Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 06-12-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

Guyana to report Venezuela’s latest actions to UN Security Council, ICJ - President Ali urges Maduro-led administration to rethink its missteps after Bolivarian Republic intensifies efforts to annex Guyana’s Essequibo - reassures Guyanese that nation’s territorial sovereignty will be preserved, protected at all costs

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President Ali conducts portfolio reviews of key projects

President, Dr Irfaan Ali received portfolio reviews of key projects being undertaken by the Government of Guyana. Discussions were held at State House, on Tuesday, with ministers and permanent secretaries from several ministries of the government, including agriculture, education, health, home affairs, housing and water, local government and regional development, and public works. President Ali was joined by Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh (Office of the President photos)

Pilot case-management IMF: Guyana’s Defence diplomacy being pursued to safeguard system launched to economy to Guyana’s territorial integrity revolutionise court operations double in size by 2028 SEE PAGE

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- country maintains commitment to peaceful resolution of border controversy -Venezuela’s aggressive narrative being taken very seriously, President Ali says

- significant reduction in case backlog, speedier decisions among anticipated benefits

Demerara Bank, GBTI part of new Amazon Finance Network

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

‘Diplomacy is our first line of defence’ — President Ali says; emphasises global support for Guyana in ongoing border controversy with Venezuela

By Clestine Juan AMID heightened aggression from the Bolivarian Republic as the border controversy continues, President Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving the controversy through diplomatic and peaceful means. In a resolute address on Sunday, during “A Night of Patriotic Reflection,” which was held at the National Stadium, President Ali underscored the importance of navigating the controversy through diplomatic channels. First, he acknowledged the collective effort of leaders worldwide who have expressed unwavering support for Guyana’s stance on the side of law, dignity, and honesty. “I’ve had the opportunity to engage with many leaders across the world. I had the oppor-

tunity to raise this issue specifically, and I have been given the complete reassurance of all of those leaders, that they stand with Guyana on the side of law, on the side of dignity and on the side of honesty,” President Ali said. He commended the work of diplomats, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, lawyers, and all those contributing to supporting the country’s diplomatic endeavours. “Diplomacy -- we have a responsibility to navigate this through diplomacy, and that is why we are working all across the globe, and I want to acknowledge the work of our diplomats, the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the work of our lawyers, and all those who work every day to support our diplomatic efforts,” he added. Acknowledging the solidarity of various nations and international organisations, Presi-

dent Ali mentioned the support received from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM|), the Commonwealth, Asia, the Arab World, the State Department, the Department of Defense, Washington, Canada, and France. “Diplomacy is our front line of defence. We must not fail to communicate; we must make it very clear. We must draw the lines of factual positioning, but we must not close the door to communication. We must show that, as a country, we are willing to coexist; we are willing to coexist with everyone. We are willing to build partnerships, but in all of this, we must remain vigilant and prepared,” President Ali asserted. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has remained steadfast in its support for Guyana amidst the border controversy with Venezuela and has made it clear that the

President Dr Irfaan Ali on Sunday (Yohan Savory photo)

region must remain “a zone of peace.” Recently, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and

Tobago Dr. Keith Rowley, and Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said that CARICOM has always been in support of Guyana’s territorial integrity. The Commonwealth, t h e O rg a n i s a t i o n o f American States (OAS) and other international agencies have also offered their “full support” to Guyana. Gonsalves said the ongoing controversy between Venezuela and Guyana is an old one, and that Guyana bases its position on the 1899 Arbitral Award. Gonsalves said: “CARICOM has always defended the territorial inviolability of Guyana.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mia Mottley said that CARICOM has issued a very strong statement in support of Guyana. She said that while she stated some weeks back that in spite of the controversy, Venezuela is a friend of the region as well, she would wish to see the region remain one of peace. Mottley related that this statement has incited condemnation. However, she added: “I have come to public life to promote peace, not division.” She continued to assert that Guyana's position has remained firm and resolute, with the full support of the region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Guyana to report Venezuela’s latest actions to UN Security Council, ICJ

- President Ali urges Maduro-led administration to rethink its missteps after Bolivarian Republic intensifies efforts to annex Guyana’s Essequibo - reassures Guyanese that nation’s territorial sovereignty will be preserved, protected at all costs By Trina Williams TAKING the necessary actions to not only protect Guyana’s territorial sovereignty but also to ensure that the region remains a zone of peace, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that owing to the latest “missteps” by the Venezuelan Government, Guyana will be reporting the Bolivarian Republic’s latest actions to the United Nations (UN) Security Council and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today. President Ali, in an address to the nation on Tuesday evening, firmly responded to the Venezuelan President, Nicolas Maduro’s planned set of actions to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region. “We will not allow our territory to be violated nor the development of our country to be stymied by this

desperate threat,” Guyana’s Head of State affirmed. He further said: “We urge President Maduro to rethink these missteps and to act and behave in accordance with the international law. All our actions and anything we do in Guyana are aimed at ensuring this region remains a region of peace. Our only ambition is for this region to remain a zone of peace…we ask for nothing more or nothing less.” President Ali firmly stated: “President Maduro’s act is in open defiance of the ICJ order,” noting that the Venezuelan leader ’s actions constitute a test to the methods of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ, last Friday, granted Guyana provisional measures to prevent any action by Venezuela that could lead to the annexation of Guyana’s territory. The decision was handed down by the President of the ICJ,

Justice Joan E. Donoghue, at the Peace Palace in The Hague, in The Netherlands. The court ordered that pending the decision of the substantive case which concerns the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award that defines the boundary between the two nations, Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action that would modify the situation that currently prevails with the territory, which Guyana administers and exercises control over. As an additional measure, the court also ordered that “both parties refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve. LONELY AND WORRISOME ROAD President Ali said that Maduro, by virtue of his actions and rejection of international law, is pursuing a “lonely and worrisome road.”

“It is unfortunate that President Maduro would choose a road of defying the ICJ and defying an international court order,” the Head of State said, while underscoring that this speaks volumes about Maduro’s leadership. “… It [also] points to the fact that he [Maduro] is unconcerned about the peace and security in this region… the order of the ICJ,” President Ali said. Owing to Venezuela’s actions, while Guyana maintains its commitment to peace, the Guyanese Head of State said the nation is taking various steps to safeguard its territorial sovereignty. “The Guyana Defence Force is on full alert,” Dr Ali said, while emphasising that all efforts are being pursued and even engagements are ongoing with the United States Southern Command. “We are here to ensure the safety of this country, the territorial integrity, the sovereign-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

ty of this country and to protect every citizen of this country,” the President told the nation. CRYSTAL CLEAR He reiterated that the ICJ has made it crystal clear that Venezuela cannot act or take any action that will disrupt the status quo; and the status quo is that Guyana exercises governance and control of the Essequibo region. President Ali said that Maduro’s choice of not only defying the ICJ but also issuing direct threats to companies, operating in Guyana is detrimental to the

peace and stability of Guyana. As he openly defied international law, Maduro announced seven actions that his government plans to take on the Essequibo region, one of which includes an order for the creation of entities to grant licences for oil, gas and mines exploration in Guyana’s territory. Maduro has also ordered the dissemination of a redrawn map of his country that now includes Guyana’s Essequibo region.

New HIV/AIDS medication effectively combats virus

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

- NAPS Programme Manager says

TO boost Guyana’s efforts to further minimise the spread of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the Ministry of Health through the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) has introduced an improved drug regimen to treat adults living with the disease. The new HIV medication, which comprises Tenofovir, Lamivudine, and Dolutegravir (TLD), is one of the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) best recommended Antiretrovirals (ARVs). The drug complements the ministry’s already ro-

bust programme, which includes the roll out of comprehensive pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and self-testing for patients, among other initiatives According to NAPS Programme Manager, Dr Tarique Jagnarine, treatment with this new drug has proven to be extremely effective and has significantly transformed the system. Dr Jagnarine made these comments on the weekly ‘Health Matters’ programme on the ministry’s Facebook page. “It’s a drug where you see the rapid viral load suppression- that’s the number

of copies of the HIV in an individual- coming down very fast, in a matter of 14 days, once you stay on the treatment. Your CD4 count, that’s the cell that fights off the virus, that goes up very fast as well,” the doctor explained. Fewer side effects and a reduced risk of becoming resistant to the drug are other benefits to be derived for persons who utilise the treatment, according to Dr. Jagnarine Noting that close to 9,700 persons are living with the virus locally, Dr Jagnarine highlighted that of that number, some 6,800 are enrolled in various HIV/AIDS clinics, and are receiving the treatment.

An innovative programme called the ‘Lost to follow up’ has been implemented to reach the other 2,900 people who are not enrolled in any health facility to access treatment. “Through this programme we find individuals who are positive and we bring them back. The care and treatment

programme is so robust that we just don’t look at only giving you treatment. We look at giving you services such as moral support, public assistance services, we even offer you food hampers, and we also link you to receive counseling,” the NAPS Programme Manager related. Dr Jagnarine also outlined that new medication, treatment, and strategies

are being implemented to make the system more adaptable and workable for persons who are living with the virus. Over the years, the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Health and the NAPS, has been working assiduously to ensure the HIV treatment programme delivers the highest quality of care to persons living with HIV. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Defence diplomacy being pursued to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity — country maintains commitment to peaceful resolution of border controversy — Venezuela’s aggressive narrative being taken very seriously, President Ali says

B y Tr i n a Wi l liams C O M M A N D ER-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, has said that the government continues to take note of Venezuela’s aggressive threats, and will spare no efforts to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity. During an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, President Ali highlighted that Guyana is preparing for any eventualities s h o u l d Ve n e z u e l a act in a “reckless” or “adventurous” manner. While underscoring the international and regional support Guyana has been receiving, Dr Ali rem a r k e d : “ We a r e also preparing for the worst-case scenario. We are preparing with our allies, with our friends to ensure that we are in a position to defend what is ours, the Essequibo.” The President, however, affirmed Guyana’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the con-

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali during the interview with CBS News

troversy, noting: “We want this to be resolved in a peaceful manner.” He went on to say: “We are doing everything to ensure that the zone remains a zone of peace and to encourage Venezuela to do what is right and to abide by international norms and international law.” With Venezuela’s recent referendum being labelled as a scapegoat for the Maduro administration, President Ali said: “…We’re taking this very seriously because of the narrative that is coming out of Venezuela, the threat [coming] out of

