Vol. 67, No.11
NOVEMBER 2023
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General Council Meeting
Day 1 of the General Council meeting at Congress Place on Saturday 18th November 2023.
The People‟s National Congress Reform country's oil wealth, while being guaranteed (PNCR) held a two-day General Council on 18th their full social and political rights. In addition, and 19th November 2023 at Congress Place, So- he issued the call for the Party to expand its phia. The theme of the meeting was "Moving groundwork and take the Party's vision in all Forward as a Disciplined and United Par- communities across the country. ty". The General Council is the second-highest The second day's program included reports decision-making forum of the Party. Member- from the Party's arms and regional committees. ship includes all members of Central Executive In addition, a plenary session was held to disCommittee, Members of Parliament, RDC Chairs cuss the Party's strategy for the 2025 General and Vice Chairs, Party candidates at the last and Regional Elections. As expected, this sesGeneral Elections, representatives of Party's sion generated much robust discussion, with youth arm (Guyana Youth and Student Move- members expressing confidence that, with greatment) and its women's arm (National Congress er effort by Party groups and more publicizing of of Women), the Chairs and Vice Chairs of NDCs, the Party's national development vision of putMayors and Deputy Mayors of Municipalities, ting people first, the Party can return to governand other regional Party leaders. ment. The main feature on the first day was the Ad- Several tabled motions were debated and dress by the PNCR Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Nor- passed. ton, MP. From the outset, Mr. Norton empha- The General Council concluded on Sunday sized that in the face of the Venezuelan threat, evening with a charge from Party Leader Aubrey the Party needed to stand on the forefront of ef- C. Norton. forts to defend the country's national security Throughout the two days, the main musical and territorial integrity. He reiterated the Party's backdrop was Dave Martin's "Not a Blade of position that all Guyanese must share in the Grass."
Head Table: From left are Party Vice Chairpersons, Vinceroy Jordan, MP and Elizabeth WilliamsNiles; Party Leader Aubrey C. Norton, MP and Party General Secretary, Dawn HastingsWilliams, MP.
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PNCR General Council: Resounding Confidence in the Leadership
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“Venezuela is an adversary that wants our territory”
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Forbes Burnham Centennial Birth Anniversary
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Foreign relations
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PNCR Vice Chairperson and GYSM hold Youth Symposium on the East Bank
Pages 11
Courtesy call on the Opposition Leader by the new US Ambassador to Guyana
Leader of the PNCR and Opposition, Aubrey C. Norton, MP, addressing the General Council at Congress Place on Saturday 18th November 2023.
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NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
ANALYSIS & OPINIONS Jagdeo should have sworn in Parliamednt that he did not betray this nation with his “channel to the sea” proposal
Calling for an investigation into the Ministry of Housing APNU+AFC has seen the comments via social media by persons claiming to have paid monies to staffers at the Ministry of Housing, Central Housing and Planning Authority for the processing of their applications for house lots. This situation is quite an unfortunate one, which warrants an immediate investigation into these allegations, which have brought the Ministry into disrepute. On October 11, 2023, our Shadow Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Annette Ferguson, MP, penned a letter to the editor, highlighting the alleged corrupt practices by staffers at the Central Housing and Planning Authority, similarly, calling for a forensic audit to be conducted on the activities and operations at the Ministry. Today, the revelations are here with us. Here under are the issues identified in the letter of October 11, 2023: 1. There are allegations of corruption, where staff members are involved in deals to help young professionals and others jump the cue, so wellconnected applicants are in receipt of allocations. 2. Allegedly, staff members of Central Housing & Planning Authority own properties in the new schemes and are renting to applicants. 3. Middlemen are facilitating the purchase of lots allocated by Central Housing & Planning Authority at exploitative prices. 4. Houses built, on lots allocated by Central Housing & Planning Authority in the new schemes, are being rented at exorbitant prices by the owners who have other properties elsewhere. This is in breach. because only persons who do not already own property are entitled to house lots from Central Housing & Planning Authority. 5. Houses sold are extremely defective and have caused owners to incur unnecessary expense to fix them. 6. Infrastructure not in place so those who can afford to build cannot do so. Information shared on the Social Media platform has identified by way of images those persons to whom the allegations have been leveled against, which has further suggested that these persons are working in the secretariat of Ministers at the Ministry. The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Housing has since put out a press release indicating that an investigation will be conducted on the allegations made against staffers. APNU+AFC expresses its dissatisfaction of the press statement by the Ministry, which in our view has not given must hope, how the Ministry intends to handle these glaring revelations. Several months ago, there was an allegation of bribery brought against Ms. Sharon Hicks, former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs. She was charged and the matter was determined by the court. Therefore, the APNU+AFC would like to see stern actions taken against these staffers, for fleecing ordinary Guyanese. We reiterate the call by our Shadow Minister of Housing and Water for a forensic audit to be done on the Central Housing and Planning Authority. Ω
extracted from the areas Venezuela covets. This a grave matter that cannot be swept under the carpet or explained away by allies like Robin Singh. Countries have gone to war for far less than this, and Guyanese must not accept a non-retraction of Jagdeo‟s statement where it can have the most weight, that is, in the National Assembly where it would be recorded in the Hansard for posterity. What if some time down the road, Venezuela turns People‟s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secre- up with a document (real or contrived), with tary and Guyana‟s Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, Jagdeo‟s signature and Guyana‟s seal that states at his press conference on Thursday 9th November such a discussion was had and agreed on? Where sought to cast aspersion that yours truly is an ex- else can we as a nation and people refute this other tremist for holding him to account for his govern- than Jagdeo‟s own denunciation in the National ment‟s discussion to grant Venezuela “a channel Assembly and from the Hansard? to the sea” when that country is coveting two- The most extremist view the nation has been exthirds of our land, settled by the 1899 Arbitral posed to is Jagdeo harbouring an idea and holding Award. Those are not Lincoln Lewis‟ idea, discus- discussion with his colleagues -and possibly with sion and words, they are Jagdeo‟s. It was Jagdeo others- when he was president to give Venezuela a who told this nation on the 23rd October 2015, at a channel to the sea, as announced by him. The next press conference, that that was the idea and discus- extremist view, which is external, but just as dansion his government was exploring as a means to gerous, is the Venezuelans up-coming referendum settle the controversy with Venezuela. to covet land and sea that do not belong to them. His view represents the most unpatriotic act ever Let Jagdeo come to this nation and provide justifientertained by a Guyana President or Leader of the cation for his absence from Parliament on Monday, Opposition. And his non-attendance to the Ex- 6th November. Let Jagdeo come to this nation and traordinary Parliamentary Sitting on Monday 6th swear on the book he took the oath of office on that November to address a motion dealing with Vene- he has not betrayed the nation. zuelans‟ referendum, scheduled for December 3 to And let Jagdeo bring a motion to the National Ascovet two-thirds of Guyana, raises further con- sembly, repudiating what he told this nation on cerns. Jagdeo had an opportunity to stand in the 23rd October 2015, i.e., his government had floated nation‟s highest decision-making body and record the idea and discussed giving Venezuela access to for prosperity, the denunciation of his statement “a channel to the sea.” and condemn Venezuela‟s greed. He owes this na- We must not rest until this controversy is retion an explanation for his absence from the House solved. We must learn our lesson from Severo Malwhen he was in the country. His non-participation let-Prevost‟s memorandum/letter that has come to has given rise to legitimate questions, and we must cause us so much angst that we have to approach ask them aloud: the International Court of Justice today to resolve a Jagdeo is the leader of the PPP and oversees the controversy that never should have been. oil and gas sector. Most of Guyana‟s oil and gas are
