are powers of 10

Example:

How many grams are in an object that has a mass of 4.5kg?

Step 1: Think: 1000g = 1kg

Step 2: Multiply 1000 by 4.5 = 4500g.

Exercises: Calculate

1) 200g = ______kg

2) 30kgl = ____ ______ ml

3) 300ml + 1200l = __________ l

4) 10l + 100ml = _____ kl

In this fun and easy electricity and magnetism science experiment, we are going to show you how to build an electromagnet.

Materials:

Large nail

6-volt lantern battery

2 alligator clips

Wire strippers

Insulated piece of copper wire (about 18 gauge)

Small metal items like screws, washers, paper clips, etc

Instructions:

5) 10kl + 10ml = ____ ______ l

6) 45l + 55l = ___ _______ ml

Strip a small section of the insulation from the ends of the copper wire.

Wrap the copper wire around the nail.

Attach the stripped end of the copper wire to the alligator clips.

Connect the alligator clips to the six-volt lantern battery.

Test the nail to see if it is magnetic by holding it near the small metal items.

BY ALGERNON CHARLES SWINBURNE

How it works:

The electric field in the coiled wire creates a magnetic field around the nail. The magnetised nail will be able to attract metal items.

Make this a science project:

Try different sized nails. Try to turn other metal items like bolts or metal tubing into electromagnets. Test different gauges of copper wire. Test different sizes of batteries. (sciencefun.org)

IV

As the sunshine quenches the snowshine; as April subdues thee, and yields up his kingdom to May; So time overcomes the regret that is born of delight as it passes in passion away, And leaves but a dream for desire to rejoice in or mourn for with tears or thanksgivings; but thou, Bright god that art gone from us, maddest and gladdest of months, to what goal hast thou gone from us now?

For somewhere surely the storm of thy laughter that lightens, the beat of thy wings that play, Must flame as a fire through the world, and the heavens that we know not rejoice in thee: surely thy brow Hath lost not its radiance of empire, thy spirit the joy that impelled it on quest as for prey.

CONTINUED FROM MONDAY TO BE CONTINUED

WORD SEARCH

US Govt gives US$300,000 to fight narcotics trafficking, crime in Guyana

…FBI, DEA to lend support in border strengthening, capacity building

Guyana has received US$300,000 in Government International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement funds from the United States of America –a sum which will be directed at fighting crime and narcotics trafficking among other critical areas.

The US Embassy and the Home Affairs Ministry partook in a signing ceremony on Monday at the Foreign Affairs Ministry to formalise the bilateral assistance.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn outlined that the US has been a staunch partner in relation to the fight against narcotics. He pointed out that in the Region, narcotics also hinge on other transnational organised crimes such as money laundering, human trafficking and firearm trafficking.

“We are aware, and we have been working at stem-

ming the flow with particular success. This year, for sure in relation to narcotics trafficking, we want to point out the regional and global nature of this fight because the neighbouring countries both in the Caribbean Region and South America are suffering from the negative effects of narcotics trafficking,” said the Minister.

Benn added that such criminal activities pose a negative effect on the development of Guyana, and on the question of regional crime and security.

Under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs has been partnering with policymakers to deliver holistic, capacity-building programmes to disrupt organised crime and promote citizen security.

Shared commitment US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, underscored, “Our work together is rooted in our shared commitment to the rule of law, democracy and human rights. This bilateral assistance is complemented by more than US$2.5 million in CBSI regional programming designed to promote regionalisation because we all know that regional programmes require regional solutions.”

Recognising that crime and illicit narcotics trafficking threaten Guyana’s stability and economy, she announced that they would soon commence a capacity-building programme with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to bolster Guyana’s narcotics-fighting capacity and address the large amount of

Man wanted by Interpol arrested in Georgetown nightclub

Vitesh Jamnapersad

Guptar, a businessman who was wanted by Interpol, was arrested on Thursday at a popular nightclub along Main Street, Georgetown.

A senior Police official told Guyana Times that the 50-year-old Netherlands national, who resided at Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown, is a businessman in Guyana who operates a boutique at a mall in Georgetown.

Police stated that

Guptar is allegedly part of the “Ndrangheta,” one of the largest and most powerful mafia organisations in the world, operating out of Italy and would visit Guyana and Suriname regularly.

It was reported in another section of the media that this mafia organisa -

tion reportedly has a multimillion-euro business that smuggled shipments of cocaine as large as 200 kilograms from Brazil, Guyana, and Colombia to Rotterdam and Antwerp.

It is alleged that the suspect, along with others, imported, transported, illegally possessed, and sold considerable quantities of cocaine in Italy. The drugs originated in Colombia, Guyana, Brazil,

and Suriname. It reportedly passed through the Netherlands and Belgium.

According to Interpol, the suspect was a supplier of the drugs who had a close relationship with a lumber dealer (name withheld) in Georgetown back in 2017. Following his arrest, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is making the necessary arrangements to have Guptar extradited to face charges.

cocaine transiting the country. This will also assist the Guyana Police Force (GPF) with providing critical casualty and trauma care for officers in rural environments.

The US will also lend support via the deployment of a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) team to handle cases of sophisticated criminals leveraging Guyana’s borders for illicit activities.

“Strengthening border security is essential in the fight against transnational crime. That’s why I am pleased to announce the deployment of a technical FBI team to Guyana to partner with you as you upgrade your Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) at major ports throughout the country.”

Additionally, the US Government is set to make a US$350,000 investment under the Better Police Readiness Programme to support law enforcement in implementing its strate-

gic management plan, specifically as it relates to updating the Police Academy curriculum, enhancing management, bolstering forensic capabilities and training on crisis communication. (G12)

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and US Ambassador Nicole Theriot

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and US Ambassador Nicole Theriot flanked by Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Yonette Cummings-Edwards; senior law enforcement, and other US officials at the signing ceremony

Berbice pensioner dies in motorcycle collision

Police have stated that Sunday night’s crash at Number 64 Village, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) which left one person dead was a two-motorcycle collision.

Dead is Jaggat Narine, 67, of Number 64 Village, Berbice. Injured is David Rambasdeo, 21, of Johanna North, Black Bush Polder Corentyne.

According to the Police, the crash occurred about 19:15h on Sunday at Number 64 Village along the Corentyne Highway.

Rambasdeo, Police said, was proceeding along the Corentyne Highway at an alleged fast pace when Narine, who was at the time riding motorcycle CH 7631, rode out from an access road onto the main road and in the process, he collided with Rambasdeo.

They both received injuries.

Narine was pronounced dead at the Skeldon Hospital while Rambasdeo was admitted as a patient. His condition was listed as stable.

Narine’s son said they

were at Bush Lot Village to witness the horse race meet.

According to Sahadeo Narine, he dropped his father home and then stopped at a restaurant in the village, shortly after he received a telephone call indicating that his father was involved in an accident.

“When I arrive there, I saw him lying on the road motionless and I tried to find out what caused the accident, and I was told that two motorbikes make the accident, but they don’t know who hit who. The Police was there already and they took him to the hospital,” the younger Narine said.

He noted that the first bit of information he received after arriving on the scene suggest that it was a hit and run.

“...that guy take the other person who was involved

in the accident call a relative and tell them that a car hit him down and drive away. They have cameras around there, and I went and find out from the people this morning (Monday), but they say that the camera is not working; I know for sure that it is working. On the opposite side, the house have cameras but the owners are overseas. The people who are taking care of the house say that they don’t have keys. They don’t want to give the footage to know exactly what happened, ” Narine stated.

The pensioner lived alone and was believed to have been on his way to a Chinese restaurant when he met his demise.

Narine leaves to mourn four children. Police are continuing their investigations. (G4)

Securing…

They say money can’t buy you love, but in India, it can certainly buy you a helluva wedding. In that country – and even in its worldwide diaspora – weddings are not to be taken lightly. You might’ve heard about the “Big Fat Greek Wedding”? Well, they have nothing on even the lowest peasant Indian village wedding. Indians believe it’s a matter of their honour to spend whatever they can – and then some – on their daughters’ weddings. And it’s always the daughters’ weddings since the groom arrives at the brides’ homes for the wedding rites to be performed. In villages, it’d be a matter of honour for the ENTIRE village to ensure the wedding is over the top – and give the groom’s entourage no excuse to complain!!

But the family of Mukesh Ambani -- the richest man in India and Asia and 11th in the world at US$115 billion and owner of Reliance Industries and the IPL Mumbai Indians – took the pre-wedding bash for their youngest SON Anant to a completely new level. Two weeks ago, they commandeered a small town in Gujrat and for three days held a bash that could only be compared to the spectacular Grand Darbar of 1911 when George V came to India to be crowned Emperor. The event set back the Ambanis US$152M and one newspaper described it as an “ode to excess”. The dress code alone for the guests ran to nine pages!!

For entertainment, billionaire Rihanna was flown in to give her first concert in 8 years – at a cost of US$8 million!! The world famous Senegalese singer Akon was second billing!! From Bollywood, came the three ruling Khans – Shahrukh, Amir and Salman – on a single stage – dancing to the Oscar-winning song “Naatu” ! Imagine that megastar Amitabh Bachan was almost a sideshow!! Some of the guests included the world one-percenters Bill Gates and Paula Hurd ; Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan, Ivana Trump and husband Jared, cricket icons Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni.

Twenty-one chefs prepared 75 types of dishes for breakfast, more than 225 types of dishes for lunch, 275 types of dishes for dinner, and 85 types of dishes for the midnight meal”!! . The idea being that none of the guests would – God forbid!! - have to suffer the indignity of eating the same food twice. Just like the Royal Darbar of 1911, while there were no tiger hunts for the guests, there had to be elephants galore!!

