Mocha-Arcadia squatters were ‘grossly’ misled by opposition figures-Ramkarran
- highlights importance of choosing legal channels over ‘political entanglements’ in state lands disputes
NOTING that senior opposition figures mislead Mocha squatters as part of a political scheme rooted in falsehoods and creating confusion, attorney-at-law Ralph Ramkarran has noted that there are lessons
to be learnt from the recent dismissal of their High Court case. Ramkarran noted this over the weekend in his Conversation Tree blog where he indicated that, “The Mocha-Arcadia squatters were grossly misled in an effort to
politicise and/or ‘ethnicise’ a situation by confrontation.”
The case which was brought by the three persons seeking relief for the demolition of their homes, alleged constitutional beaches, deprivation of property
rights and degrading treatment.
However, Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George ruled against the applicants, stating that they had no legal claim to the land and had refused multiple opportunities for relocation.
Giving some background about the matter, Ramkarran said that the dispute stemmed from a long-standing issue of squatting in Mocha -Arcadia, where several residents occupied stateowned land that was designated for a major roadway project. The majority of squatters accepted government compensation and alternative housing, while seven of them refused to relocate despite negotiations dating back to 2008.
He said the Ministry of Housing had offered the squatters substantial compensation and alternative land, but some rejected the offers outright, with one person reportedly demanding as much as $60 million.
In January 2023, after years of unsuccessful negotiations, the government proceeded with the demolition of the remaining structures, triggering a confrontation between officials and the remaining squatters.
Ramkarran highlighted that the opposition played a significant role in supporting the residents, with senior figures present at the site, framing the evictions as
discriminatory against African Guyanese. The dispute quickly took on racial overtones, with critics comparing the demolition to ethnic cleansing and apartheid.
The Chief Justice’s ruling rejected the claims made by the applicants, stating that once the residents had refused the government’s offer of relocation, they became trespassers on state-owned land. “The applicants would have become trespassers after being asked to remove from the land for which they had no title and to which they did not lay claim by any action or proceedings. They refused to move, and the owner or its agents would have been entitled to remove them. They stayed at their peril,” Justice George stated in her ruling.
Further to this, the court found that the applicants’ claims of constitutional violation were unfounded.
According to Ramkarran, the ruling raises concerns about the role of political influence in land disputes. He added that the squatters were misled into confrontation by political actors who sought to exploit the
situation for their own agendas.
Instead of accepting reasonable offers for relocation, the holdout residents engaged in a prolonged resistance that ultimately led to the loss of their homes, with no compensation or alternative housing secured.
“They were on the wrong side; their fellow squatters had settled. What did they expect to gain, and what did their advisers expect them to gain? Judging from the court cases, they clearly expected the court to justify trespassing,” Ramkarran noted.
He added that the outcome of this case serves as a cautionary tale for residents involved in land disputes. While grievances and negotiations are a part of any resettlement process, the case underscores the importance of engaging through legal channels and avoiding political entanglements that could jeopardise legitimate claims.
With the court’s ruling against the applicants, the aggrieved Mocha-Arcadia squatters now find themselves displaced, left without compensation, and abandoned by the political actors.
Prominent attorney-at-law Ralph Ramkarran
President Ali mulls construction of municipal airports in Berbice, Lethem
- as part of massive plans targetting several regions - says enhanced infrastructure critical to economic advancement
By Naomi Parris
WHILE Guyana is well on its way to enhancing its infrastructure, meeting its ambitious economic targets will require significant additional work which when completed, will help to create intricate interconnected networks both domestically and with our immediate neighbours.
This is the belief of President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who during an Energy Perspective Podcast which was released on Sunday, stated that there is still an ‘enormous gap’ to where he envisions the country should be.
“We have started to address critical infrastructure that is linked to economic expansion, creation of new wealth, the support to the agriculture sector, and, of course, the efficiency in the transport system.”
In this context, the President noted that the construction of municipal airports, akin to the Eugene F Correia International Airport at Ogle, on the East Coast of Demerara, might be imminent.
He pointed to the massive buzz ongoing in Region Six as an example.
Already, the region is seeing a complete overhaul to its infrastructure with plans to link Guyana to its eastern neighbour, Suriname.
Already, officials have laid the terms for the construction of a bridge across the Corentyne River connecting the two countries.
“Let's start from our link to Suriname. Now that bridge is very critical. It opens up a whole new host of opportunity for us.
When you look at the development that we're going to do at Palmyra, it is my estimation that somewhere in Berbice we will need to
have a municipal airport like Ogle, you will have to have the development of a municipal airport.”
With these advancements, the President also reiterated the idea of developing a second gas plant and a deep-water port.
“Then the plans of bringing the second gas development to Berbice, Region Six, that is going to be massive, that will have a number of off takers, maybe a huge industrial zone. You have to build that deep-water port … that is part of the plan,” the Head of State explained.
There is also growing potential for an aluminium plant in the area, taking advantage of reserves shared with Suriname, along with the arrival of cheaper energy. This, coupled with Suriname's own development, opens up possibilities for a strong and fruitful partnership.
“These are what I would say are just the tip of the iceberg.”
Further, to match the ongoing development in Region Six and Region Four, the government will also have to focus on enhancing the farming infrastructure in Region
Five.
“And then when you come over to Region Five, you definitely have to also expand the roadways [and] focus heavily on agriculture production, modernisation of the agricultural system.”
We're looking now at the new all-weather access road to Sandhills that will connect you directly into Bartica, Region Seven, going all the way to the hinterland, developing Region Seven into a major tourism and mining hub.
UNLOCKING MORE TRADE: BRAZIL
The President further touched on plans to strengthen the Brazil and Guyana connection, highlighting too that a municipal airport in Lethem, Region Nine, may also be needed.
“And then you have, of course, a road going to Brazil, connected to the new quarter port, the development; we have to develop another municipal airport of Lethem, because there's tremendous potential there. Further in the hinterland, Region Seven will see major advancements.
“With all the support
services, we have two major mines, large-scale mines, which will come into operation by 2027/ 2028. So Bartica, Region Seven, will be a major aspect and Region 10 to support those investment and initiative.”
Meanwhile, in Linden, substantial investments are being made to establish the town as a key service hub, not just for mining, but also for industries such as forestry and bauxite.
Bringing his attention back to the coast, President Ali pointed out that the development in Region Three is already underway, with significant progress taking place. The connection between Region Two and Region Three is being strengthened, particularly through development of the Essequibo River area for tourism and heavy investments in agricultural production.
“So, it's an exciting future, but it is infrastructure that is linked structurally to economic expansion, growth, integration and the building out of our economy beyond our borders,” President Ali said.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
Hydronie couple die in early-morning house fire
- GFS identifies slack electrical connection as likely cause
A HUSBAND and his wife on Sunday perished in a fire which completely destroyed their Lot 1A Hydronie, East Bank Essequibo home.
Confirmed dead are Haywattie Bahudur, a 52-year-old female teacher and Hansraj Narine, a 57-year-old bus driver.
While the police and fire officials are conducting separate investigations, the Ministry of Home Affairs has revealed that the preliminary investigation conducted by the Guyana Fire Service has determined that the fire was caused by a slack electrical connection,
which resulted in arcing and sparking that ignited nearby combustible materials.
The police in a press release said that a team from Regional Division #3 visited the scene at about 02:00hrs on Sunday, where they found a flat concrete structure facing north in a fenced yard completely destroyed by fire.
