Guyanese across the country, on Thursday, celebrated the Festival of Lights with homes aglow and hearts full of joy (DPI and Japheth Savory photos)
Election fraud trial set to resume today
- amid uncertainty over magistrate’s future involvement in case after several delays - AG Nandlall calls for reassignment
THE high-profile election fraud trial, involving several former senior election officials and political figures, is scheduled to continue this morning, Friday, November 1, 2024.
However, uncertainty remains regarding whether Senior Magistrate Leron Daly, who has been on medical leave, will be able to continue presiding over the case.
Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, SC, confirmed, on Tuesday, that if Magistrate Daly remains unwell, there is a possibility the case could be reassigned to a new magistrate, requiring the trial to start over.
The ongoing delays in the trial, which began on July 29, 2024, and has already faced multiple adjournments, continue to raise concerns over the timeline for its resolution.
During his weekly programme, Issues in the News, Nandlall said, “The last bit of information that we have
is that the magistrate who was assigned to the matter fell ill...
“We are heading into another election and these cases have not yet been completed. They are all pending before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. And to put it mildly, they have travelled a very unfortunate course. A course littered with delay and delay tactics by defence counsel. I would be bold enough to say that there has been some type of encouragement coming from the bench [the court].”
Nandlall emphasised that if Magistrate Daly remains unwell, the case should be reassigned to a new magistrate, requiring the trial to start over.
He expressed optimism that a decision on reassigning the matter to a new magistrate would be reached today. Once this is done, he called for the court to establish clear timeframes for the trial to begin and proceed within a
specified period. Nandlall emphasised the importance of the trial progressing unhindered, noting
that the matters have been consuming people’s attention for over three years.
The trial, which began
on July 29, 2024, has been marked by numerous postponements and procedural challenges since charges were initially filed in late 2020. Originally set to resume
Top row, from left: Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row, from left: Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph
Gov’t working to overcome obstacles, create better path for Guyanese - President Ali
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is working towards overcoming obstacles, and creating a better path for all Guyanese.
The Head of Stat e made this remark on Wednesday evening while addressing a mammoth crowd gathered at the La Bonne Intention Community Centre Ground to witness the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s annual Diwali motorcade and cultural show.
He noted that as the government continues its work of laying a better path, a renewed sense of optimism has been seen in citizens.
“Over the last four years, we have seen the renewal of hope in our country; we have seen the
renewal of optimism in our country. We have seen the renewal of the Guyanese spirit of believing in Guyana; believing in who we are, and believing and feeling that we can have and will continue to have a more prosperous life here in Guyana,” Dr. Ali said.
He indicated that he is pleased to lead a government filled with dynamic persons like General Secretary of the PPP Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who works daily to ensure that obstacles are overcome, and a better life is created for Guyanese.
He added, “In creating that better path, we have to look at what constitutes good, what constitutes light, and the most important thing that we sometimes don't examine is our consciousness. Our consciousness of our en-
vironment, our consciousness about our society, our consciousness about those people in our society who will seek to divide us; the people in our society who will seek to take us down a non-productive path.”
With this, he indicated that it is important that citizens open their consciousness and become aware of what the government is doing to ensure that all citizens have a better life; to ensure there is better access to healthcare and education among other things.
These, he said are important elements of goodness, and that light spoken about in relation to the celebration of Diwali.
“The light is about creating a path that ensures that we are successful; ensures that our aspirations are met. And if you look today, and you examine
what we are doing, it is in keeping with ensuring your aspirations, and the aspirations of every Guyanese are met,” he expressed.
Further to this, he indicated that sometimes, people may not see the hands and the people who work every day in crafting policies and creating measures; putting in work behind the scenes to ensure that Guyanese can enjoy great benefits.
Meanwhile, earlier in the week, President Ali, at the Diwali Mahotsav, urged citizens to tune out the noise of those who seek to be divisive and look around society to see who are the individuals or groups that are pursuing peace.
He added that some people make it their duty to go on social media
with the sole objective of creating disorder and distractions.
“Their narrative is one that does not support the peaceful existence of society and of people, but you, as individuals, must understand that the pursuit of peace begins with an understanding and embracing of what peace is. And, in our small society, you will see the distractors of peace who try every day to use division and divisive methods,” he said.
To this end, Dr. Ali expressed that we must learn to live positive lives, as it is positivity that will help to remove the obstacles we face.
With this, he noted that goodness is about unifying people and not dividing them, and sharing joyfulness.
President Ali delivering an address at LBI on Wednesday night
Some of the Diwali performers and President Ali (OP photos)
Election fraud trial set to resume...
on August 7, 2024, the proceedings were delayed as Magistrate Daly was granted a 30-day medical leave, pushing the next scheduled hearing to September 17, 2024.
However, with Daly’s health issues persisting that day, acting Chief Magistrate, Faith Mc Gusty, updated the court that the trial would now be further adjourned to October 31, 2024, for reports.
Magistrate Mc Gusty emphasised that if Daly is still unwell by the newly scheduled date, the court will
need to assess whether she is fit to continue presiding over the case.
In such a situation, submissions will be accepted regarding her competency to remain on the case.
Should her condition not improve, Magistrate Mc Gusty said there is also a possibility that the trial could be reassigned to another magistrate for continuation. Since October 31, 2024, was a public holiday, Diwali, the case was rescheduled for the following day.
These continual delays have added to public concern about the trial's resolution.
Since the 2020 general and
regional elections, the case has captured national attention due to the serious allegations that key election officials attempted to manipulate the outcome of the elections in favour of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition.
Those accused include Peoples National Congress Reform (PNC/R) activist Carol Smith-Joseph; former APNU+AFC Health Minister Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers; former Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, and Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) employees: Denise Babb-Cummings, Michelle Miller, Enrique Livan, and Sheffern February
They are collectively facing 19 conspiracy charges
related to alleged electoral fraud.
According to the state’s case, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, the accused allegedly conspired to defraud the electorate by submitting an inflated vote count for Region Four, Guyana’s largest voting district, in favour of the APNU+AFC coalition.
The altered results, announced by Lowenfield, indicated an APNU+AFC win with 171,825 votes against the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) 166,343.
However, a subsequent recount, overseen by a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), reversed the outcome, revealing a PPP/C victory by over 15,000 votes.
The prosecution has built its case on a substantial volume of evidence, including flash drives containing
Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs), 80 witness statements, and numerous official documents.
Among the witnesses are high-profile individuals like Local Government Minister Sonia Parag, who testified that Mingo used spreadsheets for vote tabulation despite Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire's directive to rely solely on the official SoPs.
Head of the Diaspora Unit, Rosalinda Rasul, who served as an election observer, has also testified.
The other prosecution witnesses include Forensic Investigator, Rawle Nedd, and former Region Four Police Commander, Edgar Thomas. The state argued that Mingo and other officials deliberately manipulated Region Four’s results to secure an APNU+AFC victory, undermining Guyana’s
democratic process.
Given the prominence of those charged, the trial has drawn significant public interest, with citizens eager for accountability and transparency in the judicial process.
The defendants, who have all denied the charges and are out on cash bail, are represented by a defence team that includes attorneys such as Nigel Hughes, Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson and Darren Wade.
Meanwhile, the prosecution team, apart from Ramdhani, comprises attorney Latchmie Rahamat and multiple state counsel from the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (DPP) Chambers.
GECOM made the decision to dismiss Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light. Many had welcomed this decision.
Attorney General
Anil Nandlall, SC
Roxanne Myers
Senior Magistrate Leron Daly Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty
Commercial banks are the reason I want to be young again
I NEVER regretted growing old. When you study philosophy, you will understand that growing old is an existentialist inevitability. If you embrace existentialism, then you will understand why staying young has no intrinsic philosophical value.
I recommend to you the best book written on existentialism, although it was done in 1927. No book on philosophy can match it; Martin Heidegger’s, “Being and Time”.
But there are times I regret I have become older, and the energy and emotions are not there to try to change my country and the world.
Two things caught my eyes this past week. One is the article by the Chronicle’s Monday columnist, Leonard Craig (October 28) on the commercial banks in Guyana, and how they treat working-class people unfairly.
