- President Ali announces, says more investments in the pipeline
- Prime Minister Phillips declares after commissioning
President Ali, UK Foreign Secretary discuss potential for enhanced partnerships in key areas
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Friday, met with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his first official visit to Guyana since his appointment. The discussions centered on enhancing partnerships in climate change, environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and child care. President Ali also hosted a cocktail reception in honour of Mr. Lammy, whose parents are originally from Guyana. During the reception, the UK’s support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, developmental projects, and security collaboration was emphasised. In his brief remarks, Mr. Lammy expressed his enthusiasm for the potential future partnerships between Guyana and the UK. President Ali highlighted that this partnership has been strengthened by the efforts of the British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller. Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and other senior government officials were present at both events. (Office of the President)
- Association applauds administration for maintaining, expanding supportive
Members of the Armed Forces to get the annual one-month bonus
- President Ali announces, says more investments in the pipeline
By Feona Morrison
IN a heartfelt address to the members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) during the annual Christmas Breakfast at Base Camp Seweyo on Saturday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali expressed deep gratitude for their unwavering service, sacrifice, and commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security.
In recognition of their dedicated service and commitment, he announced that they will be receiving the annual Christmas bonus, the equivalent of one month's salary, as a token of appreciation for their efforts.
The bonus will be provided to soldiers, police officers, and other personnel across the
security forces, with a total of $1.6 billion being disbursed.
In his remarks, President Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expressed his deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by the Joint Services.
The Head of State acknowledged the critical role that the men and women of the GDF play in ensuring peace and security within Guyana and the broader region.
“We, a grateful nation, are thankful for your services, your sacrifice, and your commitment in the continuous oath of defending our homeland and keeping Guyana safe,” Dr. Ali said.
In line with the Christmas spirit, the President also used the
In a heartfelt address to the members of the GDF during the annual Christmas Breakfast at Base Camp Seweyo on Saturday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali expressed deep gratitude for their unwavering service, sacrifice, and commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security (Office of the President photos)
occasion to encourage camaraderie and unity within the GDF, urging soldiers to continue fostering a sense of family and shared purpose.
He said: “Today is about you, and it happens at a very important time of the year; a time of the year when we reflect on the challenges we would have had to overcome, but
also when we celebrate the revival of life, when we celebrate the renewal of hope, and when we celebrate the gift of God to humanity.
“It is a reminder that all of us are from one entity; from one family, and that is the family of humanity. But, more importantly, here at home, it reminds us that all of us are bonded
together by that Guyanese spirit, and we all belong to the Guyanese family. We are one big integrated family called the Guyanese family.”
Ali acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families, noting that the demands of military service often come at great personal cost.
“The job of a soldier requires agility, continuous training, discipline, commitment, fitness, a life that is completely different; a life that is selfless, one that is completely dedicated to the protection and safeguarding of our country and our people. You have chosen a life that is the highest form of representation of patriotism, the highest form of representation of what it means to be a national figure,” he said.
Dr. Ali related that the government has demonstrated its commitment to the welfare and development of men and women in uniform through consistent investments in their education, infrastructure, and overall well-being.
Over the past four
years, President Ali emphasised that the government has seized every opportunity to improve their living and working conditions.
As they continue to serve Guyana, the Head of State expressed: “I thank you for your service. I look forward to your continued commitment in setting the best example and best representation of your uniform. Wear it proudly and represent it with honour, dignity and pride.”
President Ali conveyed his best wishes to all members of the GDF for a peaceful and joyful Christmas season.
The Christmas Breakfast event, a tradition that has become a staple in the GDF’s calendar, provided an opportunity for soldiers to take a break from their duties and enjoy a festive meal together. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie, with smiles and laughter filling the air as service members came together to share in the holiday spirit.
Region Nine now boasts sophisticated energy system
- Prime Minister Phillips declares after commissioning landmark Moco Moco project
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips officially commissioned the 0.7 MW Moco Moco Hydropower Plant on Friday,
marking a transformative milestone for Region Nine's energy landscape. He emphasised the project’s pivotal role in bridging
the energy divide, a cornerstone of the government’s commitment to equitable development under its “One Guyana” vision.
“This is another example of us delivering on our promise to bridge the development divide. More particularly, what we're doing is bridging the energy divide,” he said.
The Prime Minister underscored that the symbolic
‘You’re making history, because, for the first time in our country’s history, we have a hydro-power plant, solar farm, and diesel generators working together to provide energy, and this is happening for the first time in Region Nine right here’ – PM Phillips
and practical significance of revitalising this long-dormant facility represents a broader effort by the government to ensure that all regions, including hinterland communities,
benefit from its broader developmental agenda particularly its pursuance of an energy mix which features renewable energy at the fore.
“You're making history,”
the Prime Minister declared, “because, for the first time in our country's history, we have a hydro-power plant, solar farm, and diesel generators
TURN TO PAGE 14
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) the Honourable Mark Phillips officially commissioned the 0.7 MW Moco Moco Hydropower Plant on Friday, marking a transformative milestone for Region Nine’s energy landscape
Guyana first in the region to secure updated World Bank debt-management ‘tool’
– as Finance Minister signs Climate Resilience Debt Clause, Rapid Response Option agreements with international financial institution
THE government continues to manage Guyana’s debt in a prudent and sustainable manner, while also ramping up efforts to improve and build the country’s resilience to climate change.
As efforts are made to proceed further in this direction, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh signed a Climate Resilient Debt Clause (CRDC) Agreement with the World Bank at the Ministry of Finance, along with an agreement for the activation of the World Bank’s Rapid Response Option (RRO).
The CRDC is a debt-management tool that allows for the deferral of debt payments for up to two years should Guyana experience a natural disaster such as flooding.
Guyana is the first country in the region to sign the updated CRDC and this has now taken place following intense lobbying by the government for the bank to include appropriate climate-change phenomena such as floods, droughts and public health emergencies unique to this country’s circumstances.
Should the country experience such a disaster and once the CRDC is activated, it will also reduce the burden on government resources to finance disaster response and recovery efforts.
The second agreement signed with the World Bank is the Rapid Response Option (RRO) which, if activated, would see existing resources quickly repurposed for emergency response should there be a crisis such as a natural disaster,
The government continues to manage Guyana’s debt in a prudent and sustainable manner, while also ramping up efforts to improve and build the country’s resilience to climate change
health shock or conflict event.
Guyana, in such a situation, can repurpose up to 10 percent of its undisbursed balances in its Investment Project Financing and Programme for Results (PforR) operations per year for quick disbursement.
During the signing, Dr Singh explained that ‘notwithstanding Guyana’s improved economic circumstances in recent years, we continue to be a country that is extremely vulnerable to climate and other potentially catastrophic events,’ as he recalled that the country has over time experienced multiple episodes of flooding
including in 2005, noting that the floods had devastated Guyana’s economy and posed damage in excess of 60 percent of GDP.
The Senior Minister added, “The bank has been partnering with us on building our resilience to natural disasters and to catastrophic events and not least, of course, is the support for the Flood Risk Management Project, amongst others. But increasingly too, the international community as well has recognised the importance of instruments that can respond more effectively to exogenous shocks, extreme climatic events or other natural
disasters and catastrophes.”
Signing on behalf of the bank was World Bank Group Representative to Guyana Ms Diletta Doretti who underscored the significance of the signing as she lauded the finance minister for his intense lobbying efforts and for pointing out when he perused the agreement months before, that the CRDC needed to include natural disasters relevant to Guyana as it catered only for hurricanes and earthquakes.
It can be recalled that in July this year as well Dr Singh presented to Parliament two amendatory loan agreements, including one
which amended the Export Finance Facility Agreement dated June 14, 2022, between the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, represented by the Ministry of Finance as the Borrow er and UK Export Finance as the Lender, and the UniCredit Bank Austria AG as the Agent and Arranger, for an amount of EUR 161,016,949.15 for the Guyana Paediatric and Maternal Hospital Project.
This Amendatory Agreement facilitated the inclusion of a Climate Resilient Debt Clause into the original Agreement with Guyana being one of the first countries to adopt the CRDCs directly as part of its loan agreement with the UK Export Finance.
This government’s effective debt-management practices over the past years have contributed to a large decline in the country’s debt ratios over a sustained period. It can be recalled that Guyana’s debt-to-GDP ratio declined from over 600
percent in 1991 to 27 percent in 2023; while in 1992, about 90 cents of every dollar of revenue earned was used to make debt-service payments. Today, this has been significantly reduced to about six cents of every dollar.
Noteworthy for the country has been the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) 2023 Article IV Report for Guyana, which placed the country in a positive light, indicating that the risk of (overall and external) debt distress remains moderate, with debt dynamics improving significantly with incoming oil revenues.