Now as for the wedding – scheduled for July, the father of the bride Radhika Merchant – who’s just an ordinary billionaire – will now have to outdo the Ambanis to save face since he’ll be the host!!

After all, how much you can afford to waste on a wedding signals your status!!

…the winning % in 2025

With there being no “built-in” voting majorities anymore in good ole Mudland, the PPP and PNC behemoths are gonna have to do whatever it takes to get “outside” votes. But this is nothing new, innit? The traditional “swing” vote has always been the Amerindians and their solid 10% -- and they know it. As such, both parties have courted them over the years and they seem to’ve settled pragmatically on splitting their votes so’s not to alienate either of the big guns!!

But a new variable voting block are the Venezuelans who’ve flooded our shores as “migrants” and “refugees”. PPP GS Jagdeo has assured us that ninety-percent of them are of Guyanese descent who can be registered as voters. We don’t have any firm numbers on how many they are – but estimates range between 30-40,000!! Now, this is beyond significant since the difference between the two parties in 2020 was a mere 16,000votes!!

Your Eyewitness now understands why Spanish is now so popular!!

…cross-over votes

The PPP – going after traditional PNC voters –started paving a garbage-strewn alley in East Ruimveldt called Genip Lane that adjoined a play area. A PNC MP complained bitterly about the PPP taking away play space!!

Dead: Jaggat Narine

Eco in talks with over 9 oil companies for farm-in to Orinduik Block

…Canadian company looking to explore potential light oil “sweet spots”

By Jarryl Bryan

Canada-based oil company Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Limited, which went from owning a 15 per cent share of the Orinduik Block offshore Guyana to being the majority shareholder is looking to bring in partners to help it drill for light crude oil and is, in fact, in talks with more than nine oil companies looking to farm into the Block.

During a recent investor update, Eco Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gil Holzman expressed hope that the farm-in process could be completed in 2024, with the companies drill ready by the end of the year and for a well to be spud in the next 12 to 18 months.

“We have an active farm-down process. We have more than nine companies at the moment, that we’re discussing with. We are planning to finalise this process, hopefully in the next couple of months.

“Depends on the level of interest, depends on the potential commercial terms we can achieve. That will open the door for the next well in Guyana, targeting light oil,” Holzman explained during the update.

According to the executive, his Canada-based company is the full owner of the block and further, is already in receipt of approvals from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to drill. He even listed prospective locations they are

looking at to spud wells.

“The Orinduik Block in Guyana. We are the operator. We currently hold 100 per cent of the Block under two entities. The 60 per cent entity, which we bought from Tullow Oil that went out of exploration and decided simply to sell us the entity, in return for future proceeds upon discovery and production.

“So, we’re the operator. So that gives us a lot of running room for a farm-out, in terms of what we can actually offer to a new entrant in terms of working interest and in terms of future collaboration,” he said.

Holzman explained that Eco was hopeful of bringing on board a farm-in partner that can assist them with drilling at least one well. As part of his pitch for such an investment, Holzman noted that they are targeting potential sweet spots for light oil, including those located in Orinduik but close to the

big discoveries in the neighbouring Stabroek Block.

“We have a drill-ready block. We drilled back in 2019, along with Tullow. We drilled two discoveries, somewhat heavy oil. Still, it can be developed and produced by the right partner. So that’s part of the offering we offer as a farm-out.

“The block comes with two discoveries that might be of interest to a potential big company that would like to develop it. But in any case, we are targeting the sweet spots of the light oil, on the south-east corners of the block, very close by to the big discoveries made on Stabroek.”

Viable quantities

Meanwhile, Eco explained in its Management’s Discussion and Analysis that the company was currently engaged in the exploration and development of the licences in order to assess whether commercially-viable quantities of oil and gas are present. Additionally, they are looking to determine if additional resources would need to be allocated to these licences.

“The company has completed the minimum exploration work required to date for each of its material licences. The company has no revenue-producing operations and continues to manage its costs, focusing on its higher potential licences as described above.

“It may seek funding in the capital markets and

may seek to pursue additional joint venture and farm-in opportunities with other suitable companies having access to capital, in order to meet its exploratory commitments and development strategy,” they further said in the document.

While the company noted that it has been able to successfully raise funds so far, there is no assurance that adequate funding will be available in the future,

or available under terms favourable to the company.

The Orinduik oil block is just a few kilometres from ExxonMobil’s discoveries in the Liza and Payara fields in the oil-rich Stabroek Block.

Back in 2019, when British company Tullow still had control of Orinduik, two exploration wells – Jethro-1 and Joe-1 – were drilled on the Orinduik licence.

However, they did not yield commercial oil discoveries.

Eco would end up acquiring 60 per cent of Tullow’s interest in the Orinduik Block via a deal last year after the British company decided to exit the block, making the Canadian company the leading operator on the Orinduik licence with a 75 per cent interest. The remaining 25 per cent working interest is shared by a joint venture between Qatar Petroleum and Total E&P Guyana BV (TOQAP).

Eco CEO Gil Holzman

The Orinduik Block

GTU’s proposal for teachers’ back pay to 2019 unreasonable- Teixeira

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance

Minister Gail Teixeira has labelled the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) failure to acknowledge the Guyana Government’s proposal to pay teachers’ salary increases from 2024 as “unfair” and “unfortunate”.

This comment comes days after Education Minister Priya Manickchand questioned the sense in paying salary increases to teachers for the 2020 to 2022 period when they were at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Teixeira who was at the time participating in a discussion on the Guyana Dialogue programme explained that during negotiations with the ministry, the GTU proposed a 20 percent salary increase for the period aforementioned.

According to the Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister, the request is “unreasonable” given that the union and country at large is aware that Guyana doesn’t have the fiscal space to accommodate such a huge compensation.

“It’s unfortunate that the union (Guyana Teachers’ Union) is being blind to what is a reasonable agree-

ment and negotiation, but I believe that there are other issues and I believe that it may have a political agenda behind it,” Minister Teixeira said.

In response to GTU’s threats to seek another court mediation, Minister Teixeira explained that stakeholders of the government are awaiting a response on the way forward.

“The union wants us to pay from 2019 to 2024 but we have said that we are paying from 2024, that’s where we will start. As you know there was COVID and people received their salaries but weren’t working. So,

what we know is they said the union says there going back to the court so we will see what happens there,” Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister added.

Talks collapsed

Earlier this month, talks between the Education Ministry and the Guyana Teachers’ Union collapsed, after both sides convened to continue the collective bargaining to address salaries and other concerns.

During a press conference, GTU President, Dr Mark Lyte shared that the discussions should have been premised on negotiations for 2019 to 2023, as agreed upon in the first meeting by Government’s chief negotiator, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain.

However, Education Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Shannielle Hoosein-Outar joined the negotiations and asked the Union to put together a multi-year proposal for 2024 and beyond.

As a result, the Union staged a walkout of the meeting and has further hinted that there could be a resumption of strike and court actions.

The Education Ministry has since said that GTU

abandoned the collective bargaining process.

According to Government, the GTU maintained its determination to only discuss salary matters in relation to the prior years and refused to address the other 25 matters which were identified by both the Education Ministry and the Union for discussion.

Back to court

Court documents seen by this publication on Friday have listed Attorney General Anil Nandlall as the respondent and the Guyana Trades Union Congress as intervener.

Among the requests is one for an order directing the Ministry of Education to disclose all correspondences between the GTU and the MoE in relation to collective bargaining discussions, as claimed by the Ministry of Education; or alternatively, to disclose whether or not there are any such documents in existence.

GTU is also asking for a declaration that it has a right to negotiation within the period 2019-2023; a declaration that the refusal to negotiate for the period 2019-2023 constitutes a breach of its right to collective bargaining

under Article 147 of the Constitution of Guyana; a declaration that the minutes dated March 7, 2024 created a binding agreement; and a declaration that the agreement arising from the said minutes created a legitimate expectation.

Moreover, the GTU has requested that Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain and Education Ministry Permanent Secretary Shannielle

Hoosein-Outar be held in contempt of court for “unwillingness and bad faith for refusing to discuss collective bargaining for the period 2019-2023”.

Court mediation

The court ordered mediation between the two par-

ties on February 29, and it resulted in an agreement being arrived at between the Guyana Teachers’ Union and the Attorney General of Guyana on behalf of the Education Ministry. That agreement outlined that the teachers shall resume work on or before March 6, and discussion shall proceed within 48 hours of resumption of work, and shall be in relation to matters which either party considers relevant for discussion between the Union and the Government, including financial matters.

Following that agreement, teachers resumed work, and the MoE and GTU agreed to table the multiyear proposal 2019-2023 for discussion. (G1)

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

“No chances taken” in apprehending ‘desperado’ – Home Affairs Minister

No chances were taken by Joint Services ranks on Sunday as they pursued prison escapee and convicted rapist, Akeem Wong – who was later located and fatally shot at his Groete Creek Backdam, Essequibo River hideout.

Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn commented on the success of law enforcement ranks during the sidelines of an event, where he contended that Wong was a ‘desperado’.

“This was a desperado, a rapist and a murderer out there. His actions resulted in the deaths of two elderly people. His actions also resulted, vicariously perhaps, in the death of a sergeant of the Police Force and there were apparently no chances taken,” Benn expressed.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said, the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies signified an unwavering commitment to upholding law and order and ensuring the apprehension of individuals who threaten society. A statement contended, “The Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all citizens within Guyana’s jurisdiction. The Ministry is dedicated to law enforcement and works tirelessly to uphold justice and maintain public order.”

