Guyana Times - Wednesday, May 24, 2023.pdf

DNA experts arrive from Barbados to assist in identifying remains – Ali

Ateam of DNA experts from Barbados arrived in Guyana on Tuesday, to assist with the identification of the students who tragically perished in the fire at the Mahdia Secondary School’s female dormitory on Sunday night.

As he acknowledged the unwavering support of regional and international partners during an event, President Irfaan Ali thanked

the Barbados Government and Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley for this assistance. He also pointed out that the Cuban Government has offered full medical support for those who require medical assistance.

The fire, which destroyed the entire structure and killed 19, left charred remains that were burnt beyond recognition. As such, efforts have been activat-

ed to have them identified and bring closure to the aggrieved families. Some 13 bodies are to be identified.

“I want to acknowledge the immediate help of those in Caricom, the Prime Minister of Barbados. Today, we have a team of experts arriving from Barbados to assist us in the DNA analysis. I want to thank our international partners, the United States of America,

PAHO and all others who readily offered full support in all that we need at this time…I also cannot [forget] the generous offer of Cuba yesterday to give us full medical support in and out of Guyana. And to be a host country for any medical needs in Cuba.”

Students who lost their lives included Tracil Thomas, Lisa Roberts, Delicia Edwards, Lorita Williams, Natalie Bellarmine, Arriana Edwards, Cleoma Simon, Subrina John, Martha Dandrade, Loreen Evans, Belnisa Evans, Mary Dandrade, Omerfia Edwin, Nickleen Robinson, Sherina Daniels, Eulander Carter, Andrea Roberts and Rita Jeffrey. The ages of the girls ranged between 12 and 17. In addition, five-year-old Adanye Jerome, the son of dorm parents, also lost his life.

Ali urged, “I will say that what we need at this time is continued prayers and thoughts for the families and communities. We pray collectively that the God of love, faith and patience will continue to bless the families and strengthen them in faith, shower them with love

and increase their patience.”

Identified

Families are waiting with bated breaths to be updated on the identification of their loved ones. Loreen Evans was identified and her parents were given the opportunity to view the remains and identify who could possibly be their child.

This publication was informed that DNA samples were taken from the remains of Belnissa Evans and her family awaits word to confirm identity.

Meanwhile, the body of Bibi Rita Fiona Jeffrey was not clearly identified as other remains look identically like hers. Officials are relying on DNA samples to confirm which of the remains is hers.

Government has indicated that the parents of these victims are receiving adequate support and counselling, or any other assistance needed.

Apart from the 19 children who lost their lives, six were also admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital. Two were intubated and are

receiving ventilation support in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and one was rushed to the Operating Theatre (OT) to undergo limb saving surgery. As of Tuesday, the count at the GPHC increased to nine.

The other three children, who were in less critical conditions, received assistance in the hospital’s Paediatric High Dependency Unit (HDU).

According to a Guyana Fire Service, 14 youths died at the scene of the fire, while five died at Mahdia District Hospital.

Initial investigations by the Guyana Fire Service revealed that the fire was maliciously set and the origin was identified as the south-western end of the building. It is alleged that the fire was set by a student who was upset by the confiscation of her phone following concerns that the dorm administrators had with her behaviour.

The GFS added that after this initial discovery, the scene was handed over to the Guyana Police Force. (G12)

The aftermath of the fire at the Mahdia girls’ dormitory (MoE photo)

…Cuba pledges to provide any medical assistance needed …authorities awaiting DNA tests to confirm identities of some

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, May 24 – 04:15h – 05:45h and Thursday, May 25 – 22:00h – 23:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, May 24 – 06:25h – 07:55h and Thursday, May 25 – 07:10h – 08:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and sunshine during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 06:59h and 19:35h reaching maximum heights of 2.42 metres and 2.22 metres.

Low Tide: 13:06h reaching a minimum height of 0.82 metre.

Deadly Mahdia fire

Police confirm teen set building on fire killing 19, seek DPP’s advice

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is expected to approach the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) today to seek advice on the way forward regarding the deadly Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire that has taken the lives of 19 young people.

During its investigations, detectives interviewed several students in the presence of a Probation Officer to ascertain what really transpired leading up to and on the evening of Sunday when the female dormitory was set ablaze.

This far, the Police have confirmed that the fire was purposely set by an alleged angry student who retaliated after her mobile phone was confiscated by the dorm's mother and a teacher.

The Police statement also confirmed that on the evening of the fire, there were 57 female students in the dormitory - a one-flat concrete building measuring about 100 feet by 40 feet, with several windows, all grilled, and five doors.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

“According to the female students, they were asleep and were awakened by screams. Upon checking, they saw fire/smoke in the bathroom area, which quickly spread in the building, causing several students to receive burns to their bodies and smoke inhalation, whilst

several managed to escape,” the release stated. The injured students were, however, taken to the Mahdia District Hospital where they were examined and admitted as patients by doctors. At the hospital, five of the female students were subsequently pronounced dead.

Subsequently, a search was carried out in the gutted building during which 14 burnt remains of human beings were found.

Nevertheless, on Monday, Government pa-

thologist Dr Nehaul Singh performed autopsies on six of the bodies namely, Nicholeen Robinson, Shorlin Bellarmine, Eulanda Carter, Subrina John, Martha D' Andrade, and Adonijah Jerome at the Mahdia District Hospital's mortuary and gave the cause of death as smoke inhalation and burns.

The bodies were identified by relatives and handed over to them for burial. On the said date, the 13 charred re-

mains were transported to Georgetown and are presently at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for storage and DNA analysis.

Meanwhile, 17 of the female students were medevacked to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for further medical treatment, with at least three in critical condition. Further, another 11 students are presently in stable condition at Mahdia District Hospital.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Impact of trauma

Over time, numerous cases of domestic violence have been reported in the Guyanese media. Many persons were brutally killed in some instances. Unfortunately, it continues, despite awareness efforts and the much-touted training of law enforcement officers who are expected to be the first step of recourse with regard to the lodging of complaints.

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 is much larger than what appears in the news, including the social media outlets, as many cases go unreported. This, therefore, gives much credence to the appearance of an underestimated reality.

Many reasons have been promulgated for what can deter an abuse victim from seeking the intervention of the law. Among them, in no specific order of impact, are aspects of culture; shame; dependency and its redounding lack of empowerment for some; and the lack of confidence in law enforcement itself, precipitated from the reported trivialising of the issue in some instances.

One may posit that education is a primary concern. On the other hand, one can argue that education has been more profound in recent times. Pertinent would be to ask the question whether the other factors subvert the heeding of educational messaging; while the answer may be assumed, it would make for interesting and informative research.

As that is contemplated, the magnitude of the impact on children cannot be underestimated. Many have cruelly been made witnesses to the horrific assaults on their mothers and, to a lesser extent, their fathers. Those ghastly images, especially for some who watched as life was snuffed out, are not only lasting, but profoundly traumatising.

When young minds are so broadsided, the impact, if not managed, lingers for life. Not that it is erasable, but with meaningful and sustained interventions, the trauma can potentially be mitigated, thereby aiding in better shaping of lives. The entire spectrum of what therefore constitutes counselling then becomes vital. This naturally raises the question of the availability of adequate intervening mechanisms.

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 the benefit of all, to know the extent of what is available and offered. Realistically, expectations cannot be for what obtains in the developed nations. However, 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 on 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.

Not too long ago, the country had the unenviable tag of having the highest rate of suicide per capita. Prior to that categorisation, some aspects had made news internationally, prompting a local organisation to call for suicide to be made a national priority, given its impact on society and the trauma it imposes on surviving relatives.

It was stated that the declaration would not only bring additional focus, but would have positioned the issue to be afforded the necessary resources for its mitigation.

It was not going to be a panacea to stop suicide, but effectively structured, it increases the potential across the country, with the assistance of stakeholders, to maximise effectiveness of informationgathering for targeted intervention. It would also increase confidence in the support system, to help break social inhibitors where necessary, and to better edify.

It is no different for domestic violence. While there is a disadvantage in being unable to accurately quote 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, it 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 to be declared 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 and away from just the families.

Children 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. That of road accidents must also be taken into account, for too much is at stake for the nation and its people.

IDPADA-G has not submitted a report of perceived inequalities, discrimination to ERC

Dear Editor, Please allow me a response to Mr Vincent Alexander’s recent tirade against me on Sunday May 21, 2023, in which he made several spurious objections to the contents of a letter that I drafted and circulated among members of the African Guyanese cluster of organisations that participated in the parliamentary process that elected me as their official representative on the Ethnic Relations Commission.

