Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 17-11-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

FRIDAY 17th November, 2023

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No. 107267

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CARICOM nations strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and other CARICOM leaders held a round-table meeting with members of the Saudi Arabian Government on Thursday, as part of the CARICOM-Saudi Arabia Summit. The CARICOM delegation also met with the Crowned Prince, HE Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. The one-day event was held in the capital city of Riyadh. (Office of the President photos)

‘We’re proud of our PM Phillips track record of bringing engages Head people together’ of South Korean - says Jagdeo as he rubbishes Exim Bank claims of discrimination SEE PAGE

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Venezuelan Vice-President’s comments ‘misleading’

- Dr. Jagdeo says; emphasises government’s no-nonsense approach to xenophobia

AMCHAM forms alliance with Texas-based chamber to boost trade, investment

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

PM Phillips engages Head Venezuelan Vice-President’s of South Korean Exim Bank comments ‘misleading’ - Dr. Jagdeo says; emphasises government’s no-nonsense approach to xenophobia

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips engages Vice-President of the Republic of Korea’s Exim Bank, Dr Jong-Kyu Park, on Thursday (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phil-

lips who is performing the functions of Pres-

ident, met with the Vice-President of the Export-Import Bank of the Republic of Korea, Dr Jong-Kyu Park, today, at the Office of the Prime Minister on Camp Street. During the visit, Prime Minister Phillips and Dr Park, who is also the head of the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), the coordination group for the bank, discussed prospects for cooperation with the financial institution. Dr Park was accompanied by the senior loan officer at EDCF, Mr Dong Hyuk Lee. The EDCF was established on June 1, 1987, by the Government of Korea to promote economic cooperation between Korea and developing countries.

LABELLING the comments made by Vice-President of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez as “misleading,” General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, stood firmly on the position that his government has always spoken out against xenophobia and protects the human rights of everyone. “You’ve seen me at this press conference and elsewhere speak out against xenophobia. This is total misrepresentation by [the] Vice-President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, before the ICJ. She is trying to score political points there,” he stated at a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House. “Venezuela should not be misrepresenting this issue, particularly before the court. It is a lie,” Jagdeo said while adding: “For her to go and tell the court this… is patently false.” Just earlier this month the PPP General Secretary said: “We are not going to be part of any movement to promote xenophobia in our country. “We have always insisted that people treat our people with dignity and respect,” Dr. Jagdeo had related before adding: “You have to treat people with dignity, as refugees too are entitled to protection of the state.” Deeming the cruel treatment as “totally reprehensible,” Dr. Jagdeo remarked that he saw a video that made his stomach “turn.” Rodriguez accused Guyana of promoting xenophobia during her address at the World Court earlier this week. She claimed that Guy-

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams photo) ana was directing actions against the Venezuelan population living on its territory, violating international obligations in terms of human rights, and fostering unacceptable xenophobia. Rodriguez argued that Guyana’s actions were fuelled by its support for multinational oil companies and specifically highlighting the involvement of ExxonMobil. However, no evidence was provided to prove these claims. Contrary to Venezuela’s claims, Guyana’s government has consistently maintained a stance against xenophobia. Officials have emphasised the importance of treating migrants, including those fleeing Venezuela due to the ongoing tensions in their homeland, with empathy and dignity. The government’s condemnation of inhumane treatment underscores its commitment to fostering an environment that up-

holds human rights. Guyana’s efforts to protect and provide for migrants have been rooted in humanitarian principles which emphasise the need to address the health and socio-economic concerns of vulnerable groups, such as the Warrau indigenous community. Guyana’s government has also demonstrated a proactive approach to assisting migrants from Venezuela, numbering approximately 40,000. Recent developments have heightened the geopolitical situation, as Venezuela, through its National Electoral Council, has unveiled plans for a “Consultative Referendum” on December 3, 2023. Guyana contends that this move is a thinly veiled attempt by Venezuela to gather support for abandoning the substantive ICJ border controversy case filed by Guyana, and unilaterally taking control of the Essequibo region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Guyana’s vibrant culture, promising economy on show at GuyExpo 2023 - PM Phillips - 250 exhibitors on board for all-inclusive mega activity - networking opportunities, increase in clientele expected By Cindy Parkinson GUYEXPO, Guyana's largest trade fair and exhibition extravaganza, officially kicked off on Thursday evening after a seven-year hiatus and according to Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, it represents the country’s vi-

fore, I thank the various persons, agencies, and organisations, including the exhibitors, who have collaborated to bring this exposition to life.” “Traditionally, GuyExpo has enabled businesses to create networks and increase their clientele. This has been the consistent feedback we

Guyanese performers dance to the ‘One Guyana’ song

brant culture and promising economy. The event, which concludes on Sunday, is being held under the theme, “Transforming Guyana Through Investment, Innovation, and Resilience” at the Sophia Exhibition Centre. Some 250 exhibitors will be in attendance. In his address to officially declare the expo open, the PM who is currently performing the duties of President, said that the return of GuyExpo is a terrific sign of fresh potential and corporate growth. “I do not pretend, however, to underestimate the effort that is required to host such an event. Organising an event of the scale and significance of GuyExpo demands meticulous planning, perseverance, and a great deal of inspiration. There-

have received. It is one of the reasons why there has been so much demand for booths at this exposition. The exposure gained from participating in this exposition has proven to be a game-changer, opening new vistas of opportunities for exhibitors by bringing together a diverse array of businesses and creating a dynamic event. GuyExpo 2023 allows businesses to showcase their products and services and network with other businesses and clients,” he said. The Acting President went on to state that this year’s theme is one that “resonates with the path of development I just outlined—the path of prosperity that we envision for our great nation. Therefore, let us take pride in our journey as a nation. There is no reverse gear;

we are moving forward. Embracing this forward momentum, we are determined to provide greater opportunities for businesses and citizens to seize the emerging opportunities of an expanding and diversifying economy. Let the spirit of ‘One Guyana’ guide us towards a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow for all.” He used the opportunity to remind Guyanese of the work that is being done to position the country as a global leader in a number of areas. “President Ali has pledged that Guyana is positioning itself as a global leader on climate, energy, and food security. President Ali's visionary leadership is propelling Guyana into a position of global prominence on climate security. The government has developed a visionary Low Carbon Development Strategy, which allows us, inter alia, to provide environmental services to the rest of the world from its

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, Minister of Tourism, Oneidge Walrond and other government officials assist a student to cut the ribbon to official open GuyExpo 2023 (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

standing forests. We have already inked an agreement to provide US$750 million from the sale of carbon credits,” he said. Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond said that the government is delighted to return the prestigious event to the national calendar at its “original location” in Sophia. “Over the next four days we will be showcasing approximately 250 exhibitors, representing

diverse sectors such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, foreign services, and government services, among others. Our exhibitors range from the largest companies to the smallest microenterprises. GuyExpo is an all-inclusive exhibition that impacts a wide range of diverse stakeholders, from the largest to the smallest,” the minister said. On Thursday evening, people from all walks of life came out with their

families and enjoyed the variety of foods that are available at the food court, as well as the various entertainment spots and the kids' zone. A few of the attendees who spoke to the Guyana Chronicle said that they plan to return today for the chutney show, Saturday night for the local performances and on Sunday for steel pan entertainment. Entrance fee is $500 for adults and $300 for children.

