Guyana Times - Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 5554

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Venezuela border controversy

Venezuela’s referendum a threat to regional peace, ICJ’s authority – Greenidge tells World Court See story on page 3

...as Guyana presents arguments to block Dec 3 vote

The Guyana delegation at the International Court of Justice on Tuesday including case agent Carl Greenidge, Attorney General Anil Nandlall and Attorneys Paul Reichler and Alain Pellet

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Taxi driver P2 “played dead” to save life after brutal attack

CJ grants order for seizure of vending articles in front of P8 Muneshwers Ltd

Police launch manhunt for ex-soldier P12 for murder of Berbice woman

Oil production soars to 620,000 bpd as Payara kicks off production Reparatory justice is a for in Stabroek Block – supported by 6000 Guyanese priority Caricom Heads Page 9

President Ali to attend historic Caricom-Saudi Arabia Summit

P16

of Government Negotiations with – Caricom SG companies awarded Home of Market oil blocks to start next Bourda vendor goes up week – Min Bharrat in flames Page 7

P11

Page 11

Berbice shooting

Engineer surrenders after death – family calls for 2nd autopsy of fiancée – woman arrested for attempting to get thumbprint of now dead woman See story on page 10

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Taxi driver “played dead” to save life after brutal attack T

he life of a taxi driver was speared on Saturday evening after he pretended to be dead after he was brutally attacked by five Spanishspeaking men who boarded his car at Parika Junction, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The injured man, forty-six-year-old Shon Smith also called “Paper Man” of Ruby Back, EBE, was treated at the Leonora Cottage Hospital.

Based on reports received, Smith operated his taxi at the Parika junction, and on the night in question at about midnight, five Spanish-speaking men hired him to take them to Ruby, EBE. On their journey, the men started to chop

Injured: Shon Smith

Smith to his body as they attempted to rob him of his cash and cell phone.

The victim’s wife, Shaviza Smith, told another section of the media that

the men eventually relieved her husband of a large sum of cash and some other per-

sonal items including the phone.

She noted that after the men entered the car, they told him to drive and whilst they were heading to their destination, her husband continued to ask them “how far more.”

It was then one of them whipped out a knife and started to stab Smith.

The woman further explained that one of the men, during the attack, accidentally hit the gear lever thus causing the car to go into neutral and eventually stop.

At that point, the injured man was taken out of the car after which one of the men took a knife to slash the back of his neck.

The traumatised wife ex-

plained that her husband “played dead” just to save his life.

After noticing Smith not moving, the men escaped, leaving him in a trench.

After some time, the injured man reportedly took off his shirt, wrapped his neck to stop the bleeding, and drove to a nearby house to seek refuge.

There, the occupants of the house contacted her and the man was rushed to the Leonora Hospital where he was treated. The matter was reported to the Police and an investigation is underway. The family is now living in fear as they believe that the suspects might go after them because they were all identifiable.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Venezuela border controversy

BRIDGE OPENINGS

BRIDGE The Demerara OPENINGS Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, Nov 15 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Thursday, Nov 16 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, Nov 15 – 05:15h – 06:45h and Thursday, Nov 16 – 05:55h – 07:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

Venezuela’s referendum a threat to regional peace, ICJ’s authority – Greenidge tells World Court ...as Guyana presents arguments to block Dec 3 vote

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine and thundery showers during the day. Expect clear skies and light rain showers at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 17:33h reaching a maximum height of 2.75 metres.

Low Tide: 11:08h and 23:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.64 metre and 0.46 metre.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023

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Guyana's agent on the border case, Carl Greenidge

By Jarryl Bryan

I

n an effort to stop Venezuela’s December 3 referendum aimed at annexing Guyana’s Essequibo territory, the Guyana Government on Tuesday presented its case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by urging the Court to not only protect Guyana’s rights but also its own authority which Venezuela is trying to undermine.

Guyana’s agent in the case, Carl Greenidge, presented an opening statement on behalf of the country. Venezuela’s representative, Vice President Delcy Rodrigues, was present, though she did not make any presentations, as Venezuela has been given Wednesday, November 15, to make its oral arguments to the challenge to its referendum.

Greenidge reminded the ICJ that it has already twice affirmed its jurisdiction to mediate the boundary controversy between Guyana and Venezuela. He pointed out to the Court that

Venezuela, by attempting to pre-empt the Court’s ruling and take extra-judicial action, is challenging the Court’s authority and by extension, the United Nations' ability to ensure a resolution of the matter.

“Only the Court can protect Guyana and its rights at issue in this case, from the irreparable harm that would certainly befall it if Venezuela is permitted to cross that threshold into the seizure and incorporation of the territory, whose ultimate fate is to be determined by the Court, not by the unilateral action of either of the parties.”

“Only the Court can prevent the imminent annexation of tens of thousands of square kilometres of Guyanese territory. In these circumstances, Guyana looks to the Court to safeguard these rights by applying the principles of international law faithfully, fairly, and impartially,” Greenidge said.

The Court was also informed of Venezuela’s mobilisation of its military on the border with Guyana.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s legal arguments were presented by Attorneys-at-Law Paul Reichler and Professor Emeritus of the University of Paris Nanterre, Allain Pellet. Reichler laid out not only the harm that Venezuela’s referendum would cause but also laid bare Venezuela’s efforts to prejudice the case.

“Venezuela has made clear that the purpose of this referendum is not merely to assess public opinion.

It is to obtain popular support for decisions that the

Attorney-at-Law Paul Reichler

Professor Alain Pellet

Government has already made and a licence to act on those decisions,” Reichler said, quoting the words of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on October 23, 2023, when he had said the referendum would enable his Government to take a collective decision on Essequibo.

“The nature of that collective decision is revealed by the questions themselves, both in their form and their content. They are far from neutral, as would be the case in a true test of public opinion. It does not take an expert on public polling to see that these five questions are deliberately crafted to leave no possible outcome other than an overwhelming mandate for the Government to take actions it has already decided on.”

the injured party, would only mislead the people.

“There is no doubt that Venezuela’s intention is to produce another overwhelming popular mandate, this one to endorse not only its rejection not only of the 1899 Arbitral Award but of the court and whatever judgement you may ultimately issue on the merits of this case,” the lawyer said.

The lawyer told the court of the tragic fate that awaits Guyana should Venezuela be allowed to go forward and act on the inevitable results of the referendum, particularly question 5 which would seek to annex two-thirds of Guyana.

Meanwhile, Professor Pellet provided evidence on the actions of the Venezuelan National Guard, a heavily armed contingent which patrolled the Cuyuni River in Essequibo on October 3. According to him, this Venezuelan contingent claimed to be patrolling in “our Essequibo” and parroting the Venezuelan slogan that “the sun of Venezuela was born in Essequibo.”

Misinformation

Reichler pointed out that even if the Venezuelan public does not know anything about the case, questions deliberately framed in a way to imply that Venezuela has been defrauded and stripped of “their Essequibo”, thereby painting Venezuela as

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

The diabetes threat O

n the occasion of World Diabetes Day, celebrated on Tuesday under the theme “access to diabetes care”, the sobering fact that both the number of cases and deaths from this Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) is accelerating globally is cause for much concern and indeed, concerted action.

Between 2000 and 2019, there was a three per cent increase in age-standardised mortality rates from diabetes. In lower middle-income countries, the mortality rate due to diabetes increased 13 per cent, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). In 2019, diabetes and kidney disease due to diabetes caused an estimated two million deaths. By contrast, the probability of dying from any one of the four main NCDs – cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases or diabetes – between the ages of 30 and 70 decreased by 22 per cent globally between 2000 and 2019.

Some 537 million adults live with the chronic disease, which is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputation. That translates to 1 in 10 adults globally. This number is predicted to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. More than 95 per cent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes is type-2 diabetes, formerly called non-insulin dependent, or adult onset – which is often preventable. Until recently, this type of diabetes was seen only in adults, but it is now also occurring increasingly frequently in children.

And as is true for many health-related conditions, those who can least afford it are disproportionately affected, with more than 75 per cent of adults with diabetes living in low- and middle-income countries.

When we look at Latin America and the Caribbean, the picture is even more dismal, since the factors that contribute to developing type-2 diabetes include being overweight and not getting enough exercise – and cases of obesity, particularly in children, are climbing in the region where the population, as a whole, is increasingly sedentary.

According to the “Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023” report, the region experienced an increase in the prevalence of overweight in children under 5 between 2000 and 2022 and the prevalence of obesity in adults between 2000 and 2016, in both cases exceeding the global average.

Between 2020 and 2022, in the context of the pandemic, the prevalence of overweight in children under 5 years of age increased slightly from 8.3 per cent to 8.6 per cent, with a more significant increase in South America, a milder increase in Mesoamerica and remaining stable in the Caribbean. In 2022, the prevalence of overweight in children under 5 years of age was 9.7 per cent in South America, 6.7 per cent in Mesoamerica, and 6.6 per cent in the Caribbean.

"Overweight and obesity are a growing challenge, responsible for approximately 2.8 million deaths" from noncommunicable diseases in 2021 in the Americas, said Dr Jarbas Barbosa, Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) Director. "In the last 50 years, overweight and obesity rates tripled, affecting 62.5 per cent of the population in the region," he added. Considering the regional prevalence of overweight in children and adolescents is at 33.6 per cent, "it is urgent to advance in the transformation of food systems to ensure healthy eating for all".

Yet another reason why it is imperative that we achieve and surpass the “25 by 25” regional food security goal set by Caricom Heads of Government.

President Dr Irfaan Ali accepted the Letters of Credence from the Non-Resident Ambassador of Mauritius to Guyana, Purmanund Jhugroo at the Office of the President on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive on Tuesday. Guyana and Mauritius established diplomatic relations on December 1, 1992

Open letter to the members of US “Fact Finding Mission” to Guyana Dear Hon Dr Dee Dawkins-Haigler and Hon John King et al, I am writing in relation to your delegation’s visit to Guyana, which is purportedly described as a “fact-finding” mission into the allegations of racial discrimination and extra-judicial killings perpetrated by the sitting Government.

You would agree that the stated mission of your delegation’s visit raises legitimate concerns and questions among a wide cross-section of Guyanese stakeholders surrounding the delegation’s modus operandi for such a visit, and whether or not this activity is tantamount to meddling in the internal affairs of Guyana.

Moreover, you would agree that a one week in-country visit aimed at engaging in “constructive dialogue”, as you termed it, with multiple stakeholders [presumably], particularly the political Opposition and their extended operatives, cannot by any means equate to a “fact-finding” mission.

According to a press release from your delegation, “the delegation will investigate allegations of extra-judicial killings and racial discrimination against African Guyanese and other citizens who do not support the PPP/C Government”.

First and foremost, on what authority, local or international - since this is not an official U.S. Government mission - is the basis for your delegation to carry out any such “investigation” in Guyana?

Notwithstanding, it would be interesting to ascertain and/ or learn from you of the investigative methodology your delegation intends to employ in so doing. For example, is it reasonable to expect that your delegation will: i) Be summoning witness-

es? And will those witnesses be cross-examined in respect to the extra-judicial killings and allegations of discrimination? ii) Will there be some sort of international commission of inquiry into these allegations?

If so, under what jurisdiction or international convention, law, or treaty? iii) Is there any international law/convention that may be invoked, subject to the veracity of evidence into those allegations, if any? iv) How will the delegation engage in such a vague investigation in one week, which is highly likely to yield inconclusive findings, but be fraught with opinionated and/or unsubstantiated claims? v) The Opposition tends to throw around a number of 4,000 extra-judicial killings.

That number, however, is inflated…the actual number is reportedly lower, in the region of 400, over a period of time.

It included criminal elements and Police officers who were killed. Thus, will the visiting delegation conduct interviews with the 400 families/relatives of those victims?

With the foregoing in mind, I am nonetheless inclined to apprise you of a number of interesting historical facts central to Guyana’s political, economic, and social environment, that you should give due consideration to independently ascertain the veracity thereof.

These are relevant to your delegation’s purported “fact-finding” mission to Guyana.