Venezuela. “…recently, Venezuela opened defiance of the International Court of Justice when the leaders there basically said they would not adhere to the orders of the ICJ. Now, this is an important issue for us in the region because we want this region to remain a zone of peace.” Dr Ali said that Guyana's first line of defence is diplomacy and underscored that he has engaged countries like the United States of America, India, among others. He also said that he has appealed to Cuba, a close friend

to Venezuela, so that they can try to convince Guyana’s Spanish-speaking neighbour to adhere to international law. The Head-of-State then said that while the Bolivarian Republic is saying they do not recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction in the matter, Venezuela has already subjected itself to the International Court. “Venezuela went twice to the ICJ on the issue of jurisdiction and the ICJ ruled against Venezuela, saying that the ICJ has jurisdiction to look at this matter,” Dr Ali said, while stressing that

the Spanish-speaking country’s rhetoric shows their evident double-standard. Despite regional and international pleas for the Venezuelan administration to abide by international law, the nation defied these calls and went full speed ahead with its full referendum. The ICJ, last Friday, granted Guyana provisional measures to prevent any action by Venezuela that could lead to the annexation of Guyana’s territory. The decision was handed down by the President of the ICJ, Justice Joan E. Donoghue, at the Peace

Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. T h e c o u r t o rdered that pending the decision of the substantive case, Ve n e z u e l a s h a l l refrain from taking any action that would modify the situation that currently prevails with the territory, which Guyana administers and exercises control. As an additional measure, the court also ordered that “both parties refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Blazing the Trail GUYANA continues to blaze the trail on a range of issues, both at the national and at the international level. At the national level, the country has displayed an extraordinary level of unity and solidarity in the face of Venezuela's aggression. December 3, 2023, will be remembered as the day when Guyanese all across the length and breadth of Guyana joined hands and hearts in support of their country. The entire country has come together in an unprecedented show of support for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Such support has resonated all across

the globe and certainly in the corridors of power in Caracas. The same cannot be said for the Maduro administration which, from all indications, has failed to garner significant support for its “referendum.” An overwhelming majority of Venezuelans opted to boycott the referendum, which can only be seen as a slap in the face of the Maduro administration. As far as the domestic situation in Guyana is concerned, the economy continues to grow at an exponential pace. The most recent IMF report commended Guyana for its economic manage-

ment, including its implementation of policies and programmes. According to the report, Guyana recorded the highest growth rate in the world in 2022 and is projected to continue along the path of sustained growth. Interestingly, the report highlighted the fact that the Guyana economy has tripled its size since the start of oil extraction. Guyana, it noted, emerged from one of the lowest in terms of per capita income in the early 1990s to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world today. And while oil has undoubtedly been a signifi-

cant contributory factor, the economy has also become much more broad based and resilient as pointed out by Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh. According to Dr. Singh, the government is in the process of making strategic investments necessary to ensure that in the medium to longer term the economy is not solely dependent on oil. 'We want to ensure that we have a growing, globally competitive non-oil economy, so we are using this period to invest in things like infrastructure to improve connectivity with our neighbours, increase the economic space in which we are oper-

ating and therefore lay the foundation for more trade,' the Minister said at a recent IMF and World Bank Annual 2023 Meeting in Marrakech, Morocco. Guyana has also taken centre stage at the recently concluded Conference of Parties (COP) 28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Guyana has been identified to take the lead role in the Commonwealth Living Lands Action Group on sustainable green cover and biodiversity. Guyana will play a lead role in the coordination of efforts across the 56 Commonwealth member states. This is indeed a signal honour for Guyana, which has one of the lowest

I stand with Guyana Dear Editor,

IN the heart of South America, a peaceful nation stands firmly against a backdrop of a complex and long-standing territorial controversy. Guyana, known for its serene beauty, rich culture, and the warmth of its people, is now at the centre of a controversial claim over its Essequibo region – a territory constituting two-thirds of the country and increasingly significant owing to its oilrich potential. This controversy, rooted in colonial history, has been reignited by a recent referendum in Venezuela, sparking international concern. We're living a real-life David versus Goliath story, standing tall against a might-

ier nation's covetous gaze on our oil-rich and cherished Essequibo. This struggle we're in, it's like the Hindu scriptures once more, where our Prabhu Rama stood against the might of Ravana, triumphing against all odds. It's in our scriptures that we find our strength, our resolve steeled by a deep faith and the unwavering support of the international community. We're inspired by Dave Martin's stirring words in "Not One Blade of Grass," a song that has become more than just lyrics to us; it's a declaration of our unyielding stance, a testament to our enduring spirit in the face of this long-standing and contentious claim by Venezuela. Just like Rama, we stand for justice and righteous-

ness, our unity unshakeable, our commitment to our land and people unbreakable. The legitimacy of the Venezuelan referendum, marked by low voter turnout and allegations of election rigging, casts a shadow over its outcomes. The overwhelming approval rate in a context of reduced participation, potentially reflecting voter apathy or opposition boycotts, raises serious questions. Accusations of ballot tampering and voter coercion undermine democratic values, and the controversial nature of this referendum invites international skepticism. This complex and long-standing controversy over the Essequibo region, now intensified, threatens diplomatic relations and regional stability. It under-

scores the need for a resolution that is recognised and respected by the global community, especially given the oil-rich stakes at hand. In Guyana, our resolve is anchored in the quest for tranquility, guided by the revered International Court of Justice (ICJ). To us, the ICJ is far more than just a judicial entity; it's a beacon of aspiration, a stage where the collective voices and challenges of our nation find recognition and resolution. Our steadfast leaders are aligning our nation's efforts with the tenets of international law, striving for justice in a world where might often prevails. In this endeavour, we are not isolated; notable nations such as the United States and Britain, and blocs such as

the European Union are by our side, affirming our sovereignty. Their support transcends diplomatic formalities, offering essential backing during these times, particularly in the context of the oil-rich Essequibo region. Now is the moment for the soul of Guyana to unite more robustly than ever. Our fight goes beyond physical confrontation; it's rooted in unity, conviction in our rightful claims, and the strength found in coming together. We aim to be harbingers of harmony and constructive conversations, nurturing mutual comprehension instead of separation. Our national motto: "One People, One Nation, One Destiny," and our name, "The Land of Many Waters,"

carbon-emission rates in the world, thanks to prudent management of its forests. Guyana has demonstrated that when it comes to low-carbon development it is second to none, a fact that has won global recognition. Guyana has all reasons to be proud of its leaders, President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo for their robust and forward-looking contributions to the climate talks. Guyana continues to shine brightly in the international galaxy of nations for which our leaders must be commended.

embody our identity. They are not mere words but reflections of our diverse yet united existence. These words guide us to stand together, undeterred, and resilient, in the face of this longstanding controversy, upholding our right to live in harmony and to remain an indivisible Guyana. In conclusion, let us unite in prayer and action for a resolution that honours our sovereignty and promotes lasting harmony. We stand with Guyana, today and always, championing the cause of peace and upholding the sanctity of international law in this complex, tense, and long-standing controversy. Our unity in these trying times is our greatest strength, as we navigate this challenge with resilience and hope for a peaceful future in our beautiful land. Yours respectfully, Haimdat Sawh

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Maduro must be mentally deficient to think a country can be annexed by referendum

Dear Editor,

VENEZUELAN President, Mr. Nicolas Maduro, must be mentally deficient to think that he can annex another country’s territory by referendum. This has no precedence in world affairs and is plainly dumb. It’s an election gimmick opposed by the Venezuelan Opposition. Venezuela’s rigged referendum reminds me of Burnham’s 1978 rigged referendum when he claimed 95 per cent of “yes” votes when a make-believe massive turnout voted for the “House” and not the “Mouse,” endorsing

the revamping of the Guyana Constitution to give Burnham and the PNC massive control over the people. The Guyana-Venezuela controversy is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). One party cannot go rogue and engage in a frolic of its own to think they can preempt the process and take matter into their own hands. So, at Guyana’s request, the ICJ appropriately ruled that Venezuela is out of order. Now, they would be seen as bad people with bad intentions, and that will likely go against them in the final ICJ ruling on the controversy. Guyana will win! The US State Department

said on Monday, it supports a peaceful resolution of the controversy and that the issue could not be solved by a referendum. One wonders what was in Mr. Maduro’s head as he conjured up a referendum, when he knows the USA lifted some sanctions on condition that he behaves himself and allow free and fair elections. As reported by S&P Global: “An escalation by Maduro raises the risk that the US reimpose sanctions on Venezuela. Those sanctions were lifted on October 18 on the condition that Venezuela show some progress in election reforms by the end of November. They have not

followed through on their part of the bargain," the State Department's Miller said. "There are two additional steps that we want to see them take. We want to see them release political prisoners and we want to see them release wrongfully detained Americans. That was part of the framework agreement that we had come to with them. They have not carried out their part of the agreement. We urge them to do so. “But at the same time, we are considering the matter and will suspend some of the sanctions relief that we put in place earlier this year if we determine that adequate progress to the commitments

they made to us have not been made." (“US might reimpose sanctions on Venezuela following vote to annex Guyana territory,” SPGlobal. com, Dec 4, 2023). Why would a leader take actions that will hurt his country and people if deadly sanctions are imposed? For Guyana’s part, both the government and opposition PNC must be congratulated for showing a united front. The PNC’s Carl Greenidge is Guyana’s Agent at the ICJ. The people of Guyana everywhere marched and assembled in activities to support their government. The government must be commended for acti-

vating all the diplomatic channels and the support was overwhelming. Cheap criticisms of why the President was abroad was too nitpicky, as clearly diplomatic action was ongoing on all fronts. Luckily, people ignored the negative rumor-mongering that Venezuela’s troops were massing at the borders ready to invade. I encourage our border communities to stay put and stand strong. As Comrade Cheddi said to us, “Don’t worry, everything will be alright.” Guyana is winning!

that enquired into the March 2020 election fiasco. The list included Pompeo’s visit, arrested Haitians, imposition of CARICOM visas for Haitians coming into Guyana, the murder of two cousins in Cotton Tree which was interpreted in some circles as a racial attack and not a drug deal gone wrong; President Bolsonaro’s visit, the Mahdia inferno; the alleged Dharamlall molestation; the alleged Nirvan Singh racial remarks; the risk of an oil spill; the fossil fuel industry; and the Sovereign Wealth Fund. These are part of myriad things in Guyana that the names below have written on since September 2020. Since September 2023, when the world heard about Maduro’s referendum, the names below have chosen not to comment on the dangerous threat to the sovereignty of the country they were all born in.