The IMF also commended the government for its commitment to maintain debt sustainability and a balanced growth path through moderating fiscal impulses over the medium-term, while continuing to address development needs. (Ministry of Finance)
GECOM’s Evolution
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is the entity responsible for the administration and conduct of elections in Guyana. GECOM is headed by a Chairman and six Commissioners.
So far, it has been doing a good job in ensuring that the will of the electorate prevails. Except for the pre-1992 period when General and Regional Elections were blatantly and massively rigged in favour of the then authoritarian PNC regime, all elections since 1992 were by and large free, fair and transparent.
Prior to 1991, the Guyana Elections Commission was made up of a Chairman who was appointed by the President and one member in respect of
each political party which had no fewer than five seats in the National Assembly.
The Commission had a temporary life in that a member had to vacate office within three months of the date of an election.
Electoral reform in Guyana commenced in 1990 and continued throughout the period preceding the 2001 General and Regional Elections. During that period, the composition of GECOM was changed from time to time to allow for the conduct of the October 1992 elections, the first democratically held election for close to three decades, thanks to PNC authoritarian rule. For the 1992 and 1997 elections, the Elections Commission was
still a temporary institution for each election.
The present GECOM was established in May, 2000 by way of an amendment to the constitution which repealed and re-enacted article 161 of the constitution on the basis of recommendations emanating from the Constitution Reform Commission, which were ratified by Parliament.
The re-enacted article 161 re-stated the same mechanism for the appointment of the Commission as provided for since the 1992 general elections, but the Commission is now established as a permanent body.
All of the powers which were previously exercised by, or on behalf of the minister
responsible for the preparation for, and administration of elections are now vested in the Commission.
It is no secret that prior to 1992, the Elections Commission was under the influence and control of the then ruling PNC regime, and to a large extent, facilitated the perpetuation of PNC authoritarian rule through fraudulent means.
All of that, thankfully, is now behind us, even though some indications of partisan loyalties were very much in evidence during the March 2020 General and Regional elections. The fact that elements within GECOM were unable to get their way in influencing the outcome of the elections is testimony to changing times.
Democracy and the rule of law are today much more institutionalised than was the case during the pre-1992 period, as was evident in the 2020 General and Regional Elections, when attempts were made by the APNU+AFC coalition in collaboration with 'rogue' elements from the GECOM Secretariat to subvert the democratic process.
The above notwithstanding, there are still fresh attempts made by the main political opposition to undermine confidence in GECOM to deliver free and fair elections.
Only recently, Vice-President and General Secretary of the PPP, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had cause to reprimand the political opposition for what he
described as an ' orchestrated, audacious demonisation' of GECOM.
According to Dr. Jagdeo, this was done with the intent to destroy the credibility of GECOM in a very unfair manner by a number of fringe organisations and political parties, all with the same aim -- destroying the credibility of GECOM.
The fact is that the Guyana Elections Commission has come a long way since that dark period of PNC dictatorial rule. Hence, the need for continuing vigilance by all democratic forces in and out of Guyana to ensure that the will of the electorate prevails in the forthcoming national and regional elections.
The Natural Resource Fund Act – withdrawal rules and procedures
Dear Editor, THERE continues to be confusion created by opposition-aligned operatives as it relates to the withdrawal of monies from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), accountability and transparency thereof, in compliance with the Natural Resource Fund Act 2021 (hereinafter “NRF Act”). It is a very simple matter, and the withdrawals from the Fund are made in compliance with the NRF Act.
Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act establishes that:
All withdrawals from the Fund shall be deposited into the Consolidated Fund and shall be used only to finance –
a) National development priorities including any initiative aimed at realising an inclusive green economy; and
b) Essential projects that are directly related to ameliorating the effects of a major natural disaster.
Section 19 (1-3) of the NRF Act sets out the procedures for the “approval of withdrawals from the Fund”, which states that:
(1) The amount that the Minister shall request the National Assembly to approve as the withdrawal from the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year shall be included in the annual budget proposal and shall not
exceed for that year, the ceiling calculated in accordance with Section 17 and the First Schedule, plus any amount for emergency financing.
Section 20 (1) sets out the contents of the annual budget proposal, which states that the budget proposal shall include―
a) An estimate of the withdrawal from the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
b) An estimate of the deposits into the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
c) A detailed estimate of petroleum revenues for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
d) An estimate of the expected nominal total return per annum of the Fund for the next ensuing fiscal year and each of the next following three fiscal years;
e) A comparison of actual withdrawals from the Fund with the amount approved by the National Assembly for withdrawal from the Fund for the past three fiscal years.
The budget proposal comprises the budget speech and the budget estimates (Volumes 1-3). Appendix VII of the budget speech (Pg. 115) is
prepared in compliance with Section 20 (1) (a-d) as outlined above.
With respect to the national development priorities set out in Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act, these are included in the budget proposal. It must also be noted that the expenditures as per Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act would comprise 100% of the capital budget, which includes, for example, the capital allocations for the infrastructure sector, health, education, and housing and water sectors, etc., more so the infrastructure sector.
Towards this end, the capital budget for 2024 amounted to $666.2 billion, accounting for 58% of the total budget. The NRF withdrawal for 2024 amounted to $240 billion, representing 36% of the total capital budget. And notably, the infrastructure budget alone for 2024 was $236 billion, 98% of the NRF withdrawal.
Furthermore, it must be noted that the combined opposition participates fully in the budget debates and approval process in the National Assembly, wherein the budget estimates are scrutinised in detail by the National Assembly.
The opposition chairs the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that scrutinises the audited public accounts prepared by the Auditor General as well.
Therefore, it is disingenuous for the opposition operatives to propagate that the government has failed to comply with the provi -
sions of Section 16 (2) of the NRF Act, when this is done through the budget-approval process, and the budget proposal includes the budget
speech, together with the detailed estimates of the expenditures.
Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Understanding the strategic nature of modern philanthropy
Dear Editor,
I WRITE in support of the First Lady’s recent Diamond Ball, an event that has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While I understand the concerns expressed about its perceived extravagance, it is important to recognise the value of such events in achieving philanthropic goals and elevating causes in ways that traditional fundraisers, such as BBQ sales, may not.
High-profile events like the Diamond Ball serve a dual purpose: they raise substantial funds and generate widespread attention for important causes.
While ticket prices may seem exclusive, the funds from such an event often far exceed what smaller-scale fundraisers can achieve in scope and impact. Moreover, the event attracts donors
who can contribute financially, through their networks, influence, and continued support for charitable initiatives.
Additionally, the ball's elegance and grandeur symbolise a commitment to excellence and serve as a reminder of the transformative power of generosity. This approach can inspire others to give, multiplying the overall impact beyond what a direct donation might achieve.
Rather than viewing this as a misstep, let us see it as an opportunity to understand the strategic nature of modern philanthropy. The resources raised and awareness created through this event will undoubtedly contribute meaningfully to all the causes the First Lady champions.
Sincerely,
Nutana Singh
Alliances being formed while Norton is being forced out
POLITICS is strange, dynamic and unpredictable. Today, one could be the boss calling all the political shots in a party, and tomorrow one finds oneself drowning in a large political cesspool, fighting to hang on to both position and power.
To think of it, it is all in the body of local politics. After all, with elections closer now, one has to keep one’s eyes on one’s political enemy outside the safe walls of the political party and its superstructure. Further, one has to look at the enemy ‘within’ if one is unpopular, hanging on to power and authority by a limb.
If one is unpopular and undemocratically elected to the position which one holds, one must look within the very party superstructure for the schemers and politicians who are part of the flock that would backstab their leader within an instant of a moment of weakness, or when given the opportunity at the right price. Thirty pieces of silver or a greater position?
If one is popular, one
must look internally and externally because they are closer to reaching their prize if they can avoid ‘drinking from the poisoned political chalice’ or falling into a trap, plot, and being boxed-in or iced-out. Margaret Thatcher missed it in Britain by the fluke when she stepped down and away from political leadership of her party, the Tories. She was the prime minister but had lost a large portion of the control, respect, love, admiration of the people and the politicians in her country, even though they had voted for her. Her policies, like the poll tax, were pushing the people too far, mixed with her iron-lady like leadership and personality. She had insisted on staying on but soon it was clear as day, there was a political coup taking place and right before her eyes.
Other UK prime ministers and political leaders suffered similar fates at various levels. In fact, leaders from right here in this hemisphere, South America and the Caribbean were forced to demit office before their
full term or make steady policy changes and U-turns on various things, once they misunderstood the mood of their colleagues or the people.
At home, the very same situation or a similar political development seems to be unfolding in the body politic.
