- Dr Jagdeo underscores the importance of integrity, honesty
- says gov’t is committed to dismantling the spread of fake news
About $2B being invested to boost potable water access in Region Two
- conference underlines dwindling support for party
Financial analyst says Hughes must terminate contracts with ExxonMobil, other oil companies
Works on the Onderneeming Water Treatment Plant in Region Two are advancing
The Aiden by Best Western-Midtown hotel in Georgetown Nigel Hughes elected AFC leader
Seek to pursue the truth, not an agenda
By Trina Williams
NOTING that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is committed to tackling the escalation of fake news, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo is urging for integrity and honesty to prevail within the media landscape.
While other countries, such as Jamaica, have taken a firm stance on drawing the line between fake news and free speech, the Irfaan Ali-led government has reaffirmed its belief in press freedom; however, Dr Jagdeo is urging journalists and media houses not to allow their agenda to get in the way of objective journalism.
During a recent press conference at the party’s headquarters, the Sunday Chronicle questioned Dr. Jagdeo about the prevalent distortion of facts; in response, he expressed disappointment with the misinformation that is being peddled by known critics of the government.
Using President Dr Irfaan Ali’s press conference as an example of how there was
selective coverage of this important event, Dr Jagdeo pointed out that despite this being a unique opportunity, it was squandered.
“He [President Ali] spoke extensively about various sectors. Please do him the courtesy of reporting what he said, even if you want to talk about other things. But it's totally lopsided. There was practically no coverage of the substantive things,” the Vice President said. He added, “We're not looking to control or direct media or reporters. We believe in independence. But reporters do have to also have some integrity and honesty when they come to the press conferences. You can’t come with an agenda. You have to come to the press conferences with the idea that you want to portray the truth to your readers.”
According to Dr Jagdeo, it was for that very reason that he holds his weekly press conference, because if the ruling PPP does not respond to the misinformation that was brewing in the public domain, such as the subject matter of procurement, then it will
- Dr Jagdeo underscores the importance of integrity, honesty - says gov’t is committed to dismantling the spread of fake news
be labelled as “corrupt.”
In April, President Ali, in rejecting “selfish propaganda” geared at achieving political advantage, maintained that the “One Guyana” objective will be achieved through the integration of the country’s people, with equal and equitable opportunities.
During an interview with Trinidad and Tobago’s CNC 3 morning show, the Guyanese Head of State said the unjustified claims are engineered to portray a narrative that has historically been peddled by the political opposition to create division among citizens.
“I don’t waste my time on propaganda that is aimed at selfishly accomplishing things that give you some political advantage or some political narrative,” he said, adding: “This country is going to move forward as ‘One Guyana’ with all the people integrated as one; we are going to set the agenda as to what unity looks like. We’re going to live in unity; we’re going to ensure that unity is incorporated into economic expansion and policymaking.”
The President highlighted that the government’s push for unity is evidenced by several projects and initiatives
geared at improving the lives of all Guyanese.
Despite what is being peddled, the Head of State affirmed that Guyanese could look forward to the nonstop implementation of policies and programmes to enhance their livelihoods and push economic development.
“You will see a continuation of policies that would lead to sustainable development; policies that are aimed and directed towards building the prosperity of every family. You will see Guyana taking a lead role, if not the lead, on the issue of climate security, energy security and food security,” President Ali said.
Already, the government has outlined an ambitious 2030 and beyond agenda for sustainable economic growth.
With special emphasis on improving the lives of every citizen, major investments will continue in the areas of agriculture, health, and education.
“We don’t want wealth to be in economic parameters alone; we want wealth to be enjoyed by citizens of the country through a good standard of living,” Dr Ali said, adding: “You will see a lot of policies and programmes that will continue along this trajectory.”
Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
Biden hits fundraising trail in show of strength after dismal debate performance
(Reuters) - President Joe Biden embarked on a series of fundraising events across two states on Saturday as he works to stamp out a crisis of confidence in his re-election campaign following a feeble debate performance that dismayed his fellow Democrats.
The events are being held as many nervous Democratic donors are lamenting Biden’s weak showing against Republican rival Donald Trump on Thursday night and wondering what, if anything, they could do to change the course of the race, according to interviews with more than a dozen Democratic fundraisers.
Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited the up-
scale New York beach enclave known as the Hamptons for a campaign fundraiser hosted by hedge-fund billionaire Barry Rosentein. Later in the day, he will travel to New Jersey for a fundraiser hosted by wealthy New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat.
“I understand the concern about the debate. I didn’t have a great night," Biden told the room of about 100 supporters gathered in the Hamptons.
“The point is I didn’t have a great night, but neither did Trump.”
He added, "I promise you we're going to win this election."
Another hedge-fund founder, Eric Mindich, and his Tony Award-winning producer wife Stacey,
celebrity couple Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, and actor Michael J. Fox were all listed as members of the host committee at the New York event, according to an invitation seen by Reuters.
Biden told a rally in North Carolina on Friday he intended to defeat Republican rival Donald Trump in the November presidential election, giving no sign he would heed calls from Democrats who want him to drop out of the race. The race is very close, according to polls, and will likely come down to voters in a few battleground states.
Biden's verbal stumbles and occasionally meandering responses during the debate heightened voter concerns that the 81-year-old might not be fit to serve another fouryear term.
Trump, meanwhile,
unleashed a barrage of criticisms, many of which were well-worn falsehoods he has long repeated, including claims that migrants have carried out a crime wave, that Democrats support infanticide, and that he actually won the 2020 election.
The Biden campaign on Saturday boasted it had raised more than $27 million between debate day through Friday evening, but questions remain about whether the debate performance will hurt fundraising, at least in the short term. The donor class is being closely watched for signs of whether he can ride out the doubts.
Biden held a $100 million advantage over Trump just a couple of months ago, but the Biden campaign and the Democratic National Committee entered June with $212 million
in the bank, compared with $235 million for the Trump operation and the Republican National Committee.
Many top donors c alled political advisers in recent days to inquire about little-known rules under which Biden might be removed from the ticket against his will and replaced at or before the Democratic National Convention in August, according to two people who fielded the inquiries
Some donors were actively trying to reach Jill Biden, the first lady, who in turn could persuade her husband not to run, the New York Times reported on Saturday.
Reid Hoffman, a co-founder of LinkedIn and one of the Democratic Party’s most influential donors, wrote in an email to friends on Friday evening that he
had been inundated.
“I got a lot of emails in the last 24 hours asking whether there should be a public campaign to pressure President Biden to step aside after his (very) bad debate performance last night,” he wrote in the email, which was seen by Reuters.
“It certainly delivered a blow to the mood among donors and organizers.”
He said it was up to Biden and his family to make a decision, adding, “If anything, a public effort might compel the Bidens to try to prove the doubters wrong.”
One major fundraiser for the Biden campaign said some donors were learning fast how little influence they have in this situation.
“There are a lot of people who think they are more important than they actually are,” the fundraiser said.
Panama court acquits 28 people tied to Panama Papers, Operation Car Wash
(Reuters) - A Panamanian court has acquitted 28 people charged with money-laundering under cases linked to the Panama Papers and “Operation Car Wash” scandals, the country’s judicial branch said in a statement on Friday. It did not provide names of the people who were acquitted.
Judge Baloisa Marquinez ordered that precautionary measures be lifted against all the defendants, and said one criminal process was now canceled due to the death of an unnamed defendant.
Ramon Fonseca, who co-founded now defunct
after leaked confidential documents exposed accounts housed in tax havens linked to individuals including former Argentine President Mauricio Macri, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Argentine football star Lionel Messi. Marquinez, who also ordered fines of 100 balboas ($100) each on 10 witnesses who did not comply with summonses, said evidence collected from Mossack Fonseca’s servers did not comply with the chain of custody.
Regarding Operation Car Wash, a massive anti-corruption probe that originated in Brazil, Marquinez ruled that it could not be determined that money from illicit sources had entered Panama from Brazil with the purpose of helping conceal crimes.
The investigation, which began in 2014, exposed sprawling corruption schemes across the region and sent dozens of Latin American political and business leaders to jail, including several former presidents.
U.S. offers deportation relief to further 309,000 Haitians
(Reuters) - The Biden administration will expand deportation relief and work permits to an estimated 309,000 Haitians in the country already, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said on Friday.
The administration will expand access to the Temporary Protected Status program to Haitians through February 2026 due to violence and security issues in Haiti that limit access to safety, healthcare, food and water, the department said.
About 264,000 Haitians in the U.S. were already covered by the program, according to the U.S. government.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat seeking another term in Nov. 5 elections, has walked a political tightrope when it comes to immigration, trying to step up security at the U.S.-Mexico border while also taking a more
humane approach to immigrants in the U.S. illegally.
In a presidential debate on Thursday, Biden's Republican challenger, former President Donald Trump, criticized Biden for failing to stem high levels of illegal immigration.
Gang wars in Haiti have displaced over half a million people and nearly five million are facing severe food insecurity.
Armed groups, which now control most of the capital, have formed a broad alliance while carrying out widespread killings, ransom kidnappings and sexual violence.
Under the latest move, TPS will now be available to Haitians who were in the U.S. on or before June 3.
The TPS program offers deportation relief and work permits to people in the U.S. whose home countries face armed conflict, natural disasters and other extraordinary events. The designations last six to 18
months but frequently are renewed.
As president, Trump tried to end most TPS enrollment but was blocked
in federal courts.
Thousands of Haitian migrants crossed the U.S.-Mexico border into Del Rio, Texas, in Sep -
tember 2021 as part of a rise in illegal crossings after Biden took office. In recent years, the number of Haitians caught cross-
ing illegally has plummeted as many have used new legal pathways to the U.S.
law firm Mossack Fonseca alongside German national Jurgen Mossack, died in May after being
hospitalized since early April.
Mossack Fonseca entered the spotlight in 2016
The Carter Center
A THREE-member team from the Carter Center is in Guyana on the invitation of the Government of Guyana. The team is here to have a pre-election assessment of the situation in the country. Founder of the Centre former President Jimmy Carter first visited the country in 1990, and the Center has since fielded observers in almost all of the country's general and regional elections.
This is indeed a welcome development. The Center played a key role in the restoration of democratic rule on October 5, 1992, after twenty-eight
years of PNC dictatorial rule. This came about after President Carter successfully managed to get the then-President Desmond Hoyte to agree on several electoral reforms, the most significant of which was the counting of votes at the place of poll. Hoyte had earlier dismissed that Opposition demand on the grounds of its being 'a logistical nightmare'.
It is important to note that as recent as March 20, 2020, fresh attempts were made by the then APNU+AFC ruling coalition to rig the national and regional elections. That, however, was thwarted,
thanks in large measure to the presence of local and foreign observers.
Regarding the March 5, 2020 elections, Elections Day, it will be recalled, went smoothly, and the Center's observers sent back mostly positive results from all of the ten administrative regions. However, the counting process became derailed during the tallying of votes for Region Four, the largest region in terms of population. After only half the results for the region were tabulated in the presence of observers, the returning officer abruptly announced the rest of the results, which indicated a
'victory' for the then-ruling APNU+AFC, which was trailing behind. And all of that in the full presence of observers and representatives of the diplomatic community.