We come now to expression number three – their professed love for Guyana and Guyanese. Where is the love when Guyana’s very existence is threatened by the dictator in Venezuela? Surely, I speak for my fellow Guyanese when I say we don’t need the love of the names listed at the end of this column: Vanda Radzik Alissa Trotz Vidyaratha Kissoon Karen de Souza Pauline Melville Christine Samwaroo Danuta Radzik Maya Trotz Susan Collymore Joy Marcus Halima Khan Vanessa Ross Wintress White Gary Girdhari Nicole Cole Abbyssinian Carto Nigel Westmaas

Joan McDonald Duane de Freitas Akola Thompson Joan Cambridge Immaculata Casimero Terry Roopnaraine Colin Klautky Earl John Janette Bulkan Sandy de Freitas Sherlina Nageer Jocelyn Dow Elizabeth Deane-Hughes Mosa Telford Suraiya Ismail Leila Jagdeo Gerald Perreira Romario Hastings Paulette Allicock Daniel Allicock Isabelle de Caires Luke Daniels Red Thread Amerindian Peoples Association South Rupununi District Council The Breadfruit Collective Makushi Research Unit

Yours sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

These people did not print or voice a word supporting Guyana’s sovereignty

ON December 13, 2022, the names listed below published a letter in the Stabroek News in which the following words were carried: “We are deeply concerned that the government’s policy to pursue economic development based on oil and gas is bad for Guyana…. Oil and gas production are an existential threat to Guyana…. we cannot support government’s policy to produce oil and gas when every ton of greenhouse gas pollution helps to destroy our original ancestral home and cause loss of life in African countries…. In light of the above we call for a national moratorium on all petroleum operations in Guyana – offshore and onshore…we have sent this letter to the President because we are united in love for our country, our fellow Guyanese, our region and our planet.” Please take note of three of the many expressions in that letter. 1), the oil and gas industry is a threat to Guyana’s existence. 2), gas pollution kills people in African countries. 3), the letter-writers say they love Guyana and its

people. We will pay brief attention to expression number two then elaborate on numbers one and three. Freudian analysis comes in here and it should be potent. If you are arguing that cricketers should wear elbow guard, why would you say that lack of elbow guard when batting can be dangerous to Australian cricketers? Why would Indians, Pakistanis, South Africans be exempt from injury when the elbow guard is not worn? Why mention Africa alone? It shows Freudian motifs. Why weren’t the words; “causes loss of life in the world” used instead of African countries? It shows what lies deep in the Freudian recesses of the collective mind of the people who signed that November 13, 2022 letter. The mention of Africa only should cause you to think of how you should see these people. Let’s move on to expression number two. If oil production is a threat to Guyana’s life, then Venezuela’s indication to take 70 per cent of Guyana’s territory is by far a greater threat. In fact, there can be no comparison.

You can move away from the fossil fuel industry and maybe hope to survive on alternative energy, but when another country invades your homeland and integrates your country into their territory, then your homeland disappears. To date, not one of the persons below have penned even one line or voice one word condemning Venezuela’s bellicose attitude to Guyana that eventually resulted in a referendum in President Maduro asking his people to support the annexation of Guyana. If you check the archives of the Stabroek News, the persons below have been publishing letters in that newspaper at least once every six weeks since September 2020 when the first one appeared in that month rejecting the visit of Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo to Guyana (see my column yesterday). Researching the letter columns, one will see that the persons below have touched on every conceivable subject in Guyana excluding any viewpoints or assessments of the Report of the Commission

US says…

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Guyana, Venezuela border controversy cannot be settled by referendum — calls for respect of land boundary defined by the 1899 Arbitral Award

THE United States has affirmed that the border controversy between Venezuela and Guyana cannot be settled through a popular vote, following Venezuela's recent contentious referendum on Guyana's Essequibo region. During a press briefing on Monday, Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US Department of State, reiterated the United States’ commitment to a peaceful resolution of the territorial controversy between the two South American nations. “I will say that we support a peaceful resolution of the border dispute [controversy] between Venezuela and Guyana. The 1899 award determined the land boundary between Venezuela and Guyana should be respected unless or until the parties come to a new agreement or a competent legal body decides

otherwise,” Miller said at the briefing. Last Friday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued “binding” orders on Venezuela to “refrain” from taking any actions that would threaten Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo territory. In the ruling, the court ordered that, pending the decision of the substantive case, Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action that would modify the situation that currently prevails over the territory, which Guyana administers and exercises control over. As an additional measure, the court also ordered that “both parties refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute [controversy] before the court or make it more difficult to resolve.” Guyana had approached

the two parties. The World Court pointed out that it observed that the territory which forms the object of that controversy was awarded to British Guiana in the 1899 Award. The Court also reaffirmed that it has jurisdiction to hear the substantive case. Despite mounting calls for the Venezuelan admin-

istration to abide by international law, the Spanish-speaking country continued full speed ahead with its referendum on December 3. In response, Miller urged both Venezuela and Guyana to continue seeking a peaceful resolution. “We would urge Venezuela and Guyana to continue to seek a peaceful resolution of their dispute. This is not something that will be settled by a referendum,” Miller said. The genesis of the controversy dates back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the land boundary between then British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela. Despite historical arbitration, tensions persisted, leading Guyana to approach the ICJ in 2018, seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

Naeem’s Soup Kitchen on Brickdam, Georgetown and the National Cultural Centre’s tarmac, Mandela Avenue saw a significant gathering on Tuesday, with pensioners and individuals with disabilities eagerly awaiting the distribution of one-off cash grants from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had announced this initiative in early November, revealing that old-age pension-

ers would receive a $25,000 bonus for December, while persons with disabilities were set to receive a $35,000 bonus for the same period. The majority of recipients of the grant noted that while the initiative is commendable, further actions should be taken to ensure a smooth process, especially for individuals with disabilities and the elderly. Currently, residents from 14 communities have been scheduled

Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, Matthew Miller

the World Court seeking the preservation and protection of its right to the territory awarded to it by way of the 1899 Award, pending the court’s determination of the validity of that Award. The ICJ president pointed out in the ruling that the court, in its 2020 judgement, had said that a land boundary controversy exists between

The ICJ’s provisional measures are binding on the parties involved. Under the UN Charter, all states are solemnly bound to comply with the court’s orders, which can be enforced by the UN Security Council. The substantive case, which highlights the historical context and the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains before the World Court. Guyana has reached out to the international community to call attention to Venezuela’s actions that are completely outside the norm of the Rule of Law, and which present a real threat to the peace and security of the Latin American and Caribbean Region. Guyana enjoys the full, principled and unequivocal support of CARICOM, the Commonwealth and other partners from around the world.

Pensioners, persons with disabilities receive December bonus

to visit the location to collect their grants from December 5th to 7th. In addition to this, individuals have suggested the computerization of their data, which would facilitate the process for both staff and individuals awaiting their grants. At Naeem’s Kitchen, residents from four areas were scheduled to be there from December 1st to 5th, for their grants. According to preContinued on page 9

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Guyana’s economy to double in size by 2028

THE economic outlook of Guyana is set for an unparalleled surge, as indicated by a recent Staff Report compiled by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The report, considered by the Executive Board, offers a comprehensive overview of Guyana’s economic outlook, highlighted near-term and medium-term growth projections, key sectors contributing to expansion, and associated risks. According to the report, in the short term (2023-24), Guyana anticipates a substantial boost in oil production, reaching approximately 550,000 barrels per day, with the inauguration of the third field, Payara. Agriculture also presents promising prospects, with the rehabilitation and expansion of sugar plants following the 2021 floods. The construction and services sectors are expected to be pivotal in supporting nonoil gross domestic product (GDP) growth, projecting an

impressive 38.4% real GDP growth in 2023, with non-oil real GDP growth reaching around 9.1%. Looking into the medium term, the IMF’s staff projects an extremely robust growth trajectory for Guyana. Private investments in the expanding oil and gas, and service industries are anticipated to be significant drivers of growth. Public capital spending is expected to remain elevated, averaging about 6½ percent of GDP per year, predominantly financed by oil revenue transfers, expected to be around G$278 billion on average. In the staff’s projections, the economy is forecasted to double in size by 2028. “Inflation is projected to rise but not to jeopardize price stability, given the moderation in fiscal impulses every year, the slack in the economy, and the authorities’ efforts to ease capacity constraints. Given staff projections for inflation in Guyana and its

— IMF says

trading partners, a steady real appreciation in the real exchange rate is expected,” the report said. Guyana’s favourable growth prospects, however, come with both upside and downside risks. On the positive side, the report detailed potential oil discoveries could further

Pensioners, persons with disabilities ...

A group of pensioners at Naeem’s Soup Kitchen on Brickdam during Tuesdays distribution (Japheth Savory photo)

cost of $1.8 billion and 19,000 persons who are vious reports by this registered on the public publication, President assistance register at a Ali had stated that these cost of $660 million, all grants will benefit over payable in December. 72,000 pensioners at a “These one-off boFrom page 8

nus payments will benefit almost 160,000 persons and increase their disposable incomes by over $4.1 billion,” the President said.

enhance long-term economic prospects. According to the report, "a construction boom may support higher short-term non-oil GDP growth than projected, but with a shortand medium-term downside risk of higher inflationary pressures, an appreciation of the real exchange rate

beyond the level implied by the projected balanced expansion of the economy.” The IMF went on to point out: “Global risks include highly volatile commodity prices that could adversely affect growth, fiscal performance, and external buffers. Adverse climate shocks could also weaken the macroeconomic outlook.” The report said that authorities agreed that medium-term growth prospects are better than ever before and broadly agreed with the risks to the economy. “The authorities agreed that their modernisation plans, and the unparalleled expansion of oil production, will contribute to a very rapidly growing economy, including the non-oil sector. They also highlighted their efforts to ensure a balanced growth path.” Further, the report stated: “The authorities broadly agreed with the upside and downside risks to the outlook, and emphasised that

they are vigilant and working towards mitigating the potential downside risks, including the main one rising from overheating, leading to inflationary pressures and appreciation of the real exchange rate beyond the level implied by a balanced expansion of the Economy.” The Staff Report recommend adopting over the medium-term a comprehensive medium-term fiscal framework (MTFF). “The MTFF should encompass further modernizing the public financial management framework, to contain a clear medium-term fiscal anchor, a transition path, and an operational target. Staff recommend periodic expenditure reviews to ensure macroeconomic stability and preserve competitiveness by setting the pace of public investment to take into account absorption and institutional capacity constraints of the economy,” the report recommended.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Latin America, Caribbean region has the potential to supply world with more food - international agencies affirm; say this could be done with less environmental impact

