Guyana Times -Thursday, July 27, 2023

President Dr Irfaan Ali, visiting the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower in Shanghai. The Head of State and his delegation were given a guided tour of the massive 1536-foot structure that creates a picture of 'twin dragons playing with pearls’ (Office of the President photo)

Govt further extends oil blocks bid round

The Government has further extended the deadline for companies to submit their bids for oil blocks to September 12, 2023, a decision it attributed to ongoing efforts to improve the sector’s regulatory framework.

On Wednesday, the Natural Resources Ministry revealed that the date for companies to submit their bids for oil blocks has been extended to September 12. It was explained that work continued to improve oversight for the oil and gas sector, making the extension necessary.

For instance, the Government intends to soon complete the new Petroleum Activities Bill 2023, for which it had solicited public feedback. This will then add to the model Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for deep and shallow blocks, completed earlier this year. According to the Ministry, once this is done, this will improve the economic measures for all licensees in the bid round.

“The Government’s continuous efforts to streamline and improve the petroleum regulatory framework and the resultant comprehensive feedback received from our stakeholders have led to this necessary extension,” the Ministry further explained.

“Whilst recognising the new era of oil and gas development and investors’ confidence in our economy, the Government is working to ensure that this competitive licensing bids and future rounds are governed by a modern regulatory framework with improved technical and institutional capacities.”

The Ministry also revealed that the bid round continues to receive strong global interest over eight months after it was launched. Initially, the Government had set a deadline of April 14, 2023 to receive bids in the oil blocks auction.

This date was then pushed back to July 15. One of the reasons for this had been the influx of applications and the increasing number of companies interested in the bid round. The Ministry explained that the intense interest in the oil blocks continued.

“The round, officially launched on December 9, 2022, continues to receive strong global interest. The Government has benefited from insightful feedback during the consultation periods of the Indicative Terms and Guidelines, the draft model production sharing agreements and the draft

Petroleum Activities Bill.

“The Ministry of Natural Resources, and by extension the Government of Guyana, remains committed to the successful execution of the Guyana 2022 Licensing Round and the strengthening of the nation’s fiscal and legal petroleum management frameworks,” the Ministry explained.

Fourteen oil blocks are up for auction, with companies required to pay a US$20,000 fee to access the data room for the auction. The sizes of the 14 oil blocks on auction range from 1000 to 3000 square kilometres (sq km). Under the new fiscal terms in the draft PSA, Guyana stands to benefit from as high as US$20 million signature bonuses for the deep-water blocks, and US$10 million for the shallow-water blocks.

…says strengthening oil framework as auction continues to attract int’l bids

The 14 blocks that will be up for auction

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, July 24 from 23:59h until Thursday, July 27, at 23:59h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, July 27 –10:45h-12:15h and Friday, July 28 – 12:10h-13:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers and sunshine are expected during the day. Clear skies and thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South SouthEasterly between 1.34 metre and 3.56 metres.

High Tide: 11:26h and 23:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.20 metres and 2.30 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 17:18h reaching a minimum height of 1.00 metre.

Day 2 of DHB closure…

On Day Two of the closure of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, the newly-built Retractor Span 9, along with ancillary equipment, was successfully installed, according to Public Works Minister Juan Edghill.

Preparations are all in place for tonight’s closure of the Demerara Harbour Bridge for a three-day period to facilitate the replacement of Retractor Span 9, and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill is confident that works would be completed within the set timeframe.

The bridge was closed to both vehicular and marine traffic at midnight on Monday for a three-day period, with reopening scheduled for 23:59h on Thursday, July 27. This was to facilitate the replacement of the aged Retractor Span 9.

The new span was built to the tune of $1.2 billion by Industrial Fabrications Inc (InFab), a local company.

Staff from Infab are assisting the DHB Corporation team with the installation of the new Span 9. These works started in the wee hours of Tuesday immediately upon the closure of the bridge.

Updating the media about the works completed so far on Wednesday afternoon, Minister Edghill took a group of reporters onto the bridge where the new Retractor Span 9 was already in place and the plates (decks) installed.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

A cable wheel to hold the hydraulic lines as well as the electrical cabin to control the hydraulics and the two towers were also positioned at the time.

“We're now waiting to put

early reopening

testing to be done

in the two arms that will lift the rack when the bridge is retracting. Once that is done, we will be able to start testing, which means to make sure the bridge is retracting and closing,” Edghill told reporters.

Asked about the time this would take, the Public Works Minister opted not to speculate, noting that the priority is to ensure the work is done correctly. However, he was quick to note that the works are on schedule, and in some instances ahead of schedule.

In fact, he explained that after the hydraulic arms are installed, the team would start testing the bridge to ensure that it is functioning smoothly during retraction. Those tests, according to Edghill, would start during the course of Wednesday night.

Early reopening

“To put everybody at ease, we are not going to go beyond the time that has been requested. We said we will finish by Thursday midnight, and the chances are we'll be opening before midnight on Thursday…

“We are scheduled for midnight (Thursday night), and if we are ahead of schedule and everything goes well, we will not twist our fingers and linger here until midnight. We know the importance of this artery and this asset, and we will give people enough notice so they can start getting ready to use the facility,” he said.

“I think people in Guyana should appreciate the serious work and effort that has been put in by our local people, because InFab is a local firm, the Demerara Harbour Bridge are all Guyanese staff. It’s all Guyanese engineers, Guyanese technicians, Guyanese welders, and this has showcased that we have capacity in Guyana to get things done. And that's something that we should celebrate, and we applaud all the people involved,” the minister stated.

Like with any job of this magnitude, the Public Works Minister admitted that there were challenges, but he lauded the alacrity of the workers in overcoming any issues that arose.

“(Tuesday night) they

had challenges, but the men push through, they worked through. That is normal in something like this. We have the skill, we have the brainpower, we have the engineers, and we have the people who know what they're doing; and I'm quite satisfied that they've risen to the challenge of getting this in place, and they are doing a fantastic job… And I need to emphasize there are lots of women who are lending support in this project, both as engineers and as well as support staff, and getting done what needs to be done,” Edghill stressed.

Maintenance works

Meanwhile, even as works are ongoing on the replacement of Span 9, the DHB Corporation team is taking advantage of the bridge closure to conduct necessary maintenance and rehabilitation works on the bridge. Those works, being undertaken by the DHB staff, are being executed on Spans 10 to 29, from Spans 30 to 38, and Spans 39 to 61.

According to DHB General Manager Wayne Watson, the works from Spans 30 to 38 have been completed, while works in the other areas are about 60 per cent done.

When questioned about the possibility of delays in these maintenance works, Watson dismissed the notion and explained that once most of the works on the Span 9 installation are completed, the assets and personnel would be redirected to assist with finishing the rehabilitation works at the two remaining sections.

Span 9 installed,

likely, retraction

…works ahead of schedule, no time extension needed – Edghill

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and DHB General Manager Wayne Watson inspecting works being done on the new Span 9

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Risk management

Dealing with risks has always been part and parcel of the human condition. We are forced to act in a world of uncertainty about whether an event – leading to good or bad outcomes – would occur. As David Hume pointed out centuries ago, we cannot even be absolutely sure that the sun would rise tomorrow, even though it has done so for eons. We can, however, believe that there is a very high probability that it would so rise, because of our experience. So, we measure risks in terms of probability, and if we are prudent, we take efforts to reduce the probability of unfavourable outcomes to our actions, and increase the favourable ones.

Risk management has always been integrally connected with survival strategies, ever since early hunters figured out it was better for them to hunt in bands. In commerce, insurance was certainly a major innovation that acted to reduce the dangers of taking risks, as was the decision by Governments to allow the formation of corporations as legal “bodies”. The latter allowed risks to be taken by individuals without their personal assets being threatened. Ever since the financial meltdown of 2008 in the developed countries, “Risk Management” has taken on a higher profile, since it is now accepted that the crisis was precipitated by financial firms practising extremely loose credit risk management. Guyanese bankers and businesses should take note.

While those man-made risks have brought us low, newer ones, such as global warming, have augmented older risks originating from the workings of Mother Nature. The extraordinary rainfall over the last year led to massive losses from floods. On global warming, last year, the COP26 in Glasgow did not actually give much room for optimism. The risks of our coastland, including Georgetown, being inundated from rising seas have increased exponentially.

Not much has changed structurally since the “UN Development Report 2014” honed in on “Risk and Opportunity: Managing risk for Development”. The issue of “risk” was placed at the centre of its efforts to stimulate development in the present aura of doubt and uncertainty that pervades the global recovery efforts. There has been, of course, the discovery of over 10 billion barrels of oil off our shores, but that does not alter the fundamental point about managing risks. In fact, Ghana ignored those lessons after they struck oil in 2007, and are still paying for their precipitate excessive borrowing. We might never be able to know the future, but we can reduce uncertainty about it.

As the report noted, there are “the missed development opportunities that arise when necessary risks are not taken. Pursuing opportunities requires taking risks, but many people, especially the poor, are often reluctant to do so because they fear the potential negative consequences. Failure to act can trap people in poverty, leaving them vulnerable to negative shocks, and even less able to pursue opportunities that would otherwise improve their well-being.”

With the world becoming ever more interlinked, leaders in every sphere of activity, but especially those at the helm of States, cannot remain passive in the face of burgeoning risks. They have to change from being “crisis fighters” to becoming “proactive and systematic risk managers”. In our own Caricom, while some countries, such as Guyana, were able to maintain healthy rates of growth even before oil was struck, most of the other members headed in the opposite direction because they refused to deal with risks posed by their macroeconomic fundamentals, such as debt-GDP ratios.

Maybe they will now take the same advice from the UN: “Protecting hard-won development gains by building resilience to risk is essential to achieving prosperity”. That is true whether one is grappling with natural disasters, pandemics, financial crises, a wave of crime at the community level, or the severe illness of a household’s chief provider. Risk can never be completely eliminated. But people and institutions can build resilience to risk by applying a balanced approach that includes structural policy measures, community-based prevention, insurance, education, training, and effective regulation.”

Are you a Barbie girl?

By Kanisa GeorGe

In 1959, a shapeshifter with somewhat supernatural powers forced the world to stop, regain momentum and spin again on its axis at lightning speed for the first time since World War II. Historians might argue that the leading cause of this phenomenon was the looming effects of the Cold War, the potential abuse of nuclear energy, and the obvious reverberating friction felt throughout divided Germany.

During this precarious time, military valour arguably wasn’t our most outstanding achievement. No, the world’s greatest source of innovation was an object made of plastic, outfitted with tulle and, for time immemorial, would house a spirit of great imagination.

When Ruth Elliot and her husband presented the first Barbie to the world in 1959, she was intentional regarding its purpose.

For Ruth, the doll was created to inspire children, particularly little girls, to “dream dreams of the future.”

What she didn’t know then was that the power of the Barbieverse would rule generations for decades, spark deep-rooted debates on race and misogyny and, most crucially, raise essential issues on feminism and a woman’s place in the world.

The world of Barbie has made several strides since it donned its black-and-white striped bathing costume with matching black high heels at the Toy Fair in New York City. Moving past the traditional eye-candy appeal that some Barbie dolls were synonymous with, a diverse line of hijab-wearing, degree-seeking, afro-hair-show-

casing dolls have now diversified the Barbie universe in a time when inclusivity matters most.

But even with so many changes in toe, it is fair to say that it’s still far from certain how these somewhat subtle yet bold changes have impacted society’s view on perfection and our ability to move forward from social constructs that have tied us to the 1960s.

The new Barbie movie has infiltrated the world of TikTok, transforming it into a life in plastic and a flash mob of pink, pink and more pink.

Not only has Greta Gerwig reignited a long-dormant flame in diehard Barbie lovers like myself who have dreamed Barbie dreams, but some believe her take on Barbie’s world has put a much-needed feminist spin on what some might call the fickle reality of a doll and by extension society.

Besides the prominent pink and fabulous world Barbie tends to represent, a lot of who she is, is steeped in confidence, self-love and a show of friendship and womanhood.

So why has the film and, by extension, the world of Barbie and what she represents plunged us into a state of divisiveness?

Varying views have either launched an attack on what they consider the feminism vs patriarchal drivel, or some engage in “the Barbie has set us back argument,” when they considered concepts like self-empowerment, our right to be heard and, most importantly, society’s perception of women.

Columnist for the UK Guardian Natasha Walter reflected on the harsh reality

faced by a plethora of women while trying to navigate the complex work-life balance and being forced to maintain a somewhat “plastic” and subversive view of beauty.

Walter wrote that the number of new, aspirational Barbies, who combine cool jobs with gleaming smiles, serve to remind us just how hard it still is even for successful and experienced women to be valued if they don’t also show doll-like qualities.

In a world in which women are told they can be anything, too often they still have to be dolls as well.

It’s a painful reality, but most women in the real world feel set up for failure if they aren’t apt at combining the accepted beauty standards with intellectual grit, which alone is more than enough for a man.

Other views of equally damming effect tend to focus on the source of the anti-Barbie narrative and whether this theme collides with dark underlying opinions about women, representation and how out of tune society is when dissecting these concepts.

Katrina Vanden Heuvel proffered that Barbie is often perceived as a symbol of female empowerment so is it any wonder that she’s an easy target for reactionary backlash?

It’s only natural that Barbie is being targeted as Mattel’s most recent slogan goes, Barbie wants girls to imagine the possibilities and for some those possibilities are unimaginable.