Government officials, members of the international community, exhibitors and patrons at the opening ceremony

‘We’re proud of our track record of bringing people together’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

– says Jagdeo as he rubbishes claims of discrimination

HIGHLIGHTING the cloud of suspicion surrounding the group of American politicians who are currently in Guyana on a “fact-finding” mission and rubbishing the claims of discrimination, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has emphasised that his government has always worked to foster harmony and unity among its citizens. “Any foreign body that comes to Guyana must not undermine the democratic nature of this society and the institutions of the society,” Dr. Jagdeo stated, as he explained that one must work to exhaust all of the local bodies before turning

to the international side. During a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, he said that his government is always open to having discussions but will not engage in ones where there is a clear bias. “…We’ve had a really good relationship with the US government. [It] has grown over the past several years. It’s a frank relationship and we don’t shy away from contentious issues,” Dr. Jagdeo said, while adding that his party has actively promoted inclusivity. According to him, the press release from the group of politicians led by Dee Dawkins-Haigler, was one-sided. Pointing out loopholes in the statements,

Dr. Jagdeo asked whether research was conducted in order to learn about the legal consequences of discrimination. He then underscored the sole objectives and powers of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC). The ERC is a constitutional body established by Guyana’s Constitution (Amendment) (No.2) Act No.11 of 2000, which amended Article 212 D to provide for the establishment of the body. The commission’s functions include promoting harmony and good relations between persons of different ethnic groups; discouraging and prohibiting persons, institutions, political parties, and associations from indulging in, advocating for, or promoting discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity; investigating any issues affecting ethnic relations, and promoting the elimina-

tion of all forms of ethnic discrimination. Dr. Jagdeo then highlighted the fact that Guyana has separation of powers and thus, allegations of racism can also be tried at the judicial level. The Government of Guyana said in a press release that it has made note of the delegation and the intended visit. It added that the ‘fact-finding’ mission appears to have resulted from a conference organised by Rickford Burke, a Guyanese residing in Brooklyn, New York. During the month of September, 2023, Burke organised a so-called “Conference on Guyana” in Washington, DC, to which the Government of Guyana was not invited, but which was attended by members of the opposition. The one-sided engagement presented the platform for opposition members to spew concocted

PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams photo) and fabricated narratives about the Government of Guyana, including their usual diatribes about racial discrimination and extra-judicial killings, without utilising any fact-checking mechanism and without the government being afforded a hearing or an opportunity to respond. UNITY Meanwhile, the PPP General Secretary firmly maintained that his party has always promoted the uniting of Guyanese and this can be linked to their track record. “No other political party has the level of ethnic diversity as the PPP. We don’t need to dream this up… It’s a fact that’s known to everyone and it is easily verifiable,” Dr. Jagdeo stated. Speaking more on the depths of his party when it comes to promoting unity, he shifted his focus to the major inroads made in the opposition’s strongholds at this year’s Local Government Elections (LGEs) along with the large number of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) supporters who have crossed over to the PPP. At this year’s LGEs, the PPP/C secured five of the 15 constituencies, with 12,553 votes, which is almost double the number of votes in 2018 in Georgetown. With significant increases for example in Constituency One, where the PPP saw an almost 500 increase as compared to 2018, and even though they lost in Constituency Five, there was a 528 growth for the PPP from 2018. Dr. Jagdeo continued

to rubbish the claims of discrimination and said that the PPP’s track record lies in all of the communities across the length and breadth of Guyana. “We have always argued that our track record is there in every single area to be seen by the public and we’re prepared to debate on our own track record, in terms of bringing people together and ensuring that all Guyanese share the progress that our country is making,” he firmly remarked. The PPP General Secretary did not mince his words as he reiterated that the claims of discrimination from APNU are baseless and are a political tactic they deploy to divide the Guyanese populace. He related: “They do not have a campaign outside of racism. They can’t campaign on their track record, which has been a dismal one for the 30-odd years they’ve been in government.” As a result of citizens seeing the opposition for who they truly aware and how their livelihoods were demolished under their previous five-year run in office, APNU’s attempts to push their own personal agenda is always met with rejection. Dr. Jagdeo stated that because of this, APNU tries to convince the international realm that there is truth to these claims. “Afro-Guyanese have made the most progress under the PPP government and we can prove this factually, as [with] every other ethnic group,” he stated.

Negotiations for awarded oil blocks to begin next week

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

- Natural Resources Minister says - gov’t interested in having exploration activities begin as early as possible By Shamar Meusa MINISTER of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, on Tuesday said that the government is hoping to commence negotiations with those companies that recently secured oil blocks offshore Guyana. The minister made those remarks during a press conference which was held at the Guyana Forestry Commission’s complex in Kingston. According to Bharrat, following the announcement, the first step was to have the companies officially notified and written to in relation to the round of bidding. He said: “We have officially written to them

and indicated that we are going to start the negotiations as early as next week.” The government hopes that negotiations will go well and all the companies could be awarded the blocks, provided that they are in a position to pay the signing bonus. There is a minimum of US$10 million for the exploration licence for shallow-water blocks, while in the deep-water blocks, there is a minimum of US$20 million for the exploration licence. He said that, that is one of the main criteria while the second happens to be the work programme and the resources to ensure that they could carry out the work programme. The compa-

nies, Bharrat added, have submitted the work programmes and have agreed to them in principle so nothing should change. “We are going to hold them to that work programme because we want exploration activities to take place in these blocks as early as possible,” he remarked. Bharrat said that they are aware that seismic and other studies have to be done by the companies, as the government wants exploration activities to commence as soon as possible. Late last month, following the conclusion of the international licensing round 2022, several companies were announced as awardees of various oil blocks.

Oil blocks offshore Guyana

Guyanese-owned company, Sispro Inc. was awarded oil blocks S3 and D2; TotalEnergies EP Guyana B.V. in consortium with Qatar Energy International E&P LLC and Petronas E&P Overseas SDN BHD was awarded S4. Additionally, S5 was awarded to Inter-

national Group Investment Inc. Liberty Petroleum Corporation and Cybele Energy Limited got the S7 block while ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess New Ventures Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited were award-

ed S8. The S10 block was awarded to International Group Investment Inc. and Delcorp Incorporated, while Watad Energy and Communications Ltd and Arabian Drilling Company won D1.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Prioritising Higher Education

EARLIER this week it was publicly announced by the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) that 425 Guyanese are now the holders of a master’s degree from the India-based Jain University in various disciplines. This accomplishment follows the 3,000 students who graduated from the University of Guyana (UG) last weekend. Hundreds of these UG students are also master’s degree holders with several opting to be the first batch of graduates for new programmes such as Master of Science - Strate-

gic Development Studies from the Institute for Human Resiliency, Strategic Security, and the Future (IHRSSF) and Master’s Degree in Oil & Gas & Renewable Energy through the university’s Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences. The discovery of oil, the availability of free online scholarships and new and interesting UG programmes has awakened the desire in Guyanese to pursue higher education. For one reason or another, many were unable to pursue higher education after completing their secondary education. Among the main

reasons are lack of finances. Some who wanted to continue their academic journey could not do so because they lived in remote villages and relocating to Georgetown to attend UG was impossible. The COVID-19 pandemic opened doors for some and many walked through them without thinking twice. Many saw the pandemic as the ideal opportunity to upskill themselves by pursuing that higher education they had always wanted in a comfortable and stress-free environment. There was no longer the need to spend thousands of

dollars on transportation and to endure late nights on campus. Everything was being done remotely. Today, UG is still o ff e r i n g a b l e n d e d approach to teaching which mainly involves online classes. Many students are grateful as all that is required is a stable internet connection and the right device. GOAL scholarships offers online learning through the University of the West Indies and universities in India and parts of Europe. It must be noted that in addition to the master’s degree holders, persons would have also com-

pleted certificate programmes and diplomas and others are currently completing degree programmes. According to GOAL, between November 2022 and August this year, almost 1,400 students have been awarded certificates, diplomas and postgraduate diplomas. The number of Guyanese who have completed studies this year, is evidence of how serious they are about academics and being able to market themselves in an increasingly competitive world. Guyanese from all walks of life and backgrounds – moth-

er-daughter duos, siblings, very mature persons and persons living with disabilities – have all taken up the opportunity to further their studies. Based on the level of interest being shown and the work being done by the Irfaan Ali-led government to ensure that every Guyanese has access to education whether through scholarships or modern learning facilities, the numbers are expected to grow astronomically. Guyanese are very mindful that education is key to their growth and development.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Venezuela has never owned the Essequibo and never will By Kit Nascimento Venezuela has never owned the Essequibo and never will. Long before we became an independent country, the Essequibo region, that is all the land due west of the Essequibo River, within the boundaries of Guyana, was part of British Guiana. Unfortunately, however, as Sir Shridath Ramphal, better known as ‘Sonny’ to all of us puts it in the book “The New Conquistadors, the Venezuelan Challenge to Guyana’s Sovereignty”, “there are classes and forces in Venezuela that have made the acquisition of most of Guyana their life’s cause, and sought to turn it into a national crusade”. Venezuela is the fifth largest country of South America and Guyana one of the smallest. Venezuela is 4½ times the size of Guyana with a population of over 30½ million, Guyana is less than one million, but the Essequibo holds much of our wealth, including out to sea in our waters, oil and gas, so the Maduro government wants to grab it. Venezuela’s economy, first under President Chavez and worse under Maduro, is on the verge of collapse and its people fleeing the country in order to survive, those who can, coming to Guyana as migrants. We must welcome them and ensure that they are duly processed as migrants. Guyana’s borders with Venezuela were legally settled and internationally recognised between the United Kingdom and Venezuela over 100 years ago. The Treaty of Washington, in 1897, agreed to a Treaty of Arbitration to settle for all time, the boundaries between Venezuela and British Guiana and to consider the results of the Tribunal of Arbitration as a Full, Perfect and Final Settlement of all the questions referred to the Arbitration. Every Guyanese knows, indeed, the world knows, that on October 3, 1899, the International Tribunal of Arbitration presented its Award. In fact, the Award was exceedingly generous to

