Former UG students will benefit from debt write-off, Jagdeo affirms
- says there will be no budget cuts for the institution, calls for more efficient, better quality of teaching
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday affirmed that former students who had not applied for a student loan, but are still in debt to the University of Guyana (UG) are eligible to benefit from the government’s debt write-off initiative.
This was Dr. Jagdeo’s response to a question on whether a person who has no loan agreement with the institution, but is indebted to it will also be eligible for a write-off.
“Once they owe the University of Guyana, then they are eligible for the writeoff, too. You don’t have to have a loan at the bank
or to the student agency,” he said while responding to questions posed by the Guyana Chronicle at a news conference.
The delivery of free tertiary education has been a hallmark of the People’s
Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s Manifesto.
Back in May, the government had announced Phase One of its plan to erase loans of UG students. The government had said it would write off all loans owed by Guyanese who can demonstrate that they have completed their studies, graduated, and were employed in Guyana for a minimum of three years.
Further, the General Secretary explained that there will be a commitment at a minimum to ensure that resources are delivered to the institution no less than what is being allocated now.
“We would have to look at money coming in from private sources in the past, what was from the public source, the subvention. And we had a $3 billion subvention already to UG per year,” he said.
The General Secretary emphasised that there will be no cutting of the budget for UG or the technical and vocational institutions.
“We also need a management seized with a sense of urgency, and you have to have structures there like the councillors at UG have, to push for better a quality education and better use of the money,” he added.
Dr. Jagdeo affirmed that the government will ensure that UG is provided with all the resources it needs, but would not underfund, or overfund the institution.
He further charged the administration and the Min-
istry of Education to ramp up efforts to improve education delivery.
“We have to get output for it; more efficiency and better quality tuition for the [people] who go to UG… I am hoping that the Ministry of Education will play a greater role on quality; bringing in people from abroad,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
Last Thursday, during a historic address to the National Assembly, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that as of January 2025, all tuition fees at UG will be abolished.
“Starting from the January 2025 semester, tuition fees will be completely abolished at the University of Guyana. This will continue the advancement of our human capital for a more prosperous future for our country, and for all of the young people who will benefit from this initiative and their family.
“This measure will benefit in excess of 11,000 current students immediately, and, of course, all the new entrants in the future,” President Ali said, adding that the initiative would cost the government in excess of $18 billion.
It was also later revealed that tuition fees for all government technical and vocational institutions will also be abolished. These include Guyana industrial training centre, the Carnegie of Home Economics, the Guyana School of Agriculture.
PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
President Ali outlines vision for sustainable development, diversified economy, regional prosperity
By Feona Morrison
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has outlined his government’s vision for sustainable development and a diversified economy, emphasising the importance of inclusive growth and regional prosperity.
In a recent interview on The Swift Hour with Concordia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder Matthew Swift, which was shared on the President’s official Facebook page, the Guyanese Head of State highlighted key initiatives aimed at transforming Guyana’s economy, including investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, and energy.
He stressed that the country’s economic success must not only benefit its citizens but also extend to the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM), ensuring long-term resilience and shared prosperity across the region.
President Ali reiterated his government's firm commitment to strengthening democracy and the rule of law as the bedrock of Guyana’s economic transformation.
During the interview, he emphasised that Guyana’s historic economic growth, fuelled by its expanding oil and gas industry, must be guided by democratic values and by upholding the rule of law to ensure long-term sustainability, resilience, and prosperity for its citizens.
He spoke about Guyana’s evolving role in a global context, and its development trajectory.
Various reports have
highlighted that Guyana, driven by its booming oil and gas sector, is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Significant growth has also been recorded in non-oil sectors.
With vast investments flowing into infrastructure, energy, and social programmes, the President was asked how his administration is managing the need for immediate growth while ensuring the sustainability of sectors that require a longer time to bear fruit and the country’s adherence to democratic politics.
In his response, President Ali emphasised that no matter how rapidly the economy grows, the foundation must remain firmly rooted in democracy and the rule of law.
"Everything must be built on the rule of law and democracy. If you are not going to build a country on democracy and the rule of law, then you are destined to fail,” he stated.
He elaborated on the importance of these values, noting that democracy and adherence to
the law are critical for ensuring a country's sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness.
“Democracy and the rule of law are critical components in building a country that is sustainable, resilient, [and] competitive,” the Guyanese Leader emphasised.
He alluded to the importance of creating an environment where investors feel confident in the stability and potential of a country. This, in turn, he noted, will allow the citizens to experience freedom, access quality services, and live with dignity.
Dr. Ali emphasised that the prosperity that follows should be achieved in a manner that respects human dignity and enhances the overall well-being of citizens.
Further, President Ali highlighted that Guyana is working towards achieving sustainable growth by ensuring that the country's economic progress is reflected in the quality of services provided to its citizens.
Guyana aims for its prosperity to benefit not only its people but also the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM) region and beyond, he reiterated.
To achieve this, he explained that the government is focused on building a diversified economy that is resilient and inclusive. According to him, this includes investing in human capital through quality education, healthcare, and social services, while also targeting vulnerable groups and creating
entrepreneurial opportunities for youth and small and medium-sized businesses.
Dr. Ali explained:
“We are located in a very competitive geographic zone for manufacturing, industrial development and agro-processing. Key to that is the cost of energy which should come down by half in a couple of months, before mid next year. So, that is an important part of what we are going to do. Bring down the cost of energy and that will stipulate manufacturing and industrial development.”
The government is advancing the landmark gas-to-energy project, which is expected to reduce electricity costs by 50 per cent. “And then of course, investment in agriculture. Farm-to-market access roads, opening of new lands, using technology, better scientific management of agriculture, supporting farmers. We will be self-sufficient in several areas we were not self-sufficient in,”
President Ali added.
He outlined Guyana's strategic approach to boosting its economy and reducing dependence on imports which will save the country hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars.
He said that Guyana is focused on key initiatives such as targeting
the U.S. prawns’ market, tapping into ecological and climate services, and making significant investments in worldclass education, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digitisation.
“We believe that there is tremendous protentional on the carbon credit market once we continue to show that leadership and management in the way we are protecting our forest. That value must be transferred to the country...,” President Ali said.
According to its website, The Swift Hour, is a digital series addressing the most pressing issues facing the world in 30 minutes or less.
“Concordia, the premier global convening platform, elevates voices across industries, sectors, and geographies, and in this new series, Matthew Swift will speak with leaders in politics, business, culture, science, and sports to discuss and analyze world events as they unfold.
“Taking the life experiences and critical moments they have faced; Swift will ask these extraordinary individuals to identify how solutions to global challenges can be achieved in this swift half hour!” the website said.
A screen grab of President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his interview on The Swift Hour, which was shared on his official Facebook page last Thursday
Cash grant initiative… Opposition attempting to take credit for idea they were against while in office
- Jagdeo emphasises PPP/C’s latest direct cash transfer initiative is a further fulfillment of its 2020 Manifesto commitment
IN a knee-jerk response to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s announcement of the $100,000. cash grant initiative which would benefit everyone above the age of 18 years old, the opposition is attempting to take credit for the idea which they had previously rejected through their Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, during the period 2015-2020.
President Ali, last Wednesday, announced that instead of the $200,000. one-off cash grant per household, the government would be proceeding with the $100,000. one-off cash grant initiative which
would be more beneficial to Guyanese given that some households might have had internal conflicts, among other things.
The opposition’s claim to the idea had started since the initial announcement of the $200,000. grant, but was amplified after the most recent announcement.
However, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo flagged the opposition’s political opportunism during his press conference last Thursday, when he referenced Winston Jordan’s rejection of the direct cash transfer idea while serving as Finance Minis-
ter under the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) + Alliance For Change (AFC) Government. Jagdeo exposed the opposition’s position by playing a 2018 interview during which Jordan said: “If it is that everyone in the population would get a cash transfer, it would never fly.”
The PPP General Sec-
retary further shot down the opposition’s claims by saying: “Jordan was the Finance Minister under APNU and today they are claiming credit for it [cash grants]. This is a minister saying it would never fly,” adding: “That is their [opposition’s] position and today they are claiming credit for the cash transfer.”
It has become a pattern of the opposition to
claim initiatives, which the PPP/C Government pursues, as their idea, the PPP General Secretary lamented, noting that the latest situation is no different.
As he has done in previous instances, Jagdeo countered the opposition’s rhetoric with the fact that the PPP/C had included the commitment of direct cash transfers in its 2020 elections manifesto.
“It [cash transfer] was in our 2020 manifesto… we started off with the particular groups, children and elderly, and now we are having it for a larger group of Guyanese,” the PPP General Secretary said.
He added: “Today, they are claiming credit for it. Their track record is that in spite of all this [talk] now claiming that they want cash transfers
and want billions to go to people, the Minister of Finance said it would never fly. So, we established what their position was.”
The $100,000. cash grant initiative will place over $60 billion into the pockets of Guyanese, exceeding the previous allocation for household grants.
President Ali, during his announcement on Wednesday, said: “We believe that this is the best course of action and as a responsible government, as a government that understands that we have a responsibility to ensure all feel included, a part of the system. It is important that we build a system that is robust in delivering this grant, and its simplest way, most verifiable way, was $100,000. for every Guyanese.”
Former APNU+AFC Finance Minister, Winston Jordan
‘Infinitely fairer’
- Jagdeo says revised cash grant will be more equitable and transparent - hints at government’s intention to distribute payouts periodically
By Naomi Parris
THE revised $100,000 one-off cash grant to citizens above age18 will be a more equitable and transparent payout that will ensure there is broader inclusivity and fairness.
This is according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who, on Thursday during a news conference, told reporters the new measure exceeds the initial 200,000 per household grant, which would have accumulated to $60 billion.
“We may have more than 600,000 individuals. We were aiming for about 300,000 households at $200,000 each; that would have been $60 billion, but we may have more than 600,000 people. It may be a bit more money, but it will be an infinitely fairer system,” he explained.
On Wednesday afternoon, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced the revised cash grant initiative in response to public feedback and concerns regarding the initial $200,000 household grant that was announced last week.
Dr. Jagdeo also pointed out that not only has the President acknowledged the concerns raised by citizens, but he has also pushed to enhance the policy move to ensure better delivery of service to the people.
