- President Ali says, points to ongoing efforts to achieve universal secondary education, as new Yarrowkabra Secondary School officially opens - some 26 new schools being built nationwide; three more to be opened by next week
- not influencers, social media commentators, ordinary citizens, Dr. Jagdeo assures citizens - says gov’t remains committed to freedom of expression
to be the target of new Cybercrime Act - highlights opportunities for Afro-Guyanese under PPP/C gov’t
- Dr. Jagdeo emphasises, says opposition parties lack proven track record
[Delano Williams photos]
Conducive learning environment being created at every level
- President Ali says, points to ongoing efforts to achieve universal secondary education, as new Yarrowkabra Secondary School officially opens - some 26 new schools being built nationwide; three more to be opened by next week
By Shaniya Harding
PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, commissioned the new Yarrowkabra Secondary School, which will facilitate over 1,000 students, as part of ongoing efforts nationwide to not just increase the number of classrooms but to also create a conducive learning environment at every level.
The new facility on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, replaced seven primary top schools in the region. This state-of-theart facility is just one of 26 being built around the country, with several others slated to open within the next week.
The massive multimillion-dollar school marks a major leap for the nation's education sector as well the government's agenda.
According to the Head of State, Yarrowkabra Secondary School is the next step in delivering on the mandate of top-notch education to all of Guyana's children.
Minster of Water and Housing, Collin Croal; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy, and
officials of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, also joined in celebrating this milestone with the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand and her ministry.
The Head of State,
conducive learning environment.”
“Today, we are celebrating collective work. We are celebrating collective spirit. And we are celebrating commitment and the result of hard work,” Dr. Ali said.
He further emphasised
in outlining the government’s agenda, said: “Our goal is not solely to increase the number of classrooms. We are also dedicated to creating a
He added: “We firmly believe that universal access to secondary education should not be considered optional. It is an indispensable right for every child.”
Addressing the massive crowd, President Ali said the commissioning of the school was the result of a collaborative effort.
the importance of planning in the government’s many successful projects.
“Building a school is not just about the construction and the building,
it is about the planning, the identification of land, and the integration of that infrastructure in community life,” Dr. Ali said.
Progress is slated to continue in the coming weeks and months, with the President aiming to develop education in the hinterland region of Guyana. A long-held goal of the administration, President Ali said that developing education is crucial to the development of the country.
“We are committed to establishing high-quality education institutions in rural communities, ensuring that every child can access a top-class education without the need for distance learning,” the Head of State said.
Giving a brief outline of the ministry's ongoing works, Minister Manickchand said that the commissioning of Yarrowkabra Secondary School is the first of several others taking place in the coming weeks.
"Tomorrow [today], President Ali will open Zeelugt Primary in Region Three, and I will open St. Gabriel's Nursery in Georgetown. On Saturday, I will turn the sod in Ore-
alla, Region Six, to build a school there," she said.
The minister further added: “President Ali is currently building 26 secondary schools in Guyana.”
Yarrowkabra Secondary is impressive not only because of its facilities but also because the school is already in need of expansion, with more classrooms being needed to accommodate the influx of children from neighbouring regions. To facilitate the children, a bid has already been placed for the necessary expansion.
She explained: “We started this school last year, and we already need 10 new classrooms, which the Permanent Secretary has already put out to bid.”
In the government's approach to education, the President affirmed that just as much effort is being placed into the human resources aspect of the education sector, primarily teachers, as it is on the infrastructural side. The aim, the Dr. Ali said, is to have the nation's schools deliver the highest quality education, with every child benefitting.
A plaque was unveiled to mark the occasion
President, Dr. Mohammed Irfaan Ali interacting with some Home-Economics students at the Yarrowkabra Secondary School
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Thursday, commissioned the new Yarrowkabra Secondary School, as part of ongoing efforts nationwide to not just increase the number of classrooms but also create a conducive learning environment at every level (Delano Williams photos)
APNU+AFC’s tenure in office ‘most corrupt’ in country’s history
— Dr. Jagdeo emphasises, says opposition parties lack proven
HIGHLIGHTING
several malpractices and the blatant disregard for the law from 2015-2020, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday said that this period under the A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government was the most corrupt in Guyana’s history.
Dr. Jagdeo, during his weekly news conference, while responding to critics from the opposition, countered claims of corruption and pointed to the coalition’s lack of a track record.
“After making all the lofty promises that they did, after claiming that they were not corrupt, and they were clean and they had all the plans to change Guyana, we now realise that period was a period when in which we had the most corruption in our entire history,” the General Secretary said.
During the coalition’s tenure in government, Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that the administration had bypassed the procurement process, giving contracts
to companies that were aligned to their party.
The General Secretary further noted that the critics and sections of the local media have failed to acknowledge the blatant malpractices, pointing to the suspension of the country’s procurement process.
“That was the situation then… If you look today, in spite of all
track record
the talk about procurement problems under the PPP, it is transparently done; people bid for projects, they may not be happy with the process but they have a means that is in the act to protest,” Dr. Jagdeo pointed out.
The PPP/C Government has been working to address the challenges and shortcomings within the local public procurement process. The government, he said, has been engaging stakeholders to improve the process.
Shifting his attention to the country’s Integrity Commission Act, Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that PPP/C ministers had continuously complied with the Integrity Commission Act since 2,000, including filing statements of assets and income.
The General Secretary highlighted too that there is evidence that points to large-scale land transfers without financial compensation and awarding contracts to companies associated with coalition members.
Dr. Jagdeo, while defending his government’s efforts to boost transparency and better the lives of citizens, said that in the past four years, the PPP/C administration has been making progress across all sectors, improving the delivery of healthcare, education and advancing public infrastructure.
According to Dr. Jagdeo, the PPP/C Government has restored hope to the Guyanese populace and will continue to fulfil its mandate of service to the people.
He noted that Aubrey Norton, the leader of the opposition, has not complied with these demands.
PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Venezuela opposition leader Machado wants
US to do ‘much more’ on
VENEZUELA opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said on Thursday she wants the United States to do "much more" to press President Nicolas Maduro amid an ongoing dispute over July's presidential election.
Democracies around the world have criticised the Venezuelan government's handling of the July 28 vote, which election officials and its top court say was won by Maduro, who has been in power since 2013. Authorities have not released full tallies, blaming a cyber-attack.
But ballot box-level tallies posted by the opposition show a resounding victory for its coalition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. Election observers, including the Carter Center and a United Nations panel of experts, have said the vote was unfair.
By way of an initial punitive measure, the United States had drafted a list of around 60 Venezuelan government officials and their family members who could face sanctions and U.S. visa bans, sources told Reuters last month.
But it has not yet taken action.
U.S. officials have since been narrowing down the names of potential targets, which could include members of Venezuela's electoral council, senior judges, lawmakers, and security and intelligence commanders, according to two people familiar with the matter. The timing of
election dispute
any measures remains unclear.
Venezuelan officials - including Maduro and many in his inner circle - and its key oil industry are already subject to wide sanctions by both the U.S. and the European Union.
"I certainly think the United States should do much more and I have been very clear to them and to other countries," Machado told an online press conference on Thursday, adding that there were international mechanisms to punish those who violate human rights.
"We are considering a range of options to demonstrate to Maduro and his representatives that their misgovernance in Venezuela has consequences," a State Department spokesperson said, adding they had nothing to announce at this time.
The White House did not immediately answer
Reuters questions about Machado's remarks.
An end to the Maduro era would also be to the advantage of international investors and creditors, Machado said.
Estimates of how much Venezuela owes creditors vary from $60 billion to $150 billion.
"Companies should understand that it is in their best interest, as well as Venezuela's creditors, for a transition to proceed as fast as possible, and to not support the regime," Machado said.
U.S. oil producer Chevron (CVX.N), opens new tab received a license from
the Treasury Department in 2022 allowing it to expand oil output in Venezuela and resume crude exports to the United States.
Since last year, European companies including Repsol (REP.MC), opens new tab and Maurel & Prom (MAUP.PA), opens new tab have also received U.S. authorizations to expand businesses with state oil company PDVSA.
Chevron, Repsol and Maurel & Prom did not immediately reply to comment requests.
WARRANTS AND WORRY
At least two dozen people died at post-election
protests and several major opposition figures have been detained.
Maduro's government calls the opposition a fascist movement allied with imperialist forces abroad and blames it for the protest deaths. Opponents and human rights groups accuse the government of carrying out a campaign of repression.
Brazil and Colombia, whose leaders have traditionally had friendlier relations with Maduro, expressed profound concern this week over an arrest warrant issued for Gonzalez, which followed weeks of comments from Venezuelan government officials that Gonzalez, Machado and other members of the opposition should be jailed.
Brazilian foreign policy adviser Celso Amorim called it "an authoritarian escalation," while Colombia's foreign minister said the presidents of Colombia, Brazil and Mexico may hold a call with Maduro to express their position. The call has not yet taken place.
Gonzalez's lawyer Jose Vicente Haro met with Attorney-General Tarek Saab on Wednesday to hand in an affidavit outlining why
he and Gonzalez believe Gonzalez violated no laws and why the erstwhile candidate did not attend three summons to testify about the opposition's vote tally website.