The announcement of this increase when juxtaposed with Craig’s article made me feel that I wanted to be young again, so I can fight the class battles I once fought since I was a young 16-year-old “youth-man”. For the past 10 years; not ten months, I stood alone in this entire country and discussed the unfair treatment the banks dish out to the proletarian population of Guyana, and this includes not only the urban working-class but the rural proletariat, too. Only Leonard Craig has joined me, and he did so ten years after I began my crusade. There has been no denunciation from civil society, political parties, newspaper editorials, etc., of how the banks treat small depositors.
Chris Ram and I were talking the other day, and he mentioned the problems people have with the NIS, but the conversation did not last long enough for me to tell Chris about
The other was the publication of Republic Bank’s after-tax profit that rose by 47.89 per cent, and reading that Demerara Bank’s after-tax profit was elevated by 37 per cent.
the banks, a topic which is straight up his alley, because he is a financial analyst.
Chris did say to me that the world is going rightwing, and I agreed. Maybe that global trend has come to Guyana, because where is the left-wing thinkers in Guyana that can expose the class mentality of the financial houses in Guyana?
Here is a quote from Craig’s article. I suggest if you still care about the working people of this country then read Craig. His column is titled, “Banking in Guyana is stuck in the Dark Ages”. He wrote: “Commercial banks are aligned and conspire to provide some of the most oppressive financial situations that disproportionately affect poor and working-class people.”
Craig went on to offer several examples of class discrimination, which space constraint will prevent listing, but please read this one: “Further, the commercial banks of
Guyana have a collaborative rule that inter-bankdeposited cheques above $500,000 go through a process called ‘Special Clearance’, where the transaction is fast-tracked, and the recipient gets access to the funds on the same business day.
“All cheques with values below $500,000 have to wait three business days. If you are transacting pittances of $30,000, by convention, you need to wait, but those are the people who most need to access their funds to either turn it over in a ‘lil’ hustle or meet pressing needs.”
Craig is prodigiously correct. The carpenter does some work on the house of a businessman, he gets a cheque. Business people do not deal with cash. That carpenter’s wife is waiting for that money to buy the necessities of life. How can you ask her to wait for three days, because that is the time when her husband will get the cash?
Craig’s article did not deal with the banks’ absolute misinterpretation
of the anti-money laundering act. I get some heart-breaking complaints.
A top name in journalism in the State media had to face this misinterpretation.
My wife faced it, and I made a noise and went straight up to the manager. My mother-in-law had died, so my wife closed the joint account.
The attendant asked her for proof of address. She said that is a requirement in keeping with the anti-money laundering Act. I told her that is not so, and it is silly to ask someone closing an account for proof of address, since there is no longer a business relation with the depositor. The manager told the attendant the request was not necessary. But they are doing that to
working-class people.
I am going to close with a sad story you are not going to believe.
There is a woman working at Hand-in-Hand Insurance Company. She went to close her account, because it had become dormant. The bank told her she has to produce certain documents when an account becomes dormant; she is unable to get them. She cannot access her own money. What has that got to do with money laundering?
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Opportunities that accompany transformation
THE recent pronouncement by Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony regarding the urgent need for 600 nurses on the Essequibo Coast highlights a critical juncture in Guyana's healthcare system.
With the impending completion of the new Lima Hospital and the expansion of existing facilities, the demand for skilled nursing professionals is not just a statistic; it is an urgent call to action for both the government and society.
As healthcare infrastructures evolve, so, too, must the workforce that supports them. The Essequ-
ibo Coast is on the brink of significant healthcare transformation, yet this potential can only be realised if there are enough qualified nurses to deliver care.
Currently, Guyana’s three nursing schools can only train about 200 students annually, which is woefully inadequate given the projected demand. The establishment of a new nursing school at Suddie is a step in the right direction, but it must be complemented by a robust recruitment strategy that attracts and retains talent.
The government's investment in the Professional Hybrid Nurses Pro-
gramme, which has already recruited nearly 1,200 participants, is commendable. This innovative approach— combining Online theoretical training with practical in-person sessions—could serve as a model for future educational initiatives.
However, it is essential that this programme not only increases numbers, but also ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to meet the specific needs of their communities.
Moreover, the introduction of specialised training tracks for registered nurses in areas such as critical care and neonatal care will en-
hance career advancement opportunities, and improve service quality.
As Dr. Anthony aptly noted, “If we are going to offer better neonatal care, then we need neonatal care nurses.”
This targetted approach will ensure that as services expand, they are supported by professionals who are not only qualified but also specialised.
While infrastructural improvements and training programmes are vital, they must be part of a broader strategy to address systemic challenges within Guyana's healthcare system.
To mitigate these is -
sues, it is imperative that the government not only focuses on recruitment, but also on retention strategies. This includes improving working conditions, providing adequate support systems for staff, and ensuring competitive salaries that reflect the demanding nature of nursing work.
Notably, the government has already made progress in these areas.
The responsibility for addressing this nursing shortage, however, cannot rest solely on the government’s shoulders; it requires a collaborative effort, involving educational institutions, healthcare
facilities, and community stakeholders. Partnerships with international nursing organisations could provide additional resources and training opportunities, while community engagement can help raise awareness about the importance of pursuing a career in nursing. Also, with continuous investments in education, improving working conditions, and fostering collaboration across sectors, we can build a resilient healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of the population. The time to act is now; our health depends on it.
Leonora celebrates a luminous Diwali through President Ali’s intervention
Dear Editor, DIWALI, or Deepavali, known as the “Festival of Lights”, is as much a secular holiday as it is a religious holiday, and embraces everyone to participate in its festivities.
The occasion is universally observed for all its pomp and glory, indulges in glamour and entertainment, and also affords values with the teachings and lessons morally associated with the stories.
It embodies a cultural ambience enshrined within the delicate but significant components of spiritual, philosophical, historical and sociological elements to formulate a much-revered
way of life.
Guyana, the land of descendants, some with ancestors from India, also revels in the celebration of Diwali, and permits lucky Guyanese to enjoy the event as a public holiday.
In each of the three counties in Guyana, there are ongoing programmes to commemorate this joyous holiday, and many institutions, including the PPP/C Government, are holding public events so that all Guyanese may participate as “One Guyana”. These events cater strictly to non-alcoholic beverages, vegetarian foods, classical dances that are easy on the eyes, entertaining
music pleasant to the ears, songs without lawless lyrics, rollicking but clean-spoken MCs, educational books, fashionable garments with accessories, and a virtuous venue free from violence and vulgarity.
The President of Guyana, ministers and other government officials, along with diplomatic dignitaries, grace these venues.
At the Leonora Deepavali Mahotsav this year, President Irfaan Ali not only activated the lighting of the Diya, but in his message, he restored hope for this country and faith in his government to manage the affairs of the people equitably, justifiably and honestly.
With his astute leadership, President Ali removed the darkness with light which had blocked out the perseverance of honour in the village. Through his instrumentality, good prevailed over evil with the input of the Home Affairs Minister to restore dignity.
With Dr. Ali’s timely intervention, knowledge eroded ignorance to allow the Top Cop to visit the area and institutionalise changes which will bring immediate relief to limit the lawless behaviours, and provide integrity.
Wary of the sensitivity of a historical and famous village, Leonora is the playground for the President,
and he will not sacrifice the happiness of an entire village to accommodate profit over principle.
This busy business background in the Region Three borough does provide an economic hive, but with a President of ethical privileges, Dr. Ali would not compromise moral values for indecent behaviour. The President, along with the relevant agencies and other stakeholders who have been salient, significant and silent, know when and how to draw the line.
No one is above the law or more powerful than the President. He stamps his feet authoritatively when action needs to be assigned.
The lawlessness in Leonora is being removed, and residents can now enjoy the beautiful and breathtaking festival of Diwali in a peaceful, perfect and pampered ambience which necessitates the lighting of Diyas. The President’s liaison officer, the Police Commander in Region Three is able and capable of willingly ensuring that all residents observe this holiday in the appropriate manner. Leonora is thankful that the President has stepped up to the plate to be their knight in shining armour to help resolve the noise nuisance.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
136th Canton Fair kicks off, bringing broader market opportunities to trade partners
(GUANGZHOU) THE 136th China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, kicked off in Guangzhou, the capital of South China’s Guangdong province.
