Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 03-03-2024.pdf

Undemocratic forces will always be rejected

- President Ali affirms, says democracy, the rule of law is the foundation on which Guyana stands - economic transformation, improvement of lives visible everywhere

Works progress rapidly on Linden-Mabura Hill Road

SEE PAGE 3

GTU leadership must rebuff political directives, call off strike

- President Ali asserts; says meetings with MoE must continue unhindered and in good faith

Guyana, Dominican Republic commit to greater collaboration, mutual development

CDC spearheads multi-agency response to wildfires SEE PAGE 15

St. Lucia, Suriname impressed with development, management of Guyana’s prisons

Works are progressing rapidly on the Linden to Mabura Hill Road (Office of the President photos)

Undemocratic forces will always be rejected

- President Ali affirms, says democracy, the rule of law are the foundations on which Guyana stands - economic transformation, improvement of lives visible everywhere

By Trina Williams

IT has now been four years since the previous APNU+AFC coalition administration attempted to rip the fabric of Guyana’s democracy.

Today, however, Guyanese are no longer being burdened with a slew of taxes and other hindrances to development, but instead are reaping significant benefits in all sectors, owing to the continuous efforts by the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to improve the lives of every citizen, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has said.

During a live address to the nation on his Facebook Page, on Saturday, President Ali spoke extensively on how Guyana has rapidly transformed, and there are now more opportunities for people in the nation’s rapidly evolving economy.

“Today marks that fateful day on March 2, 2020, when you turned out in your numbers, at the polls in our national elections and elected a government of your choice. I remain grateful today to all those who supported the People's Progressive Party/ Civic, to all those who worked tremendously hard in ensuring

that our government was elected.... and ensuring that I became the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana,” he said.

The President underscored that the journey Guyana has embarked on has not been an easy one.

Dr Ali related to the nation: “Whilst we’ve achieved more than we’ve planned, exceeding the commitments we made in the manifesto, none of this should be taken for granted.”

Reflecting on the 2020 period, when there were attempts to wrestle away democracy from the nation, President Ali said: “It took us five months of struggle to uproot the undemocratic forces that were hellbent on stealing the elections, stealing your votes, destabilising our country and taking the seats of government by fraudulent means.”

He added: “We did not allow them then and we will not allow them ever again.”

President Ali made this commitment while drawing attention to the reckless comments about electoral rigging made by former People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R) General Secretary, Georgetown Mayor and Prime Minister, Hamilton Green, noting: “This would never hap-

pen again in the history of our country, because we the people of this country would never allow it to happen. Democracy and the rule of law are the foundations on which we stand.”

During the ceremony of the 101st birth anniversary of the PNC/R’s founder and former Head of State, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, Green said: “If, as I told one of the groups that I met this morning, they say he rigged elections, I say we should keep [on] rigging.”

The people, in 2020 went to the polls and peacefully gave a mandate to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to govern.

Guyanese, however, after casting their votes, had to endure a five-month wait for the results of the General and Regional Elections as they witnessed alleged unlawful acts and a slew of legal challenges.

During this time, the patience of the electorate was tested, as electors observed what was described as attempts by the then APNU+AFC administration to rip the democratic fabric of the nation with “delay tactics” which were openly criticised by a wide section of society.

It was only after the legal

challenges and international intervention that a national recount of all votes cast was convened and the figures showed that PPP/C received 233,336 votes, while the APNU+AFC Coalition got 217,920 votes.

BACK-BURNERS OF DEVELOPMENT

Outside of the electoral impasse, reflecting on the state of the nation during the coalition’s rule, President Ali said many sectors were left on the back-burners of development.

The President pointed out how the former APNU+AFC administration failed to address the COVID-19 pandemic properly.

“Coming into office, after a government [APNU+AFC] would have spent billions of dollars on a COVID hospital, yet we met the shell, an incomplete shell with no oxygen line, no beds, nothing that resembles the hospital,” he said.

Within weeks, the PPP government, according to Dr Ali, made that facility functional, working 24 hours around the clock and saving more than 73,000 lives.

Additionally, in the midst of the ongoing battle with the deadly pandemic, the President recalled that there were still

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (Office of the President)

politically driven instigation by detractors of development to destabilise Guyana’s path to progress and prosperity.

“These challenges did not deter our efforts or slowed up our path towards progress and prosperity,” he noted.

The Head of State boasted that within the first 100 days in office, his administration removed more than 200 taxes that the previous APNU+AFC government had clumped on the backs of Guyanese.

Additionally, employment increased under the PPP gov-

ernment as many sectors were resurrected and rebuilt.

He related: “We reinvested in agriculture, reinvested in drainage and irrigation, building our productive capacity and capability. We inspired confidence, brought back the bauxite industry, creating 1000s of jobs,” adding: “That is the government you elected.”

The Head of State stressed that economic transformation of Guyana is visible everywhere, along with the social transformation of the ordinary citizens.

GTU leadership must rebuff political directives, call off strike

- President Ali asserts; says meetings with MoE must continue unhindered and in good faith

By Trina Williams

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has cautioned teachers not to be “politically bullied” by detractors of development and must instead understand that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government stands fully committed to bettering the lives of all Guyanese.

During a live address to the nation on his Facebook page on Saturday, Dr Ali said: “We are one with our teachers. We will consistently work for the best possible benefit to our teachers, but we cannot be bullied. We cannot be politically bullied.”

The President also disclosed that two weeks after the PPP/C government assumed office to January 31, 2024, there have been more than 25 meetings with the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).

He further added: “Separate and apart from this, as President, I personally engage with teachers directly from every single region of this country.”

Moreover, in these meetings with the union, 30 out of their 41 requests were fulfilled, according to him.

Also, apart from the 30 requests, 28 additional non-requested benefits were implemented by the Government of Guyana and Ministry of Education (MoE).

“If we are to be a democratic society, a law-abiding society,

a society that stands on the pillar of justice, a society that stands on the pillar of fairness and honesty, then we have to be faithful to the institutions of our society,” the Head-of-State told the nation.

He further said that the GTU orchestrated a strike before the next scheduled meeting between them and the MoE.

“A process was underway; a system was underway and the authority that is vested with determining the actions of the teachers, that is the Chief Labour Officer, made it pellucidly clear [that the] actions advanced by the teachers were in breach of the procedure that was in place...” he stated.

Not allowing the detractors of development to advance their narrative, the President said that the government has been making the point constantly that the planned meetings must be allowed to continue and that is where the welfare of teachers will continue to be discussed.

RETURN TO THE PROCESS

He then went on to say: “But those who are aligned with the leadership of the GTU allow political directives to supersede the natural course of things; allow political directives to influence their behaviour. Notwithstanding that, the Ministry of Education has consistently made it clear that the union should have the teachers return to work and proceed back to the

meetings that were planned and procedures that were planned.”

He further stated: “There is a system, there was an ongoing process. You cannot return to that process under duress.”

Moreover, the President stressed that if the GTU is serious, then they will walk back their “missteps and have the teachers back in school and proceed back to the process.”

Dr Ali further remarked: “This government is working towards the best possible outcome for every citizen, our pensioners, our children, our farmers, our public servants, our teachers, our sugar industry workers, our bauxite workers.

“We are working on a comprehensive, holistic mechanism through which every single worker, every single family will have the best possible life in this country.”

While underscoring that the PPP government is working on an agenda to bridge Guyana and remove the divide and push the nation upward and forward under the umbrella of one Guyana, President Ali said: “That is the only ambition of this government. That is the only ambition of this President. And I stand and remain faithfully committed to the prosperity to the people.”

On Thursday, the Government of Guyana made it abundantly clear that the MoE has had a long and settled practice of meeting with the GTU on an almost monthly basis, since

August 11, 2020.

At these meetings, multiple issues relating to the welfare of teachers and the better and more efficient administration of the education sector have been addressed. These include both salaries and non-salary issues and benefits.

Apart from these engagements, the MoE has implemented another set of measures and decisions for the benefit of teachers. These measures were unsolicited by the union, and executed upon the government’s initiative over the past four years.

The last of these engagements between the ministry and the GTU took place on January 31, 2024. That meeting was cordial, courteous and constructive. At the meeting, at least five salary-related issues that were on the agenda were addressed.

The meeting was adjourned to February 21, 2024, for the parties to continue to engage on those and other issues. At the end of the meeting, there was no evidence whatsoever of any rancour, discord or disagreement between the parties.

As a result, the government was shocked when the union, a few days after, announced its intention to resort to strike action.

“The government wishes to emphasise that at all times, it was and remains ready and prepared to resume those engagements.

“While the government

does not think that judicial intervention was necessary, having regard to the established industrial [relations] practices referred to above, the government will participate in the process, with the firm expectation that it will

put teachers back into the classrooms, as the government’s paramount concern always is, and will remain, in the best interest and welfare of the nation’s students,” a statement released on Friday said.

Here is a popular quote from Dr. Cheddi Jagan in 1992:

“I am the son of sugar workers who hasn’t forgotten his roots. Many politicians like me have forgotten where they came from but Jagan will never forget and you can be sure of that!”

Economic diversification creates opportunities for investment in new areas

- President Ali says; encourages investors to expand horizons

By Trina Williams

GUYANA’S evolving economy, driven by diversification and strategic planning, creates opportunities for investments in new areas, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said.

While emphasising that the Government of Guyana remains committed to the diversification of the nation’s economic and investors’ portfolio, the President, during his address to leaders at the VIII Summit of Community of Latin American and Caribbean States

(CELAC), said focus is being placed on the traditional sectors but they are also developing new and emerging areas.

“We also would like to encourage more companies to explore investment opportunities in areas such as agri-tech, eco and destination tourism, the construction industry, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy. We are creating an enabling environment, conducive to the generation of trade and investment opportunities,” Dr Ali said.

He also said that the framework for advancing

cooperation within CELAC is “highly valued” by Guyana as it provides avenues for “enhanced development and convergence on issues in areas of our collective interest.”

Notably, with all attention focused on Guyana, the emerging powerhouse in South America, former President of Colombia, Iván Duque, said that this is the opportune moment to invest in the country.

As Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo made its third debut, last month, at the Marriott Hotel, under the theme ‘Fueling Transformation and Modernisation’, Duque’s presentation brought the nation’s lush biodiversity into focus.

He said: “This is time to invest in Guyana, not only in the boom of oil and gas, which is very important, but the environmental boom of zero deforestation, biodiversity credits, energy transition,

to sustainable housing, working with indigenous communities, etc.”

