Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-01-2024 by Guyana Chronicle

TUESDAY 23rd January, 2024

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No.107332

President Ali: ‘Budget 2024 targets real issues’ 03 PAGE

‘Every child will have access to education under PPP/C gov’t’ 12 PAGE

–– Education Minister affirms; says more than 13 per cent of Budget 2024 is allocated to education sector

–– 99 per cent of teachers trained or are in training right now; 1,900 educators to be trained this year

–– 7,000 seats were needed for secondary children when the PPP/C demitted office in 2015, and 7,000 were still needed when they returned to office in 2020

Temple for Shri Ram rises on the banks of River Sarayu 04 PAGE

VICE-PRESIDENT, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo attended a ceremony on Monday evening at the Alexander Village Vishnu Mandir, hosted in observance of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Shivkumar Telang, and other officials were also in attendance. At right is a photo of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya (Office of the Vice-President and the Indian Press Office photos)

Budget 2024 includes $90.8M spent on scholarships for something for 10 ministers, relatives could have ‘every strata of life’ funded training for 600+ Guyanese APNU+AFC administration’s tenure…

PAGE

–– Labour Minister tells National Assembly; says PPP/C government focused on investing in right areas to enhance skills, create opportunities for all Guyanese

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–– Minister Indar emphasises; says comparing APNU+AFC’s performance to that of the PPP/C is like comparing ‘chalk and cheese’

–– references extensive allocations for capital works over the past three years compared to small sums allocated by coalition during 2015-2020

Mustapha sues Norton for $5M over false corruption claims 14 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, jAnuARY 23, 2024

APNU+AFC administration’s tenure…

$90.8M spent on scholarships for ministers, relatives could have funded training for 600+ Guyanese –– Labour Minister tells National Assembly; says PPP/C government focused on investing in right areas to enhance skills, create opportunities for all Guyanese

MINISTER of Labour Joseph Hamilton in his powerful defence of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C’s) $1.146 trillion Budget 2024, compared the comprehensive projects and the massive investments made by the incumbent party to the questionable decisions of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) during its tenure in office from 2015-2020. Amidst chants of support from his colleagues and heckling from the Opposition members, Minister Hamilton reminded the National Assembly that the APNU+AFC administration had spent a large amount of taxpayers’ dollars on scholarships for former ministers and relatives of a former minister. He said the total amount

of money spent on scholarships for four coalition ministers and the family of one minister amounted to some $90.8 million. Minister Hamilton said that in the case of Annette Ferguson, who served as Junior Minister of Public Infrastructure and Junior Minister of Communities, the funds spent by the APNU+AFC on her scholarship could have been used to train some 18 persons in various Technical, Vocational, and Educational Training (TVET) courses, while in the case of former Education Minister Nicolette Henry, another 70 persons could have been trained with sums that went towards her scholarship. “The fact of the matter is Mr Speaker, 610 Guyanese were denied training by five

IN addition to providing support and empowerment to vulnerable groups, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) will continue to facilitate community engagements countrywide to provide further assistance and enhance its services. Minister of Human Services, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, recently noted that, from 2020 to present, community engagements have been the mode her ministry has used to communicate with persons in hinterland and coastal areas. According to the minister, community engage-

ment provides them with direct feedback from those persons who utilise their systems, while also providing them with an idea of the policy direction. It is through these many outreaches that the ministry knows how it can best serve the population, as well as how it can target a specific issue or problem that falls within the ambit of human services, social security and welfare. The minister noted that it also allows the ministry to take very pertinent services directly to the people who will no longer need to visit the ministry’s offices.

Minister of Labour Joe Hamilton ministers of the previous government and they come to this noble House with all kinds of pittance that they

care about the Guyanese people,” he lamented. Hamilton was, however, confident that the people of

Guyana have not forgotten and will not forget those acts. Contrary to the coalition’s philosophy, he contended that the government will continue to invest in Guyanese through upskilling and reskilling by providing significant training opportunities for them. The Labour Minister drew attention to the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), which are pertinent to the training of Guyanese. Accordingly, from the period 2020 to 2023, through the Board of Industrial Training, some 11,275 persons benefitted from training, particularly through the implementation of some 549 projects across all regions of Guyana. “Through the project implementation, training was done in areas such as welding

and fabrication, heavy-duty equipment operation, plumbing, general construction, commercial food preparation…,” he said. Hamilton said too that from 2020 to 2023, the government has invested some $982 million in the lives of Guyanese through skilling, upskilling and reskilling with TVET programmes. The government has recognised the role and the importance of BIT and as such, will continue to prioritise and support ventures through this agency. Further, he said that as a government, they have kept their promises to enhance opportunities in TVET and he further emphasised that these programmes were implemented in regions across the country.

can now have one-on-one interfaces with officers, with me, and with the ministry. We have seen, over the years, the forays into communities increasing. This year, we plan to have more than a hundred of these interventions, and we’ve already started,” she stated. Furthermore, the minister said that data analysis is used to guide policy and intervention. According to her, their data is collected through various systems such as the 914 domestic violence hotline. Minister Persaud said that while data collection determines what they do,

other services of the ministry are nor forsaken. She stated that while the focus might be on one thing, the other services offered by the ministry are included. That way, persons benefit holistically from information awareness and education, directly from the ministry. Moreover, she pointed out that knowing the kind of data collected helps the ministry to be more preemptive, rather than reactionary. To refine this, the minister noted that this year, they will be collecting more data from people, which would impact policy and programming in 2024.

Human Services Ministry increases community visits to reach vulnerable groups

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (Guyana Chronicle file photo) She remarked: “Aside from all of that a wealth

of information is passed on directly where persons

‘Budget 2024 targets real issues’ GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

–– President Ali says; defends gov’t initiatives to support small business owners, provide more disposable income

By Naomi Parris

A HEATED debate got underway at the National Assembly to analyse the $1.146 trillion 2024 budget on Monday, but President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday evening got the ball rolling in defense of the country’s largest fiscal package. The Head of State, in a live broadcast statement on his official Facebook page, said this year’s budget outlines comprehensive programmes to improve the living conditions and the quality of life of every citizen. One such programme, he said, is the increased support being given to small businesses. “[We are] building out policies and programmes to support our small businesses. Working with the banking sector to reduce the interest rate on loans for small businesses, making loans more accessi-

ble, looking at the issue of collateral, these are the real issues that affect small businesses. And those are the issues that Budget 2024 targets,” the President said. In 2024, a sum of $450 million has been budgetted for the replenishment of the Small Business Development Fund, and $331 million is budgetted for the Small Business Bureau for initiatives that will contribute to small and micro business development, and the promotion of entrepreneurship. In his presentation of Budget 2024 to the National Assembly last Monday, Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh disclosed that these programmes are aimed at supporting the availability of easy credit and grant support, the provision of start-up grants, and the operationalisation of the collateral guarantee programme to stimulate the

President Dr. Irfaan Ali growth of small business- training, coaching and es. mentorship programmes The government an- will be provided throughticipates that some 100 out the business value loans will be targetted for chain. disbursement, and 1,362 In 2023, over 3,500 grants will be issued. small business owners Aside from this, busi- benefitted from training in ness incubators will be areas such as Small Busiestablished, and extensive ness Management, Fi-

nancial Management and Record Keeping, Business Plan Writing, WhatsApp for Business, and Guyanese Business Toolkit among others in an effort to increase capacity and improve business competitiveness This year, the government is targetting an additional 2,800 business owners who will be engaged for training in specialised business development programmes in five key sectors namely, apiculture, farming, livestock, poultry rearing, and microenterprise, which will serve as a catalyst to entrepreneurial activity in these areas and help and improve village economies. Speaking further on the initiatives outlined to support small business owners, President Ali stressed: “These are the things that Budget 2024 targets.” He added: “Empow-

ering people; bolstering income for the vulnerable; creating more disposable income in the pockets of people; building wealth at the household level; building wealth at a community level; building wealth at a regional level, these are the things that we’re investing in.” The governing People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) policy matrix, he said, is based on the needs of the country, and every segment of the population. Responding directly to recent comments made by members of the country’s opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), President Ali said their aim is to push an agenda of division. He maintained that the government is pursuing the unification of its citizens and the expansion of the country’s economy “rigorously and aggressively”.

Insurance Association of Guyana supports critical initiatives in Budget 2024

The following is the full text of a statement from the Insurance Association of Guyana on Budget 2024: “THE Insurance Association of Guyana (IAG) wishes to express its fullest support for the initiatives contained in the 2024 National Budget presented by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, which proposes to increase the tax-deductible limit for life and medical insurance, and to remove VAT and duty from firefighting and fire-detection equipment. “IAG data show that with the deductibility of life and medical premiums, first introduced in 2022, taxpayers have been more incentiv-

ised to protect themselves and their loved ones by taking advantage of the facility. “The IAG, therefore, welcomes the government’s continued recognition that life and health insurance are key to the development of a nation, by providing for the minimising of the often unbearable financial burden of the untimely death or illness of a citizen, especially a breadwinner. “Ultimately, life and medical insurances significantly reduce these social and economic burdens on individuals and the entire nation.

