Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19-02-2024

MONDAY 19th February, 2024

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107359

Guyana inches closer to boasting world-class tourism, hospitality sector - as sod is turned for massive seafront resort, convention centre

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(DPI photo)

New chapter in connectivity, trade between Guyana and Dominican Republic begins SEE PAGE

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The Kingston Seawall Esplanade is a sight to behold especially at sunset. It offers the perfect ambience for families to relax and indulge in a wide variety of local foods and sweet treats (John Greene photo)

- as inaugural Sky High Dominicana flight touches down at CJIA (OP photo)

Guyana prioritises fostering Forensic science President Ali to partnerships to maintain stability laboratory gets nine address Saint Lucia business of region, protect country new analysts leaders on - boost in state’s investigative, SEE PAGE

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- President Ali says in response to questions on Venezuela’s expanding military presence near border

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prosecutorial abilities expected

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Wednesday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

Guyana prioritises fostering partnerships to maintain stability of region, protect country - President Ali says in response to questions on Venezuela expanding military presence near border

By Naomi Parris GUYANA’S primary concern remains the safety and security of its citizens and its economic zone and as such, the country continues

to foster relationships with its regional and international partners, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.

The Guyanese Head of State was at the time responding to questions

during an interview with six-time Emmy Award-winning Television Producer Arick Wierson for Newsweek Magazine, in the United States of America (USA). “[We] are pursuing a path in which we have asked Venezuela to be [a] partner and upholder of international law and to respect the ICJ [International Court of Justice] and the outcome of the ICJ,” he said, when asked about recent satellite images showing the expansion of Venezuelan troops near the country’s border.

“Our primary concern is the safety and security of our citizens, our investment and everything that is our territorial space; our sovereign space and our exclusive economic zone and that is why we believe we are pursuing

Flashback: Representatives of the Guyana and Venezuela governments during the January meeting in Brazil (Photographer: Sergio Lima/AFP/Getty Images) a path of diplomacy,” he added.

According to President Ali, the images are dated and are in fact from the “high tension period.”

“At the same time we are not naïve. At the same time we have launched an aggressive programme of strengthening our partnership with allies of the modernisation of our defence system, the investment in technology, investment in the training of our human resources, the building of capacity and the integration of what we are doing with our allies,” President Ali added.

Guyana he said has been working with both its regional and international partners to maintain a peaceful region. These include, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, and the United States of America (USA).

Through these partnerships, Guyana has been working to build a robust mechanism of co-operation and integrate formally an approach and joint commitment in ensuring the region remains peaceful.

Last month, Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Hugh Todd, led a delegation to Brazil where a meeting was held with Venezuelan officials.

President Ali had said that the continued con-

versations between the two nations will set the stage for another scheduled meeting with himself and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro in keeping with the Argyle Declaration, an 11-point agreement that outlines a pledge from both countries to refrain from escalating the decades-old border controversy among the two states.

In December, the two Heads of States met in St. Vincent & the Grenadines. The meeting was facilitated by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, and observed by Brazil, CARICOM, and a UN Under-Secretary-General.

This historic meeting culminated in what is now known as the “Argyle Declaration,” an 11-point agreement that addresses matters consequential to the border controversy, including the fact that Guyana stands firm in its position that the substantial case is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

GENESIS OF THE BORDER CONTROVERSY The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the land boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela.

Despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award.

In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

Ve n e z u e l a i n i t i a l ly claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.

HOW DID WE GET TO THE ARGYLE DECLARATION? Prior to the meeting of the two South American leaders, Venezuela’s President held a Referendum on December 3, which was seen and feared to be a gateway for the Spanish-speaking nation to further fortify its claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, the Essequibo region.

With tensions rising, a meeting was arranged for the two leaders to meet.

According to a recent press release from Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country remains fully committed to the principles of the Argyle Declaration, in particular the maintenance of peace in Latin America and the Caribbean.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

Guyana inches closer to boasting world-class tourism, hospitality sector - as sod is turned for massive seafront resort, convention centre

By Naomi Parris SET to be country’s largest tourism and hospitality investment, the sod was turned on Sunday at Carifesta Avenue where the Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre will be built.

Boasted to be a world-class facility, the new resort will feature 260 rooms and suites, 150 service apartments and premium villas and it represents a collaboration between the Governments of Guyana and Qatar.

During an address at a ceremonial sod turning event, President Dr. Irfaan Ali said that the facility will add to the growing improvement in the quality of service the country is already offering.

The investment he noted further fits into the country’s overall plan of ensuring sustainable development.

“What we want to achieve, is whilst we have these important massive transformational investments that the essence of our country remains what we are known for, that is, a country that is naturally beautiful, and green.

We want to return our garden

city to the status of the garden city,” he said.

The president reminded attendees of the ongoing works to improve the country’s infrastructure referencing several beautification projects undertaken by the government.

In addition to this, several world-class hotels are under construction, with the government looking to create a network of 2,000 rooms. According to President Ali, with the 10 hotels currently under construction amounting to investments totaling more US$250 million, the Seaforth Resort will cost around the same figure.

The project is being executed by private investors, the Assets Group out of Qatar and construction is expected to begin soon with the hopes of completion within three years.

The five-star facility will also feature retail units for food and beverages, high luxury fashion brands, state-of-the-art health club and a convention centre with cutting edge facilities.

It was uniquely designed with Guyanese in mind.

“When you examine the

features of the investment you will see that [it] mirrors the history of Georgetown, the architectural history was carefully taken into consideration in the design of the building. The natural attributes of Guyana was takin into the design.”

“We now have the type of investment that will support the natural quality of our product and I have no doubt that we will be able to build a world-class tourism sector, a tourism sector that will see the diversification of our economy and expansion of our economy realising its full potential,” the President added.

While Guyana has been expanding its infrastructure to further push its tourism potential, investments are simultaneously being made to boost its human resources.

Just last Friday, the country turned the sod for a US$7 million Hospitality and Tourism Training Institute (HTTI) at Port Mourant, in Region Six. While this facility is yet to come on stream, some 6,000 persons have already been trained in the industry.

“For us the tourism sector, the hospitality sector, the leisure

sector, is an important component of the overall development strategy, “the President said.

Meanwhile Minister Tourism, Industry & Commerce Oneidge Walrond, said that the country’s sector is experiencing rapid development, with the government aiming to make it a main component of Guyana’s economy.

“Our vision for development is a vision for sustainable development, into which is integrated our care for the environment for the benefit of future generations,” she said.

The facility is also a part of a wider project for the improvement and enhancement of the downtown seawall area. The project includes a boardwalk from lower Kingston to the Kitty roundabout (and possibly beyond). There are also plans for the enhancement of the National Park as a green space with the addition of walking trails, curation of the various grounds and planting of trees, which will all be in the vicinity of the new resort.

“This initiative does not come in a vacuum. Rather it comes in the context of the larg-

er vision and strategy that we have for the hospitality industry – one that we are well on the way to implementing.”

According to recent statics, arrivals increased in 2021 by 83 per cent, moving from 86,000 to 158,000. In the following year, arrivals moved to 288,000, and in 2023 arrivals increased to 319,056.

For the year 2022, business visitors numbered 47,000, while those coming for holiday and leisure numbered 143,000.

In 2023, these figures increased with business visitors

numbering over 53,000, while those on holiday and leisure totaled 177,000.

Guyana has also increased its air traffic welcoming several new regional and international airlines. In fact just an hour or so before the sod turning ceremony at Carifesta Avenue, SKYhigh Dominicana’s inaugural flight was welcomed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. The new airline will fly to Guyana three time per week.

create new opportunities, but you will have to take advantage of those opportunities,” he told the sizeable gathering of residents.

INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES He also highlighted the major infrastructural developments being undertaken in the region ranging from housing, roads, bridges, construction of call centres and international hotels to the construction of two new hospitals that will change the outlook of the region and improve the lives of residents.

Regarding educational opportunities, Minister Singh told the Black Bush Polder residents that higher education has always been a vital component of the government’s agenda.

It started with the founding leader, Dr.Cheddi Jagan, and his push for university education and subsequently Dr.Bharrat Jagdeo’s vision which saw the opening of a University of Guyana campus in Berbice.

The minister pointed out that currently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali is providing opportunities for all citizens to access tertiary education from the comfort of their homes through the GOAL scholarship programme. On

that note, he urged persons both young and old to take up these opportunities and empower themselves, so that they can be a force to be reckoned with in the developing world.

At Moleson Creek, he informed residents of the major transformation that will arise with the construction of the Corentyne River Bridge.

Aside from job opportunities, he said that their lives will improve and there will be a boost in economic activities across the town.

On Sunday, Minister Singh and a team of regional officials visited Kildonan, Albion and Nigg. While at Kildonan, he was able to address several concerns and committed to addressing same.

“As a responsible government we are trying to put in place the things that are necessary for long-term well-being…and at the same time address the things that are more immediate and urgent.”

Among the issues highlighted at Kildonan were the need for cricket coaching for youths and the development of the community centre ground and facilities, as well as improvements to the access dam that leads to three cemeteries.

Minister Singh agreed to offer a stipend to a young resident who is working with the youths in cricket basics

and promised to have an arrangement in place for a professional coach to visit at least once per week to provide more technical guidance.

Further, engineers were instructed to provide estimates for infrastructural works to make a block-making facility operational, while the co-op society that administers the facility is to be revitalised.

Instructions were also given to engineers to provide an estimate to fence and level the community ground and rehabilitate the sanitary block.

Following the meeting, residents expressed appreciation to the minister for the visit to the community and for providing an avenue for them to air their concerns.

During the two-day visit to the region, Minister Singh was accompanied by Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain, Regional Executive Officer Narindra Persaud, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Mary Samaroo, Regional Health Office Dr.Vishalya Sharma and regional engineers. On Saturday, Director General of the Ministry of Health Dr.Vishwa Mahadeo was also present at the Moleson Creek, Crabwood Creek and Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder meetings.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali; Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips (third from right); Minister of Tourism, Industry & Commerce, Oneidge Walrond (second from right) and other officials at the sod turning ceremony (DPI photo)

Berbice residents assured of government’s commitment to their empowerment, improving lives

MINISTER with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, during community outreaches across East Berbice-Corentyne over the weekend, assured residents of government’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens.

The minister interacted with the residents at the grassroots level and listened to their concerns. In some instances there were immediate interventions while other matters were recorded and will be addressed at a later date.