“Barbie and, by extension, women should learn to bat in deh crease!”

The truth is, “Barbieland, a pastel pink haven in which all problems of feminism

and equal rights have been solved,” isn’t a luxury we all have in the “real” world.

One writer believes that just like Barbie, we are yet to eradicate those boxed-in labels that are easily thrown at women that define us, restrict us and cause us to act like an immune system under threat.

Of course, Barbie has allowed us to demystify a woman’s role in society, yet in the process, just like other tools used to free us, we’ve been boxed in even more.

Beauty standards that have birthed a consensus-approved look of hips, butt and tiny waist have made us more doll-like than ever before.

Our reality, in the eyes of some, is that within the fabric of our society there are tools used to systematically make women feel bad about themselves, resulting in monstrous insecurities, anxiety and pure unhappiness.

In many ways, Barbie, just like society, forces us to construct our identities around fickle beliefs of what beauty and success should look like and as result of this we fail to accept ourselves, flaws and all.

How do we confront this perceived fallacy? It’s tricky.

For with all that we see, hear and experience daily, finding your true self in the face of counter-narratives stacked against us is not, and I repeat, is not an easy task.

But denying yourself the privilege of owning your true identity is the most dangerous thing one can do.

Negate those stereotypes, give your voice a voice and in the end maybe those peddlers trying their best to tell us what to do would no longer be as vocal. (T&T Newsday)

Replicas of some of Guyana’s main tourist attractions and historical sites on display at the Huawei’s Shanghai Research Centre, China (Office of the President photo)

Populists depend on stunts rather than hard work

Dear Editor, Yesterday I outlined some general features of populism, and linked those to the political conduct of Kaieteur News’ publisher Mr. Glen Lall. You may recall that I acknowledged that Mr. Lall is a ‘talented performer.’ I would like to expand on this point with specific reference to the strategy and style of politics associated with populists in general, combined with specific references to developments in Guyana.

Let us begin with Ray Daggers; that is, if you remember him. Only a few

months ago, he engaged in typical populist stunt by performing a so-called walk across the country to show how much he cares. As it turned out, no one else cared, and the event that was supposed to catapult him into the political arena ended in ignominy. He then tried a protest stunt in front of OP, but was swiftly relocated, and that effort imploded.

What Daggers attempted to do is typical of populists. They usually have no social base, and because of that, they rely on a series of stunts; mostly to gather attention, and then hopefully

to transform that attention into political capital. They rely heavily on the media to publicise these stunts. Many of you would recall that KN carried Ray Daggers live, and tried desperately to make him into a known quantity.

In a few days from now, another populist stunt will be attempted. People are being asked to stay at home. The objective? Well, according to Kaieteur News Blunt page, they want a Revolution (KN 7/26/2023). As a political scientist, I know something about revolutions. I can assure that

while Georges Sorel’s theory of spontaneity has a great deal of credibility, July 31, 2023 does not qualify. For spontaneity to trigger action, there must be a genuine movement grounded in grievances that have been left unattended, so much so that the very legitimacy of Government is in question. We cannot say that about Guyana. The PPPC Government has demonstrated that it has high legitimacy with the masses. The PPPC leadership from President Ali to Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Vice President Bharrat

End of the Ashura Tazia Festival in Guyana

Dear Editor,

In the observation of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, which falls on July 28, 2023, we reflect on the history of the festival in Guyana dating back to 1866.

Tazia (Tadja) festivities were celebrated annually by the small Shia population in many villages around the country up until the 1950s. This event used to be observed on the 10th day of Muharram, which is also known as the Day of Ashura, or the day of mourning to honour the martyrdom of Imam Husayn ibn Ali. He was the grandson and last family member of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (SAWS), who was beheaded by Yazid Ibn Muawiyah Ibn Abu Sufyan, the sixth Sunni Caliph and the second of the Umayyad dynasty, during “the Battle of Karbala” in present day Iraq, which took place on the 10th of Muharram in the year 61 AH; this battle is central to the Shia belief.

Due to regional linguistic differences, many migrants from Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh can’t pronounce Z, thus, Tazia becomes Taja, Nazir becomes Najeer, and Zainab becomes Jainab, etc.

Among the early Hindustanis who came to British Guiana, there was a handful of Muslims who were from the Shia sect, which was

not unusual, given that North India has a large Shia population. Those Shias brought with them the practice of Tazia, but it gradually lost its religious significance over the years.

As a result, on December 4th, 1949, the Sad’r AnjumanI-Islam and the Islamic Association of British Guiana (IABG), under the leadership of Rahaman Baksh Gajraj, Azeem Khan, Dr. Muhammad Barrakatullah Khan, S. Shabrattee, Gool M. Khan, Karamat McDoom, Abdool Rayman (Rahaman), and Moulvi Muhammad Ahmad Nasir, Abdul Daoud Hack and S. A. Sattaur, during the Second All-Guiana Muslim Conference in 1949, passed a resolution for the cessation of the festival. A copy of the resolution was forwarded to the Government for transmission to His Majesty in Great Britain.

This historical resolution read as follows: WHEREAS the observance of the martyrdom of Imam Hoosein and his family has lost entirely its religious significance; and

WHEREAS in this Colony persons of other religions take an active part in promoting Tazia, for the sole purpose of entertainment, debauchery and personal gain, all of which are contrary to the spirit and letter of Islamic Laws and regulations; and WHEREAS such

practices constitute a gross insult to the revered memory of the distinguish grandson of the Holy Prophet (SAWS), and are a flagrant distortion of these religious rites;

BE IT RESOLVED by this second All-Guiana Muslim Conference that Government be requested to pass legislation prohibiting the construction of such symbols, both actual and implied, and such other indulgences falsely associated with the observance of Tazia.

Those who wrote about the event seemed fascinated by the gathering of Muslims and an increasing number of non-Muslims partaking in these festivities, where the consumption of alcohol became part of the celebration that took on more of a “carnival-like” atmosphere, and which gradually lost its religious significance over the years.

Towards the end of the Indian Indentureship system, the festival became so secularised that its annual celebration was promoted by owners of rum shops. On the occasion of Guyana’s Independence, in May 1966, Guyanese historian P.P. Dial wrote an article which briefly touched on the Tazia celebrations 100 years earlier - in 1866. He stated that in that year it was one of the biggest celebrations ever

held in the colony, where a growing number of Creoles took part in the revelry.

The Creoles’ participation in the festival was a great concern for Churchmen and Christian priests, who feared that their flocks could gradually convert to the Muslim and Hindu faiths with their participation in the “East Indian religious celebrations (especially Tadjah and Holi) with the beating of the drums, singing and dancing in the streets.”

It was suggested that Creoles who took part in those celebrations should be jailed and whipped, and greater efforts were made by the churches, and even the Government, to prevent the Creoles from joining in Hindu and Muslim festivals.

In March of the same year (1866), one churchman expressed an opinion which was also held by most Christian priests: that they have seen the Creoles taking part in these festivals, and at all events it should not be; and that they cannot afford to allow the Creoles of the colony, who are removed ever so little from heathenism and savagery, to relapse.

May God Bless Imam Hussein’s soul!!

Sincerely,

Shabnam Ali Ray Chickrie

Govt further extends oil blocks...

FROM PAGE 2

Additionally, all future PSAs would include the retention of 50-50 profit sharing after cost recovery; the increase of the royalty from a mere two per cent to a fixed rate of 10 per cent; 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.

Earlier this year, US oil giant ExxonMobil had said it was awaiting the final

terms of the new PSA before it made a decision on bidding for the oil blocks offshore Guyana that are up for auction. When the new PSA was released in June, Exxon had already registered for the bidding round. ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge told Guyana Times that his company’s interest in the auction was fuelled by its successful oil finds offshore Guyana.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has said that companies would be expected to show their financial capacity to actually develop these blocks. As part of the oil blocks auction, companies are in fact required to define their development plan and costs and the draft Bill stipulates that if they fail to pursue work in the given timeframe, there is a penalty that is almost equivalent to the cost of the development plan.

“So, for example, if you put that you will spend US$350 million to drill three wells and then you don’t do it in the period, you’ll now have to pay US$350 million in fine… some people question that, that it may be too high… right now there is no fine,” Jagdeo had explained at a recent press conference, noting that this was one area where some industry players have expressed concerns. (G3)

Jagdeo, to the in-tune cabinet members who have been traversing this country day in and day out, and then on to the thousands and thousands of PPP activists at the regional, township and village levels, have been hard at work. The people are being listened to; have been listened.

In contradistinction to populists, who are like kangaroos that jump around all day, the PPPC have had countless outreaches in all regions in this country. I myself have been on at least two dozen of them in the past year. It is real. The people have a voice.

One thing you should know is that populist leaders, and especially authoritarian populists, generally do not belong to political parties. There is a reason for that. When you are in a political party, you must be accountable to at least senior members of the party. Right now, Mr. Norton of the PNCR is going through

a challenging time precisely because he belongs to the PNCR, and must respond to issues such as signing blank cheques. The PPP leadership must also respond to the party Executive Committee and to the membership. Populism, however, is based on one man who thinks he knows it all. He is accountable to no one. The whole thing is a one-man show.

Instead of a political party with rules and regulations combined with norms and structured expectations, the populist man behaves like a king, a king with divine rights as in the Middle Ages. Entertainer populism built around stunts will disappoint the very people who are supposed to benefit from the good works of the supposedly Blessed One. This is because populists depend on stunts rather than hard work.

Sincerely, Dr Randolph

Persaud

Dear Editor,

Well, from all accounts and reports, all is going well with the bridge repairs and river crossings at designated locations. This must be seen as the result of good planning and organising, and efficient executing.

This must be so, as there were no reports of elderly

and differently-abled persons having any issues, or of commuters being harassed, or of persons fearing for their security or safety.

The authorities must be commended.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

The authorities must be commended

Page Foundation

Converting customary units

How many feet are there in six yards? Convert the yards to feet to find out!

This table shows some of the relationships between length, weight, and capacity (volume). You can use these relationships to convert between the units. NB: Guyana’s official measurement system is the metric system; the conversions between the customary units and metric units will be covered later.

How do you convert between customary units?

To convert between customary units, follow these rules:

• To convert from a larger unit to a smaller unit, multiply.

• To convert from a smaller unit to a larger unit, divide.

Let's try an example. Convert 6 yards to feet.

You are going from a larger unit to a smaller unit. Multiply by the number of feet in a yard: 3. 6 x 3 =18.

So, 6 yards = 18 feet.

Now, let's convert 80 ounces to pounds.

You are going from a smaller unit to a larger unit. Divide by the number of ounces in a pound: 16. 80 ÷ 16 = 5.

So, 80 ounces = 5 pounds.

Converting customary units with fractions

If your units contain fractions, you can still follow the same steps.

Let's try an example. Convert ½ gallon to quarts.

You are going from a larger unit to a smaller unit. Multiply by the number of quarts in a gallon: 4. Remember to write your answer in the simplest form.

½ x 4 = 4/2.

So, ½ gallon = 2 quarts.

Converting mixed customary units

Sometimes when you divide to convert customary measurements, you get a remainder. You can use the remainder to write the answer.

Let's try it with an example. Convert 30 inches to feet.

You are going from a smaller unit to a larger unit. Divide by the number of inches in a foot: 12.

Severe weather or climate conditions can damage or devastate communities and natural environments. Extreme weather events can include heat waves, hurricanes, tornadoes, tropical cyclones, and floods and are often short-lived. Other climate-related extreme events last longer than weather events or come out of weather or climate events that go on over a longer period of time, such as drought.

Thunderstorms

Supplies:

• blue and red food colouring

• water • ice cube tray(s) for making

30 ÷ 12 = 2 R6 Look at the quotient. The 2 tells the number of feet. The

R6 tells the number of extra inches. So, 30 inches = 2 feet, 6 inches.

BY WALT WHITMAN

O Captain! my Captain! our fearful trip is done, The ship has weather’d every rack, the prize we sought is won, The port is near, the bells I hear, the people all exulting, While follow eyes the steady keel, the vessel grim and daring; But O heart! heart! heart!

O the bleeding drops of red, Where on the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead.

O Captain! my Captain! rise up and hear the bells; Rise up—for you the flag is flung—you the bugle trills, For you bouquets and ribbon’d wreaths— for you the shores a-crowding, For you they call, the swaying mass, their eager faces turning; Here Captain! dear father!

This arm beneath your head! It is some dream that on the deck, You’ve fallen cold and dead.

My Captain does not answer, his lips are pale and still, My father does not feel my arm, he has no pulse nor will, The ship is anchor’d safe and sound, its voyage closed and done, From fearful trip the victor ship comes in with object won; Exult O shores, and ring O bells!

But I with mournful tread, Walk the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead.

ice cubes using blue food colouring (make the ice cubes before you start the activity)

• clear plastic container about the size of a shoe box

Let’s get started!

In advance: Fill the ice cube tray with water and add several drops of blue food colouring to each cube. Freeze until solid.

Step 1: Fill the clear plastic container almost to the top with lukewarm water.

Step 2: Have 4 or 5 blue ice cubes to add to the water near the left side of the container.

Step 3: Right after adding the ice, squeeze eight or more drops of red

colouring into the water on the right side of their container.

Step 4: Watch what happens as the two different colours — and temperature — interact with each other.

Why does the blue ice water sink while the warmer red water rises, or stays higher than the blue?

