Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 03-05-2024

President Ali: Africa has potential to emerge as global powerhouse in food production, climate change mitigation

Over 20,000 Afro-Guyanese access training through several initiatives

— Dr Jagdeo says; shuts down PNC/APNU perpetuation of false narratives with facts

NGSA gets underway!

Norton defends Burke, Benschop’s call for boycott of Guyaneseowned businesses

Over 3,000 delegates, observers to participate in PPP Congress ‘We are not financing the government’s work at the ICJ’ Gov’t resolute in its commitment to press freedom Authorities award

Over 20,000 Afro-Guyanese access training through several initiatives

— Dr Jagdeo says; shuts down PNC/APNU perpetuation of false narratives with facts

MORE than 20,000 Afro-Guyanese who did not benefit from any scholarships or skills training programmes under the APNU+AFC are accessing such opportunities as a result of the crucial investments and impartial initiatives of the governing People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).

During his weekly press conference at Freedom House, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo once again shut down allegations that Afro-Guyanese are not benefitting from government’s programmes.

“So, you have now, through the GOAL, GROW, BIT and WIIN programmes, over 20,000 Afro-Guyanese of the 50,000 people who are being trained…More than 20,000 Afro-Guyanese who did not had [sic] any scholarship or training programme in 2020 now, under this government, were trained,” the General Secretary underscored.

According to the General Secretary, the PPP had really

suffered greatly as a result of the “whisper campaign,” falsely portraying that they are racists and only concerned about the advancement of one group of Guyanese.

Dr Jagdeo re-emphasised that the APNU/PNC thrives on racism, which is the only tool that it has to mobilise people and added that it has no track record of achieve-

ments.

The General Secretary further said the strategic policymaking and the government’s progress belied that position.

He continued by saying: “We have taken a deliberate strategy. In opposition, we pointed this out…and now in government, we intend to tackle that issue frontally. That means confronting

the groups that are really racists in this country.”

Guyanese from all sections of society are benefitting from the government’s programmes and investments not only to ensure equitable access, but to also uplift their standard of living.

The government’s Get Ready for Opportunity to Work (GROW) initiative, provides Guyanese who were

unable to complete their secondary education or who received fewer than five passes in CSEC/GCE subjects with the opportunity to matriculate into university education.

“We have had close to 5,900 persons under the GROW programme who have qualified. And about 3,000 of those are Afro-Guyanese and 366 are from Sophia; and half of them have gone off to tertiary education,” he emphasised.

Since its commencement in 2021, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) has successfully fulfilled its objective of providing over 20,000 tertiary-level scholarships to Guyanese from every region.

Today, 27,000 Guyanese, of which more than half are Afro-Guyanese, are on GOAL studying for university degrees, free of cost.

During the 2024 budget debate, it was highlighted that some $90.8 million was spent on five ministers of the previous administration for personal scholarships, while they denied over 600 Guy-

anese who could have been beneficiaries of government scholarships.

Many Guyanese are also benefitting from a slew of technical and vocational training programmes through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

Furthermore, the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) undertaking, which was coined in 2022, has already impacted over 8,000 women via various skill training programmes for entrepreneurial ventures.

He explained that the government was accused of shutting down the night schools in Sophia and Kildonan which was not the case, since these facilities were private endeavours.

“We are still open to supporting these private schools if they do good work in the community. And so, I told them, ‘Let’s have a second look at these schools and if we can still help them,” Jagdeo said. (DPI)

Over 3,000 delegates, observers to participate in PPP Congress

— Dr Jagdeo says party will navigate contemporary subjects like social media, the international situation, gender and youth, among other things

THE increase in new memberships has resulted in the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) having its “largest congress” ever, with over 3,000 delegates and observers.

The 32nd congress will see the party, led by its current General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, exploring the past, present and future of the party, as it continues to work for the betterment of Guyanese.

According to Dr Jagdeo, during a press conference at the party’s headquarters on Thursday, aside from the supporters who reside abroad who will contribute to the deliberation, several ministers who are integrated within the civic arm will be accredited to be observers and participate in the entire Congress.

This year’s theme is ‘Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana, Unite Our People for Progress and Prosperity.’

The congress begins today and is being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal, Georgetown. Notably, registration

begins today and the main sessions will be on Saturday and Sunday.

“We have delegates travelling from all 10 regions to be here and in significant numbers. It’s the largest Congress ever held by the People's Progressive Party,”

Dr Jagdeo said, noting that the last congress, which was in 2016, had just over 1,000 delegates.

The PPP General Secretary also extended his gratitude to over 500 volunteers who have been working assiduously to prepare for congress.

With the opening ceremony set to be broadcast live, Dr Jagdeo said that at the congress, there will be the presentation of the Central Committee report, which will be done by him, since he is the current General Secretary.

Shifting his attention to what this reports contains, the PPP General Secretary said that it will not only outline the history of the party but its core values that unite them and their struggles throughout the different periods in

the life on the country.

Dr Jagdeo said too that it will focus a lot on what took place since the last congress, which was held when they were in opposition. And it will trace their fortunes throughout that period along with the environment in which they had to operate, which was riddled with economic challenges, the fight to defend democracy, among other things, under the then APNU+AFC administration.

“There will be seven workshops where all 3,000 odd delegates and observers will have an opportunity to freely express their views and

have those views documented so the views can then infuse the future programmes of the party with those ideas that come out of the congress,” he said.

The workshops will focus on these topics: The strengthening of the party, politics and parliament, social and economic policy, local government, social media, the international situation and youth and gender.

“We're looking forward to an active participation from all of our members in a free, open manner, so that we can grow the party, reaffirm its position on these matters

and as I said before, come up with new ideas as to how we can we can grow the party,” the PPP General Secretary further stated.

He then said that there will be several resolutions that will come from different party groups that will be put before the congress on various matters such as Palestinian issue, the border issue, among other things.

Giving a more in-depth analysis of the party’s elections, he said: “So at our Congress we do not elect the General Secretary or the other secretaries of the party. There are two elections. First,

all the delegates can vote for the thirty-five members of the Central Committee of the party. So they elect from those contesting and in this case 93 persons, they have to elect thirty-five members of the Central Committee of the party.”

He further noted that they then have an opportunity to elect five candidate members who will be able to attend the Central Committee meetings, but will not have the right to vote.

“When they elect those, the Central Committee will meet and then they will elect the General Secretary of the party and other secretaries. This has been in our Constitution and the practice from the very beginning. It's nothing new. I see some people who are not very familiar with our Constitution or what took place at every Congress prior to this one, there have been some fights of fantasy as to what will happen at this congress,” Dr Jagdeo said.

ABCEU: Media freedom and the freedom of expression benefit us all

“THE Heads of Missions of the Embassy of the United States of America, H.E. Ambassador Nicole Theriot; the British High Commissioner, H.E. High Commissioner Jane Miller OBE; the Canadian High Commission, H.E. High Commissioner Mark Berman, and the Delegation of the European Union, H.E. Ambassador Rene van Nes, join together to observe World Press Freedom Day under the theme, “The importance of journalism and freedom of expression in the context of the current global environmental crisis.”

Climate change and related environmental issues have been at the forefront of international dialogue for many years, but recent and increasingly erratic weather patterns around the world, growing pressures on flora and fauna, food insecuri-

By Cindy Parkinson

ty and water scarcity have all created new impetus for action. While governments and the international community are prioritising these environmental crises, solutions are not easy and sometimes controversial. Given the differences in opinions and complexities of the crisis, the need for accurate and reliable information cannot be overstated.

Journalists therefore find themselves in a pivotal position, where their pens and their words can influence the hearts and minds of citizens in the high-stakes global environmental conversation. Freedom of expression is essential, allowing journalists the ability to deliver

the facts about climate change and related issues, freely and fairly, without influence or intimidation as climate research, climate talks and climate action progress.

With a low-lying coastline and rising sea levels, Guyana is continuously affected by environmental crises such as flooding, and more recently, prolonged dry spells. Under such conditions, access to information is crucial to help the Guyanese population understand local environmental impacts, planned interventions and costs, in order to make informed decisions and be a part of the global conversation. The reliability of the infor-

mation available to the public requires journalists to be given more access to data and science to analyse in order to accurately inform the public.

New research, data and findings should be made readily available to the media. Journalists should be allowed access to speak to local experts and researchers involved in climate work. Additionally, they should also have the opportunity to see environmental work in action, facilitating ongoing learning and staying informed about new interventions and climate activities.

This right to access comes with the responsibility for due diligence in reporting, especially at a time when misinformation and disinformation are rampant. Journalists are expected to be neutral and fair when representing the facts. A misrepresenta-

tion of facts and figures, whether deliberate or accidental, can have damaging effects, manipulating public perception (locally and internationally) of the environmental situation. This can in turn affect public perception of a government’s response and use of funds during an environmental crisis.

We therefore encourage government, opposition and stakeholders to be thoughtful and deliberate in their action and to practice transparency and accountability. Engagement with the media and the availability of accurate environmental and other information should be a norm and actively in practice.

We encourage journalists to maintain the integrity in their work and to continue to be curious and enquire.

We encourage the public to show respect for the work

of journalists, enabling them to present information without the threat of intimidation or attack (physically or online), particularly women, and LGBT persons.

We commend the efforts of the Government of Guyana towards providing training opportunities for members of the media and we encourage more training and open discourse, including dialogue with the Guyana Press Association.

It is important to acknowledge that in all aspects of society, the work of journalists is essential to human rights and a cornerstone to democratic processes. Media freedom and the freedom of expression benefits us all. When the media is reliable, fair and free to operate, and the government is transparent, our countries are more successful.”

Guyanese Makushi man wins 2024 Whitley Award — for helping

IN his quest to promote Guyana through the monitoring of the Red Siskin, for which they helped secure legal protection, Leroy Ignacio, an Indigenous Makushi, has been awarded a Whitley Award by the

UK charity Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN) for his contributions to strengthening the protection of the small, endangered finch.

In a ceremony held at the Royal Geographical Society on May 1, HRH Princess Royal Anne delivered the Whitley

Award. This represents 25 years since the Princess became involved as patron and 30 years since the inaugural Whitley Award was given.

The small, endangered finch has emerged as a flagship species for conservation in the nation's rapidly developing rainforest and for sparking one of the first Indigenous-led conservation movements in the country.

Referencing the beauty of

to protect the Red Siskin

his region in a live YouTube stream of the event, Ignacio explained that “the Rupununi is a special place because of its natural beauty. Its dry woodland landscapes, rainforests, savannahs, and wetlands. I love it.”

