Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 07-10-2023

Citizens urged to conserve water as dry weather looms

GUYANA is currently in the midst of the El Niño period, resulting in warmer and drier weather conditions. Citizens are

being advised to conserve water during the prolonged dry season.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali appealed to citizens on

Friday, asking them to be mindful of the hot weather conditions and conserve tap water provided by Guyana Water Inc.

“What we have seen as a result of the prolonged dry season, the extremely dry season, is that a lot of persons are also going to

pipe water for gardens, for farming, for agriculture. They are going to pipe water also for construction purposes.”

This, he explained, is adding stress to a system that is already suffering

can be aware of what is happening and we can take the necessary action.”

FRESHWATER

from depletion based on the dry weather.

“So, I wanted to ask members of communities to be careful of the consumption of water and to minimize wastage. Ensure that you turn the taps off because the period that we are going through is one that is excessively dry, the phenomenon is bringing serious stress, regionally, globally,” the president said.

The current weather condition is known as El Nino. The term refers to the warm climate pattern that affects tropical regions.

El Niño occurs on average every two to seven years, and episodes typically last nine to 12 months. It is a naturally occurring climate pattern associated with the warming of the ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.

Simply explained, it is a period when the weather condition is warmer than usual.

In some regions, surface water has dried up and there is a reduction in flow from springs. Some hinterland communities are more adversely affected.

The government, however, has implemented a system to ensure that water is being supplied to these communities, from Regions One, Seven and Eight.

“The water authorities have taken the decision to do sectional delivery to residents on a scheduled basis.”

There has also been a decline in the static levels of some wells.

The government, he said, is now talking about water stress scenarios.

“We don’t have a situation now where it is detrimental to the supply and delivery but I’m just speaking to the population, engaging you, so that we

Earlier this week, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha revealed that fresh water is being conserved to assist farmers as the dry weather looms.

Mustapha stated local authorities have stored freshwater and are monitoring water use and storage levels to guarantee that there is enough water to last throughout the dry season.

“We are working together to monitor the situation. We are trying to maximise the use of water… I am hoping that with the plan we have, we will not run out of freshwater,” he said.

Cash crop farmers have begun requesting more water for their crops.

The minister maintained, however, that there is enough water being conserved.

Both cash crops and poultry farmers have been affected by the dry season.

What is a concern for the Minister, is the hoarding and price gouging of some commodities.

Increased prices were a concern for several consumers recently. Eggs were priced at $2,000 per tray in some markets; prices for some produce have also gone up.

“It’s not the cash-crop farmers increasing their prices, it is the people that are buying from the cashcrop farmers, it’s the middle men,” Mustapha explained.

He further acknowledged that while the weather will have its effect on farmers, it does not warrant the increases on the markets.

“Although you might have a little increase in the cost of vegetables and fruits, because of the weather conditions, I don’t think it’s at that level where people trying to increase so substantially.”

Persons, he said, are creating an “artificial shortage.”

NIS backlog of 10,000 tribunal matters to be addressed

- As President announces special secretariat - says diaspora concerns, passport backlog will also be addressed

By Naomi Parris

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali has announced that a special secretariat will be created to handle the backlog of almost 10,000 tribunal matters at the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) by the end of the year.

During a live broadcast on his official Facebook page, the Head of State revealed that the NIS management has been directed to establish a secretariat and a system for addressing pending matters.

“Files that deal with appeals, claims, queries, investigations, tribunal matters… we are going to develop a special secretariat and a projectized format to bring to an end or bring to closure, these 10,000 files before the end of the year, so that we will be back in real time,” President Ali said.

Over the last three years, over 4000 matters were addressed through outreaches that were organised by the government.

“This is an issue that we want to fix and we are going to make every effort in a specialized projectized manner to get this fixed before the end of the year,” he reiterated.

Meanwhile, there are 300

diaspora matters that are also pending. For this NIS will conduct a diaspora outreach in November, with persons from New York and Toronto.

“What we want is members of the diaspora to send to the diaspora unity in the

Ministry of Foreign Affairs their issues in relation to NIS with all the supporting documentation so that can be sent to the NIS now and we can start looking at issues and advising a status of your claims, objections, your queries or your investigations.”

“There is a lot of background work that has be done, but we are committing ourselves,” he added.

PASSPORT BACKLOG

Meanwhile, a similar mechanism will address the county’s passport backlog. Currently, the country is plagued with a backlog of over 5,000 passport queries, however, this is not a result of any shortages.

In fact, the President believes citizens have not being utilizing their respective regional offices.

“What I have seen is that people are not utilizing the regional offices. Take, for example, in Georgetown we have about 4,000 passports in the backlog; in Berbice, about 900 passports in the

backlog; Linden, about 102 passports in the backlog; Anna Region, 103; Parika, 45; Bartica five.”

Meanwhile, there are 400

er the team and they are working now in a consorted way, 24 hour shifts to have this entire backlog of 5,300 plus a backlog for 400 for the diaspora, so that is

passport related matters that are pending in the diaspora.

The relevant authorities have been given up to next Friday to have this backlog addressed.

“I have brought togeth-

just about 5,700 passports in the backlog nationwide and in the diaspora. They are working to completely bring to nil this backlog by next Friday,” the President said.

Government engages trade unions in consultations for Budget 2024

IN a display of its consultative approach to governance, the Government of Guyana, led by Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips and Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni K. Singh, engaged in a series of budget consultations with various trade unions from across the country.

The consultations took place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Friday and provided an opportunity for the unions to voice their concerns and discuss matters of interest, especially those related to the National Budget.

The government delegation included Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Gail Teixeira, Minister of Public Service Sonia Parag, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, Advisor to the Minister of Public Service Jennifer Westford, Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Agriculture and

Labour Delma Nedd and Mae Thomas, respectively, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture Mandanlall Ramraj, and Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine.

Trade unions affiliated with both the Federation of Independent Trade Unions (FITUG) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), as well as the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), participated in the consultations.

Specific unions included the Guyana Agricultural & General Workers Union (GAWU), National Association of Agricultural, Commercial & Industrial Employees (NAACIE), Clerical & Commercial Workers Union (CCWU), Guyana Labour Union (GLU), Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Guyana Local Government Officers Union (GLGOU), and General Workers Union (GWU).

Prime Minister Phillips, in his opening remarks,

Government, led by Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips and Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni K. Singh, engaged in a series of budget consultations with various trade unions from across the country

extended a warm welcome to the union representatives and expressed the government's eagerness to receive suggestions, comments, and input from the trade unions. He emphasised the government's commitment to using this valuable feedback to inform policies for crafting Budget 2024. Prime Minister Phillips also thanked the unions for their cooperation and dedication to engaging with the government on behalf of the workers they

represent.

Dr. Singh reiterated the government's dedication to improving the lives of the working people of Guyana. He highlighted various initiatives already implemented by the government since taking office and emphasised its continued commitment to engaging with unions and stakeholders as the country undergoes rapid transformation. Dr. Singh stressed the government's intention to reach every

citizen directly, ensuring government decisions are made with the direct input of the people and not solely through representative organizations.

"We have increased job opportunities, invested heavily in the macroeconomy, and continue to ensure macroeconomic stability," Dr. Singh affirmed. He also noted that all government decisions are made with a focus on striking a balance between addressing imme-

diate needs and planning for the future.

