Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 14-06-2024

14th June, 2024

Over the last three years, there has been a significant influx of investors from Africa to the Caribbean, a development President Dr. Irfaan Ali regards as being promising, and the beginnings of a golden opportunity for trade and collaboration (Office of the President photos)

No evidence of US interference in Guyana’s 2020 elections

- author of article published in Chicago Journal of International Law trying to ‘rewrite’ country’s history with unfounded claims - misrepresentations diminished coordinated national, regional, international efforts to uphold the will of the people, Minister Teixeira says

‘Gold smugglers’ to face full force of the law

- gov’t mulls foreign partnership to address this issue; penalties to become stricter for such illegal operations, Vice-President Jagdeo says - local authorities write US officials for all information related to recent matter

Bank of Guyana revokes Mohamed’s cambio licence Mae Thomas resigns from PPP Central Committee; maintains her innocence

- VP Jagdeo says gov’t launching full investigation into matters highlighted by the US

Public sector workers benefit from $83B more in salaries since 2020

African investors’ interest could spark massive transformations within CARICOM - President Ali says

By Shamar Meusa in Nassau, The Bahamas

OVER the last three years, there has been a significant influx of investors from Africa to the Caribbean, a development President Dr. Irfaan Ali sees as having the potential to trigger massive transformations and the realisation of great opportunities for trade and collaboration within the region.

The Head of State made the foregoing observations during his keynote address at the African Export-Import Bank’s (Afreximbank) 31st annual meeting being held in conjunction with the third AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum.

According to Dr. Ali, three years ago, sophisticated investors from Africa were not seen in the Caribbean region.

“Fast forward to today, we have seen in this region, since Afreximbank came on board, more than 50 African delegations looking at business opportunities in this region,” President Ali said.

He added that of those delegations, billionaires and

technology companies have expressed interest, and there has been a spark.

“It’s this little spark that could ignite massive transformation and realisation of the opportunity and potential that exists within our region,”

Dr. Ali added.

He went on to say that while many might say that the region is small, businesses must look at the region not only for its population size but its market size.

Against this backdrop, Dr Ali indicated that the Caribbean region could give businesses access to more than a billion people because

of the trade relationship and trade agreements that exist collectively as a region.

He indicated that as Chairman of CARICOM, he is going to work on getting all the other outstanding members of the region to become members of the Afrexim family.

Speaking on specific areas where there could be collaborations and growth, Dr Ali said that Africa has the capital and the technology.

“Imagine if Africa can come together, mobilise capital and manufacture in the lowest; we have the lowest environmental impact in the

world, imagine if we manufacture all the EV vehicles in the region with the lowest environmental impact, what marketing impact that would have,” he said.

Dr. Ali added that there could also be collaboration through forest partnerships, since, in Africa, there are more than 650 million hectares of forest, and this coupled with the forests in the region shared between Suriname and Guyana, could be combined and deployed on the international stage.

President Ali added, “We have the lowest deforestation

‘Gold smugglers’ to face full force of the law

By Trina Williams

IN keeping with efforts to crack down on the illegal act of gold smuggling, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that the system will be strengthened to mitigate and deter such actions

The smuggling of Guyana’s gold is not a new issue, but one that successive governments have been ‘battling’ for years. However, this current administration is attempting to tighten loose ends by instituting and strengthening a series of penalties and sanctions to deal with gold smugglers.

Despite attempts in some quarters to portray this illegal act as a political issue, the Vice-President, during his press conference on Thursday, said that the government will investigate the claims by the United States (US) Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) against three Guyanese nationals.

On Tuesday, the OFAC sanctioned father and son, Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, respectively, their companies, and Permanent

Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Labour (MoL) Mae Thomas for their alleged roles in public corruption.

Within the last few months, Dr. Jagdeo has outlined the government’s robust stance when it comes to tackling illicit gold operations, which pose a threat to the nation’s economy.

He again addressed this issue extensively, and debunked the rumour mills which are undermining the seriousness of it.

Since the OFAC issued the statement, Thomas has been sent on leave and according to Dr. Jagdeo, the government has indicated to US authorities that it will be seeking information to aid local investigation, and, depending on the outcome of the investigation, pursue prosecution or the collection of the evaded taxes.

“A government can’t work like a social media commentator. It has to be deliberate, serious and it has to work in a framework particularly in this case, where the action against the identified individuals will depend largely on the evidence that we’ve received from the United States of America,” he said.

Further, the Vice-President related that there is no witch hunting of these alleged wrongdoers or protection of them. However, those who break the law will face the full consequences.

“Therefore, if the Mohameds break the law, they will face the consequences. But they have, as Guyanese citizens, a right to due process like any other citizen and, therefore, we are not engaging in all of these social media posts, responding to them,” Dr Jagdeo said.

He added: “We intend to fully investigate the matter. We intend to prosecute those who break the law. We will work in full partnership with the US government. We value that partnership. Since this government has taken office, we have strengthened our partnership in the defence sector, in the law enforcement sector, in the narcotics fighting sector...”

Additionally, Dr Jagdeo said that the Bank of Guyana (BoG) and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been tasked with preparing a report on implications of the sanctions on Guyana’s financial system.

According to the OFAC,

between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana (GoG).

The Vice-President then went on to emphasise the seriousness of this matter by highlighting that a team has been identified to understand the intelligence of those involved in gold smuggling.

Within this context, he was referencing the three individuals who were apprehended at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) trying to smuggle more than US$500,000 of gold out of the country.

INVESTIGATING CORRUPTION

As it relates to the claim by the OFAC that Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise have engaged in extensive bribery schemes involving government officials in Guyana, Dr Jagdeo said that this is being investigated and those officials involved in such matters will face consequences.

The Vice-President said: “We want to know who the officials are. We have asked

rate in the world, and, collectively, we say we are going to combine this carbon market, deploy it on the international stage, and say to the world that you will have to take stock of what we have.

“But, more importantly, imagine if we say that we are going to settle among ourselves, we have industries but we are going to settle first among ourselves how we distribute carbon credits and how we trade the credit in the forests.”

The Head of State said that there are a number of low-hanging fruits, so the two regions have to collec-

tively put value on these opportunities that exist.

He related that there is no need to reinvent the wheel, and as such the two regions should trust each other and trust each other’s systems and the potential that exists to finding the solutions.

“That is what this forum offers us the understanding of each other and the building of trust, we are on to a good platform in the building of trust between Africa and the Caribbean, let us take this forward to greater heights,” President Ali said.

- gov’t mulls foreign partnership to address this issue; penalties to become stricter for such illegal operations, Vice-President Jagdeo says - local authorities write US officials for all information related to recent matter

the US Government at a top level, the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States of America. We wrote directly to her asking for all of the information about these illegal transactions, the smuggling, as well as all government officials involved.

“In this regard, the Guyana Revenue Authority has already submitted, on that very day; to the leadership of the IRS, a multi-page letter outlining all of the information that we want, we’d like to have on bank accounts, transactions, a whole range of issues, dating back not just to 2020 but all the way to 2015...”

STRENGTENING THE SYSTEM

The Vice-President related that a number of measures will be pursued in order to deter the illegal act of smuggling gold, including possible foreign partnerships and tightening the penalties.

“Now, clearly we have to strengthen this arrangement further and possibly, by some review by an external consultant, to strengthen this to see what additional safeguards we can put from gold declared legally and shipped through the system. We would probably

have to get a feedback from the exporters from the third countries in which they’re exporting,” he said.

Dr Jagdeo later said: “We need to strengthen the charges and the penalties for the illegal export of gold or smuggling of gold by these large exporters.”

He also said: “We need to strengthen financial penalties. In Customs, if you evade taxes and smuggle goods in, you have undeclared goods, you have to pay a fine of triple the duty-paid value…so we may want to take what we do at Customs now, and introduce it here for the evasion of gold. Not just paying the foregone taxes, but you also have to pay a huge penalty for the evaded taxes.”

Dr Jagdeo said that the government is attempting to place a significant financial burden on gold smugglers through hefty fines and penalties.

The Vice-President related: “We may have to start exploring what we did under the laws dealing with money laundering or drug trafficking, forfeiture of assets… we may have to do this sort of thing because it has been going on for a while.”

Over the last three years, there has been a significant influx of investors from Africa to the Caribbean, a development President Dr. Irfaan Ali regards as being promising, and the beginnings of a golden opportunity for trade and collaboration within the region (Office of the President photos)

No evidence of US interference in Guyana’s 2020 elections

- author of article published in Chicago Journal of International Law trying to ‘rewrite’ country’s history with unfounded claims - misrepresentations diminished coordinated national, regional, international efforts to uphold the will of the people, Minister Teixeira says

The following is the full text of a statement issued by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Ms. Gail Teixeira:

“I have taken note of an undated article, "Nah Tek Yuh Mattie Eye Fuh See: U.S. Involvement in the 2020 Guyanese Election", which appeared in the Online Chicago Journal of International Law written by a lawyer, Ms. Amber Symone Stewart.

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira

“However, this was not the case in the March 2020 elections. Indisputably, Guyana once again attained unintentional notoriety on the international stage with the declaration of the national recount results of 400,000 voters five months after the elections - taking the number one place from Gambia in the 2016 elections for the longest time to declare results.

democracy was not under threat during the 2020 elections is a blatant misrepresentation of the situation.

The author ignores the fact that Guyana Constitution requires that after a successful No Confidence Motion in the National Assembly, an election must be called within three months and that the President, and his cabinet should have resigned.

that elections had to be held within three months of the successful passage of the No Confidence Motion, albeit delayed due to the ongoing litigation.

“The article attempts to present a rather disingenuous diversionary argument to obfuscate what transpired between the No Confidence Motion in the National Assembly on December 21, 2018, and the declaration of the final national recount results on August 2, 2020, by accusing the USA of involvement/interference in these elections.

“No other election in Guyana has had such massive international, regional and national attention, supported by a wealth of documented evidence, publicly available, including international and regional media coverage.

“It is, therefore, shocking that the author ignored the evidence, and was more interested in creating an argument, a scapegoat in the ‘US bogeyman’ which in this case had no basis, no merit and was highly irresponsible, especially for a legal professional.

“My response to this online article in no way ignores the role of successive US administrations in Guyana’s history, especially in the pre-independence struggle and in the 1970s and 1980s.

“The article itself is poorly constructed and factually flawed. The author manufactures information, dismisses the occurrence of actual events and ignores the evidence presented in courts of law, in order to substantiate the author’s claim of the USA’s involvement and interference in Guyana’s March 2020 elections.

“Due to the weakness of the arguments, much of which is incoherent or illogical, the case remains unproven.

“To claim that Guyana's

“However, President Granger and the APNU+AFC Coalition Government did not resign nor were elections called within three months. In fact, only under extreme pressure was an election date set 14 months after the No confidence Motion!

“This issue was litigated through the corridors of the judiciary in Guyana by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic from January 2019 to September 2019 all the way to Guyana’s apex court, the Caribbean Court of Justice, which ruled in July 2019

“The author ignores the fact that the government openly flaunted the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice. It was only after protracted peaceful street protests and international and regional pressure for the setting of a date for elections, that President Granger declared in October 2019 that general and regional elections would be held on March 2, 2020. This was nothing but a display of executive lawlessness and abuse of power.

“If the author had examined the publicly available court records in the voluminous litigation on these elections, particularly at Guyana’s apex court, the Caribbean Court of Justice, she could not have avoided concluding that the inten-

No evidence of US interference...

FROM PAGE 4

tion of the then government supported by the most senior officials in the Guyana Elections Commission was to thwart the will of the electorate and to remain in power.

“In fact, the machinations to achieve this objective started even before the No Confidence Motion in 2018 with President Granger appointing the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in October 2017 in violation of the Guyana Constitution.

“This matter also went all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice which ruled in June and July, 2019 that the appointment of the then Chairperson by the President was flawed and unconstitutional. It took another four months for the President to comply with the ruling after rejecting the three submissions of the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, of 18 eminent persons in compliance with the constitution.

“The author’s efforts to disregard the volume of solid evidence in the form of judicial decisions, international, regional and local media coverage of all parties concerned, including statements by heads of government, etc., demonstrate a desperate attempt to rewrite Guyana’s history.