Ignacio works in the expansive Rupununi region of Guyana, which has a special mix of habitats that contribute to their great diversity. Away from the coastlands, the region, which

was once faced with increased threats of modernisation due to climate change, also contributed to habitat loss within the region.

However, Mr. Ignacio said: “Habitat destruction mainly occurs through uncontrolled fires.”

Just over two decades ago,

bassador, Sir David Attenborough stated that the expanding network of winners showcases some of the world's top conservation leaders.

"Whitley Award winners combine knowing how to respond to crises, yet also bring communities and wider audiences with them," he said. In order to safeguard the

Leroy and his team were the primary agents for monitoring the Red Siskin, for which they helped secure legal protection.

The Red Siskin was "scientifically" discovered in Guyana in 2000 by Leroy and a group of friends from local Indigenous communities, accompanied by international scientists.

Leroy asserts that while the Red Siskin's existence was already known to the local people, its discovery was achieved "scientifically." He noted that the bird has created a movement in conservation in the Rupununi.

Ignacio, who is the president and a founding member of the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS), is organising a group of local rangers in southern Guyana to expand the community-managed conservation zone to encompass the whole habitat of the little songbird.

As a long-time supporter of the charity and WFN Am -

bird, five Indigenous tribes collaborated to create the 75,000-hectare Red Siskin Community Managed Conservation Zone. They created one of the first zones of its sort in Guyana on their property, setting an example for other towns and drawing ecotourism to the isolated location.

With frequent flooding and droughts, Guyana is among the countries most susceptible to climate change worldwide. As per the World Bank, nine out of 10 individuals reside near the nation's coastline, with some regions being two metres below sea level. The Global South's grassroots conservation leaders are aided by a UK nonprofit and the Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN). Through its channels, more than 200 conservationists in 80 countries have received £23 million over the past 30 years.

Guyanese Leroy Ignacio, an Indigenous Makushi, and HRH Princess Royal Anne at the Royal Geographical Society in the UK

GBTI announces ‘strategic executive appointments’ to strengthen leadership team

THE Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry (GBTI) has announced significant appointments to its executive team, which took effect on May 1, 2024.

According to a press release, these strategic appointments underscore the Bank's commitment to leadership excellence, innovation, and comprehensive stakeholder management, reinforcing its growth trajectory in the dynamic financial landscape of Guyana.

“GBTI’s executive team, currently comprising the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operations Officer, will be expanded to include four new roles. This enhancement will ensure robust governance and pioneering lead-

Nadia Sagar, who has been

serving as a Legal Officer, will take on the role of General Counsel to provide legal guidance to all levels of the bank, ensuring compliance and overseeing corporate governance

Further, Tonia Griffith, presently the Manager of Risk, was appointed Chief

tation of risk management frameworks to maintain the integrity and stability of the

formation Technology, will

nology Officer to spearhead

technological innovations and digital transformations, enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiencies.

“A strong executive leadership is vital for setting our strategic direction, managing risks, fostering innovation, and maintaining excellent

relationships with all stakeholders,” CEO of the bank, Shawn Gurcharran said.

“These appointments reflect our commitment to these goals and our confidence in the capabilities of our leaders to navigate the evolving banking landscape,” he related.

“GBTI remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of service and operational excellence, while continuously adapting to the needs of our customers and stakeholders.

“These changes in our leadership structure will better position us to capitalise on opportunities and address challenges in the financial sector,” the company said.

Authorities award 150 mining blocks

IN keeping with a commitment President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali made to mining stakeholders on Friday April 26, 2024, the Ministry of Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission (GGMC), successfully hosted a lottery of medium-scale mining properties in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

While the lottery was held at the Bartica Community Centre, and had an impressive turnout of stakeholders from across the mining industry, the mining blocks awarded covered four Mining Districts, namely, Potaro (Mining District 2), Mazaruni (Mining District 3), Cuyuni (Mining District 4), and Northwest (Mining District 5).

— across four districts

A total of 608 applications were received for the lottery, with 150 mining blocks being awarded across the mining districts.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, during his address at the ceremony, said that the lottery was the second such allocation of properties since

2021, and it underscored the Government of Guyana’s commitment to the continued development of the mining sector.

This was even more im-

Continued on page 9

Compton Bourne appointed new Guyana Ambassador to Brazil

THE Brazilian Government on Thursday announced that it has granted Compton Bourne appointment as Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Brazil.

Throughout his career, Bourne has actively contributed to public economic policy in the Caribbean, Africa and the Philippines, and has been doing so since 1975. He is a graduate of the University of London, the University of Birmingham, and the University of the West Indies.

Bourne is also the author of 10 books, and more than 50 academic articles, as well as more than 50 research reports and advisory memoranda for Caribbean governments, foreign governments, and international development institutions and agencies.

Among others, he is a member of the Order of Excellence, the highest honour of the Republic of Guyana, and has received several awards for his outstanding contribution to the development of the Caribbean. (DIPLOMACIA BUSINESS)

Compton Bourne will serve as Guyana’s new Ambassador to Brazil

In keeping with a commitment President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali made to mining stakeholders on Friday April 26, 2024, the Ministry of Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission (GGMC), successfully hosted a lottery of medium-scale mining properties in Bartica, Region Seven

Progress in aviation

WHEN it comes to the local aviation industry, Guyanese both at home and in the diaspora can rightly beam with pride.

Since government took office on August 2, 2020, a lot has been done to advance the sector. Clearly, things are being done right because since then, more airlines have included Guyana in their flying route and more recently, officials from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), highlighted Guyana’s progress in the aviation sector.

The positive comments were no doubt proud moments for subject minister,

Bishop Juan Edghill as he took part in high-level discussions.

Aviation has a profound impact on tourism, air travel, and economic growth and sustainability. The PPP/C government having recognised this, signaled from early that it intends to focus on modernisation, development and creating an unmatched environment that others in the region and beyond would want to emulate.

Edghill, who is the Minister of Public Works, has been at the forefront of efforts to transform Guyana’s aviation industry into one of high standards and one

that could be considered to be world-class. While it will take some more time and effort to achieve the former, one can safely say that we are well on our way.

The aviation sector plays a fundamental role in any society as it is an important element in economic development. It enables connectivity between cities and countries, boosts trade and allows people and goods to move from one location to another with ease.

The additional airlines that are now flying to Guyana have certainly impacted economic success and have created that connectivity that will help to develop

Guyana further.

The Government of Guyana has invested millions of dollars in the industry and has signaled its intention to spend lots more.

Among the government’s areas of focus is upgrading the country’s two international airports and the many airstrips that are spread throughout the country. This is evident in the annual budgets that have been presented since August 2, 2020.

Such a focus is helping to make the country tourist-ready and allowing for easy commute between Georgetown and commu -

nities in remote parts of the country.

With the discovery of oil offshore Guyana and its subsequent production, more and more foreigners want to visit this tropical paradise to experience our rich culture, see the majestic Kaieteur Falls, visit our many historical sites and get a taste of Guyana.

According to the most recent figures, 405,000 passengers were processed last year, reflecting a 14 per cent increase compared to the previous year. This has been the trend in the years prior – increase in passenger arrivals.

To accommodate the an-

ticipated future increase in arrivals, particularly as the oil and gas sector flourishes and more foreigners opt to invest in Guyana, more hotels, some close to the airports, are being constructed to cater to their needs.

While there hasn’t been much negative coverage since August 2, 2020, we are all aware that getting things right will take time, energy, and of course, lots of money.

Rest assured, the aviation sector in Guyana will continue to experience significant growth and we will continue to be praised for the progress we are making.

Africa has potential to emerge as global powerhouse in food production, climate change mitigation —

IN his address at the launch, via Zoom, of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture’s (IICA’s) ‘Living Soils Initiative in Africa’, President Dr. Irfaan Ali underscored Africa's immense potential to emerge as a significant player in the global food supply chain.

Citing the continent's abundant natural resources and untapped agricultural opportunities, the Guyanese leader expressed confidence in Africa's ability to contribute substantially to addressing global food security challenges and mitigating climate change.

He emphasised that the "hour has arrived" for Africa, and expressed his earnest belief that the coming decades "will belong to Africa".

President Ali said that after centuries of colonisation and resource exploitation, the continent still has an abundance of natural resources.

“According to the United Nations (UN) Environment Programme,” he said, “Africa possess 30 per cent of the world’s mineral reserves,

eight per cent of the world’s natural gas, 40 per cent of the world’s gold, 90 per cent of the world’s chromium and platinum, [and] the largest reserves of cobalt, diamonds, platinum and uranium.”

But he said that when he talks about Africa going through a revolutionary period, he is not just talking about its mineral potential but also its agricultural and environmental potential.

The Head of State said: “As is known, Africa is also home to 65 per cent of the world’s uncultivated arable land, and 10 per cent of the planet’s internal renewable freshwater resources. With its expansive arable lands and abundant freshwater resources, Africa has the unquestionable potential to emerge as a significant player in global food supply chains.”

According to him, with careful investments in infrastructure, technology, and sustained framing practices, countries in Africa can harness this potential to not only meet their own food security needs but also contribute subdistally to addressing global

food needs.

“Africa’s rich agriculture diversity and favourable climatic conditions positions it as a key player in feeding the world population. There is no reason why annual food import bills should be what it is; more than US$60 billion. Africa has the potential to become a major food frontier. Already, some 35 per cent of the continent’s GDP

(Gross Domestic Product) stems from Agriculture. The continent’s rich traditions in agriculture can become a stepping stone towards the goal of becoming a major global food supplier,” Dr. Ali highlighted.

TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE

The Head of State said that the continent also has the potential to spearhead global leadership in combatting climate change through proactive measures aimed at conserving its forests and mitigating land degradation. According to some estimates, up to 45 per cent of Africa's landmass is affected by desertification and land degradation, he said.

“As home to some of the world’s most bio-diverse and carbon-rich ecosystems, including the Congo Basin and the African tropical forest,” he said, “the continent plays a crucial role in sequestering carbon and regulating [climate change]. For example, Central Africa’s Forest stores more than 50,000 tonnes of carbon per square kilometer.

says President Ali at launch of ‘Living Soils Initiative in Africa’

Africa’s forest store about 25 per cent of the world’s forest carbon.”

Therefore, by adopting sustainable forestry practices, promoting reforestation efforts and adopting land management strategies, he said, African nations can significantly contribute to global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and preserve critical ecosystems.

Moreover, Dr. Ali pointed out that soil health and fertility are on the decline in Africa, causing problems for farming food, jobs and the environment.