Recently, everybody and their grandma have been starting, restarting and announcing their political party to run for executive office in the next upcoming elections in Guyana. Everybody wants now to coalesce with one of the bigger powers and political parties, the PPP or PNC. Everybody wants to improve their chances of getting votes and winning the hearts of the Guyanese public, never mind these political newcomers have no policy-articulation, policy-formulation, or political sense. They want to win votes. And while it is understood and that’s their democratic right, they cannot be taken seriously and will go back to their hiding places when the people see right through them.
That is not to say that
the few who remain are not worthy of a second look to understand the dynamics that are pushing and pulling them towards forming a broad coalition and alliance.
Firstly, it seems as though leader of the PNC, Aubrey Norton, is being iced-out from his position of maximum power in any broad coalition likely to compete at the 2025 elections against the PPP/C. It would appear that Norton, whom the PNCR chose as its presidential candidate, has to now duel with the AFC Nigel Hughes for the top spot in the coalition.
Norton has already nastily fought off the likes of Roysdale Forde and Amanza Walton from within the PNCR, and now he is being challenged again by Hughes from the AFC, which is insisting that it leads the coalition.
The PNCR leader said ‘no’ at the first, second and several meetings where it was raised with opposition politicians from both the PNCR, WPA, and AFC. He simply would not stomach the idea because the PNC, in his mind, has brought far more strength when it comes to numbers and the electorate.
He was asked by the media which backed with questions on Friday, if he is fit and qualified to lead the coalition as opposed to Hughes, Hinds and others, to which he responded with agitation and in a seemingly vexed tone as if he was perplexed and puzzled.
Norton’s response though, was he would have to be convinced by pre-determined criteria, but he would do whatever it takes to see the back of the PPP. He did not say he would allow Hughes or another to get the post, or that he was prepared to entertain the idea at this early stage.
Secondly, several high-profile opposition persons and politicians want Hughes as opposed to Norton to lead the coalition, but
are again put in their places constantly when this is mentioned at Congress Place, rallies or political meetings.
So, the political elites and politicians have crafted a plan which they have already been executing. A politician, who would not be named now, revealed that the plan is to frustrate Norton into resigning or giving up his ‘right’ to govern the opposition coalition or simply break up the coalition.
So far, APNU, made up of different little parties, have ‘iced’ him out from the positions of chairman and general secretary, but they are hopeful Norton would change his mind and come back within its fold.
Then, the AFC walked soon after he became PNCR leader, and the two have grown further away in policy positions on various issues ever since, although maintaining a parliamentary bond.
Well, Norton fired back by talking with the WPA clandestinely, while the WPA leaders are in discussion with the AFC. The AFC, on the other hand, is talking to the ANUG, JFA, TNM, LJP and certain so-called civil society organisations.
Norton, in the end, will have to face the electorate alone or give in to ‘this form of coalition politics’ which is not what he has in mind.
So, the march towards a broad coalition with or without the PNC, because no one wants Norton to be given that central spot, is unfolding as the infighting, bickering and political back-biting continues.
Thirdly, Norton has vowed to fight because he is seemingly of the opinion that the AFC and Hughes are just political opportunists and have really nothing to offer the public without the PNC.
Recall that the Guyanese public has never forgiven the coalition for the many scandals that occurred in ministries and organisations that were run by the AFC Ministers in Agriculture, Na-
tional Security, Public Works and Infrastructure, Telecommunications, and Tourism, to name a few.
And Norton’s situation is not dissimilar to that of Thatcher.
Though he has never fought a political battle and won, or been in the posts of minister, prime minister or president, he is being surrounded and boxed in. He is being ‘iced out’ for a newcomer whom the PPP/C has already said they will mince to political pieces.
As a matter of fact, General Secretary of the PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said Thursday, this broad coalition and alliances which are spurring up are not a cause of concern to him, because his party will win.
Finally, the 2025 elections are promising to be a test of Norton’s mantle and political worth as a leader. He is going to cower under the pressure or burn under the intense fire that his opposition colleagues will no doubt put to him. Is he going to get through the many political plots or schemes of the opposition of which he is part and seeks to lead?
Or maybe, he will hang up his towel or resign as central political leader if the mood of the people and opposition politicians do not change, favouring and trusting him to lead.
Or is this frenzy and political chess part and parcel of the opposition’s plan to distract the attention of the ruling PPP, so that the elections in 2025 can be stolen from under their already tight grip?
Politics is strange and intriguing.
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.
2025 elections: Oil and President Ali’s style
Writer’s note: This is a truncated version of my article in the 7th edition of the book, Oil Dorado, published last week.
THE upcoming 2025 general and regional elections in Guyana is an oxymoronic affair. It will generate enormous interest but in a contradictory way, it will be perhaps the most uninteresting general and regional elections in Guyana’s history.
One has to contrast the upcoming 2025 poll with the 2020 contest. The 2020 battle was a unidimensional affair. The war was fought over oil. Oil was the battle ground and this explains the extreme measures and dangerous pathways the APNU+AFC embraced to retain power.
By 2018, the APNU+AFC regime knew that oil revenues would be coming in and it will increase exponentially every single year way into the 2040s. Whoever controls petro-dollars would be in a position to transform Guyana in phenomenally profound ways.
The APNU+AFC government had sufficient, educated people to know that the core of revolution-
ary fervour is to empower the classes and strata that are not sharing in the national wealth of society. Revolutionary changes are generated when classes clash over the distribution of scarce resources.
If resources are plentiful, there still might be elitist strata, but the country’s assets will ensure that dispossessed classes are elevated in the economy. This was the core reason for the failure of anti-capitalist revolutions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Europe. Revisionist Marxists argued that Marx did not live long enough to see that capitalism can generate wealth that could mute the revolutionary noises of the proletariat. Indeed, this is what has happened in the capitalist West, particularly Scandinavia. Capitalism took on a more distributive and humane face, thus blunting revolutionary instincts of the masses. Armed with this theory, the APNU+AFC bosses figured that if they were in control of Guyana, then they could use petro dollars not only to transform the economy, but also politics in general-- politics in the sense of
winning elections.
The APNU+AFC leadership realised that it will not be easy to vote out a government that has money to spend for developmental and social purposes. So when it realised that it had lost the 2020 battle, it resorted to openly tampering with the results. In the March 2020 elections, the stakes were extremely high – who gets oil money will get votes to win elections.
That is the way APNU+AFC saw it and they were prepared to hold on to power and the endorsers of such a Burnhamite methodology included Walter Rodney’s revolutionary comrades in the Working People’s Alliance, particularly Clive Thomas, Eusi Kwayana, Moses Bhagwan, Nigel Westmaas, David Hinds and Rupert Roopnaraine.
As people who studied class politics, these gentlemen knew that with the flow of oil money, the APNU+AFC would be in a position to change the face of Guyana, a face that never smiled since the early 1950s. Thomas knew that with oil money, there could be enormous
dents made into poverty. In an interview with David Hinds, he said he cannot agree with the Moray House Mensheviks (John Mair’s term – see his article in the third edition of this series -- Thomas did not mention those words in the interview) who advocate for leaving the oil in the ground.
Thomas’s essential point in rejecting the ideology of the Moray House Mensheviks was that oil money is needed to eradicate poverty. He went on to point to 2028 when enormous oil profits will come Guyana’s way. It is easy then to speculate that Thomas’s thinking permeated the entire corridor of power during the days after Tuesday, March 3 in 2020, when the election results showed a PPP victory.
Oil then was the factor
that led to one of the most agonising political disasters in Guyana’s political history – the five months of conspiratorial planning in 2020 to change the legal results of the elections. What has taken place since 2020 is a nightmare for the PNC, WPA and AFC. Who controls the oil purse will be in an advantageous position to use petro-dollars to change the economy of Guyana for a long, long time to come.
The gargantuan difference between the 2020 poll and that of the one coming up next year will be the absence of the zero-sum fight over oil. The government has to face the constant condemnation of the opposition and anti-PPP haters in certain groups such as the Moray House Mensheviks and the anti-Indian ideologues in
the Mulatto/Creole Class (MCC).
They will not admit that oil money is being used to make Guyana a better place to live in. In 2025, President Ali’s style of governance will be a decisive factor. Ali appears to be a different leader that Guyana has never seen before, even though Forbes Burnham and Dr Cheddi Jagan received phenomenal embrace at different periods in contemporary Guyana. How oil money has been spending and the way Dr Ali delivers will bring about an Ali victory in 2025.
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.
Syria deserves peace
FOR many of us in Guyana, Syria has been on our minds all week. I, like many of you, feel a deep sense of relief that the dictator Bashar Al-Assad has been toppled and was forced to flee with his tail between his legs to just about the only country that would give him refuge -- the same country that propped him up for 14 years while he butchered his own people.
Beginning on November 27, it took the forces of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) just 11 days to oust Assad and redraw the map of the entire Middle East. And now we all hold our breaths and pray that the reign of terror is at last over in Syria. I don’t know what lies in store for the people of Syria, but I am confident that a return to civilian and civil rule is within reach. Syrians deserve nothing less.
