‘You can’t run from your track record’
- President Ali challenges opposition on its policies for forestry, bauxite
- highlights coalition administration’s complete destruction of Guyana’s economy, loss of jobs
By Naomi Parris
PROVIDING an analysis of the performances of Guyana’s forestry sector and bauxite industry under the leadership of the A Partnership for National Unity Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) juxtaposed with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration, President, Dr Irfaan Ali further exposed the coalition administration’s failure to implement policies aimed at generating growth, which ultimately resulted in the collapse of the two major areas.
The Head of State in an airing of ‘Growth Agenda: Progress Under Review’ on Sunday, the President said that the previous government’s lack of policy formulation and lack of ideas lead to the ‘complete destruction’ of the country’s economy.
Focusing on the local forestry sector, Dr Ali said it saw a 35 per cent decline in exports, a 40 per cent reduction in production and a significant jobs loss, with employment falling from over 22,000 to less than 14,000.
“Forestry is directly related to some key regions in this country, including Region 10, Ituni, Kwakwani; those residents there can tell
you with a clear conscience what took place in their community,” the Head of State said.
He added: “You had one company pulling out its investment. You had another company that curtailed investment because there was no clarity of vision.
“The destruction that took place between 2015 and 2020, created a drag on the economy in Linden and Region 10.”
Due to the hardships faced by many small miners, and several major players exiting the sector, many small operators were unable to produce. At that time, the market had dried up and concurrently, the cost of production increased due to the lack of incentives being provided to miners.
“The export of the total production, which had reached a peak of 500,000 cubic metres annually in 2015 fell to 400,000 cubic metres by 2020… exports of the forestry sector declined by 35 per cent,” the President said.
This, he noted, also resulted in a loss of foreign currency,
“What were some of the policies, some of the interventions by the APNU+AFC government that led to this collapse of the forestry sector? We had the onerous fees and fines that were imposed on small and medium-sized loggers, including Amerindian loggers,” Dr. Ali said.
These fees and fines had increased from $415 million in 2014 to $910 million by 2019.
He said: “Can you imagine that a 118 per cent increase in fees on not large foresters on the small and medium-sized loggers… don't ever forget this.”
‘THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING’
Dr Ali noted that while the coalition,
sions. And how did we assist? Remember, 118 per cent increase in fees on small and medium-sized foresters. How did we assist them? When we came back into office, we removed the VAT on machinery and equipment.”
Aside from this, the forestry sector has seen a production increase of $15.6 billion with some 550 small miners
ing markets, high-yield markets for our foresters, and that is why we are adopting the highest international standards.”
The government had also introduced a revolving fund to help small and medium-scale foresters.
BAUXITE
Meanwhile, shifting his attention to the bauxite industry, President Ali pointed out
which is now separated and in opposition, it continues its attempt to shy away from its past, while the PPP/C administration is embracing accountability and transparency.
In this regard, the Head of State pointed to the improvements that have been made in the sector, since his administration took office.
He said: “The PPP/C government issued over 150 small concessions and five large conces-
occupying 2.5 million hectare of land, and 22 medium-scale foresters who occupied 2.7 million hectares of land.
Employment in the sector has since increased, exceeding more than 25,000 employees, gaining back more than the 15,000 that was lost.
Dr Ali said: “We're not only thinking about the present, we're thinking about how we're going to secure and sustain this sector. Get new markets, higher-pay -
that this sector experienced a 40 per cent contraction in production and job losses in Region 10.
“More than 50 per cent of the persons who are employed here in Region 10, primarily from Linden, more than 50 per cent of those employed lost their jobs between 2015 and 2020,” he said.
The President noted, however, that the PPP/C government has since taken several steps to reduce costs,
broaden product range, and increase production, with the aim of rebuilding the sector and retaining those jobs that were lost.
He said: “We had to get back that 50 per cent jobs that were lost to re-energise the economy in Linden and Region 10. We went about implementing policies, taking steps that will reduce costs, broaden the product range and increase production. The government had issued additional reserves in Kara Kara, which approximates to 3.5 million tonnes.
Meanwhile, renewed investments by the Bosai mineral group, along with issuance of additional reserves will see production increase by over 250,000 tonnes this year and 400,000 tonnes next year.
The bauxite company has also undertaken the ambitious task of constructing a $470 million aluminium plant.
Dr Ali said: “So, they have made a commitment that will expand production, and with the cost of energy coming down…we're talking about the future, about the expansion and building of an aluminium plant.”
In 2024, some 500 persons were projected to gain employment and in 2025 another 500 will be added to the workforce with the bauxite sector earmarked for massive expansion.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali during his Sunday airing of “Growth Agenda: Progress Under Review’
‘I
am asking for political responsibility, not political power’
-
President
Ali rallies Lindeners to support continued development
- highlights
push for sustainable investments across Region 10
By Naomi Parris
POINTING to massive plans to accelerate investments and stimulate wealth, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Sunday morning, engaged a gathering at Victory Valley, Linden, Region Ten, where he shared his unity-based philosophy aimed at uplifting the lives of citizens.
The Head of State had journeyed to the Mining Town to inspect the ongoing construction works for the new Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge. Shortly after the inspection, several citizens mustered nearby to engage with the President.
And though the region is historically known as a stronghold of the Peoples National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), the leader of the People Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration was welcomed by a large crowd.
“My philosophy is that all are invited onboard of this ship. This is not an exclusionary ship, this is an inclusionary ship that must move forward, safely with every member of its crew being part of the journey forward,” the President said.
He candidly asked Lindeners to support the PPP/C as it seeks re-election at the general polls this year, highlighting his administration’s goal of advancing development through political
responsibility.
The PPP/C, Dr. Ali said, is not seeking power, but rather the support to continue the rapid transformation and development of Region 10 and Guyana at large.
He related: “We are a political entity, you have never given us the political responsibility here in Linden
of trust.
In this regard, the government he noted will look to also eradicate elements of division in its pursuit of a sustainable future.
“No force that seeks to spread hate, division and destroy our society has a place in the modern transformative Guyana that we are build -
investments …and that is why we are marketing Linden for a major tourism investment. People come, people spend, business doing, you growing, wealth creating.”
The government’s ‘people centred leadership,’ he said, is a testimony that the PPP/C does not simply preach of love for the people
made in the region are linked to a vision of long-term sustainably.
“You will see how it will stimulate other investments. How it will create new wealth… I can tell you from 2020 to now, there are many, hundreds of homes that I can point to in Linden that is either improving, rehabilitating
tinue to go up, it will not go down.”
Since assuming office in 2020, the PPP/C administration has invested more than $5.8 billion in housing for Linden; this was more than 600 per cent than the last government did in their five years in office.
Further, with the govern-
and Region 10; all we seek is not power, we seek your support so that we can win here and the political responsibility to show you what good, committed, selfless, political leadership can further bring to your region.
“I am asking for political responsibility by your support, not political power,” he reiterated, emphasising the difference between the two, noting that the government is seeking to build a foundation
ing,” the Head of State said. ‘SUSTAINABLE
INVESTMENT’
Already, the government has outlined a vision to generate long-term sustainable investments in Linden. With heavy focus being placed on local tourism, it is the President’s belief continued investments in this regard would see vast wealth being created for the region.
He said: “We have to bring long-term sustainable
but demonstrate it.