In addition to lowering crop yields and increasing the vulnerability of small farmers and communities to climate change, the President reasoned that this reduction makes it difficult for the soil to benefit from things like fertilisers and better seeds. It is in this context that the Living Soil Initiative holds immense significance for Africa, he emphasised.

Dr. Ali stressed that the ‘Living Soils Initiative in Africa’ offers an approach to addressing key environmental

and agricultural challenges facing the continent by focusing on regenerative agriculture practices that prioritise soil health and biodiversity. This initiative, according to him, aims to combat land degradation, enhance food security and build resilience to climate change.

He, however, advised concerned parties that the success of this initiative revolves around ensuring economic sovereignty of Africa and respect for its countries and people.

He said that projects like this should be inclusive and must focus on supporting small farmers in participating countries as well as the active involvement of women and youths. By ensuring their participation, projects can benefit from diverse perspectives, knowledge, and skills, ultimately leading to more sustainable and inclusive outcomes, President Ali added. Since the soil "is the very essence of our existence", he also made an impassioned plea for its preservation and protection.

Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Kaieteur News’ inaccurate reporting

Dear Editor,

On April 30, 2024, the University of Guyana facilitated a guest lecture on “Fake news and hate speech” in Guyana and how to curb same.

It would be interesting to learn what were some of the proposals emanating from that lecture to curb the increasingly growing degree of fake news in Guyana, which are presented to the Guyanese readers in various forms. With this in mind, I would like to address two (2) instances of inaccurate reporting hereunder, which has become the norm by the Kaieteur News (KN) publication:

Firstly, in their May 1, 2024, edition of the Kaieteur News, an article was published with the caption “Guyanese in the dark over true cost of power ship”. This was a dangerously false story on this matter by this publication. Perhaps a more accurate caption would be “Kaieteur News in the dark over true cost of power ship due to their own mathematical incompetence”.

The very article reported the terms of the agreement, which was publicly reported in a statement by the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL).

Pursuant to that agreement, “The contract requires GPL to pay UCI a fee of US$0.0662 per Kwh as a monthly charter fee for the power ship and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of US$0.0098 per Kwh”.

The Guyanese public is also well aware, as per GPL’s public statement in addition to the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s confirmation at his weekly press confer-

ences that the contract is for a period of two (2) years to supply 36 MW of power.

(These details were reported in the Kaieteur News article on several occasions). However, it was their calculation that was wholly incorrect. As such, for KN’s reference, please see below the correct calculations with explanations.

The total cost is the charter fee of US$0.0662 + the operation and maintenance fee of US$0.0098 = US$0.076 cents.

(Note: KN’s calculation was incorrect because of its incorrect expression of the US cents…where US$6.662 cents have to be expressed as US$0.0662 and US$0.98 cents expressed as US$0.0098).

Next, calculate the total annual consumption based on the 36 MW converted into Kwh: where 36 MW = 36,000 Kw. So, the annual consumption = 36,000 kwh X 24 hrs. X 365 days = 315,360,000 kwh of electricity or 315,360 MWh of electricity. Hence, the annual cost would be 315,360,000 kwh X US$0.076 = US$23,967,360. Therefore, for the two-year period, the total cost as per the contract would be US$23.967 million x two years = US$47.934 million or GY$9.994 billion.

Secondly, in the April 25, 2024, edition of the Kaieteur News, an article was published with the caption “Canadian company handed massive gold field in Guyana, sells 57 per cent of its shares for US$638 million days after inking agreement with Gov’t”.

The article goes on to state that GMIN acquired 57 per cent of

West Project. The report was framed in a manner, which gives its readers the impression that it is the Guyana subsidiary of Reunion Gold Corporation that was sold as well as the concession.

However, having reviewed the actual press release by Reunion Gold in relation to the said transaction, the KN article completely misrepresented the facts and the details on the said deal. (See full press statement here by Reunion Gold: https:// www.reuniongold. com/240422-pr).

It should be noted that third-party transfers of the mining licences are permissible in accordance with the Mineral Agreement, subject to the approval of the relevant authorities. But this is not the case in relation to the Reunion Gold and GMIN merger.

According to the release by Reunion Gold and further examination of the details by this author, it is not an exclusive acquisition of the Guyana subsidiary, it is in fact an M&A transaction involving the parent companies between the two companies, which is a much more complex deal in contrast to the report carried by KN. Following the completion of the deal, two subsidiary companies will be formed of which GMIN and Reunion Gold will own 57 per cent and 43 per cent of the combined company.

Furthermore, upon perusal of the 2023 annual report for Reunion Gold Corporation, the total assets of the company stood at CAD$76 million, and a cumulative deficit position of CAD$260 million. A comprehensive loss of CAD$59.2 million was reported for the year 2023.

This explains the reason for the merger with GMIN as the company Reunion Gold has not had many profitable ventures for a long time. It is this outcome that necessitated the merger as part of both firms’ future growth strategy.

And in fact, the Reunion Gold release stated that the joint venture between the two companies is intended to position the companies as the leading intermediate gold producer in the Americas,

particularly the Guiana shield in South America. These include, not only Guyana, but Brazil and Suriname.

In summary, the transaction is a merger between the two companies, namely Reunion Gold and GMIN. Of note, it does not equate to the sale of the gold mine concession or a transfer of the licence to GMIN. Rather, the two companies have been merged to become one combined company,

albeit with two separate subsidiaries being created for their operations in the South American market, not only Guyana.

In view of the foregoing, Kaieteur News should apologise to its readers for its misleading and inaccurate reporting on these two specific matters.

Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

Judicial Service Commission advertises vacancies for Justice of Appeal

THE Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has made an open call for applications for the prestigious position of Justice of Appeal.

It is inviting applications from distinguished legal minds who possess the requisite qualifications, experience, and integrity to serve at the highest echelons of the judiciary.

Applicants for the position of Justice of Appeal must be or have been a judge of a court of unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in Guyana or any other part of the Commonwealth, or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from such court.

Alternately, applicants must be qualified for admission to practise as an attorney-at-law in the courts of Guyana or as an attorney-at-law in a court in any other part of the Commonwealth having unlimited jurisdiction either in civil or criminal cases or matters; and be qualified for not fewer

than 15 years to practice in such court.

They must also possess a high level of understanding of relevant principles of law and jurisprudence and comprehensive knowledge of relevant rules of evidence and of court practices and procedure. It is desirable that applicants have a common law background and knowledge and experience in criminal

practice and procedure and civil practice and procedure.

Applicants are also expected to possess a high level of personal integrity, fairness, impartiality and understanding of people and society.

The person appointed will be responsible for adjudicating fairly and in a timely manner over all allocated appellate criminal

of Appeal.

The officer appointed will be bound by the Constitution of Guyana, Judicial Service Commission Rules, Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana’s Code of Conduct for Judges, Departmental Rules and other conditions of service which may be in force from time to time.

Those appointed will be required to serve a probationary period of at least six months. On satisfactory completion of the period of probation, the appointees will be confirmed.

and civil matters; hearing and determining applications made in chambers in the civil and criminal jurisdictions of the court; interpreting and applying applicable laws, rules and precedents to the cases before the Court of Appeal and produce written judgements, and performing any other function or scope of work normally assigned to or required from a Justice

The judiciary had been requesting the appointment of more judicial officers, citing the rise in workload due to staff shortages.

There are now at least six appellate judge vacancies at the Court of Appeal, as a result of the Court of Appeal Act being amended last year to increase the number of judges. Under the old law, the Court of Appeal was to have no less than two judges and

no more than five. However, the modified legislation stipulates that the minimum and maximum number of Justices of Appeal are now five and nine, respectively.

There are presently three judges on the Court of Appeal bench: Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), and Justices Dawn Gregory-Barnes and Rishi Persaud. In February, nine new magistrates were appointed, bringing the total number to 29. Also, a new post of Deputy Chief Magistrate has been created. Meanwhile, 10 new Puisne Judge nominations to the High Court were recently recommended by the JSC.

The JSC is a constitutional body that deals with issues pertaining to judicial officers’ appointments, disciplinary action, removals, and promotions.

These are the people that criticise the PPP

THIS country is a moral jungle where principles, human decency and basic character do not exist. This country is a political jungle where predators appear as saviours then morph into Dracula and suck you dry. I had learnt this lesson when I was very, very young.

So after living long in Guyana, no one can fool me; once I have a pen and a voice, I will expose predators that cannot save themselves from moral redemption much less save others. Go to the Kaieteur News (KN) for yesterday (Monday).

You will see a story of an open air seminar on Israeli genocide in the Gaza held at Cuffy Square last Sunday. At the head table were former President Donald Ramotar and I. The chairs were close so it would be difficult for the photographer to get a clean shot of me or Donald.

KN cropped my photograph out and printed a slanted face of Donald. They didn’t want to carry my image. I remind readers that Mr. Ramotar won a 20 million dollars libel case against Glen Lall. This is the second time KN cropped off my image.

A few months ago, in a pro-Palestinian march around the city, I was marching next to Nazim Baksh, the former journalist from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

KN carried the photo and chopped off my image and left Nazim’s.

After more than 55 years of activism and 35 years in journalism, I don’t need for my photograph to be carried.

But what’s the point. People like Lall preach anti-PPPism not twice a week but daily.

He is absolute in his condemnation that the PPP government has leaders that are not accountable and fair minded. But research into Lall would reveal that Lall is a billion miles away from anything close to accountability.

So are people around Lall that is on Lall’s bandwagon. I wrote for 30 years for KN, paid NIS and paid taxes. Lall got on his radio station and said he fired me. To date, I have received not one cent from Lall based on the Termination and Severance Pay Act.

Those close to Lall that

every day join Lall to hammer the government for lack of accountability refuse to do the moral thing and tell the leader of their team that Lall has to pay me.

One of Lall’s sidekicks wrote a letter recently in the Stabroek News chastising the society for remaining silent on Bharrat Jagdeo’s condemnation of the Justice Kissoon’s decision on the teachers strike. He hasn’t called on his friend to honour the labour laws of Guyana. Enter the Stabroek News. The newspaper cuts out any reference to my name in its letters and columns. The newspaper removes any mention of my name in the comments in its online edition. This is the same newspaper that does 365 editorials a year in which it lambasts the government for lack of fair-mindedness. For KN and SN, the only people who have rights in this country are

Authorities award 150 mining...

From page 5

portant since small and medium-scale mining is done by Guyanese. Minister Bharrat also reaffirmed that mining is here to stay, and has the support of the Government of Guyana.