With Guyana having over 87 per cent of forest coverage, the former President of Colombia had no trouble grabbing the attention of international and local stakeholders.

“So, what I expect to share with you today is why there is a case for Guyana when it comes to…a nature positive driven growth or development agenda,” Duque said as he analysed why Guyana’s forest conversation plan is an important element to pitch to investors.

Based on his perspective, it is an essential aspect to take into consideration for the purpose of achieving an investment that is both environmentally sound and effective.

“And that takes me to the opportunities that we have in Guyana. The first one is that that concept of zero deforestation is going to be able to open the

door to connect long-term investments with the development of a voluntary carbon-credit market,” Duque said while highlighting that Guyana is one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet.

He said that a country like Guyana, which has already stated and achieved almost zero deforestation along with a voluntary carbon-credit market, is also going to be a “promised land for the next chapter of green financing globally”.

While further delving into Guyana’s environmental growth, he shifted his focus towards the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and its pivotal role in the energy transition.

“The promise of having the oil-and-gas boom in Guyana is connected

to a development need,” Duque said, adding that the LCDS will usher in cleaner energy that will be at a cheaper cost.

He then went on to say: “…So, the energy transition is a strategic part of the Guyanese development agenda, and the condition for these energies are working very well in the regulation that has been adopted.”

The former Colombian President, while urging investors to not let the opportunity fly by, remarked: “Just to put this in investment terms, $1 invested in Guyana is a greener dollar than $1 invested in other parts of the hemisphere when you look at all these complimentary opportunities and ideas that are part of the Low-Carbon Development Strategy.”

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (Office of the President Photo)

Guyana, Dominican Republic commit to greater collaboration, mutual development

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Friday, said that The Dominican Republic is now a solid partner in Guyana’s quest for development.

The Prime Minister made those remarks during a reception hosted by the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Guyana to celebrate the country’s 180th independence.

During his remarks, he said that the Government of Guyana welcomes the partnership established by the two countries.

He said: “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries fifty-four years ago, Guyana and the Dominican Republic have enjoyed steady bilateral relations kept active primarily

through our regional and multilateral interactions. We have over the last two years, however, seen the deepening of our bilateral cooperation which has facilitated more meaningful engagement between our two countries.”

He added that the establishment of an embassy here last year created a conduit for the implementation and execution of the bilateral agenda between the two countries.

Additionally, the Prime Minister related that Guyana remains committed to working closely with the Dominican Republic through several working groups that will be advancing the programme of cooperation.

“As we work towards building greater interac -

- Prime Minister Phillips says

tion between our countries, we must continue to explore ways to bring our peoples closer together, including the fostering of an understanding of our rich histories and cultures, and of the common threads

of our shared humanity,” Phillips said. He added that the relationship between the two countries is built on the foundations of shared values, mutual respect and mutual trust, along

with the shared beliefs in international law, among other things.

Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra, added that trust and open collaboration have been

the hallmark of the relationship between the two countries.

He said that in just under a year just around 10 cooperation agreements in various areas have been signed between Guyana and The Dominican Republic, adding that a strong bond has been established with the private sector.

Torres-Pereyra indicated that he was sure that 2024 will be an auspicious year for collaboration between the two nations.

Against this backdrop, he highlighted the inaugural direct flight from Santo Domingo which landed in Guyana in late February and marked a new era in trade and development for the two countries.

Guyana possesses capability to offer leadership on global issues

- Foreign Secretary Persaud says

FOREIGN Secretary

and High Representative for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Affairs Robert Persaud has said that Guyana can offer leadership and vision to the world on global issues that require firm and practical solutions.

The Foreign Secretary was at the time reflecting on Guyana’s impactful tenure as the presidency of the UNSC during the month of February.

He underscored the significance of the country’s role in contributing to the security council’s efforts in the maintenance of international peace and security.

Persaud said: “It demonstrates that as a small country undergoing changes, we can offer leadership on important global matters.”

The month saw Guyana’s active engagement with critical matters such as the situation in Gaza

and the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Through these discussions, he said that Guyana provided leadership and offered perspectives that resonated with the global community.

On behalf of the Government of Guyana, Persaud extended heartfelt gratitude to Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues- Birkett and team in New York for their exemplary presidency of the United Nations Security Council.

“Your hard work and dedication symbolise Guyana’s unwavering commitment to the maintenance of international peace and security,” he expressed.

He also expressed his gratitude to the 15-member team based in Georgetown that lent support.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Secretary reaffirmed the country’s commitment as an elected member of the UN Security Council for the next two years.

“Guyana will continue to engage constructively with all members of the Security Council to uphold the UN Charter and international law,” he noted.

This will be achieved through bilateral and

wider engagements geared towards upholding the principles enshrined in the United Nations charter in shaping global outcomes and promoting peace and security. (DPI)

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Friday, said that The Dominican Republic is now a solid partner in Guyana’s quest for development (Japheth Savory photo)

A Platform for Peace

PEACE is more than the absence of war. It is about respecting the rule of international law and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states.

Regrettably, too often these fundamental principles governing international conduct and behaviour are honoured in the breach. One only has to look at the continuing devastation of the war in Ukraine and Gaza to see the trail of death and destruction that war has engendered.

It is in the above context that the call by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali for the Caribbean and Latin America to be a platform for peace has to be seen. The President

expressed concern over what he termed the 'senseless acts of aggression and inhumanity that have thwarted the global community's efforts to alleviate the sufferings of affected citizens.'

This region, he said, must never allow itself to be subjected to such actions, as he recalled the ravages of war on the lives of people in Palestine and Ukraine. He used the opportunity to reiterate his call for an end to the genocide in Palestine and the release of hostages.

In his address to leaders of the Eighth Summit of the Community of Caribbean and Latin American States (CELAC), President Ali made it abundantly clear

that Guyana will respect and abide by the ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in relation to the controversy arising out of Venezuela's refusal to accept the 1899 Arbitral Award which fully and finally settled the boundaries of the two neighbouring countries, namely Guyana and Venezuela.

According to President Ali, “Guyana's priority is peace, and you can have the confidence that our territory will never ever be used as a platform for war.”

It will be recalled that Guyana agreed to talks initiated by the Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

aimed at facilitating dialogue with his Venezuelan counterpart Nicholas Maduro to address tensions that had arisen between the two countries.

That historic meeting culminated in what is now famously known as the Argyle Declaration, which, in fact, resulted in a de-escalation of tension for which Prime Minister Gonsalves was lauded by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

He has been high in praise for the Prime Minister for his role 'in pulling back Guyana and Venezuela from the brink of conflict over the Essequibo region.'

The Secretary-General,

during his recent address to leaders of CELAC, strongly supported the use of solely peaceful means to settle international controversies, a position that is fully congruent with that of Guyana.

Indeed, as noted by President Ali, “Everything we do in Guyana is built on peace and our fundamental values are built on peace.”

The fact is that peace is a necessary condition for development. This is true of Guyana as it is for any other nation of the world, including Venezuela and the region as a whole. In an environment of war, there can be no winners. War, therefore, can be regarded as an 'ill-wind' that blows

no one any good, as events in Ukraine and Gaza have so painfully demonstrated.

In this regard, the position taken by President Ali and Guyana on the issue of peace in the region and the world at large is commendable. Guyana has always embraced the principles of global peace as enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

By taking its case to the ICJ and publicly declaring its intention to abide by the decisions of that Court, Guyana has demonstrated maturity as a rules-based and peace loving nation, ready and willing to play by the rules governing international and civilised behaviour.

A traverse in travesty!

Dear Editor,

KNOWING the truth will set anyone free. There comes the ultimate moment when the guilty mind has to reconcile with the uncomfortable truth coming from the pure heart to appease the inner person, so that the body can once more relate and function as a conscientious human being, thus, freeing the true self

The Mahatma wrote, “Truth is the end, not a means to something beyond itself.”

MK Gandhi and ML King Jr promoted and practised the principle of “truth and non-violence” as a policy in life. Many in the Guyanese society are fighting, fumbling and faking the truth as they fan the wheel of fraudulence

and lie to sustain self-preservation and retain leadership.

Will the instigators of violence, inciters of racism, condoners of corruption, supporters of rigging, champions of tongue twisting, touters for doom and gloom, defenders of dishonesty and the naysayers to peace, progress and prosperity, step forward and begin the process of confession? A light-hearted person is certainly cheerful and happy and worries less.

Former President Granger had alerted, “We can still see how easily it is for the ranting of a few persons to rekindle racial animosity, a retrograde step which has no place in modern society.” He further cautioned, “We want to warn that such inflammatory tirades run

the risk of degenerating into social instability, degenerating into the fostering of distrust, into the fomenting of disorder.”

Did he have a dream that his own “kit and kin” would be embroiled in such prejudiced undertakings? A famous Elder “statesman” fulfilled that dream when he referred to the PPP/C party as “devils, bastards and demons!” while suggesting and subscribing to election rigging. Today, former President Granger’s favourite tune is “Sound of Silence.”

Did the so-called “civil societies” embrace the speaker as a bosom college and endorsed the speech as a matter of fact? The serenading silence is ludicrously loud and disturbingly not distant!

The PNC and their surrogates have all stayed quiet to provide the unspoken answer, promptly and proudly delivered. Unquestionably, they leave no ambiguity in their unequivocal and deafening response!

There has been no word of objection from the GHRA, IFAAD, TIGI nor the ERC to date. Guyana can forget IDPADA-G, for the obvious reason. All the other pretenders of equality, justice and freedom-advocate organisations have chosen not to say anything. This stillness is not surprising, but expected.

A solitary poor excuse was offered as an alternative explanation enveloped in a clumsy interpretation. Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has been condemned

for his “low life” description. The entire alphabet jumped on his neck and marched straight to the court.

It was left to the advocates of democracy to fly the flag of defence, assail the attack of audacity and confront the attack of effrontery. After suspended days and nights of suspicious suspension, the placid water surface was broken, the calm of the atmosphere was ruffled, the earth tremored and aroused from the stilled darkness, a screened apology emerged from the depth of delinquent submersion! Should Guyana cheer or criticise?

What evidently prompted the shameful scribe to finally script an explanation or exclamation of travesty? Was it a “pricked conscience,” or

remorse, or embarrassment, or to fool the unguarded public, or to fill a moment of complacency or to satisfy a request or demand? Was it free and voluntary or under any degree of duress? Is there a hidden contingency clause? Does the question of sincerity arise? Why the delay and now and not before?