“I repeat Guyana’s democracy was on verge of the precipice. The article provides a misleading portrayal of what actually transpired; in this case, the events from March 2, 2020 to August 2, 2020 were witnessed and documented during the period of Guyana’s 2020 elections by the Commonwealth Electoral Observer Mission, the OAS Electoral Observer Mission, the CARICOM Electoral Observer Mission, the EU Electoral Observer Mission, and the Carter Centre Electoral Observer Mission (all of these reports and statements are publicly posted) and repeated public statements by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Secretary General of the OAS, Secretary General of the Commonwealth, and the Chairperson of the CARICOM Heads of Government (also publicly

available) as well as by the spokespersons of the UK, USA, Canada, European Union, and 100 individual governments.

“The most telling evidence was presented to the OAS Permanent Council on two occasions, in May and July 2020, by former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Hon. Bruce Golding, head of the OAS Electoral Observer Mission. Mr. Golding in making his preliminary report to the Council in May 2020 stated that he had “never seen a more transparent effort to alter the results of an election”.

“He went on to state that given that a copy of each Statement of Poll (SOP) from each polling station is posted on the wall outside of the polling station (following the count of the ballots at the place of poll) and a copy given to each party representative, it therefore took an extraordinarily courageous mind to present fictitious numbers when such a sturdy paper trail (existed)”.

“In July 2020, a month after the national recount had been finished and it was known that the PPP/C had won the elections, with still no official results forthcoming from GECOM, the members of the OAS at a specially meeting of the Permanent Council, convened by the Secretary General, called on the Granger administration to agree to a transition of power, respect the results of the national recount and concede that it lost power. Golding stated that “the pernicious actions of a few has done damage to Guyana’s image (and) the people of Guyana do not deserve this.”

“Yet the Granger government did nothing, but dug its heels in, as the Chief Elections Officer continued to produce fictious numbers in contrast to the national recount numbers.

“If all this evidence is not enough, the author also disregarded the significant, consistent and prolonged efforts by the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), new small political parties contesting these elections, civil society organizations, the Guardians of Democra -

cy, and both regional and international partners to prevent the APNU+AFC coalition government and the senior officials of the Guyana Elections Commission from thwarting the will of the electorate to choose their representatives at free and fair elections.

“By overlooking the contentious events leading up to and surrounding the March 2020 elections in Guyana, the author attempts to prove a baseless claim that the US State Department's announcement of sanctions and social media statements constituted interference. This perspective ignores the factual context in which these actions were taken - as a safeguard against antidemocratic practices.

“Sanctions were a response to unconstitutional and unlawful actions by the then government and the senior GECOM officials who attempted to derail the elections and to repeatedly create new unsubstantiated results of the elections to keep the former government in office. Democratic actions, both at the national and international levels were aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process.

“The announcement of sanctions against individuals who undermined democracy in Guyana, by itself, did not constitute interference in Guyana's elections.

“To support this fabricated argument, the author falsely claims that "Canada, the U.K., and the OAS called for then-President Granger to step aside and threatened to 'use all the tools at [their] disposal to demand a swift and transparent conclusion to the election process,' but it was the U.S. that acted."

“In fact, it was the EU Ambassador to Guyana, Fernando Ponz-Cantó, in April 2020, who explicitly warned that derailing democracy could lead to significant sanctions from the 27-member European Union.

“This preceded the US’s public statement of sanctions in July 2020. This article by its misrepresentation diminished the coordinated national, regional

and international efforts to uphold the fundamental right to vote and elect a government of the Guyanese people’s choice.

“In the end, Guyana’s emerging democracy prevailed, after a tortuous 19 months between the no confidence motion of December 21, 2018, and August 2, 2020, when the results of the total national recount were declared, and the new government led by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali was sworn in.

“The Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield and the Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Meyers, Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, as well as certain members of staff of GECOM and members of the former government have been charged with election fraud and the case is expected to finally be allowed to proceed in July, 2024.

“The post-election Report of The Commission of Inquiry into the General & Regional Elections of Guyana On 2 March 2020, led by eminent jurists from the

Caricom region declared in April 2023:

““In summary, our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Chief Election Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Election Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election”.

“(pg10-11) Further the Commission found that “senior GECOM officials abandoned all need for neutrality and impartiality and demonstrated a bias for a competing political party and, in the course of events over those days, showed an open connection with that party and, by their efforts, sought a desired result for that party”. (pg 99)

“Nothing in what transpired through that long road to protect and preserve democracy in Guyana can lay the blame at the feet of the US administration’s level; it is our own people, those in the former government in conspiracy with the senior election officials of the Guyana Elections Commission, a body constitutionally required to protect our people’s right to vote at free and fair elections, who repeatedly and brazenly interfered over a period of 19 months with the rule of law and the integrity of the electoral process, all with the sole intention of sacrificing our democracy for power and power alone for a few.

“It is the Guyanese people who stood, for the first time not alone but with the world supporting its efforts, to ensure that democracy prevailed. And for that we shall be forever grateful.

“This statement is being made public and l hope that it will also be given space in the online Chicago International Law Journal.”

Guyana continues to thrive

SINCE entering office in August 2020, the Irfaan Ali-led government has been able to efficiently steer the country’s economic success to the point where every citizen has no choice but to beam with pride.

Although still considered to be a developing nation, Guyana has been recognised as a powerhouse in the region and further afield, thanks to the expansive growth of the oil and gas sector.

This fact has been supported by the World Bank, which, in a recently released

report, said that Guyana is well positioned as a leader of economic progress in the Caribbean and Latin America.

According to the report, the country is projected to experience a 33.4 per cent growth in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the end of 2024. While this is good news for the nation, the bank’s prediction comes as no surprise.

From the inception, the government made it clear that its policies and actions will align with economic progress to ensure that all Guyanese live their best

possible lives, and at the same time, the country experiences expansive growth and development.

Rightfully so, the focus is not solely on the oil and gas sector. In fact, the government’s intent is holistic, in that every sector has been included in the plan to ensure sustainability and economic prosperity, and guarantee that Guyana becomes, and remains, a key player on the international stage.

Guyana has shown, many times over, how valuable it is to the Caribbean region in particular. Cementing its place in regional trade,

and spearheading efforts to achieve food security and decrease the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025, Guyana’s approach to economic growth has been recognised by many leaders and organisations.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also made a huge projection for Guyana’s 2024 economic growth, highlighting that the Guyanese economy has tripled in size since the start of oil extraction (end-2019), from having one of the lowest GDP per capita in Latin America and the Caribbean in the early

nineties.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has also spoken positively about the country’s economic standing, revealing that its increased production of oil and gas is “a significant driver” of regional growth.

Critical investments and partnerships with local and international partners have played a major role in Guyana’s success story.

The continued expansion of the housing and tourism and hospitality sectors, and the construction of vital thoroughfares, which will boost opportunities for trade,

tourism and logistics, are among the checked boxes when it comes to the contributors of Guyana’s economic growth within the last four years.

Another contributor is the heavy investment in education, which has, so far, provided thousands of Guyanese with the opportunity to expand their educational range and be an active participant in the country’s growth and develop.

Guyana stands as a formidable force, setting the pace for explosive economic growth in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Bringing education to all Guyanese

Dear Editor, EDUCATIONAL reform regarding accessibility and affordability is the key to changing individual Guyanese lives using education as a development tool.

A recent, less than two years, programme launched by the Government of Guyana, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), allows Guyanese, regardless of geographic region, race, gender, to receive scholarships to pursue certificates, diplomas, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees through an expanding pool of partnering institutions and universities.

As such, Guyana has tackled the major issues of accessibility and affordability, bringing education to every Guyanese household. Guyana has many commu-

nities in remote parts of the country where accessibility is difficult. However, this GOAL programme tackles that issue head-on with technology and innovation.

There is an inherently transformative nature of education for many Guyanese participating in the GOAL programme. Indeed, the economic benefits include higher salaries, better job opportunities, and for some to break the cycle of poverty. It leads to enhanced civic engagement across all races of the Guyanese people.

This is necessary as Guyana is reaching new heights economically and heading into a more inclusive society.

President Irfan Ali, a strong advocate for educational reform and has been noted for saying that “Edu-

cation is not merely a means to secure a job; it is the foundation upon which we build our future, foster critical thinking, and cultivate the spirit of inquiry that drives societal progress.”

His government certainly has pressed forward to bring change to the educational system, impacting every Guyanese across the country.

For Guyana to sustain its record economic growth, 36 per cent projected for 2024, it must continue to focus on Guyanese and the skills and knowledge needed for the new economy.

This means preparing everyone to increase their personal development, hence their literacy, critical thinking, and specialised knowledge in emerging fields such as oil and gas, agriculture, commerce, technology,

among other things.

The GOAL objective is to deliver on the personal and professional development of Guyanese by offering 20,000 scholarships by 2025.

Recently, the government announced that approval has been granted for 7,782 Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarships and that the successful applicants will be informed. This represents 39 per cent of the goal by 2025.

This is just a remarkable feat given the programme's newness in allowing Guyanese to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

A major feature of the GOAL programme as well is the diversity of programmes offered through its more than six partnering institutions, which offer more than 184 undergraduate degrees, 181

master’s degrees, and 109 vocational courses.

This diversity of academic programme offerings is not only necessary to offer unique educational opportunities to Guyanese but also can be done without major investments at the University of Guyana.

Minister Ashni Singh stated, "The GOAL initiative is in keeping with the Government’s commitment to improving the country’s educational and skills training capacity to match its aggressive economic diversification programme and continued rapid economic growth.”

Economists would argue that impressive economic growth cannot be sustained unless there is a skilled and knowledgeable labor pool available.

Online learning, espe -

cially in an asynchronous modality, can be challenging for a student returning or attempting to begin a degree. This is why it is necessary to continue to support the GOAL administrative staff so they can support students. Metrics to measure the outcomes of this programme must include direct measures to assess student learning and application of knowledge in their profession.

For economists like me, the most important ingredient in economic development is human development, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to change with the times. Guyana’s educational reform policy is doing just that!

Yours respectfully, Dr. Tilokie Arnold Depoo, Economist

Bank of Guyana revokes Mohamed’s cambio licence

- VP Jagdeo says gov’t launching full investigation into matters highlighted by the US

IN order to safeguard Guyana’s financial system and comply with the recently imposed United States (US) sanctions on businessmen, their entities and an official, the cambio licence of the Mohameds has been revoked.

“Members of the Public are hereby advised of the revocation of the licence of Confidential Cambio, situated at Lot 29 Lombard Street Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown in accordance with the Dealers in Foreign Currency (Licensing) Act 1989. As a consequence, the entity is no longer authorized to conduct the business of buying and selling of foreign currency,” the Bank of Guyana said in a statement on Thursday.

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, in his take on this matter during a press conference at the Office of the President, said the claims by the US Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) against three Guyanese nationals is being treated with the utmost seriousness.

On Tuesday, the OFAC sanctioned father and son, Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, respectively, their company, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Labour (MoL) Mae Thomas, for their alleged roles in public corruption.

According to Vice-President Jagdeo, the Central Bank and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) have been tasked with preparing a report outlining the implications of the sanctions on Guyana’s financial system.

“We want to safeguard

our financial system,” he firmly said, adding: “The Central Bank has notified us that they’ve already indicated to the Mohameds that they will cancel their cambio licence, because that’s part of the financial system.”

Within the statement, the OFAC highlighted that gold is one of Guyana’s main exports, but it remains a highly fractured industry with smallscale gold-mining operations in Guyana occupying a majority share of the country’s gold production.

“These small, family-owned businesses have informal relationships with

larger purchasers and traders like Mohamed’s Enterprise. Once mined, Guyanese gold is sold and traded throughout international markets, including the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and the European Union,” the OFAC stated.

The statement further outlined that Nazar founded Mohamed’s Enterprise in Guyana before expanding to the United States as a moneychanger and transitioned into gold trading, growing Mohamed’s Enterprise into one of Guyana’s largest gold exporters. In time, the son, Azruddin ultimately took over Mohamed’s Enterprise, which also now does business as “Confidential Cambio.”

The statement then read: “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand

kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations, and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.