The blue ice water is the cool sinking air. The red water is the warm air rising. How does this relate to how a thunderstorm forms?

A thunderstorm can develop when warm, moist and cold, dry air masses meet.

When the air near the ground is warmer than the temperature of the air higher up in the

atmosphere and there is high humidity, conditions are right for a thunderstorm. As the warm, moist air above the ground rises, it gives its heat to the atmosphere. The water vapor in the warm air cools, releases heat, condenses, and forms a cloud that grows as water droplets within it get bigger as more water from rising air is added. As defined by the National Weather Service, this vertical transport of heat and moisture in the atmosphere, especially by changes in wind direction (updrafts and downdrafts) in an unstable atmosphere, is known as convection.

(Adapted from startwithabook.org)

WORD SEARCH

Pres Ali’s China visit…

Chinese company Huawei to establish ICT college & research centre in Guyana

…possibility of hosting 1st Guyana-Shanghai Expo also discussed

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, whose official visit to China will see him meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, has met with officials of Chinese technology company Huawei, and it has been confirmed that an information and communication technology (ICT) college and research center will be set up in Guyana.

According to President Ali while providing an update on his bilateral China trip, he visited Huawei’s Shanghai Research Centre and met with that company’s senior Vice President Jeff Wang on Wednesday. After a tour of the facility, the two officials discussed a number of areas for cooperation, including the establishment of an ICT college in Guyana.

President Ali, who is accompanied on his trip by representatives of the local Private Sector, also discussed the Chinese company sending a technical team to assess needs of the Private Sector in Guyana.

Huawei is no stranger to Guyana. Back in 2021, President Ali met with an executive team from Huawei at the Office of the President. The visitors had included Huawei's President for Central America and the Caribbean, Cheng Peng; the Vice President for Latin America, Xue Feng; and CEO for the Caribbean office, Jin Zhefeng.

That same year, Huawei had also donated 1000 internet

boxes (500 for indoor use and 500 for outdoor use) that are capable of transferring 4G and 5G networks outdoors at over 300 metres, and just below 100 metres indoors, to more than 100 users at a time.

Shanghai President Ali has also met with the Mayor of Shanghai, Gong Zheng, during which they discussed potential areas of cooperation. These include the establishment of a Shanghai investment desk in Guyana, as well as the possibility of Guyana hosting a joint-expo with Shanghai.

The President also visited the Shanghai Planning Exhibition Hall, where he was given a guided tour of the urban planning and development exhibits.

Meanwhile, Private Sector officials who are in the President’s delegation are ex-

pected to participate in sessions with major Chinese companies.

In addition to Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd and members of the Private Sector, the President’s delegation includes Guyana’s Ambassador to China, Anyin Choo; and Presidential Advisor on Investment and Business Development, Anthony Whyte.

The visit

The visit has its genesis in Guyana’s efforts to deepen its international diplomacy. In 2022, Guyana and China observed 50 years of established diplomatic ties between the two countries. On that occasion, President Ali had noted that Chinese were not only contributors to Guyana’s development, but were also part of the country’s cultural heritage.

“Relations between

Guyana and the People’s Republic of China are imperishable. Inseparable ties with China have brought tremendous development gains, have brought our people closer together,” President Ali had said.

Further, the Guyanese leader had outlined that cooperation been the two countries straddled almost all areas of national development, including agriculture, culture, defence cooperation, education, health, information communication technology, infrastructural development, private investment, security, sport, trade, and transportation.

During his ongoing visit, President Ali is expected to have talks to advance cooper-

ation in these and new areas, and would be one of several foreign leaders who will attend the opening ceremony of the 31st summer edition of the FISU World University Games in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, from July 27 to 28.

Chinese President Xi Jinping would attend the opening ceremony, and would also hold a state banquet and host bilateral events for the foreign leaders visiting China.

Among the other foreign leaders who would be present are Indonesia President Joko Widodo, Mauritania President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani, Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye, Georgia Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, and Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

Guyana’s trade with China Trade between Guyana and China has been increasing over the past few years, and at the end of 2022, bilateral trade in goods had jumped to US$1.88 billion. This is even as China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, has said there is scope for even greater relations between the two countries.

This increase in trade was revealed in May 2023 during

the sod-turning ceremony for a $6.6 billion hospital at Bath, West Coast Berbice (WCB). The hospital is being constructed by Chinese company Sinopharm, and is one of six regional hospitals the company would be building throughout Guyana.

“Guyana has become China’s largest trading partner among (Caribbean Community) countries.

Investment by Chinese also increased, making contributions to turning Guyana’s economic potential into economic development,” Haiyan had said.

In August 2022, China’s status as a valued partner in Guyana’s development was underscored at a China-Guyana Investment Opportunities Seminar, where it was revealed that trade between the two countries for the first half of last year had totalled US$950 million.

During the seminar, Vice Chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Zhang Shaogang, had revealed that of that total figure, Guyana’s exports to China accounted for US$720 million.

The US$950 million is in fact a more than 200 per cent increase in trade between the two countries. (G3)

President Ali and Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng during their discussions on Wednesday. In the foreground are members of the local Private Sector who accompanied the President on his trip

Man convicted of chopping neighbour gets life sentence reduced to 9 years

Changes…

…in Police culture

Amale resident of Grove, East Bank Demerara, who in 2018 had been sentenced to life behind bars for chopping his neighbour, has had his sentence drastically reduced following an appeal.

Andy Boodram, called “Boy”, a 37-year-old father of three, had been tried for felonious wounding, and convicted by a jury in the Demerara High Court over the cutlass attack he had launched on his neighbour Deonarine Persaud, called ‘Anil’, on the night of September 24, 2011.

Initially indicted for attempted murder, the 12-member jury had, in March 2018, found Andy Boodram not guilty of that offence, but had instead convicted him in the proportion of 10 to 2 on the alternative

count of felonious wounding.

The Court of Appeal, in an oral judgement on Wednesday, dismissed Boodram’s appeal against his conviction, but allowed his appeal against the sentence, finding that the life imprisonment imposed by trial Judge Navindra Singh was excessive in the circumstances of the case.

As such, the life sentence has been set aside, and a sentence of nine years’ imprisonment has been substituted therefor.

Initially sentenced on March 29, 2018, Boodram has been given full credit for the time he has already spent incarcerated.

When the Court of

Appeal opened arguments in the matter earlier this year, one of Boodram’s lawyers, Dr Kim Kyte-Thomas, had asked the Judges to revisit the sentence, stating that felonious wounding is usually an offence that is tried in the Magistrate’s Court, where the maximum sentence would be five years’ imprisonment.

To support her argument, Kyte-Thomas had relied on the judgement in the matter of Bowman vs Marques, in which she said the Court of Appeal had found that 59 months in prison was a reasonable punishment for felonious wounding. That sentence, which was initially imposed by a Magistrate,

had been upheld by the Court of Appeal, she had pointed out.

“Regularly in the Magistrate’s Court, this is to ensure that we have consistency in our jurisprudence…,” she said.

“The sentence awarded for this offence will be either a fine, or between six to 18 months in prison. We believe that this [life] sentence was unreasonable and excessive in all the circumstances of the case, and we therefore urge this court to find that our client has already paid his due to society, having already served 60 months, or five calendar years [in prison],” she had submitted.

In reply, Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards, had told counsel that while they were in court to do justice, a distinction had to be drawn between the instant case and the one involving Bowman vs Marques, and the fact that Boodram’s matter had been taken indictably before a Judge and jury, and not summarily before a Magistrate only.

In response, Dr KyteThomas had submitted that the case of Bowman vs Marques had dealt with a premeditated robbery, during the course of which there had been felonious wounding, and a finger had even been severed. In the instant case, she said, there had been a fight between two grown men over loud music.

Chancellor CummingsEdwards, in responding, had noted that the Bowman vs Marques case had been tried by a Magistrate, who was constrained by law to give that sentence.

Addressing the question of the severity of the sentence, the appellate court concluded that the sentence imposed by the trial Judge was inconsistent with past sentences. After examining cases emanating from the very Court of Appeal dealing with sentences for felonious wounding and attempted murder, the Chancellor, who delivered the court’s ruling, highlighted the case of Deon Braithwaite vs The State for the offence of felonious wounding.

The legendary management guru Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast”. He, of course, was talking about business culture and its impact on management strategies for achieving their companies’ goals and objectives. But the observation holds true for all institutions, innit?? Unless you change the culture of the institution you want to be successful, even if you concoct the best strategy in the world, it’s gonna fail. And so, your Eyewitness turns his (troubled) eyes to our challenged Police Force - one of our oldest institutions, having been formed way back in 1839.

And that in itself tells the whole story about the gap between whatever strategy we have been coming up with – seemingly annually!! – to make it become professional in performing its mission to “serve and protect” us, the people of Mudland. At the time of launching of the Police Force, slavery had been abolished just the year before, and the mission of the Force was stated very explicitly – they were to serve and protect the Europeans and their allies AGAINST the folks who’d just been freed after hundreds of years of oppression!! Not without reason; after the violence they had meted out to them in those years, the whites were scared sh*tless that knock got knockback!

So, unlike their friendly Bobbies - who smiled cherubically at wayward children and only had batons to wield against lawbreakers – our Police were armed to the teeth with real GUNS. And were zealously trained to fire them against those who broke the laws - never mind that those laws were made by those same whites to declare what was “lawful” and what was not!! The culture inculcated in the Police FORCE was therefore that citizens were basically savages who’d “riot” – not “protest” - at the least opportunity. As such, the RIOT ACT could be read whenever the whites so decided, and the ranks had to open fire at will!!

This culture has remained ingrained in the Police, who’ve become the most ubiquitous arm of the state, visible to the ordinary citizen!! As we’ve been socialised to accept, this includes the ultimate power of the state - to take the lives of citizens. And while there’ve been some reforms, the militarised orientation stubbornly persists. There’s been, for decades, talk of addressing this orientation by renaming the Police as the “Police Service”, rather than “Police Force” - and changing their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS) to operationalise the “kinder, gentler” approach. But they haven’t gotten anywhere with that, have they?

The bottom line is: the Police SERVICE should be so named immediately, and the top brass should spend a hell of a lot more of their time changing its culture to operationalise that ethos towards the Guyanese people. It’s all about the culture, budday!!

…in China

There are some who scoffed when Pres Ali remarked that with our new post-oil circumstances, teeny-weeny as we are, we now have the opportunity to influence global politics. Well, the proof of the duck curry is in the eating, innit?? For one, look at all the big’uns who’ve been meeting Pressie at one forum or another. And all those even trooping to our old Mudland – which ain’t exactly been on anybody’s radar since the sixties!!

But if you still got doubts, just look at what just happened in China as President Ali touched down there in his one-week State Visit. The Chinese Politburo got rid of their Foreign Minister Qin Gang – a close confidante of President Xi – and installed an old hand, Wang Yi!! Now, no news agency has connected the dots yet…but it wasn’t no affaire with a newscaster that got him axed.

He was just too blunt when speaking to foreign leaders, and the Politburo didn’t want him rub our Pressie the wrong way!! That’s influence, pengyou!!

…in the PNC

We’ve all got a vested interest in a viable PNC for our democratic future. No…it’s not because we need aggravation, but peace of mind.

But who’s gonna wean them away from their rigging ways? A new leader??

Andy Boodram

Court of Appeal Judges: Justices Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Rishi Persaud and Dawn Gregory

Exercise Tradewinds 2023…

Partnership strengthened, bilateral relations discussed by PM, visiting US Army General

Prime Minister

Brigadier (ret’d)

Mark Phillips has reiterated the need for continued partnership between the United States (US) and Guyana, and has called for further strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown during a dinner hosted by the Commander of the US South Command (USSOUTHCOM), fourstar General Laura J. Richardson, in conjunction with the US Embassy in Guyana.

“As a country, we look forward to continuing our cooperation in all areas of defence, on economic mat -

ters and security cooperation,” said Phillips, who is performing the functions of the President.

General Richardson, who is on a two-day visit, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between Guyana and the US, particularly in military and security, and reaffirmed the US Government's ongoing support in these crucial areas.

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, was in attendance at the dinner; as were Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief of Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSM; National Security Advisor Gerry Gouveia, and other dignitaries and senior military officials.

Before her visit comes to a close today (Thursday), General Richardson aims to hold discussions with the GDF, US Embassy, and Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders, regarding the defence partnership between the US and Guyana, and their collaboration with Caricom partners.

Her visit coincided with the staging of Tradewinds 2023, a SOUTHCOMMsponsored exercise designed to strengthen partnerships between participating defence and public security forces, promote international cooperation, and uphold human rights. General Richardson is expected to participate in the closing ceremony of the exercise at the Arthur

This is not General

Richardson’s first visit to Guyana. During her visit last August, she had met

with President Dr. Irfaan Ali, key Government officials, and defence leaders.

Span 9 installed, early...

FROM PAGE 3

With only 40 per cent of the works remaining, the DHB General Manager has said, “…by 12 tomorrow, I’m guaranteeing we will accomplish that… We had to share the resources to assist InFab in ensuring (the installation of Span 9) is completed, because this is priority. So, we have to ensure that this is completed within schedule, and then we can focus the remaining time to the other areas.

“The other thing was the (work on the) High Span also was of major concern for us, but that has been completed. So, we are well ahead of time,” Watson declared.

In preparation for the three-day closure of the DHB – a critical link between the West Bank and East Bank of Demerara that connects several regions across Guyana -- alternative systems have been put in place to facilitate the transportation of people across the Demerara River.