Saab told journalists on Thursday that the document was "inappropriate", and that the warrant for Gonzalez, 75, remained valid.
Saab's comments showed that Gonzalez "does not have any constitutional guarantees," Haro said.
"The attorney general has practically convicted him, he hasn't just attributed crimes to him, but convicted him of things for which he has no responsibility," Haro said. "He wants to put him in a situation of privation of liberty ... to then deny his rights."
Venezuelan law does not allow those over 70 to serve sentences in jails, instead requiring house arrest.
Asked about a US sailor detained in Venezuela, Saab said the sailor had a Mexican passport and had entered the country without any documentation or justification.
Venezuela’s opposition leader Maria Corina Machado is seen on a laptop screen during a virtual press conference with foreign media, in Caracas, Venezuela, September 5, 2024 (REUTERS/Gaby Oraa)
No Substitute for Democracy
DEMOCRACY is the foundation for all modern societies. Authoritarianism, by contrast, is the antithesis of democracy and the rule of the majority. Wherever such forms of governance rear their ugly head, it must be condemned by all those who cherish the ideals of democracy and democratic forms of governance.
The PPP/C administration has taken a principled and consistent stance when it comes to the question of democracy and human rights. Indeed, there is a positive correlation between democracy and respect for human rights, as enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration
of Human Rights, and the UN Democratic Charter.
Unfortunately, there are still cases where democracy is being subverted and/or selectively applied to justify authoritarian forms of governance. And while each country is free to come up with its own governance algorithm, any departure from the principle of 'one man, one vote' in free and fair elections, and on the basis of political pluralism, is fraught with dangers of one kind or another.
In other words, no society can be free when the will of the people is violated or imposed upon, purportedly under the guise
of 'benevolent dictatorship'.
This is why the PPP, from its very inception, has embraced the principles of political and ideological pluralism and representative democracy, based on free, fair and certified elections. This point was re-emphasised by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali during his recent address to the 46th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.
According to President Ali, democracy in many countries is highly politicised. However, the true meaning of the word reflects all aspects of society and economic development.
“Democracy is that
engine that drives development; the shield that protects human dignity, and the framework that enables society to thrive. When democracy flourishes, so, too, does economic development. When the rights of people are upheld, when their voices are heard, and when representatives act in their best interests, nations are empowered to reach their full potential,” President Ali said.
In some societies, unfortunately, elections are a mere formality with predictable results. In some cases, opposition parties are either banned, or their leaders jailed or exiled. Guyana has had its fair
share of undemocratic rule, especially during the pre-1992 period, when all national and regional elections were massively rigged by the then PNC regime.
And even though elections since 1992 were largely free and fair, Guyana is not completely, as it were, out of the woods, as fresh attempts were made by the APNU+ AFC to derail democracy in the March 2020 General and Regional Elections.
It was the combined impact of the local and international communities, including the Commonwealth Observer Group, that literally saved the day
for democracy in Guyana.
True enough, there is no perfect democracy, especially in politically and ethnically diverse societies. Be that as it may, there is no substitute for democratic values, based on full respect for the will of the people in free, fair and transparent elections. The people is sovereign, and it is their democratic will that must at all times be the basis of governance.
The PPP/C administration must be commended for the measures taken to enrich our democracy to higher levels of participation and inclusivity.
Mayor Mentore needs to stop dodging the facts!
Dear Editor,
I WRITE in response to Mayor Mentore's latest attempt at obfuscating the facts around this most reprehensible policy aimed at exempting the PNC/AFC from paying their fair share of rates and taxes.
In his latest risible contortion, the mayor finally admits that he was not truthful when he wrote that the policy "... establishes a 25 per cent institutional rate for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) AND political parties."
He now claims that "...a well-crafted policy to provide a framework to apply
the institutional rate of 25 per cent to one category of organisations – political parties – was discussed and approved. The policy does not mention non-governmental organisations because it was not necessary." Thank you, Mayor Mentore. Though revealed in bits and pieces, the truth has finally come to light. Furthermore, the meeting’s minutes will reveal that the policy presented to the Council was so vague and poorly written that it had to undergo several revisions before being passed, with approval coming solely from PNC councillors. Contorting himself further, Mayor Mentore attempts
to deliver a misguided lecture on the distinction between a policy and a decision. However, his attempt at obfuscation does not change the facts of the matter: On August 26, the PNC councillors voted to exempt political parties from their tax obligations. This is particularly outrageous, given the Mayor's own admission of the city's ongoing budget struggles, which have led to diminished services such as solid waste management, drainage, public health, and security.
Editor, I wish to make clear that political parties are NOT social welfare organisations. A social welfare organisation exists to
improve societal well-being through services like charity, advocacy, and community development, remaining largely apolitical and non-partisan. Its focus is on addressing social issues without seeking political power.
A political party, however, is explicitly designed to gain political control, shape government policies, and compete in elections. While social welfare organisations assist communities, political parties aim to govern them, making their pursuit of influence and authority central to their mission.
Finally, if the policy is as well-crafted as His Worship claims, then he ought to have
no problems answering the following questions:
1) What is the potential impact of the proposed rate reduction on the City coffers?
(2) What is the potential impact of the proposed rate reduction on current real estate assets held by political parties and the classification of such assets in the future?
(3) Who sent the letter requesting rate reductions?
(4) What is the AFC's role in this matter?
(5) What is the value of the benefits the AFC would receive from this relief?
Mayor Mentore must be held accountable for his continued obfuscations and misleading statements. The fact
remains that on August 26, the PNC councillors voted to exempt political parties from paying their fair share of taxes, a decision that directly contradicts the city's urgent need for revenue. No amount of evasive language or shifting narratives can change this truth.
It is time for Mayor Mentore to stop dodging the facts and answer for his role in pushing through this indefensible policy.
Yours respectfully, Alfonso DeArmas PPP/C Councillor
A sample of people who criticise the Guyana Government
THIS society and the Guyanese Diaspora are filled with some minds that are so contorted that the greatest psychoanalysts cannot mend them. On this very page last year, I wrote that Guyana, outside of the US, is the country with the most overbearing humans.
People in this country, out of hate for the government, write and speak degenerate things that are unbecoming of humans living in the 21st Century. You take a sample of these utterances, and they leave you numb for days, because you look around Guyana and you wonder if it is another world you are living in.
Governments must be criticised because they are not infallible; all governments make mistakes. All democratic governments know that many of the intellectual criticisms that float around the society contain some valid contestations. Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, in his just released book on leadership (see my column on it in my last Wednesday piece) advised leaders to pay attention to criticism.
But governments and
citizens learn from castigations when they are rational, reasonable, respectful, but, very importantly, intellectually shaped so people can learn from the points that are outlined. Critiques of government are part of the democratic landscape. I know of no leader in the world that would watch a journalist full in the eyes and tell that journalist he/ she wished his/her country did not have an opposition or civil society, or an independent media. Minister Bishop Juan Edghill openly said on the Freddie Kissoon Show that an opposition is needed because it keeps government on its toes.
What we have in Guyana that passes for civil society
is tragic; to use that term is most appropriate. The two privately-owned newspapers can hardly be distinguished from opposition parties. The Stabroek News ridiculed the President’s choice of clothes (an aesthetic field that only a foolish mind would venture into), accused the leadership of the ruling party of misuse of the English language, and plain lucky to be in government.
One civil society activist that heads an important NGO referred, on different occasions, to me and a senior minister of government as being ugly. Can you imagine this is what condemnations of the government includes?
All of these criticisms should never enter the vocab-
ulary of political discourse in any country, and the Guyanese people should never accept these immoral misconduct from anti-government critics, because they lower our standing in the world. Intellectuals in society have a patriotic duty to expose this degeneracy.
Apart from the Stabroek News mentioned above, one can offer countless examples of how the contorted mind in Guyana is shaped. One situation that still has me confused is Red Thread. No one can make sense of what Read Thread did, and what Red Thread did was motivated by anti-government hatred. But if you do not like a government, should it push you to go to any length to destroy
your credibility?
Once more, for readers who missed the sordid side of anti-government behaviour, here is Red Thread (RT) for you. The organisation (in fact RT consists about five persons) issued a press release with a demand that the police investigate a threat against the group. What is this threat that should galvanise the police to devote their overburdened time to?
RT read something on social media purported to have come from the Guyanese Critic. Here is what RT read and, amazingly, and unwisely believed it or used it to stem its fading rock-star fame. The licence plate of a man driving a white Toyota car, stated: We will attack RT head office, then move to assault the US Embassy. He was paid G$10 million by one of Guyana’s wealthiest entrepreneurs.
Incredibly, in its press release, RT openly said it does not know the businessman, and has never written or said anything about him. Commonsense should have led RT in two directions: Contact Guyanese Critic to ascertain if the social media post came from him, and,
secondly, why would a man that doesn’t know you, and you don’t know him, want to kill you.
This is how anti- government activists behave in this country. How can anyone take GHK Lall seriously? This man wrote that the government was behind an attack on television personality, Travis Chase. Why would the government leave dozens and dozens of people who relentlessly sermonise against it and select an unimportant person like Chase? This is the kind of mind GHK Lall has, and it spills over into the society.