“Mohamed’s Enterprise has bribed customs officials to falsify import-and-export documents, as well as to facilitate illicit gold shipments. Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid bribes to Guyanese government officials to ensure the undisrupted flow of inbound and outbound personnel that [sic] move currency and other items on behalf of Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise.”

In addition, Azruddin is the principal and owner of Team Mohamed’s Racing Team, a drag-racing organisation in Guyana. Hadi’s World is a Guyana-based subsidiary of Mohamed’s Enterprise.

“OFAC is designating Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise for being persons who have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or

services to or in support of, corruption, including the misappropriation of State assets, the expropriation of private assets for personal gain, corruption related to government contracts or the extraction of natural resources, or bribery, that is conducted by a foreign person,” the statement read.

The OFAC also designated Nazar for being a foreign person who is or has been a leader or official of Mohamed’s Enterprise, an entity whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 13818, as a result of activities related to Nazar’s tenure.

Team Mohamed’s Racing Team was also designated for being owned or controlled by, or for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Azruddin.

Adding to the designation by the OFAC was Hadi’s World for being owned or controlled by, or for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Mohamed’s Enterprise.

Mae Thomas resigns from PPP Central Committee; maintains her innocence

PERMANENT

Secretary

(PS) of the Ministry of Labour (MoL) Mae Thomas has resigned from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)’s Central Committee even as she has maintained her innocence amidst corruption allegations.

This is according to the Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference on Thursday at the Office of the President (OP).

“Mae has subsequently sent me a letter, as General Secretary of the party, tendering her resignation from the central committee of the party. She’s indicated that she does not want to bring the party into disrepute,” he said while explaining that Thomas insists that she is innocent.

Dr. Jagdeo called Thomas "a hard worker", and expressed his regret that she has had to resign.

In a release on Tuesday, the Government of Guyana said it has taken careful note of the statement issued by the United States Department of the Treasury, informing them of three Guyanese nationals and entities being sanctioned by the Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour Mae Thomas

Enterprise have engaged in extensive bribery schemes involving government officials in Guyana such as providing direct and recurring bribery payments to officials to ensure favorable treatment in criminal or civil matters that

would otherwise suggest their involvement in illegal criminal activity.

“In return, corrupt officials receive cash and gifts for incidents that are overlooked.

Additionally, Mohamed’s Enterprise has paid bribes to corrupt Guyanese government officials to facilitate the award of government contracts,” the statement read.

PS Thomas, who previously served at the Ministry of Home Affairs was included in the statement.

“The Government of Guyana will continue to work with the United States government on all matters of mutual interest, including the respect for the rule of law and order.”

On Tuesday, the OFAC sanctioned father and son, Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, respectively, their company, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and PS Thomas, for their alleged roles in public corruption.

“The Government of Guyana takes very seriously the claims contained in the press release, and will continue to engage relevant United States entities on these matters. In the meantime, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Thomas has been sent on leave with immediate effect,” the release said, adding:

Additionally, OFAC designated two other entities, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing Team, for being owned or controlled by Mohamed’s Enterprise and the son, respectively. As a result of the allegations, the GoG said that the Ministry of Finance and relevant statutory agencies including the Guyana Revenue Authority, will be requesting additional information on the matters highlighted, with a view to aiding local law enforcement agencies.

In the meantime, PS Thomas has been sent on leave with immediate effect.

According to OFAC, Azruddin and Mohamed’s

Azruddin Mohamed (left) and Nazar Mohamed

The two Bob Marleys: An anti-imperialist analysis

ONE of the stupidest and most ignorant words ever to come out of the mouth of an entertainer is when American comedian, Chris Rock, said that the recording by American rapper, Kanye West, titled by “My beautiful, dark, twisted fantasy” (MBDTF) is the best album ever made.

On reading that statement I think instantly of our Caribbean genius, Bob Marley. Chris Rock was about 10 years when Bob Marley’s genius swept the world. Knowing how chauvinistic the citizens of powerful countries are, I assume that when he was 15 in 1980, when Marley was at the apogee of his career, Rock probably dismissed reggae as some weird thing from the Third World.

I would not know if Rock ever listened to any of the five

great albums of pop music of any era done by Marley“Uprising,” “Rastaman Vibration,” Exodus,” “Survival,” and, “Kaya,” I know a tiny bit about music and feel assured in my opinion that West, if he lived 200 years, cannot birth an album that could match the phenomenal threads in those five albums.

Anyone who knows about music and knows about Bob Marley’s talent would find the utterance that “MBDTF” by Kanye West as the best album ever recorded is an insane utterance. Time Magazine has rated the album “Exodus” as one of the greatest pieces of music ever made and many people think that Exodus is not Marley’s best endeavour. I am one who holds that opinion.

None of West’s albums could come within a mil -

lion of miles to Exodus. Will Smith once slapped Rock which the world disagreed with including me, but Rock should be careful when he is in Jamaica to ever talk about MBDTF being the greatest album ever made.

Marley’s genius is available on Amazon. And I could not miss the opportunity of the offer and you should not miss it too. Amazon is offering two box sets of 100 of Marley’s songs. The first box is 50 huge hits of the post 1970 Marley, the Marley that became famous and phenomenal after 1970. The second box set is 50 songs of Marley before he ever became famous in Jamaica much less the world. Post 1970 Marley is going at 27 American dollars. The early Marley is going at 13 American dollars. There is a huge dichotomy

of the two Marleys. The early Marley consists of songs in the genres of ska, rock steady and early reggae. The early Marley is about love songs; the presence of philosophy, politics and liberation are not there. How does one explain this dichotomy?

I think Marley’s genius and his philosophical radicalism were there waiting to emerge but the context was not there to nurture them. The anti-imperialist 70s provided the fertile field for Marley’s genius to grow. The anti-imperialist, post-colonial Third World was the match to light the Marley fire.

This was the era of the counter-culture in Europe and North America; the outbreak of revolution in Nicaragua, Iran, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Angola; radical anti-imperialist governments in Africa, particularly Tanzania and Algeria; the Arab oil embargo, the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement, the ubiquity of Fidel Castro’s charisma.

In Jamaica itself, Marley

would have seen the brutalization of students who were protesting the expulsion of the Marxist historian of Guyana, Dr. Walter Rodney after Marley returned to Jamaica the same year after working as a labourer in a car factory. In Jamaica, Prime Minister, Michel Manley had a profound influence on Marley. Manley was not the showmanship in the Third World that Forbes Burnham was. But the Third World saw Manley in more positive ways than Burnham.

This had to do with the type of authoritarian politics that Burnham had embraced in Guyana. Manley did not have that negative image in the Third World. He was seen by the Third World as a more committed socialist than Burnham.

By the mid-1970s, Marley had taken to Manley and because of the mesmerising presence of Marley in Jamaica, the combination of the two led to an explosive reaction from certain Western countries.

The fear the West had of Guyana in the 1960, it had of Jamaica under Manley in the 1970s and together with Marley, provided an almost impregnable fortress. An assassination attempt was made on Marley’s life in 1976. One can assume that, by then, Marley’s music had become an anti-imperialist message to the entire post-colonial world.

In an interview to promote Marley’s biopic, his son Ziggly Marley said that he thought the CIA might have been involved in the attempted assassination. See my column of Tuesday, February 13, 2024, “The Marley assassination attempt and the Rodney assassination.” Music may not see another Marley for a generation to come.

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.

Public sector workers benefit from $83B more in salaries since 2020

By Naomi Parris

CONTRARY to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s claims that it supported the public sector with massive increases in the public sector wage bill, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo provided statistics showing that it was actually the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government that prioritised the well-being of persons in the public service with significant increases since 2020.

Dr. Jagdeo, during his weekly news conference on Thursday, told reporters: “We

looked at the wages and it’s self-explanatory, the wages between 2014 and 2019, the APNU period, it was a 56 per cent increase, and from 2020 to 2024 it is 66.1 per cent increase.”

Looking at the nominal value, he highlighted that the public sector wage increased by $83 billion more under the PPP/C administration.

“Increase in 2014 to 2019 was $43 billion so when they started in 2014, by 2019 the wage bill for these three areas had gone up by $43 billion. From 2020 to 2024, the increase has been $83 billion, more than 100 per cent of what APNU gave for the

five years,” the Vice-President said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Labour Day, had emphasised his administration’s aggressive efforts to implement additional measures aimed at easing the burdens faced by the workforce.

“We have to manage this period going up from 2027 to 2030 carefully. And I can assure that we will have one of the most up-skilled and qualified workforce population in this region. And, that workforce and work population will see matching benefits, matching salaries, higher quality of life, better standard of living,” the Head

Police launch comprehensive initiative targeting Region Seven youths

IN a bid to curb crimes and foster a safer community, the police in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) have launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at engaging and supporting the youth.

The programme, which combines increased patrols with community outreaches, focuses on preventive measures and building trust between law enforcement and young residents.

During a recent interview on Radio Eve Leary, Commander of Region Seven, Senior Superintendent of Police Dion Moore emphasised the importance of prevention in combating crime.

Given its vast size, he said the region has multiple youth groups, and "we work with the children every week."

“Now that some of the children are not going to school because of the ongoing situation, we don’t wait until weekends. We venture into those areas and we have them doing all types of work to enhance their livelihoods. Of course, it is better for us to look at the youth from now and prevent a crime rather than have to detect the crime,” Senior Superintendent Moore said.

He added: “Our preventative measures are always a priority. The aim is to embrace the youth and provide them with skills, knowledge and whatever is necessary and guide them in the way that they will understand that crime is not something that they need to

commit. There are other ways they can do things to enhance their livelihoods and their lifestyles.”

A cornerstone of the initiative is the introduction of academic and vocational programmes which are designed to equip participants with the tools they need to make positive choices.

According to Senior Superintendent Moore, several community leaders are working with the youngsters, with assistance from organisations such as Food for the Poor Guyana, Banks DIH Limited, the Ministry of Health, and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

He said that the participants could access vocational skills including farming and tie-dying, as well as free computer lessons provided by the Guyana Police Force Academy Zara Computer Centre.

Senior Superintendent Moore added that the comput-

of State said.

The President related that the current quality of life should not solely be measured by wages, but by the holistic programme and policies implemented by the government to bring improvement to every citizen, especially the labour force.

Government initiatives, including the $25,000 cash grant for each household, reduced interest rates, extension of loan payment moratoriums, creation of over 65,000 jobs, restoration of Joint Services bonuses, and annual increases in the income tax threshold, have significantly benefitted the working class.

These measures alleviate burdens on households, allowing for more disposable income.

Other initiatives implemented by the government included scholarships for citizens under the GOAL scholarship programme. These efforts have incurred significant costs for the government. Notably, within the housing sector, over 30,000 house lots were allocated, with a majority distributed to public servants.

er centre opened in 2022 and that to date, almost 500 children and adults had completed foundation and advanced Microsoft Office courses.

“After the graduation [from the computer classes], they are equipped with the skillset that they can go and work in the fields and get meaningful employment. If you train these children in a given way, it will not just help them, it will help members of the community. Every time someone sees something positive coming out of a child they will embrace and support it,” he said.

The online driver’s licence theoretical exam is also conducted at the Zara Computer Centre. Overall, he disclosed that the crime rate in Region Seven is low, but urged members of the public to do their part to keep themselves and others safe and to co-operate with the police.

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Senior Superintendent Dion Moore

Persons living with disabilities being prioritised in key legislation

- Singh tells UN stakeholders

NATURAL disasters brought on by climate change and manmade hazards disproportionately affect the lives of persons living with disabilities worldwide, with developing nations like Guyana being more vulnerable.

Efforts are, however, being made locally to priortorise the inclusion of persons living with disabilities in disaster risk management activities through a Comprehensive Disaster Risk Management legislation.

Director of Projects and Policy at the Office of the First Lady, Ravin Singh, on Thursday, informed the 17th Meeting of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability at the UN Headquarters in New York of the work underway to draft the historical legislation.

“Guyana’s National Commission on Disability holds a permanent seat on the national Disaster Risk Management Platform. This mechanism ensures that persons with disabilities are among the first to receive humanitarian aid and psychosocial support in times of disasters,” Singh said during his contributions to a roundtable discussion.

He stressed that persons living with disabilities around the world face heightened vulnerabilities in wake of natural disasters, conflicts, and other crises.