Benn was in Saxacalli along the Essequibo River on Sunday, where he convened with the Joint Services team to coordinate efforts in the pursuit of Wong.

The convicted prisoner was serving a 15-year sentence for rape, eluded authorities and fled from the confines of the Mazaruni Prison compound on February 15. Wong, called “Bin Laden”, and another inmate, Gilbert Gill, when escaped from the Mazaruni Prison were under the supervision of a prison officer, performing labour duties in a ‘wood bush’ when Wong requested permission to go defecate and was granted same by the prison officer.

About five minutes later, a check was made for Wong,

and it was discovered that he had gone missing. Law enforcement officials have since been searching for him.

He was, however, sighted at Groete Creek Backdam on Sunday by a team of Joint Services members.

Police, in a missive, stated that upon seeing the ranks, the escapee allegedly emerged from some bushes and charged towards them whilst wielding a cutlass. He was fired upon and fatally wounded.

The body has been escorted to Bartica Hospital. At the scene, police found one cutlass, $4,700, three SIM cards, 1 flash drive, and memory card, one pair of scissors, four cigarettes, one flashlight with batteries, one fishing hook,

CA$100, one cellular phone, and one lighter.

Meanwhile, David and Elizabeth Gomes were gruesomely chopped to death on March 8 while at their Saxacalli home.

It was reported that since the family moved to the city, they would return very often to clean their house and surroundings at Saxacalli. However, their routine visit took a sinister turn when an unexpected visitor arrived at their doorstep.

Wong reportedly ap-

Dead prison escapee Akeem Wong

proached the Gomes residence seeking food and directions. Police have said that Gomes’s six-year-old son related that about 15:00h on the day in question, the suspect visited their home and requested something to eat, while asking for directions. He was given food, and also took a few drinks with the child’s father.

The Police have said that after committing the act, the suspect attempted to wash down the blood, but in the process, he heard a boat approaching and ran into the nearby bushes, making good his escape.

Law enforcement was also told by the child that during the ordeal, the suspect was chopped by his father. The child, the Police said, took his father’s cellular phone and sent a voice note to one of his father’s friends, who in turn contacted the Police.

Following that incident, a member of the Joint Services was fatally shot by his colleague, a police constable, while hunting for Wong several kilometres from the village of Saxacalli, Essequibo River.

It was revealed that the cop sustained three gunshot wounds as follows: a graze to the right side of his abdomen; another graze to his right leg; and a wound made by a bullet that entered his left abdomen and exited through his right buttocks. That was the injury that ultimately claimed his life.

In its initial statement on the shooting, the Guyana Police Force had announced that a police constable had been placed under close arrest after he had “unintentionally” shot this police sergeant. The two were part of a police operation mounted to search for prisoner Wong. (G12)

Minister Robeson Benn meeting with a Joint Services Team, at Saxacalli along the Essequibo River, who were in pursuit of now dead fugitive Akeem Wong

Scenes from the opening ceremony of the 38th FAO Conference for Latin

Latin America and the Caribbean at Arthur Chung Conference Centre

“We’re very concerned about the violence” –Caricom Chair on Haiti’s spiralling violence

…says progress being made on presidential council

While progress is being made on negotiations for a Presidential Council to transition Haiti to some level of normalcy, Caribbean Community (Caricom) Chairman, President Dr Irfaan Ali also expressed concern over the latest spike of violence.

The president made these comments on the sidelines of an event on Monday. During a brief interview with the media, he noted the pressing need for the multi-national force to arrive in Haiti as soon as possible.

“Since I came back from Jamaica, we’ve been having continuous meet -

the multi-national force to be on the ground as soon as possible. There must be a bridging security arrangement to help immediately to bring a level of normalcy and security, so

ty equipment cut the power supply as lawlessness spread to affluent areas and gangs tightened their grip on the city.

Only last week, embattled Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry had announced he would be resigning, amid mounting pressure from a spiralling security breakdown and concerted efforts from Caricom, with the assistance of the international community, to broker a way forward.

His resignation came in the wake of several agreements between CARICOM Heads and Haitian stakeholders, including for the establishment of this Council that would se -

ings, almost every night.

Because the Haitians have to get the Presidential council in place. Progress is being made. We’re very concerned about the violence.”

“The international community renewed its call for

that work can continue,” President Ali said.

Reuters reported on Monday that at least 10 persons were killed in a wealthy suburb of Haiti's capital on Monday and there were reports of looting, and theft of electrici -

lect a new interim Prime Minister.

Coming out of these crucial talks among Caricom Heads in Jamaica on how to return Haiti to a state of normalcy, the regional bloc had announced that a Presidential Council

would be established to guide Haiti towards elections and the restoration of order.

This announcement was made by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, when she addressed the media at the press conference following talks last week Monday. Mottley said that 80 to 90 percent of proposals put on the table were agreed to by the stakeholders.

These include an agreement for the establishment of the Presidential Council, which would help identify an interim Prime Minister and replace the current one, Ariel Henry. Henry has since announced that he would resign once the Council was

configured.

Further, Mottley explained that the next interim Prime Minister would work with the Presidential Council to establish a government. Additionally, a provisional electoral council would be established as a critical institution.

When it comes to the rapidly-declining security situation in Haiti, the Barbados Prime Minister had said that all stakeholders agreed on the need to urgently contain this crisis. Further, she said that the establishment of the Presidential Council would critical to achieving this aim.

Meanwhile, Mottley noted that as a region -

al community, Caricom has agreed with its international partners on four principles, including that persons on the Presidential Council should not run in any future elections in Haiti.

Since February 29, criminal gangs in the capital Port-au-Prince have conducted coordinated attacks targeting Police Stations, prisons, critical infrastructure, and civilian sites in the city. On March 2, armed gang members raided two penitentiaries, reportedly freeing some 3800 inmates, after which Haitian authorities announced a three-day State of Emergency and imposed a nighttime curfew. (G3)

Culture Ministry relaunches PYARG's bronze expedition programme

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr has announced that the ministry will be relaunching the President’s Youth Award Guyana (PYARG) programme. The relaunch of the bronze expedition programme marked a significant milestone following its hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The PYARG programme has long been revered by young individuals for providing a platform for personal growth through exhilarating outdoor adventures within safe and supervised settings at the Bronze Level. It is not merely about traversing nature's terrain, but also about the invaluable guidance and mentorship offered by previous seasoned leaders, many of whom are Gold Level alumni themselves.

During the announcement on Friday, Ramson's encouraging words resonated greatly with the fresh batch of participants, as he stressed the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving success. The minister then emphasized the importance of leaning on experienced leaders like

Youths at a previous PYARG programme

Tyson English, affectionately known as the "Guyana Iron Man," to maximize the enriching experience ahead. Beyond the thrill of outdoor exploration, the PYARG bronze expedition programme serves as a transformative journey that cultivates essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. It's not just about conquering nature's challenges but also discovering one's inner strength and potential in the process.

The PYARG which falls under the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry strives to engage young people in training programmes and

training activities to help boost and stimulate their interests, and also to give them a platform where they can express their interests, and also express themselves in a learning environment, it’s known for involving young Guyanese in activities including volunteer work, physical events, skill development, and even daring adventures.

As the PYARG bronze expedition programme sets sail once again, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of a new generation, eager to embark on a journey of self-discovery and meaningful camaraderie.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Haitians flee their homes during clashes between gangs in Port-au-Prince (Ralph Tedy Erol/Reuters photo)

Govt aiming to complete constitutional reform in 2026 – Teixeira

The Government of Guyana is aiming to complete constitutional reform in 2026, a process which it noted will be thorough and people-centred.

This is according to Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira, who contends that the consultation process for this exercise will take into account the concerns and suggestions raised by citizens, Parliament, the National Assembly, human rights groups, and various committees.

Minister Teixeira said.

The Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister added that the consultation exercise will be national and inclusive, and cover the management of elections, fiduciary accountability, enhancing rights of Guyanese and ensuring constitutional language is simple, among others.

In this regard, she posited that Government would ensure that the Committee on Constitutional Reform followed the model used in the past, that is, with half of

The Minister, who was at the time participating in a discussion on the Guyana Dialogue programme, explained that Government would not rush the process and sacrifice efficiency for expediency.

“We are starting in 2024, I don’t think they will be finished in time for 2025, because we have to go across the country. We cannot bring a constitution that doesn’t involve the people and what they are suggesting and, of course, the changes in the Constitution that require a referendum, some changes require two-thirds majority,”

the members from civil society and equal representation from Government and the Opposition.

Additionally, a platform will be incorporated to ensure that the Guyanese Diaspora is also contributing to the process meaningfully.

“We are still an emerging democratic nation, so the consulting process has to include everybody, no one is excluded… Consultation must be recognised as a good-faith effort by the Government, and this Government to reach everybody regardless of their political affiliation, how they define themselves ethnical-

ly, religiously, gender-wise, etc. So, for us consultation is a fundamental platform of our Government,” the Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister added.

Constitutional Reform members

The 20-member Constitutional Reform Commission has to be drawn from political parties (five from the ruling party, four from the main Opposition and one from the Joinder Parties), while the 10 remaining persons will be drawn from religious groupings, the Private Sector, the Guyana Bar Association, the National Toshaos Council, the labour movement, women’s organisations as well as nominees representing farmers and youths.

The ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed that it had nominated AG Anil Nandlall; Minister Teixeira; Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony; Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai; and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, to be Government’s representatives on the Commission.

Similarly, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton revealed the nominees named by the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition to sit on the Commission.

They are Opposition Commissioner at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Vincent Alexander; Economist Sherwood Lowe; Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul and Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes.