In the pre-1992 (post-independence) era, Guyana was characterized as a central command, socialist, planned economy that ultimately plunged Guyana into bankruptcy, leading to economic and social devastation. During this era, thousands of Guyanese fled the

country in search of better opportunities elsewhere. This, by and large, explains the massive human capital deficit the country has currently, wherein less than 5% of the local labour force possesses a tertiary-level education (Guyana Labour Force Survey, 2021).

In the post-1992 era, there was a regime change (the current Government having been elected through free and fair elections), and restoration of democracy. The economy, at that time, had just begun its transition to a market economy, inter alia, the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) economic reform program. From 1992–2014, Guyana suffered many periods, short and long in some cases, of political instability, which largely stymied the country’s development and ability to achieve its true economic potential.

Periods of political instability

• 1992–1997: there was a short period of street protests and violence after democracy was restored, following which the economy took off (short period of stability).

• 1997–2001: prolonged street protests and disruption.

• 2002–2003: prison break, crime wave spiralled out of control and there were politically motivated disruptions.

• 2004–2008: unrests, politically motivated disruptions • 2008–2012: Lusignan, Lindo Creek, Bartica massacres, violence erupted when protestors blocked the WismarMackenzie bridge.

• 2011–2014: for the first time, a new political dispensation emerged following the 2011 elections, wherein the Government was a minority Government, and the political Opposition controlled the National Assembly, having had

a one seat majority. Under this dispensation, it was difficult for the Government to obtain budget approvals, many major developmental projects were disapproved by the Oppositioncontrolled National Assembly.

As a result, snap elections were held in 2015, and this resulted in a win for the Opposition. > 2015–2020: though this period was relatively stable–that is, no violence, crime wave, unrest, and disruption, and until the No Confidence (NCM) motion that was brought against the former Government in December 2018, the former Government failed to implement any major development projects despite expending over $1.2 trillion in five years. Much of this was expended on current/ consumption or non-productive expenditure.

Additionally, in almost every national election in the 1990s and early 2000s, ensuing the elections results/outcome, violence and unrest erupted, which were all fuelled by the political Opposition. These events occurred in 1992, 1997, and in 2001. The only elections that did not ensue in violence were 2006, 2011 and 2015. There is a rich body of academic literature on Guyana’s political and economic history which confirmed empirically that these periods of political instability were designed to cause, and to a large extent did cause, the State to become dysfunctional and ungovernable.

Effectively, out of 29 years (1992-2021) since Guyana transitioned to a market economy, there were several periods of political instability that hindered the country’s development, having transitioned out of a bankrupt State.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

I support President, Govt's decision not to meet with “fact-finding” crew Dear Editor, The PPP Government’s decision not to meet with that motley crew here for what they called “fact-finding” on discrimination is a good call.

I noticed that the all-black group consists of individual legislators from Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Texas, and my state of North Carolina. These are state-level legislators, not federal, national-level US administrators.

Usually, Governments do not deal with state-level folks.

There are diplomatic structures and channels at the federal level established to deal with any concerns a country may have. The US Government has an Embassy here. So, this group of legislators cannot be here in any official capacity. I hope they are

not charging this excursion to official business. They are accountable to their own small county constituencies they represent in their own states in the USA. Therefore, to have the audacity to say they are here for “fact-finding” on Guyanese issues seems so inappropriate and arrogant.

This group has no standing to be entertained by our sovereign Government. We will be polite, but this group cannot have the gall to assume powers they do not have to summon our leaders to give explanations. This group is out of order. This group is simply a “meddling” group, sticking its nose in the internal affairs of our nation.

Who would be next to come ask us questions? – local state county commissioners and town council members? Can a group of Indo-Guyanese go

to these legislators’ states to investigate bad treatment of minorities?

The Government is right to draw the line. These people eyes’ pass our country! Every Tom, Dick, and Harry cannot come here and act as if they have power over our national affairs.

The group leader is one Dee Dawkins-Haigler, a former Georgia legislator, who is apparently a friend of the PNC’s Mr. Ford. One article stated, “The Honorable Roysdale A. Ford, Member of Parliament in Guyana and one of her nominators for the Peace Prize, states ‘Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler has been instrumental in the fight for Afro-Guyanese to gain full access to government and global resources. She has been an ally in trying to ensure that equitable sustain-

able economic development is achieved for all Guyanese, which would level the playing field and get many AfroGuyanese people back to work and out of poverty.’ (See “Honorable Dee DawkinsHaigler Receives Nobel Peace Prize Nomination For Her Global Leadership, Savannah Tribune, May 18, 2022; https://www.ocgnews.com/ georgia-leader-dee-dawkinshaigler-nominated-for-nobelpeace-prize).

When did Ms. Dee “fight for Afro-Guyanese gaining full access to government and global resources”?

Afros control the Government Ministries! Can they explain what they mean by this? An article also states, “In addition to the above work, Dee is the Organizer of the Minority Cannabis Coalition (MCC), an organization dedicated to pro-

Open letter to the members of US...

As such, with all those years of instability combined, Guyana suffered from 17 years of political instability characterized as politically motivated disruption, unrest, violence, and crime. In addition, despite having 4 years of stability (2015-2019), viz-a-viz a regime change, there was no substantive development and progress. These, all together, gave rise to a total of some 21 years of stymied and disrupted progress and development of Guyana, albeit the latter was due to, arguably and evidently, imprudent fiscal and public financial management.

Despite the challenging political landscape described above, the Government at the time (which is the current Government) nonetheless managed to achieve the following before the discovery of crude oil offshore Guyana: * From 1992–2014 (22 years) since Guyana transitioned to a free-market economy and restoration of democracy, the then Government (which is now the current Government) only had 5 years of stability out of 22 years in power, in which Guyana moved from a bankrupt State, regarded as one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, to a GDP of US$4 billion by the end of 2020 from US$300m in 1992, representing 1200% growth in GDP, or 13 times 1992 GDP * Per capita income of US$5,000 from less than US$300. * Debt-to-GDP ratio came down to less than 50%, from a position of more than 600% in 1992. * Total public debt service to revenue ratio came down to 30% of revenue from a position of more than 150%. * More than 60% of the population lifted out of poverty, down from nearly 90% in the late 80s and early 90s, and * By the time there was a regime change in 2015, that

Government inherited about $100 billion in liquid cash in the Bank of Guyana, and by the time they left office in 2020, there was $147 billion overdraft/deficit in those accounts.

Contrary to the views propagated by the political Opposition, the empirical evidence largely contradicts their narrative as demonstrated herein, which could be verified by any independent researcher. Consequently, the political Opposition’s track record speaks for itself, whereby its policies and economic governance model can be evidentially characterized within the framework of destructionism when they were in Government, and obstructionism when they are out of Government.

(Attached to this letter, please find a more detailed report compiled by the undersigned on allegations of discrimination etc., which was a critical review of IPADA-G’s strategic plan and their activities. I have also attached an authoritative study on “Gangs and Criminal Networks in Guyana” by Taylor Owen and Alexandar Grigsby, published in Switzerland by the Small Arms Survey, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva 2012).

Suffice it to state that it may be useful in the spirit of a “constructive dialogue” on the subject matter to draw some degree of contextual comparison of racial discrimination and the like in the United States of America versus Guyana.

Citing Solomon, Maxwell and Castro (2019), in their report on “Systematic Inequality and American Democracy”, the authors contended that “the United States’ founding principles embrace the ideals of freedom and equality, but it is a nation built on the systematic exclusion and suppression of communities of color”. For example, the authors cited

a new Center for American Progress Analysis, in 2016, 9.5 million American adults, most of whom were people of color, lacked full voting rights. Here, in the case of Guyana, this is precisely what the political Opposition attempted to do while they were in Government in 2015-2020, ahead of the 2020 General Elections. In this respect, the APNU/AFC Government wanted to disenfranchise thousands of eligible Guyanese voters under the pretext of a clean voters list, because the list, they argued, was somehow bloated. However, the Chief Justice ruled that disbanding the existing registrants’ database would be unconstitutional. There is evidence to this effect viz-a-viz, the High Court’s ruling.

Citing another credible report on “Discrimination in the United States: experiences of black Americans”, published by Health Services Research, 2019, the principal findings of the report stated that “about one-third of blacks (32%) reported experiencing discrimination in clinical encounters, while 22% avoided seeking health care for themselves or family members due to anticipated discrimination. A majority of black adults reported discrimination in employment (57% in obtaining equal pay/ promotions; 56% in applying for jobs), police interactions (60% reported being stopped/unfairly treated by police), and hearing microaggressions (52%) and racial slurs (51%). The report concluded that “the extent of reported discrimination across several areas of life suggests a broad pattern of discrimination against blacks in America, beyond isolated experiences. Black-white disparities exist on nearly all dimensions of experiences with public and private institutions, including health care and police. Evidence of systemic discrimination suggests a need for more active institutional interventions to address racism in policy

FROM PAGE 4

and practice”.

In the case of Guyana, there is no such evidence of the level of widespread and deeply institutionalized discrimination against African Guyanese in contrast to the United States of America.

Guyana’s public sector, for example, accounts for about 10% of the labour force, and is predominantly of African Guyanese. African Guyanese are the holders of top positions in the judiciary, joint services, the Government at the Executive level, the health care sector, and all the other public sector agencies.

The Constitution and the laws of Guyana prohibit all forms of racial discrimination in Guyana. If there are legitimate cases of discrimination of any form, the victims can pursue legal recourse. Furthermore, the Constitution of Guyana established a number of constitutional agencies to address matters of such; for example, the Ethnic Relations Commission, the Public Procurement Commission, etc. Ultimately, there is the legal system, through a Court of Law, that can be invoked as a last resort.

Therefore, if the Opposition has evidence of any credible cases of discrimination, then why have they not utilised the system; which, had they exhausted the system, therein would have been the evidence to corroborate their claims.

Against this background, it is reasonable to conclude that considering the failure of the Opposition or any stakeholder to properly utilize the system in place, that would have given credence to any legitimate claims of discrimination, the lack of evidence that currently exists would arguably render your delegation’s visit an exercise in futility, and/or a “fishing expedition”, or a partisan politically motivated endeavour.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

moting equity and access in the cannabis industry.” Is this what Afro-Guyanese need to make progress in their lives?

In an interview with treason accused pardoned by the Guyana Government, Ms. Dee spent much time saying she never met Mr. Burke, does not know Mr. Burke, and that her motley group is independent, and not here at Mr. Burke’s urging. She never said she was connected to the PNC’s Mr. Ford and nominated by Mr. Ford for a prize, as reported in the US news media. So, it would be nice if, in the interest of full disclosure, Ms. Dee could clear the air whether she is doing this activity out of loyalty to her friend Mr. Ford.

Maybe Mr. Ford can comment on whether those articles were true. Therefore, there is a question mark whether this group can be an honest broker, or whether they are driven by partisan causes based on race. This group of legislators should know the PNC, whose bidding they seem to be doing, does not have clean hands.

That party has rigged elections in their long reign from 1964-1992, and they attempted to steal the 2020 election in full view of international observers and the whole watching world. If this group had done its homework, it would have been smarter than to associate with people whose only mission is to invoke racism. The PNC’s reign from 1964-1992 was the closest we came to apartheid in Guyana during their “paramountcy of the party.”

As they are here, this motley crew should go to the Mon Repos Market and talk to the vendors about marauding bands of Afros that terrorized Indian vendors last year.

We are still waiting for this Government to try those court cases of the few who were charged. Why were more terrorists not charged, although there is ample video footage to identify the terrorists? They may also want to ask the Police about how Indians were pulled out of vehicles and beaten and the Police failed to charge those perpetrators who were Afros, during the West Coast Berbice “Henry Boys” riots in 2020.

This group may also want to ask the PNC why they signed a bad contract that gave away our oil and gas resources to Exxon, which President Biden described as “making more money than God.” While they are at it, the group may want to find out why the Public Service and state agencies such as the Ethnic Relations Commission are majority Afros, and the Government has done nothing to create balance. Ask why the NIS denies benefits, disproportionately affecting Indos.