Venezuela. It gave Venezuela the Orinoco and control of the Orinoco Basin, which, at the time, was Venezuela’s principal objective. What was left has become, since Independence, the country of Guyana. Shortly after the Award, America’s President, William McKinley, expressed his satisfaction in his State of the Union Address to the US Congress on December 5, 1899, describing the Award as “equally satisfactory to both parties”. History tells us that the boundaries determined by the Award were demarcated by a Commission appointed by Britain and Venezuela, and an official boundary map was signed on January 7, 1905, by representatives of Venezuela and the United Kingdom. The Commissioner representing Venezuela, Civil Engineer, Dr. Abraham Tirado, and Head of the Boundary Commission, pronounced that “the honourable task is ended and the delimitation between our Republic and the Colony of British Guiana an accomplished fact”. In 1931, Venezuela, Brazil and British Guiana demarcated the trijunction boundary point on the summit of Mount Roraima, reaffirming the border among the three countries for all time. For 60 years, successive Venezuelan governments honoured and respected Guyana’s borders with Venezuela, but greed and avarice for the mineral wealth which lies within the Essequibo and now the oil and gas in the ocean within those boundaries, drives the ambition of the Maduro regime to take possession of two-thirds of our country. Suddenly, in 1962 when Guyana’s Prime Minister, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, raised the matter of Guyana’s Independence before the United Nations, Venezuela demanded that the Arbitral Award be revisited prior to any Independence being granted to Guyana. Venezuela’s President, Romulo Betancourt, expressed concern to the US Ambassador in Caracas about Guyana becoming independent under a Com-

munist government led by Dr. Jagan. One year later, in 1963, US Secretary of State, Dean Rusk, prior to a meeting between President John Kennedy and UK Prime Minister, Macmillan, asked his Ambassador in the UK to explore how best to persuade the British government that British Guiana be prevented from becoming independent under a Communist government. All of this taking place behind closed doors. The Venezuelan government now challenged the legitimacy of the Arbitral Award, declaring to its people that Venezuela had been robbed and that the Essequibo region of Guyana must be claimed for Venezuela. Well, on what grounds? Believe it or not, a Memorandum written in 1944 by a junior American Lawyer, in the Arbitral Tribunal hearing, Severo Mallet-Prevost, published after his death in 1949, that is 45 years after the Tribunal was settled, contended that the 1899 Award was the result of a conspiracy to cheat the Venezuelans out of the land within the Essequibo region between Great Britain and Russia effected by the British and Russian Judges of the Tribunal, that is, none other than, the Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court, another Judge of the US Supreme Court nominated by the US President and the Lord Chief Justice of England, presided over by an internationally recognised Professor of International Law from Russia. Not a shred of evidence supports this spurious and unfounded “anancy” story that the Venezuelans, to this day, are advancing in support of their claim to annex and take possession of Guyana’s territory in the Essequibo. Today, of course, the US government, along with the British, the Commonwealth Commission, Canada, the CARICOM countries and the majority of the countries within the Organisation of American States, have firmly rejected the Venezuelan claim. On the eve of Independence, Britain entered into an Agreement with Venezuela, the 1966 Geneva Agreement,

joined later by an independent Guyana, to guarantee that Guyana’s borders would remain unchanged. The Agreement, identifying the “controversy” raised by Venezuela, stipulated the means to be followed to resolve the controversy which, if not settled by discussions between the two countries, be settled by law, the judicial process. A mixed Commission of Guyanese and Venezuelans, followed by a Moratorium of 12 years, followed by 27 years of a UN good offices process, all failed. So, Guyana, in 2014, as the Agreement provided, requested the United Nations Secretary General to choose another path for the settlement of the controversy. On January 30, 2018, the Secretary General advised Guyana and Venezuela that “having carefully analysed the developments in the good offices process during the course of 2017” and “significant progress not having been made toward arriving at a full agreement for the

solution of the controversy” he had “chosen the International Court of Justice as the means now to be used for its solution”. On March 29, 2018, Guyana filed its application to the court. The court has ruled that it can and will adjudicate on the merits of Guyana’s case in spite of Venezuela’s objection. Its determination on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and the related question of the settlement of the land boundary. The Court’s judgement will be binding on both parties. Refusing to abide by the court’s decision, Venezuela’s President, Maduro, has now announced a so-called Referendum proposing that Venezuela annex Essequibo by force, denounced by the Secretary General of the Organisation of American States, Luis Almagro, as “an irreputable violation of Guyana’s territorial rights”. The Caribbean Community in a consistent stand with Guyana reaffirmed “that international law strictly

prohibits the government of one State from unilaterally seizing, annexing or incorporating the territory of another state. An affirmative vote as aforesaid opens the door to the possible violation of this fundamental tenet of international law.” Let me conclude by quoting again from Sir Shridath Ramphal: “The Venezuelan claim of a massive chunk of Guyana’s territory is a calumny born of greed, nurtured by falsity and fable, and maintained by political demagoguery. It is a claim that is contemptuous of the rule of international law and scornful of the sanctity of treaties”. Guyana’s appeal to the international community to protect our country, small and defenseless as we are against the military might of Venezuela, has been heard. Only one country, Nicaragua, has supported the referendum. The great majority have condemned it. Venezuela’s aggression against our country cannot, will not, succeed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Can the Dee HawkinsHaigler’s delegation answer these questions?

I HOPE Ms. Haigler and her colleagues, as a matter of courtesy to those Guyanese interested in what the delegation has to say, answer the questions below, failure of which will certainly question the pronouncement of the delegation that it came here without preconceived notions and will certainly damage the credibility of every member of the delegation. 1-In its meetings with Guyanese individuals and organizations, the opposition PNC, AFC, ANUG, The New Movement and others may be interviewed. It is obligatory on the part of the delegation to ask these parties if they accept that the March 2020 election was legitimate and attempts were made to derail it? Ms. Haigler cannot even attempt to seek refuge that this direction is not within her remit. She is here to ascertain the views

of the Guyanese people. At her press conference, she spoke about reports of the UN and other sources on Guyana. There are reports from the OAS, Carter Centre, CARICOM and other observer missions about attempts to derail the March 2020 elections. 2-Will the delegation ask a pointed question to the main opposition party, the PNC, if it still does not recognise the PPP government as the legitimate winner of the election? 3-If it maintains that position, will Ms. Haigler request the evidence from the PNC’s leadership as to the PPP’s rigging of an election? 4-How does each member of the delegation feel about the refusal of the Opposition Leader to shake the hand of the President when on two occasions the President extended his hand and the Opposition Leader declined? 5-Has the delegation

done research on the period 2015 -2020 when the very opposition PNC and its coalition partner were in government and over 7,000 sugar workers, predominantly of Indian ethnicity, were laid off from the sugar industry and were refused their severance pay and had to resort to the courts to receive same? For the education of the delegation, this cruel policy was interpreted by many sections of the population as an act of racial targeting. 6-Ms. Haigler asserted that she never met Rickford Burke and doesn’t know about his organisation. But she has to know he was the main organiser of a conference on Guyana which the opposition party leaders from Guyana attended. Ms. Haigler admitted that the genesis of her mission came from the contents of that conference and she had discussion with three senior Guya-

nese parliamentarians in the US who attended that conference. 7 - Is Ms. Haigler telling us that she was motivated to mount a mission to Guyana based on the contents of a conference held in the US, and she never sought to ascertain who were the conference organisers and attempt to speak to them after her decision to go to Guyana to do investigations? 8- Is Ms. Haigler willing to look at videos and listen to tapes in which Burke appears as an advocate of violence? Before she does that, I would like to inform Ms. Haigler that Burke has been recorded as urging people to run PPP leaders off the roads. Isn’t this a call to seriously harm government officials and such action should be met with criminal indictments?