“The ranks responded to a 911 call of a fire at the present address by an unknown caller and on arrival at the scene, the building was seen engulfed in fire. As such, the fire tender was summoned.
“Sub-Officer Fraser and four other ranks from the Leonora Fire Station responded with fire tenders #84 and #81. On arrival, they went into action and extinguished the fire. However, by then the entire house was already gutted,” the release said, adding that the two bodies were found in the northern area of the house along with a dog.
The undertakers were later summoned and the bodies were taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs in its release said that firefighters worked diligently to extinguish the flames, utilising one jet from water tender #81, along with one line from Light Pump #A6, which sourced water from an open water supply.
“Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn,
and Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham extend their deepest condolences to the grieving family and community affected by this tragic loss.
” Minister Benn emphasised that a full investigation is underway to determine all contributing factors and to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” the release said.
The Chief Fire Officer reiterated the importance of fire safety and adherence to electrical-maintenance protocols, urging all citizens to take necessary precautions to safeguard their homes and families.
“The Guyana Fire Service continues to educate the public on fire-prevention measures and the importance of ensuring electrical systems are properly installed and maintained,” the release said.
Haywattie Bahudur and Hansraj Narine (GPF photo)
First Person: Bodies of children in Haiti have turned into ‘battlegrounds’
ARMED groups in Haiti are inflicting “unimaginable horrors” on children, turning their “bodies into battlegrounds”, according to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The agency’s spokesperson, James Elder, has just visited Port-au-Prince, the capital of the embattled Caribbean nation and has been speaking about what he experienced there.
STAGGERING ABUSE AND NEGLECT
“There has been a staggering 1,000 per cent rise in sexual violence against children in Haiti, which has turned their bodies into battlegrounds. The 10-fold rise, recorded from 2023 to last year, comes as armed groups inflict unimaginable horrors on children.
Almost equally staggering is how little coverage this gruesome statistic has received. And so, if numbers have lost meaning, perhaps the children living this horror will count.
Roseline is 16. Late last year, she left her friend’s house to go to the shop and was abducted by armed men.
She was placed in a
van with other young girls and taken to a warehouse. There she was extensively beaten. She was then drugged and over the course of what she believes to be a month; she was relentlessly raped.
When the armed group realised Roseline had no one to pay her kidnapping ransom, she was released. She is currently in a UNICEF-supported safe house with more than a dozen other girls, all receiving care.
ASTOUNDING INSECURITY
Armed groups now control 85 per cent of Portau-Prince. Let me repeat that. 85 per cent of the capital of Haiti is under the control of armed groups, an astounding case of insecurity in a capital city.
Last year alone, child recruitment into armed groups surged by 70 per cent. Right now, up to half of all armed group members are children, some as young as eight years old. Many are taken by force. Others are manipulated or driven by extreme poverty. It’s a lethal cycle. Children are recruited into groups that fuel their own
suffering.
And in Haiti, the suffering is immense – 1.2 million children live under the constant threat of armed violence.
COLLAPSE OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Essential services have collapsed. Hospitals are overwhelmed. More than half of Haiti’s health facilities lack the equipment and medication to treat children in emergencies.
Playgrounds, schools and homes have turned into battlegrounds, forcing many families to flee. More than 500,000 children have been displaced. An estimated three million will require urgent humanitarian assistance this year.
And education? More than 300,000 children have seen their education disrupted due to recurrent population displacement and school closures.
And as noted, sexual violence is rampant. The abhorrence of an attack on a child is obvious. A 10fold increase is ruinous. The pain of course does not stop with the survivor –it ripples through families, shatters communities and
scars society as a whole. ENGAGING
COMMUNITIES THROUGH YOUNG REPORTERS
And yet, Haitians refuse to give up in the face of crisis.
Take one example: UNICEF’s 135,000 “U-rep orters” in the country. These young people embody the commitment of everyday Haitians, bringing their energy and dedication to help those who need it most.
U-Report is a digital platform created by UNICEF to engage communities, especially youth, in social issues.
And in Haiti, in one month in 2024 alone, U-reporter efforts led to the identification and referral of cases of malnutrition, under-vaccination and essential support for pregnant women in displaced sites and host communities.
UNDERFUNDED PROGRAMMES
Haiti’s progress starts with its children. With incredible partners, UNICEF has created 32 mobile safe spaces to prevent and respond to gender-based
violence, deployed more than 380 health professionals across 105 institutions, distributed cash to almost 30,000 families and treated more than 80,000 children for moderate and severe wasting.
Programmes that meet children's needs can disrupt cycles of violence and reduce the risk of them becoming perpetrators or victims.
Despite this, UNICEF
Haiti’s 2024 emergency funding appeal of $221.4 million was 72 per cent underfunded.
This starkly contrasts with the urgent need for education, protection and development opportunities to prevent children from being drawn into violence. Without these efforts, violence will continue to consume future generations.”
(UN)
UNICEF’s James Elder visits a school in Port-au-Prince (UNICEF/Ralph Tedy Erol photo)
A woman collects relief items distributed by UNICEF (UNICEF/Maxime Le Lijour)
Building a Secure Future
THE latest effort by Guyana in strategic education and defence signifies a committed role to national and regional security.
Yet another significant highlight of this journey was when 40 participants successfully completed a week-long course, Strategy and Defence Policy, that was led by the William J Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, in association with the National Defence Institute (NDI).
This initiative highlights the growing emphasis on capacity-building within Guyana's security architecture, in furtherance of the broader objective of engendering resilience within an increasingly complex global security environment.
The course covered critical areas such as crisis decision-making, human rights and arms proliferation, equipping participants from diverse sectors--including the Guyana Defence
Force, Police Force, and Environmental Protection Agency--with essential strategic tools.
This multidisciplinary approach shows that modern security challenges are not discrete, individualised issues, but rather are deeply interconnected, with solutions requiring broad co-operation.
Dr. Randolph Persaud, Director of the NDI, aptly described the programme as an "overwhelming suc-
cess" and emphasised the enhancement it provides in strategic thought and defence planning.
This achievement is part of a broader vision championed by President Irfaan Ali, who launched the NDI in 2024 to establish it as a regional hub of excellence in defence and development studies.
Partnerships with institutions such as the Perry Center, along with its intention to offer degree
programmes, signal a transformative shift in Guyana's approach to security education.
These complement prior work, such as the University of Guyana Master's in Strategic Development Studies, recognised on the world stage via the 2023 Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education.
Guyana, therefore, leads from the front in defence education for other nations
grappling with similar problems. In embracing knowledge-based interventions and international partnerships, Guyana secures itself while concurrently contributing to regional stability.
With threats across the world in continuous evolution, strategic foresight by Guyana propels it to leadership echelons within hemispheric security discourse-a position which requires sustained commitments and innovation.
Stop attacking our youth
Dear Editor,
OVER the past few weeks, there has been an upsurge in youth involvement in socio-political discourse—an essential development which cannot be underscored enough.
The UN has emphasised young people as being integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), yet often lack adequate platforms to raise concerns. Additionally, UNESCO’s 2023 report on youth activism highlighted youth-centric protests as pivotal in advocating for democracy, social justice and climate action.
We must commend the young people who have forayed into the public discourse, irrespective of whether their constructive criticism is levelled at the government or opposition, for such participation is reflective of vibrant democracy. However, a deeply concerning trend has recently emerged.