While most of the concerns centred on drainage and irrigation, roads and other infrastructural matters, Minister Singh assured residents that the government remains committed to making the lives of every citizen better by putting systems in place and providing opportunities for all to benefit.

“So this is our commitment to you to continue to work in every sector: infrastructure, roads, electricity, water, schools, and hospitals and to create training opportunities,” he said.

While speaking at the Lesbeholden Primary School in Black Bush Polder, Minister Singh spoke of the administration’s plan to see the area thrive and to continue to keep

Minister Singh interacts with resident Quacy Henry. Pictured at right is Regional Executive Officer Narindra Persaud its place as a major producer poised for massive development in all areas and he urged of agricultural produce.

Additionally, government persons to prepare to take has also partnered with a advantage of those opportuGuyanese-owned interna- nities. “We all have to adapt tional company to develop to the new opportunities that an agro-processing facility are emerging. We can't move which will directly benefit to sit down and say this is the community and provide what I have done all my life. farmers with a wide range of This is what I know; I'm not alternatives and opportunities prepared to learn anything to market their produce. else and I'm not prepared to While highlighting the do anything else because if devastating floods of 2021, we are not prepared to adapt, the minister said government then surely we're not going to will be investing in two new be able to survive in a rapidly major drainage outlets, one changing world. Our plan is in Region Five and another to see Black Bush resume its in Region Six. These in- place as a major producer of vestments are being made to agricultural produce and food lessen the devastating effects products and we will make in the future. the necessary investments He noted that Berbice is to achieve that. We will also

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

President Ali to attend Saint Lucia’s 45th independence anniversary observances –– will address island’s business leaders on Wednesday

Below is the full article published by WIC News on Saturday: DR. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, will be the guest of honour at Saint Lucia’s 45th independence anniversary observances.

On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, President Ali will address the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture Luncheon.

Under Ali’s watch, Guyana’s economic size has qua-

drupled over the past few years, shifting from one of the worst performers in the region to the fastest growing in the world for two years in a row.

Saint Lucia’s independence celebration will get a touch of Guyanese gold with President Ali’s visit.

President Ali is expected to speak to chamber business leaders offering insights, perspectives and prospects for

the Guyanese economy and how Saint Lucian businessmen can capitalise on this growth and success.

The Saint Lucia private sector body said: “It promises to be an enlightening and enriching experience for all attendees,” in relation to the event to take place at the Harbour Club from 12:30 pm.

This will also provide a moment of opportunity for skill sharing, networking and developing further relations between communities.

This economic growth has also been the subject of controversy, igniting a century-old border dispute. Venezuela has claimed ownership

of the Essequibo region, one that is of great strategic and economic value to whoever controls it.

After the conflict seemed to be on a path of escalation, on December 14th 2023, representatives of the two nations met and engaged in a discussion lasting more than eight hours at which point it was agreed that neither nation would directly or indirectly threaten or use force against one another under any circumstance.

While recent talks offer a glimpse of hope for a peaceful resolution, an International Court of Justice ruling looms over both nations, underscoring

President Ali at COP (PC: twitter) the delicate and elaborate dance that Guyana is navigating to ensure that its

newfound wealth becomes a lasting blessing instead of an irreparable curse.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

Race, Politics and Class: Issues that must be confronted by the Ali Presidency What do you make of it ?

I WISH to recall Freddie Kissoon’s February, 11, 2024 GC Column “Can the Ali presidency engender class and ethnic reconciliation?” and offer a critique and extension.

In short, Freddie postulated that the Scandinavian model of economic development has successfully navigated the ills of Marxist class revolution as well as, the pangs of ruthless capitalists’ exploitation, to create a near classless society.

Classless in the sense that, acceptable models of income redistribution were made possible through appropriate levels of state autonomy. Freddie’s piece did not give an explanation of what is meant by “state autonomy.” I will not hazard a guess, except to say that, this omission is probably the foundation of other omissions in attempting to prognosticate the Scandinavian model for Guyana.

Peter Hall and David Soskice argued that the way society is ordered in capitalists’ formations that embodies the relationship between governments, economy and society can be explained through ‘varieties of capitalism.”

It’s a misnomer to paint the

evolution of, or the pursuit of a certain economic model with one broad brush because there are fundamental peculiarities in the evolution of capitalist’s societies. Some other writers, Hansj Herr et al, from the Berlin School of Economics, where I was educated, proffered the concept “Decent Capitalism.”

This can explain the successes of the Scandinavian type capitalist society. These concepts suggest there are decent elements in both capitalists and socialists’ economic models that can be combined to yield unique economic pathways within capitalism.

Therefore, there are inherent dangers in excluding major localised considerations which may leave a system fractured in perpetuity.

I will not put theoretical thought into this article to address Freddie’s major omission, I prefer to go the route of an ordinary conversation.

Even though it was contained in the title, Freddie did not address “ethnic reconciliation” substantially or substantively. As a result, the failure to address this fundamental difference can cause the Scandinavian model to fail in Guyana. Scandinavia is a mono ethnic society that were

not active participants in the slave trade nor has been the recipient of large catchment of ethnic migration, nor did they have to address in any major way question about colonial/post-colonial actions.

This is a major issue for Guyana, an issue that is sufficiently grave to infuse varieties that will make the pursuit of a Scandinavian model unrecognisable. Freddie rightly concluded that there are signs on the horizons that the Ali led administration can reshape Guyana along a path of sustained equality and a reduction in ethnic tensions, but there is a long road to go and I wish to offer a few suggestions.

If we are ever going to approach a society where the exploitative nature of capitalism is tamed, and income redistribution brings about social cohesion stunted interest in state domination, there are two major issues that must be addressed on the ethnic cohesion side of our balance sheet. One, the major imbalance of Africans in the Public Service and the almost complete domination of Indians in commerce. There are traces that show small gains on both fronts. There are signs that the government of the PPPC

are interested in increasing African participation in commerce. There were several meetings with African business owners and channeling some government contracts to Afro owned businesses. So, an intention is clear on that score.

This however, needs to be translated into some form of comprehensive and documented government policy that will form the basis of a national conversation, creative legislation and targeted government funding that will progressively rebalance respective ethnic participation in the various aspects of our economy and society. This has to go beyond noble intensions; it has to be baked into policy.

Two, the government of Dr Irfaan Ali must also address the question of some form of local reparations for descendants of slaves.

We often think that reparations should come only from former colonial powers, but there is also a local component. I will mention just two documented historical facts for consideration.

One, when other ethnicities arrived, they met thousands of kilometers of developed waterways, roads/dams and other forms of infrastructure that were built with free en-

by Leonard Craig

slaved African labour. Also consider, when the first set of indentured migrants came to Guyana, they were housed in fully prepared settlements that were built by free slave labour. So not only did the colonisers in lands far far away benefit economically from free labour of enslaved Africans, but local people who came and stayed also benefitted.

This issue was probably moot prior to the discovery of oil, we all had to struggle to divide a small pie together. Consequently, no major movement was made to address this issue in the past.

However, with the windfall

oil brings, we now have the ability to overhaul and transform the conditions of people, this is a national question that must be addressed.

I am not advocating, for willy nilly lumpsum cash transfers to Afro-Guyanese.

However, I am advocating for it to be a serious part of national planning with intent to pursue ethnic cohesion and reparative economic justice.

A society rooted in equality, justice, prosperity and ethnic reconciliation, that takes into account the broadest range of national issues, is entirely possible under the stewardship of Dr Ali.

Aviation sector has improved significantly since 2020 –– Canada Jetlines gets greenlight, United Airlines to begin non-stop flights in April

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill has said that since the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government entered office in August 2020, Guyana’s aviation sector has vastly improved.

The minister made this remark as he delivered an address at a ceremony on Sunday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport as the country welcomed a new airline from the Dominican Republic.

According to the minister, the country has attracted new passenger carriers over the years with even more airlines are expressing interest in servicing routes to Guyana.

“Since August 2020, when we came into office, President Irfaan Ali and team PPP/C has vastly improved the aviation sector; we have attracted new passenger carriers,” he said.

Among airlines that

for the same dollar, the service definitely goes up, Guyanese will feel more satisfied they will choose who they want to serve them and when,” Edghill said.

Canada Jetlines aircraft (Canada Jetlines photo) have come on board since 2020 are JetBlue Airlines, Intercaribbean Airways, Fly Allways, British Airways and Sky High Dominicana.

Still, to come, Edghill said is internationally accredited United Airlines which announced that it will commence non-stop

services between Houston, Texas, United States and Georgetown, Guyana on April 1, 2024.

Further to this, he revealed that the government has also approved Canada Jetlines to operate on its own from Canada to Guyana.

Previously, Canada

United Airlines aircraft (United Airlines photo) Jetlines through a partnership agreement with Suriname’s Fly Allways began flights from Canada to Guyana in September 2023.

Meanwhile, Edghill stated that new airlines entering the Guyanese market can bring a variety of benefits directly and

indirectly and bring more routes and flight options.

He added that it also brings lower airfares and competition which he indicated is good and healthy.

“Because you have the competition, you get improved services, when people are competing

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

Promises and Progress

AS Guyana’s developmental surge continues, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s recent remarks at a press conference further unveiled a tantalising glimpse into the government’s ambitious master plan.

As the political landscape buzzes with promises, particularly in the education sector, it’s imperative to scrutinise the commitments and dissect the tangible strides made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.

Dr. Jagdeo’s assertion that the government’s vision encompasses holistic growth, transcending narrow sectoral interests, strikes a resonant chord. In a world often mired in myopic policymaking, such an approach is a breath of fresh air. After all, true progress hinges

not on isolated advancements but on the symbiotic evolution of all facets of society.

Central to the discourse is the monumental transformation promised in education—a cornerstone of societal advancement.

The statistics touted by Dr. Jagdeo are undeniably impressive: A staggering $15 billion surge in salaries and wages for teachers since 2020, coupled with a commendable 162 per cent increase in sectoral allocation.

The emphasis on enhancing teacher remuneration is laudable, representing a crucial step towards recognising the pivotal role educators’ play in shaping the nation’s future. The substantial salary hikes and additional incentives, including duty-free concessions, un-

doubtedly inject much-needed optimism into an often overlooked profession.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent announcement of salary adjustments and interventions injects a sense of immediacy into the discourse. The delineation of specific salary revisions for different tiers of educators adds granularity to the narrative, offering a glimpse into the tangible impact on individual livelihoods.