To my own legislator from North Carolina (NC), it would be nice if you could sponsor a bill to bring about collective bargaining for all state workers, as this is currently prohibited by state laws. In NC, public service workers and teachers are not allowed to have unions, so there is no collective bargaining for them.

Rep. Baker, please focus on all the inequities and low pay raises in North Carolina.

That’s what the people of Forsyth County elected you to do! Thanks to our government for standing up to this motley crew of masqueraders!

Sincerely, Dr Jerry Jailall

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:05 13:35 14:00 14:30 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:30 00:00

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Foundation ◄

Page

Test Questions

BY WALT WHITMAN CONTINUED FROM TUESDAY

paper streamers to the bottom end of the card stock.

Bring the two sides of the card stock up and tape together to form a tube.

Cut an 8-10” length of yarn and tape the two ends inside the tube to create a hanger (similar to a bag handle).

Supplies

Cardstock Crepe paper streamers White paper for mouths Black marker Yarn or string Craft tools Glue stick Tape Scissors

Tips

Instructions

Draw eyeballs and cut out.

Cut crepe paper streamers into 3-foot lengths.

Place card stock horizontally in front of you.

Glue an eye ball at the center point of the card stock, about an inch or two from the top.

To make mouths and fangs, draw on

to a white piece of paper and cut out. Be sure to cut along the edge of the lines, you want the black outline visible, not cut off.

If using a mouth, glue in place.

Turn card stock over and glue crepe

If you have construction paper on hand, you can use it instead of card stock. Keep in mind though that depending on the brand, construction paper can rip easily and not roll really well. Plus, card stock colors are much more vibrant!

You can also use craft foam instead of card stock. Both are equally study, though you will likely have to staple the foam together and staple the yarn handle in place as tape may not stick well. (craftsbyamanda.com)

13 Allons! to that which is endless as it was beginningless, To undergo much, tramps of days, rests of nights, To merge all in the travel they tend to, and the days and nights they tend to, Again to merge them in the start of superior journeys, To see nothing anywhere but what you may reach it and pass it, To conceive no time, however distant, but what you may reach it and pass it, To look up or down no road but it stretches and waits for you, however long but it stretches and waits for you, To see no being, not God’s or any, but you also go thither, To see no possession but you may possess it, enjoying all without labor or purchase, abstracting the feast yet not abstracting one particle of it, To take the best of the farmer’s farm and the rich man’s elegant villa, and the chaste blessings of the well-married couple, and the fruits of orchards and flowers of gardens, To take to your use out of the compact cities as you pass through, To carry buildings and streets with you afterward wherever you go, To gather the minds of men out of their brains as you encounter them, to gather the love out of their hearts, To take your lovers on the road with you, for all that you leave them behind you, To know the universe itself as a road, as many roads, as roads for traveling souls.

All parts away for the progress of souls, All religion, all solid things, arts, governments—all that was or is apparent upon this globe or any globe, falls into niches and corners before the procession of souls along the grand roads of the universe.

Of the progress of the souls of men and women along the grand roads of the universe, all other progress is the needed emblem and sustenance.

TO BE CONTINUED

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Negotiations with companies awarded oil blocks to start next week – Min Bharrat – says no blocks are positioned in "controversy" territory

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat

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ith the aim of fast-tracking exploration activities, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is looking to commence negotiations next week with the companies that were awarded oil blocks from the recent bid round auction.

This was revealed

by Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, during his endof-year press conference on Tuesday. According to Bharrat, the Government has already written to the six companies and groups, formally notifying them of the award and informing them of the impending start of negotiations.

Minister Bharrat pointed out that the companies have already indicated their readiness to start exploration work and cover the cost of the signing bonuses every new oil company must pay – US$10 million for shallow water and

US$20 million for deep water. According to Bharrat, the Government intends to hold them to this.

“We’ve officially written to them and indicated that we’re going to start the negotiations as early as next week. So, we will update you further as to the progress of those negotiations.

We’re hoping that the negotiations will go well. And all the companies can be awarded those blocks provided that, one, they’re in a position, which they’ve already indicated, that they can pay the signing bonus.”

“The second main criterion is the work programme. And the resources to ensure they can carry out that work programme.

Because we’re very serious about the work programme.

And these companies have already submitted a work programme. So, they’ve already agreed to it in principle. So, nothing should change from the work programme they submitted to

us.”

In the event that companies cannot fulfil the work programmes they submitted to the Government, Bharrat noted that there would be “stiff penalties”.

As it is now, he noted that further talks must be held between the Government and these companies on these work programmes.

“We want exploration activities to take place as soon as possible. We know that they have to do seismic and other studies because we would have auctioned the blocks with limited data that was available. And not conducting any seismic, which would have cost considerable resources. And take some time to get it done as well,” Bharrat explained.

Meanwhile, the Minister also addressed any misconceptions about the locations of the new blocks. While Venezuela, which is claiming two-thirds of Guyana belongs to them, has accused the Government of misconduct by awarding blocks in Guyana’s own Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Bharrat made it clear that none of the blocks are in disputed waters.

“I know the question has been asked. And there are some concerns about the new blocks that were awarded, being in disputed areas. We don’t have any dispute in terms of our boundaries. It is Venezuela that has a controversy with us, claiming part of our country. But I want to assure you that none of these blocks are anywhere close to that area they claim to have the controversy, or above the 70-degree line.”

“And as you would have

Map showing the blocks that were up for auction

noticed, that is why we haven’t committed, or Exxon as well, to do any exploration activities north of the Stabroek Block, going above the 70 degrees, going closer to Venezuela. Most of the exploration activities are going southwards to Suriname,” Minister Bharrat said.

According to the Minister, Exxon had asked the Government for permission to conduct these exploration activities and after consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the advice given was to wait for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to rule on the border controversy with Venezuela.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised that we should wait on the Court’s decision, which is the sensible thing to do. And we

Venezuela’s referendum a threat...

“Even more ominously, Venezuela’s Minister of Defence had posted a series of tweets threatening armed intervention against Guyana and its licensees in these maritime areas,” Pellet said, adding that Guyana is asking the Court to ensure that its future judgements on the border controversy are enforceable.

“It would not be enforceable, Madam President, were Venezuela to follow through with its resolution in its present form. Nor could your judgement be applied if Venezuela were to convene the electoral body to rule… and prejudge the solution that the Court is called upon to decide,” the lawyer added.

Guyana is currently seeking an injunction from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Venezuela’s efforts to an-

nex Essequibo via a referendum planned for December 3. Following the determination of Guyana’s application against the referendum, hearings on the case’s merits are the next stage. A final decision on the substantive case might not come for years.

After years of failed good offices process via the UN, Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgement to reinforce that the 1899 Arbitral Award remains valid and binding on all parties, as well as legal affirmation that Guyana’s Essequibo region, which contains much of the country’s natural resources, belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

Guyana’s Spanishspeaking neighbour has laid claim to more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass in the Essequibo region, and to a portion

of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in which nearly 11 billion barrels of oil

FROM PAGE 3

have been discovered largely by United States oil giant ExxonMobil.

have so advised Exxon.

Exxon has not done any exploration in that part of the block. Likewise in the Roraima Block and parts of Kaieteur,” he further explained.

Of the blocks that were awarded during the bid round, Guyanese female-led company Sispro received a shallow block (S3) and a deep-water block (D2), from the auction of the blocks offshore Guyana.

Other shallow blocks were awarded to Total Energies EP Guyana BV in consortium with Qatar Energy International E&P LLC and Petronas E&P Overseas Ventures SDN BHD (Malaysia), which got Block S4; Liberty

Petroleum Corporation of the US and Ghana-based Cybele Energy Limited, which got Block S7, and International Group Investment Inc of Nigeria, which got two blocks – S5 and S10.

Another shallow block, S8, was awarded to the Stabroek Block partners – ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess New Ventures Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited.

The second deep-water block – D1 – was awarded to Delcorp Inc Guyana, which comprises Watad Energy and Communications Limited and Arabian Drilling Company of Saudi Arabia. (G-3)

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CJ grants order for seizure of vending articles in front of Muneshwers Ltd

Backscratching…

I

Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George

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hief Justice Roxane George has granted an order for the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to seize the goods of vendors operating around the premises of Muneshwers Limited, as the proliferation of such acts was creating encumbrances around their Water, Commerce, and Longden Streets, Georgetown location.

The Chief Justice heard an application made by Muneshwers Limited on October 27, 2023, for an administrative order of mandamus compelling the Town Clerk of the City of Georgetown to remove persons leaving, placing, storing any cart, barrel, dustbin, boxes, and other articles upon the pavement and around the streets

The Muneshwers store on Water Street around their premises. and more so in front of their Appearing for the ap- business and that severplicant were Attorneys KA al letters were sent to the Juman-Yassin, SC, and Respondent, complaining Teni Housty. about the occupation and or In their affidavit in sup- encumbrance of the paveport of the application, the ments but to no avail. business stated among facts The applicant in their that their property is man- application further pointed aged by the Mayor and City out among other facts that Council of Georgetown un- the encumbrance of the ender the Municipal and trance to their store and District Councils Act 28:01 pavement over the years and the Town Clerk is the had caused the persons and person designated by the customers who traverse statute to sue and be sued the pavement to be greaton behalf of the city of ly inconvenienced as at Georgetown. most times the vendors ocFor over 15 years, cupy most of the pavement Muneshwers claimed that and now part of the street. there had been a prolifer- There was and continues ation of pavement vendors to be a loss of revenue as in the City of Georgetown a result since customers

avoided the store since the blockage of the street and pavements instilled the fear of being robbed.

As a result of the loss of business, they were forced to lay off several employees, and the congestion attracted pickpocketing and robbing of customers and members of the public. On occasions, the applicant contended that the congestion was used as a cover to sell illegal substances such as cocaine and marijuana.

Further, they contended that pedestrians found it difficult to access the pavements to their property without having to pass through the varying articles.

TURN TO PAGE 13

…for self-aggrandisement

n politics, the art of backscratching – “you scratch my back and I’ll scratch ours” – has a hoary heritage. There’s that devil-may-care fella persuading Eve to eat that apple and she’ll live forever, even knowing also that if she takes the advice, he’ll be getting his jollies!! The jury’s out on what’s the “original sin”, since we each have that itch at that spot on our backs where our fingers just can’t reach. And we’re easy targets when someone who wants something from us sidles up and whispers, “Let me scratch your back, big boy; I’ve just had my nails manicured!!”

And this is just what Roysdale Forde – the man who’s gunning for Aubrey Norton’s job as leader of the PNC – did for Dee Dawkins-Haigler, the one-time Georgia State Representative who’s in Guyana leading a team of US small-time Black politicians to investigate charges of all sorta evil done to African Guyanese by the “installed” PPP Government!! Well, we know what Roysdale’s gonna get out of this: he’s gonna point to Dawkins-Haigler emphasising it was he who invited her and the team, and not Norton – even though they were both in Washington at that Canarsie man’s Opposition “Conference on Guyana”!!

And what spot did Roysdale scratch for Dawkins-Haigler, apart from her being able to add to her PR releases that she’d intervened once again on behalf of African Americans, to assist members of the African Diaspora?!! Well, Roysdale is one of her nominators for the NOBEL PEACE PRIZE!!

That’s right – the Nobel Peace Prize!! According to her press release published on May 12, 2022, “Roysdale A. Ford, a member of Parliament in Guyana, was one of her nominators for the Peace Prize. “Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler has been instrumental in the fight for Afro Guyanese gaining full access to government and global resources,” Ford said in the release. “She has been an ally in trying to ensure that equitable sustainable economic development is achieved for all Guyanese, which would level the playing field and get many Afro Guyanese people back to work and out of poverty.”

