Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 16-02-2024

FRIDAY 16th February, 2024

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No. 107356

‘Entire population benefitting from strong progress, plans in place’ - IMF Deputy Managing Director says; commends gov’t for successful management of economy - acknowledges significant advancements in healthcare, educational programmes; housing policies; energy, and transportation infrastructure PAGE SEE 3 - supports ongoing efforts to improve economic welfare through public investment, while avoiding non-trivial risk of economic overheating

More infrastructural enhancements ongoing in Lethem Installation of the electrical hardware network has commenced in Phase One, Tract CH&PA (Poke Bridge) scheme, Lethem, Region Nine.

The works to be carried out will include the planting of concrete poles, run-out and tension of primary and secondary conductors, and installation of transformers.

Astra Service has been contracted to execute the project for the sum of $69.7 million.

Already, development works to the tune of $540 million have been executed in the scheme. These works include roads, bridges, and drainage networks. (CH&PA photo)

APNU+AFC All nominees submitted Wages, salaries for Parliamentarian for Constitutional teachers increased by McDonald should Reform Commission not hold GTU’s General $15B under PPP/C gov’t Secretary post - AG criticises APNU+AFC for lack of - Dr Jagdeo says diversity in nominations - based on union’s vivid rules, Dr. Jagdeo says SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

‘Entire population benefitting from strong progress, plans in place’ - IMF Deputy Managing Director says; commends gov’t for successful management of economy - acknowledges significant advancements in healthcare, educational programmes; housing policies; energy, and transportation infrastructure - supports ongoing efforts to improve economic welfare through public investment, while avoiding non-trivial risk of economic overheating

The following is a statement issued by Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Thursday, in Georgetown, at the end of his visit to Guyana: “I am delighted to be in Guyana. This is my first visit, and I would like to thank President Irfaan Ali; Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo; Prime Minister Mark Phillips; Finance Minister Ashni Singh, as well as other ministers and senior officials for their warm hospitality, and for the productive meetings. I would also like to thank the representatives from the health and housing sectors for the site visits arranged, and the Amerindian community of Moraikobai, and the private sector, for their welcome and useful discussions.

“I congratulated the authorities on the unparalleled economic expansion. Guyana, today, is in the position to reap the benefits of rapidly increasing oil revenues due to the hard-won gains from implementing reforms and adjustment over the years. The plans

the authorities’ efforts to improve economic welfare through public investment, while avoiding the non-trivial risk of economic overheating. The authorities have managed this transformation successfully thus far, and we agreed that continuing to maintain macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability are paramount.

“In addition, we discussed the authorities’ efforts to develop a large

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mr. Kenji Okamura

put in place by the authorities and the strong progress are benefitting the entire population through better healthcare and educational programsme, housing policies, energy, and transportation infrastructure. Most importantly, these plans are also providing current and future generations with entrepreneurial and work opportunities through very strong economic growth, and a more diversified and climate-resilient economy.

“I commended the authorities for the vision-

ary Low-Carbon Development Strategy 2030.

The sale of carbon credits and use of these funds supports the Amerindian population, finances climate adaptation needs, and fosters renewable and cleaner energy needed for development. The strategy, which includes marine conservation and increased biodiversity goals, is ambitious.

“Notwithstanding the recent economic boom, Guyana still faces significant human and infrastructure development needs. I strongly support

skilled labour force to ensure a balanced growth path with low inflation and opportunities for well-paying jobs throughout the country.

“We also discussed, and I applauded the authorities for driving the charge to reduce food imports by 25 per cent in the Caribbean region by 2025, and move closer to the goal of achieving food security.

“Lastly, I gained a

deeper understanding of Guyana’s impressive economic transformation, and I very much appreciate the excellent, long-standing relations between Guyana and the IMF. I look forward to our continued partnership through regular policy dialogue, and technical assistance, including through the Caribbean Region Technical Assistance Center.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

High-level IMF team visits Amerindian village, developmental projects around Guyana

THE visiting International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Mr. Kenji Okamura and other representatives of the Fund, including its Executive Director, Mr. Afonso Bevilaqua, during their high-level two-day visit to Guyana, visited Moraikobai village in Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice), the construction site of the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle, and the Cummings Lodge Low Income Housing Development projects.

Guided by teams from the Ministries of Finance, Health and Amerindian Affairs, the team was able to observe some of the critical developments taking place as the country continues to expand.

During the visit to Moraikobai, which was led by Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, the DMD thanked residents for their warm welcome and expressed his appreciation for the development he has witnessed during his visit to this country.

The village of Moraikobai is one of the indigenous villages which has seen major development through government’s efforts, including through the setting up of a solar farm that assists in providing electricity and boosting internet service to the community. Villagers also used the opportunity of the visit

to showcase their craft and entrepreneurship ventures.

Moraikobai is also one of the indigenous villages benefitting from Government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.

The LCDS 2030 allowed for $4.7 billion to be distributed to 242 Amerindian settlements countrywide as part of the first payment for carbon credits under a deal signed with Hess Corporation in 2022. Payments received at the end of 2023 was US$150 million and the arrangement is worth a minimum of US$750 million until 2032.

Addressing the villagers during the visit, Minister Sukhai reiterated that the ongoing development in indigenous communities, including Moraikobai, is part of government’s commitment to advance Amerindian development in collaboration with the villages themselves.

The aim is to also foster independence in the communities and ensure that the villages have a say and contribute to their own development, while the government will continue to facilitate such development and provide the necessary developmental resources.

Moraikobai is located 96 miles (154 km) from the convergence of the Mahaicony River which is accessible either through

The visiting International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Mr. Kenji Okamura and other representatives of the Fund, including its Executive Director, Mr. Afonso Bevilaqua, during their high-level two-day visit to Guyana, visited Moraikobai village in Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice), the construction site of the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle, and the Cummings Lodge Low Income Housing Development projects

trails or from the Mahaicony Creek. It is the only indigenous village within the Mahaica-Berbice region and is considered nature's “true paradise”.

The community was initially called "Moracoba", which was derived from two Arawak words: 'mora' meaning tree and 'coba' meaning stump.

Meanwhile, later in the day, led by the Ministry of Finance team and Advisor to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, the IMF DMD visited the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital under construction at Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

Among the specialised services the facility will offer is Paediatric Cardiac surgeries with a Paediatric Cardiac Unit included.

The establishment of the 256-bed Paediatric and Maternal Hospital in Guyana will be one of the specialised medical institutions that will transform the health sector not only locally but for the wider CARICOM region.

The project is being undertaken

by VAMED Engineering GmbH, an Austrian-registered company with funding from the UK Export Finance (UKEF).

The cost of the project is EUR €149 million. The design

and construction of the hospital commenced on November 10, 2022, and is expected to be completed by October 15, 2025.

Following the stop at the construction site of the modern hospital and led by Minister in the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and the Finance team, the IMF’s DMD and accompanying officials also visited the government’s Low Income Development project at Cummings Lodge.

There, Minister Rodrigues explained how the government has constructed many of the low income and moderate homes with a number of persons already occupying the homes, while a large number of other lots in the areas have already been allocated to more Guyanese.

She also briefed the IMF officials on the incentives the government has been providing to allow for more affordable access to housing, including Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR), an increase in the low-income mortgage ceiling, tax waivers and Government’s collaboration with commercial banks for a reduction in the cost of borrowing, all with a view to encourage more citizens to invest in home ownership.

In Cummings Lodge, construction of more than 451 housing units is ongoing. This includes the construction of 327 Elevated 2-Bedroom Units, 49 Flat 3-Bedroom V-Roof Units, and 75 Flat 3-Bedroom Bungalow Units.

More than 77 per cent of the total unit stock in this area has been completed whilst the remaining units are currently in progress. In Cummings Lodge,

infrastructure development works are being undertaken to the tune of G$1.8 billion.

The provision of affordable housing in Guyana remains a central focus of the Government of Guyana. This provision of housing solutions is being done via a combination of the allocation of serviced lots, and construction of several types of housing units backed by expansive infrastructure transformation in areas designated for residential development.

It was in this regard that Minister Rodrigues also took the IMF team on a tour of the government’s most recently completed Heroes Highway.

She also demonstrated to the team, the further linkages from this highway to the other development areas and housing schemes between the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara, all of which form part of the government’s broader infrastructural and transformational agenda.

President Irfaan Ali; Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh met with the IMF DMD and other officials of the Fund where high level discussions were held at the Office of the President.

The visiting IMF team comprises Deputy Managing Director (DMD) Mr. Kenji Okamura, Executive Director Mr. Afonso Bevilaqua, Ms. Reshma Mahabir, Alternate Executive Director, Ms. Alina Carare, Mission Chief, and Mr. Chad Steinberg, Advisor to the Deputy Managing Director.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

APNU+AFC Parliamentarian McDonald should not hold GTU’s General Secretary post - based on union’s vivid rules, Dr. Jagdeo says

AMIDST growing questions and criticisms over the credibility and integrity of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU)’s leadership, a pertinent issue has arisen regarding the its General Secretary, Coretta McDonald, who might be holding her position in contravention of the GTU’s rule book, which is essentially the constitution of the union.

This was brought to light by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday. The PPP General Secretary used GTU’s rule book to point out the major breach.

