Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-10-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

MONDAY 23rd October, 2023

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Upgraded boxing gym, roads and bridges for Albouystown No.107242

–– President Ali assures PAGE residents during walkabout 03

(Office of the President photos)

Innovative insurance model necessary to establish 02 resilient food production, protect farmers –– President Ali PAGE

‘Outlandish and outrageous’ –– Nandlall challenges Opposition’s claim of GECOM registering Venezuelans, calls for ‘concrete’ evidence to be produced

PAGE

Networking opportunities endless––‘Agri-fest’ exhibitors say 11 PAGE

President Ali on Saturday received a courtesy call from representatives of the Central Assembly of God World Mission at State House. The group included His Royal Majesty Drolor Bosso Adamtey (the first) of the SE and Kordiabe Madaam Matse of the Shai Traditional Area of the Dangme West Region Ghana, Prince Emmanuel Fletcher, Bishop John Oswald Smith, Elder Jean Smith, Min. Andre Smith, Rev. Steve Adams, Pastor Linda Archer, and Mr. Jaipaul Sharma. They were updated on Guyana’s development agenda, and the bilateral partnership between Guyana and Ghana (Office of the President photo)

New pilot vessel acquired in 2018 currently inoperable 09 PAGE

––millions spent on repairs, PAC hears

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Innovative insurance model necessary to establish resilient food production, protect farmers – President Ali By Naomi Parris

BUILDING a sustainable and resilient agriculture sector will require better insurance for farmers to be able to protect their produce, President Dr Irfaan

Ali has said. The Guyanese Head of State during his address at the opening ceremony of the third regional Agri-Investment Forum and Expo held on Friday, explained that while the region has been

increasing its production to meet its food security targets and reduce its high food import bill, incentives to mitigate the risk of climate change on food production is required to ensure that the sector remains resilient.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali “How can we bring the insurance companies together and develop a fiscal regime? How can we develop incentives for them [farmers] that mitigate the risk and the vulnerability as a result

of climate events so that they can offer insurance to their farmers at an affordable rate?” Dr Ali questioned. “We need to lock ourselves in a room and come up with an innovative model

that will present a solution to the farmers. Guyana is committed to doing this. We are actively considering these things,” he added. Caribbean leaders are currently on a mission to reduce the region’s high dependency on food imports, slashing its $US six billion expenditure by 25 per cent by the year 2025. The goal is to produce more food and establish policies to ensure that the region is food secure. Guyana, he said has found innovative models to support farmers under very difficult conditions but a long-term solution will be needed. In 2021, Guyana was declared to be in a state of disaster by virtue of the See page 4

Upgraded boxing gym, roads and bridges for Albouystown

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

–– President Ali assures residents during walkabout

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali paid an impromptu visit to Albouystown on Sunday to inspect ongoing projects and to interact and listen to the concerns of residents. He assured the scores of residents who came out to greet him that the community’s boxing facility and the rehabilitation of several community roads and bridges will soon be completed. During the exercise, President Ali said that all works would be completed in a timely manner. The Head of State also interacted with several contractors who were hired to conduct works in the area. Works have begun on a number of community roads and bridges and several trenches and drains in the community have also been cleaned. Residents reported that

President Ali was accompanied by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy (left) and other officials during his visit to Albouystown

President Ali interacting with local football star Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson during the walkabout

the ongoing works have had a great impact on their lives and the community as a whole. Meanwhile, as it relates to the boxing gym, Presi-

dent Ali told residents that upgrades will be done to the facility and more advanced equipment will be installed for the youths who train there.

Sixteen contracts totalling $182 million for the construction of several roads and bridges in Albouystown and Castello Housing Scheme, West La Penitence, have been awarded. These contracts are for the second phase of the infrastructural upgrade in the area. The streets to be upgraded include Victoria Street, Cooper Street, Non Pareil Street and Castello Street. The bridges on Campbell Street, Callender Street and East of Callender Street have been identified for rehabilitation works. These projects are part of President Ali’s and the government’s efforts to ensure that all Guyanese have access to a safer and cleaner environment and a better standard of living. The Head of State first visited the community back in 2022, and since then, a number of community-enhancement projects have been completed, including $1.5 billion in beautification works along Independence Boulevard.

One of the community roads that is being rehabilitated in Albouystown (Yohan Savory photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Innovative insurance model necessary to establish ...

From page 2

ongoing floods at that time. By June of that year, a total of 28,228 households were affected by flooding, some with water entering their homes, domestic animals and livestock in distress, or farmlands inundated. An initial assessment had revealed that the agriculture sector was most affected, with some 92,000 acres of

farm and farmlands completely affected, and approximately $23 billion or more in loss of production. The sugar industry suffered estimated losses of more than $1.5 billion in the fields, while more than 50 per cent of mining operations were affected. Later the government announced that it would pro-

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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F 04 10 12 20 26 27 18

vide financial assistance to the thousands of Guyanese who had been affected by the floods. The assistance covered various categories of households and farmers, and did not exceed a ceiling of $10 million per individual. In those categories, farmers within the context of a homestead received $100,000 each; those with kitchen gardens received $50,000 each, and households excluding homestead and kitchen gardens received 50,000 each. “There was no insurance but the Government of Guyana made resources

21/10/23 - 01, 02, 04, 24, 25

Flashback: Cattle in flood-hit Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara available. How we brought back rice from the brink of collapse to sustainability and prosperity. The story of sugar. The story of a cash crop farmer,” Dr. Ali told

21/10/23 - 8 3 1

those gathered. During that time, other support in the form of seeds, tools and other incentives were provided to farmers. The supplementary fund for flooding had also facilitated the exe-

21/10/23 - 0 5 6

cution of critical emergency repairs to a number of public infrastructures such as roads and bridges that had been destroyed by the unprecedented levels of floodwaters.