Over the past few weeks, a cascade of venomous attacks has been aimed at these young commentators, this author being no exception. These attacks, particularly void of reasoned rebuttal, instead descending into ad-hominems must be chronologized for posterity.
Upon publishing my article
criticising presidential aspirant Mr Nigel Hughes for exploiting the crime wave-era trauma, for political theatre, a slew of abusive responses emerged, primarily from local and overseas opposition elements, with some remarks bordering on racial epithets.
Subsequently, my friend Mr Shaquawn Gill shared his perspective in the press, asking Mr Hughes to provide evidence to substantiate his inflammatory claims.
Shaquawn explicitly stated that he wished not to “impute any improper motives of Hughes or anyone else.”
However, we stated that “the reality is simple – our young people deserve the truth.” In response, he was bombarded with a tidal wave of deeply racist and vitriolic abuse, once again emanating from known opposition elements. Furthermore, young economist, Mr Matthew Gaul, wrote a sharp critique of the education sector on his personal Facebook page. His analysis was praised by several opposition figures and supporters. Just days after publishing this critique, he posted another essay titled, "The Curious Case of Nigel Hughes and His Bid for the Presidency." The essay highlighted
“Manu Ginóbili-esque skills of eurostepping” whenever pressed on policy specifics. Gaul dismissed Hughes' vague political rhetoric, stating, “This is not vision; it is evasion.” describing his candidacy as “profoundly jarring,” citing his numerous documented conflicts of interest. Must I describe the vile, racist abuse he endured in the online space? Need I specify from whom and where such remarks originated?
There exists no doubt in my mind that these attacks were coordinated by the opposition, intended to smear and vilify dissenting young voices into silence. This is damning.
Youth civic participation is vital for renewal of the lifeblood of any healthy democracy.
As unfortunate as these attacks are, they are symptoms of a greater malaise from within the opposition—one that threatens our democracy, but also future generations. The opposition’s prejudice against youth discourse is a highly documented, institutional problem.
A 2015 News Source article featured President Granger defending a “greying” Cabinet, described by the publication, over concerns the “average age” of the Cabinet “appears to
be 55-years-old,” with the then voting population comprising 60 per cent youth. This apparent gerontocracy was pure foreshadowing.
In 2021, following the aftermath of the 2020 elections saga, Thandi McAllister, one of their most prominent young leaders, resigned. In her statement, she concluded that “the present direction of the leadership is ill-suited to the fulfilment of the aspirations of young people in Guyana.”
McAllister had served the party for 25 years and was the PNC/R’s Region Three Chair at the time.
She was subsequently replaced by pensioner Perry Birbal before their 2021 Congress.
McAllister labelled her resignation as “agonizing,” once poised to be the next generation of the PNC/R.
Subsequently, Brian Smith, another rising youth leader within the PNC/R , walked. Smith cited the “Fights of older people” and added: “I think there is need for a new direction, and I think young people are at that level of consciousness.”
Further, Smith advocated for the party to “allow us to tell you what we want for the future…” and “I don’t believe
there is space for us to do that in this construct and as such, I encourage all young people to chart your own course.”
Smith claimed that “young people have been the grass for some time and they suffered” within his former party, positing that ““… you look left, you look right, everybody is a pensioner.” Fast forward to 2024. Following a handshake with President Ali at an outreach in Linden, young MP Jermaine Figueira was abruptly stripped of his portfolio as Shadow Minister for Culture, Youth & Sport. Figueira, a prominent youth leader who also served as the party’s Chair for Region 10 and Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, condemned the decision, stating, “This unmeritorious and unwise decision does not augur well for a party that claims to be democratic and supportive of young people.”
Figueira’s words paint a daunting picture of the current state of our opposition: an arena where young, bright voices are sidelined upon mere notion of dissent. This deep-rooted problem needs to be rectified swiftly if it harbours any serious attempt to escape total electoral wilderness. This was further underscored by the neg-
ative reviews, permeating in the public domain, of the opposition’s 2025 Budget debate performance. The opposition’s disjointed and contradictory presentations were ridiculed to the extent that many were humorously accused of being drafted by ChatGPT.
Compounding this is the lack of a visible or dynamic YSM and YFC—save for the noble Kibwe Copeland—rendering the opposition functionally impotent. One cannot imagine the looming leadership vacuum brewing from the stymying of rising stars.
A sterile opposition is no opposition. This is not conducive to the health of a democracy.
To the opposition, I say this: stop attacking young voices. Your glaring vulnerability to discourse will not only define your marked ineptitude, but also determine your political shelf life.
To the young people, I say this: keep driving the conversation forward. Do not waver. The time has come to build a new political culture—focusing on the dialogue of Guyana’s tomorrow. Now is the time. Let us begin.
Yours sincerely, By Nikhil Sankar
Hughes'
President Trump exposes the true nature of Western journalism
I HAVE done several columns in recent months on the bias and unprofessional nature of the entire ocean of Western journalism since the Israeli perpetuation of genocide in Gaza after Hamas militants invaded Israel on October 7, 2023. I spoke at three public symposia on the Gaza genocide, and I declared in unambiguous language that I believe the Gaza tragedy has destroyed beyond recovery the credibility of Western journalism in the eyes of the people of the post-colonial world.
I elaborated in those columns and in those symposia that I believe it is impossible to get Third World nations to accept, as they did shortly after Independence, that Western journalism is the standard bearer after the way the Gaza tragedy was handled by the Western media.
Here are a few highlights before we come to President Trump’s credible accusations against CBS. First, every Western media house shamelessly took the Israeli versions of what happened in Israel on October 7, 2023. Israel said that babies
were murdered, and their heads hung on sticks and paraded in public. Every Western media house carried that story which was initiated by the New York Times (NYT). The paper got the story from a former air force intelligence officer in Israel. No fact-checking occurred, and the NYT story spread like wildfire in the West. It was not true. Babies killed and their head stuck on sticks and paraded never happened. So why did NYT carry it? The editor-in-chief of NYT is Joseph Kahn, a wealthy Jewish man who has stationery store in Tel Aviv. He and his father, Leo, sit on the board of the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis (CAMERA). This is a pro-Israeli witch-hunting body that exerts extensive pressure on the American media landscape to put Israel in a good light in the US.
Space would not allow for extended analysis of NYT’s pro-Israeli, anti-Hamas bias but see the brilliant article on this subject by Daniel Boguslaw and Ryan Grim for “The Intercept,” published on January 28, 2024.
Secondly, Western media houses instructed their reporters not to use the word “genocide” in their reporting on Gaza. NYT refused an advertisement on January 8 this year from a Quaker organisation named The American Friends Service Committee because it contained the words, “Israeli genocide in Gaza.” Thirdly, the British Guardian dismissed its cartoonist after 40 years of service because his drawing caricatured Netanyahu.
Let’s come now to the exposure of the true nature of American journalism by President Trump. During the presidential election, CBS aired on Face The Nation, an interview with Kamala Harris in which she responded to a question on Netanyahu. For “60 Minutes” CBS carried the same interview but Ms. Harris words on the Netanyahu question was altered to make her appear more competent.
Mr. Trump sued CBS for $5billion (US) claiming it was election interference by CBS. When he came to power last month, he requested the Federal Communication Commission to order the tape of the
full interview which CBS handed over. The complete interview is now public and in it, Ms. Harris appeared to be shambolic, rambling and incompetent.