Firstly, Mr Alexander’s claim that the cluster of seven main Afro-Guyanese organisations, that were agreed upon by both major parliamentary parties to which I referred in the letter; is a figment of my mind, has no standing and is not a real group; is misleading. He is fully aware that I made a promise to the cluster that once elected I would operate in a consultative manner in representing our issues. When I was sworn in by HE President Irfaan Ali on March 21, 2023, I immediately called a first meeting of the cluster and requested of them to begin work on a comprehensive document of perceived areas of inequality and discrimination that would be submitted to the ERC and which would serve as the standard to measure the effectiveness of my tenure. The cluster has met at the ERC’s boardroom about five times between March 21 to May 21,

2023. Though Mr Alexander has not come to any meetings, representatives of the coordinating council of IDPADA-G, whether to help or to subvert, have been in attendance.

So when Mr Alexander says that “Khafra has reconstituted the group unilaterally; designated himself as leader…”, he exposes his malicious intent to impugn my character and to subvert my efforts not as leader but as the duly elected AfroGuyanese commissioner on the ERC.

Secondly, Mr Alexander in his attempt to refute my claim that the Government’s intervention into the affairs of IDPADA-G was at the request of many of the organisations within IDPADA-G states that “the organisations in the contrived cluster, such as Pan African Movement Guyana, ACDA and ironically IDPADA-G, among others have not invited such intervention”. This is another attempt to mislead. The truth is that those organisations, inclusive of the Guyana Rastafari Council, took a step back after major irregularities were observed and it was perceived that the entity was being hijacked by political operatives to be used in the battle between the major political parties. Subsequent to that, almost thirty of the fifty-plus organisations of IDPADA-G at that time drafted, signed and submitted a letter of

grievances and irregularities to Mr Alexander requesting a meeting to address their concerns. He failed to address their demands and a subset of that larger group decided to send the letter to the Minister of Culture for his intervention. The Minister’s response was to stop the subvention and the rest is as they say, history.

Thirdly, Mr Alexander asserts that their accusations of ethnic inequality and Government discrimination at the UN last year “was not an act of protestation” but that IDPADA-G merely “reports to these UN mechanisms as is provided for in their modus operandi”, however, it can be construed as an act to make the Government look bad and not as any real attempt to have the issues reported on addressed since IDPADA-G has failed to exhaust all available national or local avenues to seek redress. IDPADA-G should know that the UN is an international body that deals with protocol and though it may be inclined to listen, would be hard-pressed to do more since they have failed to follow protocol. To date IDPADA-G has not made any attempt to submit to the ERC, a report of the perceived inequalities and discrimination that people of African descent in Guyana face. If the ERC fails in its mandate to address those concerns, then IDPADA-G

would be justified and validated in its recourse to the UN.

The African Guyanese community does not deserve to be held at ransom and used by any political party as a shield in their war against their political opponent. African Guyanese cannot continue to be collateral damage. I, as Rastafari, will not squander the opportunity that has been given to me by the officially recognised representatives of the African Guyanese community to ensure that the members of our community are not discriminated against and that they are provided with an equal share of the rich resources that we have been blessed with as a country.

I am encouraged that the Government has shown a willingness to engage with the official representatives of the African Guyanese community within a context of mutual respect, trust and confidence and to begin a process to address the perceived needs of the community. Consequently, I will continue to utilise the office of commissioner of African Guyanese to ensure that the community is effectively represented within the context of my mandate.

Yours truly,

Ras Khafra Commissioner Ethnic Relations Commission

A mural for the 19 children who perished in the deadly fire at the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory on Sunday. On Tuesday evening, a National Candlelight Vigil was held at the Umana Yana, Georgetown

LGE 2023

GECOM sets June 2 for Disciplined Forces to vote

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has set June 2, 2023, as the day for the Disciplined Services to vote, 10 days ahead of the June 12 Local Government Elections (LGE) when the general population will cast their ballots.

This was explained in a notice from GECOM, who noted that this is being done under Sections 74A and 74I of the Local Authorities (Amendment) Act. Disciplined Services encompass the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Prison Service.

“And whereas Section 74E requires the Elections Commission to appoint a day on which persons entitled to vote under that part may ballot; Now therefore the Elections Commission hereby gives notice that the day on which the persons entitled to vote under Sections 74A-74I may ballot shall be 2 June, 2023 from 6:00 hours to 18:00 hours,” GECOM explained in their notice.

Voting for the Disciplined Services is traditionally held separate from the general population because the Disciplined Services will have their hands full ensuring law and order is maintained when the general population votes. Accordingly, training was also held on Monday for the Disciplined Services.

The training was done with ranks of Regional Police Division #3, who were sensitised on E-Day preparedness during a lecture done by Assistant Superintendent Delon Fraser, who is an attorney-at-law attached to the chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

During the three-hour training at the Regional Recreational Hall at Leonora Police Station, West Coast Demerara (WCD), the topics covered included misconduct in poll-

ing places, possible offences in the polling place on election day, forging of proxy paper and minor offences

“Ranks were reminded of their roles, functions and responsibilities on E-Day to ensure that persons are able to cast their ballots in an orderly manner and to ensure the maintenance of law and order,” a statement from the GPF also said.

Meanwhile, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) in a notice invited representatives of specific groups to contact the commission to indicate their participation in the public signing of a ‘Code of Conduct’ for the elections. Among the groups who were called upon were the Agriculture for Community Development, Citizens Participation, Development for the People, Hague Blankenburg Development Association, Independent Citizens for Progress.

Other groups include the National Congress of Progressive People’s Alliance, People’s Royal Empowerment Enforced, Tuschen/Uitvlugt Developers, United for Community Development, United Destiny Group, United Democratic Movement and the Mora/ Parika Community Development. Meanwhile, specific individuals mentioned in the notice were Premchand Persaud and Daimeon James. Local Government

Elections were initially scheduled for March 13, but disagreements over constituencies and how lists were to be extracted caused a holdup. LGE were constitutionally due at the end of last year, but GECOM was without a Chief Election Officer and could not have prepared to host the elections. GECOM, a constitutional body, was allocated $5.2B in the 2023 National Budget to carry out its functions.

In February of this year, Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall set Monday, June 12, 2023 as the date for the holding of the much-anticipated and long overdue LGE in Guyana.

GECOM has already been in preparation mode over the past few months as it gears up for the long overdue elections. The Commission had previously indicated that its approved work plan entails, among

other things, that the Elections Secretariat would immediately move to roll out a robust civic and voter education programme, appoint Electoral Registrars and Assistant Electoral Registrars, and extract the Preliminary List of Voters (PLV). These activities, it noted, are directly linked to the preparation of Registers of Voters for each of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs).

In this regard, the GECOM Secretariat had already completed the training of management and polling day staff for all of the Local Authority Areas, and the receipt of applications for and approval of symbols submitted by political parties, voluntary groups, and individuals who intend to contest the elections.

In fact, the Elections Commission had extended the process to provide a further opportunity for political parties, groups or individuals wanting to contest the upcoming LGE to submit their applications for approval of their symbols by March 1, 2023.

LGE, which are constitutionally due every two years, was last held in 2018. At the November 2018 local government polls, the then People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Opposition had secured 52 of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs). This had followed the holding of the LGE in 2016, during which the PPP/C also claimed the majority of the LAAs. (G3)

Joint Services ranks at the LGE training

Subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators

To subtract mixed numbers, first subtract the whole numbers, then subtract the fractions.

By Stewart Brown

Proudly wearing the rosette of my skin I strut into Sabina England boycotting excitement bravely. Something badly amiss.

Cricket. Not the game they play at Lords, The crowd – whoever saw a crowd at a cricket match? – are caged Vociferous partisans, quick to take offence.

England sixty eight for none at lunch. ‘What sort o battin dat man? Dem kaan play cricket again, Praps dem should-a-borrow Lawrence Rowe!’

Exercises: Subtract

And on it goes, the wicket slow As the batting and the crowd restless. ‘Eh white bwoy, how you brudders dem Does sen we sleep so? Me a pay monies Fe watch dis foolishness? Cho!’

So I try to explain in my Hampshire drawl about conditions in Kent About sticky wickets and muggy days And the monsoon season in Manchester but fail to even convince myself.

The crowd’s loud busin drives me out Skulking behind a tarnished rosette somewhat frayed now but unable, quite, to conceal a blushing nationality.

WORD SEARCH

“Deeply saddened” – families of Mahdia victims offered comfort in time of grief

Still reeling from the shockwaves of the Mahdia dorm fire in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) which claimed the lives of 19 and left many injured, families and the wider population have been offered comfort as they mourn the tragic loss.

Condolences continued on Tuesday, with the Government of Grenada sharing that they are deeply saddened by news of the tragic dormitory fire at the Mahdia Secondary School.

Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell expressed, “Our hearts go out to the entire community of Mahdia, especially the families and loved ones who will be eternally affected by this devastating incident. We extend our deepest condolences during this time of profound grief and loss.”

The Government and people of Grenada said it continues to monitor this unfolding tragedy and stand in solidarity with those affected, offering support and sympathies as the commu-

nity navigates this period of immense sorrow.