PPP's proposal on border patrol unit is ill-advised - GDF already performs such functions Guyana. The key task supporting the „defence of‟ mission of the GDF is the active border patrolling of Guyana‟ land, maritime and air borders, limited as it may be. Importantly, border patrolling is the most important task of the GDF in peace time, hence its current deployment profile. Further, the GDF has been conducting border patrols from its inception, decades ago, and continues to do so. The recent report by Kaieteur News of an an- The government of Guyana should not tinker with nouncement by the Attorney General of Guyana on the current defence architecture, but instead seek the Government‟s decision to introduce a bill to upgrade it. One would have thought that such which “… is intended to create a framework for skill sets resided with it, but obviously such strateofficers to be appointed, and who will perform gic analysts and critical leadership do not from part specific functions in relation to protecting, moni- of the government‟s pool of skilled loyalists. What toring, guarding and patrolling our borders,” rep- the GDF needs is the allocation of adequate deresents another unwise approach to protecting fence resources/assets so it can more effectively Guyana‟s territorial integrity. In fact, this new initi- execute its „defence of‟ Guyana mission. ative presents a danger to national defence in many Recognizing that the GDF‟s prime responsibility is respects. To be clear, Guyana does not need anoth- conducting border patrols, the question that arises er separate unit to deal with the nation‟s borders! is, what else would the GDF be doing if a Border That agency already exists. It is called the Guyana Patrol Unit (BPU) comes into law? Unlike the UnitDefence Force which conducts protects, monitors, ed States military which operates outside the Unitguards, and patrols our borders. To arrive at such ed States, the GDF has a mandate to defend Guyan absurd idea makes it obvious that the govern- ana from within the country‟s borders. That‟s ment is devoid of good leadership in this critical where territorial integrity begins. Apart from the area of national and territorial defence. chaos in defence certainty this BPU would create, it The agency responsible for protecting our bor- would also undermine the confidence of the citiders, and by extension our territorial integrity, is zens in the GDF, and the confidence of the GDF the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), established un- itself as to its mission in accordance with the Deder chapter 15:01 of the laws of Guyana. The mis- fence Act and its defence responsibility under the sion of the GDF, set out under section 5 of the De- Guyana Constitution. One should note that article fence Act, reads as follows: “The Force shall be 197A (3) of the Guyana constitution provides that charged with the defence of and maintenance of “[t]he Guyana Defence Force established under the order in Guyana and with such other duties as Defence Act shall in the discharge of its constitumay from time to time be defined by the Defence tional responsibilities function in such a manner Board.” Clearly, the GDF has a twofold mission- as to earn the respect and enjoy the confidence of „defence of‟ Guyana, and „maintenance of order‟ in the citizens.” (Continued on Page 6)
NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
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POLITICAL The PPP’s elite, friends, family and favorites policy is costing Guyanese dearly Citizens were alarmed and confused This situation would be bad enough, when they heard that an $865 million but, as usual, second Vice President infrastructure contract was awarded to Jagdeo has demonstrated once again a recently formed company associated that the PPP has no regard for law and with the individual known as order and national institutions. It is “Guyana Critic.” They were further inconceivable that rather than supalarmed when, a few days after this porting the Public Procurement Comannouncement, a worker was crushed mission he would say that that body to death on the worksite of that same should not have threatened to go to company. Guyanese are entitled to a court over NPTAB‟s non-cooperation, safe workplace and government con- but rather asked the President for astracts should only be awarded to those sistance. Jagdeo seems to believe that who comply with relevant safety laws, Guyana is a dictatorship and that its regulations and standards. We need to laws are meaningless. The Public Prosee the results of the Ministry of La- curement Commission must be treated bor‟s investigation into this tragedy so with respect. Our Courts must be the public knows the truth. treated with respect. Guyanese must Further, our MP David Patterson not- stand up against this casual tyranny, a ed that this company did not meet the tyranny which is becoming more prevminimum experience criteria set out in alent daily. the procurement rules, and brought Jagdeo‟s bizarre attitude, however, this matter to the attention of the Pub- has also raised questions about his lic Procurement Commission. After own involvement in this matter. the Commission decided to investigate Jagdeo must say whether he played this award, they were denied the rele- any role whatsoever in this award, and vant information by the National Pro- this too must be investigated so Guyacurement and Tender Administration nese know the truth. Guyanese are Board, a shocking act of obstruction. reminded of Jagdeo‟s words in the This is unacceptable. The Public Pro- Vice documentary, in which he said: curement Commission, which is a con- “Su is my friend. He gets all the supstitutional body, is legally entitled to port.” Is the “Guyana Critic” a access documents relating to matters friend who has received “support?” If of procurement, from any procuring so, what exactly was the support? The government entity. It must not be ob- public needs an answer to this quesstructed. tion. Denying this Commission has not It should come as no surprise that only undermined Guyana‟s institu- Guyanese cannot look forward to good tions, it has raised the public‟s suspi- quality, lasting roads, or even a concion even further. NPTAB hiding the sistent water and electricity supply, if details of the award of a contract for the specter of corruption hangs over nearly a billion gyd, to a known PPP public procurement. The PPP‟s elite, supporter no less, raises red flags of friends, family and favorites policy is corruption at the highest levels. It is a making life worse for ordinary Guyaclassic example of the PPP‟s elite, nese, including their own supporters. friends, family and favorites policy This has been compounded by the when it comes to the allocation of the PPP‟s consistent efforts to undermine nation‟s resources. This must be inves- Guyanese institutions like the Public tigated and those involved held re- Procurement Commission and Judicisponsible. The PPP cannot be allowed ary. It is clear that their only interest is to treat this nation‟s resources like in enriching themselves at the expense their personal bank account. of our dear country.
PNCR General Council: Resounding Confidence in the Leadership By James McAllister
tion the real motive of those who continue with vile attacks on the Party Leader. A few months ago, there was a The attacks are under the guise brouhaha about the holding of the that the Leader failed to keep camPNCR Congress. A few persons on paign promises., including uniting the periphery of the party, not ac- the party and holding the PPP actual members, were very active on countable. However, the critics are social media demanding the Con- just sloganeering. A famous Guyagress be held by December 2023. nese adage is that “one hand can‟t According to them, irreparable clap. “ This means, no matter how harm would have been done to the genuine Norton„s efforts at unity PNCR if this Congress was not are, if the relevant stakeholders held as per their demand. have no interest in unity or further They demanded that the party‟s participation in the Party, there Central Executive Committee exer- will be no happy ending. However, cise its authority and set the date it cannot be interpreted as a brofor Congress, since, according to ken promise if he did all that was them the Party Leader was drag- possible. ging his feet because he was afraid The other supposed broken of a Congress. The Central Execu- promise is the failure to hold the tive Committee met and decided PPP accountable. One nemesis arthat the General Council, to be gued for mass protest; shutdown held in November, would decide. the country, he said. The irony is Since a Congress cannot be orga- that people who never led or parnized in one month, the Central ticipated in a protest are declaring Executive Committee effectively themselves major strategists for poured cold water on the campaign protest action. However, when for a Congress in December. listening to them carefully one recThey then shifted their focus to ognizes they have the mindset of the General Council, which was to perpetual opposition. They want to be a referendum on the perfor- turn the PNCR into a protest mance of the Party Leader, Aubrey movement, as against a governNorton. There was even talk of a ment in waiting. no-confidence motion against, and It is good that Aubrey Norton rean official reprimand of the Party sisted the temptation of the shortLeader. Well, the General Council term gratification of two or three was indeed a referendum on the months of protest because when it performance of the Party Leader, is said and done, governments are but not in the direction that they elected, not protested into office. hoped. The General Council gave His role is to rebuild the party, the Party Leader a rousing en- making it into a well-oiled E-Day dorsement. According to one party machinery, and a Juggernaut capainsider, the entire General Council ble of the most effective political was one big vote of confidence in action across the country at a mothe Leader of the Party. ment‟s notice. His mandate is to The General Council engaged in use parliament, the courts, diplolively discussions on several na- macy, and the will of the people to tional and party issues. Several at- hold the PPP accountatendees commented on the poise ble. However, as per Ecclesiastes and suave of the Party Leader dur- 3:1-11, there is a season for everying the discussions. He accepted thing. The party has to be primed responsibility and was deferential and ready. on the occasions when addressing It is worthy to note that the few criticism leveled at him or other people on the periphery of the parOfficers of the Party. He was also ty actively undermining the Party quick and firm in reprimanding Leader rejected the decision of the any speaker who was disrespectful membership when he was elected. of others. They never accepted him and The mood of the General Council fought him, and by extension the should have resulted in the imme- party members, at every turn. diate cessation of the anti-Norton Their action is reminiscent of the campaign. Unlike what some may story told in 1 Kings 16-28. They want to portray, Aubrey Norton is are prepared to destroy the party not an embattled Leader. He is because of personal animus firmly in charge of the Party with against the sitting Leader, and they the enthusiastic support of the are actively trying to recruit party rank and file of the Party. Contin- members to be part of this destrucued attacks on him are undermin- tion. However, the General Couning the party and strengthening cil, one of the most impacting in and emboldening the PPP. So recent times, is reflective of a party much so that one must now ques- growing in strength and readiness.