“And it avoids putting us, the government, in an unenviable position, where we now have to prove who is the head of the household… And, just imagine; that will be never-ending in response to public feedback and concerns regarding the initial $200,000 household grant that was announced last week,” he said, adding:
“We know who our
adults are, and we can prove that they are Guyanese. Those are the two criteria; those are simple things to prove, because we have documents to prove, and then we can pay the money… You can avoid duplication, and all of that.”
He further revealed that distribution will commence shortly, as the government is now examining the methods in which it will deliver the monies transparently to citizens.
“What we said is that we will try to complete this exercise in five months; we
will start as soon as possible, but the systems have to be in place to avoid corruption,” he said, adding:
“Now, with this $100,000 per person, it makes it easier, because we already have the databases; of our pensioners, of our public servants, etc. Those are very viable databases that would allow us to do that.”
He explained that the government will consider establishing points where citizens can go with their relevant documents and uplift their cheques.
the remote parts of country may not have a bank to cash the cheques, and so, we will have to find another mechanism there to ensure that the right people get the money, and through the right process it should be audited,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
He reiterated that the process will now be more equitable and transparent.
“We want systems in
place; proper systems,” he said.
Jagdeo also hinted that the government intends to provide one-off cash grants to citizens periodically.
“We can do this periodically; give our people some money, and still do the infrastructure. Better housing, better roads, better hospitals for our people,” he said.
However, in the hinterland and riverine communities, the government will be examining a different method to ensure that all Guyanese benefit.
“In the hinterland, as I pointed out, it may be a little more difficult; the time to get cheques there, because people who live in
Responsiveness to Public’s Needs
IN a recent address, President Dr. Irfaan Ali unveiled a revised cash grant initiative, introducing a one-off payment of $100,000 for every Guyanese aged 18 and above. This change, announced during a live Facebook broadcast, responds to public feedback, and aims to simplify access to much-needed financial assistance.
While the initial $200,000 household grant received some support, many voiced concern about its implementation complexities and fear of exclusion. The President's willingness to adjust the programme demonstrates a com-
mendable responsiveness to the public's needs.
This new initiative, which will cost the government over $60 billion, represents a significant investment in the welfare of our citizens. By transitioning from a household-focused grant to an individual one, the administration is not only simplifying the distribution process, but also ensuring that every eligible citizen feels included. In a nation where familial structures can vary widely, this approach reduces the bureaucratic burden and potential for error in grant allocation. With identification verified through national ID
cards or passports, the risk of leaving anyone behind is minimised.
Moreover, Dr. Ali's commitment to abolishing tuition fees at government technical and vocational training institutions further emphasises the government’s focus on inclusivity and empowerment. By removing financial barriers to education, the administration is investing in the skills and future of over 3,000 individuals. This aligns with the broader goal of addressing the rising cost of living and enhancing the employability of our youth, providing them with opportunities to contribute meaning-
fully to the economy.
The initiatives introduced by Dr. Ali reflect a robust response to the pressing needs of the population. While critics may point to challenges faced during implementation, the government's willingness to engage with public feedback is a positive sign of democratic governance.
By focusing on equitable distribution and transparent access to benefits, the administration is building a framework that not only uplifts individuals, but also strengthens communities.
Comparatively, the current government's approach stands in stark contrast to
Response to Melinda Janki
Dear Editor,
MELINDA Janki, for whom I have some respect and with whom I have worked together in the past on aviation matters in Guyana, has, inexplicably, taken me to task by describing a letter I wrote, which was published in the media, on the subject of the confrontation taking place in the Middle East between Israel and the Palestinians, as “bad on history and worse on international relations”.
Nothing, however, in her letter relates to nor supports this criticism. In fact, specifically regarding the Israeli and Palestinian confrontation, there is nothing in Ms. Janki’s letter on which I have any fundamental disagreement.
For instance, she writes that “Israel continues to defy international law and inflict carnage on Gaza”. In my letter, I have pointed out that “it is the apparent determination of the Israeli government to destroy every building, and murder every Gazan in the name of defending Israel”, and that “Israel is now invading Lebanon where Hezbollah is headquartered with the apparent intention
the previous administration, which often left promises unfulfilled. Dr. Ali’s government is taking tangible steps to uplift lives, expand wealth, and foster a more inclusive society.
As he noted, the aim is to ensure that every citizen feels empowered and part of the national fabric, highlighting a vision that prioritises collective prosperity over individual gain.
Critics may question the sustainability of such initiatives, especially in light of the fiscal responsibilities that come with them. However, if managed wisely, this investment can yield substantial returns.
By enhancing disposable incomes and supporting education, the government is not only alleviating immediate financial pressures but also cultivating a skilled workforce that will contribute to Guyana's long-term economic growth.
As we move forward, it is imperative that we support these efforts, ensuring they are implemented effectively, and that every Guyanese reaps the benefits. This initiative is not just a financial boon; it is a step towards a more prosperous and united nation.
of eliminating Hezbollah, regardless of the destruction and loss of life involved, similarly to its programme in the Gaza”. Aren’t we saying the same thing?
In my letter, I drew two conclusions, based on facts, which are ignored by Ms. Janki. The first is that, because both Hamas in the Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon
“are financed, armed and directed by the militant Muslim leadership of Iran who do not recognise the right of Israel to exist”, and because “Iran is on the verge of developing a nuclear capability which Israel would like to destroy”, it is reasonable to conclude that “a war between Israel and Iran would result in an international confrontation probably leading to a Third World War”.
The second conclusion I draw and, I repeat, is that all that is happening in the Middle East is “very relevant to the implications it has for Guyana in defence of our own sovereignty against the threat of Maduro’s Venezuela”. It is here that Ms. Janki and I differ.
She prides herself publicly as an “International Lawyer”. Then she must know,
but chooses to ignore, that the Iranians, who sponsor and support both Hamas and Hezbollah, exercise a military presence in Venezuela in support of Maduro, and are not, therefore, necessarily Guyana’s friends when it comes to, as I wrote, the “defence of our own sovereignty against the threat of Maduro’s Venezuela”.
In glaring contrast, the USA, the UK, Canada, the Commonwealth countries, the majority of OAS countries and the CARICOM countries have firmly rejected Venezuela’s claims to Guyana’s Essequibo region. It is pellucid, therefore, where Guyana’s self-interest belongs, and that Guyana continues to recognise and maintain those friendships in its own national interests.
which is before the International Cout of Justice (ICJ) with respect to the Essequibo region.
Melinda Janki is totally wrong when she seeks to blame both the government of former President David Granger and the government of Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali for the threat posed by the Maduro government of Venezuela to the territorial integrity of Guyana’s Essequibo region. In doing so, she displays a surprising lack of comprehension on the matter
Let me remind her and our readers. We know that the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela was settled as a “Full, Perfect and Final Settlement” by the Arbitral Tribunal Award of October 3rd, 1899. We also know that in 1962, on the eve of the then colony of British Guiana becoming the independent nation of Guyana, the Venezuelan government abandoned the Rule of Law by abandoning its obligation to the 1899 Award, laying claim to the territory of Guyana’s Essequibo region. This led to the Geneva Agreement between Britain and Venezuela, joined by an independent Guyana in 1966. The Agreement identified the means of resolving the boundary “controversy” which, failing discussions between the two countries, is to be settled by the judicial process.
History recalls that the British government, with the concurrence of the British Guiana government at the time, agreed to have documentation relevant to Vene-
zuela’s claims examined by experts from the UK, British Guiana, and Venezuela at the UN Special Political Committee, but Forbes Burnham, addressing the National Assembly on 12th July, 1968, had this to say:
“In making this offer, I must make it very clear that it is no sense an offer to engage in substantive talks about revision of the frontier. That we cannot do; for we consider that there is no justification for it.”
Burnham went on to report that “in the view of the governments of the United Kingdom and our British Guiana, the work of the experts disclosed that there was not a scintilla of evidence to support the Venezuelan contention”. Guyana’s position has never changed in this regard, regardless of which political party is in office, and Ms. Janki must know that.
Melinda Janki should also know that, in 2014, all discussions between Venezuela and Guyana on the matter having failed, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in accord with the Geneva Agreement, on 3rd January, 2018, advised Guyana and Venezuela that “having carefully analyzed the developments in the Good Offices Process during the course of 2017” and “significant progress not
having been made towards arriving at a full agreement for the solution for the controversy”, he had “chosen the International Court of Justice as the means now to be used for its solution”.
On 29th March, 2018, Guyana, as a consequence, filed its application to the Court, for the Court to rule on the determination of the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award to be binding on both parties. The emphasis is mine. Both the PPP/C, now in government, and the APNU+AFC, now in Opposition, have agreed to honour the ICJ rule.
I have spent this time recalling the historical facts to illustrate that it is pure nonsense, therefore, for Ms. Janki to suggest that anything presented by Guyana’s lawyers at the ICJ have somehow opened the door to “ceding Essequibo to Venezuela, if the ICJ sets aside the award”. Guyana’s position at the ICJ with respect to the validity of the 1899 Award is perfectly consistent with morality, ‘realpolitik’, and the Rule of Law and, above all else, the national interest of Guyana and its people. We expect, of course, that the ICJ will rule in favour of Guyana’s position. Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
Xenophobia has no place in Guyana!
Dear Editor,
IT has not gone unnoticed that the Stabroek News editorial of October 6, 2024, titled, “Linden migrants”, was marked by xenophobic sentiments that manifest in a variety of ways.
The framing of Venezuelan migrants as a threat to local safety, economic stability, and Guyana’s sovereignty undermines their humanity, and reduces them to a stereotype of desperation and criminality.
Crime and safety features prominently in the editorial, which fails to provide a nuanced exploration of the context behind the fears of residents of Linden. Without any evidence, the editorial links statements like “these people are hungry, they are desperate” to concerns about break-ins.
Unfortunately, this kind of rhetoric fails to humanise migrants, and reduces them, in the eyes of the public, to (poten-
tial) criminals; a harmful, dangerous, and unfounded assumption.
Instead of acknowledging the broad economic realities of Guyana’s changing socio-economic landscape, the editorial, instead, chose the route of potentially exacerbating tensions by suggesting that Venezuelans are taking jobs for lower wages, leaving Guyanese victims of an unfair competition.
Editor, such sentiments risk fostering resentment towards an already vulnerable population, which, ironically, comprises many Guyanese who fled economic hardships and political persecution in the post-independence period.