Speedy recovery

In her statement, Secretary General of Caricom, Dr Carla Barnett said she received “with great sorrow the shocking news of the fire at the high school

port of Caricom Member States as the community returns to normalcy.

The Board of Governors of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) also offered its heartfelt condolences. Registrar Dr Wayne Wesley conveyed, “The loss of these young people with such bright potential is shocking and painful. We pray at this time for the survivors and family members of those students whose lives were lost.”

Locally, the Guyana Bar Association offered its condolences to the families and community of Mahdia, also remembering those who were injured and are either recovering or require intense care.

Progressive Organisation (WPO) expressed its profound sadness at the loss of lives which left many hurt and traumatised.

in the Guyanese town of Mahdia.”

Sending prayers to Guyana, Dr Barnett shared, “We mourn with the families, friends and communities who are impacted by this horrifying event…We pray a speedy recovery for those injured and otherwise impacted and offer the sup-

The Bar commended the efforts of all first responders who immediately lent support to reduce loss of life suffered by the people of Mahdia.

“In the coming days, we call on all Guyanese to pause, pray and reflect on the lives of some of our Nation’s brightest souls now lost by this tragedy.”

Meanwhile, the Women’s

“We join in praying for the speedy recovery of those who are traumatised and hospitalised. We would like to commend the Guyana Fire Service, the staff of the hospital, teachers, caregivers, and all involved, for the assistance rendered that resulted in saving the lives of so many others. We would like to thank the Government for its timely intervention and for providing support and guidance to our people and country at a time when we are plunged in grief for the loss of our loved ones,” the organisation penned.

From the New Building Society Limited, employees noted that they stand in mourning with the parents and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

Efforts by President Dr Irfaan Ali; Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Cabinet

in response to this tragedy were commended, as well as medical and security personnel who responded promptly in treating the injured and bringing comfort to others affected.

“As a mark of respect,

sombre time, adding that all activities relating to its anniversary celebrations have been postponed in standing in solidarity with the nation.

“The Parliament of Guyana mourns with the people of Mahdia and our nation in this tragic and heart-breaking time. Our prayers and thoughts are with the families of the deceased and every Guyanese at home and abroad.”

we will wear a black ribbon this entire week, as we join the nation in mourning the loss of so many of our young people from a single remote region. NBS is committed to play its part with other organisations, in bringing comfort and solace to all those affected as our nation has been plunged into grief by this grave tragedy.”

A statement from Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir called for prayers at this

Sympathy messages were also penned from Speakers of other countries, such as Bridgid Annisette-George from the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago; Claudius Francis of the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia; Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert of the Parliament of Jamaica; Valerie Woods of the House of Representatives in the National Assembly of Belize; Rochelle Forde of the House of Assembly of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Lanein Blanchette of the National Assembly of St Kitts & Nevis among others. (G12)

Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell Secretary General of Caricom, Dr Carla Barnett

Families of the victims being consoled on Monday

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir

23-year-old Friendship man dies in smash-up

Twenty-three-yearold Joel Alexander of Wilkins Street, Friendship, East Coast Demerara, lost his life on Monday afternoon when the car he was driving crashed into a motor lorry in the vicinity of First Hill, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

The accident occurred at about 16:50h and involved a motor lorry, GAD 5905, owned by Alabama Equipment Rental and Transportation Service and was at the time being

driven by a 32-year-old of Leguan Island, and a motor car, PKK 475, driven by Alexander.

Police reports stated that the lorry was proceeding east along the northern side of the road when the driver alleged that motor car PKK 475, which was proceeding in the opposite direction, overtook a white motor car (number unknown) and ended up in the lorry's path. On seeing this, the lorry driver said he pulled to the left to avoid a collision, but the two vehicles collided despite his effort.

Alexander received injuries to his head and about his body, and he was taken out of the vehicle by Police in an unconscious condition. He was then taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was seen and examined by doctors on duty and pronounced dead on arrival.

The body of the deceased was escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Meanwhile, a breathalyser test was conducted on the lorry driver, and the results showed no trace of alcohol on his breath. He is in custody, assisting with the investigation. (G9)

Dealing with… …Mahdia

One thing your Eyewitness will say: this tragedy at Mahdia better lead to changes in so many ways so that nothing like it ever happens again in our country. That’s the only way we can effectively express some kind of remorse for those poor children who perished in the conflagration – albeit set by one of their own. Your Eyewitness knows an investigation’s under way, but the questions mount in his mind and his head feels like it’ll explode. How could one mattress set ablaze start the conflagration?? How did the fire spread into the several rooms he assumed were sealed off from each other. Or weren’t they?? And the fire leapt across walls that didn’t extend to the ceilings??

His mind’s tortured with such questions because he just doesn’t want to deal with the horror of those poor children trapped by smoke and the flames; gasping for breath and finally perishing. There must have been the screams that went unanswered. And the questions keep coming. Why were the windows all grilled?? He’s told the girls frequently left the dormitory via that route at nights to frolic in neighbouring hang-out spots. So we created a prison and threw away the keys to keep them on the straight and narrow?? Isn’t that sorta like swinging a sledgehammer to kill a fly on your friend’s forehead??

What do the codes say about placing grills on windows and doors in institutions housing people?? Are there codes on such grills that prescribe standards to deal with such contingencies? After all, we do have several instances with people who were trapped and killed in such structures. Wasn’t there a famous cultural artiste named Laxmi Kallicharan who perished in such circumstances some time ago?? In the case of the dorms, putting grills in place without having someone with a means of getting them open, was just asking for a tragedy.

Shouldn’t there have been a guard assigned 24/7 for such contingencies?? Were drills conducted with students, guards and the matron to deal with such a contingency?? Your Eyewitness read that the matron attempted to get the door open – left her son alone in their adjoining flat and he unfortunately also perished. She was always gonna be too late – since she would be reacting from a distance after the fire and smoke had percolated throughout the dormitory.

The Government, the nation and even other countries have responded with great empathy for the tragedy. Right now, apart from seizing the moment to make the changes suggested above – among others – we must all reach out to the grieving families in those remote communities. They’ll be going through the five stages of grief – denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance – and the nation must be patient.

…old friends

Your Eyewitness is quite chuffed that a Guyana Ghana Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) was launched. Ghana’s history is intertwined with us at so many levels. In pre-history, we were literally joined together physically – until we drifted apart as the continents of Africa and South America! Many of the Africans dragged across the Atlantic and enslaved to work on our plantations were from what’s now Ghana. Cuffy was an Akan Ghanaian.

More recently, Ghana was the first African colony to gain independence from Britain in 1957 and we launched “Ghana Day” celebrations here. In this millennium, Ghana struck oil offshore in 2011 and offered a clue that as geological twins, we likely also had oil off our shore. And that’s where we can benefit from their experience in handling their O&G sector –built over a historical agricultural base.

While some may scoff that they haven’t been THAT successful, we can also learn from their mistakes. And with THEIR cocoa and OUR sugar we may launch a chocolate industry!!

…a neoliberal world

Let’s accept that mega infrastructure’s gonna be built to extract, process and transport resources. Agriculture developed into a high-productivity, low-employment, cash-cropping sector. And production for export gonna be prioritised for growth and foreign exchange earnings.

Dead: Joel Alexander

The accident that occurred in the vicinity of First Hill, SoesdykeLinden Highway

Guyana, Brazil eye broadening trade with new Linden-Mabura Road

Engagements between Governor of Roraima, Antonio Denarium and Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar have renewed eagerness on the part of both countries to deepen trade relations with the realised Linden to Mabura road project.

Indar on Tuesday received a courtesy visit from the Governor and members of his delegation.

During their engagement,

“Superman” remanded for breaking and entering

Andy Persaud, also called “Candy” and “Superman”, was on Monday remanded to prison for the offence of break and enter, and larceny.

The 31-year-old of Lot 27 Hope West Enmore, East Coast Demerara, was arrested on May 18, 2023. He appeared at Cove and John Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where he was slapped with the charge of Break and Enter and Larceny, Contrary to Section 229 (a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01.

Persaud is accused of committing the act on Sursattie Algoo, a 63-year-old wom-

Remanded: Andy Persaud

an from Hope West, Enmore. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison. The case will continue on June 23.

they discussed areas of cooperation, particularly on the $192M Linden-Mabura Road project.

Indar provided Governor Denarium with an update on the project and acknowledged the important role Brazilian contractor Construtora Queiroz Galvao S.A. plays in the development project.

“Both Minister Indar and Governor Denarium highlighted the importance of the completion of the thoroughfare to broadening trade between Guyana and Brazil,” a statement from the Ministry outlined.

The Minister noted that 48 concrete bridges are being built between Mabura and Lethem according to American Association of State Highway and Transportation

Officials (AASHTO) standards to improve the commute for passengers and commercial traffic.

Indar and Governor Denarium also discussed cooperation in the areas of air transport, cross-border trade, and technology transfer.

