Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 08-11-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

WEDNESDAY 8th November, 2023

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No. 107258

‘Use your individual light to bring brightness to the world’ - President Ali says; advises that ‘community life’ must be present in every celebration/activity to ensure togetherness - reminds Guyanese of global responsibility to pray for peace across the world as Guyana commences Diwali celebrations

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(Latchman Singh photo)

$90M Arthurville Primary School supplements development at Wakenaam

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- President Ali says; reaffirms his administration’s commitment to creating a better life for residents

[Office of the President photos]

Guyana records highest export value growth in the region SEE PAGE

- ECLAC reports in latest publication

‘We will not succumb to Venezuela’s bullyism’

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- Opposition Leader says; calls for Guyanese to be vigilant of Bolivarian Republic’s ‘greed’

$1B in contracts signed to enhance Region Five infrastructure

Brigadier Khan urges peace, democracy at Conference of American Armies

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‘We will not succumb to Venezuela’s bullyism’ GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

— Opposition Leader says; calls for Guyanese to be vigilant of Bolivarian Republic’s ‘greed’

STANDING on the right side of history and upholding the nation’s territorial sovereignty, Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, has maintained that Guyana will not yield to Venezuela’s “bullyism.” Norton joined several of his opposition colleagues and government officials in reiterating Guyana’s firm position on the border controversy at an extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly on Monday. “We cannot concede an inch to Venezuela,” the Opposition Leader told his colleagues, adding: “We must see Venezuela as an adversary that wants our territory. We must remember that Venezuela always comes up with some scheme to get our territory. We have to be ever vigilant.” Emphasising the sweat and tears that the country’s

ancestors had to shed in order to create the country, Norton said that the results of this rich history and hard work should not be coveted from its people. “I concede that creating this country and society has not been easy. The Africans, according to our great historians, later joined by their Indian brothers, moved tons of soil to build our coast- land where most of our people live, work and struggle to fashion a place where our people could live and create the environment for meaningful human existence,” he said, emphasising that Guyanese must benefit from the nation’s patrimony. Norton further posited that Venezuela’s bold claims to Guyana’s territory are not only “sinister” but also “persistent.” He went on to say: “… The hard work that we as a people had put into the

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

creation of a country and society was going to be taken away from us. That will not happen. Of the two claims to our land, by far the more sinister and persistent would come from our neighbour to the west, Venezuela.” VENEZUELA’S GREED The Opposition Leader firmly remarked that Venezuela’s threats should not be taken lightly because the

country has its own personal agenda behind their claims. Norton said: “This is a threat like no other. Venezuela seeks our entire Essequibo region, our richest county.” Apart from Essequibo’s lush resources such as: iron ore, gold, diamond and even manganese deposits; the recent discovery of oil has heightened Venezuela’s greed, according to him. Describing the nation

as a “regional bully,” the Opposition Leader pointed out that the 1899 Arbitral Award was the basis of the tri-junction point which fixed the boundaries for Guyana, Venezuela, and Brazil. In this exercise, Caracas lost territory to Brazil but has never once contested the legitimacy of the Award with Brasilia, but is doing so with the smaller state of Guyana. “…Our western neighbour is mistaken in the belief that Guyana will succumb to its bullyism and its attempt to take over our land and its riches,” Norton firmly said. In its most recent attempt to disregard the rule of law, the Nicolás Maduro government plans to put forward a referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo. However, the Guyana Government has sought the intervention of the World

Court. A hearing into this matter is set for next week, while an impending case on the border controversy itself is still ongoing in the court. Focusing more on the referendum, Norton said that this is a “naked attempt to annex the Essequibo [county].” In a time where tensions are higher than ever before and Guyana is facing threats to its territorial sovereignty, the Opposition Leader is calling for a united front. “I have made the point that we are dealing with a dangerous and sinister enemy in the form of the Venezuelan state, and we will have to take measures not only to defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty, but also our place in the Latin American and Caribbean Region,” Norton said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

$90M Arthurville Primary School supplements development in Wakenaam — President Ali says; reaffirms his administration’s commitment to creating a better life for residents

By Shamar Meusa

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali said Tuesday that the government has made, and will continue to make, significant investments towards improving the lives of people all across Guyana. The Head of State made these remarks during the commissioning of the new $90 million Arthurville Primary School at Wakenaam. The school was built to replace the old building, which was in a deplorable state. With construction commencing in January 2023, the school is now able to accommodate some 62 students in a comfortable environment. The modernised school has eight teachers, six classrooms, an IT room, a kitchen and dining area, a reading area, and a staff room. President Ali said when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) visited the island a few years ago, they observed many challenges faced by the people and made it their duty to remedy those challenges. Among the challenges was the fact that children were “stepping away” from education because of several difficulties that they were facing at the time. Dr. Ali said that many parents found themselves in situations where they were hustling to make a living, as many structures

Students cut the ribbon to officially commission the new Arthurville Primary School in Wakenaam in the presence of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Education Minister Priya Manickchand (Office of the President photos)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali delivering remarks at the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday

that were previously in place had been removed. The changes included challenges to take their paddy out of Wakenaam, the discontinuation of the Because We Care cash grant for schoolchildren, and the addition of value-added tax (VAT) to basic amenities like electricity and water. Dr. Ali said that an assurance was then given that the island's people would receive the government’s support and would be rebuilt stronger. “Today, as I stand before you, I can say confidently that we are building back Wakenaam stronger and better than it has ever been before,”

President Ali said. So far, farmers are back in their lands and every square inch of land is now fully utilised, and production is once more blooming in the community. The vibrancy in this and other areas has returned because the PPP/C stayed true to its commitment. The Head of State added that he remains humbled by the opportunity to serve the people and fulfil such promises, while also giving assurances to the children that the government will continue to work to build the best possible future for them.

He said: “We are going to build a future that’s prosperous; one in which you will be better off than you are today; one in which you fully accomplish your aspirations,” Over the last three years, the government has invested almost $4.5 million per resident in Wakenaam. This significant investment, he added, has come in the form of many interventions which include investments in health care, infrastructure, drainage and irrigation and social services. “This is what we [government] have spent on you… it brings things like a better school for your children; it brings a better health care system; it will bring next year greater reliability in terms of energy… it will

bring cheaper costs for energy,” Dr. Ali said. The President affirmed that by the year 2025, the government would easily have invested about $6 million and more per resident of the island. Speaking specifically about the investment made in the new school, he added that these types of investments bring improvements to lives. With investments in education, Dr. Ali said that when looking at National Grade Six Assessment pass rates, they have increased. “This is not accidental. Yes, it has to do with the quality of our teachers, the work they’re putting in, but they can have the best qualities [and] if we don’t invest in helping them to deliver education, we will not be able to give this type of

results,” he remarked. Against this backdrop, the Head of State assured residents that these types of investments which contribute to the development of the country will continue in all communities. Education Minister Priya Manickchand underscored, too, that the President Ali-led government remains keen on providing the necessary investments to strengthen the education sector for Guyanese to thrive and compete in the world. “Once we promise it, we will deliver it, not only in schools but regarding your healthcare, livelihood and physical infrastructure in the country… That is how we serve. We see educational advancements all across the region,” she pointed out.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Issue 1: Ohio weighs abortion rights in closely watched vote

OHIO voters will decide on Tuesday whether to enshrine abortion rights in the state's constitution. The vote is being viewed as a litmus test for whether abortion rights will continue to be a winning issue heading into the 2024 elections. After the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide right to abortion last year, a series of votes returned victories for pro-choice supporters. Polls show a majority of Ohioans intend to vote for the abortion amendment. But Ohio's measure, called Issue 1, is being widely seen as the toughest fight so far for abortion rights supporters.

Abortion access has won in all six ballot measures held since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, the decision that had guaranteed abortion access throughout the US. But Ohio is the first Republican-led state to consider changing its constitution to explicitly guarantee the right. WHAT IS ISSUE 1? If passed, the amendment would establish the "right to make and carry out one's own reproductive decisions", including on abortion. Similar to the standard set by Roe v Wade, Ohio could bar abortion after the point of viability - around 23 weeks of pregnancy - except in

instances where the patient's doctor determines the procedure is needed to protect life or health. Opponents of the measure have seized on this element of the amendment, telling voters Issue 1 would allow for "late term abortions" - a non-medical term referring to abortions later in pregnancy. Supporters of Issue 1 have countered that any abortions later in pregnancy would require sign-off from a medical professional attesting to serious health concerns. They say the government should not play a role in private medical decisions. WHAT'S AT STAKE? Abortion is currently legal in Ohio until 22 weeks of pregnancy. But abortion rights supporters say that if Issue 1 fails, the path will

Canvassers hold anti-abortion signs in Columbus, Ohio ahead of Tuesday’s vote (GETTY IMAGES)

be cleared for a six-week ban which is currently on hold pending review by Ohio's conservative Supreme Court. An abortion ban in Ohio, one of the few midwest states where the procedure is still legal, would further cut off

access for those in its neighbouring states - Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky - where abortion is already outlawed. The result in Ohio will also offer clues about voters' views on abortion more than a year after Roe was overturned. "If the ballot initiative passes really easily it will confirm that voters are still mad," said Mary Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California, Davis, and a leading expert on the US abortion debate. "But it won't confirm abortion is a priority issue for them, that's a different question." WHAT DO THE POLLS SAY? Polls from Ohio show the majority of voters support Issue 1. But a recent survey from Ohio Northern University showed the particular ballot language - namely the phrase "unborn child" - may dampen support for the amendment. Pro-choice supporters were left disappointed in September when an Ohio court ruled that the term could remain in the ballot language. The ruling meant that instead of seeing the actual amendment on the ballot, voters will see a summary approved

by the state's Republican Secretary of State Frank LaRose that says Issue 1 "would always allow an unborn child to be aborted at any stage of pregnancy, regardless of viability". Still, a vote from earlier this year in Ohio (also called Issue 1) may give pro-choice supporters some comfort. In August, Republicans called a special election to pass their own constitutional amendment that would have made future amendments more difficult to pass. Republicans said the move was meant to protect the state constitution from outside influence, but critics said it was an attempt to move the goal posts ahead of the coming abortion vote. The measure failed and was seen as an early indication that abortion supporters would have the wind at their back. "The feel I get in this state is very similar to August," said Michael Curtin, a former Ohio state legislator and journalist. "The overall feel of everybody I talk to who's a long-time politics watcher - Republican, Democratic you name it - they all expect a win tonight for the yes side." (BBC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

By Navendra Seoraj THE light of Diwali and its accompanying activities will shine across the world over the next few days, and as Guyana joins in these observances, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has issued the call for persons to use their “individual light” to bring brightness to the world. “[We live] in a world marred with immense darkness, to the extent that people avoid watching the news…under such circumstances we must brighten our individual lights to create a collective brightness that will make the changes that are positive for our people [and people the world over],” President Ali said during his short but firm message on the opening day of the five-day “One Guyana Diwali Jalsa” at the Corriverton Recreational Park in Region Six. His message was synonymous with the significance of Diwali, which is rooted in Hinduism, and marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. “This period of celebration and spirituality; period of enlightenment, will add to the richness of who we are as a people,” the Head of State said, adding that the “Jalsa,” which comprises

