Gov’t will continue to invest in creating enabling environments for children’s ‘holistic’ development
— President Ali says, reaffirms Guyana’s commitment to Convention on the Rights of
‘A significant step forward’
— Figueira lauds progress made in Linden under PPP/C gov’t
GDF’s human assets being exposed to enormous opportunities
- President Ali
GECOM perturbed at Norton’s ‘mischievous’ statements about eligibility of voters
— urges political stakeholders to be responsible, cautious about what they say
the Child
President Ali joins children at the 35th Anniversary celebration of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, held at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade on Monday (Office of the President photos)
Gov’t will continue to invest in creating enabling environments for children’s ‘holistic’ development
— President Ali says, reaffirms Guyana’s commitment to
Convention on the Rights of the Child
By Shamar Meusa
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and noted that the government will continue to invest in building an environment through which the development of children can be completed in a holistic way.
Dr. Ali was at the time speaking at an event to mark the 35th Anniversary of the convention, where he noted that Guyana is pleased to join the United Nations family on marking the occasion.
“The Convention is a landmark treaty that enshrines the fundamental rights of every child. It stands as a legal framework for safeguarding children's rights to survival, protection, development and participation in society,” he said.
The President added that this convention also sets a benchmark with which parties can measure their commitments to providing safe nurturing environments for children.
He iterated that in Guyana, tremendous improvement has been seen in relation to the child's rights, considering the country is coming from an era where children did not have access to nursery and primary education and even healthcare.
Against this backdrop, Dr. Ali stated that the government, over the years, has invested heavily in creating infrastructure, building the environment through which the child's development can be completed holistically.
All of these facilities, he added, are part of the commitment to creating safe, family-oriented spaces.
In this regard, he indicated that this is why there
not yet been achieved as a global community. However, he added that there must be a way in which the world can commit to fulfilling this mandate.
must be investments in opportunities to build stronger families, as these will build stronger communities, and, by extension, a stronger country.
“These are all important aspects of what I think are key in developing the entire ecosystem surrounding the
rights of the child,” he said. Meanwhile, with emerging challenges, Dr. Ali said that there needs to be mature conversations globally to tackle these issues that go against children’s rights. With this he said there are many things in the existing framework that have
“On this 35th Anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Guyana reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles and rights enshrined in this landmark treaty,” he said.
Further to this, he indicated that in Guyana, there is much to celebrate as the country has enacted several pieces of legislation that push towards the goal of fulfilling the mandate of
the treaty.
Some of those he mentioned include the Domestic Violence Act, the Family Violence Act, the Protection of the Child Act, the Juvenile Justice Act and the Adoption Act among others. He used the opportunity to emphasise that Guyana is investing in children’s future.
Meanwhile, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud said that the Government of Guyana, as a signatory to this treaty, has undertaken significant strides to advance children's rights during the past three-
and-a-half decades through the enactment of legislation, policies and even the allocation of resources.
“We have made progress towards the realisation of children’s rights,” she said. She, too, noted that Guyana reaffirms the provisions and the principles of the convention, and commits to intensifying efforts to address challenges that hinder child rights and fostering a more inclusive and supporting environment that enables all children.
Dr. Persaud stated that the government will continue to strengthen legal, institutional and policy framework across all social sectors, and continue to prioritise the adequate allocation and effective use of resources to support initiatives that advance children’s rights.
The government, she said, will also continue to address critical issues impacting children, and ensure that children have access to diverse opportunities that foster growth and development among other things.
Children with President Ali and Minister Persaud at the Kingston Seawalls where a child rights event was being held on Monday
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
President Dr. Irfaan Ali interacting with children at an event to mark the occasion of the 35th Anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Office of the President photos)
Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud
ACP Calvin Brutus granted $10M bail following 201 additional charges
EMBATTLED Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) and attorney-at-law Calvin Brutus was granted bail totalling $10,050,000 on Monday. He faced 201 additional charges related to the offence of liability of an officer, marking the first prosecution of its kind in Guyana.
The matters were heard before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Since the charges were laid indictably, he was not required to plead.
These latest allegations add to the growing list of legal troubles facing the 44-year-old policeman.
During Monday’s proceedings, one of Brutus’s lawyers, Yoburn Allicock, requested that his client be released on selfbail. He reminded the court that Brutus had been granted $6.2 million bail last month and had already submitted the transport for his property to secure the bail amount.
The lawyer argued that the purpose of bail is not to punish the accused but to ensure their return to court for trial. Allicock emphasised that there is no indication his client intends to flee, especially since he has already surrendered his passport.
However, the prosecutor
strongly opposed the self-bail application, citing the numerous charges and the large sum of money involved. In the end, Magistrate Mc Gusty ordered Brutus to post bail of $50,000 for each of the 201 charges, amounting to a total of $10,050,000.
These 201 charges follow the 30 charges brought against him last month, which include money laundering, misconduct in public office, and larceny by a public officer.
Last month, Brutus, his wife, a police sergeant, and a businessman were brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where they faced
numerous charges related to serious financial crimes and other offences. The quartet was arraigned before Magistrate Mc Gusty on charges stemming from an investigation by the Special, Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) involving over $800M. In court, Brutus, who has 25 years of service in the police force, faced 30 charges, including money laundering, obtaining money by false pretence, misconduct in public office, liability of officials, and larceny by public official.
Brutus, along with his former driver, Police Sergeant Kevin George and businessman Asif Zafarally, 34, of Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara (EBD), is accused of obtaining money by false pretence. It is alleged that between June 29 and July 9, 2024, with intent to defraud, they conspired along with each other to uplift $93.6 million from the Guyana Police
Consumers’ Cooperative Society Limited (GPCCSL), for goods that were never delivered to the co-op society. They were each granted $500,000 bail for each of these two charges.
Sergeant George is a 31-year-old father of two and has served as a police officer for 13 years.
Brutus’s wife was charged separately with two counts of money laundering, involving $352 million held in her company’s account at Republic Bank. The allegations claimed that in December 2023, she acquired, possessed, or used $352,082,315 from her company’s bank account at Repub-
structure, and he allegedly took possession of the funds knowing that the repairs had not been completed and without justification.
lic Bank, knowing or having reasonable grounds to believe that the funds were wholly or partially derived, directly or indirectly, from the proceeds of a crime.
She was granted $1 million bail for these charges.
The two money-laundering charges against her husband involved $105 million related to payments he made for properties in Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD) and Alberttown, Georgetown. He was granted $500,000 bail for each charge.
Meanwhile, businessman Zafarally faced two counts of money laundering.
It is alleged that between July 10 and August 15, 2024, at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) at Providence, EBD, he possessed, acquired, and used $93.6 million from his company’s bank account, knowing or having reasonable grounds to believe that the funds were wholly or partially derived, directly or indirectly, from the proceeds of a crime.
Brutus was read four counts of misconduct in public office. One charge stated that on January 11, 2024, while serving as acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), he wilfully misconducted himself by instructing the Police Finance Officer to issue cheques totalling $13,670,204 from the Police Force Central Welfare Account at Republic Bank for goods that he knew were never supplied or delivered, without any justification.
Another charge claimed that Brutus directed an inspector from the Guyana Police Consumers’ Cooperative Society Limited (GPCCSL) to prepare and encash a cheque in her name for $60 million from GPCCSL’s current account at Republic Bank. This amount was intended for repairs and maintenance of police infra -
A further charge stated that he instructed the same Inspector to prepare and encash a cheque in her name for $20 million from GPCCSL’s current account at Republic Bank to purchase supplies for the Quarter Master Stores, despite knowing that the items were neither supplied nor delivered, and without any valid reason. The fourth charge alleged that Brutus caused the Police Finance Officer to submit 221 payment vouchers related to two companies registered in his wife’s name, which he failed to return to the Police Finance Office.
Brutus was granted bail in the amount of $300,000 for each of the four charges.
Additionally, Brutus faced two charges of larceny by a public officer, with allegations stating that between November 16 and November 29, 2023, at Police Headquarters, he stole $80 million belonging to the GPCCSL. He was granted $1 million bail for these charges. Furthermore, Brutus has been charged separately with 20 counts of liability of officials under the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act. The charges indicated that on various dates in 2023; while serving as acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), he facilitated the opportunity for his wife to defraud the State of some $3,999,840, through her businesses.
The senior policeman was granted $100,000 bail for each of the 20 charges.
The four accused, each represented by attorneys, were not required to plead to the indictable charges. Bail for Brutus was set at a total of $6.2 million, while his wife, Sergeant George, and businessman Zafarally were granted $1 million, $1 million, and $2 million bail, respectively. In view of the additional charges, Brutus’s total bail stands at $16, 250,000. All the accused are required to
Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty Asif Zafarally (NCN photo)
Assistant Commissioner of Police and Attorney-at-Law Calvin Brutus with two of his lawyers (Japhet Savory photo)
Adonika Aulder (Japhet Savory photo)
‘A significant step forward’ — Figueira lauds progress made in Linden under PPP/C gov’t
OPPOSITION Mem -
ber of Parliament (MP) Jermaine Figueira has applauded the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government for the transformative developments in Linden, including the allocation of over 600 house lots, and the pre-qualification of contractors for $7 billion worth of road projects.
“This $7 billion injec-
ACP Calvin...
From page 16
report to the police regularly and surrender their passports as part of their bail conditions, with the exception of Brutus’s wife, who is exempt because her pregnancy.
Regarding the disposing of the matters, the prosecutor informed the court on Monday that the charges will remain indictable, requiring a Paper Committal to determine whether there is sufficient evidence for the accused persons to be tried in the High Court by a judge and jury.
The businessman is being represented by attorneys Glen Hanoman and Everton Singh-Lammy. Brutus and his wife are being represented by a team of attorneys, including Earl Daniels, Eusi Anderson, Yuborn Allicock, Renea Marcus, Cassidé Nurse, and Dominick Bess, who all also appeared on Sergeant George’s behalf. The money-laundering charges against Zafarally have been transferred to the Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrates’ Courts for November 21, 2024.
The matters related to the charges read to the defendants last month will be called again on December 18, 2024, for statements. As for the additional charges, Brutus is scheduled to return to court on January 17, 2025. The charges relate to the alleged misappropriation of over $800 million during his tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) for administration.
Prosecutors allege that Brutus used his position to divert public funds into questionable projects, with a significant portion allegedly redirected for personal gain.
Investigations revealed that Brutus and Aulder allegedly acquired substantial funds through unlawful means, which they then attempted to disguise in multiple bank accounts.
Of this amount, $300 million is associated with properties and other assets belonging to Brutus and his wife. The remaining $500 million has been frozen in several bank accounts belonging to Brutus, his wife, their businesses, and their four-year-old son. Charges were recommended for the accused persons by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Brutus has maintained his innocence, asserting that the charges are fabricated.