21/10/23- 1, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 17

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

New Demerara Harbour Bridge: Gov’t initiates negotiations for ‘appropriate’ compensation to acquire 40 private properties AS work on the new Demerara Harbour Bridge accelerates, the government is intensifying its consultation efforts to acquire approximately 40 private properties that are in close proximity to the bridge. Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, recently provided crucial insights into this process during his weekly programme, ‘Issues in the News.’ Nandlall revealed that the Ministry of Housing and Ministry of Public Works initiated this process some time ago. However, due to its protracted nature, the Ministry of Legal Affairs has joined the initiative with the aim of speeding this up. He highlighted the government’s longstanding procedure for handling such property acquisitions, emphasising its commitment to a consultative and market-driven approach. This approach seeks to ensure that the property owners are fairly compensated for their land in adherence to market values. “Our government has a clear and settled procedure by which it approaches this type of situation. We have done it many times before. We did it when we were doing the Berbice River Bridge. We did it when we were doing the Hope Canal. We did it when we were doing well when in relation to the gas-to-energy project, and we are now doing it in relation to the Demerara Harbour Bridge,” Nandlall said. The minister clarified that their process includes consultation with property owners, striving to achieve consensus on property values and compensation. As such, Nandlall said that the government offers various compensation options, such as monetary compensation or a house with land, and adjusting values

accordingly. Against this backdrop, the Attorney-General said that the government’s objective is to make the process as non-antagonistic as possible and ensure that private property owners are content with the compensation received for the acquisition of their properties, which will be used for construction of the bridge. Acknowledging the inconvenience and impact on private property owners due to the lengthy process and ongoing construction work in the area, Nandlall expressed gratitude to them for their patience and support. He acknowledged the challenges they are facing and expressed the government’s commitment to expediting the process. He recounted his recent meeting with Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Sherwyn Greaves, and other officials who had engaged the affected property owners. Nandlall has assured the property owners that the government will retain lawyers to negotiate with each property owner, but they were also free to retain their lawyers of choice. “The response has been very good. In fact, from all indications, there is no one who is opposed to moving and who is opposed to the process. It is simply a question of arriving at the appropriate value of the compensation to be paid. I want to thank the private property owners for their support and to thank them for their patience. “I know that they are enduring a lot because the process has been a long one and the contractors are working in the locality, and they are suffering inconvenience. That is why we are hoping that we can control this process with every convenient

speed and bring this important aspect of the project to an end,” he said. This project is expected to be completed within 24 months, with the major works scheduled for completion on December 31, 2024. The new bridge is expected to be some 2.65 kilometres long with two carriageways and four lanes. It is a hybrid design with a high span having a ca-

ble-stay design, even as the vertical height of the bridge is to be constructed at 50 metres from the mean highest watermark. This new bridge is said to have a design lifespan of 100 years and will take the place of the existing bridge, which has been in operation for more than 40 years. This period of time is more than its projected lifespan.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

Editor

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Navendra Seoraj

Guyana’s Pioneering Efforts

IN recent years, the Government of Guyana has been making significant strides in transforming its agricultural sector to achieve improved food security, not only for the nation, but also for the broader Caribbean community. The launch of the country’s first-ever bio-fortified rice, enhanced with zinc, marks a milestone in this endeavour. With the introduction of the rice variety GRDB IICA 17, Guyana’s agricultural sector is setting itself apart from the rest of the Region. Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips rightly pointed out that Guyana is well on its way to addressing food insecurity, and he lauded the revival of the rice industry. This is a testament to the government’s dedication to enhancing food production and nutrition for its citizens. The significance of this achievement

cannot be overstated. Guyana is poised to become the first country in CARICOM and Latin America to cultivate bio-fortified rice enhanced with zinc. This pioneering effort is not only a source of pride for the nation, but also a beacon of hope for the entire Region. Bio-fortified rice is a game-changer in addressing malnutrition and improving the health and well-being of the population. The official launch of this ground-breaking initiative took place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre during the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo, further highlighting the government’s commitment to modernising the agricultural sector and attracting investments. The timing couldn’t be more appropriate, as the world grapples with the challenges of ensuring food security in the face of climate change and economic uncertainty. This bold step by Guyana reflects a clear

vision for the future. The cultivation of bio-fortified rice not only enhances the nutritional quality of staple foods, but also opens doors for new agricultural innovations. By harnessing the potential of biotechnology and modern farming practices, Guyana is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture. The benefits of this initiative extend beyond its borders. As Guyana becomes a pioneer in bio-fortified rice production, it is poised to become a vital contributor to the broader Caribbean and Latin American Region’s food security. This not only aligns with the goals of CARICOM but also sets a precedent for other nations to follow. It is a testament to the government’s vision and dedication to regional co-operation and development. However, while this achievement is indeed commendable, it is essential that

the government continues to prioritize investments in research, infrastructure and education to ensure the long-term success of the agricultural sector. Sustainability, innovation, and resilience must be at the forefront of these efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change and evolving global dynamics. The government’s dedication to revitalizing the agricultural sector is commendable, and the launch of GRDB IICA 17 sets a high standard for others to emulate. This achievement not only benefits Guyana, but also positions the nation as a leader in the Region, capable of influencing positive change in the broader Caribbean and Latin American context. It is a remarkable example of how a country can drive progress and innovation in agriculture for the well-being of its people and the entire Region.