“The Government of Guyana recognises that reliable data is essential for effective planning and response to humanitarian emergencies, and is currently conducting a situation analysis of persons with disabilities to inform and respond to their needs; particularly those in situations of risk,” he said.

Singh further related that the legislation will guarantee the inclusion of persons living with disabilities in planning; and prioritise their needs in disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

“Guyana remains committed to ensuring that the protection and safety of persons with disabilities are adequately and systematically addressed through policy, legislation and humanitarian action,” he related.

He reminded too that growing prevalence of “acquired disability” as a result of conflict – such as the war in Gaza – is a stark reminder of the need for more to be done to protect persons living with disabilities.

On Tuesday, Guyana’s First Lady Arya Ali voiced a passionate and strong call for greater international financing for disability-inclusive development in developing countries during her to the opening ceremony of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

During her remarks, the First

Director of Projects and Policy at the Office of the First Lady, Ravin Singh

Lady highlighted that there are limited institutional, technological and financial capacities in small developing states.

“In a truly inclusive and sustainable world, persons with disabilities must be empowered to live a life with dignity and respect; a life where they can realise their potential. What is the reality? In developing countries, the majority of persons with disabilities of working age are unemployed and many children with disabilities do not attend school,” First Lady Ali said.

Guyana, she added has taken a “life course” approach to supporting persons living with disabilities.

Design of Hope-like canal for Region Three almost complete

- Canal No. One pump station to be completed by the end of July, Minister Mustapha says

DURING a community engagement in Bagotville on the West Bank of Demerara on Wednesday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha disclosed that the design for the massive Hope-like canal being constructed in Region Three will be completed soon.

The minister was in the community meeting with residents and farmers who raised issues during a recent public engagement with Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

While speaking about some of the planned interventions to improve the region’s drainage and irrigation system, Minister Mustapha said that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is working to have the design completed so that the construction can commence.

“We are also doing mega projects to improve the country’s drainage capacity. We have the Hope Canal on the East Coast of Demerara. That canal is what prevented flooding in Georgetown and on the East Coast of Demerara. We will be building similar structures in Regions Three, Five, and Six. Those canals will be high-level canals that can operate when the tide is up.

“Rather than having to channel flood waters through the system in the housing areas, we will be able to drain the water from the backlands directly into the river. That project will commence shortly. The design is being finalised and soon after that the work will commence. As it relates to the Canal No. One Pump Station, that project is expected to be completed by the end of July so that your community can benefit from improved drainage,” Minister Mustapha said.

While responding to requests for updates on the Canal No. One Pump Station, Minister Mustapha said that the pump station is expected to be completed by the end of July.

Minister Mustapha also

During a community engagement in Bagotville on the West Bank of Demerara on Wednesday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha disclosed that the design for the massive Hope-like Canal being constructed in Region Three will be completed soon

told those present that while the government continues to make funding available to support development, residents still have the responsibility of paying their rates and taxes.

“Some of the issues raised could’ve been dealt with before we came here. You have to work with your NDC and the regional bodies. They have funding to do some of these works in the region. The NDC has a subvention to do these works. Also, some residents are guilty of not paying their rates and taxes.

“We cannot continue to work like that because when we look at the collection of rates and taxes, it is very low. It is less than 40 per cent but yet, people want development. Over the years the government has been increasing subventions to the NDCs but residents still need to pay their rates and taxes,” he added.

Minister Mustapha also told farmers that the ministry will request approval for funding in the 2024 budget to rehabilitate the farm-to-market access road in the area.

He also told farmers present that investments are being made to ensure adequate

planting materials are made available to farmers across the country and that the ministry through the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) will work with them to make farming inputs and implements available to them.

“There is an ongoing transformation taking place in our country, and I encourage you all to work with us. Through NAREI, we’ll provide the necessary planting materials and we’ll also work to ensure you have the necessary tools to expand your production.

“The demand for planting materials is very high. We have eleven nurseries across this country but they cannot satisfy the demands because more people are coming into the sector. So, we are building a tissue culture laboratory that will have the capacity to produce millions of planting materials annually,” the minister added.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill along with other technical officers from the Ministries of Agriculture and Public Works along with regional officials were also present at the meeting.

Labour Ministry hosts annual child labour awareness walk

THE Ministry of Labour on Wednesday held its annual walk and awareness programme in observance of World Day Against Child Labour 2024, under the theme, “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!”

Leading the walk was Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine, who delivered remarks at a ceremony held at the ministry’s forecourt on Brickdam, Georgetown.

Deonarine revealed that

Present at the awareness programme after the walk, was Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who gave brief remarks.

Minister Persaud noted that in order to deal with child labour at every level, we must be able to recognise it.

She said that as a move towards this recognition, it is imperative that education and awareness be paramount in our strategic direction towards rooting

since 2020, the ministry has worked steadfastly to implement the National Action Plan for the Elimination of Child Labour, and shared that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) statistics in 2020 revealed that more than 160 million children worldwide were victims of child labour.

He disclosed that Guyana has ratified key conventions by the ILO that guard against child labour. These are: the Minimum Age Convention, the Worst form of Child Labour Convention, the Forced Labour Convention and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

can utilise in that action.”

The minister expressed that she is happy to say that overtime, the child labour policy has been worked on and will be working in tandem with the Ministry of Labour through the Child Care and Protection Agency, on facets of that policy, so that we can ensure that the policy guides our national efforts.

In addition, Minister Persaud underscored that the national action plan

which exists requires the commitment and the firm stance on those commitments to ensure that we have measurable targets where we can access the impact of our efforts.

“Coming out of today’s walk, I had a really good conversation with the Chief Labour Officer, and we have made several decisions on how the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS) can work and strengthen our relationship

with Ministry of Labour, through training of our own officers across the Ministry of Human Services so that they can be more impactful when they go out there, and they engage with children in the communities, families in the communities, and all the spheres under which they serve,” she added.

In addition to this, they looked at the merits of hosting a conference focusing on child labour, among the key stakeholders, so that

they can work towards the removal of child labour.

Moreover, labour officers will continue to visit secondary schools across the country, to interact with students on the effects child labour.

The ministry also plans to visit at least 40 secondary schools during this month.

Awareness walks are scheduled for Regions One and Four, along with a child art competition for children ages eight to 16.

out child labour.

“It simply means every child should understand what child labour is and how child labour can rob them of their fullest potential, rob them of their dignity and their rights [and] many things that will aid in their self-development, including education.”

She added, “As such, today let us not only act on our commitment, but let us assess ourselves to see where we’re at with regard to those commitments. For us to act, we must be united, for us to act, our efforts must be integrated, and for us to act we must have a very good strategy that we

Chief Labour Officer Daneshwar Deonarine

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud (Ministry of Labour photos)

Work being expedited to complete Pirara Bridge by weekend

By Cindy Parkinson

AS a result of the incomplete Pirara Bridge and the inundation of the Bypass Road and bridge, the Ministry of Public Works has notified the public that the recent flooding in the Rupununi has created considerable traffic interruptions.

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill told the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday that the engineers and contractors are working assiduously to ensure that they establish a safe and efficient method for drivers to use the Pirara Bridge.

Due to the inconveniences caused by the incomplete bridge, the minister said that they are “actively working” to resolve the issue, so that road users can get back to their normal routines.

He said: “Due to the heavy rainfalls and the recent flooding, there has been significant traffic congestion due to the incomplete Pirara Bridge. However, we at the Ministry of Public Works have deployed our resources to build a temporary wooden decking over the new bridge so that the road users, which are inclusive of both light and heavy traffic, can flow with some sort of normalcy until the bridge is fully completed.”

With a projected completion date of Saturday, June 15, 2024, Minister Edghill said that efforts are in progress to complete the

bridge as quickly as possible, so that the regular traffic flow can continue.”

In a press release that was sent out on Thursday, the Ministry of Public Works said: “The Ministry of Public Works informs the public that recent flooding in the Rupununi has caused significant traffic disruptions due to the incomplete Pirara Bridge and the inundation of the Bypass Road and Bridge. We understand the inconvenience this has caused to road users along this corridor and are diligently working to resolve the situation.

Severe storms in recent weeks have led to extensive flooding in the Savannahs,

particularly along the Kurupkari-Lethem Corridor and at the Pirara Bridge site, severely disrupting traffic. In response, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has provided immediate support with two boats to shuttle passengers between locations.

The ministry has also mobilised resources to construct temporary timber decking over the new bridge to facilitate the crossing of both light and heavy traffic. Construction of this timber decking has commenced, with the remaining materials expected to be delivered by today. Efforts are underway to expedite the bridge's completion and restore normal traffic flow as soon as possible, with an

of Public Works (MPW) has teamed up with the Lethem Mayor and Town Council (M&TC) and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Nine to handle the urgent problems at the Pirara Bridge, a crucial intersection on the Linden-Lethem corridor.

It was further stated that the government representatives have been working together to create a plan of action that would address the difficulties commuters encounter when using this essential route.

Traffic management measures will be implemented to ensure a seamless shift of vehicles to the finished section, facilitating uninterrupted work on the remaining half.

3. TEMPORARY BOAT ASSISTANCE

In the interim period before the wooden deck becomes operational, the Lethem M&TC, in collaboration with the RDC, will extend temporary assistance to travellers crossing the affected area by boat.

4. REPAIRS ON OTHER AFFECTED SECTIONS:

estimated completion date of Saturday, June 15, 2024.

Waters have recently started to recede, allowing light traffic to resume crossing along the Bypass Bridge. We urge drivers of light vehicles to exercise extreme caution when crossing.

The ministry also reiterates that under no circumstances should heavy vehicles attempt to cross the Bypass Bridge.”

Meanwhile, the Guyana Chronicle, in an article published on June 6, 2024, stated that the Ministry of Public Works and the local authorities have united to address the Pirara Bridge problem.

According to the information published, the Ministry

At the most recent joint meeting of the MPW, Lethem M&TC, and RDC 9, a thorough fourpoint action plan was developed. The planned initiatives' salient features are as follows:

1. TEMPORARY TIMBER DECK

To facilitate smoother passage for light- to medium-weight vehicles; half of the new bridge’s completed piers and abutments will be equipped with a temporary timber deck.

The contractor is currently procuring suitable timber and anticipates the commencement of installation within the week.

2. PHASED CONSTRUCTION

Upon completion of the temporary deck, construction activities will transition to the second half of the bridge using steel beams and a concrete deck.

Concurrent efforts are underway to address additional sections of the road that have been adversely impacted by flooding.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas prone to high water levels.

Emphasising their dedication to the well-being and safety of commuters, both the MPW and local authorities reaffirm their commitment to exploring every viable avenue to ensure the swift and secure passage of individuals through the corridor.

As collaborative efforts intensify, stakeholders remain resolute in their resolve to surmount the challenges posed by the Pirara Bridge situation, underscoring the significance of a cohesive and coordinated approach to addressing critical infrastructure issues.

The current state of the Pirara Bridge

Afreximbank hands over US$500M loan proposal to Guyana Destination Guyana mentioned in Lonely Planet article

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), on Thursday, officially handed over its loan proposal to the tune of US$500 million to Guyana, where the bank is set to support the country’s ongoing infrastructural boom

THE African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), on Thursday, officially handed over its loan proposal to the tune of US$500 million to Guyana, where the bank is set to support the country’s ongoing infrastructural boom.

The proposal was exchanged at the Baha Mar Convention Centre in Nassau, Bahamas, where the Afreximbank is hosting its 31st annual meeting alongside the third AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum.

This proposal follows the announcement at last year’s forum which was held in Guyana that the country would secure the US$500 million funding from the bank.

At that time, President of the Afreximbank, Professor Benedict Oramah had said: “For Guyana, we’ve agreed to conclude a US$500 million transaction to support accelerated infrastructure development projects of the Guyanese government.”

The exchange of the loan proposal paves the way for an agreement

to be met, a deal to be signed soon and the disbursement of the funds to Guyana for the intended projects.

This forms part of the US$1.5 billion facility that the bank approved for CARICOM states which is expected to increase when all 15 CARICOM nations sign on to the partnership treaty.

The gathering of African and Caribbean officials is expected to foster further collaboration and partnerships between the two regions.

GUYANA has been featured in Lonely Planet in an article titled, “A first-time guide to Guyana”, by its travel writer Amy Lynch.