AT C O P 2 8 , t h e 2 8 t h Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which is being held in the United Arab Emirates, experts from international organisations agreed that Latin America and the Caribbean has enormous potential to meet the demand for food for a burgeoning world population, while at the same time reducing the environmental impact of agricultural activities. The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) took part in a panel discussion held in the pavilion of the CAF - Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean at the world’s most important forum for environmental negotiations, which is meeting in the city of Dubai until December 12. The panelists pointed out that the subcontinent had made great strides in achieving greater sustainability in recent years, and has the resources to make further progress. The region’s land, water, and biodiversity resources make it the principal underpinning of global food security and environ-

mental sustainability, the speakers said. The participants were Alicia Montalvo, Manager of Climate Action and Positive Biodiversity at the CAF; Lloyd Day, Deputy Director General of IICA; Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP); Ángela Penagos, President of Colombia’s Financing Fund for the Agriculture Sector (FINAGRO); and Máximo Torero, Chief Economist at the FAO. The moderator was Manuel Pulgar Vidal, former Minister of Environment of Peru and President of COP20, which was held in Lima in 2014. “There is a lot of talk about the problems that food production creates in relation to climate change, but we need to talk more about the solutions it offers,” suggested Montalvo, who warned that, in addition to the climate crisis and loss of biodiversity, the world is facing a third crisis: the issue of food security. “Although many point to agriculture as a sector with high greenhouse gas emissions, we know very well that production in our region is a victim of climate change, and that the envi-

ronment and agriculture go hand in hand,” Montalvo added. McCain, speaking on behalf of the WFP, the United Nations agency that distributes food in extreme situations such as wars and natural disasters, also focused on the vulnerability of rural areas in Latin America and the Caribbean to the impact of climate change. “The Dry Corridor of Central America, for example, has become almost an unlivable area, with farmers finding it impossible to generate income,” said McCain, who advocated focusing on collaboration with climate change adaptation efforts in the most vulnerable areas. THE FOCUS ON HEALTHY DIETS During the activity, the participants also discussed the direction that the transformations already underway in the subcontinent’s agrifood systems should take, and one point of agreement was the need to focus on promoting healthy diets. “We have the capacity to feed the world,” said Lloyd Day, who explained that the region's production systems had made enor-

Máximo Torero, Chief Economist at the FAO; Alicia Montalvo, Manager of Climate Action and Positive Biodiversity at the CAF; Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP); Lloyd Day, Deputy Director General of IICA; and Manuel Pulgar Vidal, former Minister of Environment of Peru and President of COP20

mous strides, reflected in higher yields with less impact on ecosystems, but there was still room for improvement. “ We d o n ’ t i n v e s t enough in science and research in the region. New technologies are decisive in reducing environmental impact, as is indigenous knowledge,” Day remarked. The IICA Deputy Director General, who underlined the need to guarantee trade flows with clear, science-based rules to bolster food security, pointed out that agriculture’s greatest asset as far as climate change mitigation is concerned is its capacity to sequester carbon, which actually makes it a solution. He also stressed the need to include farmers in the de-

bate on the transformation of the activity. “The region has already demonstrated that its agrifood systems are successful, and it can do even more, increasing productivity and reducing its environmental impact,” he concluded. Penagos observed that the ongoing transformations of agriculture aimed at climate change mitigation and adaptation should include not only large producers, but also medium- and small-scale farmers. “We cannot allow climate-smart agriculture to widen the inequality gap to the detriment of the poorest farmers,” he said. The President of FINAGRO also supported the idea of “moving beyond the concept of production

to that of agrifood systems, which is a bridge between rural areas and cities.” “In our region, healthy food is the most expensive in the world. This is adding to overweight and obesity problems,” warned Máximo Torero, who explained that the issue also had to do with the sustainability of production. Torero touched on the crucial issues for agricultural development in the subcontinent, and suggested that the liberalisation of international trade with the elimination of tariff and non-tariff barriers was the key. He also referred to the need to improve access to land for small farmers, and reduce production losses and waste. (IICA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Baracara farmers get new tractor, other materials to improve output

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Tuesday, travelled to Baracara in Region Six to deliver on commitments made to farmers by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

AGRICUTLURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, on Tuesday, travelled to Baracara in Region Six to deliver on commitments made to farmers by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, as the government moves to develop Guyana's agriculture sector, farming communities like Baracara are being given the resources needed to develop the sector. Minister Musta-

pha handed over a tractor with implements, which include a plough and a tractor pump, and 20 black tanks to store water for farming. P r i o r t o Tu e s day’s visit, farmers also benefited from breeding animals to develop the cattle and small ruminants sector, black giant chicks to develop the poultry sector, and a variety of planting materials and infrastructural upgrades. Minister Mustapha, while addressing

the farmers present, said that the government will spare no effort to ensure the agricultural potential of Baracara and other farming communities across the country are achieved. He also said that efforts are being made to develop some 400 acres of farm land for red beans cultivation, as the government moves to make Baracara a mass producer of the lucrative crop.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Region Five farmers benefitting from gov’t initiatives to enhance rice cultivation

FARMERS in Region Five are reaping the benefits of government initiatives aimed at boosting rice cultivation in the region. These initiatives, which include a comprehensive seed programme, are helping to improve crop yields and enhance the livelihoods of farmers. The Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary-Agricultural Development Authority (MMAADA) scheme, which is the largest rice growing area in the nation, cultivates over 100,000 acres of rice per crop, producing over three

million bags of paddy. This was disclosed by Quality Control Manager at the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Marsha Hohenkirk, at MMA’s open day event in Onverwagt, Region Five, on Saturday. Hohenkirk highlighted that the GRDB continues to partner with MMA-ADA to improve rice production in the area while simultaneously improving the livelihoods of farmers. “Recently, GRDB, in a joint initiative with the MMA established a seed programme, where seed growers

in the region will receive support from the GRDB and MMA to produce seed which would subsequently be processed by the MMA seed cleaning facility,” the quality control manager stated. This collaboration will complement current research and seed production efforts already in place for farmers through GRDB’s Rice Research Station, which is situated in the region. During the El Nino period, the GRDB and the MMAADA are working together to effectively manage water to ensure its availability to all

farmers. Salinity testing is also being conducted by the GRDB in all riverain areas. The findings of these surveys are relayed to the farmers and MMA. Meanwhile, GRDB’s extension and quality control services which provide support for farmers are ongoing in a number of areas. Hohenkirk explained that, “These include farmers for your school, where training on best practices in rice cultivation and demonstration

on red rice control… among others are being done.” In the area of quality control, persons are trained to become licensed graders who eventually gain employment by the mills in the region. For the first crop of 2024, approximately 95,000 acres of land were prepared which represents an increase of 5,000 acres over the second crop of 2023. As government is actively working to provide relief to farmers, while developing agriculture in the region,

farmers will benefit from the development of 20,000 acres of new lands for cultivation in the scheme. Hohenkirk commended the commitment and support demonstrated by the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, towards the expansion and sustainability of the agriculture sector. Only a few days ago, the GRDB’s central laboratory was recertified to the national standard by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Texila American University graduates integral to modernising Guyana's healthcare — says Minister Edghill

Speaking to the doctors in the Texila American University (TAU) graduating class of 2023, the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, made the remarks on Monday night at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown

By Cindy Parkinson THE 13th Graduation Ceremony for doctors from Texila American University (TAU) was a momentous occasion held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, where the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, extended his congratulations and underscored the pivotal role of medical practitioners in the development of Guyana’s health sector. Minister Edghill highlighted the government’s commitment to modernising various sectors, with a special emphasis on healthcare. Speaking at the ceremony Monday night, he commended TAU for its contributions, stating, “This university is answering the call and seeing the opportunity that was made available, benefitting from government incentives and frameworks for the establishment of a campus in Guyana. They have played a role, and they continue to play a role in what we hope to achieve.” The minister stressed the importance of resource development in healthcare and shared insights into the government’s strategy. According to him, in resource development in health care, President Irfaan Ali and the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, assured the young

people of Guyana that the government is prepared to “take every young person who is adequately qualified, train them in the various fields in the medical profession, and while they are going through the training, they will be given a stipend too. And not only that, but upon the completion of their training, we will ensure that you get a job.” Minister Edghill emphasised that the government's implementation of this strategy aims to retain and engage qualified young individuals in Guyana. “We are doing this because we face the reality that a number of our own medical professionals who have been equipped and trained have been attracted by the incentives that are available in other parts of the world. We are not shortsighted; we know where we want to go and what would take us there, and we are making the necessary investments,” he noted. The Public Works Minister further explained that the government was paying attention to four key areas as a nation. He stated, “this university and your graduation fall right in the slots of the key pillar of human resources. We cannot modernise the health sector if we don’t have the people and the staff. We can build all the buildings,

buy all the equipment, and make all the budgetary allocation to buy drugs and medical supplies, but if we don’t have competent brains, skills, and a dedicated and committed work force, then we would just have shells in various places and regions.” Stressing to the graduating class of 2023 that Guyana's future is strengthened by their education and their role in the broader framework of human development, Minister Edghill said, “we are certain that we could get to that destination because you are playing a very important role in that.” Moreover, Minister Edghill lauded the parents, relatives, and supporters of the graduating doctors, acknowledging their fortitude and diligence in attaining their medical degree and underscoring that their achievements would not have been possible without their sacrifices and backing. He also commended the Texila American University (TAU) for its endorsement and integration of the government's scholarship initiative, enabling numerous Guyanese individuals to pursue online education. The Public Works Minister expressed admiration for the educational resources in Guyana, specifically the University of Guyana (UG), for consistently producing skilled scholars who occupy key

(Seated sixth from right) Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, with TAU officials, flanked by the graduating class of doctors from the university

positions within the medical establishments across the nation. According to the Minister, “The head of medicine at the Georgetown Public Hospital is a renowned Guyanese, the person who heads the medical school, a renowned Guyanese... there are several people

in the top positions in the medical fields, but more so, they were trained in Guyana and are doing a fantastic job.” F i n a l l y, M i n i s t e r Edghill said that “we have turned the corner, where we are no longer in our heads to think that only good things come

from abroad. We are recognising right here on our soil that our institutions, which are homegrown with the support of partners in various parts of the world, can produce quality people to modernise and transform Guyana.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Region One roads get $224.6M upgrades

THE government, through the Ministry of Public Works, has injected a significant

project, undertaken by GC Construction Inc., is set to enhance connectivity, boost eco-

$224.6 million into the rehabilitation of a series of road networks in Region One (Barima-Waini). This transformative

nomic development, and improve infrastructural access for over 2,000 residents in Heaven Hill, Hell Hill, and Station Street at

Matthews Ridge. The scope of works encompasses the upgrade of 1,150 metres of laterite road and Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST) surfaced roads, efficiently transforming them into rigid pavement concrete thoroughfares ensuring longevity and

durability. DBST is a technique involving the application of asphalt binder material and mineral aggregate. The six-month project commenced on July 13 and is expected to conclude this month. However, the project was executed three

months early on September 3, 2023. The rapid and successful completion of this project stands as a testament to the exceptional leadership and project management capabilities of the ministry and contractor involved. This achievement underscores the

critical role of meticulous planning and execution in realising infrastructural projects that drive regional development. Meanwhile, more infrastructural projects are being rolled out for the development of hinterland communities.