As to be expected, the Carter Center and other international observers denounced the declaration of unverified results which were lacking in transparency and credibility. The opposition parties, led by the then Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, successfully filed a lawsuit which saw a return to the previous tallying process. But the restarted process again failed to meet the required standards.
In the end, after much drama and intrigue on the part of the APNU+AFC and 'rogue' elements from GECOM, democracy prevailed, and Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali was sworn in as the duly elected Executive President of Guyana.
Interestingly, the Carter Center is in the country at a time when the PNC, the major partner in the APNU, is holding its Party Congress. Will the new leadership of the party, headed by its leader, Aubrey Norton, commit to a process of democratic elections, given his party's history of electoral fraud?
to democracy within its internal party elections is, at best, questionable, given the allegations of fraudulent practices by senior party executives.
President Ali, for his part, has recommitted to the democratic process, the Rule of Law and respect for the will of the Guyanese people. During his engagement with the Center, he underscored the importance of transparency, accountability and democratic governance, which have always been the hallmarks of the PPP and the PPP/C administration.
So far, its commitment
‘Those whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad’
Dear Editor,
I AM compelled to express my thoughts on the recent developments within the People's National Congress (PNC) in Guyana, which have led to a significant number of resignations from the party.
As I reflect on this situation, I am reminded of the ancient Greek proverb, "Those whom the gods wish to destroy, they first
make mad." This quote seems eerily relevant to the PNC's circumstances, and I would like to elaborate on why.
Since the 2018 no-confidence motion, the PNC has been embroiled in a series of controversies, utilising the courts and other means to maintain its grip on power. This prolonged period of political instability has taken a toll on the country, with
many Guyanese citizens feeling held hostage by the party's actions. The PNC's tactics have been perceived as a desperate attempt to cling to power, rather than working in the best interests of the nation.
The recent resignations from the party can be seen as a manifestation of the proverb's wisdom. It appears that the PNC's leadership has become
increasingly isolated and detached from reality, making decisions that are detrimental to their own party and the country as a whole. The gods, in this case, can be metaphorically seen as the collective will of the Guyanese people, who have grown weary of the PNC's antics.
The PNC's actions have led to a loss of credibility and trust among the populace, and it seems
that even their own members are now recognising the futility of their efforts. The resignations can be viewed as a symptom of a deeper issue – a crisis of leadership and a lack of vision for the country's future. The party's obsession with maintaining power has blinded them to the needs and aspirations of the Guyanese people, ultimately leading to their own downfall.
In conclusion, the PNC's situation serves as a stark reminder that those who prioritise power over the greater good will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. The gods, in this case, have indeed made them mad, and it is up to the people of Guyana to chart a new course for a brighter future.
Sincerely, Hemraj Vishaul Kissoon
Can the PNC’s implosion give Irfaan a 2/3rd majority?
THE two candidates likely to become the next PNC leader, Roysdale Forde and Amanza Walton-Desir have withdrawn their candidacies. What will be devastating in the PNC’s election campaign of 2025 are the reasons given by both former contestants and the reason by the former General-Secretary for resigning from that position.
Here are the words of Mrs. Walton-Desir: “Throughout my campaign, I have been dedicated to upholding the values of transparency, fairness, decency and integrity within our beloved party. However, recent developments which I am not at liberty to ignore, have raised serious concerns regarding the process.”
Here are the words of Forde on the reason for his withdrawal: “My decision is rooted in the fundamental principles of accountability,
transparency and democratic governance, which I believe are essential for the integrity of the party’s electoral processes.” And this is what Dawn Hastings Williams wrote in her resignation as General Secretary: “I believe that the one-month period for preparation for such a congress can lead to confusion rather than having a fair and transparent process and outcome.”
Forde and Walton-Desir did not attend the opening of the congress. That act in itself points to a deeply divided party that cannot sustain itself just 17 months before an election. Forde and Walton-Desir are two of the biggest names in the present house of the PNC.
It is scientifically impossible (although human behaviour is not subject to scientific laws) for an electorate to vote for a party when three of its top leaders have
resigned over two crucial values that govern organizational behaviour – transparency and accountability and all three inferred that such a situation cannot lead to a proper outcome of the congressional voting.
Despite people attending the congressional opening last Friday, PNC supporters can deny it all that they want, the reality in Guyana is that the PNC has imploded. The chasms are going to get deeper and wider after Norton is acclaimed. I don’t know at the time of writing if there is going to be a sham election just for the purpose of saying that there was an election. It happened before in 2003 when the PNC wanted the pretence of an election and Artie Ricknauth ran against Robert Corbin. He got 85 votes to Corbin 745. We may see a repeat of the Ricknauth saga today at the congress where an unknown
figure will run against Norton, get 13 votes to Norton 998.
The PNC congress is set to destroy the electoral prospects of the PNC in November 2025. It is horrible self-delusion of all those today (Sunday) who will jump so high they may get stuck coming down when Norton is acclaimed or elected leader. Those emotions will not translate into election viability next year.
Mr. Corbin was elected PNC leader in a landslide in 2003 and in the forthcoming national election in 2006, the PNC lost six seats from the previous general election in 2001. It is going to be more than six losses in 2025. Here is where Norton would have won the battle but lost the war. After the 2006 defeat, Corbin made way for David Granger. Norton will become confirmed in his position at today’s congress but will have
to leave in 2025.
Two scenarios face the PNC in next year’s election - a massive abstention of PNC supporters at the poll or a huge increase in votes for Irfaan Ali, taking him over the two-third mark.. Whether Ali gets the two-thirds or not, the PNC will hemorrhage parliamentary seats similar to the situation that destroyed Corbin’s standing in politics in 2006.
When the emotions die down after today, PNC supporters are going to live with nightmares when the 2025 campaign begins. Guyanese are not going to vote for a party that they believe once it gets into power, will use state power to stay in power forever. That is what happened in 2020. Sections of GECOM, the police and other elements assaulted the election to ensure the PNC stayed in power.
The PNC has done nothing to sway the nation that
such a mentality has been exorcised from the soul of the PNC. The collective shadow of Forde, Walton-Desir, and Hastings-Williams will creep over the face of the PNC as the PPP bandwagon gets into overdrive. At each PPP campaign rally, that ghost will be shown to the people of Guyana.
In 2025, there will be no third party. It will be PPP versus PNC, and if you think Irfaan Ali can dance, you better watch his moves as the PPP’s revolving stage moves around Guyana in 2025. A two-thirds majority is facing Irfaan. The ghost of Macbeth is facing Norton.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Nigel Hughes and conflicts of interest
Dear Editor,
REPORTEDLY, Nigel Hughes disclosed that ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL) and several of the oil companies are clients of his law firm. This disclosure was made when he was asked about renegotiation of the 2016 Petroleum Agreement if he is elected as the AFC’s leader, to which he promptly responded that he cannot comment on that for the reason stated herein.
It would appear that Mr. Nigel Hughes believes that merely disclosing the above conflict of interest or poten-
tial conflict of interest will suffice. But it's not. There are instances in which some conflicts of interest can be managed, and there are instances where some conflicts of interest would have to be avoided. In this instance, the conflict of interest that Mr. Hughes is—or will be embroiled in—would have to be avoided. More interestingly, as it would appear, Mr. Hughes has presidential ambitions, visà-vis, his concoction and/ or endorsement of the term “a consensus presidential candidate”, suggesting that he will, at the opportune time, impose himself to be
the presidential candidate, either as part of the coalition of opposition political parties, APNU+AFC, or whether that party (the AFC) opts to contest the next general and regional elections solo.
For the reasons stated above, it would be absolutely and dangerously unethical for the law firm that Mr. Hughes is affiliated with to continue its provision of legal services to EMGL and all other oil-and-gas companies. It would be outrageously unacceptable if he continues to do so. Also, it doesn’t matter if he is the principal owner of the firm or part
owner of the firm.
Reflect for a moment that if the current Vice-President or any of the current Cabinet members of the incumbent government was involved in any type of business dealings with EMGL and the other oil-and-gas companies, the criticisms and protestations against this would have been immensely intensified with the view of creating havoc in the political environment.
It is worth highlighting that should Mr. Hughes be elected as the AFC’s leader, then EMGL will be forced to terminate its contractual arrangement with his
firm. To this end, EMGL is bound by its internal anti-corruption policy in accordance with the US “Foreign Corrupt Practices Act”. Thereunder, EMGL is prohibited from conducting business with government officials, which is equally applied to candidates of political parties.
Against this background, it is not sufficient for Mr. Hughes to merely disclose his law firm provides legal services to the oil-and-gas companies, particularly EMGL. Mr. Huges would have to state, further to that, that once he is elected, that his firm would have to termi-
nate all contractual arrangements with EMGL and other oil-and- gas companies. If he doesn’t, EMGL would be forced to do so in order to be in compliance with their anti-corruption policies and the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In the unlikely event that he loses the election, his contestation for the candidacy of leadership of a political party would nonetheless deem him to be a “Politically Exposed Person” (PEP), pursuant to the Anti-Corruption Laws.
Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Journalists and political actors are not friends nor are they enemies
IT was a hot and humid afternoon on June 20 beneath the Baridi Benab at State House. The ceiling fans cooled down the temperature and the seats were comfortable. A nicely laid-out table at the back offered journalists attending a press conference with President Irfaan Ali an assortment of chilled coconut and plain water, juices and pastries.
I’ve been a journalist for 35 years and in my estimation, this press conference was a civil event as all things adversarial should be in a democratic and peaceful society. Everyone was courteous. Reporters were allowed to ask a question plus one follow-up if necessary. Some reporters took that as a green light to ask three or four questions. Still, the air of civility remained intact.
I was surprised at the amount of ink and social media space that was subsequently dedicated to criticising President Ali for a partic-
ular exchange that occurred at the very end of the presser. An editorial in a newspaper with a penchant for having to constantly apologise for publishing false news and making outlandish allegations, went so far as to suggest the President is ‘out of touch with reality’ for schooling and scolding a reporter.
Journalists and political actors are not friends nor are they enemies. Reporters come seeking information and they have the right to fact check it. Political actors have a right to defend their policies and actions. It is a give-and-take type of engagement. The famous White House correspondent Helen Thomas’ questions at White House press conferences were legendary. Thomas had a thick skin and she often dished it out and absorbed the hits with grace and dignity.
The reporter is a 28-yearold male. According to his LinkedIn profile, he attended St. Rose’s High School and
has had five years of experience as a reporter. In most media circles, five years on the job would qualify him as an experienced journalist. He is most certainly not a novice reporter.
Here is the interaction between the reporter and President Ali that is the talk of the town:
Reporter: With elections creeping (up) next year, what is the government's plan to increase the spending power of its citizens? And if I may give you a little context.
President Ali: No, I don't need context. The government's plan is to win the next elections by a greater majority.
Reporter: But if you win, what is the plan to increase the spending power of citizens?
President: We have been continuously increasing the availability of resources, improving the livelihood of people and increasing the disposable income in the pockets of persons. I just
gave you an example of the housing programme and how it's linked to increase their disposable income. How old are you?
Reporter: I am 28
President: Do you own your own home?
Reporter: Not as yet.