The light of Diwali and its accompanying activities will shine across the world over the next few days, and as Guyana joins in these observances, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has issued the call for persons to use their “individual light” to bring brightness to the world (Latchman Singh photos) many religious and cultural activities, seeks to bring families together. “It is an event that goes beyond the lighting of diyas; it goes beyond the foundation and value system through which we celebrate Diwali. One of the things we want to do is to celebrate together… the only way we could do this is if we bring community life to everything we do,” Dr. Ali said. Such initiatives, he related, involve the wider family and Guyanese community; it brings people who are facing different circumstances together to uplift and support each other, and to share

among each other, the values of religious teachings, and values and principles of cultural heritage. “It widens the scope through which we could understand each other…,” President Ali said. This, Dr. Ali believes, will bring positive change to the lives of everyone. He referenced change in the area of economic prosperity, which is already evident across Guyana. “Every community across this country is benefitting from the prosperity we are investing in; the tremendous private sector and government investments,”

Dr. Ali said, pointing to the two call centres that will come on stream soon and create 1,000 jobs in Berbice; the road expansion project; the new stadium at Palmyra; the construction of hotels and malls; the development of shorebase facilities and other energy sector investments; and agricultural projects that will serve as springboard for Region Six and its people. Despite this form of prosperity, however, the President importantly said that the population must strive to achieve human prosperity. “All of this [the projects]

Hidden costs of global agri-food systems worth at least $10 trillion - 154-country study makes case for true cost accounting to guide policy OUR current agri-food systems impose huge hidden costs on our health, the environment and society, equivalent to at least $10 trillion a year, according to a ground-breaking analysis by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), covering 154 countries. This represents almost 10 percent of global GDP. According to the 2023 edition of The State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA), the biggest hidden costs (more than 70 per cent) are driven by unhealthy diets, high in ultra-processed foods, fats and sugars, leading to obesity and non-communicable diseases, and causing labour productivity losses. Such losses are particularly high in high- and upper-middle-income countries. One fifth of the total costs are environment-related, from greenhouse gas and nitrogen emissions, land-use change and water use. This is a problem that

affects all countries, and the scale is probably underestimated due to data limitations. Low-income countries are proportionately the hardest hit by hidden costs of agri-food systems, which represent more than a quarter of their GDP, as opposed to less than 12 per cent in middle-income countries and less than eight per cent in high-income countries. In low-income countries, hidden costs associated with poverty and undernourishment are the most significant. The report makes the case for more regular and detailed analysis by governments and the private sector of the hidden or ‘true’ costs of agri-food systems via true cost accounting, followed by actions to mitigate these harms. There have been other attempts at measuring the hidden costs of agri-food systems, producing similar estimates as FAO. The new FAO report, however,

is the first to disaggregate these costs down to the national level and ensure they are comparable across cost categories and between countries. For the first time ever, FAO will dedicate two consecutive editions of The State of Food and Agriculture to the same theme. This year’s report presents initial estimates, while next year’s will focus on in-depth targeted assessments to identify the best ways to mitigate them. Governments can pull different levers to adjust agri-food systems and drive better outcomes overall. Taxes, subsidies, legislation and regulation are among them. “In the face of escalating global challenges: food availability, food accessibility and food affordability; climate crisis; biodiversity loss; economic slowdowns and downturns; worsening poverty; and other overlapping crises, the future of our agri-food systems hinges on our willingness to appreci-

ate all food producers, big or small, to acknowledge these true costs, and understand how we all contribute to them, and what actions we need to take. I hope that this report will serve as a call to action for all partners – from policymakers and private-sector actors to researchers and consumers – and inspire a collective commitment to transform our agri-food systems for the betterment of all,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. The report urges governments to use true cost accounting to transform agri-food systems to address the climate crisis, poverty, inequality and food security. It notes that innovations in research and data, as well as investments in data collection and capacity building, will be needed to scale the application of true cost accounting, so it can inform decision-making in a transparent and consistent way. (FAO)

add to economic prosperity, but what adds to human prosperity? That human prosperity allows us to be thankful; human prosperity allows use to respectful and true to our conscience; that allows us to be satisfied. And that does not come from monetary investment, that comes from individual family and collective action through which we become each other ’s keeper and support each other,” Dr. Ali said. In keeping with his mes-

sage of support for each other, President Ali urged Guyanese to use the festive and auspicious season as a time to pray for all families around the world who are facing immense challenges because of conflict or other global/national circumstances. “…let us not forget our important global responsibility of praying for peace in every corner of the world,” the Head of State said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

United and Resolute

THE National Assembly unanimously passed a motion in support of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The motion, which was presented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, saw a show of unity by both sides of the House in the presence of representatives of the diplomatic community, students and other stakeholders. The motion, inter alia, reaffirmed Guyana's sovereignty and territorial integrity; recognition and acceptance of the 1899 Arbitral Award and Article 1V of

the 1966 Geneva Agreement. It further denounced the 'provocative, unlawful, void and of no legal effect the purported referendum by Venezuela, scheduled for December 3, 2023. The National Assembly expressed full support for the efforts of the government to ensure a peaceful and lawful resolution of the matter and rejected the proposal by Venezuela to return to any form of dialogue outside of the court process. It is an established fact that little if any progress was made to arrive at a solution based on the Geneva Agreement and the UN Secretary General's Good

Officer process due mainly to the intransigence of Venezuela. It was against such a background that Guyana was left with no remaining option but to seek to have the matter referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which is fully in accord with the provisions of the Geneva Agreement. As noted by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, no country can unilaterally determine its territorial boundaries, both land and sea. This matter can only be determined by a duly constituted international tribunal as was the case in the 1899 Arbitral Award and the ICJ. Such a mechanism is fully

in accord with the rule of international law. As far as Guyana is concerned, the issue of the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award is non-negotiable and legally binding. However, in an effort to arrive at a peaceful resolution of the matter, it agreed to refer the matter to the UN Secretary General’s Good Officer mechanism and subsequently to the ICJ, where the issue currently stands. Venezuela had challenged the jurisdiction of the ICJ to hear the matter after having long ago refused to abide by the valid and legally binding 1899 Arbitral Award, but the court ruled otherwise

and the substantive case is ongoing. Guyana has always sought a peaceful and lawful resolution of the long-standing border controversy, but unfortunately the same cannot be said for Venezuela. It's most recent decision to hold a referendum aimed, among other things, to incorporate Essequibo into the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is an act of provocation fraught with all manner of threats and instability in the Region, especially in the context of the Caribbean as a zone of peace. Guyana in the meantime is enjoying full and unequivocal support both at the do-

mestic level and the broader international community, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organization of American States (OAS), the European Union (EU) and the Commonwealth Secretariat. This most recent display of unity in the National Assembly on the issue of Guyana's sovereignty and territorial integrity has sent a clear and unambiguous message to Venezuela and for that matter the entire world that when it comes to our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Guyanese are fully united and resolute.

PM Phil ips’s address to OAS Council on the border controversy was powerful, firm

Dear Editor, PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips is known for making eloquent speeches and he did so on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, when he addressed the Organization of American States (OAS), during an Extraordinary Special Session of the Permanent Council. The meeting was convened at the request of the Government of Guyana to provide an update on the recent developments on the border controversy with Venezuela, which remains an enduring threat to Guyana. In his address to members of the OAS, Prime Minister Phillips brilliantly highlighted the fact than Guyana is a peaceful nation that respects the rule of law and that Venezuela’s claim to the Essequibo region poses a direct threat to Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. PM Phillips did not mince words when he told the OAS that Venezuela is currently building an airstrip

on its border in a zone near to the Essequibo region, where it has significantly increased its military troops and military equipment. He highlighted that while no explanation about the airstrip has been provided to the Government of Guyana, the intention of Venezuela is to increase its threats to use force to drive fear among the Guyanese population, as well as to undermine and breach international law. Phillips, a former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), who has in-depth knowledge of security-related issues, has voiced Guyana’s concerns about the planned referendum on December 3 with five questions that seek the Venezuelan people’s approval to unilaterally annex Guyana’s territory, instead of complying with its international obligations to respect and accept the ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Brigadier Phillips further informed the OAS that after nearly 11 billion barrels oil have been discovered in the

Essequibo region, Venezuela intensified its campaign of intimidation and threats to use force to annex Essequibo and discredit the 1899 Arbitral Award. According to Prime Minister Phillips, question five on the referendum is the most disturbing in that it proposes the creation of the Venezuelan State of Essequibo, and an accelerated plan to grant Venezuelan citizenship and identity cards to the Guyanese population living in the region. Not only was the Prime Minister critical of all the questions, but he was very explicit and forceful in condemning the Maduro regime for its malicious and sinister intent to obtain responses from ordinary Venezuelans who may or may not be fully aware of, or acquainted with the issue, to support the Venezuelan government’s decision to abandon the current judicial proceedings before the ICJ, and resort to military measures. In putting forth Guyana’s

case, Prime Minister Phillips candidly told the Permanent Council of the OAS that the government and people of Guyana are attentive and vigilant of the intentions of the Maduro regime’s recent threats to use force to unilaterally annex two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, which would not only threaten the peace, stability, and security of Guyana, but also that of the entire Caribbean region. The PM has duly told the OAS Council that there is no ambiguity concerning the facts with the border controversy because the 1899 Arbitral Award, which has determined the boundaries between the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, continues to be the legally binding instrument that remains in effect. As of today, this case is actively before the ICJ to peacefully settle the matter. The Prime Minister affirmed that following the 1899 Arbitral Award, a mixed Venezuelan-British Boundary Commission established

a map on January 7, 1905 to demarcate the boundary between the two countries. Venezuela agreed with the boundary map, which at the request of General Juan Vincente Gomez, then President of Venezuela, was reissued in 1911 and 1917, and signed by F. Alicantara, the Venezuelan Minister of Internal Affairs. In the end, Prime Minister Phillips gracefully and sincerely thanked the Secretary General of the OAS, Mr. Luis Almagro, CARICOM, the Commonwealth of Nations, and members of the international community for their continued advocacy for a peaceful settlement of the border controversy in accordance with international law. Several members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as well as the European Union (EU), the United States and Brazil have reiterated their unwavering and unequivocal support for Guyana and for a peaceful settlement of the controversy. Meanwhile, Brigadier Phillips praised President,

Dr. Ali for apprising CARICOM, the OAS, the Commonwealth of Nations, and Guyana’s international partners on Venezuela’s planned referendum, and its threats to use force to unilaterally seize two-thirds of Guyana’s territory. PM Phillips’ address to the OAS was excellent, his knowledge of the issue was superb, and his explanation was so convincing and superlative that it grabbed the attention of all the attendees, especially the Secretary General Mr. Luis Almagro of the OAS, the US and EU ambassadors to the OAS, who explicitly and emphatically condemned Venezuela’s illegal actions for escalating tensions in the Region, known for its peace and tranquility. They also reaffirmed their steadfast support for Guyana and for a peaceful settlement of the controversy in keeping with the principles of international law. Sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Remember the Name!