“The IAG also notes that the appropriate amount of life and medical insurance improves the creditworthiness of a borrower, since it provides for the continued servicing of loans in the unfortunate event of illness or death of the borrower. Thus, these insurances certainly benefit our housing and business sectors. “The removal of VAT and duty on firefighting equipment is also a most meaningful initiative. Fire insurers have always known that such equipment significantly reduces the risk and

severity of fire loss. Every dollar lost in a fire is lost to the entire nation, and fires could have far-reaching social and economic damage. “The IAG, therefore, fully welcomes and supports this proposition as important for the management of the risk of social and economic loss due to fire. “The IAG, therefore, congratulates the Government of Guyana on these initiatives, fully supports them, and urges that everyone joins in giving these most significant proposals their fullest support.”

Temple for Shri Ram rises on the banks of River Sarayu

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

SHRI Ram Janmabhoomi Temple stands tall on the banks of River Sarayu in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, a testament to India’s piety and resilience, and artistic, engineering and technological capabilities. Ram Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Ram, is steeped in centuries of history, and the temple that has now risen in the janmasthan, represents a structure reborn out of advanced construction techniques, but not before overcoming engineering challenges. Spread over a 2.77-acre piece of land within the 70-acre Ram Janmabhoomi premises, the three-tier temple has been constructed in the Nagara style –

Glimpses of Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shree Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh on January 22, 2024 (India’s Press Office photos)

where the structure is built on a raised platform called jagati. Mandapas in front of the garbhagriha (sanc-

tum sanctorum) are festooned with shikharas. Designed in line with the Vastushastra ans Shil-

pishastra, the temple is an architectural and engineering marvel that can withstand another thousand years with no requirement for repairs and survive a 6.5 magnitude earthquake. Following intense research, the structural framework has been built in line with the time-honoured methods of temple construction by using stone that lasts for at least a thousand years. Experts say, iron was avoided in the construction of the temple as it may lead to corrosion, reducing its lifespan to about 200 years at the maximum. When soil testing led to the discovery of loose sand unsuitable for laying a foundation, India’s finest minds stepped in to resolve the issue. Up to 14 metres of sand across 6 acres of soil was shovelled out and filled with 56 layers of a special kind of concrete mixture called 'roller compacted concrete', to prepare rocks for the foundation. Over two lakh bricks with ‘Shri Ram’ inscribed in different languages collected from all over the country 30 years ago constitute the foundation. Architectural and aesthetic principles of Hindu temple construction shine through the structure that has been meticulously

crafted by skilled craftsmen and artisans. Experts from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in Delhi, Guwahati, Chennai, and Bombay, along with collaborators from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Surat, Central Building Research Institute in Roorkee, and the National Geo Research Institute in Hyderabad, as well as the National Institute of Rock Mechanics, collaborated to finalise the design of the temple. Larsen & Toubro is the Design & Build Contractor and the Project Management Company is Tata Consulting Engineers Limited (TCEL). More than 4,000 workers, including 460 craftsmen, worked round the clock to prepare the temple’s ground floor for the consecration ceremony (pran pratistha) of the Ram idol on January 22, 2024. Reflecting a pan-India character, Shri Ram Mandir is held together by the country’s rich resources – Makrana marble and pink sandstone from Rajasthan, granite stone from Tamil Nadu and Telangana, coloured marble from Mandla in Madhya Pradesh, brassware from Moradabad, and gold and teakwood for the main structure from MahaContinued on page 5

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Citizens’ needs will continue to be addressed with Budget 2024

MEMBER of Parliament Dr Vishwa Mahadeo Monday evening underscored that the 2024 National Budget was strategically crafted and will cater to the needs of the ordinary Guyanese. In his contribution during the opening of the national budget debate in the National Assembly, MP Mahadeo reiterated that the $1.146 trillion fiscal framework was fashioned in the people’s best interests. He backed up his position by highlighting numerous community meetings and consultations held with Region Six residents, led by the local government arm in that area.

Member of Parliament Dr Vishwa Mahadeo

“They [RDC] had over 600 community meetings across the length and breadth of Region Six; from Siparu-

ta, Orealla…Baracara in the Canje area…Consultations across the board. At these meetings, residents were

allowed to air their concerns, ask questions and make suggestions. Based on these suggestions, the RDC management and administration guided the way forward, that is how this year’s budget, the PPP/C’s budget was crafted,” the government parliamentarian stated. Additionally, senior government officials including President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali; Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, and ministers were actively on the ground in Region Six engaging the people. MP Mahadeo highlighted the many projects undertaken in the education sector by the current government,

including the maintenance of schools across Region Six, totalling some $25 million. In 2024, over $27 million will be spent to continue this maintenance programme in the region. Schoolchildren are expected to benefit from over $1 billion in the Because We Care cash grant which will see each child receiving $40,000 and an additional $5000 in uniform allowance. Construction of a new secondary school in Orealla will commence this year and rehabilitation of educational facilities in Region Six will continue. According to Dr Mahadeo, in Region Six, over

2,000 persons were awarded scholarships through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme and more are expected to be awarded in 2024. In the area of healthcare, a new state-of-the-art hospital will be constructed at No 75 Village and another at New Amsterdam. Both institutions will provide quality healthcare and services such as surgeries, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and CT Scans among others. Investments in the agricultural sector, social welfare, job creation, and other integral areas were also highlighted. (DPI)

Temple for Shri Ram rises on the banks of River... From page 4

rashtra. The temple is a reflection of India’s celebrated diversity. While granite from Karnataka and Telangana adorns the plinth of the temple, stone for superstructure has been sourced from Rajasthan, and stone for the flooring from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Odisha’s artists workmanship is evident in the iconography on the sandstones, and artists from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have put their stamp on the wood carving. The primary temple structure is crafted from 4.7 lakh cubic feet of pink sandstone sourced from Rajasthan's Bharatpur district, while the plinths feature 17,000 granite stones, and the intricate inlay work is adorned with white Makrana and coloured marbles. Teakwood sourced from the Balarshah and Allapalli forest ranges in Maharashtra has been utilised in crafting 44 doors for the temple. Gujarat’s Chandrakant Sompura, the chief architect, has contributed in designing the temple. The idol of 'Ramlalla', a 51-inch-tall Krishna Shila (Shyam Varn) idol of Lord Ram, was carved by Karnataka's renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj. Apart from the sanctum sanctorum, the tem-

ple houses five mandaps — Gudh Mandap, Rang Mandap, Nritya Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. The domes of the mandaps are 34 feet wide and 32 feet long. The temple complex has its own sewage and water treatment plants, fire service, and an independent power station. A retaining wall of granite protects the temple from any early damage that seepage of water from River Sarayu, can possibly cause. The temple has also been installed with a 200KA lightning arrester to protect the structure from damage by lightning. While the temple premises can accommodate 1,500 people at a time, it has the capacity to handle a footfall of two lakh pilgrims in a day. Key features of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple The temple's dimensions: length (east to west) 380 feet; width: 250 feet; height:161 feet. It is a three-storey structure with each floor standing at a height of 20 feet. The temple boasts 392 pillars and 44 gates. The main sanctum houses infant Ram Ramlalla, and the first floor features Shri Ram Darbar (Lord Ram’s court). The temple includes five pavilions, namely dance, colour, sabha,

prayer, and kirtan. Pillars and walls will be embellished with carved statues of gods and goddesses. Entry to the temple will be from the east side, climbing 32 stairs from Singhdwar. Provisions for ramps and lifts have been made for the disabled and elderly. Four temples dedicated to the Sun God, Mother Bhagwati, Ganapati, and Lord Shiva have been constructed at the four corners of the premises. Temples for Maa Annapurna and Hanuman are in the northern and southern sides, respectively. Sitakoop from the mythological period is present near the temple. Other temples in the complex have been dedicated to Maharishi Valmiki, Maharishi Vashishtha, Maharishi Vishwamitra,

Maharishi Agastya, Nishadraj, Mata Shabari, and Rishipatni Devi Ahilya. The ancient Lord Shiva temple on Navratna Kuber Tila in the southwestern part has been renovated, and a Jatayu statue has been installed. A 14-metre-thick roller compacted concrete (RCC) foundation has been laid, resembling an artificial rock. A 21-foot-high plinth made of granite will protect the temple from soil moisture. A Pilgrims Facility Centre with a capacity for 25,000 is being constructed, and will feature lockers, medical facilities, and amenities. The temple premises has bathroom facilities, toilets, wash basins, and open taps. The temple has been constructed employing

using indigenous technology, with a focus on environment. Of the total 70-acre area, 70% will remain green forever. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple construction is managed by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