Guyanese are fully awake and not gullible or naïve. They are guarded and do not take anything for granted. The cautious ones are no longer becoming preys to lies and deceits. Why should Guyanese accept his words and believe him? There is a track record monitored by history!

Why I support the presidency of Mohamed Irfaan Ali

There is a question I ask myself all the time: In today’s Guyana, why can’t a person be supportive of the government without being described in negative terms even when his/her support is backed by analysis based on evidence?

Why must one be anti-government if there is evidence on the ground to support good governmental intension? I have encountered hundreds, not dozens, but hundreds of persons since the Ali presidency was born in August 2020 and they would ask me why I am in support of President Ali. I would respond in the same way on all occasions – “Tell me what is wrong with supporting the government?”

You will not believe it but the answer has been mysteriously the same with all my encounters. Here it is – “Freddie, the government is not democratic.”

I was part of such a discourse as recent as Thursday afternoon on the seawall. This gentleman interrupted my conversation with civil society activist, Sara Bharrat and her husband.

I was in an interesting conversation with Sara, a person

I am fond of because I cannot forget the time and energy she gave to a two-week protest at UG when my contract was terminated in December 2011.

I did not see her for a long time, so I was glad we caught up for a chat even though my dog was furiously impatient for me to put her down on the ground. The gentleman couldn’t wait until Sara and I were finished and as he walked away, I asked him to wait.

The first thing he asked me was why I endorse the government and even though my dog

was miserable in my arms, I was prepared to spend long hours with him because I wanted his analysis of the Guyana Government.

He rambled on and was just not offering a sound analysis. Then he became rational when I told him that I could cite hundreds of arguments in support of democracy in Guyana and the uniqueness of Dr. Ali as a national leader.

I urge that he always be on his guard about who is making criticism of the government and where they are coming from

and at the same time do a little research in how oil money is being spent.

I told him about the improvement I saw at the Georgetown Hospital and the huge benefit working class people got from a massive distribution of houselots.

I told him, it is not given publicity but there have been legislations that have benefitted the working class. For example, changes in how a power-of attorney is done. Poor home-owners for decades have been scammed out of their ordinary dwelling houses through fake power-of attorney documentation.

I managed to convince him that there are reasons an academic like me would have for supporting Dr. Ali. Of course, I couldn’t go into an elaborate assessment but I can continue from where I left off at the seawall in

this column and many more to come.

I met a staunch supporter of the PPP I know for more than 35 years now – economist, Rajendra Rampersaud. He has returned to Guyana. We ran into each other in the Massy supermarket last week. I know Rajendra is a devout admirer of Cheddi Jagan and I didn’t know how he was going to react to what I was about to say but I said it anyway.

I told him I think by the end of his two terms in 2030, Irfaan Ali may eclipse Cheddi Jagan. I believe people who hate the PPP from different classes and different ethnicities cannot reconcile themselves to the reality that Dr. Ali is a different man who we in Guyana never expected to emerge the way he did.

Everyone that I have spoken with, even my guests on the Freddie-Kissoon-Gildarie

Show, have opined that Ali is different, is a fine president, and is someone you can relate to. Interestingly, when I asked Opposition Leader, Norton for an assessment of Dr. Ali on the Freddie Kissoon-Gildarie Show, he did not criticise Ali but simply said that Ali was not in charge.

John Mair aka, Bill Cotton, was on the show last week and spoke highly of Dr. Ali both on the show and in private. He is not a PPP fan but he recognised there is a difference with Ali. There seems to be a type of mind-set in this country that glorifies anti-government politics. You are a hero if you are anti-government. I don’t want to be a hero. I want to be me. And in me I see Dr. Ali as a democratic president who will leave a historical legacy.

Charting Guyana's Energy Odyssey: A conversation with ExxonMobil's Liam Mallon

SINCE the initiation of oil production, Guyana has been steadily emerging as a dominant player in the global oil and gas industry.

In a recent interview with OilNOW, the President of ExxonMobil Upstream Company, Liam Mallon, shed light on the pivotal role the company is playing in Guyana's remarkable stride towards becoming a significant oil producer in the region.

Guyana's energy landscape has witnessed remarkable growth, with daily oil production soaring from just over 300,000 barrels per day to nearly 650,000 barrels per day over the past year.

Mallon said this growth rate is double the industry average, an achievement he

characterised as nothing less than extraordinary. His views coincide with the fact that the oil sector has been influencing the advancement of other sectors within the country.

A clear example of this is the substantial allocation of $240.1 billion of oil revenues that is earmarked to be used to further national development in the 2024 budget. Increased economic activity, together with an influx of visitors and the development of new business operations, including hotels, are resulting in a higher demand for energy.

Additionally, ongoing projects such as the gas-to-energy initiative in Wales, expected to be operational in 2025, aim to reduce

electricity costs by 50 percent while meeting these energy demands. Plans for a second energy plant are also under consideration, as government pursues commercial development of the growing gas resources offshore

To this end, Mallon said the first pipeline is really the start of potentially bigger gas development in Guyana. But to build out a robust and lucrative gas-production sector takes time. And according to Mallon, “It’s still early days in the exploration process.

Focusing on safety, Mallon highlighted the company's century-long experience in managing, building, and deploying pipelines globally. “We have very strong technology programmes and

Investing in women

On Friday, March 8, the world will once again celebrate International Women's Day under the theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress.”

However, with a US$360 billion annual deficit in gender-equality measures by 2030, announced by the UN, countries around the world have much more to do if we

are to achieve the general well-being of women across the globe.

And this will not be accomplished within the foreseeable future unless governments increase spending on those issues which impact women particularly.

This year's theme is aligned with the demands of the 2023 Day for the Elim-

ination of Violence against Women, which called for adequate funding to be allocated to end gender-based violence.

But this requires significant investment and effective policies and support services to address the problem of violence against women.

Current figures, from the UN show that "just five per cent

very strong execution programmes,” he said, pointing out that technology today plays a key role in monitoring the safety of pipelines.

But while ExxonMobil is playing its role in advancing the economy and ensuring that energy demands are met, Mallon also highlighted the company’s commitment to the people of the country.

He pointed out that the joint commitment to capacity-building and sustainable development for the Guyanese people is evident in projects such as the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI). The GGI is a 10-year, US$100 million investment focusing on developing the local workforce, improving healthcare and promoting economic

diversification.

Institutions such as the University of Guyana have already benefited significantly from GGI, with funding for a fully equipped Skills and Anatomy Lab, advancements to its security systems, and the establishment of its first Science and Technology building, among other projects.

Furthermore, GGI also collaborates with the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) to provide free business mentorship and training to both individuals and organisations.

Mallon reaffirmed ExxonMobil's dedication to sustainable development, emphasising the company’s long-term commitment to the

of government aid is focused on tackling violence against women and girls, and less

than 0.2 per cent is directed at its prevention". In this country, instances of violence against women

well-being of the countries and communities in which it operates. Sustainable development, he noted, extends beyond the oil and gas sector, encompassing broader socio-economic aspects.

In highlighting upcoming milestones, Mallon pointed to the upcoming start-up of the gas-to-nergy project and the approval of the Whiptail Development, likely in the first quarter of this year.

Taken altogether, oil production and the spin-off benefits it is having across the economy will continue to play an integral role in Guyana’s remarkable rise, delivering a brighter future for the country and its people.

are still too prevalent and are a clear indication that more needs to be done to prevent this despicable social ill. And this undoubtedly calls for more spending in key areas which affect women, such as poverty.

The UN reports that, "Conflicts and rising prices may lead 75% of countries to cut public spending by 2025, negatively impacting women and their essential services".

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic and

Continued on page 10

The damage cannot be undone

IT seems as though politicians in Guyana could do and say anything that they think will mobilise their bases to action.

Once there is sufficient backlash and outrage, they then are forced into a corner and finally are made to apologise for it. Then, part of the society forgets and forgives them and moves on to another issue.

Never mind, the offending politician has gotten exactly what he wanted and his base is awake and finding new ways to spread dangerous messages to smaller groups of willing people who will listen attentively within their demographics.

Interestingly, the offending politician does not even face a fine, charge or investigation, or anything that signals the seriousness of the offense committed in plain view of the public.

One example of this special ilk of politician comes to mind. He is Hamilton Green who is a relic from an era long forgotten but who refuses to go with that era quietly into that ‘good’ night.

Last week, Green apologised for the offensive and hurtful comments he made at the Burnham Symposium. But then, after analyzing everything, and answers which were given to the journalist on

the matter, any right-thinking Guyanese would come to the inescapable conclusion that Green didn’t offer a genuine and sincere apology because he sought to justify his comments and explain away the outrage and many negative comments it has attracted.

The former Prime Minister dealt the public another ‘diss’ when he again spoke the unmistakable falsehoods. It is designed to mamaguy the public into thinking that he is sorry or did not mean anything that he said. He wants the public to believe that he had a slip of the tongue or ‘lapsus linguae’, or may have forgotten, due to his age, what he really said.

Firstly, for the record, Green was untruthful when he said the PPP and their supporters started the chant “awe deh pon top” in the 1950s and 1960s.

Nowhere could the damaging term be found remotely in the speeches of former president Dr Cheddi Jagan or Janet Jagan, or another PPP leader during the time period. If Green could find it, he should have it published for easy reference and have himself vindicated. If he does not, he runs the risk of been called a revisionist politician or snail.

Green was untruthful again when he told the journalist that he said “nobody deserves to be ‘pon top’ and if anybody

deserves it is those who toiled for years on the estate and the plantation without a cent. Others who came subsequently benefited from conditions being improved, etc. That is what I meant”.

He never ever said that or meant to say that. So, let’s be clear about that because he never alluded to “estate”. Nowhere in his diatribe, he meant or implied that all groups felt that they deserved to be ‘pon top’.

Any objective thinking Guyanese could view the tape, recording or transcript. They are all public and available.

Green’s body language and linguistics, when he uttered his now most outlandish and racial diatribe, is also worthy of being analysed. He doubled down on harsh words used to describe the PPP governments but used similar words when critiquing their management style of the country’s resources without offering any evidence or fact.

Green should know that the words used were not only “strong…harsh” but they were wrong and unsubstantiated by facts. A good politician would not seek to justify, he or she would offer an outright and unconditional apology.