Following the consultations, Minister Singh referenced President Irfaan Ali's strong commitment to ongoing engagement with trade unions and all stakeholders. These consultations serve as a testament to the government's commitment to fostering collaboration and dialogue in shaping the nation's policies and budgets.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

‘GTU misleading teachers’ - Jagdeo says

- calls for investigation into allocation of duty-free concessions amidst allegations of favouritism

By Trina Williams

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday, accused the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), for attempting to mislead workers and pushing their own agenda.

“So GTU has been telling a lot of lies to the teachers,” Dr. Jagdeo said during a press conference at Freedom House, where he also brought to light damning accusations that are being levelled against the executive members of the GTU.

Furthermore, with there being a large number of accusations that the administering of the concessions by the union is being done based on a friends and family system, the PPP General Secretary further stated: “I said to the President and others that we need to investigate the hundreds of duty-free concessions that were given to the GTU.”

On Monday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had a consultation with headteachers and their deputies from the country’s 11 school districts at State House.

What has sparked somewhat a controversy is that the teachers echoed different sentiments as compared to what the executive members of the union have been putting forth.

Instead of salary increases, teachers asked for more allowances and even special

housing loans, all of which the President provided a listening ear.

While there were executive representatives from the union present, Dr. Jagdeo stated the reason President Ali’s consultation with the teachers was thrown in a negative light was because the meeting posed a threat to the personal agenda of certain officials in the GTU.

He related: “…The last thing they wanted was the teachers talking directly to the President because they engage in a healthy dose of suppression and so people don’t get to bring their matters directly to the policymakers and as the president said, he is available to meet with anyone.”

BETTERMENT

During the consultation, the President outlined the government’s plans to assist those teachers who would have already acquired land, but cannot build due to limited funds.

“I can ask the CEO (Chief Education Officer) to check for all the teachers who would have had alloca-

tions made to them, but they do not have the bank loan, or the bank is giving them a hard time, and we will deal with that as a category,” the President said.

Meanwhile, teachers already in the process of building will receive assistance with materials, such as steel and cement, to subsidise their financing.

The government, he said, will engage the country’s banking institutions to facilitate the process.

Loans from $15 million, with an interest rate of 3.75%, will be accessible to teachers.

“Within two weeks, we will move to have this bigtent approach, where we will

have the banks… We will get the list of teachers, we will tell you all that you have to walk with; we will get everything pre-approved, so when you come, you sign your loan off,” President Ali said.

Additionally, teachers will be provided with the option to access other support such as building plans.

Teachers from both the hinterland and coastland regions raised a plethora of issues, among them salary and allowance adjustments for teachers, better school infrastructure, the need for more qualified teachers, improved Internet access, better transportation for children, especially those living in the hinterland region, implementation of more innovative programmes, and overcrowding in several schools.

Responding to the teachers’ concerns, the President said: “We are going to complete the infrastructure audit of all the schools and all the education facilities, including the recreation facilities across the country, so we will have a gap analysis as to what has to be done, and prioritise where we are going to definitely address those issues.”

With regards to overcrowding, specifically, the

president noted that the government will prioritise the extension of schools affected by overcrowding in the upcoming budget cycle.

Existing anomalies affecting minimum-wage teachers will be corrected in their salaries this month.

Meanwhile, some 2,300 new and qualified teachers will be entering the system soon, and will be dispatched across the country to satisfy the need for more trained teachers.

In the coming weeks, the government will develop a holistic approach to address all the needs of the country’s teachers.

“Now that I have a full understanding directly from you,” President Ali said, “I am in a better position to come up with a holistic approach as to how we will deal with the welfare of students and teachers together.”

Executive representatives from the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) and other government officials such as Education Minister Priya Manikchand, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, and the country’s Labour Minister, Joesph Hamilton were in attendance.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali with some of the teachers at the consultation PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

PPP/C gov’t responsible for Guyana’s modern democratic framework

DESPITE threats to Guyana’s democracy, the country has prevailed through adversities. This has been credited to the modern democratic architecture of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government.

Speaking on a special programme aired on Thursday to commemorate the return of democracy in 1992, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira reminded that it was the PPP/C government that had restored Guyana’s democratic landscape.

In fact, the government, she said, continues to fight for democracy and for the rule of law to be respected.

The whole architecture of a modern Guyana has been constructed and developed when the PPP/C started in government, Minister Teixeira said.

However, the forces that have attempted to thwart the rule of law still remain prevalent.

Referencing the 2020 elections as the most recent attempt, Teixeira said: “It showed how delicate the balance is; how easy it is to jump over the precipice.”

She further explained, “In 2020, those same forces were willing to violate the will of the Guyanese people, to violate the constitution and to thwart all the democratic forces to stay in power, against the election results.”

Snap elections were held back in 2020 after the government of President David A. Granger lost a

vote of no confidence by a margin of 33–32 on 21 December, 2018.

The elections were expected to be one of the most significant since Guyanese independence in 1966 because of one of the largest new discoveries of oil in the world off the coast of the country.

Although Election Day and the initial count were deemed to be free, fair and credible, the process of tabulating the votes was widely seen to have been fraudulent.

Leaders had later agreed to a recount of ballots, which was completed in June of that year. The recount showed that the PPP/C party won the most votes, with a bare majority of one seat.

However, representatives of the then A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) government had sought to thwart the results of the recount through a number of court cases.

Despite this, the Court of Appeal ruled that the results of the recount be utilised as the official results of the election. PPP/C leader Dr Irfaan Ali was sworn in as the 10th President of

Guyana, six months later.

‘OSTRACIZED’

Joining the conversation, Attorney General Anil Nandlall noted that if democracy had not prevailed, the country would have suffered gravely.

“We would have again been ostracized. We would have no peace in this country, no investors would have come, we would have had an illegal government in power and the civilized world would have cut all ties with us.”

Guyana, he explained,

would have suffered the fate it did back in 1992, when the country was riddled with debt and was not investor-friendly.

The absence of democracy would have resulted in the absence of freedom the imposition of authoritarianism, social degradation, economic stagnation and bankruptcy, he said.

He reminded that the country had once been in this situation due to democracy not being upheld.

“By 1992 we were completely bankrupt …

Guyana by that time had become a basket case we were the second poorest country in the world in this hemisphere, the medical system had collapsed, the infrastructural system had collapsed, the educational system had collapsed.

Further reflecting on the struggles Guyana faced back then, Clement Rohee who was at the time the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister, explained that Guyana was

riddled with foreign debt and these were categorized.

“One was multilateral debt and one was bilateral,” Rohee explained.

“The government worked very hard to address and seek debt relief in respective to bilateral debt, the multilateral debts, however, an extremely important type because this is where the multilateral lending agency would have lent money to the government.”

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira, Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall SC and Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee

Guyana’s Eco-Tourism

GUYANA is setting its sights on a new frontier in tourism, aiming to collaborate with Costa Rica to boost its eco-tourism industry.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently visited Costa Rica to accept an award from the Inter-American Institute for Agricultural Cooperation (IICA) for his leadership in Food Security, during which he also discussed potential partnerships in eco-tourism and environmental conservation.

During a press briefing held with Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles, President Ali expressed Guyana's keen interest in collaborating with Costa Rica. In fact, he revealed that Guyana

was using Costa Rica as a model for developing its own eco-tourism industry, citing Costa Rica's success in this field.

"In positing Guyana as a major destination for eco-tourism, we have identified Costa Rica as our model... We are embarking on a programme to work closely with the Government of Costa Rica in helping us develop our eco-tourism product in Guyana," President Ali stated.

This collaborative effort between the two nations started earlier in the year when they signed a Letter of Intent and Collaboration to explore investment opportunities, exchange knowledge, and provide technical support

in the tourism sector. This collaboration marked a significant step forward for Guyana's tourism industry, which is looking to expand through international partnerships.