The Linden-Lethem Road is being upgraded to an all-weather road, with the contractor being required to produce an asphaltic surface capable of withstanding the heavily laden lorries which currently use the thoroughfare. The first phase of the

project focuses on a two-lane highway being constructed from sand and dirt to an asphaltic concrete surface. The road will be approximately 121 kilometres long and 7.2 metres wide. The project is expected to last for three years. With tangible works taking place, residents have started focusing on the new possibilities for business opportunities.

The project is being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) via a US$112 million loan, a grant to the tune of £50 million (US$66 million) from

the United Kingdom under the Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (CIPF), and an input of US$12 million from the Guyana Government.

With a 7.2-metre-wide carriageway, the Lindento-Mabura Road will feature a cycle and pedestrian lane measuring 2 metres wide, along with 10 bus stops outfitted with ramps for persons with disabilities. Additionally, a number of bridges and culverts along the way will be replaced, and some 123 lights will be installed. (G12)

Governor of Roraima, Antonio Denarium and Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar during discussions on Tuesday

A nation

Essequibo Islands Secondary School, Wakenaam, paid tribute to the victims of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre hosted a prayer session

Nappi Primary School had a moment of silence for the victims

Santa Rosa Secondary School wrote messages for the survivors of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

The National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) Marking and Quality Assurance team stopped to offer words of prayer for the victims of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

mourns

(Photos compliments of the Education Ministry)

Academy of Intellectual Minds in Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara

Clairmont Nursery School

Koko Nursery School in a moment of silence for the victims of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

Leguan Secondary School held a moment of silence for the victims

Port Kaituma Nursery School

Santa Rosa Secondary School wrote messages for the survivors of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

St Joseph's High School students signed the Board of Condolences for the Children of Region Eight

Students of the Cotton Field Secondary School paid tribute to the victims of the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire

Kumu Primary School

Maruranau Primary School

Citizens Bank records over $800M profit so far in 2023

…after-tax profits increase by $116M; net interest income $2B

Citizens Bank has recorded over $800 million in after tax profit so far for the 2023 fiscal year, displaying improvements in not only its after-tax financial performance but also its interest income.

According to bank Chairman Clifford Reis’s report, $838.2 million in after tax profit was recorded for the first six months of the 2023 fiscal year ending March 31, 2023. This is a 16.1 per cent increase compared to the first half of 2022, when they made $722.2 million in after tax profit.

When it comes to the income they made from interest rates in the first half of the year, this was $2.1 billion. Adjusted for expenditures, their net interest income was $2 billion… an increase compared to the

$1.7 billion from 2022.

“Other income was $494.7 million, resulting in a surplus before non-interest expenses of $2.5 billion; this represents an increase of $366.3 million or 17.2 per

cent over the corresponding period last (year),” the Chairman’s report stated.

Meanwhile, the bank’s operating expenses also increased. The Chairman’s report listed operating expenses as $992.5 million, reflecting an increase of 19.0 per cent over the corresponding period last year. The bank attributed this to increased employment and procurement expenses.

“At March 31, 2023, the net loans and advances balance was $43.1 billion, compared to $34.0 billion at March 31, 2022. Net investments were $25.2 billion, compared to $23.8 billion at March 31, 2022. Total deposits balance was $79.4 billion, compared to $72.1 billion at March 31, 2022.”

Also increased are payments to shareholders. It

was explained that the Board of Directors has approved an interim dividend payment of $1.15 per share, compared to $1.00 for the corresponding period in 2022. The bank expressed optimism with Guyana’s projected economic growth for 2023.

“The Guyana economy is projected to continue its trajectory of economic growth during fiscal 2023. Citizens Bank Guyana Inc remains ready to respond to the opportunities that will be presented, and is optimistic about a satisfactory performance during the remaining six months of the financial year,” the bank stated.

It was recently announced that Banks DIH, the parent company of Citizens Bank, had recorded after tax profit of $3.068 billion compared to $2.820 billion in 2022 – an-

other increase of $248 million or 8.8 per cent.

However, the Group’s third-party revenue for the six months was $23.508 billion compared to $21.873 billion for the corresponding period in 2022. This represents a hike of $1.635 billion or 7.5 per cent. Revenue generated by the company in the first half of 2023 was $20.864 billion, raising by $1.296 billion or 6.6 per cent over last

year’s $19.568 billion. Additionally, the unaudited operating profit before taxation for the company was $3.960 billion compared to $3.646 billion in 2022, that is, an increase of $314 million or 8.6 per cent; while the unaudited profit after taxation was $2.760 billion compared to $2.533 billion in the previous year, also an increase of $227 million or nine per cent. (G3)

Citizens Bank

Citizens Bank Chairman Clifford Reis

2 crushed to death hours apart in separate accidents

come back, I see the whole building cave in when I look down I see me partner fall down and the building cave in and the beam fall on he and he dead.”

“None of we expect this… this has nothing to do with the boss, is the building cave down and it, that could have happen to any one of we,” he said.

It is believed that the heavy concrete beam became loose and plummeted to the ground, striking “Kevin” and instantly causing fatal injuries.

Two persons were crushed to death in separate accidents on Tuesday afternoon. Dead are 84-year-old Elaine Williams of Buxton, East Coast of Demerara (ECD); and a man identified only as “Kevin” of Sophia, Greater Georgetown

The first accident took place at a building along Sherriff Street, Georgetown

where “Kevin”, a construction worker was crushed to death after a part of the building on which he was working allegedly caved and crushed him in the process.

According to one of the dead man’s colleagues, Jason, they have been work-

ing at the site for about seven months. He said a few minutes before the accident, he had just left his friend to purchase a drink, when he heard a loud impact and rushed back to the site.

“He send me downstairs to buy two XL for me and he… by the time I

Following the distress call, emergency services were immediately dispatched to the location, and the construction worker was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Meanwhile, just a few hours later, 84-yearold Elaine Williams, a broom vendor of Sideline Dam, Buxton, East Coast Demerara, was crushed by a waste disposal truck as

she was crossing the Buxton Public Road.

The woman was reportedly returning home after plying her trade when she met her demise. Williams is known for selling brooms in Georgetown and along the ECD corridor and had set out earlier in the day to con-

duct her business. She was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining severe injuries. She was described by her family as a kind-hearted and hardworking individual. The driver of the lorry was detained and is assisting with the investigations. (G9)

The construction worker after he was crushed by a beam

Dead: Elaine Williams

The woman after being crushed by the truck

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

The Mahdia tragedy is a national tragedy – time for Mahdia Strong, Guyana Strong

Our country has been called upon again to face adversity and tragedy. The death of 19 children in a fire in a dormitory in Mahdia is a national tragedy. The pain and suffering of the families in Region Eight are horrendous and while we can all give our prayers and our love, we all cannot feel the same pain. Yet, this is a national tragedy and we all feel the pain in one way or another. One thing is certain at this time, all of us wish this tragedy never happened, all of us share the pain that the families who have lost loved ones are feeling right now. WE all want to ensure that every bit of support that the families need they will get. A nation, a national family have been touched with tragedy and we are called upon to respond as a nation, together.

I saw a president with tears in his eyes. I saw the pain in his face. But I also saw a president who could not be helpless. The families in Mahdia and the nation needed him to lead and that is exactly what he did. While he mourned, he did not shirk his responsibility. He and his Government, he and all the relevant agencies were mobilised and have stood strong. The Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force, the aviation industry, the Private Sector, ordinary citizens have come out to support. This is the time for Mahdia, Region Eight and Guyana to stand strong. We are Mahdia Strong. We are Guyana Strong. WE will overcome.

Nineteen beautiful children, nineteen beautiful souls were lost. We will never replace these souls. Nineteen bright smiles were snuffed away from us in a moment. Our grief will last for a long time. For the families their grief will last forever. But we are a country built on strong faith. Our faith will get us through this tragedy. We pray these children will be in the arms of God. We pray that their families will be given the strength to carry on.

Inevitably, there are always small groups who would utilise a national tragedy to fulfil their own agendas. We should not be distracted at this time by that small group that will use this tragedy to further their own selfish agendas. It does not mean we should not learn from the tragedy so that another of its kind never occurs again. But this country is made up of good people. For sure, we have smart people with different viewpoints and different ideas. We have faced enormous national challenges before. Just as we overcome the many challenges before, we will remain resolute and strong and we will move on stronger than we were before this latest tragedy.

Let us not mistake, this tragedy is unlike many we have faced before. The immediate task before us is to ensure the families affected are given the absolute maximum support. Our President and his team have instructed that no effort or money should be spared in ensuring that all immediate needs of the affected families are provided. The health team, the ministries of education and human services, other ministries, have deployed fully for this effort.