CBS withheld material to favour Ms. Harris. This is the type of journalism the West accuses Third World countries of practising. We are now seeing the nature of Western journalism for what it always was only that colonialism brainwashed us into accepting that their institutions were higher than our own. So embarrassed is CBS that it has agreed to settle the court case with Trump.
In another startling revelation by President Trump, it has now been made public that the USAID was using government money to fund
pro-Democratic Party, proBiden newspapers, especially the influential liberal online newspaper, “Politico.” I honestly believe that we have seen the end of the dominance of Western newspapers in the Global South.
The mask has been removed; a mask Western media wore since the West colonised the Third World. Colonial nations were told that the BCC was the paragon of independent journalism. Then came the popularity of the NYT for printing the Pentagon papers exposing American deceit in starting the Vietnam War.
The domination of the Western Media reached its apogee when the Washington Post exposed the Nixon presidency in 1974 in what
is now known as the Watergate scandal, (made into the mega hit movie, “All The President’s Men”).
The collapse of the West’s journalistic hegemony has certainly awakened the consciousness of the people of the Third World who subliminally believed Western institutions were superior. The leaders of Jamaica and Trinidad still think British judges in the Privy Council are superior to the judges of the Caribbean Court of Justice.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
911, What’s your emergency? The Traffic
THERE are way too many fatal and serious accidents happening on our roadways. This is not a localised issue; it is ubiquitous all across the country. Something is wrong. It is time we pinpoint the contributing factors and nip it in the bud right away. Is there an issue with traffic administration, driver competence, road use culture or enforcement? In the opinion of this
columnist, it is all of the above, and then some.
Let me say from the outset, I do not believe it is all doom and gloom. On the administration side, we see great efforts by the government to install
electronic speed monitors, speed trap cameras and other forms of data capture, processing and automation technology. To accompany this effort, the Attorney General has announced that relevant laws are being refined to ensure congruence with the deployed technology. One would be hard pressed to criticise these laudable efforts. It shows that the government is aware and are pursuing initiatives to make our roads safer.
That said, I would advocate for these efforts to go even further and fast. I wish to use this space to again advocate for the establishment of a Department of Traffic and Road Safety, to bring under one roof all aspects of traffic administration. As it stands, the Guyana Revenue Authority, the Guyana Police Force, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Works share responsibility for fragmented aspects of traffic administration. Of those tasked with various aspects of traffic administration, the Guyana Police Force is the most burdened. For example, Certifying Officers who are responsible for inspecting and certifying the fitness of vehicles literally require an entire complement of staff to conduct inspections, write up and issue fitness certificates, do financial processing and bookkeeping; all through a labour-intensive process. The police are required to actually inspect every aspect of the operation of a vehicle before issuing a certificate, but they are so burdened that they don’t even bother to carry out an inspection. They simply take your registration or an old fitness certificate, collect the required fee
and write a certificate of fitness. We actually do not know how many defective vehicles are being certified daily. Not to mention, the already labourious process used for issuing and tracking traffic tickets, inevitably resulting in less than optimum management of the process. Imagine complicating that with the new system of electronic traffic management. The police will be responsible for generating tickets, downloading video footage, corroborating evidence for prosecution and ensuring the administration of the process to its logical conclusion.
Further, imagine if we add to that a demerit points system. The police will have to scale back their crime fighting efforts to administer such a system. This is not the best use of officers who are trained for law enforcement. Perhaps this was a sufficient arrangement when there were just a few vehicles on our roadways and just about one thousand new vehicles per year. However, with the exponential growth of all categories of vehicles on our roadways, it is diverting away valuable resources and manpower from actual policing.
Let the police stick to law enforcement and turn over these administrative functions to a civilian organisation. The only administrative responsibilities the police should be asked to carry out is administration of the force itself. Even if the entire certifying and ticketing processes were to be automated it will still require tremendous resources for back-office administration; functions best carried out by a civilian organisation.
In the area of driver competence, we have a pretty robust system on the books, but every Guyanese know that shortcuts are taken in the system, as long as the written test is successfully taken and a valid provisional driver’s license is presented, the burdened force is known to skip the procedures for practical testing and issue competence certificates following verbal interviews. A paradigm shift is necessary.
We probably need an entire column to discuss our poor driving and road use culture. Suffice it to say, we need massive public reeducation and reorientation on the use of our roadways. If we continue to ask the police to undertake so many traffic administration responsibilities, then it doesn’t take much imagination to understand why enforcement cannot be more effective than it is. It is routine for motorcyclists to just ride past the police without a helmet and vehicles with a tinted front windscreen can exist with impunity, knowing that the chances of being detained are next to zero.
How does one write a column on traffic management in Guyana without mentioning the marauding madness of the “sand trucks” on our roads, especially on the East Bank of Demerara? Things are bad. We are losing our citizens senselessly; this is a major national emergency.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Money changer robbed at gunpoint on America Street
THE police are investigating an alleged Robbery Under Arms committed on a 51-year-old Vendor/Money Changer who was robbed of $440,000 cash (Guyana currency), US$200 and one gold chain valued at $300,000.
The robbery occurred on February 7 at about 18:20hrs, on Avenue of the Republic and America Street, Georgetown, by two unidentifiable men of African descent, wearing face masks, one armed with a handgun.
Enquiries disclosed that on the date and
time mentioned, the victim was packing up clothing into his minibus from which he was selling, on the western side of Avenue of the Republic, when one of the suspects walked up alongside him from a northern direction, pulled out a black handgun from the front
of his pants, pointed it at the victim and said to him 'don’t move.'
The suspect pushed his hand into the victim's pants pocket and took out the above-mentioned money (cash), then he snatched off
the victim's gold chain from around his neck.
The suspect then joined his accomplice who was waiting on a motorcycle that was parked on the eastern side of Avenue of the Republic and they
made good their escape south along Avenue of the Republic towards Hadfield Street.
Several persons were questioned by detectives as investigations continue. (GPF)
GNBS Technical Assistance Programme a crucial support for local business development
WITH local businesses and organisations striving to implement the requirements of national and international standards to gain competitive advantage, increase consumer confidence and cost savings, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is at the forefront of offering this support.
Through its Technical Assistance Programme, the bureau works with businesses to implement the requirements of a number of standards, in preparation for certification and accreditation.
The GNBS Business Development Department has a team of qualified Technical Officers who have the training and experience necessary to help clients move their operations and business opportunities to the next level with standards.
According to the GNBS, during the provision of this
crucial support, officers provide training to employees of clients on the requirements of the standard and assist them in developing the necessary documentation and systems to fulfill the requirements.
This guidance and support will remove doubt and delays during implementation, while also ensuring that employees are fully equipped to maintain the certification or accreditation.
The bureau stated that once there is continuous commitment from companies desirous of technical assistance, the duration usually ranges from six to 12 months and follows a step-by-step approach.
The first step requires a company to fill out and submit a Technical Assistance application form which can be provided by GNBS or accessed on its website: www.gnbsgy.org. On submission, the completed form is reviewed, and Technical
Officer(s) are assigned to work with the company. The initial engagement includes the preparation of a proposal including cost, time span for the completion of the programme and details of the processes.