Furthermore, Guyana aims to collaborate with Costa Rica on climate change and forestry preservation initiatives. In November, Guyana is scheduled to host a side event at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) where they will discuss critical issues such as climate services, climate financing, and forest preservation.

President Ali has been actively advocating for more financing for the region, particularly for efforts aimed at preserv-

ing its forested lands. His vision extends to positioning Guyana as a leader in food production, energy security, and climate security by 2030.

The collaboration between Guyana and Costa Rica holds great promise for both nations, not only in terms of eco-tourism but also in addressing pressing environmental challenges. As the world grapples with climate change, the cooperation between these two nations demonstrates the importance of international partnerships in achieving global sustainability goals.

The recently commenced Conference of Ministers of Agriculture of the Americas 2023 in

San Jose, Costa Rica, featured the participation of presidents from Guyana and Panama, among other high-ranking officials from 32 countries. This event highlighted the urgent need for a robust agriculture sector to ensure global food security and environmental sustainability, especially in the face of ongoing climate and economic crises.

Both President Ali and President Cortizo were recognized for their commitment to agricultural development and support for farmers in their respective countries. The conference served as a platform for sharing successful experiences and knowledge among

nations in the Americas to collectively address the impacts of climate change on agriculture and food production.

In conclusion, Guyana's collaboration with Costa Rica and active participation in international forums like COP 28 signals its determination to not only enhance its eco-tourism sector but also play a significant role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable agriculture. As these efforts continue to unfold, the world watches with anticipation to see how these partnerships will contribute to global environmental and economic resilience.

VP exposes so-called DC conference, proven correct by US Congressman Jeffries

Dear editor, At Thursday’s (5th October) press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo exposed the so-called DC conference and the PNC circus and guess what, it hit the PNC so hard that they had to call up the US Congressman Jeffries for him to do a late night release when lots people were asleep.

The PNC, as usu-

al gave the congressman rigged information about what the VP said about that conference and the poor gentleman released some pictures telling the true story that supported the VP.

Those pictures and statement by the Congressman that were release show indeed that the DC conference was a showcase of the incompetent PNC.

As the VP said, the PNC met a few peo -

ple and had a tour for themselves in DC without any top US official being with them, while they walked with their own media in the form of Sherod Duncan, which was very evident.

In the late night release by the Congressman, at no time did he state that there were any discussions on racial discrimination in Guyana. He didn’t say anything about power

sharing. He didn’t say that contracts where given to one set of people, etc.

In fact, most of the things the PNC telling us that they discussed at the so-called DC conference the Congressman didn’t mention.

Moreover, the congressman failed to tell us if he had discussions with the riggers in PNC that try to rig the 2020 Elections.

I firmly believe from that late night release that Congressman Hakeem Jeffries is still in a state of stock after meeting with the PNC and had to listen to their nonsense about Guyana.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, as always, keep exposing the PNC lies, and that’s how days after that socalled DC conference, they ask the Congressman to make a late

night release.

That release by itself tells the truth about that so-called DC conference and has proven the VP to be correct and prove that the PNC lied once again to the Guyanese people.

In conclusion, I can clearly say that Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo once again exposed the lying PNC.

Regards

Abel Seetaram

Visa horrors as told by the New York Times

THE world has been told almost a hundred years ago and is still being told that there is a part of the globe named the free world and that the leader of the free world is the United States. Citizens around the world for almost a hundred years were told and are still being told that, in the free world, governments are more democratic than what obtains in dictatorships like China, Russia. Even large Third World countries that are not dictatorships, like Indonesia, Philippines, Pakistan, Turkey, are so branded as authoritarian by the leaders of the “free world.”

I am quoting now from the New York Times (NYT); not some obscure social media influencer. In its Friday 29, 2023 issue by Christine Chung, the newspaper ran a story of the hardship people from the Global South have to endure to get a Schengen visa to visit European Union countries even if you are living in the US, UK and other developed countries but you have a passport for another nation.

So Ms. Chung interviewed a woman who lives in London but has a South African passport. The woman gave her first name as Elaine and declined to offer her last name. Here are the words from NTY.

I am quoting NYT: “She declined to give her full name, fearing that speaking publicly could sabotage her future visa applications.”

How can this happen in the “free world.” In the free world, you have the right to freedom of expression, the right to speak about governmental wrong-do -

ing, the right to publicly express your views about state abuse. In authoritarian countries, free expression can get you into trouble. But why is Elaine afraid? She is afraid because she is not stupid. She knows full well that the term “free world” can be misleading. Elaine is simply telling the world that if she goes public with her criticism of the hassles of acquiring a Schengen visa, she may not get one when she next applies even though she is a resident of London. Elaine is telling the world through the NYT that the visa officer from the “free world” will victimize her. I am confused here. Isn’t that kind of attitude you find in authoritarian countries? Do visa officers from the “free world” behave like their Chinese and Russian counterparts?

Well, according to Elaine they do. Now as you read this column, please remember it is not Frederick Kissoon that is saying state officials in the “free world” are vindictive and victimize you for speaking out. It is a London resident; a resident of one of the top countries in the world.

Interestingly, Yahoo News chose that NYT article as part of their news package that Yahoo News gather from dozens of media houses in the United States. I chose to do a column on Elaine’s fear for two reasons. One is because it came from NYT and therefore Elaine’s story will be widely read around the world.

The other reason is as someone trained in political theory, I think I have a moral obligation as a

post-colonial person to present a picture of the reality of the world and contribute to the knowledge of Guyanese of the harsh reality of the world. The reality of the world is that post-colonial people while living in a colonial polity have internalised the narratives of colonial hegemony and they accept, up to this day, those narratives, one of which there is a section of the globe that is known as the “free world.”

The “free world” is a contextual construct. The free world as a paradigm must be seen in a comparative context. China, Russia and many other authoritarian nations do not allow the kind of rule of law and freedom of expression that the “free world” guarantees. But the post-colonial mind must never analyse the concept of the free world out of its comparative niche. When such an exercise is done, then the post-colonial mind fools itself.

Elaine is not fooled. She knows that what she has been brought up to accept as the binary of a good section of the world versus a bad part is misleading. Elaine has been treated badly on her application for a Schengen visa and she believes she will not get another one if she opens up to NYT on her mistreatment. Elaine knows that is the type of world we will live in. I did this column so that young people on reading it can become more Elaines and not be deceived into thinking that there is such a binary. A person fooling you is not as worse as you fooling yourself.

East Bank Demerara residents urged to conserve water as wells near completion

THE drilling of the wells at Diamond and Covent Garden, East Bank Demerara is now completed and the wells will be operational in November.

At the Diamond well, GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh stated that engineers encountered obstacles resulting from clay formations collapsing.

“We have overcome this situation and development of this well should commence at the end of October and should be up and running by November,” he noted

The depth of the well at Diamond exceeded 700 feet. The commencement of that project followed the collapse of a well, which resulted in hardship for residents in the community and surrounding areas.

Both wells will bring much relief to residents, Baksh said.

“We understand the situation, we apologise to the residents of those areas, we are trying our best to address the situation. A larger pump

was placed at the Providence Well Station to pump more water into the system. We are going to make some interconnections between the Eccles and Providence well stations and treatment plant. These works should commence in another week of two to channel more water to the Diamond area. A new well will also be drilled at Grove to ensure water security going into the future.”