He has maintained that the money in question represented his savings accumulated over the years, as well as wedding and holiday gifts from family and friends.
tion into our local economy will undoubtedly provide a major socio-economic boost for Lindeners and others across the region… This will create jobs, and foster collective regional development. I do not take credit for what the government is doing; I am simply happy it is being done for our people,” the outspoken Figueira said in a statement released on Sunday.
The $7 billion road project pre-qualification, led by Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, will enable local contractors to upgrade 165 roads across Region Ten (Upper Demerara- Upper Berbice).
Some of Figueira’s colleagues and members of his party have in the past accused the government of neglecting Linden and Region Ten which are considered opposition strongholds, and stymieing progress.
At the housing event,
which formed part of the Ministry of Housing and Water’s ‘Dream Realised’ initiative, 600 house lots were allocated to residents at the New Wismar Housing Development.
Figueira, present at both events, noted the importance of these efforts at improving the quality of life for Region Ten residents, which he said “represent a significant step forward in responsiveness by the government”.
Figueira, who engaged with hundreds of residents at the housing event, highlighted his advocacy for addressing housing concerns and land regularisation.
“I ensured that every concern raised by residents about house lots was brought to the attention of Minister Susan Rodrigues…I am pleased to report that she personally addressed each issue I presented, both in previous discussions and on the ground
underway,” Figueira said.
While welcoming the infrastructural developments, Figueira signalled the need for more expansive investments in Region Ten, particularly in industrial estates and port facilities.
“While I am pleased with the construction and upgrading of roads, I look forward to seeing broader and more sustained infrastructure investments that can catalyse the economic growth of our town and region,” he said.
during the event,” he said.
The MP also shared details of his proposal to develop a new 400-acre housing site to meet the growing demand for house lots in Linden.
He explained that Minister Rodrigues has since committed to assessing the area for its viability.
The parliamentarian also commended the government for its positive response to calls for the regularisation of squatting areas in the township.
“I spoke to President Ali directly, highlighting the need for regularising several squatting communities so residents could gain ownership of lands they have occupied for years. His words of commitment to getting it done were made to me, and the minister has confirmed that this process is already
He also called for greater urgency in completing delayed projects, including the Bayrock Synthetic Track, and the MSC Multipurpose Stadium.
“These projects have received more than enough monies in annual budgetary allocations since 2020, yet they continue to lag behind. Lindeners, and especially our athletes are eagerly awaiting access to these facilities to optimise their full potential,” Figueira said.
Despite political differences, Figueira acknowledged the government’s responsiveness to his advocacy efforts.
“I commend the minister for her responsiveness,” he said, referring to Minister Rodrigues’ swift action on housing issues.
Police Sergeant Kevin George (NCN photo)
Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal shares a light moment with an inspector of police while giving him the opportunity to pull his lot number for the New Wismar Housing Development
Opposition Parliamentarian Jermaine Figueira
A Significant Visit
THE state visit by Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, which begins today, is a significant milestone in India-Guyana relations and it has evoked excitement among Guyanese of all walks of life.
Of equal importance is its timing. This visit is happening as Guyana is experiencing explosive economic growth as it cements its place in the global energy sector as a key player.
The visit will be the final leg of an Africa-Caribbean outreach, which started off in Nigeria, fol-
lowed by a stop in Brazil.
An economic powerhouse, India is regarded as the world’s sixth fastest-growing economy and it has one of the highest GDP growth rates in the world. It has made a big name for itself in areas such as agriculture, tourism, pharmaceuticals and engineering.
With this visit to Guyana, it is anticipated that more than five decades of partnership in fields such as healthcare, connectivity, security/defence and renewable energy, will be strengthened. These are all areas that President,
Dr Irfaan Ali and his government have vowed to prioritise and develop.
Agreements that will be of great benefit to the Guyanese people are expected to be inked. Additionally, technology exchange, climate change, healthcare collaboration and other matters of mutual interest will be discussed by PM Modi and the Guyanese Head of State.
Through this visit, Guyana will also get an opportunity to tap into India’s success in creating Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), gain-
ing insightful knowledge into how to stimulate economic growth and diversification while promoting innovation and creativity and enhancing regional integration and global competitiveness.
Guyana can also learn about India’s success in converting raw food into value-added products through agro-processing and explore ways for us to replicate.
The Asian nation has also been able to create technological advances that have positioned it well, globally. This is another area that Guyana
can tap into as it eyes modernisation and an economically enriching existence for all citizens.
PM Modi’s address to the National Assembly of Guyana is also on the agenda along with him co-chairing the second India-CARICOM Summit. The latter holds enormous benefits for the CARICOM as PM Modi and Caribbean leaders will use the opportunity to strengthen historical connections and explore collaborative opportunities.
His planned visits to historical sites and engagements with the Indian
community and the Indian Diaspora in Guyana are also significant, given the shared history of enslaved labourers during British colonial rule and the two countries’ rich cultural link.
PM Modi’s visit here must not be taken lightly as it reflects an evolving narrative in international relations that all countries are intertwined, regardless of their global status and that collaboration, understanding and mutual growth are paramount to a more multipolar world order.
Political Loyalty and Accountability
Dear Editor,
MANY important lessons have emerged from the recent American election (11/6/2024). No longer is sectional interest an important determinant of voting behaviour; rather, ‘common sense’ issues that cut across boundaries of race, income groups, geography, gender; and social standing are what appeal to voters/ citizens.
For Americans, abstract political rhetoric, ideology, and ‘name calling’ are repulsive; what is critical are pocket-book issues (grocery prices, the gaso-
line price, housing costs, transport costs, jobs, and utility costs) as well as an open southern border that leads to an over spill of undocumented immigrants that wreak havoc in several American cities. In addition, Americans are pleased that social security and “Tip” income would not be taxed in the future.
Another powerful feature that emerges post-election is the significance of loyalty in party politics. Loyalty is an important force in the naming of President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet. For the position of attorney general, for example, Mr Trump
nominated Matt Gaetz, a loyalist, despite his having some ethical issues as a congressperson.
In Guyana, many observers believe that the PPP/C leadership appointed loyalists to Cabinet posts. While the appointees might be loyal to the party, they are also qualified to function in their respective portfolios. This issue of loyalty in politics goes back to the 1960s when Mr LFS Burnham responded to a question: “Do you expect me to hire people who will sabotage my government?”
Mr Balram Singh Rai, a powerful and loyal force (Deputy Chairman) of the
PPP was first expelled from the PPP because he accused the Jagans of tampering with the internal party election, and was subsequently removed as Home Affairs minister in June 1962.
The loyalty factor has become a persistent one in determining cabinet and other positions. The underlying assumption is that loyalty is the foundation upon which trust is being built, and this would ensure that government policies and programmes are not sabotaged. Herein lies a dilemma
When a loyalist runs afoul of the law or breaks basic ethical standards,
how does the leadership respond? Guyanese history has shown that in such situations ambivalence tends to prevail. When a top PPP/C loyalist, for example, was singled out for corruption, she was not relieved of her position but was transferred to another ministry. However, more evidence surfaced, and she was forced to step down.
There was the other case of a former PPP/C minister who was accused of sexual misconduct and when the evidence began to mount, combined with a public outcry, he had to step down. His case was dropped, but because of
his loyalty and hard work, he was assigned to do party work.
A comparable situation of ambivalence happened when a former APNU+AFC minister was accused of accepting illicit gifts (gold bands), but the leadership did not ask him to resign; rather, he continued in that position. And while in opposition he allegedly urined in an open public place. Despite that obscene act, and prior accusation of corruption, he was not admonished. In fact, he has risen to a top executive position in the
The three important flaws in Nigel Hughes’ answers
IN my article yesterday (Monday) I ended my presentation by making reference to the 15 answers, Nigel offered to the 15 questions, Dr. Randy Persaud put to him on three episodes between December 1018 and July 2020; the no-confidence vote, the governance of APNU+AFC and the March to July election atrocities.
I gave Nigel credit for being one of two persons who have made themselves available to debate controversial political and legal entanglements in which they have defined position and that they are not afraid to pontificate on. The other political actor is Vincent Alexander.
Space constraints will not allow for me to enumerate the fifteen questions and the fifteen answers. What I have done is to select the most important reactions by Nigel that I believe have critical importance in understanding the nature of adversarial politics in Guyana and how actors use their temperament to define political occur-
rences in Guyana.
My selections are Nigel’s take on the 33 versus 34 majority debacle in the no-confidence vote (NCV); attempts to rig the election of March 2020; and the mass retrenchment of sugar workers. In relation to the 33 versus 34. I quote Nigel: “The issue of 33 versus 32 (sic) was first raised by President Donald Ramotar when he solicited (sic) and received an opinion from Senior Counsel indicating that 33 was not the majority.
Upon demitting office, this opinion was left as part of the official record and my repetition of it was merely the repetition of an earlier opinion from President Ramotar’s presidential records.”
The focus is on the word, “repeat.” My contention was Nigel did not “repeat” the legal opinion Senior Counsel gave President Ramotar but promoted the pronouncement that 33 is not majority of 65 and submitted a case study on the island of Vanuatu. I quote Nigel again: “One of the unfortunate
consequences of the ruling of the CCJ is that in Guyana, a simple and absolute majority requires the same number of votes, 33 members of the National Assembly.”
The weakness in that argument lies in constitutional opaqueness. And there was a simple way out of that cloudiness. Since the constitution does not articulate what number constitutes an “absolute” majority, then the route to take was to adopt the traditional voting pattern of Parliament – a majority vote. From 2015 to 2020, the ANPU+AFC passed all of its budgets and Bills by a simple majority of 33 against the PPP’s 32.
The Chancellor of the Judiciary weakened the argument of 34 being an absolute majority
of 65 by her random selection of 34. Why 34 and not 38? Why 38 and not 40. Why is 34 an absolute majority in the House? By what reasoning 34 was chosen instead of 33?
Secondly, rigged election. I think Nigel is on shaky ground when he wrote: “Allegations regarding the 2020 elections remain highly contentious with both sides making claims of infractions.” I think this is not an accurate reflection of what happened. There were assertions and allegations. The assertions came from the PPP, whose statement of polls showed that it had won the contest. Allegations came from the losers who used allegations to cast aspersions on the integrity of the process. It is appropriate to re-
peat what the CARIOM recount team said in its final report. It described the allegations of APNU and the AFC as a fishing expedition. Nigel must have read the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the election. The conclusion would differ profoundly and formidably from his theory of mutual allegations.
Nigel is threading on dangerous ground in that given his theory of mutual allegations, then how can you ever have a scientifically definitive election result if you are willing to legitimize allegations of the loser? All the loser has to do is cry foul and you end up giving credibility to the mischief of the loser.
I disagree with Nigel when on the refusal to hold elections three
months after the NCV, Nigel wrote: “As a society, we must recognise the challenges of unprecedented legal issues.” There were no complex legal entanglements on the NCV. An NCV is a banal parliamentary procedure that is common throughout the world. The APNU+AFC created legal intricacies in order not to hold the election three months after and the CCJ untangled the knots to arrive at legal simplicities.