Rather than encouraging community solidarity, the author took an alternative route of reinforcing a dangerous narrative of “us versus them”. It would have been prudent for the author to recognise the benefits of supporting and integrating migrant communi -
ties, which are often overlooked in conversations dominated by fear and resistance.
By urging that the government ought not to harbour an immediate objective to integrate migrants in the long term, owing to the fact that they are from a country which claims two-thirds of Guyana, and have been indoctrinated to believe same, exposes the narrow, myopic, and xenophobic view of the author and the newspaper.
Though Guyana must remain vigilant against threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity, there is no evidence to support the idea that Venezuelan migrants here have or will undermine Guyana’s sovereignty or territorial integrity.
As the editorial itself points out, these are economic migrants in search of a better life for them and their families.
Regarding long-term integration, a look at some
of the most robust economies in the world, like the US and UK, would reveal that they were significantly bolstered by immigrants who brought diverse skills, filled labour shortages, and fuelled innovation, contributing to economic growth and cultural enrichment.
Guyana is on the same path, with industries like services and construction absorbing thousands of migrants who fill labour gaps and shortages.
Editor, it should not
have been lost on the author that the humanitarian obligation to assist those in need, particularly in times of crisis, reflects a society's values and compassion, and we have always been a compassionate people!
While the editorial does indeed capture some valid concerns regarding the challenges posed by an influx of migrants, and the need to strengthen local systems, it is necessary to challenge the xenophobic undertones that permeate
the narrative.
Emphasising the humanity of migrants and the potential benefits of their presence fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment, ultimately benefiting those migrants and the host community.
Editor, we have never been a xenophobic people, and the Stabroek News and its writers should be mindful of that.
Yours respectfully, Ravin Singh
Book review: Biography of Janet Jagan
I WOULD like to thank former President, Donald Ramotar for securing an early copy of Mrs. Jagan’s biography for me (I did pay for it). As you would know from reading all the book reviews I have done since 2024 started, I have completed them on the seawall while my dog roamed the crevices of the ambience looking for mongooses.
Written by Professor Emeritus Patricia Mohammed, Dr. Mohammed wrote about her subject, maybe unaware that over 75 per cent of the Guyanese population is under 45 and about 51 per cent is between the age of 16 and 18, and about 60 per cent is between the age of 18 and 35. This demographic content has to be taken into consideration when the scholar writes about a Guyanese who was an international personality that belonged to history.
Mrs. Jagan remains one of the great freedom fighters, radical feminists and working-class philosophers that the world produced.
She belonged to a small, unknown country, but, comparatively speaking, her praxis made her one of the great freedom fighters that the 20th Century produced. As someone deeply familiar with 20th Century colonial politics and postWorld War 2 politics, I would like to see at what number the historian would place Mrs. Jagan among top women leaders in the world. She has to be very high up the list.
I mentioned demography because Dr. Mohammed’s unawareness of this factor may result in countless number of young people not getting the holistic portrait of Mrs. Jagan. The priceless contribution of Mrs. Jagan to Guyana’s liberation, and Mrs. Jagan’s contribution to the rise of class consciousness in Guyana are not brought out adequately in this book. Mrs. Jagan was a largerthan-life figure, and such status has to be analytically laid out for the young generation in Guyana. If it is not done, then this
young generation may not know about the gigantic, phenomenal praxis of Mrs. Jagan.
What I hope to do in this short analysis here is to bring out the missing parts of Mrs. Jagan’s praxis that Dr. Mohamed did not capture, and I hope in doing so I can point the younger generation to the specific dimensions of Mrs. Jagan’s contributions that were phenomenal.
A biography must never rely on description only. The author has to put interpretation and analysis to what is described. In this respect, the recent biography of Forbes Burnham by Professor Linden Lewis is superb in the area of analysis. Professor Lewis was careful to analyze the moods, movement and melodies of Burnham.
Since space is tight, here are the areas of Mrs. Jagan’s praxis for which Guyana is indebted to her, and from which the current young crop of politicians should learn.
First, Mrs. Jagan put
working class activism on the map of Guyana as an individual. While her party, the PPP, was infused with working class perspectives, Mrs. Jagan lived a working-class life, and shunned the ostentatiousness, gloss and pretence of urban middle-class life in Guyana.
One factor that may have been responsible for this is Mrs. Jagan’s extensive knowledge of the machinations of the Mulatto/Creole class against the PPP from the forties onwards. She did not trust that class, because she believed it was ultimately a class in itself for itself that hardly had any appreciation for the anti-colonial aspirations of the Guyanese proletariat, and the poor peasantry.
Baytoram Ramharack criticised Mrs. Jagan in his review of Dr. Mohammed’s book, pointing to Mrs. Ja-
gan’s lack of contribution to the expansion of Indian culture. Ramharack asserted that Mrs. Jagan was more involved in Western culture in Guyana.
I think in his emphasis on race, Ramharack missed what Mrs. Jagan set out to do. She wanted to provide a platform for working-class artists, and she astutely achieved that by the birth of Castellani House (the National Art Gallery).
Catellani House was the bedrock on which working-class artists were able to showcase their work.
Secondly, Mrs. Jagan was the custodian of the PPP’s astuteness in politics. I worked with Mrs. Jagan at the Michael Forde Bookstore in 1968 where I saw this. She had a deeper sense of the deceptive, secretive, labyrinthine and artificial nature of Guyanese politics. Because of their West Indianess,
PPP leaders were more trustworthy of people who were in political rivalry to the PPP, and these people ended up deceiving the PPP umpteen times.
But Mrs. Jagan had this sixth sense about her. This explains why when Burnham invited the PPP to unity talks in 1984, Mrs. Jagan did not participate. For months the talks went on without Mrs. Jagan. She knew Burnham’s character better than her colleagues in the PPP. She was not without her faults (who is faultless), but, overall, Mrs. Jagan was and will remain one of the giants the world produced.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
‘If
you did illegal things, you will face the consequences’ – Dr. Jagdeo
- says PPP will not tolerate corruption in GPF or anywhere else
THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration will not support corrupt practices regardless of relationship or high-ranking posts in public offices, the party’s General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has sternly affirmed.
Dr. Jagdeo who is also Guyana’s Vice-President was on Thursday, October 17, quizzed by the local media at a news conference about a senior police officer being at the centre of a financial crime investigation.
“We support the police force, we support the leadership of the police force, we support them to do their work, but they must comply with the laws of this country. The PPP will not tolerate corruption in the police force or anywhere else,” Dr. Jagdeo asserted.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) Calvin Brutus is presently the focus of an investigation regarding purported financial irregularities. The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) led the investigation.
“When we find corruption in the police or anywhere else, there will be no attempt to cover it up. So, if you believe you have a special relationship with the government and we will [use] that relationship to cover up your misdeeds, you have it wrong; you don’t know the PPP,” he said.
Dr. Jagdeo highlighted that from the inception, the government has made it clear that
the investigation would be impartial and called out the People’s National Congress (PNC) and Alliance for Change (AFC) opposition for its previous claims that the PPP government would attempt to thwart the investigation.
“When this matter surfaced, the same opposition was saying that these individuals or this particular individual was linked to the Government of Guyana and they did not trust there will be an impartial investigation.”
The opposition parties had also called for external parties to lead the investigation into the senior cop.
“We made it clear at that time that the investigations would be professional and there would be no interference from the executive to steer the investigation either way and that the chips may fall where they may.”
In sections of the media, it was reported that SOCU concluded its probe on October 1, 2024 and the unit recommended dozens of charges against the
senior police officer.
While addressing the issue last Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo confirmed that
relevant files have been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice
on the way forward.
“In the investigation, impartial investigations done by an arm of the police force, there is a recommendation that went to the DPP [to] lay multiple charges for breaches of the law.”
The senior police officer has since filed an action in the High Court asking for a number of things.
Dr. Jagdeo while further limiting his comments on the probe noted that the government will be responding through the courts.
“If you did illegal things, you will face the consequences and from all that I have read, a lot of wrong things took place, a lot of illegalities took place.”
Jagdeo added: “We will respond to the constitutional motion in court. And since some charges were [recommended], trust me, our affidavit to respond to those charges may not be beneficial to the particular individual because we will go into great details about what our findings were in the procurement system when he was heading the administration of the police force.”
PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Man found guilty of manslaughter for Sophia fatal stabbing
A 12-member jury last Tuesday found 29-year-old Randy Willings, a mason, guilty of manslaughter for the fatal 2021 stabbing of Kevin Smith, a handyman from Sophia, Greater Georgetown.
The verdict was handed down in the Demerara High Court before Justice Jo Ann Barlow.
Originally indicted for the capital offence of murder, Willings was acquitted
of the murder charge but convicted of the lesser offence of manslaughter after the jury deliberated.
State Counsel Praneta Seeraj, State Counsel Rbina Christmas and State Counsel Mikel Puran represented the prosecution, while Kiswana Jefford served as Willings's defence attorney. Justice Barlow has scheduled a sentencing hearing for November 6, 2024.
Until then, Willings will remain on remand.
The case dates back to February 8, 2021, when Willings fatally stabbed 36-year-old Smith during an altercation at the ‘C’ Field Reserve Dam in Sophia.
According to police reports, Smith was at home when a confrontation broke out between him and Willings, who was armed with a knife.
The altercation escalat-
ed, and Willings stabbed Smith three times—once in the chest, once in the lower abdomen, and another above the left knee—before fleeing the scene.
Emergency services arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Smith was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.
Following the stabbing, Willings was apprehended and initially charged with murder.
Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool presided over the preliminary inquiry at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, where she determined there was sufficient evidence to commit Willings to stand trial in the High Court.
The trial, which lasted several days, culminated in the jury’s decision to convict Willings.
Randy Willings (in handcuffs)
Modern secondary school planned for Cotton Field
MINISTER of Education, Priya Manickchand, last Thursday, announced plans to construct a modern secondary school at Cotton Field on the Essequibo Coast, in a move aimed at improving the educational infrastructure in the Region Two.
During a recent visit to the area, the Minister highlighted the importance of community involvement in the project, ensuring that residents’ input is considered as part of the development process.
"We are trying to build a modern, new secondary school at Cotton Field on the Essequibo Coast. Here, we are trying to scope out an appropriate area for said construction. And of course, this won’t happen without full community involvement," Minister Manickchand said in a Facebook post.