Smooth flow

The Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) announced that, in addition to the regular Georgetown (Stabroek) to Vreed-en-Hoop crossing, two other temporary terminals have been set up along the Demerara River to facilitate the operation of water taxis to move people. These are at Grove, East Bank Demerara to Wales, West Bank Demerara, and at the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

It was previously reported that 78 passenger boats have been dispatched to operate at these three routes along the Demerara River. Water taxis were transferred from the Essequibo route to support this massive effort at the two secondary locations.

According to Director General of MARAD, Stephen Thomas, this contingency plan is bearing fruit, with orderliness being observed at all the locations. He noted that they are constantly

monitoring these three areas, and dispatch additionally boats where needed.

For instance, he related, there are buildups of passengers at Wales during the early morning hours, and so they have dispersed vessels from other locations to assist with ferrying persons over to the Grove stelling.

“The largest buildup in terms of time, persons have to wait not more than about 10 minutes, and that's just for a very, very short period of time. Once we recognize there is a buildup, we move assets from Georgetown/ Vreed-en-Hoop and we bring them here [at the Harbour Bridge] or at Wales. We shuffle them accordingly. So, we've been able to manage the situation, which we are happy to report to the nation,” Thomas stated.

MARAD personnel have indicated that they are managing “quite comfortably” with the number of water taxis, and do not see the need for an increase in vessels to operate along the Demerara River. In fact, Minister Edghill posited that they are very comfortable and satisfied with their planning and systems put in place during this three-day bridge closure.

“The movement of the people at Vreed-en-Hoop is much more orderly and smoother than when the bridge is functioning. People are exercising patience. They're waiting on each other to step on the boards.

We have put in more monitors. Safety has been there. There's not one report of robbery or theft, or anybody been harassed or bullied. The Guyana Police Force provided service 24 hours a day since this [closure] is happening,” the Minister outlined.

But even as officials laud the ‘smooth flow’ of things, some persons have expressed their frustration with the bridge closure. Persons lining up at the Harbour Bridge to use the water taxis to cross over to the western side have complained about having to pay double transportation fares.

In the past, they would take a mini bus from Georgetown to either West Bank or West Coast. However, with the bridge closed, they are forced to take a bus up to Peters Hall, East Bank Demerara, where they use the water taxi to get over to the West Side, and then have to take another transportation (bus/car) to get to their destination.

Moreover, a vendor at Stabroek Market complained that he is unable to transport all of his produce from Parika to sell. According to Shawn Persaud, “It’s been kind of tough… When I go to the stelling, them boats taking $150,000 to carry over all my [produce], and it rough… so I had to only bring over one load. I still got about five more loads left there…the boat man them don’t want to carry over everything.” (G8)

Prime Minister Mark Phillips meeting Commander of the US South Command (USSOUTHCOM), four-star General Laura J. Richardson. Also in photo is GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan

Chung Convention Centre (ACCC).

Integrated approach needed to tackle food insecurity – Agri Minister to UN food summit

As Guyana continues to adjust its National Pathway to facilitate its food system transformation, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha called for an integrated approach towards handling food insecurity within the Caribbean and Latin America at large.

Minister Mustapha made this remark on Wednesday while delivering an address at the United Nations Food Systems Summit +2 Stocktaking Moment in Rome, Italy.

This particular discussion on using National Pathways as a platform for enhancement of public policies with close support from the UN system saw case studies from not only Guyana but also Peru and Guatemala.

“Guyana strongly advocates that our approach to food security must be targeted and involve integration of the agriculture, health, education and technology sectors, along with climate change mitigation, so that food security can be better guaranteed by our efforts towards achieving our 2030 agenda,” Mustapha said.

“I think that if we can work collectively and as one region – Latin America and the Caribbean – we can be a giant force to be reckoned with,” Mustapha said.

He explained that Guyana

has already commenced bilateral engagement and work in the agriculture sector with a number of Caribbean countries, including Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Meanwhile, on the individual level, Guyana has adjusted its National Pathway document to take into account feedback from all stakeholders, including its development partners, the Private Sector, and farmers.

This National Pathway, adopted by a number of other countries, aims to identify gaps and solutions in order to fulfil the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Two being to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Minister Mustapha explained that Guyana has already implemented several measures to attain this goal.

“We have started by increasing budgetary allocations to agriculture by 150 per cent. We are investing in enhanced infrastructure – farmto-market roads, drainage and irrigation, laboratories [and] agro-processing, to assist our farmers,” Mustapha said.

“To add to this, we are addressing the input needed for our farms through a farm input distribution system [where we] provide farmers with input such as seeds, fertilisers, insecticides, small tools and equipment and breeding animals,” Mustapha added.

The Government of Guyana has also been providing financial assistance to farmers, Mustapha noted,

with President Dr Irfaan Ali recently announcing a three per cent reduction in interest rates on loans to poultry farmers.

Furthermore, Guyana also stands at the helm of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Vision 25 by 2025 in which the countries are seeking to reduce their food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

Development partners

Minister Mustapha also acknowledged the financial and technical expertise in food security, agriculture and nutrition, gained from international partners, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO); International Fund for

Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the World Food Programme (WFP).

“With FAO, many programmes supported our National Pathway, including the resilient agricultural value chain, disaster risk management, Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in agriculture, our first food security legislation, and strengthening data and statistics for monitoring our progress,” Mustapha said.

This partnership with FAO continues as Guyana is set to host the 38th FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2024.

“Similarly with IFAD, we have many projects for the improvement of livelihood and advancement of the food system [including] the Hinterland Environmentally Sustainable Agricultural Development Programme, which supports investment in the improvement of livelihoods, through income generation. access to assets, improved nutrition and adaptation to climate variability,” Mustapha said.

These measures, Mustapha explained, are seeing “great results, “because they are not being implemented in isolation of each other, but rather using an integrated approach.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

United Nations Food Systems Summit side panel

Opposition MP on $200,000 bail as indecent exposure probe continues

Miner nabbed with cocaine, ganja at Vreed-en-Hoop

Aminer is now in Police custody after being caught with illegal drugs at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD).

According to Police reports, at about 20:30h on Tuesday, ranks of Regional Division Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), acting on information received, arrested the 31-year-old miner, a resident of Tuschen New Scheme, EBE. At the time of his arrest, the miner had in his possession 38.5 grams of suspected cocaine and 13.8 grams of marijuana.

It has been reported that

stelling, who identified himself as a Policeman and requested a search of the man’s person, to which he consented. During the search, the

side pants pocket, and that bag contained three separate, white, transparent plastic bags with a whitish, rocklike substance suspected to be cocaine. Questioned about the find, the man told the ranks, “I just buy this thing from town fuh black girl”.

Former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, was on Wednesday arrested in relation to an allegation of “exposure of genitals”, an offence under the Sexual Offences Act.

Patterson, who was wanted by Police for questioning in relation to the in-

cident, surrendered himself to the Police in the company of his lawyer.

The Police have said that on Wednesday, at the Police station, Patterson was told of the allegation made against him by a member of the public, and was promptly arrested.

As this allegation con-

tinues to be investigated, Patterson has been placed on $200,000 station bail, and has been ordered to report to the investigators today. The probe continues, and upon completion, the file will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

the man was approached by one of the ranks at the

rank discovered a black plastic bag in the miner’s right-

He was arrested and taken to the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Outpost, where another search unearthed a clear, transparent plastic bag containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis in the waist of the green boxer shorts he was wearing. The cocaine was weighed and amounted to 38.5 grams, while the suspected marijuana weighed 13.8 grams. (G9)

The alleged indecent exposure that was recorded on CCTV

The cocaine that was found in the miner’s possession

The marijuana that was found in the miner’s possession

Visit to China: President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday visited the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and was given a guided tour of the 6-storey building which displays Shanghai's urban planning and development. He also visited Huawei’s Shanghai Research Centre where he met with the company’s senior Vice President, Jeff Wang. President Ali also met with the Mayor of Shanghai, Gong Zheng. The two leaders discussed several areas of cooperation, including establishing a Shanghai investment desk in Guyana and the possibility of the South American nation hosting the first Guyana/Shanghai expo. President Ali is accompanied by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd, Guyana’s Ambassador to China, Anyin Choo, Presidential Advisor on Investment and Business Development Anthony Whyte and a group of Private Sector representatives (Office of the President photos)

Guidelines being framed to fix “inconsistent, eccentric” sentencing – AG

The Guyana Government has embarked on crafting sentencing guidelines for the Judiciary to abide by, and according to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, those guidelines would be available once ongoing consultations are completed.

During his weekly programme of Issues In The News, Nandlall explained that this initiative is being commissioned by the Legal Affairs Ministry under the Inter-American Development Bank-funded ‘Support for Criminal Justice’ programme.

“[This is] a project to craft sentencing guidelines for Guyana. Examining Guyana and examining similar guidelines promulgated in the

Caribbean in particular, and then other jurisdictions; and then formulate for Guyana a peculiar and a unique set of guidelines for the Guyanese Judiciary and the Guyanese legal system that would take into account the realities of

Guyana,” the Minister explained.

However, he noted that this requires consultation with stakeholders such as the judiciary, the practising bar, the Guyana Police Force (GPF), and the Director of

Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers. According to AG Nandlall, only the Judiciary is left to be engaged.

“I believe that the consultative engagements have concluded, except with the Judiciary. Hopefully, that will be done shortly, and we can have those sentencing guidelines available for promulgation. The Judiciary is central to this process because it is the Judiciary that will have to hand down these sentences. So, an input from the Judiciary is crucial in this whole process. So, we are working on sentencing guidelines,” he stated.

The Legal Affairs Minister made these remarks in response to concerns being raised in the public about the sentencing patterns in Guyana, which

he acknowledged are not “… uniform, and they are not consistent, and sometimes they can be viewed as erratic and eccentric.”

Nandlall pointed out that this is one of the issues that he and his Cabinet colleagues are bombarded with when they go out to communities to engage citizens.

Only last month, a man who was a juvenile when he killed a Canada-based hotelier and his employee at Number 63 Village, Corentyne Berbice back in 2019 was sentenced at the Berbice High Court to serve four years in custody.

This is in addition to the series of rehabilitative orders imposed by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall after the accused had pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Upon his re-

lease after serving his sentence, the young man will be placed on three years’ probation, during which he would be monitored for good behaviour.

In accordance with the Juvenile Justice Act, notwithstanding that the felon is now an adult, he is afforded certain protections because he committed the crime while he was just 16 years old. As such, his name, address, other particulars and photograph cannot be published.

The young man was initially charged with two counts of murder for the deaths of Vivekanand Narpatty, 71, and his employee Harry Prashad, which occurred between December 19 and 27, 2019.

TURN TO PAGE 16

Man convicted of chopping...

In that case, she said, Braithwaite -- who had attacked the victim with a pitchfork and had inflicted several puncture wounds on him – had been jailed for 20 years; and on appeal, that sentence was reduced to 15 years. His victim’s left hand had been paralyzed due to the attack.

According to Justice Cummings-Edwards, although Boodram was charged under Section 57 (a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, which stipulates a sentence of imprisonment for life for anyone convicted of felonious wounding, the life sentence should be reserved for the worst cases. Boodram’s case was not one such case, she noted.

As such, the Court of Appeal has resentenced the felon; and in so doing, it considered the mitigating factors, including his age at the time the offence had been committed, the fact that he had also sustained injuries and had to be treated, and his prior unblemished criminal record.

With regard to the aggravating factors, the Court of Appeal noted the serious nature of the offence, and that a cutlass had been used to inflict serious injuries on Persaud.

Moreover, Boodram’s other lawyer, George Thomas, had argued that the trial Judge had erred in law when he admitted the oral statements to form part of the evidence, which he then relied upon in giving directions to the jury. George Thomas’s issue had to do with the Judge’s failure to rule on the voluntariness of the caution statements.

However, the Court of Appeal held that this failure on the part of the Judge can be excused, given that he had provided the jury with adequate directions on how to treat the caution statements. Besides these statements, the court said, three eyewitnesses had implicated Boodram in the crime.

George Thomas’s complaint that Justice Singh did not adequately put his client’s defence to the jury was also rejected by the appellate court, with the Chancellor declaring, “Looking at the summing up as a whole, we are of the view that the trial Judge did not neglect to treat with Boodram’s claim that it was someone else who inflicted the injuries on Persaud.”

For her part, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Mercedes Glasford, had asked the court to affirm Boodram’s conviction. She submitted, “This court should affirm the conviction which was arrived at by the jury. They [the jurors] were properly directed by the trial Judge.”

On the issue of sentencing, she had argued that the trial Judge had the necessary information before him, including the facts, and a plea in mitigation was made by defence counsel. As such, she had advanced that it was for the court to determine whether, in all of the circumstances and the facts of this case, the sentence was excessive; and whether the correct principles were applied in arriving at the sentence.

“Based on the evidence, it was an argument; but the complainant [Persaud] would have been around his car, and he was turning in the opposite direction, and when he looked around, the cutlass came in connection with his head. He received injuries, was hospitalised, and had surgeries done. So, this was a very violent attack,” she had said in recounting the facts.

Besides the Chancellor, Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud also heard this appeal, while Abiola Wong-Inniss was the other defence lawyer.

Boodram was found guilty of chopping Persaud following a trial before Justice Navindra Singh and a mixed 12-member jury at the High Court in Demerara.