Themed “Serving high-quality development, promoting high-level opening-up,” this edition of the fair features more than 30,000 exhibitors showcasing 1.15 million new products.
Many new companies, products, technologies and business models are making their debut, attracting 147,000 overseas buyers who have pre-registered for the fair.
The new-energy vehicles (NEVs) section was a popular spot among international buyers.
Sinotruk, a major player in the traditional vehicle industry, has forged into the NEV sector over the past two years. A Sinotruk electric truck displayed at the company’s booth attracted the attention of many potential buyers from Russia, Armenia,
Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, among other countries and regions.
Although the NEVs in Southeast Asia and Africa markets are still in their early stages and not as mature as in Europe, the company is optimistic about the prospects of NEVs in these regions, according to a staffer with Sinotruk.
Dario Damico, a buyer from Argentina, was drawn to a compact new-energy passenger vehicle at the booth of Dayun Automobile Co Ltd. He bent down to feel the wheel hub, leaned in to examine the seats, and had an engaging conversation with the booth staff. Before leaving, he made sure to grab a stack of brochures.
“There aren’t many Chinese-made NEVs on the Argentinian market yet. This car is reasonably priced and compact, so I believe it could fill a gap in Argentina’s electric vehicle market,” Damico said, adding
that he looks forward to bringing this model to Argentina within the next few months.
According to Chu Shijia, head of the China Foreign Trade Center, over 8,000 exhibitors have been recognised as national high-tech enterprises, “little giants” specialising in niche industries, or manufacturing champions, representing a more than 40 percent increase from the previous edition of the Canton Fair.
Around 390,000 digital and smart products will be showcased, a 300 percent surge compared to the 135th Canton Fair, while the number of green and low-carbon products will rise by 130 percent to 1.04 million.
In the eyes of Zhou Yuanqing, marketing director of kitchen and cleaning appliances specialist Topim Intelligent Manufacturing (Shaoyang) Co Ltd, the Canton Fair is an excellent platform for connecting with international buyers.
“Compared to other home appliance exhibitions, the Canton Fair attracts more buyers from a broader range of regions, helping us expand our business into more markets,” said Zhou.
Established just five years ago, Topim has already exported its products to over 30 countries and regions, with annual sales exceeding 500 million yuan ($70.29 million), thanks to its efforts to enhance manufacturing capabilities, and strict quality control.
According to Zhou, Topim’s factory spans around 300,000 square meters, yet it has only about 1,000 employees, including the design and R&D team, as many production processes are fully automated.
A survey conducted by the organisers ahead of the fair indicated that 94 percent of exhibitors would bring in new products, and 64.8 percent would showcase products with independent intellectual prop-
erty rights. More than 1 million new items and products with intellectual property rights are on display, alongside a range of humanoid robots, smart devices and unmanned products making their debut at the fair.
The online platform for the 136th Canton Fair has been further optimised, featuring a virtual digital host and a dedicated Canton Fair app.
The scale of the online exhibition has expanded significantly, with around 48,000 companies uploading approximately 3.75 million products to the platform, an increase of 60 percent and 50 percent, respectively, compared to the previous fair, both of which are historic highs.
Buyers from over 209 countries and regions had pre-registered for the event. Additionally, 241 of the world’s top 250 retailers and leading multinational corporations are participating in the fair.
“Based on indicators such
as pre-registrations, hotel bookings and flight reservations, improved attendance of overseas buyers at the 136th Canton Fair is expected,” Chu said.
The fair highlights the high-quality development of Chinese products and brands, and China is confident in its ability to offer more and better products -- both “made in China” and “created in China” -- to the world, Chu noted.
The fair will be held in three phases between October 15 and November 4 and is set to include 55 exhibition areas covering 1.55 million square meters. The first phase, which ran from October 15 to 19, introduced new topics such as hydrogen energy and featured a dedicated area for energy storage products, attracting over 110 new-energy companies.
Launched in 1957 and held twice yearly, the Canton Fair is considered a major gauge of China’s foreign trade.
Chinese modernisation fuels shared prosperity of developing nations
(Xinhua) CHINA is forging its own path to modernisation, offering not only inspiration to other developing countries but also tangible opportunities for growth amid a sluggish global economy.
Amid rising trade protectionism, China, the world’s largest developing nation, remains committed to advancing high-level opening up and serving as a reliable partner for developing countries on the path to modernisation.
On the domestic front, China is prioritising institutional openness, unlocking vast market potential and creating abundant opportunities for foreign businesses. Measures like lifting foreign investment restrictions in manufacturing and enhancing intellectual property protection are making China an increasingly attractive destination for global enterprises.
On the global stage, the
China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which now encompasses over three quarters of the world’s countries, exemplifies China’s commitment to collaborative progress. Projects once deemed unattainable have become realities, significantly improving the lives of millions.
As Belt and Road cooperation has entered its second decade, new opportunities are emerging, with plans to break new ground through enhanced collaboration with partner countries. In July, a resolution was adopted during the third plenum of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee. It calls for efforts to improve the integrated framework for land, sea, air, and cyberspace connectivity and build a multidimensional network to connect countries along the Belt and Road.
Cooperation within the BRI framework will be strength -
ened in key areas such as green development, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, finance, and disaster mitigation. As China rapidly advances in digital communications, it is well-positioned to assist partner countries in developing their digital economies and bridging the digital divide.
In the realm of technological innovation, China has consistently embraced a spirit of collaboration. Its belief that science should benefit all humanity is not mere rhetoric; it is reflected in concrete actions.
China has established scientific and technological cooperation ties with over 160 countries and regions, and signed 118 intergovernmental agreements on such cooperation. China also issued the International Science and Technology Cooperation Initiative, featuring open, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory international science and
China to work with other countries to pursue open, inclusive sci-tech cooperation
(Xinhua) China stands ready to work with other countries to pursue open and inclusive sci-tech cooperation, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said recently.
According to the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024 recently released by the World Intellectual Property Organization, China moved up one spot to 11th place in the ranking of the world's most innovative economies compared with last year, remaining the only middle-income economy in the top 30.
In response to a related query, spokesperson Mao Ning said since the GII was launched in 2007, China has steadily moved up in various GII rankings. According to this year's report,
China is one of the fastest 10year climbers and leads with the most science and technology clusters in the top 100, showing strong momentum in and broad prospects for innovation-driven development, she said.
Mao said the improvement of China's innovation capability is a result of its increasing research and development (R&D) spending and open and inclusive international cooperation.
According to statistics, China's R&D expenditure topped 3.3 trillion yuan (over 450 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up 8.4 percent year on year, Mao said, adding that China has established sci-tech cooperation relations with more than 160 countries and regions and signed
118 inter-governmental agreements on sci-tech cooperation.
The sound environment for inn ovation and rich human resources in China have attracted more and more multinational businesses to set up R&D centers in this country, she said.
"China's sci-tech innovation serves the interests of China and the whole world. In the face of the new round of scientific and technological revolution, we stand ready to work with other countries to pursue open and inclusive sci-tech cooperation, share the outcomes of sci-tech innovation and jointly address global challenges," Mao said.
technology cooperation.
A prime example of such cooperation is the establishment of 10 overseas science and education centres by the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, South America and beyond. More than 100 scientific and technological projects have been launched, training nearly 5,000 high-level professionals from these regions.
China has provided the international community with abundant public goods, including the annual China International Import Expo and regional initiatives like the China-ASEAN Expo. These influential platforms are set to evolve into concrete cooperation projects that deliver tangible benefits to the people of participating countries. Committed to offering even more global public goods
to support peace and prosperity, China aims to achieve more win-win outcomes through its reform and opening up while collaborating with other nations on modernisation.
The effectiveness of these efforts is evident. Following its pledge in July to further open its doors to the world’s least developed countries, China announced, in early September, that it would grant zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all the least developed countries that have established diplomatic relations with China. This makes China the first major developing nation and the first significant economy to take such a step.