Several massive infrastructure projects are ongoing and have been earmarked in and around Region Ten. Some of these include the rehabilitation of Linden-Soesdyke Highway, the construction of Guyana’s first smart city—Silica City along the highway, the construction of Linden to Mabura Hill road and several others.
He noted that the investments that have already been
or being built from scratch,” the President said.
He added: “The Linden-Soesdyke Highway is going to be modern highway; we are going to connect it with the new highway, all the way to Georgetown. That highway is coming to Land of Canan, then we are going to do Silica City. You know what that does for Linden, the value creation. The value of your property, the value of your land here will con-
ment’s miscellaneous road programme some $7.6 billion was invested in building 535 community roads, with almost all of these projects being awarded to local contractors.
These projects, along with other massive ongoing works in Linden, are part of the investment of $96 billion, which is less than 0.3 per cent of what the previous administration spent during its tenure in office.
Pointing to massive plans to accelerate investments and stimulate wealth, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Sunday morning, engaged a gathering at Victory Valley, Linden, Region Ten, where he shared his unity-based philosophy aimed at uplifting the lives of citizens
United Airlines to bring Musk’s Starlink on flights by spring
UNITED Airlines (UAL.O) said, on Sunday, it expects to begin testing Elon Musk's Starlink in February for in-flight internet services, and to first offer the connectivity on a commercial flight operated by Embraer (EMBR3.SA) this spring.
The airline plans to outfit its entire two-cabin regional fleet with the service by the end of 2025 and have its first Starlink-enabled plane on major routes in the air by the end of the year.
Starlink will eventually be available on all
its flights, the airline said in a statement.
However, United said access would be free only for MileagePlus members, revising an earlier plan to offer free Wi-Fi to all passengers.
Last year, United signed a deal with Starlink to provide in-flight internet services across its entire fleet of over 1,000 aircraft over the next several years.
Starlink, a unit of SpaceX, has inked deals with multiple airlines to provide inflight internet services as it seeks to expand its reach beyond consumers and households in
rural areas around the world with little to no internet access.
It was reported, too, that the satellite-based internet services provider had previously signed deals with Hawaiian
Airlines and regional carrier JSX. (Reuters)
United Airlines planes land and prepare to take off at Newark Liberty International Airport during the week of Thanksgiving in Newark, New Jersey, US November 27, 2024 (REUTERS/Vincent Alban/File Photo)
Housing drive in Linden to accelerate with regularisation of 11 areas this year - Croal says
SOME 11 areas have been identified for regularisation in Linden this year, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal has said.
The minister on Sunday accompanied President, Dr Irfaan Ali to an impromptu gathering at Victory Valley in Region 10.
Croal told residents that the government has
already outlined plans for a massive housing expansion in the mining town.
He said: “There is one mandate from our President, and that is to work tirelessly every day to enhance the lives of our people.”
Croal related that a mandate has been given for the ministry to clear all the arrears of the pending applications in Linden,
while the 11 areas earmarked for regularisation will see just about 800 lots being regularised.
“There is one thing our President has charged us to do, and that is to work hard every single day to make the lives of the people of Guyana better,” Croal said, drawing attention to the inclusive nature of their governance.
Minister Croal added:
“There is one mandate from our President, and that is to work tirelessly every day to enhance the lives of our people.”
Highlighting the achievements under the current administration, Croal lauded the success of “Operation Cleanup,” a campaign spearheaded by President Ali, aimed not only at cleaning up public spaces, but also at
Some 11 areas have been identified for regularisation in Linden this year, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal has said
securing legal ownership for land occupants.
“We are working diligently to ensure people have ownership of the land they occupy,” the minister said, adding that the initiative is helping to formalise settlements across the region.
In particular, Croal pointed to the progress made in areas such as New Hope and Blueberry Hill.
“In 2024 alone, over 750 individuals in Region 10 have received land titles, a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to providing land and proper infrastructure for Guyanese,” he said.
The minister also took the opportunity to draw a stark contrast with the performance of the pre-
vious government. He noted that during the five-year period from 2015 to 2020, fewer than 300 land allocations were made in Region 10, with no effort to regularise settlements.
“In just four years, this government has allocated over 1,600 plots of land in Region 10,” Croal proudly stated, noting: “This demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the people of Linden.”
Looking ahead, the government plans to regularise areas in Siberian, Silver Hill, New Hope, and Green Valley.
Croal said: “We want everyone to have a comfortable life. In all of these areas it costs money to develop the land, the drainage, the infrastructure work.”
Haste Over Substance
AT a recent press conference, the Alliance For Change continued its tradition of meaningless opposition, especially in matters relating to Guyana's emerging oil and gas industry.
Dr Vincent Adams, the party's lead spokesperson on oil and gas, made statements that not only showed a fundamental misunderstanding of basic industry concepts, but also highlighted the party's tendency to prioritise criticism over constructive dialogue.
A good example of such a misguided approach is the recent assertion by Dr Adams that Guyana's income from oil will never reach 50 per cent. In his haste to disagree with the statement of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo that Guyana will eventually receive its full 50 per cent share of returns, Dr Adams confused 'cost oil' with 'profit oil,' thereby misrepresenting the revenue-sharing mechanism.
It is important to understand that, no matter what the production costs are, the
cost oil, the remaining oil is 100 per cent of the 'profit oil', which is shared 50/50 between Guyana and the oil companies.
Besides, the two per cent royalty is taken from gross production and not as an additional percentage of profit oil. This rather basic industry knowledge appears to have escaped Dr Adams, and such a mistake brings into question the competence of the AFC to discuss such critical national issues.
Not only that, but also the accusation of Dr Adams
that the government reneged on a promise to renegotiate the current Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement is without basis. No such promise has been on record from either the current PPP/C government or its predecessor, the APNU+AFC administration.
In fact, both major parties have steadfastly held that they would not force renegotiations of existing contracts.
The persistence of the AFC in pursuing this non-issue only shows the
party to be politically bereft and not willing to contribute positively to the debate on oil and gas at the national level.
Other than arguing the potential improvements that could have been made to the present agreement, or substantive critique, the party seems satisfied with making uninformed pronouncements that hardly serve the interest of Guyana.
This incident is, therefore, a sober reminder that informed debate in national politics is an imperative,
especially when it involves such a critical sector as oil and gas. As Guyana continues to navigate the challenges of newfound oil wealth, all political actors must assume responsibility for fact-based discussions and put the long-term interests of the country above short-term political gains. The AFC would do better to revise its position on oil and gas issues, rather than indulging in misbegotten criticism, building competence and constructive contribution.
‘Runaway-Hughes’: Tackling conspiracy theorist drivel in 2025
Dear Editor,
REFERENCE is drawn to remarks made by Exxon Attorney and AFC leader, Mr. Nigel Hughes at the AFC’s latest press conference (3/1/2025).
Upon being questioned about his repetition of the debunked conspiracy theory that the PPP was involved in the death of 1,200 Afro-Guyanese men, Hughes declared the following: “Well, I’ve been practising law for 37 years, and between 1992 and today, I have represented the families of several people who have either been shot, killed or murdered by the Guyana Police Force. And the numbers that I have and the circumstances in which people have been shot and killed, I believe that the number I gave is accurate.