Secondly, Green knows that the public did not oppose him saying anything about “rigging elections” because

solely it was said at that forum or was “imprudent”. It is wrong to say it then, now, and anytime or place in the future. Period.

It was, and is a justification of rigging! And Green meant that wholeheartedly when his comments are taken into “context” even with the “if” added to his actual statements.

Green owes the whole country a genuine and outright apology again. The politician never really said the PNC never rigged elections. He said that ‘he never rigged or supported’ the rigging of elections.

A schoolboy knows that Green is being a stranger to the truth and happily the world knows that too. Green was the prime minister during PNC’s reign when there were major allegations of rigged elections every time since 1960s right through to 1985 to stay in power.

He was not in favour of the involvement of the Carter Center here in electoral reforms which led to free and fair elections in 1992.

Just to be clear, Green played a role in telling David Granger not to give up the elections in 2020 and urging him to “…Put aside the constitution and put aside the laws…”. Essentially, he was supporting the rigging and delays that were in full swing at that time.

No PR stunt will make the public “unhear and unsee” what they saw and heard. The truth is, Green’s verbiage and rhetoric is what he means to communicate exactly. It gives

insight into the mind of the characters who ruled Guyana during Green’s tenure in and out of office. It speaks to the volume of clandestine and whisper campaign racism and racial dialect that they are allowed to preach in their PNC cave to ‘their’ own.

Thirdly, the opposition leader Aubrey Norton shenanigans to try and absolve Green from responsibility for spreading racism and racial untruths about Guyana’s past is immature and politically puerile.

If elders, according to how he is viewed in the PNC, cannot be corrected when they err then what party is Norton leading. Norton was expected to say Green is wrong, respectfully and how he is going to move the party from the past behaviours to a pathway that is democratic and free from rigging.

Norton must not seek to make this about Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP/C. He must put some proverbial lashes on Green for saying what he said publicly because it could be used against the party during the upcoming elections cycle.

For the record, Green must be made to genuinely apologise and be charged or fined. It is not okay to break the laws of Guyana.

There is no protection from the laws because of one’s

status or age. The government is failing to make an example out of him and to show zero tolerance for these racist and political revisionists.

Finally, Guyana now is at an important crossroad. The generation of politicians like Green are a dying ilk of people who deserve to be given their peace and quiet but if they will not take it, they must face the music and concomitant consequences if they don’t do right.

Norton like Green seems to be cut from the same visionless and divisive clothe. Their tune goes on, and changes to what it is convenient to say or do for the people’s votes. They do not care about how many people they hurt by their words and actions.

They do not care how they are viewed by the body politic in and outside of Guyana. They do not care about dignity of any ethnic group who strongly opposed the view that Burnham gave the opportunity to them to get an education.

It is politically wrong to apologise in this manner after the damage is done and unless Norton barely reject the racist ideologies spread falsely about ethnic groups in this country and Guyana’s history, he is complicit.

Green should not be listened to at any public event whether it is for the PNC party or any other event.

St. Lucia, Suriname impressed with development, management of Guyana’s prisons

By Feona Morrison

VISITING senior prison officials from Saint Lucia and Suriname have said that they are very impressed with a number of projects being carried out by the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), and have promised to take some of these initiatives back to their home countries.

Chief Commissioner of Prisons within Suriname’s Ministry of Justice and Police, Joyce Pané-Alfaisi, and St. Lucia’s Assistant Director of Corrections, Christ Felix praised Guyana for its efforts to equip prisoners with life skills they could use after their release from prison.

The senior officers, who are in Guyana for the GPS’s Annual Senior Officers’ Conference, expressed their amazement at Guyana’s systems during an interview with the Sunday Chronicle.

Pané-Alfaisi praised Guy-

ana for the development and changes made to its penal system, and commended it for introducing new ideas, and the manner in which it is transforming the infrastructure.

She applauded senior GPS officials for their efforts in bringing about improvements to the country's correctional and rehabilitative facilities.

The Surinamese official stated that one's purpose in

the prison system is not only to work, but also to assist individuals who have broken the law.

“You are in the prison system because you want to help, guide, and coach the one who made some step that isn’t so good in the community. You want to change them, and if you want to do that, you have to work together, not only in your country, but you have to look broader; look overseas,

look at your neighbouring country,” she said.

Pané-Alfaisi was particularly impressed with the Lusignan Prison's reception system, in that she felt that the welfare of inmates in Guyana's penitentiaries is taken very seriously.

Felix, on the other hand, said he will be taking home implementable development ideas from his trip to Guyana.

He hailed the synergy in

teamwork between Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot and top prison officers, noting: “You cannot do it all alone; you need the teamwork to get it done and I can see that he [Elliot] has very good control.”

He said that throughout the conference, they were able to discuss and develop recommendations for solutions to prevalent issues in the penitentiaries of Suriname, Guyana, and St. Lucia.

The three nations have committed to cooperating so they could learn from one another. According to Felix, talks for exchange programmes have already taken place.

Since returning to office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has pumped billions of dollars into addressing the expansion and rehabilitation of the prison infrastructure across the country.

A budget of $6.5 billion has been set aside to continue supporting the GPS's modernisation. Of this amount, $140.2 million will go towards training and rehabilitating 1,600 prisoners in various fields, as well as providing training in prison administration for 450 officials. Prison infrastructure improvements have been given $2.8 billion.

The GPS places a high priority on rehabilitation, and offers a variety of programmes in several technical areas to assist inmates in managing their lives and avoiding recidivism.

The GPS is made up of five prison facilities, and its Georgetown headquarters. Prisons are located in Georgetown, Mazaruni, New Amsterdam, Lusignan, and Timehri. There are presently 2,240 men, and more than 60 women being held in prisons across Guyana.

Investing in...

From page 8

worldwide conflicts have caused 75 million more people to fall into abject poverty and unless action is taken 342 million women and girls are likely to be living in poverty by 2030.

Eight years ago, the Australian government established the initiative, 'Investing in Women' (IW), which sought to tackle crucial socio-economic issues and gender equality, working closely with business leaders and others to "remove barriers to women's full economic participation".

This initiative, which sees women's economic empowerment as essential for gender equality, supports partners in the Philippines, Vietnam and Myanmar to promote the wider involvement of women in economic activities.

Since its genesis, IW has established business coalitions "that improve workplace gender equality", in Southeast Asia, enlisting 128 major businesses and representing over one million

employees and implementing more equitable workplace policies.

Among its impressive achievements, IW has "worked with market building partners to normalise gender lens investing in the regional investment community, driving a 3.4x increase in the number, and 7x increase in the value of deals made with a gender lens.

The initiative is clearly working and continues to expand, catalysing capital and investment to impact 525 million with an online reach of over 350 million. It is an initiative that could and should be adapted by other countries, for, as UN Women says, "Investing in women is both an economic imperative and a human rights issue.

It is a human rights issue because global economic and financial systems are complicit in perpetuating gender inequality. Investing in women enables women to thrive, which contributes to prosperity that can be measured in financial terms".

From L-R: Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot, flanked by St. Lucia’s Assistant Director of Corrections Mr. Christ Felix, and Suriname’s Chief Commissioner of Prisons Ms. Joyce Pané-Alfaisi

139 more Guyanese men, women equipped with crucial technical skills

— after successfully completing BIT programme

ONE hundred and thirty-nine students, both men and women from various walks of life, and including parents, recently celebrated their graduation from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programme, under the Ministry of Labour.

The momentous occasion took place at Theatre Guild in Kingston, Georgetown last Friday, marking the culmination of a year-long journey of hard work and dedication in disciplines ranging from cosmetology to electrical installation.

The BIT programme has consistently played a pivotal role in fostering the advancement of technical skills within Guyana, a testament to its commitment to enriching the professional landscape.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton, during his remarks, underscored the significance of technical skills in the evolving landscape of Guyana. "As Guyana talks of development, we must revolutionise our education delivery system to prioritise technical and vocational training on par with academic learning," he urged, echoing a call to action for a balanced approach to education that meets the demands of the modern world.

Technical Officer of the programme Deborah McBeth shared uplifting statistics that underscore the programme's success. "It is essential to highlight that our training opportunities are open to all, aiming to arm individuals with the necessary skills across various occupational areas," she remarked, setting a tone of inclusivity and opportunity.

McBeth further delved into a detailed analysis of the programme's performance over the past year. "From March 6, 2023, to February 29, 2024, we welcomed 157 trainees in Region Four. Despite the challenges along the way, where we saw 18 individuals unable to complete their journey, the remaining 139 persevered, with 54 men and 85 women successfully finishing their respective training programmes," she proudly announced.

The graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of academic achievement but also a reflection on personal growth and the transformative power of education.

Chief Operating Officer Richard Maugh described the programme and the graduation as a "journey of change." He expressed his hope that "this change motivates you to continue making positive contributions to your country," emphasising the critical role of self-development and the value of the BIT programme certification in the graduates' future endeavours.

139 students received their certificates from the BIT programme this time around

The graduating class

Technical Officer Deborah McBeth

Childcare monitoring, services to expand across Guyana

— 56 persons complete early childhood development training

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MOHSSS), in partnership with UNICEF Guyana and with funds from the Canadian government, has recently concluded a one-week Early Childhood Development (ECD) capacity building session with registration and licensing officers (RLOs), child protection officers (CPOs) and primary caregivers countrywide.

The training included sessions on early childhood devel-

opment practices, schedules and routines for childcare settings, analysing diverse facility scenarios, registration and licensing officers portfolios and assessments and the importance of play in the early years to name a few.

The care providers along with the RLOs and CPOs were also engaged in a one-day training on the effective use of the 100 early childhood development kits that were donated sometime last year.

During the certificate ceremony Honourable Minister

of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, congratulated the participants on completing the sessions and charged them to share their new knowledge with peer and parents in their respective regions.

“I have no doubt that we will see the elevation of care as it is provided across all the regions in Guyana. For many regions it may be newer than others, for other regions it may require doing things a little differently; moving with the fast-paced progress of our country, so that

we can provide what is needed for the parents and children of today’s generation,” she said.

She commended UNICEF and the Canadian government for continuously injecting resources to enhance childcare delivery services in Guyana.

Also congratulating the participants was Nicolas Pron, Area Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname who high-

lighted some key factors that are necessary to ensure children achieve their full potential.

“As is their human right, they need healthcare and nutrition, protection from harm and a sense of security, opportunities for early learning, and responsive caregiving with parents and caregivers who love them,” he said.