Cooperation between China and other developing nations is expected to accelerate in the future, especially in green transition efforts aimed at tackling cli-
mate change. China’s strengths in clean energy equipment and electric vehicles have already been translated into successful cooperation programmes in relevant sectors across developing countries.
Modernisation is a shared aspiration for humanity. Chinese modernisation dispels the misconception that modernisation equates to Westernisation. Rather than pursuing isolated success or creating a model that hinders others, China is dedicated to partnering with other nations to jointly advance modernisation.
As the world’s second-largest economy, China has contributed more than 30 percent of global economic growth over the past years. The widening door of opportunity being opened by Chinese modernisation welcomes all, particularly Global South countries.
Guyana making steady progress in transition from conventional energy sources
- Prime Minister Phillips tells stakeholders at OLADE meeting in Paraguay
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, reaffirmed Guyana’s ongoing commitment to sustainable energy development through its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, during his address at the 54th Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) in Paraguay, on Thursday.
He noted that since the 2015 discovery of oil, Guyana has rapidly expanded its energy infrastructure. However, he emphasised that this growth is balanced by the government's commitment to sustainability, as reflected in the development of Guyana’s LCDS 2030.
The Prime Minister highlighted the country’s transformative approach to energy that seeks to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, by diversifying energy sources and ensuring affordable, reliable energy access for all Guyanese.
The country’s focus, he said, is to integrate renewable resources such as solar,
hydro, wind, biomass, and natural gas to meet growing energy demand, while keeping emissions low.
“Our journey to… transition away from conventional energy sources has been steady, with significant progress,” the Prime Minister said.
He said, too, that a significant part of Guyana’s clean energy initiative is the construction of a 300 MW combined cycle gas turbine power plant, connected by a 200km subsea pipeline.
“This represents the single largest investment made in the electricity sector and the single largest Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract undertaken. This project, scheduled for completion in 2025, will directly cut emissions from electricity generation by 70 per cent and significantly reduce energy costs by 50 per cent, leading to major economic development initiatives in Guyana,” Phillips said.
Further, He told the energy ministers that the Government of Guyana has also
launched a request for an additional 250 MW combined cycle gas power plant and a 6,000 barrels-per-day natural gas liquid facility to be developed under a long-term power purchase agreement.
Another major project is a planned 165 MW hydropower plant, which will be developed by an independent power producer model, to further strengthen Guyana’s renewable energy portfolio.
Prime Minister Phillips shared Guyana’s significant gains in renewable energy capacity, reporting a 224 per cent increase in solar power from 2020 to 2024, through investments in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, mini-grids, and utility-scale solar farms, which have boosted installed renewable capacity to 17.37 MW.
With the planned commissioning of an additional 46.4 MW in solar PV within the next three years, the government is also expanding energy access to off-grid areas, especially in the hinterland, through new solar installations and micro-grid
developments.
In support of e-mobility and energy conservation, the government has eliminated taxes on electric vehicles and established six public EV charging stations across the country.
“This effort is aimed at catalysing e-mobility adoption and contributing to sustainable transportation,” the Prime Minister said.
Further, he highlighted the government’s successful LED Lighting Project, which replaced inefficient lighting in households, businesses, and public buildings with over 63,000 LED bulbs, promoting sustainable energy consumption, while reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
Prime Minister Phillips also underscored the importance of partnerships with regional and international stakeholders to drive clean energy development and enhance climate resilience across Latin America.
“The Government of Guyana reiterates our valued relationships with regional and international partners and will continue to support and promote clean energy development,” the Prime Minister said.
In Paraguay, the International Renewable Energy Agency highlighted its support for Guyana's Solar City Simulator project, a webbased application helping households, businesses, and municipal authorities evaluate prospects for rooftop solar PV systems, led by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).
The 54th Meeting of Ministers of Energy is part of the IX Energy Week taking place in the city of Asunción from October 28 to November 1, 2024. (Office of the Prime Minister)
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, reaffirmed Guyana’s ongoing commitment to sustainable energy development through its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, during his address at the 54th Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) in Paraguay, on Thursday
Existing water-supply systems being upgraded simultaneously with new additions
- Baksh says; highlights efforts to address low pressure and high iron content in some communities
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
CHIEF
Executive Officer
(CEO) of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Shaik Baksh, has said that existing water-supply systems are being upgraded concurrently with the addition of new systems to improve supply and quality across the country.
The GWI CEO, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, pointed out that, while the government has invested billions of dollars in new water treatment plants across the country, they are also aware of the low water pressure and high iron content in some communities.
It is for this reason that while new water treatment facilities are a primary focus, GWI and the Ministry of Housing and Water are also working on upgrading 12 existing treatment plants across the country.
This, according to him, should be completed by the end of 2024. Additionally, the CEO related that 15 small treatment plants will be completed by the first quarter of 2025.
In addition to the water treatment plants being developed across the country, Baksh said that they are drilling multiple wells to
supplement and assist the water treatment plants.
He also mentioned that transmission and distribution pipelines are installed to ensure a better quality of service is provided.
The CEO said: “While we are working to ensure that 90 per cent of our people get usable water by 2025, we are also ensuring that damaged pipelines are replaced.
“These initiatives by the government are not only benefitting Guyanese on the coastland, but they are for all Guyanese; that simply means that our people in the hinterlands are also benefitting.”
Baksh explained that due to the expansion of the housing sector and the infrastructural developments across the country, GWI has
to ensure that it keeps up with the rapid development.
He also said while they are working to enhance individuals' access to clean water in their homes, they are equally strict with homeowners and contractors regarding pipeline damages.
Baksh further said that he recently addressed a problem in which contractors are causing infrastructural damage in several regions where roads, drainage, and irrigation systems are being developed. These actions, according to him, have impacted the water supply, and in many cases, the contractors are unable to be located.
The CEO said: “We take a very strong stance on this issue, and all required measures will be done to ensure
that these practices do not occur. We are also asking the public to be vigilant in their communities and report any
damage to any GWI office nearby.”
He also implored parents and adults to educate
children on the importance of conserving water, especially during the dry season.
The CEO of GWI, Shaik Baksh
GDF addresses fuel pilferage incident
- says perpetrator will be subject to disciplinary action
THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) confirmed Thursday the authenticity of a video going the rounds on social media showing one of its ranks pilfering fuel from a service vehicle near a military installation.
The video at reference,
the army said in a release, was made as a means of substantiating the commission of the crime.
Noting that it is unfortunate that evidence of the theft was “shared in the public domain,” the army said that had it not been for the electronic tracking de-
vice installed in the vehicle, they would have been none the wiser that something was amiss.
The device, it said, was implemented to improve accountability and management of its “Defence assets”.
“After being alerted of
an anomaly by our tracking system, the rank was caught in the act by a superior officer, and has since been processed for disciplinary action,” the army said, adding: “The Force, therefore, wishes to assure the public that this interception is a success story of the measures taken to improve our accountability for our
assets, and we continue to derive benefits from the complementary deployment of appropriate technologies over the past year.”
In closing, it said: “The Force will continue to swiftly address any illicit activities by its ranks, and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and pro-
fessionalism, as the People of Guyana deserve no less.” It said, too, that in furtherance of its service to the nation, “the Force takes the opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices and selfless service of all of its officers and ranks, and to thank the People of Guyana for their continued trust.”
Guyana’s oil wealth funding family-centred benefits
THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has rolled out a series of measures aimed at helping families with children.
With the new income from Guyana’s oil boom, the government is focusing on using part of that wealth to directly support these families, improving the quality of their lives.
Income Tax Deduction:
Starting in 2025, either a mother or father can claim an extra $10,000 tax deduction each month for every child. This means they will pay less in income tax, which leaves them with more money to spend on other things. Over a year, this adds up to a $120,000 relief per child for about 205,000 families in Guyana.
Because We Care Cash Grant & Uniform Voucher Allowance: Every school-aged child in these families can benefit from a $40,000 cash grant, plus an additional $5,000 for school uniforms each year. This money helps parents get their children ready for school, covering things like uniforms and textbooks. Altogether, with the income tax deduction, families save $165,000 each year per school-aged child. If a family has two children, this amount goes up to $330,000; for three children, it is $495,000.