CRICKET commentator Ian Bishop has given journalism and perhaps in fields other than journalism, especially in politics and sports, an exclamation that has become iconic. Just in case you are not a cricket fan, here is the history. In the 2016 T20 World Cup in India, the West Indies needed 19 runs to win in the last over. Carlos Braithwaite struck four consecutive sixes to win the match. The commentator at the time was from the Caribbean, Ian Bishop. The effervescent broadcaster shouted to the world: “Remember the name! Remember the name!” From thereon, other cricket broadcasters have kept the utterance alive and it has slipped into common parlance. I am now going to apply the iconic shout to both journalism and political analysis. The publication, “Report of the Commission of Enquiry into the General and Regional Elections of Guyana on 2 March, 2020,” was released in April, 2023. The report constitutes one of the most

important documents in Guyana’s political history. No book on Guyana’s political evolution will be complete without reference to it. It is a priceless publication in understanding the travails of this nation that impacted traumatically on Guyana in the post-independence period. April is six months ago, and to date, not one civil society group has made a statement on the contents of this report. The list includes the Guyana Human Rights Association; Transparency International – Guyana Chapter; Red Thread; the Oil and Gas Network, and the Bar Association among others. There has been no newspaper letter from the usual suspects with their 40 signatures commenting on the horrifying evidence the report listed in the attempts to rig the 2020 poll. There has been no response from a man named Sydney King, AKA, Eusi Kwayana, who writes on everything in Guyana from his niche in California. Missing in action is the co-owner of Stabroek News,

Isabelle DeCaires; Melinda Janki, Christopher Ram; Dr. Percy Hintzen, among others. Dr. Alissa Trotz has not featured the commission’s findings in her column, In The Diaspora. I suppose it may have been done but left “In The Dustbin.” Please note the title of my column for Wednesday, August 30, 2023. It is captioned, “Remember this column after the Mahdia report.” In that commentary, I asked readers to note the prediction I am making. It is that while the names above did not offer any thoughts on the election report, these very names will jump over each other to make known their feelings on the findings of the commission that is currently probing the fire and massacre at Mahdia. Remember this column in which I am predicting again that all those names enumerated above, will rush to judgement and criticise the Mahdia findings. Wait and you’ll see how profound my knowledge of these people is. So what did the election report pronounce on in re-

lation to Roxanne Myers? Please note: Ms. Myers is in front of the courts and I will stay away absolutely and completely from any comment on those court cases. I have consulted three lawyers for this column and they told me I have every right to quote from anything the election commission published, because it is an official state document. I have been advised by same to stick meticulously to what the commission pronounced on. 1- “On a report that a bomb being placed on Ashmin’s building, Myers told party agents, observers and diplomats, “Y’all get out the room. There is a bomb in the building.” But she herself never left the building.”

2- “On the 4th of March, Myers took a decision to limit the number of political party agents and observers for the ascertainment and tabulation process. This was a unilateral decision by Myers taken as an administrative measure for no justifiable reason but intended to limit the number of witnesses to GECOM’s ascertainment and tabulation procedures.” 3- “In the absence of Region Four Returning Officer Mingo, Myers arrogated unto herself the authority to continue the ascertainment and tabulation procedures.” 4- “Myers appears to have selected GECOM staff to conduct that process and, apparently, unilaterally decided to continue the pro-

cess for sub-district East Bank Demerara when at the close of tabulation on the 3rd March, 2020, the Georgetown district was being examined.” 5- “Myers seemed to have developed an obsession with getting party agents, observers and others out of the room. We believe that the bomb threat that turned out to be a hoax was a contrivance, an artifice created by persons bent on manipulating the outcome of the election.” If Sydney King AKA, Eusi Kwayana was living in Guyana, I would have kept a vigil outside his home to make sure he gave me a response to the election report.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

$1B in contracts signed to enhance Region Five infrastructure

The Ministry of Public Works on Tuesday signed 21 contracts worth some $1 billion to rehabilitate 25 roads in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice)

THE Ministry of Public Works on Tuesday signed 21 contracts worth some $1 billion to rehabilitate 25 roads in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). At the simple contract signing in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council building, Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill urged contractors

to complete the projects by December 15. “Guyana is a country that has turned the corner, people are no longer hoping that one day their roads will be fixed, they are seeing it being fixed and the ones who are in line to be next, they want it to be next today and not next tomorrow,” he said. In the past two

months, the government has advertised the rehabilitation of some 700 roads in Regions Four, Five, and Six, benefitting hundreds of contractors. To date, 287 contracts have been signed in Region Six, with 201 contractors benefitting. Another 62 contracts were awarded to 61 contractors in Region 10, with another signing sched-

uled for Thursday, November 9, in the region. Added to this, some 222 contracts were awarded for the rehabilitation of roads along the East Coast corridor with an additional 78 contracts to be signed, fulfilling the promise of completing 300 roads. Minister Edghill noted that these projects will be executed simulta-

neously in keeping with President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s instruction “that in every single region, the same thing is happening.” The projects will be carried out in either rigid pavement concrete or traditional asphaltic concrete. Meanwhile, Minister Edghill urged contractors to “give good diligence

to quality” when executing works. To ensure that this is achieved, the ministry had dispatched its engineers to lend assistance to all contractors. C o n t r a c t o r s a re also given two weeks to notify the ministry of any issues that will result in the delay of the project.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Ten outstanding Guyanese to receive honorary — revolutionary politician Baroness Valerie Amos, renowned-actress CCH Pounder top list of awardees degrees from UG

REVOLUTIONARY politician, Baroness Va l e r i e A m o s , a l o n g with world-renowned award-winning actress CCH Pounder are among persons who head the list of special awardees for the University of Guyana’s Diamond (60th) Anniversary. Baroness Amos of B r o n d e s b u r y, L o n d o n , was born in British Guiana (now Guyana). She is a British politician, and the first woman of African Caribbean descent to serve in a British Cabinet, and as Leader of the House of Lords (2003–2007). Notably, she served as the British High Commissioner to Australia from 2009–2010, and as head of the United Nations (UN) Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs from 2010–2015. She then became Director of the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London.

In 2015 and 2019, she was elected to become Master at the University College, Oxford, becoming the first woman to hold the post and the first Black person to head a college at the University of Oxford. Baroness Amos sits on a number of international foundation boards, including the MasterCard Foundation, UN Foundation, and International Peace Institute. She is also the first person of colour to be appointed as a Companion (Knight or Lady) to the Garter. Baroness Amos will be conferred with the prestigious Honorary Doctor of Laws, and will address the graduation on November 10 at the University’s third 2023 graduation ceremony. In the case of Pounder, besides being nominated for a Grammy for her performance in the Best Spoken Word Album, ‘Grow Old Along With Me’, she currently serves on the Board

Baroness Valerie Amos (left) and award-winning actress CCH Pounder (right)

of the African Millennium Foundation, and was a founding member of the non-profit organisation, Artists for a New South Africa, which lists among its causes advancing human and civil rights, and educating and empowering youth. In 2016, Pounder was conferred the Cacique's Crown of Honour, the sec-

ond highest award in the Order of Service of Guyana. She is currently active in the Creative Coalition, and among recent accolades are the Visionary Leadership Award in Performing Arts from the Museum of the African Diaspora (MOAD) in San Francisco, the 2015 Carney Awards, the Lifetime Achievement Award from

Chase Brexton Healthcare in Baltimore, 2015 Honoree at the Grand Performances Gala in Los Angeles, the 2016 SweetArts Performing Arts honoree from the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, the National Urban League’s 2017 Women of Power Award and the 2018 Bob Marley Award from AFUWI (American Foundation for the University of the West Indies). Notably, her personal collection contains over 500 works of art, many of which she has loaned to Xavier University of Louisiana for a series of exhibitions and some of which were on exhibit at Somerset House in England, Kent State Museum. Pounder will receive the University of Guyana’s distinguished Honorary Doctorate for Excellence in Arts, along with Guyana-based visual artist Bernadette Persaud on November 11 at the University’s fifth graduation

ceremony. Flautist and folklorist, Keith Waite, who could not receive his award in 2022, as well as renowned Caribbean linguist duo, Jeanette and the late Richard Allsopp, will be conferred with degrees. This year, three outstanding sportsmen will also be awarded Honorary Doctorates in Sport. These are veteran sports commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira, internationally-acclaimed karateka Shotokan Frank Woon-A-Tai and legendary Test cricketer Rohan Kanhai from Port Mourant, Berbice. To round out the list of Honorary Degrees for this year are two icons of business - international shipping magnate and UG alumnus, Kenneth Singh and manufacturing and construction tzar and philanthropist, Abdool Sattaur Gafoor.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Guyana records highest export value growth in the region - ECLAC reports in latest publication

G U YA N A h a s o n c e again emerged as a leader in the Region after recording a 66.1 per cent growth in export value, the highest among its counterparts in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in its 2023 International Trade Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean report. Simply put, Guyana experienced the highest increase, among its counterparts, in the total monetary value of the goods and services it sold to other countries during the period under review. This is a sign of improving economic conditions since it implies that the value of Guyana's exports has grown, which

is good news for the national economy. According to ECLAC, Jamaica and The Bahamas were the countries that followed Guyana, with rates of 32.6 per cent and 19.3 per cent, respectively. “ G r o w t h w a s p r opelled by a rise in oil exports, which is the main export product from the three nations, particularly from Guyana,” the report highlighted. The document also pointed out that Guyana is in the midst of an export boom as a result of offshore oil extraction by ExxonMobil, and that in the first half of 2023, the volume of oil exported by Guyana surged by 63 per cent, reaching 215,000 barrels per day. “It is projected that most countries whose exports grew in the first half

of 2023 (The Bahamas, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua and Paraguay) will continue to record growth during the second half of the year,” the report read. Notably, the strong performance from the oil and gas sector, and massive increases in non-oil exports during the first half of 2023, pushed Guyana’s export earnings to over US$6 billion, higher than the sum recorded during the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Finance’s mid-year report. According to the report, total export earnings continued the upward trend, growing by 38.8 per cent to US$6.039 billion at the end of June, 2023. The report found that the contributor to this

surge has been the increase in export volumes, particularly in crude oil, which raked in a substantial US$5.374 billion in the first half of the year. This marked a remarkable increase of US$1.761 billion compared to the same period last year. However, the growth in crude-oil earnings could have been even higher if not for a moderation in global oil prices. Guyana’s third FPSO, Prosperity, arrived at the offshore Stabroek Block in April and joins the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity. It is expected to oper-

ate on the Payara project and has been designed to produce 220,000 barrels of oil per day, and has an overall storage volume of two million barrels. Daily oil production is expected to increase to almost 600,000 barrels a day in 2024, with production from the Prosperity vessel boosting Guyana’s annual revenue. It was reported that returns from the sector are expected to catapult Guyana to the ranks of wealthiest countries in the Western Hemisphere, thereby increasing the government’s fiscal space

to invest in initiatives geared at expanding the economy and improving the overall welfare of citizens. In order to solidify the foundation of Guyana’s economy and enhance the overall well-being and welfare of every Guyanese, the government is crafting a framework for development that will be sustained through prudent and effective investment of oil funds into education, health, infrastructure and the non-oil sectors.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Agriculture sector well positioned to - Ministry of Agriculture rebuffs meet food security goals Stabroek News editorial