The Union’s rules state: “Any person holding a Teachers Certificate acceptable to the Executive Council but who is not eligible for active membership, may become an associate member of the union by making application therefor to the Executive Council.”

Further, Clause C, Section II of the rules outline: “Associate members shall have the right to vote, but shall not be eligible to

GTU General Secretary and APNU+AFC Member of Parliament Coretta McDonald hold the office of the President or General Secretary… [this includes] teachers who leave the classroom to serve as Members of Parliament.”

Notably, McDonald was sworn in as an A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Parliamentarian in 2020, and, using the union’s rule book, her stint as General Secretary of the GTU should have ended.

The rule book reads: “The annual conference may confer honorary associate membership

without the levy of fees on any person who applies therefor and falls in any of the following categories:-... teachers who leave the classroom to serve as Members of Parliament; such membership to expire at the end of the individual's term of office as a Member of Parliament.”

While speaking more on McDonald’s position within the union for over a decade, Dr. Jagdeo said: “Now McDonald is paid as a teacher. She herself said publicly,” while underscoring the clause: “She is a teacher who has left the classroom and served as a Member of Parliament.”

He then went on to remark: “So this is a very interesting turn of affairs… Maybe we should read the rule book a bit more.”

Recently, GTU’s heavyweights have been struggling to defend its integrity, and this revelation further begs the question as to how the union is being managed.

Also, it was reported that approximately $2 billion collected from teachers by the GTU is unaccounted for, according to

the Auditor General’s Office.

Last Friday, the Auditor General’s Office issued a statement, saying: “The last Financial Statement submitted by the Guyana Teachers Union to the Audit Office of Guyana for audit was 1989.”

Notably, the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority also issued a statement, which revealed that the GTU last filed its financial returns 20 years ago.

According to a brief statement from the registry, it received queries from the media about the audited financial

statements of the GTU, and upon examining the records, it found that “Annual Returns required by Section 35 of the Trade Unions Act, Cap. 98:03 to be filed annually by registered trade unions was last filed by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) for the Year ending 31st of December, 2004 on the 31st of March, 2005.”

Under this Act, unions are required to submit a “general statement of the receipts, funds, effects, and expenditure to the Registrar before the 1st May in every year, and shall show fully its assets and liabilities at the

date…”

The Act states that every trade union which “fails to comply with or acts in contravention of this section, and also every officer of the union so failing, shall each be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine of seventy-five dollars for each offence.”

Union dues are automatically deducted from the salaries of the teachers and handed over to the GTU. But the government recently said it will stop doing so, and has cited the lack of accountability by the union.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Hazards on our roadways

A STUDY done several years ago found that road debris played a role in more than 200,000 crashes reported to police in the United States. More than 500 people were killed and another 39,000 were left nursing injuries.

Road debris comes in many forms: furniture, wood, equipment, and other items that have fallen off of vehicles; pieces of blown tires, litter, broken fenders, wreckage from vehicular accidents, fallen rocks, pieces of concrete, and stones thrown by tires. The list is endless.

Though small in size, some can cause significant damage to vehicles and in

worst case scenarios, serious injury or death. Vehicular damages include broken windshields, cracked windows, engine damage and transmission damage.

Earlier this week, police issued a road alert to motorists traversing the four-lane Heroes Highway between Eccles to Mandela in the vicinity of Sage Pond owing to the presence of a large quantity of stone scattered across the thoroughfare.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. This is the state of other parts of that highway and other major roads particularly those located where major infrastructure work is being done.

There have also been in-

stances of wet mud, building material, and sand falling out of trucks as they traverse the roadways sometime during rush hour traffic. The upsetting or perhaps frightening thing is not knowing who should be held responsible for vehicular or bodily damage.

Of recent, motorists are being bullied by truck drivers who have claimed ownership of our roads through acts of aggression, reckless driving and an absolute disregard for life, limb and the safety of other road users.

It has now become the norm for truck drivers to traverse the streets with their uncovered load. Anyone travelling behind has to ei-

ther roll up their windows or drop back to a safe distance.

If the wind is strong, the sand blows. If the truck is speeding, the stone bounces out.

It must be stated that a few truck drivers, mainly those transporting sand, cover their cargo.

Another frightening occurrence concerns how lumber is transported. In many cases, the lumber is hanging out the back of the trucks, sometimes almost touching the road. A piece of red cloth is often attached to the end of one to warn those behind of the danger of travelling too close.

Of major concern also are vehicles with mechanical

problems that are left parked at the side of the road, often times in a dangerous position and for several days.

A few weeks ago, someone uploaded a photo to Facebook of a car taking up half of a lane. It was jacked up and missing a front wheel and had been there for a few days.

Earlier this week, another person took to social media and using a photo complained of a truck that was inconsiderately parked on the road taking up almost an entire lane. It was pointed out that it has been there for three weeks, with no cones or any warning signs. It was expressed that its presence in that position was a safety

hazard and an accident waiting to happen when heading home at nights.

Truck drivers were reminded by the Ministry of Public Works to ensure that they cover truck trays while transporting materials to prevent accidents. It's important to note that leaving trays uncovered is considered a violation under Regulation No. 99 of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations, Cap. 51:02.

It is time to consider the strict enforcement of this law given that roadways are littered with stone and other materials or vehicles left parked in an unsafe position for a lengthy period of time.

Education Ministry alarmed by blatant misinformation and inconsistencies

Dear Editor, The Ministry of Education is alarmed at the blatant misinformation and inconsistencies apparently aimed at misinforming contained in the recent editorials and articles published in the Stabroek News.

We have noted a deliberate attack on the Minister of Education with more than 27 editorials written about her and the Ministry in the last months containing much misinformation and had previously put that down to petty, personalised journalism.

In the interest of the children we serve, however, we are duty-bound to offer the public these corrections.

In one editorial titled “BOX,” published on the 11th day of February 2024, the newspaper said “…the Education Ministry does not negotiate wages and salaries…” This repeats in other editorials in the same newspaper when the paper was trying to make a particular point.

Only the day after, in another editorial titled “Ministry in Disarray” when the paper is trying to make another point it says

“the [education] ministry has failed, mainly due to low wages and poor working conditions….”

Which one is it then SN? When one says something because it is convenient on that particular day, without regard for the truth, it is easy to conclude the effort was to deliberately to mislead.

In only one editorial several other blatant inaccuracies are noted, some of which will be highlighted here. The claim that Guyana has “failed both absolutely and comparatively to other Caribbean education systems at CSEC and in tertiary enrolment” is preposterous. We ask how?

The Caribbean has a tertiary enrolment rate of about 12-15% while Guyana has one at about 10-12% while Guyana spends half of what our counterparts spend on each tertiary student.

The issue in Guyana has been accessibility, something by which the flat Caribbean islands are not hampered. The University of Guyana has set its sights and is working on making at least one out of every household a graduate by 2040 while the GOAL programme has offered 21,000 plus persons many of

whom before had no such opportunity, the ability to access or attain tertiary education.

Additionally, Guyana has one of the most robust TVET post-secondary programmes with another six new facilities being built out now in coastal and hinterland communities.

Guyana has repeatedly topped the Caribbean not only with the most outstanding student but also in several areas such as sciences, humanities, business and TVET and continues to outshine our counterparts generally.

In 1990, Guyana’s pass rate in Mathematics was 16.89% and in English, it was 13.36%, while the Caribbean’s pass rate in mathematics was 48.7% and in English, it was 65%. By 2022, Guyana’s pass rate in mathematics was 34.28% and in English 70.84% while in the Caribbean it was 37% and 74% respectively.

Considering until recently Guyana has spent less on each child than her Caribbean counterpart how is this not comparable?

From where is the SN getting its information?

Another preposterous claim

is that 50% of hinterland children drop out of high school. We ask where and when? This is not only a blatant untruth, but also insulting to the parents, teachers and children of the hinterland.

We have no such record and although the predictions around the world were that post covid there would be significant learning loss and early school leaving, Guyana has not recorded anything close to what was predicted and nothing close to 50% that the SN claims.

In 2022, we recorded a dropout rate of 12% (across levels) in the hinterland. Too high for us but far lower than the worldwide prediction for places with similar conditions and definitely far lower than the SN’s made up 50%.

The SN makes a bold assertion that “there was not one Grade One pass for hinterland or riverine school.” Again we ask from where the newspaper has gotten its information.

We note that the same information was posted by a prominent attorney-at-law who once told this nation that 33 was not bigger than 32, and

that the court would vindicate the preposterous claim. We all know how that turned out.

Some 199 hinterland students in 2022 earned Grade Ones in various subjects. In 2023, 289 students earned Grade Ones. In any event everywhere in the Caribbean Grades 1-3 are passes and we have seen remarkable increases in the pass rate in hinterland communities.

We are aiming for far better and will get there. We are certain of this. But not in the most fertile imagination did the students earn "zero grade ones" that the SN asserted.

“Another measure worth considering is the retention of employees/teachers. On this the ministry has also failed … many teachers are simply heading overseas where they can enjoy a far higher salary...,” is another unfounded, untruthful claim.

“The number of teachers resigning from both board and non-board schools across levels has been consistent.”