Thirdly, the sugar workers disaster. Space has run out. The issue was not the money-losing industry but the bullyism of the state refusing severance pay and refusing to offer abandoned sugar lands to the workers so they could live.
DISCLAIMER:
The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
From page 6
AFC. When Eusi Kwayana brought charges of corruption against the elder and another PNC minister Mr David Singh, the latter was found guilty but the elder was exonerated. He was a loyalist to the PNC and to its leader and was rewarded later with a hefty annual
pension ($20.6 million+ $3.1 million annually in benefits+two state vehicles+two first-class airfares annually). The pension was to cover the period, 1985 to 1992 when he served as prime minister but received remuneration as a President.,
Both the human rights group (GHRA) and the public accountability or-
ganisation (TIGI) launched a trenchant criticism against the pension and other benefits and asked the APNU+AFC government to withdraw the Pension Bill 2015.
TIGI said “It was the reckless and undemocratic policies pursued by the government of which Mr Green was prime minister that led to the destruction
of the economy and the plunging of the exchange rate.” (Stabroek News 11/21/2026). With reference to Mr David Singh, he was found guilty by the ombudsman and was removed as a minister but was rewarded instead with an ambassadorial position to China. The dilemma of leadership is clearly illustrated by these and other
cases.
A basic component of loyalty is trust, and when trust is solidified, this becomes an essential quality of good governance. Loyalty must exist in a symbiotic relationship with accountability. Historical experience has shown that the link between loyalty and accountability has been weak. Leaders
must therefore ensure that loyalty to policies and programmes be combined with accountability. In this way, leaders would become more decisive and less ambivalent over breaches committed by their colleagues/followers.
Sincerely Dr Tara Singh
GDF’s human assets being exposed to enormous opportunities - President Ali
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has said that as the transformation of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) continues, its human assets are being continuously exposed to tremendous opportunities that propels their personal growth and that of the country.
The Head of State made these remarks during a recent event where he addressed veterans and emphasised that a deliberate strategy had been crafted to move the GDF forward.
Dr Ali said that this
carefully crafted strategy is not only ensuring the sovereignty of the country but it is also ensuring that in the building out of the Guyana Defence Force the human assets remain the centre of investment.
He noted that this is why the human assets in the GDF today are exposed to historical opportunities for training and better working conditions, among other things.
“That is why our human assets in the Guyana Defence Force today are exposed to enormous opportuni -
ties, historical opportunities in international training, education, access to degree and post-graduate programmes, better working conditions, improved welfare…,” he said.
President Ali said that the investments in all of these areas are being made to ensure that officers not only look forward to a long and enjoyable time as veterans but also to ensure that they enjoy the dignity of that service and retire with dignity. This he said is what the government is in -
vesting in.
Earlier this year, President Ali announced that GDF would undergo a comprehensive restructuring to enhance its technological and strategic capabilities and build the human resource capacity there.
At that time, he stressed the necessity for reorientation and reorganisation within the force to adapt to modern demands.
Dr Ali said that with the types of assets that are being invested in, there will be a need for structural changes.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
SOCU head demands retraction, apology from ‘Big Smith’ over false sexual misconduct allegations
ATTORNEY Ron Motilall has issued a stern legal demand letter to journalist Leroy Smith, following the publication of an article on November 14, 2024, which he said made defamatory claims against Senior Superintendent of Police and head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Fazil Karimbaksh.
The letter said that the article, titled "Clarity to be Provided on Report into Sex Allegations Against SOCU Head", insinuated that Karimbaksh was under investigation for sexual misconduct, suggesting there was sufficient evidence to charge him under the Sexual Offences Act.
In a letter dated November 15, 2024 addressed to Smith, Motilall, who represents Karimbaksh, vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that they were entirely false and defamatory.
The lawyer highlighted that the publication implied that Karimbaksh was guilty of sexual misconduct, evading a lawful investigative process, and that the police official’s reputation had been seriously tarnished.
Motilall also pointed out that the article, published on Smith’s website, “Big Smith News Watch”, and his associated Facebook page, directly contradicted previous findings from the Police Service Commission (PSC).
On June 22, 2022, Motilall said that the Commission had determined there was insufficient evidence to pursue any disciplinary action against Karimbaksh regarding the matter in question.
The lawyer enclosed official correspondence from the PSC, confirming this decision.
According to Motilall, the defamatory remarks have had a significant impact on Karimbaksh’s professional standing, damaging both his reputation, and that of SOCU, which he heads.
The letter emphasised that such allegations have exposed Karimbaksh to public ridicule and have undermined the public’s perception of his integrity as a high-ranking police officer.
Motilall demanded that Smith immediately issue a full retraction and apology, approved by his client, to rectify the harm caused by the misleading and defamatory statements.
Should Smith fail to comply, Motilall warned
conduct within the unit.
Meanwhile, in his defamation lawsuit against Smith, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, represented by attorneys Sanjeev Datadin, Khalif Gobin, and Mohanie Anganoo, is seeking damages exceeding $5 million.
The claim arises from alleged libel contained in an article published on Big Smith News Watch on October 14, 2024, as well as posts on Smith's Facebook pages and WhatsApp.
The lawyers said that the article contained se-
rious allegations against Minister Persaud, claiming he was among of group of persons involved in a plot against high-ranking police officials, including Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus and Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken.
that legal action would be pursued to recover damages for the reputational harm caused to his client.
Last month, Karimbaksh filed a multi-million-dollar defamation lawsuit against Smith, seeking damages of in excess of $600 million.
The lawsuit, filed at the High Court in Demerara, accused Smith of publishing a series of defamatory statements across multiple online platforms, aimed at tarnishing Karimbaksh’s reputation.
The lawsuit claimed that between September and October 2024, Smith, who operates the widely-followed Online news platform, Big Smith News Watch, the associated Facebook page, made several allegations against Karimbaksh, questioning his leadership of SOCU and alleging unethical
Head of SOCU, Senior Superintendent of Police Fazil Karimbaksh
Journalist, Leroy Smith
Ituni road network to change from sand to concrete
THE Ituni road network in Region Ten will undergo a significant transformation, with its sand roads being upgraded to rigid concrete pavement and benefitting thousands of commuters.
Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill has revealed that the project will be executed under the ministry’s miscellaneous roads programme, and small contractors will complete the works.
During a pre-qualification exercise in the community on Friday, the minister stressed the importance of transparency and equitable distribution of contracts.
The pre-qualification list will be rigorously vetted to ensure fairness, preventing multiple contracts from being awarded to the same individuals.
Successful contractors will be invited to sign their contracts when approved, with work expected to commence promptly.
“You have seven days before the contract is signed to commence work, and we would like all the work to be completed by December 20,” the minister pointed out.
The ministry is prepared to provide a mobilisation advance after contracts are awarded to ensure contractors do not face the full financial burden of executing these works.
Contractors can select 30 per cent of the contract sum in advance with a bond from an insurance company or bank guarantee, or 10 per cent without a bond, with continuous payments as work progresses.
To further facilitate the project, Minister Edghill proposed a computerised 60-tonne concrete plant to be positioned in Ituni, ensuring compliance with the ministry’s 4,400 pounds per square inch (PSI) standard.
Residents will help to identify a suitable location for the plant. The use of ransom-mixed concrete is strictly prohibited.
Identified roads to be
upgraded include Magellan Avenue Road, at an estimated cost of $100 million. This thoroughfare will be divided into lots, with about four contractors to execute the work.
Sports Club Road, spanning another 380 metres at a cost of about $66 million, will require another four contractors.
The continuation of internal roads in Ituni is expected to cost an added $33 million, and will be divided into lots, allowing two contractors to execute works.
Similarly, the continuation of Black Bush Road, spanning some 160 metres at an expected cost of $30M will also require at least two contractors to execute the works.
Back Street Oval Road and Primary School Road will be upgraded from laterite to rigid pavement concrete with both projects expected to cost $80 million.
This transformative project aligns with the government’s nationwide infrastructure development strategy to improve accessibility, enhance commuter safety, and foster economic growth.
(DPI)
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill during the community engagement in Ituni on Friday
Small contractors from Ituni prequalifying to construct concrete roads in Ituni, Region Ten
Residents of Ituni during the community engagement on Friday
Government, Bar Association agree on consultation timeframe for legal sector bills
…AG calls for calls mandatory continuing legal education to address complaints against lawyers
IN a bid to foster closer collaboration with the legal community, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, has reached an agreement with the Bar Association of Guyana to set a clear timeline for consultations on key legal sector bills.
Nandlall made the disclosure last week during his weekly programme, ‘Issues in the News’, following a recent meeting with the executive body of the Bar Association, during which several fundamental issues of mutual importance were discussed. Among the key outcomes was the consensus on a consultation period of four to six weeks for significant legal sector legislation.
“We already consult on a regular basis, but what the Bar Association was asking for is if we can have a defined limit in terms of the period for the consultation,” Nandlall explained. “They say that sometimes they do not get sufficient time to do the review of the bills and discuss.”
According to him, the agreed timeframe is expected to enhance the efficacy of the consultation process by allowing the Bar Association adequate time to review draft legislation, provide feedback, and engage in meaningful discussions with the government.
The Attorney-General emphasised the importance of engaging with the Bar As-
sociation as a key stakeholder in the legislative process. “So, we agreed on a timeframe. We welcome consultations on important Bills. And the Bar is an important stakeholder, in particular in respect of Bills. Every opportunity we get as a government, we would like to engage the Bar…” This structured consultation framework is anticipated to ensure that proposed laws benefit from the expertise and perspectives of the legal community. Such collaboration, Nandlall noted, aligns with the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and the development of well-informed legislation. The Bar Association has long participated in the
consultation process.
CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION
Nandlall also indicated his intention to discuss the need for continuing legal education with the Bar Association. This, he explained, is in response to numerous complaints he has received about lawyers, underscoring the importance of ongoing professional development to uphold standards within the legal profession. “We have a serious problem in Guyana. Almost everyday persons call me from in Guyana and from overseas to complain about lawyers’ conduct. I get complaints on a regular basis and I have to engaged the
Bar Association on them,” he said.
Nandlall acknowledged that while he frequently receives numerous complaints about lawyers, his role is limited. The attorney general clarified that he does not have any supervisory or disciplinary authority over lawyers in Guyana, as such powers are vested in the disciplinary committee established under the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Act.
The Legal Practitioners Committee (LPC) was established under the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Act and is a body in charge of hearing and determining complaints made against attorneys-at-law. Members of the public who want to lodge complaints against practicing members of the Bar can do so with the LPC at the Court of Appeal’s Registry.
This committee, which is presided over by lawyers, handles complaints and takes
action when necessary. “Outside of occasionally calling lawyers for updates, I really can’t do much when people lodge these complaints,” Nandlall explained.