This new secondary school is part of the government’s broader initiative to expand and modernise educational facilities across Guyana. Several schools are
currently being built or extended to accommodate the growing student population and improve access to quality education.
Among these are new schools in Regions One, Four, Seven, Eight and Nine, with extensions and upgrades planned for existing institutions in these and other regions.
The Education Ministry’s focus on modern infrastructure aims to provide students with more comfortable and technologically equipped learning environments. This is part of the government’s larger agenda to improve the overall standard of education, which includes upgrading teacher training and incorporating digital tools into the classroom.
The Cotton Field project is expected to significantly ease the strain on existing schools on the Essequibo Coast, which have faced overcrowding in recent years.
The government doled out $3.8 billion in the first half of 2024 to upgrade and
expand education infrastructures in all parts of the country.
Construction investments are aligned with a comprehensive policy to spend efficiently the $135.2 billion allocated to the Ministry of Education in Budget 2024 to improve the education sector.
This includes $4.1 billion for the University of Guyana and $4 billion for the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme.
Additionally, $4.9 billion is dedicated to the school-feeding programme, benefitting about 126,000 children nationwide.
The “Because We Care” student grant was increased to $40,000 per child in addition to a $5,000 uniform voucher, amounting to $9.2 billion for these transfers.
During the first half of 2024, a total of 114,080 textbooks were procured for the secondary schools at a cost of $562.6 million.
Additionally, 400,368 textbooks for primary schools will be delivered by the end of the year.
Further, $363 million was spent to offer training through COURSERA in the first half of 2024.
Over 5,200 persons have completed at least one course, and more than 19,000 persons are currently enrolled for courses in areas such as data analysis, business analysis, strategy and operations, communications, leadership and management among others.
Additionally, $755.7 mil-
lion was spent to commence ICT training for the first cohort of 300 persons.
Of the $2.3 billion allocated for Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) this year, $777.3 million was spent at the end of June 2024, of which $305.7 million was expended by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). Persons are being trained in areas of agro-processing technologies, fibre optic installation,
heavy duty equipment operation and general building construction among others.
Notably, the government commenced the first phase of the University of Guyana Student Loan Write Off Programme. Student loans totaling $203.7 million were written off for 346 persons to date, and it is expected that an additional 2,900 persons will benefit in the second half of the year.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand visits Cotton Field on the Essequibo Coast to identify a suitable site for the construction of a modern secondary school
WCD ‘oil’ seepage concerns being investigated – EPA
THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed that it is actively investigating reports from residents on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) concern-
ing the seepage of an unknown substance into their homes.
In a statement issued last Thursday, the agency said this follows multiple complaints from resi-
dents about a mysterious liquid emerging through ground-level floors, along with concerns about the impact of potential oil seepage. The incident has reportedly caused tiles
- says KN sub-headline regarding its approach to the reports is ‘misleading’, ‘inaccurate’
to lift and crack in some homes.
The EPA assured the public that it is treating these reports with the utmost seriousness.
The agency noted that
upon receiving the first set of complaints, it immediately deployed investigative teams to inspect the affected areas and collect samples of the unknown substance for laboratory testing.
"The EPA confirms that recent reports have been received from residents on the West Coast Demerara about the seepage of an unknown substance on the surface of their ground-level floors in their homes," the statement said.
The EPA further emphasised that it has been prompt in its response to these concerns and continues to monitor the situation closely.
Residents who have observed similar occurrences are being urged to report the issue to the EPA using the agency’s hotlines or email. The EPA has expressed gratitude to those residents who have already cooperated with field teams, providing vital information to aid in the ongoing investigations.
"Upon the receipt of these reports, the agency immediately began sending investigative teams to the areas for inspection and collection of samples for testing where necessary," the EPA stated.
It added that the investigations are still ongoing, and once completed, the findings will be shared with the public and all relevant stakeholders.
The agency also assured that any necessary actions will be taken based on the results of the investigations.
While the investigation is still in progress, the EPA took issue with recent claims in a Kaieteur News article suggesting that it has downplayed the concerns of residents.
The agency specifically
addressed the sub-headline of an article published on October 17, 2024, which implied that the EPA was not giving due attention to the issue.
"The agency strongly believes that the article’s sub-headline is inaccurate and misleading," the EPA responded.
The agency underscored that its efforts to address the matter have been swift and thorough.
“In view of the ongoing work being carried out by the EPA to investigate this matter, the agency strongly believes that the article’s sub-headline is inaccurate and misleading.” the statement continued.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any further incidents of floor seepage or related issues. The EPA can be reached at several hotline numbers or via email at epa@epaguyana.org.
The numbers are: 592225-5467-68, 592-2256044, 592-225-6048, 592225-0506, 592-225-5471 and 592-225-5472.
The agency reiterated its dedication to resolving the situation and ensuring the safety and well-being of all affected residents.
As investigations continu e, the EPA said that the public will be kept informed about any significant developments. The EPA assured the community that it will take appropriate action to mitigate any environmental risks identified from the findings.
Contrary to reports by Kaieteur News, the agency emphasised that it remains committed to working with residents and responding to their concerns, assuring them that their voices are being heard as the investigation unfolds.
Businessman Ameir Ahmad threatens to sue Rickford Burke over defamatory Facebook posts
PROMINENT
business -
man Ameir Ahmad, who is the Managing Director of the Sherriff Group of Companies, has issued a formal demand for a public retraction and apology
baseless and untrue.
The legal letter stated that the posts falsely suggested that Ahmad is under investigation by U.S. authorities and that charges have been recommended against
from New York-based political commentator Rickford Burke.
The legal demand stemmed from two Facebook posts made by Burke, which Ahmad claimed are defamatory and damaging to his reputation.
In a letter dated October 16, 2024, Ahmad’s legal team from Whitworth Chambers, led by Attorneys Sanjeev Datadin and Khalif Gobin, outlined their client’s grievances regarding Burke's posts.
According to the letter, the first post, published on October 14, 2024, alleged that Guyana's Police Commissioner had accepted $8.5M from the owner of a company under investigation by U.S. law enforcement. The second post, dated October 16, 2024, claimed that Guyana’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) had recommended criminal charges against Ahmad, Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, and Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus, among others, in relation to various police scandals. Ahmad's attorneys contended that these allegations, which imply involvement in terrorism and financial crimes, are
him by Guyana’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) as part of a money laundering probe.
“The publications and remarks mentioned above in relation to my client is wholly false and defamatory,” the businessman’s attorneys said.
The letter, addressed directly to Burke and posted to his New York residence as well as on Facebook, demands that Burke immediately retract the defamatory statements and issue an unqualified public apology. The terms of the apology, the letter noted, must be pre-approved by Ahmad and his legal team before publication.
Additionally, the letter warned that Ahmad is entitled to seek substantial damages for the harm done to his reputation and for legal costs incurred.
Should Burke fail to comply with these demands, the businessman has indicated that he will move forward with a defamation lawsuit against him.
The letter also noted that any response from Burke will be presented to the court if the matter goes to trial.
Ameir Ahmad
Rickford Burke
PAHO issues update on Oropouche fever
THE Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an epidemiological update on Oropouche virus disease (OROV), highlighting the importance of strengthening diagnosis, clinical management, prevention, and vector control measures in the Americas region.
Since the beginning of the year to early October, 10,275 confirmed cases of Oropouche were reported in nine countries in the region, the majority of which was in Brazil (8,258, including two deaths). Other af -
ly, there are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments available, and management focuses on symptomatic relief.
In 2024, the virus has been detected in areas where transmission was not previously reported. Deaths associated with the infection have also been recorded, as well as cases of vertical transmission, including fetal deaths and congenital anomalies.
PAHO has requested that Member States report any unusual events related to the disease, including deaths associated with
fected countries include Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Guyana, and Peru. Imported cases were also reported in the United States (90 cases) and Canada (2 cases), linked to travel to countries with ongoing transmission. Furthermore, 30 additional imported cases were reported in Europe.
Since the last PAHO epidemiological alert was issued on September 6, 423 additional cases of Oropouche were reported, including from two countries that had not previously reported cases, Ecuador and Guyana.
Oropouche fever is a viral disease characterised by high fever, severe headache, photophobia, muscle and joint pain, and generally resolves within two to three weeks. In some cases, it can cause more serious complications such as meningitis or encephalitis. Current-
OROV and cases of possible vertical transmission, as this information is crucial for improving epidemiological surveillance.
The organisation emphasises the need to strengthen epidemiological and entomological surveillance, and urges the implementation of vector control measures, given that OROV is primarily transmitted through the bite of the Culicoides paraensis midge. It also recommends promoting personal protection practices to avoid bites, especially for pregnant women and vulnerable populations.
PAHO encourages all Member States to follow the established guidelines for the detection and surveillance of Oropouche and to adopt a proactive approach in reporting cases and implementing control strategies. (PAHO)
Guyanese scholar launches book focusing on violence against women
GUYANESE scholar Dr. Preity Kumar officially launched her book titled, ‘An Ordinary Landscape of Violence: Women Loving Women in Guyana’, at the Moray House in Georgetown on Thursday.
Hosted by key activist organisations: Red Thread, Sexualities, Women and Genders (SWAG), The Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) Guyana, and the country’s leading tertiary institution, the University of Guyana, the book launch also commemorated Spirit Day, an annual LGBTQ awareness day observed on the third Thursday in October.
Dr. Kumar, in her book, examines the various forms of violence confronted on a daily basis in both rural and urban communities in Georgetown and Berbice. Throughout her book, she illustrates how society, family, and religious expectations shape the experiences of the women across race, class, gender, sexuality and geographical location.
Dr. Nikoli Attai, a Trinidad and Tobago academic, community archivist and author whose first book was also launched in Guyana in July, said in his introduc -
tion and brief review of the book: “She highlights the pervasive violence that often accompanies the relationship that these women form with others, with whom they share physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual energies with. And this really important analysis is grounded in the concept of ordinary violence. This really forms a concept that helps us to explore how individuals navigate state structures while negotiating and absorbing the residual effects of the ordinary everyday violence that we confront.”
Dr. Attai went on to say that Dr. Kumar highlighted very important moments in her book for readers to understand how violence manifests itself.
He explained that Dr. Ku-
mar does this by describing the impact of violence, and places emphasis on addressing this issue.
The book opens by establishing guidelines for racially and politically-charged environments.
These environments, he said, create a filter and a problem for fear, distrust, and even suspicion among persons.