Mr. Ralph Ramkarran publicly said in an interview that for levelling some criticism against certain civil society groups, he received a “good cussing down”. Do you want to know who did the cussing down? It was an anti-government critic. See what I mean?
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.
Issuance of e-ID cards expected by year-end
NOTABLE progress is being made in the launch of the government’s national electronic identification card (e-ID) system, with the issuance of the first card expected before the end of the year.
This is according to the Ministry of Finance’s 2024 mid-year report, which emphasised the strides made in the first half of the year to improve access to government services at reduced cost and processing times.
The electronic cards will encompass an array of services, including e-health and e-schools.
At a recent press conference, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo explained that the preparation process is a tedious one, and local stakeholders are working assiduously to prepare a comprehensive database for efficient application.
“We want to build a whole range of things. It would transform all these sectors, including police, and security matters,” he said.
These cards will not replace the identification
cards issued by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), but would rather complement them.
In 2023, the government signed a US$35.4 million contract for a robust national identity management system that focuses on integrating identification services across government agencies, security, ease of use, and acquisition of IDs.
The implementation of the electronic ID card, coupled with the principles outlined in the recently passed Data Protection Bill will cohesively create a comprehensive digital reservoir of personal information.
The cards will also enable hassle-free travel through the planned Electronic Passport Control System at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
This system will facilitate the processing of travellers’
identification in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
Works are currently underway on the establishment of kiosks, electronic passports and e-gates by the end of 2024.
The government’s drive to enhance service delivery encompasses strategic investments in information and communications technology (ICT) through other programmes including health, education, and security.
The report noted that works are ongoing for the execution of the first phase of a structured digital master plan slated to be completed by the end of the year.
“This phase will see the digitalisation of several processes for greater access to government services and government-issued certificates,” the missive stated.
Progress has also been made on fully enforcing the SAFE country programme and the Safe Road Intelligence System (SRIS), which are expected to be completed by year-end.
Moreover, a comprehensive Education Man -
agement Information System (EMIS) is currently being implemented in 670 schools and is expected to be rolled out in all schools by the end of the year. (DPI)
Minister McCoy condemns habitual instigators of deceptive politics, division — highlights
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy has condemned the vile lies, racial manipulation and fearmongering perpetuated by a cadre of habitual detractors of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government.
Among the critics he named were Guyanese Rickford Burke, a resident of the United States, whom he described as "a notorious agitator and wanted man," and retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Slowe, who is accused of sexual assault.
According to Minister McCoy, these individuals are “bereft of integrity and vision, and seek only to derail the transformative progress Guyanese are experiencing today.”
opportunities for Afro-Guyanese under PPP/C gov’t
He said Burke and Slowe recently appeared on a Grenadian talk show, eagerly spreading their venomous propaganda with reckless disregard for the truth, in a bid to stoke the flames of division within our society.
“These characters, evidently intoxicated by their own venom, are entrenched in the most insidious forms
of political deceit, exploiting historical grievances, and weaponising them for personal and political gain,” he added.
The minister made it resoundingly clear to Burke, Slowe, and their cohort “that this PPP/C Government, along with the resilient people of Guyana, will not bow to their baseless tactics,
Slowe are not voices of reason but relics of a past marred by division and hostility. They position themselves as champions of the people, but their actions speak of nothing more than a deep-seated hatred for any authority that dares to stand against their narrow, self-serving agenda.
Afro-Guyanese that their aspirations are not their own, that their achievements are illegitimate, and that their loyalty must be measured by their adherence to a toxic ideology.
nor be silenced by the cacophony of those who offer nothing but chaos and destruction.”
He added: “Their rhetoric is not that of legitimate dissent, but a brazen assault on public order designed to manipulate and frighten the very people they pretend to represent.”
Minister McCoy emphasised that Burke, with his long history of inciting racial hatred and engaging in seditious conduct, stands accused of multiple serious offences under Guyanese law.
He said: “His actions are not just a series of criminal missteps; they represent a sustained effort to undermine the government, sow discord among the population, and orchestrate criminal activities aimed at extorting money from businesses.”
He said that Burke’s call for the burning of Georgetown “are indicative of a desperate attempt to resurrect the destructive past of “mo-fire, slow fire,” a People’s National Congress (PNC)-led campaign characterised by looting, violence, and chaos that terrorised businesses and ordinary citizens alike.”
Burke’s conduct, along with Slowe’s, is not about offering a principled alternative, or even constructive criticism, the minister said.
Rather, he noted, it represents a calculated effort to destabilise Guyana’s hardwon progress against rigged elections, failed economic policies and social injustices.
He added: “Burke and
“They thrive on perpetuating a narrative of division, using every opportunity to undermine the achievements of Afro-Guyanese and other citizens who are embracing the opportunities that this government has worked tirelessly to create. Burke’s contempt for those who engage with this government is blatant. Recently, he called for the boycott of Afro-Guyanese-owned businesses in Brooklyn, New York, simply because those business owners exercised their constitutional right to engage with President Irfaan Ali during his visit to the US.”
This kind of rhetoric, according to him, is not about uplifting Afro-Guyanese, but about keeping them chained to a narrative of perpetual victimhood, where their success is always questioned, their motives always maligned, and their loyalty always in doubt.
“Instead of recognising the achievements of Afro-Guyanese entrepreneurs, public servants, and ordinary citizens who are making significant strides in various sectors -- whether through access to quality education, improved healthcare, affordable housing, or thriving business ventures— Burke and his cohorts deride them as sellouts and traitors to their race,” Minister McCoy said.
This form of race-baiting, he lamented, is nothing more than an attempt to keep the community divided, to foster an environment where success is viewed with suspicion and where collaboration with the government is painted as betrayal.
Minister McCoy went on to say: “It is a cynical ploy to maintain control over a narrative that tells young
“The truth is that the PPP/C Government has opened the doors to unprecedented opportunities for all Guyanese, irrespective of race or background. Afro-Guyanese, like their fellow citizens, are benefiting from a robust economy, increased access to homeownership, expanded healthcare services, enhanced educational opportunities through scholarships, and significant investments in infrastructure that are transforming communities across the country. This progress is not the preserve of one group but a national success story that reflects the inclusive and forward-thinking policies of this administration.”
According to the Public Affairs Minister, the vision for Guyana by Burke and others is for the nation to be one mired in conflict, where progress is held hostage by a few self-anointed gatekeepers who profit from division and despair.
He made it clear that the government will not be cowed by those who peddle lies and prey on historical grievances, adding that it is committed to building a future where all Guyanese can thrive, where economic opportunities are accessible to everyone, and where shared prosperity is celebrated, not denigrated.
“To the detractors who traffic in deceit and discord, we send a clear message: your lies will not prevail. The people of Guyana are not your pawns, and our nation will not be held captive by your politics of fear and division. We will continue to march forward, unbowed and united, determined to build a future that honours the contributions of every citizen and rejects the poisonous narratives that seek to divide us,” McCoy said.
Minister of Public Affairs Kwame McCoy
Rickford Burke Paul Slowe
‘Reject agenda-driven misrepresentations, demand truth from Kaieteur News’
— Natural Resources Ministry
says; emphasises government’s commitment
to transparency, accountability
The following is the full text of a statement from the Ministry of Natural Resources in response to Kaieteur News:
“The Ministry of Natural Resources takes this opportunity to respond to the latest iteration of lies and misrepresentations from the opposition entity, Kaieteur News.
The newspaper’s lead article of September 3, 2024, is headlined: “Guyana in the dark on how much oil is being deducted by Exxon for its operations – Int’l lawyer says matter is of serious concern.”
It quotes Melinda Janki as saying: “The Petroleum Agreement says that Exxon, Hess and CNOOC can take as much oil as they need for the operations.”
This is a blatant and un-
fortunate misrepresentation of the facts. Article 11.9 of the Petroleum Agreement states: “The Contractor shall have the right to use in any Petroleum Operations as much of the production as may reasonably be required by it therefor and the quantities so used or lost shall be excluded from any calculations of Cost Oil and/or Cost Gas and Profit Oil and/ or Profit Gas entitlement.”
These provisions are aligned with international best practices and transparency standards. It is common knowledge that crude oil, which ExxonMobil extracts offshore Guyana, cannot be used for fuel in its natural, unrefined form. It must be refined into fuel products. Presently, there are no refining operations in Guyana for the
crude oil produced offshore.
The crude is exported to international markets where it is refined into various petroleum products.
The ‘production’ for use in offshore operations, as referenced in the Agreement, is not crude oil but natural gas. Most of the natural gas extracted offshore
overview of gas injected, flared and used for fuel.”
The government continues to place emphasis on transparency and accessibility regarding information about the sector.
This data, going back to the genesis of offshore oil production, is transparently reported on the Data Centre and can be accessed through the following link: https:// petroleum.gov.gy/data-visualization?tid=206.
is reinjected, while a portion is processed, removing impurities, so that it is useful as fuel.