Work on the new well at Eccles is finished, and installation of the distribution system will start soon. GWI is making every effort to

NDMA urges gov’t agencies to report cybersecurity threats promptly

IN a proactive approach to tackling cybersecurity threats, Christopher Deen, the General Manager of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), has advised all Heads of Government Ministries and Agencies to promptly report any detected cybersecurity threats.

restore normalcy to the East Bank corridor, where there has been a drop in level of service.

“We want to appeal to residents to conserve water. We are monitoring the situation to ensure the minimisation of hardships in water supply and improvement in the level of service. We have also read the riot act to managers, supervisors, and staff to ensure they respond promptly to complaints from residents, not only with regards to water supply but other areas of concern,” Baksh said.

Mr. Deen emphasised the urgency of addressing these threats during the NDMA's cybersecurity training for Heads of Public Sector Agencies, held at the Aurthur Chung Conference Centre on Thursday, October 5, 2023, which marked the official launch of Cybersecurity Month observed annually in October.

During his address, Deen stressed that cyber incidents should not be underestimated as they tend to escalate if not dealt with promptly.

He underscored the NDMA's commitment to assisting government entities in handling such threats. “Please do not wait until the mold spreads throughout the entire organisation and the walls begin to crumble before you take action," he cautioned. "NDMA would have heard from some of you; we would have engaged, provided technical support, and assisted you in the past, and we stand ready to do so now.”

He also highlighted the presence of NDMA's dedicated Security Operations

Centre (SOC), which offers round-the-clock technical assistance for cybersecurity matters. He encouraged all government agencies to leverage this valuable resource if they encounter cybersecurity threats within their organisations.

Furthermore, he expressed NDMA's commitment to knowledge sharing, with a focus on enhancing internal capacity for ICT specialists within various entities. “NDMA is here to offer you a helping hand,” he declared. “We must work together to build this capacity in our country, in government, across Guyana.”

Mahendra Kissoon, NDMA's Cyber Security Specialist, echoed the importance of collaboration in ensuring safe cyber spaces. He revealed that NDMA had detected and mitigated approximately 442 malware attacks at several government agencies in the first

quarter of 2023, according to NDMA's Security Operations Centre semiannual summary report for 2023.

Mr. Kissoon emphasised the need for immediate action in addressing cybersecurity issues to minimise potential damage. He encouraged attendees to report any cybersecurity concerns, allowing ICT specialists to provide their expertise in devising effective solutions. Stressing the relationship between security and risk reduction, Mr. Kissoon urged the group to implement necessary systems to mitigate threats and safeguard sensitive information.

As Guyana observes Cybersecurity Month, these proactive measures taken by the NDMA underscore the government's commitment to enhancing cybersecurity awareness and resilience across government agencies.

GWI CEO, Shaik Baksh

NDMA General Manager, Christopher Deen

Minister Anthony: October 5, 1992 marked the dawn of democratic transformation

THE Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, on Thursday, hosted an “Evening of Reflection on October 5, 1992,” where several persons recollected the events that led up to this day.

Among the persons who addressed the gathering was Dr. Frank Anthony, who not only shared his thoughts but also spoke on behalf of President Dr Irfaan Ali.

He thanked the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre for organising the event, which reflects what is and will remain a landmark in Guyana’s modern political history.

“It was on the 5th of October, 1992, that our nation was restored to the democratic form and with the process came economic and social reconstruction,” he said.

Dr. Anthony emphasised that October 5, 1992, should not be viewed as a singular event but rather as the culmination of nearly three decades of struggle for democracy in Guyana, which began with the loss of power by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in 1964, which set in motion a series of events leading to the erosion of workers’ rights, economic turmoil, and the emasculation of the private sector.

“October the 5th was thus not simply about free and fair elections; it was about rescuing Guyana from the clutches

of…political repression and economic mismanagement,”

Dr. Anthony, who is also Minister of Health, related.

He noted that it was the PPP that stood at the forefront of that struggle against the political dictatorship.

“The PPP would later be joined by other progressive forces in our society, such as the Catholic Church and others following the massively rigged elections in 1985. And then came other persons who joined and together were able to form the patriotic Coalition for democracy. But for much of the early period, it was primarily the PPP which waged that struggle for political liberation, and it was not easy,” he said.

He related that some of their comrades who stood up to defend democracy in the country, did so with their life, as it was a period of victimization.

He explained: “If you spoke up, you were victimized, if you were in a government job you were sent somewhere else, you were dismissed. There were cases where people were removed from a job in Georgetown and sent out to places in the interior.”

The health minister noted that these were the conditions under which people lived.

Another defining feature

of the struggle for democracy, he said, was the unity of various classes within Guyanese society, as the nation demanded change amid an economic crisis in 1992.

Here, the PPP/C (People’s Progressive Party/Civic) was formed, comprising members not only from the PPP but also from the business community, professional and academic sectors, and the working class.

This broad-based democracy movement was a result of years of concerted efforts by leaders like Dr. Cheddi Jagan, who worked to build bridges across social classes.

“Dr. Jagan was at the forefront of working with different sectors of our society to put this movement together. Today, we are built upon the foundation and through our party, where our party remains wedded to the working class. We are also a multi class formation, attracting members and forging alliances with people of all classes,” he said.

Minister Anthony related that without the convergence of classes that took place in the run-up to the 1992 elections, they would not have had such a solid platform on which they could pursue class unity.

Recollecting his time working in the health sector in 1993 at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), when they had just

started the reconstruction of Guyana’s economy, he said: “In the hospital, you probably had one saline bag and you have five people who needed it and we got to decide which one of them would get the saline.”

“And if that was not bad enough when you went into the building of the hospital, you had holes in the floor. You had rats that were biting people’s toes. These were the kinds of things that we inherited and we forget them,” he said.

The health minister noted that most people forget those instances today, because of how far the country has grown

Minister of Health

Dr. Frank Anthony

and developed since then.

“Malnutrition was very high in our country. There were people who could not afford a meal. They were suffer-

ing from these things. This is where we started from, if you think about the health sector, this is what was happening,” he continued.

Recalling that many of the facilities were dysfunctional, he said they soon after started to work on its development.

“The changes that you saw at GPHC, the investments that the PPP made there, you started seeing a hospital being transformed. But if you fast forward to today, what do we have in the health sector? We have started the construction of twelve new hospitals,” he said.

The Minister noted that Guyana has come a long way since October 5, 1992.

Gov’t to seek Amaila Falls hydropower station proposals in two weeks - says Dr. Jagdeo

VICE PRESIDENT and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has announced that, in approximately two weeks, the government will request proposals for the much-anticipated Amaila Falls Hydropower station (AFHP).

“We’re hoping within a maximum of two weeks to go out back for the requests of propos-

als,” he said during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House. He reported that, up until last week, the Government received several proposals and that Korea, Austria, and Brazil have shown interest in the project.

Several companies have expressed interest in bidding to construct Guyana’s AFHP, which could be expanded to aid in other

energy needs.

Last month, the PPP General Secretary said that, with several direct proposals, there will have to be a competitive process to decide.

“Right now we have several direct proposals,” Dr. Jagdeo related.

He said that the AFHP was expected to bring in about 160 megawatts of power, but the for-

mer coalition government killed the project and failed to replace the power source.

Dr. Jagdeo further said there could be a possible solar expansion at the AFHP, and, hopefully, the bid will be completed at the end of this year.

In June, he had said that at least two Brazilian companies are interested in the AFHP, and will add to a number of US and Canadian investors which have also showed interest in the project.