Lynch’s article is detailed and gives curious, prospective visitors to Guyana a firsthand view of what to expect and do while visiting.

In one part of the article, Lynch wrote, “Any visitor to Guyana will need to plan to take a lot of time – a long weekend is not going to cut it if you want to get outside Georgetown. With one main road, and a number of villages that are only accessible via river or plane, it can take time to travel in the interior. I would recommend not taking anything less than a week. The more time you give yourself, the more time you can take to explore, experience the savannahs, rainforests and village life, and the more time you have to spot the wildlife.”

This write up excellently highlights the successful efforts made by the government through the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, to boost the tourism sector. Just recently, it was mentioned in this newspaper that Guyana is emerging as a leading nature and sustainable tourism destination.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) recently showcased these attributes at the 42nd Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) event in Montego Bay, Jamaica, held from May 20 to 23. It was an event which allowed destinations like Guyana to engage directly with travel and tourism professionals interested in promoting and selling unique travel experiences.

Furthermore, Lynch’s article mentions that

she travelled to Guyana at the invitation of CornerSun Destination Marketing, a tourism marketing company based in New York, United States, with a mission to help destinations and organisations put in place strategies and programmes that will best tell their unique story and become an inviting host for visitors no matter the purpose of their journey. Persons interested in reading Amy’s write up can visit: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/ guide-to-guyana

Amy Lynch during her time in Guyana (Lonely Planet photo)

Healthcare service for interior communities boosted

WITH President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s pledge to have modern medical facilities services available in Region One, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, and a team of healthcare providers visited Moruca Village where they held a medical outreach, in addition to commissioning the telemedicine system at the Waramuri District Health Centre.

The team was greeted by several residents (including children and the elderly) who

Moreover, in a significant move to further boost healthcare in that part of the region, the minister spoke about the telemedicine service that will be provided to residents.

He explained, “So basically, sometimes you have a difficult case may come here and let’s say medex looked at the case, (and) she’s not too sure how complicated this person might be. Then what she can do? Because they would have a computer, you can open up the computer, that computer is

had been eagerly awaiting the minister’s arrival to launch the well-received medical service.

In his opening remarks, Minister Anthony said: “As you know, the president was in this part of Region One not so long ago, and one of the things that he said is that he wanted us to make sure that we bring a team of doctors to come and do several things. He added that these things included: eye testing, dentistry, and cancer screening to name a few.

“So today you have a very comprehensive team I would say, and what we want to do is ensure that people are properly streamlined so that we can be as effective as possible,” he said.

connected to the internet, and she would be able to talk to a doctor, either at Mabaruma or in Georgetown.”

Further, Minister Anthony stated that the doctor in either of these locations will appear on screen, allowing residents to use certain devices to help doctors in determining the patient’s diagnosis.

An ultrasound unit will also be installed there. He mentioned that 25 of these systems are in operation and have helped the communities they were installed in.

In approximately two months, the minister said they will install an additional 25, with Waramuri being selected

upon successful completion they will be hired. Meanwhile, the minister added, “In this region, we’re making a lot of investments in health. So one of the investment’s that we’re doing, we’re building a new hospital for you. Today (Wednesday), it is in the newspaper so that businesses, persons can bid to build this hospital. With this hospital, we expect that it will have modern

facilities.

“…it will have 24 hours accident and emergency, it will have a 24-hour laboratory, it will have a pharmacy, and it will have different types of diagnostic imaging; things like ultrasound, and x-ray, and we’re putting for the first time in the region, a CT scan,” the minister noted, adding that this would minimise residents having to leave their region to come to

Georgetown (or elsewhere) for this service, and many others.

Notably, the health minister said that monies were set aside in the budget for the construction of living quarters for doctors and nurses who will be working at the hospital.

He stated that on completion, residents will have a ‘good’ healthcare facility and further explained that this is one of the government’s programmes to try and enhance

the quality of health services being offered to the people in the interior of Guyana.

He mentioned the construction of similar hospitals in Kamarang, Kato, and Lethem. Each of these is expected to commence this year.

Minister Anthony added that they are working to construct one at Bartica as well.

“So you will see a lot of changes, and things will improve,” he stated.

He reassured residents that while his team will try to see as many persons as they could, they will remain on ground for several days to further serve communities.

as one of the areas to benefit. Additionally, the installation of internet service allows for residents to participate in training opportunities offered by the Ministry of Health and

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony delivering remarks at the Waramur District Health Centre, Moruca

Residents of Waramuri at the medical outreach on Wednesday (Ministry of Health photos)

Work moving apace on new Lima Regional Hospital

SIGNIFICANT progress is being made on the new Lima Regional Hospital in Region Two, and, so far, countless employment opportunities have been created for residents, according to Head of the Health and Sanitation Committee and regional councillor Arnold Adams.

In his health report at the June statutory meeting, Adams informed the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) that construction is advancing well.

He expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, adding

The new regional hospital that is being constructed at Lima, Region Two (Indrawattie Natram photo)

that he is looking forward to the project's completion.

The hospital is one of six such facilities being constructed across the country to enhance the health services offered to the nation.

Strategically located for easy access, the new hospital will serve residents in Region One (Barima-Waini) and neighbouring areas.

Adams emphasised the critical need for such a facility, highlighting that the new hospital will feature 75 beds, a 24-hour Accident and Emergency Unit, a modern laboratory, and advanced

imaging services including ultrasounds, digital X-rays, and CT scans. Additionally, the hospital will include two operating theatres and several outpatient clinics.

The Government of the Guyana is building the hospital through a partnership with China’s Sinopharm International at a cost of GY$6.6 billion.

Regional Health Officer and RDC councillor Dr. Ranjeev Singh reported that on-site work is progressing smoothly, with regular site visits being done to ensure the project's success.

Meanwhile, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed her satisfaction with the project, noting the employment opportunities it has been creating for the region. She stated that the RDC is closely monitoring the project and eagerly anticipates its completion.

De Silva also mentioned that as the construction work progresses, young people in the region are receiving training in various medical fields, including nursing and pharmacy assistance.

Customers could now access GUYOIL services with bank cards

IN a groundbreaking move to deliver on its brand promise of excellence in service, the Guyana Oil Company Limited (GUYOIL) has announced the launch of a new payment option through Republic Bank Limited’s Point-Of-Sales (POS) payment service.

According to a press release, this innovative

system enables customers to pay for fuel and accessories, using the (POS) payment method. Customers can use their VISA, credit or debit cards from international and local commercial banks to make payments.

GUYOIL’s General Manager Molly Hassan has emphasised that the aim of this initiative is

to boost the efficiency of customer service and enhance the overall customer experience.

Notably, GUYOIL will be the first company in the petroleum distribution sector to implement such a service at the retail level. Initially, the POS system will be available at GUYOIL's three main locations: Providence, Re -

gent Street, and Sheriff Street. However, the company plans expanding it to all GUYOIL-owned stations across the country eventually.

Hassan underscored the importance of providing high-quality products and services as a key component of the company's commitment to customer satisfaction. By introducing

the POS payment system, GUYOIL is modernising its operations, and providing greater convenience to its customers.

“We thank our loyal customers for their unwavering support throughout the years. The company looks forward to continuously serving its customers, and providing modern payment

options in our fast-paced economy. We encourage our customers to utilise this new and safe payment method, which will eliminate the need for liquid cash. GUYOIL continues to strive for excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of modern service delivery in Guyana,” Hassan said in closing.

Unit of Allied Arts hosts music content, methodology workshop

THE Unit of Allied Arts recently hosted its Music Content and Methodology Workshop at the National Racquet Centre.

According to a press release, the event served as a gathering point for music educators, enthusiasts, and professionals, fostering a day of enriching discussions, interactive sessions, and collaborative learning.

Led by experts in the field, the workshop provided participants with invaluable insights into various facets of music content and methodology, empowering them with practical strategies to elevate their teaching practices.

Topics covered included effective curriculum development, innovative teaching techniques, assessment and evaluation methodologies, integration of music across disci-

plines, and considerations of cultural diversity.

Nicholas Fraser, Head of the Unit of Allied Arts, highlighted the unit's ongoing efforts to expand music programmes across Guyana, currently spanning 18 schools.

He also shared plans for the upcoming steel pan festival called ‘Amity,’ scheduled for late June, which aims to showcase students' skills acquired through the instrument. Additionally, Fraser mentioned the implementation of a steelband programme and upcoming initiatives such as steel-band camps and collaborations with UNESCO through Kross Kolor Records.

Fraser also discussed ongoing discussions with the Peace Corps to supply Guyana with volunteers dedicated to teaching music, illustrating the unit's commitment to enhancing

music education nationwide.

Superintendent of Examinations at the Ministry of Education, Sauda Kadir, emphasised the importance of music education and expressed hope that participation in music examinations, such

as CSEC, would increase following the workshop.

She underscored the role of music in fostering creativity and analytical skills, highlighting the practical knowledge gained through the CSEC syllabus.

Also present was Mu-

sic Coordinator at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), Mrs. Althea Hamilton-Wintz, who commended the present teachers for their commitment to bettering their delivery of music education to their students.

Attendees were immersed in hands-on activities, group discussions, and networking opportunities, fostering a vibrant community of music educators committed to excellence.

Looking ahead, the Unit of Allied Arts is already planning future events and initiatives aimed at advancing excellence in arts education across Guyana. This, according to the press release, is in accordance with the ministry’s thrust to make sure every child exits high school with exposure to sport, at least one musical instrument, one foreign language, one TVET subject, and a strong sense of volunteerism.

“The Unit of Allied Arts remains steadfast in its mission to promote expressive arts throughout Guyana,” the Education Ministry said.

The Unit of Allied Arts recently hosted its Music Content and Methodology Workshop at the National Racquet Centre

A trumpeter’s journey

— Kevin Arthur wants to pass on his musical talent to the next generation

By Tamara Alves

FASCINATED by the whimsical tunes of a trumpet, Kevin Arthur, a part-time musician, fell passionately in love with music at the age of 17.

Now in his early 40s, and serving as a police officer, Arthur has deepened his relationship with the

brass instrument, honing his skills through dedication and practice.

In a recent interview with the Buzz, the local musician shared his journey of becom-

ing a household name in his Enmore, East Coast Demerara Community, where he regularly performs at churches and private events.

And although his career

requires him to be on the clock, he has remained committed to his musical pursuits, viewing his craft as not a mere hobby but as a way to give back to his community.

He disclosed to the Buzz his plans of sharing his knowledge and passion with other aspiring musicians, hoping to inspire the next generation of talent locally.

“I want to teach children music,” Kevin expressed earnestly. “But it’s important to have discipline. Without it, learning just doesn’t stick.”

When asked about his musical influences, he referenced locally rooted sounds with a particular knack for the jazz scene in Guyana.

He recalled his introduction to music and working closely with several mentors from his home village. “I was taught by several persons including Vanessa Stuart- Arthur who later became my wife. I also had a lot of inspiration too numerous to mention.”

His mentors, he noted have shaped his sound in a distinct way, pushing him to reflect on the cultural and musical heritage of his surroundings.

He highlighted the lively

and mixed music scene that sets his homeland apart.

From the pulsating rhythms of soca and reggae to the smooth melodies of jazz and calypso, Guyana's musical landscape is as diverse as its people, offering endless opportunities for creative expression.

However, Kevin acknowledges that pursuing a career in music in Guyana comes with its challenges. Limited resources and opportunities can make it difficult to break into the industry, but his perseverance and passion have allowed him to overcome these obstacles, carving out a niche for himself in the local music scene.

Looking to the future, Kevin is optimistic about the evolution of music in Guyana. He envisions a thriving community of artistes and musicians pushing boundaries and exploring new genres, with himself playing a key role in shaping the cultural landscape.

And in some brief words of encouragement, Kevin urged aspiring musicians to embrace their passions wholeheartedly, and to never lose sight of their dreams.

Kevin Arthur playing the trumpet

Empowerment through pageantry

By Celles Chacon

MAKING

a triumphant return for the fifth consecutive year, the 2024 Miss Region One Pageant will see a massive production for its coronation ceremony, franchise’s director, Dr. Treasure Alana James, has said.