Kaieteur News answers its own misinformation in the very article, by stating that the data on the Ministry of Natural Resources Petroleum Management Programme “provides an
That this article by Kaieteur News was not deemed defeated by the very facts it presents, speaks volumes about its fundamental misunderstandings regarding the oil and gas industry. It also demonstrates that the claims of its commentators are not subjected to a shred of scrutiny. Rather, the only litmus test these claims must
pass, in the eyes of Kaieteur News, is that they portray the work of the Government of Guyana negatively.
“The Ministry urges readers to reject such agenda-driven misrepresentations and demand truth from Kaieteur News. Going forward, if there is any level of confusion about the data that has been in the public for years, the Ministry stands ready to provide context and clarity. The Ministry will continue to ensure that the public is kept apprised of improvements to its monitoring and regulatory capabilities regarding the petroleum sector. The Ministry remains a transparent, accessible and responsible steward of Guyana's oil and gas industry.”
Toll-free bridges will lead to significant savings for the ordinary man
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has strongly defended the government’s move to make major bridges toll-free, highlighting significant benefits for the ordinary man, once implemented.
At the commissioning of the multi-million-dollar Schoonord to Crane Highway, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced that when the construction of the new Demerara River Crossing, Berbice River Bridge, or the new Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge is completed, payment would not be required.
“It’s not monkeys that will cross the bridge; it’s our people. They would have big savings if they crossed the bridge; they would all benefit, including
Norton, if he takes a trip across Region Three or goes across the bridge in Wismar,” Dr. Jagdeo said during his press conference on Thursday. This significant step
will bring greater ease in travel, while eliminating financial burdens on commuters.
The US$260 million Demerara River Bridge is a key component of
— Dr. Jagdeo says
the government’s strategy to alleviate traffic congestion, and foster greater connectivity between Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), and Four (Demerara-Mahaica).
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
Currently, bridge-crossing tolls range from $40 for motorcycles to $700 for motor lorries, while cars and minibuses pay $200.
In Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), a bridge connecting Wismar to Mackenzie is underway, and once completed, commuters will also enjoy free trav-
el across it. This project is slated for a 2026 completion.
On the other hand, the government is in discussions to acquire the Berbice Bridge, and once negotiations are completed, the toll to cross the Berbice Bridge will also be eliminated.
“Governments work for the people, and it’s a good initiative if they would afford it,” Dr. Jagdeo further underscored.
The General Secretary also rubbished the contention that this was an autocratic move, making it clear that full discussions were held on these issues.
Criminals to be the target of new Cybercrime Act
— not influencers, social media commentators, ordinary citizens, Dr. Jagdeo assures citizens — says gov’t remains committed to freedom of expression
THE General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has made it clear that the move to align the Cybercrime Act cyberspace with the United Nations (UN) Convention, will not infringe upon the rights of social media influencers or ordinary citizens.
Speaking to media operatives on Thursday at Freedom House, he emphasised that the administration remains committed to freedom of expression.
He dismissed claims that the proposed amendments to the Cybercrime Act aim to stifle online discourse, stating, “Don’t buy into this hysteria that we are coming after anyone, influencers, social media commentators, or ordinary citizens. It’s nonsense.”
Dr. Jagdeo, who also serves as the country’s Vice-President, explained that the amendments are
intended to address illicit activities conducted on social media platforms.
“These are important things for us; we’re not going to allow that to happen in our country. But this is not to regulate what people say. We believe in freedom of speech and freedom of expression,” he further underscored.
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, previously announced the amendments to the Cybercrime Act, enacted under the previous APNU+AFC coalition.
In a statement on Wednesday, the AttorneyGeneral addressed concerns
raised on social media, assuring the public that the government’s intention is to enact legislation that is both internationally acceptable and constitutionally compliant.
He reiterated that any regulatory measures would be implemented only after the conclusion of a United Nations convention on cyberspace regulation.
The intended amendments to the current Act are part of the government’s commitment to be in compliant with the terms of that UN Convention, which are the standard set by the UN for its members, worldwide.
Opposition’s attempts to sidetrack Guyanese will not work
- Dr. Jagdeo says
GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has again warned of the Opposition’s deliberate attempts to sidetrack Guyanese from positive developments, making it clear that their tactics would be unsuccessful.
During a party conference on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo outlined a series of positive developments that are being undertaken to improve livelihoods, in an attempt to counter the heightened allegations of corruption.
These same regurgitated narratives are also being exemplified by certain sections of the media, as highlighted by the general secretary.
“You will see this picture being played out on a weekly basis, and the deliberate attempt to divert people from comparing how their lives have changed,” he said.
Jagdeo is certain that these media houses and persons closely aligned with the Opposition are intentionally pushing this narrative to prevent Guyanese from reflecting on
the five years of struggle they experienced from 2015-2020 and drawing their own conclusions.
Since 2020, the government has placed significant focus on improving healthcare, education, and public infrastructure, providing employment opportunities and tertiary education for every Guyanese.
“These are the things that matter, but every week we do not hear a nuanced conversation taking place. It’s [always] about scandals and rumours. They have to find a lot of noise to make their case, and they’re aided by the Kaieteur,” the GS asserted.
Billions of dollars have been spent to improve these services as part of the government’s staunch commitment to improving citizens’ livelihoods.
“So, what should the conversation be about today?” he questioned, adding, “Why don’t they want to talk about how has the PPP done in creating jobs versus APNU? And if you look at it objectively, you would
find that 60,000 people are now working.”
It was further pointed out that it was the APNU+AFC coalition that was the most corrupt political organisation while in government, comparing their track record to that of the government.
For this reason, he rapped critics for failing to report on the corrupt practices which occurred under the coalition government, including the illegal sale of State lands, and the award of contracts to families of sitting ministers.
Dr. Jagdeo further pointed out the ongoing efforts and measures implemented by the government to improve the procurement system, and the establishment of regulations to prevent public officials from owning companies to benefit from contracts.
The government’s development blueprint is guided by their comprehensive 2020-2025 manifesto plan, of which 90 per cent of the commitments outlined have been fulfilled.
PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Antimicrobial resistance, One Health, and climate change top of the agenda at G20 event in Brazil
- PAHO reports
THE primary focus of the event was AMR, a major global threat that hinders the effective treatment of an increasing range of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi, resulting in prolonged illness and increased mortality. Globally, AMR costs around $855 billion each year in rising healthcare costs and lost productivity, and in 2019 alone, it claimed 1.3 million lives.
While 165 countries in the world, including 26 in the Americas, have developed National Action Plans to address AMR, large-scale implementation has been slow, underscoring the need for more resources and renewed commitment.
In the region, however, 87 per cent of PAHO member countries have established national action plans—surpassing the global average. “The Americas are leading the charge against AMR, with PAHO’s strong leadership offering a model for other regions,” Dr. Socorro Gross Galiano, PAHO’s representative in Brazil said.
Dr. Gross also emphasised the importance of PAHO’s One Health approach, which fosters cross-sectoral collabora-
tion to effectively tackle AMR, and highlighted PAHO’s upcoming participation in the AMR discussions at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) high-level event in New York this September, where the organisation will advocate for decisive international action against this global threat.
In a presentation at the session, Dr. Pilar Ramon-Pardo, Chief of PAHO’s Antimicrobial Resistance Program, acknowledged the significant progress made in the Americas, but warned that persistent challenges, including limited national budgets and inequitable access to health services and products, will continue to hinder progress until they are effectively addressed.
TACKLING TUBERCULOSIS IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE: A CALL FOR ACTION PAHO and the World Health Organisation also co-hosted the “Ending TB in the Context of Climate Change: Building Evidence to Inform Actions” panel. During the event, panelists discussed how factors such as malnutrition, food insecurity, and
deteriorating living conditions—all exacerbated by climate change—are making populations more susceptible to tuberculosis.
Underscoring the need for countries to mitigate the effects of climate change, particularly its potential to disrupt health services, Dr. Gross called for increased collaboration. “The G20 has the resources, research capabilities, and best practices to unite us in this final, intense push to address these interconnected challenges,” she said. G20
The Group of Twenty (G20) is an international economic co-operation forum made up of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island, the United States of America, and two regional bodies: the African Union and the European Union. The Presidency of the G20 is currently held by the Brazilian government. (PAHO)
IICA launches AgriSTEAM to reduce digital divide among young people
- promote the transformation of agri-food sector in the Americas
THE Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) has launched AgriSTEAM, an Online training programme aimed at reducing the digital divide among young people in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly those living in rural areas, and those involved in the region’s agri-food sector.
This asynchronous, self-managed training programme available on IICA’s virtual campus, is designed to foster innovation and promote the adoption of digital technologies among young people. The study plan covers topics such as digital transformation in the agri-food sector, programming logic, sensorisation, geoinformatics,
and data analysis.
“AgriSTEAM equips young people involved in agriculture and other activities in rural areas with the core digital skills they need to tackle the challenges in the sector,
foster innovation, and promote the adoption of new technologies that facilitate data-driven decision-making,” said Manuel Otero, Director-General of IICA.
“We are focused on empowering young farmers, offering them support with technologies, data, and innovative initiatives. This training equips these individuals to spearhead the digital transformation of agriculture in the Americas,” he added.