High-quality mental health programme being pursued

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

— more funds being allocated towards improvement, advancement in this area, Dr. Ramsammy says

UNDERSCORING its commitment to establishing a high-quality mental health programme, the government is determined to allocate sufficient funds to ensure continued

improvement in this area. This was emphasised by Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Adviser to the Minister of Health, during the official opening of the third Mental Health and

Well-Being Conference held on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal. “Whether it’s mental health disorders, whether its neurological diseases, wheth-

er its substance abuse and the various social issues that we face, Guyana is willing to approach wellness, it’s the reason why in the ministry of health prevention programme, road safety is an issue,

Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

it’s the reason why domestic violence and sexual abuse are being addressed,” Dr. Ramsammy stated. He noted that the budgetary allocation to tackle this issue has increased over the years and covers the collaborative work of several ministries. “Guyana’s approach since the 1990s has been a holistic government approach to mental health … with our budget for example in the Ministry of Education, where we in the early 2000s started an adolescent health programme. For the first time there is a measurable amount of social workers in schools, we are not where we want to be, but for the first time we have that… we have various programmes in various ministries,” he noted. The former health minister also pointed to the need for improved mental health ‘literacy,’ and suggested that the University of Guyana’s curriculum be updated accordingly. “Mental health disorders kill people and that understanding we

need to develop, not only among ordinary people, among us, policy makers, service providers, our doctors and nurses and unless we have a strong mental health literacy programme, we cannot talk about wellness,” he asserted. Professor Emanuel Cummings of the University of Guyana noted that discussions have started with the Ministry of Education as a follow up to the last conference, to have social workers do internships at schools across the country. He also proffered that social workers work with young children entering the school system. The three-day conference is expected to focus on areas such as suicide, injury, trauma prevention, among other issues. Last year the government passed a Mental Health Bill and Suicide Prevention Bill in an effort to use modernised methods of tackling mental health issues locally. (DPI)

‘Stay out of Essequibo!’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

— Trinidad and Tobago’s Opposition Leader tells Maduro — as international, regional support for Guyana continues to grow to the threat of war, then control streets and movements of persons to prevent campaigning and protests,” Persaud-Bissessar said. She recalled that as Prime Minister in 2015, she stood with Guyana’s then-president David Granger, when Venezuela claimed maritime waters encompassing Guyana’s

Opposition Leader of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar

CONDEMNING Venezuela’s threats to Guyana’s territorial integrity, the Opposition Leader of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar sent a stern warning to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, that if he interferes with the Guyanese people, he is interfering with Trinidad and Tobago too. She made those remarks at a United National Congress Meeting (UNC), on Monday. Persaud-Bissessar firmly

remarked: “My clear message to Maduro is you touch one, you touch all! We unequivocally support the people of Guyana in this crisis. Stay out of Essequibo!” The Opposition Leader also added: “The intention of the current crisis between Guyana and Venezuela created by Maduro is to whip up nationalism under the false pretext that the international community is mistreating Venezuela. “His intention seems to be to deploy the army due

Police find firearm, ammunition, cannabis at Brotherson Pump

The firearm, ammunition and cannabis found by ranks in Berbice

RANKS of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Monday found a firearm, ammunition and cannabis at the Brotherson Pump, Canje River. According to a police report, ranks uncovered a Beretta pistol with six live rounds in the magazine, 15 live rounds in an ammunition box, and a quantity of suspected cannabis weighing 1,362 grams. The officers were visiting the area to attend to a report of an alleged cattle

larceny when the discovery was made. Ranks also found a bucket where the suspected cannabis and firearm were found, and two horse saddles. A 59-year-old man was arrested after he was seen cutting grass a short distance away from where the narcotics and firearm were found. However, when questioned, he denied any knowledge of the items. Further investigations are ongoing.

exclusive economic zone. The Opposition Leader further stated that situation occurred because of the Venezuelan elections that December. “I stood up for the people of Guyana in 2015, and the UNC will stand with the people of Guyana now ... Guyana must know they have our full

support with meaningful and practical backing!” she said. Persaud-Bissessar stated: “If Trinidad and Tobago’s support means we have to wait longer for Dragon Gas, so be it. I tell the Guyanese people stand your ground, you’ve suffered too long, but now you have a great future. Don’t let anyone take it from

you.” The Trinidad and Tobago leader joins many other leaders and institutions in the condemnation of Venezuela’s actions. Guyana’s support continues to grow significantly as Venezuela continues its aggressive rhetoric and actions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Pilot case-management system launched to revolutionise court operations — significant reduction in case backlog, speedier decisions among anticipated benefits

By Clestine Juan IN a significant move toward modernising its legal infrastructure, the Supreme Court of Guyana launched a pilot Court Case Management System (CCMS) at the Diamond/Grove Magistrates’ Court, East Bank Demerara, on Tuesday. This initiative aligns with the government's transformative agenda, which aims to revolutionise the way legal cases are filed and managed within the country. The CCMS, once successfully implemented, holds the potential to bring about a revolutionary shift in the efficiency and speed with which legal proceedings are handled. Operating as a paperless system, CCMS will facilitate the electronic institution, management, and ultimate disposal of legal cases through digital technology. The anticipated benefits include a streamlined resolution of cases and a significant reduction in backlog cases, which has been an issue plaguing the legal system for decades. Speaking at the launch, Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, highlighted the significance of initiating this transformative step in the Magistrates’ Courts, consid-

Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards

ering that over 80 per cent of court cases within the criminal justice system commence in these courts. She pointed out the challenges of an outdated system which relies on pen and paper and leads to inefficiencies, misplaced files, and prolonged case resolutions. “We are in the 21st century with an ever-increasing demand for justice, modernity, increased trade, increased growth and commerce and all that go along with it dictate that we acquire a game. We have had pen and paper for a long time, files and case jackets and a high paper trail dating back to the very first court that was opened in Guyana,” she said. The Chancellor expressed optimism about the digitisation of case management, envisioning a future where

technology contributes to efficient court processes and builds public confidence in the judicial system. “We are witnessing a transformative one by the use of technology to improve the management of cases and ultimately the resolution of those cases,” the Chancellor said. Meanwhile, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, underlined the government's commitment to replacing manual transactions with digital processes across various sectors, aligning with the global trend toward technological advancement. He spoke about the necessity of this initiative in the broader context of central government's efforts to introduce digital mechanisms, citing examples such as the Sin-

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

gle Window Unit mechanism for building permissions. “So this initiative that we are here to celebrate is not an isolated one in the grand scheme of things, but it is most necessary. “I have no doubt that with the efficient management that I know the judiciary is capable of, this pilot project will be successful and we will move to replicate it across the country in the other Magistrates’ Courts,” he said. He also affirmed the government's ongoing support for the judiciary, recognising its pivotal role in the country's economic and social advancement. “This coming year we'll see even greater development both institutionally, theoretically and infrastructurally. “The Government of Guyana will continue to sup-

port the judiciary as we have done since we recognise that we cannot advance this country without an effective, modern, efficient and independent judicial and legal system. It is integral to the economic and social advancement of our country," Nandlall said. He added that the launch event marked a momentous occasion in Guyana's legal history, signalling a departure from traditional practices and embracing a future where technology plays a central role in the pursuit of justice and legal excellence. The CCMS is expected to have far-reaching implications beyond the Magistrates’ Courts. Once the pilot project proves successful, it will be replicated in Magistrates’ Courts across the country. Additionally, a similar

initiative is in development for implementation in the High Court and the Court of Appeal, marking a comprehensive effort to modernise the entire judicial system. The collaborative effort behind the CCMS involved key stakeholders, including the Judiciary, the National Centre for State Courts, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, and the Government of Guyana. The launch of this pilot project marks a crucial step toward enhancing transparency, efficiency, and the rule of law in Guyana's legal landscape. As Guyana advances along the path of technological transformation, the successful implementation of the CCMS is anticipated to not only address existing challenges in the legal system, but to also serve as a model for digital innovation in other sectors. This is done as part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government's commitment to supporting a modern, efficient, and independent judicial and legal system, underscoring its integral role in the country's overall progress.

Police ‘clamp’ several vehicles, issue tickets — during enforcement exercise around Georgetown

OFFICERS, during a traffic-enforcement exercise around Georgetown on Monday, issued tickets to several drivers for leaving their vehicles in dangerous positions along the roadways. The vehicles belonging to those drivers were also clamped, according to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a press release. “This is being done in an effort to reduce traffic congestion due to poor parking choices of many drivers. It is also to aid in the smooth flow of traffic in and around

Central Georgetown. Twenty-five such cases were made on Monday,” the police said. Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, according to a previous report had reiterated the commitment of the GPF to ensuring that there is safety on the roadways. The Traffic Chief said: “Our intention [is to] ensure the unhindered flow of all forms of traffic within all regional police divisions, to minimise traffic congestion in and around the critical areas of activities, to conduct

continuous awareness programmes [which are] aimed at ensuring all plans, routes of travel, and safety information meets the target audience,” Christmas Policing includes an increase in the deployment of uniform and plainclothes ranks day and night throughout the festive season; increased deployment of mobile and foot patrols; and fully operational police booths located at several locations across the 12 police regions to receive crime reports and take action.