President: Have you applied for a houselot?
Reporter: No, not as yet.
President: Well, sit down, you're not participating in the enhancement of your own life.
The President was asked a question and he answered it. As the Head of State, he has the moral and political authority to school a reporter if he wished. The entire presentation of President Ali focused on outlining the programmes and policies of his government - policies aimed at strengthening the economy, and our banking institutions and putting more
money into the pockets of hardworking Guyanese.
A good reporter learns very early in his or her professional career that the most important skill to have is the ability to ask a fundamentally hard-working question. This reporter asked a lazy question and got the response he deserved.
What his editors should have done is sit him down and school him on how to ask a proper question, not cuddle him by writing a cheap editorial to score political points.
When journalists attend a press conference or media briefing, they are always representing the editorial platforms of the media organisations that dispatch them. It’s that simple. It is for this reason that journalists are often required to identify themselves and their organisation when they ask
questions to elected officials at press conferences. These exchanges are entered into the record and preserved for historians to write about them at a later date. They are important records, not some cheap backroom exchange.
In my estimation, it is reckless for an editor of an adversarial newspaper to send a junior reporter to learn on the job at a press conference held by a head of state and then cry about it. On the other hand, no one expects reporters to attend a press conference to ‘whistle Dixie’ at political actors.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Guyana’s growing gas potential will further transform the economy
RECENT announcements by the government that it's moving forward with plans for potential gas development, and going out to tender for the establishment of a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility, point to Guyana's growing gas potential and the significant impact this will have on the country's economic development.
Last week, President Irfaan Ali announced that Fulcrum LNG will partner with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited to implement a gas development project offshore. He also announced the
government’s plans to advertise for a storage facility and a marketer for NGLs, as the landmark Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project is set to come on stream in 2025.
Fulcrum was among 17 firms to submit proposals to the government in February, to design, finance, construct and operate essential gas infrastructure to support the gas development. President Ali said the tri-partite partners will now have to have discussions and develop a plan as to how the major gas development in the country will be advanced and further secure the country’s foot -
print in the energy market.
As it relates to developing an NGL facility, the potential benefits are huge. NGLs are also known as petrochemical feedstocks because they can convert into many valuable materials for the petrochemical industry with many applications. Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) for instance, is a type of NGL with huge economic value. It is widely used for heating and cooking purposes in households and commercial establishments. Additionally, LPG is utilised in agricultural practices, such as crop drying, pest control,
and powering machinery like tractors or irrigation pumps. It provides a reliable energy source in rural areas where access to electricity or other fuels may be limited. Most importantly, it is considered a cleaner-burning fuel option, emitting fewer greenhouse gases and air pollutants.
According to media reports, in addition to domestic use, Guyana aims to be a top NGL supplier for Brazil’s Roraima state, the Dominican Republic, and the Caribbean.
Importantly, to maximise the success of Guyana’s gas
ambitions and realise its full potential, ensuring the right partners are onboard is essential, as was recently recognised by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo. Speaking to the media last week, he said ExxonMobil Guyana has already signalled that gas development is a priority. He said the ‘best option’ would be to ‘have Exxon involved’ since they bring expertise and knowledge of Guyana’s gas resources to the table.
For its part, the company has said it is very lined up with the government’s intent and very supportive of the attempt to make gas a vital
component of the future. Exxon, Fulcrum, and a Guyana government technical team are expected to deliberate soon on the potential gas development project, with hopes for an agreement to be signed in 2025. With very different options just a few years ago, Guyana from all accounts is now on an incredible journey, one not only fueled by its oil and gas resources, but the multiple industries that are set to emerge from its booming economy, driven by affordable energy.
Glaring conflict of interest
- Financial analyst says new AFC Leader, Hughes, must terminate contracts with ExxonMobil, other oil companies
NEWLY-elected Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) Nigel Hughes has found himself in a dilemma since he made it public that ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL) and several of the oil companies are clients of his law firm.
While the political opposition has been vocal about renegotiating the oil contract, the new AFC Leader has refrained from commenting on this.
Financial Analyst, Joel Bhagwandin highlighted this glaring conflict of interest in a letter carried by this publication.
In an invited comment to the Sunday Chronicle, he said, “Now that he’s [Nigel] elected, [you think] he would come out and publicly say that, ‘I'm terminating all my contracts with all the oil companies, because I can't be the leader of a political party contesting a national election, regional and general election to be President and I'm working for the oil companies.’ “Then, whose interests are you representing? Are you representing Exxon’s interest or are you representing the people of Guyana? And that is a general rule of conflict of interest.”
Further, Bhagwandin highlighted that with Hughes’ recent election to the post, EMGL will be forced to terminate its contractual arrangement with his firm.
EMGL is bound by its internal Anti-Corruption policy, which is in accordance with the US “Foreign Corrupt Practices Act” thereunder, EMGL is prohibited from conducting business with government officials, which is equally applied to candidates of political parties, according to the Financial Analyst.
He related, “So now that Nigel Hughes has been elected, one of two things ought to happen a) If he is really a person of the highest integrity, then he has to immediately terminate his contract with ExxonMobil. Now, that is, if he has real genuine integrity. If he doesn't, then ExxonMobil has no choice but to terminate it, because they are bound by their internal policy, which is in accordance with the US anti-corruption law.”
Hughes recently appeared on “Politics 101”, hosted by opposition Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Executive Member Dr. David Hinds. Hughes was asked whether he supported a renegotiation of the oil contract, to which he responded by stating, “Several of the oil companies are clients of our firm; I cannot comment on that.”
Adding to this, former AFC Leader and newly-elected General Secretary Raphael Trotman, who, as Natural Resource Minister, signed the deal, is now advocating for the renegotiation of the oil contract.
Through a recent statement issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the government reminded that when it assumed office in 2020, it audited the
management infrastructure for the country’s multi-billion-dollar petroleum sector, only to discover a deplorable state of affairs, given the abysmal five-year leadership of the APNU+AFC coalition.
According to the ministry, because basic legislative and regulatory duties were neglected for years, the nation was not ready to handle the industry.
The government also emphasised how its predecessor prioritised questionable transactions, disregarded transparency norms, and failed to put the interests of the Guyanese people first.
LOPSIDED CONTRACT
Key among the criticisms
levelled by the current administration is the lack of transparency in the negotiation of the country’s oil contract. The government repeated that the contract was signed and negotiated in secret, and is armed with a stabilisation clause that prevents Guyana from making any changes to the Guyanese people’s share. The APNU+AFC government also hid the PSA and the fact that it received a US$18M signing bonus from the public for two years.
While the PPP/C administration acknowledged that the contract would not be renegotiated, due to respect for the sanctity of contracts and the devastating impacts such a course
of action would have on the investment climate, to ensure maximisation of benefits, the government has strengthened the legislative and regulatory framework for the sector, which it said it continues to do.
In this regard, Guyana saw the Local Content Act being passed in December 2021. Since this law’s enactment, to date, over US$1 billion has been invested in the use and expansion of Guyanese goods, services, and skills in support of the petroleum sector.
Furthermore, the ‘Coalition’ failed to overhaul the Petroleum Act, which was 34 years old by the time the PPP/C reassumed office in 2020, as well as failed
to get the Gas-to-Energy project off the ground, despite continuous increases in national power demand.
The Petroleum Activities Act was passed in August 2023, thereby positioning Guyana on the path of responsible, transparent and modern petroleum management, the statement noted.
Importantly, the government noted that contracts have been awarded for the Gas-to-Energy project, with significant works already underway. The project, it said, will slash energy costs by 50 per cent, while delivering clean and reliable energy by 2025.
Newly-elected leader of the AFC, Nigel Hughes
Guyana is an investor’s paradise for agriculture, forestry, other industries
– GO-Invest official says
By Kiana Wilburg CEO, Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo
WHEN one considers the economic boom unfolding in Guyana, the astute leadership of its President,
to serve as an investor’s paradise. This notion was recently expressed by Senior Director of Investment at the Guyana Office of Investment (Go-Invest), John Edghill.
He was at the time engaged in an insightful dis-
and Supply Chain Expo. Edghill noted that Guyana was indeed experiencing unprecedented growth as it was set to remain the world’s fastest-growing economy for six years straight.
“That alone has really captivated the interest as
Dr. Irfaan Ali, along with key components of its business-friendly legislative and regulatory framework, it is truly well positioned
cussion on Guyana’s investment climate on the Energy Perspectives Podcast, a programme powered by the Guyana Energy Conference
well as the minds of people all around the world,” Edghill said.
But complementary to the magnetic pull of this rapid development, he said, was
the legislative framework that supports a pro-business environment. In this regard, Edghill cited the Investment Act that has been in place since 1994.
“That law says a few critical things, the first being that foreign and local investors are treated equally,” he said.
While there is a special carve out for 40 categories of work within the oil and gas industry where Guyanese must be given varying degrees of preference, as mandated by the Local Content Act, Edghill said there is no bias for all other legal economic activities.
“This means, for example, that a foreigner can own land in Guyana which does not occur in many other destinations…”
Turning to Guyana’s location at the tip of South America, Edghill said this provides another distinct advantage for investors who are able to benefit from strategic access routes to the rest of the world. Additionally, the Senior Investment Officer noted that Guyana’s ability to leverage its relationships with the US, China, Europe, and other key territories have also increased the competitiveness of its investment climate. The leadership of President Ali is another key factor Edghill raised.
“Not enough is said about the Head of State, Dr. Irfaan Ali…Our president has received several accolades and awards for his leadership…Through his stable and firm leadership of our economy, especially on matters such as climate and food security, he adds to the strength of the investment climate with the vision and
energy that he brings,” said Edghill.
The Senior Investment Official also noted the immense incentives available across varying industries. Concerning energy, Edghill reiterated the President’s intention for Guyana to become a regional energy hub and a net exporter of energy.
“When we look at the energy mix, we aren’t talking alone about use of the oil
the Ministry of Agriculture for the Caribbean region.
“We have said, since 2020, we want to reduce our food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025…Guyana is well on its way to accomplishing this,” he said.
and gas resources from the Stabroek block but we also want to lead with renewable energy solutions as outlined in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.”
Turning to agriculture, which Guyanese authorities have vowed to invest in to ensure a diversified economy, Edghill said: “… we are very concerned as a business agency in fostering investment outside of oil and gas. We don’t want a country that suffers the perils of the Dutch disease or the resource curse.”
Edghill is of the view that Guyana, given its extensive track record in supporting agricultural development, can even be viewed as
As it pertains to specific incentives for the agriculture sector, these include the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, water, and construction materials, which drastically lowers operational costs for businesses. Additionally, the government is improving infrastructure by constructing farm-to-market roads in key agricultural regions, specifically Regions 5 and 6. Notably, 40% of Guyana’s land is available for agricultural investments, offering extensive opportunities for expansion and innovation.
In the forestry sector, the incentives are similarly substantial. The government’s revised log export policy simplifies the purchase and export of logs and lumber. Investors also benefit from the absence of VAT on logs, sawn lumber, and machinery, which reduces costs significantly.
Additionally, duty and VAT exemptions are provided for most machinery and equipment used in logging and processing operations, as well as on fuel, which is crucial for cost-effective operations. Exemptions also extend to various categories of 4×4 vehicles, ATVs, and haulage vehicles, essential for efficient transportation and operations in forested areas.
