Guyana Times -Friday, June 9, 2023.pdf

GDF Lieutenant shot dead during robbery in North Ruimveldt

called hearing a loud explosion, suspected to be a gunshot. As they looked through their windows, they observed a white Fielder wagon driving off the scene at a fast rate of speed. As they looked closer, they saw the injured victim lying on the ground in a pool of blood.

Police have since confirmed that two gunshot wounds were seen on the man’s chest and head.

At the time of the robbery, neither of the two men was

wearing a mask. The Police have since retrieved CCTV footage and are currently on the hunt for the two suspects and the motorcar.

Following the man’s death, the Guyana Defence Force extended its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Douglas, and shared that Douglas was enlisted in February, 2012 following the completion of the Standard Officers Course 44.

At the time of his demise, Douglas was a first-year stu-

dent at the University of Guyana, pursuing a Degree in Computer Science. He was described as a committed and dedicated Officer, who last served as Aide-deCamp to the former Chief of Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess.

“The Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, Officers and Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force mourn with his wife, Candace Mc Lean–Douglas and their daughter Adirah

and the other members of his immediate family,” penned the GDF.

Meanwhile, his distraught wife, in a Facebook post, stated that “He has been my constant support throughout the years, my friend, my soldier, my guy, my love. And even when things weren’t peaches and pie, he’d look me in my eyes and say…Candy, I’m not going anywhere, I’m in for the long haul, we took a vow and till death do us part”.

Man, 27, remanded over Herstelling drug bust

Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Diamond/ Golden Grove Magistrates’ Courts on a drug trafficking charge.

ALieutenant attached to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard was on Wednesday evening robbed and shot dead by two armed men in Cul-de-Sac Street, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown. They subsequently escaped with his motorcar.

Dead is 33-year-old Lieutenant Rondell Anthony Douglas of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Based on reports received, Douglas – a licensed firearm holder – usually uses his motorcar, Toyota Fielder wagon PZZ 703, to work as a

part-time taxi with Alladin Taxi Service, located at La Grange, WBD. Preliminary investigations revealed that on the night in question, an identifiable male went to the taxi base and requested that the victim transport him to Georgetown. As Douglas reached the destination at Cul-de-Sac Street, the passenger exited the car and was shortly joined by an accomplice.

These two men walked towards the driver’s side window, and it is unclear whether there had been an argument, but, soon after, residents in the area re-

Malik Forde of Block V Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was on Thursday remanded to prison after being arraigned before Principal

Represented by lawyer Bernard DaSilva, the 27-year-old pleaded not guilty to a charge which stated that, on June 5, he had 9.5 pounds of marijuana in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. The case has been adjourned to July 5.

The drug bust was made during an operation conducted by ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Monday last. CANU, in a release, reported that on the day in question, officers conducted an operation on Forde’s premises, during which three parcels of cannabis were unearthed. A further search conducted on the outer perimeter of the

CANU has said a quantity of marijuana and a firearm were found at Forde’s home

property led to the discovery of a 12-gauge shotgun.

At the time of the exercise, Forde and two other persons were at home, and they were all arrest-

ed and taken to CANU Headquarters, along with the firearm and ganja. The illegal drug has a street value of $1.6 million.

Dead: Lieutenant Rondel Douglas

Remanded: Malik Forde

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 9 – 10:00h-10:45h and 22:00h-23:30h and Saturday, June 10 – 23:00h-00:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, June 9 – 08:20-09:50h and Saturday, June 10 – 09:25h-10:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light to thundery showers are expected during the day and into the night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South-Easterly between1.34 metres and 3.58 metres.

High Tide: 08:33h and 21:18h reaching maximum heights of 2.44 metres and 2.31 metres.

Low Tide: 14:43h reaching a minimum height of 0.77 metre.

Jagdeo calls out “shameful”

LOTTERY NUMBERS

APNU

increases in townships if PPP/C wins

over admission of front groups contesting LGE – assures

This, he noted, is reflected in the utterances by several APNU members to persons in Georgetown. They have been going around telling the street vendors that the PPP will remove them and will increase rates and taxes in the city, among other things – all of which the Party’s General Secretary dismissed.

implemented was because the PPP/Civic filed a NoConfidence Motion against the coalition regime in November 2018 – soon after winning the majority of the Local Authority Areas at the LGE earlier that month.

People’s Progressive Party General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has warned Guyanese to be on the lookout for front organisations contracted by the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity to contest the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE).

During a press conference on Thursday, the PPP General Secretary said that APNU's facade has come to an end after the People’s National Congress (PNC)led Opposition admitted that it has mounted several front organisations, particularly in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to contest the local government polls.

At an earlier press conference hosted by the Opposition, PNC Executive and Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul said that the APNU was backing several of the independent groups that are contesting the LGE.

“I know that there are many groups that are contesting independently that enjoy the confidence of the APNU because the characters in those groups we know them to be honest and decent people,” he said.

Among the areas where these independent groups will be contesting are: the Mora/Parika Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) with a sucker tree symbol; Hague/Blankenburg NDC with a light bulb symbol; Malgre Tout/Meer Zorgen NDC with an eagle symbol, and the Toevlugt/ Patentia NDC with a sugarcane and cutlass symbol.

“These are groups that asked us in the APNU not to contest in these respective areas because they would like to do it independently… We have no problem with people voting [for] them, because the characters there are honest and decent people,” Mahipaul stated.

The PPP has long been warning against the PNCled Opposition using these independent groups as a front to contest certain local government areas where they are unpopular and would not garner good results at the upcoming polls.

According to Jagdeo at Thursday’s press conference, the PNC-led APNU is ashamed to contest in these communities hence it

He noted that the PPP has already addressed the vendors’ issue and further reassured them that their means of livelihood would not be hindered. Similarly, he assured that there would be no increase in taxes in any of the PPP-controlled municipalities across the country.

The PPP General Secretary reminded that under the previous APNU/ Alliance For Change (AFC) Government, a $335 million contract was signed with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) and Axilogic Inc to update the property inven-

“We’re the only party that contested the 2018 [Local Government] Elections and said we’re not raising rates, and we’re doing so again. It’s a lie – we have no plans to increase rates,” the PPP General Secretary stated.

“I hope people by now get the drift that APNU will come up with a lot of lies… I want to urge all of those who are looking, [both] supporters of PPP and APNU … that we should not be fooled again. We’re carrying a respectful message to all of these communities.”

On this note, Jagdeo highlighted that the PNCled APNU has been exciting fears in residents of the major towns – Georgetown, New Amsterdam, and Linden – because they are not getting the traditional reception in those municipalities, which are usually PNC-controlled.

During the early stages of the LGE campaign, Jagdeo had declared that the PPP wanted to take over the reins in those Opposition stronghold municipalities.

is using these independent groups as front organisations.

“So, if you live in the area, APNU is ashamed to come in that form – the PNC, because of their track record… So, if you vote for them, you’re voting for the PNC.

“So, don’t be misled if you’re in these communities. The PNC is coming in disguise, the APNU is coming in disguise… All this façade that they were creating that they were independent groups, now we see that [they’re in fact] APNU’s groups there. They were ashamed to go in the form of APNU in these communities, so they’re trying to mislead the residents in those areas. It’s a shameful thing,” he posited.

No tax hikes

Jagdeo further urged the electorate to be wary of APNU attempts to mislead and lie to them.

tory and valuation systems across local democratic organs in Guyana, starting in the New Amsterdam township.

Jagdeo said the only reason this initiative was not

“They have to step up on this campaign of fear [as] they have nothing positive to say to people, because they been there all these years and couldn’t do anything for people and neglected their communities too. So, the fear element is the only way they hope will drive the voters out and they know that it worked well in the past, so they’re busy inventing their lies,” Jagdeo stated. (G-8)

no tax

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo

PNC Executive Ganesh Mahipaul

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Duties and rights

One of the challenges to nation-building, one that is not discussed widely enough, is, ironically, the focus of the United Nations and other institutions of the modern state system on “human rights”. Because of the universal adoption of the UN Declaration of Human Rights, and its adoption into national statutory binding laws with nary a mention of “human duties”, a situation has been fostered wherein individuals are simply driven to exercise those rights. Upon being pressed, they may concede that each “right” implies a correlative “duty”, but the latter is lost in the shuffle.

However, even the most cursory reflection on the reality of human rights suggests this imbalance creates an untenable situation. For instance, unless rights of citizens are backed up by a duty of the state to enforce them, they are simply aspirational. And if the state does fulfil its duty to enforce the rights of its citizens – say, to insist the forces of law and order ensure citizens are not subject to violent assaults by other citizens – do not citizens have a duty to pay their taxes, so the forces of law and order can be compensated?

At one time, almost all societies, via the religions they practised – Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Confucianism and African religions – focused on the duties of individuals, rather than their rights. But in the West at least, this led to great abuses when the ruling strata used their “might” to ensure the duties only flowed upwards. While, in theory, the feudal lords might have a duty to their serfs, who was going to apply sanctions on the former if they lapsed? The struggle for “rights” was therefore launched within the “Enlightenment”, to correct this state of affairs, first as movements for reform in the 17th Century in Europe, and then via revolutions at the end of the 18th.

But the emphasis on duties did not just disappear immediately: in fact, they were used to inculcate the new privileging of individual “human rights”. For instance, the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen of 1789 – stressing “life, liberty and fraternity” -- has its counterpart in the 1795 Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man and Citizen of 1795. It noted pertinently: “The maintenance of society requires that those who compose it should both know and fulfil their duties.” But, with the passage of time, the baby was thrown out with the bathwater, and henceforth, the “Rights of Man” held centre stage.

The flaw in the argument for individual rights lies in eliding the fact that man is not a solitary being, but a social one. And the exigencies of that existence demand the necessary reciprocity of expectations to coordinate the activities of the collectivity for its survival to be sustained through corresponding rights and duties. The right to drive one’s car on the road implies the duty to drive on one mutually agreed side, so that anarchy does not become the norm. But, unfortunately, even though the individual right to accumulate at the expense of the collective has led to an ever-widening gap between “the haves and the have-nots”, the duty that is implicit in distributive justice, even in the welfare state, has not offered a vocabulary to make duty as fundamental as rights.

Of recent, the reintroduction of “duties” of man is coming from an unexpected quarter: environmentalism. Part and parcel of the post-Enlightenment insistence on the “rights of man” was man’s “dominion” over the earth, and his right to “exploit” it as he saw fit. While there were early reactions against such thinking, notably among the 19th Century Romantics, they were dismissed as “idealists”. But with the earth facing a catastrophic climatic disaster, there is now a growing awareness that Man also has a duty towards his environment.

We have to transpose that global concern to our local Guyanese circumstance. We each have to be our brother’s keeper, or we all face disaster.

PPP heading for avalanche victory over a weak PNC

Dear Editor, Amidst complaints of the leadership of the Opposition PNC, the PPP is rolling a political avalanche over the Opposition APNU (PNC) and its partner affiliates, and other political outfits and independents for Monday’s (June 12) local government elections. This is the latest finding of an ongoing opinion tracking poll to determine the outcome and support of voters in the 80 local authority areas (LAAs) that are divided into 10 municipalities and 70 neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs).

The tracking opinion survey is being undertaken by this writer, Vishnu Bisram. The ongoing opinion tracking poll is based on the views of some 2200 respondents, culled to reflect the demographics of the population. The findings have been analyzed at a 95% confidence level, and a margin of error of 4% was found, meaning support varies by 4%.

Based on the findings of the survey, the PPP is projected to garner some 72% support and the Opposition APNU 19%; all others 4%, and 5% are unknown or undecided, or unwilling to reveal their choices.

The findings reveal that voters are polarised along ethnic lines. Almost all Indians are voting PPP, with hardly any voting for APNU, whose support comes primarily from Africans and Mixed. The PPP is attracting racial

crossover support in every LAA, including in traditional PNC strongholds. In addition, the findings of the survey suggest that the PNC has been losing momentum, while the PPP has been gaining ground among those who plan to vote.

Campaigners for the PNC have gone quiet, while those of the PPP have been very active. There does not seem to be much PNC presence on the ground, not even in campaign paraphernalia (posters and the like). The campaign has become a shell of what it was in 2016 and 2018. PNC supporters say it appears that the party or its leadership seems incapable of defending its interest in too many LAAs, and they are querying why likable political figures are not on the campaign trail, or are not seen publicly.

Each LAA is divided into half first-past-the-post constituency seats and half PR (top-up) seats. The number of seats in each LAA varies with the size of the population.

The PPP is the only political party contesting all seats and all LAAs. The PPP is not facing a contest in over half of the seats, including in Lethem, where the PNC had a vibrant presence in 2018. The PPP has won 13 LAAs thru default. No-contests will impact the total number as well as the percentage of votes garnered by the PPP.

Based on the findings of the survey, the PPP has been making voter gains in every

LAA and in every constituency. The PPP is projected to wrest seats (and LAAs) held by the APNU in 2016 and/or 2018. The APNU is not projected to capture any seat (or LAA) won by the PPP in 2016 or 2018. Gains made by the APNU-AFC coalition in 2016 and 2018 are being reversed, with voters complaining about a lack of PNC campaign presence; AFC is not contesting this election.

Voters complain they have not been seeing an active public presence of wellknown figures, like Roysdale Forde, Christopher Jones, Amanza Walton-Desir, Volda Lawrence, Ganesh Mahipal, Ubraj Narine, among others, that could have boosted the status and support of the party.

The PPP is making gains because of its “performance”, and the popularity of its two leading political leaders, President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, as well as Civic Leader Prime Minister Mark Phillips. The APNU (PNC) has lost ground to the PPP primarily because of what supporters say is uninspiring leadership. They say a new leader in the form of Roysdale Forde or Amanza Walton-Desir or Volda Lawrence would have stemmed and/or recovered losses. The abovenamed persons have very high approval ratings in the base. In addition, Forde has a wide racial crossover appeal.