In May of 2016, I visited some of the Turkish cities on the border with Syria. It was extremely dangerous and risky to venture into Syria and my supervisors at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) would not allow it. The only people crossing into Syria at that time were human traffickers escorting thousands of fighters from around the world, who came seeking martyrdom while fighting with the army of the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).
In interviews I conducted with some of the estimated 130 ISIS fighters from Canada, they told me they believed they had a religious obligation to establish a Caliphate on earth and to liberate the people of Syria from Assad. While some 60,000 ISIS fighters from 81 countries were pouring into Syria and unleashing a killing machine like the world has never seen in the modern age, millions of Syrians began pouring into Turkey to escape the genocide.
When I visited the vast refugee camps and hospitals around Antakya, Gaziantep, Reyhanli and Killis,
I spoke to many of the victims of both Bashar Al-Assad and Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, ISIS’ self-declared Caliph. I saw with my own eyes what Russian and Syrian forces did in Kobane. After an intense bombing campaign, not a single building was left standing in that city; and what was once a bustling city of commerce with just under half a million people had become a desolate wasteland.
This internecine bloodletting began to unfold in the years immediately after the start of the Arab Spring. Fifteen young people had spray painted anti-government graffiti on the walls of the city of Daraa in March 2011. Eager for freedom, they wrote in Arabic, “The people want the fall of the regime.” It would become a slogan of Syria’s Arab Spring. Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya and Yemen’s Arab Spring had their own unique slogans.
Atef Najib, Assad’s first cousin, just so happened to be the security chief in Daraa at the time. He rounded up the students, all of them from prominent families, and brutally tortured them. The people of Syria rose up in protest. In the 14 years that followed, more than 14,000 residents of Daraa were killed
by Assad’s forces, according to the Syrian Observatory of Human Rights (SOHR).
There is never a good time to count the dead, even though it is imperative that it must be done. It will take years to determine how many innocent people lost their lives from that one simple act of protest in Daraa, to the liberation of Syria a week ago. To date, SOHR estimates that close to 700,000 Syrians were killed. Assad used chemical weapons and dropped barrel bombs on entire city blocks. In 2014 alone, well over 100,000 civilians were killed in Syria. It was hard to watch and not be filled with rage.
Over 31,000 were killed in Aleppo, a city of immense Islamic scholarship. Homs and Idlib followed with just under 20,000 deaths. It was a cruel and senseless slaughter of lives. Over 14 million people were forcefully displaced inside Syria and around the world. Millions found refuge in neighbouring Turkey. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan backed the HTS drive to remove Assad. For perspective, consider the following: the total pre-uprising population of Syria was approximately 23 million.
Many of my religious teachers are either from Syria or they’ve studied the Islamic sciences in Damascus or Aleppo. I feel a deep sense of connection to the country. I facilitated the visit of the world-renowned, erudite scholar from Aleppo, Shaykh Muhammad Al-Ninowy, to Guyana twice in the last 10 years. He loved Guyana and the Muslims of our country who met him and interacted with him have a great deal of respect for his scholarship. In spite of his busy schedule, he recently asked the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) to arrange a return visit.
Two of Guyana’s own sons spent years studying the Islamic sacred sciences in Damascus and returned home before the start of the Arab Spring. Whoever has benefitted from their knowledge and activism owe a great deal to Syria and its people and ought to pray for peace in that land.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Guyana’s defending its territory through diplomacy and international law
ON December 9, Guyana announced that it submitted a legal brief to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in its territorial controversy with Venezuela. This filing, which responded to Venezuela’s counter-memorial, reaffirmed Guyana’s stance: the 1899 Arbitral Award that established the boundary between the two nations is final, binding, and entirely valid.
The ICJ has set a deadline of August 11, 2025, for Venezuela to present its written submission, bringing the matter closer to resolution through a legal process Guyana has consistently championed.
The controversy stems from Venezuela’s unfounded claim first raised in 1962, that the 1899 arbitral award is null and void. The award, resulting from an internationally recognised arbitration process, was accepted by both Venezuela and Britain—then Guyana’s colonial administrator—for 63 years.
Both parties collaborated on demarcating the boundary, with a joint report and map signed in 1905. Yet in 1962, as Guyana approached independence, Venezuela introduced a spurious claim based on a posthumous memorandum written by a junior American lawyer who alleged, without evidence, that the award resulted from
political collusion.
This claim has since morphed into Venezuela's aggressive campaign to seize the Essequibo region, which constitutes two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.
Over the years, Venezuela has resorted to intimidatory tactics, including military posturing, to force Guyana into submission.
Despite these provocations, Guyana has consistently sought peaceful resolution through diplomacy and international law.
The Argyle Declaration, signed by Presidents Irfaan Ali and Nicolás Maduro, marked a necessary step in de-escalating tensions. So too has been the ICJ’s order prohibiting Venezuela from taking control of the territory administered by Guyana, showing how useful international law is for the protection of Guyana’s interests.
Guyana’s respect for the rule of law has been evident in its commitment to the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which provided a framework for resolving the controversy. After decades of failed efforts, the matter was referred to the ICJ in 2018 by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. While Venezuela has repeatedly rejected the ICJ’s jurisdiction, the court has affirmed its authority to adjudicate the case and settle the controversy definitively.
Guyana’s defence diplomacy remains a critical tool for safeguarding its sovereignty. By fostering strong international partnerships, Guyana has secured robust support from key global players who respect the rule of law. Countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have affirmed the ICJ’s jurisdiction and condemned Venezuela’s aggression.
The presence of ExxonMobil, a major U.S. corporation, in Guyana’s oil sector has helped strengthen that nation’s interest in preserving Guyana’s territorial integrity. Venezuela’s aggression, including the interception of an ExxonMobil-contracted seismic vessel in 2018, demonstrates how urgent it is for the controversy to be resolved to ensure the uninterrupted development of Guyana’s resources.
A promising development is the anticipated appointment of Florida Senator Marco Rubio as the United States’ Secretary of State under the upcoming Trump administration. Rubio has demonstrated a deep commitment to peace and stability in Latin America and has been a strong advocate for Guyana. From championing a fair electoral process in 2020 to calling for increased U.S. support for Guyana’s petroleum development, Rubio’s track
record suggests that his leadership will further strengthen U.S.-Guyana relations.
Guyana’s seat on the United Nations Security Council has also been instrumental in showcasing its commitment to international law and diplomacy. By highlighting its desire for
peace and global stability, Guyana continues to earn the respect and support of the international community.
Guyana must remain steadfast in its defence diplomacy.
Maintaining strong partnerships with allies such as the United States and advocating
for international law at every forum are essential to countering Venezuela’s baseless claims. The international community’s condemnation of Venezuela’s actions and its support for the ICJ process reaffirm that Guyana is on the right side of history.
Dawn Van Rossumdesigner extraordinaire
ONE of this country's most creative fashion designers is back on these shores and making her presence felt once more.
Never one for overly elaborate or 'fussy' designs, Dawn Van Rossum has added another element to her winning blend of cut and style and that is simplicity.
Many of her current creations are practically minimalist, depending on quality fabric, superior cut and the sparing use
of edging to make their statement.
Uncommon and exotic, ethnic patterns are allowed to 'speak for themselves' without un-
necessary embellishment.
Back in the 80s and 90s, this innovative woman with the strident voice, dominated the local fashion scene, sewing for the nation's elite and mounting fashion shows at venues around the city.
From D'Aguiar's Thirst Park to the lawns of the American Ambassador's residence, her name resounded as her fabulous designs became
a talking point among the followers of fashion.
It was then that I met Dawn, when I went to cover one of her shows for this very newspaper.
I was fascinated by her ability to turn her favoured fabrics- linen, rayon and cotton- into garments of style and beauty.
I visited her at her then home - a large colonial-style house on Main Street - and watched the creative process unfold. Often I remained just to see an idea she expressed come to 'life'. She would seize scissors and fabric, cutting as she spoke and
then head to the sewing machine or hand the cut fabric to a machinist with explicit instructions on what she wanted done. The result would be yet another elegantly stylish garment, or a casual outfit with just the right look.
"I find it very satisfying", she told me. And I was so impressed that I bought several pieces along with a friend, who marveled at the perfect fit of black, cotton, pencil skirt, which had only one seam down the back.
Indeed, what this fashionista did with the much-maligned, locally produced cotton from the Sanata Textiles Mills, was nothing short of inspiring.
One oversized, candy-striped, cotton shirt that I wore while on a visit to the US, caught the eye of a wealthy belt-manufacturer's wife for whom I worked.