With these comprehensive incentives in place, Edghill categorically states that Guyana is well-positioned to leverage its natural resources and foster diversified economic growth.
Senior Director of Investment at the Guyana Office of Investment (Go-Invest), John Edghill
‘Aiden’ hotel on track for August opening
THE Aiden by Best Western- Midtown hotel in Georgetown is slated for its official grand opening in mid-August of this year, according to the Director of Arimu Investments Inc., Lorenzo Alphonso. The US$25 million hotel is located at Oronoque and Robb Streets Georgetown and boasts a total of
144 rooms, seven executive suites and one presidential suite; a private bar and terrace, and a private gym.
The hotel is set to have a rooftop bar, “Horizon” and Cigar Lounge, a ground floor restaurant, and Giraffe Café.
Alphonso stated that the internal car park can hold 70 cars, while the car park around the hotel holds 60 cars.
Notably, the hotel will have an 85 per cent Guyanese staffing and will be managed by a foreign management team that currently has 34 hotels under their portfolio.
The hotel aims to set itself apart with international furnishings, lights, sounds, and designs, making it the first in Guyana to feature a humidor with a collection of
world-renowned cigars. The invisible-styled rails and barriers concept promises to give diners the sensation of dining under the stars, offering a sight second to none.
Best Western is a globally recognised hotel chain originating in the USA with over 4,200 hotels world -
wide, each independently owned and operated, lends its prestigious franchise to “The Aiden Midtown Georgetown.”
Arimu Investments Inc., the Guyanese company behind the hotel’s development, has invested in mining, real estate, and
business.
The nine-storey high hotel spans a 74,000 square-foot modern building, promising to redefine the hospitality landscape in Georgetown and offer a unique and memorable experience for both locals and visitors alike.
The Aiden by Best Western- Midtown hotel in Georgetown
Nigel Hughes elected AFC leader
- conference underlines dwindling support for party
AT the Alliance for Change (AFC) eighth national conference, attorney Nigel Hughes was elected as the party's leader, defeating his lone opponent Sherod Duncan.
Duncan, who last served as General Secretary, was a strong contender for the leadership position having secured 15 nominations as against Hughes' two.
The party held its internal elections Saturday at the Revealed World Christian Center in William Street, Kitty Georgetown. Hughes received 149 votes, while Duncan secured only 62 votes.
David Patterson won the party's chairmanship with 150 votes over Juretha Fernandes' 69. Michael
Carrington was elected as Vice-Chairman. Attorney Raphael Trotman, an AFC founding member, was appointed General Secretary by acclamation. Trotman had previously served as Minister of Natural Resources under the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)+AFC coalition government from 2015-2020.
Attorney Khemraj Ramjattan, the outgoing AFC leader and party co-founder, chose not to run for any of the party's top positions and instead will serve on the National Executive Committee.
The AFC has faced several challenges in recent years, including dwindling membership. For example,
285 delegates were said to have attended its Seventh National Conference in 2022, compared to only 211 at this year's conference.
The AFC terminated its political coalition with the APNU in 2022. The parties established a coalition to compete in the 2015 elections, which saw them win the government.
The AFC had openly complained about APNU ignoring its smaller coalition members. In December 2018, then-AFC member Charrandass Persaud voted in support of a no-confidence tabled by the then opposition PPP, resulting in the fall of the coalition government.
The AFC was created
in 2005 by three Members of Parliament (MPs) who left other parties: Raphael Trotman of the
People's National Congress (PNC), Khemraj Ramjattan of the People's Progressive Party (PPP),
and the late Sheila Holder of the Working People's Alliance (WPA).
New AFC Leader, Nigel Hughes AFC Chairman, David Patterson
AFC Vice-Chairman, Michael Carrington
Sherod Duncan
Rotary Club of GT Central installs new Board of Directors
THE Rotary Club of Georgetown Central held its 41st Installation Ceremony on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the Herdmanston Lodge.
The Georgetown Central family attended the event - Inner Wheelers, Rotaractors, Interactors from the Interact Clubs of Queen’s College and Bishops’ High School, along with members of the Rotary Guyana family, distinguished guests, and sponsors.
The new board comprises Jagdesh Haripershad as President, Ricardo Stuart as Vice-President, Peter Pompey as Immediate Past President, Lloyd David as President-Elect, Waheeda Ali as Secretary, Nichole Haynes as Treasurer, Keisha Chung as Club Administration Director, Judy Semple-Joseph as Service Projects Director, Ruth Quaicoe as Membership and Foundation Director, Thalissa McClure as Public Image Director, and Ronald Robinson as Sergeant-at-Arms.
“We were honoured
to have the Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr. Manzoor Nadir, as our guest speaker. His emphasis on the value and importance of humanitarian service was truly inspiring,” a press release from the Club noted.
In her remarks, Assistant Governor Elizabeth Cox congratulated the Club for the well-deserved recognition. She also extended her gratitude to the members for their service, and best wishes to the incoming Board.
Outgoing President Peter Pompey thanked the membership for their supportm and alluded to the significant projects executed during the year 2023-2024, including Medical Outreach at Timehri, South Ruimveldt Literacy Initiative, Wellness Space at the National Park and upgrading of the facilities at Uncle Eddie's Home. Additionally, backpacks with stationery were distributed to children of the Timehri
Peter Pompey, immediate Past President, sashes Jagdesh Haripershad as new President
The new Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central
LGBTQ Community unites to draw attention to inequalities
Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community on Saturday united to draw attention to the need for equal protection and equality.
As part of a series of activities to culminate Pride Month, the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), held its annual Pride Parade on Saturday under the
theme, ‘Unity in 592 Pride. Equality, Freedom and Justice For All Guyana.’
Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson stated, “We still live in a country that criminalises same-sex intimacy, we still live in a country that does not have anti-discrimination legislation. No legislation that we have, including the Prevention of Discrimination Act, has
sexual orientation, or gender identity as grounds for discrimination.
“And we want to draw attention to the fact that LGBTQ people lack legal protection in the same way that groups represented by race, ethnicity, religion, and other human characteristics have constitutional protection and protection under law,” he said.
He highlighted that
these activities, including Sunday’s pride mural painting on the seawalls, are all aimed at rais ing awareness and making LGBTQ communities visible, and voices heard.
“Pride is still a protest, especially in Guyana. Even though we might
celebrate baby steps and incremental progress, this is still hugely a protest to say we will take to the streets year after year every year until we have equality, and protection like everybody else in Guyana,” the SASOD Managing Director af -
firmed.
The Pride Festival kicked off on June 24 and concludes on June 30, 2024. Traditionally, the festival was held in the first week of June, however, they changed it so that it is celebrated in the final week of June.
Scenes from Pride Parade on Saturday (Shaniece Bamfield photos)
Rotary Club of GT Central...
FROM PAGE 14
community, and footballs and basketballs
were shared with youth groups and children to help inculcate exer-
cise in their daily lives and prevent Childhood Obesity.
A transformative retreat was held, bringing together 35 local and
migrant girls between the ages of 10 and 17 years. The girls were immersed in a series of empowering presentations, covering topics such as planning for success, setting goals, self-discipline, the importance of having the right mindset, understanding and being true to self, building confidence, character, and credibility; and being consistent, honest and bold.
The retreat also addressed crucial issues of self-care, personal hygiene, Digital Wellness, and the implications for Mental Health, leaving a lasting impact on the girls' personal development and wellness.
A literacy project involving migrant children and the GROW environment project were collaborations with our Rotaractors.
The Club successfully met all its Rotary International goals and received the platinum recognition for Zones 33 and 34 Public Image Citation and the titanium award for District 7030, both of which are the highest honours available.
Incoming President Jagdesh Haripershad
thanked the new board members for stepping up and accepting the challenge. It was alluded that we will continue to grow and advance the ongoing projects, which exemplify the spirit of Rotary and our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
The members were urged to rediscover the magic that brought them to Rotary in the first place – the magic of service, friendship, fellowship, and making a difference. Their commitment and dedication to Rotary are what make our Club exceptional. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact, one project at a time, one life at a time, to bring about lasting change in our communities and around the world.
Incoming President Jagdesh emphasized that our young leaders are the future of Rotary, and their energy and creativity are invaluable. We will continue to mentor, support, and collaborate with them to build a lively and dynamic Rotary community.
‘We will not be steered into saying what they want’
- Dr. Jagdeo says in response to critics; will continue to paint a true picture of the development ongoing across Guyana
By Trina Williams
THE government’s ambitious stewardship of Guyana will not be dulled by critics, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said.
While shutting down rumours is nothing new for the PPP, Dr. Jagdeo, during a recent news conference, took a firm stand and said that the ruling party will not be bullied into focusing on the personal agendas of critics.
While pointing out that there were attempts to shun President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent press conference with personal agendas, Dr. Jagdeo said, “So, no matter what President Ali does at his press conference, we will always get mischaracterised by these individuals.”
While emphasising that the PPP/C govern -
ment works for the people of Guyana, Dr. Jagdeo said, “We will not be steered into saying what they want us to; keeping their focus on ignoring all the positive things happening in this country. We have a duty to tell the people about our stewardship of the economy and the country. And our stewardship is sophisticated; it's not a one-issue stewardship, and we are proud of our record in this regard.”
Dr. Jagdeo, who is also the country’s VicePresident, responded to criticisms of President Ali’s response to the repetitive question of plans to increase disposable income.
“The next thing they said was that the President dodged plans on increasing the spending power of citizens; I'm sure the President is getting tired of these questions that we
keep answering over and over again. We are human beings, too. Sometimes we get frustrated when the same question comes up a million times, and we give the answer as though we're brain-dead; as though we are senile,” he stated.
The question that was posited to the President was already answered with statistics by the PPP General Secretary just a mere week before.
Dr. Jagdeo then asked, “How many times have we not spoken about increasing disposable income in this country?”
He then stated, “Just the week before I left for Canada, I shared with media houses this document, and asked that they publish it. They did not publish it. I pointed out how the disposable income in the public sector grew between 2014 and 2019, and then from 2019
to 2024.”
Looking at the nominal value, he had previously highlighted that the public sector wage had increased by $83 billion more under the PPP/C administration.
“Increase in 2014 to 2019 was $43 billion. So, when they started in 2014, by 2019 the wage bill for these three areas had gone up by $43 billion. From 2020 to 2024, the increase has been $83 billion, more than 100 per
cent of what APNU gave for the five years,” Dr Jagdeo said.
Government initiatives, including the $25,000 cash grant for each household, reduced interest rates, extension of loan payment moratoriums, creation of over 65,000 jobs, restoration of Joint Services bonuses, and annual increases in the income tax threshold, have significantly benefitted the working class.
These measures alle-
viate burdens on households, allowing for more disposable income.
Other initiatives implemented by the government included scholarships for citizens under the GOAL scholarship programme.
These efforts have incurred significant costs for the government. Notably, within the housing sector, over 30,000 house lots were allocated, with a majority distributed to public servants.
PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
FAO chief urges innovation and focus on production and smallholders to tap benefits of agrifood trade
GLOBAL hunger is on a “dangerous” rising trajectory and achieving a sustainable and food-secure world requires not just economic policy measures but strong political and social commitments, QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), said today at a high-level session during the Global Review of Aid for Trade hosted by the World Trade Organization in Geneva.
Fair trade practices are part of the promotion of inclusive and equitable growth, he said, noting that trade by nature should be complementary. The Director-General spoke on a panel with Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Mathieu Guibolo Fanaa, Chad’s Minister of Trade and Industry, and other experts. The discussion focused on how to make trade policy an enhancing variable in achieving global food security goals.
Feeding the world is not just a technical issue but a security challenge with humanity’s future at stake, stated Atangana, who said that clear and binding rules are critical for developing nations and emphasised that Aid for Trade initiatives must be in the service of helping the supply side and developing production, without which infrastructure has less value.
Food security should be a priority for the WTO, said Fanaa, adding that this will require increasing agricultural production in Africa, which in turn will require equitable conditions in international markets. Food security and
agricultural trade featured prominently in the breakout sessions of the three-day Aid for Trade conference, with FAO officers participating in several of them.
The Director-General offered five suggestions for how to improve global food insecurity, noting that FAO’s modelling forecasts there will still be nearly 600 million chronically undernourished people in 2030.
First is to support growth by investing in rural infrastructure, including broadband and financial services, roads, and storage facilities to improve access to markets by smallholders who produce most of the world’s food and, while major private investors, cannot do everything on their own.
Second is to invest in research, development and innovation – all of which he described as part of the “bottom line for any trade policy” - to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of agrifood systems while at the same time reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering integrated and sustainable water management and use. “This is the only way to produce more with less,” he said.
Reducing food loss and waste is a third cardinal point, Qu said. His fourth point was that the best way to achieve the previous goals is to focus on smallholders and vulnerable populations. Lastly, stronger global collaboration and governance will be required to achieve a food-secure and sustainable world.
“We have to look after our own planet before it’s too late,” the Director-General said. (FAO)
65 lots allocated to citizens for Onderneeming Housing Scheme
THE Ministry of Housing and Water, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), has allocated 65 lots in the Onderneeming Housing scheme to residents of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
This announcement was made by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a housing outreach event held on Friday in the community.
Onderneeming, noting that the CH&PA encountered challenges with a block in the area but is working on an extension.
“In Region Two, we are developing two schemes: Charity and Onderneeming Phase Four. We are awaiting a technical report for Charity to make some policy decisions,” Minister Croal said.
Commission to address this,” Minister Croal explained.
As it relates to squatting, Croal noted that Charity, once known for this plague, has been transformed into a housing scheme with 226 lots. Only 60 occupants have processed titles for their lots, and CHPA is awaiting the others to complete the process.
individuals.
The community development department has completed the occupancy report
for Lima Sands, detailing every lot.
“I want to bring closure to Lima Sands. We are here
to fix these issues, which is why I am here to spend time addressing them,” Minister Croal said.
The Housing Ministry is also focusing on 325 lots to resolve ownership issues in
Minister Croal addressed the gathering, stating that 65 individuals would soon be able to identify their houselots in the Onderneeming Housing area.
He highlighted the ministry's efforts to accelerate the occupancy process in
The ministry is collaborating with Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission to acquire additional lands. However, many lands in Region Two are leased by private individuals, posing a challenge for the ministry.
“Our challenge is finding suitable land. We are working closely with the Guyana Lands and Surveys
areas such as Henrietta, La Belle Alliance, Lima, Coffee Grove, Sparta, and Windsor Castle.
In the Lima Housing Scheme, the CH&PA has made significant progress despite encountering duplications and issues from various
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a meeting with residents of Region Two
490 12-gauge cartridges found during Police roadblock in Berbice
The ammunition discovered by the police
THE Police in Berbice conducted an intel-led roadblock exercise on Friday on the No. 51 Public Road in Corentyne, Berbice, during which they found a cache of ammunition— 490 12 gauge cartridges.
The ammunition was found in the trunk of a red Fielder wagon vehicle bearing registration number—HD 3157, Police Headquarters reported in a statement.
The 23-year-old driver from Smyth Field, New Amsterdam, Berbice, and the 31-year-old female occupant from
Yakusari, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne were asked if they were licensed to carry ammunition, and they said 'no'. They were told of the offence committed (Possession of Ammunition without Licence), cautioned, and arrested.
The Police searched the vehicle and found five boxes marked Baschieri and Pellagri in the car trunk. The boxes were examined, and ranks found four hundred and ninety (490) twelvegauge cartridges.
The investigation is ongoing.
Businessman
dies in Enmore accident
THE police are investigating an accident that occurred around 21:45 hrs on Friday which claimed the life of 43-year-old businessman, Inderpaul Pramenauth called “Babai” of Lot 76 Block 12 Non-Pareil, East Coast Demerara.
The accident occurred on the Enmore Railway Embankment Road and involved two cars—PKK 2473 owned and driven by Pramenauth - and motorcar PAC 5742 owned and driven by a 31-yearold female of Paradise Housing Scheme, ECD.
The female driver told the police that she was proceeding east along the northern side of the Enmore Railway Embankment Road when she noticed PKK 2473
proceeding south along the Enmore Estate Access Road at a fast rate. Without stopping, the businessman allegedly made a right turn to proceed west onto the railway embankment road and collided with her vehicle.
It is alleged that the businessman lost control of his vehicle and collided with a utility pole on the northern parapet and then ended up in a trench. The driver was pulled from the car and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation by the ranks on patrol duties and was pronounced dead. The female driver is in police custody assisting with the ongoing investigation.
AccelerateHer launches weekend boot camp to propel women-owned businesses
THE Centre for Local Business Development
launched its AccelerateHer programme with a weekend boot camp, welcoming a new cohort of female entrepreneurs on Friday evening.
The programme received over 80 applications this year, with 25 candidates successfully shortlisted. AccelerateHer aims to empower female business owners, operators, and managers across diverse industries by providing one-on-one mentoring and a supportive peer-learning environment.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, expressed her enthusiasm for women seizing growth opportunities during the launch.
“Make use of those opportunities and see them grow, mushroom into things beyond their imagination and expec-
tation and become way more than a number or statistic in Guyana,” the minister emphasised.
Highlighting Guyana’s gender index rise by 18 places in 2022, Dr Persaud attributed this progress to government policies and opportunities.
She stated, “I am hoping that at the end of this year, we can have it so that we can see the strides women are consistently making in every sphere of our country.”
The two-day boot camp will facilitate peer and mentor interactions, business pitch practice, and the development of business model canvases. Former participant turned mentor and Sure Gig Inc. CEO, Filisha Duke, shared insights from her journey with the programme.
“Focus on your goal, what is it that you want for your company, where
Baby dies at Kaneville daycare
THE police are investigating the mysterious death of a three-month-old infant who died on Friday morning while in the care of teachers at a daycare and preschool facility located in Kaneville, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
The child has been identified as Kyre Anthony Nelson of First Field Kaneville. He died sometime between 08:00 hrs and 14:00 hrs.
The infant’s mother, Rebecca Anthony explained that she took her son to the daycare around 08:00 hrs on Friday and handed him to one of the two teachers who were working at the facility at the time. She then left for work.
According to the police, the teacher reported that she collected little Nelson from his mother and fed him his tea sometime around 09:00 hrs. She then claimed that she placed him in a crib some two hours later and attended to another child.
Around midday, the teacher alleged that she started prepping other children who had to go home early and when she peeped into the baby’s crib, she saw him lying face down on his pillow. When she turned him over, she saw blood oozing from his nostril. She said that she called out for the second teacher and they took the baby to the kitchen and washed his face but he was not responding.
The infant’s mother was contacted and the baby was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The facility is owned by a 56-year-old woman who is currently vacationing in the United States of America.
you see yourself in the next two years, year, next five years and bring your A game because we will be paying attention,” she encouraged.
Additional presentations were given by the President of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana, Rowena Elliot and the Director of the Centre for Local Business and Development Dr Natasha Gaskin Peters. (DPI)
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, at the opening ceremony of AccelerateHer programme
Close to $2B being invested to boost potable water access in Region Two
THE government is investing a minimum of $2 billion to boost treated water coverage in Region Two, demonstrating the government’s mandate to provide potable water to every household by 2025.
This was underscored by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a site inspection of the Onderneeming water treatment plant, on Friday. He was accompanied by Regional Chairperson, Vilma DaSilva and other officials.
“Now, more than ever, we are injecting [funds] in the water sector…We are investing a minimum of $2 billion on a new treatment plant that is currently being constructed at Onderneeming and the well that is being drilled there,” he underlined.
The government is investing heavily in the construction of water treatment plants and wells to ensure that 90 per cent of the coastland has access to treated water, by the end of 2025.
Already, 75 per cent of the works have been completed on the $1.18 billion treatment plant. When completed, it will serve more than 4,000 households from Supenaam to Taymouth Manor.
“We have also been in-
vesting in new transmission mains. We are drilling a number of wells. We are upgrading our system and the new main lines. We have about $977 million that is being invested here in this region,” Minister Croal disclosed.
Also, construction works are set to commence before year end on a new treatment plant at Maria’s Delight, to provide service to residents from Charity to Queenstown. The government is also committed to ensuring that every household along the Pomeroon River benefits from potable water access. This will be made possible by the drilling of 10 additional wells by the end of 2024.
Works are advancing on a new well at Marlborough as about 80 per cent of the works have been completed. Currently, a well is being drilled at Karawab by the Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) team.
Other areas to benefit from the drilling of new wells include St Monica, Bethany, Dredge Creek, Siriki, Kabakaburi, and Wakapau. Two wells valued at $22.5 million were recently commissioned in the communities of Hackney and Friendship. (DPI)
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a site inspection of the Onderneeming water treatment plant
The Onderneeming water treatment plant
PPP/C government increased disposable income for Guyanese by almost $200B
THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government wishes to firmly denounce the malicious and unfounded claims continuously propagated by Kaieteur News and other opposition-aligned entities, that the administration has failed to implement critical measures to increase the disposable income of the Guyanese people.
A comprehensive examination of the 2020 to 2024 budgets unequivocally demonstrates the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing the economic well-being of all Guyanese, with over $200 billion returned to the pockets of citizens through a series of targeted and impactful measures.
Since taking office in 2020, the PPP/C Government has been resolute in its mission to alleviate financial burdens and improve the standard of living for the populace. This commitment is reflected in the extensive range of fiscal policies and relief measures meticulously outlined and executed across successive budgets. Each budget cycle has been strategically designed to address the immediate needs of citizens while laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and stability.
Budget 2020: In response to the immediate challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the government introduced a suite of relief measures totalling over $40 billion. This included the reversal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential services such as electricity and water, the provision of a $25,000 COVID-19 relief voucher per household, and the removal of VAT on materials for critical sectors including housing, telecommunications, private education, and healthcare. These initiatives were pivotal in providing immediate financial relief and stimulating economic activity during a period of unprecedented global uncertainty.