RUBBISHING the claims made in a Stabroek News’ editorial on whether Guyana is truly on its way to reducing its food-import bill by 25 per cent by 2025, Janell Cameron, Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), outlined Guyana’s achievements that indicate that the country is indeed on its way to enhance the country’s food security. The editorial published on November 2, 2023, titled “Missing the Link,” according to Cameron, failed to acknowledge not only the current market and the economic shocks from phenomena such as the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the steps taken by the current government within the agricultural sector. She said that the government, through the ministry and the local private sector, has been working towards creating an enabling envi-

ronment for the scaling up of production of the very commodities such as sausages, spices, special cuts of meat, eggs, honey and coffee. Cameron said, in 2022, there were declines in the volume of vegetables (fresh, chilled, frozen or simply preserved), roots, tubers and other edible vegetable products; milk and milk products other than butter or cheese; fruit, (preserved, preparations); fish (fresh, chilled or frozen); cocoa; spices, among others. According to her, the reasoning within the editorial, which stated that in order to reduce the food-import bill, more focus is needed on what is actually imported, neglects the key element on backward linkages of sectors and particularly input supply security. She further said that the editor failed to recognise the business/export case that Guyana is building by positioning itself to supply the

region. Challenging the question within the editorial of whether the ministry believes the map towards reducing Guyana’s food-import bill is based on only growing corn, soya and fresh fruits and vegetables, Cameron said by bolstering corn and soya production, the goal of substantially reducing poultry inputs could be easier realised. She then went on to expound on the number of efforts being rolled out by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government. According to Cameron, corn and soya meal imports in 2021 amounted to approximately US$48 million and to this, the government has expended approximately $1 billion over the period 2021 to 2022 for the construction of a 47 kilometre road which will ensure accessibility to 61,000 hectares of prime farmland for corn and soya cultivation.

To continue these efforts, construction commenced on three silos with a capacity to store up to 30,000 tonnes each and one 80-tonne-per-hour drying tower at the Tacama Landing to ensure adequate storage capacity and reduce post-harvest losses. Works are also ongoing on the construction of a wharf in the Ta-

cama Savannah to the tune of approximately $150 million, which will provide critical riverine access to the area under cultivation. Touching on the significant area of food imports into the region, which is the fruits and vegetables industry, Cameron said that the region’s total edible fruits and

vegetables imports are in the vicinity of US$317 million. With this being said, attractive investment opportunities exist in Guyana and the region at large for large-scale commercial cultivation of horticultural crops, fruits, and vegetables, particularly in the natural, “wholesome,” and TURN TO PAGE 12

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Agriculture sector well...

FROM PAGE 11 “health” food varieties. She said this includes commodities such as bell peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, kale, strawberries, blueberries, as well as orchard-farming fruits such as cherry, guava, soursop, strawberry, citrus, and mango, to name a few. Additionally, she focused on the Agriculture Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP) which was launched

by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali in January 2022, and its intention of stimulating and promoting economic growth and bettering the lives of young agriculturists. Currently, cauliflower produced through the AIEP is now being retailed at the more accessible price of $500 on the local market. For 2023, some five tonnes of bell peppers were produced along with one tonne of chili peppers, 2.4

tonnes of cauliflower and over 300,000 heads of lettuce. Some 75 per cent of persons involved in this initiative have moved on to own their own agricultural business. Additionally, around 200 shade houses were erected for youth-based organisations across the country, increasing the involvement of more youths and women in the agriculture sector, with a targeted involvement rate of 35 per cent. A new hydroponic farming project initiative has also been launched in Guyana valued at US$4.5 million – the largest in the Caribbean, targeting 300 young Guyanese across three administrative regions (Two, Five and 10). Through this initiative, Cameron said participants will be able to develop skills in marketing, packaging and promotion. She also said that funding comes through the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) – a US$100 million investment from the Stabroek Block partners, ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC. STRATEGIC AND SUBSTANTIAL INVESTMENTS “These are all strategic and substantial investments made by the Government of Guyana, in reducing the food import bill,” she maintained. Last July, while addressing stakeholders at a poultry symposium hosted by the ministry’s livestock department, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali disclosed plans to co-invest in both sausage and

protein plants. As it relates to eggs, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said that the government had also committed $50 million towards establishing a breeder programme, so hatching eggs can be produced locally. He disclosed that the government was in talks with a private farmer who had already started the breeder project, and that some $50 million had been allocated in this year’s budget to start the breeder programme. The government through the Ministry of Agriculture has also been steadfast in its efforts to establish a solid dairy and beef industries. These efforts have been amplified through the recent acquisition of breeding bulls from Texas as well as the ongoing embryo transfer programme in Region 10 that is being facilitated through collaborations between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). Additionally, last February, senior officials from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with Demerara Distillers Limited’s Chairman, Komal Samaroo, and his delegation, to finalise a project with the LR Group for the establishment of a dairy farm in Guyana. This will ultimately result in the establishment of the first state-of-the-art dairy farm in the Caribbean and will make a significant con-

tribution to food security in the region and a dent in dairy imports. The government has also made progress in its efforts to develop the local honey sector. Only recently during the just concluded Agri-Investment Forum and Expo the ministry signed an MOU with the Republic of Cuba, making way for apiculturists from Guyana to benefit from technical assistance in several critical areas needed to develop and sustain a thriving honey industry. Earlier this year, farmers from several villages in Region One (Barima–Waini) received $20 million worth of planting materials for ginger, black pepper, and other spices to commence large-scale cultivation of spices with the aim of supplying export markets across the Caribbean. Last year, farmers of Regions One, Four, Six, and 10 also received more than 3,500 black pepper cuttings. So far, some 250 acres of turmeric and ginger are currently being cultivated at farms in Mabaruma and Matarkai which are expected to be harvested by the end of the year. Each acre is expected to produce approximately 12,000 lbs of turmeric. Additionally, farmers will also be able to access agro-processing facilities in the region to further push the local production of by-products. A trial for the production of black pepper, cinnamon, and mint has also begun in the Aroaima Savannah, Re-

gion 10. As it relates to coffee, during this year’s National Toshao’s Conference, Minister Mustapha disclosed that the government was working on resuscitating the entire coffee industry. He noted that the government was working with the Inter-American Institute for Co-operation on Agriculture (IICA) to get this done. He explained that the government was working on a long-term plan that would see the establishment of nurseries in various communities to ensure planting materials are readily available. Through this venture, some 200 acres of coffee (100 acres of Arabica and 100 acres of improved Liberica coffee) will be cultivated. President Ali had also informed the Toshaos that one of his government’s plans is to “reignite and expand” both the coffee and cocoa industries in Guyana. While all of this is being done, efforts are also being made to encourage consumers to buy and support local, she stated. Cameron also related that while the government is cognisant of the implications that importing new commodities may have on its overall food-import bill, the PPP/C has never engaged in dictatorial tactics and is not prepared to restrict private sector companies from importing such commodities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Republic Bank’s parent company records US$262M year-end profit

THE Chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), Vincent Pereira, on Tuesday declared that the group recorded profit attributable to its equity holders of US$262 million for the year ended September 30, 2023. This, according to a press release, is an increase of US$33.4 million or 14.6 per cent over the 2022 reported profit of US$228 million. In announcing the results, Pereira said: “The strength of our group lies in our ability to harness the quality of our people and our enviable balance sheet to serve our customers, along with our geographically diverse portfolio of assets. The characteristics that make our group resilient such as fiscal discipline, strong risk-management culture, effective governance framework and robust capital, continue to serve us well, and have created an excellent foundation from

RFHL Chairman Vincent Pereira

which we can continue to deliver sustainable results. “As we look ahead, we acknowledge that the global economic landscape remains uncertain and that the financial services industry is continually evolving. We anticipate further changes and challenges in the years to come, but we are well prepared to nav-

igate those challenges and seize all opportunities as they arise.” He went on to say: “A key and underpinning plank of our strategy is to deliver a digital transformation that positions RFHL as the leading digital financial group in the markets where we operate. We have developed a comprehensive plan to achieve this goal.

“Our vision of digital transformation encompasses the strategic adoption of digital technologies, data-driven insights and customer-centric approaches to improve the customer/ employee experience, optimise service and create personalised experiences. By embracing a digitally empowered ecosystem, we aim to empower customers, improve efficiency, foster innovation and maintain a sustainable, competitive advantage in all our markets.” The Board of Directors has declared a final dividend of US$0.61 (2022: US$0.52) per

share to be paid on December 1, 2023 to all shareholders of record on November 16, 2023. This brings the total dividend to US$0.78 (2022: US$0.67) per share for the fiscal year, an increase of 15.6 per cent or US$0.11 over 2022. At a closing share price of US$18.12, this dividend represents a dividend yield of 4.30 per cent (2022: 3.21 per cent). The company will be moving to a quarterly frequency for dividend pay-outs in fiscal 2024. Pereira concluded, “In the face of dynamic market conditions

and an evolving financial landscape, the RFHL Group continues to adapt and deliver strong positive results, while maintaining robust capital adequacy ratios across all our subsidiaries and at the consolidated level. “This success could not have been realised without the talented, resilient and committed staff across the fourteen (14) countries in which we operate. For their continued high level of commitment and their dedication to our customers, I am truly grateful.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

ERC strongly condemns religious intolerance surrounding Diwali celebrations - commission investigates disrespectful acts

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has issued a stern condemnation of recent acts of religious intolerance that have marred the upcoming Diwali celebrations in the country. The ERC has expressed deep concern regarding a public event promoting alcohol consumption and offensive Facebook posts disrespecting the re-enactment of the Hindu God 'Vishnu' during a motorcade. The focal point of this controversy is the event titled "Festival of Lights Linkup," scheduled to take

place at Charity, Essequibo Coast, on November 13, 2023 – the national holiday for Diwali. These actions run counter to the spirit of Diwali, a Hindu religious holiday dedicated to reverence, self-introspection and worship. Under Article 212D of the Guyana Constitution, the ERC is authorised to “Ensure and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society.” Consequently, the commission has initiated a comprehensive investigation and intends to hold accountable

those responsible for religious intolerance. Diwali, from a religious perspective, is a festival that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Moreover, it is a day of abstinence from meat, alcohol, and vices. The ERC has called upon event promoters to be more mindful of the religious sensitivities associated with events that promote the consumption of alcohol and revelry during religious holidays. The ERC also stresses the spiritual significance of Diwali and other religious holidays, emphasising

that using such occasions to disrespect the beliefs and practices of fellow citizens undermines the moral fabric of Guyanese society. The commission is urging everyone to contribute to the promotion of harmony and positive relations among all the people of Guyana. In the light of these events, the ERC's stance underscores the importance of respecting diversity and fostering mutual understanding among the nation's various communities during religious celebrations such as Diwali.