The provision of access to medium-scale mining properties through the lottery was timely, given the continued representation of small miners without access to mining lands.

A similar exercise was conducted, with the allocation of mining areas within Karouni, formerly Troy Resources, where approximately 82 small miners were

allocated mining properties, with some commencing work and currently producing.

Notwithstanding this lottery, a commitment was given by the minister for another such exercise to be held within the coming months, where additional mining areas will be allocated to Guyanese miners.

Participants at the lottery were assured that every effort was made by the GGMC to ensure that the mining blocks being allocated had mineral potential, access to water, and the required infrastructure to promote mining activities.

“The Ministry of Nat-

ural Resources and the GGMC express sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, including the Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA), Guyana Women Miners’ Organisation (GWMO), and the Small Miners’ Association (SMA), for their steadfast support, cooperation and collaboration, which contributed to the event’s success. Together, the stakeholders, regulators and government continue to work to pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for the mining sector and all Guyanese,” the ministry said.

the people that KN and SN identify; others in the eyes of KN and SN are not entitled to fair treatment.

Enter Article 13. This is a so-called civil society group that held a picket exercise in front of the Office of the President calling for accountability in the oil industry. Jonathan Yearwood told me he was requested by his colleagues in the leadership of Article 13 to contact me for

identifying someone as being part of the leadership of Article 13. Yearwood approached me, I revealed the name and apologise because the person, Lincoln Lewis, I wrongly attributed to being part of Article 13.

Yearwood said even though he was part of the leadership of Article 13, he was not consulted when two bigwigs arrogated to themselves to speak on behalf of Article 13, without consulting other leaders.

They published a vile letter on me describing me in unsavory terms and referring to me as a coward. Article 13 intervened with Glen Lall to prevent my reply to the nasty letter. Glen Lall, Article 13, Stabroek News are the very people who have been playing a stuck record of lack fairness in the governance of Guyana.

Enter the Alliance For

Change (AFC). No matter what complex analysis you use to account for the loss of power by the AFC in 2020, one simple analysis stands out.

The AFC lost a legitimate, legal and free and fair national election in March 2020 because Guyanese people on voting day reflected on the days of AFC in office and this is what they murmured to themselves: “We gave them our vote in 2015, thinking they were better than the PPP; they were far worse.” Guyanese need to be aware of charlatans who are out to fool them.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

‘Bellyaching with falsities will not change lives’

THE following is the full text of a statement from Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand:

“I read a letter by Vincent Alexander in yesterday’s newspapers where Mr. Alexander falsely claims the government closed night schools in Sophia and Kildonan, and attributed that to the government being vindictive. Mr. Alexander in his haste to feed his obsession with Vice President Bharat Jagdeo has ignored the truth. Here are the facts.

The government never ran night schools in Sophia and Kildonan. In Sophia it was run by a non-governmental group called the Sophia Community Development Association (SOCDA).

The PPP/C believes in making education available to as many persons as possible and has always

realised that belief by actual programmes. When in opposition and under the leadership of its General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP/C crafted a manifesto, which announced our intention to offer 20,000 scholarships to study in foreign universities paid for by the government. The government began fulfilling that promise with the establishment of the Guyana Online Academy

of Learning (GOAL). That programme has provided scholarships for more than 25,000 Guyanese to study in over 18 universities locally and across the world. Several areas and levels of study are offered. So successful has that programme been that it brought our attention to the persons who would have liked to benefit therefrom, but who had dropped out of school and/or

— Minister Manickchand rebuffs Alexander’s ‘false’ comment on night schools — says PPP/C gov’t investing in key programmes to give second chances to large number of persons from all walks of life

did not qualify for entrance into the universities and needed a second chance.

As such GROW (Get Ready for Opportunities to Work) was birthed. This is second chance program where students can acquire the General Education Development (GED) and the Scottish Certificate and Qualification Framework (SCQF).

These serve as the equivalent to successful high school exit qualifications such as the Caribbean Examinations Council’s (CXC) Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) or the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) that allows for further study at a tertiary level or simply for a feeling of accomplishment, capability and pride by the persons who ventured for that second chance.

In the two years since its birth, the Irfaan Ali-led Gov-

ernment has granted 5,887 scholarships to students so that they may get that second chance. Of that number 3,567 (60 per cent) of those students have moved up and are currently studying on degree programs in different foreign universities. Some 366 residents of Sophia have graduated GROW and are currently scholarship awardees on GOAL studying for their degrees.

Mr. Alexander may wish to take note of these realities and differences. His government did not believe in and/ or could not imagine nor implement a program like GOAL or GROW for mass public benefit of people from all over Guyana. They relied on non-governmental organisations to do that in small numbers. This government gives second chances to large numbers of persons from every geographic location, religious persuasion, gender and ethnicity.

This is how one changes lives. Bellyaching with falsities in the newspapers, whining about Jagdeo daily, making everything about race and ethnicity has never worked to change lives and I daresay will not work to allow Mr. Alexander that second chance to lead at the Ministry of Education where he served in a leadership capacity for all the time APNU/AFC was in Government.

It would have been useful and beneficial if Mr. Alexander’s concern for people had manifested in his service over at the Ministry of Education producing even a single like program to benefit the people of this country or even only those, he says he represents.”

Millions of dollars expended on compensation to Mocha squatters — Dr. Jagdeo says; sets record straight that gov’t does not discriminate

THE convenient advocacy for Afro-Guyanese by Opposition-aligned operatives has been called out by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who exposed their agenda of wanting to mobilise Afro-Guyanese to push their agenda.

During a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo maintained his stance that the PPP will not allow the allegations of discrimination levelled against them to bear fruit.

Social media commentator Rickford Burke’s feathers were ruffled after the New York Diaspora distanced itself from his stance and instead embraced President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

In a post on Facebook, Burke accused the PPP government of boycotting Afro-Guyanese businesses, organisations, events and other infractions.

Dr. Jagdeo addressed these untruths, starting with

the removal of Mocha squatters who were hindering construction of the Eccles-to-Diamond road link.

“Today that highway is built; built now within four years of us being in government. [It] has changed the lives of people on the East Bank; it has opened up more lands to many people, new businesses are going there, thousands of new jobs are being created,” Dr. Jagdeo said, as he explained that the value of the properties within the back of the cane fields have “skyrocketed”.

MOCHA IS NO DIFFERENT

Following the transformation seen at the back of the cane fields, the PPP General Secretary noted that Mocha Village is “no different”, as it was deep in the backlands, and because of that highway, the properties are now front land.

Speaking more on what occurred in Mocha, Dr. Jagdeo stated: “People were squatting on the alignment, so we had to remove them. They didn't have title; so they

Gov’t resolute in its commitment to press freedom — Public Affairs Minister highlights

THE Government of Guyana remains resolute in its commitment to the press and its freedoms, as it has always been a cornerstone of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs Kwame McCoy has said.

Minister McCoy, during his address at a Climate Town Hall forum, which was held in observance of the 31st United Nations World Press Freedom Day, said Freedom of the Press has always been a cornerstone in the ideological outlook of the current administration, and it is not accidental that successive PPP/C governments have forged an enabling environment for Guyanese media operatives to work freely and thrive.

“Our commitment to the press and its freedoms remains resolute, and our government will continue to both facilitate and forge new frontiers of the opportunity for all its national growth,” he said.

Minister McCoy added that the government’s commitment to facilitating increased growth opportunities through capacity building for members of the media frater-

Minister

of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs Kwame McCoy

nity was heightened in 2022, when the region’s first public media and communication academy was launched. This, he said, was done in collaboration with the Online learning platform, Coursera, at a significant cost to the government.

He further added that members of the media are also benefitting from internationally accredited academic scholarships, through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) platform and other programmes designed to build the capacity of those who are part of the media.

The minister indicated that the theme for this year’s

were squatting. They didn't have titles or leases to the land; so we found 35 structures along the alignment.

“To date, 28 of those persons of the 35 now got the plot of land elsewhere for free. Not just the land was given to them free, but we also did all the processing of the titles to the land for free. We paid to those 28 persons who had structures along and alignment compensation of $250 million and $5.1 million in crops that they had.

“That is how we treated the people who were on the public land that was part of the alignment for a major highway that was going to transform the whole of the East Bank,” the PPP General

Secretary firmly stated. He noted that the government did not “throw” these people off and abandon them, but instead worked with them. Dr. Jagdeo said that they will also work with those persons who are on the alignment off of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Staying on the topic of the Mocha squatters, Dr. Jagdeo related that there were eight persons out of the 35 that refused to accept compensation from the government, but instead chose to file legal proceedings.

Pointing to a news article in 2017, which read: “Confronted by weeping residents and human barricades, the Central Housing

and Planning Authority has temporarily aborted a demolition exercise in Sophia that targetted squatter houses and structures erected on government’s reserve,” Dr. Jagdeo indicated that this is the Opposition’s track record with squatters.

“They didn’t need it for a road, but they were just breaking down people’s [homes]... This was just a reserve,” he said.

Reflecting on another instance of this, Dr. Jagdeo said: “This was all under APNU period, just recently; this was their track record with so-called Afro-Guyanese.”

World Press Freedom Day is: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis”, which is geared towards spotlighting the nexus between the global phenomenon of climate change and the criticality of the role played by the press in enabling understanding while also helping to shape the human response.

During the opening of the town hall forum, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat also delivered remarks, and highlighted Guyana’s commitment to dealing with climate and environmental issues by exploring natural resources while preserving the environment.

The minister said that while the country’s resources are being explored, the government will ensure that the revenues accrued will be used in a wise manner, and to facilitate transitioning to the use of mixed streams of energy.

The town hall forum also featured panel discussions and interactive sessions with various stakeholders, including Jamaica’s Minister of Information Robert Morgan, which focused on the importance of journalism in this era, and climate action moving into the future.

within the Office

PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

‘Race-baiting backfires!’ —

PNC faces backlash over ‘Burna Boy’ comment

—

Guyanese wade into Party activist for stoking racism

THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has found itself embroiled in another race bating controversy following a social media post by one of its activists, Norman Browne, which ignited more accusations of racism and division.

The uproar stemmed from a Facebook post made by Browne involving Nigerian Afro-fusion sensation Burna Boy, who graced the stage as the headliner for the “Unforgettable” concert at the Guyana National Stadium.

Burna Boy, sporting a jacket adorned with the colours of the Nigerian flag, captivated audiences with his electrifying performance.

Hours after the performance, Browne took to Facebook and claimed that Burna Boy was asked to wear the colours of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) but refused; this triggered a firestorm of criticisms.