The estimated cost of the temple's construction is expected to range between Rs 1,400 crore and Rs 1,800 crore. Each of the 30-foothigh pillars has an ornamental orb which when lit at night resembles the sun.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Firm footing

GUYANA has now reached a stage in its development where the contributions of all Guyanese are critical if the country is to reach its full growth potential. With the country now having attained the status as the fastest growing economy in the world, all hands are required to be on deck as the country is now blazing a new trail of economic growth and prosperity, and in the process leaving behind a dismal past of economic and social retrogression caused by close to three decades of PNC dictatorial rule. There is not much to be gained, however, by looking backwards, even as the lessons of the past cannot

easily be erased from the collective memory of the Guyanese people. In a real sense, the 1970’s and the 1980’s can be regarded as the ‘lost decades’ which regrettably left the country at the bottom of the economic ladder by the end of the 1980’s. Guyana at the time was ranked along with Haiti as the poorest countries in the western hemisphere! As pointed out by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, we all have to work together to bring prosperity to every single home, to every household in order to uplift the lives of every single Guyanese. “It is not only about love, but loving each other. It is linked to the develop-

ment of our country. It is linked to the aspirations of our people. It is linked to the development trajectory and the transformation that we are going after; bringing a new wave of development and prosperity,” the President said. This, as observed by the President, requires every single stakeholder to shoulder the responsibility of transforming Guyana into a leading economy. And the time for so doing is now. Never before in our history has there been such a convergence of favourable circumstances to, as it were, leapfrog our development in ways that could potentially catapult this country to one of the most prosperous not

only in the region but in the world at large. Guyana is already referred to as the ‘Dubai’ of the region. Without any doubt, this is our moment. All that is required of us is to seize the moment and be positive and have confidence in the glorious opportunities that lie ahead of us. It is a case of thinking big. It is about putting nation above self. This is not the time for negativity and pessimism as the political opposition is seeking to do. An example of the positive trajectory is Budget 2024, which is not only the largest in terms of money but is highly developmental and pro-people. This budget has been criticised by

the opposition despite the fact that significant sums of money has been allocated to the social sectors including salary increases, education, health, housing, water and a host of other areas all aimed at enhancing the quality of life of the Guyanese people especially the more vulnerable segments of the population. What the above speaks to is a philosophy of development which is aimed not only at putting food at the table but ensuring that all the elements for a successful life and living are provided to each and every member of society. Among these are affordable housing, access to potable water, basic sanitation, access to

quality education and health services, security and by no means least the intellectual, cultural, spiritual and recreational needs of the Guyanese people. The developmental goals as adumbrated by President Ali are not only visionary but practical. It sets out a framework for development of the country which is ambitious, transformative and modern. Guyana is firmly set on a pathway to sustainable development, one that will impact the lives of all Guyanese in positive ways; one in which no Guyanese, regardless of race, religion, colour, class, creed or political affiliation will be left behind.

Budget 2024 reflects visionary plans of government

Dear Editor,

Guyana’s Budget 2024 theme: ‘Staying the Course: Building Prosperity for All’ undeniably reflects the primary goals and objectives of the PPP/C Government, which has hit the road running since assuming office in August 2020. The government has never paused for a moment, and is relentlessly pursuing and ensuring socio-economic development and that the lives of the Guyanese people get better on a daily basis. The 2024 budget was not crafted in a vacuum oblivious of the needs of the various sectors and the needs of every stratum of Guyanese, be it pensioners, students, and the common man. The President, the Vice President, the ministers and all government officials are always on the ground responding to these needs and have been assiduously work-

ing to satisfy these. This is unlike when the coalition mismanaged the country from 2015 until kicked out of office by the Guyanese people. They had boasted about providing the “good life” for the Guyanese people but only provided that life for themselves, families and cronies. Every year and with each budget presented by the coalition, the lives of Guyanese got worse, they were taxed to the hilt, thousands lost their jobs, infrastructures kept falling apart and every sector was devastated whilst the Treasury was raided until it became empty and reserves disappeared. Now, the same coalition which has become the most inept and visionless Opposition globally, is bent on nit-picking and pettifogging in a vain and malicious effort to condemn this 2024 budget, which aptly reflects the visionary policies of the gov-

ernment geared to maintain the progressive trajectory and provide prosperity for every Guyanese. The 2024 budget should not be looked at in isolation. The Opposition always misses the forest for the trees and has never sought to understand the larger situation. I recalled a famous quote from the late Bruce Lee who had wisely said: “It is like a finger pointing away to the moon-don’t concentrate on the finger or you will miss all that heavenly glory.” Here is a budget that has given so much to Guyanese yet the Opposition, bereft of ideas and without a proper analysis is condemning it, mainly hitting at the increase to old age pension and public assistance, the budgetary allocation to GuySuCo, free university education thereby appealing to the emotions of the ordinary people and misguide them whilst subtly bringing race into the equa-

tion with reference to allocations to GuySuCo. It would appear that the Opposition suffers from selective amnesia when it comes to electricity subsidies given to the bauxite industry. The Opposition knows that some people will never look beyond their pockets but they will never highlight the innumerable positives in the budget. There are lots of benefits for the poor people and there are numerous measures to put more disposable income into everyone’s pockets. The budget debate will surely bring out these and expose the Opposition for what they are. The government projected an increase in the real GDP of 34.4 per cent whilst it strikes a much needs balance between the needs of the people and crucial and critical capital investments. It must be recalled that in the 2023 budget the real GDP was expected to grow by 25.1 per cent but 33.3 percent

was achieved (the non-oil sector was projected to grow by 7.9 per cent but this was surpassed-11.7 per cent was achieved.) This testifies to the hardworking PPP/C Government who always works hard to achieve more than planned. The Opposition was never good at crafting macro and micro economic policies and they could never understand how the budget preparation should be done to ensure that these policies are achieved. Definitely figures present a severe challenge to them compounded by the lack of visionary ideas. The 2024 budget was crafted so that the recurrent expenditures are sustainable. The oil revenue should not be used to splurge and squander but to lay the foundation for the prosperity of this and future generations. The capital expenditure is aimed at building and boosting the productive capacity of the non-oil sector which

in turn will generate more revenues away from oil revenue. This will create less dependency on oil in the future. For instance, the capital investments in agriculture and other non-oil sectors will guarantee future streams of revenue. This means also that going along this route the country will not suffer from the oil curse which has greatly devastated other countries. This government’s budget has always propelled this country in an upward progressive trajectory whilst the Opposition holds the unenviable record for presenting budgets, year after year, which were only capable of plunging this nation into steep socio-economic degradation and retrogression. They have no moral standing to debate this perfectly crafted budget, and they fully well know it. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Public Works Ministry sets the record straight on No.59 and No.61 shoreline

Some 30 metres of temporary rock slope failure and erosion of access road entrance at No.61 village - Photos dated January 20, 2023 (Ministry of Public Works photos)

Some 1,000 metres of sea defence works along the No.63 beach shoreline

THE Ministry of Public Works, on Monday, set the record straight in relation to misleading reports on the sea defence structures between the No.59 and No.61 villages. These reports, the ministry said, indicated that a section of rock armour revetment at No.61 village beach access was partially breached due to shoreline erosion and an imminent flood threat has been created for adjacent lands. In response, the ministry notified members of the public that measures are being implemented to address localised erosion that has occurred at the No.61 village beach access. However, the Ministry added: “It must be clarified that this area was not protected by a rock revetment as was reported in recent media articles. The affected area was an unprotected sand ramp which was retained in this state to be utilised as a vehicular access to the No.63 beach.” Against this backdrop, it was noted that the recent media reports and comments from a known community representative, who purports

that there was a failure of a recently constructed sea defence structure, are misleading. The press release also stated that the erosion of the beach access ramp was primarily due to progressive erosion during high tides. It was further stated that an adjacent 30-metre section of shoreline where temporary flood protection works were executed was also eroded due to the displacement of the boulders by wave action. Meanwhile, the ministry added that the permanent rock revetment structure which was constructed between No.59 to No.61 villages was assessed to be stable and continues to function as an adequate flood barrier. However, in 2020 it was noted that a pattern of progressive erosion of the foreshore was observed which created the potential for complete loss of the natural sand ridge along the No.59-63 shoreline. At that time, to prevent a breach of the sand bank and underlying clay embankment, the ministry had initiated the first phase of a rock armour revetment construction along a critical

section of shoreline between No.59 and 61 villages. “A total of 1,000 meters of revetment structure was constructed under two contracts totalling G$439,922,500, that remains functional and climate resilient,” the release said. Consequently, it was stated that for future programmed measures, the sea and river defence department will undertake interim reinstatement and erosion protection works at the beach access with a climate-resilient design in the immediate future. The release added, “Additionally, a programme of interventions has been developed for the phased execution of permanent flood protection works which will extend the rock armour revetment to adjacent sections of foreshore currently impacted by erosion. To ensure that the recreational use of the beach is preserved, a groyne field will be constructed to aid in sediment retention.” These works will be initiated following the appropriation of the requisite funding in the 2024 budget.