Policies being crafted to eradicate historical barriers to growth

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

THE government is implementing policies and strategies to break down barriers to growth and development for local businesses and foreign investors operating in Guyana. This was disclosed by Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh during a

getting their products to other territories, which can make it difficult for them to become regionally and internationally recognised. As a result, the administration has committed to building and improving infrastructure networks to connect Guyana with its neigh-

and services in Guyana must be able to seamlessly sell their goods and services,” the senior minister explained. With these new connections, Guyanese businesses can buy inputs from the two countries and operate in a larger economic space. The

recent event hosted at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. “We are implementing an array of policies aimed at unblocking or removing historic impediments to growth with the specific objective of global competitiveness in these respective sectors,” Minister Singh stated. He said the government has noted the challenges that small domestic markets face in

bours. “The state of the infrastructure to go to Suriname does not allow some of us to travel… and the road to Brazil is not entirely a paved road. But we have committed to completing the bridge across the Corentyne River to the east and we have committed to completing the road to Brazil in the south because we believe that every producer of goods

government is also working with CARICOM to address maritime transport challenges. Just recently, the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, held here, brought together African and Caribbean officials and investors to discuss ways to break down trade barriers and foster a more efficient flow of business deals.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Stanleytown Savannah residents, PPP/C councillors picket NA Town Hall - harsh living conditions, ‘high’ house lot costs among issues highlighted

Story and photos by Michael Khan

"WE are not second class citizens,'' was the cry of residents of Stanleytown Savannah better known as 'The Tannery' in New Amsterdam, Berbice, as they joined disgruntled People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) councillors in a

peaceful protest outside of the Town Council, on Monday. The residents became irate when they learned that councillors from the 3rd and 4th councils of New Amsterdam were able to acquire house lots for a meagre sum of $80,000, while they are being asked to pay $700,000 for lots in the

grossly under-developed area. "It is unfair to know that I bought 3,000 hollow blocks, and a quantity of zinc sheets after I fenced a plot of land while squatting. The Town Council asked me to write a letter which would indicate my willingness to pay for the land. Afterwards they told me that lands are no lon-

ger available," a visibly upset Astrice Sampson explained. Another resident, Rupert D'Aguiar told the Guyana Chronicle that land surveyors went into Stanleytown Savannah as part of the process to regularise squatting. However, everything remains at a stand-still. "I have been living at

PPP/C activist, Shawn Smith, with his placard The Tannery for 15 years and we are yet to see any form of development. We don't have roads, potable water, or electricity," he remarked. Keith Chesney who occupies a portion of land in the area said: "We are experiencing tough times at The Tannery. I am a single parent and my children have to fetch water in buckets atop of their heads from elsewhere just to prepare for school." Sherwin Blair, Abeola Whyte, and Adrian Parris were among the residents who castigated the Mayor and Town Council of New Amsterdam, for contributing to the area’s harsh living conditions. Meanwhile, the PPP/C councillors who recently had a falling out with the township’s mayor, Wainwright McIntosh, concerning the acquisition of house lots at Stanleytown Savannah by other councillors, among other issues, were joined by other party representatives in calling for inclusiveness and accountability. Councillor Carol Trim-Bagot said that all transactions (past and present) must show transparency, and if her request for accountability is ignored, it clearly explains mismanagement of resources within the municipality. "As the Lead Councillor of the PPP/C, I have said already that we are being marginalised, and advantage is being taken on the people of New Amsterdam. I am asking the Chairman of the PNC/R

to take his knees off the neck of the people in this town!" she appealed. PPP/C representative, Shawn Smith told this publication that he is pleading with the mayor to exercise the powers of his office and assist the ordinary citizens. "We know the mayor to be a person that has good judgement, and we have the confidence in him as an educator, and businessman in the town. I am asking him to help the poor people of The Tannery, by reducing the fee to $120,000 per house lot," he stressed. CLAIMS REFUTED At a recent press conference, Mayor McIntosh while reflecting on the minutes of the previous statutory meeting, refuted the lack of transparency claims made by Trim-Bagot. McIntosh said that the APNU councillors are willing to work with those on the PPP/C side, once protocols are observed. "I refer to Chapter 28:01 of the municipal by-laws, which I am using as a guide. I would encourage the PPP/C councillors to edify themselves, and follow the rules of statutory meetings, and then we can sit to have meaningful discussions," he implored. Similar sentiments were also expressed by Deputy Mayor Kirk Fraser and Councillor Quacy Isaacs, who were also present at the NA Mayor and Town Council press briefing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Guyana continues to establish itself as an attractive investment destination - Dr Singh says at opening of PricewaterhouseCoopers Guyana office

SENIOR Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh has said that Guyana remains a top destination for investment opportunities as the country undergoes significant transformation due to the booming oil and gas industry and the diversification of its economy. The minister was, at the time, delivering the feature address at the official opening of the PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Guyana’s permanent office, at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Monday evening. Guyana has seen 40 per cent economic growth over the past three years, and is projected to grow by more than 20 per cent over the next four years, according to the senior government official. “ Ta k e n t o g e t h e r, those developments imply that the Guyanese economy would have and will be growing by an average of more than 30 per cent annually, over seven years,” Minister Singh pointed out. He said these projections are based on current proven oil reserves and current Floating Production Storage

and Offloading (FPSO) vessels that are in production. Minister Singh reiterated that the government led by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is committed to advancing the country’s economic landscape, even in its non-oil sectors. “As a government, we are firmly committed to ensuring that we maintain, that we build a highly competitive non-oil economy because we’re entering oil production at a time when everybody who has entered oil production had a finite horizon because their resource was finite.” He noted that the developments have brought many of the large top-tier oil and gas companies into the country such as Baker Hughes and Schlumberger. “A number of those companies have said to us that they anticipate their Guyana operations becoming the hub for their regional operations, given the production trajectory and the anticipated scale of their own operations in the country,” Minister Singh added. (DPI)

PwC Guyana, which opened its office on Monday, offers a wide array of services under assurance, advisory and tax, and has been serving the Guyanese market for 19 years

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Guyana, Japan to work together on addressing global security challenges

GUYANA and Japan have pledged to work together on a number of global security challenges as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Policy consultations are underway in Tokyo, Japan, where Guyana is represented by Foreign Secretary and High Representative for UN Security Council Affairs Mr. Robert Persaud. These consultations involved senior officials of the Japanese government

and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Guyana and Japan will both serve as non-permanent members of the Security Council in 2024. While on the Council, both countries have agreed to collaborate on important topics, including but not limited to peacekeeping, peacebuilding and conflict prevention, climate change, food security and conflict; women, youth, peace and security; Haiti; and the Middle East.

Japan assumed its non-permanent seat for the 12th time in January 2023, whilst Guyana will take up its seat for the third time in January 2024. The term is for two years. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties on 11 June, 1969, Guyana and Japan have enjoyed strong and fruitful bilateral relations through economic and technical cooperation. Already, Guyana has held technical and policy consultations with two

Guyana and Japan have pledged to work together on a number of global security challenges as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council

permanent members (P5) of the Security Council, namely USA and China. A technical consultation with the United Kingdom is scheduled to take place shortly. While in Tokyo the Foreign Secretary also held discussions with Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. FUKAZAWA Yoichi on enhancing Guyana-Japan bilateral relations. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Small gestures create positive changes in people’s lives - says Minister Edghill - Gov’t keeps promise to Baracara community Photos and story by Cindy Parkinson In order to fulfill President Dr. Irfaan Ali's commitments to the residents of Baracara in the Canje Creek of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, made a visit on Tuesday and delivered 150 solar panels. During his feature address, Minister Edghill emphasised that President Ali had made several commit-

ments to the people of Baracara during his recent visit to the community. “One of the commitments that President Ali made to you all was that he would ensure that 150 solar panels would be given to the families of this community. The President has mandated me to ensure that that takes place, and immediately after we left Baracara, I engaged with the Chief Executive Officer at the Guyana National Energy Agency and told him that we have to

deliver 150 solar panels to Baracara. With their help, which falls under the Office of the Prime Minister, we were able to get the panels to the regional storehouse in Region Six,” explained Minister Edghill. Minister Edghill further asserted that within a span of slightly more than two weeks, subsequent to the President's pledge, the panels were dispatched to Baracara. According to him, it is the small gestures that are making a difference and making TURN TO PAGE 20

Bishop Edghill, handing over a fan to the eldest member in the Baracara community

A mother of nine, receiving her charging port from the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill in Baracara

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Small gestures create positive changes in people’s lives... FROM PAGE 19

Residents of Baracara, engaging with Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill

positive changes in people’s lives. He added, “I haven’t come here today to give handouts; we, as a government, do not give handouts; we give handover. That means we have given you a gift that is yours; you are entitled to it because we are working for you.” Minister Edghill conveyed to the assembled and enthusiastic residents that introducing GPL power cables to these remote areas might not be feasible, but “we have devised an alternative solution that surpasses expectations. “With what I have come to deliver to you today (Tuesday) on behalf of President Ali and the government of Guyana, is your own independent power supply.”

community of Baracara and the entire nation of Guyana. According to the Chairman of Community Development Council (CDC) for Baracara, Marshal Thompson, “we are seeing the mighty works of our government in our community. I want to say that when you remember us, we will remember you, and we thank you for what the government is doing for us. Continue to prosper, and please don’t stop the progress.” The sentiments expressed by two mothers, with nine and seven children respectively, were similar in emphasising the positive impact of solar panels on education. According to the mother of nine, “I am a security guard

The CDC leader of Baracara, Marshal Thompson, expressed his gratitude to Minister Edghill on behalf of his community

Taking into account the humidity experienced both during the day and night, the government of Guyana has additionally provided each household with a fan, a charging port, and two LED lights. The residents expressed their gratitude to President Ali and his government for honouring their pledges to the

who works during the days and nights, and I know that with this solar panel and lights, I will feel more comfortable knowing that my children will be safer at home in the nights, and they will be able to read and complete their homework better.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

‘Only Coconuts’ expands product line with fresh coconut milk, other products — sets sights on U.S. market

Vice-President of ‘Only Coconuts’ Lesley Ramlall assisting someone at the recently held Berbice Expo