In addition, the Joinder

Parties – A New and United Guyana (ANUG); the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) and The New Movement (TNM) – which hold one seat in Parliament have also submitted their nominee to the Government in the person of ANUG’s General Secretary, Timothy Jonas, SC.

Meanwhile, now that all 20 nominations have been received, President Ali is expected to swear in these members soon, as to establish the long-awaited Constitutional Reform Commission. Once the Commission is in place, a comprehensive consultation process is expected to begin with citizens on critical laws that needed to be reformed.

The way was paved for the establishment of the Reform Commission, and the commencement of the reform

process following the passage of the Constitutional Reform Commission Bill in the National Assembly in November 2022. Back in August of 2022, the Government presented the Constitutional Reform Commission Bill 2022 in the National Assembly. That Bill sought the establishment of the 20-member Commission to review the country’s supreme laws.

According to the provisions of the Bill, the Commission will review the Constitution to provide for the current and future rights, duties, liabilities and obligations of the Guyanese people. It is mandated for that purpose to receive, consider, and evaluate submissions for the alteration of the Constitution, and re-

port its recommendations to the standing committee for transmission to the National Assembly.

Last year, Government had earmarked the sum of $150 million in the 2023 National Budget for constitutional reform activities.

This year, additional monies have been allocated towards the establishment of the Commission, including the rental of a building to house the Commission. During the Consideration of the Budget 2024 Estimates last month, AG Nandlall disclosed that the Government had identified the building on Middle Street, Georgetown that was used for the conduct of several Commissions of Inquiry, as the office for the Commission.

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

Queen’s College student launches water purification system at school

In a bid to combat plastic bottle waste and promote sustainability, Vasanna Persaud winner of Recover Guyana’s Shout Competition, and Guyana’s National Youth Environmental Speaker has launched her water purification project within her school premises – Queen’s College.

Persaud, having proposed her project in the first phase of the Shout Competition in 2023 on behalf of her school, Queen’s College, eventually emerged victorious and claimed the rights to the title as Guyana’s Top Youth Environmental Speaker. Her initiative, the organization said in a release on Monday, marks a significant step forward in the fight against environmental degradation and possibly one which can be em-

ulated across schools in Guyana.

The project, which received a grant from Recover Guyana as part of the prize package for the winner and their school, established a sophisticated water purification and cooling system on the grounds of Queen's College.

This system converts ordinary tap water into a clean, refreshing source of hydration, available to students, teachers, and visitors throughout the day. By offering an alternative to bottled water, the refill station not only promotes health and well-being but also reduces the school's dependence on single-use plastics.

Accompanied by her parents, Dr and Mrs Persaud, Vasanna expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enact change with-

in her school community. "I am honoured to have been selected as the winner of Recover Guyana's Shout competition," said Persaud. "With the support of my school and Recover Guyana, I am confident that we can make a meaningful impact in reducing plastic bottle waste."

According to the release, at the launch held at Queen's College and attended by representatives including Dr Omesh Balmacoon, Secretary of Recover Guyana, and Kumarie Lall, Headteacher of Queen's College, as well as Vasanna’s parents, showcased the tangible impact of her visionary project.

Dr Omesh Balmacoon praised Persaud's initiative, highlighting its role in fostering environmental stewardship among

Guyana's youth. “Projects like Vasanna's show that simple ideas can be brought to life to make big differences in the lives of others while at the same time protecting and preserving our planet,” remarked Dr

Balmacoon.

The organisation said that as Persaud's project gains traction at Queen's College, it serves as a beacon of hope for environmental activism across Guyana. Through innovation, col-

laboration, and dedication, Vasanna and her peers are leading the charge towards a more sustainable future for all.

Recover Guyana will be launching Shout two in April of this year.

Guyana gets 38 new bio-medical practitioners

Some 38 students drawn from across Guyana have completed the Biomedical Training Programme undertaken by the Health Ministry, Medical Aid International and the Public Service Ministry.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony speaking about the new graduates said that the initiative was partly derived from the lack of bio-medical technicians within the country and it was within the ministry’s ambit to supply the first batch.

According to the minister, there would be times when equipment in the health sector is not in use

Some of the new bio-medical practitioners

it, it couldn’t be fixed unless a person from Georgetown came to fix it” he stated

because of the lack of persons to fix the varied issue.

“Once a piece of equipment was down, that was

whilst then relaying that they have successfully certified persons from nine administrative regions to help combat this issue.

Furthermore, Dr. Anthony underscored the importance of cultivating well-trained individuals within the country to address all medical needs as opposed to relying on the aid of medics from foreign entities such as Cuba.

“Within the ministry we want to have persons capable of handling all of our equipment’s and everything we have,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony announced that a new set of equipment is expected shortly to bolster the services provided in the health sector, ranging from X-rays and CTI Scans, “very soon, in at least ten location we will have CT scans and at least in two locations we will have MRI’s, he unveiled.

Vasanna Persaud at the launch of her water purification project at her school, Queen’s College

Complaints filed against judges as dozens of cases pass deadline

Formal complaints have been lodged against certain judges over their delay in delivering decisions within the time specified by the Constitution, a breach of citizens’ constitutional rights, the Barbados Bar Association revealed on Friday.

And it has suggested that the complaints could trigger another mandate of the supreme law of the land – the removal of offending judges from office – while scores of cases remain undecided for months and years.

In a statement provided to Barbados TODAY, the association’s president, Kaye Williams revealed that the Bar is now aware of recent formal complaints submitted by several members concerning specific judges. Each complaint outlines an alleged failure to deliver decisions within the mandated six-month timeframe following the conclusion of trials.

Section 84 of the Constitution provides for a judge’s removal from office “for delay of more than six months in delivering judgments”, among other acts of misconduct.

“Of great concern to the Barbados Bar Association is the fact that, according to its independent research, there are over 50 cases and/ or applications which have been tried, the decisions reserved by the judge, and the parties waited months, if not years, for a decision. For one reason or another, the court failed to deliver a decision and/or failed to deliver reasons for the judgment with-

in six months after the trial/ submissions,” Williams reported.

“The Barbados Bar Association is of the view that such delay can amount to a violation of the rights guaranteed to litigants by section 18 of the Constitution to have their cases receive a fair hearing within a reasonable time. This issue has been the subject matter of several scathing judgments delivered by the Caribbean Court of Justice.”

Last January, a litigant successfully obtained an award for damages in the High Court for a breach of Section 84.

“In that case, the litigant waited 30 months for a decision,” said Williams. The High Court determined that the “outer limit” for delivery of judgments in Barbados is six months after the conclusion of a trial and as such, the claimant’s constitutional rights were infringed. The claimant was awarded $35 000 in damages. The Court reasoned that ‘Justice delayed is justice denied, and a delay in justice is equal to a denial of justice’.”

Williams said that these complaints could trigger the process outlined in section 84 of the Constitution, necessitating consultation and the establishment of a tribunal to investigate judicial conduct. She underscored that, according to Section 84(3) of the Constitution, a judge may be investigated for judicial misconduct and potentially removed from office if decisions are delayed for more than six months.

She noted, however, that the Bar Association is not aware of whether the consultation and investigation process has been initiated or referred for further action, in the complaints that have been submitted.

“We acknowledge that there is no procedure prescribed in the Constitution or otherwise for notification to the complainant of the commencement of consultation. We, however, are of the view that any request by the complainant seeking information relative to their complaint should reasonably be met with a full response providing an update,” she said.

The president of the Bar Association revealed staggering statistics, estimating a backlog of about 16 000 cases in the Magistrates’ Court and 1 700 in the High Court. She attributed delays to various factors, including increased caseload, longer hearings, insufficient staffing, and inadequate resources for court and case flow management.

Williams disclosed that

over 1 000 Civil Court Division cases have been awaiting trial for “inordinately long” periods, causing significant delays in the

Family Court Division.

“Persons charged with very serious offences are being admitted to bail because their matters have been languishing in the system for periods in excess of four years. The likelihood of a genuinely fair trial in some of these matters is now in doubt. In one instance, a person served their entire sentence before the Court of Appeal rendered a decision in their matter,” she pointed out.

Highlighting the Bar’s commitment to working with stakeholders for justice system improvement, Williams acknowledged that delays in the judicial system have been a longstanding issue,

subject to public comment and extensive correspondence from the association over the past 12 years.

She said the organisation has provided detailed lists of outstanding decisions, outlining the case details, the court and the time which had elapsed since the hearing of the matter.

“The reports of delays regularly experienced by litigants in having matters heard and disposed of in the Criminal, Civil and Family divisions are not in keeping with the protection of the law and access to justice as enshrined in Sections 11 and 18 of the Constitution of Barbados,” Williams asserted. (Barbados Today)

Preserve, respect Phagwah celebrations – Dr Vindhya Persaud

President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and of Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud has urged all Guyanese to be respectful of Phagwah celebrations during the Guyana Hindu Dharmic celebrations on Saturday at the Dharmic Rama Krishna School Tarmac.

As scores of Hindus immersed themselves in performances by members of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, and the popular Shakti Strings Band, Persaud urged the public to preserve the upcoming celebrations. Stating that the pre-Phagwah mela has been organised and hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha for almost five decades, she explained that it has existed long and that it should be seen for much more years to come.

Additionally, she made mention that the festivities should not be tainted with any kind of behaviour or activity that is not in conso-

nance with the spirit of Holi Festival.

“As we continue to preserve this festival, we should do so in its pristine form, ensuring it’s never tainted by any kind of behaviour or activity that is not in consonance with the spirit of Holi Festival. It has a spiritual element, it has a social context, and it also has the opportunity to bring people from all walks of life together with all the colours of nature and spring.” She stated, whilst then drawing linkage

to the previous Rang Rasiya festivities. She highlighted that the Phagwah festivities should be preserved in the same way that the Rang Rasiya festivities have.”