To address these concerns, Nandlall proposed introducing mandatory continuing legal education as a proactive solution. He noted that such requirements are already a standard practice in other professions and in the legal sectors of various countries. This, he suggested, could enhance accountability and maintain high professional standards within the legal community.
“I believe the time is ripe now in Guyana for us to consider that as a serious option. In any event, we are passing too many important laws not to have continuing education. And the government is prepared to partner with any profession, in particular the legal profession, in ensuring that there is continuing legal
education.
“I believe it will help to raise the standards of the profession. Lawyers are expected to always continue reading because that is the nature of the profession. You have to keep reading. The law changes with alarming frequency and if you don’t read and you are not adept and up to date, then you will be left behind and the law will move ahead,” he said.
The Bar Association of Guyana is the recognised body representing the interests of attorneys-at-law in Guyana. Membership is voluntary and comprises attorneys-at-law admitted to practice law in Guyana. The Bar Association is governed by a 12-member Bar Council, elected annually, comprising of a president, two vice-presidents, secretary, assistant secretary and treasurer being the executive and six council members.
Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, SC
President of the Bar Association of Guyana Attorney-at-Law Kamal Ramkarran
Bureau of Statistics conducting Labour Force Survey
THE Bureau of Statistics has recommenced the Guyana Labour Force Survey (GLFS), a quarterly household survey which provides key insights into the country’s labour market, including employment, unemployment and underemployment.
According to a press release, this sample survey is conducted in all regions of Guyana among persons 15 years old and over, regardless of employment status.
Areas covered in the survey include household composition and demographic characteristics, internal migration, education, vocational and professional training, job search and availability to work, income from main job/
business and hours of work.
The bureau said that enumerators equipped with an official badge from the Bureau of Statistics as well as a tablet computer, will visit households to record the data using questionnaires that are on the device.
The release said that there are two types of questionnaires which will be used: household and individual. The household questionnaire will be administered to one person to capture data at the household level, while the individual questionnaire will be administered to each individual 15 years and older within the household. Each individual’s interview will last approximately 20-30 minutes.
The household questionnaire applies to all persons regardless of their age and
institution?”
Questions each individual 15 years or older will be asked include: “In the last seven days, did you do any work for a wage, salary, tips or any other pay, even if only for one hour?”, “What steps did you mainly take to seek work in the last 30 days?”, and “If an opportunity to work for pay or to start a business became available, could you have started or start working?”
“The Bureau of Statistics urges all selected households to participate, as their input is crucial to developing a comprehensive understanding of labour trends and challenges. Please co-operate with our enumerators and answer every question truthfully and to the best of your ability.
questions include: “In which country were you born?”, “How many years have you been residing in Guyana on a continuous basis?”, “What is the highest level of education that you have attained?”, and “Are you now enrolled in a school or in an educational
According to the bureau, this survey will provide national-level labour force indicators which will be used by the government to identify the challenges that Guyana faces in the area of employment promotion and to develop, manage, and evaluate labour-market policies and programmes which support economic growth, training opportunities and job creation.
“We also take this opportunity to remind the public that staff of the Bureau of Statistics are bound by the Statistics Act, to ensure the confidentiality of all information collected and severe penalties are in place for breaches of confidentiality. NO information which identifies you, your household or your individual responses will be made public or provided to any other agency. All data collected and analysed will be provided to the public in aggregated/summarised format,” the release added.
An enumerator uses a tablet computer to collect information for the Labour Force Survey
GECOM perturbed at Norton’s ‘mischievous’ statements about eligibility of voters
— urges political stakeholders to be responsible, cautious about what they say
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Monday said it has noted with much concern an article titled, “PNCR polling agents will block foreigners from voting – Norton” published by the Demerara Waves on November 17, 2024.
The article explained that Leader of the main opposition, People’s National Congress Reform, Mr Aubrey Norton was addressing a public meeting at Calcutta, Mahaicony, when he reportedly stated that “opposition polling agents would be on the lookout for foreigners who are clearly not connected to Guyana.”
In a press statement, GECOM said that given the statements attributed to Norton, it is absolutely necessary to clarify that in order for any name to be listed on the Official List of Electors (OLE), persons must satisfy the eligibility criteria for registration as stipulated in
the National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08.
“The law provides for a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalisation/registration or a citizen of a Commonwealth country living in Guyana one year or more to be eligible for registration.
“As such, once a person has satisfied those requirements and have provided authentic supporting documentation, they are registered in accordance with the legal provisions,” GECOM explained.
It further pointed out that it is important to note that
scrutineers from the PNCR are permanently present at all GECOM’s Registration Offices countrywide and are actively involved in the registration process, including the signing off on the accuracy of applications for registration transactions.
“Further, Mr Norton also posited that a means of identifying ‘foreigners’ would be when eligible electors are unable to speak proper English.
“In fact, it must be clarified that Section 72 (10) of the Representation of the People Act, Chapter 1:03 makes provision for this category of voters at the place of poll. Specifically, the law stipulates that, ‘whenever in the opinion of the presiding officer an elector does not understand the language spoken to him, he may appoint and swear, in Form 20, an interpreter; and the interpreter, so sworn, shall be the means of communication between the presiding officer and the
WTC Georgetown to host ‘Banking Made Easier’ conference
THE World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) is set to host a landmark conference on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Exhibition Centre, Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
Themed ‘Banking Made Easier’, the event, sponsored by Demerara Bank Limited (DBL), will focus on transformative developments in domestic and international banking.
Amid global shifts in business, advancements in banking technology, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and increasing demand for accessible financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the conference promises to be a timely and insightful gathering.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh will deliver the opening address. Other notable speakers include: Mr. Robin van Puyenbroek,
elector with regard to all matters required to enable the elector to vote.’
“Against this backdrop, GECOM as the constitutional agency that is responsible for the conduct of elections in Guyana is perturbed at Mr Norton’s mischievous statements that can potentially cause fear and harm to eligible voters exercising their constitutional right on Elections Day,” the statement said.
GECOM used the opportunity to emphasise that it manages elections and that political party agents have no authority to determine who votes or not.
“Once a person’s name is in the OLE, it means that all the necessary legal and administrative scrutiny were [sic] done and he/she is qualified to be so listed.
“In view of the foregoing, it must be emphasised that an election official or security personnel can be prosecuted
for committing election offences such as deliberately obstructing or interfering with the work of an Election Officer and intimidating eligible electors.
“Consequently, the Guyana Elections Commission is urging political stakeholders to be responsible and cautious about their comments in the public domain, as these can potentially have effects on the electoral process and severe consequences.”
Executive Director-Business Development, World Trade Centers Association, and Co-Chair of the US EXIM Bank’s Advisory Council on Small Business; Dr. Gobind Ganga, Governor of the Central Bank of Guyana; Komal Samaroo, Chairman of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL); and Mr. Dowlat Parbhu, CEO of Demerara Bank Limited (DBL).
The conference will feature discussions on a range of critical topics shaping the future of banking in Guyana and its relationship to the global financial sector, including: Access to trade and business financing; Banking regulations and the anti-mon-
ey laundering landscape in Guyana; Correspondent banking challenges and solutions; Banking instruments for diaspora communities; Enhancements in international payment systems and money transfers; Demerara Bank’s innovative technological initiatives to improve accessibility and efficiency in: Lending, Deposit accounts, Online banking, Visa products, International payment instruments, and Digital banking for the diaspora.
The one-day conference is open to individuals and organisations at a registration cost of $20,000 per person or $160,000 for a table of 10. Registration can be completed via the World Trade Centre Georgetown Facebook page or by calling +592-712-3093.
The event aims to bring together industry leaders, financial experts, and business stakeholders to explore actionable strategies and cutting-edge technologies driving innovation in the banking sector.
COP29: New FAO analysis maps Nationally Determined
Contributions, identifies opportunities, gaps and risks related to agrifood climate solutions
A NEW analysis from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) finds that almost all countries identify agrifood systems as a priority for climate change adaptation (94 per cent) and mitigation (91 per cent) in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This highlights the tremendous potential of agrifood systems as climate solutions, especially as countries prepare to submit their third round of NDCs in 2025.
NDCs are national climate action plans and the primary tool for achieving the Paris Agreement's goals. The FAO Agrifood Systems in Nationally Determined Contributions: Global Analysis sends an urgent message for policymakers: if we are to address the climate crisis and deliver on the Paris Agreement, agrifood solutions must be at the fore.
In this regard, the Global Analysis provides valuable data to help countries enhance these plans, particularly by addressing gaps in mitigation, adaptation, and climate finance within agrifood systems. It offers an overview of the major climate-related risks and greenhouse gas hotspots in this sector and synthesises key adaptation and mitigation strategies.
KEY FINDINGS AND GAPS
The study reveals that food insecurity and biodiversity loss are the most frequently reported climate-related risks, featuring in 88 per cent of NDCs. These risks that threaten to undermine hard-earned sustainable development gains are particularly severe in sub-Saharan Africa, where climate change is increasing hunger and poverty.
Around two-thirds of all countries report climate-related impacts and risks for crop-based systems in their NDCs, while around one-half do for livestock, forest, and ocean and coastal-based fisheries and aquaculture systems. Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and low-income countries (LICs) report climate-related risks at a higher rate than the global average, especially risks to agrifood systems and food security; livelihoods, poverty and inequality.
The analysis also shows that inequalities within agrifood systems remain a significant barrier in NDCs. Addressing poverty and inequality is increasingly recognised as essential for adaptation and fair transitions, but only a fraction of NDCs target the specific vulnerabilities, risks and capacities of different segments of the agrifood population. Without greater attention to these socioeconomic gaps, agrifood systems risk leaving the most marginalised groups
even more exposed to the impacts of climate change.
Similarly, mitigation gaps in agrifood systems are significant. While agriculture and food systems are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, current NDCs address only around 40 per cent of these emissions. This leaves the potential for doubling ambition in future NDCs and action. Livestock emissions are particularly neglected, with 66 per cent unaddressed, and pre- and post-production emissions fare even worse, with an 82 per cent gap. Without closing these gaps, achieving global temperature targets will be nearly impossible. Even if fossil-fuel emissions were eliminated, unaddressed agrifood emissions would make it almost impossible to limit warming to 1.5°C, with even 2°C a daunting challenge.
Adaptation planning efforts also fall short. While agrifood adaptation measures in NDCs
are relatively comprehensive, their effectiveness is uncertain due to lack of clarity regarding feasibility, and robustness. Without more coordinated and effective planning and investment, adaptation efforts will struggle to keep pace with escalating climate risks.
COST OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN AGRIFOOD SYSTEMS AND CLIMATE-FINANCING NEEDS
The study shows that there is also an immense financial cost associated with decades of relative climate inaction in agrifood systems.
Agriculture bears the brunt of climate-related disasters, suffering hundreds of billions of dollars in losses annually ‒ equivalent to five per cent of global agricultural GDP over the past 30 years. Between 2007 and 2022, agriculture accounted for 23 per cent of total disaster-related losses, with droughts responsible for over 65 per cent.