“They were very interested in the ‘hydro’. We have now gotten at least two proposals from companies in Brazil to do the ‘hydro’,

and some other companies out of the US… So, soon you would see us going back out to another [tender] process in that regard,” Dr. Jagdeo had said.

The government had indicated, since last year, that it would have to go back to tender for a company to construct the project, after it was forced to terminate a contract with China Railway Group Limited (CRGL).

The termination happened after CRGL had difficulties honouring its commitment to the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) contract that it had signed on to.

After winning the bid for the BOOT contract, the company had requested to change the BOOT contract’s arrangement to an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract. Under an EPC, CRGL would be responsible for all the engineering, procurement, and construction activities, and deliver the completed project to the government within a predefined time and cost. However, that would require the government to source the financing, whereas, under the BOOT model, the project is financed by the contractor.

AG supports consolidation, urges expedited trials

THE long-awaited trials related to electoral fraud cases in Guyana involving former District Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former PNC/R Chairperson Volda Lawrence, political activist Carol Smith-Joseph and others are progressing at a frustratingly slow pace.

Attorney-General (AG)

Anil Nandlall expressed his concerns with the protracted legal proceedings, and voiced his support for the Prosecution's call to consolidate these cases.

Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhani, KC, who represents the State in the electoral fraud case, has ad-

vocated for the establishment of a special court to hear the evidence, emphasising the need for expedited trials. The case has remained stagnant for nearly three years, prompting growing concerns about the delay in justice.

During a recent episode of his 'Issues In the News' programme, streamed on a social media platform, Attorney-General Nandlall conveyed his support for any action that could lead to the commencement of the trials.

He highlighted that the cases have already dragged on for an extended period, which is not in the best interest of the State, the defence, or the public.

“It is not in the State's interest; it is not in the defence's interest, neither is it in the public's interest that these matters of national importance are delayed further.

It is in the interest of justice, it is in the interest of the defense, it is in the interest of the rule of law, it is in the interest of the State, that these cases are tried and disposed of as quickly as possible. Enough time has already elapsed,” stated Attorney General Nandlall.

He expressed hope that formal requests to the appropriate judicial officer would result in decisions that prioritise justice.

While acknowledging the need for a fair trial, Minister Nandlall emphasised that jus-

Gov’t urges seniors to register for pension via MMG

EFFORTS are underway by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) Inc to promote the utilisation of MMG's new pension payment option, which is easy, fast, and dependable, among senior citizens in Guyana.

The first 100 senior citizens who register to receive payments via the mobile app will receive a monetary prize of $5,000.

Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud on Wednesday told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the new payment op-

tion adds to the slew of alternate opportunities for senior citizens to access their pension easily and without hassle.

“Our senior citizens can access their pension all month, every day and MMG goes a step further because it allows them to receive their pension in a timely and efficient manner right at home and it also gives them an opportunity to cash out all their money if they wish at one time or pay their bills…from the comfort of their home,” Dr Persaud noted.

With the rolling out of this new delivery system, seniors will be able to cash out their

monthly funds at over 1,000 agents nationwide.

This will ensure a reliable system that allows for the receipt of this service as scheduled, avoiding long lines to cash their pension. The beneficiary will also have 24/7 access to their MMG wallet.

“It is our commitment to ensuring that our senior citizens have multiple ways in which they can access their pension… We are ensuring that the service is provided directly through the service provider and at alternate venues and our offices across the country,” Minister Persaud said.

To access MMG pension payments, eligible persons must complete a registration form, either uplifted from the ministry’s probation offices or via the website.

Upon completing the form, it must be submitted along with the pensioner’s current booklet. Payments will then be made and accessible at no cost to the senior citizen.

If additional help is needed to set up an MMG account, the applicant is required to visit any of the agents nationwide, the MMG office at 69 Brickdam, Georgetown, or online.

tice delayed is justice denied.

He shared his frustration at the recent proceedings in the Georgetown Magistrates' Court, where discussions revolved around issues such as the separation of charges, procedural matters, and the selection of magistrates.

Nandlall pointed out that the public is more concerned with seeing progress in these significant cases.

In the complex electoral fraud case, efforts are being made to expedite proceedings, including the consideration of appointing a dedicated magistrate. The case has been adjourned until October 25.

The electoral fraud cases

date back to the 2020 elections, and involve allegations of false vote counts.

A Presidential Commission of Inquiry in April 2023 found evidence of collusion and collaboration among senior GECOM officials to manipulate votes in favour of the APNU+AFC coalition. The report highlighted the roles played by Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Election Officer Roxanne Myers, and Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo in attempting to undermine the electoral process in Electoral District No. 4.

Flawed police investigations help acquit four men in 2018 murder case

FINDING serious concerns over the quality of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) investigation into the 2018 murder of Christopher Swammy, Justice Navindra Singh on Friday acquitted four men, who were charged with the brutal crime.

Rajkumar Singh, Osafo Douglas, Vikash Persaud and Fareed Haniff had been jointly charged with murdering Swamy in the course or furtherance of a robbery on October 21, 2018, at Mon Repos Pasture, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The quartet had initially denied the charge when they were arraigned at the High Court in Demerara last month.

The men were represented by attorneys Madam Kissoon, Kezia Williams, Dexter Todd, Jevon Cox and Tracy Marks. The attorneys had submitted that the defence

had no case to answer since the prosecutor failed to establish a case against their clients.

Justice Singh upheld the submission and stated that the State had failed to establish a prima facie case against Liverpool for the offence of murder.

The judge criticised the

police investigation as “very poor” and noted that some of the evidence should not have even advanced past the preliminary inquiry stage.

He then ordered the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

Although the judge freed the men, Rajkumar Singh will remain in custody since

he has another murder case in relation to the fatal stabbing of another inmate last year while on remand at the Lusignan Prison.

Reports indicate that on the day in question, Swamy, his wife, and her sister, along with Rawle Williams, 28, and his spouse Marcia Williams, 38, of Mon Repos,

ECD, were “liming” and imbibing in front of the deceased’s home. That is when they were pounced upon by two masked men, one brandishing a handgun.

The bandits then allegedly relieved Marcia of her cellphone and a sum of cash; next, they lashed her husband Rawle on his head and shot

Christopher Swamy in the left region of his chest, after which they fled the scene.

Christopher and Rawle were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, but Christopher was pronounced dead on arrival. Rawle was treated and discharged later.

Dead: Christopher Swamy Freed: Vikash Persaud and Mustafa Douglas Freed : Fareed Haniff

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C.

100 Pensioners to register to MMG gets $5,000

UMAMI, Agriculture Ministry open agro-processing facility in Mibicuri

THE Government and UMAMI, a local manufacturer, have collaborated to open a modern cash crop processing facility in Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder.

This advanced facility produces pickled ochro, wiri wiri peppers, bitter gourd (karila), cucumbers, and hot peppers, using crops from farmers in Black Bush Polder and nearby communities.

Back in 2021, the local manufacturing company

signed on as investor for the construction of a multimillion-dollar agro-processing facility at Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The project was in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture.

The facility was touted to contribute the increased production of value-added products in Guyana for both domestic consumption and export purposes.

In a previous report, Ag-

riculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, had disclosed government’s plans to establish several agro-processing facilities at “agriculture hubs” across the country.

“Many times, we found farmers doing something called subsistence farming, from the farm to the market and we are not getting the real value for the produce, and we, as a government, we want to ensure that we provide the necessary facilities and we help these farmers

so that they can have more value for their produce,” Minister Mustapha related.

Specifically in the Black Bush area, he said farmers will have the opportunity to process their produce and convert it to a product of quality that is ready for domestic and foreign markets.