He noted that in the book as well, Dr. Kumar spends time providing important and rich historical context to show readers how legacy, for example enslavement, indentureship, etc., serves to continue to release gender and sexual expression while controlling how women perceive themselves as sexual, spiritual, and social beings.
Providing some context
on her book, Dr. Kumar said that the stories chronicled in her book, are stories from a particular moment, on a particular day that she would have interviewed women in Berbice and Georgetown after her arrival here in 2015.
She explained that she takes the stories and connects them to either the State structures that we have in place in Guyana or the religious ideologies of the place or the cultural, patriarchal understandings of femininity, for us to see how the women's lives are very much impacted and these ideas materialise in their lives as well.
The following year, while in Toronto, Canada, Dr. Kumar learnt from her mother that the apartment in which she was staying was raided, and beneath the balcony was
the remains of Babita Sarjou, a woman who was murdered by her husband years prior.
She related, “I never set out to do a project on violence; it came to me. This project is dedicated to her, and while I was busy doing my interviews, I realised a larger story is waiting for me to be told. So, in writing this book, I came to realise that this landscape of violence was affected. And what I mean by that is that how will we experience the violence that is felt, but we cannot name it? How do we talk about the violence which are invisible?”
Dr. Kumar continued to explain that in her book readers will notice her asking questions about what it would mean for us to think about violence beyond the
physical, visible, and spectacular.
“What would it mean to think of violence already embedded in the landscape that we're part of; our spaces that we're part of, already present in our relationship, rather than a singular event? And more importantly, I ask, how does violence continue after the act has ended? What is the residual harm of that violence that we have experienced that stays with us? So, you'll see me asking these questions throughout the book,” she added.
To purchase a copy of Dr. Kumar’s book, “An Ordinary Landscape of Violence: Women Loving Women in Guyana”, persons can visit the websites of Rutgers University Press or Amazon.
Over 1.8 million in Gaza face extreme hunger
MORE than 1.8 million Palestinians in Gaza are experiencing “extremely critical” levels of hunger, with 70 per cent of crop fields destroyed and livelihoods decimated during the ongoing Israeli military offensive, a UN-backed food security assessment released on Thursday has revealed.
Figures from the global IPC food security initiative show that 133,000 people – or six per cent of the enclave’s population – are already experiencing Phase 5 or “catastrophic” food insecurity.
It’s feared this number could rise to around 345,000 people – or 16 per cent of the entire population – between the winter months of November and April next year.
“The risk of famine persists across the whole Gaza Strip. Given the recent surge in hostilities, there are growing concerns that this worst-case scenario may materialise,” the assessment noted.
SITUATION
‘INTOLERABLE’
The Secretary-General is alarmed by the IPC report’s findings amid high displacement and
restrictions on humanitarian aid flows, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters during Thursday’s regular news briefing in New York.
“One year into the conflict, famine looms. This is intolerable,” Mr. Haq said.
The Secretary-General is also calling on Israel to immediately reopen all crossing points, he added.
In addition, bureaucratic impediments must be removed,
and law and order must be restored inside Gaza so that UN agencies can deliver lifesaving humanitarian assistance, Mr. Haq emphasised.
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
The IPC assessment also stressed that only through widespread access to adequate food, medical supplies, water, and basic services across the Gaza Strip, can the risk of a rapid descent into famine be contained.
It calls for an immediate, unconditional and sustained ceasefire, restoration of food systems, and better prevention and management of rising and acute malnutrition.
Blanket supplementary feeding programmes and infant and young child feeding programmes need to be bolstered, including promotion of breastfeeding and care for non-breastfed infants.
UN RESPONSE
UN agencies for their part
continue their efforts to assist all Gazans despite severe challenges, including insecurity, access difficulty, and ongoing evacuation orders and fighting.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), for instance, has prioritised reactivating local food production and restoring the availability of highly nutritious food, especially as the winter season approaches. Even prior to the war, winters in Gaza saw spikes in hunger and malnutrition.
“To curb acute hunger and malnutrition, we must act now – immediately cease hostilities, restore humanitarian access to deliver critical and essential food aid and agricultural inputs in time for the upcoming winter crop planting season which has already started – to allow them to grow food,” said Beth Bechdol, the agency’s Deputy Director-General.
“Humanitarian aid alone is not enough. People need fresh, nutritious food. To make a difference, we also need to support farmers to continue and restart the production of food, as well as the flow of imported
food and non-food items,” she added.
SIGNIFICANT LIVESTOCK LOSSES
FAO also voiced “deep concern” over significant losses of livestock, which are indispensable for the livelihoods and basic survival of Gaza’s population.
The agency has set up a programme to safeguard some 30,000 sheep and goats – representing around 40 per cent of the remaining livestock. As of the end of September, it has distributed fodder to over 4,400 livestock holders in Rafah, Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah, and veterinary kits to about 2,400 herder families.
It stands ready to deliver more essential supplies, including additional fodder, greenhouse plastic sheets, plastic water tanks, vaccines, energy blocks and animal shelters, once access, security, and mobility conditions are restored, FAO said.
“By nourishing these animals, enough milk can be provided for all of G aza’s children,” it added. (UN)
More than 1.8 million people in Gaza face
photo)
Dr. Preity Kumar
Dr. Nikoli Attai
Dr. Kumar’s book
Gov’t shade house project empowering Corentyne women farmers
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
THE government’s shade house project, initiated by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and launched by Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, is making a significant impact on female farmers in the Corentyne.
With nearly 50 per cent of the shade houses established, the women participants are successfully planting peppers and other crops.
This initiative not only enhances agricultural productivity but it also empowers women by providing them with the tools and support needed to succeed in farming.
Single mother of two, Natasha Dhanraj, 35, of Lot 81 Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek, shared her inspiring journey with this publication.
She explained that having watched her father farm since childhood, she never imagined she could have her own shade house. However, after
President Ali visited their community earlier this year and recognised the need for such initiatives, everything changed.
The Shade House Project has opened doors for Natasha and many like her, empowering them to further pursue their agricultural dreams and improve their livelihoods.
Dhanraj said: “After the President come, I heard the green house sharing and I was so grateful to have one. When they started to give, I was so grateful for it.”
She explained that previously she would do small scale farming. However, the sun would often affect her crops. “Normally when I plant my stuff it does whither out with the sun and so but with the shade house it’s so much better and growing so I am very thankful for it.”
Dhanraj emphasised the significant benefits of her shade house produce, stating, “I’m planting callaloo,
lettuce, and celery, and my dad plants the peppers on the farm. I go to Skeldon Market to sell to vendors, or they come to buy from me.” She added, “My dad and mom live here too, “They do their own part and I do my own part so that help me with my children them. My daughter the big one is nine years and the next one is seven so it will help me out a lot.”
She is looking forward to selling some of her lettuce at the Skeldon Market by the end of the month.
Another participant, Reshma Rampersaud, 33, from Grant 1651 Crabwood Creek, expressed her excitement about being part of the project.
She said that the NAREI staff within the region reached out to her after the project was launched and subsequently visited her to set up the shade house. “They came to set everything up, and it was done really well. I
received pepper plants from them, and I started planting them, so everything is going smoothly,” she said.
These stories highlight the positive impact of the shade house project on the lives of women in the community, empowering them to enhance their livelihoods and support their families.
In May 2024, the government launched the shade house project in Crabwood Creek, Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne), to support farmers in cultivating peppers.
The initiative followed President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s visit to the community where he engaged residents on issues affecting them.
The Ministry of Agriculture was directed to assist 100 farmers in constructing shade houses, each designed to accommodate approximately 400 pepper plants.
The project was officially
Canter driver dies in WCB accident
A 65-year-old canter driver lost his life on Tuesday, after the driver of a tractor and trailer allegedly failed to stop at an approach along the Litchfield, West Coast Berbice Public Road.
Dead is Gokaran Lakram, 65, of Lot 41 A Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice.
According to information gathered, the accident occurred just around 17:45 hours while Lakram was driving motor lorry GAE 4037 and Sherlock George, 52, of Lot 11 Litchfield Village, West Coast Berbice, was operating motor tractor 5473 with an unregistered trailer. Lakram was reportedly
proceeding east along the northern side of Litchfield Public Road, West Coast Berbice, negotiating a right bend while the motor tractor with the trailer was
proceeding south out of an access road on the northern side and allegedly failed to stop at the approach.
As a result of that, the tractor ended up in the path
of the canter resulting in the front of the canter colliding with the right side of the trailer.
Lakram along with his two porters Havano Ally, 65, of Lot 1 Old Road Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice and Mohamed Ramall, 35, of Lot 15 Number 3 Village, West Coast Berbice, who were seated in the tray of the canter, received injuries about their bodies.
They were all rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital where the driver of the canter died while receiving medical attention and the two porters were admitted for observation.
launched by Minister Mustapha shortly after the President’s visit. The minister had said that the projects forms part of plans to enhance Guyana’s role as the food hub for the Caribbean.
“We want to work along with the small farmers. We will give the materials for the shade house. We will help you guys to construct it, give you the designs. I believe the size will be 25 by 34,” Minister Mustapha had noted.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday the Guyana Chronicle was told that the shade house project is being implemented in phases. So far, 40 shade houses have been completed, with an additional 10 expected to be finished by the end of the week.
Another participant, single mother of one Ravina Arjune, of Crabwood Creek explained that her farm is located at Moleson Creek where she plants on about half an acre of land.
She stated, “The shade house is very beneficial for me because I am a single parent and it worth planting.”
She continued, “I see the benefit how it gon be because at the end of the month I will get something coming off of it and I see how it will be very beneficial to me because as a single mother, I have to take care of my child and this will now help me out.”
Gaitrie Mahadeo, 51, of Linepath, Upper Corentyne, who is also one of the participants said that she and her family are vegetarians. So, in addition to being able to sell the produce and develop an income they are also able to sustain themselves.
“We planting to upkeep our family and the pepper, we will sell because we also plant and we help people in the village because we does get the mold from them so we does try give back.”
Two Corentyne men charged with animal cruelty
TWO Corentyne men were, on Wednesday, placed before the court, having been charged with animal cruelty, after they were accused of fatally harming a dog.