By Telesha Ramnarine PRECISION Global Inc., operating under the trade name 'Only Coconuts', is planning to introduce fresh coconut milk and other new items to its product line, according to the company’s Vice-President, Lesley Ramlall. Even as ‘Only Coconuts’ commenced production a relatively short time ago (in 2021), the line of products includes virgin coconut oil, refined coconut oil, desiccated coconuts, coconut chips, and coconut flour. Currently, the company exports its products

throughout CARICOM, in Canada and Europe, and very soon, will be in the United States of America. “We are looking at some other products we want to bring on the market, like the coconut milk. This is available mostly in a tin, so when a consumer opens it, they have to utilise it because they can’t keep it in a tin. We are looking to bring that product in a form where the consumer can use it multiple times,” Ramlall shared during an interview with Guyana Chronicle at the recently held Berbice Expo. The product has already been tested, and some finer details are cur-

rently being worked out. “We are now looking at the best packaging; not only a package that is attractive, but we want to ensure that whichever part of the world our product is, we are promoting Guyana.” Ramlall observed the traditional practice in Guyana and other CARICOM countries of using coconuts solely for oil extraction. “For us, we are making several products; the oil for everyday cooking, for hair and skin, coconut flour, shredded coconut for garnishing, and coconut chips, a healthy snack that is baked, not fried,” he pointed out, adding, “We know the demand and the

Apart from coconut oil, the company has brought on board other unique products made from coconut

benefits associated with coconuts.” Meanwhile, proprietor Vishnu Ramdeen, who is based in Canada, was cognisant of the nutritional value of coconut products and regularly added them to his meals. He wanted to ensure he had something healthy each day as he travelled extensively between Canada and the United States. He realised, though, that most of the coconut products in Canada were imported from outside of CARICOM even as he knew all too well that there was an abundance of coconuts in CARICOM, and more specifically, in Guyana; so he thought,

‘Why not capitalise on such a market?’ Just a few years after launching the first batch of products, ‘Only Coconuts’, based at Marudi Creek on the Soesdyke Highway, is perhaps the largest coconut processing facility in South America, with quality and prices that may be hard to compete with. “Our coconuts are naturally grown in the fields of Guyana and carefully selected for every item we create. All products are processed in our 45,000 sq. ft. nut-free facility without preservatives or artificial additives to ensure your fullest enjoyment and optimal health benefits. As

part of our commitment to you, we provide you only the best, only the purest, Only Coconuts,” the company had said on its website. The site also attests that all the all-natural superfood products are perfect for those seeking a wholesome lifestyle as they are packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. “Coconuts are proven to support health and wellness when regularly consumed,” the company assured. Ramlall had earlier told this publication that ‘Only Coconuts’ is 90 per cent automated, meaning that the company has inculcated technology in its production process.

Gov’t delivers 200 water tanks to Region 10 communities

THE government distributed some 200 water tanks to several communities in Region 10 on Monday, in keeping with a commitment made by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a recent outreach in the region. Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, said that the government has fulfilled its commitment to provide water to riverine communities in the region.

The communities had raised concerns about access to water due to drought-like conditions and the current dry season. “In one week, this commitment is being fulfilled,” Minister Edghill noted during an update. Residents of 58 Miles Mabura Road, 47 Miles, 37 Miles, Coomacka Mines, and Ituni will benefit from the swift intervention which is a collaboration between

Ministers Edghill, Collin Croal, and GWI. Minister Edghill noted that, “This is another promise being fulfilled and we are extremely grateful that we can see this through to the end.” This swift and decisive action demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing essential resources to all citizens, regardless of their location.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Brigadier Khan urges peace, democracy at Conference of American Armies

Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan with other military officials at the Conference of American Armies in Brazil

CHIEF-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan, is currently representing Guyana at the Conference of American Armies (CAA), a regional gathering with the primary goal of strengthening integration and co-operation among the American armies. Established in 1960, the CAA aims to protect and promote peace, democracy, and freedom across the Americas. During the conference, Brigadier Khan, in his address, urged the forum to recommit to the core goals of the CAA and to denounce any attempts that threaten these fundamental values. A total of 29 countries are attending the conference, including full members across Latin and South America and the Caribbean. Observers include the United States, Canada, Spain and Portugal. Currently, the CAA is integrated by twenty-three (23) member armies: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, United States of America, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago. Brazil is the current president and host of the event.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday November 08, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Two (2) Viv Richards-138* (WI vs ENG, Lord’s) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many tons were compiled in the 1983 World cup? (2) What was the highest individual score? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Cricket World Cup 2023:

Virat Kohli is the one-day king and the king for one day By Stephan Shemilt Chief cricket writer

THEY call Kolkata the City of Joy. What better place, then, for a party? With the whole of India invited, Virat Kohli had the opportunity to mark his 35th birthday with yet another magical milestone as the hosts continued their seemingly unstoppable charge towards World Cup glory. Eden Gardens is the spiritual home of Indian cricket. It could have been the Garden of Eden, so rich was the promise of paradise. The match against South Africa was billed as a clash of the two best teams in the tournament and could yet be a dress rehearsal for the final. It turned into a celebration of all things Kohli, the birthday boy carving out a 49th one-day international century and equalling a Sachin Tendulkar record once thought to be unreachable. The signs were all there beforehand. A day earlier, India coach Rahul Dravid talked of Kohli being allowed to have a bowl. There were reports of cancelled plans to have 70,000 Virat masks and a birthday cake in tow - perhaps Kohli wanted to let his batting do the talking. As he left the field just after the national anthems, a fan rushed on to touch his feet. Not that being the centre of attention is anything new to Kohli, the

Virat Kohli – a supreme run-scorer

most famous cricketer on the planet. Each generation has one. WG Grace was mobbed before he could step off the ship in Adelaide in 1891, Denis Compton was the Brylcreem boy and Geoffrey Boycott's name was scrawled on the Berlin Wall. Kohli has inherited the mantle of Tendulkar and MS Dhoni as the totemic presence of the planet's cricketing powerhouse. Where Kohli differs from the others is that his career has been played out entirely in the age of social media, with a greater connection and scrutiny from India's fanatical following. There were torches passed from both Tendulkar and Dhoni. After the 2011 World Cup final, the last time India won a world title of any sort, a chubby-cheeked Kohli carried Tendulkar on his shoulders around Mumbai before taking over as India's middle-order maestro. Kohli inher-

ited the captaincy from his great friend Dhoni and will arguably leave a larger legacy to the game in India than both. Shaped in Kohli's image, the India team are uber-athletes on the field and multi-media personalities off it. Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill are just a few to slip into the Kohli slipstream as modern megastars. When Shreyas Iyer, batting with Kohli on Sunday, removed his helmet to bat with a cap on his head and a ring in his ear, it was like the younger brother copying his older hero. Kohli the captain did not emulate Dhoni in taking India to a trophy the country craves, but did pass his predecessor's records in terms of Tests led and won. Kohli's passion for the longer format did much to energise Test cricket in India. He will almost certainly not push Tendulkar's Test record of 15,921 runs - that chal-

lenge looks to be for Joe Root alone. But Kohli is ticking off the Little Master's achievements in one-day cricket as part of a career that surely marks him out as the most accomplished limited-overs batter of all-time. There are other debates that rumble on across generations, seemingly destined to never have an answer - Pele v Maradona, Hamilton v Schumacher, Serena v Navratilova - but it is a rare privilege to see the undisputed best at what they do in the prime of doing it. Kohli's 49th one-day ton came in his 277th innings, some 175 fewer than played by Tendulkar. In terms of innings played, he is the fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000 and 13,000 ODI runs. But it is when guiding a pursuit that Kohli really stands head and shoulders above the rest. He is the master run-chaser, with ice in his veins and a super-computer of a

brain. Of those 49 centuries, 27 have come in the second innings, 23 of which came in wins. In ODI chases, Kohli averages 64.49, a number that jumps to 90.40 when India get over the line. It's the same story in T20 internationals, with an average of 73.44 in the second innings of a match. This latest hundred, on the same ground where he made his first almost 14 years ago, was not gift-wrapped as a present, birthday or not. With India batting first on a Kolkata surface offering plenty for the skilful South African spinners, Kohli had to adapt his game, absorb the pressure and park his ego. He hit four fours in his first 13 deliveries to have 17 runs to his name, but found the boundary only once in his next 63 deliveries. Kohli pushed, prodded and whipped the ball into gaps, then hared between the wickets. His legendary fitness regime has him around 13kg lighter than the start of his career - he has spoken about how he has had to convince his mother that a lean physique is not a sign of ill health. Of the 61 accounts he follows on X, previously Twitter, one is Britain's former Olympic 100m champion Linford Christie. His half-century came from 67 balls. Usually, such a landmark would

signal a change of tempo. Across his career, Kohli scores in excess of six runs an over once past 50, an acceleration not close to being possible on Sunday. As the century neared, anticipation grew. Lights from mobile phones danced like fireflies in the stands. If he had been bowled, Kohli would have probably felt within his rights to put the bails back on. This was his show.

The hundred itself was not reached in spectacular fashion - a push into the covers for a single - but the outpouring of delirium was palpable. Kohli faced only two more deliveries in India's 326-5, but his 101 not out - from 121 balls - was enough to beat South Africa's 83 all out on his own. He called it the stuff of dreams, but perhaps the ultimate dream is to be played out in the coming weeks. There is the tantalising prospect of a record 50th ton to be made in guiding India to World Cup glory. Kohli is not to everyone's taste, mainly for the histrionics seen in the field as the Proteas collapsed. Over-the-top celebrations, dad-dancing in the field. But he is a showman, a superstar and a supreme run-scorer. The one-day king, king for one day.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

BCB Premier T20 Tournament

Sinclair hits majestic century as four teams register victories

THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) very active cricket season continued on Saturday last with the start of the BCB Premier Round Robin T20 Tournament with matches across the ancient county. The tournament is the second first division tournament to start recently following the Ivan Madray T20 Memorial League. The BCB has also acquired sponsorship for the hosting of two fifty overs tournaments which will be played on a round robin basis. They will be sponsored by Ansa Mcal Trading and AJM Enterprise respectively. On Saturday last, Rose Hall Town, Port Mourant, Young Warriors and Blairmont registered victories in the first round while the Albion versus Rose Hall Canje match was washed out due to rain. The Police Sports Club and the Tucber Park match was unable to be played due to the lack of a suitable venue. The highlight of the opening round was a majestic 110 not out by CPL Best Emerging Player Junior Sinclair, who struck eight huge sixes and nine

boundaries against Skeldon at the Area ‘H’ Ground. Half centuries also came from Alex Algoo 80, Seon Hetmyer 74, Clinton Pestano 60. Pestano also performed well with the ball with a four-wicket haul while Berbice senior player Seon Glasgow also took a four-wicket haul. Scores in the matches played were: Rose Hall Town Namilco defeated Skeldon by a Masive 157 runs at the Area ‘H’ Ground. The home team amassed 218 for the loss of one wicket with Sinclair 110 not out, Pestano 60 not out with four boundaries and five sixes along with Jason Sinclair 30 (retired hurt) being the principal scores. Matthew Pottaya 11 was the only batsman to be dismissed as Arvin Ault took 1 for 51 from three expensive overs. Skeldon in reply were bowled out for 61 in 16.4 overs with only Triston Ramsarran 13 and A. Ault 12 reaching double figures. Pestano and Junior Sinclair returned with the ball to take 4 for 8 and 3 for 11 respectively. National under-19 left arm spinner Jeremy San-

Junior Sinclair

Clinton Pestano

dia took 2 for 8. Port Mourant eased past Upper Corentyne by 8 wickets at the No. 69 Ground. Upper Corentyne won the toss and elected to bat. They were bowled out for 125 in their allotted 20 overs with Paul Tyndall 33 and Alvin Hemchand 28 being the main scorers. Vinod Samaroo 3 for 8 (4overs) and Madan Budhram 2 for 36 were the visitors’ best bowlers. Port Mourant in reply, raced to 127 for 2 in the 18th overs as West Indies youth player Rampertab Ramnauth 38 not out batted well.