The company has worked with local farmers to enhance shelf-life of products and limit the amount of spoilage.

Gossai faces disciplinary action over unauthorised engagement with ExxonMobil

- Gov’t implements new protocols

SENIOR Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources

Bobby Gossai Jr., will face “disciplinary measures” over the unauthorised engagement with ExxonMobil on the cost-recovery audit.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat on Thursday conveyed this decision in a statement, stating, “I have asked the Permanent Secretary to take the necessary disciplinary measures.”

This action comes in light of Gossai’s involvement in dealings related to the oil giant’s local subsidiary’s spending between 1999 and 2017, following an investigation into the US$214 million audit.

The minister said that since the inception of this audit, the government’s position has been to consistently emphasise that it is the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) which plays the pivotal role in determining the final outcome of the audit in question in line with the Production Sharing Agreement

He underscored that the Ministry of Natural Resources’ role in this process was to oversee the audit, as stipulated in the PSA, and facilitate information exchange among all relevant parties, including the GRA.

However, based on advice from Gossai, that initial claim of US$214,911,994 was reduced to US$3,414,853.68.

In response to this dramatic shift, Minister Bharrat formally sought clarification from the GRA, in a letter dated November 28, 2022, seeking a “No Objection” to confirm this revised figure.

Fast forward to July 2023, Minister Bharrat said that Gossai, while in a meeting with himself and Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, reported that the initial sum was further adjusted, first to US$11,497,140 and eventually down to US$3,414,853.68.

Minister Bharrat, considering his previous correspondence with the GRA and the

agency’s critical role in the audit process, said that he assumed that this reduction had been achieved in consultation and collaboration with the GRA.

“I subsequently learnt that the GRA did not agree with the position, and the initial claim of US$214,911,994 remains the same,” he said.

In light of the foregoing developments, Minister Bharrat reiterated that the government’s stance remains unwavering, affirming that the GRA is the sole entity authorised to make the final determination on the matter.

“After examining all the facts, it is clear Gossai acted without the requisite authorisation to engage EEPGL [Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited] and provided inadequate advice, and as such, I have asked the Permanent Secretary to take the necessary disciplinary measures,” the Minster said in his letter.

Additionally, he said that the government will establish new protocols and systems

NCERD launches Spanish workshop for educators

to prevent similar lapses in the future, emphasising full disclosure and transparency in dealings with stakeholders in the sector.

Two weeks ago, Gen -

eral Secretary (GS) of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, following consultations with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, called for a probe to

ascertain the persons responsible for engaging ‘Exxon’ on the cost-recovery audit.

In auditing Exxon’s expenses from 1999 to 2017,

TURN TO PAGE 14

THE National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) is currently hosting a threemonth Spanish workshop for education officers, their staff, and other interested individuals.

Both practical and theoretical sessions are being facilitated by Ms. Latoya Atwell, a bilingual educator who has a passion for teaching.

During the workshop’s opening ceremony on Tuesday, Phillip Williams, Head

of EdYou FM, expressed the station’s commitment to serving the children of Guyana despite language barriers. He explained that the workshop was in response to President Irfaan Ali’s call for Spanish to be a mandatory subject in schools. Williams went on to say that EdYou FM was proud to be starting this necessary initiative at NCERD.

Ms. Omawattie Ramdin, Head of the Curriculum Unit at NCERD, commended the EdYou FM team for its efforts, noting that it was cru-

cial for teachers to be able to respond to students’ needs, and the workshop would help bridge the language gap.

The workshop’s participants will attend classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and will be required to take an assessment that includes a practical component.

In July, President Irfaan Ali announced that Spanish would become mandatory in primary schools. He also encouraged members of the public and private sector to learn the language.

A section of the gathering as NCERD currently hosts a three-month Spanish workshop for education officers, their staff, and other interested individuals

GWI calls for water conservation amid El Nino’s impact on supply

DUE to the El Niňo weather phenomenon, the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) is asking people to save water, and report any incident of wastage.

“We want to appeal to residents to be more prudent and cautious in the use of water during this period, so that everyone could enjoy an adequate level of service,” Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh told a recent media briefing at GWI’s headquarters at Shelterbelt, Georgetown.

The utility is working

closely with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and other agencies in monitoring the situation.

Visits have been made to all ten of the country’s administrative regions, and from what has been observed, the hinterland regions have been most affected, due to depletion in supply of surface water, which essentially means water found in such places as creeks, rivers, lakes and springs among other freshwater sources.

At Salbora, in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), the creek there is depleted by some 80 per cent, and at Madhia, in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), where there are two wells, the residents are still encountering some hardships.

As an emergency measure, Mr. Baksh said, the GWI is moving to drill a new well in Madhia to bring relief to the residents of the township and surrounding communities.

And in Region One (Barima-Waini), the villages of Mabaruma, Matthews Ridge, Port Kaituma and other areas are also experiencing low water supply, due to depletion of springs there, notwithstanding that there are wells in these sub-regions.

Mr. Baksh also reported that the static level of the wells in Kamarang and Jawala, in Region Seven, has been reduced, and the hand-dug wells in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are drying up.

However, the deep or climate-resilient wells in the region have been responding well to the extreme dry weather, in that where they are located, residents have

not been experiencing hardship.

GWI plans to drill wells in all hinterland communities, with 40 scheduled for this year, and another 50 to 60 for next year. This massive programme is set to ensure that the government achieves its goal of 100% access to stable water supply in the hinterland regions by 2025.

The coastal belt has high water demand from households and farming communities, but the wells are producing water at maximum capacity.

In Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), and Four (Demerara-Mahaica), the water supply has been stable, with some areas experiencing a lower level of service. Notably, the Lama Canal, which supplies water to about 60 to 80 per cent of Georgetown residents, has not experienced a drop, but in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), residents are experiencing a small drop in the level of service. Mr. Baksh said that to address this situation, the GWI is supplying water on a 24hour basis, and at maximum level in these regions. The GWI is also undertaking an intensive well-maintenance programme to keep supply stable in the long-term.

Aside from El Niňo, power outages have been affecting water supply in all the regions on the coastal belt, as well as contractors damaging water infrastructure across the country. GWI is urging residents to report these contractors, so that they could be held accountable for their action.

Gossai faces...

FROM PAGE 13

the British Consultancy Group hired to perform the audit, IHS Markit, flagged a US$214M sum of questionable spending. This figure received a no-objection from GRA, and an indication to close the US$1.6B audit of Exxon’s expenses.

However, following this no-objection, it was revealed that a staff member of the Ministry of Natural Resource’s Petroleum Unit engaged ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary, formerly known as EEPGL, in reducing the US$214 million to US$3 million.

At a previous press conference, Dr. Jagdeo had stated that the government was in support of the GRA’s decision, and that the ministry’s engagements with the subsidiary should not have happened.

“Somebody has to give an explanation of how they engaged with ‘Exxon’, and we have to have a policy with people who are at the technical level, and who engage with executives, that they must seek explicit clearance from the ministry, and report back on the nature of the engagement,” Dr. Jagdeo had said.

GWI CEO Shaik Baksh (third left) with senior officers at the media briefing

Verstappen takes pole in Saudi Arabia

( Formula 1 ) - Max Verstappen was in scintillating form on Friday , taking a dominant pole position for this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix. The Dutch driver set a blistering lap to comfortably beat George Russell and Lewis Hamilton in an action-packed affair in Lusail.