Guyana on target to achieve food security by 2025

Dear editor,

PLEASE permit me a space in your letter column to share my views on the agricultural sector in Guyana as we are celebrating this year’s Agriculture Month under the theme, “Accelerating Vision 25 by 2025: Investing in Agri-Business and Food Security.” Over the past three years of the People’s Progressive Party government led by His Excellency Dr. Ifraan Ali, we have seen much importance being placed on the agricultural sector in ensuring that it remains top of the agenda. The agriculture ministry for me and I believe all will agree with me that it is the most important ministry in government because we all need food to survive and this ministry is tasked with ensuring that we have food on our tables daily. But having a ministry with a visionless leader would fail and we saw that during the previous government. Today we can say that the President Ali-led PPP/C government has put a man who knows about agriculture because he came from that background. He has a vision to ensure that the agricultural sector in Guyana strive towards being top of the CARICOM when it comes to food security. Over the past years of this administration and since the Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, MP,

took up the mantle of heading the agriculture ministry, we saw vast development in the sector and I mean all aspects of the agricultural sector in Guyana. The government is spending billions of dollars yearly to develop this sector in every way possible and the private sector has also been actively involved since 2020. Investing in the many D&I projects is helping our farmers to have better drainage systems for their crops, especially during this prolonged dry-weather season. We are seeing the effects that climate change is having and because of the government investments in this sector, farmers are able to cope with the prolonged dry weather and we all know that water is very important for this sector. We saw the major investments being done in the cash-crop industry, which was a dying industry prior to 2020, and the many opportunities being given to our farmers within the villages as to get back to their lands to do farming and they are proudly doing so. We saw the introduction of shade houses, etc. Not only is the government investing monies into this sector, but also technical assistance and training from NAREI is being given to farmers countrywide. We are seeing a positive rise in the cattle and poultry industries through the introduction of new breeds of cattle to the farmers and

the giving of needed guidance. We saw the introduction of the black belly sheep project, etc. The poultry industry is on the rise on a daily basis with the private sector taking up the many opportunities in getting into the industry. We’re seeing this through the introduction of the black giant chicken project in the hinterland, etc. The Guyana Livestock and Development Authority (GLDA) is giving lots of guidance and farmers are benefitting from educational programmes. We saw VAT being put under the previous government on machinery and agricultural products such as fertilizers; it was hardship for farmers. Today, that VAT has been removed and farmers are investing more and more. Many went back to their lands and are seeking more lands to plant rice because that burden was removed. They are having better drainage and irrigation systems for their crops. This brings me to mention the many farmto-market roads that are being built across the country which are ensuring that produce reach consumers in a timely manner and that farmers have easier access to their farmlands. We are seeing major investments and improvements in the fishing industry and the introduction of ponds for brackish-water shrimp projects in some of the regions. That project is seeing an increase of production.

I cannot forget to mention the many developments taking place also in the hinterland regions of our country. We are seeing soya bean projects, rice-planting, massive poultry rearing and cash-crop farming, among others. Thousands of acres of lands are being cleared for agricultural purposes and my brothers and sisters in the hinterland are taking full advantage of the many opportunities in the agricultural sector. I must mention also that recently we saw the reopening of the Rose Hall Sugar Estate and as it grinds the sugar canes to produce sugar, hundreds of jobs will be created for our people. It will ease the economic impact that those areas use to suffer from. Editor, there are so many positives happening in the agricultural sector under the strong and visionary leadership of Minister Mustapha, MP. I can go on but space might be limited if I do. With that said, as a Guyanese, I can proudly say that under this People’s Progressive Party government led by President Irfaan Ali and with the strong and visionary leadership of the Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, MP, Guyana will become food secure by 2025. The agriculture industry is moving forward at a rapid pace. Regards. Abel Seetaram

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

President Ali and PM Phillips have inspired the nation

Dear Editor,

WHEN all is said and done, Guyanese at home and abroad and from all walks of life and from every origin, race and political party should be extremely proud and grateful to have Dr Irfaan Ali as President and Brigadier Mark Phillips as Prime Minister of our beloved country. Although they have never worked together before being elected to office in August, 2020, their respect and admiration for and confidence in one another have made them very compatible and a well-matched team. And even though they had endured the long delay of five months before the March 2, 2020, results were officially declared on August 2, 2020, they were not daunted by the efforts of the Granger-led administration to brazenly and daringly rig the elections to remain in office. It was politics by any and every means necessary. Many believed that their silly and misguided actions had not only threatened the democratic process and several provisions in the constitution, as well as the people’s right to vote for the party(s) of their choice, but it was also a trying period for both President Dr. Ali and Brigadier Phillips who were firm in their beliefs that the PPP/C had won the elections as shown in the recount. Since elected to office in 2020, President, Dr. Ali has been at the forefront of strengthening Guyana’s relations with its neighbours in CARICOM and Latin America, the United States, Canada, India, China, and other countries and regions around the world. He continues to advocate for increased production of food to significantly reduce CARICOM’s food bill by 2025, agricultural transformation, and for building resilient and sustainable economies in Guyana and the Caribbean, as well as his firm commitment and support for regional integration, gender equality, and respect for sovereignty, among others. On the international scene, President, Dr. Ali continues to provide leadership in the areas of food security, energy security, climate security, protection of the environment, especially the forests, reduction or an end to armed conflicts, an end to human rights violations and respect for sovereignty and international law. He has positioned Guyana on the world stage as a