In 2019 there were 42 resignations, in 2020 there were

24 resignations (covid year), in 2021, there were 30 resignations. In 2022 there were 33 resignations. In 2023 there were 38 resignations. In 2019 we graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education, 377.

In 2023 we graduated, 1,796 trained teachers. Where then is this massive bleed that the SN writes about?

We could go through the editorials sentence by sentence and point out all the misinformation contained therein. But we believe the point is made.

We call on the newspaper to issue corrections and if they find that hard then at least to be careful with sticking to facts.

Our children deserve no less.

We remain available to offer statistics that we hope will be helpful and constructive in any nation-building conversation. Assuming of course that it was a constructive conversation for which the SN was aiming.

Yours respectfully, Anara Khan Senior Public Relations Officer Ministry of Education

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Teachers strike, politics and President Ali

THE PPP lost office in 1964 to return to power in 1992 after almost three decades. In that long period we had the descent into Burnhamite dictatorship.

It was only natural for the society in general to give Cheddi Jagan a chance to settle down and rearrange society and economy away from its totalitarian mode.

This did not happen. The Public Service Union called an unreasonable, irrational and politically driven strike. The political theorists had a goldmine to work with.

The theory is that the Public Service Union played a huge role in undermining the Jagan premiership because it will never accept a PPP government for ethnic reasons; this theory was strengthened by the 1992 strike.

Before Jagan returned to power in 1992, the union head was Mr. Patrick Yarde. He still maintains that position. After almost 40 years at the helm, Mr. Yarde looks like he is going nowhere. This is the state of trade unionism in Guyana. Is this the union the Guyana Teachers’ Union wants to be associated with? Could such an association help the GTU’s credibility?

Enter Lincoln Lewis. Mr. Lewis has 35 years as General Secretary of the TUC. He appears to be in the same company with Mr. Yarde. In this age of Google, you can find anything that made the news.

Google Mr. Lewis’ rejected strike action at UG in 2019 and his disassociation from the TUC’s own affiliate, UG Workers’ Union. The TUC’s representative on the UG Council voted against the strike. The reason was obvious – the Vice Chan-

cellor at the time was the choice of the APNU+AFC government.

Mr. Lewis, in July 2020, appealed to President Granger to cancel the March 2020 election, a constitutional jurisdiction that the President of Guyana does not have. In 2021, Mr. Lewis was charged with assaulting a woman. Mr. Lewis’ organisation did not seek his suspension from office until the case was concluded.

Is this the person that is advising the GTU? How can the GTU retain credibility by such a relationship? Mr. Lewis will be seeking court intervention to prevent non-payment of salaries during striking days. Is the GTU going to accept this violation of commonsense? Why is it commonsensical? Because to pay striking workers as a theoretical principle is fraught with disastrous consequences.

At the practical level, it also lacks commonsense. If you are going to strike and get paid then there is a rational, logical and perfectly sane reason to strike and to keep on striking. You are being paid not to work.

To seek court intervention on this policy cannot win the GTU the embrace of the nation.

The one major disaster that is waiting to happen is that other state sectors are going to be incentivised to go on strike action.

I will never be against workers striking for increased wages.

But I will not stifle my capacity to analyse politics in my country.

And my analysis tells me that the GTU’s strike came about by the advice of anti-government personalities.

The strike then is politically motivated and my predic-

tions are that there will be more strikes right up to 2025 election by other unions because the opposition is facing an enormous diminution of societal support.

The opposition and its supporters from civil society have two stratagems -only two. There are no other arsenals left in the war room. One is to intensify the cry of African marginalisation, the other, is to use state workers to strike. The marginalisation pathway will not be productive.

I think African-Guyanese see President Ali as a different leader since Independence and a man who will not pursue a racially driven agenda. Over the past three years, I think Dr. Ali has made massive inroads into constituencies that did not embrace past PPP presidents.

The other stratagem of the strike weapon will not work.

Our politics is losing its sharp divisiveness. Once teachers are shown the analysis of political motives, strike action will peter out. This is not to say that there are not areas open for negotiations with the government.

There are and the teachers need to complete the negotiation process and ask Dr. Ali to mediate. He will. That is what all heads of governments do.

The teachers should grasp the opportunity of negotiating with a President that is not against working class elevation.

His mother was a teacher. I don’t think any of our past presidents were against the resources of Guyana being used for the social and economic enhancement.

But I think President Ali stands out from each of them and I mean no disrespect to the two founding fathers –Jagan

Castle Hotel destroyed by fire

THE Guyana Fire Service is probing the cause of a fire which destroyed the Castle Hotel at lot 12 Chapel Street, New Amsterdam, on Wednesday afternoon.

According to information from the Guyana Fire Service, the property was owned by 60-year-old Errol Azar, a resident of the United States.

The structure was a three-storey wooden and concrete building, which has suffered severe damage, leaving the ground floor of the building (utilised as a club and lounge), and the first and second floors, serving as a hotel, heavily impacted.

According to the Fire Service, it responded to a distress call at 16:37 that afternoon.

Two minutes later, fire service officers arrived at the scene and the first jet deployed at 16:40 hrs.

On arrival, Water Tenders #87 and #74 were deployed to fight the blaze, led by Divisional Officer Harry and Section Leader Hope alongside eight other personnel.

In addition, four jets from Water Tender #74, light pumps #93 and #105, along with assistance from an estate Land Rover, were instrumental in extinguishing the blaze, using hydrants in the vicinity.

With a rapid response and coordinated efforts, the Guyana Fire Service contained the fire, preventing further escalation and safeguarding the surrounding area.

The Fire Service remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of citizens and properties across the country.

Fire ravaged the Castle Hotel, on Wednesday

and Burnham. As a matter of exigency, the teachers should go back to the table and should ask Dr. Ali to lend a hand. Give it a try, guys!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Man must serve at least 30 years for murder of visiting Guyanese

THE fisherman convicted of the 2021 murder of Guyanese businessman Hemraj Pardesi, who was living in the United States, was given a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 30 years.

In January, Mario Bissoondial, 34, of Cumberland Village, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), pleaded guilty to killing 67-year-old Pardesi in August 2021.

The sentence was handed down, on Tuesday, by Berbice High Court Judge, Jo Ann

Barlow.

The Judge ordered the Prison Service to take six years out of the 30 years to give Bissoondial credit for his early guilty plea as well as 928 days for the time he spent on remand.

In order to support his rehabilitation, the Judge further ordered that he be exposed to programmes designed specifically for persons convicted of violent crimes and skill development.

Attorney-at-Law, Kevin Morgan, defended Bissoon-

dial.

State Counsel, Muntaz Ali, presented the prosecution’s case.

Bissoondial was detained by the police following the murder.

In the early hours of Wednesday, August 4, 2021, Pardesi—who would usually travel back and forth between Guyana and the United States—was discovered face down in his yard at Reliance Settlement, East Canje, Berbice, with blood dripping from his nose.

Convicted rapist escapes from Mazaruni Prison

AKEEM Wong, a convict serving a 15-year sentence for rape, managed to escape from the Mazaruni Prison compound, on Thursday.

The escape occurred around 07:20hrs. At the time, Wong, along with inmate Gilbert Gill, was labouring in the wood bush in the custody of Prison Officer Torres.

While on duty, Wong requested to defecate and

officer Torres granted him the permission.

However, about five minutes later, officer Torres decided to check on Wong but discovered him missing, hence an alarm was raised.

Law enforcement officials have widened the search perimeter around the general area. The Ministry of Home Affairs has since urged the public to be cautious and vigilant, and to report

any sightings or information regarding Wong’s location to the relevant authorities immediately, adding that the safety and security of the public remains its top priority.

The ministry noted that efforts are being made to swiftly and safely apprehend the escaped convict.

Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

Jailed: Mario Bissoondial

According to reports, Bissoondial had told authorities that a woman Pardesi knew well had hired him and another man to rob him. He said, however, that Pardesi was strangled after a struggle that started when his accomplice attacked the man with an iron

bar during the robbery.

The pair reportedly took a bag containing $800,000 from Pardesi’s home.

Pardesi reportedly took the money out of the bank to renovate his property.

In August 2021, Malisha Dutchin, 28, of Reliance, East Canje, Region Six, and Bissoondial were charged with the man’s murder. They were remanded to prison.

That same month, the police had also issued a wanted bulletin for 34-year-old Jason Isaacs of Lot 18 Bristol Street, East Canje, Berbice, in connection with Pardesi’s killing.

It was reported in November 2023 that Isaacs had escaped from the Paramaribo University Hospital. He was admitted to the facility after he was shot in the legs by the police after he allegedly shot and killed 39-year-old Curtis Brown, formerly of Queenstown, Corriverton, Corentyne,

Murdered: Hemraj Pardesi

Berbice. That murder occurred on October 13, 2023.

At the time, Brown was reportedly attempting to break up a fight outside a Paramaribo nightclub.

It is not known if Isaacs was ever re-arrested.

Corriverton man sentenced to 45 months in prison, gets $58M fine for drug trafficking

Jailed: Abdool Shakoor

ABDOOL Shakoor, one of two men who were arrested in a No. 65 Village Corentyne drug bust, will now spend the next 45 months behind bars after pleading guilty to a trafficking charge.