Verstappen clocked a stunning time of 1m 23.778s on his first – and only –lap in Q3, to beat Russell, in second , by 0.441s , and Hamilton in third, by over half a second – although he aborted his final lap in Q3 after sliding in the first sector

There was plenty of confusion following the session as both McLaren drivers had their times deleted for exceeding track limits. Once the penalties were applied, Oscar Piastri was dropped to sixth after initially being third, while Norris will lineup 10th, after losing his time that had put him second

Fernando Alonso wound up fourth for Aston Martin ahead of Charles Leclerc in

fifth for Ferrari Ahead of Norris, but behind Piastri, on Sunday will be the Alpines of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon, in seventh and eighth, with Valtteri Bottas in an impressive ninth for Alfa Romeo

Yuki Tsunoda missed out on a place in Q3 by just 0.004s to Bottas, and will start Sunday’s race for AlphaTauri in 11th, with the Japanese racer set to line up on the grid alongside Carlos Sainz, who suffered a shock Q2 exit for Ferrari

Sergio Perez, who had his fastest time deleted for exceeding track limits, will start in 13th for Red Bull – on a weekend where he could deny his team mate Verstappen the championship Alex Albon wound up 14th for Williams after running wide on his final lap in Q2, with Nico Hulkenberg 15th for Haas

Logan Sargeant narrow-

Max Verstappen won pole in Saudi Arabia

ly missed out on a place in Q2 thanks to Albon , who knocked him out with his final lap in Q1 This leaves the Williams rookie in 16th for Sunday’s race, ahead of the visibly frustrated Lance Stroll in 17th

Liam Lawson was 18th fastest for AlphaTauri , and he was joined in the bottom three by the Haas of Kevin Magnussen, with Zhou Guanyu set to start at the back of the field for Alfa Romeo.

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Saud Shakeel gets Pakistan off the mark despite Bas de Leede double delight

( ESPNCRICINFO ) - It wasn’t the perfect performance but, at the moment, good enough will do for Pakistan, and good enough is exactly what they achieved.

In a staccato showing where bursts of inspiration were interspersed with spells of shaky mediocrity, Babar Azam’s side eventually eased to an 81 - run win over the Netherlands despite Bas de Leede ’ s all - round heroics

The 23-year-old allrounder was at times a one-man bulwark against Pakistan , but thanks to fifties from Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan managed 286 Pakistan had enough bowling firepower to overwhelm the Netherlands, with Haris Rauf blowing the game open through the middle overs and always leaving the game just out of Dutch hands

Netherlands looked dangerous in the first powerplay, opening with spin that troubled both Pakistan ’ s left - handed openers There was nothing to suggest a return to form for Fakhar Zaman, who tamely lobbed

one back to Logan van Beek But the Dutch got an even bigger boost with two wickets in five balls towards the end of the powerplay Babar

Azam failed to get underneath a long hop from Colin Ackermann and spooned one up to short midwicket, before a bouncer from Paul van Meekeren grew big on Imam-ul-Haq, who hooked it down fine leg’s throat.

But where previously Pakistan have collapsed upon

the dismissal of the top order, today Pakistan’s middle order took charge from those depths of 38 for 3 Saud Shakeel, who was drafted into the World Cup squad late , put on something of a clinic, a delightful innings that stabilised the innings alongside the predictably reliable Mohammad Rizwan It slowly took the momentum back from Netherlands, and fairly soon, the runs and boundaries began to flow

Berbice and Demerara battle for Inter-County Super50 Supremacy

BOTH the Demerara and Berbice teams in this weekend’s Guyana Cricket Board Senior Inter-County

50 - Over battle are ready and rearing to go

Ahead of today’s final, captains of Demerara and Berbice said both camps were brimming with confidence as they prepare for one final battle today, with the winner hoisting the 2023 GCB title.

Demerara skipper Tevin

Imlach and his counterpart, Veerasammy Permaul met briefly at the Bourda Ground on Friday, the eve of what is set to be one of the biggest matches on the domestic calendar

Imlach believed that his team has been doing well thus far, highlighting opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul as one of their key players following his back-to-back

match winning fifties

With a number of pieces in their side, Imlach noted that it was crucial to focus on the team’s batting

The wicket-keeper lauded his pacers , the likes of Ronaldo Alimohamed and Sherfane Rutherford and said that the side will throwing support behind his younger teammates , as he believes they will play key roles today Meanwhile , Permaul , captain of the defending champions Berbice, who are fresh off of 3 straights wins, said today’s match is highly crucial to the county

The leading wicket-taker in 1st class cricket for the West Indies , Permaul was confident that his In - form teammates would deliver the goods today

Romario Shepherd , Kevin Sinclair , Gudakesh

Saud , who until two months earlier was viewed as someone too stodgy for the shorter formats , took charge , and raced along to a 32-ball half-century without seemingly taking a risk

Anything full from the fast bowlers went back down the ground, while the footwork to the spinners was immaculate The innings was a thing of technical brilliance, and remarkably effective Before long they brought up a 100-partnership, and Pakistan were back in control.

He found himself punished by the first false shot he played, a toe-edge off Aryan Dutt flying into the air, and suddenly Netherlands clawed momentum back again Soon after Rizwan, who had played his part in that stand, found himself undone by a sensational in - dipper from de Leede , who also removed Iftikhar Ahmed later in the same over

It was only a punchy 64run stand between Pakistan’s spin - bowling allrounders

Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan that guided them

back to smoother waters , bringing up the 250 and ensuring they’d have something to bowl at But Netherlands, and de Leede in particular, kept hitting back with wickets, and prevented Pakistan from batting out their full quota, bowling them out for 286 in 49 overs

Netherlands started brightly despite the early loss of Max O’Dowd It was Hasan Ali who felled him with a shorter ball that flew to deep fine leg, but Vikramjit Singh took the attack to Pakistan and ensured his side were making the most of the powerplay Ackermann joined him before a rash shot off Iftikhar brought about a relatively early departure

Poor shot selection was something of a running theme through the Dutch innings, but the third wicket partnership that was about to arrive gave Pakistan a true scare

It was the irrepressible de Leede, perhaps predictably, at the heart of it, taking over from Singh as the aggressor - in - chief , a remarkable six off Nawaz over long-on

making his intentions plain Singh, who had a brief lull in the middle and struggled with footwork and timing, rediscovered his form alongside de Leede, smacking Shadab for a six soon after as Netherlands began to pile on the pressure

But as soon as he brought up his half-century, he fell to a long hop from Shadab The shot was on, but the execution failed as a bottom edge found the cow-corner fielder, and from thereon, the game began to slip from Dutch control De Leede continued to motor along with ease and elegance, but Rauf, returning for a short middle overs spell, took two in three balls to blow through the Dutch innings A short ball was pulled to midwicket by Teja Nidamanuru before captain Scott Edwards was trapped in front second ball Haris might easily have had a third the next delivery if Iftikhar hadn ’ t dropped a dolly at first slip, but either way , the game was in Pakistan ’ s hands now

Namilco ‘Flour Power’ U-17 National Academy playoffs kick off today at NTC

Motie , Kevlon Anderson , Shamar Joseph and a returning Shimron Hetmyer, who looked good in the penultimate round Thursday, are fresh off a huge CPL title win and have continued their form through this tournament with bat and / or ball Speaking on his star-studded lineup , Permaul , who also has a 5 - wicket haul in the tournament, said he does not plan on overestimating his opponents, adding that Demerara is a quality team with a number of stars

He further touched on the importance of the game between the two counties , adding that the rivalry has been going on for more than a decade but is keen on ensuring the title returns to the ancient county

The first ball of Saturday’s final is set to bowl off at 9:00hrs

THE Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Technical Director , Bryan Joseph , has confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure the successful kickoff of the highly-anticipated National Milling Company of Guyana ( NAMILCO ) Thunderbolt ‘Flour Power’ under- 17 National Academy Playoff.