The release also announced that another sponsor was also an obvious backscratcher - Alabama State Rep. Laura Hall - who’s also in Guyana on the “impartial factfinding mission”. ”Hall has accompanied Dawkins-Haigler to such countries as Nigeria, GUYANA, and UAE, so Hall knows firsthand the work Dawkins-Haigler does to provide sustainable solutions for eradicating poverty by providing for orphans and empowering widows.” Yeah…you read that right: Hall and sister Dee were in Guyana before – back in 2021 - as a group of “entrepreneurs” who met Pres Ali. They were supposed to build Black US-Guyana business links!!

How many – even non-sustainable ones – were formed subsequently?? Zilch!!

Gwan da side!! …for oil So, what’s really going on in the Middle East?? Why’re the US pumping all those billions and billions year after year into Israel?? Out of the goodness of their heart?? But Israelis are clearly light years better off than so many other peoples, even people in America. Couldn’t the money be steered to them?? Well, even though we know the power of the Jewish lobby in the US Congress and the White House, it all goes back to backscratching.

As far back as in 1986, then Senator Biden declared, “If Israel didn’t exist, we’d have to invent her!!” And he has been saying it regularly ever since. He knows what he speaks. Israel - after the 1973 Yom Kippur War and the Arab oil embargo - became in effect a permanent US aircraft carrier in the Middle East, due to Kissinger’s efforts to secure US’ interest in oil by balancing Arab power.

And that’s why those real carriers steamed toward Israel after Oct 7!! To backscratch!! …with PNC Execs?

Your Eyewitness was intrigued to learn that PNC Exec Van West-Charles is gonna be the PPP’s next Ambassador to Venezuela - our most sensitive diplomatic posting!! So, was it Baby Jesus’s ability to speak Spanish? Or was it mutual backscratching?

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

NEWS

9

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Oil production soars to 620,000 bpd as Payara kicks off production in Stabroek Block – supported by 6000 Guyanese

E

xxonMobil commenced production on Tuesday at the Payara Petroleum Production Licence area - Guyana’s third offshore oil development on the Stabroek Block, thereby bringing total production capacity in Guyana to approximately 620,000 barrels per day (bpd).

Utilising the Prosperity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, it is expected to reach initial production of approximately 220,000 bpd over the first half of next year as new wells come online.

This development was approved in September 2020 and sanctioned the production of more than 600 million barrels of oil from the Payara field.

Announcing the news in a statement, the company shared that this additional capacity will be the third major milestone towards reaching a combined production capacity of more than 1.2 million barrels per day on the Stabroek Block by year-end 2027.

President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company, Liam Mallon noted amid this development, “Each new project supports economic development and access to resources that will ben-

efit Guyanese communities while also helping to meet the world’s energy demand.”

“We’re pleased to work in partnership with the Guyanese Government to make reliable energy accessible and sustainable.”

The Prosperity FPSO is the third project on the Stabroek Block and follows the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity production vessels which came online in December 2019 and February 2022, respectively.

ExxonMobil Guyana anticipates six FPSOs will be in operation on the Stabroek Block by year-end 2027. Yellowtail and Uaru, the fourth and fifth projects, are in progress and will each produce approximately 250,000 barrels of oil per day. The company is working with the Guyana Government to secure regulatory approvals for a sixth project at Whiptail.

Prosperity joins the Liza Unity as two of the world’s first FPSOs to be awarded the SUSTAIN-1 notation by the American Bureau of Shipping in recognition of the sustainability of its design, documentation, and operational procedures.

ExxonMobil Guyana’s developments are generating around 30 per cent lower greenhouse gas in-

tensity than the average of ExxonMobil’s upstream portfolio.

According to the independent research firm Rystad Energy, they are also among the best performing in the world with respect to emissions intensity, outpacing 75 per cent of global oil and gas-producing assets.

However, some 6000 Guyanese are now supporting ExxonMobil Guyana’s activities in the country, representing more than two-thirds of the local oil and gas workforce. The company and its direct contractors have spent more than $1.2 billion with more than 1500 Guyanese suppliers since operations began in 2015 and production commencing later in 2019.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Government has welcomed the first oil at Payara, describing it as an important milestone towards meeting energy demands.

“Commencement of production at the Payara development is a significant milestone for our country as it ushers in additional revenue in support of our nation’s economic development while it augments meeting global energy demand. The Government is committed to utilising the revenues provided by this

The Payara-bound Prosperity FPSO (SBM Offshore photo)

resource to further improve public infrastructure, the educational and healthcare systems and our various social programmes.

Sustainable development and responsible environmental stewardship remain a priority of this Government as we continue

to manage these resources towards the prosperity of the Guyanese people and this great nation.”

The statement further outlined, “These will be further buttressed by the Yellowtail and Uaru developments which are already underway, anticipated to

contribute 250,000 barrels of oil each following their respective start-ups. An application for the sixth development, the Whiptail Project, was submitted by the Stabroek Block operator, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), and its co-venturers.”

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice shooting

Engineer surrenders after death of fiancée – family calls for 2nd autopsy – woman arrested for attempting to get thumbprint of now dead woman

Aggrieved brother Narish Mahadeo

H

Now dead, Ashmin Mahadeo and her fiancé Neil Madramootoo

ours after 32-yearold Ashmin Mahadeo of Williamsburg, Corentyne, died while receiving treatment for a gunshot wound to her neck, her fiancé, the prime suspect in the shooting, turned himself in.

This was confirmed by Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus, who added that 29-year-old Neil Madramootoo of Shoe Lane, New Amsterdam, turned himself in at about 10:00h at CID Headquarters in Georgetown.

Mahadeo took her last breath on Monday evening at the New Amsterdam Hospital after battling for her life for more than a month. She was initially hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital but was transferred to New Amsterdam – a decision her brother, Narish Mahadeo, stated was taken by GPHC. The brother stated that prior to her demise, “They say that she was stable and she was doing far better.”

Nevertheless, an autopsy was performed on her body on Tuesday and the dead woman’s brother is calling for a second autopsy even before obtaining the results citing ‘skullduggery’ as a reason.

The post-mortem was performed by Government Pathologist, Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan at the Bailey Funeral Home at Number 4 Village, West Coast Berbice.

According to the Police, Dr Bridgemohan did not give a cause of death, claiming that he had to check the hospital records before pronouncing the cause of death.

“We know Nehaul Singh was to do the post-mortem and when we go there, we saw Dr Bridgemohan. When he was finished, he told me to call him tomorrow for the results because he needed the file from New Amsterdam before he could be finished with the post-mortem results. I am not satisfied with that,” Mahadeo said.

“He is supposed to give me the results the same time when he did it as to what he saw being the cause of death. He is not supposed to wait for the next day to get the results. He should just put what his findings were. I am not satisfied with this PM and I am requesting another PM on her and hope that I will get the true result,” he added. However, the post mortem results were later given as septic anemia shock

and gun shot injuries.

The dead woman’s brother is of the opinion that there are forces trying to pervert the course of justice.

“I don’t know who it was but it is some family for the guy who keeps visiting her and she do it without any family member permission. Up to Sunday night, she was there at the hospital with a paper saying that it was not Neil who shot her,” the brother stated.

The Police have since confirmed that a nail technician who they believed was attempting to coerce the now deceased into affixing her thumbprint on a certain document was arrested on Sunday.

Following the shooting incident, Madramootoo was arrested but was subsequently released on $300,000 station bail after the legal 72-hour detention period had expired.

He was later rearrested after Police were able to secure a statement from Mahadeo, who reportedly confirmed that it was Madramootoo who shot her. As such, he was charged and again granted bail in the sum of $500,000. Now that Mahadeo is dead, the attempted murder charge will be upgraded to murder.

Mahadeo was discovered with a gunshot wound to her neck and was rushed to a hospital in Berbice in an unconscious state. Reports are that the bullet entered from the back of the neck and exited through the jaw.

Police were able to gather evidence in relation to an illegal firearm that was found in the house where the shooting incident took place. Ballistics tests were also done while detectives also checked the hands and clothes of the fiancé for gunpowder residue.

At the time of the shooting, the couple was packing items in Madramootoo’s company vehicle to be taken to a location in Port Mourant where the couple’s bridal shower/reception was expected to take place.

The injured woman’s fiancé initially told her relatives that he did not know what transpired and even suggested that it might have been a robbery.

He had claimed that he did not know where Mahadeo’s cell phone was and that he could not find his.

However, both phones were subsequently discovered in a vehicle which the engineer had access to. The couple was slated to get married at the end of the year.

NEWS

11

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

President Ali to attend historic Caricom-Saudi Arabia Summit P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has departed Guyana and will join fellow leaders from the Caribbean Community (Caricom) for the first-ever CaricomSaudi Arabia Summit slated for November 16-19, 2023, in Saudi Arabia.

The President is accompanied by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd and other Cabinet members.

This landmark summit arises from the keen interest of the Government of Saudi Arabia in cultivating enhanced relationships with nations across the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

The primary focus is on fostering investment and trade, particularly in key sectors such as infrastructure, hospitality, energy, climate change, and environmental sustainability.

The summit will be co-chaired by His Royal Highness Prince

Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Chairman of Caricom, Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit.

The event will also see presentations of Heads of State and Governments from Caricom, along with the Caricom Secretary General.

Back in September 2021, the Guyanese Head of State met with His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud of Saudi Arabia on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.

During that engagement, the two countries discussed partnership and collaboration in oil and gas as well as issues relating to COP26 and the development of a nuanced approach to a decarbonised world.

In 2020, Guyana applied to the Saudi Arabia-based

President Dr Irfaan Ali with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy, Adel Ahmed al-Jubeir

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) seeking financial support for the Hinterland Electrification Programme, and intends to use some of the proceeds to fund the construction and rehabilitation of two small, hydropower plants at Lethem, Region Nine.

These are a 1.5-megawatt (MW) plant at Kumu and a 0.7 MW plant at Moco Moco.

The IsDB is one of Guyana’s newest development partners; Guyana joined in 2016. Its goodwill was demonstrated when the bank offered Guyana a US$900 million package for mainly infrastructural development works in the period 2018-2020.

In addition, President Ali had met virtually with IsDB President, Dr Bandar Hajjar in June 2020 during which they discussed plans for rebuilding in the aftermath of the countrywide floods.

However, in September

last, Saudi Arabian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al Jubeir and a team visited Guyana and met with President Irfaan Ali. During the meeting, President Ali shared his vision for Guyana and discussed investment opportunities in the country, infrastructural development, renewable energy, agriculture, the oil and gas sector, and economic cooperation.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd joined the President at the meeting.

Meanwhile, only recently, the Arabian Drilling Company of Saudi Arabia was awarded the second deep-water block – D1 following the oil block auction. Guyana established formal diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on February 22, 2012.

Govt intervened to ensure US$214M didn’t slip through the cracks – Bharrat ... responds to criticisms over 3-year tenure

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n Tuesday, the Natural Resources Ministry was the first Ministry to hold its end-of-year press conference for 2023. During the press conference, one of the first questions subject Minister Vickram Bharrat faced concerned the US$214.4 million cost oil claim that was flagged by auditors and was subject to controversy, as well as his handling of the sector.

The Minister explained that when he was first appointed in 2020, he was the subject of criticism - criticism which he noted he has since taken in stride.

According to the Minister, despite the criticism, the Ministry and the sectors it oversees have improved by leaps and bounds over the past few years.

“Everybody is being criticised every day. When I was appointed and we all know.

This was no secret. There was criticism that I had no experience in the sector. I’m relatively new. There was a lot of criticism, which I never responded to. But I’m a big fan of cricket… when you’re criticised as a batsman, the best way to respond to the criticism is to go out, bat and bat and keep batting.”

“And make sure you make runs, so you actually answer the question without saying a word. And that is what I started to do when I took up my appointment.

I went through a number of areas of improvement and what is happening in the natural resources sector under the very Minister. It’s

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat

the same individual,” the Minister said.

Zeroing in on the specific case of the US$214.4 million cost oil claim that was flagged by auditors as questionable expenses incurred during the period 1999 to 2017 by United States oil giant, ExxonMobil, Bharrat admitted that mistakes occurred on the Government’s end. However, he pointed out that it was the Government that intervened at a policy level to ensure those mistakes were corrected.