“And just to remind you, Shaquille Grant was put to lie on the ground with five other people in Agricola, shot through his head. If you want
to go back to what started the whole problem in Buxton with Shaka Blair, we can do that. Since 1992, I have more than sufficient bases on which I can say that”.
The aforementioned remarks constitute a masterclass in deflection and retreat.
Deconstructing his statement reveals a dangerous political playbook for failing Opposition politicians in Guyana: Combining conspiracy theory with emotional fallacy to exploit racial tension. Therefore, it is imperative to recognise, debunk and expose those following this playbook to ensure political survival at the expense of the Guyanese people.
Hughes commenced by arrogantly talking up his credentials and years of experience as an attorney, undoubtedly, with the intent of adding credence to the wild statements which followed. He made vague mention of representing “the families of several people” who he
claimed were killed by the police force.
On this basis, he deemed the “1,200” figure correct. No evidence. No list of alleged figures. Not an iota of information to justify his ramblings. Instead, we get pure conjecture coming from Hughes. In matters of public discourse, on an issue such as this which has divided the Guyanese people, this “defense” is as spineless as it is pathetic.
Now, Nigel Hughes has represented a litany of figures relating to the Crime Wave: Some victims, as well as some of the most notorious murderers during this period.
Mr. Hughes unsuccessfully represented the late Mark Royden Williams, aka “Smallie”, in his 2022 trial for the murder of GDF officer Ivor Williams. Williams was murdered during an armed confrontation between the military and gunmen on January 23, 2008,
at Buxton.
In 2021, Mr. Hughes successfully represented ‘Smallie’ in his trial for the murders of Rajesh Singh and Fazil Hakim in 2007.
For persons in rural areas, Mark’s name brings back dark memories from the early 2000s. ‘Smallie’, along with James Anthony “Sally” Hyles were fingered as part of the group led by “Fineman” Rawlins, which committed several heinous crimes.
All occurred during the crime wave period, and all have deeply scarred the psyche of the Guyanese people. In 2018, the CCJ acquitted both men. Only Hyles walked free, as Williams was already sentenced to death for his role in the Bartica Massacre. Guess who represented Hyles.
Hughes’ remarks followed up a Facebook video he and his party uploaded, claiming that the PPP “oversaw” the “state ex -
ecutions” of Sash Sawh, Quindon Bacchus and even the Henry Brothers!
Only a sick and twisted mind could produce these vile conspiracy theories, compounded by the fact that he offers no tangible evidence, nor proof to support ANY of these dangerous claims. All of the fluff, zero of the substance. However, this is utterly on-brand for Nigel Hughes.
In December 2012, my primary school head teacher (in Eccles) quickly dismissed us all and urged us to hurry home at once. I had not an inkling as to the circumstances surrounding this decision. That night, I watched on television the violent havoc unleashed upon Agricola, where countless citizens were beaten and robbed, and buses were burnt.
Later, I learnt that Mr. Hughes’ much-criticised ultimatum he gave President Ramotar to sack then
Minister Rohee, apparently sparked the whole ordeal in Agricola. This twisted, albeit lazy, playbook of division will not work in 2025. Insert yourself into a narrative, play on emotions, darting away without fully committing to the narrative and avoiding scrutiny. This modus operandi has repeatedly worked for Mr. Hughes, most famously with the 33>32 saga. However, as we approach another Election cycle, we must demand and actively work towards creating a new political culture built upon the tenets of unity, truth, democracy, as well as prosperity for all of us. Better must come from Mr. Hughes, as it is evident that unity is but an inconvenience to those grappling onto the remaining vestiges of relevance.
Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar.
2024: Invisibility or disappearance of TUS?
ANYONE who lived in Guyana in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and who followed what was taking place in the country in the spheres of political economy and sociology, has to know that in comparison with 2022 and 2023, The Usual Suspects (TUS) disappeared or if they were still around, were invisible.
Who or what are TUS?
These are a group of people from the Mulatto/Creole Class (MCC) whose engagement in politics crystallised into confrontation with Burnham after Burnham defected from the eugenic politics of the MCC at the beginning of 1974. I think that year was the period of the chasm between the MCC and the PNC as a party, not Burnham alone.
Space would not allow for further discussion on the political contours of the MCC from 1974, but the MCC overtly confronted Burnham in the form of the Working People’s Alliance with the MCC putting its
faith more in Rupert Roopnaraine rather than Walter Rodney. Interestingly, the MCC viewed Roopnaraine as more MCC material than Rodney and indeed he was. I think more than Sir Lionel Luckhoo and John Carter, Roopnaraine was more accepted by MCC personalities in the society; the reason being, he was exceedingly more charming and persuasive than Luckhoo and Carter.
The apogee of the MCC politics was the storing of arms in the Taitt House (now known as Cara Lodge on Quamina Street) for the overthrow of Burnham. The Taitt House was the gathering ground for the crème de la crème of the MCC in the 1940s and 1950s. The Taitt family was the purest form of eugenic expression in British Guiana and even though two members of the crème de la crème – David De Caires and Miles Fitzpatrick – captured the attention of the MCC, the Taitt family was seen as white as the colonial officials in British Guiana who,
in fact, were smitten by the Taitt family.
I quote the words of the quintessential MCC Leviathan, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine: “Well, I wanted an armed insurrection…we were stocking piling timers, explosives, and arms right here in the room upstairs.”
Taken from an interview at Taitt House between famous travel writer, John Gimlette and Roopnaraine from the Gimlette book, “Wild Coast: Travels on South America Untamed Edge,” Profile Books Limited, London, 2012, page 45. Let’s move right up to the present time before space runs out. The MCC reached its political zenith in the combined politics of David Granger and Raphael Trotman which was outlined at a meeting between Granger and Trotman at the airport at Nassau, Bahamas. When APNU was formed, it was Roopnaraine who insisted on Granger’s presidential candidacy.
In 2015, the MCC came
to power only to lose it in a paroxysm of wild, pompous and eugenic expression of power intoxication. The MCC lost power in 2020 and thus was born The Usual Suspects. TUS consist of a group of MCC personalities who are well placed financially and are finely educated. Some live in Guyana, others are scattered mostly in North America.
Since 2020, they have formed themselves into an implacable collective enemy of the People’s Progressive Party that they feel, as their ancestors did in the 1930s and 1940s, are non-Christian Indians that are culturally unsuited to govern the Creole societies of the post-colonial Caribbean.
Some of the faces in the TUS are well known because they are relentless in their condemnations of PPP rule.
From 2020, TUS have been writing a monthly letter pub-
lished in the Stabroek News only. The criticisms, chastisements and condemnations of the Guyana Government have been vitriolic, malignant and poisonous.
Here is a brief list of their letters from 2020 to 2023. They wanted President Ali to disinvite then Brazil president, Bolsonaro, because Brazil discriminates against Afro-Brazilians. They rejected the visit of then Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo because they feared for the Caribbean remaining a zone of peace. They demanded that Guyana immediately discontinue oil production because they say it damages the climate and kills African people. Yes, believe it; they said, African people. They wanted the DPP to drop the 20 murder charges against the alleged murder accused over the Mahdia dormitory fire and reduce the charge to arson.