Budget 2021: Building on the foundational measures of 2020, the 2021 budget allocated an additional $10 billion towards measures aimed at restoring the zero-rated status of essential food items and household necessities. Additionally, the government implemented a 5 percent reduction in water tariffs and introduced tax concessions on investments in agro-processing facilities, cold storage, and packaging. These measures were aimed at reducing the cost of living and encouraging local production and investment, thereby increasing disposable income and economic resilience.
Budget 2022: Recognising the ongoing economic impact of the pandemic, the 2022 budget introduced further measures totalling over $25 billion. This included substantial cost-ofliving adjustments, reductions in import duties and excise taxes, and targeted support for vulnerable communities and key
economic sectors. Notably, the government reduced the Excise Tax on fuel to zero, resulting in significant savings for consumers and businesses alike.
Budget 2023: The 2023 budget continued this trend, with over $50 billion allocated to a range of initiatives designed to ease financial pressures on households and spur economic growth. Key measures included further reductions in freight charges, significant increases in the income tax threshold, and the expansion of social support programmes such as the Because We Care cash grant and uniform voucher scheme.
Budget 2024: Significantly, this year’s budget commits over $70 billion to sustaining the government's efforts to increase the disposable income available to citizens while ensuring their improved standard of living. This includes maintaining zero percent excise tax on petroleum products, extending freight charge reductions, and continuing the highly successful part-time job programme. Additionally, significant investments in housing, education, and public assistance underscore the government's dedication to long-term socio-economic development.
In total, the PPP/C Government has introduced measures which left over $195 billion in the pockets of Guyanese. The baseless claims by Kaieteur News and opposition-aligned entities fail to acknowledge these substantial and impactful measures.
The measures over the period have cumulatively increased disposable income, but the total estimate is vastly conservative as it does not account for the compounded impact of earlier policies continuing to benefit subsequent years.
The list below provides a comprehensive outline of some of the most critical measures featured within budgets 2020 to 2024.
Budget 2020
● Reversal of VAT on electricity and water
● Provision of $25,000 COVID-19 relief voucher per household
● Removal of VAT on building and construction materials
● Removal of VAT on cell phones
● Removal of VAT on private education
● Removal of Corporate Tax on private health care as well as VAT on medical supplies
● The mining and extractives sector benefitted from billions of dollars in incentives through removal of VAT on machinery and equipment; removal of VAT on all ATVs for mining, forestry and agriculture; removal of VAT on exports; and removal of VAT on lubricating oil.
● Reversal of Land Lease fees across all sectors as well as water charges back to 2014 rates. There was also
the reversal of land taxes and drainage and irrigation charges back to 2014. Reversing the increases (imposed during 2015 to 2020 period) to the 2014 levels significantly reduced these costs, which grew by between 67 percent and 1,900 percent.
● Removal of VAT on fertilisers, agrochemicals, pesticides, and key inputs in the poultry industry.
● Tax concessions on investments in Agro-Processing Facilities, Cold Storage and Packaging
● In 2013, the PPP/C Administration introduced mortgage interest relief (MIR) to exempt the portion of taxable income used for housing loan interest from personal income tax, applicable to loans up to $30 million. The APNU+AFC Administration had revised this in 2017, limiting the relief to loans up to $15 million. The current government restored the MIR to its original level, making interest on loans up to $30 million tax-deductible, thereby reducing homeownership costs for new homeowners and young professionals.
● To stimulate the economy, the Guyana government, via its 2020 budget, granted corporate tax relief to banks for low-income loans. This measure enabled low-income households to borrow up to an additional $2 million at a lower interest rate.
The annualised cost of these measures exceeded $40 billion.
Budget 2021
● Government restored to zero rated status, all of the food items and other basic household necessities that were previously zero rated at the time the PPP/C administration demitted office in 2015. These items included: basic wheaten flour, basic breads, oats, unflavoured cracker biscuits, cooking oil, locally produced bedsheets and pillowcases, toothbrushes, etc.
● A 5 percent reduction in water tariffs across the board, targeting all levels of consumers.
● To improve access to ownership, the government zero-rated VAT on stone imported for construction and housing from CARICOM, locally produced pre-stressed concrete piles, locally fabricated mild steel beams for building construction, and locally manufactured roofing and PVC products for building construction.
● Duty on Industrial Grade Cement reduced from 15 percent to 5 percent.
● Ceiling on low income homes moved from $10 million to $12 million.
The annualised cost of these measures and others are approximately $10 billion.
Budget 2022
● $5 billion for cost of living measures in light of the pandemic's impact on the global supply chain.
● Government rolled back freight costs to pre-pandemic levels. This measure
alone cost the State in the order of $6 billion.
● Government lowered the Excise Tax rate on gasoline and diesel from 20 to 10 percent. Later in March 2022, Government cut this tax further from 10
percent to zero – a measure that resulted in tax revenue losses of over $17 billion.
● Introduction of a Dialysis Support Programme under which the government finances up to $600,000 per annum
worth of dialysis treatment for every dialysis patient in Guyana. This programme provides much needed assistance to almost 300 persons at a cost of $180 million.
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PPP/C government increased disposable...
● Reduction of cost for life and medical insurance. A measure that cost the State $1.1 billion.
● Income tax threshold moved from $65,000 to $75,000 monthly, thereby releasing a total of $1.3 billion into the hands of taxpayers both in the public and private sectors.
● As part of this Government’s suite of measures to combat the rising cost of living and supplement household income in 2022, the hinterland and riverain communities also benefitted from a $25,000 one-off cash grant, injecting more than $1.2 billion into these communities.
● Further, almost 8,000 fisherfolk benefitted from the
provision of a $150,000 one-off payment totalling $1.2 billion
● Over 1,400 sugar workers of Uitvlugt, who were affected by the Estate downtime, were provided a one-off payment totalling over $277 million.
● In 2022, Government launched the part time job programme among the suite of measures implemented to cush-
ion the rising cost of living. The job programme has allowed for one person per household to work in public offices in proximity to their homes for 10 days per month and earn $40,000. Over 11,000 persons were employed through the programme in Regions 2, 3, 5, 6, 9 and 10, injecting $2.3 billion into these households since the programme
started in the second half of 2022.
Annualised cost of these and other measures, over $25 billion.
Budget 2023
● $5 billion allocated for additional cost of living measures
● Extension of reduction in freight charges for the period January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023, at a cost of over $6 billion to the State.
● $10 billion allocated to continue government’s part time job programme
● All workers benefitted from increase in the monthly income tax threshold from $75,000 to $85,000, providing an additional $3.3 billion in disposable income to these workers, and removed over 12,000 workers from the tax net.
● In January 2023, 5,000 health workers and almost 9,000 members of the Disciplined Services benefitted from salary adjustments, placing an additional $3 billion in the hands of these workers
● In December 2023, teachers benefitted from several salary revisions. All Graduate teachers moved to the maximum of the scale applicable to their post at that time, benefitting 4, 000 teachers at a cost of $1 billion annually. Additionally, effective December 2023, teachers received a monthly education allowance of $10,000 for a Bachelor Degree, $20,000 for Master Degree and $30,000 for a Doctorate Degree, to the benefit of over 4,500 teachers, at an additional annual cost of $500 million.
● The Remote Areas Incentive for teachers was also revised upwards to $20,000 monthly, effective December 2023, at an annual cost of $260 million.
● As part of the $5 billion cost of living allocation for 2023, public servants, teachers and members of the Disciplined Services, as well as staff of Semi-Autonomous Agencies and Public Enterprises were paid a $25,000 one-off tax-free cash grant in December 2023 at a cost of $1.7 billion.
● At the end of 2023, an across-the-board salary increase of 6.5 percent retroactive to January 1, 2023, was paid to over 54,000 public servants, teachers, members of the Disciplined Services and Government Pensioners, placing $7.5 billion in the hands of these individuals. Notably, since assuming office in 2020, the cumulative salary increase for these groups of workers is 23 percent.
● Members of the Disciplined Services also benefitted from the reinstituted one-month tax-free bonus. For the first time, as well, the civilian employees of the Guyana Defence Force, also benefitted from the onemonth tax-free bonus. This placed in the hands of 12,000 members of the Disciplined Services an additional $1.5 billion which, it would be
recalled, was callously taken away by the APNU+AFC during their term in office.
● In 2023, the Because We Care cash grant and uniform grant benefitted 201,281 public and private school students at a cost of $8.1 billion, and distribution of the grants will continue in 2024 to benefit 205,305 children.
● In 2023, government introduced school grants for teachers to purchase supplies for their classrooms at a cost of $898.2 million, benefitting 182,672 children. In 2024, the sum of $3.1 billion is allocated to continue the distribution of school grants.
Annualised cost of these and other measures, over $50 billion.
Budget 2024
● As global fuel prices remain relatively elevated, Government maintained zero percent excise tax on petroleum products since March 2022. This measure alone cost the State $40 billion annually.
● $10 billion allocated to part time job programme
● $7 billion allocated for cost of living measures
● Old Age Pension moved from $20,500 in 2020 to $36,000 per month. This reflects a 75 percent increase in OAP since resuming office in 2020, and will benefit 76,000 persons, placing an additional $2.7 billion of disposable income in their hand.
● Pubic Assistance moves from $9000 in 2020 to $19,000 in 2024, placing $1.2 billion in additional disposable income in the hands of over 35,000 persons.
● The Because We Care cash grant of $40,000 this year has been substantially increased from $15,000 in 2021 when its disbursement resumed. Together with the uniform allowance of $5,000, this year’s grant to each child amounts to $45,000. Following the disbursement of the grants this year, Government will have disbursed $9.2 billion for this year alone, while for the period 2021-2024, a total of $26.9 billion in the cash grants will have been disbursed to school children under the programme.
● Income tax threshold increased to $100,000. As a result, 13,000 persons were removed from paying income taxes and will result in $4.8 billion increase in disposable income of workers.
● $4 billion set aside for GOAL scholarships. In previous years the allocation is as follows: $1 billion in 2021, $1.3 billion in 2022, and $1.8 billion in 2023.
● First phase of UG student loan write-off totalling $11 billion, benefitting 13,000 individuals.
Overall, these measures provide over $70 billion to businesses and individuals.
The ‘Escape’ Book Club turns three
THREE years ago, Sameerah Mohamed-Ferouz founded the Escape (pronounced “Es-capay”) Book Club, where strong bonds are built and sisterhood is formed among women who crave an escape.
This book club has the greatest potential to inspire and build connections through a shared love of books, in addition to exquisite team-building
efforts and other great activities.
The group celebrated its third anniversary this month. Throughout the years, the book club has managed to achieve a lot and has greatly impacted the lives of all those who have been a part of the Escape Book Club journey.
It was through her love for reading, coupled with the need to meet new people and form connections
that Escape was created.
Participation is one of the many key factors in the book club. Mohamed-Ferouz stated that each member has their own identity and personality bringing something unique to the table.
“It’s not just a book club. I wanted to make sure, yes reading and book club was the main component but I wanted to make sure that we do so much
more than a book club.”
She noted that they also coordinate charitable events and fundraising activities. One such event was held during the holy month of Ramadan, where they did an Eid Fitr fundraiser. They managed to raise US$3,138 at this activity to contribute food to the Masjids.
Additionally, Mohamed-Ferouz noted that they also do a holiday gift drive where they distribute toys to children in specific schools and communities/ areas; a clothing drive and much more.