Based on the findings of voter support, PPP is

projected to retain the five municipalities it won in 2018. Bartica, held by the PNC, has become a tossup. PPP is also making gains in votes in Linden and seats in New Amsterdam and Georgetown. New Amsterdam is a close fight, with PNC ahead. Mahdia is also a close contest, with the arson tragedy inserting uncertainty in the outcome. The PPP is also putting up a stiff contest in Georgetown, where the PNC is fighting hard to stem losses. Voters in Georgetown, like elsewhere, complain about unsuitable leadership and poor choice of candidates, which are also negatively impacting party support nationwide.

The newly formed Independent Citizens for Progress (led by media personality Bobby Vieira) is attracting votes from PNC, and could win seats in Georgetown. In Constituency 13, for example, Jamal Adams is doing quite well against Winston Harding, with the PPP candidate trailing way behind. Harding’s name is embroiled in a controversy that has hurt his electoral fortune and that of the party.

Aside from the municipalities, PPP has also made gains in votes and seats in several NDCs held by APNU. The PPP is on course to win over 80% of the seats – an unprecedented victory in the history of the nation.

Yours truly,

Vishnu Bisram

The National Toshaos Council (NTC) recently conducted an inspection of the newly-completed Secretariat Building situated at the National Exhibition Centre in Sophia, Greater Georgetown. The $100 million structure comprises an Administrative Section, a versatile Dome for meetings and events, and accommodations for visiting Toshaos

The PPP/C is all about honesty, humility and harmony

Dear Editor, Guyanese at home, and those abroad especially, are familiar with the terms “all-weather roads” and “all-weather tyres.” The all-weather road may be defined as “a road of sufficient construction and firmness for vehicles and equipment to traverse during normal inclement weather, including expected rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. Allweather road means a gravel or paved surface that can support a fully loaded pump truck in all seasons.”

All-weather tyre may be construed as “a tyre designed to handle the roads during any season. Combining the benefits of both all-season and snow tyres, all-weather tyres cover you throughout the year; meaning, they meet the standard for winter use while still being usable for spring, summer and autumn.

Recently, a leader booming, blooming, and brooming with initiative, innovation, and illustration introduced the term, “all-weather government.” His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, an immaculate and impressive man for all seasons, who is difficult to imitate and impersonate, is always investing and improvising.

The Head of State, at a massive rally in Mahaicony, told the iconic red gathering, “This party is about improv-

ing the well-being of people. It is about investing in communities and investing in the lives of people. This is a party you can rely on. This is a party that sticks to its commitment. This is an all-weather party. We come in the sunshine and in the rain.”

The applauding crowd went berserk, with a standing ovation and flags flying in the faultless air, knowing that even if Guyana is blessed with snow, the PPP/C party will prevail and prevent any possible problems in protecting the people.

The PPP/C administration is a “government for all”, according to Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. President Ali has inculcated and introduced the concept of “One Guyana.” This successful theme has been a selling point throughout Guyana, and has knitted and molded the people of Guyana to forge a common identity and truly propagate “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”

The PPP/C party has broken all barriers, and is the only party fully equipped to boast and brag that it comprises a combination of all ethnicities, with a large composition of young males and females. It is the only party that portrays a true representation to reflect Guyana’s sons and daughters.

President Ali broadcasted, “We have some young candidates, and they are fully

prepared and they are ready to work for you. They are ready to bring development to all the NDCs…” No wonder it is the only party contesting in all the constituencies in all the regions at the forthcoming Local Government Election.

While in Region 1, His Excellency explained, “We believe that all of us as Guyanese are equal, and all of us must equally benefit from the transformation of the country.”

The PPP/C Government has dramatically demonstrated that it is a Government that will primarily serve all the people of Guyana in a peaceful, progressive and prosperous manner with priority. From the assumption of governance on 5th August 2020, President Ali swore allegiance to provide for the people of Guyana, and remove all obstacles and obstructions which the PNC administration had implemented to impede the growth of Guyana and Guyanese, because of so many roadblocks, pitfalls and encumbrances.

President Ali said in Region 2, “We came back in Government and removed all those increases.” All those evil taxes implemented by the PNC Government from 2015 to 2020 to hurt the agriculture industry and the farmers, and thus the entire nation, because of its cyclic effect, were immediately removed to create relief.

The PPP/C party is all about giving, and not taking. When the legal and legitimate PPP/C party took office in 2020, it did not give itself salary increases like the PNC Party did when it assumed office in 2015. But the PPP/C party announced the restoration of Christmas bonuses for all the military men, something which the PNC Government had taken away.

President Irfaan Ali declared, “Ensuring that we put back more money in the pockets of people is what this government is about; giving to the people, empowering the people of our country.” In 2021, the PPP/C Government reintroduced the “Because We Care” cash grant which was maliciously taken away from innocent children by the devious PNC former administration. Each child from nursery, primary, and secondary public and private schools can once again enjoy the $35,000 cash grant plus $5,000 for school uniforms and school supplies.

The PPP/C party is all about “honesty, humility, and harmony.” When the PPP/C party demitted office in 2015, it handed the PNC Party a GDP per capita of US $5,580. That Party, over a five-year period, was only able to extend the purchasing power parity level to $6,863 when they lost the election in 2020. With the PPP/C Government at the helm

Change and development: Vote for issues, not race

Dear Editor,

As a young and responsible citizen, I would like to urge every Guyanese who is empowered to vote in the June 12, 2023 elections to cast their ballots taking into account ‘issues’, as opposed to ‘race’.

For too long, Guyanese have given in to the temptation and lure of voting according to which party ‘looks like you’, and would presumably advance ‘your interests’. We, as Guyanese, fail to take into consideration the ‘issues’ that are affecting our areas, communities, and our local democratic organs.

We sometimes forget that these large parties and their candidates have not done what they said they would do for us, and we give them a free pass, or entertain the garbage they spew when they come to us for our votes. We fall in love with them again, not learning from our mistakes and holding them accountable or transparent for the state of roads; drainage and irrigation; community, social, and health services; and other plans that they are supposed to see to fruition. We live in the same flooded communities and traverse the same deplorable roads. Our community centres are falling apart, and buildings like health posts and recreational centres are in a state of disrepair.

I have seen them use us, discard us, and throw the promises they made to us in the bin. Once they get to hold office as a municipal councillor, town councillor or local government councillor, they then do the same old thing

that they are known for – politics, grandstanding, and holding back progress.

Yet we still vote for the same party that has failed our communities, because it is safe and easy to vote ‘race’.

I want to plead with you to break the generational curse or trend that has seen us voting for race in our community or area. It has not done a thing for us since independence. For example, Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam, Bartica and Mahdia are still facing the same issues, and are still underdeveloped when one looks at the full potential of those areas to transform Guyana since 1966.

You can blindly blame the ruling PPP/C, but the APNU+AFC came to power in 2015 to August 2020 and did absolutely nothing of consequence in Georgetown, Linden and New Amsterdam, to name a few towns. At least those towns that are managed properly by the PPP/C have seen rapid development and positive change, albeit they face minor setbacks in certain areas.

Communities along the East Coast and East Bank Demerara, and much of the country that put their trust in the PPP/C have all been transformed at the local level, compared with the ones that are aligned to the PNC/ APNU+AFC, who have been fighting against the tide of development and change that is taking place in Guyana. They were voting race in the past, but this year I want to urge all citizens to look at the party’s track record and promis-

es before making an informed decision that could result in change, progress and development, or the same status quo continuing well into the next election.

In order to feel the importance of the power of a ballot, one has to think with the heart, mind and consciousness, leaving the eyes and other physical inclinations behind. You cannot be bought or influenced to change your loyalty for one party unless you consider the truth, facts, and state of your community. And the fact is Guyana is developing and changing drastically for the better because it has a very workable, realistic and grassroots plan. It also has a political party that is concerned about its people, and wants to be given a chance at managing at the community level for the first time. Break the cycle and create change for your community, roads and enhancement!

I think the General Secretary and President of Guyana have realized this very point, and have been making inroads and gains in the communities across the country which are seen as Afro-Guyanese or APNU/PNC. They want development to reach every Guyanese community, regardless of the geopolitics or race, that serves as a barrier in seeing the dream of realizing ‘One Guyana’.

For young people, the ball is in your court as well. I dare say these are the group of people that can impact the future of their communities and areas: by just not paying attention to the tales and political

in 2021, the GDP per capita rose by 45.69% to $9,999, without the input of oil revenue! Currently, it is $60,648. The Natural Resource Fund held at the New York Federal Reserve Bank has over US$1.4 billion. All revenues reserved must be declared by the Finance Minister and published in the Official Gazette.

There are various control mechanisms factored in in order to manage the funds. The PNC did hide the US$18M signing bonus, and failed to publicly declare it. The President and his Cabinet members have continuously visited all the regions, and

made themselves into cleaners in order to protect and care for the environment, something the PNC Party has never contributed to.

Notwithstanding, President Ali shakes hands with all, even with Norton, the Opposition Leader who refuses to shake hands. It is only the PPP/C party that has all the necessary ingredients enveloped in one package that can formulate the success of the nation to garner peace, progress, and prosperity, because it is an all-party, people, and policy participant!

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

It is time to vote PNC out!!!

Dear Editor,

As we are approaching yet another election in our land, we must all put our voices, hands and resources together to ensure progress continues for a better and developed Guyana. From 2015 to 2020, we saw little or no progress from the APNU+AFC Government. Nothing was done to better villages and to enhance the living standards of our people. Local democracy was derailed, and only the NDCs and townships that the PNC controlled saw some sort of development.

know they cannot even properly run a stall at the market. They had five-plus years in Government and did nothing to better any village or town, and they want another opportunity. NO! We must not allow them to come to us begging again like they did in 2015.

philosophies of their parents, and looking in depth at the policies and issues of change and development that are before them now. They have to break the cycle and vote according to who can do it, and who has the 21st century mindset that can transform their lives and communities. I doubt that those are the APNU/PNC politicians at the local level, and am more inclined to believe that it is the youths and adults that the PPP/C have on their slate this time around.

Just look at the campaigns and you will see. The PPP/C is talking about progress and development, while the APNU is regressive in terms of policy issues.

Finally, if one puts makeup and cosmetics on a pig, it is still a pig. If one dresses a sloth as a roadrunner or cheetah, it will still move slowly, and not quickly. The lesson is to take risks and choose change, progress and development, and break the cycle of race voting in your community, and by extension Guyana.

On Monday, June 12, 2023, vote for progress, change and continued development. Vote for safer communities, safer homes and community enhancements. Vote wisely. Nobody owns you or your vote in these elections. You are not property or machinery that is programmed to vote a certain way. You are a thinker, and must be responsible in the decision-making process. Vote PPP/C, if it pleases you.

Yours truly, Michael

Younge

The then Minister of Local Government and Regional Development was like a God unto himself. He did nothing to better the local authority areas, and, most of all, wasted five years as a minister, because he didn’t care about the people and any form of development. Many local authority areas (LAAs) were neglected due to the dictatorial ruling of the PNC REOs.

We saw many streets and internal roads left to sustain further damage. The drainage system was taken over by overgrown bushes. Piles of garbage were left in many villages and towns.

Georgetown, under the leadership of the PNC, is being left to stink. The town of New Amsterdam is underdeveloped, and has poor management. Resources are being mismanaged by the PNC in the many towns and NDCs that they control. There is poor representation even of their supporters.

I can go on, but it's wasting time to talk about the PNC, because they are visionless and have no policy in regard to development.

Today they want us, as Guyanese, to believe they are capable of running municipalities and NDCs when we all

Since the PPP took office, we saw the many developments taking place across our country, be it in NDCs or towns controlled by the PNC. Development is happening at a rapid pace all across this land, and we must allow it to continue. We -- especially the PNC supporters – must all take a look and compare the PNC's five years in Government and the lessthan three years of the PPP Government, and then make our decision as to which party is the best, and have our people at heart, and moreover creates an equal opportunity for all.

Brothers and sisters who are thinking to support the PNC at the upcoming Local Government Elections on Monday, 12th June 2023, think again, and make that bold step and change by voting for the PPP/C candidate in your area. By voting for the PPP/C candidate, you will have better representation and rapid development within your community. Voting for the PNC would be a waste of votes, because the PNC does not want to see Guyana develop.

Come Monday, 12th June 2023, go out in your numbers and vote for the party that has you at heart and wants to develop all of Guyana. It’s Time to vote the PNC out.

Vote PPP/C!

Regards, Abel Seetaram

Change to mixed numbers:

Power Up Maths Module Test

Power Up Maths

Power Up Maths

Change to improper fractions:

Test

Power Up Maths

Power Up Maths

Power Up Maths

Module Test

Change to mixed numbers:

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form :

Change

Change to improper fractions:

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form

Multiply:

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form :

Add

and reduce result to simplest form

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form :

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form :

Add or subtract and reduce result to simplest form :

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form:

Passers-by; You and I, Just a unit in the throng, Trying, as we pass along To hold a star and make it fast; As if the holding e’er could last: Still we try; we passers-by: Passers-by; Our heads held high— Reaching up towards the sky, What of the broken hearts we know, Too proud in grief, the world to show; We – of the passers-by: Passers-by; Please God on high. To give us strength to run our race Never to falter in the pace; Mend broken hearts, and faiths gone bad, Help to the helpless: joy to the sad— And nobly to – pass-by: -- JEH

21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form:

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form:

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form: 21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form:

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form: 21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

Create a ratio and reduce to simplest form:

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

21) 9 persons were invited to Mary’s birthday party. How much of the cake will each person receive if the cake is divided equally among the guests and birthday girl?

WORD SEARCH

22) In the church’s parking lot, there are 6 black cars and 10 silver -grey cars. Express this as a ratio.

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

Determine if the following proportions are equal (write yes or no) :

US plugs US$100M into climate, energy and humanitarian assistance for Caribbean

vious engagement with the Caribbean leaders in June 2022 at the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles.

The over US$100 million assistance includes US$98 million in new funding from USAID. According to a statement from USAID, it will be injecting US$20 million to support the Caribbean’s transition to renewable energy and increased energy efficiency. This funding will go to companies with financial and technical assistance and business development services through the Caribbean Climate Investment Program.

The United States Government has announced more than US$100 million in funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to address climate, energy, food security, and humanitarian assistance in the Caribbean.