TUS disappeared last year, penning only one letter on Haiti. What is the explanation? First, I think their political bankruptcy showed up because they were demanding things that were so absurd that Guyanese didn’t care to read them anymore. Secondly, they lost complete influence when they demanded Guyana get out of oil and gas. People saw them as being part of the lunatic fringe. Thirdly, they had no political activism among the masses thus were not seen as nationalist by the majority of Guyanese. Finally, people wanted to know why a majority of them were citizens of other countries.
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.
The reality of trying to renegotiate the GOG -Exxon Contract
Dear Editor,
THE Petroleum Agreement between the Government of Guyana (GOG) and EEPGL (Exxon) is again being discussed in a way that ignores clear legal principles and a sensible look from a realistic perspective.
Christopher Ram seems to find criticism, real and imaginary, to any idea or policy which he does not agree with. Today is no different. Today (January 5, 2025 Stabroek News) “Ram launches scathing attack on President, VP over refusal to renegotiate Exxon deal” Ram expands his views that the contract should be renegotiated.
The rein, he has published, apparently, legal views on the renovation of the contract between GOG and Exxon. The arrogance of advancing arguments which read well in textbooks (sec-
ond-rate texts) but have little or no bearing in the real world is naive. It demonstrates a misunderstanding of contract law and reality; it ignores the destabilising effect such a course would cause to Guyana’s reputation as a safe place for foreign investment
The argument ignores the benefits which Guyana enjoys because of the sheer pace and scale of the Exxon investment here. It is recognised that the consensus view is that oil is a resource with a limited beneficial life, with the world looking to other sources for its energy needs. The value of oil in the long term is uncertain because of the pressure to move to non-fossil-fuels to combat global warming.
It is a sensible policy for Guyana to seek to extract as much of its oil, so that it could benefit from a price which would be to its eco-
nomic benefit. It benefits no citizen to leave the oil in the ground when it may only yield meager returns in the future.
Ram argues that the GOG should renegotiate the Exxon Contract. He recognises principle of “sanctity of contract” is an obstacle, but he refutes this as being a bar to a renegotiated contract. He offers no reasoned refutation; save and except his emotions and belief he is right. It seems he has not recognised the sheer force of the principle in the civilised world.
Its breach would have dire consequences, and make Guyana an unfavourable place for foreigners to invest; a pariah state. He refers to the new “religion of sanctity of contract” as if to sarcastically diminish its value.
He would be well advised to note it is the recognised bedrock of contractual relations for centuries. It is the
foundation of contractual relations in the civilised world, and it is scrupulously protected by the courts. So, it’s not a religion in a Court of Law, Mr. Ram; it’s God.
Neither Ram, nor others who have argued to renegotiate in the past, in their arguments, recognise the real effect of the “stabilisation clause” in the contract. This clause, contained in the Exxon contract with GOG, makes it clear that if that contract were ever changed, whether by renegotiation or by amendments to our laws or even our Constitution, then the GOG must pay directly to Exxon the full value by which their financial gain is reduced by the new contract.
This clause will be enforceable in every situation, except one, in which there is consent from Exxon.
It is universally accepted that the contract is lopsided
and favours Exxon. However, legal contracts cannot be set aside simply because you think it’s unfair. Contracts are legally binding on the parties, and unless you can demonstrate fraud/deceit/mistake, one can’t simply go back on their word.
Where are the grounds for renegotiation; real legal ones not fanciful and bald opinions of utopia? No amount of ‘falling on his own sword’ self-sacrifice by the signing Minister Raphael Trotman will be enough. The then GOG and their slew of local and overseas advisers and themselves must be held accountable. That is where the fault lies.
There can be no renegotiation without both parties consenting. Pressuring and picketing for the renovation is a recipe for duress. Duress would render any amendment obtained under those circumstances a nullity.
To continue this insane argument without offering a civilised and legally recognised solution is opportunistic, and nothing more. Those advancing it are simply seeking their 15 minutes in the limelight. The Guyanese people recognise this, and will not be fooled. This government has recognised the challenge, and has sought to recover more for the country via the private sector, hence the Local Content Act, which has kept several billions in Guyana via Guyanese businesses.
To argue that Guyana can only and should only focus on recovering a larger share via the government is a fallacy. Guyana can recover by the government and the private sector; both combine for returns to the country.
Yours faithfully, Sanjeev Datadin
AFC got egged in the face
THE Alliance For Change has always been a party of individual stars; they rarely have well-coordinated and well thought out policies and political positions. They believe they are each capable of matching and bettering any other politician in Guyana. They have the tendency of speaking off the top of their head as a substitution for good research and reliable data. Herein lies the affliction of the AFC: they rely on the perceived brilliance of individuals, and their memory/calculations, in most cases, result in lackluster and misinformed response to critical political issues.
Because each of the two or three active top leaders of the AFC is perceived to be otherwise brilliant in their field of
professional endeavours, they usually approach public information and political rebuttal in a skimpish, shallow and anecdotal way, usually short on facts. This approach lacks coordination, research, second thought and depth. As a result, more often than not, their approach is politically reactive; they will continually follow a political agenda dictated by others.
I will give several examples. The holding of their weekly press conference on Fridays is, in and of itself, an admission that they do not have and cannot generate content to set political narratives and agenda. They have to wait and hear what the Vice-President will say on Thursday so that they can slap together a response on Friday.
This approach is silly in so many ways; they do not give themselves enough time to conduct deep research and present robust responses. They just shoot off their mouths in the most simplistic, shallow and uncreative manner.
At the AFC press conference this past Friday, the ‘brilliant’ Dr. Adams pontificated that, Guyana’s income from oil will never be 50 + 2 per cent. Because of this tendency to shoot of their mouths at just about anything to try to oppose for opposition’s sake, being true to form, Dr. Adams has conflated the concepts of ‘cost oil’ with ‘profit oil.’
He was rebutting the Vice President’s assertions that in due course Guyana will receive its full share of 50 per cent
of revenues. Any little child would understand that the Vice-President was referring to ‘profit oil’ but not Vince. He wanted to dazzle the nation with his brilliance exclaiming that the Vice-President is misleading.
He guesstimated that 30 to 40 per cent of oil will go towards production costs and the difference of 60 per cent when split is no more than 30 per cent coming to the NRF.
Dear Dr. Adams, regardless of the size of the deductibles associated with production (cost oil), that which remain represents 100 per cent of “profit oil” which has to be split 50/50. Further, the two per cent royalty is taken from the gross of production and not an additional two per cent of profit. Therefore, the royalty fee will fluctuate as an overall percentage when juxtaposition directly against profit oil depending on the magnitude of cost oil.
For AFC’s lead person on oil and gas to be that callous, careless and shallow in his rebuttal to the most basic aspects of oil and gas is just pathetic, and proves my point about lack of forethought, creativity and coordination in the AFC. Dr. Adams spoke his misinformation so authoritatively and with such confidence but amounted to nothing more than a backward negative.
Dr. Adams got egg in his face by accusing the government of reneging on a promise to re-negotiate the current Stabroek Block PSA. There is no record anywhere of a promise to renegotiate
the PSA, it has been a firm and steadfast position of Granger’s PNC and the PPP/C, both in and out of government, to not force renegotiations.
It must be recalled that President Granger fired Jan Mangal from his advisory position, in part, because he held views that the agreement should be reviewed. All the while AFC flippedflopped on this issue, but one would’ve thought that AFC would be sensible enough to understand that it is shooting itself in the gut by continuing to pursue an issue that has zero political traction and value. Instead of paying close attention to the changes to future agreements and what contributions they can make to improving it, instead they are consumed with non-issues.