“The programme promotes the generation of data through the use of sensors and Internet of Things technologies, making it possible to capture accurate real-time information that is important in rural areas. It also includes the study of geoinformatics, which uses geospatial technology to map and analyze agricultural resources,” Picado said.
To participate in the programme, just click on this link, register on IICA’s e-learning platform, and then sign up for the course. (IICA)
Emmanuel Picado, Manager of Information and Communication Technologies and Digital Agriculture at IICA, explained that AgriSTEAM also fosters learning skills and innovation in young people, facilitating the adoption of new technologies in the agri-food sector.
Baramita Airstrip to get footpath in response to safety concerns
MINISTER of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill has raised urgent concerns about the safety risks at Baramita’s airstrip in Region One.
Addressing residents during an outreach in the area on Tuesday, Minister
Edghill highlighted the dangers posed by unauthorised vehicles and pedestrians on the runway, which have heightened safety alarms among pilots.
“Oftentimes they are really put at risk because
either vehicles are on the runway or people are on the runway, and it’s really difficult for them in terms of safety,” he disclosed.
“We want to ensure that you are safe, your children are safe, and also with the coming in and
taking off of planes, we don’t have any serious catastrophes,” he added.
In response to these concerns, Minister Edghill announced that a footpath gate will be installed by the end of the week to improve access.
Community Service Officers (CSOs) will oversee the daily opening and closing of the gate for schoolchildren, the elderly, and special events.
Minister Edghill also acknowledged the need for road improvements
around the airstrip, which was damaged due to heavy rains.
To this end, $5 million was allocated to the Village Council to hire persons from the community to execute the works. (DPI)
EU delegation meets Guyana’s Health Minister to discuss upcoming health, pharmaceutical investment mission
THE European Union (EU) delegation in Guyana, on Wednesday, met with Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, to discuss the upcoming EU Health and Pharmaceutical Investment Mission.
The discussion focused on potential collaborative opportunities between the Ministry and the EU companies in the health and pharmaceutical sectors, aiming to align these efforts with Guyana's health-
care needs and goals.
The EU delegation is committed to fostering partnerships that will contribute positively to Guyana's health sector, ensuring that the expertise and resources of EU companies are effectively utilised.
Ambassador René Van Nes, Joan Nadal, from EU Delegation Guyana and Taiana Mora, the mission coordinator and other mem-
bers were present at the meeting.
The European Union (EU) delegation in Guyana, on Wednesday, met with Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, to discuss the upcoming EU Health and Pharmaceutical Investment Mission
Police to benefit from more specialised training
— through partnership with Royal Canadian Mounted Police
ADDITIONAL ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will benefit from specialised training, as the government is currently engaged in discussions to complete the formalities of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
RMCP is Canada’s national police force, which provides various services, from municipal policing to national security intelligence gathering.
The primary objective of the agreement is to facilitate the development and implementation of specialised courses designed to elevate the Force’s professional expertise and operational effectiveness.
This was revealed in the Ministry of Finance’s midyear report, as it outlined the
progress made in modernising the security agencies through various programmes, including human resource development, infrastructure modernisation, and collaborations with international law enforcement and learning agencies.
To this end, the Force has already agreed with the New York Police Department, where 29 officers were identified for training in the latter half of 2024.
A sum of $30 million has been expended, in the first half of 2024, towards the training of 435 ranks, with another 700 ranks slated to undergo training in the second half of the year.
Meanwhile, the Force’s abilities in preventing and combatting crime were further advanced with $11.7 billion expended during the
first six months of 2024. Infrastructural works on various police facilities nationwide have been advanced, with some $1.2 billion expended.
From January to June 2024, a significant amount of $215.6 million has been allocated for the construction of the modern Brickdam Police Station. This investment aims to enhance the infrastructure and facilities of the police station.
Moreover, to bolster the existing fleet of law enforcement vehicles, a substantial sum of $45.4 million was utilised for the procurement of additional vehicles, motorcycles, boats, and engines. This initiative is intended to improve the visibility and response time of the police force when addressing criminal activities.
Recognising the impor-
tance of community involvement in combating crime, a considerable portion of the budget totalling $47.3 million was allocated to facilitate the establishment of 29 new community policing groups.
These groups play a vital role in fostering partnerships with law enforcement agencies and creating safer environments for communities.
Additionally, it is anticipated that an additional 15 groups will be formed in the second half of the year, bringing the total number of community policing groups to 44 by the end of 2024. This expansion will further strengthen the collaboration between law enforcement personnel and local communities, contributing to the promotion of safety and security across the country. (DPI)
Savannah Tours introduces Heritage Day Rides
- promises to be thrilling affair for the adventurous
By Faith Greene
PERSONS craving adventure this Heritage Month should look no further than Savannah Tours Guyana for its Heritage Day Rides.
From tomorrow to September 28, 2024, Savannah Tours is offering persons an opportunity to join them for a thrilling experience through the trails, for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure in celebration of Amerindian Heritage Month this September.
Starting this weekend, the Heritage Day Rides will be from Savannah Tours’ headquarters in Yarrowkabra to Laluni on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway where tourists can take part in a 20-mile trail ride.
Shane D’Andrade the company’s tour operator recently explained to the Buzz that they intend on visiting various villages, and spending some time there to see the cultural shows and take
part in other Heritage Month activities.
Each trip is dependent on the bookings they have on that day, as well as the weather.
He pointed out that every person coming to be a part of the tours should come prepared with a change of clothing, towels, snacks and much more for a day of fun in the sun and through the trails.
Additionally, he encouraged persons to support and try the indigenous cuisines in the communities.
Another village that will be visited is Circuitville.
According to Shane, Circuitville is on the other side of the highway, where Savannah Tours plans on taking all of its ATV bikes. Persons while immersing themselves in the festivities there, will be able to be given the opportunity to ride the ATVs for a small fee, or they can join in one of the tours that Savannah will be offering.
He reminded that these tours will be heavily depended on the weather.
Shane related to the Buzz that he has been engaged in Heritage Month activities ever since he was a teenager, and now that he is established with Savannah Tours and has the adequate resources, he is prepared to promote these experiences for the enjoyment of local and international tourists.
Moreover, he explained that for this entire month there will be in as many communities as they can, to take guests on new experiences for Heritage Month. He also has plans to ride through St. Cuthbert’s Mission before heading to Moraikobai Village.
“We trail ride from my place Savannah Headquarters, all the way to St. Cuthbert’s Mission which is about 20 miles. It’s one of the biggest rides, 20 miles. And then use a different trail and come back here (40 to 45 miles
return). Going to Swan, is about 10 miles.”
In addition to the villages mentioned the rides are scheduled for Banakari Village, and Pakuri Village.
Speaking more about the trail ride to Moraikobai which is one of the activities he is most excited about, he said that while it is still in the pipeline, the tour should commence on September 28
and end on September 29, 2024.
Outlining the day’s activities, Shane related that they will begin riding through the trails from Savannah Tours at 06:00 hrs and head to St. Cuthbert’s Mission for breakfast.
From there they will be continuing to Moraikobai Village. They are expected to arrive at Moraikobai at
15:00 hrs. Once in the village, persons will be able to experience heritage celebrations, and enjoy great indigenous cuisine with great people, and will be camping out there until the next morning For more information on the Heritage Day Rides, persons can contact Ereika on Whatsapp: 592-6455045.
Local Guyanese sitcom returns to TV from today
GEMS Theatre Productions, in collaboration with NCN TV, will be presenting Season 4 of the popular TV sitcom ‘Days like Dese’, on the local television station from tomorrow at 17:00 hrs with a repeat broadcast on Monday at 09:30 hrs.
Each Saturday for 13 weeks there will be a new episode. Seasons 1 to 3 was previously aired during the 2018-2020 period, GEM Productions said. There was an absence of the sitcom during the COVID years. 39 episodes of the sitcom which were previously aired are available on YouTube.
The actors in Season 4 include Ron Robinson, Mark Kazim, Nathaya Whaul, Shenadia Ferri -
era, Linden Whaul, Safira Abrahim- Williams, Makaya Smith, Aletha Grant, Simone Dowding, Mark Luke-Edwards, Rajan Tiwari, Tieanna Jordan, Kirk Jardine, Melissa Morgan and Brandon Singh.
“In Season 4, we see the Rupaul family enjoying some of the recreational sights of Guyana and visit to our Ancient County. Grandpa Rue takes his adopted grandson on a tour of Georgetown to see the last remains of our Garden City before it is overtaken by development. David Rupaul is promoted and he and his family moved to their own home and get a new housekeeper.
David meets up with his long-time police friend, Jack, who returns from the interior and wants to
get back with his longtime girlfriend, Maybelle, who was David’s family housekeeper and who is now GrandPa Rue’s housekeeper. Jack and Maybelle lost touch with each other.
“David and Susan hire a new maid. Uncle Sunny gets a new ‘girlfriend’ and is seriously together into big time farming,” the company explained as it sought to spark excitement about Season 4.
Meanwhile, it was revealed that Episode 4 examines family togetherness and good relationship between all members of a household.