He appeared, on Thursday, before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh, at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, charged with having in his possession 64.6 kilogrammes of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

The accused entered a guilty plea and in addition to the jail sentence, he was fined $58,140,000.

Meanwhile, in relation to the said drug bust, Yogindra Bheemsingh, 33, of Bank Road Corriverton, Berbice, was charged with the offence of procuring 64.6 kilogrammes of marijuana.

He, too, appeared before Magistrate Singh on Thursday.

He was remanded to prison until March 20 after

Remanded: Yogindra Bheemsingh

denying the charge.

The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) had issued a release stating that, on February 12, its officers conducted an operation in the No. 65 Village Corentyne, Berbice area, where

they intercepted a motor car. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed three large bulky parcels containing a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems which tested positive for cannabis.

The large quantity of marijuana that was seized

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Labour laws being modernised to adequately address contemporary challenges - Hamilton affirms

By Feona Morrison

LABOUR Minister Joseph Hamilton has said that the government is determined to reform labour laws to reflect the realities of the 21st century.

Hamilton acknowledged, in a recent interview, that Guyana's labour laws are not in sync with the demands of the modern day.

There is "a lot, a lot" of room for improvement, Hamilton said, emphasising: "We have to amend laws. We have to repeal laws. We have to consolidate labour laws."

His ministry is currently discussing the matter with the Attorney General's Chambers.

Significantly, he said that Guyana is updating its laws and regulations pertaining to occupa-

tional safety and health (OSH) to include provisions governing the oil and gas industry.

“A lot of our OSH laws presently, [they] never contemplated the oil and gas sector. So, that we have to deal with and we have to have conversation with

the ILO (International Labour Organization) to give us some help in that regard,” the Labour Minister said.

According to Minister Hamilton, there were only nine OSH personnel to oversee work across the entire nation in the extraction of oil and gas when the PPP/C returned to office in 2020.

“Now, the complement of OSH officers has increased to 32. And that is a work in progress. We continue to bring in people and train them. We had to increase the labour officers, co-op officers and the central recruitment officers so that we can outfit all the offices across the country,” he said.

Hamilton related that because Guyana is improving, the Labour Ministry is trying to hire OSH specialists for every

GUYANA’S Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has begun efforts to improve navigational safety in the country’s waters with the removal of a shipwreck from the Mazaruni River.

According to a press statement, most recently,

broader environmental sustainability goals aimed at safeguarding local waterways.

With the support of Koole B. V., a reputable Dutch company specialised in industrial and maritime services, contracted by MARAD, has been tasked with

pated completion timeline of five weeks, this initiative signifies a significant step towards enhancing maritime safety and environmental protection in our country,” MARAD said.

At a ceremony for the award of the $1.38 billion contract just over a year

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton

Wreckage being removed from Mazaruni River

Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has begun efforts to improve navigational safety in the country’s waters with the removal of a shipwreck from the Mazaruni River

the Torani, a relic from the 1960s era, once a vital transport link across the Essequibo and Berbice Rivers, encountered structural challenges in 2012, rendering it unfit for service, and has since lain partially submerged.

The wreck was identified as a hazard to navigation, so officials have prioritised its removal, aligning with

the removal of 17 sunken vessels.

The Dutch company brings expertise in submerged wreck removal, promising a swift and thorough execution of the project.

“Progress has been steady, with seven vessels already successfully extracted and the Torani slated as the eighth. With an antici-

ago, Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works, had emphasised the urgency of efficiently removing wrecks, noting that, as Guyana's maritime activities continue to evolve, ensuring safe passage for ships and boats becomes paramount, and the government is committed to this endeavour.

industry.

Among the industries he mentioned were mining, oil and gas, construction, and agriculture. He added that under the previous coalition government, worker health and safety were never given priority. He said that this will remain a prominent issue under the PPP government as the Labour Ministry strives to carry out its duties.

“We have made a lot of progress. When I became minister, workplace deaths were 32.

In three years, it has reduced by some 12. Last year, it was 20 which is too much. If we didn’t have the type of interventions, that 32 might have been 42 and 52 and increasing yearly...,” Hamilton said.

Four workplace deaths have been recorded so far in February.

A workplace death took place at Guyana Shield Resources Incorporated, Dora, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on February 4. Lennox McPherson,

66, a resident of Cinderella City, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), was an excavator operator working for the company.

He was reportedly pinned against an excavator's track in the late morning hours after being struck by a Doosan excavator bucket outside of a sandpit in Dora.

On February 6, Trevor Jones, 64, passed away at John Fernandes Wharf in Georgetown after being crushed by a super reach stacker.

According to reports, Jones was walking behind a super reach stacker as it was reversing when he was struck by the counterweight at the rear of the vehicle. Subsequently, he fell to the side and was fatally injured by the rear right wheel of the machine.

Domindra Narayan, 26, of Columbia, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) died on February 9 as a result of injuries

he received a month prior after falling from a 10-foot metal scaffold, while pressure-washing Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited’s complex at Affiance, Region Two. On February 10, Rusbel Jesus Rengel Azocar, a 37-yearold Venezuelan health and safety worker, died at the Vreed-enHoop Shore Base, the man-made island in the Demerara River.

According to reports, Azocar was engaged in the task of placing a barrier around a hole with water on the southern half of the site’s quay wall and during the process he fell into the hole.

He was reportedly not wearing a life jacket at the time, despite protocol requiring it. The Labour Ministry is investigating these fatalities.

The imposition of steep fines for violating occupational safety and health regulations was previously discussed by the ministry.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

All nominees submitted for Constitutional Reform Commission - AG criticises APNU+AFC for lack of diversity in nominations

ALL the nominations from the various stakeholders for the much-anticipated Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) have been submitted.

This was confirmed by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall on Thursday.

Nandlall, during his programme, “Issues in the News,” on Tuesday, disclosed that the political representatives from the ruling People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C); the main opposition, A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC); and the smaller parties collectively known as the Joinder Parties, have been named.

The PPP/C nominees in-

clude prominent figures such as the Attorney General himself; Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira; Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony; Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai; and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy. The APNU/AFC has nominated Opposition Commissioner at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Vincent Alexander; economist, Sherwood Lowe; Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Ganesh Mahipaul; and Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes.

Nandlall said the opposition’s nominations lack gender balance and limited ethnic representation, suggesting

it fails to reflect the nation's diverse demographic.

“In my respectful view, it reminds you, once again, that the People's Progressive Party/Civic is the only national party in this country. And the nominees of the constitutional reform commission in my view, indicates that,” he added The Joinder Parties, holding one seat in Parliament, have nominated ANUG’s General Secretary, Timothy Jonas, Senior Counsel.

“From the opposition [APNU+AFC], you have all men, in fact, no woman representation,” Nandlall remarked.

He contrasted this with the PPP/C's nominees, highlighting their mix of two Indo-Guyanese, an Afro-Guy-

anese, an Amerindian, and a Portuguese, including two women and three men, highlighting the commitment to ethnic and gender diversity within the government's selections.

Nandlall said that the selection for the CRC shows the importance of representation, with the government showcasing a commitment to diversity in its nominees.

“Look at the main opposition, no gender and no ethnic band balance. I just thought

that I will put that out there for your consumption,” Nandlall said.

The establishment of the CRC follows promises made in the PPP/C Manifesto in 2020, and is a step forward in the government's commitment to consult with the populace and important stakeholders for constitutional reform.

The CRC, a 20-member commission, will be responsible for reviewing the country’s supreme laws and

making recommendations for changes that reflect the current and future needs of the Guyanese people.

This push for reform was initiated with the passage of the Constitutional Reform Commission Bill in November 2022, setting the foundation for a broad-based review process.

The commission is set to operate out of a building on Middle Street, Georgetown, previously used for various Commissions of Inquiry.

Prudent economic management, enhancement of citizens’ lives

- remain top priority for gov’t, Dr Singh tells high-level IMF official THE Government of Guyana has reiterated its commitment to prudent economic management, outlining policies and programmes to enhance the lives of the citizens.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Thursday, outlined the government’s position during a meeting with the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Mr. Kenji Okamura and Executive Director, Mr. Afonso Bevilaqua.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Singh, who is hosting the IMF delegation in Guyana, was accompanied by a team from the Ministry of Finance, while the IMF’s officials were accompanied by Ms. Reshma Mahabir, Alternate Executive Director; Ms. Alina Carare, Mission Chief; and Mr. Chad Steinberg, Advisor to the Deputy Managing Director.

The IMF team met with President, Dr Irfaan Ali and other government officials, and visited a number of developmental projects around the country.

Dr. Singh emphasised that the Government of Guyana values the longstanding relationship with the IMF. He further provided an overview of economic developments over the years and prospects looking ahead, as well as the government’s policies and programmes to enhance the lives of the country’s citizens while containing risks during this current period of its stewardship of the country’s finances to improve all

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, met with the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Mr. Kenji Okamura

sectors of the economy.

In its December 2023 Article IV Consultation report, the IMF commended the Government of Guyana for economic management, including the implementation of policies and initiatives geared at transforming Guyana’s economy. The findings were published following an official IMF mission visit to Guyana in September of that year.

The IMF, in its findings, had highlighted that Guyana’s real GDP is expected to continue to grow rapidly, adding that Guyana achieved the highest real GDP growth in the world in 2022 - 62.3 per cent.