AFC also embarrassed itself a few weeks ago when they told the nation that the US EXIM Bank did not and could not get approval for the gas-energy project loan in the life of this current US congress.
Again, because they believe they are equal with the gods, it is easy for them to be misled, double-checking is not a feature of the knowit-alls, they latch on to any sliver of information and run to their Friday circus and shout eureka. As it turned out, the loan was fully approved; talk about egg in the face.
As if that is not enough, the AFC further tried to convince us that no feasibility or environmental studies were done for the project. I do not understand why Dr. Adams and the others in the AFC can’t see that this
argument is disingenuous and downright silly. What they are essentially saying to us is that, all the technical experts at the US EXIM bank sat down over a plain application and gave their stamp of approval to blank feasibility documents. They are saying that the same Biden administration that vetoed an IDB shore base loan for a project in Guyana, because it wasn’t satisfied that all the environmental waymarks were present, has now turned around and approved a project that didn’t even bother to run an Environmental Impact Assessment.
They are also saying the US Financial Services Committee chaired by Republican Patrick McHenry and Ranking Member Democrat Maxine Waters, both of whom are known for their strong environment legislative bias, overlooked environmental feasibility issues. This argument lacks basic understanding of elementary US financial processes. Even more embarrassing for AFC, imagine Exxon, an international business giant, got into partnership with the Gas-to-Energy project without counting the cost. Think about how ludicrous these claims are, but not the AFC ‘experts,’ they will shoot off their mouth anyway.
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.
Drafting, consultations continue for new Public Health Act
By Shamar Meusa
WITH massive transformation taking place in Guyana’s healthcare sector, the drafting and consultations for a new Public Health Act are still underway to modernise the country’s legislation.
This was according to Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, during a recent end-ofyear press conference.
The Health Minister said that, at its current draft stage, the new act already has some nine chapters.
When asked by the Guyana Chronicle about the process of drafting the new Public Health Bill, Dr. Anthony noted that it is still in draft form as it is a huge bill.
While noting that what is being attempted is quite new, he indicated that currently there are nine chapters of which each chapter is about 50 to 100 pages.
“So you can imagine the size of this bill and it covers everything from how do you regulate things like housing, [and] environment so it's a massive piece of work,” he noted.
The drafting of this act requires a multiagency approach and therein lies some of the challenges, Dr. Anthony said, noting that before things are confirmed they must ensure that it is aligned with the different agencies that would have to implement it.
“It would still require a lot more consultation but the first draft
is there and we will continue doing those consultations as we move forward,” the Health Minister said.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, had also noted that the drafting of this new Public Health Act was a massive undertaking.
He noted: “That will take some time, and we will have to do tremendous public consultations in relation to that bill, all the NDCs, all the RDCs, local government structure, will all have to be part of the consultation.
In mid-2023, Dr. Anthony indicated that while the government has constantly updated the country’s legislation to accommodate modernisation, they had started working on a new omnibus legislation for the country’s health sector.
The new piece of legislation will replace the Public Health Ordinance of 1934 which is just around 90 years old.
Since entering office, the Attorney General, in previous reports, told the Guyana Chronicle that it was necessary for the piece of ‘archaic’ legislation to be updated.
In a 2021 interview with this newspaper, Nandlall said that the Public Health Ordinance was outmoded and unfitting to reflect the current realities of society and since then a new Public Health Act was being formulated.
- legislation to replace 90-year-old Public Health Ordinance, Health Minister says
Approximately 2,500 individuals to obtain certificates of title this month
APPROXIMATELY
2,500 persons will soon acquire their certificates of title which gives them legal ownership of their lands.
On Friday, the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, said that the government will continue to execute its housing programme to ensure Guyanese from all walks of life achieve homeownership.
“To date, we have processed over 14,710 certificates of title… Close to 2,500 certificates of title will be processed, which are at the Land Registry waiting to be signed off. These titles will be available for distribution this month,” Minister Croal announced at the ministry’s year-end press conference.
Minister Croal said that the processing of titles will also benefit persons who were allocated plots of land in two areas of Region Three.
In 2024, the ministry processed more than 7,118 titles, representing a 13 per cent increase from 2023.
Minister Croal noted that the ministry has worked closely with its legal department and several agencies to be able to legally transfer certificates of titles to owners.
These agencies include Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), and Mahaica Mahaicony Abary (MMA) scheme.
Minister Croal said that the previous government processed 7,730 titles in the five years from 2015 to 2020. By comparison, the PPP/C administration distributed over 7,118 land titles in 2024 alone. (DPI)
Legal land ownership enables citizens to obtain loans from local banks for expansion projects or to start a business.
One million passengers transited through ports of entry in 2024
– Surpassing President Ali’s initial target of 2025
WITH one million international passengers transiting in and out of its ports, Guyana achieved a significant milestone in 2024, surpassing President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s initial prediction for 2025.
The staggering amount of travellers reflect the country’s massive economic development and the opportunities that come with it. Guyana is also gaining attention as a unique destination for its culture and wide variety of tourism products.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ramesh Ghir, made the disclosure on Saturday during a year-end press briefing.
At the end of 2024, Guyana recorded 1,072,785 passengers that were processed across four key ports of entry: the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Eugene Correia International Airport (Ogle), Lethem Border Crossing and Moleson Creek Crossing.
According to Ghir, this is 142,785 more passengers than the 930,000 processed in 2023, amounting to an increase of 15 per cent.
“A few years ago, President Irfan Ali did make a prediction that we will process a million passengers by 2025; we actually achieved that target in 2024,” the CEO said. He outlined that CJIA processed 826,000 pas -
sengers which represents a 17 per cent increase from 2023. Meanwhile, 72,000 passengers were processed at Ogle; 14,000 at Moleson Creek and 28,000 at Lethem.
Meanwhile, the international airport recorded a 17 per cent increase in international landings, largely attributed to the growth in the number of airlines that have made Guyana a destination point.
As such, seating increased from 1, 244,178 in 2023 to 1,491,909 in 2024. This represents a 20 per cent increase, improving affordability and choice for passengers.
“Additional aircraft seating means there is more choice as a passenger and it brings down the
cost of the ticket. That’s why it’s important that we have additional seats,” Ghir said.
The international airport continues to be a key driver of national economic growth, with efforts underway to modernise operations and enhance passenger experience. (DPI)
130km of roads rehabilitated under miscellaneous, urban roads programmes
- using 6,200 tonnes of asphalt, Public
By Trina Williams
UNDERSTANDING
that high-quality infrastructure is one of the backbones of achieving inclusive development, the government, through the Public Works Ministry, rehabilitated 130 kilometres (km) of roads under the miscellaneous and urban roads programmes.
This was revealed during the ministry’s 2024 end-of-year press conference on Saturday at Pegasus Suites.
According to the ministry, these roads were rehabilitated using 6,200 tonnes of asphalt.
While underscoring the magnitude of work that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has done since assuming office in 2020, Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, said that the bigger picture is often ignored by critics.
Highlighting that the government was also doing bonus work aside from what is in the PPP/ C’s 2020 manifesto, he said: “If we go back to the manifesto, you will see that we said, we will do 2,000 kilometres of hinterland roads. We've already, in four years, surpassed 2,500 kilometres.”