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NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
PARLIAMENT - GUYANA/VENEZUELA “Venezuela is an adversary that wants our territory” Address to the National Assembly of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana By Aubrey C. Norton, MP Leader of the PNCR & Leader of the Opposition Monday 6th November 2023
our former diplomats, Dr. Odeen Ish- resentatives of the Republic of Venemael, the author of “The Trail of Di- zuela are often economical with the plomacy.” He said the following in truth. I take up once again the thread the second volume of his book, and I of my presentation by stating that in quote, “The part claimed by Venezuela the face of credible threats from the is extremely rich in forest, water, and United States, and the reality that the mineral resources. For instance, the United States had appointed a ComImaraka mountain range extending mission to demarcate the border beinto both Guyana and Venezuela has tween British Guiana and Venezuela, Motion of Support for the Govhuge deposits of iron ore. In addition, the British Government agreed to the ernment and People of Guyana manganese deposits are located in the Treaty of Washington of 1897. This Reaffirming Recognition of the Northwest district of Guyana while Treaty is important for many reasons, 1899 Arbitral Award and the 1966 gold and diamonds, among other min- but its enduring significance must be Geneva Agreement erals, are found in the Barima, Maza- that in creating the 1899 Arbitral Triruni, Cuyuni, and Potaro districts.” bunal it stated explicitly that the deciMr. Speaker, members of this August In addition, we know that we have oil sions of the Tribunal would represent, body; permit me at the outset to thank because oil has been found by Exxon a “full, final and perfect settlement” of and congratulate all the members of Mobil and other major oil companies. all matters referred to it. The Venezuethe Opposition on their contribution. It Guyana cannot afford to lose this treas- lan Government of the time signed on will be remiss of me if I don‟t do the ure. Recent discovery and production to this Agreement and that must be same for the government, so I do. of oil have resulted in an intensifica- established. A subsequent Venezuelan Mr. Speaker, when this recent crisis tion of Venezuela‟s greed. government also agreed to the demarAubrey C. Norton, MP Leader of the Opposition with Venezuela began, I received a call Mr. Speaker, permit me to turn to the cation of the border between British from the President for a briefing on the background to what we now refer to as Guiana by participating in the estabissue. And, I said to him at the time eters, writers, dynamic entrepreneurs, the Territorial Controversy. In the lished Boundary Commission in 1905. that he can be reassured that the Op- celebrated scholars, and a people who nineteenth century stood the mighty To this end, Cedric Joseph noted in his position will support the government have a reputation of being intellectual- British Empire and the emergent Unit- book, “Anglo-American Diplomaon this issue of the Guyana/Venezuela ly gifted. I do believe we have the intel- ed States of America. The latter eco- cy and the Reopening of the Guyterritorial controversy. lectual capacity to take on Venezuela. nomic development was so rapid that it ana-Venezuela Boundary ControMr. Speaker, politically we have All our people must benefit from our would overtake the economic strength versy, 1961 to 1966” that, “The imfought for years but one reality that we national patrimony. That is our reality. of the former by the turn of the early plementation of the award by the two should be proud of is that throughout Mr. Speaker, as we developed, our peo- twentieth century. And like any state parties, Britain, and Venezuela, folthe history of our country we have al- ple yearned for the freedom to build which was becoming powerful, it want- lowed without any due delay. From ways been united on the Guyana/ our own society and create our own ed to set rules for the area in which it late 1900 to early 1905, an AngloVenezuela territorial controversy. For destiny. As a people, it is not by acci- would dominate. In 1823, the Ameri- Venezuelan Boundary Commission us to even consider fighting over politi- dent our motto is “One People, One can government promulgated the Mon- marked on the ground the boundary cal power we must first own our coun- Nation, One Destiny.” It is a mani- roe Doctrine. This Doctrine said essen- defined by the arbitral award. The try. There will be nothing to fight for if festation of our aspirations. Therefore, tially that no European power would joint Commission identified the geowe are not united in defence of our we are obligated to work to bring it to be allowed to dominate the American graphical positions of twenty-five sovereignty and territorial integrity. fruition. continent. This worked in Venezuela‟s boundary markers.”. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support Many contributed to this great experi- favor just after it had won its inde- Caracas was to repudiate the 1899 of the Motion before the House today, ment, including our own Forbes Burn- pendence from Spain. Venezuela found Award and the legitimacy of the border confident that I am uniquely qualified ham and Cheddi Jagan, both of whom itself in contest with the British Empire between our two countries without any to do so. Firstly, I am a proud Guya- were distinguished members of this over the frontier with the British colo- justification. This is a matter of signifinese who believes that every square Honourable House. Political freedom ny of British Guiana. The British Gov- cance in the relations between our two inch of this country belongs to the peo- eventually came in 1966. Even though ernment therefore sent one of its ex- countries. This refusal to honor agreeple of Guyana. it is hard to accept, that freedom was plorers to determine the boundary be- ments solemnly arrived at must warMr. Speaker, our ancestors, those who qualified by threats to our territorial tween its colony and the Republic of rant both study and condemnation. Let were here before Columbus, those who integrity and sovereignty by our neigh- Venezuela. The explorer was a man me say a few words about this disturbcame from Europe, Africa, and India, bours. I think that of all the colonial called Schomburgk; he demarcated the ing behavior about an important state fought hard, in difficult circumstances territories which have gained inde- boundary line between the Republic of in the Latin American and Caribbean to create a human landscape which pendence none has reached that mile- Venezuelan and British Guiana in region. This refusal to honor agreeallowed us over more than 350 years to stone with neighboring countries mak- 1840. The Venezuelans were not satis- ments is likely to pose a serious threat make Guyana what it is today. Second- ing substantial claims to its national fied with this boundary, especially after to the peace and stability of the Latin ly, I have also been a member of the patrimony. Unfortunately, Guyana there was a suggestion that gold was American and Caribbean region. Guyana Foreign Service and have been finds itself in that position. But as we found in the area between itself and Mr. Speaker, as a student of politics able to witness at first hand the con- all know both Suriname and Venezuela British Guiana. Even at this time, and international relations, I have stant aggression of Venezuela and how cast covetous eyes on our land. In oth- greed demanded urgency. The Vene- been intrigued by Venezuela‟s almost the instructions of the Ministry and the er words, the hard work that we as a zuelans appealed to the Americans to casual disregard for international rest of the government fashioned a re- people had put into the creation of a compel the British to open discussions agreements as far as Guyana is consponse at various times. But Mr. country and society was going to be on the boundary between itself and the cerned. I have therefore examined Speaker, we inherited this land. It is taken away from us. We must never British Empire. I want that to tell you Venezuela‟s behavior over the decades, our inheritance; we will do everything permit that. That will not happen. Of that it is the Venezuelans engaging the and I have come to the conclusion that to protect that inheritance. the two claims to our land, by far the Americans and then it happened. its flouting of international norms and Despite our difficulties, our differ- more sinister and persistent would Please pay close attention to what is mores is a mechanism to facilitate its ences, political and otherwise, we have come from our neighbour to the West, happening here because Caracas in geo-political ambitions. That Caracas fashioned a society that is politically Venezuela. I am sure that this Honour- later years would claim erroneously has strategic ambitions in the Caribbedynamic, culturally rich, and with great able House will bear with me as I brief- that it was not represented on the 1899 an is beyond dispute. As early as 1955, economic potential. I concede that cre- ly recount the background to this Arbitral Tribunal when it asked Ameri- it had proposed that certain Caribbean ating this country and society has not threat to our territorial integrity. can lawyers to do its representation. States should be handed over to it. been an easy task. The Africans, ac- Might I say, we must not tire of learn- Indeed, it can be said that throughout Sometimes we forget that Venezuela cording to our great historians, later ing about this threat; our children need the demanding and challenging period said very early that certain Caribbean joined by their Indian brothers, moved to know, our people need to know. The of the Controversy between Guyana States should be handed over. And in tons of soil to build our coast land background history must become our and Venezuela, there would be a slew the Mixed Commission created by the where most of our people live, work catechism. We must understand and of mistruths on the part of Caracas 1966 Geneva Agreement, Venezuela and struggle to fashion a place where inwardly digest the fact that all we from the dismissal of the significance proposed the Joint Development of the our people could live and create the have achieved, indeed our way of life, of the 1899 Arbitral Award to the true Essequibo. Is our population aware of environment for meaningful human is threatened by the persistent greed of historical meaning of the 1966 Geneva this and its significance? Are some of existence. All of our people contributed our Western neighbour, Venezuela. Agreement. It has also sent up a cloud our politicians aware of this? We canto the creation of the emerging and This is a threat like no other. Venezue- of misinformation when it was caught not concede an inch to Venezuela. They emergent society which saw the devel- la seeks our entire Essequibo region, violating our territorial integrity. In the have always come up with some… opment of professionals, artists, crick- our richest county. Let me quote one of words of a British Statesman, the rep- (Continued on Page 7)
NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
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CENTENNIAL BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF FORBES BURNHAM
Queen Elizabeth II at a reception given by Forbes Burnham, the Prime Minister of Guyana, in Georgetown, during a royal tour of the Caribbean, 7th February 1966.