In a world where the portrayal of beauty often overshadows inner strength, this pageant is anticipated to be a lot more than just glitz and glamour.

The pageant is slated to be held on June 29, 2024, at the Mabaruma Settlement Ground in the Barima-Waini region.

“I believe that this pageant is different from other locally held pageants because we are concerned about the growth of the women and their individual experiences and not about a showcase of women for profit. We care about the young ladies. It’s our job to see that this is a learning opportunity for each of them. I have done many pageants in the past and I have a deep understanding of what participants deal with during competitions,” Dr. James told the Buzz recently.

According to her, the pageant has continuously set the bar high, aiming not just to empower but also to provide a profound platform for young women to authentically express themselves.

The pageant, which is also being merged with a weekend of sporting activities, has been dubbed the ‘biggest’ weekend of sports in the township of Mabaruma.

It is expected that the local tourism and hospitality sector will receive a significant boost. Increase in market sales is also anticipated to skyrocket for local vendors as well as entertainment and transportation providers.

This year, six exceptional contestants: Lianna Marlock, Tiea Lowe, Alicia Thomas, Tuwana Payne, Anessa Scott and Keisha Prince will be competing for the prestigious crown.

Their multifaceted agenda includes community outreaches, empowerment and health seminars, lunch hosted by the Re -

gional Democratic Council (RDC), project execution training, etiquette, modelling and public speaking.

SUCCESS STORIES

Reflecting on the success of past contestants, the pageant’s director highlighted the remarkable journey of Esther Marslowe, the 2019 queen whose transformative experience catapulted her into a global advocate for indigenous culture and community empowerment.

Such success stories underscore the pageant’s profound impact in shaping future leaders and cultural ambassadors.

The Buzz also spoke to 21-year-old Andrea Farnum, the reigning queen, who attests to the life-changing effects of her pageant journey, citing personal growth from overcoming shyness to embracing femininity.

"The pageant itself has been an adventure and a

journey within one's self. It teaches you strength and resilience. I was able to embrace being a female and grow stronger because of it. Going into the pageant with a lot of self-doubt and insecurities and being a tomboy, walking that stage for the final time, I knew I was meant to be there...I was meant to be queen," she related.

Farnum embodies the essence of empowerment cultivated in the pageant. She is excited to hand over her crown and share the journey with the new queen.

"I am absolutely excited to hand over my crown. I have felt a sense of satisfaction throughout this journey knowing I was able to make a difference."

Amidst these tales of empowerment and success, financial constraints pose a formidable challenge. Impactful initiatives such as pageants rely heavily on corporate sup-

port.

In this regard, Dr. James extended gratitude to the corporate sponsors who have supported the pageant over the years and she urged others to come onboard.

“Without the support of the corporate community, none of it is possible.

We applaud and thank all the businesses who have seen and joined the vision over the past five years. We have so much plans for continued improvement for the events, but, our hands are tied by financial constraints. Our biggest challenge annually is finding spon-

sors for the delegates. I would love for more businesses to see the importance of investing in a young woman challenging herself to become a positive role model for her community while representing a cause locally."

The 2024 Miss Region One contestants

The reigning Miss Region One queen, Andrea Farnum

Esther Marslowe, the 2019 queen

First Little Miss Den Amstel Emancipation Pageant to be hosted in July

THE Little Miss Den Amstel Emancipation Pageant Committee will be hosting its first annual pageant and talent show on July 28, 2024, at the Den Amstel Community Centre Ground under the theme, “Respecting Myself, Learning My Culture.”

The pageant aims to celebrate cultural heritage and personal growth, with out-

standing performances and a pageant competition. Pageant Director, Christa Simmons, spoke with the Buzz and shared that the pageant is opened to young girls aged seven to 12, who are residents of Den Amstel and surrounding communities (Fellowship, Blankenburg, and Hague). Either they or their parents must be of African descent.

In addition to providing the young ladies with the opportunity to shine and strut on stage in their elegant pieces, Simmons noted that a host of activities are planned to give them a well-rounded experience.

“Before the pageant, we plan to have a culture day with them, where we’re going to teach them to cook some African dishes, conkie,

ing some cook-up. We plan to have a day like that for them,” she said.

In addition to this, the delegates will have a photoshoot. These photos will be posted on pageant’s official Facebook page: Little Miss Den Amstel Emancipation Pageant.

The pageant will have a total of three categories: Talent, Casual Wear and the African Ballroom. This will

be for each of the two age groups: seven to nine years old and 10-12 years.

At this point in time, more delegates are being sought. In addition to the aforementioned requirements, those interested in becoming a delegate must have a talent. For more information and updates, persons can contact 661-7319 or visit the pageant’s Facebook.

Sean Paul featured on Bad Boys: Ride or Die soundtrack

INTERNATIONAL

re -

cording artiste, Sean Paul, is happy that he has two songs featured on the soundtrack of the new Will Smith and Martin Lawrence film, ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’.

The film was released in the United States on June 7 via Sony Pictures Entertainment. It is the fourth installment in the Bad Boys movie franchise.

Sean Paul appears on the track ‘Light Em Up’ with Will Smith, and on the title track ‘Bad Boys’, which features Argentine rapper, Trueno.

“You know, I always feel good to be on work that is heavily rotated and highly thought of. The movie’s been a hit movie forever, and I’m just happy to be on the soundtrack. It’s awesome,” Sean Paul told the Jamaica Observer.

He said the collaboration with Trueno came about from a songwriting camp.

“The collaboration that I did with Trueno came about a while back. I had a songwriting camp with a lot of Latin artistes, and we came up with that one. The opportunity just came up and we submitted the song. A few weeks later I got a call that

they wanted me to do the song with Will Smith, and I said yes, a great opportunity,” Sean Paul explained.

He added: “I don’t usually do bad man lyrics, but it called for it with this song.”

This is not the first time that Sean Paul has had a song featured in a film or featured on a film’s official soundtrack. To date, there have been 14 such instances.

In 1998, Sean Paul’s ‘Top Shotta’ featuring rapper DMX and Mr Vegas was featured on the Belly movie soundtrack, and in 2004 a remake of ‘Three Little Birds’ with Ziggy Marley made its way onto the ‘Shark Tale’ soundtrack.

The 2006 film ‘Step Up’

featured the gold-selling hit When You Gonna (Give it Up to Me) with singer Keyshia Cole, while 2003’s chart-topping single ‘Get Busy’ was featured in the dance scene of the 2008 film ‘Baby Mama’. It was also featured in the club scene of the 2003 film ‘Grind’ and in the 2004 romantic comedy ‘Chasing Liberty’.

The Rohan “Jah Sno Cone” Fuller-produced ‘Temperature’, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, was played in the 2007 film ‘Norbit’.

Sean Paul’s breakthrough pop hit ‘Gimmie The Light’ was heard in the 2003 film Honey, while ‘Deport Them’ made it onto the soundtrack for the hit film ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’.

‘No Lie’ featuring Dua Lipa is on the soundtrack to the 2017 film Baywatch, while ‘Got 2 Luv You’, featuring Alexis Jordan, was featured in the 2012 film ‘Magic Mike’.

‘Mad Love’ is featured in the 2021 film ‘Misfits’, and ‘Punkie’, a track from Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock album, is on the soundtrack to the 2004 film ‘After the Sunset’. (Jamaica Observer)

baking pone, maybe cook -

Christa Simmons has competed in a number of local and international pageants

Sean Paul

Spice reflects on 25 years in music

— shares meaning behind upcoming album, 'Mirror 25'

QUEEN

of Dancehall, Spice, has announced her third studio album, 'Mirror 25', marking a significant milestone in her career spanning over two decades.

In a heartfelt letter to her fans, whom she has dubbed "besties", Spice revealed that the album celebrates her 25 years in the music industry.

The letter came hours after the 'Black Hypocrisy'

singer had posted a video showcasing the name of the album, along with the caption "Get ready, it's done".

Spice, whose real name is Grace Hamilton, told her fans, on Tuesday, in the letter, that she loved them very much and was "grateful to have besties like you who stood with me through [my] mud".

Sharing her excitement about releasing the album to the world "soon", Spice

then elaborated on the significance behind the album and what it meant for her.

"Besties, as you know, a mirror shows us our true selves, both the beautiful and the imperfect. This album is my way of showing you my true self while sharing the experiences and emotions that have shaped me into the artiste I am today," Spice stated.

(Loop News)

First trailer for third Paddington film revealed

THE first trailer for Paddington in Peru has been revealed.

The third film in the franchise follows Paddington's return to Peru to find Aunt Lucy who has escaped from the Home for Retired Bears.

The first two were based in London, after he had fled Peru because of his home being destroyed by an earthquake.

Ben Whishaw will again star as the voice of the marmalade-loving bear, with Aunt Lucy still voiced by Imelda Staunton.

Hugh Bonneville, Dame Julie Walters, Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin

also return.

But Sally Hawkins has handed the role of Mrs Brown to Emily Mortimer.

Announing her departure, Hawkins said she "loved" her time making the first two films but it was "the right time to hand the reins over to another", adding: "One can't get much better than the truly wonderful Emily Mortimer - she is extraordinarily special."

Another addition to the cast, Olivia Colman, stars as a guitar-playing nun who works at the Home for Retired Bears.

She tells Paddington that Aunt Lucy is "on some sort of quest".

He then embarks on a mission to find her, with the help of a boat captain, voiced by another newcomer, Antonio Banderas.

Dame Julie Walters returns as Mrs Bird, in her first film role in three years.

In 2020, Walters told BBC News she had been diagnosed with stage-three bowel cancer.

Last year, she had to pull out of filming forthcoming Channel 4 drama ‘Truelove’ because of severe back pain, to be replaced by Lindsay Duncan.

Paddington in Peru hits UK and Irish cinemas on November 8. (BBC)

Dancehall entertainer Spice (AP File photo)

England route Oman to win in 99 balls

AFTER all the angst and indecision, England are back in the game, with a ruthless dispatching of an outclassed Oman. After routing their opponents for 47 in the space of 80 balls at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, they needed just 19 to hunt that total down, to hoist their troublesome net run-rate firmly into the black. Adil Rashid was the pick of an outstanding four-prong attack with figures of 4 for 11, before a turbo-charged chase capped by Jos Buttler's 24 not out from eight balls.

Assuming England can achieve a further two points against Namibia on Saturday, Scotland will be left with the daunting task of beating the Group B leaders Australia if they hope to progress to the Super 8s - and even Josh Hazlewood at his most tongue-in-cheek might baulk at permitting that prospect.

England quicks flex in powerplay

England entered this contest needing not only

to win, but to win quickly, given Scotland's near four-point edge in the net run-rate stakes, not to mention the prospect of shenanigans in the Scots' own final contest against Australia on Sunday. To that end, Buttler decided he wanted "to know how many runs we're chasing" after choosing to bowl first at the toss. The answer, it would soon transpire, was "not many".

The tone was set in a ferocious powerplay, as England unleashed their heaviest artillery of the tournament to date. Two wickets apiece for Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, allied to a probing three-over spell of left-arm seam from the returning Reece Topley reduced Oman to a flaky 25 for 4 … which immediately became 25 for 5 as Rashid announced his own arrival with another breakthrough first-ball.

Topley surely counts as England's most luckless campaigner of recent times. He could have been a key component of the 2022 title triumph had he not rolled his

ankle on a boundary marker during a warm-up match in Brisbane, and he then broke his finger while tracking well during the doomed 50-over World Cup in India before Christmas.

But here he set the tone with an exemplary one-run opening over - remarkably, his first at a T20 World Cup since the 2016 event in India - whereupon Archer struck with his second legal delivery, as Pratik Athavale followed up an opportunistic slap through the covers with a low chance to Phil Salt at short cover.

Archer made it two in as many overs when Aqib Ilyas chopped another low catch to Will Jacks at backward point, who clung on with a juggle - unlike Moeen Ali at slip two balls later, who let a routine snick from Zeeshan Maqsood flop out of his grasp. It scarcely mattered though. Maqsood had no desire to stay in line to a sharp loosener from Wood, as he lobbed a return catch off the quick's first ball, and though Kashyap Prajapati put a dent

in Topley's figures with a slashed six over the short cover boundary, he too had no response to an injection of raw pace, as Wood cleaned him up with a clothed pull to midwicket.