Additionally, some of the achievements
Works Ministry says
under public and main access roads include: Cemetary Road, Aubrey Barker Road, Conversation Tree Bypass, Lamaha/Dennis Street, Black Bush Polder Road, Mahaicony Branch Road, DeHoop Access Road and Lima Sands Access Road.
As for Farm Access Roads, these include: three km of Hubu Main Access, one km of Moleson Creek to El Dorado and 11 km of Sand Hills to Makouria Road.
Also, there were numerous achievements under hinterland roads in several regions.
For instance, in Region One (Barima-Waini), there were 21 contracts for 2.7km of concrete roads and 10 contracts for 9.8 km for all sub-districts.
In Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), there were seven contracts for 35 km of laterite road.
Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) had 42 contracts for 2.5km and
66 community participation contracts.
As for Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), seven contracts for 350km of laterite road and 1.5km each in four main villages.
In Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), 21 contracts for 14.6km, 16 contracts for one km in Kwakwani, 32 contracts for 2km in Ituni and 31 contracts for 2km in Coomaka.
In November, Vice
President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo highlighted that more than 3,000 community roads have been completed nationwide under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic administration, with small contractors playing a pivotal role in this transformative initiative.
In addition to road improvements, nearly 200 bridges are being constructed across Guyana. In Region Six, 45 of 46 bridges leading to Lethem are being replaced, enhancing connectivity.
Major projects such as the construction of two four-lane bridges— one across the river at Wismar and another underway—are reshaping the nation’s infrastructure landscape.
Key highways, including the East Bank, East Coast, and Berbice four-lane roads, are advancing rapidly, with significant developments transforming areas like Diamond and Crane.
“The East Bank is unrecognisable now,” Dr. Jagdeo remarked.
To address the critical issue of flooding, the government has ramped up efforts to enhance drainage systems.
Sixty new drainage pumps are being installed through a World Bank-funded project, along with the rehabilitation of 60 kokers and the construction of 19 pumping stations. Several Hope-like canals are also being built to direct water to the Atlantic Ocean.
Dr. Jagdeo said that this approach has allowed small contractors to thrive while delivering critical infrastructure. In Region Ten alone, over 300 contractors executed projects worth more than $4 billion.
UN chief condemns New Orleans truck attack
UNITED Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has condemned Wednesday’s truck attack that killed at least 15 people in the city of New Orleans.
Media reports indicated that a US male citizen had intentionally driven a pick-up truck into a crowd
of people celebrating the new year in the city’s French quarter, shortly after 03:00 hours local time.
The 42-year-old suspect was killed in a police shootout that injured two officers. His potential allegiance to ISIL extremists is under investigation after a flag of the terrorist or-
ganisation and improvised explosives were found in the rented vehicle and in other locations nearby, according to the FBI.
“The Secretary-General strongly condemns the attack in New Orleans, where a driver struck a crowd gathered to celebrate the New Year, re -
portedly killing at least 15 people and injuring over 30 others,” said his Associate Spokesperson, Florencia Soto Nino-Martinez.
“He extends his condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and to the Government and people of Louisiana and the United
States. He also wishes a swift recovery to those persons injured.”
The US authorities are also investigating possible links between the outrage and a deadly vehicle explosion in Las Vegas on Wednesday morning.
Reports indicated that a Tesla Cybertruck
exploded near the entrance of Trump International Hotel on New Year’s Day. Police said that the driver was killed and seven others were injured when a combination of fireworks, gas tanks and camping fuel was detonated. (UN News)
Bourbon Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, the scene of the horrific attack on New Year’s revellers
‘Legal contracts cannot be set aside simply because you think it’s unfair’
- MP Datadin slams Ram’s rant on renegotiation of ExxonMobil contract - challenges critics to provide real ‘legal grounds’ for renegotiation
MEMBER of Parliament and Attorney-at-Law, Sanjeev Datadin, on Sunday highlighted that legal contracts cannot just be set aside simply because one thinks it is unfair.
Datadin was at the time responding to an article which noted that analyst Christopher Ram had launched a scathing attack on President, Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo for not renegotiating the 2016 ExxonMobil deal.
In his response, the MP said that the petroleum agreement is again being discussed in a way that ignores clear legal principles and a sensible look from a realistic perspective.
Datadin noted that in the January 5 article, “Ram launches scathing attack on President, VP over refusal to renegotiate Exxon deal,” Ram expands his views that the contract should be renegotiated.
In this, he said Ram apparently published legal views on the renegotiation of the said contract.
argues that the Government of Guyana should renegotiate the ExxonMobil contract, he recognises the principle of ‘sanctity of contract’ as an obstacle, but refutes it as being a bar to a renegotiated contract, the MP sad.
enough. The then GoG and their slew of local and overseas advisers and themselves must be held accountable. That is where the fault lies.” he argued.
“It demonstrates a misunderstanding of contract law and reality; it ignores the destabilising effect such a course would cause to Guyana’s reputation as a safe space for foreign investment,” he said in his correspondence.
To this end, Datadin said that the argument put forward by Ram and a few others ignores the benefits which Guyana enjoys because of the pace and scale of the
However, Datadin indicated that advancing arguments which read well in textbooks but have little or no bearing in the real world is “naive.”
ExxonMobil investment here.
Providing insight, he indicated that the value of oil in the long term is uncertain, because of the pressure to move to non-fossil fuels.
This, he said, makes it a sensible policy for Guyana to seek to extract as much of its oil to be able to benefit from a price which would be to its economic benefit.
As such, Datadin affirmed that it benefits no citizen to leave oil in the ground when it may only yield meagre returns in the future.
However, while Ram
Datadin pointed out: “He offers no reasoned refutation, save and except his emotions and belief [that] he is right. It seems he has not recognised the sheer force of the principle in the civilised world. Its breach would have dire consequences and make Guyana an unfavourable place for foreigners to invest.”
The analyst, he said, referred to the new ‘religion of sanctity of contract’ as if to sarcastically diminish its value. However, Datadin said he would be advised that this has been the bedrock of contractual relations for centuries
Meanwhile, the attorney added that neither Ram nor the others who have argued to renegotiate in the past in their arguments recognise the effect of the ‘stabilisation clause’ in the contract.
This clause, he explained, makes it clear that if the contract were ever changed by renegotiation or by amendments to Guyana’s laws or the constitution, then the Government of Guyana must pay directly to Exxon the full value by which their financial gain is reduced by the new contract.
This clause, he added, will be enforceable in every situation except one in which there is consent from Exxon.
“It is universally accepted that the contract is lopsided and favours Exxon. However; legal contracts cannot be set aside simply because you think it’s unfair,” Datadin iterated.
Further to this, he noted that contracts are legally binding on the parties and unless one can demonstrate fraud, deceit or mistake, one cannot go back on their word.
As such, he asked those making the call for renegotiation to provide real legal grounds for the renegotiation.
“No amount of ‘falling on his own sword’ self-sacrifice by the signing Minister Raphael Trotman will be
To this end, he added that there can be no renegotiation without both parties consenting.
He iterated: “To continue this insane argument without offering a civilised and legally recognised solution is opportunistic and nothing more. Those advancing it are simply seeking their 15 minutes in the limelight.”