Randy Persaud should not reply to Andre Brandli

I WILL never ever reply to someone who asks me questions about my politics and my life without them answering my queries about their politics and their life. My life in Guyana has been an open book, and I will answer any question, even about my family, because there is nothing illegal or immoral in the evolution of my life. But you have to answer my enquiries too. Mr. GHK Lall once wrote that three businessmen built my home where I live in Turkeyen. At the end of his letter in the online edition, the moderator, the editor himself, Mr. Anand Persaud, attached a note say-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

ing that I must come clean. I replied in my column, putting some questions for Mr. Persaud to answer. I would accept the restart of the enquiry about my home from GHK Lall and Stabroek News and so I can probe a few dimensions in the lives of GHK Lall and the owners of Stabroek News, including Mr. Persaud, that should stir the interest of society. I return for the third time on this page to an irritating foreigner who writes about Guyana by the name of Dr. Andre Brandli, who is German and lives in Germany. Yesterday, Brandli published a letter in which he solicited answers from Pres-

idential Adviser Professor Randy Persaud for 10 questions he advanced. All 10 questions are for a Guyanese living in Guyana, and all are about Guyana. Brandli lives in Germany, and I am suggesting that Professor Per-

saud write publicly to Brandli agreeing to answer his queries if Brandli would respond to Persaud’s curiosities about German politics. We have the spectacle playing out in Guyana’s newspapers of Guyana-born folk who have citizenship of other nations but stoutly refuse to comment on the controversial and authoritarian politics of their own countries. There is a co-owner of the Stabroek News, Isabelle DeCaires, who is British. Today, the ruling party of the UK is so unpopular that the polls predict its devastation in the general elections in the coming months. There is some opaque group named Oil and Gas Governance Network, born in some obscure, unknown village in New York, that refuses to tell Guyanese about the extremism of American politicians, including ruling politicians, who support and condone genocide in Gaza. We in Guyana would like to hear from Guyanese living in the US about support for genocide in the US political

establishment. In the US too, there is Dr. Percy Hintzen, who wrote to chastise Guyana for relying on the fossil fuel industry and suggested in one of his commentaries that Red Thread could play a part in saving Guyana. Hintzen lives in California and maybe he can enlighten Guyanese as to why his governor, Gavin Newsom, rushed over to Israel to praise it for bombing Gaza There is Dr. Alissa Trotz, who has become an authority on Guyana from her seat in Toronto, where she has lived for over 40 years. She needs to tell us why Canada, which was always seen as one of the most tolerant countries in the world, has now descended into abysmal political degradation by supporting Israeli genocide in Gaza. So we come to Brandli, who never fails to boast about his academic status in Germany. Professor Persaud should respond to Brandli and demand explanations from Brandli about his government's extreme warmongering in the conflict between

Russia and Ukraine and Germany’s recent authoritarian crackdown on supporters of the Palestinian cause. Germany has banned the formation of organisations that advocate for a boycott of Israeli goods and academic exchanges with Israel. Germany has banned protests against Israel’s genocidal invasion of Gaza. In Germany, you cannot publicly use the phrase “from the river to the sea, Palestine can be free.” Let me inform Dr. Brandli, that in the democracy of Guyana, you can go in public with a placard that praises Israel, and you can bear a placard that supports Hamas. That is what a democracy is about. I have long had suspicions of racial genetics in Germany. Germany brutalised the people of Namibia, yet Namibians need a visa from Germany but not Israelis. In Germany, it is a criminal offence to deny the Holocaust, but not slavery, which was 10 times worse than the Holocaust. The last country on Planet Earth that should deny the occurrence of genocide is Germany. It committed the worst genocide in history after slavery, and now it is denying genocide in Gaza. Why does Germany have this fascination with genocide? This is the question Randy Persaud should ask Brandli. I end with my own question to Brandli. Why you chose to live in a country like that?

Taxi driver charged with causing death by dangerous driving

A 57-year-old taxi driver was on Monday morning charged for causing death by dangerous driving. According to the Guyana Police Force, Gordon Vantull, of Section ‘B’ Sophia, Greater Georgetown appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Liverpool who read the charge to him. Vantull was charged in relation to a fatal accident which occurred around 02:35 hrs on Sunday last on the Beterverwagting Public Road, East Coast Demerara, and resulted in the death of Denise Paul, a 54-year-old housewife of 1139 Bare Root,

Gordon Vantull (GPF photo)

East Coast Demerara. It was reported by the police, that the woman was seated in the front passenger

seat of motor car PKK 4206, driven by Vantull (who is accused of driving at a fast rate), when he lost control of his vehicle, and collided with a median. As a result, the woman was flung out of the vehicle and received injuries to her body. The ambulance service was summoned and the woman was seen and examined by a doctor, who pronounced Paul dead at the scene. According to the police, Vantull pleaded not guilty to the charge and was placed on $ 450,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to March 5, 2024.

‘Not only about numbers’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

–– Minister Todd defends Budget 2024; says ministry’s allocation will enhance diplomacy, ensure prosperity

IN defence of his ministry’s $8.3 billion allocation, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, said that the sum will further advance Guyana’s interests globally and ensure tangible benefits for its citizens. During the first day of the 2024 National Budget Debates, Minister Todd stood before the house, where he faced opposition heckling from A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) members of parliament. At the core of Minister Todd’s defence was the significance of international engagements led by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. Todd stressed that every international visit by President Ali is geared towards bringing concrete benefits to the people of Guyana. With an unwavering commitment to bilateral ties, Todd highlighted successful visits to India, the United Kingdom, China, Qatar, and Washington D.C., resulting in over 40 memoranda of understanding (MOU), agreements, and roadmaps. “What I want the people of Guyana to know, and the people to understand clearly is that every time the President leaves Guyana, we are bringing benefits to the people, and that is how we do it,” he said. The minister underscored the rewards of the government’s representation on the multilateral, international, and regional levels. Through strategic diplomacy, he said that Guyana has not only secured numerous agreements but has also gained recognition globally. Minister Todd told the house that Guyana has obtained more than 44 accreditations across the world, due to its active participation in political

dialogues, economic cooperation, and people-topeople exchanges. “When you think about the rewards, in terms of our representation, in the multilateral, international and regional levels, we have been ensuring that we put the people of this country first,” Todd said. Amidst interruptions from the opposition, Todd proudly spoke about the inclusive approach the government maintains, especially concerning the border controversy case with Venezuela which is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Guyana seeks to obtain a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the boundary between the two countries, remains valid and binding. Todd said that this case and even the “Argyle declaration” are a testament to this inclusivity, which involves key figures from different political backgrounds, such as Carl Greenidge, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, and Amanza Walton-Desir. Todd pointed out that this inclusivity is a display of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C)’s commitment to “bipartisanship” and the overall maturity of the government. “Our representation with regards to the case before the ICJ is very inclusive, it remains intact, and we are proud to display that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic is a truly inclusive government, a bipartisan arrangement that speaks to our maturity and our commitment to the people of this country,” he said to loud applause from his fellow government MPs. Minister Todd delved into the programmes at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, particularly

focusing on the development of the foreign policy agenda. He proudly announced that 93 per cent of Foreign Service officers have undergone training, which aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic capabilities. Additionally, Todd reiterated the importance of staying the course with the Argyle Declaration, particularly in light of the ICJ case. “We have three programmes at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The first speaks to the development of our foreign policy agenda. We trained 93 per cent of our Foreign Service officers in the 89 programmes so far, and we want to continue that trend for this year,” he said. Addressing the misconception that the budget is merely about numbers, Minister Todd highlighted its true essence—progress, commitment to service, and the fulfilment of promises made by the PPP/C government. Todd highlighted the budget’s role in delivering wealth and prosperity to the people of Guyana while ensuring that their rights, privileges, and freedoms are respected. “This budget is not only about numbers. It is about progress. It is about commitment to service. It is about delivering on the promises that we [PPP/C] made,” he said. He said the $1.146 trillion allocation showcases the government’s commitment to transformation and living up to the 2024 National Budget theme, ‘Staying the course, prosperity for all.’ The minister posited that the allocations and measures outlined in his ministry’s budget will help protect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd

Budget 2024 includes something for ‘every strata of life’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, jAnuARY 23, 2024

–– Minister Indar emphasises; says comparing APNU+AFC’s performance to that of the PPP/C is like comparing ‘chalk and cheese’ –– references extensive allocations for capital works over the past three years compared to small sums allocated by coalition during 2015-2020

WITH significant allocations made in critical sectors across the country, the 2024 national budget was hailed as one that addresses all problems being faced in Guyana. This was according to Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deo-

dat Indar during his presentation on day one of the Budget 2024 debates. He said: “The 2024 budget that was read out by the Right Honourable Member, Dr. Ashni Singh is a budget for every strata of life in Guyana; addresses all of the problems we

are facing.” The minister said that this budget also pays careful attention to the building out of a country which is hailed as the fastest growing economy; persons coming in can see a country revving with economic activity.