Rashid rips through the rest

With a game broken wide open, Rashid was the perfect weapon to exploit Oman's soft underbelly, and he did so with a display of unrelenting superiority. Four overs on the trot, a wicket in each, and just a solitary boundary cuffed through point by Shoaib Khan, amid a remarkable 20 dot balls.

His first wicket came from his biggest ripper of the lot - an agenda-setting legbreak that almost turned sideways past Khalid Kail's unbalanced sweep, and left Jos Buttler with so far to reach with his gloves that he missed his first attempt at the stumping, and only succeeded with the second due to Kail's galling lack of game-awareness.

Jofra Archer struck with his second legitimate delivery • ICC via Getty Images

Rutherford to the rescue!

Guyanese rescues West Indies in low scoring thriller against New Zealand

(ESPNCRICINFO) - A SENSATIONAL rescue effort from Sherfane Rutherford set up a third win on the trot for West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2024 while putting New Zealand on the verge of elimination at the Brian Lara stadium in Tarouba. With the win, the co-hosts have also secured a spot in the Super Eight.

New Zealand's fast bowlers dictated proceedings in the powerplay to have West Indies four down in the first innings. Rutherford found little support as West Indies slid to 112 for 9 after 18 overs, but he plundered 37 runs off the last two overs to take the co-hosts to 149.

Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hosein then stepped up with the ball, as New Zealand slumped to their second defeat in as many games.

Rutherford stands tall at the death

Rutherford found himself in unfamiliar territory thanks to West Indies' top-order collapse, coming in to bat in the sixth over. Only for the second time in his T20I career, he faced a ball in the powerplay. But he vied his time in his partnerships with Hosein, Andre Russell and Romario Shepherd. For long, his only two boundary shots were two sixes off drag-downs from Mitchell Santner and James Neesham before he finally let loose in the last two overs.

New Zealand took a gambit in using up their best frontline bowlers early and ended up giving Daryl Mitchell the penultimate over and Santner the last.

The plan nearly paid off, with West Indies having just one wicket in hand after the 18th over. But Rutherford resisted as he first tore into Mitchell, hitting him for back-to-back sixes down the V' before depositing the ball over the fine-leg fence for a third six in the over.

He then hit Santner for two fours and a majestic six slog-swept from wide of off over wide long-on, on the way to a 33-ball half-century. The 37 runs off the last two overs helped take West Indies to 149, a score that seemed unattainable for al-

most all of their innings.

Allen attacks in the powerplay

Finn Allen helped New Zealand gain early momentum in the chase, despite losing Devon Conway in the third over. Allen got going by pulling Shepherd behind square for a boundary in the second over before hoisting Hosein over cow corner. Hosein then had Conway caught at fine leg as he top-edged while trying to sweep, done in by the extra bounce. Allen then flicked Russell behind square and cut Hosein for two more fours.

Joseph, introduced in the sixth over, drew a leading edge off him only for Rutherford to drop him running back from point. But one ball later, Allen miscued a pull to Russell at deep square leg.

Motie ties New Zealand down

Motie struck in his first over, getting Williamson to nick behind trying to cut, as West Indies grabbed two wickets in two overs. In his next over, he had Rachin Ravindra - who came in to bat at No. 3 - hole out to deep midwicket. In his third over, Motie knocked Mitchell over with a peach that pitched on middle and spun past the outside edge to crash into the stumps.

Between Motie and Hosein, West Indies' left-arm spinners had combined figures of 4 for 46 from their eight overs, while offspinner Roston Chase bowled a fourrun over.

Joseph stops Phillips' charge

The spin choke saw New Zealand's asking rate swell When Neesham fell to Joseph, New Zealand needed 65 off 29 deliveries. Phillips then tried to force the issue, hitting Russell for a four and a six before pulling Joseph for back-to-back boundaries in the 18th over. However, Joseph had the last laugh as Phillips tried to pull again and skied a catch to long-on running in.

Joseph then had Southee caught off his own bowling to finish with a four-wicket haul, effectively sealing the win for West Indies.

Boult triggers WI's top-order collapse

At the start of the game, it was Trent Boult who made heads turn early. After asking West Indies to bat, New Zealand got a first-over breakthrough courtesy Boult's wicket of Johnson Charles, who chopped one onto his stumps.

Nicholas Pooran walked out to loud applause, and it took him three balls to get West Indies' first boundary with a leading edge past short third. The boundary also took Pooran past Chris Gayle to become the leading run-scorer for West Indies in men's T20Is.

Then followed a game of cat-and-mouse between Pooran and Tim Southee, who was among three changes New Zealand made from the side that lost to Afghanistan last week.

In a sequence of four balls, Pooran hit two fours, was dropped by Mitchell between the two boundary shots and then fell to the seamer. Pooran tried to take Southee on for a third boundary in the over as the bowler dug in a short ball but skied it to wicketkeeper Conway running behind a swirling ball.

Pooran was the first of four wickets that West Indies lost in the space of ten runs. Chase fell for a duck, miscuing Lockie Ferguson, and Southee had Rovman Powell edging behind. From 20 for 1, they were soon 30 for 5, when Brandon King departed in the seventh over.

The Boult v Russell battle

Then came a 28-run stand for the sixth wicket between Akeal Hosein and Rutherford that briefly stabilised their innings. A sharp catch by Neesham at midwicket off Santner's bowling ended Hosein's stay, and Russell came at No. 8.

Russell was immediately on the front foot, hitting Ferguson for two fours and a six. Williamson brought Boult back in the next over, the 13th of the innings, and the move paid off as Russell first missed an attempted hoick across the line and then topedged a catch to short third.

Ferguson and Boult then dismissed Shepherd and Joseph with deliveries that stayed low, and

with two overs to go, New Zealand were the happier side. But they were not prepared for Rutherford to

single-handedly change the game's course and handed West Indies the momentum at the break, helped also

by the energy of a packed Brian Lara Stadium.

Bangladesh inch closer to super eight with win over Netherlands

CMC – BANGLADESH inched closer to reaching the Super Eight of the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup after Shakib-Al-Hasan and Rishad Hossain played leading roles in a 25-run win against The Netherlands on Thursday, in St Vincent.

Shakib returned to form with an unbeaten 64 off 46 balls that included only nine fours, earning him the playerof-the-match award, and he anchored the Bangladeshis to 159 for five off their 20 overs after they were put in to bat in their Group D match at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground, which was staging an international for the first time in a decade.

“It was important for someone from the top four to bat through the innings, and I am happy to contribute,” Shakib said during the postplay TV interview. “It was a tough pitch at the start, but we held our nerves.

“It was a competitive to-

tal, not a winning one, but the bowlers chipped in perfectly. Hardly any international game was played in the last few years, so we didn’t know what a good score was going to be, and we had to keep wickets until the 14th to 15th overs and take it from there. But 160 in a World Cup game is always tricky.”

Rishad delivered crucial strikes to remove top scorer Sybrand Engelbrecht for 33 in the 15th over, the experienced Bas de Leede two balls later, and Logan van Beek in the 18th over, and the Dutch finished on 134 for eight from their 20 overs.

Pacer Taskin Ahmed ended with two for 30 from his four overs, and left-arm pacer, Mustafizur Rahman, was economical, if not penetrative, conceding only 12 from his four overs to keep a tight lid on the Netherlands scoring.

“Rishad and Fizz (Mustafizur) took it away from Netherlands,” Shakib added.

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

BELMONT

Race 1 Mount Travers

Race 2 Complexoon

Race 3 My Life Story

Race 4 Giant’s Fire

Race 5 La Maquina

Race 6 Geopolitics

Race 7 He Has It All

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

FAIRVIEW

08:25 hrs Dowser

09:00 hrs Dame Of Flames

09:35 hrs Gocekwithlove

10:10 hrs Querandi

IRISH RACING TIPS

CORK

11:50 hrs Say Yes To Drums

12:25 hrs Desert Power

12:58 hrs Sevensees

13:33 hrs Easy

14:08 hrs Sumiha

14:43 hrs Carlo Bianconi

15:13 hrs Masoun

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

YORK

08:50 hrs Hectic 09:25 hrs Mrbluesky

“Netherlands had their moments, 10 runs an over on this ground in the last seven or eight overs, wind going in one way, made it tough to defend. But credit to bowlers for pulling it off.”

Bangladesh moved two points clear of the Oranje brigade in the group table, knowing a win against Nepal on Sunday at the same venue will definitely secure their place in the quarterfinals along with group leaders South Africa.

The Netherlands must hope that the Tigers lose that fixture, and that they can win and achieve a big run-rate swing against bottom-placed Sri Lanka on the same day at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in neighbouring St Lucia.

“We lost in all three facets, so credit to Bangladesh,” Netherlands captain Scott Edwards said. “They were great, and we weren’t up to it.”

10:15 hrs Crystal Mariner

10:50 hrs Games People Play 11:25 hrs Divine Breath

12:00 hrs Allonsy

10:00 hrs Jumbeau

10:35 hrs River Seine

11:10 hrs Reach 11:45 hrs Artic Mountain

SANDOWN

08:30 hrs Rajeteriat

09:05 hrs Mary Of Modena 09:40 hrs Royal Officer

GOODWOOD

12:30 hrs Lightning Force

13:05 hrs Myna

13:40 hrs Millrr Spirit

14:15 hrs Hilltop

14:50 hrs Enchanting 15:20 hrs Dreamrocker

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday June 14, 2024) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Australia & England (2) England

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who copped the Man of the Match Award in the 2010 ICC T20 World Cup final? (2) Who was declared Man of the Tournament?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Motie named men’s ICC player of the month

CMC – ON the day after Gudakesh Motie played a leading role in West Indies qualifying for the Super Eight quarterfinals of the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, it was announced that he was selected as the ICC Men’s Player-of-the-Month for May.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport’s world organising body, announced, on Thursday, that the Guyanese left-arm spinner became only the second West Indies player to secure the Men’s Player-of-theMonth award this year.

His fast-bowling compatriot, Shamar Joseph claimed the award in January after bursting on the scene with his sensational performance that led to an unforgettable Test win against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Motie faced stiff competition from Pakistan left-arm fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi and Ireland batsman, Lorcan Tucker, for the monthly award.

“It means a lot to me, and I am very happy to win this award,” he said in an ICC news release. “It’s very encouraging. I have put in a lot

of work during this season, and I am happy that I am seeing the rewards now.”

After enjoying plenty success in three T20 Internationals against South Africa played exclusively in Jamaica, the 29-year-old continued to shine during the World Cup, and his three wickets on Wednesday enabled the Caribbean side to clinch a 13-run win against New Zealand at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA) in Trinidad.

“Playing in a World Cup means a lot to me, and playing at home in front of our fans and knowing the conditions is also special,” he said.

“We have started strongly, playing three games and getting three wins, and I see us going all the way and lifting that cup on June 29.”

But it had all been set up from last month when Motie bagged eight wickets across the three matches against the South Africans at a parsimonious average of 8.50.

“The standout performance for me during the series against South Africa was the first game, where I took three for 25,” he said. “The third wicket that [day] was my favourite.”

He bowled Bjorn Fortuin for a first-ball duck with a delivery that drifting in towards leg-stump, and turned away sharply after landing, and hit the top of the offstump.

It was similar to the delivery with which he got New Zealand batsman, Daryl Mitchell on Thursday and breathed life into the West Indies’ defence of their competitive target of 149 on an uneven BLCA pitch before a capacity crowd under the lights.

On the back of his performance, West Indies, minus several members of their World Cup squad, sealed a statement 3-0 victory against the Proteas last month in Kingston.

Motie picked up three for 25 in the opening contest to restrict the visitors’ chase, and he followed up with another impressive spell of three for 22 to stifle the middle-order in the second match.

Another two wickets in the final match turned the tide in favour of the hosts and enabled Motie to claim the Player-of-the-Series prize.

Gudakesh Motie

Training camp…

National Para Table Tennis Champion, Safaraz and Coach Johnson arrive safely

NATIONAL Para Table Tennis Champion, Gibran Sarfaraz and National Coach, Linden Johnson, arrived safely at the University of Birmingham to participate in the Commonwealth Games Federation GAPS Global 2024 training camp.