Browne's unfounded claims insinuated a connection between Burna Boy's attire and political allegiance, attributing it to supposed knowledge from “his people who happened to be Africans.”

“They asked ‘Burna Boy’ to wear red and black, but he was already briefed by his people who happened to be Africans. They told him

about the terrible treatment of African Guyanese at the hand of the wicked regime. Burna went to his room and came out wearing that top. There is power in those colours,” Browne said in his Facebook post. The fallout was swift and severe, with commentators railing into Browne, condemning his remarks as di-

visive and prejudiced tactics to not only undermine social cohesion but also erode trust and credibility within Guyana’s political landscape.

One commenter urged for unity, stating: “Y’all need to bring Guyana together as one, not separate our beautiful country.”

Another criticised Browne, declaring, “This

country is going to always be divided by people like you.”

Others expressed disbelief and frustration, with one commenter highlighting the improbable nature of Browne's claims and vowing to withhold their vote from the party.

Also, the post was later proven to be baseless, and concerns grow over the PNCR's continued promotion of division and racism in Guyana.

This incident comes on the heels of mounting criticisms against the party for several things including calls for boycotts against Guyanese-owned businesses in New York, following President, Dr. Irfaan Ali's recent visit.

The calls for boycotts originated from Rickford Burke of the Caribbean-Guyana Institute for Democracy (C-GID) and activist Mark Benschop, both of whom are known critics of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

Commenting on the issues on Tuesday, during his show, “Issues in the News,” Attorney- General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., said that discriminatory remarks aimed at both President Ali and the citizens of Brooklyn reflect a deep-seated prejudice that

has no place in modern society.

He urged individuals not to be swayed by the divisive rhetoric of those seeking to perpetuate racial animosity.

“These guys are the worst racist ever…The racism that is spewing through their pores. But that is the vicious racism that they spew every day. Go to Facebook and you will see the attacks are relentless. So, they are attacking and that's what they've been doing historically. They are seeing that Guyanese of all races are more and more enlightened,” Nandlall said.

He warned that Burke and others aligned with the “hate campaign” thrive on peddling racism and toying with the moral fabric of Guyana.

“Ignore them. They have no place in modern society, either in Guyana or any part of the world, because modern civilisation and modern societies eschew racism, division, and segregation. They are from an era that no longer exists. And that is why the numbers are diminishing. The numbers are diminishing. Don’t give them relevance,” Nandlall said.

Numerous individuals, including those aligned with opposition parties, have voiced similar concerns and condemned Burke’s call for a boycott, signalling the need

to stand against discrimination and uphold democratic principles.

Over the years, APNU has been facing numerous backlashes, with one being over comments made by an executive member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), David Hinds, who disparaged a number of PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members for speaking out against racist and incendiary remarks made by the WPA.

Hinds had said that the PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members were only there to attract Indo-Guyanese voters.

He referred to Indo-Guyanese PNC/R member Geeta Chandan-Edmond as a “slave catcher” for having condemned remarks made by WPA member Tacuma Ogunseye, who made racially charged remarks against East Indians at a public meeting at Buxton, East Coast Demerara.

Hinds had also directed comments at PNC/R Parliamentarians Ganesh Mahipaul and Natasha Singh-Lewis; Regional Chairman Daniel Seeram, and Former Mayor Ubraj Narine, who had issued a joint statement condemning the remarks of another WPA member, Rhonda Layne.

Norton defends Burke, Benschop’s call for boycott of Guyaneseowned businesses — says Figueira’s dissenting pronouncement not party’s position

ALTHOUGH the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) has constantly claimed to support and promote the interests of Afro-Guyanese, the party’s leader Aubrey Norton has thrown his support behind the call for a boycott of Guyanese-owned businesses within the New York diaspora.

The calls for boycotts originated from Rickford Burke of the Caribbean-Guyana Institute for Democracy (C-GID), and activist Mark Benschop, both of whom are known critics of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

Recently, Benschop in a Facebook Live, said: “This boycott can also stretch all the way to Guyana; I know there are businesses that are feeling the squeeze in Brooklyn.” Norton, for the first time

in weeks, made an appearance at the party’s press conference on Thursday, and when pressed about the matter, said that if Burke and Benschop believe that they could help the “struggle” in Guyana by calling for a boycott, then that is their “right.”

He then levelled allegations of discrimination against the government, such as accusing them of having “trumped up” charges against several opposition members.

However, in April 2023, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (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.

Also, 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).

Furthermore, Norton blatantly disregarded other African organisations and accused them of being “paper African

organisations.”

Although the opposition, again, has consistently brought up the topic of discrimination against Afro-Guyanese, Norton did not hesitate to run to Burke and Benschop’s defence, even though the businesses of Afro-Guyanese are at stake.

“...Don’t let us paint Rickford Burke and Mark Benschop as two villains. They are part of a political process,” Norton noted.

‘NOT THE PRONOUNCEMENT OF THE PNC-R’

He was quick, however, to say that the recent statement made by PNC-R member, Jermaine Figueira, on the boycott matter is not the party’s position.

“Though you might be a Member of Parliament or a councillor, if there’s a dis-

cussion on the issue within the party and the party takes a position then that’s a party position,” he said.

The PNC-R Leader added: “And so I'm saying to you, there is no harm in Figueira’s [pronouncement]. He has the right as an individual. But his pronouncements are not the pronouncements of the People's National CongressReform.”

Recently, Figueira flayed his party supporters who called for the boycott of Guyanese-owned businesses that engaged and welcomed President Dr Irfaan Ali during his recent visit to New York.

The MP said that it is imperative for fellow Guyanese in the diaspora to reject such a boycott call.

“Boycotting Guyanese businesses, “we own” people in a foreign land is just plain stupid. How is that going to achieve anything good? We have hundreds of foreign-owned supermarkets popping up in every part of Guyana and no Guyanese is calling for a boycott of their businesses, so why the selfhate and intended hurt on ourselves?” Figueira argued. He posited that there should be advocacy for dialogue and constructive engagement to address all grievances.

In a letter to the press, Figueira, who is also a sitting Member of Parliament (MP) for the opposition A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), said Dr Ali’s visit to Brooklyn underscores the importance of engaging with diaspora communities and recognising their contributions to national development.

Norman Browne’s Facebook post

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

‘We

are not financing the government’s work at the ICJ’

— Routledge says; debunks claims of financing Guyana’s proceedings in border controversy case

By Clestine Juan

PRESIDENT of Exxon-

Mobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, has said that the company is not financing Guyana in its case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.

He was at the time responding to questions from reporters at a press engagement at the company’s Kingston, Georgetown office, on Tuesday.

The government has long cautioned against certain media outlets and critics perpetuating false narratives, which are being exploited by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in his attempts to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty.

Routledge’s remarks stem from recent developments in Venezuela, where lawmakers aligned with President Maduro

approved the creation of a new state in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region.

Despite ongoing proceedings before the ICJ, Venezuela has persisted in asserting its claims to Guyana’s territory, even citing a controversial 2023 December referendum as so-called justification.

In its counter-memorial to the ICJ, Venezuela falsely implicated Guyana’s government and its relationship with oil companies such as ExxonMobil.

Venezuela used the book of former Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman (under the APNU+AFC government) titled,“From Destiny to Prosperity,” which they allegedly claim as evidence to prove “sponsorship and financing” of ExxonMobil of Guyana’s case.

However, when these allegations were put to Routledge, he squarely

said: “We are not financing the government’s work at the ICJ.”

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., recently voiced deep concern over what he termed as “fabricated narratives.”

“This tendency which continues to preponderate that is to say the creation

Guyana’s alleged collusion with oil companies and the United States.

Referring to a meeting between Presidents Ali and Maduro in December 2023 in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Nandlall recounted how Maduro leveraged public statements critical of ExxonMobil’s operations in Guyana to support his claims.

in bed with oil companies and acting in collusion with them.

“That is a complete and utter falsehood. We are acting in the best interest of Guyana, the sector and the people of our country, but except for that privileged few who are working every day to shut the sector down,” he said.

and peddling of a fabricated narrative that the government is in bed with the oil companies is unpatriotic and anti-national,” Nandlall said, as he highlighted the detrimental impact of such narratives.

The Attorney-General highlighted how President Maduro has utilised these narratives to bolster his own agenda, citing instances where Maduro presented articles from Kaieteur News during a meeting as evidence of

“President Maduro had volumes of these very articles and he was referring to them repeatedly in support of his contention that Guyana is selling out to the Americans and selling out to the oil companies, and that the government is selling out, and that he has articles from Guyanese newspaper that say that, not Venezuelan newspapers.

“He was throwing that in our faces, to say “look, your own people are saying that you are selling out, not Venezuelans. And we intend to take what is ours before you sell it out,”” Nandlall said.

The Attorney-General reaffirmed the government’s stance in rejecting this false narrative that it is

The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award.

In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the ICJ seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

Venezuela initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.

ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge

FFTP, Project New Nation inaugurate literacy programme at Bartica

FOOD For The Poor (FFTP) Guyana and its in-country partner (ICP) Project New Nation, celebrated a significant milestone on April 30, 2024, with the inauguration of their literacy programme.

According to Food For The Poor, this initiative is targeting children from Nursery to Grade Six and is tailored to address the education needs of children facing learning challenges or disabilities by offering focused instruction in phonics, literacy, and mathematics.

Tabitha Barnwell, the Gifts-In-Kind Manager representing FFTP, underscored the organisation’s dedication to tackling education disadvantages among vulnerable children. She shared that the inception of the Learning Literacy Programme stemmed from a partnership proposal submitted by Project New Nation in October, 2023.

This proposal outlined specific criteria for student inclusion, targeting children experiencing difficulties in reading, achieving below 40 per cent in academic performance, and exhibiting signs

of learning challenges.

The careful planning and commitment demonstrated in the proposal underscored a genuine concern for the education welfare of children in the community, exemplifying a deep-rooted care for the youth of Byderabo, Bartica, in Region Seven and surrounding areas.

“As Guyana undergoes transformative changes,

prioritising the educational preparedness of youth becomes paramount. Targeting children with identified learning challenges aligns with the overarching goal of achieving [the] United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Four, which emphasises inclusive and equitable quality education for all,” she shared.

Barnwell encouraged the programme participants

to believe in their ability to achieve their goals through hard work and dedication, echoing the ethos of FFTP Inc: “Renewing Hope, Saving Lives, Transforming Communities.”

Additionally, Jonnel Newton, Head Tutor of Project New Nation (which is situated in Byderabo, Bartica), highlighted the crucial role of the literacy programme in addressing the unique needs of children with learning challenges.