It explained that when both parties agree to the proposal and sign the document, the Technical Assistance Programme commences with an Awareness Session. The GNBS said it then undertakes a gap analysis of the company to assess what systems need to be developed or what needs to be modified.
Additionally, on completion, a report is compiled, and the findings are reviewed and discussed with the company followed by the development of an implementation plan with details of how the programme will be executed. Also included in the implementation plan are periods set aside for training on the requirements of the
standard, documentation, hands-on implementation, and finally a pre-assessment of the system developed.
Technical assistance is also offered to businesses pursuing the GNBS ‘Made in Guyana’ certification mark programme, the Laboratory Certification programme and the GYS 901 Certification programme.
With regards to international standards, the GNBS offers technical assistance on the ISO 9001 Quality Management System standard, the ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety standard, the ISO 22000 Food Safety Management System standard, the ISO/IEC 17020 Inspection Management System standard, the ISO 15189 Medical Laboratories- Requirements for Quality and Competence, the ISO 14001 Environmental Management standard, the ISO/ IEC 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of Testing
and Calibration Laboratories and the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Sys tem (HACCP) requirements.
hosted a one-day stakehold er engagement session in collaboration with the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) under the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Quality Infrastructure Programme, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).
tourism, petroleum and other sectors. Additionally, 210 copies of more than 600 available standards were sold for implementation by various industry partners during 2024.
Together, these organisations and the GNBS, embarked on the development of a National Standardisation Strategy (NSS).
As a national standards body, the GNBS is a key partner in the adoption, development and implementation of national, regional and international standards in Guyana.
Over the last year alone, 33 national standards were approved for the agriculture,
In 2022, the CROSQ revised its standardisation strategy, the regional standards development priority plan. This plan seeks to guide the direction of regional standards development work over the next few years and to ensure that we manage the expectation of Member States and provide a basis for efficient and effective resource utilisation.
For reliable and effective technical assistance, the public is encouraged to contact the GNBS Business Development Team on telephone number 2190064-66 or WhatsApp them on +592-692-4627. Persons can also visit the GNBS Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates.
Census at advanced stage of data analysis – Minister Singh
SENIOR Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, has said that the completion of the 2022 census is currently at an advanced stage of data analysis.
The minister made this known during a recent sitting of the National Assembly where he provided an update on the process.
He said: “My latest information is that they are at an advanced stage of analysis of the data and triangulating that data and work has been ongoing.”
Dr. Singh said that this work is ongoing alongside the preparation of the re-
port, and he reiterated that it is at a very advanced stage.
According to the minister, the Bureau of Statistics has essentially completed the field work which includes the enumeration and visiting of households.
However, he indicated that there was a level of non-responsiveness in households in different areas, which must be subject to analysis and triangulation with other data sources as he added that they have standard methodologies that are used to validate same
On that basis, the bureau will then complete
its final compilation, tabulation and subsequently
its preliminary report followed by the final report.
“I will simply say that the government shares the
view that the preliminary census report should be concluded as quickly as possible and we have conveyed that clearly to the leadership of the stats bureau and I have no doubt that they will conclude it and issue it as soon as they possibly can,” Dr Singh said.
To this end, the minister added that census data is important in terms of demographic trends and policy making, including the prediction of spatial trends in relation to the population, where public services are needed and where public services can be scaled back among other things.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh
Guyana Energy Conference: A chronicle of growth and innovation
SERVING as a central platform for dialogue, investment and innovation, the Guyana Energy Conference (GEC) has evolved into a pivotal event that reflects the country’s well-positioned stance in the global energy landscape.
CHARTING A SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
FUTURE - 2022
The inaugural GEC was launched in 2022 to connect local businesses with international partners, fostering collaboration and investment.
Dubbed the International Energy Conference and Exhibition then, the inaugural event featured over 190 exhibitors and has set the stage for what
is now a staple in the country’s Calendar of Events.
Held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, the inaugural conference aimed to introduce Guyana’s emerging energy sector to the world.
HARNESSING ENERGY FOR DEVELOPMENT – 2023
In 2022 the conference expanded, reflecting the growing excitement surrounding Guyana's burgeoning energy sector.
Attended by over 1,200 registered participants, over 200 exhibitors and more than 800 delegates and sponsors, the conference presented a unique forum that brought together both industry players and national and regional
policymakers to not only leverage investment and business opportunities, but to make this relevant to a clearly developed policy and regulatory context.
FUELLING TRANSFORMATION AND MODERNISATION – 2024
By 2024, the Guyana Energy Conference had solidified its position on the global stage. The conference expanded significantly, both in terms of participants and scope.
With Guyana's oil production also reaching new milestones, the conference was a hotbed for conversations on everything from offshore exploration to energy policy. Broadening its focus to
include discussions on sustainability, technology, and the broader energy supply chain, adapting to the dynamic nature of the energy sector, the conference was rebranded prioritising the pursuit of transformation and modernisation.
Rebranded as the ‘Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo’ the event shifted its focus to highlight how the income from energy resources is being used to develop all other sectors across the country,
CONNECTING THE DOTS: INTEGRATING THE FUTURE – 2025
Just days away, this year’s conference is anticipated to be the country’s most expansive yet.
Key topics on the agenda for the 2025 conference include: A just energy transition; financing sustainable development initiatives; developing a workforce for the future; building resilient supply chains; and promoting the advancement of women in the oil and gas industry. In addition to these main topics, this year will see the introduction of parallel sessions that will delve into specialised areas relevant to industry professionals, such as renewable-energy integration, supply-chain optimisation and the application of artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and resilience.
The conference slated to be held at the Marriott
Hotel from February 18 to 21 will feature a distinguished lineup of government officials, experts, and renowned thought-leaders across all industries. WHAT TO EXPECT?
To make the 2025 conference more engaging, the secretariat has planned several new initiatives, including an energy run/ walk and an essay competition in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. Additionally, a “Taste of Guyana” event is on the agenda to introduce delegates to authentic Guyanese cuisine, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce.
Flashback: Several heads of government and industry players during the official opening of the 2023 International Energy Conference and Expo at the Georgetown, Guyana Marriott Hotel
From bowman to successful speedboat operator
By Michel Outridge
GROWING up in Supenaam Creek, Essequibo River, Otis Roberts learned at an early age the value of things due to his disciplined upbringing and strong parental guidance.
He is from a small riverine village located about 500 metres from the mouth of the Essequibo River and he grew up with a deep love and appreciation for sports, especially football and cricket.
Roberts also served as a Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC)
councillor, and he became self-employed when he managed to establish his own speedboat service.
The father of four told the Guyana Chronicle that Roberts Speedboat Service plies the Parika/Supenaam route, and he is also a licensed tour operator.
The 37-year-old stated that he provides tours to both locals and foreigners (tourists) and would provide this service to Hogg Island, Fort Island, Saxacalli Beach, Baracara Falls, and Tiperu Falls, among other places, all located in the Essequibo River.
Roberts reported that he has reasonably priced tour packages with his two boats and has teamed up with his brother, Christopher, to establish Roberts Speedboat Service.
“Growing up in Supenaam Creek gave me a strong connection of the river life as a youth and I learned a lot of things such as the tides, the currents, weather patterns, etc and since business was part of my family, my parents had a food business at Supenaam waterfront and that motivated me to become independent at an early age,” he said.
grammes.
Roberts added that he spent 11 months at the training facility and was successful in his courses in joinery and Information Technology.