While the focus on salary increments is commendable, true education reform transcends mere monetary transactions. It necessitates a holistic approach encompassing curriculum revitalisation, teacher training, and infrastructural development. The $135

billion earmarked for the education sector in this year’s fiscal package represents a significant investment and move towards further achieving this goal.

Moreover, as Guyana hurtles towards a future defined by technological innovation and global interconnectedness, the education system must adapt accordingly. Embracing emergent pedagogical paradigms and fostering a culture of critical thinking are imperative to equip Guyanese youth for the challenges of tomorrow.

The road to true transformation, however, is fraught with pitfalls, and genuine progress necessitates unwavering commitment, not just from policymakers but from every stratum of society as well.

Teachers must have crucial conversations, confront the brutal facts and keep students’ interests at the centre of their actions

Dear Editor,

I HAVE been a strong advocate for better salaries and benefits for teachers, both in Guyana and in North Carolina where the North Carolina Constitution prohibits collective bargaining and strikes for public sector workers.

We do have a NC Association of Teachers, but they have no bargaining rights or no rights to strike.

In North Carolina, we have never gotten a 6.5 per cent raise. It’s always nothing, a small bonus, or one per cent to below five per cent, but mostly at the lower end. Twice in the past 30 years we had a five per cent increase. In North Carolina, if teachers ever received raises of seven per cent, eight per cent and 6.5 per cent consecutively, teachers would think they died and had gone to heaven.

The strike must not cause us to say and do silly things. If it is true that the GTU President said, “You can’t build roads and teacher hungry,” then that’s plain silly. (GTU President says all citizens need a decent life” (KN, Feb 17, 2024). We need both massive infrastructural development as the government has been doing, as well as a new system of income distribution that brings benefits to the working poor. It’s not one or the other. Similarly, governments have to think about the “whole boat” of all workers and not just one sector.

“Wukking obeah” will not bring results, just

hilarity. Ask the opposition who was doing that during the five months of rigging.

The commentary by Mr. Ralph Ramkarran is quite instructive. He said: “The strike also comes at the wrong time to be successful – after the 6.5 per cent pay increase was announced for public servants late last year.

This amount cannot be increased for teachers without creating severe imbalances in pay in the public service.

An increase for teachers must mean an increase for all other public servants which the government will not concede. Militant action could only have had potential if it had taken place before the increases were announced by the government.

A fight to the death would not have been necessary. It would have been enough if the GTU and other unions had expressed their views in as vigorous a way as they considered necessary to get the government’s attention” (“The Teachers’ Strike,” SN, Feb. 18, 2024).

I also liked what Mr. Clinton Conway said: “…the teachers cannot continue for much longer. It has the potential to get out of control with devastating consequences.

It must be nipped in the bud. It is time for the warring parties to sit down and talk, sit down and have critical conversations, sit down and have frank and honest discussions, sit down and eyeball each other across the table in an effort to bring back normalcy to the situation.”

In his bestselling book “Good to Great,” Jim Collins uses the term “brutal facts” to describe the need for leaders to confront the realities of their organisations: “Leadership does not begin with just a vision. It begins with getting people to confront the brutal facts and act on the implications.”

Yet again, you want to create a culture in the organisation where people can tell you the brutal facts, which allows them to voice their opinions and feel valued within the team.

Collins suggest that we engage in dialogue and debate, not coercion.

He said we must build “red flag” mechanisms whereby people would not hide the burning issues, but instead you want them to be able to present information to you that cannot be ignored. You want to empower then to raise issues as soon as possible, so that they can be corrected sooner rather than later.

Similarly, in “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Patterson and others, crucial conversations are the day-to-day conversations that affect your life.

Now, what makes one of your conversations crucial when opinions vary, stakes are high, and emotions run strong? What makes each of these conversations crucial—and not simply challenging, frustrating, frightening, or annoying—is that the results could have a huge impact on the quality of your life.

Patterson et al said: “Despite the impor-

tance of crucial conversations, we often back away from them because we fear we’ll make matters worse. We’ve become masters at avoiding tough conversations. Co-workers send e-mail to each other when they should walk down the hall and talk turkey. Bosses leave voice mail in lieu of meeting with their direct reports.

Family members change the subject when an issue gets too risky. We [the authors] have a friend who learned through a voice-mail message that his wife was divorcing him.

We use all kinds of tactics to dodge touchy issues.”

The GTU chooses to see their glass as half-empty, while the government and ministry want them to see the glass as half-full, as the government has been willing to look at more duty-free concessions, free scholarships for teachers, house lots for teachers, and items beyond the collective bargaining agreement, etc.

As part of the brutal conversations, we must confront why 70 per cent of teachers show up for work daily (absenteeism and tardies) and why 40 per cent of our students are failing at NGSA and CSEC. Keep students at the centre always!

Keep everyone accountable!

Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall Civil Society Advocate

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

Guyanese must rebuff propaganda campaigns

Dear Editor,

THE opposition’s diatribe-laden propaganda campaigns could be detrimental to Guyana’s harmonious existence and unity.

Historically, in times of waning public support, it is not unusual for opposition leaders and surrogates to heighten their propaganda campaigns in hopes of mobilising resistance to destabilise the government. In present-day Guyana, recurrent propaganda campaigns are laden with diatribes, and stacked with unsubstantiated accusations, all of which focus on efforts to undermine the PPP/C’s government increasing national support and cross-cultural loyalties.

To the impartial reader of Guyana’s daily newspapers, such propaganda campaigns are regularly quite pronounced in the writings of Hamilton Green, Henry Jeffrey, and Lincoln Lewis.

Almost every week, these individuals peddle their personal attacks, either against the government, President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, or all three – regularly with the aim of generating discontent and distrust. To ascertain this claim, one can simply examine the past week’s letters to the KN editor.

In his letter titled, “The effectiveness of a Constitution is dependent on the personnel in the captain’s deck,” (KN 2/11/24) Hamilton Green wasted little time in engaging in a tirade against the government – a tirade laced with three paragraphs of unattested propagandistic claims. Green punctuated his negativities with, “We live in a country…” followed with such statements as, “where morality is either trampled upon or trivialised… where persons vaulted into high office, seem not to know the difference between what is right and what is wrong… where the financial resources are allocated based on ipse dixit of the ruling cabal… where it appears that every effort is being made to frustrate workers in the traditional Public Service, so that they take refuge by migrating to other countries.

Giving the present government the opportunity to bring in others from certain places, obviously to change the demographics which existed from post-slavery.” These are

just a few examples.

In reading Hamilton Green’s heavily laden negative verbiage, one is left with the impression that he was providing testimony to Guyana’s realities during the Burnham, Hoyte and Green regimes. His “We live in a country” statements are apt descriptions of Burnham, Hoyte, and Green’s governing years. Thanks to Green for providing us the opportunity to vividly recall what Guyana was like during various PNC oppressive administrations.

Without going into too many counter claims, let’s take Green’s accusation that the PPP is bringing in others into Guyana to change the country’s demographic landscape. Perhaps Elder Green can tell us who invited the Nigerians, Antiguans, Jamaicans, and other Afro-West Indians into Guyana under the various PNC administrations.

Why were they allowed to take up residence in Guyana?

Who gave several of them small farm plots along the Linden Highway? Who invited Jim Jones and his religious cult to establish Jonestown in Guyana’s hinterland -- sadly, nearly all of whom fell victim to cyanide-laced kool aid that ended their lives. Furthermore, who invited and sheltered Rabbi Washington and his band of thugs into the country, and why?

With the above in mind, let us take a quick examination of Henry Jeffrey’s letter, “The Vice President took teachers to Times Square,” (KN 2/13/24). Even at first glance, one readily sense Jeffrey’s propagandistic attack on the government as exemplified by his second sentence. As he states, “One could have spoken ad infinitum about this government being authoritatively classified as an autocracy without ordinary people having had the opportunity to understand the actual implications of this condition for their daily lives.” Jeffrey continued with his use of the word “autocratic” to describe the PPP and President Ali, for he said, “In its amoral and foolhardy determination to dominate Guyana’s political space, the PPP has brought the autocratic reality into almost every home in Guyana… Only an autocratic regime such as the one at present headed by Dr. Ali would think it legitimate to frustrate and then totally

ditch these constitutional and legal requirements…”

The reader quickly realises that Jeffrey’s use of “autocratic,” is not only incendiary propaganda, but a pathetic misuse of the term to describe the Guyana government and Ali. One would expect the learned Dr. Jeffrey to know that at a minimum, an autocrat is an individual, or a small group of individuals who wields unlimited or absolute power, curtails civil liberties, and utilises political oppression to control citizens. Customarily backed by a military, paramilitary force, or oft-labelled “goon squad,” autocrats govern through intimidation, domination, and various forms of oppression.

As Guyanese of every political persuasion are aware, the PPP/C ascended into government through democratic and not fraudulent elections.

And, that Irfaan Ali regularly

engages citizens in a variety of local/national policy decisions. In addition, neither Ali, nor the PPP/C, has utilised a military, or paramilitary force to oppress the population, maintain power, or restrict civil liberties. Had they done so, Jeffrey would perhaps shiver at the thought of publicly attacking the government in his regular letters to the editor. Unless Jeffrey is suffering from a deficit in long-term memory, he should be able to vividly recall the period of PNC rule when Burnham declared, “Paramountcy of the Party,” a time when Captain Blood terrorised citizens, and House of Israel leader, Rabbi Washington - an American convict - and his group of thugs instilled fear in the minds of Guyanese, followed by the murder of Father Bernard Darke, and the assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney.

Was Guyana an autocratic

state then?

Let’s turn attention to Lincoln Lewis. In his letter titled, “Bharrat Jagdeo is out of order,” Lewis accuses the Vice President of “sowing seeds of discord in [Guyana] a nation striving to heal historical wounds from political conflicts…” Anyone familiar with Lewis’ letters to the editor would quickly realise that his statement is self-reflective, for, it is Lewis, and not Jagdeo who regularly “sow seeds of discord” between Afro and Indo Guyanese. I doubt whether Lewis is suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) which would explain his obliviousness to the fact that both Vice President Jagdeo and President Ali are the champion strivers for a humane, just, and unified Guyana, through their advocations of a One Guyana policies - policies that run counter to his (Lew-

is’) Afro-centric propagandistic inclinations.