It is estimated that Guyana’s economy should record a 38.4 per cent real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate this year, while the country’s growth should continue with an expansion of an ex-

pected 26.6 per cent in 2024.

The IMF had also noted that in relation to inflationary pressures, the government had introduced a suite of measures in 2022 and 2023, which contributed to a decline in the inflation rate in 2023. The Fund had reported that government’s current expansionary fiscal policy stance is appropriate, given the country’s development needs and is appropriately balanced by monetary policy.

Currently, Guyana is poised for continued rapid expansion, with average growth of 20 per cent per year during 2024-28. The IMF projects that non-oil GDP growth will be sustained at 5.5 per cent, as the government continues its plans to address the country’s developmental needs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Supenaam-Taymouth Manor residents to soon access treated water - with $1.18B Onderneeming treatment plant slated for August completion

RESIDENTS from Supenaam to Taymouth Manor along the Essequibo Coast will soon have access to treated water, as works are progressing on the new $1.18 billion water treatment plant at Onderneeming, Region Two. Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues made the disclosure on Tuesday, during an on-site inspection of the project’s progress.

“We are expecting completion at least a month ahead of schedule.

So, by August of this year, this project should be completed…

This is drinkable water… This is long overdue for Region Two,” the

Residents from Supenaam to Taymouth Manor along the Essequibo Coast will soon have access to treated water, as works are progressing on the new $1.18 billion water treatment plant at Onderneeming, Region Two

minister expressed while noting her satisfaction with the work completed to date.

This contract is one of seven water treatment plants that were signed last year and funded by the government.

The construction of 13 water treatment plants throughout Guyana forms part of the measures being executed to advance treated water coverage along the coast.

Minister Rodrigues highlighted, “We are seeing great progress on the seven that we have. We started construction last year. So, these will be delivered by the end of this year…

The investment is well worth it to improve the lives of our citizens.”

Five additional treatment

plants, which are being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) are currently at the tendering stage.

Within the last three years, over 35,000 residents received first-time access to potable water nationwide.

Minister Rodrigues also inspected the site where the water treatment plant will be constructed at Maria’s Delight. This will benefit residents from Charity to Queenstown.

The minister was accompanied by Hinterland Director of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Jailall Ramchand, Prime Minister Representative for Region Two, Arnold Adams, and other staff of the ministry. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Wages, salaries for teachers increased by $15B under PPP/C gov’t - Dr Jagdeo says

AMONG the many benefits that teachers have reaped under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, there was also a $15 billion increase in salaries and wages, according to the PPP/C General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.

He made those remarks during a press conference at Freedom House, on Thursday.

While underscoring that these figures could be verified, the PPP/C General Secretary said: “On wages and salaries itself in the education sector, how much was it in 2020? It was $24.4 billion. In 2023, the end of 2023, because we have not given the salary increase for this year as yet, it grew to $39.4 Billion.”

Adding: “So that’s a $15 billion increase… that’s a 61.4 per cent increase in allocation for

wages and salaries for teachers.”

While addressing questions surrounding this, Dr Jagdeo clarified: “You would see that the across-the-board figure is lower than that and why is this so? Because we’ve hired more teachers and we have adjusted the graduate levels significantly, so that teachers who are better qualified would earn more.”

In November, President, Dr Irfaan Ali had announced increases to teachers’ salaries and other interventions. These accumulated to a total of $1.9 billion.

Providing a scenario so persons could understand how the increases would apply, President Ali had said that a graduate Senior Mistress/Head of Department would have their salaries adjusted upwards from $243,069 to $262,917, and with

PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams photo) the inclusion of the revision to education allowances, this represents an overall 12 per cent increase compared to the previous minimum salary paid to such persons.

In the case of a graduate Senior Assistant Mistress working

in the hinterland, the minimum salary was adjusted upwards from $223,232 to $243,076, and with the inclusion of the revision to education allowances and Remote Areas Incentive (RAI), this represents an overall 16 per cent increase compared to the previous minimum salary paid to such persons.

Outside of salaries and allowances, all teachers who hold a substantive appointment as a Senior Master/Mistress or above, and are within three years of retirement and have not previously received a duty-free concession on a motor car, are entitled to a duty-free concession for a motor car of up to 1500cc.

Moreover, Dr Jagdeo did not shy away from putting detractors of development in their place by underscoring how the

PPP/C administration is committed to bettering the education sector.

He related: “Last week I dealt extensively with some issues surrounding the teachers’ strike and I pointed out using allocations [in] the budget, the government’s commitment to the sector and how that has grown dramatically in the past few years. Because I believe that when you assess these issues about education, you have first of all [to] deal with the question of commitment.”

Approximately $135 billion dollars was announced for the education sector in this year’s fiscal package.

According to Dr Jagdeo, the current government is investing more into the education sector when compared to the previous A Partnership for National

Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration.

“In the years that this government has been in office from 2020 to now, we have seen 162 per cent increase in the allocation to the sector.

So we’re spending more on almost every single area from training of teachers… to building up the infrastructure,” the PPP General Secretary noted.

Furthermore, while highlighting the dedication that the government has placed in ensuring that the education sector reaches new heights, Dr Jagdeo remarked: “In Region One alone, we’re spending now about $5 billion on three schools, which is more than the entire capital allocation for the five years that APNU was in office.”

Winners of CPGL’s Green Art and Innovation Competition - commitment to a ‘green future’ commended for creativity

CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL), on Wednesday, hosted a prize-giving ceremony at its office, to recognise the outstanding achievements of the winners of the third annual CPGL Green Art and Innovation Competition.

Building on the success of its previous two editions, which focused on essay writing, the 2023 competition introduced a new “Green Art” category.

This expansion allowed youths aged 11-18 to showcase their creativity and ingenuity in even more ways: Green Art, where junior artists (11-14) depicted their community as a green energy hub and Green Innovation, where senior participants (15-18) proposed and designed green energy products beneficial to all Guyanese.

The company said it is committed to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability, and the competition served as a platform for young Guyanese to contribute their ideas and perspectives towards a greener future.

Through their art and proposed innovations, the participants raised awareness about the importance of adopting sustainable solutions within their communities.

Following a rigorous review process, the winners in both categories emerged as follows:- in the Junior Category, Michael Jardine secured first place, followed by Rachard Collymore in second place, and Rohamaya Jawanza in third place. Meanwhile, in the Senior Category, Esther Kissoon emerged as the first-place winner, with Damethri George obtain-

ing second place, and Sarah Hammichand securing third place.

Two honorary fourthplace winners were also selected in each category:- in the Junior category, Lennicea Waldron and in the Senior category, Miranda Danraj.

CPGL extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of the competition. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment to a greener future are truly commendable.

“We encourage these young leaders to continue exploring innovative solutions and inspiring others to join the collective effort towards achieving a more sustainable Guyana.

"The talent and passion displayed by the participants in this competition were truly inspiring," said Liu Xiaoxiang, President of CPGL.

Winners from both the junior and senior categories with their prizes

He added: “The primary goal of this year's initiative was to inspire youths to think outside conventional boundaries, using their artistic and innovative abilities to propose unique solutions to pressing environmental

problems.

“Witnessing their creative approaches and dedication to sustainability fills me with great hope for Guyana's future.”

The company said it remains dedicated to sup-

porting initiatives that empower young people and communities to embrace sustainability, and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of these young minds on Guyana's future.

Mentally ill man to spend at least eight years in jail for murder - periodic court review to begin Feb. 2026

FOR killing a man on Church Street, Georgetown in 2019, Ishaka John, 28, of ‘A’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was given a minimum eightyear prison sentence.

In addition to the prison sentence that was imposed last Friday, Demerara High Court Judge, Jo Ann Barlow, issued further directives to the Guyana Prison Service (GPS).

The GPS was ordered to carry out John's mental evaluation and treatment, expose him to skill-training, and arrange for needs-specific counselling sessions.

Starting in February 2026, John will be brought before the High Court for a periodic review every two years. At

each review, the Judge must be supplied with a number of documents, including a report on John's behaviour while incarcerated, his response to counselling or rehabilitative programmes, and records of his attendance, participation, and performance in programmes provided by the Prison Service.

The court also has to be provided with relevant details regarding John's psychiatric assessment, treatment, and reaction to it.

When the court determines that this offender is prepared for reintegration into society, it will order his release from custody under any terms it sees proper.

In November 2023, a jury found John unanimously guilty

of murdering 32-year-old Jason Bowen; however, the panel also declared him to be insane.

The verdict was returned in accordance with section 177 of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act which reads: “If any accused person appears, either before or on arraignment, to be insane, the court may order a jury to be empanelled to try the sanity of the person, and the jury shall thereupon, after hearing evidence for that purpose, find whether he is or is not insane and unfit to take his trial; but a verdict under this section shall not affect the trial of any person so found to be insane for the offence for which he was indicted, if he subsequently becomes of sound mind.”

Jailed: Ishaka John

In October 2019, John was charged with the murder of Bowen, a resident of Camp Street, Georgetown, who was strangled to death with a belt on October 12, 2019, at Church

Murdered: Jason Bowen

Street, Queenstown, Georgetown.