Forbes Burnham
Queen Elizabeth II State visit to British Guiana, February 1966.
The Comrade Leader subject to detention as a result of demonstrating for West Indian nationalism in England… arrested by the British police.
Visit to Modern Industries Ltd. factories (Kissoon’s) in Industrial Estate Ruimveldt, October 25, 1968.
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NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
FOREIGN RELATIONS USAID pays courtesy call on Leader of the Opposition On Wednesday 8th November 2023, lasek, Program and Strategy Director; the Regional Representative of the Mr. Steven Fondriest, General DevelUSAID Mission to the Eastern and opment Director; Ms Jessica HernanSouthern Caribbean, Mr. Mervyn dez, Deputy Program Director; Ms Farroe and a team paid a courtesy Chloe Noble, Program Development call on the Leader of the Opposition Specialist; Mr. Mansfield Blackwood, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, at Con- Government to Government Advisor; gress Place, Sophia. The purpose of and Philip Schwehm, Senior Techthe meeting was to learn more about nical Advisor. the Opposition‟s priorities and to Mr. Norton's team included provide updates on USAID program- Vinceroy Jordan, MP – Vice Chairming in Guyana. man of the PNCR and Shadow MinisMr. Farroe explained that the ter of Agriculture; Ganesh Mahipaul, USAID will soon be launching a new MP – CEC Member of the PNCR and five-year farmer-to-farmer pro- Shadow Minister of Local Governgramme that will see US-based vol- ment; Dawn Hasting-Williams, MP – unteers on technical assignments to General Secretary of the PNCR; provide hands on training to commu- Dominique Blair – Deputy Mayor nities, cooperatives, agri-businesses Linden; Tahirih Adams – Councilor and educational institutions in Guy- Georgetown Mayor and City Council; ana. and Elson Low – Economic Advisor Regional Representative Farroe was to the Leader of the Opposition. accompanied by Ms. Stephanie Miku-
US Delegation pays a courtesy call on Opposition Leader
Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler
On Thursday morning, 16th No- Representatives); Se. Hillman T. vember 2023, a delegation consist- Frazier (Mississippi State Senate); ing of esteemed elected officials, en- Rep. G.A. Hardaway (Tennessee trepreneurs and human rights activ- House of Representatives); Rep. Anists paid a courtesy call on the Lead- nie A. McDaniel (South Carolina er of the Opposition, Mr. Aubrey C. House of Representatives); Sen. Norton, MP, at his Congress Place Gerald Neal, Kentucky State SenOffice. The delegation is on a fact- ate); Sen. Michael Rhett, Georgia finding mission in Guyana to meet State Senate); Marcus Coleman of with various stakeholders and to en- Save OurSelves (SOS); Dr. De‟Andre gage in meaningful discussions. S. Pickett of 357 Education Group The US Delegation included Dr. and Latron Price of Westside ComDee Dawkins Haigler, Delegation munity Market, LLC. Leader and President and CEO of Accompanying the Opposition the Organisation of World Leaders; Leader at the meeting were the Rep. John King, Delegation Co- PNCR General Secretary, Ms. Dawn Leader (South Carolina House of Hastings-Williams, MP; Mr. Ganesh Representatives); Rep. Dr. Amber Mahipaul, MP; Ms. Coretta McDonM. Baker (North Carolina General ald, MP; Mr. Dineshwar Jaiprashad, Assembly); Rep. Debra Bazemore, MP; Economist, Mr. Elson Low and (Georgia House of Representatives); PNCR Executive Member, Mr. Rep. Rhetta Bowers (Texas House of Mervyn Williams.
Visit by Canadian Delegation of the CPA On Wednesday 15th November 2023, Khemraj Ramjattan, MP and Mr. Leader of the PNCR and Leader of the Sherod Duncan, MP. Opposition, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, The Canadian delegation included MP, met with the Canadian delegation Ms. Alexandra Mendès, M.P., Assisof the Commonwealth Parliamentary tant Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Association at his Congress Place, So- CPA (Canadian Branch), Hon. Salma phia Office. The team is in Guyana to Atallahjan, Canadian Branch Execuadvance relations with the Parliamen- tive Committee Member, Mr. Rhéal tary Office and Members of Parlia- Éloi Fortin, M.P., Canadian Branch ment in Guyana. Accompanying the Member, Mr. Robert Kitchen, M.P., Leader at the meeting were Shadow Canadian Branch Executive CommitMinister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Aman- tee Member and Mr. Remi Bourgault, za Walton-Desir, MP; PNCR General Secretary of the Canadian Branch. Secretary, Ms. Dawn Hastings- Discussions between both parties Williams, MP; AFC leader, Mr. were cordial.
PPP's proposal on border patrol unit is illadvised - GDF already performs such functions (Continued from Page 2) to resemble the then plan to replace The nation needs no clearer language the GDF, only this time, miniaturising that the „defence of‟ mission of the the GDF seems to be their first foray. GDF is also a constitutional duty. How is it even possible, that the govBy what measure of rationality, ernment of Guyana, at a time when therefore, the government of Guyana Venezuela threatens to annex five can even contemplate establishing a eights of Guyana‟s territory, could BPU which will directly collide with contemplate such confusion with nathe constitutional duties of the GDF. tional defence. There is no need for any BPU to do The BPU is another convoluted and exactly what is already being done by ill-thought-out defence non strategy the GDF. A parallel force will only cre- which only adds more confusion to ate confusion! the current good defence architecture It‟s almost as if the PPP is bent on that exists. All that is missing is the attacking and weakening this premier provision of adequate resources. national institution, for reasons to The Government should not trivialwhich I below refer. In the end, I see ize the protection of the nation‟s terrino good reason for such an adventure. torial integrity and consult with the The idea of this BPU is a reminder of nation‟s defence and security experts the PPP‟s discussion with the officers in the protection of territorial integriof the GDF, shortly after the 1992 gen- ty. eral and regional elections, on its sug- The government of Guyana should gestion of a National Police Force to withdraw this ill-advised Border Pareplace the GDF. That idea was unani- trol Bill and consult with national demously struck down by the Chief of fence experts in the interest of imStaff, at the time, and his officers. I proving the nation‟s territorial integrifind the contemplation of a BPU tends ty.