The growing tension between Venezuela and Guyana and the Rupauls’ reaction to this situation and its effect on them and their patriotic commitment
to their country are also featured.
In dealing with the Venezuelan situation in the sitcom, the Rupauls aim to educate its audience and give it a clearer understanding of the situation.
The sitcom was written by Kirk Jardine and Gem Madhoo-Nascimento and directed by Madhoo-Nascimento.
It has been made possible with assistance from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health, German’s Restaurant, Readymix Concrete Ltd, Sterling Products Ltd, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Guyana Power and Light (GPL), Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) and Sankar’s Autoworks.
Savannah Tours organised an epic drive in June this year (File photo)
Mark Luke Edwards and Mark Kazim among the actors in the ‘Days Like Dese’ sitcom. Season 4 will be aired on NCN TV 11 from tomorrow
Machel, Caribbean music icons bring NYC’s Apollo Theatre to life
THE Apollo Theatre shone with Caribbean talent over Labour Day weekend as Machel Montano and other Caribbean music icons brought the audience to life.
Even Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, made a visit, posing for a photo with Montano which was shared to social media.
Calypso icons took to the stage on Monday night for Calypso Uptown, another star-studded night.
In a social media post, Montano said the event was truly unforgettable:
"I am so grateful we had the opportunity to showcase the best of Calypso and Soca on Labour Day Monday in New York with this level of production!!!
Sage and more brought the Caribbean to New York City with their favourite hits from Friday to Monday, over the Labour Day weekend.
Montano also
thanked various sponsors, including the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO), the Sport and Culture Fund of the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Visit Trinidad, and the Paria Fuel Trading Company. (Loop News)
T&T’s Aché declared Miss World second runner-up
TRINIDAD and Tobago’s Aché Abrahams has been officially declared the second runner-up of Miss World 2023.
At the 71st Miss World pageant held on March 9 in India, only the runner-up and winner were announced. The result confirming Abrahams as second runner-up was posted on the Miss World website.
The Miss World T&T Franchise congratulated Aché Abrahams on the achieve-
ment.
“We look forward, as a franchise and as a country, in producing a lot more talent, role models, and competent young women in representing our Trinidad and Tobago,” the franchise said in a social media post.
She was a standout throughout the competition, with her Beauty with a Purpose Project, Invisible Scars, gaining recognition among the top 10 finalists from an original 112 projects
presented.
Abrahams, the reigning Miss World Caribbean, is using the platform to advocate not just for Trinidad and Tobago, but the wider Caribbean.
Czech Republic's Krystyna Pyszková is the current holder of the Miss World title while Lebanon's Yasmina Zaytoun was first runner-up. Botswana's Lesego Chombo was named Miss World Africa. (Loop News)
Trinidad’s ‘Soca King’, Machel Montano, performing in the Apollo Theatre (Photo: Machel Montano/Facebook)
Inside the Apollo Theatre where Machel and several Caribbean music icons entertained a large crowd (Photo: Machel Montano/Facebook)
Aché Abrahams (Photo: Miss World T&T Franchise)
Shenseea scores second entry on Billboard Mainstream R&B/Hip-hop,
Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay charts
‘WORK Me Out’, the latest single from Shenseea’s sophomore album ‘Never Gets Late Here’, has become her second entry on both Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay charts.
The song, which features Nigerian singer and songwriter Wizkid, debuted at #40 on the Mainstream
R&B/Hip-Hop chart and at #39 on Rhythmic Top 40. Released in May, ‘Never Gets Late Here’ debuted at #4 on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart. The set, released under Rich Immigrants/Interscope Records, has 14 tracks – including collaborations with Anitta, Coi Leray and Masicka and Di Genius.
Shen seea’s previous
entry on the Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop and Rhythmic Top 40 charts came in 2022 with ‘R U That’, featuring 21 Savage, peaked at #22 and #28 respectively.
R U That also charted at #25 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and at #20 on Rap Airplay charts. (Jamaica Observer)
Elton John, Angelina Jolie movies among London Film Festival line-up
FROM a documentary about Elton John's final U.S. live shows to Angelina Jolie's Maria Callas biopic, this year's BFI London Film Festival promises a star-studded line up that kicks off with a World War Two drama from Oscar winner Steve McQueen.
The London-born director will open the festival for a third time with the world premiere of his movie "Blitz" on October 9. It stars Saoirse Ronan as Rita, a London mother who sends her young son George, played by newcomer Elliott Heffernan, to safety in the countryside during the war. But George is determined to return home despite the many dangers ahead.
Vatican-set thriller
Actor Angelina Jolie poses on the red-carpet during arrivals for the screening of the movie “Maria”, in competition, at the 81st Venice Film Festival, Venice, Italy, August 29, 2024 (REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki/File Photo)
"Conclave" starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, Daniel Craig's "Queer" in
which the former James Bond star plays a drug-addicted American living in
1950s Mexico, and Cannes Festival winner "Anora" about an exotic dancer
who gets involved with a Russian oligarch's son are also on the programme.
Like Craig, Jolie premiered her film "Maria" at the Venice Film Festival.
“We have a lot of wonderful films that have premiered throughout the year at some of the biggest festivals in the world," BFI Festivals director Kristy Matheson told Reuters on Wednesday. "And then of course we have 39 world premiere films as well."
One of those is "Joy", starring Thomasin McKenzie, Bill Nighy and James Norton in a retelling of the birth of the world's first test tube baby in 1978.
"The Apprentice" about a young Donald Trump, Pedro Almodovar's first English-language feature film "The
Room Next Door" starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore and "Nightbitch", in which Amy Adams plays a stay-at-home mother who starts exhibiting canine instincts, are also among the line-up. Among documentaries screening will be "Elton John: Never Too Late" about the musician's return to Los Angeles' Dodger Stadium and "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story", which looks back at the late actor's rise to fame as the superhero and his life following a horse-riding accident that left him paralysed from the neck down.
Pharrell Williams' Lego biopic "Piece by Piece" will close the festival on October 20. (Reuters)
Shenseea
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday September 06, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83
Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Teddy Bishop (ABF)
(2) Kyle Mayers (Patriots)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) How many games were scheduled during CPL 2015?
(2) Who was declared CPL champions 2015? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
RACING TIPS
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
FAIRVIEW
08:30 hrs El Rey Viene
09:05 hrs Cruise Control
09:40 hrs Masked Vigilante
10:15 hrs Miss Shavi
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
ASCOT
08:50 hrs Crystal Casque
09:25 hrs Isambard Brunel
10:00 hrs Ballet Slippers
10:35 hrs Diego Ventura
11:10 hrs Waleefy
11:45 hrs Bennetot
12:20 hrs Pedro Valentino
HAYDOCK
08:25 hrs Papagei
09:00 hrs Skallywag
09:35 hrs Liberalised
10:10 hrs Blessed Star
10:45 hrs Knight Templar
11:20 hrs The Turpinator
11:55 hrs Dazitoo
KEMPTON
12:55 hrs Veen
13:30 hrs Afentko
14:00 hrs Amiloc
14:30 hrs Jumeirah Sea
15:00 hrs Cambria Legend
15:30 hrs Outgun
16:00 hrs Another Baar
IRISH RACING TIPS
DOWN ROYAL
10:15 hrs Oxford Rock
10:50 hrs Betsen
11:25 hrs Berto Ramirez
12:00 hrs Marty Party
12:30 hrs Runninsonofagun
13:05 hrs Sceptred Isle
13:40 hrs Avatar Jet
15:10 hrs Red Secret
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
GULFSTREAM PARK
Race 1 Helicity
Race 2 Into Touring Race 3 Personal Drama
Race 4 Performante
Race 5 Perilous
Race 6 Paradise City
Race 7 Port Charles
3’S Legacy, Western Pest Control Supports Inaugural Region 3 Softball Cup
PLANS are moving apace for the inaugural Region 3 Softball Cup on September 8th and 15th, while 3’S Legacy and Western Pest Control have pledged their support towards the tournament.
The General Manager said that he is pleased to support the tournament in the region and is very happy that his business can support the development of the game and the youths of the region.
He further went on to say that softball cricket is what helps to develop national cricketers to represent our region and country because it is where players start to play at a very tender age and move on with the game as
they grow up.
The General Manager went further in wishing all the teams the very best and urged the players to play with the rules that govern the sports.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Western Pest Control Mr. Trevon Persaud said that he is pleased to support this form of cricket, which is grassroots cricket for all cricketers, and encourage all the players to showcase the talent they have for and in the game.
Both entities thank the organisers for putting together the tournament so that young people can be positively involved in sports and the game
of cricket.
They are urging the public to support the tournament and its players.
Organisers of the tournament thank both businesses for coming on board to support the tournament and promise that the games will be played at the highest standard and allow the young cricketers to show their abilities in this grassroots game of cricket.
This inaugural Region 3 Softball Cup is being organised by Roraima Community Developers, in association with the winner of the inaugural One Guyana Inter Region T10 Softball Cup winner Hype Park Outlaw
of Parika. The competition will be six overs aside affairs based on a one-game knockout format with round-arm bowling in place.