On Wednesday evening, on the Freddie-Kissoon Gildarie Show, independent civil society activist, Jonathan Yearwood, pointedly asked me if I believe Ms. Haigler when she said she never met Burke or spoke with him. I told Jonathan I didn’t. I am not being insulting to the lady, but I retain my right to express my opinion as to if I believe Ms. Haigler on what she said about Burke. I believe Ms. Haigler decided on her trip to Guyana based on conversations she had with Hakeem Jeffries. Even if she did not know about Burke before then, she knew after speaking with Jeffries. I was advised by one of the most learned former judges of this country not to tell someone he/she is not speaking the truth; not to tell them they are

lying. He advised that you simply say that you don’t believe them. I am saying with pellucid enormity and unambiguous forcefulness, I don’t believe Ms. Haigler on her lack of familiarity with Burke. 9-How does the delegation feel about the Israeli bombing in Gaza in which 13,000 civilians have lost their lives, a majority of whom have been women and children. Would they classify the Israeli operations in Gaza as war crimes and do they think the International Criminal Court should issue arrest warrants for Prime Minister Netanyahu and others? I conclude by a sincere request for Ms. Haigler and her delegation to let us know about their feelings on what Israel is doing in Gaza.

AMCHAM forms alliance with Texas-based chamber to boost trade, investment

THE American Chamber of Commerce in Guyana (AMCHAM Guyana) has announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in Houston, Texas. According to a press release from AMCHAM, this momentous occassion took place during a ceremony held on Wednesday evening, symbolising a new era of collaboration aimed at fostering economic growth, educational advancement, and promoting trade and investment between the two organisations. Founded in 2018, AM-

CHAM Guyana has been a pivotal force in facilitating US business growth and US investment in Guyana. AMCHAM boasts almost 200 members, and is constantly driving initiatives to foster US business growth in Guyana.

As part of this strategic alliance, AMCHAM Guyana, in conjunction with the commercial arm of the United States Embassy in Guyana, and MHM Holdings Inc., hosted a reception to welcome a distinguished trade dele-

gation from the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, comprising over 20 USbased businesses, specialising in key sectors such as energy, oil and gas, engineering, law, banking, and logistics. Notable companies within the delegation included Champion Foods, Arc Energy, BakerRisk, Andalusian Energy, and Citadel Engineering, among others. The MOU was formally executed by Devindra Kissoon, President of AMCHAM Guyana, and Aida Araissi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce. The ceremony was graced by the presence of

esteemed guests, including US Ambassador, Nicole Thierot and Minister of Public Infrastructure, Bishop Juan Edghill. Both dignitaries commended the partnership between the two chambers and expressed their support for the continued growth of trade and investment in Guyana. Kissoon remarked: "This collaboration marks a significant milestone for AMCHAM Guyana and the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce. By joining forces, we aim to create a conducive environment for our members to thrive and to attract foreign investment that will contribute to the economic development of Guyana."

Araissi expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, noting: "We believe that together we can achieve greater heights. This collaboration opens new avenues for our member companies to explore opportunities in the vibrant Guyanese market." The MOU signifies a commitment to mutual cooperation and sets the stage for joint initiatives that will benefit the members of both chambers. As Guyana continues to emerge as a key player in the global business landscape, this strategic alliance is poised to make a lasting impact on trade and investment in the country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

UK, Guyana hold technical consultations on UN security matters

FOREIGN Secretary Robert Persaud said the consultations are excellent opportunities for Guyana to learn of the various priority areas for Security Council members and explore areas for increased collaboration and further discussion. “This type of dialogue allows us to have an understanding of what the views are and what are some of the issues that we would have to confront, and how we can come out with a more informed approach in dealing with them,” he said. Guyana has already held technical consultations with two permanent members of the UNSC: China and the United States, and consulta-

tions will soon be held with France. Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) during Thursday’s session, British High Commissioner Jane Miller said the UK aims to support Guyana in assuming its seat on the council and this session seeks to ensure that critical areas are explored for a well-rounded perspective. “It’s a mixture between some of the processes, how the UN Security Council works and how different people work together, and also on content such as food security, which we all know is one of Guyana’s big priorities. It’s also a discussion on Guyana’s priorities, and what they will be discussing

on the UN Security Council, and how we can work with them,” she explained. In June of this year, Guyana for the third time was elected as a non-permanent member of the UNSC for the period January 2024 to December 2025. In keeping with the theme: “Partnering for Peace and Prosperity,” Guyana’s tenure will see a focus on five key areas, including peacebuilding and conflict prevention, women, peace and security, protection of children in armed conflict, and youth, peace, and security. The government has maintained that this position will be assumed with utmost seriousness and dedication

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud said the consultations are excellent opportunities for Guyana to learn of the various priority areas for Security Council members and explore areas for increased collaboration and further discussion for the maintenance of international peace and security. Guyana’s election to the

council for the third time speaks volumes about the confidence the internation-

al community has placed in the country’s capabilities.

Residents continue to be engaged amidst ECD enhancement works

Persons who could possibly be affected by the ongoing works along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) Railway Embankment Road, were assured that they would not be callously displaced or severely affected by the ongoing works which would significantly enhance their communities

PERSONS, who could possibly be affected by the ongoing works along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) Railway Embankment Road, were assured that they would not be callously displaced or severely affected by the ongoing works which would significantly enhance their communities.

This assurance was given by Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works, during a walkabout and engagement with residents and farmers along the earmarked project route. The minister initiated the face-to-face meeting with residents as he walked along the Embankment Road, as engineers and techni-

cal officers from the ministry took measurements of properties and assessed potential encroachments on government reserves. Minister Edghill said that, apart from gathering essential information about land ownership and encroachments, the primary objective of the engagement was also to

discuss viable solutions for those who might need to relocate, and for support of farmers whose farmlands will be affected by the ongoing project. This step is integral to ensuring fair compensation, addressing legal considerations, and facilitating a smooth transition for affected residents.

The exercise along Railway Embankment Road started from Cummings Lodge and concluded at Lusignan. The ministry’s team was accompanied by teams from Beston (Consultancy Firm) and China Railway First Group (CRFG- Contractor). Similar engagements have been

held with residents and vendors at Plaisance, residents from Cummings Lodge to Lusignan, and at Enmore; this meeting was held at the Lusignan Community Centre. Other meetings were held with residents from Belfield to Ann’s Grove, and with farmers from Hope to Unity.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Man gets three years, $61M fine for cannabis in barrels

MARVIN Glen was on Wednesday sentenced to three years in prison and fined over $61 million after he admitted ownership of 152 pounds of cannabis, which was seized during a raid at his Norton Street, Georgetown, house in 2021. Glen and his reput-

ed wife Nicola Williams were on trial before Magistrate Rondel Weever at the Georgetown Magistrates Court. The couple made their first court appearance back in 2021 and denied having had 68.8 kilograms of cannabis in their possession for the purpose of trafficking on

September 2 of that year. According to reports, the narcotic was found stored in three barrels in the couple’s bedroom during a raid at their Norton Street home by Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) ranks. As the trial into the case was winding down, Glen opted to change his

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

plea and admitted to the charge. Considering the gravity of the charge, M a g i s t r a t e We e v e r handed down a threeyear prison term and imposed a fine of $61,927,200. The trial against Williams is still ongoing.

Marvin Glen

NA market vendors appeal for - councillors commit to essential services addressing issues

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

By Michael Khan

AS opposing town councillors continue to feud at monthly statutory meetings, vendors in the New Amsterdam Market are pleading for essential services to be provided at the facility.

Subsequently, Mayor McIntosh invited the vendors to a town hall meeting, where strategies to resolve their problems were discussed. At that meeting, a Market Vendors' Association was formed, and executives were also elected. Jenny Indar, Rajinie Per-

occupy stalls in the market. During the meeting, the mayor and administrative staff of the market made a commitment to work assiduously to address the concerns of the vendors. On November 15, a team of People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) town

collection, and pointed out several breaches in the air vents that thieves use to gain entry into the fisheries department. Lorraine Mohamed, who has been a fish vendor for over 15 years, stated: "We cannot have running water in the year 2023 in the fisheries.