TUNITIES – THE WAY FORWARD
The recent Global Stocktake made it clear that despite current NDC pledges, the world is far from achieving the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.
Agrifood systems are vital for food security, livelihoods, and economies, but remain uniquely vulnerable to climate change.
Despite the challenges, agrifood systems offer tremendous potential. This is reflected in the current NDCs of nearly every country, as the study shows.
The scale of the climate-finance gap further highlights the challenges ahead. Transforming agrifood systems to withstand climate pressures will require USD 1.15 trillion annually until 2030, but current funding averages only USD 28.5 billion annually. To bridge this gap would require a massive 40-fold increase in agrifood-system investments per year until 2030, according to a study cited by the Global Analysis.
While countries recognise the need to scale up funding for agrifood systems, current estimates in NDCs still cover only one-sixth of the required finance, meaning a critical opportunity to mobilise resources for developing countries and implement actionable investment plans could be missed. The good news is that with a deadline of early 2025 to submit updated NDCs, countries still have a small window to increase their ambitions in this regard.
AGRIFOOD OPPOR-
When thoughtfully crafted, agrifood climate actions ripple outward, delivering co-benefits across the Sustainable Development Goals— lifting people from poverty (SDG 1), ending hunger (SDG 2), and safeguarding biodiversity (SDG 15). A third of NDCs already explicitly connect agrifood solutions to broader development goals – by aligning agrifood priorities in NDCs with other climate and biodiversity plans, multilateral environmental agreements, food systems transformation pathways, and other similar development pathways, there are unique opportunities for transformational change.
Bold, data-driven plans and adequate funding are essential to unlock the potential of agrifood systems. As outlined in the study, countries must bridge the gaps—in emissions, equity, and finance—not only to protect these systems but also to realise their potential as a cornerstone of climate resilience, mitigation and sustainable development. (FAO)
Climate change negatively impacts crop yields and food security by increasing the frequency of extreme weather events that damage crops and shifting climate patterns that affect growing seasons and water availability
Xi embarks on Latin America trip to champion cooperation, multilateralism
CHINESE President Xi Jinping is embarking on a journey Wednesday to Latin America, where he will attend the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, capital of Peru, and the 19th G20 Summit in Brazil's Rio de Janeiro, and pay state visits to the two countries.
As he travels halfway around the globe, the world is witnessing a host of unprecedented and intertwined chaos and challenges: Lackluster economic growth, rising trade protectionism, and protracted regional conflicts. These pressing crises are demanding global unity, resolve, and, most of all, effective actions.
Xi's visit is expected to boost China's efforts with Latin American nations to build a community with a shared future, bolster cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, and renew the world's commitment to improving global governance for an equal and orderly multipolar world,
and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation.
NEW MILESTONES
Over the past three decades, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, or APEC, has driven rapid de-
velopment in the region, turning it into a powerhouse for world economic growth, an anchor of stability for
global development, and a pacesetter for international cooperation.
As President Xi has put
it, since the establishment of the economic leaders' regular meeting mechanism, APEC has always stood at the global forefront of openness and development. It has played a robust role in promoting Asia-Pacific trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation, economic growth and technological progress, and the flow of goods and people. It has helped create the "Asia-Pacific miracle" that has staggered the world.
As the highest-level, broadest, and most influential economic cooperation mechanism in the Asia-Pacific region, APEC embodies the deep aspirations of partners to build a better future together.
The Asia-Pacific region has great economic potential, thanks to its rich natural resources, booming tourism, dynamic markets with strong purchasing power, and fast-growing digital economy. In October, the Interna-
Continued on page 17
An aerial drone photo taken on June 7, 2024 shows the Marangatu Solar Complex, invested by SPIC Brazil, a subsidiary of China's State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC), in Piaui state, Brazil (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)
Xi embarks on Latin America trip to champion ...
From page 16
tional Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted that the world economy will grow at 3.2 per cent in 2024, and the emerging and developing Asia is expected to grow at 5.3 per cent this year.
As Xi has pointed out, development in the Asia-Pacific region has been achieved not through provoking antagonism and confrontation, pursuing a beggar-thy-neighbour policy, or erecting high fences around a small yard, but by staying open and inclusive, and drawing on each other's strengths.
Amid growing protectionism and calls for decoupling, APEC's role as a multilateral forum dedicated to economic cooperation is more crucial than ever in fostering dialogue, said Hans Hendrischke, a professor at the University of Sydney Business School.
TRUE
MULTILATERALISM
"'Sugarcane and lemongrass grow in dense clumps. ‘This
Indonesian proverb well captures the value of solidarity. Division and confrontation serve no one's interest. Only solidarity and common development is the right choice to make," Xi made this metaphorical reference at the G20 Bali Summit in 2022 to urge G20 members to stay committed to its founding purpose of unity and cooperation, carry forward the spirit of solidarity, and uphold the principle of consensus.
In the face of a sluggish global economy, compounded crises in food and energy security, frequent geopolitical conflicts, and a severe deficit in global governance, the upcoming G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, with the theme of "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet," not only responds to the call of the times but also reflects the aspirations of all nations.
During the upcoming G20 summit, his 11th attendance at the gathering, Xi will address key issues such as building an open world economy and improving
global governance, and elaborate on China's positions and offer China's insights and solutions.
Within the G20 cooperative framework, China has, as always, been focusing on development issues. At the G20 Hangzhou Summit in 2016, development was, for the first time, brought to the fore within the global macro-policy framework.
"All G20 members should take the responsibility inherent in being major international and regional players, and should lead by example in promoting development of all nations, improving the well-being for the whole mankind, and advancing progress of the entire world," Xi said at the 2022 G20 Summit in Bali.
From being the first to explicitly support the African Union's accession to the G20, to striving to bridge the North-South "digital divide," China has always contributed to improving the global governance system and increasing the representa -
tion and voice of developing countries.
The global governance concept proposed by China meets the needs of the new economic and development environment, said Dora Isabel Gonzalez, a Mexican scholar.
SUPERCHARGE DEVELOPMENT
The Chancay Port, 78 km north of Lima, is set to become a new shipping hub connecting Asia and Latin America, making the "Chancay to Shanghai" route a true path of prosperity, promoting the common development of China and Peru, Xi said.
Spanning across the vast Pacific Ocean, China and Peru have long-lasting sincere friendship. The two countries have witnessed increasingly close economic and trade cooperation as well as cultural exchanges in recent years.
Peru is one of the first Latin American countries to establish diplomatic relations and a comprehensive strategic partnership with China.
It is also the first Latin American country to sign a package of free trade agreements with China. Meanwhile, China has been Peru's largest trading partner and largest export market for 10 years in a row.
Brazil, the second destination of Xi's trip, is China's long-standing friend. The two countries have made substantial progress in their relationship.
As major developing countries and important emerging markets, China and Brazil are good friends, sharing the same goals and good partners moving forward together, Xi said.
China has been Brazil's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, while Brazil is China's top trading partner, and the largest investment destination in Latin America.
The two countries have closely coordinated and cooperated on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, and G20,
safeguarding the common interests of both nations and that of developing countries.
Ten years ago, Xi first proposed in Brasilia the vision of building a China-Latin America community with a shared future, charting the course for the development of China-Latin America relations in the new era.
Over the years, Xi has focused on the shared future of China and Latin American and Caribbean countries, working for steady advancement in China-Latin America relations based on equality, mutual benefit, and common development.
Cooperation between China and Latin American countries on the multilateral stage will further unite and empower countries in the Global South, playing a constructive role in addressing global issues and reforming the global governance system, said Patricio Giusto, director of the Sino-Argentine Observatory.
Workers make alpaca toys at the workshop of Peruvian craftsman Oswaldo Mamani in Arequipa, Peru, June 20, 2024 (Xinhua/Li Muzi)
An aerial drone photo taken on June 21, 2024 shows the Chancay Port in Peru (Xinhua/Li Muzi)
‘Cut the theatrics’: UN climate chief tells COP29 negotiators to focus on solutions as talks enter final week
AS COP29 climate talks in Baku enter their final week, the UN climate chief told negotiators on Monday to “cut the theatrics,” get down to business and hammer out a new finance deal to compensate countries for climate-driven damage and pay for a clean-energy transition.
“We can’t lose sight of the forest because we’re tussling over individual trees,” said Simon Stiell, urging delegates to wrap up “less contentious issues” as early as possible this week, so there is
enough time for the major political decisions.
COP29 opened in the Azerbaijan capital this past Monday with the main goal of reaching agreement on scaling up finance to address the worsening impacts of global warming.
Despite an early breakthrough on standards that will pave the way for a UN-governed carbon market, the talks on climate finance have been slow and contentions, with delegations digging in their heels rather than looking
for common ground.
TIME FOR BUSINESS, NOT BRINKMANSHIP
“Bluffing, brinksmanship, and pre-mediated playbooks” are burning up precious time and running down the goodwill needed for an ambitious package, emphasised Mr Stiell, who is the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which convenes the annual COP meetings.
The stakes are too high for “an outbreak of ‘youfirst-ism’…where groups of parties dig in and refuse to move on one issue, until others move elsewhere,” he said and the only way to get the job done is “if parties are prepared to step forward in parallel, bringing us closer to common ground.”
Mr Stiell’s plea comes after UN Secretary-General António Guterres also voiced concern over the state of negotiations at COP29, noting that countries must agree to an ambitious climate-finance goal that meets the scale of the challenge faced by developing countries.
Speaking to reporters in Rio on Sunday ahead of the G20 summit, the UN chief said that “now is the time for leadership by example from the world’s largest economies and emitters. Failure is not an option.”
Beyond the negotiations, other meetings and high-level events at COP29 touched on a range of topics – from the climate-health nexus to human development and education.
‘No decisions about us without us!’
Children and young people also made their voices heard at several lively and well attended
events, as they called for protection from the effects of climate change; measures to prevent further destruction of the planet; and stepped-up efforts to preserve nature.
They urged decision-makers at COP29 to give them a seat at the climate negotiating table and to urgently consider organising a separate UN climate conference specifically for children.
According to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), climate change impacts the well-being of nearly 1 billion children –half of the world’s child
Continued on page 19
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell addresses negotiators as the final week of COP29 begins in Baku, Azerbaijan (UNFCCC/Kiara Worth)
‘Cut the theatrics’: UN climate chief tells COP29 negotiators to focus on solutions...
population. Air pollution, infectious diseases, environmental degradation and extreme weather events compromise children’s health, hinder their education, and deprive them of the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.
During heatwaves, young children are at risk of dehydration because their bodies cannot regulate temperature effectively. Floods and droughts impoverish families, leaving children to bear the consequences.
“Floods force school closures in Liberia, and children miss school,” said Juanita Tamba of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, the world’s largest volunteer movement for the empowerment of girls and young women.
“And during the dry season, we have to travel long distances to fetch water, and girls often face
violence while trying to get water,” she told UN News.