A rank of the GPF clamps a vehicle parked incorrectly on a street in Georgetown

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Demerara Bank, GBTI part of new Amazon Finance Network — initiative launched by IDB Invest; IFC brings together 24 financial institutions from 10 countries to support sustainable regional growth

DURING the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), IDB Invest, a member of the IDB Group, and International Finance Corporation (IFC), member of the World Bank Group, announced the launch of the Amazon Finance Network. This alliance, according to a press release from the IDB, brings together financial institutions with the aim of increasing investment flows, mobilising capital, promoting financial inclusion, sharing knowledge on innovative financial solutions, and generating synergies with the public sector. It aims to generate sustainable impact across the Amazon region. This network is composed of 24 founding signatories from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, Spain, Switzerland, and the USA. The signatories have the

determination and capacity to play a major role in the economic development of the region and reduce poverty and inequality by supporting projects that can broaden access to finance. One of the network’s key goals will be to create employment opportunities through sustainable financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in the Amazon region. “Globally, there are 100 trillion dollars of impact investors. The task is to create incentives for those investors to enter emerging markets. We are excited to join forces with the IFC, and all the members of the Ama-

zon Finance Network, to deliver innovative financial solutions and support a vibrant Amazon economy while protecting its natural resources,” said James Scriven, IDB Invest CEO, during the launch ceremony at COP28. The joint initiative is a milestone in the groundbreaking four-year partnership between the IDB Group and the World Bank Group announced in August to drive stronger results for people in Latin America and the Caribbean. As part of this agreement, both organisations are combining their expertise to support countries that share the Amazon region in the

transition to net-zero deforestation, helping people pursue better livelihoods for the local population while preserving the ecosystem— including through innovative financial instruments. “The stakes in the Amazon region are huge. We can’t have a green Amazon without prosperity in the Amazon. This new initiative with IDB Invest and the members of the Amazon Finance Network will focus on creating opportunities to generate substantial private sector-driven economic activity and create jobs in an inclusive and sustainable way as a catalyst for forest conservation and resto-

ration. “Together we can redouble our efforts to protect the Amazon and improve the livelihoods of millions of people that live in the region,” said Alfonso Garcia Mora, IFC Vice President for Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. The Amazon Finance Network is part of IDB’s Amazonia Forever Program and will complement the public sector bank group, the Green Coalition, to promote synergies between the public and private sectors. The creation of this network among financial institutions will be based on an appropriate governance structure, allowing for an effective deployment of available resources and efficient decision-making. The founding members of the Amazon Finance Network are Guyana’s Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) and Demerara Bank; Brazil’s Banco BTG

Pactual S.A, Banco Cooperativo Sicredi, Banco Santander (Brasil) S.A., Centro Cooperativo Sicoob (CCS), Instituto Nordeste Cidadania (Inec) and VINCI Partners Investimentos LTDA.; Colombia’s Banco de Bogotá, Banco de las Microfinanzas – Bancamía S.A., and Corporación de Crédito – Contactar; Ecuador’s Banco de la Producción S.A. Produbanco, Banco de Machala S.A., Banco Pichincha, and COAC Jardin Azuayo. Members also include Bolivia’s Banco Solidario S.A. (BancoSol) and Bolivian Investment Management Ltd.-BIM; Spain’s BBVA Microfinance Foundation; Switzerland’s BlueOrchard Finance Ltd.; Peru’s CMAC Huancayo S.A. and Financiera Confianza; Suriname’s Finabank N.V.; and the IDB Invest and IFC of the US.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Commonwealth unveils model law to aid countries in adopting carbon tax

A new model law launched Tuesday by the Commonwealth Secretariat will help countries implement a carbon tax to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global heating to 1.5°C. The Commonwealth C a r b o n Ta x M o d e l Law was presented at a high-level event on December 6 2023 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28). Guided by the ‘polluter-pay principle’, the model law provides for an easily administrable carbon tax, with the tax being levied on fossil fuels companies and industrial emitters. This approach will help ensure that

Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, during her remarks at COP28

the majority of emissions in most Commonwealth countries are taxed. Governments and legislators from the 56 Commonwealth countries can use the model law as a starting point to draft new

legislation or adapt certain provisions to existing statutes in line with their local circumstances and national climate plans. Implementing a carbon tax outlined in the model law would help countries

reduce their carbon emissions, attract new investment for clean energy and boost government revenue, while contributing to their national climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Launching the model law, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, said: “Delivering the Paris Agreement remains humanity’s greatest hope. But globally, current climate action is too weak and too slow, while the window for action continues to narrow. “There is widespread agreement that one of the most effective ways to help countries meet the net-zero carbon emissions target of the Paris Agreement is carbon taxation. “Considering the growing interest in this area and the need for a co-ordinated approach, this model law is a valuable resource for all 56 Commonwealth countries, as they seek to avoid the worst effects of climate

change and introduce policies for a more sustainable and prosperous common future.” To ensure a just transition, the model law includes provisions for measuring and mitigating the carbon tax’s impact on low-income households and other vulnerable groups. This is achieved through regular impact reporting, stakeholder engagement and by directing revenue generated from the carbon tax towards supporting clean energy initiatives for low-income households. The new model law is the latest in a series of Commonwealth model laws produced by the Commonwealth Secretariat.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday December 06, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 274 players (2) 171 players Today’s Quiz: (1) Which player made his ODI debut in the first ODI of the current WI/ENG series? (2) What was the English opening batting combination in the first ODI? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Costa Rica scores big to advance to W Gold Cup

MIAMI, Florida, (CMC) – Caribbean Football Union No. 7 and Concacaf No. 12 St Kitts & Nevis slumped to their fourth successive defeat when María Paula Salas scored a seven-bagger to lead Concacaf No. 3 Costa Rica to a 19-0 win in the Concacaf Road to W Gold Cup qualifiers on Monday. The Kittitians’ hopes of avoiding being swept in League A, Group C and endure relegation to League B next term hit a snag on home soil in Basseterre, where the visiting Costa Ricans got 10 players on the scoresheets to grab a crucial three points to top the group ahead of CFU No. 2 and Concacaf No. 7 Haiti. Hosts Curaçao ended the group stage with a 6-1 win against Cayman Islands to seal top spot in League C, Group D, Belize celebrated finishing first in Group A with a 1-0 victory against Aruba on the road, and Bonaire condemned Turks & Caicos to the bottom of the same group with a 2-0 win on home soil. AT T H E S K N FA TECHNICAL CENTRE: Costa Rica advanced to the group stage of the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, while Haiti finished second and will progress to the Prelims. In a flash, the Kittitians were down three goals with a pair from Salas goals in the second and fifth minutes sandwiching an Alexa Herrera strike in the third. Salas scored twice, including a header, in the span of a minute to extend the Ticas’ lead to 5-0 before Gloriana Villalobos added a sixth goal in the

19th minute. Salas followed up with her fifth goal in the 23rd minute and then Fabiola Villalobos scored in the 25th minutes on a powerful right-footed shot to propel Costa Rica to an 8-0 lead. There was another spurt of goals from Costa Rica shortly that rocketed them to a 12-0 half-time lead and perhaps had the home team begging for “a mercy rule” in the tournament. Herrera netted in the 43rd minute, Sheika Scott joined the goal feast in the 44th, so too, Raquel Rodriguez in the third minute of first-half stoppage time from the penalty spot, and Salas completed her double hat-trick in the fifth minute of first-half stoppage time with a shot from close-range. The Costa Ricans did not let up to ensure that goal difference was never going to be the deciding factor in the group standings, and Salas scored a header in the 49th minute to complete her perfect seven. Melissa Herrera added her name to the scoresheet in the 59th minute with a header off a corner kick before Alexandra Pinell squeezed in a shot in the 64th minute to take the score to 15-0. A right-footed volley off a corner kick from Mariela Campos in the 68th minute stretched the lead further before Tanisha Fonseca nodded home a header in the 89th minute, Emilie Valenciano slotted home in the second minute of second-half stoppage time and Fonseca tacked on another in the third minute of second-half stoppage time to cap the

scoring.

AT THE RIGNAAL JEAN FRANCISCA STADIUM: A goal in each half from Kadisha Martina enabled Curaçao to end with a perfect record, winning all four of their group matches, and promotion to League B. Curacao raced out to an early 2-0 lead on the strength of goals from Jeleaugh Rosa in the fifth minute and Martina in the 19th minute. The visitors responded when Chelsea Brown scored off a free kick in the 26th minute and still appeared to be in the contest at half-time with the score 2-1, and even with half-hour remaining. Taïsha Hansen fired in a right-footed shot in the 66th minute, and this opened the floodgates in the remaining time. Curaçao got goals from Sadéyah Rosa in the 80th, Martina a minute later, and Emily Pulido in the final minute to finish the match strongly. AT GUILLERMO P. TRINIDAD STADIUM: Belize too, finished the group stage with a perfect record, winning all six matches of the campaign, while outscoring their opponents 20-1, and earned promotion to League B. It was a very competitive throughout the entire match, and the breakthrough came for the Belizeans from the right foot of Mikhaila Bowden in the 85th minute when she launched a free kick that went screaming into the top right corner. AT THE TCIFA NATIONAL STADIUM: Bonaire were able to hold

their shape after first-half goals from Vurgy-Ann Visers and Celine van Loe to end the group stage with their second win and third

place on seven points. Visers broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, turning in a cross from the left wing from Jeanelle

Thode, and van Loe doubled the advantage in the 35th minute when she thumped in a header off a corner kick.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Adelaide Strikers land back-to-back WBBL titles after riveting heist

AN all-round performance from skipper Tahlia McGrath led a collective Adelaide Strikers performance as they successfully defended their WBBL title with a thrilling three-run win over Brisbane Heat in the final at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday last (December 2). Chasing an under-par total of 126, Brisbane Heat needed 13 off the last over bowled by Amanda-Jade Wellington who held her nerve to see her side over the line. The well-set Amelia Kerr got off-strike on the second ball of the over and then had to watch helplessly as she never got back the strike again. Opting to bat, the defending champions lost the in-form Katie Mack early but a 66-run stand between McGrath and the seasoned Laura Wolvaardt raised hopes

Adelaide Strikers players celebrate their victory

of a total in excess of 150, if not 160. The Strikers captain in particular looked in good touch barring the odd nervy moment but once the two set batters departed, the innings went downhill for the Strikers.