global leader on climate change, food security and energy security. Locally, both President Ali and the Prime Minister Phillips have been working diligently to create good paying jobs, tackle poverty and unemployment, grow the lower and middle-classes, heal the racial divide and make life more affordable for a better future for Guyana where all can live in peace and harmony. As evident in most if not all his outreaches in the regions, towns, villages, and districts, President, Dr. Ali has not only met and greeted the residents, but is known to have solved many of their problems on the spot and as such he is considered by many as honest, reliable, consistent and a people-friendly person. On the other hand, Prime Minister Mark Phillipps is straightforward and loyal, and is steadfast in his love and admiration for the people and to treat them fairly and equally and to make sure that no one is left out of the rapid and robust development of the country. According to Brigadier Phillips, Guyana belongs to all Guyanese and regardless of their status, or ethnicity, or party affiliation, all must benefit from its resources. Under the leadership of President Dr. Ali and Prime Minister Mark Philipps, Guyana has embarked on a new style of governance at the grassroots level, which in essence means governance from the bottom-up where the views, opinions, and suggestions of the people are often considered in the policy-making and decision-making processes. Both the President and the Prime Minister believe that positive criticisms of the government from the residents is not only patriotic, but they are also welcome because it can only make the government stronger and more responsive to their specific needs in each of the 10 regions. A similar viewpoint is reflected in one of the speeches by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, who in 1910 said, “That there must be no criticism of the President, or that people are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable.” Finally, President Dr. Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips have inspired the nation to embrace the profoundly sound “One Guyana” vision which comprises several pertinent issues including

unity, increased growth in GDP, the expansion and rapid growth of the agriculture sector and the economy, modernization of the infrastructure, improved health care and education and the digitization of both the private and public sectors, could solidify Guyana’s global leadership.

Today, Guyana has become one of the most recognizable countries in the world, thanks to the brilliant and outstanding leadership of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. Sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose

The Moray House Mensheviks: A Review, Part 1

GUYANA-BORN Englishman John Mair is best known in Guyana for his pen-name Bill Cotton. Mr. Mair edits the ongoing series titled, Oil Dorado, which is about to release its sixth edition. It is about the oil industry and its importance for Guyana’s future. It can be had from Amazon.com. In case you don’t know, Moray House is the name of the building that was the home of Stabroek News’ (SN) founder, David DeCaires. The DeCaires family has converted the house into a place to hold symposia on a monthly basis. It is managed by Mr. DeCaires’ daughter Isabelle, an English woman. Mr. Mair has a curiously interesting piece on Moray House’s approach to the oil industry. It is from the fifth edition and has a leftist appellation that I found amusing because it reminds me of my youthful Marxist/socialist bohemian days in academia; not that I have given up on Marxism and socialism. I never will. I think Marxism is sound philosophical theorizing and socialist economics have tremendous plausibility for bringing about the dissolution of poverty. The title is The Moray House Mensheviks (TMHM). This is indeed a bitingly relevant caption. But my criticism of TMHM is that though its headline invokes the idea of class analysis, its lack of class analysis constitutes an incomplete study of the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC) in Guyana. TMHM is well written with a dispassionate flair and its credibility re-

mains intact because the author is neither pro-government nor anti-government. TMHM has two sections – the man, DeCaires and his paper and the motives of the MCC cabal that uses Moray House for their own political agenda. If Mr. Mair had applied class analysis to both subjects, then I think Guyana’s current history would have been better served. Nevertheless, I think Mr. Mair did a plausible and credible job in his article. I will review TMHM using class analysis and just as Mr. Mair cites his experience with DeCaires and Stabroek News to strike some musical chords about both man and paper, I think my experience with both tells a different story. I hope Mr. Mair understands the nuances of class and colour in his relationship with DeCaires. Mr. Mair is White Guyanese and that would explain the ease with which he was facilitated by DeCaires. Both DeCaires and SN were elitist platforms for the resurrection of the MCC in Guyana. SN was born with that intention. If Mr. Mair accepted that then he would better comprehend what the Mensheviks are doing what they are currently doing in Guyana. Mr. DeCaires along with co-founder of SN, Miles Fitzpatrick, were considered the crème de la crème of British Guiana. They were treated like royalty by all social classes and their leaders. Cheddi and Janet Jagan differed to both men. Forbes Burnham differed to both men. One of the most loyal comrades of Forbes Burnham, Commissioner of

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Police Laurie Lewis (deceased) once told me over lunch in a café on High Street that no longer exists (long after Burnham had died) that DeCaires and Fitzpatrick could go on any anti-government bandwagon and Burnham would not have touched them. I asked why and I will repeat his exact words: “Maybe it was a complex.” A member of the famous Kissoon family of lawyers, but who was not a lawyer but an engineer, Ramesh Kissoon (deceased), who worked in the bauxite industry told me an interesting thing about Burnham. We were having coffee one night at the Banks DIH outlet where now stands Citizens’ Bank. It was an intense conversation on his relationship with Burnham. Ramesh told me he knew that DeCaires and Fitzpatrick never paid one cent in income tax, even though they were wealthy lawyers and Burnham knew it but just could not be bothered.

I think Burnham’s special perception of DeCaires and Fitzpatrick was bound up with that complex Laurie spoke about. Someone like Ravi Dev would know about this aspect of Burnham’s persona because he said on the Gildarie-Freddie Kissoon Show that Burnham was smitten by white skin. So back to TMHM. Mair gave a background to the elitist class upbringing of DeCaires, but he didn’t see that class background in the purpose of the SN. I did. I think Mair couldn’t see this because he wanted to see DeCaires as a nice liberal man and DeCaires saw Mair as an MCC colleague. Mair wrote of DeCaires: “David was a firm believer in freedom of speech. I know first-hand as I wrote a daily column for him.” I am sorry Mr. Mair, my experience at SN under DeCaires was different. I think Mair’s colour had something to do with it. To be continued.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

New pilot vessel acquired in 2018 currently inoperable –– millions spent on repairs, PAC hears