UNICEF estimates that climate-related disasters cause approximately 40 million children to miss school each year, and the number is rising.
Zunaira, from Pakistan, one of the youngest participants in Baku, is attending COP29 with the support of UNICEF. She told UN News: “When there are floods in my country, resources become limited, and there are not enough for everyone. Children, especially girls, are the most affected.”
Speaking at a UNICEF press conference on youthled climate action, Rasul, a youth from Azerbaijan, highlighted the dire condition of the Caspian Sea. “Due to rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, the water level in this amazing body of water is falling,” he said.
Baku is situated on the coast of the Caspian, the biggest inland body of water in the world. Rasul observed that the effects on Azerbaijan's people are becoming more noticeable as the shoreline recedes, particularly the rising temperatures: “Both summer and winter in Azerbaijan are getting warmer.”
‘The FUTURE NEEDS A VOICE!’
Catarina, a 16-yearold environmental activist from Salvador, Brazil, a city on the Atlantic Ocean, also shared her experiences.
A passionate surfer since childhood, she noted: “When I was nine years old, I actually felt the ocean warming. I was constantly in the water and... I realised something was wrong when [it] was much hotter than normal in areas I frequented. Then I noticed coral reefs covered in white spots – coral
bleaching was something I had never seen before.”
Despite her young age, Catarina is an experienced climate activist. When she was just 12 years old, she joined other children in filing a complaint with the Geneva-based UN Committee on the Rights of the Child to protest government inaction on the climate crisis.
“It was the first time children brought a global complaint through a UN mechanism. We denounced five countries, and as a result, the UN officially recognised that children’s rights are affected by the lack of climate action,” Catarina said.
In an emotional speech, she emphasised: “Children have things to say, and we know how to say them. We need the space… not at COP30. We need a COP for children right now!”
According to Catarina, she was fairly certain
that it might be too late to make significant change by the time she started her job or rose to a position of influence.
“Effective actions must happen now. That’s why children need to be included in the decision-making process. If we are the future, then this future needs to have a voice,” she concluded.
UNICEF Executive
Director Katherine Russell has echoed Catarina’s sentiments, saying earlier this month: “At COP29 and through Nationally Determined Contributions, governments must prioritize children’s rights,”
“Children need to be included in the solutions, and global leaders must make health care, education, water, and sanitation systems more resilient to the impacts of climate change. Now is the time to act.”
Under the Paris Agree-
ment, countries are required to submit updated national climate action plans, or NDC’s, next year at COP30.
In that context, UNICEF has warned that less than half of the current plans are child- or youth-sensitive, and only three percent were developed through participatory processes involving children.
Against this background, 16-year-old Payton Esau from Canada brought a manifesto to the climate conference, signed by 800 of her peers.
“We demand that governments communicate in a language young people can understand, so we know what measures are being taken to combat climate change. Governments must act without delay to keep warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius,” Payton told UN News. (UN)
Black Bush Polder pump station to come into operation for second crop next year
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
THE new pump station currently under construction in Black
is anticipated to be fully operational in time for the second crop next year and is also expected to provide significant benefits to farmers in the area.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, recently explained that Black Bush Polder has 23,000 acres suitable for rice cultivation, but the existing pump station is
insufficient to meet the area's irrigation needs.
He emphasised the government's commitment to addressing this issue by investing in infrastructure, ensuring that farmers have the necessary resources to boost production.
Currently, 14,000 acres are being irrigated, with efforts underway to flood the remaining 9,000 acres. To tackle the existing irrigation challenge, Minister Mustapha noted that the government has added two additional pumps, bringing the total number of pumps in operation to six. This expansion is part of ongoing efforts to enhance irrigation capacity and support the growth of agriculture in the district.
However, Minister Mustapha noted that it was a temporary measure that has been put in place until the new irrigation pump station which is currently under construction is complete. Once fully operational, the new station will provide a more sustainable solution to meet the area’s irrigation needs and support long-term agricultural development.
According to him, in 2021, a contract was awarded for the new pump station, but the contractor failed to deliver, forcing government to terminate the contract and retender the project.
As such, he stated that a new contractor was hired six months ago, and the work is now progressing. The station, he explained, is expected to be operational by the second crop next year, and will feature four 150-cusec pumps, doubling the current capacity to 252,000 gallons per minute. This will ensure a steady water supply for the frontline areas.
While challenges like delays in project completion arise due to contractors not fulfilling their obligations, Minister Mustapha stressed that they remain committed to supporting farmers. By improving infrastructure and providing consistent support, they aim to resolve the long-standing issues and enhance agricultural productivity across the country.
Noting that he was aware of the challenges faced by cash crop and rice farmers, the minister stressed that the government through various initiatives has been actively supporting them.
He then pointed out that despite cultivating less land in 2023 compared to 2021, the record of rice production of 720,000 tons due to improved yields has been achieved.
Additionally, he stated that they would have also provided subsidies for fertilisers and addressed pest
issues by covering the cost of chemicals and even labour in some cases.
Meanwhile, during a meeting on Saturday at Number 48 Village, Corentyne, he also pointed out that there was a significant issue in the Black Bush Polder area with water management for cattle pastures.
He said that they cannot allow tubes to constantly drain water into pastures, especially during prolonged dry weather as water is urgently needed for rice and cash crop farming, “so we must regulate water flow.”
In terms of the two irrigation canals – 47 Middle Walk and 51 Main Canal – which need immediate cleaning, Minister Mustapha added that a machine will be assigned to excavate and clear these areas by this week.
Minister Mustapha stressed to those gathered at that meeting that the government continues to invest heavily in agriculture to support farmers and address challenges.
He noted that they understand their frustrations especially with water shortages, as he assured that the government, through his ministry, was working with all relevant agencies to improve the situation and support their efforts in farming and livestock.
Bush Polder
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, addresses farmers at a meeting held at Number 48 Village, Corentyne, on Saturday
Farmers at a meeting with Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, where they heard firsthand of the plans to improve irrigation in the Black Bush Polder area
Digicel Guyana launches “10 Millionaires for Christmas” campaign
— a festive windfall for customers
THIS holiday season, Digicel Guyana is spreading cheer with its remarkable “10 Millionaires for Christmas” promotion, designed to reward customers in a grand way.
The five-week campaign, which kicked off yesterday (November 18, 2024), will make each of ten lucky customers $1 million richer, marking one of the company’s largest customer appreciation initiatives this year.
Customers across the nation can participate by simply topping up their phones. For every $1,000 spent, they earn one entry into the weekly millionaire draws. Multiple top-ups increase the chances of winning, with no limits on entries.
The draws begin on November 25, with two winners announced every Monday for five weeks, culminating in the final draw on December 23, just in time for the festive season.
Deonarine Gopaul, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Guyana, expressed excitement about the initiative. “At Digicel, we’ve witnessed how previous promotions have transformed lives—enabling business ventures, home ownership, and education opportunities. With ‘10 Millionaires for Christmas,’ we are continuing our tradition of making a meaningful impact. This campaign reflects our gratitude to the
Guyanese community for their continued support.”
The "10 Millionaires for Christmas" promotion runs from November 18 to December 23, 2024, with two winners announced every Monday starting November 25. Each $1,000 top-up earns customers one entry into the draws, and there is no limit to the number of entries.
Ten winners will each take
home $1 million, with the final draw scheduled for December 23. Customers can check their entries by texting “WIN” to 1441 and can top up at any Digicel location, through the MyDigicelApp, or at authorised dealers nationwide.
For more information on the "10 Millionaires for Christmas" promotion and other holiday deals, visit
www.digicelguyana.com or follow Digicel Guyana on social media.
This festive season, Digicel is not just connecting people—it’s changing
lives. Will you be one of the lucky millionaires? Top up and find out!
Region 10 REO applauds gov’t commitment to affordable housing in Linden
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
THE government’s commitment to addressing housing challenges and fostering
community development was lauded by Dwight John, Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region 10, during the recently concluded Dream Realised Housing Drive held in Linden by the Ministry of Housing and Water.
Speaking to hundreds of residents, John emphasised the transformative impact of housing, noting that it is not merely about provid -
Strategy, highlighting progress in identifying and developing new housing schemes that incorporate eco-friendly materials, effective waste management systems, and sustainable infrastructure.
Last Friday, the housing initiative reached a significant milestone as 600 families received house lots in Wismar, Linden, marking a major step toward homeownership. The government’s support extends beyond land allocation, with affordable mortgage schemes, lower interest rates, and first-
nationwide, moving toward our goal of 50,000.”
Minister Within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring affordable housing for all Guyanese. She highlighted the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/ C)’s consistent achievements in the housing sector, stating, “Our track record from 1992 to 2015 and then from 2020 to present demonstrates our commitment to providing affordable housing for the people of this country.”
ing shelter but building the foundation for secure, stable, and thriving communities.
“Housing is more than just a roof over one’s head; it’s a cornerstone of the community, provides security, and promotes stability,” John remarked.
Region 10, encompassing Linden and surrounding areas, faces a growing demand for affordable and quality housing as many residents currently rely on rental accommodations. However, John commended the government’s efforts under the National Housing Development
time homeowner assistance through various financial institutions.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, underscored the government’s commitment to helping families achieve the dream of owning a home. During the event, Croal revealed plans for a second land distribution drive in the coming week to serve 400 additional applicants in Amelia’s Ward. He noted, “Today, we will start our scorecard for Region Ten, which says we have 731 allocations to date. We are close to 39,000 allocations
The Dream Realised Housing Drive also focuses on the infrastructural needs accompanying housing development. John commended the government for ensuring essential services such as roads, water, electricity, and waste management are established before house lots are allocated.
This initiative represents a broader effort by the government to address housing demands, reduce inequalities, and improve the quality of life for residents in Region 10 and across Guyana.
Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) REO, Dwight John
Section of the large number of persons who received land allocations at New Wismar Housing Development last Friday
Media management training for Guyanese journalists begins in Hyderabad
A TWO-WEEK training programme on media management for journalists and media professionals from Guyana began at Dr. MCR HRD Institute in Hyderabad, India on Monday.
The initiative is sponsored under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
Highlighting the programme’s significance, Shashank Goel, Director-General of the institute and Special Chief Secretary to the Government of Telangana, underscored the role of journalism and media relations in democratic societies. “For Guyana, a nation with a vibrant cultural heritage and a dynamic media
landscape, equipping media professionals with essential knowledge, skills, and abilities has become critical,” he noted. He further highlighted the evolution of media, from traditional outlets such as newspapers, radio and television to the rapid emergence of social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. He pointed out how these platforms have revolutionised journalism by offering unprecedented speed and global reach. “Additionally, Artificial Intelligence is transforming the news industry, from content creation to audience engagement. However, these advancements also bring challenges such as misinformation and fake news, threatening journalistic
integrity and public trust,” he added.