From the foregoing, the reader can readily grasp the diatribe-laden propaganda campaign efforts to create discontent and disharmony among Guyanese. In times of dwindling political support, it is not unusual for opposition leaders and surrogates to heighten their propaganda campaigns in hope of accruing benefits for themselves and not the people. Knowing this, Guyanese of every persuasion should be alert.

Overlooked, or dismissed, the opposition’s diatribe-laden propaganda campaigns could be detrimental to Guyanese harmonious existence, the creation and solidification of a truly One Guyanese unity.

Regards, Narayan Persaud, PhD Professor Emeritus

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

Navalny’s death should galvanise us to save Assange

THE traffic death of Russian Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny reminds us of the dark mind of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Navalny represented a popular, electoral threat to Putin, and that explains his cruel treatment by Putin.

Could international society have saved Navalny? The answer is yes. But it didn’t. It must not let the same fate befall Julian Assange who like Navalny is in a prison a long time now and his alleged crime is based on political vendetta, as in the case of Navalny.

By the time Navalny lay dying in the inhumanly cold temperature of Siberia, the West has utilised all its opportunities of putting pressure on Russia to save Navalny. The West since the Russian invasion of Ukraine has utilised all its sanctions on Russia, so there was no room to negotiate for Navalny’s release.

One of the flawed approaches of the West to Russia is its relentless crusade against Russia long before Ukraine ever became the centre of global attention.

When Russia invented its COVID-19 vaccine, the US refused entry to anyone in the world that took a Sputnik vaccine.

This was just plain, spiteful politics.

The US leaned heavily on Germany not to pursue the Nord Stream pipeline with Russia. When you relentlessly harass a country like that, you lose any leeway with it because it thinks you are inflexibly hateful. Navalny was a victim of such Western myopia. His death is yet another indication that Putin is not going to allow a strong opposition in Russia.

Unfortunately, the Russian invasion has allowed Putin to salvage some credibility which was declining before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. What has happened is that many important and strategic countries in the Global South have viewed the Western response to the invasion as hypocritical.

The Global South have taken the position that invasion by any country must be condemned against the background of respect for international law; and the West cannot condemn Russia while there have been Western interventions in several Arab states. Western double standards in relation to genocide in Gaza have thrown a lifeline to Putin.

Few countries in the Global South will pay any attention to Navalny’s tragic death, because they will ask why one man is more important than more than 20, 000 Palestinian women and children. The people of the developing world will not give a moment of reflection to Navalny’s death because they will ask why his demise is more important that 30, 000 victims of genocide in Gaza. Navalny’s death then is so tragic, because his was made a victim of the hypocrisy inherent in the relations among states.

But while we must condemn Putin’s authoritarian mind for Navalny’s death, the West have another Navalny in their own prison. He is Julian Assange. All the western media predict that Trump will destroy the US if he gets back in power and that while in power he did incredibly undemocratic things, one of which was to incite insurrection against

the Biden victory.

Yet it is this same unhinged man who brought charges against Mr. Assange.

So how, on the one hand, we can condemn Trump for doing bad things but accept his imprisonment of Assange?

The Biden administration through the words of Secretary of State Blinken, in response to a release request from the current Australian Prime Minister, has justified the charges against Assange.

Mr. Assange has not taken any documents as an employee from the US Government. He was given documents by a US intelligence employee, Chelsea Manning, who was charged and pardoned by President Obama. Mr. Assange passed on the documents to the New York Times, Le Monde and the Guardian and they printed what Assange gave them.

Mr. Assange’s supporters argued that he is being crucified for his courageous journalism. There are serious

questions surrounding Mr. Assange’s health. A deteriorating situation is causing alarm and there is justified fear that he may die in prison.

How can we isolate the case of Navalny for special consideration and not put focus on Assange? Why is a Russian opposition leader’s death and detention more important than the fate of the imprisoned Assange? It is in these situations that people in the Third World question the West’s adherence to international law.

When Belarus intercepted a plane in international air space and forced it to land to arrest an anti-government journalist, the West sanctioned Belarus but Putin argued that the US did the identical thing when it intercepted a plane carrying the Ecuadorian president to arrest Assange, whom they thought was on the plane. Navalny’s death must be blamed on Putin.

Should we allow Assange to die when we can save him?

How Saint Lucia and Guyana share History and Politics 9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

ON the occasion of the 44th anniversary of Guyana’s conversion to a Republic and Saint Lucia’s 45th anniversary of constitutional independence, it’s appropriate to examine some of the many similarities and differences between the two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member-states.

Guyana and Saint Lucia are not alike, yet very much so...

One is a small island, the other sits big on a continental coast; one is a republic, the other isn’t; each took different paths to attain and consolidate their independence; both are members of CARICOM, but each share common goals on the global front, as fellow developing nations with shared colonial histories that differ only in time and place.

British Guiana and St. Lucia both elected ‘people’s parties’ after the rebellious working people across the then British West Indies were allowed to vote through ‘Adult Suffrage’ in 1955: St. Lucians elected the St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and British Guianese chose the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) – and both overwhelmingly.

The SLP and PPP won every general election under colonialism -- SLP from 1951 to 1964 and PPP from 1953 to 1964 – and as if joined at the hips in terms of experiences in office, both ruling parties were engineered out of office in the same way.

In 1964, the SLP lost when two independent candidates joined with two losing parties to establish the first United Workers Party (UWP) administration led by former SLP parliamentarian John Compton; that same year, the PPP also lost its long streak of election victories from 1953 through a similar unholy alliance between two opposition parties, the People’s National Congress (PNC) and the United Force (UF).

In both cases, the voters’ collective will, as expressed in the election results, were conspiratorially altered through a not-illegal marriage of political convenience between opposition parties that lost,

thereby saddling the voting majority with a government comprising candidates they had rejected at the polls.

In 1979, Saint Lucia became Independent and in 1980 Guyana became a republic. In both cases the then ruling parties (UWP and PNC), effectively using forms of constitutional change for advancement of electoral and gubernatorial longevity.

The unpopular UWP had used Saint Lucia’s independence as a hopeful election promise, but it backfired badly: independence came from Britain on February 22, 1979 and elections were called five months later on July 2, the SLP winning 12 of the 17 seats.

In Guyana, creation of the Co-operative Republic in 1980 was also shrouded in election cloth, with the introduction of Proportional Representation (PR) to replace the inherited ‘First-past-the-post’ system.

The SLP would remain in opposition for an accumulated 29 years (from 1964 to 1979 and 1983 to 1997) and the PPP only returned to office after 28 years (19641992).

The SLP’s 1997 victory was under the leadership of Dr Kenny D. Anthony, who returned home in 1996 from Guyana (where he served as CARICOM’s General Counsel), resulting in a historic 16-1 victory.

The SLP and UWP were in and out of office five times between 1997 and 2021, when the SLP again trounced the UWP with a 13-4 victory that increased to 15-2 after two independent winners (sidelined former UWP candidates and Cabinet Ministers) joined the government as Cabinet Ministers (but without joining the SLP).

The PPP/C too has been in and out of office since 1992, winning every election thereafter except in 2015. It won again in March 2020, when the PNC and its allies unashamedly tried to hijack the results and change the Guyanese voters’ mandate, leading to the PPP/C filing legal cases that ended up at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). Five months later in August, the

Chronicles of a Chronic Guyana Chronicler

By Earl Bousquet

PPP/C was declared the winner of the elections.

The SLP’s July 26, 2021 victory (14-3) completely upset the unexplained trend, whereby over four consecutive elections, each party returned to office with the same 11-6 margin: UWP in 2006, SLP in 2011, UWP in 2016 and SLP in 2021.

The PPP/C’s resounding 2020 victory led to it returning to office as an administration that would husband the nation’s new wealth and finances well enough to receive an even-more-resounding ‘yes’ mandate in the 2023 Local Government Elections.

The 2023 result was a positive midterm test for the Dr Irfaan Ali presidency and the rest of the administration which includes Prime Minister Brigadier-General (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who is also the PPP’s General Secretary.

The SLP crossed its mid-term mark on January 26, 2024, with the Philip J. Pierre administration silently boasting that it has restored people’s confidence in government’s ability to work in the people’s interest, if and when led by a party and leader preoccupied with the national interest that campaigned and contested on the theme of ‘Putting People First.’

PM Pierre – yet to be accused of corruption by any opponent in his three-

decades-long history as a consistently re-elected politician – also describes himself as a ‘Servant Leader.’

The PPP/C and SLP have each spent their respective periods in office since the last elections chalking-up positive results in Guyana and Saint Lucia. Each administration is working assiduously to change from bad pasts to better futures and each has received top billing from citizens increasingly willing to look beyond party colours and judge governments by what they do and deliver, instead of just what they say or promise.

Prime Minister Pierre and President Ali are leading people’s parties and governments and their respective delivery records match very well with the way each has restored national confidence in governance by delivering on election promises at every sitting of parliament since 2020 and 2021.

Meanwhile, if there was any doubt about the historicity of ties between Saint Lucia and Guyana, just consider that Saint Lucia’s Independence Day is February 22 and Guyana’s Republic Day is February 23.

Prime Minister Pierre will host President Ali as the featured guest for Saint Lucia’s independence observances this year, with the Guyanese leader set to address a joint sitting of the Saint Lucia Parliament on February 21.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

‘ONE GUYANA’ FPSO set to sail from Singapore to Guyana in 2025 THE ‘ONE GUYANA’ F l o a t i n g P ro d u c t i o n Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel is expected to leave Singapore for Guyana next year, according to ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge.

During a recent press conference at the company’s Kingston, Georgetown office, Routledge explained that the vessel, which is still under construction will set sail for Guyana’s shores around the end of the first quarter of 2025.

“The hull is fully con-

ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge The ‘ONE GUYANA’ FPSO while it was drydocked at Kappel Shipyard in Singapore structed. The first module has been lifted onto the topside, it comes out of the drydock, and now all the other modules that need to go onto the topside of the FPSO are being finalised and added on,” Routledge said.

The vessel, which is currently drydocked at the Keppel yard in Singapore, is a project within the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, operated by ExxonMobil. Its design is based on SBM Offshore’s industry leading Fast4Ward® programme that incorporates the company’s new build, multi-purpose floater hull combined with several standardised topsides modules.

The FPSO will be designed to produce 250,000 barrels of oil per day and will have associated gas treatment capacity of 450 million cubic feet per day and a water injection capacity of 300,000 barrels per day.