The Government has committed immediate, short-term, medium-term and long-term support for the families. For immediate support, President Irfaan Ali, in a visit to Mahdia, establish a Technical and Recovery Support Task Force headed by the Chief-of-Staff. President Ali is totally focused on ensuring that the families and that the Mahdia and Region Eight communities recover from this tragedy. He personally is holding hands to ensure that this happens. In the face of tragedy, our President and our country are showing resilience and strength.

Around 2001/2002, an accident in Region Six took 17 lives. We have had the Lusignan and Bartica Massacres. These and others before them were tragedies that we had to cope with. We have overcome these tragedies, but we have not forgotten them. We have grown stronger through them. Still, we must as a nation hold hands and join hearts together to ensure that we never have to face a tragedy like Mahdia again.

Our prayers are with the families in the Mahdia tragedy. Our prayers are with Mahdia and Region Eight. Our prayers are with our President and country. We will not be distracted by those whose misguided business is to use tragedies to sow division. We will focus on the families who need help. WE will focus on staying strong. This is the time to proclaim Mahdia Strong, Guyana Strong.

GRA setting up unit to audit oil and gas expenditures

…Govt building capacity to ascertain project costs – VP

Government made to ensure locals would be able to build capacity to do cost oil audits. This is the opposite of what the former APNU/ AFC Government did, hiring British firm IHS Markit to carry out the first set of cost oil audits.

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is in the process of setting up a specialised unit at its office to audit oil and gas expenses, a testament to Guyana’s continued building of capacity to manage the oil sector.

During a recent press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed that the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia, was given approval to set up an oil and gas unit.

In fact, the Vice President noted that the GRA is setting up this unit even now. Jagdeo therefore questioned the basis on which recent criticisms from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Opposition are being made.

“I find the APNU’s statement very puzzling, that we’re not doing enough to build capacity for audits. Mr Statia has full authority to establish a unit in GRA. We said to him, go ahead and establish the authority to do audits from the GRA perspective. I know they’re building the unit, they’ve been doing a lot of training of staff, things like that. So that’s a capability within the GRA.”

According to Jagdeo, ensuring full disclosure on cost oil expenses is an important focus on the Government. He pointed out that cost is an important factor in determining how much profit oil Guyana gets and noted that the model Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) tackles this issue.

“We have to strengthen our capability to have more detailed information about projects and their cost. And then have any deviation from that only done with the explicit approval of the Government of Guyana.”

“So clearly that was a deficiency and the new PSA fixes that, the one we’re passing that. Because we recognise that. So clearly that is a very important issue in the future. And it’s all about getting more control and having a bigger say in costs, without the day-today management,” he said.

Jagdeo also spoke about the arrangements the PPP

“We could have gone and done what was done at the beginning, where APNU hired IHS Markit to do the first audit. It was a foreign company. We could have gone that route and done the audit from 2017 to 2020, using only a foreign company. We said no no no, we work at trying to pull together a consortium of local companies, Guyanese who live abroad and others.”

“And we said you have to come in partnership with a foreign company, with capabilities. As a result of this, because of our specif-

ic dedicated effort to involve Guyanese, we had the last audit completed with heavy Guyanese involvement,” Jagdeo further said.

Last month, it was revealed that preliminary work had been completed on

the second Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) cost oil audit of expenses totalling US$9 billion, which was being undertaken by a consortium of local companies.

TURN TO PAGE 18

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

The Guyana Revenue Authority

Prison officer dies after crashing into 'sand heap'

The Chief Prison Officer attached to the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) died on Monday evening after he reportedly crashed into a heap of sand at Melanie Public Road, East Coast Demerara.

Dead is 36-year-old Patrick Perry of Victoria Road Plaisance, ECD. According to Police, the fatal accident occurred at about 23:55h.

Investigations revealed that Perry was proceeding west along the southern side of Melanie Public Road at a fast rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle, PAC 6465, when negotiating a left bend on the road. As a result, the vehicle collided with a heap of sand which was on the southern parapet, and toppled several times.

The driver was flung out of the vehicle and landed on the road’s surface, where

7 injured students discharged from GPHC

...1st funeral to take place today

Following the harrowing Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) dormitory fire on Sunday evening, seven survivors have been discharged from hospital and are recovering well, with Government offering continued support to ensure their holistic recovery.

he received injuries on his body. He was seen and examined by Emergency Medical Technicians at Melanie, where he was pronounced dead.

His body was escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital's mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are in progress. (G9)

This update was provided by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday evening. Currently, nine girls are still hospitalised at Georgetown Public Hospital. An offer was made to have all of the remaining girls being treated at Mahdia Hospital transported to Georgetown, including those who were discharged.

According to the President, this is to facilitate a second review in ensuring that they are “completely okay”.

“A full team of physiologists, psychological counsellors, and social workers have been assembled to provide counselling to all the students, their families, teachers, members of the community from which

they came. We have four teams working in Mahdia and we are going to ensure that each team remains in place for the next three months,” he reassured.

He added, “As I have said before, full and unconditional support will be given to every single family and every single child affected. This support is not only medical, immediate financial, transportation, accommodation, meals. It will go far beyond this.”

The Head of State also said that the funeral for Sabrina John of Karisparu, Region Eight, will be conducted today. She will be laid to rest at home in Karisparu village.

Guyana’s Independence celebration which is scheduled to take place on Thursday evening in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper

Essequibo) has now been converted into a night of prayer and remembrance for the 19 children.

Vigil On Tuesday evening, the Head of State was present at the Umana Yana for a National Vigil where scores of persons showed up, as Guyana continued to mourn the tragic loss. Several girls, all victims of the deadly fire, sat in the front row with candles - some with visible injuries about their bodies. They were recently discharged and seemingly filled with grief as they were consoled by Cabinet Ministers and others.

Meanwhile, grief-stricken family members were in tears as prayers and condolences were uttered for those who passed.

GRA setting up unit...

The US$751,000 cost recovery contract for the second audit, which covers profit oil from the years 2018, 2019, and 2020, was signed in a room full of stakeholders and suppliers last year May, during a workshop on local content.

The local auditors include Ramdihal and Haynes Chartered Accounting, as well as Vitality Accounting, who was present at the signing. Chateram Ramdihal was physically present at the event, while

Finance Professor Floyd Haynes tuned in virtually.

The post-2017 sum is believed to be over US$9 billion, inclusive of sanctioning expenses for the Liza Phase One and Two projects. When the PPP/C Government assumed office in 2020, it took over the shepherding of audits for ExxonMobil’s pre-contract and other pre-2017 costs.

The pre-contract cost audit was conducted by the UK firm, IHS Markit, which was hired

Today, there will be a ceremony at the site where the Mahdia dormitory once existed, and flowers will be laid for the 19 victims who lost their lives, and as a tribute to those who survived. President Ali had initially announced a national three days of mourning.

During the update on Tuesday evening, President Ali also stated that he has assigned a Minister to each of the families.

According to Ali, these Cabinet members will be directly engaging and interacting with the grieving families.

“Whilst we appreciate all the offers for support, I want to assure all the families and all Guyanese that the Government will support all the families and these children…we will provide all that is necessary,” Ali said.

by the previous Administration four years after oil was first discovered offshore. There is an additional sum of approximately US$400 million from 2016 to 2017, which it is believed will also come under the rubric of cost oil.

The former Government has received much criticism for agreeing to these costs without an audit being done. The audit of cost oil claims is critical to ensuring that Guyana does not lose out on millions in oil revenues.

Dead: Patrick Perry

Social justice must be global responsibility – Ali at 12th ILO meeting

Guyana is currently hosting the 12th International Labour Organisation (ILO) Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers during which President Dr Irfaan Ali put forth that social justice should be a global concept with global responsibilities that all ILO members adhere to.

The President made this remark during the three-day conference’s opening ceremony on Tuesday at Marriott Hotel, Georgetown.

Themed “Social Justice - The Foundation for Sustainable Caribbean Transformation,” this year’s ILO meeting is intended to address global, regional and national actions required to accelerate the mainstreaming of social justice for transformative socio-economic development.

“For social justice to exist, there must be some guiding principles that will allow us at a global level to understand that global social justice is not a theory, but a set of principles and values that we are all going to bound ourselves by,” Ali said.

The question, however, the President postulated, is if social justice really exists at the global level and is a priority within the global agenda.

“If you look at the three confronting crises of the world – energy security, food security and climate security, where does social justice exist? At the first global challenge the world faced, social justice was erased. It became a selfish enclave of protectionism,” Ali said.

The President expressed that while it is understood that every nation must protect their citizens, if social justice is a global concept, then there should be global responsibilities.

Meanwhile, ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean Director Dennis Zulu clarified the intention behind this meeting and why the focus surrounds the concept of social justice.

“The impacts of COVID-19, climate change and global conflicts have worsened pre-existing weaknesses such as unemployment levels, poverty, and inequalities. We now have no other choice but to rethink how we approach socio-economic development challenges,” Zulu said.