The Guest of honour, Rohan Singh, Officer on Special Duty at the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted the impact of the ITEC programme. He said that since its inception in 1964, ITEC has trained approximately 2.25 lakh professionals from 160 partner countries, sharing India’s expertise across 40 disciplines.
“The programme combines classroom sessions with field visits to provide Guyanese media professionals a comprehensive understanding of media management,” said course director, Madhavi Ravulapati. (Credit: The Hindu Daily)
Guyana records continued academic excellence at CSEC® Exams
GUYANA has excelled in this year’s CXC® Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, securing top positions among candidates across the region. Guyana proudly ranked in the top ten candidates per subject for 13 subject areas. In 2024, Guyana saw a total of 259 candidates who sat the CSEC® exams earning eight Grade 1s or more. Seventy students earned twelve Grade 1s or more, an increase from 50 in 2023. Similarly, the number of students attaining 14 or more Grade 1s rose to 33, up from 29 in 2023, and 28 in 2022. These results underscore a positive trend in academic
performance, and highlight Guyana’s commitment to excellence in education. Since 2020, the Ministry of Education has been committed to ensuring equitable access to quality education across the nation. Key interventions included providing free access to high-quality textbooks, expanding the Learning Channel to reach remote communities, and reintroducing the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant programme to support families. These initiatives have reduced barriers to educational resources, and helped ensure that all students can excel academically.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand stated,
“These results reflect the dedication of our students, and the Ministry’s continued efforts to uplift the standard of education across Guyana.
The Ministry remains focused on building an educational environment that promotes access and equity, enabling our students to thrive and compete regionally and globally.”
The Ministry of Education congratulates all CSEC candidates, their families, and their teachers. We will continue to support our students with initiatives that elevate Guyana’s educational standards and empower our students to achieve even greater success. (MoE)
A two-week training programme on media management for journalists and media professionals from Guyana began at Dr. MCR HRD Institute in Hyderabad on Monday
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Nine-year-old is latest recipient from ‘Project Gear’
NINE-year-old Aaryan Hooblall is the youngest cricketer to benefit Project “Cricket Gear” for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative of Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA.
Hooblall was the recipient of one pair of batting pads, one pair of batting gloves and one box. The Grade Three student of Vidyalaya Primary School is a right-arm medium pacer and left-handed batsman.
Aaryan’s aspiration is to play for the West Indies. He expressed gratitude to the initiative and promised to
work hard to be successful.
The project is pleased to be part of the development of Aaryan and every other young aspiring cricketer in Guyana.
He was encouraged to balance the game with his education. The aim of the initiative is to keep as many young people as possible off the streets and get them actively involve in sports, cricket in particular.
To date, 87 young players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted directly from cash, seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 33 bats, four boxes, six helmets,
33 pairs of cricket shoes, 23 pairs of batting pads, 25 thigh pads, one bat grip, 41 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and three pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.
In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area received two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also collected one box of red cricket balls each, Cold Fusion Cricket Club received 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, 15 white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves,
two sets of stumps and bails. Other beneficiaries are the Essequibo Cricket Board,
the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans with 30 T-Shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple, Leguan Cricket Committee, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each), Kendall’s Union Cricket Club with two boxes of red balls, Lower Corentyne, Corentyne Comprehensive and JC Chandisingh
Secondary Schools with 12 red balls each.
Cricket related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth program, will also benefit.
Anyone interested to contribute can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.
Gobin, Latif and Ramkissoon cop Player of the Year awards
By Frederick Halley
FORMER Guyana Under-19 player Troy Gobin, softball stalwart Richard Latif and all-rounder Davendra “Skadachie” Ramkissoon copped the Player of the Year awards when the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) held its annual presentation, dinner and dance at the Estate Banquet Hall, Scarborough, Ontario Canada on Saturday night.
The occasion marked the first time the activities were being held indoors since 2019 following the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Gobin, who led GTA Storm to their second consecutive Over-50 title, registered 342 runs from six innings during the regular reason. Apart from scoring 102 against Remax All Stars, he also had scores of 77 versus Canadian Legends and 94 against Seatown.
Ramblers Rampage’s Navin Bhup, who led all scorers with 371 runs from seven innings, past 60 on four occasions with innings of 82 versus Friendship Masters, 79 versus KC Stalwarts, 72 versus Seatown and 67 against Dirty Dozen. His teammate, Mokeem Sattaur was the leading bowler, claiming 10 wickets.
GTA Storm’s Uniss Yusuf, who only played in four regular season games,
tallied a phenomenal 285 runs, which saw him being dismissed only once. Apart from his 102 against Seatown, Yusuf also had 89 versus Remax All Stars and 89 against Friendship Masters. Like Latif, he wasn’t on hand to receive his awards.
Latif, who represented the victorious and unbeaten Canadian Legends team in Division 1 of the Over-40 category, led the scoring with 283 runs from five innings with his closest rival being teammate Chien Gittens who tallied 171 from six knocks. Rovendra Mandolall was third with 152 from four innings. Latif also claimed five wickets to crown a fine all-round season. Ishree Andy Persaud of Warriors bagged nine wickets, the most in the division.
It was a sensational year for skipper Ramkisson as apart from being named Player of the Year for Division 2 (Over-40), newcomers Better Hope played unbeaten throughout the season and subsequently defeated Ramblers Rampage to claim the coveted title.
The seasoned campaigner scored 206 runs in five innings, including a top score of 82 and also took five wickets, while conceding 47 runs. His teammate and former Guyana and West Indies B team batsman, Krishna Arjune led the batting aggregate with 286 runs from seven innings, including
a top score of 87. Jano Pando of United Cricket Club was leading bowler, capturing 10 wickets from six matches.
Special recognition and award plaques were presented to long-standing member and player John Ten Pow for his “commitment, dedication and perseverance” towards the sport, Ravendra Madholall for “media and exposure of the OMSCC to Guyana and
North America,” Bobby Ramlagan for “photography and promoting OMSCC on social media and Kisho Ramnarine for “photography to our league.”
In brief remarks, OMSCC President Azeem Khan urged members to assist in recruiting new players in the Over-40 division since, according to him, there has been an obvious decline.
Khan was however
pleased with the growth in the Over-50 division which saw eight teams competing this year. On the other hand, the Over-40 Division 1 had five while Division 2 comprised of seven.
The president congratulated all the winners, runners-up and participating teams and reminded them that the OMSCC will be celebrating its 25th anni -
versary next year, while hinting that the presentation, dinner and dance will be much more significant. Among those coming in for special praise were past President Orin O’Neil, Roger and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall
and Canada and other sponsors who contributed towards the success of the night’s programme.
Aaryan Hooblall strikes a pose with his gear
Guyana
MSCC presentation, dinner and dance
OMSCC President Azeem Khan hands over the Over-50 champions trophy to GTA Storm’s manager Frederick Halley in the presence of some of the players and supporters (Pictures, courtesy of Bobby Ramlagan)
Canadian Legends skipper Sudesh Beharry collects the winning Over-50 Division trophy from OMSCC President Azeem Khan
Troy Gobin, right, collects his Over-50 Player of the Year award from OMSCC President Azeem Khan
OMSCC Treasurer Indira Singh presents the Over-40 Division 2 Player of the Year award to Davendra “Skadachie” Ramkissoon
Aussie legend Bradman's baggy green cap to be sold
A cap worn by Australian cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman is expected to fetch up to £200,000 when it goes up for auction next month.
Bradman wore the cap - known as a 'baggy green' - in the 1947-48 home Test series against India, during which he scored his 100th first-class century.
Bradman, who died aged 92 in 2001, is widely regarded as cricket's greatest-ever batter, averaging 99.4 runs per Test innings.
The cap has been on loan since 2010 to the Bradman Museum in the player’s hometown of Bowral.
Following the 1947-48
Donald Bradman ended his Test career with a batting average of 99.94far higher than any other player in history
Indian tour, Bradman gave the cap to the Indian team tour manager, Pankaj Gup -
ta, who passed it on to the Indian team's wicket keeper PK Sen.
It was purchased by the current owner in 2003, auction house Bonhams said.
"The baggy green has been part of cricket and sporting heritage for decades," explained Alex Clark, a senior specialist at Bonhams.
"This very special baggy green promises to have real appeal to followers of cricket and sport generally, and anyone with a keen interest in the history of sport."
It will go on sale at Bonhams Sydney on 3 December. (BBC Sport)
Australia rout Pakistan to seal T20 clean sweep
Marcus Stoinis hit an unbeaten 61 off 27 balls as Australia thrashed Pakistan by seven wickets to seal a 3-0 clean sweep in the T20 series.
He struck five fours and five sixes to propel them to a target of 118 with 8.4 overs to spare at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Pakistan earlier collapsed from 61-1 to 117 all out as Aaron Hardie took 3-21, Adam Zampa 2-11 and player of the series Spencer Johnson 2-24.
"When Stoinis is going like that, he's really hard to stop," said captain Josh Inglis, who will join the Australia Test squad for the first of five Tests against India starting on Friday in Perth.
(Tuesday, November 19, 2024)
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Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Brandon King, Andre Russell & Shamar Joseph
(2) Dan Mousely, Saqib Mahmood & Reece Topley
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What was the result of the recent WI/ENG T20 International series?
(2) Who was voted Man of the Series?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Australia won the first T20 in Brisbane by 29 runs and the second in Sydney by 13 runs.
Meanwhile, Pakistan have appointed former fast bowler Aqib Javed as interim white-ball coach.
After Gary Kirsten's resignation last month, Test coach Jason Gillespie took charge for the Australia tour and oversaw Pakistan's first one-day series win in Australia for 22 years.
Javed, who begins his tenure with the tour of Zimbabwe starting on Sunday, will remain until the Champions Trophy, which is hosted by Pakistan and begins in February. (BBC Sport)
Bishop’s century highlights opening round
By Sean Devers
IN sweltering heat at the Queen’s College ground on Sunday, Nathan Bishop’s well-constructed 140 highlighted the opening round of the DCB’s Inter-Association 50 overs U-15 cricket tournament.
Bishop’s innings lasted 106 balls and was decorated with 19 fours and a six as Georgetown amassed an imposing 372-6 when their 50 overs expired.
The Select X1 were dismantled for 80 in 32 overs as only the left-handed Shahid Ramzan who stroked four well timed boundaries in 25 and 11-year-old Nathan Puran, who reached the boundary once in his 12, reached double figures as they lost by 298 runs.
The select X1 were off to good start before Leon Walls (5) was run out at 33-1 before Ramzan, who played some confident off-drives and Roscoe Anderson (9) brought up the 50 before Anderson was bowled by Reyas Latif at 57-2.
When Ramzan fell to national U-15 left-arm spinner Brandon Henry without addition to the score, the Select X1 slumped from 57-1 to 80 all out as nine wickets fell for 23 runs. Wasim Ali had 4-1, Henry took 3-9 and Latif got 2-10.