Khemraj Ramdass 71, a pensioner of Lot 6 Number 63 Village, Corentyne, Berbice and Farad Jarawan, 25, a carpenter of Lot 201 Number 64 Village, Corentyne Berbice appeared at the Number 51 Magistrate’s Court where they were
charged with animal cruelty committed on an animal belonging to Gomatie Kooardeo, on October, 11, 2024, at Number 63 Village Corentyne, Berbice.
They appeared before Magistrate Tuana Hardy where the charge was read to them. They both pleaded not guilty and bail was granted in the sum of $120,000 each.
They will return to court on October 23, for report.
Gaitrie
Gaitrie in her shade house as she excitedly awaits the time when she will reap her produce
Natasha Dhanraj
‘Prisoners in Concert’ received overwhelming public support
THE recent “Prisoners in Concert” which was hosted by the Guyana Prison Service at the National Cultural Centre last weekend received an overwhelming amount of support from patrons.
According to the Prison Service, the massive entertainment production which also saw prison officers performing, garnered close to 1,000 patrons in attendance and some 10,000 online viewers.
The GPS underscored that it was a most memorable event, which they are sure patrons will remember for a long time, in addition to renowned Guyanese comedian, Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones’s words, “There is a lot of talent, behind those four walls!”
The GPS said: “There was never a dull moment after the show commenced, with the Prison’s
Steel Orchestra belting out its repertoire of lively music, which certainly put patrons in the mood for things to come.”
The performing inmates spoke to the audience, through various art forms, on the social ills prevalent in today’s
society.
There was a dramatic piece portraying a “con artist” Pastor and his gullible congregation that really had the audience going.
The most popular dramatisation was, however, a skit that graphically de-
picted misconception and discrimination.
There was a piece on HIV/AIDS, which illustrated the end result of promiscuous behaviour, or what happens to those who indulge in risky behaviour such as not using condoms and engaging in sex with multiple partners.
Apart from the group presentations, there were also quite a few solo performances in poetry and song.
Some of these were so touching that a few persons were moved to tears.
Then there were the oldies renditions, featuring several songs of yesteryear. These were belted out with much gusto that had patrons rocking in their seats- savoring every moment.
At the end, the Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, said, "What we saw is the revelation of some really talented people. It was an evening full of fun and really uplifting for the inmates, taken into consideration their circumstances.”
Scenes from Prisoners in Concert (Photos by the Guyana Prison Service)
Linden artiste hopes to touch hearts with new gospel hit
By Faith Greene
IT is often said that music can provide comfort and support in times of stress, sadness, or even anxiety; gospel music, especially, tends to offer comfort, balance, hope, healing and strength in trying times.
This was the aim when, Psalmist Rene Winter-Rigby composed her recent song, “Need A Blessing”, a song that she believes speaks to the heart and soul.
During an interview with this week’s Buzz, the gospel artiste shared that the song was co-written with Joel Browne and produced by Joey2kool Productions.
Rene, who is an entrepreneur, a wife and a mother of three stated that the song is like testimony.
On the day she put her pen to paper, Rene shared that she was not in the best space mentally; however, being encouraged to put all her emotions into writing “Need A Blessing” was composed.
“And right there and then, he (Joel Browne) and I wrote that song. That song was birthed within that space of time on that same day.
Just how I was feeling, you know, I expressed it in words. And the song became a reality.”
Rene said that "Need A Blessing" was written during a period of great personal turmoil.
Rene shared that she started singing at the age of eight in Sunday School at church. This star’s light later shone brightly when she performed on the national stage during her participation in what was then called the GT&T Jingle and Song Competition in 2007, where she secured the spot for first runner-up.
She recorded her first gospel album in 2008, titled ‘Lord I Give You My All’, along with her first music video, produced in Linden, her hometown.
From this Rene moved higher as she performed on regional stages, notably at the Barbados Gospel Fest where she shared the stage with renowned
gospel artistes such as Sherwin Garner and Lisa Kamp.
She also performed in The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Suriname, alongside international artistes like Papa San and many others.
Rene restarted her music career in 2020 when she released, “God Knows”, after a break to focus on building her family and other commitments.
The Songwriter related that one of the things she has learnt is to trust the process of God, “Because sometimes, we may think that we're going slow. But then, God is allowing us to go slow because of what HE wants us to experience within
artiste, Rene Winter-Rigby
that season.”
Now the songstress is focused on her music and connecting with other people, giving them hope and courage through her music.
With excitement, the gospel artiste said fans can expect more from her.
“Trust me, there is music coming out. You know, it may take a lit-
tle, but there is music coming.”
At the moment Rene can be found on Facebook: Psalmist Rene Winter-Rigby and on TikTok: @ren. luxefashion. Need A Blessing is available on all streaming platforms and on Youtube: Rene Winter-Rigby, as well as Joey2kool Productions.
KFC LINK SHOW 37 back for final show
THEATRE enthusiasts will have another opportunity, in the event that they had missed it, to see Link Show 37, as the production returns on Saturday, October 26, at the National Cultural Centre, commencing at
20:00 hours.
The Link Show has become an institution in stage performance in Guyana, having started in November 1981. It is the only satirical review that is staged annually, now in its 37th year of production.
According to press release, there will be some new skits added to the list based on recent events.
The cast of top entertainers include Mark luke-edwards, Michael Ignatius, Sean Thompson, Kwasi Ace Edmondson,
Rovindra persaud, Paul Budnah, Kevin kellman, Stephen Mohammed, Gerard Gilkes, Sonia yarde, Simone Dowding, O’neilka bacchus, Tchaiko Rodney, Latiefa agard, Makini Thompson, Aliyah David, Abigail Brower and young
Kareem Jabbar.
The Producers, GEMS Theatre Productions and Primetime Productions would be teaming up with Punchline Productions, a few actors who have formed themselves in a group to present the repeat
Link Show 37. The production is made possible with additional support from Ray Climax Bar, 94,1fm and 104.1 fm Tickets are $1,000; $2,000 and $3,000 available from the National Cultural Centre.
Gospel
Liam Payne, former One Direction member, dies after hotel balcony fall
CNN- LIAM PAYNE, a former member of the boyband One Direction, has died, after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to local police. Payne, who was 31, leaves behind his seven-yearold son, Bear. Police said they discovered Payne’s body after emergency services responded to a call from staff at a hotel where the pop star was staying in the city’s trendy Palermo neighbourhood. Payne rocketed to global
stardom as part of One Direction, the massively popular boyband that was created on the British version of the X Factor in 2010. The group, which included members Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik, announced an
“indefinite hiatus” in 2016. Staff at the hotel had requested urgent police assistance shortly before Payne’s death Wednesday, according to an emergency call obtained by CNN’s Argentine affiliate Todo Noticias.
“We have a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol,” the hotel manager said on the call. “He breaks things up. He is tearing the whole room apart.”
The manager told the call operator that because Payne’s room had a balcony, “we’re a little afraid that he’ll do something.”
Earlier this month, the pop star was seen in Argentina attending his former bandmate Horan’s concert.
CNN has reached out to representatives for Payne as well as his former One Direction bandmates for comment.
A METEORIC RISE
Payne first dazzled British audiences as a bright–eyed 14-year-old during his audition for The X Factor in 2008, singing Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.”
“I should really be concentrating on my [school] work, but I just think about singing too much,” he said before his first audition. Payne, who grew up in Wolverhampton, a city in the English midlands near Birmingham, spoke then with a thick “Brummie” accent that would fade as his career progressed.
Judge Simon Cowell later cut Payne before that series’ live performances, telling him to focus on his studies and “come back in two years.”
In 2010, Payne, then 16, returned for his second audition. Later in the series, judge Nicole Scherzinger grouped Payne together with Styles, Tomlinson, Horan and Malik to form One Direction. The group came third in the competition and signed with Cowell’s record label, embarking on their first tour the following year that sold out in many of the 54 global venues.
One Direction remains one of the best-selling boy bands of all time, selling more than 70 million records worldwide.
All five former members pursued solo careers following the band’s 2016 “indefinite hiatus.”
‘IT GOT TOXIC’
The fame took a personal toll on Payne, who spoke openly about his struggles with substance abuse and his mental health.
“When you’re doing hundreds and hundreds of [concerts] and it’s the same 22 songs at the same time every single day, even if you’re not happy, you’ve got to go out there,” Payne told Men’s Health Australia in 2019. He said he often drank before going on stage in an effort to manage the stress.
“It’s almost like putting the Disney costume on before you step up on stage and underneath the Disney costume I was pissed [drunk] quite a lot of the time because there was no other way to get your head around what was going on,” he said. “I mean, it was fun. We had an absolute blast, but there were certain parts of it where it just got a little bit toxic.”
In another 2019 interview
with British broadcaster Sky News, Payne said he felt “quite lucky to be here still, which is something I’ve never really shared with anyone.”
Payne released his debut solo album “LP1” in 2019 and said in 2023 that he was working on his second album. In March of that year, he released the single “Teardrops,” a song he said was “born from many tears. Some are mine. Others are not.”
In the summer of 2023, Payne said he was marking six months of sobriety after completing treatment in a US facility. Payne’s tour was set to kick off in South America in September of that year, but he had to postpone the scheduled dates after suffering a kidney infection.
TRIBUTES POUR IN Payne’s tragic death has left fans and the music industry reeling, with celebrity tributes pouring in from all corners of the world. The news was splashed across most UK newspapers’ front pages Thursday morning.
In a post on Instagram, Harry Styles’ mom, Anne Twist, posted an image of a broken heart emoji, captioned “Just a boy.”
In another Instagram tribute, former X Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary said: “I remember him as a 14-yearold turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing. He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.”
Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Shaw/Shutterstock (10321487au) Liam Payne Serpentine Gallery Summer Party, Kensington Gardens, London, UK - 25 Jun 2019 gallery
A vigil has also been held outside the hotel in Buenos Aires.
Yamila Zacarias, a 25-yearold fan, said One Direction “meant a lot to me because I was at a stage [in my life] where I wanted to form part of something bigger, and One Direction and being a Directioner was that for me.”
Behind her, mourning fans lit candles and sang the One Direction song “Infinity.” Payne is survived by his son Bear, whom he had with former Girls Aloud member Cheryl Tweedy. Tweedy is a former X Factor judge who was present for both of Payne’s X Factor auditions. The couple confirmed they had split in 2018 but continued to co-parent.
In a video shared on YouTube in 2023, Payne talked about the love and affection he felt for Bear.
“He’s awesome. He’s growing up far too quickly,” Payne shared at the time. “He’s far more smart than I think I’ll eve r be. He’s a wonder.”