Datadin went on to add that the current administration has recognised the challenge and has sought to recover more for the country through the private sector, hence the local content act which has kept billions of dollars in Guyana via businesses.
The MP said: “To argue that Guyana can only and should only focus on recovering a larger share via the government is a fallacy. Guyana can recover by the government and the private sector; both combine for returns to the country.”
MP and Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin
Mashramani Street Football Championship to kick off on February 1
THE Seventh Annual Mashramani Street Football Championship is expected to kick off on February 1 with 32 teams vying for the coveted top prize in one of the country's premier 'small goal' football tournaments.
In a press release yesterday, hosts of the event, Sports Management Inc. (SMI) disclosed plans to host the 2025 version of the
competition. The organisation said that it is forced to include preliminary rounds in communities before the grand finals on February 15 at the National Park.
"Last year we hosted the event on one night, and a lot of teams complained about being left out, and not being given the opportunity to win the title.
We have come up with a way to address that this year, given the amount of teams that want to play in the tournament," the SMI said, adding:
"We will host three preliminary nights in Pouderoyen, Back Circle, and Mocha before the grand finals at the National Park on February 15.
“The semi-finals, thirdplace playoff, and finals will be held at the National Park." Stabroek Ballers are the defending champions in the tournament that featured 16 of the top teams last year, following its return.
In 2022, SMI hosted perhaps the biggest street football contest in Guyana's history; it was called the Magnum Mashramani Cup.
Following a hiatus in 2023, the sixth edition of the event returned to the annual 'small goal' calendar last year. "This event brings with it the weight of six years of hosting and developing similar tournaments across the country," SMI said in its release. Through its release, SMI thanked ANSA McAL Trading, MVP Sports, Nigel Hinds Financial Services, Cevons Waste Management, ENet, Corum Group, Fireside Grill and Chill, Starr Party Rentals, and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken for their continued support of "our initiatives, which are solely aimed at giving grassroots sports a prominent place in Guyana, and community development through positive youth participation in physical activity".
The winner will pocket $500,000, second place $300,000, third place $200,000, and fourth place $100,000. Trophies will be given to teams placing first to third, while prizes will be given to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, and the Most Goal Scorer.
Australia regain Border-Gavaskar trophy
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the silverware that had eluded them for a decade, and confirmed their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final alongside South Africa, after finishing off India inside three days at the SCG.
India's hopes of staying in contention for the WTC final rested on Jasprit Bumrah, but without him, those faded away. For someone who had a massive influence on this series, with the most wickets by an India bowler on a tour of Australia, it was a shame he couldn't play a part in the final act, though he had still done enough to be the Player of the Series.
After having left the SCG on the second day for scans on his back, Bumrah returned to bat at No. 11 on the third day, but wasn't fit to bowl. All the early visuals had portended Bumrah's absence. He didn't warm up with the other bowlers, and only did a bit of shadow-bowling. Then, after becoming the last
India batter to be dismissed, for a duck, he didn't take the field at all for India's defence of 161. Given his history of back issues, India had to wrap him in cotton wool.
The target was a substantial one for Australia, especially on this spicy SCG surface, but it did appear a whole lot smaller when Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna sprayed the new ball around. The pair conceded 12 runs, via wides and byes down the leg side in the first two overs. Though Prasidh tightened up and took three wickets, including that of Steven Smith, Bumrah's absence hung like Coleridge's albatross around India's neck. The batters didn't make it any easier for India's depleted attack. They lost 4 for 16 in 7.5 overs on the third morning to fold for 157. Scott Boland, who might not have played this series had Josh Hazlewood been fit, and might not be a certainty for Australia's next Test assignment in Sri Lanka, bagged his first ten-wicket haul in professional cricket
Pakistan put up solid resistance against South African bowlers
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Pakistan posted their highest opening stand against South Africa as Shan Masood and Babar Azam put up solid resistance against the hosts on a flat track.
to hasten India's collapse. Having taken four wickets on the opening day at the SCG, Boland added six to his tally - his second five-for in Test cricket since his 6 for 7 on debut, which was just as glorious.
Boland had started the day with a maiden, and continued to stalk both the edges by hitting a perfect length. He had Siraj caught at first slip, and castled Bumrah in the 40th over to wrap up India's innings. Boland then, fittingly, held the ball aloft, and led Australia off the field, with the SCG crowd giving him a rousing reception.
His captain, Cummins, had earlier accounted for Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Jadeja had been dropped by Smith in the slips on 6 on Day Two, but it cost Australia just seven runs, with Cummins going much fuller to kiss Jadeja's outside edge. He then nipped one through Washington's gate to expose India's tail to Boland.
Masood went past 30 for the first time in nine innings, and went on to score his sixth Test hundred and the first by a Pakistan captain in South Africa, while Babar, opening in place of the injured Saim Ayub, made 81.
The pair took a significant chunk out of their first-innings deficit of 421. Pakistan are now 208 behind, with nine wickets standing.
South Africa's five frontline bowlers were made to toil on a surface that remains good for batting despite showing signs of turn. They also bowled 23 noballs across the two innings so far - 10 in the ongoing second innings alone - and will be disappointed with their ill-discipline. Their only second-innings success came late in the day when Babar chased a full, wide ball from Marco Jansen, and edged it to slip. Nightwatcher Khurram Shahzad accompanied Masood to the end of the day.
After dismissing Pakistan for 194 midway through the afternoon session, South Africa enforced the follow-on
with an eye on wrapping things up early. But Kagiso Rabada and Jansen both erred on the side of too full, and only created one chance between them. Rabada found Masood's edge with the Pakistan captain on 18, but the ball flew through the vacant third slip region, leaving Rabada on his haunches.
The change bowlers, Wiaan Mulder and Kwena Maphaka, barely threatened, and Pakistan went to tea on 80 without loss. Rabada and Keshav Maharaj resumed for the evening session, and while Rabada tried a shortball tactic, Maharaj found turn, but Pakistan played them both well. Masood's fifty came when he pulled Rabada through mid-wicket, and Babar's came up with a
drive off Jansen. It was the second time in the day that Babar raised his bat to a half-century, after also getting to the milestone in the first innings, and his third successive fifty on this tour. As both settled in, South Africa's frustration boiled over, and Mulder flung the ball back at Babar as he stepped out of his crease to defend. He hit Babar on the shin, and words were exchanged before Umpire Dharmasena stepped in to cool things down. The only other bit of drama came when Rabada was convinced he had Masood lbw when he hit him on the knee roll, and South Africa were considering a review, but Rabada had overstepped.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Monday, January 6, 2025)
OF
ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
Brian Lara-1173 runs (12 Tests)
Mohammad Yousuf-1214 runs (8 Tests) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI bowler has claimed most Test wickets against PAK to date?
Which PAK bowler has bagged most Test wickets versus the WI to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
The Australians got their hands on the trophy after a long gap (Getty Images)
Shan Masood celebrates his hard-fought hundred (Gallo Images/Getty Images)
GDF ladies capture Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup
THE Guyana Defence Force ladies showed their pedigree on Saturday evening at the National Training Centre as they took both the first and second place honours when the Guyana Football Federation staged the final of the inaugural Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup 2024.
The nine-team league tournament which kicked off November 30 last year saw the Guyana Defence Force A and B teams vying for top honours in the final after they topped their respective groups.