A five-gallon pail of water is inadequate to wash-down our stalls, and clean the fish to serve our customers. It's time for a change!" she expressed. Meanwhile, Suhkpaul Singh explained that the drains in the fisheries are

clogged, and smelly. He called on the sanitation workers attached to the Mayor and Town Council (M&TC) to be proactive. "The cleaners only show up conveniently, and oftentimes they seem intoxicated, and cannot do their job. We are not targetting any specific person, but we cannot be paying stall rental, vending, and taking-out our garbage at the same time," he stressed. Another vendor, Paul Jones, said: "We are asked to leave the market at 16:00 hours but we need to clean and secure our ice boxes, and stalls. There are porous air vents that thieves use to come in and steal our fish." When the mayor visited the fisheries department, vendors were told that the M&TC was aware of their constraints, and he promised to address those matters at the next statutory meeting. On the other hand, the PPP/C team maintains that the vendors have been complaining bitterly over an extended period, and there was need for urgent corrective actions. Councillor Nicola Luther of Constituency #6, told the Guyana Chronicle that she would be engaging the mayor and deputy mayor, and the town clerk on the issues. "We live in this town, we do our shopping in this market, and it's gut-wrenching to see the inhumane conditions under which these vendors have to operate. It's time for action, and we are leaving

PPP/C Councillor, Cordel Austin no stone unturned," she said. Another Constituency #6 councillor, Cordel Austin, also spoke with this publication, and highlighted the need for a tidy market. "If you look above at the ceiling, there's thick cobweb; the walls are dirty, and garbage is almost everywhere. We need to fix this, and fix this now!” he emphasised. In less than two weeks, the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council will be having its statutory meeting, and the PPP/C Councillors are hoping to garner the support of their A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) colleagues in working towards improving the physical environment and providing essential services for all vendors.

guilty to the charges. He was released on $200,000 bail each for the cybercrime offences, $40,000 bail for assault causing actual bodily harm and $20,000 for assault. The matter was adjourned until January 17, 2023. Ally is accused of threatening the two Venezuelan nationals with a cutlass, ordering them to take off their cloth-

ing and walk naked on the street in Peters Hall, whilst saying that they are thieves. The victims complied and Ally is accused of video recording them and uploading the video via social media which has now gone viral. Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, had condemned the inhumane treatment of Venezuelan refugees who are

coming to Guyana for betterment. “We are not going to be part of any movement to promote xenophobia in our country,” he said during a recent press conference. Deeming the cruel treatment as “totally reprehensible,” Dr. Jagdeo remarked that he saw a video that “made his stomach turn.”

The PPP/C team meeting with fish vendors At the beginning of November, the town's mayor, Wainwright McIntosh, conducted a walk-through of the facility, and interacted with vendors in all sections of the market. Several issues were raised with him.

saud, Marcia Campbell, Tamara Davis, Omo Adams, and Andre Millington, were among the vendors who complained about the lack of essential services, and the negative impact that roadside vending has on those who

councillors, and Community Development Officers visited the market, and held meetings with several vendors. However, it was the fishmongers who complained bitterly about the lack of potable water and irregular garbage

Peters Hall man who forced Venezuelans to strip released on $460,000 bail A 37-year-old joiner was, on Thursday, released on a total of $460,000 bail for a series of charges related to a viral video on social media of two Venezuelan nationals being coerced to say they were thieves, and then instructed to strip naked and walk down the road. Ahmad Ally of Peters Hall, East Bank De-

merara, appeared at the Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrate’s Court before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce slapped with two counts of using a computer system to publish the nude images of Luigi Hernandez and Keilysmar Astudillo. He was also charged for assaulting the two nationals, causing them actual bodily harm. Ally pleaded not

Ahmad Ally

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

All set!

WEST Bank Demerara resident, Lisa Narine, will be representing Guyana at the 72nd Miss Universe Pageant slated to be held on Sunday at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena, El Salvador. She is one of the 90 women from across the globe who have been working hard to be crowned R'Bonney Gabriel’s successor. Narine has performed exceptionally during the preliminary rounds of the pageant. Most of the outfits worn during those segments and to the various Miss Universe activities are Randy Madray’s designs.

Miss Guyana Universe, Lisa Narine

Lisa participated in the introduction, swimwear, evening gown and personality interview segments of the Miss Universe Preliminary Competition. She also attended the Miss Universe 2023 Charity Gala and the welcome dinner (Photos sources from Randy Madray, Miss Guyana Universe and Miss Universe Organisation Facebook pages)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

‘Nothing to Laugh About’ returns to NCC next weekend

By Telesha Ramnarine

THE well-loved and much anticipated Nothing to Laugh About (NTLA) is back again later this month (November 25 and 26) at the National Cultural Centre (NCC), with promoters promising a show that is full of creativity and versatility. Versatility in the sense of managing to put on skits that are hilarious even in a somewhat censored environment, according to Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones. This is the 14th edition of NTLA that is being held for the first time following the COVID-19 pandemic. Promoters couldn’t help but notice the public demand for the show. “People are reaching us on a daily basis, almost begging us to come out with a show for them,” Jumbie told Buzz this week.

A promotional photo encouraging the public to get their tickets

Even in the face of challenges, where the production can be screened, Jumbie and his team are ready to show how creative they are in coming up with content that is nevertheless hilarious. “We took our time and created scripts, using ones we have not been able to use since COVID,” he shared, adding, “We put a lot of effort into it, and we got the cream

of the crop in actors and comedians in Guyana.” The show will feature some 12 main characters and others. Because it was not organised during the years of the pandemic, Jumbie said the writers and promoters had ample time to put together a show that is like no other. “We had so many scripts that we were able to put together, eliminating the ones

Director of NTLA, Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones, (right) and Chris Gopaul

Some of the prominent cast members

we wanted to. We are also using our experience over the years on what we know people like the most,” he disclosed. This year’s show features a pool of creative writers and

hilarious skits, including help from some overseas friends. Apart from Jumbie, the cast includes Michael Ignatius aka ‘Credit’ aka ‘Beyonce’; Leza Singh aka ‘Radika’ aka ‘Noreen’;

Clemencio Goddette aka ‘Toya’; Chris Gopaul, Kunchi Reynolds aka ‘Peppa’; Aleena Hoalim, Mark Kazim, Gerard Gilkes, Shantel Mclean, Mark Luke Edwards, and Panda Witdk.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Charmaine and Bonny cop Music Icon Award

EARLIER this month, Bonny Alves and Charmaine Blackman, together with their company SSignal Productions, were recognised, yet again, in the music industry, copping the Music Icon Award and Citation from the United Bridge Builders Mission and the Office of the Mayor of New York. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Dr. Keith Cummings (MD), Attorney-at-law, Dr. Dexter Todd and Ingrid Herod Van Sertima, while the International Heroes Award went to Shondell Williamson. The International Community Service Award went to Irene Roberts and the International Humanitarian Award went to Sarah Clarke Fraser, Desna Hinds Wright, Samantha Browne, Shane Tull and Anitha Cochran. “It's always a good feeling of gratitude when your

Charmaine and Bonny with the rest of awardees

work and contributions are recognised and gives us a sense of feeling that we are not working in vain and it serves as an incentive to carry on,” Blackman shared in an interview with Buzz following the award. She added: “We see the platform as worthy of support because they deal with very

critical social issues, with domestic violence being at the forefront among others, like healthcare and community building.” Blackman had reflected in a previous interview how she and Bonny were producing in the days when others weren’t producing anything, and how happy she was to

be recognised for the hard work that they have been putting in. Even now, after 33 years of being in the industry, Charmaine said she has not lost one bit of the energy and drive that are needed to succeed. “Every year you learn different things. I think if I

Clarence Fraser, also known as Imkyal, and Richard James,

is searching for talented persons who reside along the East Coast

of Demerara (ECD) corridor. The Talent Search

The Music Icon Award and Citation Blackman and Alves received from the United Bridge Builders Mission and the Office of the Mayor of New York

wake up one morning and am not able to sing anymore, I would really be depressed,” she said. Relating how she’s been able to successfully deal with the negativity that came her

way over the years, she said: “At first it bothered me. But I have not lost sleep over that. I have come to know my worth and who I am and it doesn’t really bother me anymore.” Charmaine has sang with many of Guyana’s top bands the likes of the Majestics Live, The Cannon Balls Band, Pete’s Caribbean Fusion and the Yoruba Singers and her voice and features have been on radio and television commercials for some of the major companies in Guyana, the likes of Mings Products & Services Ltd, Courts (Guyana) Ltd, Wireless Connections, Guyana Lottery Company, Banks DIH Ltd, CARICOM, Demerara Distillers Ltd, Geddes Grant (Guyana) Ltd, UNESCO, Guyenterprise and Creative Advertising Agencies and The Mayor & Councillors of the City of Georgetown, just to name a few.