The surface appeared to be decent to bat on but the variable bounce and turn on offer meant that the bowlers were always in the game. Heat came back strongly to put the squeeze on and regular wickets helped their

cause as the Strikers endured a horrendous final ten overs. Nicola Hancock continued her good form in the season with a three-fer including the big wickets of Mack and McGrath. Jess Jonassen also produced a tidy spell with

the crucial breakthrough of Wolvaardt. With a low score to chase, Grace Harris started on a positive note as Heat scored 25 off the first three overs. However, the Strikers didn't lose their composure and quietly went about putting a lid on the scoring rate. The result was the big wicket of Harris, with Georgia Redmayne also falling shortly after to kick the game alive. The runs started to dry up as Strikers' spinners stifled the batters. To win defending a low score in a final required one defining moment and McGrath provided that with her second over. A well-disguised slower ball cleaned up du Preez and then a very full ball got the dangerous Laura Harris for a golden duck. It was the kind of situation the Strikers needed heading into the back end of the innings

with the kind of score they had to defend. But Charlie Knott defied them with a 14-ball 20 that put the chase back on track with the power surge yet to be taken. The game ebbed and flowed until the wily Megan Schutt removed Knott and Jonassen off her successive overs to push Heat to the edge. Kerr was starved of the strike in the last three overs and while she tried her best with the odd boundary, her partners lost the plot against a relentless Strikers attack that fed off the roaring home crowd at the Adelaide Oval. The defending champions weren't flawless on the field and a few missed catches/run outs did occur but what they did well was to ace the crunch moments as they landed successive WBBL titles. (Cricbuzz)

NBA In-Season Tournament:

Indiana Pacers beat Boston Celtics to reach semi-finals

Tyrese Haliburton was an NBA All-Star in 2023

THE Indiana Pacers reached the semi-finals of the NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament with a 122-112 win over the Boston Celtics. Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton scored 26 points and made 13 assists and 10 rebounds - his first triple-double - at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Pacers will face the winners of Tuesday's other Eastern Conference quar-

ter-final between the New York Knicks and the Milwaukee Bucks. In the Western Conference quarter-finals, the New Orleans Pelicans beat the Sacramento Kings 127-117. Brandon Ingram led the way for the Pelicans with 30 points, eight rebounds and six assists at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. De'Aaron Fox scored 30 points and Domantas Sabonis recorded 26 points, 13 re-

bounds and 10 assists for the second-seeded Kings, who suffered a third defeat by the Pelicans this season. The Pelicans will meet the top-seeded Los Angeles Lakers or fourth-seeded Phoenix Suns in the semis, which will be played in Las Vegas on Thursday. The final takes place on Saturday. All matches except the final count towards the regular-season standings.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Maxwell eyes shock red-ball return for World Test Championship series

LIMITED-overs specialist Glenn Maxwell has not given up hope of making a return to Test cricket and is eyeing an away series on the sub-continent at the end of the current ICC World Test Championship cycle as his best opportunity to do so. Maxwell has played just seven Tests for his country, with every one of those redball contests coming outside Australia and his most recent appearance more than six years ago. In that time Maxwell played a major role in helping Australia claim their inaugural ICC Men's T20

World Cup title in Dubai in 2021 and then starred once again during the Aussies' recent successful ICC Men's Cricket World Cup campaign in India. While Maxwell knows he is better suited to the limited-overs format of the game, the 35-year-old still feels he can make an impact at Test level and wants to continue to put his name forward for selection ahead of Australia's final series of the current World Test Championship cycle. Australia are scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka at the start of 2025 to battle it out for the Warne-Muralitharan

Trophy in what looms as a crucial series in the run into the World Test Championship final later that year and Maxwell harbours aspirations to be involved. “I'm quite understanding the circumstances of the current side. They're playing some really good cricket, they’re World Test champions," Maxwell said on Australian radio station SEN on Tuesday. “There's not a lot of spots up for grabs as far as Tests at home, but I know that when it does come to a sub-continent tour I can be a real viable option to hopefully fill a role in that side.

“I don't think there's another sub-continent tour until early 2025. So, I'll keep trying to plug away and hopefully get an opportunity at that stage." Glenn Maxwell played an exceptional innings to lead Australia into the knockout stage of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. Maxwell is currently back home in Australia preparing himself for another domestic Big Bash League campaign, while many of his World Cup-winning teammates are gearing up for the start of a hectic Test summer that includes a three-match series against World Test

Championship pacesetters Pakistan and two contests against the West Indies. Much of the discussion heading into the summer has been surrounding whether experienced opener David Warner will retire from Test cricket after the home Test against Pakistan in Sydney as he suggested prior to Australia's successful World Test Championship final campaign earlier this year. Former teammate Mitchell Johnson recently aired some grievances surrounding Warner by indicating the veteran opener should not be able to select his own retirement date.

But Maxwell refused to get drawn into this discussion and instead opted to provide a glowing endorsement for his fellow World Cup winner. “I'm not going to throw my name into some headlines about this,” Maxwell said. “But Davey's been an absolute champion of Australian cricket for a long period of time and the selectors were pretty clear on what they thought of it (selecting him). “I'm looking forward to seeing Davey in that first Test and him making a lot of runs this summer.” (ICC Media)

PCB withdraws Butt's name as selection consultant day after appointment ...Butt's appointment, his first position at the PCB since being banned for spot-fixing, came in for heavy criticism

SALMAN Butt has been withdrawn as the consultant to chief selector Wahab Riaz a day after he was appointed to the position. Pakistan chief selector Wahab called a press conference to say Butt's name was being withdrawn from the consultancy panel with immediate effect. Wahab accused the media of looking to besmirch the PCB's name following Butt's nomination to the advisory panel. He said he had been accused of giving Butt, known to be a close friend of Wahab, preferential treatment, and that he wanted to shield himself against those allegations. Saying his top priority was maintaining the reputation of the PCB and his own integrity, he confirmed Butt would now not be involved with team selection "in any capacity." On Friday, Butt was appointed as a consultant

Salman Butt was appointed along with Kamran Akmal and Rao Iftikhar Anjum only on Friday • ( AFP via Getty Images)

member alongside Kamran Akmal and Rao Iftikhar Anjum "with immediate effect," and they would be advising Wahab in selecting Pakistan's team for the five-match series against New Zealand. The selection came in for heavy criticism for a number of reasons, including the pro-

vincial composition of the panel. All three members are from Punjab, historically the most influential and dominant region in Pakistan cricket. With Wahab also currently holding a government ministry in the Punjab government, the board instantly came in for allegations of favouritism.

But it was Butt's appointment that caused the greatest uproar. It was the first time Butt was handed a position at the PCB in any capacity since being banned for spot-fixing in 2010. He played domestic cricket and the PSL after returning from his ban, and has taken up a role

as an analyst for various media outlets. ReBut ESPNcricinfo understands Butt's appointment was met with fierce internal resistance within the PCB too, with at least one employee said to be uncomfortable with it to the extent they threatened to resign. With criticism mounting across the board, Wahab convened a hastily arranged press conference on Saturday evening, withdrawing Butt's name from the panel. Wahab said a replacement would be announced shortly, pointedly saying he would be from Karachi. Wahab also said Asad Shafiq is likely to be appointed to that position in due course. While Butt was the most high-profile appointment, he was not the only member of that panel to be wholly free from controversy. While Butt was banned and has served

time for his role in the 2010 scandal, both Wahab and Akmal were questioned in and around that same episode. Akmal was sent a notice by the ICC after the T20 World Cup in 2010 - much before the spot-fixing incident broke out that year - though he was later cleared to be selected by Pakistan. Akmal did not play another Test after the episode at Lord's, though he did feature in Pakistan's white-ball sides. Wahab was also questioned by Scotland Yard in the immediate aftermath of the Lord's Test that year, but was never charged with any offence. He was appointed the new chief selector of the senior men's team two weeks back after Inzamam-ul-Haq had stepped down from his position in the wake of conflict-of-interest allegations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Exxon partners with Petra for KFC Goodwill Football tourney THE fourth edition of the KFC Goodwill Schools U-18 Football tournament will kick off in under a week (December 12) and oil giant ExxonMobil has thrown its support behind coordinators Petra Organisation with a GYD $3 Million cheque towards sponsorship of the hinterland teams St Ignatius Secondary (Region Nine), Bartica Secondary (Region Seven) and defending champions DC Caesar Fox Secondary (Region Seven). On Tuesday afternoon at a simple ceremony held at the National Library on Church Street, Exxon’s Community Relations Adviser, Ryan Hoppie, was on hand to make the presentation to Petra.. At the presentation, Hoppie revealed that while

Exxon has been sponsoring Petra’s events for over four years; “ sponsoring youth in sport is a great opportunity for us to fulfil our commitment to youth and community empowerment.” Meanwhile, Co-Director of Petra, Troy Mendonca expressed gratitude to Exxon for their timely sponsorship, stating: “We are happy to announce that they are on board to assist in delivering the tournament. The magnitude and what it will do for football for the country is important and we at Petra thank ExxonMobil for delivering on their corporate social responsibility.” The eight teams will be divided into two groups with Group ‘A’ consisting of Trinidad’s St Benedict’s College, Surinamese school VWO 4 and Guyanese schools Carm-

el Secondary and DC Caesar Fox Secondary. Group ‘B’ will see Jamaica’s 2022 Digicel champions Clarendon College facing Bartica Secondary, St Ignatius and Chase Academy. The first part of the tournament will be played in a round-robin format before the top two teams from each group move on to the semi-finals with the winners sealing final berths. Over at the Ministry of Education Ground, Clarendon College will have their first taste of action against Bartica Secondary at 6PM, while at 8PM Guyanese teams Chase Academy and St Ignatius will do battle.. The winners of the tournament will receive USD $2500, second place USD $1500, third place

ExxonMobil’s Community Relations Adviser Ryan Hoppie (second, left) hands over the sponsorship cheque to Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca

USD $1000 and fourth place USD $500. There

will also be awards for the Most Valuable Player,

Highest Goalscorer and Best Goalkeeper.

performances and learn from our mistakes.” He added: “Something I highlighted even before we went out to chase the runs. A lot of the time we find ourselves only winning matches when we chase 180, 190, 200, so we need to make it on a more consistent basis that if you want to be an elite team, you have to be chasing scores of 300 plus as well. “We also must remember that we have more time than we think in the innings, and this is the perfect opportunity to build from this game, and it certainly should give our batters some confidence that we can chase scores like that, but we have to make sure we are doing things better and better each day, and we can grow as a team.” A cause for concern for West Indies will be the bowling, with their five main bowlers conceding a minimum of 60 apiece in their 10-over allotment.

“After the kind of start they got, we needed someone to control things a bit in the middle overs,” Hope said. “Motie did that in the last few overs of the Power Play, but it was nice to see that we did not let that score from 325 to 370. “It would have been a whole different ballgame, and it was nice to see the bowlers come back and fight the way they did, especially taking wickets at crucial stages, so that England did not have the impetus they normally would have at the back end of the innings. Pleasing signs to see from the bowlers.” England showed glimpses of their destructive batting line-up in the last match, but they were unable to back it up with their bowling, which cost them the opening match. Having had a few days to work on their shortcomings, a better performance will be expected from the visitors, and they will be

gunning to level the series. A major positive was the performance of teenaged leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed, after he put the brakes on the Windies batting when the pacers appeared to get little help from the pitch that clearly favoured the batting side. Squads: WEST INDIES (from): Shai Hope (captain), Alzarri Joseph (vice-captain), Alick Athanaze, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Kjorn Ottley, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas. ENGLAND (from): Jos Buttler (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Ollie Pope, Phil Salt, Matthew Potts, John Turner.