“The literacy programme began because of the need that we saw in the community. With the help of Food For The Poor (Guy) Inc., and other sponsors, we’ve been able to launch yet another session of it. We [are] very grateful for

all those persons that [sic] are giving these children the opportunity to show that they have the ability to do just as well as any other child. I am very grateful for the parents as they have entrusted their children to us and I ask that they continue to support them, so that we can let these children show their true potential,” she asserted

Food For The Poor (Guyana) Incorporated (FFTPI) stands as the largest charitable non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Guyana, operating exclusively within the 10 administrative regions of the country.

Over the past 32 years, FFTP Guyana has experienced remarkable growth, emerging as a pivotal force in charitable endeavours nationwide.

Guided by the core principles of “Transforming Communities, Renewing Hope, and Saving Lives,” the organisation continues to serve as a beacon of philanthropy and social responsibility.

The launch of the programme signifies a collaborative endeavour between Food For The Poor (Guy) Inc. and Project New Nation to foster inclusive education and ensure access to quality learning opportunities for every child. Through this joint initiative, both organisations are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children in Byderabo and beyond.

Scenes from Tuesday’s inaugural ceremony (FFTP photos)

Timeless Love: Thirty-first ‘Mother and Daughter Pageant’ set for next Saturday

— organisers promise a bigger, better show this year

THE 31st production of the Supa Stylistics’ Mother and Daughter Pageant is slated for May 11, 2024 at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown, under the theme, “Timeless Love".

This year’s theme eloquently describes the love between mothers and daughters, and the bond they share.

The pageant was started by Mrs Ingrid Fung and has since become an annual affair in the world of local pageantry. It is usually held on Mother’s Day eve.

This year, the pageant will see 22 mother and

daughter pairs competing for the title of queen and princess in three categories: junior, middle and senior.

The pageant promises to be bigger and better this time around with a red carpet for attendees to elegantly "glide" their way down and mingle with each other.

The red carpet event will last from 18:00 hrs to 20:00 hrs and will feature displays by the main sponsors: KFC Guyana, Igloo Guyana, Chungs Global and many others.

Speaking briefly at a media launch on Thursday were the pageant’s founder, Mrs.

The contestants in the Junior Category

Fung and her daughter and the pageant producer Dr. Sulan Fung. The two have appeared together on stage at every production. They invited members of the public to come out and celebrate and show support to each mother and daughter represented on stage come May 11.

Tickets cost $6,000 for seats at the front of the auditorium, $5,500 for mid-auditorium seats and $5,000 for balcony seats. Persons can contact Mrs. Fung on 626-0460 to secure theirs.

(Photos continued on page 21)

The mother and daughter pairs in the Middle Category

Producer of the annual Mother and Daughter Pageant, Dr. Sulan Fung (third from left), and her mother, Mrs. Ingrid Fung (fourth from left), flanked by sponsors at Thursday’s media launch (Photos courtesy of Dr. Sulan Fung)

The Senior Category mother and daughter pairs

Rick Ross, ‘Valiant’ billed for massive Linden concert on Monday

PURE excitement is in the air as Lindeners ready themselves to welcome American, Grammy-nominated Hip Hop singer, Rick Ross and Jamaican artiste, ‘Valiant’, at the Linden Town Week’s International Mega Concert on May 6.

A collaborative effort between De Sheriff Entertainment - a Linden-based promotion company - and Dream Team Entertainment, it is the first international mega concert that will be held in the mining town.

This will be the first time an artiste of this calibre will be in Linden, Public Relations Officer, Vanessa Braithwaite, told Buzz this week.

“The idea is to provide patrons with an entertainment package of that calibre right in their hometown because normally when there are shows with regional and international artistes, we have to travel to Georgetown to enjoy.”

Apart from affording residents this opportunity, the intention is also to brand Linden Town Week in such a way as to attract more visitors. “This is our 54th year, so it can attract more persons from the diaspora to come to Linden, which will have a ripple spin off on the economy as well.”

In addition to the international artistes, local entertainers will also be on the scene, along with a good DJ line up.

“There is a lot of excitement in the environment because it’s the first time we are having an international artiste in the town. I would

For the first time, on Monday, an international mega concert will be in the mining town

say thousands of persons are already here from the diaspora; Lindeners who live in the diaspora have come home. The town is buzzing right now and I think because of this event, we are seeing an increase in visitors; not only Lindeners living in the diaspora but also domestic tourists, foreign tourists and so forth.”

Traditionally, events like these are held at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. This time though, the concert will be held at the Retrieve Ground, a new ground which will be transformed to include adequate security.

In celebrating 54 years of being a township, over 51 events blending culture, recreation and education are part of this year’s town week that is being held under the theme, “One People! One Nation! One Destiny! Linden! The Heart of Guyana!”

These events include art exhibitions and sports competitions, community service projects, educational workshops, and fetes. Additionally, the events are said to be designed to strengthen the bonds of unity among residents while also showcasing the town’s culture and potential.

Poonam Singh ‘drops’ new music

— says ‘Hold On’ no matter what is thrown in your path

POONAM Singh continues to make magic with her voice and the heartfelt, meaningful lyrics of her songs. She’s done it again; this time with ‘Hold On’ –the title of her newest music released on April 21 on all social media and streaming platforms.

Though it may be hard to believe, Poonam said that, all her life, she’s experienced hardships and challenging experiences, some of which she still has not healed from. Some of them remain bottled up and unspoken of, while some of them are known.

“Nevertheless, I’ve been through a lot that took a toll on me mentally, physically, emotionally and sometimes even spiritually, where I find myself asking God, ‘Why did that happen to me? Or why me?’ Because of this, I decided to write the words of this song and it somehow helped me get through most of everything,” Poonam shared with Buzz this week.

Thinking that perhaps the song can also be beneficial to others, she decided to officially record and release it. “And so, because I ‘held on’ and I didn’t let any negativity overpower my path, I’m happy to say so far, I’ve managed to win awards from Guyana, New York and even the Caribbean for international recognition.”

Even U.S Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, listed on Spotify one of her songs as being among his top 25 favourites!

So despite it all, Poonam said she stayed true to who she is, and has this bit of advice to offer: “Continue to ignore the noises, the negative voices, whether it’s coming from within or outside. Just don’t give up on that string of

lights that is forever shining so bright in you. Remember you have the power to become whatever you wish to be, just work hard, stay determined, stay consistent and hold on because life still has so much to offer, my dear!” Her target audience, she says, is everyone. “I know I’m not the only one who is going through something and if I can help at least one person to keep holding on and to never give-up, no matter what is thrown on his/ her path, then that’s enough for me.”

Despite grateful for all her blessings, Poonam cannot help but reflect on how the popular genres here affect her work. “You see, growing up in a beautiful country like Guyana is surely a blessing and there is a lot we should be thankful for and I’m very grateful.

“However, I must say, in my country, when it comes to music, the dominant genres are soca, reggae, dancehall and of course, chutney, while the genre of my music is pop. That itself is a struggle. Yet, I told myself that I will always stay true to who I am and the type of songs I wish to share to my followers and fans and to the general public as well.”

The cover photo for Poonam’s new song, ‘Hold On’

Singer Poonam Singh

Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poets Department' dominates US sales and Billboard charts

POP megastar, Taylor Swift, sold 2.61 million albums and streaming units of "The Tortured Poets Department" during its first week of release in the U.S., Billboard reported on Sunday, calling it "a gigantic debut at No. 1" on the Billboard 200 albums chart.

Traditional album sales totalled 1.91 million in the week ending April 25 between digital download albums, CDs, cassettes and also included 859,000 vinyl sales, Billboard said, citing data from Luminate. The album generated 891.34 million on-demand official streams.

The album scored the largest streaming week for an album ever and the largest sales week for an album on vinyl in the modern era, Billboard said. It is also the top-selling album so far in 2024.

It was Swift's 14th chart-topping album, tying with Jay-Z for the most No. 1s among soloists.

Swift released the first 16 tracks of "Poets" on April 19. Two hours later, she surprised fans by revealing it was a double album with 15 more songs.

It was the 11th studio album from the 34-year-old record-setting singer, who won an unprecedented fourth album of the year award at February's Grammys for "Midnights."

Last week, Spotify (SPOT.N) said "Poets" was its most-streamed album in a single week, surpassing 1 billion streams.

Swift also topped the British music charts on Friday, outselling the rest of the top 10 combined and beating the Beatles for the record of fastest artiste to rack up 12 UK number one albums.

"Poets," distributed by Universal Music Group (UMG.AS), opens new tab, received mostly positive reviews from critics and fans.

Swift will resume her Eras Tour, the highest-grossing concert tour in history, in Paris in May.

She is among several of music's top female artistes releasing albums this spring.

Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter" debuted in March, and Dua Lipa and Billie Eilish have releases scheduled for next month.

(Reuters)

Chelsea beat Tottenham 2-0

(BBC) - Chelsea beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Stamford Bridge to keep them in the hunt for European football - and deal a massive blow to their London rivals' hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season.

Trevoh Chalobah opened the scoring when the defender rose to meet a Conor Gallagher free-kick with a powerful header mid-way through the first half.

There was a lengthy video assistant referee check for a possible block by Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella on Brennan Johnson in the build-up, but the goal was given.

Spurs did not create many chances and Cristian Romero had their best opportunity when he headed wide inside the six-yard-box in the first half.

But Chelsea took control in the 71st minute when Cole Palmer's free-kick from the edge of the area struck the bar and Nicolas Jackson headed the rebound into an empty net.

Victory sent Chelsea into eighth place, just two points behind Newcastle in seventh and a possible European spot.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are seven points behind Aston Villa with a game in hand in their battle for fourth place.

Their defeat means Liverpool have now clinched Champions League football in 2024-25.

Chelsea's strong home form continues

Chelsea had only lost one of their 17 previous home games in all competitions and that defeat was back in February against Wolves. They put in another good performance here and Jackson - a constant menace to the Spurs defence - had a great chance early on when he was played through but saw his shot half-saved by Guglielmo Vicario before

Micky van de Ven then cleared off the line. Van de Ven's clearance went straight to Palmer but he could not steer the ball in from close range.

With 14 first-team players out injured and a substitute bench packed full of youngsters - the 21-year-old Cesare Casadei the oldest member - manager Mauricio Pochettino had to rely on his first XI to give him victory on his 400th game in English football.

Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke caused Tottenham plenty of problems on the counter attack but could not find the final ball to give Chelsea a third goal. Stand-in captain Gallagher meanwhile, having set up the first goal, rewarded Chelsea supporters with a fine performance after they displayed a banner in his support before the game.