He added, “I am most cer-

tain that this training has provided you with the necessary tools needed to further enhance the oversight you provide in ensuring that the caregivers understand that the first 1000 days of a child’s life matter and we look forward to seeing great outcomes from the different facilities.”

Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana and Suriname,

Continued on page 18

Participants of the ECD Training pose with their certificates after the ceremony with Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud; Canada High Commissioner to Guyana and Suriname, Mark Berman and Area Representative of UNICEF Guyana and Suriname, Nicolas Pron

Enchanting worlds unveiled: Chevon Lim releases highly anticipated second book

— delving deeper into folklore mysteries

IN the vast expanse of literature, where stories old and new dance upon the pages, Guyanese author Chevon Lim stands as a conjurer of captivating tales. Since the debut of her first work of fiction, ‘Tales from Sugarcane Street’ in 2019, Lim has entranced audiences with her nostalgic storytelling. Now, she returns with her eagerly awaited second book, delving deeper into the realms of folklore and myth. Titled ‘Sugarcane Girl - A Tale of Disquiet,’ Lim's latest offering promises readers

an immersive journey into a world where legends breathe and myths pulse with life. Launched amidst the grandeur of Castellani House last Thursday, as part of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Literary Festival 2024, the book sets to explore the enduring relevance of folklore in our modern existence.

“I've always been fascinated by the power of folklore to transcend time and culture,” Chevon remarks,” ‘In ‘Sugarcane Girl- A tale of Disquiet,’ I wanted to delve even deeper into these

narratives, exploring their relevance in our modern world and uncovering the timeless truths they hold.”

With her second book, Chevon hopes to continue to build a reputation as a master storyteller, enchanting readers with her ability to breathe life into age-old tales and infuse them with fresh meaning.

“I am privileged to have this opportunity. I invite readers to lose themselves in the pages, and to be swept away by the magic of my imagination,” Lim

continued.

She also extended gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for their continued support during this part of her journey. Lim was a recipient of the 2023 Cultural and Creative Industry’s Grant, a programme designed to further boost the local creative arts industry.

“I was fortunate to have been selected. To the visionaries behind the grant programme, I extend my deepest appreciation. Your commitment to fostering creativity and innovation has

provided artists and creators like me with the opportunity to bring our visions to life. Through your generosity, you have not only invested in individual endeavours, but also in the collective tapestry of human expression, enriching our cultural landscape and igniting the spark of inspiration in countless soul,” Lim explained.

‘Sugarcane Girl -- A tale of Disquiet’ is set to hit shelves shortly, promising readers an unforgettable literary experience that will linger long after the final page is turned. For readers

interested in purchasing a copy, they can contact the author on 652-1619.

As to what comes next on her literary journey, Ms Lim revealed that she is currently working on several projects, including a children’s book and a historical romance novel.

“Regardless of what I write, readers can be assured that somewhere in my story-telling there will be nuggets of Guyanese folklore,” the author assured.

Author Chevon Lim presents copies of her two books to the University of Guyana Library (Delano Williams photos)

Dr. Lisa Outar was also presented with a copy at the launch. Dr Outar is an independent scholar whose research explores post-indentureship feminism, Indianness and cosmopolitanism in Caribbean literature and culture

Titled ‘Sugarcane Girl -- A Tale of Disquiet,’ Lim's latest offering promises readers an immersive journey into a world where legends breathe and myths pulse with life

Preserving democracy

ALMOST four years after successfully overcoming the efforts of the APNU+AFC to hold on to power, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has not only created a vibrant economy that is attractive and respected by people and governments the world over, but has also repaired a once tattered image of the nation by establishing democratic principles that guide the decisions of the administration.

The following is a recap of the government’s efforts to safeguard and promote democracy:

• The restoration of confidence in the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) with the removal of persons implicated in the efforts to derail the 2020 elections, cleared the way for the successful execution of the Local Government Elections. The PPP/C won 67 of the 80 Local Authority Areas, after securing significant support in known strongholds of the APNU/ PNC.

• Additionally, in keeping with its constitutional obligation, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali reconstituted various bodies including the Public Service Commission, Police Service Commission, the Judicial Service Commission, Teaching Service Commission, Local Government Commission, Ethnic Relations Commission, Procurement Commission and Integrity Commission.

• Last year alone, the sum of $150 million was set aside in the 2023 National Budget for the government’s constitutional reform efforts to advance in 2023.

• Stakeholder consultations have been paramount to the government’s decision-making process.

Members of the Public Service Commission

Standing from left are: PPC Commissioners; President Dr. Irfaan Ali; Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips; Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C.; and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira (Delano Williams photo)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali; Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira with the new Police Service Commission appointees (Office of the President photo)

Members of the Judicial Service Commission

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (third from left) and Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton (left) at the meeting along with Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall (right) and Member of Parliament, Roysdale Forde

Consultation 2: Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo, led a team that engaged with civil society in December, 2021, on the final consultation on the draft Local Content Policy before it is tabled in the National Assembly

democracy at all costs

• President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, in June 2022, announced that the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events that followed polling day on March 2, 2020, general and regional elections would be chaired by retired Justice of Appeal, Stanley John, and will include former Attorney-General, High Court judge and acting Justice of Appeal in the Eastern Caribbean, Godfrey P. Smith, S.C.; Former Chair and Chief Elections Commissioner of India, Dr. S.Y. Quraishi, and, Former Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Carl Singh OR CCH

• In April, 2023, it was reported that the (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there was collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.

• After careful scrutiny, the COI commissioners concluded that there was a conscious and deliberate – even brazen –effort to violate the provisions of section 84(1) of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA)

CDC spearheads multi-agency response to wild fires

THE Civil Defence Com -

(CDC)

Saturday

a multi-agency

to the recent wildfires countrywide, as directed by the nation’s Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips.

Guyana Police Force (GPF); the Guyana Defence Force (GDF); the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI); the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA); the National Agri -

According to a press release from the CDC, this initiative comes on the heels of several reports from various sectors of Guyana over the past weeks, indicating a surge in brush fires, wildfires and forest fires due to the current dry season.

Members of the meeting included representatives from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS); the

cultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI); the Protected Areas Commission (PAC); the Ministry of Health; the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Guyana Forestry Commission. Significant contributions were made, which resulted in several points of action for an efficient response.

Loggers in the Kwakwani/ Hururu/Bisaruni areas will be

asked to use their skidders to create fire breaks to combat spreading forest fires. This mission will be led by the Forestry Commission, with the CDC and Ministry of Natural Resources providing critical support.

Improvised fire-fighting equipment such as trucks, tractors, and trailers armed with hoses and pumps, will be deployed in all areas that will engage auxiliary firefighters from Community Policing Groups (CPGs).

The CDC will provide the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to maintain responders’ safety. Additionally, heightened surveillance using drones, satellite data, local aircraft, CPGs, GPF and Rangers will be activated. Enforcement for residents who deliberately set fires to garbage piles and other debris will be ramped up in at-risk areas. Dumpsites, construction hubs and roadways will also be monitored.

Water sources across the country will be closely supervised to ensure that there is an adequate supply available for firefighting measures.

Finally, a robust and joint public education and awareness campaign is underway to consistently inform residents of what they can do to aid the fight against these fires. This particular effort will see information emanating from the CDC, the GFS, the EPA,

NAREI and the GLDA. “Mobilisation of resources will be an ongoing process as the Government of Guyana aims to minimise vulnerabilities while the dry spell continues. Persons are asked to contact 912 in the event of a fire emergency, their local RDC or NDC representative, Toshao or village head, or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on 600-7500 at any time,” the CDC said.

L-R: Justice of Appeal (Ret’d) of Turks and Caicos, Stanley John; former Justice of Appeal (ag) in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Godfrey P. Smith; former Chief Election Commissioner of India, Dr S. Y. Quraishi and former Chancellor of the Judiciary (Guyana), Carl Singh

President Dr. Irfaan Ali receives the elections COI report from Chairman of the Commission retired Justice of Appeal, Stanley John (Photo by Adrian Narine)

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Saturday spearheaded a multi-agency response to the recent wildfires countrywide, as directed by the nation’s Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips

mission

on

spearheaded

response

GPF Corporate Communications Unit

Head Mark Ramotar wins NISA award

— Honoured as top graduate in ground-breaking Master’s programme

IN a proud moment for both the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the nation’s academic community, Mark Ramotar, Head of the Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) of the Guyana Police Force, was lauded as the overall Best Graduating Student in the esteemed Master of Science (MSc.) programme in Strategic Development Studies.

Amidst a recent gathering at the University of Guyana’s Institute of Human Resiliency, Strategic Security, and the Future (IHRSSF) Awards Ceremony, Ramotar received the prestigious National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA) award.

Colonel Sheldon Howell, the Director of NISA, presented the accolade to Ramotar, in recognition of his academic achievements.

The Master of Science (MSc) programme, which commenced in 2022, garnered attention for its ground-

breaking approach to strategic development studies.

Spearheaded by His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, former US Ambassador to Guyana, Ms. Sarah-Ann Lynch, and Dr. Bitencourt from the Perry Center at the U.S. National Defense University, the programme aimed to cultivate a cadre of professionals capable of navigating complex policy frameworks and addressing multifaceted global challenges.

President Ali emphasised the significance of the programme’s objectives, stating, “We cannot build resilient, sustainable, strong national development programmes or a national development agenda without understanding and contextualising it in the wider global environment.”

The University of Guyana’s initiative was recogniesd with the esteemed William J. Perry award, underscoring its pioneering

contributions to the field of strategic development studies.

Ramotar and his fellow graduates emerged as the inaugural beneficiaries of this distinguished recognition.

Ramotar’s achievement within the Security Sector of Guyana was particularly no-

table. Among his peers were senior officers from various branches of the country’s security apparatus, including the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Prison Service. His success underscores the intersection of academic excellence and profession -

al dedication, serving as a testament to the ongoing commitment of Guyana’s law enforcement agencies to intellectual advancement and strategic foresight.

As he embarks on the next phase of his career, Ramotar who was also the former Editor-in-Chief (ag) of the Guyana National News-

papers Limited, stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders within the nation’s security landscape. It is apt to note that Ramotar is the holder of a double Masters (MBA and MSc) and, despite his busy work schedule, he intends to pursue his Doctorate (PhD.)

Improved water supply, housing developments for Bartica communities

NEARLY 400 residents of Daag Point, Bartica, are set to benefit from improved water supply systems and housing developments, thanks to efforts by the Ministry of Housing and Water.