The kickoff is set for today

The GFF team has been diligently working over the last few weeks to ensure a seamless October 7 start to the new season of the prestigious playoff at the federation’s National Training Centre ( NTC ) in Providence , East Bank Demerara

The opening day will feature a thrilling double-header with East Bank Football Academy facing off against East Coast Football Academy at 09:00hrs., and Upper Demerara Football Acade -

my taking on West Demerara Football Academy at 11:00hrs

The National Academy Playoff complements the Academy Training Centre ( ATC ) programme which specifically targets boys aged 14 to 17 years old ATC is an approved ‘Generation Next’ FIFA development programme

Joseph further noted that the playoff puts, “The spotlight on our best young talent who have been working hard at the ATCs and are all aspiring to become international players representing our beautiful country. These are the players that will be on the forefront of national team discussions over the next decade.”

He added that the, “Best versus best opportunity that will be presented on matchdays would be something you wouldn’t want to miss Competition of this nature drives development and ,

therefore, we are excited to get going and unearth the next generation of stars.”

The competition will feature teams in Group A : Georgetown, East Coast, East Bank, the National Under-15 and Berbice; and Group B: Upper Demerara, Essequibo, Bartica and West Demerara

After a round - robin phase, the best teams from each group will advance to the championship round , competing for the prestigious title of national champions

“The GFF/ Namilco partnership will always be remembered for the special moments and players that will be produced throughout this phase of the tournament,” Joseph said

The GFF encourages football enthusiasts and supporters to attend the matches and witness the exciting competitive spirit of the young players representing the federation’s nine regional associations.

Paul van Meekeren loses his stumps, and that’s the game*Oct 06, 2023 (ICC via Getty Images)

Jade’s Wok sponsors developmental chess tourney

THE Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) has announced its Developmental Chess tournament proudly sponsored by Jade’s Wok.

The classical format games aim to foster talent development of its team of Under-18 players, who will participate in the Inter Guiana Games later this year in Suriname.

The tournament will be held from October 6th to October 8th, 2023, at School of the Nations and will be a five round Swiss system consisting of 90 minutes with 30-second increments.

The FIDE-rated tournament is limited to 20 players, including the eight invited team members of the Inter Guiana Games. FIDE-rated players from 1600 to 1300 were eligible to participate.

The U-18 team members were selected based on their outstanding performances at various National Chess competitions, such as the National Junior Chess Championship and the National Women’s Chess Championship Tourneys held during 2023.

The Inter Guiana Games is an annual event first started in 1967, with the three neighbouring countries: Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana whose athletes competed in various sports disciplines. Chess was reintroduced this year after a long hiatus. The GCF is excited to participate in this event

The Open team members are Ricardo Narine, Kyle Couchman, Alexander, and Nicholas Zhang and the Girls’ team comprising Aniyah Couchman, Italy TonChung, Maliha Rajkumar, and Aditi Joshi. The event will also feature the participation of National Women’s Chess Champion Jessica Callender and National Junior Chess Champion Keron Sandiford. Notable chess players Jaden Taylor, Kishan Puran, Ciel Clement, and Justino DaSilva will also be competing for the top spots Trophies and cash prizes of $15,000, $12,000, and $9,000 will be awarded to players who finish first, second and third respectively.

Pogba’s 'B sample' tests positive

(BBC) - Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba’s failed drugs test has been confirmed after his B sample tested positive.

Pogba, 30, was provisionally suspended last month after his initial sample showed elevated levels of testosterone in his system

The France international was selected for random testing after Juve’s 3-0 win at Udinese on 20 August, when he had been an unused substitute

If found guilty of doping, he could be banned for between two and four years

After Pogba’s initial suspension was confirmed in September, anti-doping body, Nado Italia, said he had violated rules when prohibited non-endogenous testosterone metabolites were found in the test, and the results were “consistent with the exogenous origin of the target compounds”.

Testosterone is a hormone that increases the endurance of athletes

It is understood that Pogba will fight to clear his name believing that if he did take a banned substance, he did so in-

advertently

Speaking at the time of the initial suspension, Pogba’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, said: “What is certain is that Paul Pogba never wanted to break a rule.”

Juventus re-signed Pogba on a four-year deal in July 2022 after the player ran down his contract at Manchester United and left as a free agent

However, Pogba’s return to Turin has been beset by persistent injury problems which also saw him miss last year’s World Cup in Qatar

Pogba has played a total of 51 minutes as a substitute this season in games with Bologna and Empoli

Last season he managed 108 minutes over six Serie A games, three brief appearances and one assist in the Europa League, and 11 minutes in the Coppa Italia - a total of 162 minutes and no goals

Pogba’s injury problems resurfaced recently, with Juventus boss Massimo Allegri saying the player picked up a minor back problem following his appearance against Empoli.

Jade’s Wok Matthew Rupnarain presenting the cheque to Marcia Lee, GCF Company Secretary

Paul Pogba

One Guyana Basketball League resumes tonight at National Gymnasium

THE National Gymnasium is set to come alive once again with the resumption of the One Guyana Basketball Premier League following a month-long break.

Matchday five of the tournament is scheduled for this evening and will feature an exciting lineup of three games.

The Jaguar Conference promises thrilling action as the young stars of Cummingsburg Bounty Colts , including Domitre Rankin , face off against Lamaha Park Springs Pepsi Sonics at 17:00hrs Following this showdown, McDoom/Prospect Kobras will take on Leonora D-UP Rising Stars at 19:00hrs

Wrapping up the day ’ s proceedings, the formidable team from Region 10 , the Kwakwani Untouchables , representing the Harpy Eagles, will clash with the Plaisance Guardians in a highly anticipated matchup

The tournament features 14 teams divided into two conferences: the Harpy Eagle Conference and the Jaguar Conference, with a projected total of 56 to 63 games to be played

Teams within each conference will compete against each other twice , and the top four teams from each conference will qualify for

the playoffs The first-ranked team will face the fourthranked team, while the second - ranked team will take on the third-ranked team in the playoffs

The winners of the playoff games will advance to their respective Conference Finals, where they will engage in a best-of-three series to determine who will secure a spot in the national finals

The Jaguar Conference is represented by the following teams: Stabroek Eagles, Leonora D-UP Rising Stars, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts, Lamaha Park/Springs Pepsi Sonics , McDoom / Prospect Kobras, Cummings Lodge, and UG Trojans.

In the Harpy Eagles Conference , the competing squads include : Kitty / Campbellville Ravens, South Ruimveldt Ravens, Plaisance Guardians, Guyana Defence Force, Wortmanville/Werken - Rust Pacesetters , North Ruimveldt Caimans , and Kwakwani Untouchables

The tournament champions will receive a prize of $1 million, along with trophies, while the runners-up will be awarded $500,000 in addition to trophies

This exciting basketball tournament has been made possible through the generous sponsorship of the

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday, October 07, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Sri Lanka

(2) Australia Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who won the 1999 Cricket World Cup?

(2) Who took the runners-up position?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports , G - Boats Guyana , the National Sports Commission, the Guyana Basketball Federation, and the Georgetown Basketball Federation

UG trojans in actions during the first round of play at the National Gymnasium

Demerara skipper Tevin Imlach (left) and Berbice Captain Veerasammy Permaul share a moment with the Intercounty trophy