In relation to building out the country, Indar said that just this year alone, the government has set aside some $73.2 billion to cater for miscellaneous roads all across the country. This, he said, is done as the government is one that cares for the people of the country.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar (Delano Williams photo) “We in this government care for the communities; we care for the children who used to walk in the mud to go to school, we care for the farmers who had to fetch plantain on the back to come out of the dam. We care for them; that’s why we are building the country,” Indar said. He related that the government, since entering office in 2020, has built over 4,000 roads across this country. It is for this reason that he contended when one is to talk about the performance of the government and workload management as compared to the former APNU administration, it is “chalk and cheese”, as the two cannot be compared. The minister highlighted that in 2015, the former administration had some $39.4 billion as the total capital expenditure for the entire country in their budget. This, he explained, is the sum spent to build schools, roads, bridges, and every other kind of infrastructure. At that time, he said that the APNU administration had only put the sum of $544 million to build community roads in the country, which, in some cases, would only amount to some 16 roads being done. He went on to say that it was the former administration that turned their faces away from the poor, vulnerable and ordinary people of the country, as

they added several hardship measures, including taxes on critical things like fertilisers, herbicides, education and more. “A lot of people are being helped by this government. We embrace people and put programmes in place for them; that is what this budget is delivering. And you check every line of this budget, and you will see it,” Indar contended. Indar said that Guyana currently has the tag and title of the fastest growing economy in the world. “33 per cent GDP; the fastest growing economy in the world. That sounds like mismanagement to you? That sounds like somebody just trying to find fault in something good,” he said. He went on to note that in multiple international and financial reports, Guyana has been pulled and put into sections by itself as the country has become an outlier with its current and projected growth rate. “To have APNU Member of Parliament come here and say that the economy is managed badly, I don’t know what to call that,” he remarked. Further, Minister Indar indicated that the government remains committed to building out a strong economy and country, and providing the necessary measures for the benefit of the people.

Budget 2024 ‘jam-packed’ with projects, policies for all 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

–– Minister Persaud says

SPARING no effort to refute the claims that Budget 2024 lacks balance, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, maintained that this year’s fiscal package is “jam-packed” with policies and projects for all Guyanese. Hitting the ground running on the first day of budget debates, Minister Persaud responded firmly to claims from Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Ganesh Mahipaul. “…Let me say plainly, this budget for 2024 is jampacked with projects and policies geared towards improving the lives of ordinary Guyanese in the short term and, more importantly, the long term,” he said. As he continued to respond to the Opposition, the minister said that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is focused on building household, community and national prosperity with this year’s fiscal plan. While refuting Mahipaul’s statements that the budget is not for the ordinary man, Persaud remarked that it is pro-people, pro-development, pro-infrastructure, pro-business, pro-welfare and pro-poor. “This budget is fiscally balanced and shows how we plan to manage our financial responsibility in a prudent manner,” Persaud said. As the government continues to accelerate the pace of development in Guyana, the minister highlighted some of the Guyanese who have lauded the number of measures that are being set in place for all. “Of course, even with oil resources, this PPP/C administration has not lost and will not lose sight of the goal and purpose which are to have better financial management

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud (DPI photo) of all resources, including oil and gas, to catapult Guyana’s development while making up time for lost dark ages under the APNU+AFC rule,” Persaud firmly stated. Notwithstanding this, he did not conclude his presentation without going through the Opposition’s track record in office. The minister remarked that forestry, education, gold, bauxite, tourism, health and finance, among other traditional sectors, were all “struggling.” As he reflected on the brighter days under the Irfaan Ali-led administration, Persaud remarked: “In three years’ time, [the] PPP was healing the sectors, bringing them back to financial viability while making sound and well calculated investments in our people. Mr. Speaker, this is progress.” Emphasising that the PPP/C Government does not make far-fetched promises, he said despite the Opposition’s fervent campaign pledges, they failed to deliver their “significant” increase

in pension, among other measures. In just three years, the current government has put measures in place to improve the lives of elders. One such measure is the oldage pension which will be increased to $36,000 when Budget 2024 is passed. It was $20,500 when government took office in 2020. Adding to this, Persaud refreshed the Opposition’s memory of how they treated the different spheres of Guyana such as the youths. While unapologetically calling them out for reducing the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to a mere department, the minister said: “I’m going to remind this house of his [Opposition Leader] record on youth and children. The APNU+AFC downsized the youth and sports ministry into a department. “A whole ministry of youth was not in existence during their tenure, very little investments, if any, were made in young people’s development, and hardly any

importance was given to see them excel.” Under the current government, Persaud said that there are a vast number of benefits for youths such as training opportunities. Touching on his own ministry, he said that “local democracy and regional development [is] the cornerstone of the Ministry of Local Government and Re-

gional Development” and this government was forced to rebuild democracy, which was “wrestled” away from municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) by the previous coalition administration. He related: “We want to have transparency and accountability in all the municipalities and neighbourhood democratic councils. This

government has been advancing to infrastructure development and enhancement across communities.... In 2024, $1 billion is budgeted to be transferred to LDO’s as subventions.” Adding to this, he said that over $50 million is budgeted for the rehabilitation of Local Democratic Organs (LDOs) buildings in various communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

‘Every child will have access to education under PPP/C gov’t’ — Education Minister affirms; says more than 13 per cent of Budget 2024 is allocated to Education Sector — 99 per cent of teachers trained or are in training right now; 1,900 educators to be trained this year — 7,000 seats were needed for secondary children when the PPP/C demitted office in 2015, and 7,000 were still needed when they returned to office in 2020 By Trina Williams EDUCATION Minister Priya Manickchand on Monday reminded the National Assembly how the education sector’s growth was stunted under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration, and informed the House how teachers and children are now able to reach new heights under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government. During the first day of Budget Debates, the minister decided to set the record straight and not allow Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Coretta McDonald to paint a different picture of the actual reality within the education sector. “…We're unapologetic about providing education for every child in this country, whether they are from primary, secondary, or nursery levels, and whether they reside in the deep hinterland, coastland, or Georgetown; whether they are from an APNU stronghold, if any remain, or a PPP/C stronghold, every child in this country will have access to education under the PPP/C government,” the minister remarked. Despite attempts by the Opposition Parliamentarian to paint the massive investments made by the PPP/C government in a negative light, Minister Manickchand said that education is critical for future development of not only citizens but also the country. While defending the $135.2 billion that has been set aside in Budget 2024 to advance the government’s vision of having a world-class education system in Guyana, Manickchand disclosed

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

that Guyana has allocated, on average, more than 13 per cent of the budget towards this objective. This is a massive percentage, according to the minister, since countries within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) only allocate about 10 per cent of their budget to education. “That is investment in our people… and we have seen repeatedly how that investment benefits the people of this country,” she said, adding that Guyana is now in a better position for growth and development. As she turned her attention to teachers, the minister reminded McDonald that in her capacity as the General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), during 2018, she lauded the PPP/C’s investments in the nation’s educators. Highlighting how much the percentage of trained teachers has grown since 1992, Manickchand said that Guyana is now seeing 99 per cent of its teachers trained or currently undergoing training. “…From about 33 per

cent of our teachers being trained [prior to] 1992 to now 99 per cent of our teachers trained or in training. Those are the numbers; those are the facts,” Minister Manickchand said. She also said that in 2023, 1,796 teachers graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE). This is the largest number of teachers ever trained in the history of Guyana, Minister Manickchand said while explaining that previously, the capacity for training was around 535 teachers at once. She boasted: “We almost quadruple that amount, which means you will have a better quality, as well as more teachers in the classroom.” From 2020 to 2023, 3,198 teachers were trained, and in 2024 1,900 will be trained. And for 2025, the number will be 1,500. Not forgetting the hinterland, in 2019, there were only 31 teachers from the Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Up-

per Essequibo). However, under the PPP/C, there are 1,011 undergoing training, Manickchand remarked. While reflecting on the array of benefits that teachers are now reaping, the minister said: “We give each teacher who is being trained in the Teacher Training College a full salary of $90,000; the APNU gave $10,000 to those teachers. “…We've [changed] the number of years where a teacher could now become senior from seven years to six years; we've added more senior vacancies across all schools so more teachers can become senior. We've reduced the records that teachers are required to keep; we're paying $10,000 for each teacher with a degree…” Notably, these are just a few of the new benefits that the nation’s educators could now attain. CHILDREN Despite attempts by McDonald to condemn the government for constructing new schools, and attempting to put forth a solid argument that there are sufficient facilities, the Education Minister proved other-