Meanwhile Dr Persaud explained that, “Whenever we zoom into Holi or Phagwah, not only are we thinking of the beautiful vibrant colours which will make us indistinguishable when they’re smeared on our faces, but we’re also thinking of the melodies of spring.”

President of the Barbados Bar Association Kaye Williams

Performers at the event

President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud

Regional 10 killed in Port-auPrince suburb as tensions rise in Haiti

At least 10 persons were killed in a wealthy suburb of Haiti's capital on Monday, there were reports of looting, and theft of electricity equipment cut the power supply as lawlessness spread to affluent areas and gangs tightened their grip on the city.

A Reuters witness saw at least 10 dead bodies, some of which had bullet holes, on Monday morning in the streets of upscale PetionVille on the outskirts of Portau-Prince, which were later removed by ambulance.

Authorities have not commented on the events surrounding the deaths.

Haitians also reported gunfire and looting on Monday morning in the nearby area of Laboule. Later, the streets around Petion-Ville were practically deserted.

Meanwhile, the electricity service said several stations had been attacked and that cables, batteries, and documents were stolen.

Armed gangs who have been increasing their power in recent years took advantage of the absence earlier this month of Prime Minister Ariel Henry to escalate violence, attacking infrastructure including Police Stations and Government offices.

Under international pressure and stranded in Puerto Rico, the unelected Henry announced his resignation pending the appointment of a council and temporary replacement a week ago, but the transition council has yet to be appointed amid disagreements by some of the groups putting forward representatives.

A US State Department spokesperson said the council's membership could be finalised "very soon", and that an update could come later on Monday.

Local media reported Haiti's Catholic Church would not participate in the council, as had been previously expected, in order to maintain a "moral distance", although it was quoted as saying that it hoped all sectors would seek a resolution to the crisis.

The church's episcopal council did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Leaders of the armed groups who have long sought to oust Henry have warned of a "battle" for Haiti, and threatened politicians who join the transition council. Residents are facing worsening shortages of food and medical care as shipping firms have changed routes.

Over the weekend, UN children's agency UNICEF said one of its containers of "essential items" for maternal, neo-natal and childcare was stolen from Haiti's main port.

The international presence in Haiti has declined as the insecurity has risen.

The United Nations, and US and Canadian embassies have withdrawn staff this month.

Over the weekend, the Dominican Republic – which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti –evacuated dozens of its citizens by helicopter, while the Philippines' PNA State news agency said it would repatriate at least 63 of 115 nationals and was looking for options such as chartering a flight. Commercial flights have been suspended.

Around 17,000 persons left the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area last week, according to UN estimates. Many of those had already been displaced.

Neighbouring countries have been bolstering their borders. Plans for an international intervention, which Haiti's Government requested in 2022 and was ratified by the UN nearly six months ago, remain on hold. (Reuters)

PM: Barbados’ economy on the right track

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley says the Barbados economy is on the right trajectory.

Delivering the 202425 Financial Statement and Budgetary Proposals in the House of Assembly on Monday, she said it was predicted to grow by four per cent, and through

management by the Barbados Labour Party Administration, it had also stabilised.

Mottley said the national debt had declined from 178.9 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 114.6 per cent at the end of February. Additionally, debt service fell from 68 cents out of every dollar in

2018 to 30 cents currently.

This occurred, she reiterated, in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events, the worst hurricane (Elsa) in 65 years, a freak storm, and the eruption of La Soufriere volcano in St Vincent & The Grenadines. (Excerpt from Nation News)

Cuba summons top US diplomat, accuses US of stoking protests

Cuba's Foreign Ministry said it had summoned the top US diplomat on the island to a meeting following protests on Sunday, accusing the US Embassy in Havana of seeking to stoke a broader anti-Government uprising and meddling in Cuba's internal affairs.

Rallies in protest of oppressive, hours-long blackouts and food shortages erupted in at least five locations across the island on Sunday, including Cuba's second largest city Santiago, State-run media said. The US Government said on X late on Sunday

that it was monitoring the protests and encouraged the Cuban Government to "respect the human rights of the protesters and address the legitimate needs of the Cuban people."

Those comments prompted Cuba's Foreign Ministry to call Charge D'affaires Benjamin Ziff to a meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, "who formally conveyed his firm rejection of the Government's interventionist behaviour and slanderous messages", a statement from the Ministry said.

A US State Department spokesman said it was

"absurd" to suggest Washington was behind the protests.

The latest tiff between the two long-time foes underscores the still frosty relationship between Cuba and the United States, which has barely improved since Democratic US President Joe Biden took office in 2021.

Cuba's Foreign Ministry on Monday repeated the communist-run government's long-standing accusation that a Cold War-era US embargo and other sanctions were seeking to impoverish Cubans and destabilise the country. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazil's Govt eyes initiatives to boost low-income credit

Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad presented measures from a credit package that will include microcredit for low-income individuals as part of the next steps in the Ministry's "structural actions and stimulus measures" for the year.

The microcredit will be aimed at those enrolled in CadUnico, a federal Government registry that enables access to so -

cial programmes, including the welfare cash handout Bolsa Familia, which reaches around 21 million families with an average monthly benefit of 685 reais.

The initiative was included in a presentation made by Haddad to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other ministers earlier on Monday, which was later released to the press.

In the first ministe -

rial meeting of the year, Lula demanded results from the Ministers, following opinion polls showing a decline in the popularity of the leftist leader's Government.

Haddad's presentation also outlined, within the credit package, a debt renegotiation programme for small businesses and the securitization of real estate credit. (US$1 = 5.0234 reais) (Excerpt from Reuters)

Panama says has no knowledge of Iranian-owned ships on registry

Panama's maritime authority said on Monday it has no knowledge of ships owned by Iranians being in its registry, following concerns from US authorities on the matter.

The United States asked Panama last week to ban Iranian vessels sanctioned

by Washington from using its flag, as officials looked into the possibility that Panamanian-flagged vessels were used to transport Iranian oil.

Panama said it has not received formal requests to cancel registries since 2020.

The Central American country has the largest ship

registry in the world, with more than 8000 vessels sailing with its flag. It provides so-called "flags of convenience" that allow ship owners to register their vessels in a country to which they have no link in exchange for a fee and freedom from oversight.

(Reuters)

A woman is comforted by others at a crime scene where the bodies of several people, who had been shot dead earlier in the morning amid an escalation in gang violence, were being removed by an ambulance, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 18, 2024 (Reuters/Ralph Tedy Erol)

(Reuters/Ricardo Moraes file photo)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Big Oil executives push back against calls for fast energy transition

Top oil executives took to the stage of a major energy conference on Monday to vocally oppose calls for a quick move away from fossil fuels, saying society would pay a steep cost to replace oil and gas.

Big oil companies including BP and Equinor have written down renewable energy projects, and others have been forced to push back their greenhouse gas reduction targets due to greater uncertainties with the transition to clean fuels.

That and unexpected strong demand for oil has stiffened the industry's opposition to Government and activist demands to phase out fossil fuel development. Policymakers also have shifted their focus to energy supply security and affordability since Russia invaded Ukraine and during the latest conflict in the Middle East.

"We should abandon the fantasy of phasing out oil and gas, and instead invest in them adequately" to reflect demand, Amin Nasser, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil producer, said to applause.

Despite the growth of electric vehicles, solar and wind power, oil demand this year will reach a new record of 104 million barrels per day this year, Nasser said.

Alternative energy has yet to show it can displace hydrocarbons at current requirements or prices, Nasser added. He rejected the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecast of peak oil demand in 2030.

Other oil CEOs echoed his view, with Shell's Wael Sawan pointing to Government bureaucracy in Europe as slowing needed development. Petrobras CEO Jean Paul Prates said caution should overrule haste. ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods also said regulations governing clean fuels have still not been resolved.

"If we rush or if things go the wrong way, we’ll have a crisis that we will never forget,” said Prates.

"You're hearing some very pragmatic views up here," said Meg O'Neill, CEO of Woodside Energy, who rejected what she called simplistic views that the transition to cleaner fuels can "happen at an unrealistic pace".

Public debate over the transition and its cost has become increasingly divisive in many countries.

"It has become emotional. And when things are emotional, it becomes more difficult to have a pragmatic conversation," O'Neill said.

It could take 20 to 40 years to build the market for and test some new clean-fuel technologies, O'Neill said.

US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm pushed back at oil industry views on renewable fuels.

"That is one opinion," she said of Nasser's prediction of continuing long-term demand for fossil fuels. "There have been other studies that suggest the opposite that oil and gas demand and fossil demand will peak by 2030."

She called the transition to clean fuels "an undeniable, inevitable and necessary realignment of the world's energy system". She added that the world would need fossil fuels well into the future, and said technologies that remove carbon "are ways that we can keep the lights on and continue to press for clean energy solutions".

Exxon's Woods, whose company spent US$4.9 billion on a carbon sequestration company, raised concerns about building a business around hydrogen and carbon capture and storage.

He said in remarks at the conference he was not confident that carbon capture and storage would "necessarily come to the right solution" because of its current high costs and lack of market incentives.

On the use of hydrogen as a fuel, "the challenge has been translating the legislation of the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act) into regulation," Woods said.

"There isn't a lot of incentives" to drive low-carbon hydrogen fuel projects, he said, referring to hydrogen derived from natural gas. (Reuters)

Gaza faces famine during Ramadan

When dawn broke last Monday morning, signalling the beginning of Ramadan, it brought a cruel irony for the people of Gaza.