The FPSO will be spread moored in water depth of about 1,800 metres and will be able to store around two million barrels of crude oil.

ExxonMobil will take ownership of the FPSO upon completion. The vessel will be part of the Yellowtail development project, which includes six drill centres and up to

51 wells.

In March 2023, SBM hosted the Steel Strike Ceremony at Industrial Fabrications Incorporation (InFab) on the East Coast of Demerara, to signal the commencement of work by the companies—InFab, Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services Incorporated (GOGSSI) and Zeco Group of Services.

The estimated investment for the ‘ONE GUYANA’ FPSO vessel is reported to be approximately $10 billion.

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited continues to exceed expectations in oil production. With a current daily output of 645,000 barrels of oil, the company has surpassed its initial targets.

The operations are spread across three FPSO facilities – Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and Prosperity – all of which are operating beyond their nameplate capacities. The ‘ONE GUYANA’ vessel will bolster these production numbers.

The year-end goal is to reach a total cumulative output of 500 million barrels, marking a major milestone for Guyana since the start-up in the Stabroek Block five years ago.

Also on the front burner, ExxonMobil is gearing up this year for an am-

bitious exploration and appraisal campaign in the offshore Stabroek Block, with plans to drill at least seven wells this year.

Out of the $29 billion invested, the company has recouped approximately $19 billion, leaving an outstanding cost of $10 billion.

As cost recovery completes, Guyana’s share of revenues will increase from 14.5 per cent to nearly 52 per cent, significantly boosting the country’s income from its oil resources.

Since beginning operations in 2018, ExxonMobil and HESS have made a substantial investment in the country, with Routledge detailing the figures involved.

Under the terms of the Production Sharing Agreements with ExxonMobil Hess, Guyana receives a two per cent royalty on pre-cost revenues and 50 per cent of profits, with a 75 per cent cap on revenues used for cost recovery.

This arrangement has allowed Guyana to earn over US$1 billion so far.

While costs are still being recovered, Guyana’s government typically sees about 52 per cent of profits, equivalent to 14.5 per cent of total revenues.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

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National Children’s Mashram with spectacular cost

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THIS year’s National Children’s Mashramani Competition concluded on Saturday with a spectacular costume and float parade.

The competition which was organised by the Ministry of Education’s Unit of Allied Arts, on Friday, saw children from each Education District showcasing their talents in dance, masquerade, hip-hop, dramatic poetry, and calypso competitions, a press release from the ministry said, adding that due to the National Cultural Centre being booked for CARICOM’s 46th Conference of Heads of Government, it was relocated to the Theatre Guild and the Queen’s College auditorium.

The Calypso & Dramatic Poetry competition unfolded at the Theatre Guild, while the Dance, Masquerade, and HipHop competition occurred in the Queen’s College auditorium.

The vibrant energy filled both venues as learners from all age categories delivered outstanding performances. The audience cheered encouragingly for each performance.

According to the press, the results are as follows: DRAMATIC POETRY 8-10 age group 1. Wismar Hill Primary School 2. Bell West Primary School 3. Arapaima Primary School

3. McKenzie High School

CALYPSO COMPETITION 8-10 age group 1. Watooka Day Primary School 2. Santa Rosa Primary School 3. Winfer Garden Primary School

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

3. Mackenzie High School

MASQUERADE 8-10 age group 1. North Georgetown Primary School (this was the only entry in this category)

students paraded through the streets in their brightly coloured costumes.

As the bands made their way into the National Park, they put on their best performance for the panel of judges.

According to the release, the results are as follows:

11-13 age group 1. Graham’s Hall Primary 2. West Demerara Secondary School 3. Mackenzie Primary School

11-13 AGE GROUP 1. Ann’s Grove Primary School 2. North Georgetown Secondary School 3. Cottonfield Secondary School

14-18 AGE GROUP 1. President’s College 2. Marian Academy 3. New Silvercity Secondary School

14-18 age category 1. Lancaster Secondary School 2. Abram Zuil Secondary School 3. North Georgetown Secondary School

REGIONAL BANDS 1. Education Department Region Six – “Sustainability for our Nation’s Development through Education and Technology” 2. Education Department Region Ten – “PROSOEROLIZATION” 3. Education Department Region Four – “Sustaining Unity, Prosperity and Advancing Economic Development

GROUP DANCE 8-10 age group 1. West Field Prep 2. Belladrum Primary School 3. Fisher Primary School

HIP-HOP 11-13 age group 1. Corentyne Comprehensive Secondary School 2. Arakaka Primary School 3. Watooka Day Primary School

PRIMARY BANDS 1. St Margret’s Primary School – “Celebrating Our Progress and Prosperity” 2. Stella Maris Primary School – “Embracing Unity, Celebrating Mash as One Guyana”

14-18 AGE CATEGORY 1. The Bishop’s High School 2. New Silver City Secondary School 3. Corentyne Comprehensive Secondary School

SECONDARY BANDS 1. St Stanislaus College – “Melting Pot of Culture” 2. Richard Ishmael Secondary School – “Honouring Our Peoples” 3. Cummings Lodge Secondary School – “Celebrating Our Peoples and Our Prosperity”

11-13 AGE GROUP 1. Richard Ishmael Secondary School 2. Bartica Secondary School 3. Bell West Primary School 14-18 AGE GROUP 1. Friendship Secondary School 2. Three Miles Secondary School 3. Mackenzie High School

11-13 AGE GROUP 1. Christ Church Secondary School 2. Bell West Primary School 3. Belladrum Primary School

INDIVIDUAL DANCE 11-13 age group 1. North Georgetown Primary School 2. St Anthony’s Primary School 3. Latchmansingh Primary School

14-18 AGE GROUP 1. Charlestown Secondary School 2. West Demerara Secondary School

14-18 AGE GROUP 1. President’s College 2. Brickdam Secondary School

The release added that, on Saturday, the streets of Georgetown were transformed into a colourful display of creativity and culture as students from across the country joined in the Children’s Costume and Float parade.

This year, there were more than 20 bands competing in the various categories.

The event commenced at the Parade Ground and ended in the National Park.

Scores of spectators lined the streets as the

INDIVIDUAL BANDS 1. Samaya Denny – “Love for Guyana” (this was the only entry in this category) OTHER CHILDREN’S ORGANISATIONS 1. Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Hinterland Scholarship Division (this was the only entry in this category)

mani Competition culminates tume and float parade GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

Scenes from the Children’s Costume and Float parade which was held on Saturday (Ministry of Education photos)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

New chapter in connectivity, trade between Guyana and Dominican Republic begins –– as inaugural Sky High Dominicana flight touches down at CJIA

By Shamar Meusa

THE opportunities for connectivity and trade between Guyana and the Dominican Republic have now increased as the inaugural direct flight from Santo Domingo landed on Sunday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The airline which was founded in 2012 and has its hub in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is set to operate three flights weekly on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday and brings additional connec-

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, said that it was just the beginning.

He indicated that the government would like to see a lasting and fruitful relationship with the Dominican Republic with the possibility for growth and expansion.

He added, “When we decided as a government to grant approval for this airline to operate, it was after our consideration as it relates to its scope, where they are coming from and the possibilities that exist from that destination to Guyana and the connectivity it provides.”

Whenever new airlines come to Guyana, he said, they allow for great expansion and engagement.

He further said that the government was not just talking about building a strong tourism industry but was taking the right steps.

That he said brings more options to the market which makes life better and with the over 20 destinations the airline services.

Meanwhile, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra told those gathered that the dream of having a direct connection between Santo

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill (at centre) cut the ceremonial ribbon welcoming Sky High Dominicana Airlines to Guyana. He is flanked by the Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra (third from right) and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards (third from left) and other Airline and local officials

The Sky High Dominicana aircraft as it landed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Sunday (Shaniece Bamfield photos) tivity between Guyana, the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States.

Delivering remarks at a ceremony to mark the significance of the occasion,

Further to this, he said that the government was doing things in a coordinated way to open the country and boost trade, connectivity and tourism.

Domingo and Georgetown was long in the making.

He said that, not long ago, the exchange between the two countries was limited to minor business initia-

tives. The interactions were relatively limited.

“This direct flight is going to change the game completely. With this flight, citizens from all over the world will have the opportunity to engage, to connect, to develop synergies with Guyanese citizens at all levels,” he said.

Added to this, the ambassador noted that it will also allow business com-

munities from all over the world to realise the amazing opportunities that the Dominican Republic has been able to identify in Guyana as well.

He went on to note that they were certain that it was the start of a stable and productive route.

Further to this, the Commercial manager at Sky Cana, Victor Nina, expressed gratitude to President Dr

Irfaan Ali for his vision to improve connectivity between the two countries and opening new opportunities to share cultures and to embark on the commercial development of the two nations.

Since 2020, several other airlines have entered the Guyana market. The Government of Guyana is currently in talks with others which are interested in operating here.

Spousal support for men imminent

–– as gov’t moves to amend decades-old Matrimonial Causes Act – Nandlall

By Clestine Juan GOVERNMENT is poised to amend Guyana’s longstanding Matrimonial Causes Act, enabling former husbands to apply for maintenance or spousal support following divorce proceedings.

This development, traditionally exclusive to women under the nation’s longstanding alimony laws, was announced recently by Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, S.C., during his weekly programme, ‘Issues in the News.’

The planned amendment aims to eradicate

discriminatory clauses within the act, aligning it with constitutional rights.

This legislative revision follows a pivotal ruling by Chief Justice (AG) Roxane George-Wiltshire, who recently deemed Section 14 of the Matrimonial Causes Act, Chapter 45:02 discriminatory based on sex and gender, as it exclusively permitted wives to obtain maintenance post-divorce.

T h e c a s e e m e rg e d when a divorced man, represented by attorney Tamara Evelyn-Khan, contested the prevailing legal structure after being barred from seeking maintenance from his ex-wife.

The Chief Justice highlighted that the current stipulations of the Matrimonial Causes Act unjustly discriminated against men, contravening constitutional mandates against sex and gender-based discrimination.

In response, the Attorney General, a respondent in the case, acknowledged the act’s inconsistency with Article 149 of the Constitution, which safeguards against discrimination on various grounds, including sex and gender.

Minister Nandlall indicated that the government had already anticipated legal reform, signalling an intent to amend the law to

eliminate discriminatory language.

“The amendment has been drafted and will soon be presented to the National Assembly for approval,” Nandlall stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to legal equity.