“Whether mistakes are made or not, or whether there was a mistake based on inexperience or exuberance, I would not deny.

Everyone makes mistakes.

Whether the mistakes were fatal or not, is the big question. And luckily, you said there was an intervention.

But you didn’t say an intervention by whom. It was an intervention by the very

people. Myself, President, Vice President.”

According to the Minister, had it been a case where the Government was not looking out for Guyana’s best interests then there would have been no intervention from the Government, seeking to ensure no slippage occurred with the disputed sums.

“I want to assure you, we made that intervention to say, we’re not going to accept this reduction, because the consultant said something else. The other discussion went on without our knowledge. We don’t have a report to say, yes this is the amount you reduced it to.”

“Because obviously, you need a report to substantiate what they were saying.

And there was no report to say if it was reduced to US$3 million. The only report was the US$214 million. And that’s why we made that intervention and

said that no, it can’t happen,” Bharrat said.

The Minister noted that the Government intervened and ensured that the rightful and accredited agency, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), maintained full authority to deal with the flagged US$214.4 million in expenses from the audit.

In 2019, British firm IHS Markit had conducted an audit of ExxonMobil’s cost oil expenses racked up between 1999 and 2017 from its operations in Guyana and had

flagged US$214.4 million as questionable costs.

Following months of its own review, the GRA – the technical body tasked with advising the Government on the audited oil expenses – had supported the US$214.4 million disputed sum. However, this sum became embroiled in controversy after it was reported that Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Natural Resources Ministry, Gopnauth “Bobby” Gossai, had reportedly engaged Exxon, which resulted in the flagged figure being re-

duced to US$11 million and then subsequently to US$3 million.

The Guyana Government subsequently made clear that it will use the GRAsupported figure and declared that the tax body is the only technical agency in charge of the State’s auditing of the cost of oil expenses. When it comes to Gossai’s unauthorised negotiations, the Government had also announced that Gossai was disciplined in accordance with public service rules. (G-3)

Home of Bourda Market vendor goes up in flames

T

he home of a Bourda Market vendor was completely gutted by fire on Tuesday evening, leaving at least three persons making alternative living arrangements.

The fire reportedly started at about 18:00h at the Number 12 Village, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) home.

At the time of the blaze, the vendor, Sokwattie Ramnarine, called “Neena” was not at home. The 59-year-old woman was reportedly at the market when the fire erupted.

Guyana Times was unable to contact her but close relatives explained that she normally leaves home for Bourda Market early in the morning and returns in the evening.

Up to press time they could not say if the woman

The vendor’s house on fire on Tuesday

was informed of the fire, noting that their efforts to contact her proved futile.

The vendor and her two children, aged 29 and 18 years old, occupied the

house but neither was at home. However, neighbours were able to remove a bus that was parked under the house and prevent it from going up in flames.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police launch manhunt for ex-soldier for murder of Berbice woman A

manhunt was launched for Sadesh Appaddu, also known as “Vishal”, for the murder of his wife Romona Lall whose body was discovered in a room at the Sunset Hotel in Georgetown on Sunday.

From the information received, Appaddu, a former member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and a prison officer, was identified as the man with whom the now dead woman checked

into the hotel.

Police sources confirmed that the wanted man was seen leaving the hotel on Saturday evening about one hour after the couple checked in.

The hotel’s proprietor had told the Police that Lall and an identifiable male companion went into the hotel at around 17:55h on Saturday and booked a room. They were then given the keys to the room, which is situated on the

first floor, and they were expected to book out at 12:00h on Sunday.

However, at 20:07h on Saturday, the male exited the room alone and left the hotel.

The receptionist on duty at midday observed that the victim did not check out of Room 4, and as such, she decided to make checks.

She told investigators that she knocked on the door and called out but got no answer. She then took

Wanted: Sadesh Appaddu, also known as “Vishal”

another key, opened the room door, and saw the victim lying motionlessly on the floor, naked. She immediately informed the owner of the hotel and the Police were summoned to the scene.

Police say two broken glass bottles were found on the floor next to the woman’s body. What appeared to be bloodstains were seen on the bed and walls of the room. Moreover, one stab wound was seen to the woman’s left side of the chest and the head and shards of one of the broken bottles were seen in the wound.

There were also abrasions to the lower abdomen and three stab wounds to her back.

When Guyana Times visited the dead woman’s home on Monday, the couple’s house was well se-

Now dead Romana Lall and the suspect in happier times

cured with no one in sight.

Neighbours stated the woman moved out of the house more than a week ago with her two children.

In another section of the media, it was revealed that the woman had gone to her relatives in Essequibo in a bid to escape the abusive relationship she shared with the suspect. Upon learning that his wife as in the Cinderella County, he went to beg for her to return home.

The couple reportedly left Essequibo on Saturday for Berbice. It is believed that after they arrived in Georgetown, they decided to stay at the hotel and would have travelled up to

Berbice on Sunday.

It remains a mystery as to what happened in the hotel room.

Meanwhile, neighbours stated that the suspect was last seen on Friday last.

According to one neighbour, the taxi driver visited her last Monday to inquire if she had any information about his wife. The taxi driver claimed that he came home and discovered that his wife had packed up and left. When contacted on Tuesday evening, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum posited that investigations are ongoing while confirming that the Police are on the hunt for a person of interest.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CDC prepares schools as dry spell to linger until early 2024

T

he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is preparing schools across the country as the El Nino conditions persist, as the perdurable dry season is expected to persist until early 2024.

Recently, in collaboration with the People's Republic of China and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) of Kuru Kururu and Yarrowkabra, a quantity of El Niño preparedness and response equipment was donated to five schools along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

These items were donated by the Chinese Government to the Commission and included water dispensers, fire extinguishers, and bottled water. The CDC team and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, engaged the Kuru Kururu Primary School; Swan Primary School; Yarrowkabra Primary School; Hauraruni Primary School; and Kuru Kuru Primary School.

“Students and teachers were also sensitised about the effects of El Niño and the current dry season. Sessions included tips to stay hydrated, what drought and El Niño phenomena entail, and the unified effort between both

Students with Ambassador Guo Haiyan and other officials during the outreach exercise

Governments to ensure that persons are adequately protected during this period. The sensitisation activities were conducted

by CDC’s Mitigation and Recovery Unit,” the CDC informed on Tuesday.

Ambassador Haiyan iterated that part of her mandate is to help ensure that Guyanese are in a position to alleviate their vulnerabilities as it relates to enduring the dry season.

Last week, the El Niño Preparedness and Response Outreach was conducted at South Ruimveldt Secondary School, the David Rose School in Georgetown, and President's College on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Staff of the CDC hand-

ed over water dispensers, a fire extinguisher, and bottled water as part of their effort to sensitise persons of the impacts of the current dry spell.

The team has also reached as far as the Mahdia Primary School.

Delivering items such as water dispensers and water tanks will assist persons in combating the harsh dry conditions, the CDC added.

The Hydrometeorological Service in its most recent forecast, has predicted below-normal rainfall and above-normal average temperature across Guyana from November 2023 to January 2024.

The rainy season that lasts from December to January usually brings

wet conditions in Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, and north-

ern Region 6. This period is also considered the ‘short’

wet season, with the transition starting from mid-to late November. The highest occurrence of short-duration, high-intensity rainfall is observed during this period, which often leads to flash flooding.

The ongoing El Niño phase is expected to continue throughout and beyond the November 2023 to January 2024 period.

As a consequence, rainfall amounts are expected to be less than the historical average. Further, southern sections of Regions 6 and 8 and all of Region 9 will continue to experience dry conditions.

CJ grants order for seizure ...

FROM PAGE 8

The applicant claimed that the Mayor and City Council have completely disregarded their statutory responsibility and have allowed the proliferation of the encumbering of the pavements and streets around the building.

Muneshwers sought for the Town Clerk and the Mayor and City Council to perform their statutory duty under the laws of Guyana. The applicant further stated in their application that there were no reasonable circumstances why the Orders prayed for should not be granted and if granted, it

would ensure a state of order in the city and it would be for the public good and citizens.

The Chief Justice, after listening to submissions

by Counsel for the applicant, ordered that mandamus is being directed to the City Engineer to carry out the duty stated in the By-Laws 10 (2) for the enforcement of By-Laws 10 (1) of the City Government By-Laws enacted under the Municipal and District Councils Act Ch 28:01 in relation to the removal of anything whatsoever left, placed or stored such as to encumber the pavement or

pavements and street situate around the said property.

The Chief Justice told the Town Clerk that in carrying out the order of the court, there should be strict compliance of the Act as that items seized should be itemised and stored properly. Further, if there was no claim by anyone within the stipulated period for any of the seized items, then they can be sold. The Chief Justice observed that the order made by the court may cause difficulties and advised that notice should be given to the vendors.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Reparatory justice is a priority for Caricom Heads of Government – Caricom SG

Secretary General of Caricom, Dr Carla Barnett

C

aricom Secretary General, Dr Carla Barnett has said that reparations from Europe for the crimes against humanity: of native genocide, the trans-Atlantic trade in enslaved Africans, and chattel enslavement in the Region, are a priority for Caricom

Heads of Government.

The Secretary-General spoke via a video message at the ACCRA Reparations Conference, convened on Tuesday at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra, Ghana. The Conference is intended to facilitate meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing among experts, policymakers, academics and stakeholders on the topic of reparations for historical injustices such as colonialism, apartheid, and slavery. The theme of the Conference is “Building a United Front to Advance the Cause of Justice and the Payment of Reparations to Africans”.

Moving the reparations justice agenda forward

In her message, Dr Barnett emphasised that Caricom Heads of Government agree that collaboration with Africa on

the Caribbean and Africa on reparations”, the SecretaryGeneral stated.

She explained that, in this context, Caricom welcomes the update that the African Union is also seeking to develop a common position on reparations, and a roadmap for future collaboration with the African diaspora on reparatory justice.

“The Accra Reparations Conference is therefore timely to facilitate dialogue on the reparations agenda,” Dr Barnett added.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

reparations is critical to moving the reparations justice agenda further forward.

“They have expressed their full support for the convening of the Accra Reparations Conference as a strategic and prime opportunity to forge a common collaborative agenda between

Caricom–AU cooperation

Recent meetings of Caricom Heads of Government have tabled important proposals for cooperation with the African Union on reparations.

“They would welcome collaboration to co-sponsor a resolution on reparations at the United Nations, to signal our joint commitment

and our position that reparatory justice ought to receive due consideration by the United Nations”, underscored Dr Barnett.

International Court of Justice

Further, she highlighted that Heads of Government propose to seek an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice through the United Nations General Assembly.

“We invite the African Union to join us in this campaign”, stated the SecretaryGeneral. “We are also working to have reparations included on the agenda of key meetings of intergovernmental bodies. We hope that we can establish appropriate mechanisms to facilitate cooperation on reparations between Caricom and Africa, including the proposed joint Caricom-African Union Committee of Legal Experts,” she detailed.

Dr Barnett has said that Caricom welcomes the establishment and excellent advocacy, consultative and research initiatives of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, and anticipates deepening collaboration with this body, which includes two distinguished Caricom representatives.

Deepening cooperation

She shared that Caricom-Africa cooperation has increased in several areas following the first Caricom-Africa Summit of Heads of Government, held in September 2021.

“Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forums have been held in Barbados and Guyana in 2022 and 2023 respectively. The AUECOSOCC Study Tour on Reparations was held in Barbados in July 2023.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

NEWS

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Reparatory justice is a priority...

The Caribbean Community has also participated in the Reparations and Racial Healing Summit in August 2022 in Ghana, and welcomes the increased focus on the return of stolen cultural property to both the Caribbean and Africa,” emphasised the Secretary-General.

She concluded by urging stakeholders to seize the moment and ensure that Caricom, Africa, and others from the diaspora speak with one voice to advance the just and strong call for reparations for the crimes against humanity of native genocide, the trans-Atlantic trade in enslaved Africans, and chattel enslavement. The Caricom 10-Point Plan for Reparatory Justice also 'asserts

that European Governments Instructed genocidal actions upon indigenous communities".