Hope eyeing series-clinching win – 2nd ODI

NORTH SOUND, Antigua, , (CMC) – West Indies captain Shai Hope said his side will be pushing hard to win the second One-day International against England today in Antigua and not let the hard they have put in to prepare for the series go to waste. The Caribbean side lead the three-match series 1-0 after they completed their highest successful run chase of 326 to clinch a four-wicket win in the first ODI this past Sunday at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, where the second match will also be played. “We had some very good preparation done leading into the series, and it is now about topping up after we have put ourselves in a solid position to win the series,” he told reporters on the eve of the match. “It will be great to go up 2-0, and obviously win the series. “Every time you cross

West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope

the line and go onto the field, your main focus has to be to win. Every time we play cricket matches for West Indies, it’s so much more than just development, which is yes, a big thing for us especially in this situation that we are faced with, but we are 1-0 up in this series, and the main focus right now is to win.” An insider video of Hope congratulating his side in the dressing room after the win revealed him reminding them they had not achieved the ultimate objective because the series

was not yet won and West Indies teams of recent past had won series openers and then failed to follow up. “I thought the start (to our innings) was very good,” he added. “It’s something that we speak about time and time again. The opening partnership was amazing, but we need to make sure that we stop losing wickets in clusters. “Going forward, we need to build on the kind of start we had, especially in a series like this, when you have the upper hand, we need to make sure we replicate those solid batting

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Referees equipped with new gear and enhanced equipment

REFEREES affiliated to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will now step onto the field for upcoming matches donning new gear and upgraded equipment. Last Friday, match officials received a comprehensive package, including officiating apparel, training kits, bibs, cones, footballs, ladders, wallets with cards, flag sets, whistles, jump ropes, and fitness adjustment bands, all bearing the branding of Capelli Sport, the Federation's logo. A simple handover ceremony was held at the GFF Georgetown Headquarters and attended by GFF President Wayne Forde, Council Member Dion Inniss, Guyana Football Referees Council President Tyrone Tyrrell, Referees Project Officer Lenval Peart, FIFA Assistant Referee Denisha Isaacs, FIFA Futsal Referee Colin Abel, Brandon Cyrus, Ebonie McNiel, Mitera Thomas, Megan Andres and Miksha Crossman. The presentation was part of GFF's continuous efforts to professionalise the sport in Guyana. During his brief address, GFF President Forde thanked the referees for their commitment to maintaining high standards in the game.

Forde disclosed that he was happy the match officials involved in a recent vehicular accident were recovering well and emphasised that the GFF will address changing transportation arrangements for referees who officiate late-night matches. “Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our match officials involved in the recent accident. We cannot continue to roll the dice on this one. We will continue to have serious discussions on the required changes regarding the transportation of referees following late matches.” Forde underscored that professionalising football involves ensuring uniformity among the officials who serve as authoritative figures on the pitch. “Referees are standard bearers of football. They are the ones who help us to maintain the standards in terms of quality of play, quality of behaviour and ensuring that the rules are adhered to on the pitch. “I strongly feel that if they project a shabby image, they will be treated that way. Professionalising the sport in Guyana must include the uniformity of our referees. I believe if you have a team of

GFF President Wayne Forde (centre) makes the presentation to referees

officials walking onto a pitch looking sharp, exuding confidence and professionalism, it gives them added authority in terms of how they dispense their duties.” The GFF President urged the officials to wear the gear and use the equipment with “the same pride, dignity and distinction you have consistently exhibited over the years while representing the Guyana Football Federation.” GFF Council Member

Dion Inniss called upon the Federation’s membership and the wider football community to support match officials as the structure for referees overseeing latenight matches is evaluated. “These are the times when we call on our membership and the wider football community to remember that our match officials too need all the support that they can get. Compassion sometimes is seriously lacking. “We will have to

have an earnest conversation regarding changes as to how we operate, regarding very late matches that seem to have become the norm.” He emphasised that at the centre of the discourse will be “logistics and the question of ensuring that proper transportation arrangements are put in place so that a tired official would not have to be driving in the wee hours of the morning.” Inniss noted that referees have received apparel

and equipment in the past to ensure they are continually “well equipped to officiate in the numerous tournaments added to the schedule.” In recent years, the GFF has dedicated efforts to establish a distinct identity for national teams and officials as part of their pursuit to professionalise the game, a release from the federation pointed out.

Sinclair makes waves with five for 44 on – 1st day, 3rd ‘Test’

BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa, (CMC) – Off-spin bowling all-rounder Kevin Sinclair further enhanced his reputation with a destructive spell that defied half-centuries from Khayelihle Zondo and Neil Brand and enabled West Indies A to gain an edge against hosts South Africa A in the deciding third “Test” on Tuesday. The 24-year-old Guyanese ended with five for 44 from 14.4 overs, and the South Africans were bowled out for 274 in their first innings after they chose to bat on the first day of the four-day, first-class match at Mangaung Oval. Pace bowling fellow Guyanese Shamar Joseph supported with three for 65 from 15 overs, and Grenadian pacer Shermon Lewis bagged two for 68 from 13 overs to give the Caribbean

Kevin Sinclair took 5-44 from 14.4 overs

side a strong start to the match. Zondo hit the top score of 70 for South Africa A, their captain Brand supported with 62, Zubayr Hamza made 30, Raynard van Tonder and Clyde Fortuin added 25 each, and Hardus Viljoen got 24. West Indies A reached 17 for one at the close with opener Zachary McCaskie not out on 12 and left-hander Kirk McKenzie not out on

two. The visitors lost left-handed opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul caught in the slips off pacer Duanne Olivier for three in the fifth of the eight overs possible before stumps were drawn. The three-match series between the two sides is tied 1-1 after West Indies A won the first match, which went down to the wire, by one wicket two Fridays ago

at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, and South Africa A rebounded to win the second match by 232 runs at Buffalo Park in East London. West Indies A toiled for more than an hour-anda-quarter before Joseph made the breakthrough when he got opener van Tonder caught behind down the leg-side, essaying a flick. Lewis gave the Caribbean side another reason to celebrate three overs later when he got David Beddingham, who received his maiden Test call-up on Monday for the senior Test series against India, faced 11 balls before he was caught in the deep on the leg-side for five from a miscued pull, and South Africa A were 69 for two. For close to an hour either side of the South

Africans reaching 102 for two at lunch, the visitors failed to make further headway Hamza joining Brand, whose 50 came from 64 balls, to put on 51 for the third wicket. Joseph broke the stand in his eighth over when he got Hamza caught behind, top edging an ill-advised cut, and he followed up in his next over with the scalp of Brand caught at second slip, sparring at rising ball outside the offstump, and the home team stumbled to 129 for four. West Indies A met resistance when Zondo absorbed the pressure and batted purposefully to reach his 50 from 77 balls and stitched together a few tidy stands to carry South Africa A past 200. Regular strikes from Sinclair prevented the last recognised batsmen for

the South Africans from converting starts into big scores, but a 68-run stand for eighth wicket between Zondo and Viljoen helped to beef up the total before the last three wickets fell for no runs in the span of seven balls. The visitors made three changes to their side with teenaged batsman Jordan Johnson, as well as pacers Jayden Seales and Lewis coming into the side to replace wicketkeeper-batsman Tevin Imlach, spinner Abhijai Mansingh, and pacer Jair McAllister. The hosts made four changes to their side with Bedingham and Hamza replacing Tony de Zorzi and Keegan Petersen, and pacers Olivier and Viljoen returning in place of Tshepo Moreki and Dane Piedt.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

GFF Elections and Congress

Franklin Wilson believes government support critical to sports development - Says Wayne Forde-led executive disrespectful to members

By Calvin Chapman THE highly anticipated elections and congress of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) that is slated for this Saturday at the National Training Center, Providence, has been engulfed in a cloud of controversy following a notice sent out last week that identified four members that are not in good standing. Although the notice did not explicitly say that the members have not lost their voting rights, it is an insinuation. Those members are: 1. West Demerara Football Association; 2. Guyana Police Force Football Club; 3. Western Tigers Football Club; and 4. Santos Football Club. Coincidentally, those members are all supporters of the Franklin Wilson led slate that will be the only opposition to the incumbent head; Wayne Forde’s slate. Santos’ President is the second vice-president of Wilson’s slate, that club along with Western Tigers

and Guyana Police Force are part of the GFF KFC’s Elite League Cup competition. Wilson and Ramesh Persaud (Santos’ President) during an interview yesterday with Chronicle Sport, expressed their feeling of disenfranchisement. However, Wilson revealed that he was not surprised by the recent development to disenfranchise members and he has written FIFA, the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) to express his concerns. “We have encountered a few road blocks but we are dealing with it in a constructive way. We do not intend to attack anybody but we have to standup for ourselves”, Wilson stated. Wilson believes that the current GFF administration does not have respect for its members and when respect is lacking, there will always be acrimony. The alleged current culture of disrespect is part of what he intends to discard if he is elected come this Saturday. Thus far, Wilson high-

Franklin Wilson (left) and Ramesh Persaud

lighted, his slate has met with 14 members of the GFF to hear their views and what they would like to be done to increase the effectiveness of the governing body. Solidifying the slate’s stance of inclusivity. Wilson, who served as acting head of the GFF in 2012, has a track record of good governance and inclusivity. During his last tenure, he explained that he had engaged all stakeholders and he was responsible for the Georgetown Football Association (GFA)

getting back their voting rights. When quizzed on how important support from all stakeholders including the Government is, Wilson was quick to assert the fact that sports need the support of government to reach higher heights. “Government is an active and critical stakeholder in sport. Recently, the Guyana Government sponsored the entire contingent of athletes to compete at the IGG Games in Suriname and with record breaking

budgets being passed for sports, it is a clear indicator that the Government is serious in developing sports locally.” “The constitution is clear, all the members are legitimate,” Ramesh Persaud said. “We believe that because we are in support of the Franklin Wilson slate, we have been specifically targeted. But we will remain steadfast because we still have our voting rights. The electoral committee has no jurisdiction

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to suspend any member,” Persaud highlighted. When quizzed about some of the plans that their slate has when they enter into office, Persaud was inclined to say, “I can’t make any promises because currently the Wayne Forde administration is receiving conditional financing from FIFA. We want to reestablish transparency with an audit and create a good product for the fans and the corporate community.”

| WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2023