This announcement was made by US Vice President Kamala Harris in the Bahamas, where she met with several Caribbean leaders on Thursday morning.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who is leading the re-

gion’s food security agenda, was among the Heads of State present in Nassau for the engagement with the US Vice President. He was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud, and Permanent Secretary at the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper.

Thursday’s meeting was co-chaired by VP Harris and Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Philip Davis, current chair of the Caribbean Community (Caricom). It was aimed at building on Vice President Harris’s pre-

The agency said the programming would also support establishment of the Blue-Green Investment Corporation, in partnership with the Government of Barbados, the Green Climate Fund, and Private Sector investors. With an estimated initial capital of $30 million from non-U.S. Government partners, this public-private ‘green bank’ is expected to unlock up to $210 million over three years to finance projects such as climate resilient housing, renewable energy, clean transportation, and water conservation firstly in Barbados, and later expanding to other Caribbean countries, including those in the Eastern and Southern

Caribbean. Another US$15 million will go towards supporting disaster risk reduction, emergency response capacity strengthening, and resilience building across the Caribbean. This funding will bring the total investment by USAID in disaster risk reduction and resilience building in the region to over US$80 million over the past five years.

Vice President Harris has also announced support for the Caribbean island-states’ response to the impacts of climate change. USAID is providing US$1.5 million to the Caribbean Community

Climate Change Centre to increase the flow of international climate funding and help strengthen key data tools for decision-making for Caricom countries.

The Agency is also providing US$1 million to partner with the Caribbean islands’ Higher Education Resilience Consortium and Northeastern University to help mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change, including the risks associated with extreme weather events. This work would also pursue economic development opportunities associated with building a resilient blue and green

economy. Financial assistance announced for the Caribbean on Thursday also includes funding for Haiti. Working with Congress, USAID will be providing US$10.5 million to Haiti to enhance resilience and productivity in the country’s agricultural and livestock sectors. Through market strengthening, research and innovation, this funding will increase market system efficiency, Private Sector engagement, and the ability of households and communities to recover from shocks and stresses.

President Dr Irfaan Ali with other Caricom Head of States

President Dr Irfaan Ali and US Vice President Kamala Harris

Judge stays order for EEPGL to provide unlimited guarantee

…but instructs company to lodge US$2B guarantee pending appeal

necessity of assurance under Condition 14 (3), and held to be unlimited, is, on the face of it, problematic. The seeming use of Condition 14 to interpret and extend the clear wording of the Environmental Protection Act and Condition 14 (3) of the permit seems to be impermissible,” he reasoned.

He said the general obligation for liability for all costs, which the permit holder has acknowledged in no uncertain terms, must be read separately from the precise requirements for assurances.

To do otherwise would amount to a complete dis

any rating equivalent, as it deems appropriate.”

He pointed out that Justice Kissoon’s coercive order against the EPA is a cause for concern.

“It is well established that, in judicial review proceedings, a court is restricted to a consideration of whether the procedural requirements in the exercise of regulatory power was followed, and not its decision…” he said.

According to him, in this particular case, it seems that EPA can be considered “an expert body”, which ought to have prompted judicial restraint. He added, “Surely,

What’s...

…going down in GT?

Your Eyewitness knows this is a big “if” …but we know that anything’s possible, don’t we, Dear Reader??

The question, though, is how PROBABLE is such an outcome? Georgetown has 15 constituencies, and its residents elect 30 Councillors, who elect the Mayor and Deputy Mayor from their ranks. Fifteen Councillors will come from Proportional Representation (PR), depending on the total votes garnered by a party, group, or individual in the City, and another 15 will come from the First Past the Post (FPTF) vote in each constituency.

By Feona Morrison

Though Appellate Judge Rishi Persaud has stayed a High Court order for ExxonMobil’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production (Guyana) Limited (EEPGL), to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee for oil operations it is engaged in with its co-venturers offshore Guyana, he has ordered the company to lodge a US$2B guarantee pending the hearing and determination of an appeal against the lower court’s decision.

In his ruling issued on Thursday on a preliminary matter regarding the merits of the appeal filed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is centred around the Environment Permit granted to Esso pursuant to the Environmental Protection Act, the Judge noted that his order for Esso to provide the guarantee is in “an effort to

and ultimately for the full Bench to consider, he pointed out that EPA’s appeal is a straightforward issue of law, and is one which has a good prospect of success.

Analysis

In analysing the main issue raised in the appeal, Justice Persaud said

regard for the purport and intent of the governing Act, Justice Persaud said.

He added that Condition 14 (4) authorises the EPA to ask for further forms of assurance, if necessary.

“The inference, to my mind, is obvious. By Condition 14 (5), there is

placed to evaluate such complex and non-legal matters within its expertise.”

Additionally, he was keen to point out that Justice Kissoon’s order “may have coerced” the EPA to perform an act that is not within the parameters of the governing legislation; that is, the re-

Most folks are focused on the FPTP voting – since this “matches up” candidates against each other in their own stomping grounds – it’s seen as “who beating who”!! It’s sexy!! And that’s where those “name” candidates who were weaned away from the PNC come in. For instance, now that she’s switched from PNC to PPP, will Patricia Chase-Green be able to beat her PNC opponent in Constituency 14, South Ruimveldt in South Georgetown?? Does she have a personal following?? Will the old ethnic loyalties hold true? Or will the PPP’s full-court press tilt her erstwhile PNC diehards towards them, because Chase-Green is a known face who’s taken care of them in the past??

Frankly, up to now, local personal followings for local or national elections didn’t matter much: for the political behemoths, Cheddi Jagan’s dictum: “if I put a post to run against so-and-so, the post will win”, held up to the 2018 LGE. At LGEs, however, local popular candidates, however, bring their knowledge of local conditions, and the party sponsoring them can address their concerns more granularly. The independents who’re running will simply be playing possible spoiler roles – and will most likely suffer the ignominious fate of Mark Benschop in 2015 - who was convinced his personal following would at least get him a seat!! WRONG!!

Right now, of the 30 Councillors on the City Council, 21 are APNU, two are AFC, and seven are PPP/C. While this is an improvement from the 2 in 2015, it’s gonna be a revolution if they can squeeze out another 9 to give them majority control of the Council!! In the final lap, PPP GS Jagdeo highlighted what’s gonna happen if they win GT. Rather than insult GTers by dangling projects and boondoggles, he pointed out that the money from taxes and subventions was mostly frittered away. He highlighted the benefits of increased transparency and accountability his party would bring. The projects already completed in the past two years – like Independence Blvd! - speak for themselves!!

Rationally speaking, from the way the PNC has mismanaged GT during the past half century, the PPP should’ve been a shoo-in. But Guyanese politics has never been rational, has it??

…history’s use??

allay any anxiety as to any impending doom”.

Further, he instructed the oil company to provide same within 10 days, failing which the stay, which he granted in the interest of justice, stands dismissed.

While pointing out that he did not consider the emotive, patriotic, and political arguments advanced by lawyers during a May 31 hearing on the preliminary issue, since they are peripheral

that Condition 14 (3) of the Environmental Permit provides a formula that guides the form, quantity, and quality of the financial insurance. He said it must be guided by an estimate of reasonably credible costs, and is not expected to be addressed in estimable costs which can be recovered by civil action.

“The conflation of Condition 14 (1), which provides for all costs with the

a requirement for environmental liability insurance in the amount that is customary in the petroleum industry. There is a further requirement that such insurance is procured from an insurance company graded A+ by the business bureau, or the equivalent as is deemed appropriate by the [EPA], and shall include, but not be limited to, insurance in respect to items set out in Conditions 1 to 6 of the permit,” Justice Rishi Persaud noted.

Misconstrued, cause for concern

In this regard, Justice Persaud concluded, “It seems, on the face of it, that [Justice Kissoon] misconstrued the processes in relation to the acquisition of insurance, and ignored the [EPA’s] discretion under Condition 14 (5) to consider

quirement for unlimited insurance.

Although the Judicial Review Act gives wide powers to a Judge, Justice Persaud emphasised that he doubts this legislation was intended to facilitate the substitution of a Judge’s discretion for that of an expert body, and to empower that Judge to compel an act which falls outside of the scope and ambit of the legislation under consideration; in this case, the Environmental Protection Act.

Addressing whether there are any risks associated with the granting or refusal of the stay requested by the EPA, he referred to the affidavit submitted by ExxonMobil (Guyana) President Allistair Routledge, which according to him, “paints a damning picture.”

Hamilton Green’s fond of fabricating history, because he “was there”. He got a rude awakening from the young Minister of Tourism, Oneidge Walrond. Ironically accused of being “blissfully” unaware of some concocted claims, the Minister shot back: “I can assure Mr. Green that there is one thing of which I am certainly not “blissfully unaware,” and that is of his own not insignificant contribution to difficulties we continue to face as a nation”!! Ouch!! Yesterday, your Eyewitness already debunked Green’s concoction that the PPP introduced “Apan jaat” in 1957. But that ain’t gonna faze Green, he’ll continue “to add to difficulties we continue to face as a nation.”

But Minister Walrond perhaps went a tad overboard when she claimed, “the PNC between the years 1964 to 1992 did nothing to address specific issues confronting people of African descent.” They did – but chose disastrous policies that mustn’t be repeated - as the PNC’s demanding again. Like the co-op projects and the 23,000-armed forces staffed with African Guyanese etc.

…Haiti’s help??

Pres Ali’s in the Bahamas meeting US VP Kamla Harris. She’s offering US$50+M towards Haiti’s humanitarian crisis. But she’s also recommending an intervention to handle the endemic gang warfare. With us on the Security Council, we should support it…

High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud

Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin

Esso’s lawyer Edward Luckhoo, SC Lawyer for the respondents, Seenath Jairam, SC

Oil blocks auction

VP Jagdeo assures new PSA model will be ready in time

ing the long-overdue Local Government Elections on June 12, the Government’s focus has been diverted.

“We’re going to return to this in earnest in a couple of days’ time. We have to get back to it,” he assured.

Nevertheless, while he opted not to explicitly commit to another extension, the Vice President hinted, however, that there could be one.

Government is doing a lot of work to review and update those documents [the PSA and Petroleum Act] …And I think it's very right that the Government should take the time [and] have a lot of expertise applied to that and then go through a rigorous consultation process to make sure that they have all the views on those proposed changes. So, I think it's right that that process takes time.”

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday assured that the new model Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) and the regulatory document would be completed in time for potential investors to get, in order to put in their final bids for the oil blocks offshore Guyana.

At least 14 oil blocks are currently up for tender, including 11 in the shallow waters and three in the deep-sea area. These blocks will range from 1000 square kilometres (sq. km) to 2000 sq km, but with most of the blocks being approximately 2000 sq km.

Based on industry feedback, the Guyana Government has extended the deadline for the competitive bidding process from April to July 15, 2023. This was also done to facilitate the advanced pace of modernising the oil and gas regulatory framework.

Government is current-

ly in the process of finalising the new PSA that will guide the terms and conditions of future oil contracts.

Under new conditions, Guyana stands to benefit from as high as a US$20 million signature bonus for the deep-water blocks and US$10 million for the shallow-water blocks.

Additionally, all future PSAs will include the retention of the 50-50 profit-sharing after cost recovery; the increase of the royalty from a mere two per cent to now a 10 per cent fixed rate; the imposition of a 10 per cent corporate tax, and the lowering of the cost recovery ceiling to 65 per cent from 75 per cent.

Recognising that there is a “tight” timeline between now and the auction deadline mid-next month, Jagdeo explained that the drafting of the legislative document is taking some time. He admitted, however, that with the country on the verge of hold-

“I don’t want to be quoted saying there will be an extension, but we made a commitment to have these two documents available to the investors before they put in final bids. We’re not going to waver on that commitment. We believe that our word is important in the markets around the world for people to see. So, those documents will be in place and they will have adequate time to study those and make their bids, whatever the timing is,” VP Jagdeo stressed.

Already, United States oil giant ExxonMobil, who, along with its co-venturers, is operating the oil-rich Stabroek Block where production has been ongoing since December 2019, has indicated that it is awaiting the final terms of the new PSA before it makes a decision on bidding for those oil blocks that are up for auction.

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge previously related that the company has already registered for the bidding round and is now awaiting additional information from the Guyana Government.

Last month, Routledge told reporters “I think the

US plugs US$100M...

These programmes, according to the Agency, will collectively contribute to increased resilience, sustainable agriculture, and improved food security in Haiti.

In addition, USAID is injecting another US$54 million for the people of Haiti, in response to the country’s humanitarian crisis. Haiti’s alarming levels of gang violence, including attacks on civilians, have prevented people from accessing critical food, safe drinking water, and other basic supplies. This new funding would provide vulnerable Haitians with urgently needed humanitarian assistance, including vital food assistance, as 4.9 million people face acute food insecurity amid the crisis.

In addition, these funds would provide access to safe drinking water and health care, as well as supportive care for survivors of gender-based violence and other protection services for the most vulnerable. This brings USAID’s total FY 2023 funding for humanitarian response activities in Haiti to more than US$110 million.

Haiti continues to be battered by natural disasters.

The country experienced a massive flood last weekend that has displaced over 13,000 and killed more than 50 Haitians. Then, earlier this week, a 4.9-magnitude earthquake struck the country, killing at least three other persons.

The United States Government has committed to continue partnering with the Caribbean to provide urgent humanitarian assistance, facilitate climate adaptation and resilience, support the transition to renewable energy, and mitigate food insecurity in the region.

USAID’s climate work in the Caribbean supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s priorities, and works to advance the goals of the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030), of which USAID is a key partner.

PACC 2030 is the U.S. Government’s flagship partnership with the Caribbean to advance climate adaptation and resilience, and clean energy cooperation

Currently, the 2016 oil contract for the Stabroek Block signed between the ExxonMobil-led co-venturers and the then A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government pegs cost recovery at 75 per cent. The remaining 25 per cent of revenues is spilt 50/50 between the Government and the co-venturers, while the country also gets a two per cent royalty from total revenues.

This PSA has come under heavy criticism over the years, with many arguing that Guyana could have gotten a better deal. There have also been resounding calls for renegotiations of the oil contract.