Attending the Conference were the legal experts, policymakers, academics and stakeholders from the Caribbean Region, Reparations Commissions-Americas and the Caribbean, the UN System, California Reparations Task Force, African Civil Society organisations, and Regional Economic Communities of African Union (AU). Member States and diaspora focal points are attending the Conference, which will conclude on 17 November.

Meanwhile, back in September, the descendants of slave owner John Gladstone –

who had enslaved over 2500 persons during tumultuous times here – offered a former apology for the actions of their ancestors, but President Dr Irfaan Ali has maintained that an apology must include compensation and reparative justice.

The President welcomed the Gladstone heirs’ apology and stated that it is the first step in the process of reparative justice, and moreso an acknowledgment of the cruel nature of African enslavement and indentureship in Guyana, as well as an act of contrition that paves the way for justice.

The President added that the Gladstone family has already admitted that it benefitted from African enslave-

ment and indentureship on the Demerara and other plantations owned by its patriarch, and has agreed to undertake certain actions.

“I therefore propose that the intended apology include issues of compensation, reparative justice, and those

involved to be posthumously charged for crimes against humanity,” he declared.

The Caribbean Reparations Committee’s 10-point plan for reparations offers a roadmap toward dismantling the barriers that persist. It calls, inter alia,

FROM PAGE 16

for an unconditional apology; and investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and cultural revitalization – an investment not only in the present, but also in the future, ensuring future generations are unshackled from the chains of history.

18 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

World Diabetes Day

Guyanese urged to get screened for prediabetes to avoid serious health problems

P

rediabetes is a condition that often goes unnoticed until serious health problems arise, and on the occasion of World Diabetes Day on Tuesday, the Health Ministry has encouraged Guyanese to get screened if they fall within the at-risk categories.

Coordinator of the Chronic Disease Unit, Dr Danielle Drepaul shed light on prediabetes, which has been described as where a person has higher than normal blood sugar levels but not enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetic.

It means a person cannot process glucose or sugar properly anymore.

Prediabetes puts persons

Coordinator of the Chronic Disease Unit, Dr Danielle Drepaul

at an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. While the exact cause of prediabetes is unknown, familial history and genetics appear to play a

role.

She shared, “You can have prediabetes for years but have no clear symptoms so it often goes unnoticed until serious health problems such as Type 2 Diabetes show up.

One possible sign of prediabetes is darkening skin on certain parts of the body, such as the neck, armpit, and groin.”

Dr Drepaul added, “It is important to visit your nearest health facility to be screened for prediabetes if you present the following risk factors such as being overweight; 45 years or older; have a close relative with Type 2 Diabetes; physically inactive; or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.”

Meanwhile, a gynae-

cologist at the Mahaicony Hospital Unit, Dr Rondell Stuart, drew attention to Gestational Diabetes, a case where there is some resistance due to hormonal changes, preventing sugar from being expelled from the blood.

He explained, “In pregnancy, the placenta produces some hormone which makes it difficult or there is insulin resistance, where it doesn’t work exactly. Even though most women are able to compensate and their body produces more insulin to take that sugar out the blood, not everyone is able to do so.”

Between 20 to 24 weeks, these hormones are more prominent and present great-

er resistance. An oral glucose tolerance test is typically done.

Once a pregnant woman is diagnosed with gestational diabetes, the gynaecologist cautioned, “There can be complications for both the mother and the baby. Studies have shown that in mothers who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, approximately 30 to 60 per cent can go on to develop Type 2 Diabetes in 10 years.”

It was shared that in this case, medical nutritional therapy and daily testing are done to prevent the condition from becoming uncontrollable.

“There are multiple com-

plications that your baby can suffer from, from you having diabetes or if it is unknown or not properly controlled.

We recommend if you become pregnant, you must be screened for gestational diabetes because it is something very important to avoid complications for both the baby and the mother.”

Diabetes is the inability of glucose to be absorbed from blood into cells. The World Health Organisation states that about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, the majority living in low-and middle-income countries, and 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations Gaza war: US and UK raise pressure A NOMINATION FOR THE NOBEL PRIZE OF 2024 – THE PALESTINIAN HEALTH WORKERS

S

omeone we all know was agitatedly complaining to me about the Black Caucus Group coming to Guyana to look into various aspects of allegations made by the PNC in Guyana and through its frontman in Brooklyn. He was telling me that Freddie Kissoon is correct that there are other places more relevant for them to go, such as in Israel.

I listened with empathy, but did not say anything, because my mind was far away, far away in Gaza, thinking about the people of Gaza. In the midst of chaos, brutality and the stench of death, the Palestinian Health Workers Dr Leslie Ramsammy are authoring a new definition of sacrifice and heroism, and they deserve to be the recipients of the Noble Prize 2024.

The Noble Prize cannot fully reward these workers, but at least the world would be able, in some concrete way, to recognize the godly, humanitarian and selfless sacrifices these workers make for fellow sisters and brothers; for children; for women; for the elderly, as hell comes to earth. The very minimum we owe them is to recognize that no one deserves the Nobel Prize more than the Palestinian Health Workers.

The most urgent, immediate task is to secure a ceasefire. Litigating who is right or wrong is not the most urgent need. Too many innocent lives have been lost already, and far too much misery has been wrought out of this newest conflict between two populations of our sisters and brothers, who have suffered from too many historical injustices. But as the conflict plays itself out with the stench of death and suffering all around, the Palestinian Health Workers have borne a heavy burden, and no matter which side we may be on, we must recognize the humanitarian sacrifices they are making.

Every single day, every single moment, in the full view of the whole world, we see the agony, death and terror of Palestinian children, Palestinian women, and Palestinian people in general. The pain and the shame of every death, of every injury, belong to all of us. Every day, however, the Palestinian Health Workers must live in the midst of the chaos and the misery and hopelessness of dead, mangled bodies, of fatally injured people, of people fighting and screaming for their lives.

The Palestinian Health Workers do so while their own hospitals are under siege and under attack, teetering in a state of imminent collapse. They do so while their respective families may be among the dead and injured, among the hundreds of thousands displaced, among those without water and food. But they stick to what is in front of them – desperate people with blood flowing out of their bodies, with body parts literally hanging on their bodies, bawling in the midst of death; with children too weak to bawl themselves while clutched by bawling parents.

Doctors and nurses in Gaza’s hospitals, which are nearing collapse, are without electricity and basic supplies, say they must now decide which patients have a slight chance of living and which face inevitable death, because they have been put in a position to decide who gets a ventilator, who gets resuscitated, or who gets any medical treatment at all.

While physically and psychologically exhausted, they make decisions with dead bodies, bleeding bodies, dismembered bodies all around them; amid the screams of small children undergoing amputations or brain surgeries without anesthesia or clean water to wash their wounds; with maggots being their witnesses. The Palestinian Health Workers are trying to bring some relief in the midst of hell itself.

The Palestinian Health Workers are not the first to work in the midst of war. But each and every day, we hear the testimony of war veterans, who confess that they have never witnessed or heard of any wartime scenario of fiasco that might have ever been worse than the present circumstances of the Palestinian people.

Until a ceasefire is somehow achieved, the Palestinian Health Worker is the only god who is present to help these people. Many of the health workers have themselves died. Some died while taking care of those who needed them the most in their own hospitals, where bombs rained down from the heavens, bringing hell down on earth. Others died while they went home looking for their loved ones, or while their bare hands were digging people out of rubbles.

This is the time when the world’s first task is to ensure a ceasefire.

We can cast blame later. We can seek a permanent solution after.

Nothing exposes the wickedness and the heartlessness of the world more than the present conflict, where children have become acceptable collateral damage. When the most powerful world leaders, like the President of America and France, the Prime Minister of the UK and other powerful Heads of States, openly, by their actions, legitimize the murder and terror of children as acceptable collateral damage as one state inflicts vengeance and reprisal as reasonable and proportionate responses. The world has lost its humanity, and madness is supreme.

In the midst of evil being rolled out as the only answer to buy permanent peace in a part of our world that has seen too many conflicts; while too many countries justify evil; the Palestinian Health Workers have had no time to decide whether they should run away.

They carry out their obligations of taking care of the dead, the almost dead, and all those who bawl out of their pain from injuries and the agony of losing their children, their sisters and brothers, their mothers and fathers, and their grandparents. It is not too early to recognize their bravery and courage, their sacrifices, and the most vivid example of humanitarian duty. When all of this calamity is over, we must recognize the heroism of the Palestinian Health Workers. They deserve the Nobel Prize for 2024. It must be a small part of the world’s atonement for its ugly sins.

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

on Israel to protect hospitals

I

srael is facing mounting international pressure to protect civilians trapped in Gaza's hospitals, as it released what it said was evidence of a Hamas base in one medical facility.

US President Joe Biden said that Al-Shifa hospital "must be protected" from intense fighting around the complex.

His comments came as Israel released video of what it said was a Hamas hideout under the Rantisi hospital.

It accuses Hamas of using hospitals to hide military bases. Hamas denies this.

The area around AlShifa, Gaza's biggest hospital, has become the focus of fighting in recent days.

Thousands of people are believed to be sheltering there.

"It's my hope and expec-

tation that there will be less intrusive action relative to the hospital," President Biden said. "The hospital must be protected."

Doctors inside say that dozens of people, including at least three premature babies, have died due to a lack of fuel, medicine and power.

They have told the BBC that more than 100 bodies lay unburied in courtyards, and anyone trying to leave the complex - or even move between buildings - risks death due to the violence in the area.

Biden's comments were echoed by the British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, who stated on Monday evening that while Israel had "a right to defend itself against terror", it must also "act within international law".

He urged Israel to "take

Israeli forces have focused on eliminating Hamas from around Gaza's hospitals

all measures to protect innocent civilians, including at hospitals ... and allow more aid into Gaza".

"Too many civilians are losing their lives," he said, as he called for "urgent and substantive humanitarian pauses" to alleviate the "ter-

rible suffering" in Gaza.

Their statements follow pressure from French President Emmanuel Macron, who implored Israel to stop killing babies and women in a BBC interview. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Ukrainian troops have secured foothold in the south, senior official says

U

krainian forces have secured a foothold on the east bank of the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff said on Tuesday.

Andriy Yermak's remarks were the first official acknowledgement that Ukrainian troops were established on the Dnipro's east bank in Kherson region.

"Against all odds, Ukraine's Defence Forces have gained a foothold on the left (east) bank of the

Dnipro," Yermak said in an address to the Hudson Institute think-tank in the United States. The remarks were posted on Zelenskiy's website.

"Step by step, they are demilitarising Crimea. We have covered 70% of the distance. And our counteroffensive is developing."

Russian forces seized Kherson region in the early days of their February 2022 invasion of Ukraine but late last year abandoned the regional capital, also called Kherson, and the Dnipro's west bank. They have since

shelled Kherson and other towns from new positions on the east bank.

As Ukraine's fourmonth-old counteroffensive secures only incremental gains, Ukrainian officials have been cautious in describing the activities of their forces on the east bank.

A military spokesperson this month said "not bad results" had been achieved on the east bank in forc-

ing Russian troops to reposition. Unofficial accounts have noted Ukrainian advances.

Russia's military said last week its forces had thwarted a Ukrainian attempt to forge a bridgehead on the eastern bank and on nearby islands, killing around 500 Ukrainian soldiers. Reuters could not independently verify the battlefield claim. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Hit by floods and drought, quarter of Somali people Thailand drops joint at risk of 'crisis-level' patrols with Chinese Police hunger, WFP says after public backlash

T

hailand rolled back on Tuesday plans of joint patrols with Chinese Police in popular tourist spots after public backlash.

Tourism officials on Sunday floated the idea of having Chinese and Thai Police patrol much-visited areas to build confidence among tourists, including Chinese nationals.

The plan, however, sparked uproar online, drawing criticism that it compromised national sovereignty, and a rebuke from the country's Police Chief.

"There are many alternative ways to build confidence for tourists in Thailand ... but we will not have joint patrols," Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol told reporters on Tuesday.