The holy month when Muslims fast during daylight had arrived amid a looming famine.

Gazans had already endured five months of war. Virtually the entire population was already dependent on food aid to survive.

"The people here have already been fasting for months," said Dr Amjad Eleiwa, the deputy director of the emergency department at al-Shifa hospital, Gaza City.

"They scour the city looking for food to survive, but they cannot find any."

Israel's bombardment of Gaza, in response to the Hamas attacks of October 7, has destroyed food infrastructure and farm-

land across the territory. Aid agencies say enhanced Israeli security checks on delivery trucks have created bottlenecks around aid reaching the population.

The global body responsible for declaring famine, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), reported this Monday that 1.1 million persons – virtually half the population of Gaza – was already starving and the rest of the people there could be in a famine by July.

The food crisis is most acute in northern Gaza. Unlike previous Ramadans, residents there cannot rely this year on lining their stomachs with suhoor, the pre-dawn breakfast, nor look forward to assuaging their hunger with iftar, the post-sunset meal.

Street decorations, drummers and stalls loaded with treats have been

Khaled Naji and family share a meal in the ruins of his home in Gaza. "There is no joy in this Ramadan," he said

replaced by destruction, death, and a daily fight to find food. Prices for what little flour or wheat is available have risen fivefold.

"I remember the last Ramadan, there was good food – juices, dates, milk, everything you could want," said Nadia Abu Nahel, a 57-year-old mother caring

for an extended family of 10 children in Gaza City.

"Compared to this year, it is like heaven and hell," she said. "The children now are craving a loaf of bread, it is a meal they dream of. Their bones are becoming softer. They are dizzy, they struggle to walk. They are becoming very thin."

(Excerpt from BBC News)

West decries Putin's election win; China, India vow closer ties

Western Governments lined up on Monday to condemn President Vladimir Putin's landslide election victory as unfair and undemocratic, but China, India and North Korea congratulated the veteran Russian leader on extending his rule by a further six years.

The contrasting reactions underscored the geopo-

litical fault lines that have gaped wider since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago, triggering the deepest crisis in relations with the West since the end of the Cold War.

Arriving in Brussels on Monday, European Union (EU) Foreign Ministers roundly dismissed the election result as a sham ahead

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia glitch lets customers withdraw millions

Ethiopia's biggest commercial bank is scrambling to recoup large sums of money withdrawn by customers after a "systems glitch".

The customers discovered early on Saturday that they could take out more cash than they had in their accounts at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE).

More than US$40 million was withdrawn or transferred to other banks, local media reported.

It took several hours for the institution to freeze transactions.

Much of the money was withdrawn from Stateowned CBE by students, bank president Abe Sano told Journalists on Monday.

News of the glitch spread across universities largely via messaging apps and phone calls.

Long lines formed at campus ATMs, with a student in western Ethiopia telling BBC Amharic peo-

ple were withdrawing money until Police Officers arrived on campus to stop them.

The student, who attends Jimma University Institute of Technology, said he "did not believe it was true" when his friends told him around 01:00 local time (22:00 GMT) that it was possible to withdraw large amounts from ATMs, or transfer the money using the bank's app.

Another student, at Dilla University in southern Ethiopia, said a number of his peers retrieved money from CBE between midnight and 02:00 local time.

More than 38 million persons hold accounts at CBE, which was established 82 years ago.

Ethiopia's central bank, which serves as the financial sector's governing body, released a statement on (Excerpt from BBC News)

of agreeing sanctions on individuals linked to the mistreatment and death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

"Russia's election was an election without choice," German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said at the start of the meeting.

Playing on Moscow's reference to its war in Ukraine as a "special military operation", French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne said Paris had taken note of the "special election operation".

"The conditions for a free, pluralistic and democratic election were not met," his Ministry said.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said the election outcome highlighted the "depth of repression" in Russia.

"Putin removes his po-

litical opponents, controls the media, and then crowns himself the winner. This is not democracy," Cameron said.

France, Britain and others condemned the fact that Russia had also held its election in occupied regions of Ukraine that it claims to have annexed during the war. The Kremlin dismissed such criticism, saying the 87 per cent of the vote won by Putin during the threeday election showed that the Russian people were consolidating around him.

Meanwhile, a senior Ukrainian official said on Monday Putin's idea of creating a buffer zone inside Ukrainian territory was a clear indication that Moscow planned to escalate its war in its neighbour. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trump unable to get US$464M bond in New York

fraud case, his lawyers say

Donald Trump cannot find a private company to guarantee the US$464 million he has been ordered to pay in a New York civil fraud case.

The former President must either pay the full amount in cash or secure a bond in order to continue his appeal.

Trump's lawyers said on Monday that securing a bond of that size was a "practical impossibility".

For a fee, a bonding company would guarantee the full amount to the New York court.

They would then have to

pay it if Trump loses his appeal and cannot do so himself.

Trump's team spent "countless hours negotiating with one of the largest insurance companies in the world", the lawyers wrote in a court filing, but concluded that "very few bonding companies will consider a bond of anything approaching that magnitude".

The lawyers said they had approached 30 companies without success.

Trump's two eldest sons also must pay millions of dollars in the case. (Excerpt from BBC News)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Keep your plans and secrets to yourself. The less you let others know, the easier it will be to reach your target. Let the child within give birth to new beginnings.

Settle in and make your home environment more functional, and you’ll save time and money. Consider how you can improve your appearance, health and emotional well-being. Set out on a journey.

Connect with people who spark your imagination and support your efforts. A short trip, reunion or catch-up with a loved one will help you gain valuable perspective.

Don’t sit back; do whatever it takes to excel. Be inventive, take the initiative and strive to be the best. Step into the spotlight.

Learn something that helps you improve your life. It’s never too late to start anew and to find your bliss. A physical change will fuel your desire for internal change.

Be receptive to change, and you’ll find a path forward. An open mind will lead to unexpected opportunities and a chance to close one door while opening another. Regret is a waste of time.

Put your energy to good use. Take care of unfinished business; it will give you the boost you need to start something new and exciting. Pay attention to where your money goes.

You must address issues directly for change to have a positive effect. Sign up for a course that offers insight into something intriguing. Consider revamping your lifestyle.

Withholding feelings will result in a misunderstanding. Share your intentions and voice what’s important to you, and you’ll find out where you stand and what you must do to keep the peace.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Your actions matter. Don’t promise something you cannot deliver. A change at home can make the difference between happiness and regret. Be clear about what you need and are willing to give.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Observation will be revealing. Focus on how others respond to you. Discussing shared expenses or possessions will offer insight into what lies ahead. Keep an open mind.

Replenish your emotional, physical and financial resources. Nurture what’s meaningful to you. Speed things up and put your energy where it brings the highest return.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

PICKLES

ARCHIE

Wasim the hero as Islamabad scramble to 2-wicket win

Multan Sultans might possess the formula for getting to Pakistan Super League (PSL) finals, but it's Islamabad United who know how to win them. Déjà vu struck for the Sultans, who saw yet another PSL final snatched away from them off the final delivery in a low-scoring thriller.

Imad Wasim was United's hero, having turned back the years to deliver a sensational all-round performance, taking five wickets before ensuring he was out in the middle to watch Hunain Shah angle the final delivery behind point to seal United's third title.

If the drama of last year's epic final – which Sultans lost by a run – could not be eclipsed, it was certainly emulated in Karachi Monday. United appeared to have won that final at several stages through both innings, never more than when they reduced the Sultans to 127 for 9. But Iftikhar Ahmed's cameo – an unbeaten 32 off 20 balls, got the Sultans to 159, a total that a stellar bowling attack felt they just about had the personnel to defend.

And what a defence they mounted. United opened the batting with two 37-yearold New Zealanders, having dropped the out-of-form Alex Hales, even if Colin Munro was clearly still struggling with the leg injury that kept him out of the previous three games. While Martin Guptill made the most of the powerplay, clean timing and pure power on full display, Sultans chipped away from the other end, bogging United down with a slew of spinners on a surface that had begun to grip.

Khushdil Shah's twin strikes removed Munro and Salman Ali Agha, before, at some point impossible to define, what should have been a cakewalk became a grind.

Shadab Khan, supremely assured with bat all tournament, attempted a panicked slog after an unconvincing start off Iftikhar, and paid for it with his wicket. Azam Khan struggled to get going, and even Guptill was being dragged back to earth as nerves began to shackle the most fluid team in the PSL.

But there's only one way United know how to get out of trouble, and Azam and Guptill began to free their arms once more. Guptill scythed down Usama Mir, the leading wicket-taker of the tournament, with two sixes and a four, before Azam

plundered 15 off a wayward Chris Jordan over, and the pendulum swung again.

But it was never going to be straightforward, and a mix-up between the pair saw Guptill depart after a swashbuckling half-century. David Willey, perhaps this year's stand-out fast bowler, struck to put down Haider Ali, whose power-hitting in the eliminator got United to this stage. Iftikhar, whose contribution so often Monday evening looked as if it would be decisive, prised out Faheem Ashraf, the man who, six years ago, had struck the six that sealed United's last title, and suddenly, all that was left was Imad and the tail.

Late on in the first innings, Imad had sneaked into the dressing-room to have a quick smoke, but there was no getting away from the stress he was under now. A decisive battle between Iftikhar and Naseem Shah, and then Jordan and Imad, in the 18th and 19th overs finally looked to have tipped the game off the tightrope it had been walking until then, with 23 off those two overs bringing the equation down to eight off six. A clip through mid-on brought the game down to below a run-a-ball, and a pair of singles levelled the scores.