But Exxon’s country chief had argued that such a move could be “very destructive to investors’ confidence” in the Guyanese economy.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

had launched the much-anticipated first auction of the remaining oil blocks offshore Guyana in December 2022 as his Government moves to have the country’s petroleum resources developed expeditiously.

In order to make the auction more competitive, the Government has opened the process to both local and foreign companies/individuals, who will have to meet minimum technical and financial qualifications that will be outlined.

The Head of State has been inviting investors from countries around the world to participate in the ongoing licensing round. He has

also mentioned the possibility of bilateral arrangements to develop the country’s oil blocks.

As the world's fastest-growing super basin in recent years, Guyana is estimated to have potential resources in excess of 25 billion barrels offshore. In the oil-rich Stabroek Block alone, there are some 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

To date, there have been some 35 discoveries in the Stabroek Block, where production activities have been ongoing since 2019, and a total of 40 oil finds for all blocks being explored offshore Guyana.

FROM PAGE 7

through 2030 as work continues toward meeting the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Berbice man busted with $12.5M worth of ganja

ed on Lewis’s home and 22 parcels containing cannabis were unearthed. Lewis, who was at home

at the time, was arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters in Berbice, where the illicit drug was

weighed and amounted to 41.79kg (92.13lbs), which has a street value of about $12.5 million.

Berbice man wanted for attempted murder

Arrested: Paul Lewis

Forty-four-year-old

Paul Lewis, of #30 Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), was on Wednesday arrested following the discovery of approximately 41.7 kilograms of cannabis in his home.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) has said that during an operation conducted in the village, a search was conduct-

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday issued a wanted bulletin for Sasenarine Sankar of #69 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), after he attempted to murder his ex-partner, Sandy Persaud. Sankar, 45, who is commonly known as ‘Barber’ and ‘Wire’, is wanted for questioning in relation to an incident that took place on April 5, 2023 at #55 Village, Corentyne.

It has been reported that Persaud ended a relationship she had had with Sankar following several al-

Wanted: Sasenarine Sankar

tercations, on every occasion of which she was chopped

and had to be hospitalised.

But despite making several reports against the man, and even securing a restraining order, she has been living in fear. The Police, she has told sections of the media, have made no attempt to arrest Sankar.

Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of Sankar is asked to contact the Police on telephone numbers: 333-2153, 3332154, 326-0080, 339-4003, 335-3014, 911, or at the nearest Police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence, the Police have said.

The ganja that was found on the premises

VEHSI artificial island now connected to land via road

facilitate other shore base builds, thereby eliminating the need for foreign bases to support operations in Guyana.

This new island is part of the reclaimed land that will be transformed into the estimated 44-acre mega-project to create the shore base facility for ExxonMobil and forms part of Port Vreed-enHoop.

Phase one of the project, which will be completed by this year-end, is meant to be the special purpose vehicle to serve as a SURF (Subsea Umbilicals, Riser and Flowlines) Shorebase for ExxonMobil subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) projects.

As the artificial island of the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase Inc (VEHSI) progresses, the facility is now connected by a road to the mainland.

Construction is continuing on a 24-hour basis. The current shore base construction will see the first phase of 10 acres, made operational by December 2023, with additional acreage delivered by the second quarter of 2024.

The long-term vision would eventually see the full Port of Vreed-en-Hoop completed with as many as 800 acres of port facilities.

This information was divulged as students of the University of Guyana benefited from handson exposure to construction techniques being used at the artificial island and shorebase at Vreeden-Hoop this week, as part of a commitment to build technical capacity.

VEHSI Director Nicholas Deygoo-Boyers explained that “Once fully realised, the Port of Vreed-en-Hoop will tie into the country’s vision to expand Guyana’s development”.

He noted that there was space for expansion and VEHSI could

The students from the Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering departments were taken on a private tour of the facility. This field visit is in keeping with the commitment of VEHSI to increasing the technical capacity of Guyanese.

The students engaged the team on the ground about the various techniques and the preferences of one material or method over another among other pertinent engineering questions. The construction team also explained the project’s rigorous construction schedule and environmental compliance, and answered questions about qualifications and experience needed to be part of this

type of construction project.

VEHSI also praised the support it received from the Guyana Government, noting that without the rapid pace of responses and the outpouring of support, the project could not have proceeded at such an accelerated pace.

“The company would like to particularly recognise the rapid speed at which President Irfaan Ali responded to the development plans for this project and the support received so far in helping the company to build out this worldclass facility.”

VEHSI is currently the largest Guyanese Private Sector investment in the oil and gas sec-

tor and is expected to cost over US$300 million. It is a joint venture between NRG Holdings Inc—a 100 per cent Guyaneseowned consortium that is the majority shareholder –and Jan De Nul, an international maritime infrastructure company headquartered in Luxembourg.

In April 2022, ExxonMobil Guyana and VEHSI signed a 20year agreement for shorebase services to be provided at the Port of Vreed-en-Hoop facility to support the US oil giant’s operations offshore Guyana. The sod was subsequently turned in June on the US$300 million facility.

The road leading to the shorebase facility

Students at the VEHSI artificial island being exposed to practical construction works

Iwokrama inks MoU with NTC for biodiversity conservation, other initiatives

(LCDS) 2030.

The simple signing ceremony held at the NTC’s Hadfield Street Secretariat was attended by Vice Chairwoman Toshao Sonia Latchman; Iwokrama’s CEO Dane Gobin; Director for Resource Management and Training, Dr. Raquel Thomas; and Iwokrama Special Projects and Certification Coordinator, Anne-Marie Ford; and Executive Members of the NTC.

Gobin related that he is pleased to have engaged formally with the NTC, which he says would widen

the scope for collaboration between the two entities in order to support activities under the LCDS 2030. Those activities would include, but not be limited to, collaborative research, sustainable natural resources management, and preserving Indigenous language and culture, to name a few.

Further, he noted that Iwokrama has a longstanding Collaborative Management Agreement (CMA) with the North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB), which represents the communities of the

North Rupununi.

Vice Chairwoman of the NTC, Toshao Sonia Latchman, said she is happy to have engaged with Iwokrama, and the NTC looks forward to a fruitful relationship as they move forward with developmental plans for the villages and communities in Guyana.

Further, she thanked Iwokrama for the recent support in which an NTC Executive, Toshao Michael Thomas, assisted the villages and satellites in South Central and Deep South Rupununi to develop their Village Outline Plans.

The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) to collaborate on several initiatives.

These initiatives include community development,

biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and climate change. They include, but are not limited to research, training, capacity development, and education and awareness to further national development.

The MoU also allows Iwokrama and the NTC to make joint funding proposals and to collaborate on

project implementation.

In April this year, Iwokrama supported the NTC’s mentorship of Indigenous villages and communities in South Central & Deep South Rupununi to prepare their Village Sustainability Outline Plans (VSPs) under the Low Carbon Development Strategy

Iwokrama CEO Dane Gobin and Vice Chairwoman of the NTC, Sonia Latchman, after signing of the MOU in the presence of other officials

"Avoid blocking drains" – Mustapha tells GT residents amid heavy downpours …rain

to persist until ending of June

– Hydromet Office

June, before the country transitions into dry conditions, starting in July.

The predictions account for June to August, and it is noted that there would be continuous surface wetness in June, drawing focus on the need to maintain drainage infrastructure. Persons have been warned that there might be disruptions to outdoor activities.

The highest amount of rainfall can be expected in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and the northern part of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

on Thursday inspected pump stations across Georgetown after hours of persistent rainfall had caused several areas to be inundated.

Giving an update on the situation on Thursday, he stated, “The Hydromet Office would have recorded about four inches of rainfall that fell in about two hours. Because of the high volume of water, we are seeing that many areas around Georgetown are now under water…

“We continue to monitor the situation around Georgetown. I want to appeal to residents to avoid blocking the internal drains and those alleyways, so that we can have the free flow of water.”

The Ministry aims to have all pump stations functional so as to curtail significant accumulations of water.

However, a seasonal climate forecasted by the Hydrometeorological Service this week has predicted that the current rainy season would continue in

For the seasons, all regions can expect a slightly higher-than-usual number of wet days. An increase in the number of seven-day extreme wet spells can be expected in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

However, from July, the current climate conditions would change.

“Rain-fed agriculture and large-scale water users should harvest rainwater during the latter part of June. Moist conditions and water accumulation will lead to mosquito breeding,” the Hydromet Office has

noted. Heat will be a concern during the period late July into August. Therefore, shelter must be provided for animals; and persons have been asked to stay hydrated, and if possible, limit outdoor activities during mid-day. As it gets warmer, it has been outlined, “All regions can expect warmer-than-usual day and night time temperatures. The season is likely to be warmer than the previous years and recent months. Dry days will be significantly warmer than wet days.”

The country is now experiencing a heavy rainfall season. Precautionary measures have been issued

in order for persons to pay special attention to their health, personal hygiene, vector control, and food safety.

It has been advised that if there is any flooding, persons should stay out of the water as much as possible, as so doing can greatly reduce their chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, leptospirosis, diarrhoea, and other water-borne diseases.

If there is need to venture into any area with flood waters, persons are advised to use protective gear, such as long boots, gloves and eye protection. Moreover, they can prepare a foot bath of

Judge stays order for EEPGL to provide...

“The revenue loss to the permit holder, and more importantly to the State of Guyana, may have serious implications and devastating consequences in the event of a permit suspension. The seeming uncertainty as to what unlimited insurance may entail, and the timeframe ordered to provide such insurance, makes these events likely,” the Judge pointed out.

The prejudicial effects are palpable, while, on the other hand, it is generally accepted that the event of a well blowout or some associated environmental disaster is unlikely, noted Justice Persaud.

The Full Bench of the Court of Appeal is expected to sit soon to hear the EPA’s substantive appeal, as lawyers have implored the court to deal with the matter expeditiously.

On May 3, Justice Kissoon issued an order, inter alia, directing the EPA to issue ExxonMobil’s local affiliate, EEPGL, with an Enforcement Notice on or before May 9, for the company to provide, within 30 days, unlimited

Parent Company Guarantee Agreement and/or unlimited liability Affiliate Company Guarantee, together with environmental liability insurance, as is customary in the international petroleum industry.

EPA Executive Director Kemraj Parsram has confirmed that the Agency had issued EEPGL with the Enforcement Notice. But since Justice Kissoon’s order has been suspended, the oil company no longer has until today to comply with that notice.

The High Court order has its origin in a case filed in September 2022 by President of the Transparency Institute of Guyana Inc (TIGI), Frederick Collins, and Guyanese citizen Godfrey Whyte, who had moved to the court to get the EPA to enforce the liability clause in the permit.

They wanted the court to ensure EEPGL takes full financial accountability in the case of harm, loss, and damage to the environment from a well blowout, oil spill, or other failures.

No obligation

The EPA and Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, have maintained that the Environmental Permit granted to EEPGL imposes no obligation on the company to provide an unlimited parent company guarantee agreement and/or affiliate company guarantee agreement.

If Justice Kissoon’s ruling is not quashed, the Government fears it could have profound ramifications and grave economic and other impacts on the public interest and national development.

In arguing for the stay of execution, EPA lawyer Sanjeev Datadin had said that the order for “Unlimited guarantee makes a mockery of the clear words in the permit”, adding that the permit refers to a “fixed sum”, and not an unlimited guarantee.

Datadin had submitted, “Unlimited has come about through a misinterpretation. The court has invented an unlimited guarantee…and [held] this incorrect interpretation as a weapon…”

By making such a coercive order, Datadin noted,

Justice Kissoon had usurped the functions of the EPA under the Environmental Protection Act, and bypassed all the other options available.

Esso’s Senior Counsel, Edward Luckhoo, had contended that Condition 14 of the Environmental Permit does not require an unlimited guarantee. Maintaining that Justice Kissoon had misinterpreted the clear language of this Condition, he had said that what the permit does provide for is an estimate of a finite sum, noting that the formula for arriving at that sum is set out therein.

Catastrophic effects

But Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, who is among the lawyers representing Whyte and Collins, begged to differ, arguing that a stay of execution should not be granted because the chance of EPA’s grounds of appeal succeeding is like a “snowball in hell fire”.

To make his case in regard to the need for an unlimited parent company guarantee, he had highlighted that an oil spill could have catastrophic effects on

the environment.

“Esso has been carrying out oil operations in the open high sea without financial guarantee. An oil spill could send back Guyana to the Ice Age if there is no insurance, because it is not easy to contain.”

Jairam had reasoned that from practicality and common sense, insurance does not cover all your damages, hence the need for a parent company guarantee which, according to him, “does not cost [Exxon] a cent, but just requires it to show that it has the financial capacity to restore and rehabilitate the environment in the event an oil spill occurs.”

According to Jairam, the permit mandates that Exxon and its co-venturers shall be jointly and severally liable for any loss or damage, or pollution to the environment. In the absence of such a guarantee, he had argued, the permit should have already been cancelled by the EPA.

Disingenuous attempt

On the issue of whether the EPA acted in breach of its statutory duty and un-

half a cup of bleach in one bucket of water, and wash their feet before entering the house. Applying Vaseline or oil to your skin also forms a barrier and provides some protection from dirty water.

Citizens are being advised to use safe water for drinking, cooking, brushing their teeth, and making ice and beverages during the rainy season. Safe water is water that is treated with chlorine bleach in concentrations of half a teaspoon to five gallons of water. The water should be covered and left to stand for 30 minutes before using. Water can also be boiled.

FROM PAGE 8

reasonably permitted Esso to carry out petroleum production operations in the absence of compliance with the terms of the permit, Justice Kissoon had ruled that the Agency has committed an illegality, acted unlawfully, ultra vires, unreasonably, in defiance of logic, irrationally, and without any jurisdiction.

He found, inter alia, that Esso was engaged in a “disingenuous attempt” which was calculated to deceive when it sought to dilute its liabilities and settled obligations stipulated and expressed in Condition 14 of the permit, while simultaneously optimising production in the Stabroek Block.