Free Education: Starting in January 2025, the government will abolish tuition fees at the University of Guyana and at state-run technical and vocational institutions. Typical university
programmes cost $127,000 in tuition per semester, with others being even more costly. By lifting this burden, the government aims to make higher education more accessible, reflecting its
commitment to investing in Guyana’s future, through its citizens.
National School Feeding Programme: For around 102,000 students, the government provides meals at school, including
breakfast, juices, biscuits, and hot meals. While this does not cover all students, it is a big help for many families in need, easing the food expenses they would otherwise have to cover.
Working Parents Childcare
Subsidy: This programme gives working parents a $50,000 subsidy per child, covering child care expenses for three months. About 700 children are expected to benefit from this in 2024, helping parents balance work and family.
Eye Testing and Spectacles Programme: Anyone under 18 (and also those 65 and older) can get their eyes tested with a voucher valued at $2,000. If they need glasses, there is another voucher worth $15,000 to help with the cost of the spectacles. All of these measures point
to the government’s focus on supporting working families who are trying to provide for their children.
While the government has made it clear that it is focused on using oil revenue for capital projects like transport infrastructure and energy expansion, it has also chosen to prioritise families when it comes to recurrent expenses, like the ones listed above.
This shows the government’s commitment to using the country’s burgeoning oil wealth to ensure that families can better handle the cost of living in Guyana. The government continues to pursue new ways of making people’s lives better.
Billions of dollars spent on improvement of hinterland, coastal water supply
- Auditor General’s 2023 report shows
FOLLOWING a thorough review of billions of dollars in strategic investments by the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Auditor General’s 2023 report confirmed, yet again, that the PPP/C administration remains committed to its pledge of ensuring improved water distribution systems for coastal and hinterland regions.
Expounding on this front, Auditor General, Deodat Sharma, recalled that the Government of Guyana and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) had signed Loan Agreement №. 20/SFRGUY for the “Water Supply Improvement Project.”
The sum of $1 bil -
lion was allotted to the Ministry of Housing and Water for the period under review to improve water supply services in areas such as Walton Hall to Charity, Leguan, Wakenaam, Bush Lot and Tain to №.50 Village. It also covered the costs associated with a study to ascertain feasibility for treatment of surface water from Hope Canal and institutional strengthening to increase access to potable water. According to the Appropriation Accounts, as at December 31, 2023, amounts totalling $117.866 million were properly expended.
Turning his attention to Hinterland Water Supply, it was noted that the sum of $1.400 billion was
allotted to the ministry for the period under review to provide for the completion of wells and distribution network in Regions Seven, Eight and Nine; well drilling materials, solar photovoltaic systems, and electromechanical equipment.
The allocation also covered pipes, fittings, spares and accessories for water supply systems; and new wells and water supply systems in Regions One, Two and Nine, to improve potable water supply and operational efficiency. According to the Appropriation Accounts, as at 31 December 2023, the entire sum was expended. No red flags were cited in this regard.
With respect to coastal water supply, the Au-
ditor General said the sum of $12 billion was allotted to the ministry for the period under review. This covered the construction and rehabilitation of water treatment plants in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six, along with the upgrading of transmission mains and procurement of water meters, meter boxes, to improve water supply and the health and well-being of residents. According to the Appropriation Accounts, as at December 31, 2023, the entire sum was expended. Importantly, the Auditor General pointed out that the sum of $1.645 billion was allotted to the ministry for the period under review which covered the costs for a well at
Turkeyen, Sophia, Shelter Belt, Central Ruimveldt and Ameila’s Ward. Also catered for was the upgrading of transmission mains in Georgetown and the rehabilitation of Georgetown sewer stations to improve the health and well-being of residents. According to the Appropriation Accounts, the entire sum was expended.
With substantial investments made in infrastructure, from well-drilling and solar-powered systems in remote regions to extensive upgrades of water treatment plants and sewer stations in urban areas, the government has taken measurable steps toward ensuring reliable, safe water access for all Guyanese.
Deeper appreciation of the environment necessary to preserve public spaces
- VP Jagdeo tells citizens
VICE-PRESIDENT
Bharrat Jagdeo recently voiced his discontent over actions that have led to environmental harm, specifically the destruction of flora in public spaces.
Jagdeo, during a recent engagement at the Botanical Gardens, detailed his frustration with an oil company’s decision to indiscriminately cut down large, flowering flamboyant trees, which had taken more than two decades to grow.
“There were several flowering, flamboyant trees. Massive trees that took 20 years to grow. They just cut them down indiscriminately to build a park for themselves on the government reserve,” he said.
This company would have never done this in another country, Jagdeo remarked, underscoring the need for a shift in cultural and operational respect for the environment.
He said that he had instructed police intervention following the incident, though he suggested enforcement may have been lax.
Jagdeo expressed the importance of cultivating and appreciating greenery and the natural landscape.
The Vice-President also addressed the serious issue of the theft of plants and trees, which he admitted was an ongoing problem but one that also requires
Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo recently voiced his discontent over actions that have led to environmental harm, specifically the destruction of flora in public spaces
increased attention.
He noted that while theft might be difficult to eradicate entirely, but raising awareness and cultivating community respect for public property could foster a more conscientious approach to shared spaces and resources.
Jagdeo reiterated the importance of nurturing green spaces across the country, expressing hope that beautification initiatives would inspire citizens to take pride in their environment and plant more
trees in their communities.
“Even the work we do here, the appreciation for greenery and beautification and flowering trees in our landscape, may help people to better appreciate the trees that they have in front of their own yards. And they may want to plant trees,” the Vice-President said.
Under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, the Guyanese government, in collaboration with the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), is spearheading a project to transform and beautify urban areas.
Over the coming years, the government plans to plant an impressive 50,000 flowering trees across urban landscapes, focusing on areas like East Bank Demerara, the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, and Georgetown. In its initial phase, the project will source 5,000 flowering trees from hinterland regions, which will then be planted along the coast.
Fire Service averts spread of fire at Mackenzie clothing stall
A FIRE of unknown origin broke out, on Thursday afternoon, in Mackenzie, Linden, prompting a swift response from the Guyana Fire Service. The incident was reported to the Linden Fire Station at 14:14 hrs, leading to the immediate dispatch of two fire units to Co-op Crescent.
Upon arrival, firefighters
encountered a small stall engulfed in flames, which was being used for a clothing business.
Thanks to their quick action, the blaze was controlled and extinguished within minutes, preventing any damage to nearby structures.
Initial investigations suggest that the fire might have been caused by unattended
garbage burning in the vicinity. Firefighters arrived on the scene within two minutes of receiving the call, demonstrating their readiness and efficiency in handling emergencies. The quick response played a crucial role in containing the fire and ensuring that it did not spread further.
As investigations continue,
officials are looking into the specific circumstances that led to the fire. The Guyana
Fire Service has emphasised the importance of fire safety and vigilance regarding open flames and burning debris to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Parts of the stall damaged by fire
Celebrating
Celebrating Diwali
Government ministries, on Wednesday, celebrated Diwali in various ways. Employees wore traditional Indian wear, had a seven curry meal and made ranjolis. Later in the day, hundreds of Guyanese converged along Vlissengen Road and the East Coast Demerara corridor to witness this year’s Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s annual Diwali Motorcade. President Dr. Irfaan Ali joined scores at Vlissengen Road to take in the breathtaking scenes and later at the La Bonne Intention Community Centre Ground, the final destination for the motorcade. These photos sourced from the Ministries of Education, Finance, Public Infrastructure, Agriculture, Foreign Affairs and Office of the President portray some of the day’s festivities
American singer with Guyanese-Surinamese roots releases new ‘Bhaitak Gana’ music
By Faith Greene
ALTHOUGH she was born and raised in New Jersey, United States of America, 29-year-old Sandhya Sugrim represents a blend of Guyanese and Surinamese cultures.
Sandhya’s father
was her first teacher, drummer and the person who she said introduced her to traditional music which by age five, she was already singing.
She revealed that she focuses on a musical genre called, ‘Bhaitak Gana’, a Surinamese style of music which is
similar to chutney.