MEMBERS of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), on Monday last, raised their concerns about a new vessel which was procured in 2018 by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), incurring millions in repair costs and being currently inoperable while several older vessels are in operation. This came to light as the Committee examined the Auditor General’s 2019 report for the then Ministry of Public Infrastructure which has responsibility for MARAD. The vessel in question is the ML David P which was acquired in 2018 and recorded as a new vessel according to current Permanent Secretary of the Public Works Ministry, Vladim Persaud. Highlighted in the report was that the vessel came with a one-year warranty but one month prior to its expiration, the vessel encountered difficulties which resulted in the warranty being extended. It was subsequently docked for

rehabilitation. The report went on to add that as of August 2020, works on the vessel had not yet started. Members of the committee have since questioned whether work was ever done on the vessel. In response, the Permanent Secretary noted that while some work was done to the vessel, it would be tough to say whether the work in question was completed as additional work had to be done to keep it operational. This led members of the committee to inquire about the total number of vessels under the control of MARAD. They were told that there are seven vessels under the agency’s control of which only five are currently in an operational state. Among the two vessels that are inoperable is the ML David P which was acquired in 2018. Persaud told the committee that he was advised that since it was acquired it has been on and off in terms of its usability as a result

Miner relieved of gold chain, licensed firearm during Diamond armed robbery

THE police are investigating an alleged robbery under arms committed on Aubrey Benjamin, a 45-yearold gold miner of Diamond New Scheme, East Bank Demerara, around 02:45hrs on Sunday. According to the police, Benjamin was allegedly relieved of one 38 penny-weight gold chain valued at $300,000 and one black Taurus 9mm pistol with 10 matching 9mm rounds while he was at Tya’s Bar-b-Que and Cheese Please, located at 10th Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme. The suspect is a slim-built male about 5ft 10 inches tall and he was armed with a handgun. “Enquiries disclosed that the victim was at the business place mentioned above, located at the corners of the Diamond Public Access Road and 10th Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme. “According to the victim, he was inside the business place with two friends, a 34-year-old architect and a 33-year-old contractor, consuming alcoholic beverages. They then exited the shop and were standing outside, about to leave and go home. The victim at the time was armed with his licensed firearm.” “The perpetrator came up behind him, snatched his chain from his neck and said: ‘I taking this.’ The perpetrator also drew a gun from his waist and discharged rounds in his direction, hitting him on his left shoulder. Benjamin’s two friends also received gunshot wounds, one on his left upper thigh and the other on his lower right leg. Benjamin tried to run away in the southern direction, and whilst doing so, he tried to draw his firearm to defend himself but fell to the ground due to his injury. The suspect then took his firearm and escaped in an unknown direction,” the police said. Benjamin then entered his car and proceeded to the Golden Grove Police Station, where he made a report. After that, he and his two friends were rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where they received medical attention. Their conditions are all listed as stable. Several persons were contacted and interviewed by the police. The area was also canvassed for CCTV cameras. Checks were made for the perpetrator but he was not found.

of constant issues with the vessel. Meanwhile, committee member Ganesh Mahipaul inquired about the current active vessels and their locations. It was then uncovered that vessels acquired in the 1980s and even as early as 1930 or 1940 are in operation. Member of Parliament, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo said: “It struck me that the newest vessel that we have is not functional even after nearly $13 million of rehab works done in 2019. Was an investigation launched as to what is the real problem with this vessel?” In response, the Director General of MARAD, Stephen Thomas said that a formal investigation was not done, however, the department recently hired an experienced marine engineer, which he noted has

The ML David P (Guyana National Industrial Company photo) been lacking. This engineer is currently reviewing the performances of all the inoperable vessels with the aim of making them operational. Other members of the committee also raised their concerns about the maintenance of ML David P over

the years and even asked for the total sum of money spent on repairs to the vessel to be presented to the committee. In 2022, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill said that the vessel which was bought in April 2018 under the APNU+AFC administra-

tion had never worked to its full capacity. He referred to the vessel as one that is, “a festering wound in the administration since it has been costing the department huge sums of money to maintain.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Significant infrastructural work done for ExxonMobil’s gas-to-energy project

OIL and gas giant ExxonMobil has made significant strides in installing the infrastructure that is needed to support the ambitious gas-to-energy project at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), according to the company’s local President, Alistair Routledge. Routledge offered insights into the project’s progress during a recent

press briefing held at ExxonMobil’s operating centre in Kingston, Georgetown. ExxonMobil, on behalf of the Stabroek partners and the government, has been committed to initiating key infrastructural works, particularly in Region Three. As such, Routledge said that he is “pleased” to see the progress being made so far. He explained that they

have successfully undertaken site clearing and preparation of a substantial 100-acre area, which will serve as the foundation for the integrated plant. Routledge pointed out that this facility will be instrumental in separating natural gas liquids from methane, creating a distinct revenue source for the government, and generating power for

stations. “All the preparatory work has been completed,” Routledge said as he explained that Exxon has “handed it over to the companies tasked with designing and constructing the integrated plant,” he said. Routledge further explained that the said companies have initiated the installation of concrete drains to control drainage and land settlement, paving the way for civil construction. “Other than that, in the early works we’ve also been reinforcing bridges, improving roads for heavy vehicle access and constructing a material offload facility on the West bank of the Demerara,” he said. The facility, Routledge said, which is being constructed by Gaico Construction Inc. will be handed over to the government soon. This facility will play a crucial role in transporting the plant components to the Wales construction site. This

progress is truly encouraging. On the pipeline front, ExxonMobil has already initiated the welding and laying of pipes onshore. The project achieved a remarkable feat by drilling horizontally under the seawall near Crane, enabling pipe installation in shallow waters. “We’re on track for completion of the pipeline by the end of 2024, in line with the commitment that we made,” Routledge added. The gas-to-energy project will see a 200km 12-inch diameter pipeline channelling natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Liza Phase Two Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels to a power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility that will be built in Wales, on the West Bank Demerara. ExxonMobil’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)- the operator in the Stabroek Block, and its coventurers are constructing

the pipeline. That pipeline will be landing on the West Coast Demerara shore and continue approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL and power plant facilities. It has an estimated cost of US$1 billion and is cost-recoverable. The power plant and NGL facilities will be funded by the government. Last December, the Government of Guyana and US-based integrated energy solutions group – LINDSAYCA – in partnership with a local firm – CH4 Group – signed a US$759 million contract for the construction of the facilities. The conversion of natural gas from ExxonMobil’s offshore operations to electricity is a key component of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s objective to lower energy costs by at least 50 per cent through an energy mix which incorporates gas, solar, wind, and ‘hydro’ power.