But the drama just

wouldn't end. Naseem miscued a pull shot with the ball kissing the edge, and as one Shah walked off, his younger brother Hunain was tasked with finishing the job off. And while he looked like the calmest man as he poked it through the infield to seal the win, the sobs he broke into afterwards belied the steely front the 20-year-old had put on.

But though United's win was ultimately wild and frenetic, how they set it up in the first innings was its polar opposite. A gameplan that was designed craftily was executed to perfection, using Imad and Shadab in the powerplay to smother a Sultans top order that has looked imperious all the way through this season. Mohammad Rizwan

SCOREBOARD

Islamabad United (T: 160 runs from 20 ovs)

Shadab Khan (c)

b Iftikhar Ahmed

b

Imad

Haider

b Willey

Faheem

b

Hunain

Extras (lb 3, w 3)

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.15) 163/8

Did not bat: Tymal Mills

Fall of wickets:

(Yasir

1.3 ov), 2-14 (David Willey, 1.6 ov), 3-67 (Mohammad Rizwan, 9.5 ov), 4-85 (Johnson Charles, 11.4 ov), 5-114 (Usman Khan, 15.1 ov), 6-120 (Usama Mir, 15.3 ov), 7-126 (Khushdil Shah, 16.2 ov), 8-126 (Chris Jordan, 16.3 ov), 9-127 (Abbas Afridi, 16.6

Naseem Shahn 4-0-25-0

Imad Wasim 4-0-23-5

Hunain

Faheem

Tymal

Shadab

would have fallen in the first over but for an overstepped Naseem right boot, while Yasir Khan was deceived in the flight by a canny Imad

the following over. Sultans' attempt at a low-value wicket saw them send in Willey, but he would last just three balls, a hoick followed by a chop that rattled into the stumps. Usman Khan has been the Sultans' unlikely standout batting star, but United refused to let any batter truly gain momentum. Naseem’s accuracy was metronomic and his pace fearsome, so while he never picked up a wicket, his first three overs went for just nine. It was built around eight overs of devastating spin from Shadab and Imad, who picked up eight wickets between them, including a collapse that saw the Sultans lose 5 wickets in 12 balls and teeter on the brink at 127.

But United hadn't quite managed to account for Iftikhar, the man with the highest strike-rate this tournament, and he made sure to save his best for last. Slogging with the magical freedom that clarity of thoughts can give you, he walloped Mills for 13, and then an otherwise faultless Naseem for 18 in the final over to get his side up to 159, a below-par score, but not an indefensible one. He had held up his end of the bargain with both bat and ball, but his team-mates had built up a debt he could, despite his best efforts never truly pay off. And when United came to collect, they ensured they took the silverware with them. (ESPNcricinfo)

Ricketts pledges to advance Jamaican football as JFF President

…challenger Anderson out as Vice President

In the wake of his successful re-election as President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) on Sunday, Michael Ricketts is poised to lead the charge in revitalising football in Jamaica. Ricketts and his team secured victory in the elections held at the Royalton Regency in Negril, defeating Raymond Anderson and his RSA team with a vote tally of 39-17.

Reflecting on his campaign and victory, Ricketts while speaking with Sportsmax.TV, expressed both gratitude for the support received and a cautious optimism about the road ahead. He was also confident of victory.

"Let me first say thanks to the Father up above, who would have given me the mental strength to have gone through this campaign, which was terrible, but I have so much to be thankful for. We had always canvassed the numbers and we were almost spot on, because we had a meeting two days ago and we came out 40-16, so we would have lost one of those votes and it ended up at 39-17,” he stated.

As he looked ahead, Ricketts said his new administration would be looking to right some of the wrongs made during his previous Administration.

“We have always been confident but guarded in our

utterances. We would have made mistakes, so the onus is now on us to ensure that we put some corrective measures in place as we try to move the football forward," Ricketts remarked, highlighting the need for prudence and diligence in addressing past shortcomings.

In his commitment to effecting positive change, Ricketts disclosed plans for reform within the JFF's leadership structure. Notably, he announced that Raymond Anderson would not be returning as a Vice President in his administration. Instead, Ricketts introduced new Vice Presidents, including Gregory Daley, Elaine Walker-Brown, and Barry Watson, while also welcoming Rudolph Speid and Bruce Gaynor as ordinary members to the now 11-member Board.

Addressing a pressing issue, Ricketts provided an

update on the ongoing dispute with the senior Reggae Girlz over unpaid fees. He expressed optimism about recent developments, indicating progress towards resolution.

"Well, their representative has actually written to say that the girls have now agreed that we have paid them in full, so I hope that that is the start of the process of rebuilding that relationship and getting these players to represent this beautiful land of ours," Ricketts affirmed, signalling a positive step forward in the effort to mend fences with the national team players.

Looking ahead to the future of Jamaican football, Ricketts pledged to engage stakeholders and pursue growth opportunities within the sport. Emphasising the importance of collaboration and inclusivity, he underscored his commitment to working with individuals dedicated to advancing football in Jamaica.

"Our new committees will be put in place before this week ends and the work starts immediately. During this campaign period, I would have come across some persons who seriously have an interest in growing the sport. We will definitely be engaging some of these persons as we try to improve the brand and to grow football," Ricketts concluded. (Sportsmax)

Re-elected JFF President Michael Ricketts

Imad Wasim took a five-wicket haul in the final

Stolen Money stole the show

TRegal

was fourth in a highly-competitive race.

Despite the showers across the Ancient County of Berbice, the opening race got underway, and it was “Rags to Riches”, who claimed the pole position.

Shake the Bank came in second while Little Africa and Top Ranking rounded out the top four finishers in the L Non-winner race.

Race two was the H & Lower event, which was sponsored by Ann’s House of Beauty Salon and Spa. American Traveler emerged as the winner while Amicable Kate was second.

Supremacy galloped in third while Rachel came fourth.

The L Open race was won by Quiet Warrior while Princes Sasha came second. Princess Samiah and Perfect Dream were the other finishers. Regal Surprise did not fail to surprise the Kennard Memorial fans as the KP

Lee, Shariff take lead as GCF Grand Prix 3 commences

After four rounds of the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF)

Third Grand Prix Chess Tournament, which commenced on March 16, Ethan Lee and Sasha Shariff lead in their respective open and female categories.

Lee is on 3.5 points after defeating Odit Rodrigues, Loris Nathoo, and Roberto Neto and drawing with CM Ronuel Greenidge.

Lee managed to defeat Nathoo after gaining the upper hand in the chaotic duel as the two players raced to checkmate. For Nathoo, it was the amassed pawn storm towards

Lee's defensive line. For Lee, it was the arrangement of his long-range bishops and queen towards Nathoo's weakened kingside. As the time pressure piled on the players, both players scrambled for tricks and traps. Finally, it was Lee who got the upper hand against Nathoo. Nathoo's race to Lee's king had faltered, granting Lee the victory over the veteran player.

Lee v Greenidge was a slow but tactical game. Lee, with the white pieces, gained the upper hand early in the game, winning a pawn. This advantage began to snowball for Lee, as his pieces became more and more active and threatening. However, Greenidge's precise end-game experience and inaccuracies by Lee led the game into a draw for the black pieces.

On 3 points are Nathoo and Rashad Hussain. Ronuel Greenidge, Roberto Neto, Kyle Couchman, Ricardo Narine, Keron Sandiford, and Jaden Taylor are all on 2.5 points. Other participants are Odit Rodrigues, Sachin Pitamber, Kishan Puran, Kim Shing Chong, Ethan Thakurdin, Tremusa Marshall, Rafael Park, and Alek Ubaldo-Singh.

Meanwhile, Shariff won against Jessica Callender, Emma John, and newcomer Anya De Groot, and drew with Aditi Joshi to gain 3.5 points.

Shariff’s game against Callender was even as they exited the opening, with Shariff having the advantage with a better pawn structure. The middle game then evolved into a series of tricks and traps involving both players' knights. In the end, it was Shariff who outmanoeuvred

Racing Stable-owned horse rode to the top spot. Money Time came in second while River Dance and Bin Laden rounded out the top four finishers.

Race five was the K&J race, which saw Trump thumping the field to emerge victorious. Princess Samiah came in second while Rags to Riches came in third to complete a busy day for the latter two.

In race six, Shake the Bank tore apart the field to

win the L Non-winner and first-time starters event. Get Then Reggie came in second while Maximum Cash and Kiss were the other top finishers.

The next horse race meet is set for Port Mourant Turf Club on Sunday, March 31 which will be the Easter Cup.

The sponsors for this event were the Kennard family, Ann’s House of Beauty Salon and Spa, Mohamed’s Enterprise, R

Singh and Sons, Kester Thompson, Torginol Paint, Peter Parsatoon, Hand-inHand Group of Companies, Pastan Trading Services, Rohan Auto Sales, New Building Society, Colin Elcock, Horseshoe Racing Service, Mike’s Pharmacy, Kanhai’s Guyana Electrical Agency, Balkaran Brothers and Satrohan Ramdin, Jose Jagmohan, Silvie’s General Store, Michelle Mathewson, Ron Ramnarayan, and Ramesh Sunich.

Leopold Street, Tiger Bay ousted after intense night of competition

It was a night of upsets, as traditional giants

Leopold Street, Tiger Bay, and Channel-9 Warriors were sent packing when the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Georgetown edition resumed on Sunday evening at the National Park tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Callender, securing a material advantage and cruised into a winning endgame and victory.

Joshi, Callender, Ciel Clement, and Treskole Archibald are on 2.5 points. Other female players are Kaija Clement, Nellisha Johnson, and Angelina Yhap.