Shenseea continues rise with Work Me Out
- Rvssian’s Santa sees an uptick
Shenseea continues to make upward movements on the Billboard rhythmic charts with Work Me Out, her collaboration with Wizkid.
Work Me Out is featured on Shenseea’s sophomore album Never Gets Late Here. The song inches up from #41 to #40 in its 4th week on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart.
Over on the Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop chart, Work Me Out works its way up from #29 to #25 after just seven weeks on the tally.
And, on Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay, Work Me Out moves up from #34 to #33.
Roses by Tina aka Hood Celebrityy is on its way down the charts. It slides down from #45 to #48 on R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay, while backtracking from #28 to #29 on Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay.
Santa by Rvssian featuring Rauw Alejandro and Ayra Starr inches up from #22 to #20 on Hot Latin Songs, while on Latin Rhythm Airplay it inches up from #11 to #10 in its 19th week on the tally.
Santa slides down from #25 to #28 on Latin Airplay, where it peaked at #10.
Now onto the sales and streaming-driven Billboard Reggae Albums chart, Backyard Sessions: Malibu Edition by Iration which peaked at #8, jumps back onto the chart at #9.
Bob Marley and the Wailers log 248 non-consecutive weeks at #1 with Legend, while Shaggy’s The Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection remains at #2.
Dutty Classics Collection by Sean Paul is steady at #3. World on Fire by Stick Figure and Greatest Hits by UB40 are #4 and #5.
Set in Stone by Stick Figure is #6, while Dutty Rock by Sean Paul steps up to #7. Wisdom by Stick Figure dips to #8 and Here Comes the Hotstepper by Ini Kamoze holds the #10 position.
Ting a Ling by British reggae act The Blackstones spends a second week at #1 on the Foundation Radio Network (New York) Reggae chart, while Caravan of Love by D Major inches up to #3.
Money Talks by Mikey Spice cruises from #10 to #7, and Walk by Jango Thriller, Tina Flores and Master Luck debuts at #30.
Over on the South Florida Reggae chart, Can I Call You Rose by Anthony Cruz is #1 for a second week, while Grateful by
Etana inches up to #5. Lessons of Love by Christopher Ellis steps up from #23 to #21, while Thank You Lord by Bugle, Damian Marley and Buju Banton (#24), and In the Ghetto by Grub Cooper (#25) are new entries.
Pick Up The Pieces by
Steele takes over the #1 spot on the Rebel Vibez Top Ten Canadian Reggae chart, while I am the One by 6iix Gal debuts at #10.
Let Me Love You by Andrae Duhaney rises to #8 and Smile by Michael St George is up to #2.
(Jamaican Observer)
Shenseea (Elias Talbot)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday, October 18, 2024.)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Guyana (2) Barbados Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the just-concluded WI/SL T20 International series? (2) Who was declared Man of the Series? Answers in tomorrow’s issue ........................................................
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BELMONT Race 1 Vettriano Race 2 Super Chief Race 3 Ciao Chuck Race 4 Violets Smile Race 5 Twirling Queen Race 6 Solar Glare Race 7 Boxed Wine
Sajid Khan unsettles England
(ESPNCRINFO) - WITH a twinkle in his eye and a twirl of his moustache, Sajid Khan helped turn the Multan rematch Pakistan's way. A first-innings seven-for was followed up by crucial lower-order runs to help set England a daunting target of 297 to win the second Test. Sajid then struck with his third ball to remove Ben Duckett, England's centurion on day two and a key man in their hopes of a successful chase.
Sajid may be an unassuming offspinner on paper, and something of an afterthought in selection - he described himself as "always the first to be kicked out" after taking four England wickets during the second evening to put his side on top. But with his shaved head, luxuriant facial hair and colourful celebrations he has brought some much-needed charac-
ter to Pakistan's attempts to break a winless run at home that stretches back to 2021.
Having claimed three of the four England wickets to fall during the first hour on day three, securing a 75-run lead for Pakistan and personal figures of 7 for 111 - the best for an innings in Tests at Multan - Sajid came to the crease during the evening session with the scoreboard reading 156 for 8. England were eyeing up a chase in the region of 230-240, only for Sajid to join Salman Agha in putting on a bristling stand of 65, by far the highest of a day on which 16 wickets fell and the spinners prospered.
Salman did the bulk of the scoring, making his third 50-plus score of the series to steer the target up towards 300, and England's pain in the field was only increased by the knowledge that he could have been dismissed
twice in single-figures. Brydon Carse was the unlucky bowler, as two chances went down in the space of three balls: Jamie Smith failing to hold a regulation nick behind the stumps before Joe Root
shelled another to his right, the fact he was wearing a helmet and standing in close only partial mitigation.
Pakistan's recent issues in the third innings have been well-documented, failing to capitalise on positions of varying promise against Australia and Bangladesh, and it seemed as if they were primed for another stumble after losing three wickets to Shoaib Bashir to be 43 for
3 at lunch. Saud Shakeel helped steady things, although he too had a life off Carse as Root couldn't get his hands up to a flashed cut at slip.
When Shakeel was trapped lbw by Jack Leach, the first of three wickets to fall in the space of five overs after tea, England had hopes of wrapping up the innings quickly. But Salman immediately countered, hitting three fours from his next seven balls and going on to his half-century by lofting Leach clean over long-off for six. The ninth-wicket pair took less than eight overs to raise the 50 stand, as England's target rose rapidly - eventually leaving them needing the second-highest successful chase in Pakistan, and by far their highest overall in Asia.
New Zealand cripple India for 46
(ESPNCRICINFO)
-
It was well worth the wait for New Zealand. On their seventh day of Test cricket in India this year, New Zealand finally got on the field, on day two in Bengaluru, and lost a good toss. Once they were denied their wish to bat first under overcast skies, on a pitch that was covered all week, New Zealand's seam bowlers were all over India with deadly accurate bowling, bowling them out for 46, their lowest score at home and third-lowest overall.
This was the fourth-lowest first-innings score in Test history after a side had chosen to bat. Riding on Devon Conway's enterprising 91 in conditions that had quietened down a bit, New Zealand had attained a lead of 134 by stumps. They had seven wickets in hand.
There is a good chance both sides mis-
read the conditions. India won the toss, picked three spinners and batted first, trusting the dry nature of the pitch more than the overcast conditions and the wet lead-up to the Test. New Zealand had hedged their bets: even though they wanted to bat first, they played
three seamers, including the king of these conditions, Matt Henry, who ended up with a five-for that took him to 100 Test wickets.
It was apparent as early as the first two overs that the ball was moving more than either of the sides expected.
New Zealand started off with just the two slips but reinforced the cordon. India were now reacting instinctively and not via pre-series mental preparation as they showed in challenging conditions in England in 2021.
And the instinct was
to counterattack. Jaiswal played the first loose drive to just the 12th ball he faced even while Tim Southee had been challenging him. Rohit Sharma survived an extremely close lbw shout off Henry on umpire's call but soon tried to charge Southee and loft him back over his head. The wobble-seam ball jagged back in to take the top of leg stump.
With Shubman Gill missing because of a stiff neck, Virat Kohli moved up to No. 3 for the first time since 2016. While it was brave of Kohli to move up, the batter perhaps best suited to seaming conditions is the current No. 6, KL Rahul, who is the only Asian opener with centuries in Australia, England and South Africa.
As it turned out, Kohli didn't get a chance to make a mistake or show application as the ninth ball he faced jagged back in and kicked
at him thanks to Will O'Rourke's height. Glenn Phillips at leg slip took the catch off the glove diving forward, his presence there suggesting a plan.
Another batting-order surprise followed as Sarfaraz Khan walked in at No. 4, at least one slot higher than the one he takes in domestic cricket. It took him just three balls to attempt an aerial drive on the up, shanking it for a sensational catch by Conway at mid-off, diving to his right and taking it well behind his body. A just reward for Henry, who drew an average seam movement of 1.3 degrees in the first session.
Rain brought a brief halt at 13 for 3 in 12.4 overs without a single boundary. India enjoyed some luck after the break with Tom Blundell dropping a sitter from Rishabh Pant and other loose shots not resulting wickets.
Sajid Khan celebrates the wicket of Ben Duckett • Getty Images
Rohit Sharma was cleaned up by Tim Southee for 2 off 16 • Oct 17, 2024 • Getty Images
West Indies concede series loss to Sri Lanka
(CMC) - THE West Indies lost their first bilateral T20 series to Sri Lanka after going down by nine wickets in the third and final match in Dambulla to lose the series 2-1 here Thursday.
Sri Lanka’s remarkable 2024 continued as Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera powered their team to a historic T20I series win. The duo’s commanding unbeaten half-centuries helped Sri Lanka comfortably chase the target of 163 on a dry Dambulla surface, sealing
the match in 18 overs at 166 for one.
West Indies, opting to bat first, got off to a rocky start when Maheesh Theekshana bowled Evin Lewis with just the fourth delivery of the innings for a duck.
Brandon King had gotten to 23 and showed some early intent alongside Shai Hope, but the spin threat from Sri Lanka was unrelenting. Theekshana struck again in the sixth over, deceiving King with a carrom ball that crashed into the
middle stump.
The West Indian innings faltered further as Roston Chase gifted a soft return catch to Kamindu Mendis for eight, while Hope was sent packing after a sharp low catch by Pathum Nissanka at first slip for 18.
The visitors would find themselves in further trouble in the 12th over when Charith Asalanka removed Sherfane Rutherford for six, at 62 for five.
West Indies found some fight through captain
Rovman Powell and Gudakesh Motie, who hammered 25 runs off a Wellalage over, including three sixes and a four. However, Wanindu Hasaranga quickly dismissed Motie, stumped for 32 off just 15 balls.
Late contributions from Powell (37) and Romario Shepherd (18) took the West Indies total to a defendable 162-8, thanks to 39 runs in the final three overs.
However, Sri Lanka’s response was ruthless as Openers Pathum Nissanka
and Kusal Mendis smashed 50 runs in just 4.1 overs.
Alzarri Joseph leaked 15 runs in the second over, and despite Motie claiming Nissanka’s wicket for 39, the relentless attack continued.
Kusal Perera joined Mendis in the sixth over and the pair put on an unbeaten series-winning partnership of 106, keeping the hosts firmly on track.