“The insurance obtained by the EEPGL from its affiliate company AON UK Ltd, both for the Liza Phase 1 and Phase 2 Projects, does not satisfy the stipulation and obligation set out at Condition 14:5 of the Environmental Permit, or even what is considered environmental liability insurance according to international standards of the petroleum industry,” Justice Kissoon had said.

Another section of the city under water

A section of North Ruimveldt was inundated on Thursday morning

New Laboratory, 1st Essequibo gold jeweller, certified by GNBS

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has added two new clients to its certification programmes during this week.

On Tuesday, the Midway Specialty Care Centre Guyana Laboratory was certified to the National Standard GYS 170:2021 –“General requirements for the operation of a laboratory”.

Laboratory Director Dr. Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu received the certificate on be-

half of Midway Specialty Care Centre Guyana during a simple ceremony held at the facility’s Barrack and Parade Streets location in Georgetown.

She expressed gratitude to the GNBS Technical Officers who worked with the laboratory to meet the requirements of the National Standard, and noted, “It is surely exciting for us, and we’re happy to be certified.”

Medical Technologist & Laboratory Quality Manager

Devanand Ramnarine also shared similar sentiments. “What it means is to ensure that we follow protocols that control our internal system, and ensure that we give the best quality output to our customers, which helps in building trust in the laboratory services,” he declared.

The laboratory is certified to perform tests relating to Haematology, Biochemistry, Serology, Urology, Molecular Testing, COVID-19 and Immunology.

The certificate hand-

Head of Hydromet elected to serve on Executive Council of WMO

Chief

Hydrometeorological Officer Dr. Garvin Cummings has been elected to serve on the Executive Council of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) following the recently concluded 19th World Meteorological Congress in Geneva, Switzerland.

This is the first time since the International Meteorological Organization/World Meteorological Organization (IMO-WMO) was formed some 150 years ago that a Guyanese has been elected to serve on the Council. The Executive Council is the highest decision-making body of the WMO, outside of the World Meteorological Congress. Twenty-seven directors of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) were elected to serve on the Executive Council.

The Congress was held from May 22 to June 2, 2023, and saw officials from member states and territories assembling to discuss and determine the strategic direction of the Organization for the next four years.

The 19th Congress was considered a significant milestone in the history of the global hydrometeorological community, as it also marked the 150th an-

niversary since the organization of the International Meteorological Organization and the WMO (IMO-WMO) was formed.

Director of the Argentine Meteorological Institute, Professor Celeste Saulo, was also elected to serve as the Secretary General of the WMO.

Dr. Saulo is the first female to be elected as Secretary General, after previously serving in various capacities within the

ed over by the Head of the GNBS Certification Services Department, Andrea Mendonca, is valid for two years, during which surveillance audits will be conducted.

And on Thursday, Gopaul’s Jewellery became the first gold jeweller on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) to be certified to the National Standard GYS 50:2022 – “Specification of Gold Articles” (12 Karat and 14 Karat).

The certificate was handed over by GNBS Marketing Officer Ms. Aishah Hussain to the proprietors of Gopaul’s Jewellery, Udo Gopaul and

Rampersaud Gopaul. The certificate is valid for one year, pending recertification.

“By following the guidelines [outlined in the standard]…the customer will feel safe and guaranteed that the product is verified by the GNBS,” Gopaul said. The jeweller added that his business is happy to have worked with the Bureau’s Technical Officers to achieve this milestone.

Certification enhances consumer confidence in the products and services offered by the certified businesses. Consumers are urged to purchase gold jewellery from certified gold

jewellers, and utilise the services of certified laboratories to guarantee quality, reliability and consistency.

These businesses can be identified via the GNBS Certificates, plaques and stickers displayed at the premises.

The GNBS also certifies locally manufactured products under the Permit to use the Made in Guyana Certification Mark Programme; other products such as PVC pipes, concrete hollow blocks, and bathtub and shower units under its Product Certification Programme testing laboratories and bed-&-breakfast facilities.

WMO framework and governance structure, and she will be tasked with leading the Secretariat of the WMO for the next financial period, 2024-2027.

The Congress also elected representatives to manage the organization over the next four years, including its President, three Vice Presidents, and its Executive Council. The WMO comprises 193 member states and territories.

Dr Garvin Cummings and a colleague at the conference

Laboratory Director Dr. Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu receiving a plaque from GNBS Head of Certification Services, Andrea Mendonca, in the presence of staff of Midway Specialty Care Laboratory

Proprietors Udho and Rampersaud Gopaul posing with certification stickers in the presence of GNBS Officers

Govt working to increase safety of schools, dorms – Min Manickchand …says

CoI into Mahdia deadly fire will determine way forward

Weeks after the tragic fire that destroyed the Mahdia Secondary School’s female dormitory and claimed the lives of 20 children, the Government is working to implement several measures to improve the safety of schools and dorms across the country.

This was revealed by Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Wednesday during a contract-signing ceremony.

“Certain measures are being taken across dorms and schools right now that should make them safer, including personnel [changes],” Manickchand said.

“At the end of the day, you have human beings manning the system and so you can have a perfect system with a human being who doesn’t execute perfectly and you can still end up with all kinds of issues,” Manickchand added.

While the Minister clarified that she was not referring to any specific personnel issue, she noted that to improve facilities as such, consideration would have to be made on adjusting both infrastructure and the “human beings managing them”.

On May 21, the Mahdia Secondary School dorm was allegedly set afire by a 15-year-old aggrieved student who has since been remanded to a Juvenile Holding Centre for her part in the loss of 19 fellow female students and the five-

year-old son of the dorm’s caretakers.

While Police investigations have pointed towards arson as the cause of the fire, a recently-unveiled report has indicated several flaws on the part of the Education Ministry.

On Wednesday, an article in another section of the media reported that a United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) assessment of the 24 dorms existing countrywide revealed a significant lack of action by the Education Ministry, with the absence of fire protection services being one of several concerns raised.

This assessment reportedly also found management system inadequacies, behavioural issues and a lack of resources as students in the hinterland are often subjected to facilities that are overcrowded and have insufficient ventilation, sanitation facilities, and bedroom furnishings.

Minister Manickchand, however, clarified that this was actually an Education Ministry-commissioned report, facilitated by UNICEF.

“If we commissioned a report knowing fully well that we have no responsibility nor jurisdiction in local governance structure or in those facilities, then I think you can surmise two clear things: 1} that we wanted to learn what were some of the weaknesses and gaps in the various facilities that existed forever…

we wanted to learn what those problems were so that we could fix them, and 2) that if I knew from the beginning that I couldn’t fix them, that I would’ve shared it with whomever it needed to go to and we are maintaining that we did,” Manickchand said,

She added that in accordance with the established governance structure, the Ministry centrally has responsibility only for Georgetown.

Meanwhile, maintenance and management of school facilities in other regions are to be overseen by local government officials and Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs).

Manickchand emphasised that the report was shared with the relevant local authorities and at a later stage, dissemination of information, how the system generally works,

and implementation of policies will be assessed.

For now, she pointed out that the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Mahdia fire is the best place to properly examine the existing structures and consider how to move forward safely and sensibly.

As of now, the Ministry

is already in the process of making improvements to dorms around the country.

“In the 2023 budget, there is provision for five dorms in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) to be fixed and the procurement process for that is happening [currently],” Manickchand said.

She added that taking students out of the schools while they are being fixed is not a feasible option given the prevalence of learning losses and school dropouts in these regions that have only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“To say close as we fix is a hard thing to do educationally, because we will lose students…,” Manickchand said.

“You take children out of schools, especially in those communities – com-

munities that have homes far from each other and far from the centre – getting them back in the school is a really hard thing,” Manickchand said.

GFS inspections

Meanwhile, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has embarked on a comprehensive inspection campaign targeting school dormitories and hostels countrywide.

To date, inspections were conducted at locations including the University of Guyana, President’s College, Dennis Irvine Hall of Residence, as well as the dormitories at Mahaicony, Paramakatoi, Anna Regina, Aurora, Charity, Three Miles, and Bartica Secondary School as well as the Essequibo Technical Institute.

The Supenaam, Suddie, Charity and Anna Regina hostels were also examined. (Pooja Rambaran)

Foreign consulting agencies signal interest in local projects

Prime Minister Mark Phillips on Thursday met with executives from engineering and consulting companies Stantec and WB Consulting Group LLC at his office in Georgetown.

Stantec Vice President for Energy, Mark Allen and Vice President for Strategic Business Development, Carlos Mallol discussed several local projects and areas of shared interest with the Prime Minister.

Counsellor and Senior Trade Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission, Jake Thomas was also present at the meeting.

Back in 2022, Stantec was one of the two international consulting firms

hired to evaluate bids received for the construction of the 300-megawatt power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility at Wales, West Coast Demerara (WCD) under the gas-to-energy project.

Based on the reports of these international firms, an evaluation team of three persons, including a representative of ExxonMobil, was appointed for the project.

The multimillion-dollar gas-energy project aims to reduce the cost of energy by at least 50 per cent through an energy mix, thereby potentially saving Guyana US$150 million on power generation annually.

Canada-based Stantec has been working within

the Caribbean for over four decades, offering its expertise in areas, including energy storage and transition, landside infrastructure, mining, pipelines, facilities and terminals, solid waste management, and transportation.

Most recently, within the Caribbean market, it investigated possible sources of non-potable water for irrigation for the Apes Hill Golf Resort in Barbados; provided engineering expertise in the development of a new permanent harbour in Montserrat; and conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment for the Government of Bermuda as the country sought to widen and dredge its shipping channel.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips; Stantec Vice President for Energy, Mark Allen; Stantec Vice President for Strategic Business Development Carlos Mallol and Senior Trade Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission, Jake Thomas

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

Father of 2 injured in 3-vehicle collision succumbs

Amotorcyclist who was injured in an accident last Saturday evening along the Clifton Public Road, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) has succumbed to his injuries.

The dead man is 30-year-old Chandradat

Allie, a father of two and resident of Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder (BBP), Corentyne, Berbice. He had been driving motorcycle CJ 2990 when he was reportedly struck by a motor lorry. After spending several days as a patient at the Georgetown Public

Hospital, Allie succumbed to his injuries on Thursday morning. Police have said that the truck involved in the accident was being driven by a 22-year-old man from Farm, Corentyne. A car that was also involved was being driven by a 32-year-old bar-

ber from Tain village. The driver of the lorry reportedly told investigators that Allie, who was drinking at a popular bar in the area, had suddenly attempted to cross the road, and ended up in his path. He added that despite applying brakes, the right-

Mon Repos man gets 4 years for killing bandit who attacked father …father released on time served

A30-year-old man has been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment over the death of a bandit, whom he admitted to stabbing with a pair of scissors. He has been convicted for the lesser offence of manslaughter. The bandit had attacked and robbed his now 55-year-old father of a gold chain.

Initially indicted for the capital offence of murder, Andrew Singh and his father Suraj Singh had pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter before Justice Sandil Kissoon last month.

The duo, of Lot 248 Mon Repos Pasture, East Coast Demerara (ECD), admitted to killing 23-year-old Brian Dwarka, a labourer of Mon Repos, on May 27, 2018.

Andrew, the Judge said, then stabbed Dwarka once with a pair of scissors.

The Judge explained that the men’s guilty plea to the lesser offence was accepted because the issue of provocation and the right of a person to defend his/her own life (self-defence) and property arose from the evidence.

“Extremely troubling”, Justice Kissoon noted, was the attempt by the prosecution’s witnesses to conceal the events that occurred on the night of May 27, 2018 leading up to Dwarka’s death.

For her part, defence lawyer Latchmie Rahamat implored the Judge to temper justice with mercy, noting that it was Dwarka’s criminal conduct that resulted in his death.

lieved Dwarka’s accomplice of the weapon, which he in turn used to stab Dwarka once to his chest.

Counsel contended that her client’s action is justifiable under the Constitution, which permits a person to use reasonable and justifiable force in defence of themselves and their property.

It was reported that after being stabbed, Dwarka fell on the ground, and was later picked up by his mother and other relatives and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The men were later apprehended – the elder Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital, after he had reportedly reported to the

deducted five years for the time the convict had spent in pre-trial detention. This means that Andrew has to spend only another four years in custody.

As for his father, Justice Kissoon ordered that the middle-aged man be released from prison immediately, on time served.

The Judge has reprimanded Andrew for his actions, pointing out that it is not open to any member of the public to take matters into their own hands. In light of what transpired on the day in question, the Judge said, the younger Singh should have reported the incident to the Police.

side front of the vehicle collided with the right side of the motorcycle before plowing into the motorcar, which was parked.

Allie was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Port Mourant Hospital, where he was examined and later transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. He had undergone emergency surgery at that medical institution before subsequently being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he eventually died.

The late Chandradat Allie’s mother, Coonadavie Allie, has said her son had been severely injured. She explained that he had sustained a fractured skull and had damaged his liver and

intestines. His lungs and kidneys had also reportedly been damaged, and one of his legs had almost been severed while the other had been fractured in three places.

But although he had been so severely injured, relatives and friends had been hoping for the best.

His mother said she had learnt of the accident from a doctor at the New Amsterdam Hospital, after her son had been taken there. She said that when she arrived at the New Amsterdam Hospital, her son was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

“At one time, they told me that he is going down, and then they transfer him from there to Georgetown. And every day, three times a day, I was at the hospital, but he was not responding. His hands and feet were not moving, and his eyes remained closed. The doctors only telling me that he was stable but in a critical condition,” she said.

The lorry driver had been taken into custody, but after he had been administered a breathalyzer test, no alcohol was found in his system.

Investigations are ongoing. (Andrew Carmichael)

Their sentencing hearing had been adjourned until Thursday to allow for the compilation of probation reports and submissions by lawyers for the defence and prosecution.

During the sentencing hearing, Justice Kissoon disclosed that Dwarka met his demise after he attacked and robbed Suraj while he was in a drunken state and was armed with a cutlass.

According to her, Dwarka, who was in the company of other men, attacked and chopped Suraj to his foot and ankle, before relieving him of his gold chain.

She said that when Andrew saw his father being attacked, Dwarka and another man, who was armed with a pair of scissors, ran towards the younger Singh and began attacking him. Andrew, the lawyer recounted, then re-

Police station that he had been attacked and robbed, and had been sent for a medical, while the younger Singh was found hiding in a toilet at his home.