The England midfielder only has one year left on his contract and Chelsea are open to offers for him with Spurs one of the interested clubs.

AMERICAN RACING

TIPS

BELMONT

Race 1 Keep It Sexy

Race 2 Roman Grace

Race 3 Mc kullick

Race 4 St Benedicts Prep

Race 5 Thethrillofvictory

Race 6 Repo Rocks

Race 7 Research Results

SOUTH AFRICA RACING

TIPS

FAIRVIEW

08:25hrs Sadehya

09:00hrs Cruise Control

09:25hrs Midnight Crystal

10:10hrs The Charioteer

10:46hrs Jaspero

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

NEWMARKET

08:50hrs Magic Dream

09:25hrs Endless Victory

10:00hrs Dark Thirty

10:35hrs Indian Run

11:10hrs Castle Way

11:45hrs Silent Age

GOODWOOD

09:05hrs Rathga

09:40hrs Brossy

10:15hrs Gisburn

10:50hrs Dream Composer

11:25hrs Unreal Connection

12:00hrs Phoenix Passion

CHELTENHAM

11:35hrs Fier Jaguen

12:10hrs Iskander Pecos

12:45hrs Jetaway Joey

13:20hrs Premier Magic

13:55hrs Regatta De Balance

14:30hrs Gaboret 15:05 hrs Go On Chez

IRISH RACING TIPS

PUNCHESTOWN

10:40hrs Fr Gilligansvoyagr

11:15hrs Tactical Move

11:50hrs Allrgorie De Vassy

12:25hrs It's On The Line

13:00hrs State Man

13:35hrs Bsllyburn

14:05hrs Anotherway

14:40hrs Fishery Lane

Twenty-three successfully complete GFF referee introductory course

TWENTY-THREE (23)

more individuals, including six (6) females from the Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), on Sunday, successfully completed the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Referee Introductory Course as part of the Federation’s efforts to bolster the referee pool.

GFF Head of Referees, Lenval Peart and Referees Instructor, Sherwin Johnson, led the practical and theoretical workshop, conducted from April 26-28, 2024 in Lethem, Rupununi.

Participants were tasked with grasping the intricacies of the beautiful game and the integral role referees play in matches, which included familiarising themselves with international regulations and guidelines.

They also completed vital fitness evaluations.

Gaibert Salty, Clifford Marcel, Neville Gillette, Peter Isaacs, Vandette Henry, Loraine Alcides, Ireen Chico, Don Melville, Christopher Phillips, Adon Jacobus, Morphie Robertson, Samantha Paulino, David Francis, Shannon Williams, Glenia

Charles, Garville Daniels, Carl Albert, Gabriel David, Clivelin Captain, Ovid Brown, Gilbert Williams, Ronaldo Ignatio and Rowl Victoriano were all awarded certificates at the end of the workshop.

Peart said he was satisfied with the group’s high level of engagement and focus on understanding the game.

“The GFF remains committed to investing in training programmes aimed at recruiting new referees to guarantee the presence of officials for matches across Guyana. Additionally, we also ensure our registered referees' participation in FIFA and CONCACAF training seminars so that they stay abreast of international rules and regulations.”

He added that the recruitment drive will continue throughout the year.

Since the beginning of the recruitment drive, seventy-six (76) individuals, including former footballers, have successfully completed the course and are now registered with the GFF Referees Department.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday May 03, 2024) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) David Warner-692 runs (SRH) (2) Imran Tahir-26 wickets (CSK)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who struck the highest individual score in IPL 2019?

(2) What were the best bowling figures that season?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Cummins, Bhuvneshwar help SRH snatch one run thriller

(ESPNCRICINFO) - TILL the 19th over of the chase, the highest Rajasthan Royals let the asking rate rise to in a 202 chase was 10.88, which was at the end of the first over. And yet, Sunrisers Hyderabad won by one run. Pat Cummins bowled a superb 19th over followed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar successfully defending 12 in the final over despite the over-rate penalty giving them one fewer boundary rider.

Even until the last ball, RR remained the favourites, needing two to win, but Rovman Powell missed a calf-high full toss to be out lbw. It was Bhuvneshwar who got their defence to a great start, removing

Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson in the first over, but Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag made the chase look easy with their fifties. When Jaiswal fell, they needed 67 off 39; when Parag left, they needed 43 off 25. Shimron

Hetmyer and Powell looked like cruising it, and then two hits went straight to the fielders, and Cummins swooped in.

This was SRH's fifth score of 200 or more this IPL, but they took the scenic

After the first time-out, SRH seemed to have decided the pitch had improved. The intent changed visibly. Yuzvendra Chahal was at the receiving end of it as Head pulled and drove him for sixes. He went from 27 off 27 to

route to get there after choosing to bat. By all accounts, it was a decision informed by their ordinary chasing record and not the conditions. They found themselves having to start off on a sluggish track, which got better as the evening wore off. In fact they themselves scored 153 in their last 12 overs. For the 18 overs of the RR chase, it seemed those first eight overs had cost SRH the game, who now sit among the top four on the points table.

RR spot on with the new ball

Two left-hand batters as openers was the ideal matchup for RR. Trent Boult is anyway a new-ball ace, but now they could bowl R Ashwin too. Boult was denied a wicket first ball as Parag dropped Travis Head at backward point, but the two combined to bowl four overs for just 25 runs. After CSK had shut the SRH openers down with a sweeper on the off side in the powerplay, Boult went the other way, placing two men deep on the leg side and denying them any room. Ashwin was particularly unlucky he didn't have a wicket as he kept beating the bat.

Avesh Khan and Sandeep Sharma reaped the harvest as they got Abhishek Sharma and Anmolpreet Singh with the first ball each of them bowled, resulting in the slowest powerplay for SRH this year: 37 runs.

Head leads, Reddy follows

get to his fifty in 37 balls. Nitish Kumar Reddy followed suit, converting his 5 off 10 into a 30-ball fifty. Even he was ruthless against Chahal, resulting in the second-worst analysis for a spinner in the IPL and also Chahal's second-worst figures in all T20 cricket: 4-0-62-0. Reddy, Klaasen close things off Head again hit a bit of a rut after reaching his fifty, which ended with him playing on while trying to ramp a wide yorker. Not before he was reprieved again, this time by the third umpire when his bat was clearly in the air when the wicket was broken. However, the real damage to RR came from Reddy and Heinrich Klaasen. Reddy ruined Ashwin's neat figures by taking two sixes off his final over. Then Klaasen got stuck into Chahal in the 17th over. The RR bowlers were on point with their plans and execution, and it took improvisation and exceptional hitting from Klaasen to take SRH past 200.

Vintage Bhuvneshwar Bhuvneshwar got the new ball moving, drawing the outside edge from Buttler first ball and going past Samson's inside edge in the same over. These were his 45th and 46th wickets in the first over in T20 cricket, now only one behind Shaheen Shah Afridi's 47 and level on joint-top at the IPL with 27.

Pat Cummins bowled a stunning 19th where he conceded only seven• May 02, 2024•BCCI

West Indies grab win against Nepal

CMC – West Indies “A” grabbed an unbeatable 3-1 lead in their Twenty20 series against hosts Nepal after their bowlers followed up strong batting from Andre Fletcher and Johnson Charles to formalise a 28-run win in the penultimate match on Thursday.

Fletcher defied illness and led the way with an unbeaten 84 from 54 balls that included nine fours and four sixes to earn the Player-of-the-Match award and was the linchpin in the Caribbean side’s total of 209 for three after they decided to bat in the latest T20 of the five-match series at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground.

Charles, a century-maker in the third T20 on Wednesday, supported with 58 off 30 balls that included three fours and six sixes, and shared one of two half-century stands in the innings with Fletcher that set the foundations for the visitors’ total.

West Indies “A” then defied dynamic batting from Rohit Paudel, the Nepalese captain and most prolific batsman in the series, whose 82 from 47 balls that included seven fours and five sixes was top score, and they dismissed the home team for 181.

Pacer Matthew Forde with three for 25 from four overs, and leg-spinner Hayden Walsh Jr with three for 26 from four overs were the pick of the bowlers for the Caribbean side; while Allen and fellow left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie ended with two wickets apiece.

The visitors attack took advantage of another revamp of the Nepal side, which featured seven changes, including the return of Paudel and the

inclusion of several players that were named on Wednesday in their provisional squad for the ICC Men’s T20I World in June in the Caribbean and United States.

Forde gave West Indies “A” a bright start to their defence when he bowled opener Aasif Sheikh for a duck with the second ball of the innings without a run on the board.

The Caribbean side were put on their heels when Paudel came to the crease and got into gear with a four, six, and four off successive balls in Forde’s second over, but Allen struck twice in his first over – the fifth of the innings – and the Nepalese were reeling on 31 for three.

He bowled opener Kushal Bhurtel for one and got left-hander Kushal Malla caught at extra cover three balls later for four before Motie conceded three successive boundaries to Paudel in his first over, and the hosts ended the Power Play on 45 for three.

The first signs of resistance to the visitors came when Sundeep Jora, playing his first match of the series, came to crease and shared 40 for the third wicket with Paudel before Walsh struck in his first over and got him caught in “cow corner” for 19 – and Nepal limped to 75 for four at the halfway stage.

A straight six off the first ball of the next over from Motie carried Paudel to his 50 off 34 balls, and he plundered three more off the West Indies “A” frontline spinners in successive overs and looked to be setting things up for a thrilling finish with stand of 53 with Dipendra Singh Airee.

With 90 required from 42 balls, Walsh struck a

prime blow for the Caribbean side in his third over when he got Paudel caught at long-off from a sliced lofted drive, and the Nepalese were 124 for five, and the pressure was put on the lower order to deliver, but they did not.

Motie finished the match when he got Sompal Kami caught at backward point for 10, and last man Lalit Rajbanshi stumped off the last two balls of the match to formalise the result and continue the strong rebound for the visitors after they lost the series opener by four wickets with two balls remaining last Saturday at the same venue.

West Indies “A” then won the second T20 by 10 runs the next day and the third match on Wednesday by 76 runs. The final match of the series will be played on Saturday at the same ground.

Earlier, the Caribbean side again lost left-handed opener Alick Athanaze early when left-arm pacer Pratis Gharti Chhetri got him caught at deep square leg for five in the second over, but Fletcher came to the crease after returning from the hospital before the match with a mild health concern and eased the worries of the visitors with a 92-run for the second wicket with Charles.