The goal of GAPS is to offer emerging athletes and coaches from the Commonwealth access to additional skills, knowledge, and resources.

Driven by advancing education and supporting the development of inclusive sport pathways that promotes positive social change in sport and communities, the camp will run from June

8th – June 18th 2024. It will begin with para-powerlifting attending

from 8th to 17th and & para table tennis from the 9th to 18th.

Twenty-one different countries from across all Commonwealth regions are

represented with just over eighty (80) participants at the camp which is funded and supported by Commonwealth Games Federation in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, UK.

Athletes and coaches will undergo a series of tailored, highly personal, workshops and sessions, which will lead them to explore the world of sport and athletes for social change, as well as training them in the key skills they need for becoming compassionate, responsible, and effective social change makers.

The camp will focus on supporting athletes on their preparation and journey to Paris 2024 or as they step

onto their development pathway for the future as well as providing developing athletes and coaches with skills, knowledge and opportunities to advance their capacity and abilities, among other things.

GAPS is a sport for development and peace programme that supports the development of inclusive sport pathways throughout the Commonwealth.

Developed by the Commonwealth Games Federation and Griffith University, GAPS has expanded into a mutually beneficial and collaborative relationship with other partners joining on this exciting but challenging journey.

Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast returns on August 3 — finals set for August 25 at the National Stadium

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, a fastpaced cricket tournament, is gearing up for its second season, bowling off on August 3 with the other playing dates being August 4, 11 and 25.

This follows a highly successful inaugural edition in 2023, and Kares Engineering has secured the title sponsorship once more.

The tournament will feature 32 of Guyana's top Tapeball teams, battling for a shot at the G$1.5 million first-place prize and national bragging rights.

The runners-up will pocket $500,000, and the two losing semi-finalists will get $250,000 each.

The stakes are raised this year, with the much-anticipated semi-finals, finals, and Cricket for Charity match scheduled for August 25 at the National Stadium.

This exhibition match will likely feature President Dr. Irfaan Ali again along with prominent figures in government and private sector.

John Ramsingh, Co-Di-

rector of FL Sport, the tournament organiser, expressed excitement for a competitive season.

"The 2023 edition exceeded expectations with overwhelming support from players, fans, and the National Stadium crowd," he said in a press release. "We aim to surpass those numbers and deliver another exceptional tournament."

While expansion was considered, organisers have opted to maintain the 32team format with a straight knockout structure for 2024. However, plans are un-

derway to introduce qualifying zones with increased corporate backing, potentially opening the door for wider participation in future editions.

The tournament has already garnered international interest, with teams from Pakistan, Dominica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago expressing a desire to compete. Some of these teams might join the fray as early as 2025.

Building on the success of last year's live streaming, matches from the quarter-finals onwards will once again be available on various plat-

forms, including Facebook, YouTube, the FL Sport website, and cable television through a partnership with ENet.

This allows fans to enjoy the action from anywhere while providing valuable exposure for sponsors.

The 2023 edition attracted thousands of online viewers, particularly for the Cricket for Charity match streamed on President Ali's Facebook page.

The President's initia -

tive successfully raised over G$20 million for Guyanese charities, and organisers hope to exceed this amount with continued corporate support.

Teams interested in participating can find registration details in the coming days on the One Guyana T10 Blast Facebook page. The registration fee is G$25,000.

Beyond the top cash prize, individual accolades will be awarded for Player of the Final, Most Wickets,

Most Runs, and Most Valuable Player.

Last year, Eccles AllStars emerged victorious, defeating V-Net Vipers in the final. Team Corruption and Tarmac were the losing semi-finalists.

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast promises another exciting season of cricket, showcasing Guyana's talent while fostering a spirit of community through the charity match.

National Para Table Tennis Champion, Gibran Sarfaraz (right) and National Coach, Linden Johnson

Eccles All Stars stormed to the inaugural title in 2023 by defeating V-Net Vipers at the National Stadium, Providence

John Ramsingh (right) collects the ceremonial cheque for the title sponsorship from Natasha Persaud of Kares Engineering Inc.

David vs Goliath: Newly owned Spankhurst eyeing Guyana Cup win

JERMAINE Sripal, a budding supermarket magnate from New Amsterdam has crossed the bridge, and bought 2023 Horse of the Year winner, Spankhurst from Jumbo Jet Racing Stable (JJRC).

Unknowingly his entry into the realms of the Sport of Kings is now scripted as David vs Goliath.

Spankhurst is the leading money earner this season winning two of his four races. Based on that success he is now the pre-race favorite to cop this year's Guyana Cup. It will be run off at Rising Sun Turf Club (RSTC), Rising Sun, West Berbice on Sunday August 11, 2024.

Sripal is an unknown in the industry but famed as J’s Supermarket business. His family's bloodline in the horse racing arena is not deep rooted.

Shripal declared, "My family-owned horses long ago, but I never had any inkling about owning horses. About four years ago I went to the races. I heard people speaking about horse racing, and realised this is a very popular sport."

Shripal revealed the seam-

— Fazal Habibulla new trainer for Spankhurst

less transition to his new trainer on Sunday after buying the six-year-old Canadian-bred Spankhurst, "The opportunity came up. I saw Junior (Nasrudeen Mohamed) had a lot of horses. He mentioned while speaking to him, that he could sell me a horse. So, when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped at it. I was reading about Spankhurst and following him exploits. I enquired what is needed to own a horse. I realized you do not need to have your own track but can own a horse without the responsibility."

He shared, "Junior's involvement with the transfer of the horse has been a dream. I do not much people, who would have done, what Junior did for me. He got a trainer for me, a groom, and everything that the horse needs to move into the new stable. He made owning a horse more accessible. If I wasn't offered all these things, I would have remained a spectator of the sport. That's genuine consideration."

Junior representing Jumbo Jet Racing (JJR) reached on the reason for the sale of Spankhurst

related, "When Spankhurst was imported two years ago we offered Stuart Gonzalez to buy him before he raced. He did not buy him. Spankhurst won the Sprint Classic and proved better going long."

Junior explained, "I have been speaking to Jermaine about the sport, and being a young person like myself. I recognised he wants to own a good horse. He likes Spankhurst, and I offered it to him. He was probably surprised and wondering why."

Junior continued, "I am en-

couraging people to get involved in the sport to help develop it. They are the future. Jermaine appears to be a person, who along with his family will be in the sport for a very long time. He has bought the best horse in the country. If Spankhurst wins this year's Guyana Cup. It will send a very positive message for prospective owners. Jermaine will have lots of fun with Spankhurst, I suggested Uncle Fazal as the trainer for Spankhurst. He is one of the finest trainers in Guyana. He is a two-time Guyana Cup

trainer. He is highly respected, and very outspoken. I know we will have to buy something exceptionally fast to beat uncle Fazal with Spankhurst."

Junior pointed out, "Jermaine might be small in stature - five-foot six inches might but is now seen as towering 'David' to triumph over towering figure in the winner's enclosure when coming up against the six-foot plus, Goliath (me) representing Jumbo Jet."

Sripal chipping in explained, "I bought the horse because I felt he is the best horse in Guyana, and for the Guyana Cup. My trainer has already advised that we bought a bullet, but Jumbo Jet might buy a rocket. Who knows we may shoot down the rocket. Uncle Fazal loves this sort of challenge."

Sharing what excited his appetite to become an owner

Sripal related, "I am a big cricket fan. In any spectator sport, cricket, football, or athletics. Everybody want to be the best and follow the best. Horse racing is a spectator sport. You not involved riding or training. You are just as involved as the

jockey or the trainer. As you are urging on the horse to win the race, as they battle down to the finish line. You can feel you are part of the action in horse racing seeing your horse win, could be an adrenaline rush that we all have."

Regarding his experience about horses Sripal admitted, "I do not know much about horses, but Junior, and my trainer Fazal are making me very comfortable. I have been told luck is one of the main ingredients in the sport. Who knows. I might get lucky."

Looking down the home stretch of ownership of other horses Sripal revealed, “I want to earn horses at the lower classes as well. By December or early next year. In any sport passion is the driving force, sometimes things do not work out how you want it to. I am in the sport to have fun and will be in it for a very long time. I am aware that you may need certain infrastructure with horse ownership. I am on the learning curve for now. When I gain more experience. Then I could explore what the future holds for me in this sport."

Khan secures Olympiad spot after successful defence of national open title

CANDIDATE Master (CM), Taffin Khan, secured qualification for Guyana’s Chess Olympiad team after a sublime performance in the just concluded National Chess Championship at School of the Nations auditorium.

The competition saw Khan having to defend his 2023 title against the top 9 players from the qualifier tournament where he picked up 8 outright wins and a draw in the nine-round championship.

Khan’s draw came in round 1 against junior, Ethan

Lee, before he took outright wins over Kyle Couchman, Loris Nathoo, Sachin Pitamber, Keron Sandiford, Ronuel Greenidge, Roberto Neto, Justino Da Silva and Anthony Drayton.

Second place went to FIDE Master Drayton who copped 5 wins 2 draws and 2 losses.

Khan leads the standing for the Olympiad with 182 points after also collecting first places in one grand prix tournament as well as the national championship last

year and the national qualifier in 2023.

Both the National Open Champion and the National Women's Champion secured automatic spots on the team.

The other top five players in the running for a spot on the Olympiad team are Sandiford (128) points, Loris Nathoo (92 points) , Justino Da Silva (86 points), Ethan Lee (68 points), Jaden Taylor (66 points) and FIDE Master Drayton (65 points).

The players will compete in several other grand prix tournaments to determine who will make up the top 8-12 players to represent their country.

The 45th Chess Olympiad, organised by the International Chess Federation will comprise open and women's tournaments. It will be held in Budapest, Hungary from September 10 to 23, 2024.

The top ladies in the running to represent Guyana are Jessica Callender (186 points), Aditi Joshi (168 points), Sasha Shariff (124 points), Ciel Clements (104 points), Treskole Archbald (96 points) and Shazeeda Rahim.

Senior Track and Field Championships set for June 15-16

— athletes set eyes on Olympic qualification

WITH the Olympic qualification deadline looming at the end of June, the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) anticipates fierce competition at the upcoming Senior Track and Field Championships. The event, to be held at the National Track and Field Facility on West Coast Demerara, on June 15-16, is seen as one of the last chances for Guyanese athletes to secure their spot in Paris.

No Guyanese athlete has yet met the Olympic qualifying standards. However, the prospect of achieving their Olympic dreams is expected to fuel exceptional performances. Acting AAG President, Sheryl Hermonstine, highlighted the return of roughly 13 Guyanese athletes residing overseas to compete in this prestigious event. The competition will also feature four Trinidadian athletes, bringing the total number of

participants to 200.

"We expect a highly competitive atmosphere," Hermonstine said, emphasising the potential benefits for the sport's development within Guyana. Competition Director, Mark Scott, echoed this sentiment, pointing to the local athletes' eagerness to challenge their overseas counterparts.

The championships kick off at 10:00 hours on Saturday with the men's 10,000m

race.

100m semi-finals, the 1,500m finals, and the highly anticipated 100m finals will follow. The women's 5,000m will also be contested on Saturday, while Sunday morning brings the long jump and a host of other events.

"We anticipate peak performances from everyone. This is an Olympic qualifier, so all the athletes will be aiming to deliver their absolute best," Scott stated

Despite the high stakes, the AAG faces financial constraints. According to AAG General Secretary, James Cole, the top performer in each race will receive a G$15,000 prize, followed by G$10,000 and G$5,000 for second and third places, respectively.

While the AAG acknowledges some support from the Guyana Olympic Association and the National Sports Commission, Cole emphasises the

need for more attractive prize money to incentivise Guyana's premier senior athletes.

The AAG is calling on the corporate community to step up and support this crucial event. Will the pursuit of Olympic glory be enough to ignite a fiercely competitive Senior Track and Field Championships?

The answer will unfold on the track at West Coast Demerara.

National Chess champion, Taffin Khan, over a board

Runner-up, Anthony Drayton

Sripal and his champion horse Spankhurst

Rutherford to the rescue!

Guyanese

Gudakesh Motie

Seated from left: Competitions Director, Mark Scott, AAG President (Ag), Sheryl Hermonstine, and General Secretary, James Cole, along with some of the competing athletes