After considering the facts, the probation reports, the submissions made by lawyers on both sides, and the principles of sentencing, the Judge sentenced Andrew to nine years’ imprisonment, from which he

Meanwhile, a post-mortem examination performed on Dwarka’s body had declared that he died as a result of perforation of the lungs and the heart due to a stab wound he sustained.

Suraj and his son had first been charged with Dwarka’s murder on May 30, 2018. Following a preliminary inquiry, they had both been committed to stand trial at the High Court in Demerara. Prior to their incarceration on the murder charge, they had both had an unblemished criminal record.

Andrew Singh

Justice Sandil Kissoon

Dead: Brian Dwarka

Suraj Singh

Dead: Chandradat Allie

Regional Jamaica: Cops allegedly rob J$14M from Chinese wholesalers

Two Police Officers have been arrested in connection with a multimillion-dollar robbery of Chinese wholesalers in Kingston on Tuesday.

The lawmen are facing charges of robbery with aggravation.

According to reports, two Chinese nationals were at their wholesale premises when they were visited by the two Police Officers dressed in plain clothes.

Three other accomplices reportedly accompanied the officers to the location.

The two men reportedly identified themselves as Officers and presented a document they claimed was a warrant from the Constant Spring Police for the property to be searched for uncustomed goods.

One of the Chinese nationals was reportedly led to the family's living quarters

upstairs where a search was conducted.

J$8.5 million along with US$40,000 (J$5,760,000) was reportedly seized by the lawmen. An iPhone 14 was also said to be taken. The iPhone was later tracked and reportedly found damaged in the Queensbury community in Kingston.

It is reported that one of the Chinese wholesalers objected to the items being seized by the officers, but was allegedly told they would be returned. He was asked to

“Let’s go to war”: Shugy resigns as MP

In less than 120 days, the battle for St Mary’s South will return for a sequel after the constituency’s Member of Parliament (MP) Kelvin “Shugy” Simon resigned, triggering a by-election.

accompany the plain clothes officers to the Police Station to have the matter sorted.

The wholesaler, however, was reportedly instructed to travel in his personal vehicle.

It is said that when the victim entered his car, the officers sped off, leaving him behind.

A report was made to the Police and the lawmen were later brought in for questioning.

They are being held pending an investigation.

(Jamaica Observer)

Suspect in US teen's disappearance

extradited from Peru

The main suspect in the 2005 disappearance of US teenager Natalee Holloway has been extradited to the US to stand trial for alleged extortion.

Dutchman Joran van der Sloot, 35, is accused of taking tens of thousands of dollars from Natalee Holloway's mother in exchange for revealing the location of their daughter's body.

Prosecutors say he gave her false information and fled to Peru.

In Peru, he murdered a young Peruvian woman and was sentenced to 28 years.

Footage released by Peruvian Police on Thursday showed van der Sloot being transferred from the jail where he has served half of his murder sentence to an air force base in the capital,

Lima. There, he was handed over to FBI agents, who flew with him on a US Department of Justice plane to Birmingham, Alabama.

Van der Sloot arrived in the US around 14:30h local time (19:30 GMT).

The disappearance of Holloway during a school trip to the Caribbean island of Aruba was widely covered in US and international media.

The 18-year-old was last seen leaving a nightclub and getting into a car with Dutch national van der Sloot, who was 17 at the time, and two young brothers from Suriname, Deepak and Saltish Kalpoe.

Van der Sloot and the Kalpoe brothers were arrested shortly after Holloway's

Lula's central bank nominees to sit out next rate decision

President Luiz Inácio

Lula da Silva's first nominees for top positions in Brazil's central bank will not be involved in the upcoming interest rate decision on June 21, because their names will not be submitted for necessary approval by the Senate until the following week.

The Senate's Economic Affairs Committee announced on Wednesday that it would vote on June 27 on the nomination of Gabriel Galipolo, the executive secretary of the Finance Ministry, for the role of monetary policy director in the central bank, and Ailton de Aquino, a central bank official, for the position of supervising director.

Lula nominated both in

May. After the hearing in the commission, they will need to receive the endorsement of the full Senate.

Central bank chief Roberto Campos Neto, picked by former President Jair Bolsonaro, will complete his term in December 2024 as per an autonomy law passed in 2021.

Lula, who has criticised the central bank for long holding its interest rate at a cycle-high of 13.75 per cent, will eventually replace all nine members of the bank's Board, which decides monetary policy.

However, the new board members will have a majority only after Campos Neto departs from his position.

(Reuters)

disappearance, but were released again because of a lack of evidence.

Holloway's body was never found.

But prosecutors allege that in 2010, van der Sloot said he would reveal the location of Natalee Holloway's body if her mother paid him US$25,000 (£20,000) up front and another US$225,000 once the remains were identified.

Once he had been paid the initial US$25,000, he gave Ms Holloway's lawyer a location where he said her daughter's remains were hidden and then absconded to Peru.

Nothing was found at the location he had given.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

In a press release issued on Wednesday, Simon said he had written to the Speaker of the House, Sir Gerald Watt informing him of his decision to vacate his seat in Parliament.

The 43-year-old first-time politician has been the subject of an election petition following his victory at the January 18 polls, calling into question his legitimacy to serve as a parliamentarian.

The petition centred around whether Simon was eligible to run for office as he was a civil servant at the time of being officially nominated.

Simon resigned from his post as a guidance counsellor within the Ministry of Education a fortnight before the January 18 election.

The United Progressive

Party (UPP) MP wrote, “It is unfair to the people of St Mary’s South to have this uncertainty hanging over their heads. This situation needs to be resolved without further delay.

“I want this matter to be settled by the people, not by the court. The constituents of St Mary’s South elected me convincingly before, and I am confident that they will do so again in a by-election.”

Simon appeared on social media shortly after the announcement, alongside St

George MP Algernon Watts, to elaborate on his rationale.

“It is creating a lot of hindrances for me in terms of getting a lot of the projects I want to get done, because there are a lot of people that are willing to invest and better the community.

“We know how long appeals can take and I am not prepared as an MP to sit and wait on a court for years while I cannot get anything done for the people of St Mary’s South,” he said. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Mexican President puts unity first to broker compromise in succession race

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador this week intervened in the increasingly fractious race to succeed him, a move party insiders said was aimed at warding off potential division and protecting the commanding political power base he has built.

Under pressure for months from Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard to get contenders seeking the presidential nomination of the ruling National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) to step down before campaigning, Lopez Obrador this week finally went along with the idea,

according to three party sources familiar with the matter.

In a dinner with party leaders in Mexico City on Monday, Lopez Obrador proposed that MORENA's contenders resign to ensure a level playing field, and that the party this weekend decide on rules for the selection process, the sources said.

"He's closing every loophole to prevent any disagreement," one of the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The President's office did not reply to a request for comment.

On Thursday morning,

Lopez Obrador was asked about what was discussed at the MORENA dinner, and said: "We spoke of the need to remain united to guarantee the transformation of Mexico."

Ebrard, a leading contender to succeed Lopez Obrador, on Tuesday announced that he would step down next week. Ebrard's main rivals are likely to follow suit soon, the President himself suggested on Wednesday.

MORENA is expected to pick a candidate as soon as September. Mexico's next presidential election is in June 2024. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T&T PM meets with US VP Harris

Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley held comprehensive discussions with US Vice President Kamala Harris.

According to Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister, Dr Amery Browne, Dr Rowley spoke Thursday at the Heads Meeting with VP Harris in The Bahamas.

Browne said the PM gave particular focus to the issues of regional security and regional energy security, and spoke in the interest of all the people of the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

Rowley is the lead Head in Caricom for Regional Security matters.

Arising out of the Summit of the Americas meeting in Los Angeles last

year, a structure was established to facilitate working contacts between the US and Caricom.

Rowley co-chairs the Caribbean-US Energy

Security Action Committee.

The Prime Minister is supported at this Bahamas meeting by Minister Browne.

On Thursday, Vice

President Harris announced a suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering cooperation between the US and the Caribbean.

As it relates to security and firearms trafficking, the US will appoint an experienced Prosecutor from the Department of Justice as a Coordinator for Caribbean Firearms Prosecutions.

This coordinator will work to implement the provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act with its new criminal provisions on firearms trafficking and straw purchases.

The US has also pledged support for the regional Crime Gun Intelligence Unit (CGIU) established in Trinidad and Tobago. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Kelvin “Shugy” Simon and Senator Samantha Marshall will clash once again in a battle for the seat of St Mary’s South after months of legal wrangling (Photos by Robert A Emmanuel)

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley with US Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday at the US-Caribbean Leaders meeting in Nassau, The Bahamas

Around The World OIL NEWS

Hundreds plucked from flooded homes; Ukraine dismisses counteroffensive reports

Oil prices partially recover after US, Iran deny reported nuclear deal

Hundreds of Ukrainians were rescued from rooftops on Thursday, two days after waters from a huge breached dam submerged villages, fields and roads in the southern region of Kherson, as Kyiv dismissed reports its counteroffensive had begun.

Drone video showed areas where often only the roofs were visible above the flooding. The region's governor said some 600 square kilometres, or 230 square miles, were under water.

The collapse of the Nova Kakhovka dam came as Ukraine prepared a counteroffensive, likely the next major phase in the war in which tens of thousands of people have been killed, millions uprooted, and entire cities re-

duced to ruins since Russia's "special military operation" began on February 24 last year. NBC news, citing a senior officer and a soldier near the front lines, said the offensive had begun. The Washington

Post cited "four individuals" in the armed forces saying the same thing. sked about the reports, a spokesperson for the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces told Reuters: "We have no such information."

In its daily Ukraine briefing, Britain's Defence Ministry on Thursday reported heavy fighting along "multiple sectors of the front", adding that Kyiv held the initiative in most areas.

A senior Russian commander briefed President Vladimir Putin on how his forces had repelled a largescale Ukrainian attack in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, the TASS news agency reported.

Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said earlier on Thursday that Russian forces had withstood fierce overnight attempts by Ukrainian troops to break through the frontline in Zaporizhzhia and had inflicted heavy losses on them.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Oil prices settled lower on Thursday, but rebounded from earlier losses after the US and Iran both denied a report that they were close to a nuclear deal.

Oil fell by more than US$3 on the report that the US would give Iran sanctions relief to export oil in return for Tehran reducing uranium enrichment.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council called the report "false and misleading".

Brent crude settled down 99 US cents, or 1.3 per cent, at $75.96 a barrel while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled down US$1.24, or 1.7 per cent , to US$71.29.

"If there's no Iran deal then we're back where we were before, focused more on fuel demand," said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York.

Oil prices were lower earlier after the US reported a largerthan-expected rise in gasoline inventories on Wednesday. That raised concern about US fuel demand, with the peak summer driving season well under way.

Demand concerns outweighed the prospect of tighter supply after Saudi Arabia pledged at a weekend Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) meeting to cut crude output by one million barrels per day in July. That unilateral cut was in addition to the group's broader deal to extend existing supply curbs into 2024.

Oil prices could get a lift if the US Federal Reserve skips a rate hike at its next meeting on June 13-14, said Tamas Varga from PVM brokerage. Economists polled by Reuters expect no hike at the meeting.

The US dollar was slightly weaker on Thursday, making oil cheaper for buyers holding other currencies.(Reuters)

Extreme weather expected as El Niño climate pattern returns

El Niño has officially returned and is likely to yield extreme weather later this year, from tropical cyclones spinning toward vulnerable Pacific islands to heavy rainfall in South America to drought in Australia and in some parts of Asia.

After three years of the La Niña climate pattern, which often lowers global temperatures slightly, the hotter El Niño is back in action, according to an advisory issued on Thursday by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Centre.

Washington quiet as Canadian smoke blankets US capital

Downtown

The shroud of polluted air emanating from Canadian wildfires pushed further down the Atlantic Seaboard on Thursday, blanketing Washington, DC, in an unhealthy haze and prompting many residents of the nation's capital to stay indoors.

Traffic was light and trains less crowded than usual as many companies in the city told employees to work from home. Some non-essential municipal services were suspended, including parks and recreation, road construction, and waste collection.

The Washington Nationals baseball team called off its home game, while the National Zoo shut down for the day.

Thursday

Canada

health problems that could arise due to the high levels of fine particulates in the atmosphere.

Government data showed air quality readings above the "hazardous" level in Washington on Thursday morning. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Former US President

Donald Trump has been indicted by a federal grand jury for retaining classified Government documents and obstruction of justice, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The criminal case, brought by the US Department of Justice, amounts to another legal setback for Trump as he seeks to regain the US presidency next year. He already faces a criminal case in New York that is due to go to trial in March.

"The corrupt Biden Administration has informed my Attorneys that I have been Indicted, seemingly over the Boxes Hoax," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Trump wrote that he had been summoned to appear at the federal courthouse in Miami on Tuesday.

Trump's Attorneys did not

immediately respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson for Special Counsel Jack Smith, the Justice Department official who is handling the investigation, declined to comment.

Trump faces seven criminal counts in the federal case, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Reuters could not immediately learn what specific charges Trump is facing. In a sworn statement to a federal court last year, an FBI agent said there was probable cause to believe several crimes were committed, including obstruction and the illegal retention of sensitive defence records.

The Justice Department has been investigating whether Trump mishandled classified documents he retained after leaving the White House in 2021.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

El Niño is born out of unusually warm waters in the Eastern Pacific , near the coast of South America, and often accompanied by a slowing down or reversal of the easterly trade winds.

"In May, weak El Niño conditions emerged as above-average sea surface temperatures strengthened across the equatorial Pacific Ocean," the advisory said.

The last time an El Niño was in place, in 2016, the world saw its hottest year on record. Coupled with warming from climate change, 2023 or 2024 could reach new highs. (Excerpt from Reuters)

It was the worst case of wildfire smoke blanketing the US Northeast in more than 20 years, according to private forecasting service AccuWeather.