According to information, John chased after Bowen, and the latter ran in front of a building on Church Street.

When John caught Bowen, he dealt him several lashes about his body. John then strangled the man with his (Bowen) belt. John attempted to escape, but was apprehended by public-spirited citizens and handed over to the police.

Following his arraignment, John was subsequently committed to stand trial for the capital offence in the High Court. John broke out of Lusignan Prison where he was being held without bail for the murder of Bowen. Lawyers Nigel Hughes and Kiswana Jefford represented John during his trial before Justice Barlow. State Counsel Padma Dubraj and State Counsel Praneta Seeraj prosecuted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

‘Kady Kish’ to bring energy to Soca Monarch stage with ‘Juicy, Juicy’

By Michel Outridge

AN excited ‘Kady Kish’ is all set to take the stage tomorrow night at the Linden Bus Park where the 2024 Soca Monarch competition will be held.

The bubbly songstress recently told the Guyana Chronicle that she will be performing her song “Juicy, Juicy”, a high- energy song which she described as being comfortable in her own skin and all about having a god time.

She added that eight years ago she started her music journey, gravitating towards Soca and was able to gain recognition when she competed and won the National School Children’s Calypso Competition in 2014.

According to her, she was encouraged to sing more by leader of Fame Band, Reomo Bowen.

She told the Guyana Chronicle that, when she first competed, she was attending Covent Garden Secondary School and she realised that she had the kind of voice that could leave people mesmerised.

Kish added that, along the way, she looked up to local artistes such as Jumo, Big Red among others and has had some collaborations with a few to promote her music both locally and overseas.

Recently, she made her debut on the international scene when she did a collaboration with Peter Ram in Barbados for the “Better than Me’’ song/video and performed at the Dem Rock Music Awards.

Kish has been recording songs in New York for the past two years and has had many successes on the international scene thanks to her agent, Sharon Karim, who remains by her side.

The young musician told the Buzz that she is among the 13 finalists competing for this year’s Soca Monarch title and she feels ecstatic knowing she can pull a crowd to gain support.

With her girlish charm,

Soca Monarch hopeful, Kady Kish, plans to deliver a highenergy performance tomorrow night

her deep voice and downto-earth personality, Kish reported that she grew up singing. She said it all started in church and she feels happier with Soca as that high-energy kind of music is quite appealing to her.

She has already produced 14 songs, her favourite being “Soca Baby” which resonates with her true persona as an entertainer.

Kish is a young musician from Georgetown and she is hoping to re-introduce herself to the local audience tomorrow night in Linden to maximise opportunities and to have fun at the same time.

“I feel good about myself…I am not boastful at all and just a down-to-earth kind of person who is full of

energy and always willing to bring out the best in others,” she said.

Kish related that her musical career has been quite an experience so far, but she is in the process of establishing her very own home studio to assist other local artistes and to bring out new talent.

“I am always going to be singing. When you love what you do, you cannot stop but I will be doing a lot more behind the scenes to promote my music and other local singers. I want to be that role model to encourage others to see the best in themselves,” she said.

Kish can be followed @official kady kish on all social media platforms.

11 vying for Miss Teen with a Purpose crown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Delegate #1 Name: Avona Bourne Age: 17 Platform: Body Positivity Future Career: Lawyer

Delegate #2 Name: Keziah Leacock Age: 18 Platform: The Importance of Education Future Career: Education Officer

Delegate #3 Name: Mikayla Beckles Age: 15 Platform: Mental Health Awareness and Acceptance Future Career: Entrepreneur

Delegate #6 Name: Raina Thomas Age: 18 Platform: Family Neglect Future: Career: Entrepreneur

Delegate #7 Name: Nyaka Norville Age: 15 Platform: Teenage Pregnancy Future Career: Doctor

Delegate #8 Name: Aleciea Morrison Age: 18 Platform: Molestation Future Career: Entrepreneur

Delegate #9 Name: Terriann Williams Age: 18 Platform: Body Image in Adolescence Future Career: Teacher

Delegate #10 Name: Sheneka Peterkin Age: 15 Platform: Child Abuse Future Career: Entrepreneur

Delegate #11 Name: Sueann Yipsam Age: 16 Platform: Self Confidence Future Career: Doctor

Delegate #4 Name: Derriann Anderson Age: 17 Platform: Teen Mental Health Awareness Future Career: Nurse

Delegate #5 Name: Denesea Freeman Age: 18 Platform: Disability Rights and Accessibility Future Career: Lawyer

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

‘Vanilla’ confident of a 10th Road March win this ‘Mash’ MELISSA ‘Vanilla’ Roberts is not stopping at nine Road March wins. This year, she has every intention of winning the title again - for the tenth time thus making history as the only female in the Caribbean to hold such a prize.

Vanilla has undoubtedly made a name for herself with her Road March wins, believing that consistency is key in everything. She strongly holds that one should never give up even if it means having to change the way in which they ‘play the game.’

After bringing two ‘seconds’ and two ‘thirds’ when competing in the annual Soca Monarch competitions, Vanilla never managed to gain the top position, but she decided to play a different game, and dominate she did!

She's on a mission this year, on February 23 to be precise, to take her winning number to 10. Reportedly, in the Caribbean, there are only three other persons – all males - with that many titles or more: Lord Kitchener with 11 wins, Superman Blue and Machel Montano with 10.

Vanilla who will sing her song titled “O Weh O” this year, is one title ahead of the Mighty Sparrow, who has eight wins.

Asked how confident she is of a 10th win this year,

Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts

Vanilla told Buzz this week: “When entering a competition, you always have to be confident or else what's the point in entering?”

Further asked how she feels about her winnings so far, she expressed: “I was happy; happy to create history, especially being a woman.

Happy for my team and happy for the fans.”

She is especially thankful to all those bands that have supported her over the years.

“My success would not have been possible without you,” she says.

Roberts shot to fame back in 2005 with her single, ‘Koc It Up’ and ‘54321’ which featured Ice under the Kotion Rhythm Medley video attached to Kross Kolor Records label.

When she’s not in the studio, the talented artiste is also very active in the filmmaking industry. Having always felt connected to television and the behind-the-scenes workings of music videos, Melissa studied Motion Picture Arts in Barbados at the University of the West Indies.

Steven Ramphal to headline ‘Mash wash down’ party on Feb. 24 MASHRAMANI celebrations are certainly not stopping at February 23 for Dreamworks Entertainment, which is now in full organisation mode for the ‘Mash 2024 Chutney Soca wash down’ on February 24.

Cloud 9 Resort, down Agriculture Road, on the East Coast of Demerara, will come alive for the event with live performances by the sensational Steven Ramphal with music by DJ Golden Chyld, Soul Fire Squad, DJ Sheik, and Sir Greg – ZJ Lyrics Visa.

“The idea behind the Mash wash down… well, Mash is a Friday and after all the road parades and mashing down in G/T, DreamWorks Entertainment has decided that since the day after is a Saturday and it’s the weekend, we can have a party to continue the mash vibes,” Tameshwar Narain, well-

‘Show up and just let the good times roll!’ – DJ Golden Chyld

known as ‘DJ Golden Chyld’ told Buzz this week.

The event, which attracts an entrance fee of $2,000 and is sponsored by 592 Lager

Beer and Coors Light, will feature a mixture of Chutney, Bollywood and Soca music to keep the party vibes going.

Continued on page 17

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Bob Marley Tribute Concert draws thousands to Emancipation Park

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

THOUSANDS of Jamaicans and hundreds of foreigners descended on Emancipation Park in Kingston to celebrate the life and work of the legend, Bob Marley, last week Tuesday, as the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports and Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum hosted the second staging of a concert to mark the birthday of the reggae icon.

Many local and international artistes paid tribute in song and words to the man who took reggae music global on the same night that the movie about his life was premiered in Los Angeles, California.

Among the performers was Esco Ley, who opened with “Concrete Jungle”, a song written about the place where Bob Marley lived in Trench Town in West Kingston, which to this day is still referred to as “Jungle”.

Last year’s Festival song award winner, Slash had a well-delivered set, which included a cover of Beres Hammond’s “Rockaway”

and the Bob Marley and the Wailers song “Rastaman Chant”, which had the crowd out of their seats as they sang along to the song of freedom.

A number of visitors to the island were in attendance when French singer David Parot graced the stage under the watchful gaze of the French Ambassador to Jamaica, Olivier Guyonvarch, to perform “Zion Train” and “One Love”, while the crowd enjoyed local delicacies such as gizzadas and peanut cakes, for those who had a sweet tooth, and the world-famous Jamaican jerk chicken.

The international part of the show continued with a performance from Mexican singer Jah Fabio, who was dressed in a mesh merino shirt and a button-down shirt with one button in place at the top, in the style of the 1980s Jamaican dancehall performers.

Nadine Sutherland introduced herself with her muchloved song “Baby Face” before crooning Bob’s “Is This Love”, which got those seated in the audience to their feet and those with ‘one love’

flags waving them in the cool night air as they sang along.

The love songs continued with “Turn your lights down low” before the 40-year veteran of dancehall music told the audience to “Simma Down” and closed with her hit, “Action”.

Minister Olivia Grange graced the stage to add to her recorded message that was earlier played on big screens at the venue, the message of love and tolerance.