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PARLIAMENT - GUYANA/VENEZUELA “Venezuela is an adversary that wants our territory” (Continued from Page 4) We never did. It was Venezuela that Mallet Provost Memorandum. Vene- posed its joint development. Venezuela backdoor means to get at our territory. did. And therefore, to say that Guyana zuela made its claim at the UN, (we did more than this. It displayed naked We must see Venezuela as an adver- and Venezuela must ensure a zone of must pay careful attention), and the aggression, even as the Commission sary that wants our territory. We must peace is classic eye pass because we British government, to allow the prin- met, by seizing the Eastern half of remember that Venezuela always have always maintained that there ciple of Justice to prevail, agreed to a Ankoko Island which belong to Guyana comes up with some scheme to get our must be the peaceful resolution of this re-examination of the document in and fostered the Rupununi rebellion of territory. We have to be ever vigilant. matter. It is really disturbing that a relation to the Territorial Controversy 1969. This created great difficulties for It is in this context that I want to say Caribbean nation can say that and im- for Caracas to have the opportunity to the newly independent Guyana. But I to the Minister of Foreign Affairs that plicate Guyana when Guyana basically prove the nullity of the 1899 Arbitral will say to you that in every negative, you closed by suggesting that the rul- lacks the means militarily to even con- Award. I want us to understand what is there is always a positive. Venezuela‟s ing of the International Court of Jus- ceptualize that approach much less happening here. They went to the UN aggression steeled this nation and tice (ICJ) will end Venezuela‟s aggres- implement it and so I think it is neces- and the UN indicated that they must be made us more hardened and more exsion. I want to caution that if one fol- sary that the Opposition put on record able to prove it. Of course, you know perienced to take on the challenges of lows the history of Venezuela, that is that we disagree totally with that posi- they never did and will never ever be national development, and skillful at not likely possible. In fact, if one looks tion. able to. However, the British Govern- honing the available diplomatic and at what is happening, one sees that I think I have made the point that we ment, in making this concession to re- national security instruments for the Venezuela is preparing the pitch to be are dealing with a dangerous and sinis- examine the documents, said clearly survival of this nation. This opportuniable to say we ain‟t accepting it. We ter enemy in the form of the Venezue- that it was standing by the validity of ty is taken to record our appreciation now have to look at the options; we lan state, and we will have to take that Arbitral Award. What that mean is of all those who played a role in laying have to be careful not to create a false measures not only to defend our terri- that our border with Venezuela was the foundation and developing a diplomood that once the ruling comes, Ven- torial integrity and sovereignty but also settled by the Arbitral Award of 1899 matic and national security framework ezuela aggression will end. I just think our place in the Latin America and and that there is no border dispute and to protect our interest and our soverit might take different forms. We can- Caribbean Region. We need to hurtle that a controversy emerged based on eignty and territorial integrity. not concede an inch to Venezuela. I can to take action to do that. Clearly, there the Mallet Provost spurious claim that Mr. Speaker, too regularly we do not repeat that we must see Venezuela as is a need for a more robust and aggres- there was a deal that caused Venezuela put in our records many of the people an adversary that wants our territory. sive foreign policy, vis-à-vis Latin to lose territory. It is very important who have contributed. We have heard We must remember that Venezuela America and the Caribbean. for us to understand that and that is of Burnham; we have heard of Dr. always comes up with some scheme. Mr. Speaker, I hope I have belabored why I feel offended when I hear people Jagan; all of them have contributed. I pause here to tell you what the late the point that when states, such as talk about Guyana/Venezuela border But I want to say special thanks to thePrime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Venezuela, do not fully honour agree- problem and border dispute. There se people, Sir Shridath Ramphal, Fred and one of the world‟s greatest Histori- ments, and in time, tension ensues. isn‟t any dispute over a border; it was Wills, Hamilton Green, Rashleigh ans said in addressing the General And so, if there is any tension in this settled. There is a controversy that Jackson, David Granger who contribCouncil of his party in 1976. Dr. Eric part of the world, it has been created emerged over the Mallet Provost claim. uted both as a Diplomat and soldier, Williams said, “This is an official pro- by the aggressiveness of Venezuela. Until this day nothing was proven. Carl Greenidge, Clement Rohee, Barposal from the government of Vene- But I cannot leave this part of my Mr. Speaker, it is useful to note here ton Scotland, Ralph and Boysie zuela for the joint development of the presentation without observing that the language used in Article I of the Ramkarran, Lloyd Searwar, Winston disputed region which constituted in Venezuela has proved to be nothing Geneva Agreement, “A Mixed Commis- Murray, Rudy Insanally, Ronald Austin effect a total economic and cultural but a regional bully. And I say that and sion shall be established with the task Snr., Rudy Collins, Tyrone Ferguson take-over of the disputed zone.” will qualify it, a regional bully of small of seeking satisfactory solutions for and the one who probably would have Mr. Forbes Burnham, the late Leader states. The 1899 Arbitral Award was the practical settlement of the contro- written the most, Cedric Joseph. I have of our Party, also a man of strategic the basis of the tri-junction point versy (no border dispute) between mentioned Odeen Ishmael, his book insight, said at the Summit Conference which fixed the boundaries for Guyana, Venezuela and the United Kingdom and so already. of CARICOM States held in Jamaica in Venezuela, and Brazil. In this exercise, which has arisen as a result of the The term of the Mixed Commission 1982 that the threat to Guyana repre- Caracas lost territory to Brazil. I repeat contention that the Arbitral Award of ended in 1970. Fortunately, the Prime sented a threat to the entire Caribbean that. In this exercise, Caracas lost terri- 1899 about the frontiers between Brit- Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Community. I believe that this is a tory to Brazil but has never once con- ish Guiana and Venezuela is null and Eric Williams, used his good offices to message that we must carry to the Car- tested the legitimacy of the Award with void.” I think we need to let all of our broker the Protocol of Port of Spain, ibbean Community. He went on to say Brasilia. And that says to you that they children know that we do not have a which froze the Border Controversy for that if Guyana loses five eights of its are not only a regional bully; they‟re border dispute with Venezuela. Our twelve years. This deserves our appreterritory, CARICOM would be greatly specifically targeting small states such borders were settled and in the interest ciation and commendation since it was diminished. Lastly, and in this context, as Guyana. Yet it has done so with the of justice, the British agreed for the UN the European and American Statesmen we must keep at the front of our minds smaller state of Guyana. It reminds me to reopen it for the facts to be pro- who fashioned agreements to resolve that Venezuela has already taken over of one of the Malina dialogues in the duced. our problems and disputes and thereBird Island which was once owned by 5th Century, where the great Historian The examination of the documents fore, it was the first time we did it ourDominica and has made inroads into Thucydides, made the Greeks say dur- led to the meetings in Geneva between selves in the Caribbean when Dr. Eric the Eastern Caribbean States through ing the Peloponnesian war, tell the the representatives of British Guiana, Williams led it. the mechanism of Petro-Caribe and lowly Malians that the powerful have the representative of the British Gov- The Protocol was ratified by the Veneeconomic largesse has made inroads the right to rule the weaker state. We ernment and the representatives of zuelan Congress but the relation with into our support among these states. say NO. We say that the Western Venezuela. They met for a two-day our Western neighbour was never It is in this context that I want to rec- neighbor is mistaken in the belief that conference on February 16th and 17th peaceful. On his visit to Guyana in ommend to this House that the gov- Guyana will succumb to its bullyism 1966. 