The US National Weather Service extended air quality alerts from New England to South Carolina, as well as parts of the Midwest, including Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. The smoke reached as far as Norway by Thursday, according to scientists tracking the level of particulates in Scandinavia.

Millions of Americans have been advised to stay indoors if possible to avoid respiratory issues and other

US President Joe Biden and United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have announced a new economic agreement that aims to boost ties on defence and renewable energy, but falls short of the full free trade deal sought by the UK since its withdrawal from the European Union.

The two leaders unveiled the Atlantic Declaration on Thursday as Sunak made his first visit to the White House as Prime Minister.

Under the new economic framework, the United States and the UK “resolve to partner to build resilient, diversified, and secure supply chains and reduce strategic dependencies” on countries such as China and Russia, according to a joint statement.

Speaking to reporters after his meeting with Biden, Sunak denied that the new

partnership – which also included agreements to cooperate on strategic technologies and export controls and more securely share data –signalled that the UK’s pursuit of a free trade deal with Washington had failed.

Such an agreement had long been touted by supporters of the UK’s 2020 withdrawal from the EU, but has remained elusive.

“If you look at what

we’ve announced today, what it does respond to is the particular opportunities and challenges that we face right now and into the future,” Sunak said.

For his part, Biden underlined the joint decision to begin negotiations on strengthening the critical mineral supply chain, calling it a “key” component of the framework.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

A flooded area after the Nova Kakhovka dam breach amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kherson, Ukraine, June 8, 2023 (Reuters/ Vladyslav Smilianets)

Trump faces US criminal charges for mishandling documents, source says

“Real good shape”: Biden and Sunak hail ties at White House meet

Washington, DC is seen on

shrouded in haze and smoke caused by wildfires in

(Reuters/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades)

President Joe Biden shakes hands with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as they meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on June 8, 2023 [Susan Walsh/The Associated Press]

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Stick to the truth and do your best to make a difference. Give others the reinforcement they need. Seek entertainment that you can share with a loved one.

(March 21-April 19)

Keep your plans neat and tidy. Set yourself up for success and popularity. Have a budget and plan in place before you begin your journey. Get to know your opponents before you enter a competition.

(April 20-May 20)

PEANUTS

(May 21-June 20)

Take the high road, regardless of the path others choose. Embrace self-improvement and increase your knowledge and qualifications to meet personal or professional demands.

Take a novel approach to work and money. Update your skills and qualifications to suit what's trending in the job market. Get in touch with people who can provide professional insight.

(June 21-July 22)

CALVIN

AND HOBBES

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Anger will disrupt your day. Give yourself a chance to rethink your next move, and try to keep the peace, regardless of what others do or say. Overindulgence will leave you at a loss.

Don't ignore an opportunity to learn something new. An open discussion with someone doing something you want to pursue will give you the information you require to make your dream come true.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Add to your qualifications. Update your resume and take an interest in something that's trending. Staying informed will keep you current and enable you to move up the ladder quickly.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Spend more time at home. Make your place comfortable and convenient. Get involved in something you find stimulating and innovative. Branching out in a new direction will lead to an opportunity.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Avoid a run-in with someone you need in your corner. Working alongside others will be better than fighting your way up the ladder. Be wary of anyone offering something too good to be true.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Stop dreaming and start doing. You have more going for you than you realize, and with a bit of ingenuity, you can make some needed improvements. Don't let anyone take advantage of you.

Set boundaries and bypass conversations that can easily lead to an argument. Focus on personal improvements, health and fitness, and you'll feel good about your accomplishments.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Manage your money sensibly. You may want to help someone, but paying for their mistakes won't help your situation. Changing how you handle your cash will lead to peace of mind.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Seamers build on Smith's ton to give Australia control

Australia's bowlers showed India just where they had gone wrong on day one, their quicks settling into the perfect length on a still helpful Oval pitch as their side took control of the World Test Championship final. By stumps on day two, Australia had reduced India to 151 for 5 in reply to their first-innings total of 469.

The fast bowlers did the bulk of the damage, but there was also a wicket for Nathan Lyon, off a dipping, turning offbreak that had Ravindra Jadeja, India's top-scorer, nicking to first slip some 15 minutes from stumps, to end a 71run fifth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane. The wicket, and the manner it came, may have added more fuel to the debate surrounding India's selection, and the exclusion of R Ashwin against an Australian line-up heavy on left-hand batters.

For all that, India's major issues came about not because they picked four quicks but because of how they bowled. On a pitch bouncier than the typical Indian surface, they needed to pitch the ball fuller than the traditional good length to challenge the stumps consistently and bring all modes of dismissal into play. They didn't do this consistently enough, and even though their bowlers fought back through the first half of day two to take 7 for 142, it perhaps came a little too

late, because they had let Australia run away to 327 for 3 on day one.

Bowled out almost exactly halfway into the day's play, Australia's fast bowlers came out and showed how it's done on a pitch that was now beginning to sport cracks all over its surface. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins overpitched frequently at the start of their new-ball spells, and Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill got off to a breezy start, but it seemed a matter of time before the quicks figured out the ideal length - full but not drivable.

Cummins hit this length with the last ball of the sixth over, nipping it in and trapping the half-forward Rohit in front. Then Scott Boland, a bowler seemingly designed in a lab to bowl in these conditions, bowled a wicked in-dipper - to follow nine probing dot balls to the two openers - that Gill fatally shouldered arms to.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli then put on 20 either side of tea, looking in good touch but always wary of the seam movement and occasional inconsistent bounce that characterised this surface, before Cameron Green produced a replica of the Boland ball that had bowled Gill. Pujara produced a replica of Gill's response, and India were 50 for 3, all of their top three either bowled or lbw.

It became 71 for 4 when the returning Starc joined

the party with a vicious de livery to Kohli, slant ed across from left-arm over and tak ing off from a

length.

Kohli, pressing onto the front foot, was in no position to negotiate it safely; all he could do was glove the ball to second slip.

Rahane could have fallen soon after, had Cummins not overstepped when he bowled a peach that straightened from that perfect fullish length to beat his outside edge and hit his back pad roughly in front of off stump. Rahane reviewed after being given out on the field, and replays picked up the no-ball; ball-tracking showed two reds and an umpire's call verdict on the line of impact.

“THERE’S NO TRUTH TO IT”

-CWI CEO rubbishes reports of host change for T20 World Cup

Cricket West Indies has rubbished reports about the International Cricket Council (ICC) possibly asking England to step in and host next year’s ICC T20 World Cup, originally scheduled to take place in the West Indies and the USA.

A number of media outlets, including CricTracker, Sportskeeda and the Daily Mirror, have reported that the venue shift is being considered due to a lack of infrastructure in the USA, but CEO of Cricket West Indies, Johnny Grave, has debunked these claims and questioned the source of the information.

“No!” was Grave’s answer

when asked about the validity of the claims being reported.

“I don’t know where that’s coming from. I’m in London for the World Test Championship final, and I’ll be here again for the ICC

Annual General Meeting (AGM) in a few weeks’ time, so who knows what the agenda is. There’s no truth to it,” Grave added.

The West Indies previously hosted the ICC T20 World Cup in 2010. (Sportsmax)

Batting against the old Dukes ball has been significantly easier than it has been against the new one over the last two English summers, with #5 and #6 averaging a world-leading 53.08 here since the start of 2022, while #1 to 4 average 31.28 - they've only done worse in the West Indies (31.00) in this period.

After a nervy early period that included that close lbw call and a pair of leading edges from Jadeja, India's fifth-wicket pair certainly looked in a lot more comfort than their top-order counterparts.

Jadeja, who profited from Australia's bowlers - Starc in particular - overpitching frequently to him, rattled along at close to a run a ball, while Rahane, returning to Test cricket for the first time since January 2022, ticked over more sedately while looking just as fluent. India would have hoped their partnership extended to stumps, but Lyon punctured those hopes, striking with his ninth ball of the match.

The day had dawned clear and sunny with Steven Smith five short of his 31st Test hundred and Travis Head four short of 150. They raced past their respective milestones quickly, with Mohammed Siraj offering Smith a pair of straight half-volleys in the first over of the morning to start the day on an omi-

SCOREBOARD

Australia 1st Innings

BATTING R B

David Warner c †

Bharat b Thakur 43 60

Usman Khawaja c †

Bharat b Mohammed Siraj 0 10

Marnus Labuschagne b Mohammed Shami 26 62

Steven Smith b Thakur 121 268

Travis Head c †Bharat b

Mohammed Siraj 163 174

Cameron Green c Shubman Gill

b Mohammed Shami 6 7

Alex Carey † lbw b Jadeja 48 69

Mitchell Starc run out (sub [AR Patel]) 5 20

Pat Cummins (c) c Rahane

b Mohammed Siraj 9 34

Nathan Lyon b Mohammed Siraj 9 25

Scott Boland not out 1 7

Extras(b 13, lb 10, nb 7, w 8) 38

TOTAL 121.3 Ov (RR: 3.86) 469

Fall of wickets: 1-2

(Usman Khawaja, 3.4 ov), 2-71

(David Warner, 21.4 ov), 3-76 (Marnus Labuschagne, 24.1 ov), 4-361 (Travis Head, 91.1 ov), 5-376 (Cameron Green, 94.2 ov), 6-387 (Steven Smith, 98.1 ov), 7-402 (Mitchell Starc, 103.5 ov), 8-453 (Alex Carey, 114.4 ov), 9-468 (Nathan Lyon, 119.5 ov), 10-469 (Pat Cummins, 121.3 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W Mohammed Shami 29-4-122-2

Mohammed Siraj 28.3-4-108-4

Umesh Yadav 23-5-77-0

Shardul Thakur 23-4-83-2

Ravindra Jadeja 18-2-56-1

India 1st Innings

BATTING R B

Rohit Sharma (c)

lbw b Cummins 15 26

Shubman Gill b Boland 13 15

Cheteshwar Pujara b Green 14 25

Virat Kohli c Smith b Starc 14 31

Ajinkya Rahane not out 29 71

Ravindra Jadeja c

Smith b Lyon 48 51

Srikar Bharat † not out 5 14

Extras (b 4, lb 4, nb 5) 13

TOTAL 38 Ov (RR: 3.97) 151/5

Yet to bat: Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj Fall of wickets: 1-30

(Rohit Sharma, 5.6 ov), 2-30

(Shubman Gill, 6.4 ov), 3-50

(Cheteshwar Pujara, 13.5 ov), 4-71

(Virat Kohli, 18.2 ov), 5-142

(Ravindra Jadeja, 34.3 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 9-0-52-1

Pat Cummins 9-2-36-1

Scott Boland 11-4-29-1

Cameron Green 7-1-22-1

Nathan Lyon 2-0-4-1

nous note for India. Things improved, though, with a sustained short-ball attack at Head's body finally yielding success when the left-hander gloved Siraj down the leg side on 163. Mohammed Shami then produced a beauty to send back the #6 Green, slanting a full ball in from wide of the crease to draw a loose drive away from the body.

Smith was next to go, pushing away from his body at an innocuous Shardul Thakur away-curler to play on for 121. India had struck three times before Australia reached 400, and may have hoped to wrap up their innings not too long after, but a counterattacking 48 from Alex Carey carried the score past 450. Carey rode his luck - particularly against Umesh Yadav, who beat his bat repeatedly in a short spell after lunch - before he fell in familiar fashion, lbw attempting a reverse-sweep against a stump-to-stump delivery from Jadeja.

That was the only Australian wicket to fall to spin; Siraj ended as India's most successful bowler, finishing with figures of 4 for 108, while Shami and Thakur bagged two apiece. (ESPNCricinfo)

CWI CEO, Johnny Grave

It was Test century #31 for Steven Smith

Ravindra Jadeja flicking one over square leg

Mitchell Starc celebrating after dismissing Virat Kohli

Fruta Conquerors pay tribute to fallen player Leon Sealey Yaw

News of the tragic death of 26-year-old Leon Sealey Yaw ripped through the local football fraternity last Thursday evening. The Fruta Conquerors goalkeeper was, at the time of his untimely demise, involved in a training session at the club’s Tucville base.

Days later, when the club set out to compete in the ongoing KFC Elite League, the team memorialised Sealey Yaw not only with black and red ribbons attached to their customary bright orange uniforms, but also with a welcome victory.

Following the game, Head Coach Sampson Gilbert recounted the moments when he learned of Yaw’s passing, and his hesitance to share that news with the team.

“I just want to pay tribute to our late goalkeeper Leon Sealey Yaw. We got the news whilst training last Thursday evening, and it was devastating. When I got the news, I couldn’t call off the players to tell them

that this happened, cause I know that that would’ve really upset them,” Gilbert revealed. He added, “So, I waited before the scheduled time, and then I stopped the session.”

Several tributes on social media described Yaw as a jovial, committed player. Gilbert’s recollection of the player, who had been with the club since his youth football days, was no different. The Coach recalled, “He was very disciplined, he was very committed. He was a kid that, even when he’s working or whatever he’s doing in life otherwise, when he’s not training, he always let me remember that he’s there for us, he’s going to come, so don’t ever think that he’s not going to be there to represent.”

About Fruta’s in-game tribute to Yaw, Gilbert shared, “We wore the black and red ribbon because, instead of black alone, we thought that, looking back at the events that took place around the club for the last few years, we had some players that left us for the Great Beyond, you know. We thought that the red would acknowledge that we want to cut that off. The black is to actually mourn that loss, but the red is for resilience, to say that although we losing players, we don’t want to go down that route anymore,” the renowned Coach added.

Gilbert went on to share with this publication his intentions to share life’s lessons alongside knowledge on the game, in order to possibly lower the instances of such tragic occurrences.

“Sometimes as young players they might be extreme in different aspects of life. Youths riding, they might be a little anxious because of the motor bikes. So, we want players to learn, to understand that, look, whatever you’re doing, do it with consideration,” he related.

Gilbert expressed, “It’s just part of the whole development that we’re looking forward to implement, not only in football, but in life.”

CONCACAF launches Champions Cup club tournament

The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is forging ahead with its developmental programme, and President Hilbert Foster has been visiting member clubs of this very active cricket board.