She was the owner of a boutique in the very centre of the Manhattan, New York fashion district and loved the shirt, asking me if it was 'off the rack'. I told her it was made by a designer in Guyana.
She subsequently requested a closer look, immediately turning the garment on the underside and exclaiming at its neatness.
Such is the high standard of the work produced by Dawn, who after a prolonged stay in Antigua, is back in Guyana taking up where she left off.
"My thing is that fashion means different things to different people...some people wear clothes while others just put them on", she declares.
Clearly designing clothing that is to be 'worn', Dawn speaks of the challenges in creating styles to fit, not only the fabric, but the personality and even the mood of particular clients. And at the same time she aims to attract new buyers.
At her home in Queenstown. Georgetown, Dawn Van Rossum continues to meet those challenges while doing what she does best - make uncommonly fabulous clothing.
Dawn Van Rossum
Norton says he will accept 10 per cent increase despite criticising it
OPPOSITION Leader
Aubrey Norton, despite his strong objections to the recently announced 10 per cent retroactive salary increase for public servants, has confirmed that he will accept the raise.
At a press conference held by the People's National Congress Reform
backlash.
At the time, then Minister of State Joseph Harmon had asserted that the coalition government would not apologise for granting such significant raises to its ministers, stating, “I'm not going to make any apologies whatsoever for ministers getting an increase in sal-
(PNCR) on Friday, Norton said, “Yes, it will be accepted”, when asked about his stance on the salary increase announced by President Irfaan Ali earlier this week.
Norton currently earns over $1.8 million per month as opposition leader, along with other benefits.
This increase will elevate his monthly salary to around $2 million. Furthermore, President Ali indicated that public servants would receive an additional eight per cent increase in 2025, which Norton will also benefit from.
Despite these increases, the PNCR has criticised the adjustments, arguing that they should have been more substantial. Ironically, it was the PNCR itself that approved a 50 per cent salary hike for its ministers shortly after taking office in 2015, despite public
aries; they deserve it.”
Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo has responded to the PNCR's criticisms by labelling them hypocritical, pointing out that Norton receives a salary of $1.8 million for what he described as "practically nothing".
He emphasised that since returning to power in 2020, the PPP/C government has raised public servants’ salaries by nearly $90 billion.
Jagdeo highlighted that under the PPP/C administration, overall public sector wages have increased significantly from 2020 to 2024, compared to a much smaller increase during the previous APNU+AFC government’s tenure.
He noted that in five years, salary increases under the APNU+AFC were less than the 50 per cent raise granted to ministers shortly after they assumed office.
Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton
Region Nine now boasts...
working together to provide energy, and this is happening for the first time in Region Nine right here.”
The Prime Minister detailed how the newly recommissioned hydropower plant, now contributing 0.7 MW of power, integrates with Region Nine's existing energy infrastructure.
The region now boasts a sophisticated energy system, combining the hydropower plant with a 1 MW solar farm and 2 MW diesel generators, delivering a total capacity of 3.7 MW. This capacity is set to increase to an impressive 5.2 MW by February 2025, with the addition of the Kumu Hydropower Plant.
“In Lethem, at your maximum capacity right now, you are only using two megawatts. You will have almost twoand-a-half times the amount of electricity that you can use right now. This is the development that we're talking about; bridging the divide, the development divide, and we have successfully bridged the energy divide with this one project,” the PM said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, and reminded of the ambitious goals for renewable energy adoption.
“By 2030, there'll be greater use of renewable energy in Guyana,” he said, adding:
“Most of the energy; more than 50 per cent of our energy, by 2030, will come from the sun, will come from hydro (from water), will come from wind, as much as possible, less energy from fossil fuel, more from mother nature.”
NEW SOLAR MINIGRIDS
Further demonstrating this commitment, the Prime Minister announced the Cabinet’s recent approval of four new solar mini-grids for the communities of Yupukari, Nappi, and Awaruwaunau in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Paramakatoi, in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).
And, speaking of driving the economic growth in the region through the energy that is now available, Prime Minister Phillips urged the residents of Region Nine to capitalise on the opportunities created by the high levels of electricity, while highlighting the potential for cottage industries, particularly in
agro-processing, to boost local economies.
“Start cottage industries; monetise what you already have,” he encouraged. “The wastage of mangoes and cashews can be turned into products in demand locally and internationally. This is how we create economic value from our resources.”
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of modernising agricultural practices to enhance productivity and achieve food security.
He said that by utilising the energy and integrating technology, such as irrigation systems, communities can overcome the challenges of climate variability contributing to their ability to become food secure and earn revenues.
He pointed to the government's role as a facilitator of development, as he emphasised the collaborative approach needed to maximise these opportunities. “We have to put our brains together at the village council level, at the individual level, homes, and with your neighbours, form ourselves into groups, pool our resources, utilise this energy and make it work for us to improve our lives and livelihoods,” he said.
Addressing the younger generation, Prime Minister Phillips focused on the critical importance of STEM education, saying: “You are the future of Guyana. I want you to focus your effort, your studies, on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). That's going to help us to make the great leap into modernity.”
Residents were also assured that electricity rates will remain unchanged, reaffirming the government’s commitment to affordable energy, and linking renewable energy development to community benefits.
Beyond energy, the Prime Minister also pointed out that the government is making strides in bridging the digital divide, as he highlighted the deployment of Lower Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite devices in hinterland communities, which have vastly improved connectivity. This enhanced connectivity will play a crucial role in education, business, and governance, further empowering the people of Region Nine.
Honouring Excellence: Data Technology’s Rennie Leow recognised for contributions to Guyana’s Oil and Gas Industry
IN a celebration of innovation, resilience, and collaboration, the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) recently hosted its Annual Awards and Induction Dinner for 2024, an event that brought together key stakeholders from across Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas sector.
Among the highlights of the evening was the recognition of Rennie Leow, General Manager of Data Technology Guyana, for his invaluable contributions to fostering strategic partnerships and building capacity within the industry.
Leow’s efforts have not only bolstered GOGEC’s role as a key player in Guyana’s economic landscape but have also enhanced the chamber’s ability to represent the nation on the global stage.
His leadership as a GOGEC Director, with a portfolio focusing on digital transformation and energy transitioning, reflects his commitment to integrating innovation and sustainability into Guyana’s oil and gas sector.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali,
senior government officials, diplomats, and private sector leaders attended the prestigious event, which underscored the importance of collaboration and capacity building in Guyana’s rapidly evolving energy sector.
GOGEC’s participation in international forums like the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas, was highlighted as a testament to the chamber’s—and the country’s—growing influence in the global energy arena.
Under Leow’s leadership, Data Technology Guyana has emerged as a leader in IT services and renewable energy solutions, offering over 25 years of expertise in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and solar photovoltaic systems. The company’s alignment with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) showcases its dedication to balancing technological advancement with environmental stewardship.
The company’s projects emphasise: Affordable and
General Manager of Data Technology, Rennie Leow, receives his award from Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd
Clean Energy (SDG 7): Deploying solar power installations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels; Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9): Advancing IT infrastructure and digital transformation for businesses and public institutions; and
Climate Action (SDG 13): promoting green energy initiatives that align with LCDS objectives, reducing emissions, and enhancing climate resilience.
Leow’s dual focus on digital transformation and energy transitioning has positioned
Data Technology as a vital partner for both government and private enterprises in Guyana. The company’s tailored Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and advanced security solutions, delivered in partnership with global leaders like Fortinet,
optimise productivity and safeguard critical infrastructure.
By integrating green energy solutions with cutting-edge IT services, Data Technology is not only driving operational efficiency but also championing environmental sustainability—a critical priority for Guyana as it navigates its role as an emerging oil and gas powerhouse.
Leow’s recognition at the GOGEC Annual Awards highlights the importance of innovative leadership in shaping Guyana’s economic and environmental trajectory. With initiatives that align closely with national and global sustainability goals, Leow and Data Technology exemplify the transformative potential of strategic partnerships and forward-thinking solutions in fostering sustainable development.
As Guyana continues its remarkable growth in the oil and gas industry, leaders like Rennie Leow are paving the way for a future that balances prosperity with environmental responsibility, ensuring long-term benefits for the nation and its people.
New nursing school for New Amsterdam to be operationalised next year
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
THE construction of a new nursing school at the site of the old New Amsterdam Hospital is part of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the country, and is expected to be completed sometime next year.
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony has emphasised that the new institution will be providing modern facilities and resources to train nurses and medical workers effectively.
The aim of this initiative is to enhance the quality of healthcare services by ensuring that nursing professionals are well equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
The project reflects the government's commitment to advancing the
healthcare system, and addressing the growing demand for skilled healthcare workers.
Minister Anthony, while in Berbice last week, said that the region has outgrown the current school.
“We have started building a new nursing school where the old New Amsterdam Hospital used to be, and we are hoping that by next year, we can have that building up, and that we will shift the facility across there, so that we can make that new school operational,” he said.