Search is on for talented East Coast entertainers

HOUSE of Relatives Entertainment, in collaboration with

was launched at the Diamond Ice Night Club, Golden Grove, ECD, on October 27, 2023. Speaking with the Buzz, Imkyal stated that, as they embark on this journey, their ultimate mission is to bring quality entertainment and to create a platform where hidden talents can gain exposure, not only locally, but regionally. Further, he remarked that the event targets anyone who wants to showcase his/her talent. He explained that while three events were launched at the same time, Slide Fridays and Lit Vibe Saturdays are

a weekly occurrence, while the Talent Search will be held every second Sunday. What’s remarkable, is that House of Relatives Entertainment is also working in collaboration with Grammy Award music producer, Diavallan Fearon of Builders Music Company out of Kingston, Jamaica. Between them, there is in agreement to produce and manage the winner of the Talent Search. To find out more, persons can contact or WhatsApp the organisers on +592643-0413 or +592-6678853.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

‘Get Crafted - Volume 1’ set for December 3

CRAFTED, a creative event solutions business, will be hosting its ‘Get CraftedVolume 1’ event on December 3, 2023, at Fresh, Carmichael and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown from 15: 00 to 18:00 hours. ‘Get Crafted’ is one of its newest ventures and is a stepby-step craft class aimed at anyone seeking an afternoon of fun, whether they are a beginner or pro at crafting.

Patrons will be able to indulge in tasty treats by Crafted’s collaborative partner, Fresh. The event will see attendees creating paper canvas art to produce "The Floral Woman". While this is the first event, organisers hope that other volumes can be periodically hosted to facilitate moments of creative leisure. Tickets cost $10,000 each

and includes all craft materials along with refreshments. These tickets are available at the Fresh location and at The SACH Store located at 100 Carmichael Street. ‘Crafted’ is a business that specialises in creative solutions for various events. Services range from the creation of various paper products/stationery to event planning and decor.

'The Crown' aims to depict Princess Diana's final days with dignity

‘Crafted’ will be hosting its first of many crafting classes this December

The Crown’s cast members Jonny Lee Miller, Dominic West, Elizabeth Debicki, Jonathan Pryce, Imelda Staunton and Lesley Manville attend the premiere for Season 5 in London, Britain, on November 8, 2022 (REUTERS/Henry Nicholls/File photo)

ELIZABETH Debicki, portraying Princess Diana in “The Crown” for two seasons created a sense of responsibility to be as authentic as possible for the many people who revere the British royal family. “There is a profound sense of tragedy that lives in your body when you play that part of the story," Debicki told Reuters in an interview. "But having watched it, which I recently did, and while the credits are rolling, I thought this was a really serious thing that we put on the screen." The two-part sixth, and final, season of “The Crown” explores Princess Diana’s final days before she perished in a car accident. It premieres on Netflix (NFLX.O) on November

16.

As a historical drama, the Emmy-winning drama series, created by Peter Morgan, seeks to tell the story of Queen Elizabeth’s reign against the backdrop of various royal dramas. Debicki believes it’s a common experience for "The Crown" actors to struggle to “let go” and stop “observing” themselves while filming the show. The pressure of capturing the British royals is intense, especially when depicting the loss of a princess to whom many people still feel connected, she said. “Yeah, we left all the pieces of ourselves up there on the screen, because it deserves nothing less than that,” Debicki said. Similarly, Khalid Ab-

dalla - who portrays Dodi Fayed, Egyptian billionaire Mohamed al-Fayed's son, who was in a romantic relationship with Princess Diana - viewed his work with Debicki as a huge responsibility. “The process of doing it together has been everything that you would wish for in collaboration,” he said, referring to working with Debicki. He went into the final season also thinking about how the loss of Princess Diana is still a “cultural trauma” for “millions of people around the world.” Abdalla said the sacredness of what “The Crown” cast was recreating was something to which he wanted to give dignity. (Reuters)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Mikel Arteta charged by the FA over comments

(BBC) -Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been charged by the Football Association for comments he made after their 1-0 defeat by Newcastle. Arteta, 41, called the video assistant referee's (VAR) decision to allow Newcastle's goal "embarrassing" and a "disgrace". Anthony Gordon's goal had three VAR checks and all were adjudged in Newcastle's favour. Arteta has until Tuesday to respond to the charge. "It's alleged that his comments constitute misconduct as they are insulting towards match officials and/or detrimental to the game and/ or bring the game into disrepute," the FA statement said. Arsenal supported Arteta's comments in a club statement, while the Spaniard later said it was his "duty" to defend the club. The club said the

Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta

refereeing was "unacceptable", adding that players, coaches and supporters all "deserve better". Three areas around Gordon's goal were checked by VAR - to see if the ball went out of play in the build-up, if there was a foul and if there was an offside. Speaking on Match Officials Mic'd Up, a Premier League Productions programme which analy-

ses VAR decisions from the last months, referees' chief Howard Webb backed the decision of on-field referee Stuart Attwell and the VAR team, and the process by which they reached it. The defeat by Newcastle ended an unbeaten Premier League start for Arsenal, who are third in the table - one point off leaders Manchester City.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Thompson-Herah focused on Olympic defence

Five-time Olympic gold champion, Elaine Thompson-Herah, is focused on her preparations for next year’s international track & field season, including the defence of her titles at the Olympic Games in Paris. This was the sentiment shared in a statement from her management company, Andi Sports on Wednesday, when they confirmed the embattled Jamaican sprint queen separated from her coach, Shanikie Osbourne, after a breakdown in negotiations over compensation. “Collectively, we had no choice but to seek the services of another coach,” the statement indicated, adding the package proposed by Osbourne was “by any measure of what is the norm for such services extremely excessive and without any flexibility to negotiate by the other party”. Thompson-Herah won 100 metres, 200m, and 4x100m gold at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, after winning 100 and 200 gold at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but she struggled badly this year after a heated separation from the MVP Track Club, where she was under the guidance of iconic coach, Stephen Francis. The 31-year-old failed to earn a place on the Jamaica team for this year’s World Athletics Championships in August in the Hungarian capital of Budapest, where she brought Osbourne onto her coaching staff. Thompson-Herah, the second-fastest woman clocked over 100m, with a personal best time of 10.54

seconds, improved her times significantly over the later stages of the international season, so the decision to part ways with Osbourne was surprising in track & field circles in Jamaica. “Mrs Elaine Thompson-Herah benefitted from the services of coach Osbourne, especially towards the end of the 2023 athletic season, and for that Mrs. Thompson-Herah is grateful and would like to express her thanks for her impact in a very short space of time,” the statement indicated. With eight months remaining before she has to defend her Olympic titles, the statement from Andi Sports outlined that the search is now on for a new coach for Thompson-Herah. “With the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, fast approaching, Mrs Thompson-Herah is fully focused on her preparations for the season and the defence of her Olympic titles,” the statement indicated. “In this regard, we have undertaken a process to procure the services of a coach who would be able to ensure the high standards of Mrs Thompson-Herah are exceeded and her goals for the 2024 outdoor athletic season are met.” The statement continued: “Once our search is complete, and a final decision is made, we will once again use this medium to officially notify the fans, followers, supporters, and the general public. “Rest assured that the best interest of Mrs Elaine Thompson-Herah supersedes all other concerns

and all decisions will be made to fortify her legacy as one of the world’s pre-

mier female athletes.” Only deceased American sprint queen, Flor-

ence Griffith-Joyner, who clocked 10.49 seconds at the United States Olym-

pic Trials in 1988, has run faster than Thompson-Herah in the 100m.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Griffith wants strong showing against Ireland CMC – Head coach of the West Indies Cricket Academy team, Rayon Griffith said he wants his side to build on their strong showing in the recent West Indies Super50 Cup in the three white-ball matches against Emerging Ireland in Antigua. The two sides will play the first in a series of three One-day, 50 overs-a-side matches on Friday at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground (VRCG), hoping to gain high-quality playing time and test themselves against each other. The other two matches in the series will be played on Sunday and Tuesday at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) and the VRCG respectively. The Academy narrowly missed out on qualification for the semi-finals of the Super50 Cup, finishing fifth on 33 points – one point behind fourth-placed Guyana Harpy Eagles – after winning three of their maximum seven matches. “This series is all about giving the players the opportunity to develop and prove their growth, so we want to give everybody a chance to play in this series,” Griffith said in an interview with CWI Media. “The guys have been together for two years. We know they have been training hard, but we want to see them playing more cricket, showing they understand different situations in the game, displaying their skills, and