Following the graduation, he returned home and began working as a bowman with a privately-owned speedboat operator for some time.
After gaining some experience in that field, Roberts became a schoolteacher, moving around mostly in the Essequibo River, teaching at Hogg Island, Great Troolie Island, and Karia Karia
Roberts related that he began rearing meat birds, knowing the principles of hard work and dedication he went into entrepreneurship, he used to walk and sell plantain chips to earn to send himself to school.
He stated that his father worked as a speedboat operator when he was younger and today, he is the monitor at the Supenaam stelling for the speedboat service.
He gathered the know how to run a successful business as a young man and after he completed secondary education, he went to Kuru Kuru Training College to pursue skills training pro -
- Otis Roberts tells his story
to pursue tertiary education.
Roberts said it was Wong who helped him to establish his own speedboat service and without his (Wong’s) input, he probably wouldn’t have been able to.
He has been in the speedboat service for 11 years now and he worked with Wong for almost nine years before he recognised the potential the industry had to offer in becoming self-employed.
Primary schools for four years.
When Roberts had children, he knew he had to choose his career carefully in order to provide adequately for his family.
He decided to quit teaching after four years in the profession and he attained his boat-captaincy licence and began working with boat owner, the late Elton Wong, who had provided mentorship to him over the years.
It was Wong who encouraged him to get his own boat to start his own speedboat service to earn a livelihood because he wanted his children (family) to be financially stable
Roberts attributes his success to President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who during a meeting enabled the Maritime Department to reopen the licensing of private speedboat service for locals. In 2020, he was granted approval for his boat licence.
He began operating his first boat soon after and a year later he was able to secure his second boat. These two boats and one belonging to his brother operate as part of Roberts’ Speedboat Service.
As he spoke with this publication, Roberts revealed that he used to walk and sell boiled corn, referred to as ‘gun oil,’ a
trade he did to assist himself and four siblings to attend school.
He is very grateful for his family, who has always been by his side, in the highs and lows of his successes and for that he is very fortunate to have people beside him every step of the way.
“The speedboat business has potential, and my service is widely known because of the service we provide in meeting the needs and expectations of passengers. We do it the right and safe way, everything is licensed and legal with all safety measures in place,” he said.
Roberts stated that the speedboat business is something you have to keep investing in to remain operational and he is thankful to his wife, who is a pillar of strength in his journey of gaining boat ownership.
“For young entrepreneurs, my advice is simple: stay committed, be willing to put in the work and never give up. Successes don’t come overnight but with the right mindset and persistence, you can build something great,” Roberts said.
The interior of one of the boats owned by Roberts Speedboat Service
Otis (in blue jersey) and his brother, Christopher Roberts
The boats owned and operated by the Roberts brothers moored at the stelling
Three additional generators procured for Region Two – Kesh Nandlall
IN an effort to enhance power stability and boost electricity generation in Region Two, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has procured three additional generators.
This was disclosed by Kesh Nandlall, Head of GPL’s Executive Management Committee, during an interview with media operatives at Onderneeming.
Nandlall stated that the new generators will significantly improve the region’s power generation capacity and provide a clean addition to the grid. He emphasised GPL’s commitment to strengthening the national grid.
The newly acquired generators will serve as
a backup, supplying an additional six megawatts of power to the Essequibo Coast.
“We are heading in
the right direction. Our goal is to make Guyana’s national grid smarter and more resilient,” Nandlall said.
Upon hearing the news, Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, expressed her satisfaction, noting that the business community has been advocating for this improvement.
She highlighted the region’s rapid expansion, particularly in the area of tourism, which makes a stable electricity supply even more essential. De Silva commended GPL for taking this proactive step. Residents had recently called for such a measure following periodic power outages in the region.
With an increase in weekend visitor arrivals and a growing hospitality sector, a reliable power supply is crucial for sustaining business operations and ensuring continued economic development.
Kesh Nandlall, Head of GPL’s Executive Management Committee, speaks to reporters on Saturday
Region Two’s Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva
Home Affairs Ministry reminds foreign travellers of mandatory immigration procedures at ports of entry, exit
THE Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has reminded all foreign travellers entering and leaving Guyana of the mandatory immigration procedures in place to ensure compliance with the Laws of Guyana.
In a press release issued on Sunday, the ministry said that these laws are enforced under the Immigration Act, Chapter 14:02.
All foreign travellers entering or leaving Guyana must present themselves to an immigration officer at the designated Ports of Entry and Exit. Failure to adhere to this requirement will result in strict enforcement measures, the ministry warned.
Any individual found in Guyana without a valid entry stamp or a permit (immigration form) indicating their
entry date can be subject to deportation. Further, any foreign traveller who departs Guyana without properly presenting themselves to an immigration officer at an official Port of Exit can be refused re-entry or be disbarred upon attempting to return.
The ministry stated that to facilitate proper immigration processing, travellers must use the following desig-
nated Ports of Entry and Exit in various parts of Guyana: Region One- Morawhanna; Region Two- Charity; Region Three –Parika; Region Four –Georgetown, Eugene F Correia International Airport (Ogle, East Coast Demerara), and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, (Timehri, East Bank Demerara); Region Six- Moleson Creek, New Amsterdam - Spring -
lands; Region Seven- Bartica and Eteringbang; and in Region Nine - Lethem.
The Ministry of Home Affairs in its press release urged all travellers to comply with the abovementioned immigration requirements to avoid legal consequences. It pointed out that these measures are in place to uphold national security and maintain orderly travel procedures.
Early detection, constant check-ups recommended in fight against all cancers
WHEN it comes to our health, being informed and aware is one of the first preventative steps that can be taken. This should be followed by frequent screening, testing, and regular checkups.
These steps were outlined by the Coordinator of Cancer Services at the Chronic Disease Unit, Dr. Shanique Greaves, in a recent interview on the Ministry of Health’s Health Matters programme where she provided invaluable advice on cancer awareness, prevention, and care.
In observance of World Cancer Day 2025 which was celebrated last Friday, the doctor highlighted that breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, and rectal cancer are the most prevalent cancers in Guyana. She emphasised that presently, attention is also being given to childhood cancers.
Dr. Greaves explained that cancer is an activation of the growth of abnormal cells within the body. This could be as a result of various reasons, she said adding that overtime, the cells begin to multiply and divide. This affects the proper functioning of normal cells and eventually this abnormality takes over the entire body.
“I know many people usually wait until there is a
A screengrab of Coordinator of Cancer Services at the Chronic Disease Unit, Dr. Shanique Greaves, speaking during the Health Matters programme
very bad health issue before they visit their local health centres or even see a doctor,” she said before emphasising “I always like to say prevention is always better than a cure, which means that we can be able to avoid a disease from happening or any sort of disaster. We should get in front of the situation in doing so. Unfortunately, it's not a very much practiced culture we have in Guyana.”
She later underscored the importance of getting a routine screening done even if you feel healthy, or there are no signs or symptoms of deteriorating health.
“We still need to do our routine screening in order to know for sure whether or not it's something that we might catch in the very early stage, which gives us a lot higher survival rate,” she said adding that a late diagnosis
decreases the chance of survival greatly.
When it comes to support from family, Dr. Greaves said it is ideal. She explained that being diagnosed with a disease that is often talked about can affect that person’s mental health.