According to the minister, the new structure will have a nice lecture hall to host future graduations, as presently there is no such facility in place for the current nursing school.
“We will also have a very good simulation ‘lab’ there, and we will also
have a computer centre that will be in that facility. So, those of you who would want to do research and all of that will be able to go there and get the latest research and so forth,” he said.
“So, we are improving what we’ve been doing for
project.
Armogan, after a Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting, had noted that land clearing had been completed, and filling was slated to commence shortly.
The project, he’d said, aims to establish a nursing
hospital in the township.
In January, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had turned the sod for the construction of a US$161 million hospital in New Amsterdam, which facility is intended to be a major hub linking both the regional and country-wide healthcare
care and service quality to match investments.
Meanwhile, while the construction of the stateof-the-art hospital at New Amsterdam is currently underway, plans are already in motion for the future of the existing hospital buildings, which are
you,” he added, pointing to how future nursing students will benefit from the improvements.
Back in October, Regional Chairman David Armogan had announced that preparatory work had commenced on the new nursing school, with a contractor from Corentyne having been awarded the
school on the old hospital site, along with accommodation to allow nurses from outside the region to live and study within the district.
The new nursing school is part of the government’s plans to boost healthcare across the country, and it is being constructed simultaneously with a new
facilities.
“This hospital in Region Six is expected to be the hub, and everything around it will be the mechanisms. We will have all the specialists and they will all be connected through telemedicine to every other facility in this region whether in Canje Creek or Baracara, wherever you are. Those health centres and hospitals will be connected to this hospital through telemedicine,” the Head of State had said.
Once completed, the new facility will be linked to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), which will be connected to the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and other major hospitals around the world through telemedicine.
Dr. Ali had told residents that the goal is to provide optimum healthcare services to the general public. This major investment, he said, coincides with several other upgrades to critical infrastructure in the region.
The President had stressed the importance of humaneness and service in medicine, urging the Ministry of Health and those within the health sector to prioritise improving
set to be repurposed as a campus for the University of the West Indies (UWI).
This exciting development will create an academic hub in New Amsterdam, fostering education and research opportunities in various healthcare fields, while contributing to the growth and modernisation of the community.
Minister Anthony had said, “We have just entered into an agreement with the University of the West Indies, and the University of the West Indies is going to use these buildings to be able to establish a University of the West Indies nursing school, so when you graduate there, you get your UWI degree.”
Additionally, he’d announced that there will be a University of the West Indies Medical School and School of Pharmacy at the location as well.
“So, we are hopeful that you will start finding people who would want to take these courses, because you don’t have to travel far now. There’s no excuse; all you have to do is go across where the New Amsterdam Hospital is,” he said.
Gov’t, GGDMA sign two-year agreement to boost mining industry
- Association applauds administration for maintaining, expanding supportive measures that were restored in 2020
THE Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), at its 40th Annual General Meeting, resolved to strategise and work together for greater growth in the sector.
According to a press release, GGDMA President Ronaldo Alphonso told its membership that despite the many challenges the industry has faced this year, they’ve only served to make the resolve of the miners stronger.
The meeting was informed that the GGDMA and the Government of Guyana signed an Investment Development Agreement [IDA] for vehicles and spares on December 9 for a period of two years.
Members were also informed that the Association will be meeting with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) shortly to discuss the workings of the IDA, and the requirements that miners need to meet to qualify for this incentive.
Additionally, the government has partnered with the GGDMA for the development of several interior roads and bridges, and the Association has also been given an avenue to ventilate issues with the various government departments via the estab-
lishment of a direct mining portal.
The GGDMA said it is heartened and grateful for the support that the government continues to provide to the sector, despite the petroleum boom and the rise of the construction sector.
This year, the GGDMA said, its executives continued to meet regularly with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on the needs and support for the mining sector.
“The President has been fully supportive of the sector, and has worked with the GGDMA to advance initiatives that will help bolster growth,” the organisation said, adding:
“As a result, the sector was able to get several benefits including: IDA on vehicle and spares, VAT exemptions on spares for machinery, spares for the dredges and all industrial grease and hydraulic oils for those miners who sell directly to the GGB [Guyana Gold Board]. This is now a part of the recently-signed IDA with the government, and is valid for two years.”
As it went on to say,
“There were commitments to address labour shortages in the mining sector, and construct three new roads
The
GGDMA, at its 40th Annual General Meeting resolved to strategise and work together for greater growth in the sector
for the mining sector, even as G$2.2 billion in rehabilitation works are currently being undertaken by the GGMC [Guyana Geology & Mines Commission] on existing roads: Toroparau to Kartuni Road, Kartuni to Cuyuni Road, and Toroparau to Makapa Road.
“Additionally, the parties will be pursuing the opening up of lands for small and medium-scale miners through lotteries held by GGMC, quarterly meetings with the Minister of Natural Resources, and Technical Meetings with GGMC, and the potential creation of a Mining Direct Portal lining the
GGDMA, MNR [Ministry of Natural Resources], GGMC, and GGB.
“The GGDMA is satisfied with the support given to the sector by the current government, noting that several of the concessions that were returned to them since 2020 have been maintained and efforts are being made to expand benefits for miners. The GGDMA is committed to continue working with the government to achieve joint goals for the sector and stamp out illicit activities that negatively impact the sector.”
Members at the meeting were also said to have
raised the issue of the recent shortage of mercury, which has seen the price of the commodity skyrocket, and some dealers exploiting the situation.
Avalon Jagnandan, GGDMA Administrator reportedly reiterated the Association's unwavering dedication to representing the interests of all miners across the country. He emphasised, “The GGDMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating on behalf of our members. We will continue to actively engage with the Government of Guyana and all key stakeholders to ensure the
interests of the mining community are protected and advanced.”
As part of its outreach efforts, the GGDMA hosts regular open days, providing miners with an opportunity to meet with the executive team, raise issues of concern, and seek assistance.
Jagnandan reportedly encouraged all miners to take advantage of these sessions, underscoring the association's open-door policy and commitment to addressing members' needs.
He added that the GGDMA remains a pillar of support for the mining sector, championing initiatives that promote sustainability, growth, and the well-being of its members.
Marking a historic milestone, the recent AGM introduced a mini-exhibition for the first time, offering suppliers and service providers an exceptional platform to showcase their products and services to the mining community.
Jagnandan said that even with drought and labour issues, the industry must work for sustainable growth and develop and capitalise on new opportunities.
Journalist ejected from AFC’s press conference after challenging inaccurate claim
LOCAL journalist and Editor in Chief of LIVEWIRE NEWS, Courdel Jones was ejected from an Alliance for Change (AFC) press conference on Friday after he highlighted a misleading statement made by a party member.
During the event, AFC member Collin Haynes asserted that the Charles Rosa Nursing School in Linden had been closed.
Jones sought clarification from a panellist regarding earlier comments made by the AFC about the school's status. Instead of providing an answer, the panellist seemed taken aback, and, shortly thereafter, the moderator removed Jones from the Zoom meeting.
Haynes, who identifies as a health professional, said, “...You only had three, now I think you have two, because they closed one of the nursing schools.”
When Jones in -
quired whether the school would be closed if he visited on Monday, Haynes retracted his earlier assertion and acknowledged that “the school was reopened”.
Minutes later, Haynes denied ever claiming that the school was closed, leading to Jones’s removal from the press conference.
Notably, the AFC also edited out the audio of Haynes’ remarks before posting the event on its Facebook page.
This incident reflects a troubling trend of avoidance by the AFC. Earlier this year, the party faced backlash for not addressing questions regarding alleged financial misconduct during its time in office.
A few weeks ago, executive member Cathy Hughes defended her husband and party leader Nigel Hughes from inquiries related to claims made by the party concerning the 2020 general and regional elections.
On May 14, 2020, Executive Member David Patterson stated in a News Room report that he had seen Statements of Poll (SOPs) from the APNU+AFC coalition that corresponded with fabricated figures presented by former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo. When Jones asked Hughes if the party still supported those claims, and if it would release those SOPs to the media, Hughes dismissed the question, and abruptly ended the press conference shortly thereafter.
PMTC Showdown of Champions… Star studded lineup for Metro Mile
Several big-name horses are carded for the highly talked about Metro Mile, the feature event of today’s Port Mourant Turf Club showdown of Champions Horse Race meet.
All eyes are on Guyana Cup and President’s Cup Champion horse Olympic Kremlin, who is back in action today under the watchful eyes Brazillian trainer Lenio Veria and jockey Acedenir Gulart.
They will come up against Beckham James from the Nand Persaud Racing Stables, 2023 horse of the year and J’s Racing Stables Spankhurst and Novo Sol as well as Master Z’s Easy Time.