The only semblance of control West Indies managed was a tight three-over spell from Roston Chase and Ro-
mario Shepherd, where they conceded just 14 runs. But the Sri Lankan pair remained composed, with Mendis reaching his half-century in 37 balls and Perera following suit off 34 deliveries.
Mendis hit five fours and three sixes in his unbeaten knock of 68 from 50 balls.
Fittingly, Perera who scored 55 not out from 36 balls with seven fours, sealed the victory in the 18th over with a boundary, completing a dominant win.
All systems in place for smooth execution of 2024 CAC
OVER the next two days, this oil-rich nation of Guyana will have another opportunity to showcase itself as capable of hosting international sporting events when the curtains are raised to signal the start of the 2024 CAC Body Building & Fitness Championships, at the National Cultural Centre.
This pronouncement was made by Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, who was present at yesterday’s Press Conference to formally announce the hosting of the 2024 c/ships.
Ninvalle, who represented the Government through its affiliates the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport and the National Sports Commission (NSC), shorty after welcoming the officials and athletes, confirmed the government’s support for the event.
“We are pleased to be associated with the championships, informing that they (Government) are the biggest contributor, while adding that it is a clear indicator of their continued commitment towards the development of sports and ath-
letes in this country.
The experienced administrator revealed that the Ministry and the NSC has been involved in the planning of the event from ‘jump street’, holding daily meetings with the Guyana Body Building & Fitness Federation (GBBFF) in an effort to ensure that all systems are in place for a smooth execution of the c/ships.
Also, present at the occasion were President of the GBBFF Keavon Bess, Treasurer of the CAC FBC Edward Malone, Vice-President of
the CACFBC Roger Boyce, Twins Manufacturing representative Noah Ferouz and GBBFF Organising Secretary Videsh Sookram.
Bess in his brief remarks first thanked all the sponsors that included the Government, Guyana Olympic Association, Twins Manufacturing, Fitness Express, Camille’s Academy, Bounty Farms Ltd, Republic Bank and all the other entities that contributed to the c/ships.
He then welcomed all the visitors and urged that that they put
on a fantastic display in front of the large Guyanese audience that is anticipated to converge at the venue.
Malone in his presentation said that the governing body was pleased to be back in Guyana to witness the hosting of the event, adding that he expects the competition will be exciting and competitive.
He added that with the incentive of athletes having the opportunity to achieve Pro Cards, it brings more excitement and toughness to the competition.
Boyce, a Barbadian,
reminded how competitive their teams are usually and how much he expects them to perform outstandingly despite the anticipated large home support for the hosts.
Barbados is known for its body building and fitness prowess on the CAC circuit and according to Boyce he is predicting another dominant performance from the ‘Land of the Flying Fish’.
Ferouz said the entity was proud to be on board again and wished all the athletes’ success during the competition.
West Indies take on New Zealand in Semi-Final
CMC – Eight years ago, the West Indies edged out New Zealand by just six runs in a thrilling second semifinal of the 2016 T20 World Cup, booking their spot in the final. They went on to claim their maiden World T20 title with a victory over Australia.
Fast forward to this Friday, and the Windies will hope for history to repeat itself as they face the Kiwis once more in the second semifinal of the current tournament in Sharjah.
After suffering a heavy
10-wicket defeat at the hands of South Africa, the West Indies bounced back with wins in their remaining group-stage matches against Bangladesh, Scotland, and England, reigniting their campaign.
Captain Hayley Matthews is hoping that the team can ride on that momentum and book a spot once again in the grand finale.
“I think we’re proud of what we’ve been able to achieve. No one kind of had us to get to this stage, so I think we’re all pretty happy that we’ve made it here.
The job’s just not finished yet and we got our eyes locked on the game tomorrow and ready for New Zealand, and hopefully ready to play a really big game.”
New Zealand’s journey to the semifinal has been far from smooth, despite securing three wins in four matches. Their only loss came at the hands of Australia, but even their victories, though comfortable on paper, tell a tale of struggle and near collapses for the White Ferns.
“We’ve spoken a lot as a group that we don’t want to get
too high and too low and that’s key for us is to make sure that we get back on that level playing of emotions. We are just really looking forward now to what’s going to be an exciting game tomorrow,” said White Ferns captain, Sophie Devine.
Despite New Zealand holding a dominant head-to-head record of 15 wins to just five losses in 24 encounters, the Windies might carry an edge in this semifinal showdown. The spin-friendly tracks in Sharjah play to their strengths, with 17
of their 20 wickets in the group stage falling to spin. The West Indies will rely heavily on their spinners, with Hayley Matthews, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, and Zaida James leading the attack.
For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr, who tops the bowling charts alongside South Africa’s Nonkululeko Mlaba, will be pivotal. Leigh Kasperek’s offspin could also return to bolster the Kiwi attack.
Stafanie Taylor remains doubtful for the Windies, but the team has proven capable in her absence. Deandra Dottin has been in ferocious form, leading the tournament with six towering sixes, twice as many as any other player. Her power-hitting will be crucial to the Windies’ chances. New Zealand will be looking to Georgia Plimmer, who has been in excellent form, while Suzie Bates is due for a big performance. Much will also depend on the experienced captain Devine to steady the ship.
Atlas Security Services Inc. golf tourney set for tomorrow
LUSIGNAN Golf Club (LGC) is set to host the Atlas Security Services Inc. Golf Tournament on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 12:30 hours.
The event serves as a vital prelude to the much-anticipated Brava Guyana Open 2024, offering golfers an opportunity to hone their skills ahead of the tournament.
will have the opportunity to compete for special awards in two key categories namely Longest Drive and Nearest to the Pin.
presents a sponsorship cheque to Ayube Subhan, Captain of Lusignan Golf Club
This upcoming event will be a medal play tournament divided into two distinct flights, based on players' handicaps, Flight 1: Handicap range of 0-14 and Flight 2: Handicap range of 15-28. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each flight. Additionally, participants
LGC President Anasha Ally remarked on the importance of the event, stating, "We were looking to have back-to-back tournaments leading up to the Brava Guyana Open so that golfers can have the necessary practice. Lusignan Golf Club is very grateful to have Atlas Security Services Inc. for sponsoring this tournament leading up to the Brava Guyana Open."
As the sponsor, Atlas Security Service has demonstrated a commitment not only to fostering competitive golf but also to upholding excellence in its core mission. Atlas Security prides itself on delivering cost-effective, efficient, and professional security services to its diverse clientele. With an emphasis on training, leadership, and a strict code of conduct, the company has established a strong reputation for providing protection and security services that are second to none. Their services are designed to safe-
guard homes, properties, assets, and livelihoods, ensuring a safe environment for all their clients.
The partnership between Atlas Security and LGC underscores the mutual dedication to excellence, whether in professional golf or the provision of security services. The Lusignan Golf Club invites all golf enthusiasts to participate in this exciting event as it promises both competitive gameplay and opportunities for skill refinement in anticipation of the Brava Guyana Open 2024.
Demerara to clash with Essequibo in Inter-County final
- Persaud, Lord help Demerara to victory; Berbice beat Select X1
By Sean Devers
West Indies off-spinner
Kevin Sinclair grabbed 5-32 before Rampertab Ramnauth made 52 as Berbice reached 128-4 in just 13.2 overs replying to the Select X1’s 127 in 34 overs when round three in the Guyana Cricket Board Super 50 Intercounty tournament was played yesterday.
Despite an entertaining 72 from 17-year-old Jonathon Van Lange at the Lusignan ground, the Berbicians could not advance to the final where Demerara will clash with Essequibo tomorrow (Saturday) at Bourda.
Ramnauth hit eight fours and six in 35-ball half century while Junior Sinclair scored 38 from 23 balls with two fours and four sixes as
Berbice tried desperately to improve their net run rate.
Junior Sinclair (2-20) and veteran Veerasammy Permaul (2-44) also contributed for Berbice who were hoping that Demerara would beat Essequibo very badly in the other preliminary round encounter at Bourda.
But although Demerara beat Essequibo by 37 runs the margin was not for Berbice to advance to the final of the tournament which is being used to pick the National Team for the 2024 Regional CG Super50 set from October 28 in Trinidad. At Bourda, Demerara was dismissed for 227 in 46 overs with Tagenarine Chanderpaul making 41 to become leading scorer in the tournament with 203 runs. He is also the only batter
to score a century (103 not out).
This was the first time that Chanderpaul was dismissed after he had added 42 with Matthew Nandu (18) for the first wicket before Keemo Paul removed both openers.
Pacer Quinten Sampson got rid of Skipper Tevin Imlach (2) and Raymond Pereez (8) before Akshaya Persaud who hit four fours and a six in his 43-ball 62 (his second fifty in the tournament) featured in a 57-run stand with Rishi Looknauth (21).
But once Persaud was dismissed at 172-7 only Renaldo Ali-Mohemmed (39) and Lord (16) reached double figures.
Paul (3-43), Sampson (2-33) and Antony Adams (2-20) were the main wick-
et-takers from Essequibo reached 190-9 innings closed.
Ricardo Peters (19) was forced to retire hurt after sharing in brisk 29-run opening stand with Kevin Boodie (26).
Kanhaiya Ramkarran who was run out for 39, Ricardo Adams (26), Kemol Savory (30) and Paul who hit a couple of sixes in 18, all got starts but could not convert them into big scores.
Left-arm spinner Devon Lord continued his impressive tournament by capturing 3-50 to take wicket-tally to 10; the most in the tournament. The final is scheduled to start at 09:30 hrs.
Managing Director of Atlas Security Inc. Andrew Daly (left)
Kevin Sinclair took 5-32 at Lusignan yesterday Jonathon Van Lange score 72 in a losing cause for the Select X1 yesterday
West Indies concede series loss to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka clinched the series 2-1•Oct 17, 2024•AFP/Getty Images
All systems in place for smooth execution of 2024 CAC
GBBFF President
addressing the media in the presence of
Demerara to clash with Essequibo in Inter-County final
- Persaud, Lord help Demerara to victory; Berbice beat Select X1
Akshaya Persaud scored his second fifty yesterday for Demerara
Keavon Bess (third left) seen
Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle (on his immediate left) CACFBC treasurer Edward Malone (second right), CACFBC Vice-President Roger Boyce (second left), Twins Manufacturing representative, Noah Ferouz (right) and GBBFF Organising Secretary, Videsh Sookram (left) yesterday