According to the organisers plans are being put in place to have a grand play-off where the spectators, young and old can be part of the side attractions as grassroots games will be planned.
The tournament will have both male and female games, and softball teams from other regions are welcome to register and will be played in an open category. Cash incentives and trophies will be awarded to outstanding teams and individual players.
The organisers said that
the tournament is geared toward bringing the people together and therefore they are asking the residents to go out and support their team.
Other sponsors on board are Burns and Son Beer Garden and Restaurant, New Level Taxi and
Sinner beats Medvedev to set up Draper semi-final
WORLD number one Jannik Sinner beat former champion Daniil Medvedev in a topsy-turvy US Open match to set up a semi-final against Jack Draper.
Italy's Sinner was a 6-2 1-6 6-1 6-4 winner over the Russian fifth seed in New York.
Sinner, who won the Australian Open in January, and Medvedev were the only two major champions left in the men's draw and the match between them was highly
anticipated. However, the pair were unable to find their best tennis at the same time.
Medvedev, a beaten finalist at Flushing Meadows last year and in 2019, hit six double-faults and sprayed 57 unforced errors
While Sinner was not at his most accurate, he was far superior on serve, closing out victory in two hours and 39 minutes.
Sinner will now face his occasional doubles partner
Draper in today’s semi-final.
"We know each other very well, we are good friends off the court," Sinner said of Draper.
"It's going to be very tough - I'm just happy to be in the semis."
There is now guaranteed to be a first-time US Open winner in both the men's and women's singles, with Americans Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe contesting the second men's semi-final.
Sinner and Medvedev
have met at three of the four Grand Slams this year, but this match did not fully reach the high quality of their previous outings.
Sinner came back from two sets down against Medvedev to win his maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne, while Medvedev got his revenge in another fiveset match in the Wimbledon last eight in July.
Asked to serve first, Medvedev was immediately under pressure, having to save
a break point before being broken to love a few games later.
Sinner barely missed a step on serve before the start of the second set, when he was drawn into the longer rallies that Medvedev thrives on.
The Russian went up an early break and doubled his advantage after a 10-minute game on the Sinner serve which ended with the Italian dumping a forehand into the net.
With the match level, the momentum swung towards Sinner, who reeled off five games in a row and had three set points on the Medvedev serve to register a dreaded 'bagel'.
Medvedev managed to scrape one game in the third set and went off court to regroup, but immediately had to recover from 0-30 down in his first service game and a break of serve felt inevitable.
Azib Ali Hanif excelling as a coach on the Canadian circuit
…Ontario women’s team creates history at National tournament
FORMER Guyana wicket-keeper/batsman Azib Ali Hanif has been making a name for himself on the Canadian circuit as an outstanding coach.
The 45-year-old Hanif, who was a tower of strength during the “glory days” of Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) in the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) is the current coach of the Ontario women’s cricket team which created history recently.
Playing in the five-team Canada Cup 2024 five-day tournament, the Ontario women played unbeaten to easily cart off the coveted title. The tournament was
played at Batsman Park, Brampton, Ontario from August 26-30.
Haniff, who is also a qualified International Cricket Council (ICC) coach, has been working for Cricket Ontario for the past three years. He pointed out that “I worked hard with my team, especially in the mental aspect of the game, since it was a five-day tournament which consisted of eight games. My experience off the field as a former national player enabled me to guide my team mentally and physically and be prepared for each game.”
Hanif was also the coach for the provincial women’s team which emerged victo-
rious in the Cricket Ontario women’s tournament. He’s also a selector for the Ontario men's and youth teams.
The tournament saw Ontario Fire claiming the top spot while the second and third positions were decided on net run rate as each team ended up with the same win and loss records of four wins and four defeats. Alberta took the second place, Ontario Heat third and British Columbia fourth.
According to the Cricket Ontario authorities, the placings clearly reflect the competitive nature of the encounters as each team gave it their full commitment to win.
“We saw some extreme-
ly excellent individual performances in the batting, bowling, fielding and wicketkeeping disciplines.
“This year’s competition also revealed some excellent
captaincy and leadership candidates as well as players who can be considered for the national team.
“We would like to make special reference to Team
Easten Provinces for their determination and unwavering spirit in giving their best in competition and staying true to continuing to achieve their goals of promoting and growing the sport of cricket to all women and girls within their respective provinces.
“We will like to encourage all of the players to continue to work on enhancing their individual and all-round skills and to become better players for the future,” the officials pointed out.
Special thanks were accorded Cricket Canada and Cricket Ontario and the City of Brampton for hosting this year’s Women’s National. (Frederick Halley)
Car Rental, Bones Business Empire, Khrishna Mangal & Sons Sawmill and Lumber Yard, Ace Night Club and Lounge, West Side Shipping, R.L Sukhram and Sons Sawmill and lumber yard and Rewind Restaurant and Bar.
In Photo: Mr. Shawn Rubel of Ruben and Sons Sawmill hands over their support to Ms. Walima Razack
Coach Azib Ali Hanif (left) with manager Farouk Karmani, a former Canadian national captain
COP Inter-Region T20 Cricket
Kendal blasts 168 to decimate Region 2 at the Police Ground
By Sean Devers
IT was a massacre at the Police Sports Club, Eve Leary on Wednesday as Chemroy Kendal blasted a pugnacious 168 for Region 4 A and B against Region 2 to power his team into today’s final of the Commissioner of Police (COP) Inter-Region T20 tournament.
The right-handed Kendal deposited a record 22 sixes and sixes fours in a brutal 168 from just 61 balls and featured in a record 203-run fourth-wicket partnership with Troy Drakes whose 38-ball 60 included four
fours and four sixes. The pair joined forces at 59-3 and helped Region 4 and B to 273-5, the highest total in this competition since it began in 2012 as the Commissioner’s Birth Anniversary T20 tournament.
Tamesh Dhanpaul had 2-22 despite the carnage but once his team lost their openers to leave the score on 8-2, the team from the Essequibo Coast never recovered and were bowled out for 86 in 14-1 overs.
Ramesh Chattergoon who hit three fours and a six in his 28 and Roopnarine Ramnarine with four boundaries in 21 were the only
batters to reach double figures.
Shamar Holder and Darson Larose bowled with pace and extracted disconcerting bounce from a good track.
Holder took 3-28 to take him to nine wickets, the most so far while Larose supported with 2-18.
Watched by a raucous capacity crowd in the stands, in sweltering heat and under a cloudless sky, Region 4 A and B started shakily.
Dhanpaul removed Orwin Ventura (3) and Daniel Collis (4) before Larose (10) was sent back by Plasid Edward to start the
Chemroy Kendal show.
Dropped on seven, Kendal cut loose with an array of savage shots, mostly targeting the straight boundaries while Drakes, who made a century in this tournament, played the supporting role.
Kendal galloped to his fifty from 20 balls before racing to the tournament’s second ton with a six off Fazeer Khan. His hundred lasted just 36 balls as sixes rained at Eve Leary to the delight of most of the fans.
The left-handed Drakes stepped on the gas as the stand reached 100 as the pair flayed
the hapless attack to all parts of the field.
Drakes, the leading run scorer in the tournament, soon reached his fifty before the double-century partnership, aided by seven dropped catches was finally broken when Drakes departed at 262-4.
In March 2024, Chris Gayle clobbered 17 sixes in 175 in the IPL, to break the record for the most sixes in a T20 game.
Although this match does not rank with the standard of the IPL, when Kendal deposited Edward for six he passed Gayle’s 17 sixes.
Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken went onto the ground to acknowledge Kendal’s achievement.
Kendal’s 150 was posted in 49 balls before he was dismissed to end the runs feast.
Today’s double-header will see defending Champions Officers, beaten by Headquarters on Tuesday, clash with Region 2 in the third-place play-off from 09:00 hours.
The final will commence at 13:00 hours and should be a riveting contest between Region 4 A and B and Headquarters.
England name new captain Phil Salt as Buttler out of Australia T20Is
ENGLAND skipper Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the three-match T20I series against Australia due to a right calf injury.
In a big blow ahead of their T20I series against Australia, England will be without their regular captain Jos Buttler, who has been injured. Buttler's right
calf injury also puts him in doubt for the five-game ODI series that follows.
In his absence, 28-year-old Phil Salt will lead the T20I side. The attacking right-handed batter has scored 885 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 165.11 in 31 T20Is thus far.
All-rounder Jamie Overton
THE Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be held in Bengaluru on September 29. The notices for the AGM have been sent to the state associations on Thursday. The 93rd AGM of the board will be held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bengaluru, and will coincide with the inauguration of the High Performance Centre in the city.
A key feature of the AGM notice is the absence of the election for a board
secretary on the agenda. It was widely expected that the new secretary will be elected at the AGM following the election of incumbent Jay Shah as the independent chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The BCCI will now have to call a Special General Meeting (SGM) to elect the new secretary, understandably before Shah is due to take over as the ICC chairman on December 1.
The two-page, 18-point agenda includes the regular items typically discussed and decided at the AGM,
such as the appointment of a representative to the ICC. It could be a particularly noteworthy call this year as Shah will no longer be eligible to represent the BCCI at the global body. The Board will have to select a candidate who is informed and familiar with goings-on in the ICC meetings.