Subject Minister Collin Croal, a team from his ministry, and other sub agencies visited communities in the Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni) communities where the projects are being streamlined.

According to the ministry, Minister Croal, regional officials and technical staff of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), visited the communities and addressed residents, assuring them that the project would be operationalised soon.

A well has already been successfully drilled and activated and some supplementary works are left to be done like the installation of a new

PV system, inclusive of a panel rack frame, solar panels, pump, well master, new storage tanks on the existing metal trestle, and interconnection to the pipe network.

A perimeter fence will also be constructed, and some 3,000 metres of 50 mm PVC pipes & 1,000 metres of 19 mm PVC pipes with

60 service connections will be installed. The estimated budget for the execution of the ancillary works that are yet to be done is $12 million.

Meanwhile, the team from the ministry, along with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) inspected ongoing infrastructural works at a new housing

development at Tract ‘CHPA’ and Tract ‘CHPA Extension’, also in Bartica.

The team comprised of Minister Croal, CH&PA's Chief Executive Officer Sherwyn Greaves; Director of Operations, Denise King-Tudor; Chief Development Planner Germene Stewart; engineers from the Projects Depart -

ment, including Randolph Hunte and Jamal Brotherson; as well as other technical staff.

Together, the two newly acquired blocks of land span 99 acres and are expected to yield over 300 lots. The development is located west of the Five Miles Housing Scheme and is in proximity

to the Bartica Airstrip. The infrastructure works currently being done include land clearing, access roads to provide easy navigation for allottees, and drainage networks.

As part of future strategic plans, the scheme will connect directly to the Bartica/ Potaro Road and the incoming Aruwai-Teperu Road.

Furthermore, the ministry is also focused on establishing connectivity with existing housing developments. Key features of the scheme encompass a community service hub to complement the residential zone and strategic interspersed residential/ commercial lots to address immediate economic needs and services for allottees.

The plan also includes provisions for commercial plots, playgrounds, parks, public open spaces, and places of worship.

CCU Head Mark Ramotar (extreme left) with his batch mates of the esteemed Master of Science (MSc.) programme in Strategic Development Studies

Director of Guyana’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Colonel Sheldon Howell presents the award (trophy) to best graduating student, Mark Ramotar

Aerial view of land in Bartica Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal in Dagg Point Photo by: MHW

Moot Court Guyana aims to contribute towards Guyana’s evolving legal architecture — wraps up second Constitutional Law Mooting Competition

AS Guyana’s legal architecture continues to be transformed, Moot Court Guyana (MCG) is working assiduously to provide law students with the opportunity to develop essential legal skills in a simulated courtroom environment.

According to a press release, in keeping with this

objective, MCG wrapped up its second Constitutional Law Mooting Competition at the University of Guyana (UG), on Thursday.

The Education Lecture Theatre came alive with heated, intellectual debates, as two teams showcased their legal prowess and intelligence.

The teams presented their cases in response to the moot: "Whether the failure of political parties to disclose the sources of their private funding constitute a breach of their constitutional mandate and undermine democracy?"

Against this backdrop, participants showcased their fervour for justice and their

commitment to upholding the principles of democracy.

Justice (Ret'd) Courtney Abel, the moot’s presiding judge, listened to compelling arguments from several law students.

After careful consideration, the applicants, John Applewhite-Hercules and Aanelia Bacchus emerged as the victors.

Moreover, Applewhite-Hercules who had a perfect score, for this round,

Continued on page 19

From left to right: Justice (Ret'd) Courtney Abel, Aanelia Bacchus, John Applewhite-Hercules and Justice Professor Kenneth Benjamin, Head of the UG’s Law Department

Childcare monitoring, services to expand across...

From page 12

Mark Berman, who also attended the certificate ceremony cheered the participants and the MOHSSS for their efforts to expand and spearhead early childhood development in Guyana.

“I want to thank you all for being part of this effort to ensure equal delivery of quality early childhood services to all of Guyana’s communities no matter how remote,” he said.

The High Commissioner also revealed that Canada has

announced a CAD$9.5-million-dollar collaboration with the government of Guyana to train two thousand students in the technology sphere. “These students’ successful entry into this programme is a useful part during the quality of early child-

hood development and Canada is proud to support both ends of the learning spectrum,” he said.

Officers attending the trainings have touted the sessions as informative since they have learned many new techniques to enhance their service delivery when interacting with children and parents.

Orette Francois, Child Protection and Senior Probation and Social Services Officer said, “The sessions have given me knowledge that I didn’t have before. I know early childhood is critical in the development of children. However, I did not know the techniques to bring out certain things. In my capacity, this will now help me to incor-

porate what I would have learnt here in my ordinary parental training to assist parents to get their children at a better level.”

Duanne Mc Farlane, Registration and Licensing Officer in Region 10 said, “It was a refresher for me because I am early childhood trained, but with the added information I will go out to my Daycare Centres and share my knowledge and engage more with the supervisors so they can enhance the knowledge and skills better in their facilities.”

Huette Moore, Senior Childcare Officer said, “The session brought new light to what is happening in our community today and some of the challenges that daycare and caregivers face

along with how they deal with the children. Being a part of the training brought the knowledge to know what is expected to happen in the daycare to stimulate learning and helping the children meet their utmost development as they grow.”

To further promote early childhood development in the regions, UNICEF handed over 300 banners to the MOHSSS that depict positive early childhood development messages for parents and primary caregivers. The messages written in English, Spanish and Warrau languages are expected to be placed in childcare facilities across the country.

Linden residents to benefit from new ‘water facilities’ improvement project

THE Linden Water Facilities Improvement Project was launched in Linden

components of the project is spearheaded by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in

last month as part of the Non-Revenue Water Project (NRW) Programme, which is a component of the Global Environment Facility GEF-CReW+ Project Guyana.

The Caribbean Regional Fund for Wastewater management+ CReW+, is a partnership project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) that is being co-implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in 18 countries of the Wider Caribbean Region (WCR).

The project is being executed by the Secretariat of the Cartagena Convention (CAR/RCU), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, and the Organization of the American States (OAS) on behalf of UNEP and the IDB respectively.

Locally, CREW+ Projects is under the Ministry of Housing and Water, while the implementation of the

collaboration with other entities including the Hydro-metrological Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The GEF CReW+ Project is geared at implementing innovative, technical, smallscale solutions in the WCR, using an Integrated Water and Wastewater Management (IWWM) approach, and building on the sustainable financing mechanisms that were piloted through the Caribbean Regional Fund for Wastewater Management, CReW Project.

CReW+ Project Guyana is being coordinated by GWI’s Sanitation Manager Rensforde Joseph, while the NRW project, Linden is headed by Jawaharlall Ramjug, Head of NRW-GWI, with support from Rawle Friday - Regional Manager for Region 10, and engineers Owen Haley and Yannick Cadogan.

The main objective of this component of the project is to improve the company’s

Moot Court Guyana aims to contribute...

From page 17

earned the Best Advocate award. His colleague, Bacchus, copped the Best Researcher Award.

The respondents, Fabian Green, Thomasa Auguste, and Raheem Blair secured the runner-up position.

Green was also the runner-up for Best Advocate. As the event concluded, finalists walked away with medals and trophies.

Notably, the top performers also secured internship opportunities, which were offered by MCG’s esteemed

financial efficiency and viability through the reduction of its NRW percentage at Linden by 10 percent.

To achieve this goal,

several activities will be conducted over the next seven months, which include an extensive metering project; identification,

removing duplicated pipelines; rehabilitation of pipe network fixtures in specific areas; extensive filed exercise geared at detecting and

repairing leaking potable water lines, and conducting a hydraulics analysis to optimise water distribution.

partners.

The MCG also extended its heartfelt gratitude to Justice Abel for his guidance and unwavering dedication to supporting the growth of young legal minds.

Justice Professor Kenneth Benjamin, Head of UG’s Law Department and the dedicated club adviser, Chevy Devonish, were also acknowledged for their steady support.

“The Executive Board of MCG eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Tort Law Competition scheduled for March 20 and 27, 2024,” Moot Court said.

A stream in Linden that will source water Photo by: GWI

Rachin Ravindra drags New Zealand ahead in tall run chase

ANOTHER fast-paced day

at the Basin Reserve in Wellington has left New Zealand in a precarious position in the series opener against Australia, as they slumped to 111/3 in chase of 369.

Glenn Phillips hastened the end of Australia’s second innings with a five-wicket haul -- the first New Zealand spinner to do so in 18 years -- earlier in the day but the hosts then lost three quick wickets, including that of Kane Williamson, by the end of day three.

The hosts fell to 59 for 3, from where Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell saw the final session through. New Zealand still need 258 runs to win.

Australia began the day on 13 for 2 with nightwatchman Nathan Lyon batting alongside Usman Khawaja. Lyon was the first to fall on the third day, but not before making a valuable 41 off 46 balls.

That effort would go on to be the best of Australia’s second innings line-up as the middle-order succumbed to

the off-spin of Glenn Phillips. Phillips kick-started his fifer with a full, tossed-up delivery outside the off-stump to Usman Khawaja and lured him out to get him stumped. Australia rebuilt quickly through Cameron Green and Travis Head but their alliance too was broken by Phillips.

While looking to establish his dominance in the tussle against Phillips, Head took a risk that did not pay off, as Scott Kuggeleijn moved to his right from long off to settle under a catch. Phillips then saw the back off Mitchell Marsh off the very next ball, getting him caught at short leg for a golden duck.

Tim Southee gave his spinner an attacking field, and stationed himself at short cover. There were dividends to that move as Alex Carey fell for a tossed-up full ball and drove it straight to the New Zealand captain to become Phillips’ fourth victim. It was down to Will Young’s excellent reflexes at short leg that Phillips completed his fifer -sending the first-innings centurion Green packing for 34. Australia folded for 164, and yet set New Zealand a mammoth target on the basis of their first-innings advantage.

The Australia bowlers then proceeded to rattle New

Zealand further by running through their top-order.

Spin continued to be the currency as Nathan Lyon, who was brought on in the fifth over, struck right away to remove Tom Latham. Shortly after tea, Lyon made a sizeable dent with the prized wicket of Kane Williamson, getting him caught at leg slip. Australia could smell blood and were razor sharp on the field in their quest to make further inroads. Travis Head provided the next, although it was more down to a one-handed stunning catch from Steve Smith at first slip that led to the dismissal of Will Young who had slowly but steadily grown into the innings till that stage.