Opposition Member of Parliament Coretta McDonald

wise and disclosed that there were thousands of children who did not have access to education under the previous administration. “When I left office in 2015, we needed 7,000 seats for secondary children…When I came back to office in 2020, we needed 7,000 seats, because the APNU+AFC failed, neglected and refused to build a single secondary school in this country,” she boldly remarked. Additionally, upon assuming office, within the last three years, the Education Minister said that they have provided 4,575 seats to children. She related that they are going to be finishing the Hosororo Secondary School for 700 children. Manickchand said: “662 children did not have access in this area to secondary education… That's what you left and you couldn't care less.” She then went on to say: “In the Northwest Secondary, we're going to finish that school this year. It's going to cater to 850 children. Kwebanna Secondary, way up in Region One …In that

area, 500 children from the Moruca catchment....” She also said that $28.7 billion was allocated towards construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of school buildings. Additionally, not allowing the blatant misconception of GOAL to be perpetuated, Manickchand educated McDonald on the difference and benefits of that programme when compared to Coursera. “Coursera is different from GOAL; GOAL is different from the University of Guyana. It's important that we understand what they are. Coursera is a series of short courses offered to the people to upskill or reskill through various hundreds of universities; renowned universities like Harvard and MIT and Princeton and Oxford and Cambridge, those are the Coursera courses,” she said, adding: “And when Guyana offered Coursera in 2020, Mr. Speaker, you know, was painful. The Commonwealth of Learning was begging the APNU+AFC to offer Coursera in 2020, in March, they didn't.”

Traffic cases soar to 3,446 in a single week

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

IN a summary of traffic cases spanning from January 14 to January 20, 2024, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported concerning statistics, urging both motorists and pedestrians to prioritise road safety. The compiled data reveal a total of 3,446 cases during the week, with 819 charges, 2,245 tickets issued, and 382 summonses. Additionally, 52 warrants were executed during this period. Monday and Tuesday emerged as the days with the highest daily cases, registering 566 and 521 incidents, respectively. Speeding violations accounted for a significant portion, with 902 tickets issued, and Sunday alone witnessed 185 such cases. Of particular concern are

Traffic education initiatives were widespread and schools were not left out

the 35 DUI (Driving Under the Influence) cases recorded during this week, with Region

3 contributing 23 cases. Notably, Sunday and Monday saw a spike in DUI cases, raising

alarms as at least six drivers under the influence had blood alcohol content readings as

high as .115. Region 4 C took the lead in overall cases, reporting 840 incidents, followed by Region 4 B (777 cases), Region 6 (537 cases), and Region 5 (338 cases). Region 4 A recorded 316 cases for the week. Efforts to address these alarming trends included a sensitisation programme which was broadcast on NCN, featuring members of the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC). The programme focused on road safety, accident prevention, and strategies to curb poor road usage. Traffic education initiatives were widespread, with lectures delivered to 42 drivers in each Regional Division, daily sessions held

at Bars and Restaurants (6), and nighttime sessions at construction sites and busy roadways. Schools were not left out, with 29 lectures conducted, and Region 4 A leading the way in traffic education. Regrettably, the week saw two fatal accidents, both attributed to speeding. Authorities continue to emphasise the importance of adhering to road rules and encourage the public to observe the 5 C's—Caution, Care, Courtesy, Common Sense, and Conformity. In light of these statistics, motorists and pedestrians are urged to prioritise road safety, fostering a collective effort to reduce accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Mustapha sues Norton for $5M over false corruption claims

AGRICULTURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has filed a lawsuit over $5 million against the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, for libel over false corruption claims involving the importation of chicken. Mustapha, who is also the Executive Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), through his attorneys Sanjeev Datadin and Khalif Cobin, on Monday filed the lawsuit at the Demerara High Court. According to the statement of claim seen by this newspaper, Norton, who is the leader

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha

of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) party, made a statement on the APNUAFC Facebook page on December 2, 2023, accusing Mustapha of major corruption related to the smuggling of chicken. The opposition lead-

er alleged that the minister and other officials in the ministry were involved in illegally importing large quantities of chicken from Suriname and influencing the police to release the smuggled goods. The Minister prompt-

ly responded with a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture, refuting the claims and providing documents supporting the legality of chicken imports. Minister Mustapha had warned Norton to withdraw the “baselessness, reckless and libelous” accusations immediately, which he did not. The legal documents reveal that the opposition leader posted another press statement on December 3, 2023, on the APNUAFC Facebook page, reiterating the allegations of corruption and questioning the legitimacy of the

Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton

minister’s response. However, Minister Mustapha, a distinguished public figure, vehemently denies these accusations claiming that the statements made by the opposition leader are completely false and without any foundation,

causing damage to his reputation and causing distress and embarrassment. The lawsuit contends that the false statements made by the opposition leader have tarnished the Minister’s image and caused significant harm. As such, Mustapha is seeking damages exceeding $5 million for alleged libel, aggravated and/or exemplary damages, an injunction to prevent further publication of defamatory statements, removal of social media posts, a public retraction, and legal costs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

GEA installs new solar PV system at Low Wood Primary School — 22 learners, four teachers benefit from renewable energy

AS part of its commitment to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions to all citizens of Guyana, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) recently carried out the installation of a new 3.3kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the Low Wood Primary School, which is located on the banks of the Demerara River. The overall cost of the system amounted to G$3.5 million. The installation exercise commenced on January 15 and concluded on January 17, 2024. In response to reports of a malfunctioning system, a group of GEA engineers conducted an assessment at the school on

Elated Low Wood Primary School teachers stand beside the 19.2kWh battery energy storage system (on the floor) and 5kW inverter combiner and AC (alternating current) breaker (on the wall) of the solar PV system set to provide renewable energy to the school

January 10. Multiple concerns were noted, such as non-replaceable depleted

batteries, a faulty inverter, and other components that need upgrading to handle

GEA conducted the installation of solar PV array on the roof of the Low Wood Primary School.

the current load. According to GEA Energy Engineer, Samuel Blackman, a load refers to any appliance or device that consumes electricity, such as lights, refrigerators, water dispensers, and microwaves, to name but a few. Blackman emphasised the necessity of conducting a load analysis in order to correctly dimension the photovoltaic components of the school's system and ascertain the electrical needs of the structure. Continued on page 16

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

UG celebrates milestone as 31 faculty members graduate with PhDs, Ed.Ds

IN a significant achievement, the University of Guyana (UG) is basking in the success of 31 faculty members who recently graduated with their PhDs and Ed.Ds in December 2023. The accomplished scholars, representing various disciplines across UG's eight Faculties and several service units, have swiftly returned to the university, resuming their roles in teaching, research, and administrative capacities. This academic feat was made possible through the Advanced Scholars Pro-

gramme, initiated during the 2018/2019 academic year. Funded by the ExxonMobil Foundation and developed in collaboration with Arizona State University, the programme also supported three Master's students, with an additional six doctoral scholars expected to complete their studies in the coming months. The project, envisioned by then Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Paloma Mohamed and Prof. Gary Dirks of Arizona State University, aimed to boost the University's teaching staff with terminal degrees by 30 per cent

The scholars posing for the photo op in Phoenix Arizona. Six scholars who could not attend the December ceremony in Pheonix Arizona are not captured in this photo.

before 2024, while simultaneously enhancing UG's research capabilities. Prof. Paloma Mohamed Martin, now the Vice Chancellor, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme, stating, "It is a blessing to the University, our students, and the country, as it will immediately increase the research output, teaching quality, and administrative efficiency. This experience was meant to be more than an academic exercise; it was an experiential one critical to operating UG’s Blueprint 2040. This goal has been achieved." Prof. Dirks emphasised the critical role of the programme in preparing UG for upcoming challenges, stating, "The programme with UG

was absolutely critical to ensuring that The University of Guyana is able to deal with the tsunami of developments which are about to descend upon the country." Over the course of four intense years, the scholars engaged in action research across all 10 regions of Guyana, addressing key issues such as sustainable agriculture, forestry, energy, education, indigenous communities, water and pollution, biodiversity, chemical and mechanical innovations, technologies, computing, labour economics, and educational administration. The scholars have already made a significant impact, publishing over 60 research papers. With two books and

a conference on their work currently in preparation, the project is being studied as a model system for rapid results in sustainable development. Starting February 2024, the University will feature one scholar and his/ her work every week. The University of Guyana extends its heartfelt congratulations to the scholars and their support teams, expressing gratitude to ASU, ExxonMobil Foundation, and all contributors who played a role in this transformative educational journey. For a detailed report on this groundbreaking project, visit the University of Guyana’s website at www. uog.edu.gy for more information.