The third series of the Grand Prix tourneys started on Saturday, March 16, and will conclude on March 24, 2024. The tournament is being held at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, and is sponsored by the Chess Federation. Cash prizes totalling $70,000 will awarded to the top three placements in the open and female categories. Grand Prix points will be calculated according to the rating system of the Grand Prix tourneys.

The Guyana Chess Federation 2024 Grand Prix series is part of the qualification system for the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, in September 2024.

The four Grand Prix allows players to test their skills and work on improving their strategy for the opening, middle, and end games in a competitive setting. The final Grand Prix will be played later in June of this year. The National Open and Women's Competitions are also part of the qualification system for the Olympiad.

Tiger Bay were the first to suffer this unlikely reality, as they lost 0-1 to the Middle Road Ballers. Likewise, Leopold Street went down to newcomers Unstoppable 0-1.

Similarly, the Channel-9 Warriors lost to the Tucville Rangers 1-3. Meanwhile, Sparta Boss avoided such a fate as they squeaked past the Back Road Ballers 1-0.

The tournament resumes on Friday at the same venue as the group stage segment. Group stage fixtures will also be played on Saturday and Sunday at the same venue. Complete

is Money Stabroek Ballers Laing Avenue

Tucville Rangers

Group B Back Circle

Albouystown Unstoppable

Middle Road Ballers

Group C

Sparta Boss Lodge All-Stars Albouystown Warriors

Sophia B

Group D North-East La Penitence North Ruimveldt Rising Stars Make It Happen

Upcoming fixtures:

Day 4 March 22nd

19:00h: Lodge All-Stars v Albouystown Warriors

19:30h: North Ruimveldt v Make It Happen

20:00h: North East v Rising Stars

20:30h: Stabroek Ballers v

20:30h: North Ruimveldt v Rising Stars

21:00h: Albouystown v

21:30h: Tucville v Gold is Money

22:00h: Back Circle v Middle Road

22:30h: Lodge All-Stars v Sparta Boss

Day 6 March 24th

19:00h: Rising Stars v Make It Happen

19:30h: Unstoppable v Middle Road

20:00h: Tucville v Laing Avenue

20:30h: Lodge All-Stars v Sophia B

21:00h: North East v North Ruimveldt

21:30h: Gold is Money v Stabroek Ballers

22:00h: Sparta Boss v Albouystown Warriors

22:30h: Back Circle v Albouystown

Sasha Shariff

Ethan Lee (right) in the game against Loris Nathoo

Leopold v Unstoppable

Stolen Money (left) dominated the feature event at Kennard Memorial Turf Club

Archery Guyana certifies 22 new archery instructors in Essequibo

This past weekend, Archery Guyana successfully certified 22 new Archery instructors in Essequibo. This milestone represents a significant achievement in expanding the pool of qualified, sanctioned instructors to promote and teach the sport of archery across the region.

This course – which was duly conducted by a team of certified National Archery Coaches comprising Jeewanram Persaud, Ryan McKinnon, Roshini Boodhoo-Persaud, Saeed Karim, Umasankar Madray and Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon – was deemed a historic success, concluding on Sunday.

The certification programme, conducted by Archery Guyana, aimed to equip the new instructors with the necessary skills, knowledge and techniques to effectively teach and promote archery within their

communities. Participants hailed from diverse backgrounds, including physical education instructors, teachers, youth leaders, and sports enthusiasts, all eager to contribute to the growth and de-

velopment of archery in Essequibo. Through intensive hands-on training and theoretical instruction, the newly-certified instructors demonstrated their dedication and passion for the sport.

Springer, Holder, Daw, Hinckson dominate at CARIFTA vs The Rest

With the preparation of CARIFTA athletes in full force, the CARIFTA vs The Rest meet got underway over the weekend at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), West Coast Demerara, organised by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), and saw spectacular races.

Tianna Springer, who will feature at this year’s CARIFTA, lived up to expectations in the 200 metres final with a time of 23.85s, as she copped first place, followed by her CARIFTA teammates Athaleyha Hinckson, with a time of 23.93s, and Nairissa McPherson with a time of 24.28s.

The men’s 200m final was nothing less than excitement as Noelex Holder from Police Progressive Youth Club (PPYC) rose to greatness, clinching first place with a 21:06s finish followed by CARIFTA’s Jaheel Cornette taking up second place with a time of 21.70s and Shimar Velloza, also of PPYC, in third with a time of 22.13s.

The women’s 400m saw only the participation of CARIFTA athletes, with Springer outshining her teammates – finishing in 56.54s while McPherson settled for second place with a time of 57.70s and Marissa Thomas was third.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) went firing from the blocks in the

male version of the event, as Nicholas Daw took first place in 49.83s, followed by club teammate Quancy Reynolds in second place with a time of 50.09s and Dhneilson Gill from PPYC in third.

With the 100m determined to be her specialty, Hinckson crossed the line first in 11.51s while with a time of 12.01s, Nalicia Glen managed to secure second place followed by Adassa Albert in third with 12.39s.

Representing PPYC with dominance was Holder again, as he finished first in the males 100m with a time of 10.14s; GDF’s Akeem Stewart was second with 10.43s on the clock and Jaheel Cornette, featuring at CARIFTA, finished in third with a time of 10.44s.

Guyana’s CARIFTA

team read: Tianna Springer, Athaleyah Hinckson, Charissa December, Esther McKinnon, Attoya Harvey, Akilla Blucher, Nerissa McPherson, Keneta Fraser, Nalicia Glen, Marissa Thomas, Jaheel Cornette, Javon Roberts, Malachi Austin, Rodell Green, Jamal Sullivan, Robert Marcus, Danielson Gill, Deul Europe, Skylar Charles, Kaidon Persaud, Ezekiel Millington, Ryan Joseph, and Nathaniel Samaroo. The team will be accompanied by Coaches Wayne Pantlitz and Trishel Thompson, physiotherapist Akeem Stewart and Manager Thelson Williams.

The 51st edition of the CARIFTA Track and Field Championships is set to take place in Grenada, commencing on Saturday, March 30 and culminating on April 1.

Visiting the archery range on Sunday during the practical part of the course were Prime Minister’s representative Arnold Adams and Region Two Vice Chairman Humace Odit, who both commended the initiative and pledged their support to make the continued growth of the sport possible.

At the closing ceremony,

Archery Guyana President

Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon presented the certificates, and expressed her delight at the participants’ successful completion of the certification programme and their commitment to mastering the art of archery instruction, which is commendable.

Archery Guyana is confident that they will play a vital role in expanding access to archery and fostering a culture of excellence in the region. A presentation was made of all target stands built for the event, the PVC bows for each participant, the built quivers, arrows, target butts and target faces and other archery equipment.

In response, Wazeeda Bacchus, Sports Organiser of Essequibo attached to the National Sports Commission, thanked Archery Guyana for making this historic launch of the sport in Region Two possible.

Delivering remarks at the closing ceremony also was Toshao of Mainstay/

Whyaka, Yvonne Pearson, who thanked the national federation Archery Guyana and the National Sports Commission office in Essequibo for making it possible.

The Board of Directors wishes to acknowledge and thank Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, Deputy Director Franklin Wilson; Essequibo Sports Organiser Wazeeda Bacchus, and the National Sports Commission, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. The synergy between the National Sports Commission and Archery Guyana’s initiative underscores the immense potential for archery to flourish in every corner of Guyana.

The Board also extended profound thanks to the Chief Executive Officer of Service Guyana, Sheikh Mujeeb Ahmad; Samuel Arjoon, Collin Higgins and the team at Guyana Beverages In., Oasis Water, Dilip Singh, WD’s Hotel and Mall located at Lot 110 Charity, Essequibo Coast and the media.

Panthers top Falcons to clinch John Lewis Memorial title

The Panthers Rugby Club came out on top on Sunday evening, after a thrilling final against the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Falcons in the John Lewis Memorial Sevens tournament.

The tournament, in its second edition and organised by the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), began on Saturday with four teams in the National Park, Georgetown.

In the final showdown between the Panthers and Police Falcons, the eventual champions got the better of the latter 19-12 in a close encounter.

The Falcons had three successful tries for 15 points, but missed out on one conversion, only adding a further 4 points to their tally for 19. Falcons, on the oth-

er hand, had two successful tries and a single conversion.

Meanwhile, in the thirdplace playoff, the tournament’s defending champions, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Rugby Club redeemed themselves to clinch the remaining podium position ahead of the Pepsi Hornets in a 17-7 game.

GDF scored three tries and a single conversion for their 17 points, while the Hornets converted their only try for 7 points.

Earlier in the afternoon, the Panthers whipped the Hornets 40-0, on their way to the coveted final. The Panthers’ mammoth total included 7 successful tries.

GDF defeated the Pepsi Hornets 24-7, compliments of four tries and two successful conversions, while the

Hornets could only muster one try and one conversion.

In addition, the Panthers had previously defeated the Police Falcons 12-7. The Falcons were able to limit the lightning-fast Panthers to only two tries and a conversion, while Police produced a single try and conversion for themselves.

For individual prizes, GPF player Lionel Holder was recognized as the Most Valuable Player ( MVP) of the Tournament, while Panthers’ Godfrey Broomes received the award for MVP of the Finals.

The John Lewis Memorial Sevens tournament is hosted in memory of former GRFU and Pepsi Hornets President GDF reserve Colonel (Retired) John Percy Lewis who passed away back in 2020.

Athaleyah Hinckson

Arnold Adams, Humace Odit, Yvonne Pearson, Archery Guyana’s Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon are flanked by Archery Guyana’s National Coaches (in yellow) and the newly-certified archery instructors (in orange)

The Panthers celebrate their John Lewis Memorial Sevens title