FROM PAGE 8

The jury had returned its verdict on March 29, 2018, and Boodram had been sentenced on that same day.

During Boodram’s trial, Persaud had testified that Boodram, whom he had known about nine months prior to the incident, operated a shop, and would play music to entertain his customers.

However, Persaud said, he came outside and asked Boodram to lower the volume of the music, as he and his wife had a young child. He claimed that they exchanged expletives for 15 minutes after Boodram told him that he was not “turning down no [expletive] music”.

Afterwards, the victim told the court, he was speaking with a woman called Shirley, who shouted: “Anil, run! ‘Boy’ coming with a cutlass!”

Persaud said he did not run at the said time, but when he turned around, he saw “Boy” swinging the cutlass. Persaud noted that after he was chopped to the right side of his head, he used his hand to block the accused, and was dealt a chop to his hand.

“Boy” continued to broadside me even when I fell to the ground on my back,” he noted. He added that he lost consciousness, and only regained his senses at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

He said he was hospitalised until October 4, 2011, and had to undergo regular check-ups thereafter. He added that he also had surgery six months after, to fit back into place three pieces of his skull that were preserved in his stomach. He said that swelling in his head had prevented doctors from immediately conducting the corrective procedure.

Under cross-examination by Boodram’s defence lawyer Thomas, Persaud admitted that he became angry when Boodram did not want to turn down his music, but maintained that he did not attack him.

(G1)

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall SC

Accused drug trafficker granted bail after four months on remand

Peter Gordon Clarke, a 31-year-old resident of Fellowship, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara who has been accused of having in his possession cannabis sativa worth over $600,000 on February 27 last, has been granted bail in the sum of $300,000 by Georgetown Magistrate Annette Singh.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) had, in March of this year, charged Clarke with drug trafficking after ranks had intercepted him in a car in which a quantity of marijuana was found. At his initial court appearance, he was refused bail and remanded to prison. However, on Tuesday,

Clarke was released on bail after his lawyer Bernard Da Silva renewed an application for bail on his behalf.

Clarke has pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleges that, on February 27, he had 2.144 kilograms of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Man remanded for supermarket robbery

Six months after he had allegedly robbed a supermarket in Kitty, Georgetown, 24-yearold Shaquille Goodluck was arraigned on an armed robbery charge before Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus on Wednesday.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which stated that on January 4, while in the company of another and while being armed with a gun, he robbed Hamed Asmi of an iPhone 10 valued at $150,000 and of cash worth $200,000.

In objecting to Goodluck being placed on bail, Police prosecutor Quincy Lacon cited, among other things, the serious nature and prevalence of the offence, and noted that the robbery was captured on CCTV. He said a wanted bulletin had to be issued by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for

Goodluck.

Responding to the Prosecution’s submissions, the Chief Magistrate refused Goodluck bail and remanded him to prison. His case will continue on August 16 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

According to the Prosecution’s short facts, at around 19:00hrs on the day in question, the com-

plainant Asmi was at his supermarket, seated at the cash register when Goodluck and another male entered the building pretending to be customers.

They then held the proprietor at gunpoint, and relieved him of the articles mentioned in the charge before making good their escape on a motorcycle.

Goodluck was recently apprehended by the Police, and when told of the allegation, admitted to being part of the robbery, the Prosecutor has submitted.

In 2022, Goodluck was charged with illegal possession of ammunition. That charge, which was later dismissed, had stated that on September 3, 2022, at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he had in his possession three rounds of ammunition without being the holder of a firearm licence. 16

The CANU has reported that its agents intercepted motorcar PZZ 2006 at Hill Street Lodge, Georgetown, between Durban and Norton Streets, on

February 27 last.

Clarke was the only occupant of the vehicle, and a search conducted therein unearthed the cannabis in two brick-like par -

cels. He was arrested and escorted to the CANU Headquarters along with the narcotic, which is estimated to be valued at $643,200. (G1)

Robbery accused Shaquille Goodluck

The parcels of marijuana that were found in the car

Accused drug trafficker Peter Gordon Clarke

Parliamentary Secretaries’ case to be taken to CCJ

…AG underscores importance of final decision by higher court

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government has signalled its intention to further appeal Tuesday’s Court of Appeal judgement in the case of the Parliamentary Secretaries.

On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal ruled that the appointments of Vickash Ramkissoon and Sarah Brown as Parliamentary Secretaries were unlawful. The Government has wasted little time in signalling its intention, with Attorney General Anil Nandlall making it clear that Government would appeal the ruling to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

During his programme, Issues in the News, Nandlall noted the importance of settling the constitutional question surrounding the case. He acknowledged that this is not the first time the PPP/C has had cause to take a decision from the Court of Appeal to the CCJ.

“We will be appealing to the Caribbean Court of

Justice. I believe that it is imperative that we clarify this area of the law. The Court of Appeal has ruled against us, as the Court of Appeal has done on many occasions, and we have appealed to the Caribbean Court of Justice and the CCJ reversed the Court of Appeal decision,” Nandlall said. The appointments of Ramkissoon and Browne as Parliamentary Secretaries to the respective Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Agriculture were challenged in the High Court in 2020 by Opposition Chief Whip Christopher

Jones. He had contended that Browne and Ramkissoon cannot be appointed as non-elected parliamentarians, since they were named on the List of Candidates presented by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Jones’s case was first upheld by acting Chief Justice (CJ) Roxane George in 2021, and Court of Appeal Judge Dawn Gregory affirmed George’s ruling on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. In dismissing the appeal, Gregory ruled that Browne and Ramkissoon

Guidelines being framed...

Police have said that Narpatty had owned and resided at the Sun Splash Holiday Beach Resort, located at Lot 110 Number 63 Village, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). On Friday, December 27, 2019, at about 11:20h, the bodies of the two men were discovered on the second flat, in the bal-

cony area of the hotel. This newspaper was told that relatives visited the resort after several telephone calls to the overseas-based Guyanese had gone unanswered.

According to a relative, upon arrival, a stench was detected coming from the building, and this had prompted them to call the

FROM PAGE 14

Police. The body of Narpatty, who had arrived in Guyana on December 16, 2019, was found with two toes from his left foot severed; and Prashad was found with both hands tied behind his back onto a post on the balcony, and his left foot was severed from the ankle. Investigators concluded that the men had been tortured before being killed.

Since last month’s sentencing, however, family members of Narpatty have expressed dissatisfaction with the light jail term that was imposed on the teenager.

Nevertheless, the Legal Affairs Minister posited that while he cannot influence the Judiciary, a formal set of guidelines would allow the Judiciary to hand down more uniform sentences.

“I repeatedly explain that the Judiciary is independent, but that there are certain principles that govern the way sentences are formulated. It has to do with the gravity of the crime, the extent of the cruelty. It has to do with the prevalence of the offence. It has to do with extenuating or aggravating circumstances. It has to do with the age of the victim or the age of the accused person. It may be influenced by the character and reputation of either the deceased or the accused persons. All these are factors that have accumulated over the years, that have formed themselves into guidelines that judges ought to adopt in handing out these sentences,” Nandlall noted. (G8)

are not lawful members of the National Assembly, since they were on the Candidate List.

Having considered all the arguments, Justice Gregory noted that, despite the merits of the appellants’ arguments, the meaning of elected member in Article 232 of the Constitution of Guyana has been pronounced upon before, such as in the case of Trotman vs Attorney General.

Further, Justice Gregory noted that the Chief Justice acted in law and the principle of Stare Decisis by following the precedent set in Attorney General vs Morian, which

was first decided by the late Chief Justice Ian Chang in 2016, and whose decision was later affirmed by the Court of Appeal. In 2015, PPP/C member Dennis Morian had filed a constitutional motion against then Attorney General Basil Williams, SC, challenging the legality of the appointments of former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC)

Technocrat Ministers Keith Scott and Winston Felix. Felix was then the Minister of Citizenship and Scott was then the Minister with responsibility for Labour, and

they were candidates on the APNU/AFC’s List of Candidates for the 2015 General and Regional Elections.

AG vs Morian is a case that saw the late former Chief Justice Chang overturning the appointments of APNU technocrat Ministers Keith Scott and Winston Felix in 2016. Since they had both been on the APNU/AFC List of Candidates for the 2015 elections, Chang had ruled that they were unlawfully occupying their seats.

Then-Attorney General Basil Williams had appealed Justice Chang’s decision to the Court of Appeal, but had lost. (G3)

Covent Garden fire caused by electrical circuit overload – GFS confirms

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has officially confirmed that the devastating fire that engulfed three houses in Covent Garden, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was electrical in origin.

According to the GFS report, the fire was caused by an overloaded electrical circuit at the building at Lot 99 Second Street, Covent Garden, EBD.

The GFS has said that the emergency call alerting the authorities to the blaze was received at 12:38h, and water tenders and a water carrier had been dispatched from the Eccles and West

100 Second Street, Covent Garden suffered extensive damage due to heat radiat-

ternal wall, along with various household items, has been severely damaged.

The fire was extinguished through the combined efforts of four jets from water tender #115 and water carrier #14, along with two jets from Light Pump #115 utilizing an open water source.

Ruimveldt fire stations. The first responders had arrived on the scene at 12:50h, but had found the two-storey wooden-and-concrete building already consumed by flames. The property was owned by Babita Persaud, who had resided there with six other individuals.

This fire also damaged the top floor of a nearby building and two motor cars, leaving several people homeless. In addition to the primary building at Lot 99 Second Street, another two-storey house at Lot

ed from the fire. That building was owned by Bisnauth Ramcholock and was occupied by Erik Hubbard and three others. The ground floor of that building has been severely affected.

Further, a two-storey wooden-and-concrete building at Lot 98 Second Street, Covent Garden was also damaged by radiated heat.

Owned by Angela Ramsawack and occupied by several others, several louvre panes of that building were destroyed, and the entire northern in-

In light of this incident, and to prevent electrical fires and safeguard homes, the GFS is recommending several safety measures, among which are: avoiding the overloading of outlets; equipping homes with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and smoke alarms; refraining from using illegal electrical connections; keeping electrical cords away from rugs or furniture pinch points; plugging heat-generating appliances directly into outlets and not into power strips or extension cords; periodically having a licensed electrician review your home's electrical system to detect and prevent potential hazards; charging laptops and phones on hard surfaces, avoiding beds or sofas; disconnecting charging equipment when devices are fully charged, to avoid overcharging and potential battery fires; and unplugging electrical devices and appliances when not in use, in order to minimize risks. (G9)

The aftermath of the fire at Covent Garden, EBD

The Caribbean Court of Justice

Wanted bulletin issued for attempted murder suspect

Police have issued a wanted bulletin for

41-year-old Bernard Dove, who shot a man with an arrow and bow in Region One (Barima-Waini).

The wanted bulletin has been issued days after the shooting incident had taken place at Falls Top village in Region One (Barima-Waini).

31-year-old Devon Williams has been injured in that incident.

Police are urging anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Bernard Dove to make contact with any of the following numbers: 225-8196, 226-7476, 225-2317, 225-8196, 2271149, or with the Police at the nearest station.

Wanted: Bernard Dove

Reports are that on July 19, at about 23:00h, Dove attacked Dorona Williams, sister of Devon Williams, and her uncle without provocation at Falls Top village. In an attempt to defend them, Devon intervened and

Decomposed body found in house at Port Mourant

tried to chase Dove away. However, Dove returned, armed with a bow and arrow, and shot Devon before fleeing the scene.

As a result of the attack, Devon sustained a deep wound across his abdomen, and several internal organs have been left exposed. He was initially taken to the Port Kaituma Hospital for treatment, and was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for further medical attention.

The Police Commander of Region One, Himnauth Sawh, has confirmed that the incident is being treated as an attempted murder, and that investigations are ongoing. (G9)

48 Reg 9 residents benefit from job readiness training programme

…blood spots found in yard

Some 48 persons graduated from

Some 48 residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) have received certification following their completion of the Employment Attack 102 Job Readiness Summer Camp.

Organised by the notfor-profit entity Sustained Youth Development and Research Inc (SSYDR) in collaboration with ExxonMobil Guyana, this month-long programme has been crafted to equip job-seekers with the requisite skills needed to better position themselves within the job market.

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton attended the graduation ceremony, held at St Ignatius Secondary School on Friday last, alongside CRMA Officer Yolanda

Grant, ExxonMobil Guyana

Production Manager Mike Ryan, and Region Nine Regional Chairman Bryan Allicock, among other regional officials.

The training programme included a seven-module work-ready curriculum in which students learnt about personal development, interpersonal communication, work habits and conduct, leadership and teamwork, safety and health, rights and duties, and financial fitness.

It also renders use of the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency's (CRMA)

services to assist students in seeking employment, including four months of mentoring.

Notably, the CRMA is mandated to match suitably qualified persons with existing vacancies; canvass for job vacancies for possible placement for job seekers; maintain an accurate record of notified vacancies; and provide

1,051 have been trained under the SSYDR job-readiness initiative.

In 2019, ExxonMobil Guyana invested some $12 million to support the first Employment Attack 102Job Readiness Camp, with its main goal being to reduce youth vulnerability to poverty, crime and violence in certain communities.

Police in East Berbice (Region Six) are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of 39-year-old Ameer Ally Hoosein, called ‘Mudda’, whose partly decomposed body was discovered at his home at John’s, Port Mourant, Corentyne on Wednesday afternoon.