"The Thai Police Force is already adequate and

are working hard to restore confidence," Sudawan said.

Thai authorities have rushed to tighten security after last month's shooting spree at a luxury mall in Bangkok in which two people, including one Chinese national, were killed, fanned safety concerns.

Restoring confidence is critical for Thailand's tourism industry, especially among Chinese visitors.

They accounted for 11 million out of record 39.9 million foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand in 2019, but their return after the COVID-19 pandemic has been sluggish, prompting the Government in September to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals.

So far this year, Thailand has welcomed 23.2 million foreign arrivals. (Reuters)

A

quarter of Somalia's population is forecast to face "crisis-level hunger or worse" this year due to drought and floods caused by climate change, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Tuesday.

Floods that have uprooted hundreds of thousands of people in Somalia and neighbouring countries in East Africa following a historic drought earlier this year have been described by the United Nations as a once-in-a-century event.

"Livelihoods and lives are at risk, 4.3 million people – a quarter of the population – are forecast to face crisis-level hunger or worse by the end of this year," said Petroc Wilton, WFP spokesperson for Somalia.

"This bombardment of climate shocks, from drought to floods, will prolong the hunger crisis in Somalia. The drought killed millions of livestock and ruined countless hectares of pastures and farm-

lands. Now, these devastating floods are crippling Somalia's ability to recover."

In Somalia's Dolow district, homes are abandoned and roads have turned into rivers.

The floods, which followed heavy rains that started in early October, have already killed at least 32 people and forced more than 456,800 from their homes in Somalia, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

In Dolow, some say moving around the worst-hit areas of towns and villages has become dangerous because of the animals that could be lurking beneath the surface.

Some families from Dolow have been moved to camps for internally displaced people.

"Sustained support from the international community will be essential," Wilton added. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Live and learn. Invest time and money in yourself and learn additional skills to help you land the desired position.

Self-improvement will lift your spirits and attract compliments.

(March 21-April 19) Don't take a wait-and-see approach, or you'll fall behind while others surpass you. Rely on yourself and make changes that position you in a direction that utilizes your skills to the fullest.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20) Speak your mind, but get your facts straight -- or someone will take pleasure in correcting you. Be certain your presentation is impeccable. Don't leave anything to the imagination.

(May 21-June 20) Take responsibility and act. It's what you do that will bring about positive change. Use your imagination and look for an alternative to be sure you get what you want. Control your destiny.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Anger won't solve anything, but common sense, compromise and compassion will. Listen, but don't believe everything you hear. Go directly to the source, get the facts and make intelligent decisions.

(July 23-Aug. 22) What you experience today will offer insight into the possibilities that exist. It's time to adjust your life to suit your pursuits. Prepare to let go of what's holding you back.

CALVIN AND HOBBES (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Ask questions and get your details straight before sharing information.

Truth will be necessary to attract people who have something to offer. Spiff up your appearance to boost your confidence.

You are overdue for a change, and its influence on your life will give you momentum. Don't hide in the background; enter the spotlight and make your dreams come true.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Consider who and what is essential, and make a move to rectify a problem before compromising your position or reputation. Take care of matters yourself to avoid interference.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Explore your options and secure your position. Trust in your ability to do what's best for you, and you'll increase your chance to get ahead. Thoughts followed by actions will not disappoint.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Put any anger aside and consider your options. Make a physical move that compensates for any disruption. Protect what you have, and direct your energy where it offers the most in return.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Refuse to let an emotional incident cause you to make a reckless decision.

Bide your time, be observant and put your energy into something that offers a positive return.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

21

ICC ODI World Cup 2023…

India vs NZ: The unstoppable force vs the shape-shifting object Big picture: Big stakes

F

irst, the unstoppable force. India are having the World Cup of their wildest dreams, and it has nothing to do with their being undefeated in it; that is merely a byproduct of their planning leading into the tournament.

They left 2019 needing… more. So, they went out searching, trying as many as 50 different players across four years and 66 matches. Six months out from the showpiece, they had identified whom they wanted, and were focused on sharpening their skills.

In the 15 ODIs between March and October 2023, they were picking all of their XIs from a set of 24. The chosen ones were given all the support they needed to live up to their full potential, which is why Suryakumar Yadav finally looks like he belongs in ODI cricket.

Off the field, India were doing even better. The success of

this campaign - and it is already a success - was built in the doctors’ offices and the gyms and the training sessions that enabled Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer to come back from injury without losing a shred of their ability, to the doubt that their bodies might break down again if they pushed it too hard.

Rohit Sharma and his predecessor Virat Kohli have often pointed to a record of sustained excellence whenever they were faced with questions around the lack of ICC trophies since 2013.

Whether or not the drought ends in a week's time, the gains this team has made: the freedom with which they bat, the discipline with which they bowl, the trust they have in themselves and their method, the joy they have spread, already feel historic.

Now the immovable, shape-shifting object. New Zealand become what they

Can Rachin Ravindra come good in the World Cup semi-finals too?

need to be to win. Rachin Ravindra began scoring mountains of runs in the top order, so the opener they invested in during the lead-up to the World Cup has to warm the bench.

They've turned Glenn Phillips into something close to an allrounder, the man has doubled the number of overs he had bowled in his entire ODI career during the course of this competition. They've dealt with injury

GFF-NAMILCO U17 Academy Playoff…

Two wins and two draws in week 5 T he Guyana Football Federation-NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff continued on Saturday in Georgetown, Linden and Rosignol, resulting in two exciting wins from Upper Demerara and Bartica Football Associations.

Additionally, there were two draws, as the East Coast Football Academy drew with the National Under-15 team, and Berbice played to a draw with East Bank Demerara on November 11.

Supporters, including excited parents, erupted in cheer as Upper Demerara secured a 1-0 victory over Essequibo, with Joshua Fleming scoring a spectacular goal in the 19th minute.

Determined to level the score, Essequibo threw everything they had at the unyielding winner's solid defence, but Upper Demerara held their ground.

In yet another heart-pounding match, Bartica secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over West Demerara.

The excitement began when Ian Gomes opened the scoring in the 24th minute, with Shawn Bobb adding a sensational goal in the 35th minute and Kyle Timmerman scoring in the 50th minute.

West Demerara managed to spark some excitement of their own when Shekeel King scored a lone goal in the 80th minute.

A scene from the weekend’s games in the NAMILCO U17 Academy playoffs

The East Coast and National Under-15 teams engaged in a thrilling contest that concluded in a 1-1 draw. The goals were netted by Bryan Wharton of East Coast Football Academy in the 6th minute, and by National Under-15 player Tyrell Walcott in the 83rd minute of the game.

Lastly, the Berbice Football Association Academy and East Bank Football Association Academy also played to a 1-1 draw in another eventful Saturday for Guyana's rising stars.

The NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff is a vital component of the Academy Training Centre programme, which focuses on nurturing the talents of boys aged 14 to 17 years old. This

programme holds the prestigious status of being an approved 'Generation Next' FIFA development initiative.

The participating teams have been strategically organised into two dynamic groups.

Group A includes Georgetown, East Coast, East Bank, the National Under-15 Team and Berbice; while Group B features Upper Demerara, Essequibo, Bartica and West Demerara.

As the tournament progresses through the round-robin phase, the most outstanding teams from each group will advance to the championship round. They will then fiercely compete for the distinguished title of national champions in what promises to be an electrifying showcase of young footballing talent.

to key personnel. They weren't derailed by the close-run loss to Australia or the one after they scored 401 against Pakistan.

They pitch up. They do what they can. And then they are at peace with whatever happens.

This is why they are so good in high-pressure games like the one that took place on July 14, 2019.

Expect a cagey start. Each team trying ever so hard not to make the first mistake, trying not so much to beat the opposition as outlasting them. New Zealand are masters at this art; at just staying in the game long enough until there is an opening to burst through.

In the spotlight: Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult Jasprit Bumrah is the man that makes India unbeatable. Without him, they went out with a whimper at

the T20 World Cup last year.

With him, they thrashed the team that had tossed them out in Australia, despite a massive batting malfunction.

Almost 80% of his deliveries (175 out of 228) in the first ten overs are dots. He always comes back in the middle overs, because if he can pick up a wicket then, a new batter will have to face the prospect of scoring those crucial, and quick, runs against, in all likelihood, Bumrah himself, because he truly does come alive at the death with his slower balls and his yorkers.

New Zealand's best chance to win will be bowling under lights. The new ball has moved dramatically in Mumbai after sunset, and early wickets are the surest way to cripple an opposition, even one with so many fail-safes.

Trent Boult has not always had the conditions in his favour at this World Cup, but if the fates align to present him the opportunity to target the stumps and the pads of Rohit and Kohli and Shreyas and Rahul, he will, sure as hell, take it. And even if he has to bowl in the heat, he'll be spurred on by an acute sense of unfinished business.

Team news Nether India nor New Zealand will be looking to shuffle up their packs. Lockie

Ferguson has been managing an Achilles injury throughout the tournament, the Black Caps coach Gary Stead told Sky Sport NZ, but he added that the fast bowler should be good to play the semi-final.

On the eve of the game, Williamson confirmed all the players in their squad were fit and available for selection.

India have been playing the same XI since their fifth league game, which was against New Zealand in Dharamsala.

India (probable): 1 Rohit Sharma (capt), 2 Shubman Gill, 3 Virat Kohli, 4 Shreyas Iyer, 5 KL Rahul (wk), 6 Suryakumar Yadav, 7 Ravindra Jadeja, 8 Mohammed Shami, 9 Kuldeep Yadav, 10 Jasprit Bumrah, 11 Mohammed Siraj.

New Zealand (probable): 1 Devon Conway, 2 Rachin Ravindra, 3 Kane Williamson (capt), 4 Daryl Mitchell, 5 Tom Latham (wk), 6 Glenn Phillips, 7 Mark Chapman, 8 Mitchell Santner, 9 Tim Southee, 10 Lockie Ferguson, 11 Trent Boult.

Pitch and conditions It's been fun to bat in the first innings at Wankhede Stadium, and then fun again after 20 overs of the chase is done.

The in-between period is when the quicks have wreaked havoc. The weather is set fair, and even if not, there is a reserve day for the semi-final.

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Resumption of CONCACAF Nations League 2023-2024…

Mouthwatering clashes in store for this week T

he 2023-24 CONCACAF Nations League resumes this week with this being a decisive window for teams in all three leagues.

League A The stage is set for the eight quarterfinalists in League A to take the final step to qualifying for the CONCACAF Nations League showpiece, and by extension next year's CONMEBOL Copa America.

The first legs of the four two-legged quarterfinals kick off on Thursday with the United States hosting Trinidad and Tobago at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, followed by Costa Rica welcoming fellow Central American rival Panama at the Estadio Saprissa in San

Jose.

A day later, on Friday, it will be Jamaica and Canada crossing swords at the National Stadium in Kingston, while Honduras host Mexico at the Estadio Chelato Ucles in Tegucigalpa.

No doubt, all the teams will be aiming for a strong performance ahead of the return legs the following Monday and Tuesday.

League B The battle for promotion in League B will be hot and heavy across all four groups, with so many decisive matches to be played.

By the end of the weekend, it will be known which team has won Group A to capture promotion to League A. St Lucia and Guadeloupe are

Guyana’s Golden Jaguars require just one point to secure promotion to League A

tied on nine points, with the latter just ahead by a one goal difference. St Lucia are at St Kitts and Nevis on Thursday, and then home versus St Maarten on Sunday; while Guadeloupe travel to St Maarten on

Thursday, and then host St Kitts and Nevis on Sunday.

In Group B, Nicaragua hold the advantage heading into the final window, as they sit three points in front of the Dominican Republic. If

Dominican Republic drop points on Wednesday at Montserrat, and Nicaragua win at Barbados on Friday, Nicaragua would clinch promotion.

It is a three-horse race in Group C, with French Guiana (seven points) a nose in front of St Vincent and the Grenadines (six points) and Bermuda (five points).