Ronald Pottaya 1 for 23 and Devenand Chatterpaul 1 for 23 were the successful bowlers for the home team. At the Blairmont Community Centre, the home team squeezed past West Berbice by one run in an exciting finish. The visitors needed five runs to tie blairmont score of 115 for 8 but only managed to score a boundary. The top scores for Blairmont were Kevin Jawahier 29, Javed Karein 16, Seon Glasgow 17 and Nick Ramsaroop 20. Rashaad Gaffur 3 for 12 and Odel Miller 2 for 20 were

BAM Adebayo's triple-double helped the Miami Heat hold off LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers to win 108-107. Adebayo recorded 22 points, 20 rebounds and 10 assists, while Jimmy Butler contributed a season-high 28 points. Miami had seen a 10-point lead reduced to one as James scored seven of his game-high 30 points during a one minute 19 second period in the fourth quarter. Joel Embiid made 48 points, 11 rebounds and six assists as the Philadelphia 76ers beat Washington Wizards 146-128. It was a fifth successive win for Philadelphia since their season-opening loss to the Milwaukee Bucks,

as Tyrese Maxey added 22 points and a career-high 11 assists. The New York Knicks spoiled James Harden's Los Angeles Clippers debut as RJ Barrett returned from a twogame injury absence to help the hosts to a 111-97 victory. The game was tied 76-76 after the third quarter but Barrett scored 11 of his 26 points in the fourth, while Julius Randle posted a season-high 27 points and 10 rebounds. Nikola Jokic registered a triple-double as the Denver Nuggets battled back from a 20-point deficit to beat the New Orleans Pelicans 134-116. It was a 108th career triple-double for Jokic, the fourth most on the all-time

list, finishing with 35 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists. Giannis Antetokounmpo inspired the Milwaukee Bucks to a 129-125 victory at the Brooklyn Nets. Antetokounmpo made the tie-breaking basket with 71 seconds remaining to end the game on 36 points and 12 rebounds, while Cam Thomas led with 45 points in the Nets' loss. Stephen Curry scored 34 points as the Golden State Warriors took a 120-109 victory at the Detroit Pistons. Elsewhere, the Minnesota Timberwolves prevailed 114-109 against the Boston Celtics in overtime and the Indiana Pacers won 152-111 against San Antonio Spurs. There was a 117-102 win for the Dallas Mavericks at

Alex Algoo

the best bowlers for West Berbice. The visitors push to overtake Blairmont small total was led by Shelton Ramsay 26, Rashaad Gaffur 13 and Andrew Dutchin 15. Off spinner Seon Glasgow 4 for 24 and leg spinner Kevin Jawahie 3 for 8 were the best bowlers for blairmont. At the Rose Hall Community Centre, Young Warriors Cricket Club defeated a youthful President XI team by 117 runs. The Presi-

dent XI team is consisted of junior players who were unable to make the different club first division teams. The main aim is to expose them to a high level of cricket at a young age to assist in their overall development. Batting first, YWCC, after losing the toss, amassed 202 for 8 from 20 overs as former national youth layer Alex Algoo scored 80 and Berbice Senior Player Seon Hetmyer 74. Left-arm spinner Kumar Deoperaud took 2 for 30 from 4 overs. The President XI team in reply, were restricted to 85 for 8 with Julian Bennett top scoring with an unbeaten 50. Algoo returned with the ball to take 2 wickets for 8 runs while Ricardo Ramdehol claimed 2 for 23. Coach of the President XI team, Balram Samaroo, stated that all the members of the team were making their first division debut and were excited at the new innovation of the BCB to aid in their development. The tournament continues next Saturday with second round matches.

Bam Adebayo's triple-double helps Miami Heat hold off Los Angeles Lakers

Miami Heat earned consecutive victories for the first time this season

Orlando Magic while the Chicago Bulls beat Utah Jazz 130-113.

Houston Rockets recorded a 122-97 win over the Sacramento Kings and

Oklahoma City Thunder won 126-117 against the Atlanta Hawks.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

CWI thanks Sunil Narine for his contribution to West Indies cricket Cricket West Indies (CWI) thanked Sunil Narine for his service to West Indies cricket during his international career. The talented spin bowler announced his retirement from international and regional List A cricket on Sunday, ahead of the final preliminary match for Trinidad & Tobago Red Force in the CG United Super50 Cup. The 35-year-old made his debut for West Indies in India in 2011 and his last appearance was also against India in Guyana in 2019. He played in West Indies colours in 122 matches, which included

6 Tests, 65 appearances in One-Day International (ODI) and 51 in T20 International (T20I) cricket. He was a member of the West Indies team which won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2012 when they beat Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He played a crucial role with the ball in the victory, with three wickets as West Indies won by 36 runs. Narine represented the West Indies in all three formats. He played six Tests and took 21 wickets with best bowling figures of 6-91 against New Zealand in

Hamilton. In 65 One-Day Internationals he took 92 wickets including a best of 6-27 vs South Africa in Guyana in 2016. He also took 52 wickets in 51 T20 Internationals, with best returns of 4-12 against New Zealand in Fort Lauderdale in 2012 to help secure the series victory. CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe said: “On behalf of CWI I would like to thank Sunil Narine for his contribution to West Indies during his time on the international stage. He was the kind of bowler who excited fans and brought them to the game. He was the ‘X’ factor

The 35-year-old Sunil Narine made his debut for West Indies in India in 2011 and his last appearance was also against India in Guyana in 2019 in the West Indies bowling attack and produced some amazing spells. When at his

best he ranked among the very best in the modern era. We all remember the magi-

Shariff ’s playing performance as a staggering 172 rating points above her current FIDE ranking. While her wins were impressive, it was her losses that excited the local Federation as she, by the smallest of margins, lost to International and Candidate Masters, players whose rankings should have been leaps and bounds ahead of her but who all at some point in time during their games, fell prey to Shariff’s intellect. Her most impressive game came against Gabriela Vera Perez from Puerto Rico, a match that only lasted twenty moves. Shariff entered the match with a clear game plan to counter the Sicilian opening played by her opponent until she could achieve an advantage.

After an hour of grueling play, Shariff set a trap for her opponent, resulting in the loss of a bishop and a clear sight into future checkmate. Perez immediately resigned. Shariff won against Yorelis Otero, also from Puerto Rico. This match was much different and involved accurate end-game play between the two women. Sheriff maneuvered her pawns and king, resulting in two passed pawns up to Otero’s zero. Otero then resigned, giving Shariff four points to close out the competition. Shariff’s performance identified her as one of the top young female talents from the Caribbean, and at only twenty years old, her future in the sport is very

cal bowling performance in Sri Lanka, when he helped the West Indies to their first T20 World Cup title. As he continues his playing career, we wish him more success.” Narine is in the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force squad for the first Semi-Final of the CG United 50 Cup to be played today at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and he may therefore make his final List A appearance on Saturday 11 November in the Final. The Semi-Finals and Final will be live on ESPN . Caribbean.(Sportsmax)

Sasha Shariff impresses at CAC Chess Championship

THE 2023 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Women’s Chess Championship provided several days of intense competition, a wealth of experience and camaraderie for female Guyanese player, Sasha Shariff, who picked up four points from the competition held in Carolina, Puerto Rico. The former National Women’s Chess Champion competed in a field decorated with Women FIDE Masters, Candidate and International Masters. Despite being one of the lowest-ranked players in the tournament, Shariff won against the top female players from Honduras and Puerto Rico. While placing fifteenth in the tournament, the Championships recorded

Sasha Shariff in Puerto Rico

bright. In an invited comment, Sasha said, “Despite the difficulties, participating in the tournament was an enriching experience. I learned a lot from observing and playing against top-level players. The intense matches pushed me to analyse positions more deeply and make calculated moves. I discovered new strategies and techniques that I can incorporate into my future games. Each game brought a new opportunity to demonstrate my abilities and learn from any mistakes made.” She also thanked the federation for its sponsorship and hopes to see more female participation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Haaland scores twice as Man City reach knockouts

ERLING Haaland took his Champions League goal tally to 39 in 34 games as Manchester City cruised into the last 16 with two games to spare by barely breaking sweat againstYoung Boys. The Norwegian striker shrugged off the ankle injury that forced him off at half-time in Saturday's hammering of Bournemouth to clinically convert a 23rd-minute penalty after Sandro Lauper had fouled Matheus Nunes. He then smashed home a second from the edge of the area six minutes after the restart, shortly before Lauper was sent off for a second booking following a foul on Nathan Ake. In a bizarre exchange, Haaland had already handed his shirt over to Young

Erling Haaland has scored 67 goals in 70 appearances for Manchester City across all competitions

Boys skipper Mohamed Ali Camara at the break when the Guinean asked for it as the players made their way to the tunnel.

By that point Phil Foden had added a second, finding the net after ollecting Jack Grealish's superb curling pass to the side of the pen-

alty area and skipping past Ulisses Garcia. The result sends City into the knockout phase for an impressive 11th consecu-

tive season, and also means they have set a new record of 18 matches unbeaten in Europe for an English club. The win also extended their run of home victories in all competitions in 2023 to 23 games, one short of the English record, set by Sunderland across 1891 and 1892. Rivals Liverpool are the next visitors to this stadium, in the Premier League on 25 November. That game will almost certainly be far more competitive than this one was. Young Boys' colourful fans light up drab evening Young boys fans light flares at Etihad Stadium By far the most entertaining aspect of this game, from a Young Boys perspective at least, was the atmosphere created by their

supporters. The fans in the lower two tiers choreographed their entrance just before kick-off, so those in the higher section came in first, all wearing what appeared to be matching yellow ponchos. Then came those in the lower tier, wearing black, to match their team's colours. Part way through the opening period, they all turned their back on the game, before taking the ponchos off and twirling them round their heads. Those on the top followed that by throwing them down on those below. The display was colourful and inventive, which is more than could be said for their team.