At present, there are a total of 11 members in Escape, with room for more women to join.
Going forward, the leading lady said that she plans on creating more activities for the group to attend. This includes a health and wellness re-
Founder of the Escape Book Club, Sameerah Mohamed-Ferouz
treat, going on trips together, a sip and paint event and of course, reading more books.
Escape is a sisterhood of women who are interested in experiencing all that life has to offer, with people they are comfortable with and share a connection; although they
meet once every month to share in fruitful discussions, the Escape Book Club will continue to grow in size and power.
To be a member persons can email Escape Book Club on Escapebookclub.smf@gmail. com and express your interest in joining.
Members of the Escape Book Club at one of their many activities
Bumrah and Hardik...
FROM BACK PAGE
bowled two balls to Miller but conceded only three off them, otherwise keeping Maharaj on strike.
This, after India's spinners had leaked 106 off their nine collective overs.
KLAASEN’S SIXFILLED CHARGE
One of the best hits of the tournament was Klaasen crashing a wide, Kuldeep Yadav googly way over the cover boundary for six, with minimal foot movement. That was his third six (he'd banged Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja over the rope earlier).
But it was against Axar Patel that he really thumped South Africa into the ascendancy. First ball of the 15th over, he bullied down the ground off the back foot for four. Axar bowled two wides in fear. Then later, two massive hits down the ground - one of which pounded the roof of the stadium, then a four through wide long-off for good measure.
He completed his fifty off 23 balls, the fastest ever in a T20 World Cup final. After he was dismissed, South Africa could
not manage a single intentional boundary, the only four coming off Kagiso Rabada's outside edge.
The headlines will say Virat Kohli top-scored with 76 off 59, but there were times when this knock was laboured.
Between the fourth and 18th over, Kohli faced 35 balls in which he scored 29 and hit no boundaries. When he got to fifty, he had used up 48 deliveries, and didn't raise his bat, having batted for most of that time in ODI middle-overs mode. There was an obvious critique to make here: was this an innings so unambitious, it was actually doing India harm?
But the counter-argument is strong. Kohli had been 22 off 16 when the third wicket (Suryakumar Yadav) went down, in the fifth over. And the security he gave at one end, allowed Axar (pushed up the order No. 5) and Shivam Dube to prosper with their big-hitting.
His stands with those batters reaped 72 off 54 (Axar hit 47 off 31) and
57 off 33 (Dube hit 22 off 13), and formed the heft of India's innings. Their 176 for 7 was the most any team has scored in a World Cup final.
DID SOUTH AFRICA CHOKE?
For 35 overs of this game, you could not have possibly arrived at that conclusion. They were pumped up in the early overs, when Keshav Maharaj struck twice, and Rabada removed Suryakumar - India's most-dangerous batter. They held their catches and were excellent in the outfield.
They overcame losing early wickets nicely too. But at one point, they needed 26 off 24 balls, had six wickets in hand, and only one over of Bumrah left to face. They tried to target Hardik, which was the smart play in that situation, but lost both their key batters to him.
There are simpler explanations too: India were battle-hardened and skilful; South Africa's batting line-up was short.(ESPN Cricinfo).
Lakers select Bronny James with second-round draft pick
THE time has come for guard Bronny James, son of four-time NBA champion LeBron James, to begin his professional career.
The 19-year-old prospect won't have to look far for mentorship.
James was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the No. 55 overall pick in the NBA Draft on Thursday, ushering in the next chapter of the years-long saga between the USC prospect and his future Hall of Fame father.
James has become a somewhat controversial prospect because his family ties appear to have as much influence over his NBA future as his on-court production.
The elder James said in January 2023 that it was a goal of his to play in the NBA with his son.
“I need to be on the floor with my boy,” he told ESPN. “I got to be on the floor with Bronny.”
In more recent interviews, James loosened his stance and opted for a more supportive and open-minded approach.
“Whatever his journey, however his journey lays out, he’s going to do what’s best for him,” LeBron said last May. “We’re going to support him in whatever he decides to do. So just because that’s my aspiration or my goal doesn’t mean it’s his. And I’m absolutely ok with that.”
Bronny’s NBA prospects became hazy on July 24, 2023, when he went into cardiac arrest during an offseason workout with the Trojans.
James was treated for a
congenital heart defect in Los Angeles and New Jersey before being cleared to make his collegiate debut last December.
James, who was listed as 6-foot-4 at USC but measured 6-foot-1 ½ in socks at the NBA’s scouting combine,
had an inconsistent freshman season with the 15-18 Trojans.
James averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 25 games while shooting 36.6 per cent from the field and 26.7 per cent from 3-point range.
Despite lackluster shooting numbers in college, James displayed a confident shooting stroke during combine workouts, and his 40.5-inch vertical leap illustrated some impressive explosiveness.
As a small guard with an inconsistent shooting touch, James’ contributions early in his career will mainly be on the defensive end of the floor. Throughout his season at USC, James showed the athleticism, toughness and intelligence to project as a good defender at the next level.
James has good length for his size, with a wingspan over 6-foot-7, and he carries plenty of muscle on his 210-pound frame – two features that should help him on the defensive end immediately.
“Size is really the only issue for him on defence,” an NBA general manager told The Ringer in April. “If he was actually 6-foot-4 or even a bit bigger, he’d have really excellent potential.”
The NBA community appears understandably torn on James’ future.
On one hand, small guards who struggle to shoot rarely get chances at the next level, and it’s even rarer that they make an impact. Without James’ strong family ties, he likely would have been advised to return to college to show improvement as a sophomore.
James is not without upside, however, and he has shown rare explosiveness and defensive prowess that give some scouts hope he can be a long-time NBA contributor. (Sportsmax)
WI Academy suffer clean sweep after heavy defeat
BELFAST, Ireland, (CMC )– Ackeem Auguste missed out on a hundred as West Indies Academy crashed to a ten wicket loss to Emerging Ireland, to suffer a 2-0 whitewash in their four-day “Test” series here Friday.
Resuming the final day at Stormont facing an uphill battle to save
the contest, on 148 for three in their second innings and still trailing by 93 runs, the Caribbean side were dismissed for 268 with the left-handed Auguste stretching his overnight 70 to 93 before being dismissed.
Wicketkeeper/ batsman Carlon Bowen-Tuckett, unbeaten on two at the start, made
41 as be combined with 20-year-old Auguste in a 71-run fourth wicket partnership.
Set 28 to win, the hosts needed only 23 deliveries to overhaul their target and complete a sweep of the series.
There was hope of extending the game deep into the day when Auguste picked up where
he left off on Thursday’s penultimate day.
All told, he struck 14 fours in a knock lasting 154 balls in a shade over three-and-a-half hours while Bowen-Tuckett faced 73 balls in 96 minutes and punched half-dozen fours.
Left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys, who finished with five
Wicketkeeper/batsman
Carlon Bowen-Tuckett
for 44, broke the stand when he bowled Bowen-Tuckett and then removed Auguste in the following over, as West Indies Academy lost their last seven wickets for 60 runs.
Number nine Johann Layne chipped in with 23 to delay the inevitable.
Switzerland stun Italy to reach Euro 2024 quarter -finals
HOLDERS Italy made a limp exit from Euro 2024 as a sparkling display from Switzerland helped them set up a potential quarter-final meeting with England.
The Swiss dominated from the start and took a deserved lead when the impressive Ruben Vargas crossed for Remo Freuler, who took a touch before hammering a low shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Vargas, who plays his club
Germany for Augs
just 27 seconds into the second half when he picked up Michel
Aebischer’s pass near the left-hand corner of the Italy area and expertly bent the ball into the far top corner of the net.
Italy did not manage a shot on target until the 73rd minute and their best effort before then came when Switzerland defender, Fabian Schar, headed Nicolo Fagioli’s cross against his own post, with Yann Sommer stranded.
Although Gianluca Scamacca also hit the woodwork from
close range before the end, the Azzurri never seriously threatened a fightback and their forgettable campaign in Germany simply fizzled out.
While they head home, Switzerland, roared on in Berlin by their boisterous and frequently bouncing supporters, head for Dusseldorf where they will play the winners of England’s tie with Slovakia on Saturday, July 6 (17:00 BS)
football in
burg, made it 2-0
Bronny James, son of four-time NBA champion LeBron James
Ruben Vargas scores stunner as Holders Italy crash out of Euro 2024
Regal Legends crash out of Independence Cup
…Toronto Blizzards, NYSCL, Trophy Stall assured of semi-final places
By Frederick Halley
PERENNAIAL Over-50
champions, Regal Legends suffered a shock exit from the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Independence Cup on Friday, losing both of their games on the opening day of the 19th annual three-day tournament.
Unbeaten Toronto Blizzards, NYSCL 1 and Trophy Stall, with two wins each, were however assured of semi-final places heading into the second day of the tournament, yesterday.
Competing in what can be described as the “Group of Death,” the defending champions were thrashed by Toronto Blizzards by six wickets in the day’s opener and later by NYSCL Legends 1 by nine wickets in the second game, sending shock waves among the players and loyal supporters.
The defeats marked the first time since their phenomenal reign over the last six years that the Guyana-based Regal Legends have failed to reach the
semi-final stages of tournaments of these natures held in Guyana, New York, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. They are still to compete in Canada.
The first 10 overs of the day surely didn’t give an indication of what was to unfold later as Regal Legends, asked to take first strike by Toronto Blizzards, reached a comfortable 88 without loss on a sunlit
Thompson wins Jamaica’s
Kishane Thompson became the joint-ninth fastest man in history after running the 100m in 9.77 seconds to win at the Jamaican Olympic trials on Friday.
The 22-year-old, who had not raced at all this season before the trials, is in just his second season as a professional.
But his time means he is now the fourth fastest Jamaican in history, behind Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Asafa Powell.
"My coach instructed me just to run the first 60 metres, nothing more - after that, shut it down," said Thompson.
day at Canarsie Park with openers Asif Ali and Uniss Yusuf successfully negotiating the Canadian-based team attack.
The loss of Yusuf, brilliantly run out from a direct throw, set the stage for a procession as Regal Legends found the going tough, and were restricted to 150 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.
Apart from Yusuf, who struck four fours and six in his 40, fellow opener Ali also contributed 40 (two sixes). However, the usually formidable middle-order offered token resistance, Debutant Avinash Singh bowled brilliantly to finish with the impressive figures of two for 16 from his four overs while Jesh Parasnauth supported with two for 28.
David Harper, with the first ball of the reply, gave his team a bright start, knocking back the leg stump of Shiv Seeram. Undaunted by that setback, Toronto Blizzards made light work of the total with former Guyana player Sunil Dhaniram spanking a fine
undefeated 72, spiced with six fours and four sixes. Ramo Malone blasted a quick-fire 27 off eight balls with five fours and a six while Imran Ali, playing in his first Over-50 game, raced to 25 with a four and three sixes.
The consistent Dhaniram was once more to the fore, in the second game, hitting a fine undefeated 71, decorated with five fours and six sixes as the Bobby-Parasnauth led Toronto Blizzards defeated Shaw’s Realty by eight wickets in a one-sided affair.