In the company of Daryl Mitchell -- New Zealand’s crisis man -- Rachin Ravindra scored a stubborn half-century and dragged the hosts to stumps without further damage. This however, will need to be kept up for longer periods on day four with New Zealand still having a steep mountain to climb in the runchase.

(Cricbuzz)

(Sunday March 03, 2024)

COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Shiv Chanderpaul-164 Tests

(2) Chris Gayle-298 ODIs

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who has led the WI in most Test matches to date?

(2) Who has captained the WI in most ODIs to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra

French Embassy, Guyana Olympic Association & UNICEF Guyana ink partnership

- shared values to be promoted in lead-up to Olympic and Paralympic Games

WITH preparations underway for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the French Embassy, the Guyana Olympic Association and UNICEF Guyana have signed on to a partnership to promote shared values among athletes through several joint events in the lead-up to the Games.

The signing of the partnership took place at the Guyana Olympic Association headquarters with Mr. Godfrey Munroe, the President of the Association, Mr. Jean-Jacques Forté, Chargé d’Affaires & Head of the French Diplomatic Bureau in Guyana, Mr. Nicolas Pron, UNICEF Area Representative to Guyana & Suriname and Cristy Campbell, Vice President of the Guyana Olympic Association.

The new partnership is expected to see a kick start to a series of joint events including putting youth at the heart of the games with actions in schools such as an essay competition, sporting events and meetings

with athletes, promoting inclusive games featuring athletes with a disability, advancing gender equality, organising environmentally friendly games, and encouraging the learning of French as official Olympic language.

Mr. Jean-Jacques Forté, Head of the French Diplomatic Bureau expressed his delight in the partnership, especially considering France is organising the upcoming Paris Olympic games.

“It’s going to be a very fruitful partnership as we organise events together to promote the games. We also want to promote the Olympic values and the values we share together with France and Guyana and universally,” he said.

On the note of shared values, he highlighted that the games that are being organised will be sustainable games. “This will be reflected in all the buildings that have been constructed in France. The first building of the Olympic village has recent-

Concacaf Under-20 football Championship...

ly been inaugurated and is at the very frontline in the use of sustainable development and the fight against climate change,” he explained.

Mr. Godfrey Munroe, President of the Guyana Olympic Association, said he was elated to work with the French Embassy and UNICEF Guyana to promote the values of the Olympics to the younger generation.

“The three values of olympism are excellence, respect and friendship and I think it’s a new platform to inspire a new generation of persons, whether they are competitive athletes or recreational students and even the public, about the Olympic movement and what it represents.

Mr. Nicolas Pron, UNICEF Area Representative to Guyana & Suriname said that UNICEF was pleased to join in the collaboration as all efforts lead to increased advocacy for child rights in Guyana.

“I am particularly pleased

that many of the planned events and Olympic values also align with UNICEF’s values of care, respect, integrity, trust, accountability and sustainability,” Pron said.

“As we advance our efforts to promote child rights in Guyana, Article 2, 19 and 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child speak to the rights of children and young people having equal opportunity despite gender or abilities, playing sports, and practising sports in a healthy and safe environment. So, I am very happy to be part of this partnership to ensure that children and youths in Guyana learn their rights, even in the sports arena,” he said.

A media launch of the series of events is expected to be announced soon.

100 years after first hosting the modern Olympics, Paris will host the XXXIII Olympic Summer Games from July 26 to August 11, 2024, with the Paralympic game set for August

28 to September 8, 2024.

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child,

everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

For more information about UNICEF and its work for children visit www.unicef.

org Follow UNICEF on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

Antigua & Barbuda, Cuba, and Suriname still in the race for Concacaf qualification

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Caribbean Football Union teams, Antigua & Barbuda, Cuba, and Suriname remained in contention for a place in the Concacaf Under-20 Championship after the latest matches in the qualifying tournament on Thursday.

The Cubans beat Belize 1-0 to pull even with hosts Nicaragua on nine points at the top of Group A. El Salvador crushed Suriname 3-0 in Antigua to open the door in Group B for the hosts

to sneak into the next round, while hosts Guatemala moved into the top spot in Group C after a 5-0 win against Aruba.

AT THE NATIONAL STADIUM IN MANAGUA:

Aniel Casanova gave Cuba the lead in the 12th minute, and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean side held fast for the remainder of the contest to come away with the win.

Earlier in the day, Azarni Callwood notched a hat-trick with goals in the 18th, 23rd, and 89th minutes, and the British

Virgin Islands romped to their second win in the group with a 3-1 result against Anguilla, whose lone goal came from Jared Smeins in the 28th minute.

AT THE ABFA TECHNICAL CENTRE IN PIGGOTTS: Christopher Argueta in the 17th minute, Nestor Delgado in the 24th, and Kiano Casamalhuapa in the 66th supplied goals for El Salvador against the Surinamese.

Hosts Antigua & Barbuda and El Salvador have one point between them, and they will

face each other in the feature match on Saturday in a top-ofthe-table clash.

If Suriname beat Turks & Caicos Islands as expected, they could top the group, but they will need the feature match to end in a draw.

In the earlier match on Thursday, Ezekial Rowland scored on either side of halftime in the 32nd and 55th minutes, and Guyana got a 2-1 win against TCI, whose only item came from Emmanuel Martin in the final minute of regulation

time.

AT THE DOROTEO

GUAMUCH FLORES IN

GUATEMALA CITY: A brace from Daniel Mendez with goals in the 24th and 37th minutes sandwiched between strikes from Rudy Munoz in the eighth minute, Matthew Evans on the stroke of half-time, and Axel De La Cruz in the 85th minute brought the home fans to their feet.

The result meant that Guatemala catapulted into first place with nine points, two ahead of

Curacao.

The day began with Barbados taking down Saint Martin 4-2 with Khalil Vanderpool Nurse leading the way with a brace in the final 10 minutes, scoring in the 80th minute and in stoppage time, following items from Xavier Webster in the first minute, and Ethan Taylor in the 77th minute.

Jaheem Joe scored in the 42nd minute for St Martin, and a Warren Trotman own goal made the result look closer.

Orlando All Stars clinch Florida Cup Open crown

THE star-studded Orlando

All Stars team emerged winners of the Open category when the 17th edition of the Florida Cup, organised by the South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL) ended last Sunday in Fort Lauderdale.

Witnessed by a bumper crowd on a hot Sunday afternoon, Orlando All Stars turned back the challenge of SFSCL All Stars, romping to an easy 54-run victory to claim the coveted $3000 (US) first prize and the winning trophy.

Taking first strike, Orlando All Stars rattled up a challenging 240 for seven in their allotted 20 overs before returning to limit their opponents to 186 for eight.

Led by Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the category,

opener Devon Subhai, who slammed five fours and five sixes in a top score of 66 and a swashbuckling undefeated 60 off a mere 18 balls from the burly Ricky Sargeant, the victors proved superior in the end. Sargeant’s bril-

with four fours and seven huge sixes. Vickram Talmakund and Sewchand Budhu chipped in with 28 and 27 not out respectively. Akash Ramjattan claimed two for 26.

The huge total proved too much for SFSCL despite a fine 63 off 24 balls from Joshua DeFreitas who stroked four fours and seven sixes in his knock. Travis Drakes supported with 38 (one four and five sixes). Rokesh Mahase was the chief destroyer with four for 32.

The semi-final action saw Orlando All Stars getting past Hurricanes All Stars, who defeated them in a preliminary round game while SFSCL won from Titans All Stars.

Set 156 for victory, after limiting Hurricanes to 155 all out in 19 overs, Orlando All Stars reached the required target in 18 overs with VJ Surujpaul hitting an undefeated 55 off 37 balls. with four fours and three

sixes. Subhai contributed 30 and Sachin Singh 29. Fazal Rafiek took two for 30.

Former Guyana and West Indies Under-19 batsman Zalman Khan top-scored for Hurricanes with 31 with Rohit Dutchin (28) and Jake Wessells (24) being the other principal scorers. Delroy Perreira took three for 17 and Greg Singh two for 25.

SFSCL, on the other hand, won a close encounter versus Titans All Stars, reaching the required total of 150 with three balls to spare, losing nine wickets in the process.

Batting first, Titans were dismissed for 149 in 19.3 overs with Vickram Ramsoondar slamming 70 off 33 balls with three fours

and seven sixes. There were two wickets each for Brandon John, Daniel Mangar and Travis Drakes.

SFSCL got to 150 for nine in 19.3 overs with Drakes (33), and Anil Balwant (30) being the main contributors. Rakesh Persaud (three for 24), Chandlall Persaud (two for 18) and Ian Ivan (two for 35) did the damage for the winners.

Subhai copped both the Player of the Final and Most Valuable Player awards while Drakes collected the prize for scoring the most runs. Subhai’s prizes included a 25 penny-weight cricket bracelet, compliments of Top Master Jewelry and a pair of Clarks boots from Latch Shoes. (Frederick Halley)

liant knock was decorated

From Left- Mr. Nicolas Pron, UNICEF Area Representative to Guyana & Suriname, Mr. Godfrey Munroe, the President of the Guyana Olympic Association and Mr. Jean-Jacques Forté, Chargé d’Affaires & Head of the French Diplomatic Bureau in Guyana signing the agreement. Cristy Campbell, Vice President of the Guyana Olympic Association witnessed the signing

The victorious Orlando All Stars players pose with their winnings

GSCL teams up with Roraima for inaugural One

Guyana Inter-Region 10 Softball …tournament set to bowl off March 10

THE Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) has teamed up with Roraima Community Developers in running off the Inaugural One Guyana Inter Region 10 Softball Cricket Tournament which is now rescheduled to start on March 10.

According to President of the GSCL Ian John, his organisation is pleased to be part of this countrywide event that’s going to see softball cricket at the local level. John said that the GSCL has hosted many tournaments over the years and will now be involved in spreading the game at the level where it’s an open category that is going to see village teams taking part.

John disclosed that the GSCL expects all teams to play within the confines of the rules that govern the tournament and thanked Roraima Developers for having the GSCL as a partner in organising and running off the tournament.

Roraima Developers thank the executives of the GSCL for

DCB Inter-Association U-19 50 overs cricket…

their support and look forward to an outstanding partnership towards many more tournaments in the future.