Hoosein’s aunt Monica Mohan, a rural constable, has said that at some time after 16:00h on Wednesday, Hoosein’s neighbours had told her they had not seen her nephew since Sunday.

“When I go, I checked through the window, but from the bridge I see blood. In front of the door had blood, and when I went to the back, they have blood and a plate, and he lie down flat with his face down; and he swell,” the woman said.

The body was discovered

in the lower flat of the building, which he had occupied, and the Police were summoned.

Neighbours had reportedly last seen Hoosein on Sunday. One neighbour said she had called out to him to give him some food, but she had got no response.

Hoosein has been described as someone who used to run errands for villagers, and did odd jobs. He had been living with his aunt after being deported from the United States more than 20 years ago, but had moved to the house wherein he was found about 18 months ago, and had been living there up to the time of his demise.

According to his aunt, a villager who lives overseas had given Hoosein permission to occupy the vacant house.

Mohan said she did not

approve of the friends that her nephew had been hanging around, and had on many occasions been forced to rebuke him for various reasons. That was one reason why he had taken up the offer to move into his residence. However, she said she had never seen her nephew using illegal drugs, but she believes that foul play may have been involved in his death.

Region Six Police Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus has said the body was examined for marks of violence, but due to the state of decomposition, none could be seen. The body was escorted to the Port Mourant Hospital, where it was officially pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty, and was transported to the Ramoo Funeral Parlour where it was stored to await post morten examination.

(G4)

Labourer's body found floating in canal

nal at Hope Lowlands. She went to the location, and identified the body as that of her reputed husband, Yashpaul Thomas.

Police say an initial examination of the body has revealed no signs of vio-

lence. The body has been taken to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it awaits a post-mortem examination. Investigations into the incident are currently underway. (G9)

Dead: Yashpaul Thomas, known as 'Ashkay'

The body of Yashpaul Thomas, known as 'Ashkay', a 26-yearold labourer of Hope Lowlands, East Coast Demerara, was discovered floating in a canal on Tuesday morning.

advice, career guidance, and counselling to those seeking employment.

An online National Job Bank launched by the CRMA last March has allowed hundreds of persons to secure employment. Over 10,000 persons have graduated from the Labour Ministry’s skills-training programmes countrywide, while some

Minister Hamilton also visited the Lethem Training Centre of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) to oversee its current activities for this year.

He was joined by work study students assigned to the Ministry, who gained firsthand knowledge of how Ministry personnel worked in the field.

Police Headquarters in a report described Thomas as "a known alcoholic." He had lived with his 39-year-old reputed wife. According to the woman, Thomas left home for work on Sunday, but never returned; and despite the area being searched, he could not be found.

On Tuesday, at around 08:20h, the woman went to the Cove and John Police Station to make a missing person’s report; and while there, she received news that the body of a male was discovered floating in a ca-

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton visiting the Training Centre of the Board of Industrial Training in Lethem

The house at John’s Port Mourant in which the body was found

Dead: Ameer Ally Hoosein, called ‘Mudda’

Regional

OAS chief flags “clear interference” in Guatemala election ahead of visit

The Organisation of American States (OAS) chief Luis Almagro will meet with authorities and politicians in Guatemala next week, he said on Wednesday, as concerns escalate over alleged Government interference in the upcoming presidential runoff vote.

After candidate Bernardo Arevalo won a surprise second place in the initial round in June, Guatemalan authorities halted processing of the results and temporarily ordered the suspension of his anti-corruption party, Semilla, spurring international criticism.

Arevalo's close finish behind former First Lady Sandra Torres shocked Guatemala's political establishment and catapulted the unlikely contender into a strong position to win in the August 20 runoff, analysts say.

OAS head Almagro is set to arrive in Guatemala on Monday at President Alejandro Giammattei's in-

vitation, and seek meetings with Arevalo and Torres, as well as other politicians and Government representatives.

The OAS, which monitored the first round, had backed the results as legitimate.

"We have expressed ourselves emphatically on multiple occasions against the repeated attempts to alter the will of the people and the

Ecuador recovering remains after prison violence, death toll unclear

Ecuador's Police said on Wednesday they had recovered 11 bodies and 29 body parts after retaking control of various cell-blocks at a prison in Guayaquil where members of different criminal groups fought over the weekend.

The forensic effort at the Penitenciaria del Litoral prison is continuing to determine the official death toll, Cesar Zapata, the police director of citizen security and public order told Journalists.

The figure seemed to contradict that given on Tuesday by the country's Attorney General's office, which tallied 31 prisoner deaths.

"We are carrying out a collection and verification of the exterior and interior to

be able to determine exactly how many bodies there are," said Zapata, who added authorities were confirming whether the body parts belonged to already-recovered remains.

This week's latest surge of prison violence comes during campaigning for August 20 elections, with some presidential candidates pledging prison reforms.

Seventeen prison guards held hostage at a jail in the city of Esmeraldas have been released, the Government said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon, adding it was continuing efforts to keep the facilities under control.

More than 100 prison officers held in jails around the country were freed on

Tuesday, and SNAI said prisoners had lifted hunger strikes held at some facilities.

The 2700 soldiers and police officers who entered the Penitenciaria del Litoral prison confiscated high-calibre weapons, including grenade launchers; drugs; cell phones and bullet-proof vests.

The disturbances led President Guillermo Lasso to declare a 60-day state of emergency for the country's prisons and allow the military to help retake control.

Lasso has regularly declared states of emergency in the country's prisons as he tries to tackle violence that has surged since 2021, claiming the lives of at least 400 prisoners.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

attacks on the electoral authorities," Almagro said in a special OAS session to discuss the election.

"This is an electoral process that has suffered clear interference of internal actors that hindered its normal development," he said.

The head of Guatemala's electoral court, Irma Palencia said she has asked the OAS to continue monitoring the election. (Reuters)

Dominica: Budget presented to Parliament

The Dominica Government on Tuesday presented an EC$1.3 billion budget to Parliament outlining a range of new taxes and indicating that social programmes currently in place to support the vulnerable, would continue.

Finance Minister Dr Irving McIntyre, in his fist budget presentation to Parliament following last December’s General Election, said that for the 2023-24 fiscal year, recurrent expenditure would total EC$639.6 million, while capital estimates had been pegged at EC$701.6 million.

“I must emphasise that, although the recur-

rent budget for this fiscal year has been reduced, all of Government’s social programmes which are currently in place to support

“Unfair and unbecoming”: Jamaican Minister blasts Opposition for DPP comments

the vulnerable will continue, including the public assistance programme, the foster care programme, the care of our juveniles…our centenarian programme, the 65 and over non-contributory pension programme and …the yes we care programme.”

McIntyre said that the Roosevelt Skerrit government would also continue to support the non-government institutions which care for the most vulnerable, particularly, senior citizens, and begin implementing the recommendations made by the recently appointed National Advisory Board for Health and Social Care of the Elderly.

(Excerpt from CMC)

S&P gives T&T a stable outlook

Standard & Poor’s, the rating agency, has given Trinidad and Tobago’s BBB credit rating a stable outlook.

Up until July last year, the credit rating had a negative outlook, however, the Finance Ministry in a statement said, “Trinidad and Tobago’s economic and financial performance along with its institutional stability helped to stabilise the

outlook thereafter. This stable outlook has now been reaffirmed.”

S&P mentions that ‘the credit rating reflects Trinidad and Tobago’s favourable external profile and stable democracy. It also reflects still-solid government financial assets that mitigate the effect of economic cycles on fiscal and external performance’. It also notes that, faced with

a propitious situation in 2022, the Government ‘used the surplus to accelerate Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds and contribute to the Heritage and Stabilization Fund (HSF)’.

S&P does not expect “net debt [to] rise materially, and to remain below 30 per cent of GDP, supported by assets held in the country’s HSF”.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Following the amendment of the Constitution to increase the retirement age for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the Auditor General (AuG), Justice Minister Delroy Chuck on Wednesday said the comments made by the Opposition in Parliament questioning the integrity of the DPP’s office were “unfair and unbecoming”.

Chuck said that the incumbent Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Paula Llewellyn has “never shown in any of her rulings that she has been partisan, political, influenced by any outside forces and to hear these imputations against her office, is quite unfortunate.”

“I’m very disappointed that the Opposition and others should impute any mo-

tive why this amendment was done so quickly. It was on the cards from 2016/2017. And, regrettably, for the leader of the Opposition in Parliament to impute that there are six parliamentarians who are being questioned from reports of the Integrity Commission (IC) and the Director of Public

Prosecution can overrule but the Director of Corruption Proceedings in the IC can do is so unfair and unbecoming,” Chuck said.

Chuck noted that the DPP, during her tenure, has exercised professionalism, integrity and commitment to her work. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

El Salvador backs mass trials for thousands held in crime crackdown

El Salvador's Congress on Wednesday approved group trials for the tens of thousands of people arrested during President Nayib Bukele's crackdown on criminal gangs, which has given the country one of the world's highest incarceration rates.

The legislation will allow Prosecutors to simultaneously try up to hundreds of people alleged to be part of the same criminal group or from the same area of the Central American country.

El Salvador has been under a state of emergency for

16 months, sparking the arrest of over 71,900 alleged gang members. Some 6000 people have been released, official data show.

Lawmakers from Bukele's New Ideas party, which has a majority in Congress, said the measure seeks to boost order and efficiency. It passed by 67 votes in favour and six against.

Justice Minister Gustavo Villatoro says up to 900 defendants from the same group could be prosecuted at a time.

The state of emergency has been popular among Salvadorans. Proponents

point to a significant drop in homicides and crimes such as extortion and drug dealing.

But the policy has drawn criticism from Salvadoran and international rights groups, who say it has led to human rights abuses such as torture, deaths in custody, and arbitrary detentions, particularly of young men in poorer neighbourhoods.

The lawmakers who passed the measure said people found not to have links to gangs should be released. (Excerpt from Reuters)

OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro (Reuters/Lauren Justice file photo)

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck

Dominica’s Finance Minister, Dr Irving McIntyre

Around The World OIL NEWS

Ukraine counteroffensive is moving, US says while pledging support

Oil falls 1% after Fed rate hike, smallerthan-expected US crude stock draw

Oil prices fell about one per cent on Wednesday, after data showed US crude inventories fell less than expected and the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point.

Brent crude futures closed down 72 cents, or 0.9 per cent, at US$82.92 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled at US$78.78, down 85 cents, or 1.1 per cent.

Both benchmarks fell by more than US$1 earlier in the session, after hitting three-month highs on Tuesday.

The rate hike, the Fed's 11th in its last 12 meetings, set the benchmark overnight interest rate in the 5.25 per cent-5.50 per cent range, and the accompanying policy statement left the door open to another increase.

Higher interest rates increase borrowing costs for businesses and consumers, which could slow economic growth and reduce oil demand.

Meanwhile, US crude inventories drew down by 600,000 barrels last week, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), compared with estimates for a draw of 2.35 million barrels. Industry group American Petroleum Institute (API)figures had indicated a 1.32-million-barrel build.

Gasoline and diesel stocks also drew less than expected, EIA data showed.

"The drawdowns weren't all that spectacular. It was a neutral to bearish report, plus the Federal Reserve rate hike can have a dampening hit on demand and prices," said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York.

Oil prices have rallied for four weeks, buoyed by signs of tighter supplies, largely linked to output cuts by Saudi Arabia and Russia, as well as Chinese authorities' pledges to shore up the world's second-biggest economy.

Although the market expects Saudi Arabia to roll over its August output cuts to September, sources told Reuters on Wednesday that Russia is expected to significantly increase oil loadings in September, bringing to an end steep export cuts.

Meanwhile, concern is high over whether China, also the world's second-biggest oil consumer, will deliver on its policy pledges.

"We still need to wait for actual policies – the risk is that these policies fall short of expectations," said ING head commodities strategist Warren Patterson.

"The market will continue to be in a tug-of-war between tightening global supply and fears of slowing demand due to the global economic slowdown," Hiroyuki Kikukawa, President of NS Trading, a unit of Nissan Securities, added. (Reuters)

Niger soldiers announce coup on national TV

Soldiers have gone on national TV in Niger to announce they have carried out a coup.

They said they had dissolved the Constitution, suspended all institutions and closed the West African country's borders.

Niger President Mohamed Bazoum has been held by troops from the presidential guard since early on Wednesday.

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken conveyed Washington's "unwavering support" in a call to Bazoum.

United Nations Secretary General António Guterres also said he had spoken to the President and offered the full support of the UN to him.

Bazoum is a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa.

In the TV announcement on Wednesday, Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane,

Ukraine's counteroffensive is "not a stalemate" even if it is not progressing fast enough, White House national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday.

Kirby made the remarks when asked about the pace of Ukraine's counteroffensive in a press briefing.

"President Zelenskiy himself has said … that it's not progressing as fast as he would like and they're not moving as far every day as they would like. The United States is not going to take a

position on that," Kirby said.

He added: "That said; they are moving, it's not a stalemate. They're not just

Acclaimed and outspoken Irish singer Sinead O’Connor dies at 56

frozen. The Ukrainians are moving."

The White House national security spokesman said Washington would "make sure that they (Ukrainians) have the kinds of tools and capabilities they need to stay on the move."

More than US$43 billion in US military aid has been provided since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. The US Department of Defence announced US$400 million in additional security

assistance for Ukraine earlier this week, including air defence missiles, armoured vehicles, and small drones.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday that while Ukraine has recaptured half the territory that Russia initially seized in its invasion, the counteroffensive was in its early days and would take shape over "several months".

Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities are investigating whether a Member of Parliament broke the law when he took a family holiday to the Maldives.

Officials are banned from travelling abroad on holiday, while men of conscription age need special permission to leave the country.

The security service opened a criminal case to assess whether Yuriy Aristov gave false information to authorities.

(Excerpt from Reuters and BBC News)

Plea deal for President Biden's son collapses in dramatic court hearing

Irish singer-songwriter

Sinead O’Connor, known for her 1990 global hit “Nothing Compares 2 U”, has died at the age of 56.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinead. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time,” Irish national broadcaster RTE quoted a statement from the singer’s family as saying on Wednesday.

2022.

O’Connor was also vocal about her political stance against the Catholic Church. She will be remembered in some quarters for ripping up a photo of Pope John Paul II during a television appearance on “Saturday Night Live” in October 1992.

For many years, she called for a full investigation into the extent of the church’s role in concealing child abuse by clergy.

An agreement expected to see US President Joe Biden's son, Hunter, plead guilty to tax charges and admit a gun offence has dramatically fallen apart in court.

The plea deal, negotiated over several weeks, was likely to spare the younger Biden prison time.

But a Judge on Wednesday said she could not "rubber stamp the agreement".

Department has charged the child of a sitting President.

Hunter Biden's lawyers have been given 14 days to hash out a new deal with the Prosecution.

It follows a five-year investigation into the finances of the US first son, who arrived on Wednesday morning at the court in Wilmington, Delaware.

with nine other uniformed soldiers behind him, said: "We, the defence and security forces... have decided to put an end to the regime you know.

"This follows the continuing deterioration of the security situation, and poor economic and social governance."

He also said that all of the country's institutions had been suspended and that the heads of the ministries would take care of dayto-day business.

"All external partners are asked not to interfere," he went on. "Land and air borders are closed until the situation has stabilised."

He added a night curfew would take effect from 22:00 until 05:00 local time until further notice.

He said the soldiers were acting for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CLSP).

(Excerpt from BBBC News)

She crashed onto the global music scene at the beginning of the ’90s with her mesmerising version of the song originally written by pop icon Prince, facing directly into the camera for the music video that has subsequently been viewed almost 400 million times on YouTube.

“Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare,” Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar posted on messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, sharing his condolences with “all who loved her music”.

O’Connor changed the image of women in music in the early 1990s.

Her shaved head, pained expression, and shapeless wardrobe were seen by many young women as a direct challenge to popular culture’s long-prevailing notions of femininity and sexuality.

The gifted singer was known for speaking up about her struggles with mental health issues, especially after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Her teenage son Shane died by suicide in

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

The case marks the first time the Justice

“Grateful” Kevin Spacey cleared of sex assault charges

Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey wept in court as he was cleared of all charges in his sexual assault trial in London.

Jurors at Southwark Crown Court returned not guilty verdicts for nine sexual offence charges relating to four men between 2001 and 2013.

Speaking afterwards, Spacey said he was "grateful" to the jury as he thanked them for their deliberations – which took more than 12 hours.

Outside the court the Oscar winner added he was "humbled".

The US actor was acquitted of seven counts of sexual assault, one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent and one count of causing a person to engage in penetrative

sexual activity without consent.

After the verdict was read, he put his hand on his chest, looked at the jurors and mouthed "thank you" twice before they left the room.

Addressing Journalists on the court's steps Spacey said there was "a lot for me to process".

"I would like to say that I am enormously grateful to the jury for having taken the time to examine all of the evidence and all of the facts carefully before they reached their decision," he said.

"I am humbled by the outcome today. I also want to thank the staff inside this courthouse, the security, and all of those who took care of us every single day."

(Excerpt from BBC News)

In a plea agreement announced last month, he was to be charged with two misdemeanour counts for failing to pay his taxes on time in 2017 and 2018.

He was also to admit that he had illegally possessed a gun while being a drug user, and agree to drug treatment and monitoring in lieu of a more serious felony charge and possible jail time.

But during the threehour hearing, US District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika questioned whether the deal would also provide Hunter Biden with immunity from crimes he could be found liable for in the future.

She said the agreement contained "non-standard terms" and its proposed resolution for the gun possession offence was "unusual".

Officials with the Justice Department are still investigating whether Hunter Biden violated federal laws that required him to register as a foreign agent while working in China and Ukraine during his father's vice-presidency, CNN reported. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Irish singer-songwriter Sinead O'Connor, known for her 1990 global hit “Nothing Compares 2 U”, has died at the age of 56 [File: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters]

(March 21-April 19)

Attend events that enrich your mind. Turn what you enjoy doing most into a lucrative endeavor. Make your feelings and intentions clear, and answer important questions.

What you should do and what you want to do will clash. Schedule your day carefully to ensure you take care of responsibilities and have time left over for pleasurable pastimes.

(April 20-May 20)

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(July 23-Aug. 22)

Set your priorities and head for the finish line. Put pressure where necessary and you’ll outmaneuver anyone in your way. Don’t expect support; you must rely on yourself to avoid setbacks.

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PEANUTS

CALVIN

ODI World Cup…

Big-ticket India v Pakistan contest could be rescheduled

October 19 in Pune.

As for Pakistan, they play Netherlands in Hyderabad on October 6, the second day of the tournament, and Sri Lanka on October 12, also in Hyderabad, before playing India, followed by their fourth game, against Australia in Bengaluru on October 20.

Therefore, in case the game moves to October 14, Pakistan will have just a day between their games in Hyderabad and in Ahmedabad, while India will have a two-day gap.

In a move that could impact the overall One-Day International (ODI) World Cup schedule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering moving the most high-profile match of the tournament – India v Pakistan in Ahmedabad –from October 15 to October 14.

The reason for the change, ESPNcricinfo has learnt, is that October 15 is also the first day of the Hindu festival of Navaratri, and the local Police has told the BCCI that it would

find it difficult to take care of security on the day.

It is understood that the BCCI has alerted the International Cricket Council (ICC) about the issue, but no concrete decision has been taken yet. The BCCI is expected to have a meeting with all the state associations that are hosting World Cup matches today, Thursday, July 27 before a final call is taken.

The original World Cup schedule has October 14 down as a double-header day:

England play Afghanistan in a day match in Delhi and New Zealand play Bangladesh in a day-night game in Chennai. Incidentally, there are no triple-headers scheduled, though there are two matches on six days.

India, who open their World Cup campaign on October 8 with a game against Australia in Chennai, would also play Afghanistan on October 11 in Delhi before the game against Pakistan, while their next fixture is against Bangladesh on

Messi scores twice on 1st Inter Miami start

The development comes roughly a month after the BCCI announced the World Cup schedule, which itself was severely delayed. While the BCCI has not yet announced any information on when match tickets will go on sale, fans and other stakeholders have already booked flights and hotels in Ahmedabad for the match, which has historically been one of the mostwatched sporting events globally. (ESPNcricinfo)

NBA’s Brown, NFL’s Herbert sign record-breaking deals

Kylian Mbappé may be about to become the most expensive footballer of all time – but in the United States two financial records have just been smashed. While we await the outcome of Al-Hilal's world record £259 million bid for Paris St-Germain forward Mbappé, lucrative contracts have been agreed in both the NBA and NFL.

Jaylen Brown has signed the richest deal in NBA history, agreeing a US$304 million contract to remain at Boston Celtics, according to reports. Meanwhile, Justin Herbert's new five-year, US$262.5 million extension with the Los Angeles Chargers will make the quarterback the NFL's highest-paid player by annual salary, insiders say.

Brown's five-year Celtics contract exceeds reigning NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic's US$264 million deal at Denver Nuggets, which he signed last summer.

The two-time All-Star, 26, averaged career bests in points (26.6), rebounds (6.9) and assists (3.5) during 2022-23 as Boston reached the Eastern Conference finals. Brown, the third pick in the 2016 NBA draft, will earn US$28.5 million next season before his extension begins in 2024, when he will average

US$60.8 million per year.

Team-mate Jayson Tatum is eligible for his own supermax extension next summer – which allows a team to re-sign qualified players on deals worth up to 35 per cent of the salary cap, to maximum five-year conBrown and Tatum combined for 56.7 points per game last season, which is the fourth-most by a duo since the competition's 1976-77 merger.

Herbert's Chargers contract surpasses the US$52.5 million average annual salary of Lamar Jackson, who signed a five-year, US$260 million extension with the Baltimore Ravens this offseason.

The 25-year-old is the only quarterback to top 4000 passing yards in each of the first three seasons of their career – and no player in NFL history has made more completions (1316) over the first three campaigns. From Eugene, Oregon, Herbert was the sixth pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and was named the NFL's Rookie of the Year 2020-21 following a record-breaking season in which he became the youngest player to throw 30 touchdowns in a single season. He still had two years remaining on his rookie contract, which would have paid him about US$8.5 million this season.

FIFA Women’s World Cup…

Lionel Messi scored twice and assisted once on his first start for Inter Miami in a 4-0 win over Atlanta United.

The Argentina star, 36, scored two inside the opening 22 minutes before setting up team-mate Robert Taylor in the second half.

After netting his second, Messi celebrated by pointing at Inter Miami owner David Beckham.

His performance follows a match-winning stoppage-time free-kick on his debut last week.

"He can do everything on the ball. He can keep it in tight spaces, and he makes the right decision 100 per cent of the time," said Taylor.

"Most of the time he'll find one of his team-mates. He brings so much quality to the team, so much. I mean, he's the best player in the world.

"This is what he does – he scores two goals, he scored last game, gets another assist. It's a dream come true to play with him."

Messi, who is a seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, only trained with his teammates for the first time last week after moving to the Major League Soccer (MLS) side following the end of his contract at Paris St-Germain.

The 2022 World Cupwinner scored 32 goals in

75 games during a two-year spell with the French champions and turned down lucrative offers from other countries to play in the US.

Messi opened the scoring in the ninth minute, firing home a rebound from his own shot after controlling a ball over the top from former Barcelona team-mate and fellow new arrival Sergio Busquets.

He doubled the lead 13 minutes later, combining with Finland midfielder Taylor to slot home a low cross from close range.

Taylor added a third before half-time, before Messi put the 28-year-old through on the break in the second half to complete the scoring.

Messi was substituted in the 78th minute to a standing ovation, with a number of fans leaving the 20,000-seat DRV PNK Stadium shortly afterwards.

"I really didn't notice. However, with the type of player he is, it's justified that this happens," said Inter Miami Head Coach Gerardo Martino.

"I would have preferred that the public stayed and pay tribute to the entire team, but I can also understand it."

The win saw Inter Miami move into the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup. (BBC Sport)

Ireland knocked out after Canada defeat

Ireland crashed out of the Women’s World Cup after Canada came from behind to beat them 2-1 on Wednesday.

Spain and Japan reached the last 16 with a game to spare.

Here, the PA news agency takes a look at all of Wednesday’s action.

Spain cruise into last 16

Jenni Hermoso and Alba Redondo scored twice as Spain thumped Zambia 5-0 to reach the last 16.

One of the tournament favourites made the knockout stages with a game to spare, having already beaten Costa Rica in their first match.

Teresa Abelleira opened the scoring before Hermoso and Redondo took charge as

Spain eased to victory.

Japan ease past Costa Rica

Japan also qualified for the last 16 with a routine win over Costa Rica.

Quickfire first-half goals from Hikaru Naomoto and

Aoba Fujino saw the 2011 champions through.

Japan and Spain will battle it out for the top spot in their final Group C game when they face each other on Monday.

Canada fight back to break Irish hearts Ireland bowed out of the tournament after Canada came from behind to win in Group B.

Captain Katie McCabe gave Ireland the lead when she scored straight from a corner after just four minutes.

Megan Connolly’s own goal levelled just before half-time and Adriana Leon grabbed Canada’s winner eight minutes after the break.

Up next Group E: USA v Netherlands (02:00am, Wellington Regional Stadium)

Group E: Portugal v Vietnam (8:30am, Waikato Stadium)

Group B: Australia v Nigeria (11:00am, Brisbane Stadium) (Sportsmax)

India and Pakistan last met at the T20 World Cup in 2022

A look at the action from the Women’s World Cup game between Canada and Ireland

His new deal may not remain the NFL's highest for long as Cincinnati Bengals quarter-

back Joe Burrow is due for an extension, which could top Herbert's figure. (BBC Sport)

NBA player Jaylen Brown and NFL quarterback Justin Herbert have both signed historic deals

Lionel Messi has scored three goals in his first two games for Inter Miami

Guyana control Trinidad and Tobago after Rampersaud’s 5-for

Rampersaud bagged 5-16 in 11 overs as Trinidad and Tobago declared on 95-6 in 37 overs.

Owing to no play on day one, Trinidad had declared with the intention of getting a result in the game. However, things did not go to plan as wicketkeeper-batter Yearwood stood tall for Guyana with 52. The Guyanese ended on 152-4 at stumps on day two.

Digicel Schools’ Football Championships…

Region 7 finals on today

…National

Round of 32 begins Saturday

School football will take centre stage once again today as the Digicel Schools Football Championships resume with the staging of the Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) finals.