The young singer said she sticks to older music and folk music more.
“The big thing about me is that I've always liked to sing the traditional things. Very old school vibes. I like staying really close to my roots. I obviously encourage
and I love that other artistes are adopting to the new styles and trends, but I always found that doesn't really suit me. I always felt like every time I stick to traditional things, that's what kind
viously in that story, it was a happy time when Lord Ram came back to Ayodhya.”
The video for the song took approximately one month to shoot, and premiered on YouTube
In 2023, Sandhya was able to meet one of her idols, Savita Singh from Trinidad and Tobago, who encouraged her to record music.
of shapes me the best,” she stated.
Sandhya’s most recent song, ‘More Rama’ was described by the singer as a “very old traditional poetry song”. It was also a special song for Diwali.
She explained, “So ‘More Rama’ is a very old traditional-like poetry song. And like I said, I like to sing to a very old traditional style of music. And this song is also like a special song for Diwali because it speaks about Lord Ram's return back to Ayodhya. The song pretty much gives off that very happy vibe; festive sides, happy moments. Because ob -
on October 23, 2024. The video was made at Temple in the Sea in Trinidad and Tobago and the videography was done by Enhanced Media Systems Limited (DJ Din).
Sandhya said the support for her music is there. “I've been very blessed. Everyone that I've come across, they've congratulated me. They loved it. They're very happy that I am recording, and putting myself back out there again. And it definitely feels nice. It feels very supportive. I'm very thankful. It does give me the motivation to continue to go forward.”
The artiste revealed that Guyana has many artistes she would like to collaborate with in the future. While there isn’t anyone specific, she said she believes that collaborating with other artistes is something that will help to bring together two different minds to create something beautiful.
Apart from collaborating with an artiste, she also aims to have her songs produced by a Guyanese producer.
Sandhya’s music can be found on YouTube under SandhyaS_Music. To follow her, persons can check her out on Facebook @sandhya.sugrim, Instagram @sandhyas__ and Tiktok @sandhyas__.
Sandhya Sugrim
Who will be the next Miss East Coast Beauty with A Mission?
THE Miss East Coast Beauty with A Mission 2024 pageant is a highly anticipated event that is
expected to draw a huge crowd when it is held on Saturday. The Buxton Community
Centre ground will come alive when the nine delegates showcase their talents, poise, and passion and com-
pete for the coveted title and $500,000 in cash, plus prizes.
Those competing are:
Laquana Johnson, Aaliyah Cameron, Queenlattifa Robertson, Nubia Skeete, Angel Hope, Aklema Chris-
tie, Judell Price, Destiny Collins and Jelisa Seaforth. The reigning queen is Shadiamond Assanah
Laquana Johnson (Photos: Miss East Coast Beauty with A Mission 2024 Facebook page)
Aaliyah Cameron
Queenlattifa Robertson
Nubia Skeete
Angel Hope
Aklema Christie
Judell Price
Destiny Collins
Jelisa Seaforth
Machel Montano graduates with MA in Carnival Studies
- will be performing at ‘Monday Madness’ for Carnival 2025
AFTER decades of hits and sold-out shows across the globe, music icon, Machel Montano, topped his achievements this week, graduating with an MA in Carnival Studies from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). The UTT shared a video of Montano on Monday receiving his well-earned certification, issuing congratulations to him and all of the other graduates.
performed as part of the presentation's events on Monday.
The "Soca Kingdom" multiple Road March winner also
Montano, who released his hit single "Too Young to Soca" at the tender age of nine, has released over 25 albums and won numerous Road March competitions.
Despite the pressures of completing his Master Degree, Montano entered and won the 2024 Trinidad and Tobago National Calypso Monarch competition.
He also recently performed at the Apollo Theatre along with many other Caribbean stars for Labour Day weekend in New York City and received the Entertainer’s Key to the City from mayor Eric Adams.
The soca king also recently
visited Tobago for the island's carnival celebrations, along with icon Calypso Rose, where a street was renamed in her honour.
Meanwhile, the singer has announced his return to the Carnival fete scene with "Monday Madness", which takes place on February 24, 2025.
In an update via Instagram, organisers said:
"Are you ready for the
biggest event of the year. On Monday February 24, 2025 there is only one place to be - Monday Madness. It will be Soca Insanity."
According to the post, general tickets start at $400, with stage front tickets at $600.
Machel Monday, a staple fete of the Carnival season, was held for the last time in 2020, after a 10-year run. (Loop News)
‘Broth Up’ to hold fifth broth and food festival this Sunday
By Faith Greene
MEALS that are healthy and satisfying are the best ones to have. Broth or “braff” as it is often called in Guyana, is a savory liquid that is made by simmering vegetables or meat especially fish in water for a short period of time.
Broth Up - The Guyanese Way, one of the most talked about soup restaurants that makes authentic Guyanese broth, among other delicacies, will be celebrating its fifth broth and food festival on November 3, 2024, at the Jefford’s Lot 145 Section ‘A’, Block ‘X’, Diamond East Bank Demerara residence.
Broth Up was launched in 2020, at the height of COVID-19, when the world was transitioning to healthy food options. Since people were sick, many depended on broths and soups, and other forms of liquids to revitalise and recuperate.
One of Broth Up’s founders, Edison Jefford recently said: “We nourished a lot of people back to health and a lot of people used our broths during that time as their source of nourishment and food. And so, we became very popular and we launched a broth festival to commemorate that popularity.”
Since then, Jefford stated that the broth festival has grown immensely each year and last year they decided to add a food festival.
He explained that it is now a broth and food festival because, “when persons consume our broths at the broth festival, it's liquid. And though it's a full meal to some people, to others it's an appetizer. And so, we've had to add traditional foods to our menu. So, it falls directly in line with our slogan which
is ’The Guyanese way’. So, it's Broth Up - The Guyanese way,” he said.
According to Jefford, they produce strictly authentic Guyanese cuisine featuring local fishes and traditional foods such as cook-up rice, steamed fish, and grilled fish among other great Guyanese meals.
He said their broth and food festival being in its fifth year is very unique and holds a very special place in Guyana's culture since it is a completely authentic Guyanese brand, producing an authentic Guyanese menu.
This he noted is very significant because local cuisine is often not celebrated culturally or recognised in the way that it should be. “So, we are bringing that to life and to attention and, you know, we hope to continue to grow this event into not only a nationally acclaimed one but an international product where we will attract the attention,” the founder said.
He pointed out as well, that last year, the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce was on board, supporting them in their efforts.
“We will strongly move in that direction in the future to bring an international kind of attention to the broth and food festival,” Jefford said.
The fifth broth and food festival is free and commences from noon. Music will be provided by some of Guyana’s renowned DJs including Gully Ras, Father Moey and DJ Pelham, just to name a few.
The menu for this weekend’s event is available on Broth Up’s Facebook page: Broth Up-The Guyanese Way. Persons can also make contact with the organisers or get updates through the page.
One of Broth Up’s founders, Edison Jefford
List of IPL retentions
Mumbai Indians
5 players retained: Jasprit Bumrah (INR 18 crore),
Suryakumar Yadav (INR 16.35 crore), Hardik Pandya (INR 16.35 crore), Rohit Sharma (INR 16.30 crore), Tilak Varma (INR 8 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 45 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 1
Players eligible for RTM: One uncapped player
Big players not retained: Ishan Kishan, Tim David
Top takeaways: Hardik has
been named MI captain for IPL 2025, while Jasprit Bumrah has become MI's top paid retention for the first time. The big challenge for MI was to retain their marquee Indian players within the INR 75 crore and they have managed to do that and keep their core intact heading into the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
5 players retained: Heinrich Klaasen (INR 23 crore), Pat Cummins (INR 18 crore), Abhishek Sharma (INR 14 crore), Travis Head (INR 14 crore), Nitish Kumar Reddy (INR 6 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 45 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 1
Players eligible for RTM: Only one uncapped player
Big players not retained: Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Top takeaways: Heinrich Klaasen is the most expensive player retained at INR 23 crore, ahead of Virat Kohli and Nicholas Pooran at INR 21 crore each. SRH have retained three overseas players, the most among the ten teams.