GEA installs new solar PV system at Low Wood Primary... From page 15

He said: “You do not want to oversize or undersize the components of a PV system. Proper sizing is important so the system can fulfill the load requirements of the building. It is the individual loads that add up to size a system appropriately.” From the load analysis assessment, the primary school was successfully equipped with a 3.3kWp (kilowatt ‘peak’ power output) system, that includes a battery capacity of 19.2kWh (kilowatt hour) and inverter capacity of 5kW (kilowatts). The installation of this solar system will ensure a

sufficient supply of electricity, facilitating the use of various electrical appliances and equipment such as fans, photocopiers, water dispensers, six 4ft LED lights, laptops, and network devices for internet connectivity within the primary school. Blackman nostalgically recounted how a group of learners eagerly congregated around the water dispenser as soon as the school regained power. Additionally, both learners and teachers conveyed great appreciation and gratitude for the chance to utilise solar energy. The Guyana Energy Agency continues to advance renewable energy

management, conservation, and energy-efficient initiatives that are easily accessible and beneficial to the public. The Agency, governed by the Guyana Energy Agency Act 1997 (Act No. 31 of 1997) that has been amended over the years, remains steadfast in its mission to ensure the rational and efficient use of imported petroleum-based energy sources while encouraging, where economically feasible and environmentally acceptable, increased utilisation of indigenous new and renewable sources of energy, for instance, installations of solar PV systems.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, jAnuARY 23, 2024

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday, January 23, 2024) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD - 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (a) AUST won by 10 wickets (b) Travis Head (AUST)

Today’s quiz:

(1) Who are the WIs that made their Test debut in the first Test of the current series against AUST? (2) What were the WI opening stands in the first Test of the current series versus AUST?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

AMERICAN RACING TIPS MAHONING VALLEY Race 1 Franco Race 2 Visual Mission Race 3 Mercury Head Race 4 High Rolling Dude Race 5 Dancin Rosie Race 6 Justa Little More SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS VAAL 08:10 hrs Eiffel Tower 08:45 hrs Jp Two Thousand 09:15 hrs My Lady Soul 09:50 hrs What A Honey 10:25 hrs Bard Of Avon 11:00 hrs Nettleton IRISH RACING TIPS DOWN ROYAL 08:40 hrs Paradise Lost 09:10 hrs The Other Mozzie 09:45 hrs Timeless Piece 10:20 hrs Aways Enchanting 10:55 hrs Bleu D’enfer 11:30 hrs St Denis’s Well 12:00 hrs Positive Thinker ENGLISH RACING NEWBURY 08:50 hrs Arthurian Fable 09:25 hrs Diesel Line 10:00 hrs Valadon 10:35 hrs King’s Thresold 11:10 hrs Phillapa Sue 11:45 hrs Issar D’airy 12:20 hrs Doctor Kildare LEICESTER 09:00 hrs Shesupincourt 09:35 hrs Natty Night 10:10 hrs Mt Fugi Park 10:45 hrs Miltiades 11:20 hrs Everything’sontick 11:55 hrs The Famous Five SOUTHWELL 12:30 hrs Andaleep 13:00 hrs Magna Vega 13:30 hrs Rogue Raider 14:00 hrs Autumn Angel 14:30 hrs Razzam 15:00 hrs Rock Opera 15:30 hrs Old Chums 16:00 hrs Crimson Sngel 16:30 hrs Molly Mischief

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Holder warns of test cricket demise

CMC – Former West Indies Test captain Jason Holder has issued a stern warning about the future of Test cricket, contending that the format could soon die if the International Cricket Council calendar is not restructured to create a window which allowed for the availability of the best players. The 32-year-old all-rounder also said a more equitable system of ICC funding is required in order to prevent smaller nations from being marginalised, while the richer countries like India and Australia continue to prosper. Holder was speaking in the wake of his decision to skip the two-Test tour of Australia to focus on the franchise Twenty20 leagues, a move undertaken by several elite players in recent years, which has led to questions over the sustainability of the longer format. “Honestly, if we continue in this manner, Test cricket will die. It’s sad, but it’s true, based on the current structure,” Holder said in an interview published by the Delhi-based Hindustan Times. “You’ve got the Big-

the way they’re meant to be. “And with the little finances that we have… pretty much all the money we get goes straight back up into covering expenses and debt.” He added: “So, it’s a difficult one. The only way you can honestly see Test cricket being saved is if you have a window for Test cricket in a year so that you can have your best players available to play there. And on top of that, you need to compensate players fairly. “It can’t be a situation where Australia and India are up there, and all the other teams are way, way down below. So, when you’ve got a situation; a dilemma, similar to mine, where you can play a Test series for X amount and a franchise for three times the amount, you will constantly have players going towards more money. “If we could come up

All-rounder Jason Holder

Three who practically command all the revenue regarding the disbursement of ICC funds. And it’s difficult for smaller territories such as the West Indies to compete.

“We just don’t have the financial resources that they do; we’re struggling to even stay afloat in terms of cash flow. And it’s hard to develop our facilities and structures

with a model where you can have a minimum wage where you can’t fall below a particular threshold, it would actually incentivise players to say, ‘well, look, this is the benefit of me playing Test cricket.’” Previously, the Indian Premier League and the Big Bash League represented the major franchise tournaments on the calendar but the emergence of the likes of the ILT20, the SA20, Bangladesh Premier League, the Pakistan Super League and the Sri Lanka Premier League have led to increased economic opportunities for players. Holder, who led West Indies in 37 of his 64 Tests, has already done stints in the IPL, Big Bash, the SA20 and the ILT20, and has become a key figure for the Caribbean side in T20 Internationals. He said ultimately, cricket was a livelihood for play-

ers, and it was important they maximised their earning potential during their careers. “At the end of the day, it’s still a job. As much as we love to play cricket and entertain the fans… for us, it’s still a profession,” he explained. “Players have their own situations and scenarios regarding family dynamics, and you’ve got to provide for your family. “So, at the end of the day, I’ve got to give myself the best chance to make the most of it in the short tenure that I have in professional sports. “The only other thing I would say is that you need to find a window, find specific pockets where there’s no clash with domestic leagues.” Holder is currently campaigning for Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 in the United Arab Emirates.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Slingerz FC to face GCB extols Government’s Roraima State support for continued Champions in Boa Vista

development of sports

RECENTLY promoted to Elite League status, Slingerz FC is gearing up for an exhilarating encounter as it takes on São Raimundo Esporte Clube in Boa Vista on Saturday, February 3. This match, according to a release from the club, holds significant importance for Slingerz FC, serving as a pivotal component of its pre-season preparations for the upcoming GFF Elite League, set to kick off on February 25. São Raimundo Esporte Clube, participating in the Brazilian Championship Serie D and a prominent contender in the Campeonato Roraimense, the premier football league in the state of Roraima, showcases an impressive record with nine consecutive league titles (2016-2023) and a total of 14 championships. Having secured the inaugural Elite League championship and standing as one of Guyana’s most decorated clubs since its establishment in 2013, Slingerz FC expresses eager anticipation for the challenge that São Raimundo Esporte Clube may present. On the subject of Slingerz FC’s squad, the club is actively involved in assembling a formidable roster within the framework of the GFF’s transfer window. The Club stated that the complete list of players forming the final roster will be disclosed to the public before the team embarks on its journey from Guyana on January 31. The club extends a warm invitation to all Guyanese, whether residing in Boa Vista or visiting the area, to come out and show their support.

… as record $4.6B allocated for sector

Egypt through to AFCON last 16 (BBC) - EGYPT made it through to the last 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations, after drawing 2-2 with Cape Verde, following a dramatic finale to Group B in Abidjan. Egypt had looked set to finish third behind the Blue Sharks and Ghana before stoppage-time goals in both games. Pharaohs forward, Mostafa Mohamed, netted what looked to be a 93rd-minute winner. However, Cape Verde levelled six minutes later but the Pharaohs secured second spot as Ghana threw away a 2-0 lead in added time against

Mozambique. Egypt, with the injured Mohamed Salah watching on, trailed at the break through Benchimol’s smart finish but half-time substitute, Trezeguet, volleyed the North Africans level in the 51st minute. The Pharaohs had known that a win would be good enough to send them through in second place and, with Ghana leading Mozambique, they celebrated wildly after Mohamed had lobbed Vozinha to put them 2-1 up. But there was drama to come after the video assistant referee sent Alhadi Mahamat to his pitch-side monitor to

rule on whether Mohamed had controlled Trezeguet’s ball forward with his chest or hand. The Chadian official eventually cleared the award of the goal, yet Egypt almost threw away all their hard work when Bryan Teixiera fired in from a narrow angle. However, their West African rivals had somehow conspired to concede a 91st-minute penalty and a 94th-minute equaliser against Mozambique, which meant Egypt progressed to the knock-out stages despite drawing all three group games in Ivory Coast.