Loyal Company and Frontline Warrior of the Jagdeo Racing Stables are also in the feature event along With Jumbo Jet Racing Stables Stormy Entry.
Meanwhile organiser Terbhuwan Jagdeo told this publication that all systems are in place for the event, adding that the entries received are heartening as a promotor.
“Its nice to see so many horses entered for this event even though it is the festive season. With these entries we can definitely ensure a grand day of racing for all turfites”
“The overnight rains have done the track well. The surface needed a bit of wetting and we’ve gotten it so its going to be set and ready for action tomorrow,” Jagdeo said.
Meanwhile the E-Class Guyana Star Sprint sponsored by SHI-OIL has Qurbaan’s Kingdom and Phil In Echo of Nand Persaud Racing Stables, Morning Colors and Stormy Victory of Simply Royal Racing Stables and Oy Vey of Jagdeo Racing Stables all in contention as well as Slingerz Ritorna Vincetori
The GUYAMERICA Construction, AJM, KP Jagdeo General Constractors and Permaul Trading H Class event has Black Time, Blinding Lights, Silent Thoughts (Scandal), Amazing Grace, Fullfill, Haley, Amicable Kate, Settling Star and Atta Girl Silvy.
The G-Class and Lower
SHI-OIL and OBL Lounge sponsored event has American Traveler, Stroke of Luck, Red Ruby, Theory of Colors and Emotional Damage.
The Juvenile Stakes, sponsored by Permaul’s Trading and Distribution, Orvin Mangru Construction, Satesh Liquor Restaurant and Tana Rice Farmer of Black Bush has Ruff Time (Big G Racing Stables), Storm Bird (Rising Sun Turf Club), Irish Eyes (Sherwin Wills), Miracle Star (Joseph Boatswain), Secret Traveller (Brian Kalpoo), Jet Mode, (Jumbo Jet Racing Stables) and Miss Simron (K. Rampersaud).
The K&L Class sponsored by Archway Snackette, Laka Ramrich Rice Farmer, Rohadn Auto Spares, ARMCO Construction and K Haniff Construction has Sarkar (Hope Racing Stables), Money Time (Shocking Racing Stables), Princess Sasha (Raj Sing), GT Boss (Kevin Prince), Princess Samiyah (Duge Sehoraj), Bin Laden (Fizul Haniff).
Perfect Gold, Secret News, King Kang, Security Rock, Lords Gift, Rockstar, Three D Movie, Royal Star and Emeny Maker are all carded for the Big G Lumber Yard, K.P Jagdeo General Contractors and AJM Enterprise J/K/L Class Maidens Races begin at noon.
Youth Basketball...
ketball side.
President's College also edged School of the Nation’s 29-12. PC’s Lamar Thomas’ 10 and Mattaniah Fordice’s 8 points, were the chief scorers for the East Coast school side win.
Bishops’ Rehaicia Romain was fabulous as she dropped 30 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals with support coming from Rushanna Mitchell with 10 points and 7 rebounds.
The Bishops High also clinched their match-up with Sheldon Line Path 32-24.
Bishops’ Paul France led the offensive play with 11 points and 5 rebounds with Aedyn Lall chipping in with 9 points.
Line Path’s Aldon Angel had 9 points for the losing side.
In the days final boys match-up encounter, Kwak-
(FROM PAGE 30)
wani Secondary got pass Mackenzie High 39-34 points.
KK’S Simeon Sinclair had 8 buckets with 7 from Lenrick Seaforth.
Mackenzie’s Isaiah Cameron played well for his 11 points and Latrell Glasgow added 8 points but it was to no avail as they still lost narrowly by 5 points.
On the distaff side Kwakwani Secondary downed President’s College 22-4 with Sherese Leacock leading the way with 8 points.
While The Bishop’s high battered top rivals Marian Academy 42- 6 points.
The Titan Bowl XIII year-end tournament is sponsored by Francis-Lau Boyce Construction Co. Ltd, ENET, John Fernandes, National Sports Commission and Real Value Supermarket.
Top teams collect kits and balls ahead of kick-off
KFC Guyana on Saturday handed over kits and balls to the teams that will be participating in its Goodwill International Schools Football series, set to kick off today.
The company is the title
sponsor of the fifth edition of the eight-team tournament, which will be played at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue.
The tournament will feature teams from four Caribbean nations, competing in a round-robin format, divided into two groups, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-final (knockout) stage.
On the opening day defending champions Clarendon College out of Jamaica will battle Annai, then Speyside from the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will take on Dolphin’s Secondary.
This will be followed by Chase Academy playing Suriname’s Henry Hassankhan High and the final clash will feature St Benedicts’ College of Trinidad going up against DC Caesar Fox Secondary.
Marketing Assistant of KFC Charmaine Farnum, speaking to some of the teams ahead of the tournament’s opening, said the company believes in the im-
SOUTH AFRICA
RACING TIPS
SCOTTSVILLE
08:15 hrs She's A Bomber
08:50 hrs Bristol Hercules
09:25 hrs Beach Pslace
10:00 hrs Stevie Gee
10:35 hrs Imman
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
CARLISLE
08:25 hrs Cold Sobar
09:00 hrs Lathan
09:32 hrs Marown
10:07 hrs Scarlett O'Hara
10:42 hrs Largy Train 11:15 hrs Desirable Walk
pact of their investment.
“We are happy to have given our continued support for the KFC international goodwill tournament and we proudly support this exciting [event] because of the spirit of sportsmanship, team work and community for the past five years. The tournament has brought together talented athletes from diverse backgrounds, fostering both competition and comradery[sic]. As a long-time sponsors [sic] we remain committed to providing opportunities for young players to showcase their skills, lasting friendships and experiences through the power of team work.”
The winning school will earn 1 million dollars for first place, with $600,000 for second place and $400,000 for third place, along with trophies and medals They tournament will also provide trophies and prizes for individual players who win MVP, highest goal scorers and best goal-keeper.
WINDSOR
08:10 hrs Excello 08:45 hrs The Famous Five
09:20 hrs La Pinsonniere
09:55 hrs Jeffrey's Cross
10:30 hrs Saisissante 11:05 hrs Zertakt 11:40 hrs Douglas DC
IRISH RACING TIPS
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08:35 hrs Roxhill Rose
09:10 hrs Billy Lee Swagger
09:45 hrs Midnight It Is 10:20 hrs Valsorpresa 10:55 hrs Potters Party
11:25 hrs Classical Creek
World Aquatics Swimming Championships
Olympian Persaud puts in season-best performance
TWO-TIME Olympian Aleka Persaud on Saturday put in a worthy performance at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships, which concludes today in Budapest, Hungary.
achieved in 2022 in Australia, finished her pet event in 27.15 seconds.
She looked on course at the half-way mark to lower her record but struggled on the turn and lost ground
Persaud, who broke her own national 50-metre butterfly record on Tuesday, competed in her final event on Saturday, the women 50 metres freestyle.
The 18-year-old swimmer who also holds the national 50 metres freestyle record of 26.42 seconds
to be off the mark as she finished sixth place in heat number four.
Her heat was won by Varsenik Manucharyan of Armenia in 26.26 seconds, with Antigua’s Aunjelique Liddie second in 26.47 and Papua New Guinea’s Jhnayali Tokome-Garap third.
USA Gretchen Walsh
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Sunday, December 15, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Marlon Samuels-226 runs (7 matches)
(2) Shakib Al Hasan-347 runs (14 matches)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI has claimed most T20 Int’l wickets against BANG to date?
(2) Which BANG bowler has taken most T20 Int’l wickets versus the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
was the top qualifier out of the heats in 23.02 seconds with only 16 swimmers advancing to the semis.
The young swimmer who is the country’s lone
representative at the meet, despite setting a new national record of 28.34 seconds and finishing third in her heat on Monday, did not advance to the semifinal after
finishing 43rd.
Persaud holds the national record in the 100 freestyle, 100 butterfly and women 200 individual medley and is making a resurgence after a string of average performances over the past year. She is being coached by Linden’s Christol Thom at the World Aquatics Swimming Championship.
Aleka Persaud at the 2024 World Aquatics Swimming Championships in Budapest, Hungary
City Mayor Alfred Mentore Launches the City’s U-17 Cricket Cup
By Sean Devers
ON Friday last, His Worship the Mayor of Georgetown, Alfred Mentore, officially launched the Georgetown City Mayor’s U-17 hundred-overs 55-45 cricket Cup at the Everest Cricket Club.
The team that bats first is entitled to 55 overs and the team that bats second is entitled to a minimum of 45 overs.
If the team that bats first is bowled out before the 55 overs the remaining overs will be added to the team that bats second.
Run by GCA, the competition is scheduled to commence tomorrow and will finish for 2024 next Thursday with a few matches being played while schools are closed.