1978, Carlos Andres Perez proposed a ernment must develop a proper system and its attempt to take over our land The Geneva Agreement consists of “symbolic cession” of territory to Veneof sending envoys to engage these Car- and its riches. We will NOT, we will eight Articles, the most important of zuela, but this was firmly rejected by ibbean leaders so that outside of the NEVER. which can be said to be Article IV (2) Guyana under Forbes Burnham. This general CARICOM support we can re- Mr. Speaker, I want here to speak to which gives the United Nations Secre- must be a lesson to those modern-day gain and maintain the support of their the recapitalization of the Guyana De- tary General the right to choose a politicians who are transactionalists individual countries; it is critical. fence Force (GDF). We have always means of Settlement. Also, it created and seem not to appreciate that we Only recently a Caribbean politician been a weak State. I do not think we the Mixed Commission which met for must not cede one inch of what belongs called on Guyana and Venezuela to can take on Venezuela, but it is very four years until 1970. Here again the to us. ensure that the Caribbean remains a important that we keep a ready force conduct of Caracas at this period was The decade of the 70s was to prove zone of peace. I could not believe that; that instills hope in our people. I re- one in extremely bad taste. We see more pacific than that of the 80s. PresI could not believe that honestly. I can- member in the 70s how we boasted Venezuela talking about the settlement ident Burnham was invited to Venenot accept that a Caribbean sister state that we were better than them in jungle should come from the Geneva Agree- zuela on a State visit and at the end of would cast us in that kind of light. But warfare. Let us not operate as if we can ment. We are saying to Venezuela that that visit, President Herra Campins they have not said that. Are we to con- do nothing outside of diplomacy. We we are at the International Court of who had been a member of the Mixed clude that Guyana has threatened the have to take every measure to deal with Justice (ICJ) and it is as a result of the Commission, bluntly refused to renew territorial integrity and sovereignty of this issue. Geneva Agreement. the Protocol of Port of Spain. This unany state in the Caribbean? We never After having accepted the 1899 Arbi- The Mixed Commission gave the Ven- leashed Venezuelan economic, military did. Have we issued decrees to take tral Award and the legitimacy of the ezuelan government the opportunity to and diplomatic aggression against over another state‟s maritime space? frontier between Guyana and itself, prove the nullity of the 1899 Award. It Guyana which was summarized in the We never did. Have we rejected the Venezuela suddenly decided in 1962, to never did and it cannot. Instead, it Budget presentation by the then… decisions of any international tribunal? overthrow it, based on the infamous made claims to the Essequibo and pro- (Continued on Page 8)
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PARLIAMENT - GUYANA/VENEZUELA “Venezuela is an adversary that wants our territory” (Continued from Page 7) excellent efforts of the Good Officers Boysie Ramkarran, Marcellus Fielden praising those governments and organiFinance Minister Frank Hope to this and the Facilitators, and the Enhanced Singh and our own Cammie Ramsa- sations which have come out in support National Assembly in 1982 in which he Good officers Process, no solution had roop, among others. I am also not above of our territorial integrity and soverstated that, “The Venezuelan govern- been found to the Territorial Controver- praising the PPP for steadfast but some- eignty. It is particularly comforting to ment has not only intensified its eco- sy which has been a bugbear to our na- times qualified support on the Territori- have the EU states, the US, CARICOM nomic pressures against us in pursuit tional development. In the circumstanc- al Controversy. On this we have done and the OAS stating their commitment of its spurious claim to our land, but it es there was no other sensible option well as a nation. Now we must summon to a peaceful resolution of the Territorihas also been indulging in dangerous than to request the UN Secretary Gen- the will and steel ourselves for yet an- al Controversy. And it would equally be adventurism in violating our air space eral to refer the matter to the Interna- other challenge from Venezuela. I offer remiss in my duty if I did not at the and our territorial integrity. During tional Court of Justice (ICJ). The nation the Coalition support for this Motion. same time, praise the Guyana Defence the past year there were over eighty knows that the UN Secretary General We have already taken steps to prove Force, the Guyana Police Force and all violations of our airspace by Venezue- acceded to this request and the matter our seriousness in this matter by issu- Guyanese who have over the years oflan aircraft. Their aircraft penetrated is now before the world court. ing a joint statement with the govern- fered their services and worked with the as far as Timehri as they try desperate- Mr. Speaker, I said before that Vene- ment, a statement which we carefully government of Guyana to oppose Venely to gather intelligence about our pre- zuela does not honour international crafted. We have a caveat; it is, we urge zuelan aggression against our state. I paredness and our capability to defend agreements solemnly arrived at. I add the government to put the question of mean every soldier, every constable, our country.” He continued, “Their mil- to this its disregard for international the education of this population on this those who might have stood a lonely itary personnel have from time to time institutions; it has now added the ICJ to matter on a permanent basis. We be- guard at Eteringbang, and those who violated our borders and actually en- that. Having agreed to the referral of lieve that there has to be continuous might have had to make sacrifices to tered upon our soil. They have been the Territorial Controversy to the ICJ, it permanent education as it relates to this serve. We should respect them and honengaged in a flurry of military maneu- embarked on its obstructive tactics. At matter. The Territorial Controversy our their sacrifices. For those who went vers and activities contiguous to our first it signaled its intention not to be must be in our schools, studied by our to Eteringbang, they will know it cannot borders. The squandering of oil money involved in the judicial process. And academics at the University, must be be an easy thing spending life there. on such activities cannot convert a then it claimed that the ICJ had no ju- part of the discussions of the Trade Un- And so, these ordinary soldiers, these baseless and immoral claim to a legiti- risdiction to hear the case involving the ions NGOs, the Private Sector, and with ordinary policemen deserve our support mate and just one, but it puts a heavy validity of the 1899 Award. The ICJ did every segment of our society regardless and our commendation. The nation burden upon our resources and diverts rule on the 18th of December 2022 that of which political party is in power. In must thank them. I also must not forget from our developmental purposes. it has such jurisdiction. In a quandary, this regard we wish to recommend the the Ministry of Foreign Affairs which Countering the Venezuelan threat has Caracas then filed a Preliminary objec- formation of a non-partisan and non- over the duration of our history, has an absolute priority claim to our time, tion to the ICJ proceeding to dealing political Commission on which experts worked sometimes beyond the call of energy, and resources.” It must also be with the merits of the case. Success did can sit and offer recommendations on duty, to defend this country of ours. a priority today. not attend those efforts either. this vital question. It is one of the few Mr. Speaker, before I close there are I have quoted Frank Hope at length, We have arrived at the point where agreements we did not agree on in the two points I want to make. The Motion but I do not take a delight in making Venezuela, through the device of a Ref- discussions, but I believe it is necessary is clear, and I want to read. In Resolve quotations. But he struck on themes erendum, is seeking to make a naked to state it here. The handiwork of the Clause (4) it says, “Supports the govwhich are relevant to us today, such as, attempt to annex the Essequibo. This is state and society we have fashioned ernment in its pursuit to ensure a economic aggression, the threat to our a dangerous moment in our history. We over many long years must endure. peaceful and lawful resolution of the developmental purposes and need to must be united in the face of this new In the 1980s, Dr. Ptolemy Reid, the controversy before the International harness our collective energies to op- phase of its aggression. I do not think then Prime Minister, who was born in Court of Justice and reject the proposal pose Venezuela, themes to which I soon this will be an aggression as in the past. the Essequibo, stood before the podium to return to any form of dialogue with return after I conclude the narrative of President Nicolás Maduro is in the coils of the United Nations, and declared that Venezuela on the controversy outside the background to this matter. of sharp economic problems which have if Venezuela had its way, he would be- of the process before the court.” I raised Mr. Speaker, the story of the adoption led to the exodus of thousands of citi- come a refugee in his own land. Dr. this because I said to my good friend of the Good Officer process must be zens and thus the decline of his econo- Reid is not alone in this. If Caracas has and villager, the Prime Minister, that I told. After the Protocol came to an end my and popularity in Venezuela. its way with our land, we will become do not think it is appropriate for us to a new mechanism had to be found to The Referendum