According to the organisers, the tournament, which was slated to begin on March 3 and end on March 17, had to be rescheduled to start on a later date in March due to some issues that are being ironed out regionally and nationally in having a well-managed and smooth tournament.

The organisers said that more teams are coming forward to participate and because of this more arrangements have to be put in place in ensuring that there is a timely finish to this inaugural tournament.

The tournament will see regional winners pocketing a cash prize of $80,000 and trophy, while prizes will be given to the runner-up along with trophies for the best bowler and batsman, and man of the final.

According to RCD, over $500,000 in cash and prizes will

be given out in the playoffs to the winner, runner up, third place, man of series, man of final, best bowler, best batsman and each game man of the match.

The tournament will be played in an open category because over the years, softball cricket has seen a tremendous decline nationally and that is because of the categorising of the local cricket, where many could not get involved in the games regionally and nationally because of the age range.

According to RCD, they see this tournament as a grassroot one and in bringing back softball to the village level, while its aim and objective is to bring our people together as one.

The tournament will be played on 10 overs aside, round arm bowling and based on a one game knockout format. Teams from Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10 already signaled their intentions in participating.

For registration, teams can contact the regional coordinators,

Region 1-Sherlon 668-3657, Region 2-Basil Persaud 610-0842, Region 3 – Sadiek (WCD) 6986406, Surijpaul (Wakenaam) 6737748, Frank Satnarine (WBD) 615-5343, Region 4 – Fazal Khan 670-8114 and Darmin 668-2783, Region 5- Mahase on 626-1869 and Chris on 706-7073, Region 6Ryan Ramdass on 627-0704, Teka 667-4121 or Omesh Sirikishun on 677-2826 and Region 10 Niles on 697-8306.

Roraima Community Developers can also be contacted on telephone on 657-5612 or via email developersroraima@gmail. com for further details. Supporting the tournament so far are West Central Mall, Singh Brothers Contracting Services, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Blue Spring Water and Feroze Construction. The officials are hoping for full cooperation from all as they are using this tournament in bringing people together in unity through sports in building One Guyana.

Georgetown beat West Demerara by 123 runs

IN hot conditions and a fast outfield at the MetenMeer-Zorg Ground yesterday, Georgetown hammered West Demerara by 123 runs in the opening round of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB)’s Inter-Association 50-over under-19 cricket tournament.

Watched by a goodsized crowd, Georgetown’s opener Romeo Deonarain made 70 from 116 balls with six fours and two sixes, while fellow opener and teammate Kishan Silas’ carefully constructed 44 lasted 87 balls with three

boundaries.

The pair added 115 for the first wicket in a solid, but slow partnership.

The powerfully-built 17-year-old Johnathan Van Lange clobbered four fours and two massive sixes in his 25-ball 38.

John Persaud smashed six boundaries, which included three sixes, in his unbeaten 34 from just 16 balls, and along with Riyad Latif, who hit a six in his 21 not-out, featured in an unbroken half-century, eighth-wicket stand.

West Indies U-19 batter Mavindra Dindyal hit a four

Suri Trading strengthens support for Albion’s U-11 and U-13 cricket teams

SURI Trading has strengthened its ongoing sponsorship of the Albion Cricket Club Under-11 and Under-13 cricket teams by ensuring players can access coaching and equipment.

“We are dedicated to nurturing young talent and instilling a passion for cricket from the grassroots level upward. Our sponsorship ensures that the Albion Cricket Team has access to superior

coaching and equipment, empowering them to realise their full potential on the field”, a release from the company explained.

Albion Cricket Club has long been celebrated as one of the most successful clubs in Guyana and across the Caribbean.

This achievement is attributed mainly to their commitment to developing young players, resulting in

the emergence of numerous national and international cricket stars.

“Representing their team on the cricket field is a cherished aspiration for many young cricketers. Our sponsorship aims to inspire these emerging athletes to dream big and set ambitious goals. Whether it's making a match-winning play, securing a crucial wicket, or simply relishing the camaraderie

of teammates, we believe every moment on the cricket field presents an opportunity for these young players to flourish and pursue their aspirations,” the release stated. The Guyanese-owned company believes that by championing these young athletes, it is helping them pursue their dreams and molding them into future leaders and role models.

and two sixes, but failed to build on a good before he fell to Kelvin Raymond (446) for 23.

Amrit Persaud supported Raymond with 3-60 as the city side made 256-8.

The home team was bundled out for 133 in 37.5 overs, as only opener Parmeshwar Ram top-scored with 31, which was decorated with six fours, while the only Raymond, of the other batters passed 10; hitting a couple of boundaries in his 20.

Van Lange returned with the ball to take 3-18.

(Sean

Devers)

Amrita Bahadur, a representative of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre (left) hands over the sponsorship cheque to Sandra Edwards of Roraima Community Developers. At extreme right is Regal Sports Manager Ian John

General Manager of Suri Trading Rozana Chand (right) and Orvin Mangru of Albion Cricket Club

Romeo Deonarain scored 70

Kelvin Raymond took 4 wickets

‘There can never be a second first’

- Sir Clive Lloyd declares

By Sean Devers

GUYANA was recognised for its historic win of both the Shell Shield First-Class and the Geddes Grant/Harrison Line 50-Overs cricket matches back in 1983 at a 40th Anniversary Dinner and Gala at the Ramada Georgetown (Princess) Hotel on Friday night.

Sir Clive Lloyd was captain when Guyana won the Shell Shield title in 1985, but the 1983 double was the first time any team had won both titles in the same season.

Besides Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) officials, special guests included Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Mr. Charles Ramson Jr, as well as the families and friends of the 1983 Guyana team, and new West Indies fast-bowling sensation Shamar Joseph.

Sir Clive spoke of the

team’s journey during the 1983 tournament, saying that although Roger Harper led Guyana to the double in 1993, there could never be a second first.

The Skipper also attributed their success to teamwork, since it was a team without too many big-name players.

Apart from Lloyd, only Clyde Butts, Faoud Bacchus and Harper had ever played Test cricket.

Rated the most successful Captain to have presided over most of West Indies’ 29 unbeaten series from 19801995, Sir Clive reminisced on their historic run during the 1983 season, when Guyana became the first team to capture both the First-Class and 50-Overs titles.

The legendary West Indies skipper couldn’t help poking a bit of fun at his old teammates, further adding

to the camaraderie of the occasion. Hailing them for the indomitable team spirit they displayed back then, he said that maybe all of them could easily play Test Cricket today.

THE FALLEN THREE

Sir Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to 11 consecutive Test victories (a record which was subsequently broken by Australia), used the occasion to remember those of his fallen comrades, namely Roy Fredricks, Andrew Lyght and Butts. Fredricks, a government minister at the time, had come out of retirement to score 136 against T&T, and 217 against Jamaica to become the only sitting MP in the World to score a first-class double century.

Lyght, on the other hand, who was represented by his son at the event, had scored two centuries and three fif-

ties, while Butts finished with 25 wickets. Minister Ramson, in his feature address on behalf of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who is in St. Vincent & the Grenadines on State duties, told the gathering that Guyana is a country built on cricket.

“It is who we are; we wanted to outdo the English, and for the period when Sir Clive was among the best in the world and he won the World Cup in 1975, and what it did was inject a level of confidence and pride into us as Guyanese,” he said, adding:

“We are all distinctly West Indian, but the one essential ingredient is cricket. It is our most successful sport, and it is a way of life.” Himself a former first-division left-arm spinner for the Everest Cricket Club, Minister Ramson said in conclusion:

“Playing with passion and pride, the generations before us did that. We want to thank the players and former GCB President Major General Norman McLean.

GCB Secretary Ronald Williams, who spoke on behalf of GCB President Bissoon Singh in his absence, gave a statistical account of the 1983 series, highlighting the top performers in the four-day tournament.

He also mentioned Derek Kallicharran, who made an unbeaten 68 in a crucial partnership with Milton Pydanna in the 50-over final against Jamaica, and Garfield Charles, who captured 5-18 in that game as Jamaica were bundled out for 83.

Shamar Joseph, who had a seven-wicket haul in only his second Test to set up the first Test win by a West Indies team in 27 years in Australia, soaked up knowl-

edge and tricks from the oldschool gang of stalwarts, as he mixed and mingled with the experienced group.

The 1983 team: Sir Clive Lloyd (Cap’t), Faoud Bacchus (Vice-Cap’t), Roger Harper, Derek Kallicharran, Garfield Charles, Milton Pydanna, Tyrone Etwaroo, Monty Lynch, Leslaine Lambert, Ray Joseph, Kamal Singh, and William White, Roy Fredericks (Manager/ Player), Andrew Lyght, and Clyde Butts. Unfortunately, the latter three men are now deceased.

Each member of that side was presented with Guyana Caps, while a bust of Sir Clive Lloyd was unveiled.

Today from14.00hrs at the Everest Ground, a memorial T20 game will be played for Clyde Butts, who died last December at 66.

Highest CARICOM award for Sir Clive Lloyd

LEGENDARY West Indies and Guyanese cricketer Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd will be conferred with the Order of Community Award, the highest regional order when the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) meets in July in Grenada.

Current Chairman of CARICOM and President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, made the announcement at the closing of the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel in Guyana.

The award is for distinguished, outstanding, and phenomenal legacy in the economic, political, social, and cultural metamorphoses of Caribbean society.

In 2022, Sir Clive received his knighthood after he got his Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1993.

More so, the University of Guyana (UG) awarded the Honourary Degree

of Doctor to the legendary cricketer at its 56th Convocation exercise.

Sir Clive led West Indies to victory over Australia at Lord’s in the final of the inaugural Cricket World Cup tournament in 1975.

Four years later, he again led the West Indies to the world title when they beat England again at a historic venue. He played in 110 Tests and 87 One-Day Internation-

als and is one of the most successful captains ever. During his captaincy, the team was the most successful in the world and had a run of 27 Test matches without defeat, including 11 wins in a row.

He was also a former West Indies team manager, selector, and ICC Match Referee. In 2009, he was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame.

Legendary West Indies and Guyanese cricketer, Sir Clive Lloyd

From left: Leslaine Lambert, Ray Joseph, Tyrone Etwaroo, Faoud Bacchus, Shamar Joseph (not part of 1983 team) Andrew Lyght Jn (son of Lyght) Kamal Singh, Sir Clive Lloyd, Monty Lynch, Garfield Charles, Derek Kallicharran with their Guyana caps which were presented at the Dinner (Photo by Shaniece Bamfield)