GDF A were left unbeaten after the league phase with three wins in three with Guyana Police Force side topping the other group with three wins in four.
In the semis, also on Saturday, which featured the top two sides in both groups saw GDF B thrashing Fruta
Conquerors 6-nil and GDF
A team edging Guyana Police Force 1-nil to book their respective places in the finals.
In the final GDF’s A team showed class as they hammered their B team 7-1 to clinch the league championship trophy.
Sandra Johnson looked dangerous with every run into the B team’s 30-yard circle against a porous defence.
She was successful on three occasions after her relentless onslaught on the opposing team’s uprights, recording a hat trick while Glendy Lewis scored a brace and a pair of single strikes for Jalade trim and Patsy Walker.
Anastasa Horsham scored GDF B’s consolation goal as their club mates walked away with the top trophy and earned the prize of half a million dollars.
The GDF B team collected two hundred thousand dollars for second place.
In the third-place contest, it was an exhibition in goal scoring as a pair of goals from Amanda Mckenzie, Shontelle Greene and
Flourice Waldorn guided the GPF to a sound thrashing of Fruta Conquerors 10-nil to collect the one hundred thousand dollars on offer for third.
The six-week seven-aside competition also featured Lethem, Santos, Bartica and Potaro Strikers. The tournament was sponsored by the National Milling Company through their wheat-up brand with support from the Guyana Beverages Inc.
GHB head more optimistic than ever about a local artificial surface
PRESIDENT of the Guyana Hockey Board and Women’s head coach, Phillip Fernandes, says that he was more excited than ever about the prospect of a home for the sport.
“Right now, I feel we are closer than ever and simply because, the Minister of Sport and I have had several conversations but, even more importantly, the President mentioned it in his speech at the Saints event, the idea is to be in collaboration with the Hockey Board, if there is an artificial surface at Saints that the hockey board will also have some input or guidance about its installation and usage,” Fernandes said.
Last year his Excellency President Irfaan Ali gave the sport a lifeline when he announced an initiative in partnership with Saint Stanislaus College that will see the school - with support from their partners and private sector - developing an artificial surface for the sport at a plot of land at Durban Park. Fernandes said that Saints’ Hockey Club is a key member of the hockey fraternity and boasts one of the biggest nurseries; hence it would a good move to have them take the lead on the project.
spaces for the younger age groups, under 10’s, under 13’s and so on. Our senior season was quite disruptive because of the lack of facilities. Part of the year the weather was tough to deal with, once rain starts to fall, all the cricket grounds are then out of commission and certainly hockey will not be able to play on those.”
He said that makes the case for an artificial surface even stronger, adding, “This further enforces the need for a hockey home, …. if we try to do it with a grass field, the maintenance is heavy and the result is still not what is needed for top quality hockey. We desperately need an artificial pitch. It would require maintenance and a pitch to last at least 15 years no matter rain, or shine or any weather”.
“Saints is a very import-
ant part of the hockey board, it’s a vibrant club for us and we think it would be fantastic for the game and I’m optimistic, cautiously a bit, but I’m optimistic because I think there has been some conviction recently,” he added.
The GHB head said that while 2024 was a good year for them on the international scene, the increase cricket activity and unavailability of national gymnasium and grounds have severely hampered the domestic season.
“We were still able to run off some junior tournament during the year, because we have been able to use smaller
The country’s master’s team took silver at the World Masters Competition in Canada and the women collected bronze at the Pan American Challenge Series in Bermuda last year.
GDF FC women's Team celebrating after winning the Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup
flashback- Guyana's Women's team battling Brazil in the Pan American Challenge Series last year
President Ali using Sport Tourism as major development pillar
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has highlighted the transformative potential of sport in fostering unity and driving economic growth through tourism in Guyana.
During his comprehensive end-of-year press conference for 2024, President Ali detailed how the nation is strategically positioning itself to become a leading destination for sport and entertainment in the region.
The President noted a significant surge in hotel
developments nationwide, underscoring the importance of aligning these with investments that appeal to tourists.
"Our vision is clear: To ensure that every new hotel is filled with visitors drawn by the vibrant culture and sporting events we offer," he asserted. This strategic approach aims to capitalise on the burgeoning tourism sector as a pivotal component of Guyana's economic framework.
Visitor statistics from
January to October 2024 reflect a 15% increase over the same period in 2023, with nearly 300,000 tourists exploring the country's rich offerings.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce
Oneidge Walrond highlighted these figures as a testament to the government's successful initiatives and promotional efforts. Substantial investments in sports infrastructure are a key element of this strategy. President Ali elaborated on
plans to expand facilities for various sports, including car racing, horseracing, cricket, and football. These developments aim to enhance local participation, and attract international attention and visitors.
"Sport tourism is an integral part of our strategy," the President emphasised, "and we are committed to making events like car racing and cricket major attractions."
In a landmark initiative for 2024, the government
launched the Global Super League, a new T20 Franchise League that brought together teams from Guyana, Bangladesh, Australia, Pakistan, and England.
These matches, held at the National Stadium in Providence, showcased Guyana’s capacity to host international sporting events, and further cemented its reputation as a dynamic sports destination.
President Ali’s overarching goal is to establish Guyana as a premier hub
for entertainment and sport tourism.
By leveraging sport as a catalyst, the government aims to not only boost visitor numbers but also stimulate broader economic expansion.
This ambitious vision is a testament to the administration’s dedication to transforming Guyana into a vibrant and economically robust nation, with sport playing a central role in that transformation.
Regional four-day title defence…
President Ali using Sport Tourism as major development pillar
Harpy Eagles trial matches set to begin Thursday
THE Harpy Eagles will begin preparation for their title defence of the Regional Four-Day Championship with two trial matches from Thursday.
According to a release from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), the two upcoming practice matches will aid in their preparation for the tournament.
These games are set to play a vital role in forming a robust
squad to retain the Four-Day Championship title, and also provide a good platform for players to impress selectors, according to the GCB.
The two squads are:
SAVORY’S XI: Matthew Nandu, Raymond Perez, Zeynul Ramsammy, Kemol Savory (Captain & Wicketkeeper), Akshaya Persaud, Richie Looknauth, Junior Sin -
clair, Ashmead Nedd, Nityanand Mathura, Thaddeus Lovell, Isai Thorne, Chris Harry, Demeter Cameron, and Joshua Persaud.
TAGENARINE’S XI: Tagenarine Chanderpaul (Captain), Sachin Singh, Adrian Sukwah (Wicketkeeper), Kandhiya Ramkaran, Usherdeva Balgobin, Kevlon Anderson, Jonathan Van Lange, Veerasammy Permaul,
Riyad Latiff, Joshua Jones, Nial Smith, Syrus Tyndall, Jonathan Rampersaud, and Rampersaud Ramnauth.
The GCB has also invited six promising players to participate in the series: Antony Adams, Ashraf Ali Budhoo, Yeudestir Persaud, Golcharran Chulai, Romeo Deonarine, and Bruce Vincent.
The first match begins at 14:00hrs on Thursday, with the
second set for January 15 from 10:00hrs.
Games will be played at the National Stadium, at Providence.
Following the two games, the Guyana Harpy Eagles will begin their Regional Four-Day Championship campaign with the first match against Barbados Pride at the same location, starting Wednesday, January 29, 2025.