Earlier, batting at the best school facilities for sports in Guyana, Kush Seegobin who
GT’s Nathan Bishop scored 140 at the Queen’s College ground (Sean Devers photo)
made 42 with six fours and a six and Lomar Seecharran, who hit five fours in 25, added 53 for the first wicket. Makai Dowlin who reached the boundary four times in 32, Joshua Bollers hit a four and a six in 28, Ali stoked a couple of boundaries 27, all got starts and batted around Bishop. In the other match on Sunday at the LBI ground, East Coast made 257 in 39 overs with Akeem Persaud top scoring with 52 while Tunia Dindyal
made 41, as Jadesh Kalpoo bagged 4-46.
East Bank were dismissed for 105 as Vivian Kalpoo was the only batter to reach double figures with 52. Somesh Boyer had 4-24 for the home team.
The competition continues on Wednesday with East Bank playing Georgetown at Farm and the Select X1 facing West Demerara at the QC ground. Matches commence at 09:30hrs. DCB U-15 Inter-Association 50-over cricket
Kallicharran Charity Foundation visits
St John’s Bosco Academy
The Alvin Kallicharran Charity Foundation, on a 10-day trip to Guyana, visited the St John’s Bosco Academy yesterday after returning from Port Mourant on Sunday. Kallicharran, his wife Patsy, Pastor White and Tony McWatt departs Guyana on November 23.
Marcus Stoinis is sixth on Australia's list of all-time leading run-scorers in T20 cricket
MYO beat DCC to take GCA’s NBS 2nd division title under lights
By Sean Devers
LED by a brilliant 150 from Omesh Danram and 5-48 from Abdul Ramsammy, the Muslim Youths Organisation (MYO) captured its first Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) New Building Society (NBS) 40over second division title when they beat the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC)
in the tenth Final at DCC ground on Sunday night.
Watched by a good-sized gathering at the small Queenstown venue, DCC lost by 49 runs in their own backyard under lights to spark wild celebrations from the Woolford Avenue team and their supporters.
Chasing 299 to win DCC, despite a 140-run second wicket stand between Alphius Bookie and 17-yearold Jonathan Van Lange, were dismissed for 250 in 38 overs.
Bookie hit a pugnacious 89 with eight fours and a couple of sixes while Van Lange
scored 59 with five fours and two sixes. Ramsammy (5-48) got support from Marlon Boele who had 2- 39.
Earlier, Danram reached the boundary seven times and cleared it on 14 occasions in his belligerent 150 which lasted 139 balls.
He joined opener Andrew Lyght, who blasted eight fours and two sixes in his 56 with MYO on 51-4 and the pair shared in an 80-run fifth-wicket stand to silence the vocal home fans.
However, with the score on 131 in the 19th over, Jaden Dowlin, the son of former West Indies batter Travis Dowlin, removed Lyght. Lyght Jnr is the son of the late Andrew Lyght who played 38 First-class matches for Guyana and West Indies
NBS’ Vice-Chair Chandrawati Leila Ramson presents GDF’s Leon Andrews with one of his four Trophies for his performances in the NBS 40-over 2nd division tournament
‘B’ between 176 and 1988 but was unlucky not to have played Test cricket because of Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes.
Sarfraz Esau who scored 20, was one of three batters to
reach double figures.
Danram launched a brutal attack on hapless bowlers as sixes rained at DCC before he was dismissed in the penultimate over off Wavell Allen who ended with 2-46.
Kane keen to carry on beyond 2026 World Cup
England Captain, Harry Kane says the 2026 Fifa World Cup may not be his last international tournament.
The 31-year-old's future remains uncertain, despite extending his all-time scoring record to 69 goals in 103 appearances for his country when he scored the opener in the 5-0 win against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.
England Interim Manager, Lee Carsley benched Kane for the 3-0 victory in Greece on Thursday, while he was criticised for his performances at
Euro 2024.
But when asked if the next World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, would be his last shot at glory with England, the Bayern Munich striker told PA: "I don't think so.
"I think there's a perception when you get to your 30s that you're coming to an end, but for me I'm performing at the highest level I've ever performed and feel as good as I've ever felt, so it's about taking in the moment.
"I don't like to look too far
ahead, and in my career, I never have, the [2026] World Cup is going to be exciting.
"In America it will be an incredible occasion and ultimately it's about trying to win that, looking at where you are, where to improve and it will be no different in a couple of years."
Kane was speaking at the unveiling of a statue and a mural of him at the Peter May Sports Centre in East London, where he began playing as a five-year-old for Ridgeway Rovers.
"It's pretty special to be honest," Kane told BBC Newsround.
"I played on these pitches as a five-year-old with dreams of playing for England, and I've been lucky enough to achieve that.
"Hopefully the boys and girls will walk past and be inspired by the story of my journey, my life and hard work."
When asked what it would take to get a statue of him at Wembley Stadium, he added: "I think we need to win a major tournament."
MVP of Zone ‘A’ Van Lange returned with the ball to capture 3-45 while Dowlin had 3-41.
Van Lange finished Zone ‘A’ with 224 runs including 102, took six wickets with a best of 5-49 and held three catches.
GDF’s Leon Andrews took the Lion’s share of the awards; winning trophies for the most runs (365), most wickets (16), most catches (6) and MVP of Zone B.
Devon Layne had the best bowling figures (5-1-21-5).
Brandon Jaikarran had the highest individual score in the preliminary rounds with 150 for DCC.
This was equalled in the final by Man-of-Match Danram.
At the Presentation Ceremony, NBS’ Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr Nanda K Gopaul was so impressed by Nandan’s innings that he presented him with $100,000.
England will look to do that under Thomas Tuchel, who will begin his 18-month contract as manager on 1 January after Carsley's temporary spell.
Kane played under Tuchel at Bayern last season and is confident the German can end the Three Lions' trophy drought.
"He's a fantastic coach and a really good guy as well," he said. "I'm excited to work with him again.
"I know he'll bring bundles of energy, and come March we'll be focused on America and the World Cup, and that's an exciting prospect to look forward to."
England will find out their
Guyana Chronicle’s Sean Devers was awarded for his ‘Best Coverage of the Tournament’ for the fifth consecutive year.
Dr Gopaul expressed satisfaction with GCA’s running of the tournament and promised additional prizes for the 11th edition, scheduled to commence next month.
“Congratulations to both teams here tonight for getting to the finals.
NBS will fund a competition for NBS champions in Berbice, Essequibo and Demerara. The details are being discussed. We (NBS) are extremely pleased with the standard of this tournament, both on and off the field” informed Dr Gopaul. MYO collected the beautiful Championship Trophy and $120,000. DCC got the runners-up Trophy and $90,000 and the losing semi-finalists took home $50,000 each.
Ireland
World Cup qualifying opponents on 13 December, with the first games scheduled to take place in March. (BBC Sport)
We are the Champions! MYO celebrate their maiden NBS 2nd Division title at DCC with NBS and GCA officials (Sean Devers photos)
Man-of-the-Match and MYO Skipper Omesh Danram collects the winners’ Trophy from NBS’ Dr Nanda K Gopaul
Abdul Ramsammy had 5-48 for MYO on Sunday at DCC
Harry Kane scored his 69th goal for England in 103 appearances against the Republic of
Ramdhani snaps silver in women doubles
GUYANA’s number one badminton player Priyanna Ramdhani and team delivered at the just concluded Suriname International 2024 Badminton Open played in Paramaribo where they collected four medals in action concluded on Sunday.
Priyanna Ramdhani was the star of the show as she collected silver in the women’s doubles, bronze in the women’s singles and bronze in the mixed doubles.
In the women doubles category Ramdhani teamed up with Trinidadian Chequeda
De Boulet.
They contested the final against Peru’s Ines Lucia Castillo and Namie Miyahira where they loss 21-16 and 21-12 to finish with silver on Sunday evening.
Earlier in the competition eliminated Surinamese pair Crystal Leefmans and Chan Yang in their semifinal contest 21-8 in the first set but had to fight harder to take the second set 21-17 to earn the chance to play for gold. Priyanna teaming up with country-mate Akili Haynes clinch bronze in the
doubles class.
The mixed doubles presented an ideal opportunity for Guyana to capture a gold medal.
The local pair had to contend with Surinamese pair Rivano Bisphan and Sion Zeegelaar in the semi- final round.
They showed fight but could not overcome as they loss the encounter 21-12 and 11-0 owing to Haynes retiring hurt.
Ramdhani did not advance to the women singles finals category after she came up
against Peru Ines Lucia Castillo in the semifinals on Saturday.
She was outdone in straight sets 21-6 and 21-9 and had to settle for a bronze medal.
Guyana’s contingent also included Nkosi Beaton, Frank Waddell, and Jonathan Debidin who also played in the singles segment where they were eliminated in the earlier rounds.
The competition which served off on November 13 in Paramaribo featured singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events.
Yorke is focused on World Cup mission as T&T Coach
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) -Trinidad and Tobago’s newly appointed senior men’s football coach Dwight Yorke, made it clear that his focus is singular, and that is guiding the Soca Warriors to the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on Isports on i95.5 FM with radio host Andre Errol Baptiste on Saturday, Yorke sidestepped questions about his future with the team if they fail to qualify.
“I understand I have to win to stay in my job. Right now, it’s all about the process and the World Cup. It is going to be a collective effort to achieve our goal, and it starts not just with us players to do our job professionally, but the executive board and the federation also have to play their part.”
Yorke, a former Manchester United striker, has brought a fresh, no-nonsense approach to the national team setup. He emphasized the importance of meritocracy.
“Every player, whether foreign or local, has to give their all. There will be no easy passage into the national team.” To support this vision, he has requested the creation of a comprehensive player database, something he noted the federation currently lacks.
“Database is crucial as we won’t get to everybody, but we will certainly monitor the players we are interested in for the National team.”
The former Aston Villa star also touched on his desire to revolutionize T&T’s playing style.
“I want to play attractive football,” Yorke declared, adding that changes to laws within the team and federation are part of his long-term strategy. The former Sunderland striker wants
foreign-based players whose grandparents were born in TT, to get a chance to play for national teams.
“It’s been talked about. I don’t want to go into too much detail. But we have seen it over the years where other teams, predominantly big teams in world football, all have some type of inheritance.
“You look at the parents of the French team, the English team, the Germans, so there is a pattern that has been there for several years and we are looking at the situation, one that we will implement at some point, but it has to be the right players to come into the equation.”
Fitness, attitude and discipline, he said, will also be cornerstones of his philosophy as he seeks to bring professionalism and consistency to a squad often criticized for lacking both.
“Most people who know me know my background that I place a lot of emphasis on fitness. When you are fit, you can do the work. Football is a tough sport and when you are fit, you can get around the pitch a lot easier. You don’t have to be super fit, but you have to be at some level as a professional and international player.”
mixed
Priyanna Ramdhani and her medals
Ramdhani & Mixed Doubles partner Akili Haynes
T&T National Coach Dwight Yorke