Bermuda host Vincy Heat on Friday to kick things off in a must-win match-up, while French Guiana will look to consolidate their lead atop the table ahead of the final matchday, with a full three points at Belize.

Things are more straightforward in Group D, as Guyana sit on a six-point lead going into their final two matches. The Golden Jaguars only require a point in their Saturday visit to

Bahamas to secure promotion to League A. League C League C also reaches its climax, and Thursday could be a momentous day for British Virgin Islands, who can clinch promotion to League B if they defeat Dominica at home in Group C. It is a similar story in Group B, as promotion is there for the taking for Aruba, who can nail down their rise to League B with victory at US Virgin Islands on Thursday.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Bonaire can keep themselves in the mix in Group A with a win at Anguilla. Bonaire are currently six points behind leaders St Martin. But if Anguilla earn a result on home soil, the group and promotion will belong to St Martin. (Sportsmax)

Hoops of excitement showcased at “One ExxonMobil/New Era Ent. Guyana” Basketball Futsal continues tonight CLASSIFIED ADS Tournament with five matches

F

Action at the National Gymnasium

T

he inaugural “One Guyana” Basketball Tournament continued on Saturday last, November 11th, at the National Gymnasium with three games, in which GDF, Black Mambas and Bounty Colts secured wins.

The GDF outfit started the day’s proceedings with a victory against the Black Caimans, their shooting accuracy giving them the lead in the first quarter with 16 points, and restricting the Caimans to 9 points.

The dominance continued in the second quarter, as the GDF showcased their dribbling and passing skills by scoring 15 points, taking their total score to 31 points, while the Caimans were limited to 6 points and their total at the end of the second quarter stood at 15 points.

The Caimans’ defense was not tight enough to prevent the GDF from penetrating on many occasions, thus the army boys scored 22 points and bounced their total to 53 points, while the Caimans failed to reach double digits, as they scored 8 points, which did not make a difference as it put their total to 23 points.

In the final quarter, the GDF minimised the Caimans’ chances of reaching the next

round. They scored 24 points, bouncing their final score to 77 points, while the Caimans saw a repeat of the previous round, scoring 8 points that took their total to a mere 31 points.

The Black Mambas annihilated the Ravens in the second game, with the Mambas going up in the first quarter of the game to score 9 points while their Ravens failed to be a challenge, scoring just 6 points The second quarter was no different, as the Mambas, who were deemed favourites, scored 14 points, taking their total to 23 points, while their opponents failed to put the ball through the net consistently – scoring 15 points and taking their total to 21 points.

The third quarter also benefitted the Mambas, who put the ball through the nets for 14 points, while the Ravens’ points dropped slightly, from 15 to 12.

The Mambas secured the win in the final quarter, scoring 10 points for a total of 47 points at the end of the game, while the Eagles scored 12 points for a total of 45.

The Bounty Colts, in the night's final game, showcased their class as they managed to trounce the Nets to win the game by 81 to 49 at the end of the game.

ASTROLOGY

ive matches will be played tonight, marking the fourth matchday of the ExxonMobil Guyana-sponsored New Era Entertainment Futsal tournament at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

With $1M up for grabs, the tournament has produced enough top-quality performance and high-octane futsal action to suggest that the future rounds of the competition will be nothing short of exciting.

In the opening game to-

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Glimpses of what to expect tonight in Linden

night, Blueberry Hill and Anybody Gets It will play from 6:30 pm in a game wherein both sides will be hunting their first win, after picking up back-to-back losses.

Youths United and DC Ballers will meet in the second game, while Genahside, coming off two lopsided defeats, will play a struggling Fearless team.

West Side Ballers and One Side collide in the third game, followed by a clash of the Titans - HH Ballers versus LA Ballers.

Hillside Ballers and Finishers meet in the penultimate game of the night,

while Golden Stars and the Money Team will meet in the final contest of night four.

On Sunday, the Young Gunners showcased their offensive prowess in a resounding 13-2 victory over Fearless, maintaining their scorching performance. Rodensio Tudor's spectacular helmet-trick, combined with hat-tricks from Ryan Arthur and a pair of goals from Omar Brewley and Devontae Tappin, fuelled the Young Gunners' relentless attack.

Kamar McLaren added another goal to the tally, bringing their total to 34 goals in just two matches.

Meanwhile, YMCA exhibited an impressive offen-

sive display as Jonah Simon netted five goals in their 13-goal onslaught against Finishers, who failed to live up to their name by ending the contest without finding the back of the net.

Kevin Gittens (3), Douquan Willson (2), Ryan Noel, Jamal Bentick, and Tyrell Stephen contributed to YMCA's unbeaten streak.

Gold is Money asserted their dominance with a commanding 12-3 victory over Golden Stars Youth United.

Colwin Drakes led the charge with five goals, supported by Lenard Simon (3), Joel Isaacs (3), and Marlon McAllister.

The Money Team continued the trend of high-scoring affairs, securing a 10-3 win against Hillsyde Ballers.

Ojani Whittington and Mark Jahlu each secured hat-tricks, complemented by goals from Tyron Lewis, Kentrel Arthur, Hakeem Haynes, and Jrevon Bethune.

In other matches, HH Ballers prevailed over the Gorillas with a 5-1 scoreline, while DC Ballers won 9-2 against Anybody Gets It. Following tonight’s round of matches, the tournament will continue on Friday.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

23

Limacol Schools’ Football League

Chase, Santa Rosa prevail in low-scoring thrillers M

onday was a day of narrow victories at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground when the New GPC Incsponsored Limacol Schools Football League utilized the holiday to execute the 4th round of the competition.

The day’s proceedings began on a tense note, as Ann’s Grove Secondary and Mackenzie High School played to a 1-1 draw.

Then a tense duel between Christianburg Wismar Secondary and Santa Rosa Secondary resulted in the latter edging their Linden opponents by 1 goal.

The depleted CWSS side managed to hold off Santa Rosa for the entirety of the first segment, but when a free kick opportunity came the way of Santa Rosa in the 49th minute, Darius Williams made no mistake, and converted for the lone goal of the game.

Another entertaining

Snapshots from the Limacol Schools’ Football League on Monday

battle between what are arguably two of the best teams in school football currently, Chase’s Academy and Carmel Secondary, saw a scoreline similar to the previous game.

While both teams displayed good skill, their inability to finish well and questionable calls from the referees kept the scoreline

nil all well into the dying minutes of the game.

Then Chase’s Whitney King, striking from near the edge of the box, was finally able to escape the grasp of Carmel’s keeper Ray Richards to net the lone goal of the game.

At the end of four rounds, Chase’s Academy are the only team with a

Providing equal opportunities…

MVP Sports Pee-Wee Girls set for kick-off this weekend

W

ith an eye on providing equal opportunities on the football pitch to the youngest players in Guyana, the MVP Sports’ Girls Under-11 Football Tournament is set to be kicked-off this Saturday, November 18th, and will see over 20 primary school girls’ teams vying for a $150,000 grand prize.

The Petra Organization’s customary team briefing and ball distribution exercise was conducted on Tuesday afternoon at the National Library in Georgetown.

There, Co-Director of the Petra Organization, Troy Mendonca, shared how the organizing body got extra motivation to ensure the Girls’ tournament is hosted this year.

“We were taken aback when some teams wanted to include their female players in the boys’ competition.

That’s when it dawned on us that we should ensure this programme is hosted,” Mendonca shared.

The Petra Co-Director further stated, “We understand the need for this tournament, and we understand the push by the football authorities, starting with FIFA, for girls’ football.”

Deputy Chief Education Officer Marti De Souza had encouraging words for the young players gathered at the event. Following up

perfect 12 points from their 4 games. In the second position are Carmel Secondary and Bartica Secondary, trailing with 3 wins (9 points) from four rounds.

Santa Rosa Secondary currently rounds off the top four in the League with 2 wins and a draw. Mackenzie High have a win and a draw thus far, while Ann’s Grove Secondary have a draw.

The Petra-organized Limacol Schools’ Football League will continue next Sunday, November 19, at the same Carifesta Avenue venue.

Ram and McRae sponsors National Open Chess Championship Qualifiers

T

he National Open Chess Championship Qualifiers sponsored by Ram and McRae are underway at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The eight-round tournament, which commenced on Saturday, November 11th and will take place over four days, has attracted 40 chess players of all ages, who are vying for the chance to qualify for the National Open Chess Championship, which begins soon after.

Candidate Master Taffin Khan, former National Champion, leads the way with 4 points, having won all

Roberto Neto at the National Qualifiers 2023

Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca

Mendonca’s remarks, he said, “We also want to ensure that our young ladies, young girls, are afforded the same opportunities to be out on the field, because we know many of you have the skills and we want to provide the opportunity for you to showcase those skills.

“Maybe some of you have the aspiration to reach as far as the Lady Jags team, this is where you start. Of course, the challenges are there. Some of you may be in Grade 6 preparing for NGSA next year, but at the same time, this is a good opportunity for you to be physically active and to balance your academics/ school work with physical exercise,” the Deputy Chief Education Officer went on to urge the students.

The teams will first play in Groups, and then move on to the knockout

stages, with the grand finale scheduled for Saturday, December 9.

St. Aloysius (Region6), All Saints (Region 6), Den Amstel (Region 3), Genesis (Region 3), Leonora (Region 3), Potaro (Region 7), St. John the Baptist (Region 7), Friendship (Region 4- East Coast), Soesdyke (Region 4- East Bank), One Mile (Region 10) and Georgetown Schools Marian Academy, Colaaco, F.E. Pollard, St. Gabriel’s, North Georgetown, St. Pius, St. Margaret’s, Tucville, Smith Memorial, St. Stephens, Redeemer and West Ruimveldt Primary are the schools thus far confirmed to compete.

While the first-place finisher in the Girls’ tournament will receive $150,000, second place will pocket $100,000 and third place $75,000. Fourth place will be rewarded with $50,000.

Justino Da Silva

his games: against teenager Isa Bremner, veteran chess player Errol Tiwari, Ethan Lee, and Justino Da Silva.

Khan’s most challenging game so far was his fourthround match against Da Silva, who had a distinct advantage against Khan with a pawn up. However, Khan's mastery of the end-game, coupled with DaSilva's time constraints, allowed Khan to create a passed-pawn and secure the win.

Roberto Neto, another seasoned player, also has a perfect score after defeating teens Kaija Clement, Sahid Bahadur, Alex Benjamin, and long-time player Rashad Hussain.

Noteworthy is 13-year-old Sachin Pitamber, currently

in the third position with 3.5 points, gaining points after a walk-over in the first round, a draw with National Junior Champion Keron Sandiford, and victories against fellow teens Najeeb Mohamed and long-time player Saeed Ali. On three points are Justino DaSilva, Ethan Lee, Gilbert Williams, Rashad Hussain, Alex Benjamin, and Errol Tiwari.

Rounds 5 to 8 of the Ram and McRae 2023 National Open Qualifiers continue on Saturday, November 18th and Monday November 19th at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Chief Arbiter for the tournament is FIDE Certified Arbiter John Lee, assisted by FIDE Arbiter Anand

Raghunauth and former Junior Champion Ricardo Narine. The top 12 boards are being live-streamed on view.livechesscloud.com.

The Guyana Chess Federation is pleased to host this annual prestigious tournament, as this makes way for the 2023 National Chess Championship. This event is the first of eight tournaments which are part of the qualification system for the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad, to be held in September 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. This qualification system, devised by the Guyana Chess Federation, is designed to be rigorous, fair, and transparent, ensuring that consistently high-performing chess players have the best chance to earn a spot on the Open and Women’s teams.

The GCF wishes to thank Ram and McRae, especially Managing Partner Mr. Christopher Ram, for their kind and timely sponsorship towards chess in Guyana.

The federation also wishes to thank the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for the use of the Guyana National Stadium.

Interested persons who wish to join the federation can visit the website guyanachess.gy.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

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Pg 23

Limacol Schools’ Football League

sponsors National Open prevail in low-scoring Chess Championship thrillers Qualifiers Pg 23

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