The fact that the AGM is taking place in Bengaluru, the hometown of the BCCI president Roger Binny, could indicate that the former India allrounder could play an important role in the meeting. The appointment
has been called up as Buttler's replacement in the T20I squad. In addition, batter Jordan Cox has been added to the ODI squad as cover.
England T20I squad: Phil Salt (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Sam Curran, Josh Hull, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone,
Saqib Mahmood, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley, John Turner. Australia began their tour of UK with a record win against Scotland in Edinburgh. They play two more T20Is against Scotland before the T20I series against England, which begins on September 11.
of Binny as the board's representative to the ICC also cannot be ruled out.
The other items on the agenda are election and induction of two representatives of the general body in the governing council of the IPL, induction of one representative from the Indian Cricketers' Association in the IPL Governing Council, adoption of the annual budget, appointment of Ombudsman and Ethics Officer.
The AGM also has to appoint a Cricket Committee and Standing Committee as mentioned in the Con -
England v Australia T20I series schedule
1st T20I, Wednesday, 11 September 2024, Southampton 2nd T20I, Friday, 13 September 2024, Cardiff 3rd T20I, Sunday, 15 September 2024, Manchester (ICC Media)
stitution. The AGM is also due to appoint an Umpires Committee.
Of significance is an item which states 'Report of the Internal Committee of BCCI formed under Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy'. The AGM will also consider any motion or notice given by a Full Member to the secretary 21 days prior to the AGM. It will also ratify rules framed by the Apex Council, mainly with relation to
cricket. (Cricbuzz)
domestic
Chemroy Kendal hits Fazeer Khan for six over extra during his pugnacious 168 at Eve Leary (Sean Devers Photos)
Troy Drakes about to play an on-drive during his 60 on Wednesday at Eve Leary
Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken went onto the ground to acknowledge Kendal’s achievement on Wednesday
New England captain Phil Salt
Former India allrounder Roger Binny
Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei dies after being set alight by ex-boyfriend
OLYMPIC athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died days after being doused in petrol and set on fire by a former boyfriend.
The 33-year-old Ugandan marathon runner, who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, had suffered extensive burns after Sunday’s attack.
The authorities in northwest Kenya, where Cheptegei lived and trained, said she was targeted after returning home from church with her two daughters.
Her father, Joseph Cheptegei, said that he had lost a “very supportive” daughter. Fellow Ugandan athlete James Kirwa told the BBC about her generosity and how she had helped out other runners financially.
A report filed by a local administrator alleged the athlete and her ex-partner had been wrangling over a piece of land. Police say an investigation is underway.
Cheptegei, from a re -
gion just across the border in Uganda, is said to have bought a plot in Trans Nzoia county and built a house to be near Kenya’s elite athletics training centres.
Attacks on women have become a major concern in Kenya. In 2022 at least 34 per cent of women said they had experienced physical violence, according to a national survey.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the urgent need
to combat gender-based violence, which has increasingly affected even elite sports,” Kenya’s Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said.
Speaking to journalists outside the hospital where she had been treated, Mr. Cheptegei asked the Kenyan government to ensure justice was done after the death of his daughter.
“We have lost our breadwinner,” he added and wondered how her two children,
aged 12 and 13, would “proceed with their education.”
Dr Kimani Mbugua, a consultant at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, told local media that the staff did all they could for her but the athlete “had a severe percentage of burns, which unfortunately led to multi-organ failure, which ultimately led to her passing this morning at 05:30 [02:30 GMT]”.
Kirwa, who had visited Cheptegei in hospital, told the BBC she “was a very affable person. [She] helped us all even financially and she brought me training shoes when she came back from the Olympics. She was like an older sister to me.”
Uganda’s athletics federation said in a post on X: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call
for justice. May her soul rest In Peace.”
“This is heartbreaking. Even more heartbreaking that it’s not the first time the athletics community has lost such an incredible female athlete to domestic violence,” British Olympian Eilish McColgan wrote on X.
Cheptegei’s former boyfriend was also admitted to the hospital in Eldoret – but with less severe burns. He is still in intensive care but his condition was “improving and stable”, Moi hospital’s Dr Owen Menach said.
Earlier, local police chief Jeremiah ole Kosiom was quoted by local media as saying: “The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her.”
“This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to
endure,” the head of Uganda’s Olympic committee Donald Rukare said on X.
Talking to reporters earlier in the week, her father said that he prayed “for justice for my daughter”, adding that he had never seen such an inhumane act in his life.
Cheptegei finished 44th in the marathon at the recent Paris Olympics.
She also won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022. Her death comes after the killings of fellow East African athletes Agnes Tirop in 2021 and Damaris Mutua the following year, with their partners identified as the main suspects in both cases by the authorities. Tirop’s husband is currently facing murder charges, which he denies, while a hunt for Mutua’s boyfriend continues. (BBC Sport).
Rebecca Cheptegei, pictured running last year, came 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics
Hetmyer assault carries Warriors past Patriots in boundary-studded affair
BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – SHIMRON Hetmyer and the Guyana Amazon Warriors produced a spectacular display of power hitting to neutralise the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and remain unbeaten in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) on Wednesday night.
Hetmyer signalled his return to form with a boundary-laden 91 at Warner Park, as the Warriors posted the second highest ever score in the CPL of 266 for seven in their 20 overs.
It was just one run short of the 267 for two scored by the Trinbago Knight Riders in 2019.
The Patriots made a valiant effort in their run chase thanks mainly to the effort of captain Andre Fletcher, who made 81, but were eventually bowled out for 226 in 18 overs.
The 492 runs scored in the contest was also the second highest in the history of the CPL, while the 42 sixes hit equalled the record for the most sixes in a men’s T20 match. The Kolkata Knight Riders and the Punjab Kings also combined to hit 42 sixes in this year’s Indian Premier
League (IPL).
Hetmyer blasted 11 sixes of his own during his 39-ball knock and his partnership of 116 with opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who made 69, served as the launching pad for the Warriors’ huge total.
After both Kevin Sinclair (17) and the in-form Shai Hope (12) fell cheaply to leave the Warriors 53-2 after six overs, Hetmyer joined Gurbaz at the crease and the two proceeded to dismantle the Patriots’ bowlers over the course of the next seven overs.
No bowler was spared from Hetmyer’s carnage, as all were repeatedly sent sailing over the ropes.
Medium pacer Odean Smith missed an opportunity to dismiss Hetmyer when he was just 18, but he could not hold on to the ball after it was driven straight back at him.
That proved a costly mistake, and Hetymer eventually brought up his 50 off 23 balls when he guided a delivery from Mohammad Mohsin to short fine leg for a single.
Gurbaz took some time to find his stride, but once he did, he showed impeccable
form while hitting Mohsin for two consecutive sixes in the eighth over, while medium pacer Ryan John along with Smith were also each hit for two sixes.
Gurbaz, who faced 37 balls and struck six sixes and four fours, was eventually bowled by fast bowler Anrich Nortje and Azam Khan was dismissed by Mohsin
for two as the Warriors slid to 172 for four.
But Hetmyer found a reliable partner in Keemo Paul, and the two ensured their team’s momentum was not
lost as they belted 44 runs from just three overs before Paul was eventually run out for 38.
Hetmyer fell agonisingly short of his century when he was dismissed at the end of the 19th over, lofting Smith to mid-off where Mikyle Louis took a comfortable catch.
In their bid to create history, the Patriots were kept in the game by Fletcher and Kyle Mayers after Evin Lewis was dismissed for just three early on.
The duo added 69 in five overs before Keemo Paul got rid of Mayers for 28, to leave Patriots 73-2.
Sherfane Rutherford (38) joined his captain at the crease and kept the runs flowing during a 64-run partnership in only three overs.
However, once medium pacer Raymon Reifer accounted for Rutherford in the ninth over, the Patriots lost their way and regularly lost wickets, slipping to 175-7.
Both Imran Tahir and Gudakesh Motie grabbed three wickets apiece, while Dwaine Pretorius nabbed two wickets for the Warriors.
Suriname thumps Golden Jaguars 3-1
GUYANA'S Golden Jaguars got off to a rocky start in their quest to climb the Concacaf Nations League ladder, suffering a 3-1 defeat to Suriname at the National Track and Field Facility.
Despite a spirited effort, Guyana's defensive lapses and missed opportunities proved costly against a more clini-
cal Suriname side. The visitors capitalised on their cha nces, scoring three goals while Guyana struggled to convert their own.
Suriname's Djevencio van der Kust opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a powerful left-footed shot. Guyana responded with a penalty goal from Omari Glasgow, but Surina-
me regained the lead in the second half through Jaden Montnor and Virgil Misidjan.
The Golden Jaguars now face a tough challenge against Martinique in their next match, which will be played on September 9th. Guyana will need to improve their performance to have a chance of advancing in the tournament.
Shimron Hetmyer (of Guyana Amazon Warriors hits a six during the Men’s
2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match 7 between St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Warner Park Sporting Complex in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis. (Photo by Randy Brooks/ CPL T20 via Getty Images)