Vejai Seonarine chipped in with 34 (three fours and two sixes) while Imran Ali was again among the runs with an unbeaten 38, hitting three fours and an equal number of sixes and sharing and unbeaten 71-run stand with Dhaniram as the Canadian-based team reached 160 for two in reply to Shaw’s Realty 158 for nine. E. DeFreitas slammed an unbeaten 50 (seven fours and two sixes) for the losers.
NYSCL 1 had earlier won from Shaw’s Realty,
posting 166 for three in their 20 overs with Ravi Sahadeo (50 with four fours), Ravi Singh (42 retired hurt) and Erapali Sahadeo (35) being the main scorers for the winners.
Trophy Stall started off on a bright note, whipping NYSCL 2 by six wickets and Marine Legends in their afternoon fixture. Needing 149 after NYSCL reached 148 for six, Trophy Stall reached the target in 16.3 overs with Fazil Shakoor hitting a top score of 48 (three fours) and Khemraj Budhai (34 with two fours and two sixes).
A. Lutchman with a fine unbeaten 63, containing seven fours and two sixes, Budhai (29) and Shakoor (20) were the main run-getters in their win versus Marine Legends.
Semi-final action in all three categories – Open, Masters Over40 and Legends Over50 were scheduled to take place yesterday while the tournament climaxes today with the finals.
100m Olympic trials in 9.77 seconds
wanted the approach the season, and I think we did pretty good, having only ran one 100m prior to the national trials," Jackson told Reuters.
Elsewhere, Grant Holloway has unfinished business in the 110m hurdles at the Games after qualifying at the US Olympic team trials in Oregon.
The 26-year-old won silver in that event at Tokyo in 2021 but was far from satisfied with finishing as runner-up.
in that realm," said Holloway.
Holloway is looking to make amends in Paris and his 12.86 secs time on Friday was the fastest of his career. He finished narrowly ahead of rivals Freddie Crittenden and Daniel Roberts, who finished with times of 12.93 secs and 12.96 secs respectively.
In the 100m hurdles, Lolo Jones became the first woman over the age of 40 to compete in the US trials.
"If I came second or third, I would've made the team. The goal wasn't to prove anything tonight, just run the 70 or 60 metres and see where I was."
Shericka Jackson recovered from a bad start to win in 10.84 seconds ahead of rivals
In the women's 100m,
Tia Clayton and two-time Olympic champion Shelly-
Ann Fraser-Pryce, who ran 10.84 secs and 10.94 secs respectively.
"Coach and I sat down and talked about how we
"Do I look at it every day like it should have been mine? No. I've done four world championships, indoors and out, and I've got four gold medals. I feel like I've already solidified myself
The 41-year-old, who has competed at three Games, came last in her heat but qualified for Saturday's semi-final. (BBC Sport)
Kishane Thompson (far left) is the fourth fastest Jamaican in history
Toronto Blizzards’ Sunil Dhaniram and debutant
Imran Ali
Markram: ‘It
hurts quite a bit’, but
‘incredibly proud
of
this group of players’
..South Africa’s captain felt getting as close as they did to winning the T20 World Cup showed they were ‘worthy finalists’
THIRTY runs from as many balls. This was the equation that separated South Africa from a first World Cup title, from the end of a journey of countless heartbreaks. ESPNcricinfo's Forecaster gave them a 96.65 per cent chance of winning and lifting the T20 World Cup at the Kensington Oval. It wasn't to be, as India staged one of the most dramatic bowling comebacks in the history of the T20 format, and South Africa were left nursing a feeling they've experienced so many times at so many global events. Their captain Aiden Markram, though, was proud of their efforts, and a campaign that brought them eight wins on the bounce before Saturday's defeat.
"I think it'll take some time for us to have a really good reflection on a really good campaign that we've had," Markram said at the post-match presentation.
"Obviously for the time being, it hurts quite a bit, but having said that, still incredibly proud of this group of players and everyone that's involved in this team."
Bowling first after losing the toss, South Africa kept India to 176 for 7, which Markram termed a chaseable total. Their batters couldn't quite finish the job on the day, but Markram didn't hold it against them.
"Yeah, I thought they [South Africa's bowlers] bowled well," he said. "Don't think there was a hell of a lot to work with, with regards to the pitch, so thought they did
well to restrict them to what we thought was a chaseable total, and I thought we batted really well as well, and [it] came down to the wire.
Nortje 4-026-2 (w2), Shamsi 3-0-26-0 (w1) SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa captain Aiden Markram ENGLISH RACING TIPS UTTOXETER
"A really good game of cricket, so on all fronts, really chuffed with the guys today. Not great to [not] get over the line, but incredibly proud of this group of people that we've got going here in our white-ball squad."
Though South Africa came into the final with a perfect record, a number of their wins - even those against Associate teams Netherlands, Nepal and USA - came at the end of closely fought games. Markram suggested that this experience meant South Africa never
felt relaxed even when they were in seeming control of the final.
"We've seen with a lot of our games in this campaign that it's not really over until the last ball is bowled, so we never got comfortable. There's always that element of scoreboard pressure, and especially at the back end, things happen quickly and can change quite quickly as well.
"But having said that, we got into a great position, which proves that we were worthy finalists and could
have won the game today. Unfortunately didn't, but still incredibly proud of the group."
In the end South Africa the cricket team were left nursing a familiar sense of pain, which has always had the backdrop of the nation's complicated history, as referenced in this ESPNcricinfo article by Firdose Mooda. Ian Bishop brought up a phrase used in this article"They don't know what we know" - and Markram hoped South Africa would be able to draw strength from that feeling.
"Yeah, hopefully [it sets us up] in a really good way," Markram said. "One thing that's guaranteed about a South African, wherever they are in the world is, they're a really competitive person, a really respectful person, and a person that will go down with a fight. So that's one thing that we as a group pride ourselves on. Hopefully moving forward we can draw a lot from those few things and can keep putting the skill side of the sport to good use. It's still a proud moment for us."(Espn Cricinfo)
08:20 hrs Paddy
T Shamsi. Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Hendricks, 1.3 overs), 2-12 (Markram, 2.3), 3-70 (Stubbs, 8.5), 4-106 (de Kock, 12.3), 5-151 (Klaasen, 16.1), 6-156 (Jansen,
Umpires: Chris Gaffaney, Richard Illingworth; TV – Richard Kettleboroug
Bumrah and Hardik script stunning comeback
SURYAKUMAR
Yadav snatched a boundary catch for the ages, Jasprit Bumrah snuck in two electric final overs, and Hardik Pandya pilfered the two big wickets as India pulled off one of their great heists to win a World Cup, finally.
With five overs to go, South Africa were rampant. Heinrich Klaasen, one of the great hitters in the game, threatening to throw off decades of painful big-match history for his team with a hail of sixes. He and David Miller had clubbed 38 runs off the two previous overs, and with six wickets in hand, South Africa needed only a run-a-ball off the last 30 balls.
Rohit Sharma was forced to go to the best bowler in the world, when he would have otherwise saved Bumrah for later overs. Bumrah didn't quite break the partnership, the batters never daring to take
him on. But he did break Klaasen and Miller's stride. They scrambled only four runs off that over.
But the most telling blow came at the start of the 17th over. After the flow of the game was further slowed, due to an apparent knee complaint for Rishabh Pant, Hardik bowled a wide line outside off, and took the edge of Klaasen, Pant snaffling the chance gleefully.
Still, Miller was there, though he couldn't get a boundary away off the rest of that over.
Then Bumrah came back, bowled several ripsnorters in the last over of yet another tournament he has dominated. With one of those magic balls, a wicked in-seamer, he burst through the defenses of the last recognised South Africa batter, Marco Jansen, and grazed leg stump.
With Keshav Maharaj now in the middle, their batting line-up notably
- to lead India to T20 World Cup glory
short, and 20 needed off 12 balls, South Africa were for the first time since the early overs of the chase in trouble. Arshdeep Singh delivered a nerveless 19th
Rohit Sharma joins Kohli in retiring from T20Is after World Cup triumph
ROHIT Sharma has joined Virat Kohli in retiring from T20 internationals after India won the World Cup by beating South Africa in a thrilling final in Barbados. He confirmed that he would continue to play ODIs and Tests.
"This was my last [T20I] game as well," Rohit said at the press conference after the final. "No better time to say goodbye to this format. I've loved every moment of this. I started my India career playing this format. This is what I wanted, I wanted to win the cup.
"I wanted this badly. Very hard to put in words. It was a very emotional moment for me. I was very desperate for this title in my life. Happy that we eventually crossed the line."
Rohit Sharma plants the Indian flag on the Kensington Oval outfield after winning the T20 World Cup • ICC/Getty Images
Rohit leaves the format as its highest scorer - 4231 runs in 159 matches - and also holds the record for the most centuries (five) in T20 internationals. He's
won two T20 World Cup titles: the inaugural one as a player in 2007 and now as captain in
2024.
to
Rohit and Kohli's retirement from the T20I format was not entirely unexpected. Both players had not played any T20Is after India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final, and only resumed playing T20Is in January this year - with the focus on the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Rohit finished the tournament as the second highest run-scorer - 257 at a strike rate of 156.70 - in difficult batting conditions in the USA and the West Indies. He took on the responsibility of giving India fast starts with his attacking approach, and scored crucial match-winning half-centuries in their last Super Eight game against Australia and the semi-final against England.
lift the first ball, a wide full toss, over the straight boundary. But he didn't connect perfectly, and Suryakumar, running full tilt along the rope, his feet only centimetres inside, caught the ball, popped it up as he briefly stepped over the boundary, then completed the running catch as he hopped back into the field, sparking wild jubilation in the stands, and ecstatic celebrations from the India players.
South Africa batters No. 8, 9, and 10, did not manage to get Hardik away, aside from a single outside edge that flew for four.
When Hardik India completed the seven-run win, the bowler sank to his knees in relief, his team-mates exulted, and the crowd, largely supporting India, flew into euphoria. Their team had become World Champions again, after 13 years.
BUMRAH'S SPECTACULAR SHOWING
On a flat track in Barbados, Bumrah bowled two unplayable deliveries that brought him two wickets - both bowled. The first of these was the better one. It
was one of the best in the tournament, and very arguably one of the best ever in finals. Angled in to Reeza Hendricks, it pitched and seamed away to hit the top of off, beating the batter's outside edge.
He conceded five runs in that first over, eight runs in the next (one of only two boundaries off his bowling came here - a not fully-controlled steer through deep third).
But those last two overs went some distance to defining this match. Four runs off the 16th over, after the 15th had been clubbed for 24 runs. Two runs off the 17th. His figures were 2 for 18.
Arshdeep Singh was almost as outstanding, returning 2 for 20. His two powerplay overs cost only eight, and brought the important wicket of Aiden Markram, who edged him behind. In the middle overs, he dismissed Quinton de Kock, who was looking to raise the tempo after he had overseen the recover after two early blows.
And then that fantastic 19th over, in which he
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over, off which South Africa could muster only four.
The dream-killing blow came next. With 16 needed off the final over, bowled by Hardik. Miller tried
Rohit Sharma holds the T20 World Cup trophy aloft, and the celebrations begin (AFP/Getty Images)