Asecond consecutive five-wicket

haul from off-spinner Jonathan Rampersaud and a half-century from Shamar Yearwood helped

Guyana Under-19s to a 57run lead over Trinidad and Tobago. Playing in round two of the West Indies Regional U-19 three-day tournament in St Vincent,

Joash Charles was the other Guyanese bowler with success as he claimed 1-13 in five overs. In addition to Yearwood, skipper Mavendra Dindyal made 38. The in-form Zeynul Ramsammy is unbeaten on 16 along with Rivaldo Clarke. The duo will resume the third and final day with a lead of 57 runs. The Trinidad bowlers had shared the wickets among themselves on what was described as a flat surface in Sion Hill, St Vincent.

Fraser-Pryce's injured knee raises doubts about world title defence

As the highly-anticipated 2023 World Athletics Championships draw near, all eyes are on the legendary sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.

With an incredible record of five 100m world titles under her belt, Fraser-Pryce's quest for a sixth crown has been the talk of the athletics world. However, recent knee injury concerns have raised doubts about her chances of defending her title.

In May, Fraser-Pryce suffered a knee injury during her training stint in Kenya. Despite the setback, the determined athlete refused to be deterred. She showcased her resilience by running times of 10.82 seconds in Lucerne last Thursday and 10.83 seconds in Madrid three days later. However, the question lingers – has her injury jeopardised her chances of clinching another gold?

As the competition heats up, Fraser-Pryce faces fierce opponents, each vying for the coveted top spot on the podium. Gold medal contenders such as Shericka Jackson (10.65); Sha’Carri Richardson (10.71) and Marie Josee Ta Lou (10.75) have all posted impressive times this season, times that FraserPryce has yet to achieve this season.

Fraser-Pryce's comments after her race in Madrid on Sunday have fuelled concerns about her fitness level. When asked about her recovery, she candidly admitted, "If I'm being truthful, then it's no, it's not 100 per cent, but you know it is what it is."

Despite the uncertainty surrounding her injury, the Jamaican sprint queen remains focused on the task at hand.

Acknowledging the

formidable competition she faces, Fraser-Pryce recognises that other athletes are in peak form. However, she remains undaunted, mentally preparing herself to give her all on the starting line.

"There are so many other athletes that I think I are dealing with different things," she stated, emphasising her determination to perform at her best.

For Fraser-Pryce, the key lies in focusing on what she can control. While her injury recovery may not be at full strength, she refuses to let it define her performance. "I just focus on what I can do and maximising on those things," she asserted.

As fans and fellow athletes eagerly await the World Championships, the burning question remains – will Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce's indomitable spirit and sheer talent be enough to secure a historic sixth 100m world title? Only time will tell as the

At the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong) Secondary and Bartica Secondary will go head-to-head to find out which school is the best in the hinterland region.

While the encounter is expected to be an exhilarating one, given the fact that Bartica Secondary toppled the other schools in the town in the earlier stages of the competition and Waramadong are renowned for their prowess on the football field – the game will only serve to crown a regional champion, since both teams will compete in the National Round of 32.

“I was really impressed with the competition. So, I think that a lot of these teams would have benefited from the tournaments that they were involved in previously and I think we can say, the return of Digicel, they’re lucky enough to see these teams ready to go out there and battle for the championship. So, I’m really impressed with the level of the competition,” Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca said about the competition thus far.

The Round of 32 will kick off on Saturday, July 29 in Georgetown, with games at the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and MoE Grounds.

will go head-to-head in the first game at 12:00h, while Vryman’s Erven and Waramuri do battle at 14:00h. President’s College will come up against St Ignatius at 16:00h, while Kato Secondary and Carmel Secondary will duke it out in the final game of the day at 18:00h.

The Digicel action continues on Sunday, July 30 at various venues. In Georgetown, DC Caesar Fox Secondary will look to topple Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary at 14:00h, while Buxton Secondary take on Excelsior Academy at 16:00h. At 18:00h, Santa Rosa Secondary and Richard Ismael Secondary will do battle.

with both games at Scotts Ground.

Charlestown Secondary will travel to the West Coast of Demerara to take on Leonora Secondary on their home turf from 16:00h, while a battle between Westminster Secondary and North Ruimveldt Multilateral follows at 18:00h.

world's fastest women take to the track, each one vying for glory and immortality in the sport of athletics. (Sportsmax)

At 12:00h, Georgetown champions Dolphin Secondary will take on Brickdam Secondary at the NIS Ground. Also at NIS Ground, Friendship Secondary will battle West Ruimveldt Secondary at 14:00h and Marian Academy and Charity Secondary will lock horns at 16:00h.

Over at the MoE Ground, Tucville Secondary and Bartica Secondary

In Linden, Kwakwani Secondary and Soesdyke Secondary will face off from 14:00h, while Mackenzie High and East Ruimveldt Secondary clash at 16:00h. Both games will be played at the Wisburg Ground.

The Round of 32 will close out on Monday, July 31 with action in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Berbice. At Leonora, Tutorial Academy will take on Mahaicony Technical from 14:00h, while Berbice Educational institute will look to upend Queen’s College at 16:00h,

Mbappé not interested in meeting Al Hilal after £257M world-record bid

Kylian

Mbappé is not interested in meeting representatives from Al Hilal to discuss a move to Saudi Arabia.

PSG have given Al Hilal permission to speak to Mbappé after the Saudi club made a world-record €300 million (£257 million) offer for the player on Saturday. Representatives of Al Hilal have been in Paris this week, but there has been no meeting with Mbappé's camp.

PSG insiders believe Mbappé is refusing to speak to Al Hilal, because he has already agreed to move to Real Madrid as a free agent next summer when his contract expires.

Al Hilal's offer was subject to the agreement of a payment schedule and it was conditional on the signing of contracts between the clubs and between Mbappé and Al Hilal.

PSG believe at least five clubs are interested in signing Mbappé. The offer from Al Hilal is not the only one the French champi-

ons have received. There is said to already be a "hot market" for the France captain, with the interested clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, Inter Milan, and Barcelona. (Sky Sports)

Jonathan Rampersaud

A glimpse of the Digicel Schools’ football action thus far

…"It's not 100 per cent..."

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce captured her fifth world title in 2022

Kylian Mbappé

“Reds” happy with West Indies ODI squad as teams lock horns today in Barbados

By Brandon Corlette

Veteran cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira was happy with the West Indies One-Day International (ODI) squad which was selected for the three-match series against India. The series starts today at 09:30h Eastern Caribbean time at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados.

“The selectors seem to have learnt a lot from the mistakes they might have made in the squad to Zimbabwe. They seem to have come up with their best selection in a long time,” “Reds” said.

Despite expressing satisfaction on the overall squad, “Reds” wanted reason as it relates to Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder being unavailable.

“It is not quite clear why Jason Holder is unavailable,

but if he wants to preserve himself, one can understand that.

“It is difficult to understand that Nicholas Pooran could not have done what Shimron Hetmyer did, in terms of leaving America and come to represent West Indies. It would have been

great to have Pooran and Hetmyer in the middle,” “Reds” said.

“Very happy to see the return of Dominic Drakes. He has been overlooked by the selectors for a very long time. His addition gives an option to Shai Hope in terms of bowling options. Happy to see Gudakesh Motie has returned, after his back injury. He is important to West Indies.”

The veteran cricket commentator added: “The investment in Oshane Thomas once more is an important one. There were some plans to get him fitter; he played some cricket in England, and we are told that he has been working on shedding weight. So, we have to wait and see if he can produce that pace which was missing in Zimbabwe to back up Alzarri Joseph.”

Also, “Reds” noted that Joseph could have taken

Kares One Guyana T10… Assuria ensures MVP will ride away in style

College; YMCA; Transport Sports Club and GDF Base Camp Ayanganna.

The grand final is set for Sunday, July 30 at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Carifesta Avenue and will also see a celebrity match preceding the final.

According to organisers, several active and former national players will feature for their teams over the two-day extravaganza, while Ministers of Government, present and past national athletes and other public figures will suit up for the celebrity game.

some rest, as he looks jaded.

“Happy to see [Alick] Athanaze. He is one who can get the scoreboard tick ing, Yannic Cariah, more of a T20 bowlers than ODI, he does not bowl enough goo gly. It will be interesting to see how the three spinners play. It will be important to see how the West Indies compete against India,” “Reds” posited.

He was surprised that Kevlon Anderson was not on the list of standby players since he had done well in the Headley-Weekes tri-series. Hetmyer is expected to re turn for the first time since July 2021.

He has five ODI hun dreds, including two against India, and has a 35-plus av erage and a 100-plus strike rate after 47 games. There are not too many cricketing reasons for Hetmyer not having played a ODI game for West Indies since July

NOTES: Keemo Paul is injured and unavailable; Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder are both unavailable for selection.

GAPLF, world athletes pay courtesy call on Ramson Jr

…Federation's plans for athletes and general development discussed

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast competition will ride out in fine style with a motorcycle next Sunday, compliments of Assuria General and Life Insurance Companies (Guyana).

The enticing MVP prize, a Jialing JH 125L motorcycle, was unveiled on Wednesday morning at the company’s Church Street, Georgetown head office. The motorcycle is valued in excess of G$250,000.

“Assuria is proud and glad to be onboard. We’re very excited for this tournament, it brings a lot of much-needed cricket back into Guyana and the T10 format is going to be very exciting. We’re very accustomed to T20, so you can

tell that the T10 is going to be even more exciting,” Assuria’s Senior Supervisor for Information and Communications Technology and Marketing, Sanjiv Nandlall shared during a simple ceremony to hand over the prize to the organising committee.

Nandlall went on to state, “We’re glad to be contributing to something that places emphasis on One Guyana. It brings players from all across the country, even some of our well-known players here in Guyana and celebrity players that will be in the event as well, and we’re excited to contribute the prize for the player of the tournament.”

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast will see 32 teams from all across the country, with the exception of Region Nine, competing this weekend.

The first day of the competition on Saturday, July 29 will see action commencing at five venues: Police Sports Club, Eve Leary; Queen’s

The first-ever champions will pocket $1 million, while the losing finalist will collect $300,000. The two losing semi-finalists will walk away with $100,000 each.

Additionally, regarding the celebrity match before the championship match, the winning side will be rewarded $200,000, which will be donated to a charity of their choice.

The inaugural Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast is supported by Kares Engineering; GT Beer; Mohamed’s Enterprise; Premier Insurance; Regal Stationery and Computer Centre; Guyana Tourism Authority; Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal; Continental Transport Inc; Assuria; Ansa Motors Guyana; Star Rentals; E-Net; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; USA Cricket Zone; First Change Builders; Impressions; Jacob’s Jewellery; Beacon Café; RS53 RestoBar and Lounge; Zeus Enterprise; Hits and Jams Entertainment; Montra Restaurant and Lounge; The New Doctor’s Clinic and Trophy Stall.

Having taken over the administration of the sport back in March of 2023, members of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), along with two athletes, met with Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr on Monday afternoon at the Ministry’s boardroom.

President Franklin Wilson, Secretary Roger Rogers, and Treasurer Maxwell Denny were the Executive members present along with Carlos PetersonGriffith, who enjoyed a successful sojourn at the Annual World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships held from June 11 to June 18, 2023 in Malta.

Romeo Hunter and Dominic Tyrell also attended the meeting (virtually), the two athletes are set to represent Guyana at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Classic & Equipped Sub Junior and Junior Powerlifting Championships to be held from August 24September 3, 2023, in Cluj Napoca, Romania.

The meeting afforded both parties the opportunity to share their outlook for the collective development

of the sport in Guyana.

Minister Ramson Jr shared the Government of Guyana’s policy on sports development, highlighting the focus on infrastructure and capacity development aimed at affording athletes the best opportunity for development and success.

He assured the Federation that where an athlete has the potential and likelihood of succeeding at a competition, the Ministry will support it within its resource availability. It was acknowledged that the cost of participation is on the higher end of the scale, and this is a constraint for which much work is needed to overcome.

The Ministry has pledged to work with GAPLF with a view to acquiring equipment for competition and training purposes.

Federation President Wilson briefed Minister Ramson Jr on activities for this year, including the novice and Intermediate competitions, which have already been completed, as well as plans for the annual FESUPO Regional Powerlifting Championships slated for September 6-10, 2023 in Lima, Peru; and World Juniors and IPF World

Classic & Equipped Masters Powerlifting Championships from October 8-15, 2023 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia where three athletes –Nadina Taharally, Roger Rogers, and Gordon Spencer –will attend.

The Federation assured the Minister that its vision prioritises the principles of good governance and aims to make the body a model Federation.

Also, the Federation noted that it would always aim to have the broadest eligible representation at all times to ensure the best athletes are representing Guyana.

Peterson-Griffith brought Minister Ramson Jr up to date with his exploits at the Annual World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships in Malta, where he landed a silver medal in the deadlift and a bronze in the squat. He also ended sixth in the 93kg class, which attracted some 38 lifters.

This competition was the biggest in IPF history, with a total of 65 member nations taking part and over 400 lifters, 37 referees, and 257 other officials, it was the largest and most diverse participation in any Open Classic World Championship ever.

Dennis Bulli, Roston Chase, McKenny Clarke, Kavem Hodge, Jair McCallister, Obed McCoy, and Kevin Wickham.

Joseph “Reds” Perreira

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr receives a token from Carlos Peterson-Griffith in the presence of GAPLF Treasurer Maxwell Denney, President Franklin Wilson and Secretary Roger Rogers, along with Oudit Seenarain and Romeo Hunter

Assuria’s Senior Information and Communications Technology and Marketing Supervisor, Sanjiv Nandlall

Shimron Hetmyer