The forthcoming amendments are expected to significantly influence future divorce proceedings in Guyana, promoting a fair approach to post-marital financial support.

Furthermore, this reform underscores the nation’s commitment to gender neutrality in legal rights and responsibilities,

mirroring the evolving societal values and the vital importance of upholding individual rights without gender bias.

By adjusting the Matrimonial Causes Act to adhere to the principles of equality and non-dis-

crimination, the National Assembly is set make a crucial advancement in the legal approach to marriage and divorce in Guyana, ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all individuals, irrespective of gender.

Forensic science laboratory gets nine new analysts

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

–– boost in state’s investigative, prosecutorial abilities expected

TO bolster the investigative capabilities of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Government of Guyana has appointed nine highly qualified forensic analysts to the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL).

This strategic move is expected to significantly improve the state’s investigative and prosecutorial abilities.

Science Officers: Joylyn Conway, Eric Grenion, Dawnel Monplaisir, Mauwaveau Solomon, Vishal Jaigobain, Uriv Mhashilkar, Rachna Chandela, Anurag Shrivastava and Lakshmikant Yadav were appointed as analysts effective February 5 by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn.

Last month, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, had announced that the government will be making substantial investments in forensic science and technological advancements to deal with increasingly sophisticated criminal activities.

In the 2024 budget, $250 million was specifically allocated to improve investigative and forensic capabilities.

This investment will facilitate training programmes both locally and regionally.

“We are investing in these programmes and policies right across the divide. We have recognised, like the rest

of the world, that we have to change our approach to investigation if we are going to succeed,” Nandlall said.

Reflecting on the evolving nature of crime, Nandlall remarked: “With the technological changes that are taking place across the globe, crime has not remained stagnant. The criminal has wised up. The criminal takes advantage of technological changes.”

A pivotal development in this initiative is the operationalisation of a DNA analysis workflow system, acquired in 2022.

This state-of-the-art technology has significantly bolstered forensic crime-fighting capabilities within the Guyana Police Force.

In 2023, the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) analysed a significant number of biology cases, involving over 900 DNA specimens.

Nandlall highlighted the importance of evolving law enforcement techniques in response to these changes, noting: “In the face of that, we can’t have the same type of approach to policing, which we may have 30 years ago. So, we are investing heavily in forensic science, in all forms.”

The GFSL’s performance in 2023 paints a picture of a robust and evolving forensic capability.

The laboratory performed analyses in 606 cases, involving over 9,000 pieces of individual evidence. These cases encompassed a wide range of substances and evidence types, marking a significant improvement from the 551 cases processed in 2022.

New to 2023 is the laboratory’s ability to identify corrosive substances and new psychoactive substances. This enhancement reflects the government’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving criminal methodologies.

DNA testing at the GFSL involves comparisons and matching of evidence to suspects, family testing (even when the suspect’s DNA is unavailable), and paternity testing. A wide range of samples, including cheek cells, hair, blood, and touch DNA, can be collected and submitted for testing.

The GFSL was established in 2014 and comprises four analytical departments (toxicology, documents, trace evidence, and Chemistry) and six non-analytical departments (security, quality system, information system, facilities operation, evidence, and administration).

The lab has also significantly upgraded its DNA testing capabilities. With newly improved instrumentation, the laboratory can

now test challenging samples such as bones, fingernail clippings, and liver tissue.

This advancement plays a crucial role in positive identification cases involving unknown remains.

Nandlall said the im-

plementation of these advanced technologies and training initiatives represent a holistic approach by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government to crime fighting in Guyana.

He pointed out that by

investing in state-of-theart forensic science and equipping law enforcement personnel with modern investigative techniques, the government is taking a proactive stance in ensuring public safety and security.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

STARR Computer revolutionises shopping with free electric vehicle charging

IN a groundbreaking move towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions, STARR Computer, under the guidance of its President, Mike Mohan, announced a bold initiative to offer free Electric Vehicle (EV) charging to its customers while they shop.

This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of carbon-neutral support services in Guyana, particularly in the face of the country’s significant involvement in oil exploration.

Mohan emphasised the urgent necessity for action, pointing out that in developed nations, fossil fuel transportation has now become the leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing power generation.

Acknowledging the crucial significance of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in addressing this environmental impact, the Government of Guyana has already taken steps to facilitate their adoption. These measures include granting 100 per cent duty and VAT exemption for

imported EVs and chargers, as well as providing 100 per cent tax write-offs for electric vehicles on annual tax returns.

However, the lack of infrastructure presents a considerable challenge to achieving widespread adoption of electric vehicles, despite the available incentives. Mohan classified this predicament as a “catch-22” scenario, wherein the lack of electric chargers deters the investment in electric vehicles, while the limited availability of electric vehicles

impedes the establishment of charging stations.

STARR Computer steps in to break this cycle by providing a universal charging solution for EVs, thus paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Furthermore, Mohan pointed out that STARR Computer is already demonstrating leadership by generating 50 per cent of its power through solar panels.

Through the dissemination of renewable energy to its customers, the company not only encourages energy efficiency and financial gains but also establishes a model for other enterprises

President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan

The STARR-LOOP EV charge station at the company’s Brickdam office to emulate.

A key aspect of STARR’s initiative revolves around the revival of monthly training seminars, designed to provide citizens from all walks of life with knowledge about the merits of clean energy and electric transportation.

Mohan underscores the fact that this not only generates job and growth prospects, but also cultivates a sustainable ethos for future generations.

STARR Computer aims to engage in a partnership with government and oth-

er stakeholders to enhance the pace of electric vehicle adoption.

Mohan suggests the incorporation of rapid electric charging facilities at each Guyoil Service Station, with payment alternatives (options) that may include mobile money or credit card transactions.

He concluded by asserting that the principles of energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, convenience, and carbon neutrality are embodied in the initiative of STARR Computer.

“Since STARR is a partner of a major International Manufacturer of Electric Chargers, if we get enough interest by government to accelerate our goal to enhance “Zero Carbon footprint”, maybe they will come on board to add Fast Electric Charging Station at every Guyoil Service Station to solve the long-distance driving concerns. Then to create a new business revenue model, we may be able to use MMG or a Credit Card to pay as you charge your vehicle, also through privately owned Service Stations,” Mohan explained. Alternatively, as the Gas-to-electric project reduces electric cost by up to 50 per cent, this capital investment becomes more sustainable and attractive.

EV consumers will also benefit from taking advantage of these government offers by investing in a consumer charging kit, connecting it to a solar installation, and harnessing free energy from the sun. Hence, he said the driving experience eventually becomes free to all EV users. “This is also a great opportunity for the business sector to reduce their transportation costs.”

Through the implementation of groundbreaking solutions and the promotion of sustainable practices, the company serves as a commendable role model for both businesses and individuals, propelling Guyana towards a more environmentally friendly and prosperous future.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 19, 2024

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

ENGLISH RACING TIPS LINGFIELD 09:17 hrs Hatadora 09:47 hrs McLean House 10:17 hrs Tribal Wisdom 10:47 hrs Ten O'Clock 11:17 hrs Sunset In Paris 11:47 hrs Stopnsearch 12:20 hrs Cracking Gold 12:50 hrs Thoughtful Gift CARLISLE 10:00 hrs Get A Superstar 10:30 hrs Jagwar 11:00 hrs Piston De Becon 11:30 hrs Kingston Rock 12:00 hrs Jet Legs 12:35 hrs Booster Bob 13:10 hrs Perculator W O LV E R H A M P TON 13:00 hrs Q Twenty Boy 13:30 hrs Arlecchono's Gift 14:00 hrs Dream Selection 14:30 hrs Lord Chamberlain 15:00 hrs Super Hit 15:30 hrs Harbour Vision 16:00 hrs North bound 16:30 hrs Astrophysics AMERICAN RACING TIPS MAHONING VALLEY Race 1 Here Comes Jig Race 2 Magestal Bastida Race 3 Tidal Waters Race 4 Malibu Classic Race 5 Khocpilot Race 6 Supply Chain

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

One Guyana Basketball League- Playoffs

Eagles soar over Bounty Colts to stay undefeated

EAGLES Basketball Club led by national player Travis Belgrave took first blood on Saturday in their best of three playoff Jaguars Conference Finals. Eagles who topped their conference at the end of the regular season have been flawless in the inaugural league.

In the ongoing playoff they have swept the University of Guyana Trojans in their 3-game series to face off with Bounty Colts in the Jaguar Conference Finals.

In the first match-up of the series on Saturday Eagles soared with a 73-64 win to go 1-up in the series.

It seemed like a two man contest for most of the contest as Eagles leading scorer Travis Belgrave showed no signs of letting up with a strong 30 points showing taking on fellow national player and Colts point guard Shelroy Thomas.

Colts’ Neetzekiel Yisrael about to take a free throw against Eagles and Colts players look on The first quarter saw the side evenly matched with a point separating the teams, 20-19 at the end of the quarter.

The second period before the break proved another ball game as Eagles stepped on the pedal outsourcing Colts 18-7 to lead

by 10 points 37-27 at the half.

A strong third quarter showing propelled by Colts young gun Carmelo Man-Soon-Hing

supported his skipper Shelroy Thomas with 9 points. Colt’s Thomas hit a game high 37 points in vain trying to pull back the game, as they out-scored Eagles 16-7 in the third to reduce the deficit to a point.

However, the Eagles, who also had solid contributions from Michael Richards and Sherland Gillis, stepped on the gas as they closed it out in the last quarter for the 9 points victory 73-64.

Meanwhile in the Harpy Eagles Conference Final between Dynas Ravens and Kwakwani Untouchables, the latter rebounded.

Untouchables after an average showing in the series opener where they went down 70-59 found another gear to keep their series alive with a 79-57point’s victory on Saturday.

They led all four quarters of play, in the first period they

led 16-7 before almost doubling the lead heading into the break 45-24.

Jamal Gilkes 18 points and Domair Gladstone 12 points were pivotal in their teams display as they pulled away further in their third 68-41 to dominate the contest.

Kwakwani won by 22 points to force a game 3 as both seek a berth in the Inaugural One Guyana Playoff Finals The finals will pit the winner of both the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conferences battling it out for top honours. The tournament which bounced off in august 2023 sees 2 million up for grabs with a million for the winner and half a million for second place.

The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, G-boat Guyana and the National Sport Commission.