Firearm, ‘ammo’ found at Turkeyen

THE police, around 00:10hrs on Saturday found a .32 pistol and five rounds of matching ammunition in a bag which was dropped by a man on a street in Turkeyen in the vicinity of the CARICOM Secretariat. In a release, the police said acting on information, ranks proceeded to the area. On arrival they observed that a party was in full flow on a street running north to south. “Based on the information received, a man clad in a white jersey and blue long pants was seen with a black one-strap bag. Upon

The firearm and ammunition that police found at Turkeyen on Saturday (GPF photo) seeing the police, the man dropped the black bag and began to run north along the street, where he made good his escape. “The black bag was checked, and one .32 pis-

tol and five (5) rounds of matching ammunition were found,” the police said. Checks were made for the suspect, but he is yet to be located. Investigations continue.

Networking opportunities –– Agri-fest exhibitors say endless

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Story and photos by Shamar Meusa

AS the curtains came down on the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo on Sunday evening, many exhibitors have hailed this year’s expo as one that has presented endless networking opportunities for them. This year’s forum and expo was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre and saw hundreds of exhibitors, businesses and agro-processors hoping to expand their businesses and find new markets for their products. The ‘expo’ drew in persons in the agriculture sector from around the globe and

Entrepreneur Dixie Jordan told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday that this was her second time at the Agri-investment Forum and Expo and that she was happy to be able to interact with many different persons at the ‘expo’ who were interested in her business and the products that she offers. Jordan’s business, ‘Dixie’s Punch de crème’, which is based in Buxton, East Coast Demerara, is a line of locally made cream liqueurs with three flavoured variations made from all locally sourced materials. According to her, the ‘expo’ has provided her with great exposure for her business.

able to meet people that I wouldn’t normally get to meet,” she said. Against this backdrop, she added that she was able to interact with large beverage companies that seemed to be interested in her line of beverages; diplomats and other persons, and she expects to see fruitful outcomes from networking that involves a wide cross-section of people. Meanwhile, on the other side of the ‘expo’ was Cindy Halls, whose business specialises in locally made skincare products, from face and body bars to body wash, face scrubs and much more. She told this newspaper that thousands of persons

The products under the Favour’s Hair Therapy line

Dixie’s punch de crème line of products provided opportunities for local businesses to branch into foreign markets.

“I think it’s great exposure for a business like my business because I have been

One of the featured products of Natural Glow Organic Skincare

traversed the grounds of the ‘expo’, and though sales have been on the slower side, she was able to interact with many persons, and share details about her product line, ‘Natural Glow Organic Skincare’. Halls added that the exposure is great, and shared an example of the types of connections that she was able to make over the three-day period. She noted that while meeting a number of potential customers, she even met persons who provided her with information, and opened her eyes to the ways in which

she can expand her business, and even export her products. This seemed to be a common theme among many of the exhibitors present at the ‘expo’. Falana Fraser of ‘Favour’s Hair Therapy’, which specialises in all-natural plant-based hair products, said that this is the fourth ‘expo’ where she has been able to put her line of products on display. With a dream of one day expanding her business, and moving products to the international market, she said that the government-organised ‘expo’ is a great initiative

that provides opportunities for small businesses. “My dream for my business is to be in the international market, and so the ‘expo’ is a great initiative for that. It’s a good start; I’ve had foreigners come by, and they were amazed by the products, and gave me their business cards and collected my information on how we can possibly work together if I was interested in exporting,” she said, while adding that she was extremely grateful to be a part of this year’s activity.

‘Outlandish and outrageous’ 12

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

––– Nandlall challenges Opposition’s claims of GECOM registering Venezuelans, calls for ‘concrete’ evidence to be produced

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has challenged opposition leaders to provide concrete evidence supporting their claims that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is unlawfully registering Venezuelan migrants for the upcoming general and regional elections. Nandlall’s statements come in response to allegations made by the Leader of the Partnership for Nation-

GECOM’s actions may compromise the integrity of the upcoming elections. They argued that the alleged unlawful registration of Venezuelan migrants could lead to an imbalance in the electoral process. Nandlall was quick to clarify the government’s stance on the matter, emphasising that neither the government nor the PPP exercises control over GECOM. He highlighted the constitutional autonomy of GECOM, which operates

that GECOM is registering unqualified persons…the allegation that Ramjattan and Norton are making is that GECOM is unlawfully registering Venezuelans, who are not qualified to be registered, obviously. These two leaders sat at a news conference and alleged that hundreds if not thousands of Venezuelans are being illegally registered by GECOM and they did not produce a scintilla of evidence to substantiate this very serious and outrageous allegation,”