“Social justice enables equal access to opportunities that were just inequal-

ities, boosts productivity, builds socio-economic security and enables Just Transitions,” Zulu added.

Just Transition, another aspect of this meeting, involves addressing environmental and employment challenges collectively.

Zulu went on to clarify the four main advantages of promoting social justice: it reduces inequalities and allows for access to the labour market regardless of gender, race or other identifying factors; it enables greater skills development and education; it encourages increased social protection in areas including unemployment benefits and income assistance; and it promotes formalisation whereby workers can access legal protection, social security and career advancement opportunities.

Assistant Secretary General of Human and Social Development for the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Alison Drayton stated that social justice is the foundation for sustainable Caribbean transformation that aims to provide a platform for initiatives and activities to follow thereafter.

“Sustainability is not concerned with one off, but rather with the long term with strategic, effective use of resources to achieve objectives over an extended period of time for the benefit of all,” Drayton added.

President Ali added that social justice for workers is accessibility to financing to ensure that future generations of

workers have access to education, healthcare and equal opportunities, thus it is not about creating a framework solely for existing workers.

However, while it is a global responsibility, each country has different capacities and as such each must have an individualised framework to attain this foundation of social justice.

“Our circumstances are different, our cultural makeup is different and unless we can appreciate this and we can build our policy and our programmes around this frame, we will do a great injustice to policymaking,” Ali said.

He also added that Guyana is working to build a system for the future with increased availability of training and scholarship programmes.

Though with the inclusion of technology within the workspace, focus will also have to be shifted to revamp the education system to better integrate workers.

This 12th ILO meeting, to end on Thursday, is seeing Labour Ministers and senior officials from 12 ILO member states and nine non-metropolitan territories in the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean participating alongside representatives from regional workers’ organisations and employers’ organisations.

Other speakers at Tuesday’s opening ceremony included Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton and ILO Director General Gilbert F Houngbo.

President Irfaan Ali Guyana hosts 12th International Labour Organisation (ILO) Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Refuse to let your emotions take you down a disruptive path. Channel your energy into physical work. Use your money to support your goals. Take on challenges that increase your awareness.

Choose quality over quantity. It’s up to you to implement change. Aim to incorporate more stability into your everyday routine. A change at home may be disruptive but will pan out.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Push forward with passion. Take notes and be prepared. Refuse to let someone take up your valuable time. Work on achieving your own goals instead of helping someone else succeed.

Reach out, volunteer, do your part and connect with people who share your concerns. Frank conversations will raise emotional issues that can be dealt with. Positive change is heading your way.

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Refuse to let someone’s demands ruin your plans. Make it clear that you must finish one thing before starting another. Don’t be afraid to follow the path that beckons you.

Listen and learn. Pay attention to detail and concentrate on what will bring the most beneficial results. A physical change will open doors that have been shut. A kind gesture will pay off.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Choose to do things that make you feel inspired and passionate about life, love and happiness. Express your thoughts and feelings and make suggestions, but don’t pay for someone else’s mistake.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Distress and anger won’t solve anything, but making a physical move or change will open your eyes to possibilities. Put your heart into making your surroundings fit your needs. Be creative.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Put your money in a safe place and upgrade your qualifications. Turn your attention to improving meaningful relationships. Connect with people who can help you.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Figure out how to make your surroundings more accommodating. Clear a space that will encourage you to develop something you want to pursue. Evaluate your earning ability. Romance is featured.

Everything will seem worse than it is, making it essential for you to get some distance. Don’t feel obligated to take on someone else’s fight, choices or path to avoid an argument.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Don’t underestimate what you can do or how you can improve your life. Attach value to your knowledge and skills, see what happens and prepare and market yourself accordingly. Romance is in the stars.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

CSK squeeze the Titans to enter their 10th IPL final

MSDhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to their 10th Indian Premier League (IPL) final. He's had the whole country wrapped around his fingertips without even trying, and nights like these are the reason why. Even the umpires couldn't win against him.

On a pitch that he likes – the kind that used to greet international teams during his reign as India’s Captain – he met Gujarat Titans in their own comfort zone and smothered them. A team that likes batting second lost for only the fourth time in 18 chases. It really did feel like destiny was at play here. CSK's batters mis-hit a lot, but they still managed 172. Their quicks then sprayed it around, but those short balls down leg and wide full tosses actually got wickets. Their spinners, however, were in their element, with Ravindra Jadeja and Maheesh

Theekshana picking up four wickets for 46 runs.

Titans aren't done, of

course. They were the dominant team in the league stage, which earned them a second shot at a place in the final. They'll have to make the most of that now against either Mumbai Indians or Lucknow Super Giants in Ahmedabad.

Abraca-Jadeja

There are times when it feels like Dhoni's players become extensions of his will and there is one who knows that feeling more than most. To be fair, that implication has hurt Jadeja as much as it has helped him.

The left-arm spinner was always going to be crucial in conditions where the new ball was stopping on the pitch and the old one was keeping low. By the time he got it in his hands, it began to take appreciable amounts of turn as well. His second wicket – that of David Miller – was magic. High pace. From around the wicket. Pitching on middle stump. But the angle made the batter think he had the

room to whip it away. A split second later his stumps were in disarray. This was

Jadeja's eighth wicket of a lefthander, doubling his previous best in an IPL season.

Theekshana shows why

There was always a question about him in the press

conferences. Why is he in the side? Why didn't they play Mitchell Santner? What is the point of a spinner who couldn't take wickets in Chennai? Well, this is it.

Theekshana got rid of Hardik Pandya. At the time, it felt like the Titans Captain was preparing to take the bowler on. It was his second big move, after coming out at number three and hitting his first ball for four. The logic was if he could defang one of CSK's go-to men in conditions that were perfect for him that'll send a shockwave right through the team. It was a calculated risk. It didn't come off. The battle lasted three balls.

Towards the end of the game, with Dhoni working to push up the required rate, he turned to Theekshana again and he went straight through Rahul Tewatia. It was part of a period in which Titans lost four wickets for 26 runs in 24 balls.

Recovering from 98 for 6 was not possible, even with heroics from Rashid Khan.

Gill vs Conway

At the end of CSK's powerplay, Devon Conway was 14 off 11 with a control percentage of 64. Those stats combine to suggest he was trying a lot of things and very few of them were coming off. Coming down the track. Looking for those scoops. Anything. Everything. But nothing worked. He was stuck and for as long as he was so were the Super Kings. They hit no boundaries for 29 balls between the 10th and the 15th overs. Just a little after that, Conway's control percentage dipped to 50. He was playing a false shot once every two balls.

Meanwhile, Shubman Gill had unlocked batting during the chase. Even here, he played a shot that barely made sense. It was a flick, but he hit it in front of short midwicket, which meant he had to limit the amount of wrist he put into it. He had to limit the one thing that gives the shot its power and it still went screaming away to the boundary.

Dhoni knew he could not let Gill bat till the end. So he called on Matheesha Pathirana a little earlier than he usually does. And the young slinga got a bit of stage fright. His first over in his first IPL play-off match contained 10 balls, including four wides.

Gill survived so Dhoni went to plan B. If he couldn't be prised out, maybe he could be tempted. Deepak Chahar came on. And with the first ball of the 14th over – short, slow and so damn juicy – he had Titans' biggest hope caught on the long-leg boundary. Gill walked away with a control percentage in the 90s. Conway walked away with the win.

Dhoni vs the umpires With the set batter gone, Dhoni was in his element. He had three overs of Pathirana left to combat Titans' finishers. And he would use them all even if it meant inviting an overrate penalty. That's 16, 18 and 20. Only Pathirana had left the field for a while. So he couldn't bowl the 16th un-

til he had been on the pitch for the same time he had been off. So Dhoni went to the umpires and just had a little chat, seemingly letting the clock tick on down until he could unleash his death bowler.

Dhoni defends totals. It's part of his mystique. Hardik actually said it best: "That's the beauty about him. With his mind and the kind of way he uses his bowlers, he will make sure you feel like he is adding 10 runs extra to the score."