Known for his frequent visits to clubs and associations in all parts of the county, President Foster visited the Whim Cricket Club to meet with members to bring them up to date on plans of his administration, and to listen to any concern they make have.

Still recovering from illness, Foster informed the Whim membership of the progress made over the last six years under his leadership, and unveiled plans for the future. He explained that the BCB is currently donating batting cages and bowling machines to zones across the county in an effort to make practice sessions more professional for youths.

He also announced that the county was benefitting from an aggressive coaching programme direct to youths with the assistance of Local Government Minister Nigel Dharamlall. Clubs would also benefit from donations of cricket balls to assist them to fulfill their mandate, while the BCB is the only cricket board in Guyana to host cricket tournaments at both the primary and secondary levels.

Foster has said the BCB is using the first half of the year to play junior and female cricket. During the summer holidays, the BCB would be hosting an historic under-11 tournament along with an under-13 tournament as the effort to unearth

new talents continues. The board would use the second half of the year to host second- and first-division tournaments for senior players.

First elected BCB President in 2018, Foster has used his influence to resolve some problems affecting the club and its membership. He has urged the executives to be more committed, and to focus on the development of new talents, and has reassured members that he is always available to meet with them concerning cricket matters.

The BCB President has handed over to the Whim club cricket items worth over one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. The items include a practice net, catching crib, scorebook, helmet, box of cricket balls, wicket-keeping gloves and inners, protective gears and

coaching manual. Foster has committed to assisting the Whim Club with another box of balls and trophies for a fund-raising tournament. The tournament, which has been approved by the board, would be used to raise funds to purchase pitch covers, and Foster assisted in getting three other clubs to participate.

Whim would on Sunday play in a BCB grassroots tournament at the Port Mourant Ground, sponsored by Arjune Nandu along with the home team and the Tain Campus of the University of Guyana.

Members of the club at the conclusion of the successful meeting expressed thanks to the BCB President and reassured him that they would work hard to develop their club.

Meanwhile, the Amerindian community of Orealla has ben-

efitted from two days of cricket coaching as the BCB works to promote cricket across the Ancient County. Twenty youths in the area were last weekend involved in sessions conducted by BCB Coach Junior Blair.

Emphasis was placed on improving the youths’ abilities in batting, bowling, wicket-keeping, and also on the rules of the game. The event was organised with the cooperation of the Orealla Village Council, the management of the Orealla Secondary School, and Sir Ikie Henry. BCB President Hilbert Foster has committed the board to assisting with some cricket gear for the area, and also to seek ways to get Orealla to play in junior cricket.

Coach Blair has expressed delight at the interest of the youths, and their passion for the game.

In September of 2021, CONCACAF launched an entirely new men’s club competition structure, and can now confirm that it would include a fully renamed and rebranded flagship annual men’s club tournament: the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Beginning with the 2024 edition, the CONCACAF Champions Cup will replace the Champions League as the premier men’s continental tournament, which crowns the club champion of the region and provides the qualification route to the new and expanded FIFA Club World Cup.

The name “CONCACAF Champions Cup”, which is part of a full rebrand with a vibrant and modern visual identity, is inspired by this tournament’s rich history. The brand essence is "epic battles for greatness", which symbolises how difficult this competition is to qualify for, to compete in, and to win to be crowned CONCACAF Club Champion. Since 1962, when the first iteration of this tournament was formed, 30 different clubs have won this title, which highlights how competitive it is and the great diversity of champions we have had in CONCACAF.

The original continental club competition in CONCACAF had the same name, and through its 61-year heritage (1962-2008: CONCACAF Champions Cup; 2008-2023 CONCACAF Champions League; 2024 onwards: CONCACAF Champions Cup), there have been 30 different winners of this tournament, from Club Leon last Sunday, back through a list of major clubs from Central America, North America, and the Caribbean.

CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani has said: “The CONCACAF Champions Cup will take continental club football in our region to the next level. It will elevate leagues and clubs across CONCACAF, and the new name for the competition, alongside this vibrant new brand, allows us to celebrate our rich history while looking ahead to a great future of international club football in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

“The new CONCACAF club ecosystem will deliver more of those big rivalry matchups that we know foot-

ballers want to play in and that fans want to see. Clubs across the region will have to be at their very best to compete to win the CONCACAF Champions Cup and to earn the right to represent the region in the revamped and expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which begins in 2025.”

As previously announced, the new structure also includes three CONCACAF-sanctioned regional cup competitions that will help to further grow and elevate clubs and leagues in CONCACAF These include a new CONCACAF Caribbean Cup that will crown a Caribbean champion, a new CONCACAF Central American Cup that will crown a Central American champion, and the expanded Leagues Cup between MLS and Liga MX clubs. All three regional cups will have direct qualification berths into the new CONCACAF Champions Cup.

The top clubs in North America will continue to have the opportunity to qualify through domestic leagues (Liga MX, MLS, CPL) and cup competitions (US Open Cup, Canadian Championship). In addition to expanding the competition format, and renaming and rebranding the tournament, CONCACAF will significantly increase the financial distributions and prize money for participating clubs in CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Each edition, starting in 2024, the CONCACAF Champions Cup champion will receive US$5m+ in financial distributions and prize money, an increase of more than five times compared with the CONCACAF Champions League era.

The CONCACAF Champions Cup will continue to be played in a direct elimination knockout stage format, and will be composed of five rounds: Round One, Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Final.

The first four stages will each include home and away play, while the Final, where the region’s Champion will be crowned, will be played as a single-leg match on a weekend date.

Of the 27 clubs that would participate, 22 would begin play in Round One and five would receive a bye to the Round of 16. The qualification process for the clubs will be divided per region. (CONCACAF)

The late Leon Sealey Yaw

Fruta Conquerors donned red and black ribbons in tribute of Yaw during their last outing

BCB President visits Whim Cricket Club, as outreach programme continues - club receive over $120K worth of donations - Orealla benefits from historic coaching sessions

The CONCACAF Champions Cup is set to replace the Champions League as the premier men’s continental tournament

BCB President Hilbert Foster handing over donation to the members of the Whim Cricket Club

GoG supports Raekwon Noel’s pursuits

Striving in their efforts to empower Guyana’s elite athletes, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) have made good on their pledge to financially support the international training endeavours of history-making CARIFTA Aquatics Championship five-time gold medalist Raekwon Noel.

The CARIFTA Games record-breaker met with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr, as well as Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle on May 23rd and 30th respectively. Noel etched his name in the annals of Guyana and CARIFTA swimming history as he won five gold medals at the Aquatics Championship, an event

which was birthed in 1985.

The Indiana Hoosiers commit won the 1500m Freestyle, 400m Individual Medley, 800m Freestyle, 200m Butterfly, and 400m freestyle in the 15-17 age group.

He was the only swimmer to medal at the prestigious championship and walked away with a CARIFTA re cord in the 800m freestyle as well as breaking four na tional records.

Ninvalle said, “The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, in col laboration with the National Sports Commission, had promised to facilitate and assist in the training pro gramme of Raekwon Noel, the CARIFTA Aquatics Championship record-breaker. As such, we will be shouldering a significant portion of the financial

ated with his training regimen in the United States. Quality training and international exposure are vital,

Charles to replace Motie for World Cup Qualifiers

Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Men’s Selection Panel on Thursday announced that Johnson Charles has been named as the replacement for Gudakesh Motie in the 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier tournament to be played in Zimbabwe, starting on Sunday 18 June.

Left-arm spinner Motie has not recovered from a lower back injury. Charles recently made a return to the West Indies ODI team for the ongoing three match ODI series against United Arab Emirates in Sharjah. He scored 63 in the second match, his 50th ODI appearance, and was named Player of the Match.

Lead Selector

The Most Hon.

Dr Desmond Haynes said: “We want to wish Motie the best as he continues his rehabilitation. He is one of the players whom we ex-

pect to feature in West Indies cricket going forward, so we want to see him recover fully so he can participate when called upon.”

Haynes added: “When we discussed the replacement player, we looked at the possibility of another spinner in the squad. However, we felt it was better to go with Charles. He is experienced at the international level; he will add value to the team for what will be a very important tournament; he also has knowledge of the Zimbabwe conditions, having played ODI matches there before. So, we see him as the right man for the job at this stage.”

West Indies will arrive in Harare on Saturday, 10 June, where they will prepare for the 10team tournament.

They have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Zimbabwe, Nepal, Netherlands and the USA.

West Indies face the USA in the opening Group A fixture on Sunday 18 June at Takashinga Cricket Club, followed by Nepal on Thursday 22 June at Harare Sports Club.

West Indies

meet Zimbabwe on Saturday 24 June at Harare Sports Club. The fourth preliminary match will be against the Netherlands on Monday 26 June.

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

All points won in the groups will be carried over to the Super Six stage, apart from those gained against the bottom two from each group.

The final will be played at Harare Sports Club on Sunday 9 July. The two finalists will both progress to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

FULL SQUAD

Shai Hope (captain)

Rovman Powell (vice-captain)

Shamarh Brooks

Yannic Cariah

Keacy Carty

Roston Chase

Johnson Charles

Jason Holder

Akeal Hosein

Alzarri Joseph

Brandon King

Kyle Mayers

Keemo Paul

Nicholas Pooran

Romario Shepherd

West Indies Match Schedule

All matches start at 9am local time (3am Eastern Caribbean/2am Jamaica)

Sunday 18 June: v USA at Takashinga Cricket Club

Thursday 22 June: v Nepal at Harare Sports Club

Saturday 24 June: v Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club

Monday 26 June: v Netherlands at Takashinga Cricket Club

“Raekwon Noel is a true ambassador of Guyana, and elevated the profile of his nation following his historic exploits at the Aquatics Championship, which will forever be etched in the annals of Caribbean history. The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport and the National Sports Commission remain committed to ensuring his continued improvement.”

“The NSC has committed to paying my club and coaching fees. I greatly appreciate the assistance because that is one less cost for my parents to find. I am still trying to find sponsors to cover my other costs until August 2024, when I will join the University of Indiana on a swimming scholarship.”

other tangible expression of our commitment to the development of our elite athletes.

Meanwhile, Noel, who currently resides in New Jersey, USA, said, “Training for these competitions is costly, and there are many expenses. I have to pay club and coach fees, gym fees, transportation to and from the pool, I need training gear and equipment, and nutritional supplements. I need to pay to travel to regional and other out-of-state competitions.

He further said, “I am currently training, and hope to represent Guyana at four major upcoming swimming championships. These are: (1.) World Aquatics Championship in Japan [July 14-30, 2023], (2.) World Junior Championships in Israel [September 4-9, 2023]. (3.) Pan American Games in Chile [October 20–November 5, 2023], and (4.) Olympics in Paris, France [July 26–August 11, 2024].”

GCB U-19 female cricket: Young Grimmond leads Berbice to crushing win over Essequibo

By Brandon Corlette in BerBiCe

West Indies Under-19 player Realeanna Grimmond displayed a fine all-round performance to lead Berbice Under-19 to a crushing eight-wicket win against Essequibo in the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) Under-19 female tournament.

Playing at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, Essequibo were asked to bat first, and posted 108-9 in their allotted 20 overs. A total of 61 extras propelled Essequibo to their total, as only one batter reached double figures.

Grimmond was the star with the ball as she picked up 3-19; and with the bat, the Rose Hall Canje star player scored an unbeaten 37 as Berbice ended on 1092 from 11.2 overs.

Due to overnight showers, the match started late, but Grimmond got the ball rolling by claiming a wicket in the second ball of the match. She trapped Nickesha Narine for a duck at 1-1.

A 33-run second wicket stand, which was again dominated by extras from the Berbice bowlers, saw Essequibo fight back. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, with Grimmond doing the demolition job. She was supported by Tia Isaacs and Crystal Durant, who each had two wickets. Durant had 2-16 and Isaacs had 2-22.

Skipper Ashmini Munisar was the most economical bowler of the match, as she claimed 1-9 from four overs. In reply, Essequibo bowlers were taken to the cleaners, as the few spectators, which included Berbice Cricket Board President, watched Grimmond play an array of classy shots. She struck four fours and a commanding six into the

mid-wicket boundary. Her unbeaten innings spanned 55 minutes. Isaacs, who looked promising, made a 28-ball 22 in an innings which had four bound-

Liverpool, Leah Kamala, Sadraha Ramdass, Danielle Mann and Kianna Leitch. The Coach is Tremayne Smartt, while the Manager is Erva Giddings.

aries. Captain Munisar added the finishing touches in her unbeaten 13, after she was dropped on zero. Lavina Ragobeer, who took off the wicket-keeping gloves, took 2-28 from three overs.

The second day, which is today, Friday June 9, Demerara will take on Essequibo from 09:30h, followed by Berbice versus Demerara from 14:00h. This tournament was first slated for a 30-over contest, but has been switched to T20 format.

Squads

Berbice squad: Ashmini Munisar (Captain), Realeanna Grimmond, Lakshmi Mahadeo, Daniela Hicks, Jamie Campbell, Chrystal Durant, Denillie Lindie, Darshanie Subramanie, Tiea Isaacs, Tamera George, Renata

Demerara squad: Naomi Barkoye (Captain), Sarah Amin, Nyia Latchman, Tamica Simon, Sheniya Mangra, Areah Ally, Anessa Chetram, Shoba Harnaraine, Canna Barkoye, Tilleya Madramootoo, Chelsea Latiff, Melanie Dover, Emalissa Whyte and Alliya Clarke. The coach is Heema Singh, while the Manager is Abena Parker. Essequibo squad: Cyanna Retimiah(Captain), Lavina Ragobeer (Wtk), Nickesha Narine, Roxanne Hendricks, Laurene Williams, Neesa Samuels, Qzel Sampson, Aliah Da Silva, Jayara Rodrigues, Engrid Gouveia, Anasia Mangra, Nikefa Allen, Thalia Hack and Ashanti Mohamed. The Coach is Parmeshwar Persaud, while the Manager is Navika Narine.

Berbice dominated Essequibo

Realeanna Grimmond bowling during her three-wicket haul

Raekwon Noel bagged a record 5 Gold medals at the 2023 CARIFTA Aquatic Championships

Gudakesh Motie is out with a lower back injury