She pointed out that cancer not only affects the person that is diagnosed, but also the family members who have to take care of them. Dr. Greaves affirmed that this is the part where we as a population need to come together and lend a helping hand to the affected.
The doctor pointed out that some signs and symptoms that persons would want to look for, specifically as it relates to cervical cancer, are abnormal bleeding outside of your regular menstruation, spotting, a prolonged menstrual cycle,
painful sex or pain after sex and any bleeding during or after sex.
“Any abnormal vaginal discharge that usually is something that's recurrent, like you've been taking medication for and you find that it's still not working…It can be different reasons that may be the cause for it, but if it is that you notice you've been taking treatment and you're still not getting resolve, you
may also want to go to get checked …you might want to run some additional testing on you,” she expressed.
Lower abdominal pains or back pains, swelling to the feet or fatigue are also some signs that people may want to pay attention to.
Dr. Greaves related that these are all general symptoms that doctors look for when it comes to cancers in general, in the early stages.
Women who would have already gone into menopause and after some years may experience some bleeding coming from the vagina, should engage a doctor. Persons whose mother or sister have been diagnosed with breast cancer or who have a history of any type of cancer in their family should be screened regularly, Dr. Greaves emphasised. (Faith Greene)
Dilapidated wooden bridge at Golden Fleece to be replaced with concrete structure
RESIDENTS
of Golden Fleece, Region Two, have long expressed concerns about the deteriorating wooden bridge which poses safety risks to daily commuters, including farmers, schoolchildren, and those transporting produce to the Golden Fleece Rice Investment mill.
During several community meetings, residents repeatedly voiced their concerns about the bridge’s worsening condition. In response, Regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Oodit, Prime Minister’s Representative, Arnold Adams, and Annandale/Riverstown Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Chairperson, Hansoutie Ramkellwan, recently conducted a walkabout to hear about the residents’ needs.
It was during this engagement that Oodit shared the news. He told residents that the construction of a reinforced concrete bridge at Golden Fleece has been approved. The announcement was met with relief, as the existing wooden structure was no longer safe for heavy-duty vehicles, making its daily
use very hazardous.
Oodit assured residents that regional officials remain committed to addressing their concerns and improving infrastructure. He also highlighted recent developments in the community, including road upgrades, improvements to the community ground, and enhanced access roads for farmers. Additionally, he noted that farmers now have access to a drying floor for paddy.
Meanwhile, NDC Chairperson, Ramkellwan, emphasised that local councillors continue to submit suggestions and complaints, which are addressed accordingly.
Residents welcomed the officials’ presence and efforts.
“We are very happy for this walkabout and grateful that the officials are reaching out to us. We appreciate everything that is happening in our community,” said Unis Rooplall.
Golden Fleece remains a predominantly rice-farming community, and the new bridge is expected to significantly improve connectivity and transportation for the residents.
Dilapidated wooden bridge at Golden Fleece to be replaced with concrete structure
Sharma silences doubters with 32nd ODI century to down England
[ESPNCRICINFO] - Rohit Sharma silenced the doubters and showed his readiness to lead India into the Champions Trophy, as he powered through to his 32nd ODI century to set his side up for an unassailable 2-0 series lead in the second ODI against England at Cuttack.
With India set a stiff but far from daunting 305 to win, after a piecemeal England performance featuring seven double-figure scores but nothing more imposing than Joe Root's 69 from 72 balls, Rohit demonstrated the blend of power and en
durance that the black-soil conditions required, as he broke the back of the chase with 119 from 90 balls, including 12 fours and seven sixes.
He reached his landmark from 76 balls with the last of those sixes, a glorious lofted drive over wide long-off off Adil Rashid, and had he not scuffed a Liam Livingstone full-toss to midwicket with 85 runs still needed, the margin of victory could have been crushing. Instead, India injected a few late jitters into their chase, losing three wickets in five overs after Shreyas Iyer was need-
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Monday, February 10, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) BANG, IND, NZ & PAK
(2) AFG, AUST, ENG & SA
Today’s Quiz: (1) Which team was the first to win an ICC Champions Trophy title?
(2) Where was the first tournament held?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
RACING
09:45 hrs Lumi Plug-in
10:15 hrs Narragansett
10:45 hrs Korus
11:15 hrs Confinentic
11:45 hrs Siberian Star
12:15 hrs Joly Jump
12:45 hrs Getmetothemoon
12:25 hrs Finn Russell
13:00 hrs Megaphone
13:30 hrs Counsel
14:00
14:30 hrs Balmy Breese
15:00
lessly run out for 44, and it required Axar Patel's calm 41 not out from 43 balls to guard against embarrassment.
Realistically though, England had been chasing shadows long before Ravindra Jadeja, their chief tormenter with the ball, had driven the winning boundary with 33 balls to spare. Those shadows had been literal ones at one stage, when a floodlight failure in the seventh over caused a tedious 40-minute delay. Despite his well-documented struggles in Australia this winter, and notwithstanding his unconvincing 2 from seven balls in Nagpur on Thursday, Rohit has played too few ODIs of late to be considered out of form in the format. This was only his fifth 50-over innings since the World Cup final in November 2023, where his haul of 597 runs at 54.27 had been instrumental in his team's march to the final. Since then, he had added two more fifties in three innings in Sri Lanka in August. Even with his 38th birthday looming in April, and with 11,000 career ODI runs beckoning in Ahmedabad on Wednes-
day, he's looking good for a few more yet.
As in Nagpur, Rohit's first seven balls were the least convincing of his innings, although this time they weren't also his last seven. His first boundary was a streaky four through deep third off Gus Atkinson, but when he found his range one ball later, it was as if a switch had been flicked in his game-brain. Out came a sublime pick-up off the pads which flew over deep
midwicket for six - arguably the best shot he had played all winter - and suddenly his timing was attuned to the surface. Saqib Mahmood, who had troubled him in a tight first over, was blazed for two more sixes in overs three and five, over extra cover and long-off, and the chase was on.
Rohit had eased along to 29 off 18 when the floodlight failure kicked in, and the frustration could have been all the more acute
when Mark Wood entered the attack after the resumption and struck him on the knee-roll with his third ball. However, England's review was deemed by ball-tracking to have only been clipping leg, and Rohit's response was to slam his front foot to the pitch of his next ball, and lift Wood clean over longoff for his fourth six in eight overs - as many as England managed in their entire innings.
15:30 hrs Busby 16:00 hrs Zafaan 16:30 hrs King Of Speed
10:00 hrs Frisby 10:30 hrs Asa 11:00 hrs Its All About You
11:30 hrs Ideallko 12:00 hrs Foster's Fortune
12:30 hrs Count Of Vendome AMERICAN RACING TIPS MAHONING VALLEY Race 1 Village Cat Race 2 Oklahoma Joe Race 3 Spirited Ride Race 4 Sweet Empire Race 5 Corner Office Race 6 Wildcat Express
Powell, McCoy and Hope help Dubai Capitals to maiden title
(ESPNCRICINFO)
-
Rovman Powell made the most of a second life gifted to him by Azam Khan to power Dubai Capitals to their maiden ILT20 title as they beat Desert Vipers in the thrilling final.
Capitals conceded 189, when they were in a position restrict Vipers to a lower total and were then 31 for 3 after five overs in the chase. That could have been 46 for 4, but a wicketkeeping error from Azam was punished in full by Powell, who hammered 63 off 38, to help Capitals pull off a four-wicket win.