That Super Kings got to 172 was down to Ruturaj Gaikwad and his 14th IPL half-century. He too had to struggle, but when the bad ball came, he found ways to put it away. Like in the fifth over, Rashid had tied him down by bowling into the wicket and at the stumps. Having created that pressure, Rashid dangled one outside off, baiting the big shot. Ruturaj went after it, but he did so smartly, hitting inside out over cover where there were no fielders. He was caught off a no-ball on 2 off 6. Then he was 50 off 36. He fell for 60 off 44, but had done enough to give his masterful captain just what he needed in a knockout game. A decent score on the board. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Chennai Super Kings (20 ovs maximum)

BATTING R B

Ruturaj Gaikwad c

Miller b Sharma 60 44

Devon Conway c Rashid Khan

b Mohammed Shami 40 34

Shivam Dube b Noor Ahmad 1 3

Ajinkya Rahane c

Shubman Gill b Nalkande 17 10

Ambati Rayudu c Shanaka b Rashid Khan 17 9

Ravindra Jadeja b

Mohammed Shami 22 16

MS Dhoni (c)† c Pandya

b Sharma 1 2

Moeen Ali not out 9 4

Extras (b 1, lb 2, nb 2) 5

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 8.60) 172/7

Did not bat: Deepak Chahar,

Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh

Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Fall of wickets: 1-87

(Ruturaj Gaikwad, 10.3 ov), 2-90

(Shivam Dube, 11.3 ov), 3-121

(Ajinkya Rahane, 14.5 ov), 4-125

(Devon Conway, 15.1 ov), 5-148

(Ambati Rayudu, 17.6 ov), 6-155

(MS Dhoni, 18.5 ov), 7-172

(Ravindra Jadeja, 19.6 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Mohammed Shami 4-0-28-2

Darshan Nalkande 4-0-44-1

Rashid Khan 4-0-37-1

Noor Ahmad 4-0-29-1

Mohit Sharma 4-0-31-2

Gujarat Titans (T: 173 runs from 20 ovs)

BATTING R B Wriddhiman Saha † c Pathirana b Chahar 12 11

Shubman Gill c Conway

b Chahar 42 38

Hardik Pandya (c) c Jadeja

b Theekshana 8 7

Dasun Shanaka c

Theekshana b Jadeja 17 16

David Miller b Jadeja 4 6

Vijay Shankar c Gaikwad b Pathirana 14 10

Rahul Tewatia b Theekshana 3 5

Rashid Khan c Conway

b Deshpande 30 16

Darshan Nalkande run out (sub [SP Senapati]) 0 1

Noor Ahmad not out 7 5

Mohammed Shami c Chahar b Pathirana 5 5

Extras (lb 2, w 13) 15

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 7.85)157 Fall of wickets: 1-22 (Wriddhiman Saha, 2.6 ov), 2-41 (Hardik Pandya, 5.5 ov), 3-72 (Dasun

10.3 ov), 4-88 (David Miller, 12.5 ov), 5-88 (Shubman Gill, 13.1 ov), 6-98 (Rahul Tewatia, 14.3 ov), 7-136 (Vijay Shankar, 17.3 ov), 8-136 (Darshan Nalkande, 17.4 ov), 9-142 (Rashid Khan, 18.3 ov), 10-157 (Mohammed Shami, 19.6 ov) •

Ruturaj Gaikwad hits a six off a free hit

Rashid Khan leathers the ball

Matheesha Pathirana and co celebrate the winning moment

ExxonMobil Boys’ and Girls’ U14 tournament…

Waramuri Primary shine in 1st round

Waramuri Primary Top were the shining stars on Saturday when both the male and female teams impressed on the opening day of the ExxonMobil Boys’ and Girls’ Under-14 football tournaments at the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) Ground, Carifesta Avenue.

In the girls’ competition, Waramuri, out of Region One (Barima-Waini), sealed a 13-0 victory over Vergenoegen Secondary.

Waramuri’s Allia Henry opened the scoring in only the first minute of the game and added another to her personal tally in the 39th minute. It was, however, a six-goal haul from Mechelle Williams (6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 30th, 38th) that propelled the Region One team to their large tally.

Memosyne Peters (4th, 9th) and Jada La Cruz (34th, 40th) netted doubles and Brenit Marks added another in the 37th minute

for Waramuri’s resounding victory.

For the boys’ team, a 7-0 victory against Institute of Academic Excellence was on the cards. Shakeel Marks led the way with a hat-trick in the 9th, 12th and 29th minutes, while Dwayne Boya found the back of the net twice in the 18th and 30th.

Solitary goals came from Kwall Harris (47th) and Ricardo Lewis (16th).

Meanwhile, in the girls’ competition, Tucville Secondary also had a massive 11-0 win over Cummings Lodge Secondary. A helmet trick from Cearra Glasgow (2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th), while Kaira Boyle netted three in the 22nd, 32nd and 37th to lead the charge for their team. Also contributing to the tally were Akiesha Isaacs (10th); Shania Callendar (26th, 29th) and Shania Waldon (36th).

It was a collective effort from Westminster

Secondary as they defeated West Ruimveldt Secondary 4-0. A brace came off the boots of Stacy Jones in the 9th and 11th minutes, while Reinsean Bowen (30th) and Odencia Bishop (39th) added one apiece.

A single goal from Jamacy Reid handed East Ruimveldt Secondary a victory in the fifth minute of their encounter with New Amsterdam Secondary.

The scoreline was the same when Bartica Secondary opposed Marian Academy. Bartica’s Zalina Jones was the lone goal-scorer in the 32nd minute.

A double from Tamara Chanie (31st, 35th) resulted in a 2-0 victory for Institute of Academic Excellence over Mackenzie High.

In other results of the day, President’s College and New Central High played to

a stalemate. in the boys’ competition, East Ruimveldt Secondary had the other electric performance of the day, besting Hope Secondary 8-0.

The team effort saw goals coming from Jayden Abrahams (9th, 11th); Jaheim Herbert (4th); Dennis Fowler (13th); Gary Primo (18th); Quason Maynard (30th); Torrel Bobsemple (34th) and Jeremiah Lowe (36th).

Earlier in the day, Annandale Secondary’s boys narrowly got past Patentia Secondary 2-1. A strike from Annandale’s Sherwin (13th) and an own goal accounted for their victory, while Patentia’s consolation goal came from Kemraj Hemmauth (7th).

It was by the same 2-1 score that defending champions Charlestown Secondary got past Bush Lot Secondary. Ronaldo Roberts netted first for Bush Lot in the sixth minute, and one each from Dilshawn Alleyne (12th) and Adriel Hamilton (52nd) got the defending champions the win.

New Central High defeated St Cuthbert’s Secondary 4-1, in the following game. Two early goals from Peter Khan in the second and fourth minutes put New Central in a comfortable position, while Trevor Gordo added another two in the 13th and 14th minutes.

A double from Michael Singh in the 4th and 37th minutes ensured Westminster Secondary would ease past Charity Secondary in a 2-0 affair.

A single-goal thriller was witnessed when Fort Wellington opposed West Ruimveldt Secondary. Eventually, it was Reiven Vanooten’s 7th-minute goal that gave Fort Wellington the win.

Goals from Riley Tracey (22nd, 34th) and Joshua Joseph (36th) accounted for Bartica Secondary’s three un-

answered goals when they came up against New Amsterdam Secondary.

(41st) and Kristian Viapree (44th) spurred Marian Academy to a 2-1 victory over St Stanislaus College. Clint Bynoe (30th) netted the former’s consolation goal.

Meanwhile, Vergenoegen Secondary overcame Carmel Secondary 3-0. Goals came from Elvis Grant (10th) and Devon Williams (23rd, 28th).

A Darius Chester strike in the sixth minute gave Chase’s Academic Foundation just what they needed to pull off a 1-0 win over Dora Secondary.

Another close game saw Dolphin Secondary getting the better of Queenstown Secondary in a 2-1 affair.

Kellon Alleyne (20th) and Kevin Bunton (24th) found the back of the net for Dolphin while Damar Simpson (30th) was Queenstown’s lone goal scorer.

In other results, Mackenzie High and Christ Church held each other to a 2-2 draw. Kemmany Mckenzie (7th) and Roscoe Anderson (9th) scored for Mackenzie High while Jayden Liverpool (28th) did the same for Christ Church. Their other goal was via an own goal.

Goals from Malachi Bailey (23rd) and Daniel Alexander (9th) resulted in a 1-1 draw between Cummings Lodge and President’s College respectively. Another 1-1 draw was the outcome of an encounter between North Ruimveldt and Ann’s Grove Secondary.

Luke Arokium and Selwyn Fraser were the respective goal-scorers.

A look at the ExxonMobil U14 action

Tallawahs, Royals reveal retained players

Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2022 Champions, the Jamaica Tallawahs, is amongst the first two teams to disclose their retained players for the 2023 season; as the clock winds down to the Republic Bank CPL 2023 draft next month.

The Tallawahs, along with 2022 runner- ups, the Barbados Royals revealed their Caribbean player retentions on Tuesday morning.

For the defending champions, Brandon King, Shamarh Brooks, Fabian Allen and Raymon Reifer, who were key players in their championship victory last year, will return to hunt another title with the Tallawahs.

Amir Jangoo, Kirk McKenzie, Shamar Springer, Joshua James and Nicholas Gordon will bolster the Tallawahs’ Caribbean

talents, while another regional talent, in Hayden Walsh jr. has been transferred to the Tallawahs.

On the other hand, Tallawahs title winning captain Rovman Powell has been transferred to the Barbados Royals, where he

will join well- known faces like Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers and Obed McCoy.