Aubrey Norton and Khemraj Ramjattan al Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton, and Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan, who have accused the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) of registering Venezuelan refugees as electors. During his programme, ‘Issues in the News,’ Nandlall addressed the allegations made by Norton and Ramjattan, which he described as “vacuous, outlandish, and outrageous.” “Both of them have made the allegation that GECOM is illegally registering Venezuelans and putting them on the national database… They are both alleging that this will undermine the integrity of the electoral process. Not single supporting evidence, not a scintilla of evidence to corroborate or support this very serious allegation,” Nandlall said. The claims made by the opposition leaders centre around their concerns that

independently to fulfil its statutory and constitutional mandate. “The Guyana Elections Commission is a constitutional autonomous and independent body,” Nandlall stated. He went on to emphasise that the events following the March 2020 elections demonstrated that the PPP/C did not have control or influence over GECOM’s actions. Nandlall cited the alleged controversial actions of key figures like Clairmont Mingo and Keith Lowenfield, who were widely criticised for their handling of the 2020 elections, as evidence that the government could not control GECOM. Two key opposition officials were fingered in the electoral fraud case which is currently before the court. Nandlall pointed to the lack of concrete evidence to support the allegations against GECOM. “I have no evidence

he said. He outlined the constitutional qualifications for voter registration, which include being 18 years and older and being a Guyanese citizen. BASELESS CLAIM According to the Attorney General, the opposition’s claims that GECOM was unlawfully registering unqualified persons were baseless, as no evidence had been presented to substantiate these allegations. He questioned the reasoning behind the opposition’s insinuation that these allegedly unlawful registrants would vote in favour of the PPP/C. “I don’t know that they are even supporters of the People’s Progressive Party. The other bizarre thing is how do you know and on what basis they are concluding that these persons who are being unlawfully registered are supporters of

the PPP or will vote for the PPP. On what basis are they arriving at that conclusion?” Nandlall asked. He challenged the opposition leaders’ ability to predict the voting preferences of individuals without any factual basis. He continued to express his doubts about the veracity of the claims, noting that the opposition’s propensity for making unsupported allegations was a recurring pattern. He pointed out that GECOM is an independent organisation responsible for its actions and that, even if the allegations were accurate, GECOM’s makeup did not inherently favour the PPP/C. “If you have to question the reasoning capabilities of these persons when they can make such vacuous, outlandish and outrageous allegations and suppositions and draw inferences that are so remote without offering a scintilla of evidence to support it. But that is how they think. And that is how they function both in and out of government. They simply do not make sense,” Nandlall said. GECOM MUST SPEAK UP In response to the opposition’s allegations, Nandlall called on GECOM to address the accusations and requested that they call upon Norton and Ramjattan to produce the evidence for their claims. He also suggested that GECOM release a state-

ment to clarify its position and actions. However, he expressed scepticism that the opposition leaders would provide any evidence to support their claims. Nandlall reaffirmed that GECOM’s independent status was beyond the control of the government and that the opposition’s allegations were unsubstantiated. He criticised the opposition leaders for making baseless and unfounded allegations and urged them to provide concrete evidence if they wished to substantiate their claims. “But even if GECOM issues a statement calling upon them to produce the evidence they will not. Life goes and they get off the hook completely until they concoct and fabricate another lie. Another false narrative. That is all that they do, all day long. So don’t be surprised when they are confronted. You will hear no sensible answer. No sensible response. And then they go on to fabricate and concoct another ridiculous narrative. That is what they do all day,” he said. Currently, the high-profile electoral fraud case involving several prominent figures, including former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield; former People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) Chairperson Volda Lawrence; PNC/R activist Carol Smith-Joseph, and several GECOM officials are before the court.

The defendants are charged in connection with inflating or facilitating the inflation of results for Region Four, the country’s largest voting district, to give the APNU+AFC Coalition a majority win at the polls when, in fact, the PPP/C had won by 15,000 votes. The APNU has openly supported the defendants. COLLUSION In April 2023, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there was collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC, instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system. Chairman Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith made these findings on the basis of evidence from the many witnesses who had testified, along with the reports of the international observers. The report found that Lowenfield blatantly made decisions and employed procedures in direct contradiction to the law and the will of the people. The findings revealed too that GECOM staffers ignored specific instructions from the court, used materials that were illegal and or manipulated, and sided with APNU+AFC agents to berate observers whenever objections were raised.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Gov’t fostering economic independence in Massara, Region Nine –– several projects implemented through LCDS funds, presidential grants

RESIDENTS of Massara Village, in Region Nine, have been reaping major benefits from several projects implemented from monies attained through the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the presidential grants. Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai recently visited the village where she commissioned

some of those projects, which include a swimming pool, pavilion, poultry farm, and a guest house among other facilities. “So, all the success that you have seen today, and all the projects that we will be commissioning is evidence that the village understands that it is not only about the leaders, but also of the people living in the area, working

together to make our village better,” Minister Sukhai highlighted. The minister noted that the government is investing millions across the regions to improve the lives of the citizens. The newly-built facilities will add to the village’s tourist attraction sites, leading to increased revenues and the creation of more opportunities for villagers. Other facilities, such as the sewing centre, bakery, and ICT hub will help them to improve their skills, making them more employable. “We are one of the first countries that provide financial grants for our indigenous communities; and here you are today, successfully doing what we believe you had the capacity to do,” Minister

The ICT hub that was commissioned Sukhai told the residents as she congratulated them on working collaboratively with the government. Meanwhile, Toshao Lenny Moses described implementation of the projects as a ‘significant milestone’ for the village.

He said this demonstrates the growth taking place in all indigenous communities across the country. “All these projects that will be commissioned here today, and which were procured through funds from the government is fostering

economic independence and creating bountiful opportunities for our people,” he posited. Moreover, the village leader encouraged the residents to take advantage of the newly-built facilities. (DPI)

Nine, were able to identify their lots in a lot-identification exercise held on Saturday. According to the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the purpose of the activity was to promote occupancy in

the new housing development. In May of this year, a $507 million contract was signed for ongoing infrastructure works in the area. Upon completion, approximately 400 individuals will gain access to their land.