Chennai Super Kings
5 players retained: Ruturaj Gaikwad (INR 18 crore), Ravindra Jadeja (INR 18 crore), Matheesha Pathirana (INR 13 crore), Shivam Dube (INR 12 crore), MS Dhoni (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 55 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 1
Players eligible for RTM: One capped or uncapped player
Big players not retained: Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Mahesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande
Top takeaways: Dhoni retained as an uncapped player at a cost of only INR 4 crore from CSK's purse. This is because the IPL revived a rule, which had been scrapped in 2021, that allows an Indian player who hasn't
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
FAIRVIEW
08:10 hrs. Central City
08:47 hrs. Golden Link
09:20 hrs. Executor
09:55 hrs. Jambo Sana
10:30 hrs. Audacious
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
played international cricket for five years to be considered as an uncapped player.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
3 players retained: Virat Kohli (INR 21 crore), Rajat Patidar (INR 11 crore), Yash Dayal (INR 5 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 83 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 3
Players eligible for RTM: One uncapped player and two capped players, or three capped players
Big players not retained: Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Faf du Plessis, Cameron Green
Top takeaways: RCB have retained only three players, the second fewest among the team teams after Punjab Kings. Virat Kohli is the top retention, which raises the question of whether he will return as captain.
Delhi Capitals
4 players retained: Axar Patel (INR 16.50 crore), Kuldeep Yadav (INR 13.25 crore), Tristan Stubbs (INR 10 crore), Abishek Porel (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 73 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 2
Players eligible for RTM: One uncapped player and one capped player, or two capped players
Big players not retained: Rishabh Pant, David Warner, Anrich Nortje
Top takeaways: Rishabh Pant was not retained by DC, which means they need a new captain for IPL 2025, unless they buy him back at the auction and make him captain, which appears unlikely. DC are paying their capped retained playersAxar, Kuldeep and Stubbs - a total of INR 43.75 crore, which is less than the aggregate deduction from their purse (INR 47 crore).
Kolkata Knight Riders
6 players retained: Rinku Singh (INR 13 crore), Varun
Race 1 Dillinger
Race 2 Disco Deano
Race 3 First Class Cat
Race 4 Settling Storm
Race 5 Panache
Race 6 Fiery Heart
Race 7 Secured Landing
IRISH RACING TIPS
DUNDALK
13:00 hrs. Flash The Cash
13:30 hrs. Babyface
14:00 hrs. Harry's Bar
14:30 hrs. Empire XJ
15:00 hrs. Punk Poet
15:30 hrs. Feature This
Chakravarthy (INR 12 crore), Sunil Narine (INR 12 crore), Andre Russell (INR 12 crore), Harshit Rana (INR 4 crore), Ramandeep Singh (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 51 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: None
Players eligible for RTM: None
Big players not retained: Shreyas Iyer, Mitchell Starc, Phil Salt, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana
Top takeaways: Russell emerged as a late confirmation for KKR, and Rinku Singh has become their top retention for the first time. They have not retained their title-winning captain Shreyas Iyer and the most expensive player ever in IPL history, Mitchell Starc, who bowled match-winning spells in Qualifer 1 and the final last year. KKR are one of two teams - along with Rajasthan Royals - to have retained the maximum of six players, but they have paid only INR 57 crore for them, while the amount deducted from the purse is INR 69 crore.
Rajasthan Royals
6 players retained: Sanju Samson (INR 18 crore), Yashasvi Jaiswal (INR 18 crore), Riyan Parag (INR 14 crore), Dhruv Jurel (INR 14 crore), Shimron Hetmyer (INR 11 crore), Sandeep Sharma (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 41 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: None
Players eligible for RTM: NA
Big players not retained: Yuzvendra Chahal, Jos Buttler, R Ashwin
Top takeaways: RR have gone batting heavy with their retentions, keeping five batters and only one bowler. They are one of two teams - KKR being the other - to retain the maximum of six players. Jurel gets a massive boost with a retention price tag of INR 14 crore.
Gujarat Titans
16:00 hrs. Glencullen
16:30 hrs. Burren Song
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
NEWMARKET
08:35 hrs. Magnetite
09:08 hrs. Kiss And Run
09:43 hrs. Kodilocious
10:17 hrs. Monezuma
10:52 hrs. Claxon Bay
11:27 hrs. Swatch
12:02 hrs. Sea Journey
WETHERBY
08:45 hrs. Kart D'estruval
09:15 hrs. West Balboa
5 players retained: Rashid Khan (INR 18 crore), Shubman Gill (INR 16.50 crore), Sai Sudharsan (INR 8.50 crore), Rahul Tewatia (INR 4 crore), Shahrukh Khan (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 69 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: One
Players eligible for RTM:
One capped player
Big players not retained: Mohammed Shami, David Miller
Top takeaways: With Mohammed Shami sidelined by injury for a prolonged period, GT have no fast bowlers among the five players they have retained.
Lucknow Super Giants
5 players retained: Nicholas Pooran (INR 21 crore), Ravi Bishnoi (INR 11 crore) Mayank Yadav (INR 11 crore), Mohsin Khan (INR 4 crore), Ayush Badoni (INR 4 crore)
Purse remaining for auction: INR 69 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 1
Players eligible for RTM: One capped player
Big players not retained: KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis, Quinton de Kock, Krunal Pandya
Top takeaways: LSG will need to name a new captain for IPL 2025 after not retaining KL Rahul. Pooran is the second-most expensive retention along with Kohli, after Klaasen at INR 23 crore.
Punjab Kings
2 players retained: Shashank Singh (INR 5.5 crore), Prabhsimran Singh (INR 4 crore) Purse remaining for auction: INR 110.5 crore (out of INR 120 crore)
Right-to-match (RTM) options at auction: 4
Players eligible for RTM: Four capped players Big players not retained: Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone, Kagiso Rabada
09:50 hrs. Luckie Seven
10:25 hrs. Liam Swagger
11:00 hrs. Prairie Wolf
11:35 hrs. Queens Venture
12:10 hrs. Global Eclipse
NEWCASTLE
10:30 hrs. Charlotte's Web
11:05 hrs. Blue Lakota
11:40 hrs. U S Grant
12:15 hrs. Dimsons
12:45 hrs. Northerner
13:15 hrs. African Spirit
13:45 hrs. Project Geofin
14:15 hrs. Streak Lightning
14:45 hrs. Just Typical
CWI, Apex renew longstanding partnership
CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has renewed its exciting and long-standing partnership with Apex Group Ltd. (“Apex”), the global financial services provider. Starting from the first CG United ODI match in Antigua, the partnership will see the Apex brand on the front of the Men’s team shirts for the next fourteen (14) White Ball matches across the Caribbean as the West Indies close out 2024.
The extension of the partnership, which started in 2021, reaffirms Apex’s strong support and advocacy for West Indies cricket. Additionally, a new and innovative association with Apex – the Apex Shot Tracker - will feature during the live global TV broadcast, creating an elevated viewing experience for the audience and aligning with Apex’s
strong innovative approach to delivering their global services.
The Apex Shot Tracker, which uses virtual reality to visualise the trajectory of the ball when a six is hit, will provide fans with key data around the distance hit and height reached of each Maximum. The Apex Shot Tracker will be used in the global broadcast of the eight (8) white ball matches against England and six (6) against Bangladesh.
Of the renewed partnership, CWI’s Chief Commercial Officer Rupert Hunter said, “We are very excited to partner with Apex again. It is a natural alignment that reinforces Apex’s continued support and interest in the growth of West Indian cricket through innovation. With the Apex brand on the front of the Men’s team shirts, we are confident that this will significantly boost brand
awareness on a global level. With the added integration of the Apex Shot Tracker across all our platforms, we will also deliver fans differentiated and engaging content, thanks to the support of Apex.”
Peter Hughes, Apex Group’s founder and CEO said, “We are extremely pleased to renew our partnership with the West Indies cricket team. This is an important partnership for us, as we continue to make cricket more sustainable in order to help build the next generation of Caribbean cricketers. We wish the team every success during this tournament.”