making the most of winning situations.” The Academy squad comprises mainly players in the Cricket West Indies high-performance programme, who have recently played in the Super50 Cup, as well as the Headley-Weekes Tri-Series earlier this year such as left-handed Guyanese opener, Matthew Nandu, and Barbadian batsman Kevin Wickham. The team is captained by Barbadian all-rounder Nyeem Young, and includes a host of former West Indies Under-19 players, among them former captain Ackeem Auguste of St Lucia, and Jamaican batsman Jordan Johnson, the most prolific batsman on a recent tour of Sri Lanka with three hundreds. Also included for the white-ball matches are Guyanese off-spin bowling all-rounder Junior Sinclair and Barbadian batting all-rounder Kadeem Alleyne. Sinclair bowled impressively and helped the Guyana Amazon Warriors team win their first Caribbean Premier League title in September on home soil, and Alleyne batted solidly at the top of the order for Combined Campuses & Colleges in the Super50. “Things are looking good,” Griffith added. “We’ve had several productive training sessions in preparation, and we have just come off the Super50, which brought the players closer, and we saw the camaraderie

between the players grow. “We want to continue building that camaraderie between the player and with the players, and for them to play as a team. A few of the players from the CCC have been added to bolster the squad, and all the guys looked good in the nets and ready to go.” The two teams will also play a pair of four-day, firstclass matches, starting November 25 and December 2 respectively, at the CCG. Guyanese pace bowler Isaiah Thorne, who bowled with hostility and penetration on the West Indies Under-19 tour in August to Sri Lanka, has been included in the Academy squad for those matches. Squads: WEST INDIES CRICKET ACADEMY (from): Nyeem Young (captain), Kadeem Alleyne, Ackeem Auguste, Joshua Bishop, Teddy Bishop, Carlon Bowen-Tuckett, McKenny Clarke, Jordan Johnson, Leonardo Julien, Johann Layne, Matthew Nandu, Ashmead Nedd, Kelvin Pitman, Junior Sinclair, Kevin Wickham. EMERGING IRELAND (from): Stephen Doheny (captain), Cade Carmichael, Murray Commins, Matthew Foster, Mike Frost, Fionn Hand, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Humphreys, Scott Macbeth, Tom Mayes, Liam McCarthy, Adam Rosslee, Tim Tector, Morgan Topping.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday, November 17, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Seventh (2) Sixth Today’s Quiz: (1) Which two teams ended the preliminary round of WC 2023 with 14 points each? (2) Which two ended with eight points apiece? Answers in tomorrow’s issue …………………………………………………………………………

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

Australia through to World Cup final

(BBC) - Australia are through to the World Cup final after a tension-filled three-wicket win over South Africa in Kolkata. After bowling South Africa out for 212, Pat Cummins' side made a flying start with Travis Head hitting a quickfire 62 before they were pegged back by the Proteas spinners and slipped to 137-5. Australia edged closer but lost their seventh wicket with 20 runs still needed and although the pressure continued to build, Cummins and Mitchell Starc kept their cool to complete a hard-fought victory with 16 balls to spare. The Proteas had been reduced to 24-4 following superb new-ball bursts from Josh Hazlewood and Starc before David Miller rescued the innings with a determined 101 from 116 balls. But despite a valiant effort in the field, it wasn't enough and Australia advanced to face India in Sunday's final in Ahmedabad. Batting first in overcast conditions was a risk South Africa were willing to take given their previous success with that approach but they were soon in trouble as Starc and Hazlewood tore through the top order. Starc removed Temba Bavuma in the first over, Quinton de Kock fell to Hazlewood in the sixth and with Australia energised in the field, South Africa had just eight on the board after seven overs and were 18-2 at the end of the powerplay. When Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen fell in successive overs, it was left to Miller and Heinrich Klaasen to salvage the innings and, either side of a 40-minute rain delay, the pair did just that with a composed 95-run stand. Klaasen fell for 47 but Miller kept going, reaching his sixth one-day international hundred with his fifth sixth before holing out from the next legal delivery. Head and David Warner looked like knocking the

runs off in a hurry, adding 60 in the first six overs, and even when the latter was bowled by Markram, the runs kept coming for Australia. South Africa's seamers were taking some punishment and Head, dropped on 40, hit three consecutive boundaries to bring up his half-century. The introduction of spin changed the game. Keshav Maharaj bowled Head through the gate for 62 and Tabraiz Shamsi accounted for Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell to bring the Proteas right back into contention. Josh Inglis and Steve Smith prevented a collapse but with the finish line in sight for Australia, Coetzee bounced out Smith and then bowled Inglis. With South Africa refusing to know when they were beaten, Starc and Cummins had to bide their time and more than seven overs went by before the Australia skipper cut Marco Jansen for four to seal the win. South Africa fail to recover from early collapse Even under gloomy skies and with captain Bavuma admitting he was not fully fit, it was no surprise South Africa chose to bat first. They have been every bit as dominant setting a total as they have been jittery chasing at this World Cup. Inside the first 12, though, they saw their hitherto hugely effective plan picked apart by Starc and Hazlewood. The bowling and fielding was of the highest quality and South Africa's top order simply could not withstand the pressure. But, for a side infamous for crumbling in high-pressure games in years gone by, they showed impressive fight with both bat and ball. Miller and Klaasen stood tall in the face of some intense Australia pressure to ensure South Africa at least had a total

to defend. They could then have wilted with the ball after a horrendous start but instead their resilience

shone through with their grit and determination on full display in the form of Coetzee, who powered through an eight-over spell

to take the game deep. Ultimately, though, their early collapse cost them. Another 30 runs may have been enough.

But, as it is, for all the spirit they showed, the wait to reach a men's World Cup final goes on.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

CWI President records fruitful meetings with Broward County; Lauderhill Broward County Stadium in Florida is ready to host matches in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in June 2024, marking a historic moment as West Indies and the USA present the largest cricket World Cup ever. Cricket West Indies (CWI) President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, held meetings in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on the 6th and 7th November, 2023, to discuss the progress and opportunities surrounding this global calendar event. While the primary focus of the discussions centred on the forthcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, parallel considerations of future plans were also tabled. This encompasses collaborative efforts to enhance cricket in both the West Indies and the USA. In addition, the prospect of sustaining a partnership with Worldwide Sports Enterprise (WSE) garnered a favorable reception from officials. President Shallow expressed, “I am heartened by the enthusiasm displayed by key stakeholders in the USA. Broward County and the City of Lauderhill are fully

committed, and collective endeavours are underway to ensure the resounding success of this monumental event.” He also acknowledged the pivotal role played by WSE in realizing this opportunity, commending their critical partnership in fostering cricket's growth in Broward County. Broward County Commissioner, Hazelle Roger, eagerly anticipates hosting the World Cup, stating, “I am excited at the opportunity to showcase Broward excellence and hospitality to the world, as we work towards being World Cup ready! We are eagerly awaiting the announcements of the scheduled games to be played at Broward Central Regional Park.” Mayor Ken Thurston of the City of Lauderhill echoed similar sentiments, expressing, “The City of Lauderhill has been envisioning this day for well over two decades. We are honored the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is coming to the United States and especially to Central Broward Park and Stadium

in Lauderhill. We look forward to all the matches and festivities surrounding this spectacular tournament. In addition, we look forward to creating unforgettable memories with the guests, players, families, and friends that will make the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup one of the most memorable of all time.” In addition to President Shallow, Commissioner Rogers, and Mayor Thurston, participants at the meetings included Jeff Miller from WSE, senior management of Visit Lauderdale, and senior officials from Broward County Parks and Recreation. In August 2023, a multitude of spectators experienced the climax of a thrilling T20I series at Broward County Stadium, where West Indies emerged triumphant over India. The matches were co-hosted by CWI and WSE. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 match schedule is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, following the ICC board meetings in India in November 2023.

CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow (left) with Broward County Commissioner Hazelle Rogers (centre) and Jeff Miller (right) of Worldwide Sports Enterprise

Reds Perreira launches BCB’s & UG’s Wall of Fame at Tain

By Sean Devers

Guyana’s most renowned Cricket Commentator, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, yesterday launched the Berbice Cricket Board’s (BCB) Wall of Fame at the Tain Faculty of the University of Guyana in Corentyne, Berbice. The 84-year-old Reds, who lives with his wife in St Lucia, was accompanied by his daughter, Kimberly, and former West Indies off-spinner, Roger Harper, to the Ancient County to launch the programme that will have the names of all International Cricketers from Berbice. Thirty-one players who represented the West Indies at the test, ODI or 20/20 level were inducted into the wall of fame starting with John Trim, who made his debut in

1948 and ending with Ashmini Monsieur, who debuted in 2023. The list of inductees are Trim, Rohan Kanai, Ivan Madray, Basil Butcher, Joseph Solomon, Roy Fredericks Alvin Kallicharran, Leonard Baichan, Sew Shivnarine, Clayton Lambert, Narsingh Deonarine, Mahendra Nagamootoo, Devendra Bishoo, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Ashmini Munsieur, Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie, Brandon Bess, Shimron Hetmyer, Assad Fudadin, Candacy Atkins, Shemaine Campbell, Erva Giddings, Sheneta, Tremayne Smartt, Shabika Gajnabi, Romario Shepherd, Royston Crandon, Milton and Kevin Sinclair. BCB president, Hilbert Foster, stated that discussions

started early in 2023 but were put on pause when he (Foster) fell ill in February. According to Foster, the GCB and UG resumed in July and agreed on the setting up of the wall of fame, two scholarships for cricketers, a Berbice cricketer electronic board, personal development sessions for youth cricketers, publication of a coaching manual and honouring of legends of Berbice cricket. Foster thanked the university for their co-operation in making the wall a reality and special mention was made of the vice- chancellor. The BCB head spoke of upcoming programmes which included 100 youth cricketers receiving $8 million worth of gear, $3 million in coaching equipment for 23 youth teams and the hosting of an Under-9 inter-club

tournament. The unveiling of the historic Wall was attended by senior officials of the university, BCB, cricketers and students of schools in the area. Those in attendance included Chancellor Edward Green, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Paloma Mohamed Martin, Director of the Tain campus, Professor Gomes; BCB President Hilbert Foster; guest speaker Roger Harper, international cricket commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, Regional Executive Officer, Navindra Persaud, and sports officer Randy Mangru. Chancellor Edward Greene spoke on the role of cricket in the West Indies and stated that the university was pleased to be associated with Berbice cricket. Vice-Chancellor Dr Paloma Mohamed Martins was impressed with the vi-

sion of the BCB and as such readily agreed to partner with it. She stated that the university will soon be hosting new courses in sports management and sports medicine. The vice-chancellor also disclosed that the university will be giving out 20 scholarships including those to Berbice cricketers. She expressed confidence that the relationship between the university and the BCB will be expanded in the future. Harper stated that he was confident that the Wall of Fame would inspire youths to dream big and to work harder, noting that the BCB, under the leadership of Foster, was doing an outstanding job of properly molding its players. Harper noted that players have to be prepared for hard

work and that coaches can only prepare players for the task at hand if they are willing to work hard. West Indies A vice-captain, Ashmini Munsieur, expressed thanks to the BCB and university for honouring the heroes. She stated that it was an honour to be recognized as a hero of the country. ‘Reds’ commended UG and the BCB for the Wall of Fame which can serve as a motivator to young Berbicians. “With its rich history, the Hall of Fame includes some of the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen. A similar facility should be built in the Turkeyen Campus to honour all great Guyanese cricketers who played for the West Indies,” concluded Reds.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

ExxonMobil Futsal continues tonight in Linden The competition for the coveted $1M first-place prize in the ExxonMobil Guyana Futsal tournament continues tonight with five matches at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden. Hosted by New Era Entertainment, the action kicks off at 6:30 pm with an intense clash between Young Gunners and Coomacka. Following that, the undefeated LA Ballers will face off against the Gorillas. In the third match of the evening, powerhouse teams Gold is Money and DC Ballers will go head-to-head; a game crucial for determining the leader of Group C. The penultimate match will feature Hard Knocks taking on Fearless, and the

night will conclude with YMCA and Golden Stars battling it out. The tournament is set to conclude on November 25th. In Wednesday’s highlights, DC Ballers secured a 7-3 victory over Youths United, led by Nicholas Gentle's impressive hattrick. A l a n H a l l e y, K w esi Quintin, and Jaushaun Moore also contributed to DC Ballers' undefeated streak, earning them a spot in the quarter-finals. Deric Bethune scored the lone goal for Youths United. LA Ballers maintained their perfect record with a narrow 3-2 win against HH Ballers, courtesy of

Action in the ExxonMobil Guyana Futsal tournament

goals from Andre Mayers, Marcus Tudor, and Jermaine Beckles. Despite Tevin Crawford's own goal and Damian Spencer's effort, HH Ballers

fell short in their attempt to defeat LA Ballers. The Money Team faced a tough challenge but emerged victorious with a 4-3 win over Golden Stars,

thanks to Mark Jahlu’s double and contributions from Kentral Arthur and Ojani Whittington. The win was crucial for The Money Team's chanc-

es of advancing to the next round. Genahside celebrated their first tournament win with a commanding 10-4 victory over Fearless. Ty r e s e S i m o n ( 3 ) , Tekuan Wilson (2), Teryl Johnson (2), Jermaine Mason, and Seon Murray played pivotal roles in Genahside’s success. Michael Jackson (3) and Nolan Grey scored for Fearless, who are still seeking their first points in the tournament. In additional results, West Side Ballers secured a default win after One Side failed to show up for their encounter, while Finishers and Hillsyde played to an exciting 3-3 stalemate.

Jai Signs Claims Hikers 7-a-Side Mixed Hockey Festival

Ms.Sharmala Ramsammy, Sales & Marketing Manager, Demerara Mutual, hands over the trophy and evenly celebrates with the winning team, Jai Signs The Hikers Hockey Club successfully hosted the 3rd edition of the Demerara Mutual Mixed 7-A Festival at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Eve Leary, amid the scorching sun. Nine teams, proudly sponsored by prominent entities in corporate Guyana -- Germans Restaurant, INET Communications Inc., Jai Signs and Auto Designs, Cole’s Screen Printers, Dyrock Construction, Muse

Sports Bar, GiftBox, Sensodyne, and Brand It Apparel Company—engaged in fierce competition. The teams were divided into two groups, engaging in a round-robin format. Jai Signs, the victor of Group A, faced off against Sensodyne, the winner of Group B, with Jai Signs securing a direct entry into the finals. GiftBox emerged as the finalist after overcoming two other intense semi-final matches.

In the quarterfinals, Germans and Brandit battled fiercely, resulting in a 2-1 victory for Germans. Muse also challenged GiftBox in the semi-finals but fell short. The finals were a spectacle, captivating fans who left their seats to get a closer look at the game. The score stood at nil at half-time, but the second half brought excitement. In the 14th minute, Jabez Walters breached GiftBox's defence, followed

Action between Team INET and Giftbox by Randy Hope replicating the feat in the 17th minute. Jai Signs dominated, and although GiftBox fought valiantly, they could not catch up. Lennox Carrol from Team GiftBox received the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, while the Captain of Team Jai Signs, Kareem McKenzie, was honoured as the Best Keeper/Defender. The awards were generously sponsored by Mother's

Kitchen, C Mobile, LeZo Logistics, and Guinness. Team GiftBox by Gigi was awarded silver medals and a case of Guinness. Jai Signs, securing their victory for the second time, celebrated by hoisting the trophy, receiving $100,000 in cash, medals, and a case of cold Guinness. The Hikers Hockey Club expressed gratitude to corporate Guyana for their interest and support, with some already com-

mitting to support next year. Special thanks were extended to staunch sponsors Ramesh Trophy Stall, HJ Radio and Guinness. The Guyana Hockey Board and Everest Cricket Club received acknowledgement for their invaluable support and appreciation for the families and friends who contributed to the jubilant atmosphere.

Reds Perreira launches BCB’s & UG’s Wall of Fame at Tain

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, November 17, 2023

SEE PAGE

(From left) Roger Harper, Reds Perreira, Professor Edward Greene, Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin

Australia through to World Cup final

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Mitchell Starc’s 16 runs were worth their weight in gold (Nov 16, 2023•Getty Images)

| FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023