Shai Hope and Sikandar Raza also played key roles in the stiff chase as Capitals registered their fourth win
against Vipers in the season.
Half-centuries from Max Holden and Sam Curran took Vipers to a competitive total, with Azam also chipping in with an impactful cameo of 27 off 13. But it wasn't enough in the end.
Powell's second life the turning point
Capitals were in trouble early in their chase of 190, with David Warner chopping on off David Payne and Mohammad Amir removing Gulbadin Naib and Sam Billings, who was also dropped off Amir three balls before his dismissal.
Vipers almost had another one when Nathan Sowter had Powell stumped down the leg side, but the third umpire caught Azam bring-
ing his gloves beside the stumps before collecting the ball and it was declared a no-ball.
That proved to be the turning point in the game as Powell, who was on 2 off 6 at the time, switched gears to wrestle momentum away from Vipers. He hit Sowter for a six before crashing 15 off the 16 runs Curran conceded off the next over, with two fours and a six.
Hope picked up the pace as well, hitting Sowter for a six as the next two overs fetched Capitals 21 runs.
Even as Curran accounted for Hope, Powell kept going, while Dasun Shanaka joined in with an impactful cameo of 21 off 10.
Raza applies finishing
touches
With 38 still needed off 19 deliveries, the job was far from done but Raza ensured Capitals went over the line.
Raza and Powell picked up a boundary each off the 18th over, before Sowter finally had his man when Powell was caught at backward point.
However, Raza hit three fours off four balls in the next over to leave Capitals with just nine needed off the final over.
Raza finished the game in style, hitting Khuzaima Tanveer for a six and four off the first two balls of the last over to seal a win without any more drama.
McCoy gives Capitals
the perfect start Capitals got off to a great start after winning the toss as Obed McCoy removed the dangerous Alex Hales with his first ball. Hales chipped him to midwicket, where Haider Ali took a good catch diving forward.
Capitals could have had Gurbaz back in the hut in the next over, but Scott Kuggeleijn dropped him at deep point off Farhan Khan.
Holden, who cracked two boundaries off McCoy in the first five balls he faced, injected Vipers with the early momentum, racing to 22 off 13 when Gurbaz miscued McCoy to mid-off in the fifth over.
Holden holds Vipers together
Holden continued to attack, picking three boundaries off Kuggeleijn to take Vipers to 53 for 2 at the end of the powerplay. He brought up a 32-ball half-century in the eighth over with a boundary driven back over Raza's head. Another attempted straight drive off the next ball almost saw him hole out, but Powell dropped him running to his right from long-on.
Dan Lawrence then holed out at deep cover off Haider, having contributed just 10 runs to a 41-run stand for the third wicket. Capitals slowed things down and it only got better for them when Holden holed off to long-on off Raza.
10-man Barca beat Sevilla
(BBC) - Fermin Lopez scored and was sent off in a 15-minute spell as Barcelona closed the gap on Real Madrid at the top of La Liga to just two points with a brilliant win at Sevilla.
With the score level at half-time, Lopez was introduced from the bench and he immediately put Barcelona ahead with a header into the bottom corner with his first touch.
However, he was then shown a straight red card for a knee-high challenge on Djibril Sow - after a video assistant referee (VAR) review.
Robert Lewandowski
opened the scoring in seventh minute with his 19th goal of the season after reaching to prod home Inigo Martinez's header.
A minute later, Ruben Vargas equalised for the hosts, latching onto former Barcelona midfielder Saul Niguez's pass before firing home.
Sevilla had the ball in the back of the net almost immediately after Lopez had put Barca ahead but Vargas' strike was ruled out for offside before huge appeals for a penalty after Sow collided with Jules Kounde were waved away.
Raphinha's right-footed effort from outside the box made it 3-1 just before Lopez saw red but Barca extended their lead late on when Eric Garcia headed in at the back post.
League leaders Real Madrid and second placed Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 in their city derby on Saturday evening - allowing Hansi Flick's Barcelona to capitalise on both sides dropping points.
Up next for Flick's side is a home game against sixthplaced Rayo Vallecano on Monday, 17 February while Sevilla, who sit 13th, travel to Valladolid a day before.
Raphinha moved to Barcelona from Leeds in 2022
Dover to head Golden Jags for CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualifiers
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is pleased to announce that Wayne Dover will continue to serve as interim Head Coach of the Senior Men’s National Team for the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup qualifiers window in March, as the Golden Jaguars face Guatemala in a crucial home-and-away series to advance to the Gold Cup in June 2025.
Since announcing the vacancy for the Head Coach position in December, the GFF has received over 200 applications from candidates both regionally and
internationally. Given the exceptional quality of applicants, the Federation is committed to a thorough selection process and will finalize its decision by the end of March, with an official announcement to follow.
As the Golden Jaguars prepare for their Gold Cup qualification the Federation remains focused on ensuring the best possible leadership for the national team, both in the immediate campaigns slated for 2025 and the long-term development of Guyana’s football.
Wayne Dover
Raducanu out of Qatar open
(BBC) - Emma Raducanu fell to a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time in her career as she was beaten in straight sets by Ekaterina Alexandrova in the first round of the Qatar Open.
The British number two let slip 3-1 leads in both sets as Russian Alexandrova won 6-3 7-5 on Sunday.
Raducanu had received a wildcard entry for the tournament in Doha, which is the first WTA 1000 event of the year.
Alexandrova will next face top seed and world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Raducana, ranked 60th in the world, started brightly against Alexandrova, who she beat in the first round of the Australian Open in January.
But Alexandrova, who won a WTA Tour title in Linz, Austria last week, was able to take advantage of Raducanu failing to secure a second break of serve and sealed the opening set by winning five consecutive points.
Alexandrova, 30, dipped slightly in the early stages
of the second set, which allowed Raducana to lead once again, but the world number 26 claimed a crucial break at 5-5 and then served out the match.
Raducanu was joined by her mentor Jane O'Donoghue in Doha, who flew out to offer the 2021 US Open Champion her support.
One Guyana Basketball Premier League… Victory Valley Royals and Block 22 Flames take spoils in latest action
Linden’s Victory Valley Royals and Block 22 Flames earned contrasting wins on Saturday as action continued in the One Guyana Basketball Premier League at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Royals were led by Vibert Benjamin and Kobe Tappin as they dominated panthers 77-33.
Benjamin led all scorers with a game high 23 points after an impressive opening period where they led 28-5.
The Royals also had good games from Kobe Tappin with 17 points and Daniel Lee with 11.
They led 54-16 at the half and never relented as
they close it out by 44 points.
Flames also successfully battled Kobras in a closely contested clash that ended 57-50.
Flames took the early lead 17-7 after the opening quarter thanks in part to Shemar Savory who finished with 20 points.
Flame would build that advantage at the half 32-18 but Kobras found some momentum after the break to pull back the encounter.
They outscored Flames 17-16 to halt the decline before putting in a strong fourth quarter but were still was marginal short as Flames took a 7 points victory after a good showing
from Leandre Joseph with 14 buckets.
The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport and the National Sports Commission.
The league is set to conclude in April and features 22 teams in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for bragging rights, top dollars, and the coveted trophy.
This year sees the top side collecting a million for first place, with half a million for the second-place team, with third and fourth place also collecting cash prizes along with trophies.
Emma Raducanu fell to a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time in her career
Obed McCoy struck with his