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) is ‘bowled over’ by the sports sector’s $4.6B allocation in the 2024 budget, which was announced last week. A statement from the GCB said that with cricket being the leading sport in Guyana, the GCB is particularly pleased that this allocation will contribute significantly to the projects which are earmarked for development in partnership with the Government of Guyana. Additionally, the Government has begun the task of upgrading and constructing respectively multi-purpose sports facilities throughout the regions including a spanking new cricket stadium at Palmyra, Berbice and the enhancement of the Guyana National Stadium which will be completed in time for the T20 World Cup Tournament in May and June 2024. The Government has signaled its intention to use the Providence Stadium for the National Cricket Academy which when launched will be the premier Cricket Academy in the Caribbean. The establishment of stadiums at Anna Regina and at Linden by Government will ensure that the GCB can take first-class matches to those areas which in turn is expected to increase the interest of cricket and enhance the development of the game in those communities. With the GCB’s recent decision to launch 19 cricket academies in the three counties, the need for more first-class cricket facilities was realised with Government’s further commitment to upgrade many other grounds. Those include grounds at Lusignan, Enmore. Meten-Meer-Zorg, Tuschen, Moruca, Barima/Waini, Lethem, No. 69 Village, Skeldon, Onverwagt and Wakenaam. Government’s assistance will be extended to the employment of over one hundred groundsmen to be deployed throughout the regions after a period of training. The GCB is also tremendously pleased that Government, in a further indication of its commitment towards the development of sports, has removed the duty and value-added tax on sports equipment. Head of the GCB Mr. Bissoondyal Singh, in an invited comment, stated that the GCB has recognised that His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali is a keen cricket fan and has on several occasions expressed the desire to see the development of cricket continue apace. In this regard, the GCB takes the opportunity to express profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Government of Guyana and the Hon. Charles Ramson, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport for the great work being accomplished in the development of cricket in particular and sports in general.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Final trial match bowls off today in West Demerara — Head Coach hoping for no rain

By Sean Devers

THE final four-day trial match for the Guyana Harpy Eagles four-day squad is scheduled to commence today in West Demerara. The defending regional four-day champions are continuing preparation for the 2024 Regional First-Class tournament which bowls off in St Kitts. After the entire first trial game was washed out at Bourda, last week’s second match was shifted to the Meten-Meer-Zorg ground with

two days being washed out. The facility, which has no electricity or internet, will play host to the third game, weather permitting. Meanwhile Ryan Hercules, the 37-year-old Guyana Harpy Eagles Head Coach, is looking forward to today’s match and hoping for no rain. Hercules, who played for Guyana at the youth levels from 2003-2007, informed that the adverse weather has affected preparations. “The weather has not been on our side, just as last year’s beginning of the tournament… with the first game

rained out we hope to get a full match at Meten-MeerZorg tomorrow,” posited the former Essequibo fast bowling all-rounder. Hercules, who had stints as a player in England and Australia, has also coached the Guyana Under-15 and senior Women’s teams at regional tournaments. He spoke about the main issues affecting his side, saying, “From a batting point of view, batters spending more time at the crease and at the same time rotating the strike and scoring runs. For the bowling, fast and spin

bowlers need to be consistent and patient … that’s the key words for me.” “In red-ball cricket if we do the basis right and remain patient, opportunities would present itself and that’s when we need to be ready” added Hercules, who coached the Essequibo Franchise to the ‘double’ as the County won both the three-day and 50over titles,” he continued. During the two playable days in the second trial match, Kevlon Anderson’s (122) highlighted the win of the Matthew Nandu XI while Raymond Perez (76*) and

Malcom Hubbard (50) were also bright sparks. Leg-spinner Steven Sankar had 6-52 to follow-up his three wickets in the first innings. With Gudakesh Motie, Romario Shepherd and Teven Imlach unavailable due ODI and T20I duties for the West Indies and Kemo Paul, Sherfane Rutherford, Shimron Hetmyer and Shamar Joseph also unavailable for selection, those vying to impress selectors will have a final chance over the next few days. Tagenarine Chanderpaul

and Kevin Sinclar will be available for the first game since they are only a part of the West Indies Test squad. Defending Champions Guyana play three games in St Kitts, before playing two more in Trinidad while ending with their last two in Jamaica at Sabina Park and Chedwin Park. The squad is expected to depart for St Kitts on February 5 before their opening game against Trinbago’s Red Force on February 7 at the Conaree ground in St Kitts.

Olympic Solidarity Archery Coaching Course deemed a success

THE curtains came down on a successful five-day Olympic Solidarity Coaching Course hosted under the auspices of Olympic Solidarity, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Archery Guyana. Olympic Solidarity Certificates were presented to the 21 successful coaches namely, Jeewanram Persaud, Roshini Boodhoo, Kenrick Cheeks, Afzal Karim, Saeed Karim, Anopa Ramdial, Jude Holder, Faraad Gani, Paul Meusa, David Orret, Nicholas Fraser, Kevin Singh, Twana McCalmont, Karishma Ramnauth, Carlos Henry, Whem France, Bradley Rodrigues, Layne Thomas, Cary Johnson, Leroy Gregory and Joshua Gafoor. In order to boost the schools programme and specifically for use in the National Schools programme, all newly certified coaches were presented by the National Federation, Archery Guyana with a complete Beginner Archery set which comprised a brand-new Easton Recurve Bow, three arrows, a quiver, an arm-guard, a bow-string, a sight pin and finger protector. In addition, they received beginner finger tabs, Junior Cartel Quivers and a pack of Easton 3-arrow rests. Additionally, Former President of Archery Guyana, National Judge, Level 1 Certified Coach, member of the

Head tests positive for COVID-19

Newly certified Level 1 Archery Coaches pose with Coach Ludys Tejada, and President of the Guyana Olympic Association Mr. Godfrey Munroe and President of Archery Guyana Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon (right).

Disciplinary committee and Chair of the Competitions Committee commended all for participating and in order to give a boost specifically for the schools programme, the six newly certified Coaches from regions were presented with a Krossen Archery adult guard, an Easton recurve Bow Stringer and Easton bow string wax. President of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon indicated the continued collaboration will continue with the Ministry of Education and the Schools Archery Programme. She also pointed out that the governing body also enjoys charitable status and as such, all supplies needed can be facilitated through Archery Guyana which is privileged to benefit from discounted prices. Archery Guyana can also

facilitate the waiver of all taxes and duty in relation to said purchases. At the closing ceremony, President of the Guyana Olympic Association, Mr. Godfrey Munroe presented the certificates issued by the International Olympic Committee for this prestigious Olympic Solidarity Course. He commended the governing body, Archery Guyana for creating pillars to make the Archery programme a success. Mr. Munroe proceeded to charge the participants to continue to be creative and innovative in their training tools and steps. World Archery Coach Trainer, Ms. Ludys Tejada commended the Federation and the participants for the successful completion of the Course and presented Certificates from the International Federation, World Archery

to the successful 21 new coaches. The Board of Directors extends thanks again to the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association, Olympic Solidarity, Unit of Allied Art, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Director of Sport Mr. Steve Ninvalle, National Sports Commission, World Archery, Secretary-General Sergio Font of World Archery Americas, Chief Executive Officer of CBJ Int’l Airport, Mr. Ramesh Ghir and his Protocol Team, Mr. Alvin Wilson and his Team at Bermudez Operations, Massy Distribution (Guy) Inc., Mr. Samuel Arjoon and his Team at the Guyana Beverages Inc., and the Media.

Travis Head tests positive for COVID-19

CMC – Travis Head has delayed his arrival here for the second Test against West Indies after testing positive for COVID-19. The left-hander complained of feeling unwell following the opening Test in Adelaide, which Australia won by 10 wickets, and was subsequently tested. He is now set to arrive on Tuesday in order to give himself more time to recover from the illness. If the 30-year-old does not test negative, however, he will still be allowed to face West Indies, but will have to play under team- isolation protocols. That will likely mean his isolation from the rest of the squad during the Test, watching the game in a separate room, and being socially-distanced while fielding. Head was pivotal to the outcome of the opening Test, carving out a defiant 119 in the first innings to register his seventh hundred in the longest format. He averages 44 from 46 Tests.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, January 23, 2024

GCB extols Government’s support for continued development of sports See page 22

The Anna Regina stadium

Head tests positive for COVID-19

Travis Head tests positive for COVID-19

See page 23

Final trial match bowls off today in West Demerara See page 23

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| TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024