Jahmiel, Warrior King, and Munga Honorable all delivered fine performances before Andrew Tosh, son of the legend Peter Tosh, the penultimate act, performed a short set including Bob Marley’s “Get Up, Stand Up”, then his father’s song “Johnny B Goode”.

The Messenger, Luciano, closed what was a perfect celebration of Bob Marley’s birthday, starting with the global hit, “Your World and Mine” then “Small Axe”, “Glory Be” and many more of his hits as he preached togetherness and peace. (Jamaica Observer)

Steven Ramphal to headline ‘Mash...

From page 16 “Patrons can look forward to the best performance from our very own Steven Ramphal who is known for his energetic and vibrant performances on stage; he is bringing all the hits,” Narain, an events’ organiser, MC and deejay, shared.

“When it comes to events like these, I love being the MC; being able to interact with the patrons and being able to give them a good vibe...just providing overall good entertainment,” he expressed.

He pointed out that secu-

rity should not be a concern to anyone wanting to go to the event. “We would just like to remind patrons to come out early and have a good time at Cloud 9. We have extra security that night so no need to worry... show up and just let the good times roll!”

Meanwhile, DJ Golden Chyld is the host of Bollywood Beats, a sizzling early morning radio show that undoubtedly helps to erase tension and ensure music lovers get the right start to their day.

With 18 years under his belt in the music industry,

this DJ ‘knows his thing’ when it comes to selecting all of the ‘right’ music, which are absolutely enjoyable and fun-filled. He sometimes takes a break from entertaining his listeners to offer a word of advice on various subjects or to perhaps share the latest news headlines.

Further, he hosts a programme on NCN Vibes 100.1 fm, Monday to Friday and on Saturday from 07:00 to 10:00 hours. He would also take listeners through Music Maza on 89.1 fm from 12:30 to 15:00 hours, Monday to Friday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

West Indies Championship…

Nedd, Walton steal show on Day Two

(CMC) - An enterprising sixth first-class hundred from Chadwick Walton, and a career-best spell from Ashmead Nedd were the two eye-popping performances in the West Indies Championship on Thursday.

Walton, a former West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman, slammed a boundary-studded 163, and hosts Jamaica Scorpions reached 259 for six, replying to the Combined Campuses & Colleges Marooners first innings total of 307 at the close on the second day of the second round of matches.

Nedd, a former West Indies Under-19 left-arm spinner and son of former Guyana off-spinner Gavin Nedd, bagged six for 78 from 36.4 overs for the Cricket West Indies Academy against Trinidad & Tobago Red Force in St. Kitts.

Left-hander Jyd Goolie defied him and the rest of the Academy attack with his second first-class hundred of 113 to anchor the Red Force to 329, all out, and a first innings lead of 166.

At the same time, leftarm spinner Daniel Doram, and pacer Jeremiah Louis shared seven wickets, and bowled hosts Leeward Islands Hurricanes to a 141run, first innings lead against defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles in the other match taking place in St. Kitts.

And, Windward Islands Volcanoes used consistent batting down the order to defy a destructive spell from Test left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican to gain a 111-run, first innings lead against

Barbados Pride in the other match taking place in Jamaica between two teams that won their first-round matches.

AT SABINA PARK: Familiarity bred contempt, and Walton belted 16 fours and five sixes from 245 balls against his former team, and shared a century opening stand with Carlos Brown to lead a strong reply for the Scorpions.

The pair shared 169 for the first wicket before teenaged leg-spinner Zishan Motara bowled Brown for 48, and the Scorpions reached 172 for one at tea.

The hosts lost five wickets, including the Test batting trio of Kirk McKenzie, Nkrumah Bonner, and Jermaine Blackwood for nine, six, and eight, respectively, in a dramatic final session to undermine the hard work of the openers.

Motara triggered the slide with the scalps of Bonner and Blackwood before he got Walton off the final delivery for the day, and ended with four for 69 from 22.1 overs.

Earlier, Motara resisted the Scorpions attack to score 28, and share 58 for the eighth wicket with his captain Jonathan Carter, who was undefeated on 135, and helped propel the composite side to 307 in their first innings.

AT T H E C O N A R E E CRICKET CENTRE: Fellow left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop supported Nedd with three for 116 from 40 overs, but they failed to inspire CWI Academy, and the emerging players’ side were wobbling on 84 for three in their second innings at the close, still 82 runs behind.

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Off-spinner Bryan Charles grabbed the scalps of former West Indies Under-19 captain Ackeem Auguste for 34, and Barbadian left-handed opener Rashawn Worrell for 12 late in the day to finish with two for seven from six overs, and the Academy were battling to avoid defeat.

Earlier, Goolie led the Red Force batting with a knock that included 10 fours and two sixes from 248 balls, after they continued from their overnight total of 128 for three.

He shared 91 for the fourth wicket with Amir Jangoo, and he had a pair of 41-run stands with Terrance Hinds and Anderson Phillip that beefed up the Red Force total.

Jangoo made 40, Charles was not out on 25, Hinds got 22, and Phillip added 16, and

they were among a group of batsmen that got starts and did not carry on.

AT WARNER PARK: Doram ended with four for 40 from 12.3 overs, and Louis finished with three for 42 from 14 overs, and Hurricanes bowled out Harpy Eagles for 188 in their first innings.

All-rounder Ronaldo Alimohamed followed up a career-best spell earlier in the day to lead the way for the visitors with 40, and spin bowling stalwart Veerasammy Permaul made 34.

Louis carved up the Harpy Eagles were struggling top order and had them wobbling on 73 for five before Doram gutted the bottom half of the batting either side of seventh wicket stand of 59 between Alimohamed and Permaul.

Starting the day on 299

for six, Hurricanes were dismissed for 352 in their first innings with their burly captain Rahkeem Cornwall indulging himself with 54 off 64 balls that included nine fours and one six.

Alimohamed, bowling fast-medium, was the pick of the Harpy Eagles bowlers with five for 69 from 19.5 overs playing in only his second first-class match.

AT K E N S I N G T O N PARK: Warrican defied the strong Volcanoes top-order showing and ended with five 59 from 24.1 overs, but he failed to inspire his teammates, and Barbados Pride limped to 72 for four at the close.

All but pacer Ryan John of the five Volcanoes bowlers used have taken a wicket, and Jonathan Drakes made 20 and was the only Pride batsman to

score that many.

Earlier, Trinidadian lefthander Jeremy Solozano, discarded West Indies batsman Sunil Ambris, and former West Indies Under-19 captain Kimani Melius hit half-centuries before Volcanoes were bowled out for 325, replying to the Pride first innings total of 214.

Solozano ended with the top score of 86, adding only 23 to his overnight score, Ambris made 72, and Melius finished with 56, adding only four to his overnight score.

Volcanoes also got solid contributions of 32 from Johann Jeremiah, 29 from Barbadian all-rounder Shamar Springer, and 26 from West Indies Test batsman Kavem Hodge.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

GFF, BACIF renew partnership for Elite League trophy

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has successfully restored the prestigious Elite League Trophy just in time for the February 25 Season Six kick off.

The flawless restoration was done by Brass Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry limited (BACIF), the company that built the three-foot

wood and brass trophy in 2023.

It was uplifted from Season Five champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and taken to BACIF earlier this month.

The trophy will take centre stage during the opening ceremony set to take place at the federation's National

Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, East Bank Demerara.

GFF President Wayne Forde said: “This trophy is a true representation of excellent craftmanship by the technical team at BACIF and looks as good as new,” adding that “fans can look forward to five months of

competitive matches between the country's top senior men’s clubs in a newly upgraded NTC facility.”

Fans and players alike are in for an enhanced experience as matches will be played from February to July at the NTC on a renovated field, illuminated by recently installed FIFA-approved

floodlights.

In their quest to dethrone defending champions Guyana Defence Force, and secure the coveted championship trophy, a lineup of formidable clubs is actively training - the Guyana Police Force, Western Tigers, Den Amstel, Fruta Conquerors, Santos, Ann’s Grove, Buxton United, as

well as the recently promoted Monedderlust and Slingerz.

The Elite League stands as Guyana's foremost senior men's tournament, serving as a crucial pathway for players to progress into the national team programme and garner opportunities to play on an international stage.

BCB/Diors Bits and Pieces U-23 Tournament …

RHT Pepsi and Albion win semifinal matches

THE longstanding battle between arch-rivals Albion Community Centre Cricket Club and the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club will continue after both clubs reached the final of the Berbice Cricket Board/Diors Bits and Pieces U-23 tournament.

Rose Hall Town Pepsi defeated the home team Blairmont Ground by 71 runs while Albion defeated Tucber Park by three wickets at Port Mourant Ground.

At Blairmont, RHT Pepsi skipper Junior Sinclair won the toss and elected to bat

first.

Sinclair was the first Pepsi batsman to be dismissed when he was run out for a breezy 30 with five fours and a maximum at 37 for 1 in the fifth over.

His opening partner Romesh Bharrat was run out for 11 and then former national under 15 player Ramzan Koobeer was stumped for 15 at 70 for 3.

National U-19 player Jonathan Rampersaud and Guyana under 17 vice-captain Matthew Pottaya then added 152 for the fourth wicket as RHT Pepsi took control of

the match.