They carried West Indies “A” to 60 for one at the close of the Power Play, and they continued to dominate before Charles was caught in “cow corner” off the last ball of the 10th over from Kushal Bhurtel, and the Caribbean side were 101 for two.

Keacy Carty struggled to get going and Bhurtel put him out of his misery in the 14th over when he got him caught at extra cover for four, but Fletcher, whose 50 came from

38 balls, anchored the rest of the innings and put 83 –unbroken – for the fourth wicket with Allen, not out on 33 from 19 balls with two fours and three sixes.

The tour to Nepal is a first for any West Indies side, and according to lead selector Desmond Haynes

serves as another phase in preparation for the T20 World Cup.

He said it was an invaluable opportunity before the World Cup to get hopefuls not involved in the Indian Premier League and emerging

prospects playing competitive T20 matches against the Nepalese, one of the ICC Associate teams that qualified as one of the 20 teams that will feature in the biggest T20I World Cup to be staged.

T20 World Cup tickets for Guyana leg launched at GCB office

By Sean Devers

THE 2024 ICC T20 World Cup returns to the West Indies for the first time since being held here in 2010 and features 20 teams and 55 matches from June 2-29.

Yesterday at the office of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) on Regent Street, Bourda, ticket sales for the matches in Guyana were officially launched.

Guyana’s 2024 T20 World Cup Brand Ambassador, Former West Indies Captain Ramnaresh ‘Ronnie’ Sarwan, who first played in an ICC world cup in the 1998 U-19 event where he took the most (16) wickets in the tournament, revealed that he

was happy that Guyana will host the T20 World Cup for a second time.

“Playing at home can be an advance, but it could put more pressure on the players because the home fans are expecting their players to perform outstandingly in every match,” said Sarwan, who played at Providence in the 2007 ICC 50-over World Cup.

“It’s always exciting for the players to play in the Caribbean and Guyana due to the atmosphere the fans create here and the different places to see.

“T20 cricket in Guyana produces a cricket carnival for the visitors to have lots of things to do during the time they are here on days when

there is no cricket.

“If you have not bought your tickets or booked your flight to Guyana, I encourage you to do so now, since Guyana is the place to [be] during T20 cricket,” added Sarwan, who captained Guyana in the inaugural CPL in 2013 and played in 2008 in the IPL for King’s X1 Punjab.

Overall ICC T20 World Cup Operations officer for Guyana, Monica Sharma, disclosed that the ‘grass mound’ has been divided into two sections: the ‘Grounds’ and the Party Stand.

Tickets for the Party Stand for the two games involving the West Indies are US$ 150 or G$31,400.

For the Uganda v Afghanistan and Uganda v PNG,

Devon Thomas banned for anticorruption breaches

CMC – WEST INDIES international, Devon Thomas, was banned from the sport on Thursday for five years after he admitted to seven anti-corruption breaches.

According to a news release from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport’s world organising body, the 34-year-old Antiguan wicketkeeper-batsman and occasional pace bowler admitted to “breaching seven counts of the anti-corruption codes of Sri Lanka Cricket, the Emirates Cricket Board, and the Caribbean Premier League”.

The most serious offence was related to “contriving or being party to attempts to fix the outcome of matches” in the 2021 Lanka Premier League (LPL) Twenty20 tournament.

Thomas also admitted to several charges of failing to report illegal approaches at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Ten10 tournament, and 2021 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 to the authorities, and obstructing investigations.

“This ban is apt and should send a strong message to players and corrupters that attempts to corrupt our sport will be dealt with firmly,” Alex Marshall, ICC general manager, Integrity Unit, said.

The ban will be backdat-

ed to May 23 last year when Thomas was provisionally suspended, and the final 18 months are suspended, pending his cooperation with witness statements and testimony, if necessary, in an ongoing investigation and not committing further offences.

Four of the breaches relate to matches in the LPL, another relates to matches in the Abu Dhabi T10, and the other two relate to matches in the CPL three years ago.

“Having played both international and professional domestic/franchise cricket, Devon attended numerous anti-corruption education

the cost for the Party Stand is US$25 or G$5,250, while for the NZ v Afghanistan game the cost is US$100 or G$20,900.

The cost for the Party Stand for the semi-final is US$200 or G$41,800.

The cost for admission to the stands for games involving the West indies is G$10,000 and G$4,500 for Grounds, while the two other games involving Uganda are G$3,500 for Stands and G$2,500 for Grounds.

The cost for tickets for the NZ v Afghanistan match is G$5,500 for Stands and G$2,500 for Grounds.

Entry for the Stands for the semi-final is G$11,500 for the Stands and G$5,000 for Grounds.

For the first time ever an ICC World Cup will be staged in the USA with the opening game on Sunday June 2 being held at Grand Prairie Texas, when Canada will battle the USA.

These two countries played the first-ever international cricket match in 1844 in the USA.

The second game on June 2 will be at Providence in Guyana where host West Indies will face-off with Papua New Guinea from 10:00hrs

Six games, including a semi-final, are scheduled for Providence, which can accommodate a capacity crowd of 15,000.

Four of the games at Providence are night matches with Afghanistan playing

Guyana

T10 Blast

Uganda from 20:30hrs on Monday, June 3, PNG opposing Uganda on Wednesday, June 5 from 19:30hrs, New Zealand will go head to head with Afghanistan from 19:30hrs on Friday, June 7.

The West Indies will face Uganda on Saturday, June 8 at 10:00hrs, while the semi-final is set for June 26 from 10:00hrs.

The top two teams in each group will advance to the super8 stage, with the top two in each super8 pool advancing to the semi-finals.

Tickets can be purchased at the GCB office from 10:00hrs to 18:00hrs on week days and from 10:00hrs to 14:00hrs on Saturdays.

Nedd takes 4-6, Sampson blasts 50 as Jaguars and Piranhas victorious

ESSEQUIBO Jaguars beat Demerara Hawks by seven wickets while Berbice Piranhas defeated Essequibo Anacondas by 50 runs when the Guyana T10 Blast continued yesterday at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground in Georgetown.

In the first game, David Williams top scored with 42 from 28 balls with three fours and a similar number of sixes and along with Richie Looknauth with 17 from eight balls with two fours and two sixes put together 56 for the first wicket.

sessions,” Marshall added.

“He, therefore, knew what his obligations were under the anti-corruption codes, but failed to meet these obligations across three different franchise leagues.”

Thomas made his international debut 15 years ago, and he has played 21 One-day Internationals, the last of them 11 years ago in a checkered career in which he has also played 12 Twenty20 Internationals and made only one Test appearance against Australia in December 2022.

But only Neil Cadogan who smacked two sixes in a four-ball 13 and Skipper Akshaya Persaud who made 11 which included a six reached double figures as the Hawks could only reach 94-8 when their 10 overs expired.

First-Class left-arm spinner, Ashmead Nedd, had 4-6 while Pacer Nial Smith took 2-7 for the Jaguars who scored 96-3 in seven overs.

Mavindra Dindyal finished unbeaten on 36 with three fours and three sixes while National Keeper, Kemol Savory, hit two

fours and two sixes in 36 to lead their side to victory.

In the second game of the day, Quinton Sampson’s 50 from 17 balls with four fours and five sixes, Ryan Sergent’s 46 with two fours and six sixes and Tagenarine Chanderpaul, showing refreshing aggression, clobbering two sixes and two fours and two sixes in a cameo 23, led the Piranhas to 148-3 in 10 overs.

Bruce Vincent who dismissed both Chanderpaul and Sergent had 2-18.

Anacondas in reply

were bowled out for 98 in 9.3 overs in the slug feast as Antony Adams made 28 from 12 balls with three fours and two sixes and only Raymond Perez of the other batters reached 20. His innings included a six and a four and lasted 14 balls.

The experienced Veerasammy Permaul had 4-24 and got support from Garfield Phillips who took 3-10. Two more matches are scheduled for today at Malteenoes. (Sean Devers).

Devon Thomas, the 34-year-old West Indian wicketkeeperbatter, has been handed a five-year ban from all cricket © Getty

Ashmead Nedd had 4-6 at Malteenoes yesterday

Sampson

Photo 2 Quinton Sampson scored a pugnacious 50 yesterday at Malteenoes

Pakistan produces win to avoid West Indies whitewash

(ESPNCRICINFO) - PAKISTAN secured their first win of the tour, beating West Indies by eight wickets after a comprehensive all-round performance. It came thanks to a clinical all-round performance after the visitors won the toss and batted first, with Sadia Iqbal and Nida Dar taking three wickets each to skittle West Indies out for 84. There were no real jitters in the chase despite the manner of Pakistan's defeat in the third T20I, and, spearheaded by Ayesha Zafar, they eased to victory with 21 balls to spare.

A day after Pakistan named a near-unchanged squad for the upcoming tour of England, the players repaid that faith with what was by far the most impressive performance of the tour. Despite the series having slipped out of Pakistan's reach, they began with a sharpness and urgency that belied how little was truly on the line.

Qina Joseph was caught out of her crease off Iqbal and stumped first ball to set the tone. But it was the wicket of Hayley Matthews, West Indies' talismanic captain and the outstanding performer of the series, that gave Pakistan true belief. After an uncharacteristic struggle, she was caught off Fatima Sana's bowling after managing just a run in nine balls.

Shemaine Campbelle was the only batter who scored runs and pushed the run rate up but was run out at an inopportune time after a 20-ball 26. The dismissal opened the floodgates as Pakistan took complete control thereafter, with four wickets falling for as many runs towards the death overs as West Indies stuttered along to 84 for 9.

Pakistan had made hard work of an eminently gettable target late on in the third T20I, but there appeared no such danger today right from the outset. A breezy cameo from Sidra Ameen set the tone early, and when she and Muneeba Ali fell in quick succession, Zafar and Gull Feroza took complete control. Zafar in particular was in great touch finding the gaps and the occasional boundary to keep the score ticking over. Some sloppiness leaked into West Indies' game as two relatively simple catches were put down off Matthews' bowling, but in truth, the game was a foregone conclusion by then.

Appropriately, the game ended with one of the shots of the day from Zafar, who lofted a half-volley over mid-on for an elegant boundary to make the win official.

Sadia Iqbal celebrates with her team-mates • PCB

T20 World Cup tickets for Guyana leg launched at GCB office

ICC World Cup Brand Ambassador Ramanaresh Sarwan is flanked by GCB and other local organising committee officials (Delano Williams photo)

West Indies “A” Captain Roston Chase (second from left) discusses strategy with his side during a break in play in the fourth Twenty20 against Nepal on Thursday (CAN photo)