and the mobilizing of refugees of one kind or another. Now is say we will have no dialogue with Venereplace it. The UN played an active role troops on our border by the Maduro the time to reject Venezuela‟s claim to zuela. This language was carved to eswhen the UN Secretary General dis- administration is an attempt to regain our land and declare once more that the tablish that we will not dialogue on the patched personal Representatives in the popularity and appease a volatile people 1899 Arbitral Award is valid, and it de- Guyana/Venezuela territorial contropersons of Diego Cordovez and Morales and end the apparent erosion among fined our border with Venezuela, and versy, which is before us, but as people Paul to determine what the next step his political bases. This is a dangerous this has been recognized by all appro- running a government you can never would be in the Territorial Controversy. game. What happens if Maduro gets the priate international organisations, in- close the door to dialogue totally. In this exercise they were aided by the “Yes” vote which he and his top officials cluding the United Nations. We also Mr. Speaker, I think it is our task to brilliant written and oral interventions are campaigning for? What does he do believe that the restatement to our com- rally all Guyanese in support of this of Foreign Minister Rashleigh Jackson, before or after he wins the elections mitment to the sanctity of treaties, the country, but I will not be truthful to Attorney General Mohammed Sha- next year? He might decide to take di- peaceful resolution of disputes between myself if I say I believe the government habuddeen, who often acted as the Min- rect military action using a potential states, and the peaceful development of is doing everything necessary. I think ister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador fifth column in our midst. Whatever nations would be in order on this occa- there is need for more action. I think Noel Sinclair, and the strategic direc- happens in this neighbouring state we sion. there is need for more public education. tion of President Forbes Burnham. As a must be prepared. This opportunity I think there is need for more involveresult, Guyana and Venezuela agreed to must be taken to condemn the attempt MIGRANT/REFUGEE - Put our ment of our people; our people will only the Good Officer process. Yet even as by Venezuela to withdraw from the ju- Nation first be with us if we involve them and so I this unfolded, Venezuela still tried dicial process under the guise of a refer- I also wish to add my voice to Honour- want to stress that and to conclude by through such concepts as Globality and endum. The peaceful settlement of the able Members, Amanza Walton-Desir‟s saying the government has our full supan Environmental treaty to get its Controversy demands that Venezuela and Roysdale Forde‟s contributions on port. The people of Guyana have our hands on the Essequibo. It continued to adhere to international law and mores. the question of migrants. We do believe full support for this resolution. I close issue threats to investors, which began Permit me to also register our support there is need for a structured system for by saying every inch of this territory in 1966, continued with their opposition for the decision to approach the ICJ for us to deal with migrants so that they do belongs to us and I do believe we will to the Upper Mazaruni Hydro-electric provisional measures against the con- not become a burden to Guyana, and I make the reality of Dave Martin song, scheme, and continues to this day. vening of that sinister referendum. I will ask the government to make a com- “Not one blade of grass.” Economic aggression has become an should inform the House that the Presi- mitment that Guyana comes first and Thank you. Ω art form and Caracas has quashed such dent did engage me, and I quietly gave that no migrant who is not entitled to a ventures as the Beale Deal and aggres- him a written document supporting birth certificate and citizenship gets it, sively opposed the sale of oil blocks, these measures. We now publicly sup- we must ensure that they do not get it. and threatened oil companies who are port it here. That will be a great signal of our unity. legitimately exploiting our Petroleum A central theme in the narrative I just I recommend a halting of issuing docresources in our maritime space. But as outlined is the unity Guyana has shown uments to Venezuelans and let us put a Mr. Hope had warned we will have to over the years. That unity has often proper register in system to evaluate devote our energies towards defending been expressed in Parliamentary Com- each applicant, screen and monitor our nation and preventing a disruption mittees. And it may be right and appro- their activities. It will be naïve of us to of our developmental process. I believe priate to single out those Guyanese who believe that Venezuela will not send its that all of those are valid today. supported this nation at critical mo- agents into Guyana. It was recognized that after approxi- ments of its History by serving on those Mr. Speaker, it will be remiss of me if I mately twenty-six years, despite the Committees. I refer to such men as take my seat without thanking and
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ARMS OF THE PARTY PNCR Vice Chairperson and GYSM hold Youth Symposium on the East Bank
The National Congress of Women (NCW) held its Executive Committee meeting on Saturday 11th November 2023 at its headquarters at Public Road, Kitty. Making our districts sustainable through economic projects several NCW districts were provided with sewing machines and Weed Wacker machines. This will enable them to support their work with women and girls.
PNCR Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP addressing the young people at the Youth Symposium
NCW Executive Committee Meeting
On Monday 13th November 2023, several topics and skills, including Leader of the People's National communications, leadership, poliCongress Reform and Leader of the tics, finance, health, women in Opposition, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, construction, law and the Guyana/ MP, opened and addressed the Venezuelan Territorial ControverGuyana Youth and Student Move- sy. ment (GYSM) 2nd Youth Symposi- Speakers and trainers included um for the East Bank of Demerara. GYSM Chairman (ag) Kibwe This activity was organized by the Copeland; PNCR Vice Chairman Regional and District Chairperson Vinceroy Jordan, MP; Shadow and Vice Chairperson of the Peo- Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amanple's National Congress Reform, za Walton-Desir, MP; Economic Ms. Elizabeth Williams-Niles in Advisor to the Leader, Elson Low; collaboration with the GYSM. CEC member Sherwin Benjamin At the event, youths were taught and Randolph Critchlow.
Sewing machines and Weed Wacker machines were provided to several NCW Districts.
Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amanza Walton-Desir, MP, addressing the young people at the Youth Symposium
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HEALTH World Diabetes Day 2023 By Dr. Karen Cummings, MP Shadow Minister of Health APNU+AFC World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14th each year. After three decades of its conceptualization, it remains relevant and necessary and a serious health concern. This year‟s profound theme, “Access to Diabetes Care” along with its slogan, “Know your risk, know your response”, emphasizes this. The theme ensures that the right information and care is disseminated to those who need to know and who need to respond appropriately and timely. The data suggests that Diabetes is the second most prevalent cause of non-communicable disease and the fourth leading cause of deaths among persons over 45 years of age in Guyana Ke et al (2020). Ke et al (2020) noted that this disease burden in Guyana may be higher than previously estimated and there could be a higher prevalence among women in rural areas. The authors reported that there was a 1:3 prevalence in women compared to 1:4 in men and that the prevalence might have doubled in rural areas compared to the urban communities. Our country needs to adopt a more robust and comprehensive approach going forward. Stakeholders and policymakers must ensure that the determinants of Diabetes are addressed expeditiously and persistently. These factors include education, income, employment, and lifestyle behaviour such as the use of tobacco. Stringent efforts should be made to prevent and delay Diabetes especially among persons with pre- diabetes. In addition, glucose monitoring should be supported; appropriate education and comprehensive telehealth should be encouraged to support diabetes self-management. Healthy lifestyles to decrease Diabetic risks should be also promoted. Citizens have a responsibility to educate themselves and to rigorously follow the advice given by medical practitioners. So, on this World Diabetes Day, the clarion call goes out for Healthcare providers to address this global health issue frontally. Let the relevant studies be done to provide insights into the disease profile in Guyana by even venturing out to discover the molecular basis of insulin resistance among Guyanese who are diabetics. This call to action is for the 50 percent of individuals who have been diagnosed with Diabetes and to the remainder of persons who are experiencing symptoms or diabetic complications although undiagnosed.
Always Check your Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure REGULARLY!