Rampersaud struck 11 elegant fours and five sixes in his brilliant knock before he was caught at long on for 125 off the bowling of N. Persaud.

Pottaya, who has grown into a solid middle order batsman scored 46 with three sixes and four boundaries before he was run out at the non-striker’s end.

Lucas Arthur (18*) and national under player Jermey Sadia then took their team to 289 for five at the end of the allotted 40 overs. N. Persaud was the best bowler for the home team with two wickets

for 56 runs off eight overs.

Needing to score 290 off 40 overs to reach the finals, Blairmont were dismissed for 218 from 31.4 overs.

National U-19 player Seon Glasgow blasted five massive sixes and 12 fours in a brutal 111.

Glasgow received support from S. Bissoondyal with 24.

Bowling for Rose Hall Town Pepsi, Jermey Sandia took four for 23 while Raj Tika two for 30 and Junior Sinclair two for 31.

At Port Mourant, Tucber Park batting first after winning the toss were restricted

to 134 all out off 32.4 overs.

Former national player G. Ceaser 21, Garfield Benjamin 19, Zaymul Ramsammy, 17, and Leon Swammy, 12, were the principal scorers in a disappointing batting display by the New Amsterdam based club.

Off Spinner Leon Cecil’s four for 34 from (7 overs) and former national U-19 left arm spinner Kelvin Umroa’s three for 25 (8 overs) were the main wicket takers for Albion.

Naeem Khan, Gourav Ramesh and Kumar Deopersaud took a wicket a piece.

Albion overcame a main

collapse to win by three wickets.

They were 72 for one in the 11th over with Ari Afizal Kadir 47 and Damion Cecil 25 batting well.

It took a level headed 19 no by Devin Lalbehari to get them over the line and into the finals.

Off spinner Ruben Latcha took four for 18 from eight overs and Zymul Ramsammy two for 26 were the best bowlers for the losing Tucber Park CC. The date and venue for the finals will be announced shortly.

Doha World Aquatics Championship…

Olympian Aleka Persaud off the mark in 100 freestyle

OLYMPIAN Aleka Persaud finished 8th at World Aquatics Championship being contested in Doha, Qatar.

The country’s national record holder came in eighth, with Dominican Republic Maria Fernandez taking first place in 1 minute 01.03 seconds in Heat 4.

US Virgin Island’s Riley Miller was second in 1 minute 01.08 seconds, with Mia Lee of Guam third in 1 minute 01.22 seconds.

Persaud finished the race in 1 minute and 02.20 seconds, outside the podium spots and a bit off her national record of 1 min-

ute and 67 seconds, which would have put her in a good position.

Aleka’s father Ivan Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle that she is currently tapering for CARFITA and the Paris Olympics, where she is aiming to break the national record in both the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Persaud, who is now based in England, competed in the 50-meter freestyle at the Tokyo Olympics, dives into the pool again on Saturday in her pet event.

She holds the women 50-meter freestyle record with a time of 27.42 sec-

onds.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Raekwon Noel beat off competition from Jash Tarere of Papua New Guinea, and Bhutan’s Sangay Tenzin to win his heat.

He, too, was just off his personal best of 51.98 seconds, which is the national record in the 100m freestyle achieved in Trinidad last December.

He will be back in action today in the 100m Freestyle, where he has a PB of 1 minute and 25 seconds.

Both athletes qualified via wild-card spots for the World Aquatics Championship.

Aleka Persaud

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

Berbice starts title defence with easy win over E’bo GCB T-20 Senior Women’s Inter-County cricket

By Sean Devers

FIFTEEN-times defending 50-over champions Berbice, began its T-20 title defense with an emphatic seven-wicket win in the opening round against Essequibo yesterday at the Malteenoes ground.

In hot conditions, Berbice inserted Essequibo to bat on a good track and fast outfield and although Berbice were not as sharp in field as they were in 50-over format, a useful all-round performance from Sheneta Grimmond powered the pre-tournament favourites to victory in a game which commenced at 1:30 PM. Player of the Match,

off-spinner Grimmond captured 3-12 from 2.5 overs to help restrict Essequibo to a disappointing 44 from 14.5 overs before returning to top score with an undefeated 22 from 13 balls aided by four boundaries.

Berbice galloped to 45-3 in 6.4 overs.

Lavina Ragobeer (1) was removed by Grimmond at 13-1 and the ladies from Guyana’s largest County never recovered despite a short period of resistance from the left-handed Varuni Pitamber.

Pitamber favoured the on-side in her 20-ball 16 which included two fours off Grimmond.

Aside from Pitamber however, only opening batter Laurene Williams (12)

Player of the Match Sheneta Grimmond

reached double figures before

she was trapped LBW to Sha-

bika Gajnabi.

Gajnabi then bowled Nikesha Narine for a first ball duck to be on a hat-trick with Essequibo on 19-3.

National pacer, 20-yearold Cyanna Retemiah, Essequibo’s best player, was bowled by West Indies U-19 skipper, off-spinner Ashmani Munisar for two and had Navika Narine caught and bowled for one to also be on a hat-trick as Essequibo lost their last five wickets for four runs.

Gajnabi (2-2), Munisar (2-7), experienced national off-spinner Phaffiana and Medium pacer Trisha Hardat had a wicket each as they supported Grimmond.

Realanna Grimmond, the unrelated namesake of She-

neta, was removed by the lively Retemiah for one with three runs on the board when Berbice began their chase.

They later lost Cristal Durant (6) after she was LBW to the impressive seam bowler Yonette Welcome from the hinterland at 15-2.

Sheneta took the attack to the bowlers and disdainfully clipped Retemiah off her legs for a glorious boundary before Welcome uprooted Tiea Issac’s off-stump after she had made seven.

At that time, Berbice were 32-3 in 5.4 overs.

Gajnabi on three, was with Sheneta Grimmond when victory was achieved.

Welcome had 2-17 in a losing cause.

Senior National Table Tennis Championships set for first quarter THE highly anticipated Senior National Table Tennis Championships will be staged in the first quarter of this year, according to Head of the Guyana Table Tennis Association Godfrey Munroe.

Munroe, who spoke to Chronicle Sport this week, said, “We are still working on finalising the dates but diffidently, in the first quarter of the year.”

He says their focus now is on the all-important teams for the Caribbean junior and senior games, adding, “The association concertation now

Chelsea Edghill

is on naming the national squad for preparation for the senior and junior Caribbean

champion.”

The Caribbean Youth Championship is set for April

Christopher Franklin

23-28 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic with the senior edition also set for

the same country from April 16-21.

He says they will soon be

naming teams to commence training.

Olympian Chelsea Edghill and Christopher Franklin are the reigning men and women national singles champions.

Meanwhile, The GTTA president says the association is mulling the idea of bringing back a Cuban coach in the coming weeks to further boost their chances.

He says the GTTA is keen on preparing their top prospects with an eye on the Olympic qualification tournament set for Lima, Peru, May 14-17.

EIM donates to Mash Street Football Championship

THE Economic Independence Movement (EIM), a group aimed at creating social and economic change, made a significant financial contribution to Sports Management Inc. (SMI) yesterday ahead of the upcoming Mashramani Street Football Championship.

Chairman of EIM, Nigel Hinds said that at the core, the event on Sunday is aimed at addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities through sports.

He said that goal aligns

One of the members of EIM, Andrew Hercules (second right) handing over the donation to Mash Street Football Championship Ambassador Terryann Caesar yesterday, while Edison Jefford (left) and another share the moment

with one of EIM's essential values.

According to Hinds, sports is a perfect opportunity to provide empowerment for the less fortunate, which can help to mitigate negative social impacts.

The EIM wants to ensure financial opportunities go directly to vulnerable groups, which will provide economic empowerment. The group believes that initiatives such as these help families support themselves, which contribute to stronger and more vibrant

communities.

Elite street football teams representing 16 communities across Georgetown will go on Show on Sunday for one million in total prize money.

The winning team will pocket $500,000 while second, third and fourth places get $250,000, $150,000 and $100,000 respectively.

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament will also be rewarded.

In addition, the event promises thrilling entertainment that is expected to really

jump start Guyana's Republic Day celebrations. SMI Principal, Edison Jefford had stated that because the event, which had ran for six nights in the past, has been crunched into "one big night", it's important that the teams be disciplined and on time so that the running order of events can progress smoothly for patrons. He said they will enforce strict rules to eliminate indiscipline.

The one-day tournament is scheduled for Sunday at the National Park

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, February 16, 2024

GMR&SC launches 2024 season — Drag racing set for Sunday

IN a gala ceremony on Thursday at the Pegasus Suites in Georgetown, the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) laid out its 2024 Calendar of Events.

The list, which will include several forms of racing, including drag, endurance and circuit racing, will conclude in November with the International Race meet.

Thursday evening’s event was attended by racers, executives, sponsors and other dignitaries.

Details in tomorrow’s edition.

GFF, BACIF renew partnership for Elite League trophy

PAGE 22

GMR&SC executives and sponsors following the launch of the 2024 Calendar of Events

West Indies Championship…

Nedd, Walton steal show on Day Two PAGE 21

GFF and BACIF officials pose with the Season Six Elite League trophy

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| FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2024