The duration of the tournament should be seven weeks based on the weather conditions.
The four teams on the points table will advance to the semi-finals while the final will be a 50-over-per-side contest
The tournament will be played in white clothes with a red ball.
GCC, DCC, Transport, MSC, Everest, PFA Agricola, Bel Air Rubis medals and a ladies' team comprising players from various Georgetown-based clubs, will compete for the winner’s trophy, medals and $100,000.
The runners-up will take home a trophy, medals and $75,000 while there will be a Player-of-the-Match in every game.
GCC is the last team to win the hundred overs under 17 competition. Since Covid-19 the GCA have not had any U-17 club competitions.
Several key figures, in-
cluding Daniel Seeram Region 4 Chairman and Councillor Clayton Hinds attended the launch.
Shawn Massiah, the Chairman of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) Competition Committee, was also in attendance.
The Mayor gave an inspiring address encouraging young players to give their best in the upcoming tournament.
Several sponsors graced the occasion, demonstrating their support for the development of youth cricket in the city.
Mayor Mentor, a former Guyana Youth cricketer, urged all participating teams to compete with passion and determination, stressing that the opportunity to participate
One Guyana President’s Cup Squash tournament…
Wiltshire siblings among the winners on day three
By Sean Devers
SHOMARI and Larissa Wiltshire were among the mixed doubles winners on day three of the One Guyana President’s Cup Squash tournament at the National Raquette Centre on Woolford Avenue yesterday.
In the day’s first match, the Wiltshire siblings defeated Kirsten Gomes and Jonathan Antczak 113, 11-3.
In the Girl's doubles Kaylee Lowe and Safirah Summer beat Emily Fung-a-Fat and Malia Maikoo 11-9, 11-4.
In the Boy's dou -
Shomari Wiltshire (left) and his sister Larissa beat Kirsten Gomes and Jonathan Antczak 11-3, 11-3.
(Sean Devers photo)
in this tournament is an important stepping stone for the youth cricketers leading up to the inter-association and inter-county tournaments to qualify for selection to the national teams.
He called on the teams to compete in a sportsmanlike manner, enjoy the camaraderie and strive for excellence, both on and off the field.
“This initiative aims to nurture young cricketers, unearth new talent and promote teamwork, and competitiveness.
“The tournament is set to be an exciting showcase of skill, determination and sportsmanship among Georgetown’s youth cricketers,” concluded the Mayor who played for DCC as an opening Batter.
bles Demetri Lowe and Blake Edwards got the better of Shiloh Asregado and Richard Rodrigues 11-7, 11-6.
In the mixed doubles Ashley Khalil and her brother Jason-Ray beat Mary Fung-a-Fat and Alex Arjoon 11-6, 11-8.
The tournament continues today with the Men’s Doubles finals, the Women’s Doubles Finals and the Junior mixed Doubles Finals.
There are no matches tomorrow and Tuesday but the tournament resumes on Wednesday the Main draw in all Singles.
Youth Basketball Guyana Titan Bowl XIII
…Wins for QC; KK and Saints
QUEENS College, St Stanislaus College and Kwakwani were some of the winners on the opening day of the Youth Basketball Guyana 13th Titan bowl U18 boys and girls basketball competition.
Queens College showed their strength as they took down Berbice High by 18 points to win 42-24.
QC’s Owen Hooper
showed his prowess on the offensive end scoring 16 points and 7 rebounds coupled with 5 steals.
Berbice’s Avion Kesney dropped 15 points in a losing effort.
St Roses High was also in the winner’s circle as they defeated New Amsterdam Secondary 31- 28.
Roses had Cheziah Bernard to thank with his 13 buckets and Donny Gasper also contributing with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
The biggest win came
when St Stanislaus came up against Marian Academy as they took a 55 points victory after some stifling defence saw them winning it 56-1.
Saints’ Daniel Chisholm was on fire with the ball as he led the score sheet with 17 points and he still held his own in defence with 7 rebounds.
Kadeem Beckles also came good for saints with 12 points and 11 from Hartley Pryce in an all-round good showing from Saint’s bas -
(TURN TO PAGE 27)
City Mayor Alfred Mentore hands over the sponsorship cheque to GCA’s Shawn Massiah
Unity Gym churning out talented athletes time after time
In the heart of Georgetown lies a little gym that continues to churn out big athletes on the Body Building and Fitness world.
Unity Gym, located on the top floor of the Fogerty’s Building in Georgetown walked away with the largest prize haul of the recently concluded National Senior Bodybuilding Championships staged on Sunday last at Olympic House.
The gym, under the tutelage of Team leader Fyzal Bacchus walked away with five gold, four silver and one bronze medal from the event.
In a recent interview with this publication, Bacchus talked about the preparation and work it took to get the athletes into shape ahead of the competition.
A standout performance of the championship for Unity Gym was that of Romelton Siland who snapped up the Men’s Fitness Crown.
“Romelton spent a lot of time honing his craft and poses for that class and to see him take that win obviously makes us at the gym proud,” he said.
“These athletes have been training for a long time, putting in all the hard work and dedication needed to get to where they are. They deserve all the credit they are getting and more,” he said.
The gym dedicated the
wins to the recent passing of bodybuilding coach Videsh Sookram’s young daughter Viya who died recently due to health complications.
“Other standout performances included that of Jonathan [Jeffrey] and Marley [Vyphuis] are obviously some of the up-and-coming talents of the gym and they also did really well in the event and we are thankful that they are growing.”
He also congratulated Julio ‘Hulk’ Sinclair for his performances in copping the Mr Guyana Title ahead of Pro Athlete Nich-
olas ‘Creed’ Albert and his gym’s Delrae Anthony Mc Lean.”
“There was also the Masters and Under 165kg champion Delrae and it’s nice to see he is still going strong. He was on stage competing with the likes of pro athletes and he still managed to finish third overall so that in itself is a win for us. That’s what our gym is about, unity as a family.”
The gym collaborated with Razor Fitness, YUSOFIT and V-Fitness ahead of the competition which
yielded positive results according to Bacchus
“The Guys at Razor Fitness, YUSOFIT and V-Fitness really came on board with us and helped us in major way in terms of support. Myself and the athletes cannot thank them enough for their support.”
Other participants included Martin Longe (U154 silver), Shemar Burrowes U-143 Gold), Nicholas Carston Blair (Bodybuilding – Second -Super Heavy), Steve Sajar, Yusuf Khan, Kewsi Anderson and Darren Harris (Men’s Phy -
sique) and Jamal Pollydore (Junior Physique – Gold).
He also congratulated the Miss Bikini winner Christina Ramsammy as well as all the other athletes that made it to the competition, underscoring how important it is to have the first taste of competitive action
Bacchus also wished the outgoing executive of the Guyana Body Building and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) well, stating that he is thankful for their vision in growing the sport.
He also wished well for Emmerson Campbell, Han -
nah Rampersaud and Albert all of whom move on to the Pro stage next season.
Unity Gym also thanked the sponsors, the Ministry of Sport, Fitness Express, Autopit Signs, Camille’s Academy, Twins manufacturing, New GPC and IPA for their Year round support of the sport.
“Working as team and a family it takes you a far way as you can see by the gym’s performance, five golds, four silvers and one bronze medal,” Bacchus closed off by saying.
West Indies Women ready for India fight
(CMC) -WEST Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews believes that the regional team can overcome India’s dominance over them at home and turn their fortunes around in their T20 series which bowls off here Sunday.
Speaking during a prematch press conference on Saturday, Matthews conceded that India Women had emerged on top of the Caribbean side in recent times.
The last time the two teams clashed in a T20 series was back in 2019 in
the Caribbean where India Women prevailed 5-0.
However, she maintained that West Indies Women had been playing at a high level over the past two years and backed her team to emerge victorious in the three-match series which will be played at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
“…When you look at 2024 as a team, especially in T20 cricket, we’ve done really well,” Matthews said.
“I think we played five T20s against Pakistan winning four, two out of three
against Sri Lanka and then making a World cup semifinal as well.
“So yeah, over that eight-year span things might look like they haven’t gone that good, but I feel like over the past year, year and a half, we’ve done a really good job of putting the team together and everyone really putting up their hand and playing their roles to get us wins,” she added.
She said much of India’s success over the West Indies Women had come at a time when they were going through a “transitionary period”.
“…When it does come to our record against India,
it probably hasn’t been the best of late, but I think we were going through some
type of transitionary period within the team and our record against anyone wasn’t the best throughout that period,” Matthews said,
“We’ve been working really hard and really focused on our game and what we can improve.
“Obviously coming up against a team like India it’s going to be a tough assignment, but we have been playing some really positive cricket over the last year like I keep saying and back ourselves to hopefully go out there and be able to change things around a bit,” she added.