Your biological age predicts dementia and stroke regardless of your actual age – new study Why we should all try to be biologically younger. As we journey through life, the risk of developing chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease and neurological disorders, increases significantly. However, while we all grow older chronologically at the same pace, biologically, our clocks can tick faster or slower. Relying solely on chronological age – the number of years since birth – is inadequate to measure the body‟s internal biological age. This discrepancy has prompted scientists to find ways to determine a person‟s biological age. One way is to look at “epigenetic clocks” which consider Credit: tomertu/Shutterstock chemical changes that occur in our DNA as we age. Another approach uses information from medical of stroke. tests, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other physiological measurements. Strong association By using these “biomarkers”, researchers have It is worth noting that while advanced biological discovered that when a person‟s biological age sur- age showed a strong association with dementia and passes their chronological age, it often signi- stroke, we saw a weaker link with motor neuron fies accelerated cell ageing and a higher suscepti- disease and even an opposite direction for Parkinbility to age-related diseases. son‟s disease. Our new research suggests your biological age, Parkinson‟s disease often exhibits unique characmore than the years you‟ve lived, may predict your teristics. For instance, although smoking typicalrisk of dementia and stroke in the future. ly accelerates ageing, it paradoxically exerts Previous studies have shed light on this associa- a protective effect against Parkinson‟s disease. tion but they were often limited in scale. This has Our findings show that biological ageing processes left gaps in our understanding of how biological probably contribute substantially to dementia and ageing relates to various neurological disorders, stroke later in life. Together with our previous reincluding Parkinson‟s disease and motor neuron search showing a significant association bedisease. tween advanced biological age and cancer risks, To bridge this gap, our study, published in the these results suggest that slowing the body‟s interJournal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychia- nal decline may be key to preventing chronic distry, examined over 325,000 middle-aged and older eases in late life. British adults. We investigated whether advanced Assessing biological age from routine blood sambiological age increases the future risks of develop- ples could someday become standard practice. ing neurological diseases, including dementia, Those with accelerated ageing could be identified stroke, Parkinson‟s disease and motor neuron dis- decades before dementia symptoms arise. While ease. currently incurable, early detection provides opTo assess biological age, we analysed 18 bi- portunities for preventive lifestyle changes and omarkers collected during medical checkups con- close monitoring. ducted between 2006 and 2010. These included For example, research starts to suggest that bioblood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol levels, logical age may be slowed down or even reversed inflammation markers, waist circumference and by lifestyle intervention including exercise, sleep, lung capacity. diet and nutritional supplements. We then followed participants for nine years to Replicating our results in diverse groups of people see who developed neurological diseases. Those is next step. We also hope to unravel connections with older biological ages at the study‟s start had between genetic background, biological ageing and significantly higher risks of dementia and stroke other major diseases, such as diabetes and heart over the next decade – even after considering dif- diseases. ferences in genetics, sex, income and lifestyle. For now, monitoring internal ageing processes Imagine two 60-year-olds enrolled in our study. could empower people to delay cognitive decline, One had a biological age of 65, the other 60. The providing hope for a healthier and more fulfilling one with the more accelerated biological age had a life in later years. 20% higher risk of dementia and a 40% higher risk (GAVI.org)
Obituary Jevaughn Stephens - Born 8th April 1986; Died 18th October 2023: The PNCR is saddened by the sudden passing of Jevaughn Stephens, son of Larry London. Jevaughn who was an active member of the GYSM and the PNCR passed away on Wednesday 18th October 2023. The Party expresses its deepest sympathy to his wife and children, other families, relatives and friends on his passing. Jeavughn was bury at the Stanleytown Cemetery, New Amsterdam, Berbice on Saturday 28th October 2023. He was buried on Sunday, 5 November 2023 at the Anna Catherina Cemetery, West Coast Demerara. May his soul be at eternal rest!
NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
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IN THE NEWS President's College students at Extraordinary Sitting of Parliament Students of President's College who adoption by the government and the attended the Extraordinary Sitting of Opposition of the motion that Parliament on Monday, 6th Novem- "Affirms the sovereignty and terriber, being greeted by Opposition torial integrity of the State of the MPs Maureen Philadelphia, Roys- Cooperative Republic of Guyana." dale Forde, Dr Karen Cummings, We again call on the government to Cathy Hughes, and Nima Flue-Bess. urgently commence a public educa(In photo below). tion campaign in schools and in the The students were there to witness wider society on Venezuela's basethe presentations by Members of less claim of our territory and on its Parliament and the unanimous provocative and unlawful actions.
Bartica Secondary School teachers welcomed back from training APNU Chairman of the Regional successfully completed their studies at Democratic Council (RDC) of Region the Cyril Potter School of Education #7, Mr. Kenneth Williams and the PTA (CPCE). of the Bartica Secondary School re- Our congrats to the teachers. We encently welcomed back to service a courage you to give your best to the batch of thirteen teachers who have school and to your students.
Forbes Burnham Centenary Commemoration Region #2 On Sunday 5th November, the PNCR's retary Audrey Garraway, Former REO Regional Committee of Region #2 held a Dennis Jaikarran, Regional Committee prayer breakfast in honor of Forbes Member Saheed Yassin, Opposition Burnham Centenary Commemoration at RDC Chief Councillor Mark Mc Lean, the Region #2 Congress House. In at- other members of the regional committendance were Party Chairman Shur- tee, Party Members and supporters. wayne Holder, MP, Party Regional Party Leader Aubrey C. Norton. MP, Chairman Prince Holder, Regional Sec- addressed the gathering via zoom.
Courtesy call on the Opposition Leader by the new US Ambassador to Guyana On Friday 3rd November 2023, the were PNCR Vice Chairman and Shadnew U.S. Ambassador to the Co- ow Minister of Agriculture Vinceroy operative Republic of Guyana Nicole Jordan, MP, Shadow Minister of ForD. Theriot, paid a courtesy call on the eign Affairs Amanza Walton-Desir, Leader of the PNCR and Leader of the MP, and Central Executive Committee Opposition, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, Member, Riaz Rupnarain. The discusMP. Accompanying the Party Leader sions were cordial.
Reception hosted by the US Embassy to welcome new US Ambassador to Guyana On the evening of Friday 3rd November 2023, Leader of the Opposition and PNCR Leader Aubrey C. Norton, MP, attended a reception hosted by the US Embassy to welcome to Guyana the new American Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot. Accompanying the Party Leader were a number of Opposition Members of Parliament, Georgetown City Mayor and Deputy Mayor, City Councilors and other senior Party officers and members.
PNCR Leader Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP (center) is seen here with Chinese Ambassador, Mrs. Guo Haiyan (right) and another official of the Chinese Embassy.
AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan, MP (left) is seen here with Economist Elson Low and David Patterson, MP of the AFC.
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NEW NATION
NOVEMBER 2023
NEW NATION Remembering Viola Victorine Burnham nee Harper, O.R. Twenty (20) years ago, the lamp House Campaign began and she which lit the way of the Women‟s invited our women and entire GuyRevolutionary Socialist Movement ana to use our local fruits and prod(WRSM) suddenly went out. ucts to make our cakes and other It was the 10th October 2003 that delicacies. She encouraged women Viola Victorine Burnham, O.R. unto develop cottage industries, and ceremoniously left us. Cde. Vi, as tie-dye products were the order of she was fondly and familiarly the day. She also encouraged the called, had led a group of women as use of appropriate technology; they built on the foundation of the hence we made use of what was Founders of the People‟s National available in our Country. Congress Women‟s Auxiliary - the The death of her husband saw her Women‟s arm of Our Great Party. being appointed Vice President unDuring her leadership as National der the Hugh Desmond Hoyte GovChairman of the Women‟s revoluernment where she became more tionary Socialist Movement involved in the politics of Guyana. (WRSM), having had the opporViola Burnham was conferred with tunity to participate in the United the Order of Roraima, the second Nations Decade for Women, Viola highest National award for her sterBurnham O.R. repositioned the orling contribution to the developganization and proceeded to advoment of women in Guyana. cate strongly for equality for womThe National Chairman and the en in all spheres of nation building. Executive of the National Congress Under her leadership and proof Women (NCW) will continue the pelled by the WRSM, the women good work started by Viola Victoriencouraged the then Prime Minisne Harper Burnham. ter of our country, Linden Forbes ed, there was a paradigm shift to portant legal changes being made Viola Victorine Harper Burnham, Sampson Burnham, to present to strengthen the advocacy for Wom- to ensure equality for women. promoted the full participation of the National Assembly the State en‟s Rights. The Women‟s Affairs Viola Burnham believed in using women in all phases of community Paper on the Equality of Women in Bureau of Guyana was established; what we produced hence the emer- and national life; Viola has gone 1976. a number of Laws of Guyana were gence of the slogan “Produce or but her memory will be etched in After the State Paper was present- revised, which resulted in im- Perish”. The Feed, Clothe and the annals of Guyana‟s history.
Obituaries Brian Belgrave - Born 30th October 1963; Died 30th October 2023: The PNCR is saddened by the sudden passing of Brian Belgrave, an ardent stalwart of the Party, who passed away on Monday 30th October 2023, his birthday. The Party expresses its deepest sympathy to his family, relatives and friends on his passing. He was buried on Sunday, 5 November 2023 at the Anna Catherina Cemetery, West Coast Demerara. May his soul be at eternal rest!
Leonard Stephen DaCosta aka “Uncle Buck” - Born 20th 26th December 1947; Died 12th October 2023: The PNCR extends sincere condolences to the family, relatives and friends of its long-standing member and stalwart, Leonard DaCosta aka “ Uncle Buck”. He was laid to rest at the Le Repentir Cemetery on Sunday 22nd October 2023. May his soul be at Eternal Rest!
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