Cricket West Indies is committed to the commercial growth of the hallmark regional brand and looks forward to increased partnerships, both at home and abroad.
GBA to resume U-16 Championship this Saturday
The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will resume its monthly U-16 Championship on Saturday, November 2 at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis gym in Albouystown.
The initiative, dubbed The Pepsi Michael Parris competition, is staged twice per month and is the backbone of the entity’s developmental strategy. It is expected to feature notable gyms inclusive of the hosts such as Pace and Power, Pocket Rocket, Rose Hall Jammers, New Amsterdam Academy, Bailey, Vergenoegen, and Forgotten Youth Foundation.
GBA President Steve Nin-
valle said, “The development process of the GBA is an ongoing project that will continue to evolve and develop with each iteration and year. The U-16 program is the most important step in the entirety of our developmental efforts. It’s our nursery and has laid the foundation for our continued success at the regional level.”
According to Ninvalle, “The success of this programme is undeniable given our record in the Caribbean School Boys and Juniors Boxing Championship, an event that has been dominated by Guyana since its inception in 2016. That dominance and
overall success of the nation is a testament to the fruits that are being reaped via the implementation and constant evolution of this initiative, which has become a benchmark within the Caribbean.”
Ninvalle added that they will continue to invest more resources at this strata of the discipline, given its role and importance in the sustainability of the sport. "We believe that this is the most effective way of unearthing and eventually developing talents that possess the requisite skills and ability to achieve regional and international success and acclaim.”
ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions… Over 80 Competitors Gear Up for competition
SOUTH Dakota Circuit, November 10 – Motorsports enthusiasts have an exciting event to look forward to as the ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions returns, promising an action-packed day with over 80 competitors ready to compete. This year, the event will see a record-breaking representation from TEAM CAMS, bringing 19 drivers to the track. Adding to the international flavour, the Mazda Miata Spec cars from Trinidad are making their debut in Guyana, a first that’s bound to intensify the competition.
With a lineup spanning 13 unique classes, the event will showcase a range of talent and machine power, from high-speed cars to bikes, culminating in 21 electrifying races. This year’s event introduces the Female Class, adding more diversity to the competition as talented female racers take to the track. The stakes are high, with thrill-
ing championship battles and rivalries that have been building up throughout the season set to come to an end.
Some of Guyana’s beloved motorsport stars, including Kristian Jeffrey, Stefan Jeffrey, and Sharima Khan, will return to the circuit after long-awaited breaks, bringing a familiar but fierce competitive spirit. Joining them are two professional racers from the United States, Krystin Jaenicke and Quinlan Lall, whose racing backgrounds in Formula cars, LMP, and GT3 competition add a layer of professionalism and intensity to the field. In addition to the established names, an influx of new riders will compete in the bike classes, increasing the number of contenders and injecting fresh excitement into the races.
This highly anticipated event promises a day of thrilling track action and a family-friendly atmosphere for spectators. Fans can look forward to seeing their
favorite drivers and experiencing the heart-pounding excitement of motorsport at its best. To enhance the viewing experience, the event offers various ticketing options:
Ticketing and Hospitality Information:
General Admission: $4000
Children’s Admission: $2000
DJ Stress Fan Zone Hospitality Suite: $5000 for adults and $3000 for children
AJM Elite Zone: $25,000 for an exclusive race day experience
General Tickets are available at the GMRSC Office. For further details, interested fans can contact DJ Stress at 609-5100 or AJM Elite Zone at 722-3201.
As the South Dakota Circuit comes alive with roaring engines and nail-biting races, fans are encouraged to arrive early on Sunday, November 10, to capture every moment of this premier motorsport event.
Four-team feature softball tourney to honour Bobby Parasnauth
FOUR teams will vie for supremacy in the feature one-day softball tournament, set for the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) ground on Sunday, starting at 10:30hrs.
According to organiser Seeraj Bhimsain, the tournament is being played in honour of softball stalwart, Canadian-based Guyanese Bobby Parasnauth whose contribution to the grassroot sport on and off the field has been phenomenal.
Parasnauth, who plies his trade in Canada, North America and Guyana, recently represented Regal Over-50 Legends in the seventh edition of the annual Prime Minister’s T20 Cup softball tournament. Regal Legends had to settle for the runners-up spot,
going down to Berbice’s Jai Hind. He also had the distinction of claiming a hattrick in a preliminary round match versus Essequibo Legends.
Bhimsain pointed out that his entity, Aash Décor has teamed up with Trophy Stall to sponsor the winners and runners-up trophies which were handed over to
Trophy Stall’s Jennifer Ramdohar hands over the winning and runnersup trophy to Frederick Halley. At centre is Seeraj Bhimsain
Canadian-based Guyanese journalist Frederick Halley at the latter’s
Nandu century in vain as rain has final say
CMC – Guyana Harpy Eagles’ opening batsman Matthew Nandu scored an impressive century but heavy showers forced the abandonment of their CG United Super50 match against the Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners here Thursday at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground.
Nandu cracked 116 from 103 balls, and Tevin Imlach and Kemol Savory supported with half-centuries as the Harpy Eagles amassed a challenging 217 for seven off their allotment of 45 overs.
However, the Marooners were only able to reach 32 for one in 6.5 overs, when rain brought an end to the contest.
The result would be a hard pill to swallow for the Harpy Eagles, who suffered a heartbreaking one-wicket loss to the Windward Islands Volcanoes in their opening fixture.
Following the early loss of Tagenarine Chanderpaul for 13, Nandu and Imlach shared a 123run partnership for the second wicket that put the Harpy Eagles in command.
The two were motoring
along at just under six runs an over when Abhijai Mansingh struck to remove Imlach for 51, and leave the score 145 for two in the 26th over.
Mansingh also dismissed new batsman Kevlon Anderson for 11, but Nandu found a reliable partner in Savory, with the pair adding 52 runs for the fourth wicket.
Off-spinner Mikkel Govia broke the partnership when he bowled Nandu, who struck seven fours and five sixes in his masterful innings, as Guyana slipped to 217 for four.
Despite wickets falling all around him, Savory stroked an even unbeaten 50 to help anchor the lower order and help the Harpy Eagles post a formidable total.
Govia was the Marooners’ best bowler with 4-42 from his nine overs, while Mansingh ended with 2-45.
Kamil Pooran then scored a quickfire 20 from 23 balls before he was bowled by pacer Nial Smith, but the rains came following his dismissal, eventually bringing an end to the match.
store, Bourda Market on Wednesday. He also disclosed that several other give-aways will form part of the day’s exciting programme.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday November 01, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) SL 2; WI 1
(2) Charith Asalanka (SL)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) When and where did the WI and ENG contest an ODI against each other for the first time?
(2) Who were the captains involved?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Over 80 Competitors Gear Up for competition
Vice-president’s T20 softball tournament draw set for today
WITH just a few days remaining before the commencement of the second edition of the Vice-president’s T20 Softball tournament, organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL), in collaboration with Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, the organisers have assured that all systems are in place for
the mega three-day softball extravaganza, set for November 8-10.
Several teams, mainly local, will be vying for supremacy when the action bowls off with prize monies topping over three million dollars. The women will start their quest for supremacy on Thursday, while the men go into action on Friday, commencing at 09:00 hours.
The draw for both the women and men categories will take place today at the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown, starting with the former at 16:00 hours and the men from 17:30 hours.
This year marks the introduction of the women’s category, a decision
Nandu century in
influenced by Vice-president, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.
Last year’s inaugural tournament saw Regal teams making a clean sweep of all the categories – Open All Stars, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50.
Winners in all three men’s categories are guaranteed a first prize of $500, 000 while the run-
ners-up will take home $200,000. The winners of the women’s division will cart off $300,000 and the runners-up $100,000.
The Most Valuable Players (MVPs) in all three men’s categories will “ride away” with motorcycles while the MVP in the women’s division will be awarded an electric motorcycle,
all compliments of Regal Stationery & Computer Centre.
All the trophies, including the winners and runners-up are being sponsored by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall while the entity’s branded balls will also be used in the men’s categories. The women will be using the Supreme balls.