In addition to those four, Rahkeem Cornwall, Nyeem Young, Justin Greaves, Ramon Simmonds and Joshua Bishop have all been retained by the

Royals. With regard to the Royals’ international roster, the team also disclosed on Tuesday that both Quinton de Kock and David Miller will be unavailable in August, owing to their National duties with the South African team.

It is expected that the retention lists of the four remaining CPL teams will be revealed in the next few days.

The Republic Bank CPL draft is set for Monday, June 5 2023.

This year’s CPL season

will run from August 16th to September 24th and is set to be played in Guyana, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. The women’s tournament will be contested in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago this year.

Windies drawn in Group A for World Cup Qualifiers

West Indies have been drawn alongside the Netherlands, Nepal, United States, and hosts Zimbabwe in Group A of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier tournament.

The ICC has unveiled the two groups, match schedules and venues for the 10-team tournament from June 18 to July 9. All matches will start at 09:00h local time (3am Eastern Caribbean Time/2am Jamaica Time). Group B features Sri Lanka, Ireland, Scotland, Oman and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The 10 teams will be competing for the two remaining places at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which will be played in India in October and November later this year.

West Indies face the USA in the opening Group A fix

ture on Sunday, June 18 at Takashinga Cricket Club, followed by Nepal on Thursday, June 22 at Harare Sports Club. West Indies meet hosts Zimbabwe on Saturday, June

24 at Harare Sports Club. The fourth preliminary match will be against the Netherlands on Monday, June 26. Each side will play the other teams in their group

once with the top three from the groups progressing to the Super Six stage from Thursday, June 29 to Friday, July 7. The teams each play three Super Six matches against the sides they did not meet in the group stage.

All points won in the groups will be carried over to the Super Six stage apart from those gained against the bottom two from each group. The final will be played at Harare Sports Club on Sunday, July 9. The two finalists will both progress to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy said: “We know what’s at stake and the singular focus is to secure one of the two spots for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. We trust in our

preparation and, now that we know the match-ups, we will plan accordingly. These are exciting times ahead for this confident bunch of young men. Our duty is to also make our fans proud and we intend to do exactly that.”

Full squad: Shai Hope

(Captain); Rovman Powell (Vice Captain); Shamarh Brooks; Yannic Cariah; Keacy Carty; Roston Chase; Jason Holder; Akeal Hosein; Alzarri Joseph; Brandon King; Kyle Mayers; Gudakesh Motie; Keemo Paul; Nicholas Pooran and Romario Shepherd.

Match Schedule

All matches start at 09:00h (9am local time –3am Eastern Caribbean/2am Jamaica)

Sunday, June 18

?Zimbabwe v Nepal, Harare Sports Club

?West Indies v USA, Takashinga Cricket Club

Monday, June 19

?Sri Lanka v UAE, Queen’s Sports Club

?Ireland v Oman, Bulawayo Athletic Club

Tuesday, June 20

?Zimbabwe v Netherlands, Harare Sports Club

?Nepal v USA, Takashinga Cricket Club

Wednesday, June 21

?Ireland v Scotland, Queen’s Sports Club

?Oman v UAE, Bulawayo Athletic Club

Thursday, June 22

?West Indies v Nepal, Harare Sports Club

?Netherlands v USA, Takashinga Cricket Club

Friday, June 23

?Sri Lanka v Oman, Queen’s Sports Club

?Scotland v UAE, Bulawayo Athletic Club

Saturday, June 24

?Zimbabwe v West Indies, Harare Sports Club

?Netherlands v Nepal, Takashinga Cricket Club

Sunday, June 25

Guyana Physique Champion Emmerson Campbell, and Central America and Caribbean Games (CAC ) gold medallist Julio Sinclair.

?Sri Lanka v Ireland, Queen’s Sports Club

?Scotland v Oman, Bulawayo Athletic Club

Monday, June 26

?Zimbabwe v USA, Harare Sports Club

?West Indies v Netherlands, Takashinga Cricket Club

Flashback to a past edition of “Stage of Champions”

Bodybuilders from all around the Caribbean Region are set to converge on the Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) in July for the much-anticipated “Stage of Champions” (SOC).

The “Stage of Champions” team is a local conglomerate with the keen intention of bringing regional and international bodybuilding and fitness athletes to Guyana.

SOC, for its four previous Championships, attracted contenders from several countries to compete in bodybuilding and fitness categories such as bodybuilding, bikini, and men’s physique.

The team has already been granted permission from the local Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) for the hosting of the event on July 9, 2023.

So far, about eight countries, inclusive of Guyana, have registered for the Championship and will stage athletes in the key bodybuilding and fitness categories: bodybuilding, miss bikini and men’s physique.

Guyana is expected to be represented by several elite athletes, including reigning Mr Guyana Bodybuilding Champion Darious Ramsammy, reigning Mr

Stage of Champions has brought on board several heavyweight sponsors such as NEW GPC Inc, Camille’s Academy, Masterpiece Rentals, Prem’s Electrical, West Indies Sport Complex, E Master Inc, Unity Gym and Unity Cabs, Frontline Restaurant, Ele’s Hardware and Trading and V Fitness, Lyft Gym, Western Scientific, IPA Health Care, Innovative Electronics, Crown Mining Supplies, Guyana Outdoors Sportsman. And several other sponsors have signalled their intentions of coming on board financially. The sponsorship received will mostly go towards the cash prizes that the successful athletes will receive on the championship night.

Tuesday, June 27

?Sri Lanka v Scotland, Queen’s Sports Club

?Ireland v UAE, Bulawayo Athletic Club

Thursday, June 29

?Super 6: A2 v B2, Queen’s Sports Club

Friday, June 30

?Super 6: A3 v B1, Queen’s Sports Club

?Playoff: A5 v B4, Takashinga Cricket Club

Saturday, July 1

?Super 6: A1 v B3, Harare Sports Club

Sunday, July 2

?Super 6: A2 v B1, Queen’s Sports Club

?Playoff: A4 v B5, Takashinga Cricket Club

Monday, July 3

?Super 6: A3 v B2, Harare Sports Club

Tuesday, July 4

?Super 6: A2 v B3, Queen’s Sports Club

?Playoff: 7th v 8th, Takashinga Cricket Club

Wednesday, July 5

?Super 6: A1 v B2, Harare Sports Club

Thursday, July 6

?Super 6: A3 v B3, Queen’s Sports Club

?Playoff: 9th v 10th, Takashinga Cricket Club

Friday, July 7

?Super 6: A1 v B1, Harare Sports Club

Sunday, July 9

?Final, Harare Sports Club

The players retained by the Jamaica Tallawahs

The West Indian men will have to play the qualifying tournament for a spot in this year’s 50-Over World Cup

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended West Indies batter Devon Thomas, slapping seven charges under its anti-corruption code on him including "contriving to fix" matches. Thomas, who was named in the West Indies squad for the forthcoming three One-Day International (ODI) series against the United Arab Emirates (UAE in Dubai, has 14 days to respond.

The charges against 33-year-old Thomas are with regard to his conduct while playing in three franchise-based tournaments: the Lanka Premier League (LPL), the Abu Dhabi T10 and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

In a media statement on Tuesday, the ICC said Thomas had breached the anti-corruption codes at all three tournaments and its Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) had been authorised by all three boards in question –Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Emirates Cricket Board

with 7 anti-corruption charges

(ECB) and Cricket West Indies (CWI) – to conduct the investigation on their behalf.

In a media statement, CWI said it would fully support the ACU investigation and that it was resolute about "denouncing corruption" in cricket.

The most serious charge against Thomas – of attempt ing to fix a match – is from the 2021 edition of the LPL when he played for Kandy Warriors. Incidentally, Thomas played just one game in that edition of the LPL.

Overall, Thomas faced four charges under the SLC anti-corruption code on his conduct in that tournament.

The four charges are of "con triving or being party to an agreement to fix or attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly the result, prog ress, conduct or other aspects of matches", "failing to disclose […] full details of an approach" to the ACU, "failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate" in an ACU investigation, and "obstructing or delaying" the investigation by "concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation

is about failing to report the "receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or benefit (a) that he knew or should have known was made in order to procure a breach of the CPL Code, or (b) could have brought the player or the game of cricket into disrepute".

Thomas last played for

Meanwhile, CWI, on Tuesday morning denounced ‘corruption in cricket’ while noting that it was aware of the charges in a statement.

The statement read, “Cricket West Indies (CWI) has been made aware that charges have been laid by the International Cricket

directly involved in the process, but remains firm in denouncing corruption in cricket, and fully supports the ICC ACU in its efforts to uphold the integrity of the sport.

While the matter continues, CWI will not make any further comments in respect

of these charges.

In collaboration with ICC and the West Indies Players' Association (WIPA), CWI remains committed to sensitising and educating our players and officials on anti-corruption in sports.” (ESPNcricinfo and CWI)

Tallawahs, Royals reveal retained players

Devon Thomas was accused of inappropiate action during the CPL, in addition to the LPL and the Abu Dhabi T10