Ben Stokes calls for ‘umpire’s call’ element of DRS system to be abolished

BEN Stokes wants umpire’s call in the decision review system to be abolished after being left “bemused” by Zak Crawley’s dismissal in England’s thumping defeat to India in Rajkot.

Crawley was given lbw after being rapped on the pads by Jasprit Bumrah just before tea on day four of the third Test and a review stayed with the umpire’s decision, leaving England 18 for two chasing 557.

But Stokes argued the ball-tracking image – which predicts what Bumrah’s de-

England captain Ben Stokes livery would have done had Stokes and Brendon Mcit not struck Crawley – was Cullum took up their grievshown to be missing, not ance with match referee Jeff clipping, leg stump.

Crowe at the conclusion of

England’s 434-run defeat and were informed the decision was correct, but the projection was incorrect.

While making clear the incident was not to blame for England going 2-1 down in the series, Stokes has called for more clear-cut implementation of the decision review system.

“I think when people are in charge of it says something has gone wrong that is enough in itself,” Stokes told talkSPORT. “You just want a level playing field. The umpires

have an incredibly hard job as it is, especially in India when the ball is spinning.

“My personal opinion is if the ball is hitting the stumps, it is hitting the stumps. They should take away umpire’s call, if I’m being perfectly honest.”

This is the second successive match in which Crawley has been dismissed in controversial circumstances after DRS surprisingly overturned the on-field ‘not out’ verdict in Visakhapatnam two weeks ago.

“We just wanted some

clarity around Zak’s DRS when the images came back,” Stokes told reporters.

“The ball is quite clearly missing the stump on the replay. So when it gets given umpire’s call and the ball’s not actually hitting the stumps, we were a bit bemused.

“I don’t want to get too much into it because i t s o u n d s l i k e w e a re moaning and saying that is why we lost the Test match.”(Sportsmax)

Curry wins unprecedented 3-point contest against Sabrina Ionescu

STEPHEN Curry and Sabrina Ionescu might have signed up for a win-win situation when they agreed to go head-to-head in an unprecedented 3-point shootout, but someone had to lose.

Curry made sure he came out with the victory on AllStar Saturday night, scoring 29 points.

Ionescu, 26, didn't want to shoot from the women’s 3-point line of 20 feet, 6 inches. Instead, she leveled the playing field and shot from the NBA line of 23 feet, 9 inches. Naturally, she did shoot a WNBA ball.

Fans were allowed to vote on who would shoot first, which resulted in Ionescu starting.

With five racks of five balls placed at different points around the 3-point line, she got hot

early. Four of the racks had four standard balls worth one point and one "money ball" worth two points. The fifth rack was filled with solely "money balls" placed to the preference of each competitor.

Ionescu made every shot from the first rack, ending with 26 points. That was tied for the highest score of the night until Curry took over. He came in clutch when it really mattered as he always does, thriving under pressure to make some crucial buckets on his last rack.

Ionescu looked like she was enjoying a stroll in the park when she arrived for the competition, making casual conversation as she walked through the tunnel. Curry, on the other hand, didn't hide his emotions before the contest.

"I'm so nervous, man," he told a reporter in the locker room as he prepared to change into his uniform. "The whole world is going to be watching."

While Ionescu issued the challenge, she did so after setting a record for both leagues with a whopping 37-point round in the 3-point contest during last summer's WNBA All-Star Weekend. The New York Liberty star missed only two shots in the historic performance, beating Curry's record of 31. He'd won the NBA's 3-point shooting competition twice in his career (2015, 2021).

Ionescu still holds the alltime mark, and she gave Curry a run for his money on Saturday.

Also Saturday, Damian Lillard represented the Milwaukee

Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu pose for a photo after their 3-point challenge during NBA All-Star festivities on Saturday in Indianapolis Bucks in the 3-point contest and won it all with a 26-point

final round. That was the same score it took for each of the

finalists to advance out of the first round.

Lillard became the first backto-back 3-point champion since Jason Kapono in 2007 and '08.

He's also the first Buck to win the contest since Ray Allen in 2001.

While fans will hope to see Lillard run it back next year, they can also potentially look forward to seeing Curry and Ionescu in action again.

“I know if I win, he’s going to want a rematch," Ionescu said in a news conference before the competition. "If he wins, I’m going to want a rematch.”

The Bay Area native would be an easy addition to the 2024 All-Star Game, as the events will be hosted by Curry's Golden State Warriors.

(Yahoo Sports)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

Jadeja fifer sets up India's biggest Test win by runs

ENGLAND's sweeping tendencies came up a cropper on the fourth day of Rajkot Test as they folded for 122 in chase of a mammoth 557. Ravindra Jadeja doubled up his first-innings century with a five-wicket haul in the fourth to pave the way for India's biggest Test win by runs - 434 runs.

Before India bamboozled England with the ball through spin, they spent nearly two sessions dazzling the visitors with the bat via Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan. On a placid surface, the pair smashed their way to personal milestones while India amassed a lead of 556 before Rohit Sharma decided to declare.

The day began with Shubman Gill setting sights on his second century of the series, only to fall nine short through a poor run out against the run of play.

Kuldeep Yadav looked solid for the 91 balls he faced but England dismissed both in the opening session in the hope of restricting India's lead.

The opposite transpired in the little more than a spell that

followed as Jaiswal walked out on 104 after retiring hurt with back spasm on Day 3. He showed no signs of carrying the injury as he arrived all guns blazing against the England spinners.

Sarfaraz too was aggressive, giving a small glimpse of the absolute mayhem that ensued in the post-Lunch session.

Jaiswal was audacious against the most experienced - hitting James Anderson for three successive sixes. England set up a seven-two field, packing the offside against the lefthander, but he walked across and slog swept the pacer behind square. He then danced down and smashed one over deep extra cover and capped off the incredible over with a big six down the ground. On the way to a stunning double century, Jaiswal equalled the record for the most sixes in an innings in Tests with Wasim Akram with 12. Jaiswal also became only the third batter after Vinod Kambli and Virat Kohli to score double tons in two successive Tests.

Sarfaraz also tonked his

Jadeja picked up his 13th fifer in Tests way to his second half-century of the game, with Joe Root and Tom Hartley bearing the brunt of his stroke-making. The pair whacked 116 off 16 overs in the second session before Rohit declared and asked England to chase 557.

An England team that has aced fourth-innings chases recently, were put through the

Yashasvi Jaiswal broke a slew of records with his second double century in the series

sword by India spinners, and they couldn't emerge unscathed.

Even as their missteps began with bad running, England were then consumed by their inability to sweep their way out of trouble against Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and R Ashwin, who was chartered in from Chennai just before the final session having temporarily left the squad on

Day 2 owing to a personal emergency.

England began the final session on 18 for 2 and were rocked very quickly by Jadeja, who got one ball outside the off-stump to grip and lured Ollie Pope into nicking one to Rohit Sharma at first slip. Jonny Bairstow's lean phase with the bat continued when he attempted and missed a

sweep shot to get trapped plumb in front off Jadeja, leaving England on 28 for 4.

Joe Root brought a lot of restraint to his game in this innings but he too fell for the sweep, becoming Jadeja's third victim.

The game swiftly moved away from England when Ben Stokes fell - also to the sweep - against Kuldeep Yadav, pushing the chasing side to 50 for 6. Rehan Ahmed then found the only deep fielder at long on while trying to hit his way out, leaving England on 50 for 7 and enroute to concede the fixture. Dhruv Jurel, who has had a fantastic Test behind the stumps, took a sharp catch to send Ben Foakes packing.

Tom Hartley arrived and threw his bat around briefly, before inside edging a tossed up delivery from Ashwin to walk off for 16. Mark Wood's entertaining 33 off just 15 balls dragged England past the 100run mark but that's as far as they got as Jadeja dismissed him to complete his fifer and India's victory. (Cricbuzz)

Mike Procter, South Africa cricket legend, dies at 77

FORMER South Africa all-rounder Mike Procter has died at age 77, his family has said.

Procter played seven Tests for South Africa before they were banned from international cricket in 1970 because of the country's apartheid government.

He spent 14 seasons with Gloucestershire and later coached South Africa on its international return.

His wife Maryna told South African website News24 he had suffered complications during surgery.

Gloucestershire said the club's flag would be lowered to half-mast until the start of the County Cham-

Mike Procter (left) and Barry Richards, both of whom had limited international careers because South Africa was banned between 1970 and 1991

pionship season on April 5.

"Mike was a fantastic player and quite rightly regarded as one of the best all-rounders that has ever represented Gloucestershire," former team-mate David Graveney said.

"I don't think people realised that, when Mike played, he was playing through great pain in his knee, but that didn't stop him from performing at the level he did.

"The phase 'Proctershire' was very apt for Mike. He put in the biggest performances in the biggest games."

Procter was on the winning side in six of the seven Tests he played - all against Australia - be-

tween 1967 and 1970 and took 41 wickets at an average of just 15.02 before his international career was cut short.

His reputation as a formidable fast bowler was well earned and in 401 first-class games from 1965 to 1988, he took 1,417 wickets at 19.53, with a further 344 wickets at 18.76 in List A cricket.

He won the Gillette Cup and the Benson and Hedges Cup in his time with Gloucestershire, captaining them to the latter, and in 2020 was voted the county's greatest overseas player.

Procter was Proteas coach from 1991 to 1994 and he led the side to the semi-finals of the 1992

World Cup. He later became an International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee.

He forfeited the Oval Test between England and Pakistan in 2006 when the away side refused to return after the tea break having been penalised for ball-tampering by the umpires.

Procter also banned India's Harbhajan Singh for three Tests in 2008 for allegedly racially abusing Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds. The ban was lifted soon afterwards when the charges were downgraded to the use of abusive language.(BBC Sport).

NBS second-division 40-over tournament

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER DCC to faceoff with MYO in Final

By Sean Devers

DCC and MYO took advantage of their home conditions to march into the finals of the GCA’s New Building Society (NBS) second-division 40-over competition with victories in their day/ night semi-finals over GCC and GDF respectively.

At MYO, the home team made 236 all out in 37.3 overs with five batters reaching the 20s without going on to substantial scores.

Vishwanauth Ramlakhan top scored and reached the boundary five times in 29

Ershad Ali took 4-24 to be named Man of the Match while Richard Latiff (27), Abdul Ramsammy (26), Andrew Lyght Jnr (23) and Sagar Heritaramani (20).

Delshawn McDonald took

4-61 while Joshua Jones had 3-44 for the GDF who were bowled out for 111 in 29.4 overs as only Leon Andrews, Rockael Reddy and Zameer Nazeer were the only batters to reach double figures with 17 each.