Hard slog expected between Red Force and Harpy Eagles in...

From page 40 cusing on what we have to do and no worry too much about the opposition., so far we have been ticking the right boxes, and we will continue to do so until the very last ball.” For Harpy Eagles, this semi-final is a chance to prove the loss earlier in the tournament was a blip on the radar, and it will be important

step towards ending their 18year title drought. In addition, the Harpy Eagles are hoping that they could complete the double of the West Indies Championship and Super50 titles, and teams from Guyana could sweep all three major titles in a single calendar year with the Amazon Warriors franchise having won the Caribbean Premier League Twenty20 title this past Sep-

tember. “We have had our ups and downs,” Harpy Eagles head coach Ryan Hercules said. “We did not see our bating come to forefront really until the last match against the Jamaica Scorpions when it was much needed. “The most important thing was trying to reach the semi-finals, which we did, and anyone would take that as a plus. We know our

batting has not been at its best, and at times, some of our ‘death bowling’ – without Romario Shepherd – has let us down.” He said: “But I am pretty confident knowing that in the last match we played we had a convincing win against the Scorpions. Some of the guys found some form … Once we stick together as a unit, and play smartly and execute, anything is possible.

“It will be about working the match-ups and according to plans that will be key to getting 10 wickets and restricting them for as low as possible. In the field, we have to go out there and give it our all from the first ball to the last to set the energy to get ahead and stay ahead. In the batting, it will be about getting decent partnerships and creating the opportunity for our middle order to go

there and play some attacking cricket.” The second semi-final, another day-night contest, between Hurricanes and Pride will be played at on Thursday at the same venue, where the day-night final will be contested on Saturday. All two semi-finals and the final start at 1 p.m. local time (Jamaica subtract 1 hour).

Freakish Maxwell double ton confirms...

From page 40

defied both belief as well as his physical limits. In the 41st over of the chase, with victory still 55 runs away, Maxwell completed a single to long on and convulsed, collapsing to the turf in pain after having spent a good five hours out in muggy confines of this famous stadium. The umpire looked concerned and the physio charged out - not for the first time - to tend to him. Adam Zampa, Australia's No.10 batter, had made the walk down the steps from the dressing room, fully ready to take strike. And yet, Maxwell carried on. He hit five sixes and five fours thereafter, without so much as moving his feet and relying only on his handeye co-ordination to take

Australia past a disbelieving Afghanistan. An hour and a half before Maxwell sent a 10th projectile into the Mumbai sky (he also hit 21 fours), Hashmatullah Shahidi and his team had every reason to believe they had added another former champion, and arguably the greatest of them, to their list of scalps this tournament. They had the five-time winners spooked to the point where Mitchell Starc walked off despite not edging a ball. It had, in fact, gone to the 'keeper off the stump. Naveen ul Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai had found swing and shared a brace of wickets each. The star man, Rashid Khan, added the wickets of Stoinis and the one of Starc and Afghanistan were bris-

tling with energy on the field. Then came the fateful 22nd over from Noor Ahmad. With the second ball, the leftarm leg-spinner had Maxwell play down the wrong line and won an LBW appeal with the umpire. Maxwell reviewed, more in hope than with any conviction, and had begun walking to the dressing room when DRS projected the ball to be bouncing over the stumps. Three legitimate deliveries later, he attempted a sweep but couldn't get on top of the bounce and ended up lobbing a simple catch to short fine-leg, where Mujeeb Ur Rahman inexplicably dropped it. Maxwell was on 33. Those two reprieves somehow seemed to turn a switch inside him. And he

began to play his shots. A half-arm jab from Rashid in the next over nearly went over the ropes and a slogswipe off Noor whistled to the mid-wicket fence. So far ahead were Afghanistan that they didn't quite comprehend the turning of the tides, not even when Maxwell got to a 51-ball half-century. Then Maxwell added another 50 to his score in just 25 balls and the pressure began to show. Shahidi backed his team's spin strengths to a point where he kept his two seamers away from the attack for too long. When Naveen did return, the complexion of the game had changed and Australia needed under 100 runs to win. Pat Cummins, the Australia captain, had made just 8 runs when the partnership had touched 100 and 11

when it passed 150 . By then Maxwell's movements had been severely restricted by the bout of cramps and began denying singles, choosing instead to stand and swing boundaries at will. Cummins, at the other end, was happy to play out maidens, fully aware that Maxwell's hits were keeping the asking rate well in control. And Afghanistan had become powerless to deny this duality. As fate would have it, it was a Mujeeb over that sealed their fate. Maxwell went dot, six, six, four and six to round off one of the most incredible games of cricket in World Cup history by becoming the first man from his country to score an ODI double hundred. From an Afghanistan

point of view, it was a crushing end to a day that had promised so much. They'd won the toss and hedged their bets on putting Australia under scoreboard pressure on a ground that is notoriously tough to defend on. Ibrahim Zadran stitched half-century stands with Rahmat Shah and Shahidi enroute to becoming the first Afghan batter to score a World Cup century. Zadran carried his bat through to score 129 off 143. Rashid Khan provided the finishing kick with a sensational 18-ball 35 and the pair of them added 75 from the final six overs to take Afghanistan to their highest score in ODI World Cup history. All of it, however, ended up being footnotes at the end of the night. (Cricbuzz)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Beacons clinches BFA senior league title

Beacons FC

Beacons Football Club was crowned champions of the Bartica Football Association Senior Men's League on Saturday night last, delivering a commanding 7-0 victory over Agatash United Football Club at the Bartica Community Centre ground. The club enjoyed a near flawless journey to the championship title, maintaining

an impeccable record in the league with 42 points from 16 matches, including 13 wins and three draws. From just eight minutes into their final game last Saturday, spectators were treated to an exhilarating championship match characterised by remarkable goal-scoring. Whitley Welcome dominated the goal-scoring, net-

ting two goals in the 8th and 17th minutes of the game, while Kyle Caesar (28th), Quance Butters (30th), Brian Joseph (50th), Jermaine Christian (57th), Ronaldo Parris (60th), and Kurt Welcome (68th) each contributed one goal to ensure Beacons’ victory. Potaro Strikers also played 16 matches, and they

O n M o n d a y, a t t h e Malteenoes Sports Club on Thomas Road, Thomas Lands, Shawn Holder’s Brokerage Shipping and Logistics donated two Bowling Machines and other cricket equipment to the city club. Former National U-19 batter Shawn Holder, the owner and CEO of the Company, who has been a member of MSC since 1985, said his company has been giving back… not only to his club but to the Communities with Hampers and other things. SHBS&LS was, for over two decades ago and Holder, also a Vice-President of the club, disclosed that his Company will con-

tinue to support the young players of the club with such contributions “I have asked my business partner in Australia where the bowling machines came from and if there is any other thing he can send and it will be paid for. “I will pay for the stuff to be cleared and he is giving the items to me as payment. “So don’t think we got it free…it was paid for by the Brokers Association and I want you guys to take good care of it. We need this as the development of the club progresses” said Holder, who represented Guyana at the U-19 level in 1987

& 1988. The Malteenoes’ President, Deborah McNichols, said these bowling machines will go a long way in improving the skills of the club’s batters and thanked Holder and the Brokerage Association for the timely donation. H o l d e r ’s y o u n g e s t daughter, Sian Serenity Holder made the presentation on behalf of her father’s Company. Holder was a member of the 1987 youth team to Jamaica when a record seven players from Malteenoes were a part of that team. That record was equalled by GCC this year. (Sean Devers)

registered 13 wins, one loss, and two draws, amassing a total of 41 points to secure the second position on the points standing. In their final match of the season, Potaro Strikers Football Club secured a resounding 6-0 victory over Lazio Football Club. Nkyosai Williams initiated the scoring in the 9th minute, while Reon

Hall contributed two goals in the 52nd and 61st minutes. Michael Henry (23rd), Shamar Stephens (47th), and Keron Spencer (71st) sealed the victory with one goal each. The defending champions, Rivers Football Club, managed to secure 12 victories and suffered four losses, resulting in a total of 36

points and a third-place finish overall. From June to November, fans were treated to extraordinary matches involving nine teams. Those teams were Beacons, Rivers View, Rising Stars, Lazio Agatash United, AK Galaxy, Potaro Strikers, Mil Ballers, and Wolves United.

SHBS&LS donates bowling machines to Malteenoes Sports Club

CEO of SHB&LS, Shawn Holder (right) and MSC President Deborah Mc Nichols, at the presentation on Monday afternoon ((Sean Devers photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Freakish Maxwell double ton confirms Australia's World Cup semifinal spot Hard slog expected between Red Force and Harpy Eagles in Super 50 first semi-final

Guyana Harpy Eagles Head Coach, Ryan Hercules

THERE is no footage from Tunbridge Wells and only those that were present at the venue 40 years ago will perhaps be able to attest if Kapil Dev's incredible exploits have been matched, or even surpassed by Glenn Maxwell, who produced an innings of a lifetime to put Australia in the 2023 World

Cup semifinal. Maxwell cramped, hobbled, batted on one leg and finished with an astonishing 201* off 128 balls as Australia recovered from 91/7 to chase down Afghanistan's 291. Maxwell registered the highest ODI score while chasing and put on a stagger-

ing 202-run partnership for the eighth wicket to which his partner, Pat Cummins, contributed 12 off 68. But beyond the numbers, Mumbai -- the spiritual home of Indian cricket - was witness to a theatre of the absurd in which Maxwell Continued on page 38

TAROUBA, Trinidad, (CMC) – There will be extra motivation for Trinidad & Tobago Red Force and Guyana Harpy Eagles to play hard in the first semi-final of the West Indies Super50 Cup on today at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad. Red Force ended the preliminary phase of the

tournament on top of the standings with 49 points and did not lose any of their seven matches, enduring only a wash out in their first match, while Harpy Eagles finished fourth on 34 points, squeaking into the semi-finals ahead of the West Indies Academy by only one point. It is against this back-

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drop, and a 114-run win for Red Force during the prelims at the same venue that the two teams enter this daynight contest, and the home team have been installed as the raging hot favourites to win it all. For Red Force, there are several reasons for them to come out on top, including reaching the final on home soil, trying to win their 14th title, and giving mercurial off-spinner Sunil Narine a memorable send-off after he announced his retirement from playing international and List A One-day matches this past Sunday. “I think the tournament has been pretty decent for us so far,” Red Force captain Darren Bravo said. “As a team, we would have put in a lot of work leading up to the tournament, so it’s pleasing to see the performances of each and everyone. “As a team, we are quietly confident going into the semi-finals. We know over the years, the Harpy Eagles are always a force to reckon with, but we are ready and looking forward to the challenge. I think the belief and togetherness within our dressing room is special. “As a team, we are foContinued on page 38

| WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023