Ershad Ali made 13 and had 4-24 to take the Manof-the-Match award, while Ramsammy took 3-21.

At DCC, GCC on the back of Joshua Wade’s 51 with five fours and three sixes, 36 from Rivaldo Phillips, 33 from Stephon Wilson, 23 not out from Joash Charles and 20 from Deonarine Seegobin,

were dismissed for 212 in 29.3 overs.

Wavell Allen and Jonathon Vanlange had two wickets each for the DCC who reached 214-8 to win by two wickets.

Man-of-the-Match Inderjeet Nanan stroked 13 fours from 64 balls in his accomplished 81, while Nkosi Beaton made 61 with four fours and three sixes, before Daniel Mootoo unbeaten on 17 and Kareem Whitney made an unbeaten six saw their team to victory.

Thaddeus Lovell captured 5-45 while Wilson took 2-42 in a losing cause for the GCC.

(Monday February 19, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Romario Shepherd-4 wickets (2) Marcus Stoinis & Adam Zampa-5 wickets each Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI aggregated most runs in the recent T20 Int’l series against AUST? (2) Which Australian scored most runs in the series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

Top horses entered for Jumbo Jet’s Mashramani race

Seven of the country's leading imported horses will battle for the 'Mash' crown on Sunday next (February 25, 2024) at Rising Sun Turf Club, Rising Sun, Berbice.

This showpiece on the nine-race card will see the horses pass the finish twice in 1,600-metre event sponsored by Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee (JJTRC).

It is expected to bring down the curtain for patrons to play 'Mas' in what is billed as a very competitive race.

At entry stage which started last week Guyana Cup winner, Easy Time, and Sprint Classic winner, Spankhurst head the betting in the third race day of the new season.

However, recent importations, Phil In Echo owned

by Nand Persaud, and Stolen Money owned by Dennis Deoroop's family, along with

owner Deleep Esreepersaud's Bossalina, Slingerz Brazilian-bred El Tarzan, and Night Eyes Jessica's Pride round off the field.

This race is a handicap event, and Easy Time being the highest classified horse (B3) in the race, will shoulder the top handicap impost of 126 lbs.

This means that the other runners in the race will be carrying less weight than Easy Time. The next highest classified horses are El Tarzan (D Class) and Bossalina (D2).

Bossalina, who on New Year’s Day defeated Horse of the Year winner, Spankhurst in a very rough race is set to announce that run wasn't a fluke. Her connection is confident that success wasn't a fluke and will repeat the thrashing.

Meanwhile Deoroop revealed that Stolen Money ran

Top horses entered for next Sunday’s race grand in defeat in both his and New Year's Day came to weight."

Newcomer Phil In Echo starts and is a stronger horse quick for the grey. Deoroop advised that Stolen Mon- unraced in Guyana is relafor this event.

He explained that Stolen ey has settled and is better tively unknown but is a loveMoney did not get time to prepared for this race. He ly looker. He comes with a settle in, from his arrival warned, "He has an added big reputation from overseas. from Canada in December, advantage because Stolen He is one of the two runners as the races on Boxing Day Money's will carry a lighter in the race from over the

'bridge.' They are the horses that will be the 'bandleaders' for their hometown supporters on horse racing Mash celebration race day.

Victory for horses will create a 'road march' for their supporters to be dancing to, as the Sun sets on 'this side of the bridge' in the day's finale.

Either way it will be a 'Mash' on Sunday next. The card will highlight some possible future stars as several West Indian-bred threeyear-old will make their local debut on the card.

While the country's leading light, Rachel voted Champion Guyana-bred at last year's Horse of the Year Award ceremony is also entered to make her 2024 debut.

And several three-year-old Guyana-bred will also compete on the card.

Post time for the horse racing 'Jump Up' will be 12.30h.

Guyanese Narda Mohamed certified as USA Archery Instructor/Trainer [Georgetown, February 18, 2024] - ProArchers Guyana and the National Academy of Recreational and Developmental Arts (NARDA) proudly announce the certification of Ms. Narda Mohamed as a USA Archery Instructor/ Trainer.

In achieving this prestigious certification, Ms.

Narda Mohamed has demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill in the sport of archery. “USA Archery commends you on this great accomplishment and is proud to cheer you on as you continue to progress in the sport,” an email from USA Archery is quoted as stating.

With this certification,

Mohamed is now eligible to sanction and host Level 1 and Level 2 Instructor Certification Practical Courses. Her expertise and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of archery in Guyana and by extension, the region.

This achievement enables residents of Guyana

to now receive training locally from an internationally recognised Guyanese Archery Instructor, eliminating the need to seek training abroad or wait for an overseas trainer to offer local training sessions, here in Guyana.

"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Mohamed on this remark-

able achievement." said Mr. Anand Mangra, President of ProArchers Guyana. We recognise her commitment to excellence and applaud her significant accomplishment. "Her dedication to the sport and passion for teaching will undoubtedly inspire others and contribute to the advancement of archery in our beloved country."

For more information on how to register with ProArchers Guyana or to become a certified Instructor, contact 614-3646 or you may follow their Facebook Page- ProArchers Guyana.

National Academy of Recreational and Developmental Arts (NARDA) Tel # +592-614-3646, 629-3153

wicket with Saim who counted two fours and three sixes.

E a r l i e r, G l a d i a t o r s marched to 206 for five off their 20 overs after being sent in, Jason Roy top-scoring with 75 off 48 balls and Saud Shakeel belting 74 off 47 deliveries, the pair putting on 157 for the first wicket.

West Indies left-hander Sherfane Rutherford made a 13-ball 20 before holing out to short fine leg off seamer Salman Irshad (3-38) in the final over.

In Multan in the east, former West Indies captain Kieron Pollard was unable to rescue Karachi Kings as they

slumped to a 55-run defeat to Multan Sultans in the third game of the newly minted tournament.

Sent in, the home side rattled up 185 for two off their 20 overs with Reeza Hendricks top-scoring with 79 not out off 54 balls, in a 117-run second wicket partnership with David Malan (52).

Hendricks thumped seven fours and three sixes, going on to add a further 47 for the third wicket with Khushdil Shah (28 not out).

In reply, Kings slipped to 10 for two in the third over after seamer David Willey

(2-22) struck in successive deliveries before Shoaib Malik (53) and Shan Masood (30) propped up the innings in a 52-run, third wicket stand.

Shoaib, who struck five fours and two sixes, put on a further 37 for the fourth wicket with Mohammad Nawaz (7) before Kings lost five wickets for 14 runs in the space of 23 balls, to watch their run chase dissipate.

Pollard, entering at number six, struck an unbeaten 28 off 29 balls with four fours and a six but never really threatened.

Powell, Pollard taste defeat in Pakistan Super League

LAHORE, Pakistan, (CMC) – West Indies Twenty20 captain Rovman Powell sparkled, albeit very briefly, as his Peshawar Zalmi tasted defeat with a 16-run loss to Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League here Sunday.

In pursuit of 207 for victory at Gaddafi Stadium, the Darren Sammy-coached Zalmi fell short at 190 for six off their 20 overs, with captain Babar Azam lashing 68 off 42 deliveries and opening partner Saim Ayub hitting a 26-ball 42.

Powell, batting at number five, blasted a four and a

West Indies T20 captain Rovman Powell

six in a nine-ball 17 before edging behind off new-ball seamer Mohammad Amir in the penultimate over, after putting on 31 for the fifth

wicket with Dan Mousley (11).

Babar, who struck four fours and four sixes, posted 91 off 52 balls for the first

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, February 19, 2024

2024 Bounty Farm Handicap Squash Championships

Khalil, Ali and Rahaman dominate on final night

The outstanding performers show off their hardware on Saturday evening KHALIL, Ali and Rahaman were top performers on the final evening watched by the largest turnout of the six-night Championships. The vocal fans saw Jason-Ray

Khalil defeat the southpaw Alex Arjoon, Ryan Rahaman beat Lloyd Fung-A-Fat and Kaiden Alli get past Egan Bulkan on the final Evening of the 2024 Bounty Farm

Handicap Squash Championships which climaxed with riveting Squash on Saturday.

Results: Tehani Munroe defeated Kristian Viapree 8-15, 15-12, 15-14

Jibril Alli defeated Zion Hickerson 15-9, 11-15, 1512; Kaiden Alli defeated Egan Bulkan 8-15, 15-7, 15-7 Open: Miguel Wong defeated Malia Maikoo

Kaiden Alli is flanked by Ryan Rahaman (left) and Jason-Ray Khalil 15-14, 15-12; Alysa Xavier defeated Blake Edwards 15-11, 10-15, 15-11; Ryan Rahaman defeated Lloyd Fung-A-Fat 15-13, 15-8 Elite: Mary Fung-AFat defeated Jonathan

Antczak 15-12, 15-9; Peter de Groot defeated Steven Xavier 16-14, 13-15, 15-7; Jason-Ray Khalil defeated Alex Arjoon 159, 15-12 (Sean Devers)

ICC men’s T20 World Cup tickets on sale from Thursday ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Following the conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 public ticket ballot which closed on February 7, tickets with remaining allocations go on sale on Thursday, which marks 100 days to the start of the World Cup, from 10 am Antigua Standard Time.

The blockbuster Men’s T20 World Cup event will be held in the West Indies and USA from 1 to 29 June.

Tickets start at just US$6 and will be sold on a first come, first served basis at tickets.t20worldcup.com.

A variety of ticket options will be available and accessibly priced. Fans will be able to purchase tickets

to single or multiple matches, travel and hospitality packages and limited venue specific packages for matches at Caribbean venues (subject to availability).

Whether you are looking to attend a single thrilling match or immerse yourself in the excitement of multiple games, there is a ticket option for you.

There are four types of ticket categories that ensure fans can tailor their World Cup experience.

“The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to witness the world's greatest cricket superstars in action in some of the world’s most inviting Caribbean and US destinations,”

said Fawwaz Baksh, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Tournament Director.

“Tickets are going to go fast when general tickets go on sale, so if you want to be part of the action in person, we encourage all fans to secure their tickets as soon as they go on sale and be part of this historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup celebration.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

It promises to be out of this world.”

Start planning your ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 experience today and get ready to purchase your tickets from 22 February. For further ticketing information visit tickets.t20worldcup.com (CWI)

| MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2024