Some residents have already initiated construction of their homes in various sections of the scheme. In total, around 575 individuals have been allocated lands at Tract CHPA.

124 move one step closer towards home ownership

The new sewing facility that will help to improve the skills of the villagers (DPI photos)

SOME 124 individuals who were allocated house lots at Tract CHPA (Poke Bridge) in Lethem, Region

124 persons were able to identify and mark their house lots on Saturday (CH&PA photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Motorcyclist killed in accident at Haslington

POLICE Are investigating a fatal accident which occurred at around 23:00 hours on Saturday on the public road at Haslington, East Coast Demerara, which resulted in the death of Rene Anthony Sheo, a 32-year-old resident of Lot 12 Nabaclis, ECD. According to the police, the accident involved a hire car (#HD 2439), driven by a 62-year-old from Cove & John, and a motorcycle (#CM 1832), owned and driven by Sheo. Alex Mayers, a 30-year-old, was the pillion rider on the motorcycle. “Enquiries disclosed that the hire car was proceeding East along the northern side of the road when the driver alleged that he stopped, looked, and saw the way was clear and proceeded to turn Rene Anthony Sheo South. At that point, he felt an impact on his vehicle’s left side front door, which caused the motorcyclist and pillion rider to fall onto the roadway and receive injuries on their bodies.” “As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist and pillion rider were picked up by public-spirited citizens and conveyed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where the motorcyclist was pronounced dead on arrival. The pillion rider is currently receiving treatment. Both the motorcyclist and pillion rider were not wearing safety helmets at the time,” the police said. The driver of the hire car was breathalysed, and no trace of alcohol was found. He is in police custody as investigations continue.

Stolen shotgun recovered by police at Crane THE police on the West Coast of Demerara on Saturday night recovered a shotgun which was stolen during a robbery on October 18. “At around [sic] 20:30hrs police ranks acted on information received

bushes on the western side of the street. “The casing was opened and examined. Inside was a firearm allegedly stolen during a robbery on October 18th, 2023, committed on Yvonne Singh,” the police said.

The stolen shotgun which was recovered (GPF photo) and went to Crane [Centre Road], which runs north to south, and conducted a search during which the ranks stumbled upon a black shotgun casing, which was in a clump of

The shotgun was “carefully” handled and escorted to the Leonora Police Station, where it was photographed and processed for latent fingerprints.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Verstappen holds off Hamilton to take win in Austin (F1) - Max Verstappen recovered from sixth on the grid to take a nerve-wracking win at the United States Grand Prix, as the Red Bull man held off a fast-approaching Lewis Hamilton and the McLaren of Lando Norris to claim his 50th Formula 1 race win. After a quiet start, Verstappen gradually picked off his rivals, one by one,

in what was a tense Austin affair. He took the lead from Norris, who had earlier taken first place on the opening lap ahead of pole-sitter Charles Leclerc. Hamilton, on new mediums, chased down Norris for second with a few laps to go, and looked to close in on Verstappen for the win, in a reverse scenario of what happened in last year’s race where

Verstappen chased down Hamilton for the win, but to no avail as he settled for second. Norris held off the late advances of Carlos Sainz to take his fourth podium in a row, ahead of the other Red Bull of Sergio Perez, who overtook a very frustrated Leclerc late in the event to finish fifth. Leclerc ended up sixth for Ferrari, with George Russell in seventh, as the

Alpine of Pierre Gasly came home to an impressive eighth. Lance Stroll recovered from a pit- lane start to finish ninth for Aston Martin, as Yuki Tsunoda rounded out the top-10, while also claiming a valuable point for AlphaTauri in the form of a fastest lap. Alex Albon’s five-second time penalty for exceeding track limits did not cost him a position, as

he finished 11th, although he will be investigated after the race for multiple breaches of the same offence. The Thai racer was followed by his Williams teammate, Logan Sargeant, in 12th. Nico Hulkenberg was the lead Haas on the day, as he finished 13th, ahead of the Alfa Romeos of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, with his teammate Kevin Magnussen

down in 16th. The returning Daniel Ricciardo was the last of the remaining runners for AlphaTauri. There were three drivers who failed to see the chequered flag, as Fernando Alonso, Oscar Piastri, and Esteban Ocon all retired from the race due to issues with their respective cars.

boundary, but India sauntered home, nonetheless, with Ravindra Jadeja pulling Matt Henry for four to complete the job with two overs to spare. Jadeja made an unbeaten 39, a vital innings given that he came in at No. 7 with India still 83 away from victory. With Hardik Pandya out, injured, India replaced him with two players: A specialist batter in Suryakumar Yadav, and a specialist fast bowler in Mohammed Shami, which meant that India's batting effectively ended with Jadeja at No. 7. The lack of batting depth was counterbalanced, however, by the increased menace of India's pace attack, which played a starring role in bowling New Zealand out for 273, after they had been

178 for 2 at one stage. Shami, playing his first game of the tournament, led the way with his second five-wicket haul in World Cups, his bullying of New Zealand's lower order the centerpiece of a superlative effort by India in the last 10 overs, where they took six wickets while conceding just 54. Particularly impressive was India's shackling of Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand's top scorer. Mitchell had put on 159 for the third wicket with Rachin Ravindra, and reached an exactly run-a-ball hundred in the 41st over, but India kept him to just 30 off his last 27 balls. He was ninth out in the final over, caught on the wide long-on boundary to give Shami his fifth wicket.

India brush aside New Zealand

(ESPNCRICINFO) - They were without their most irreplaceable player in a topof-the-table clash against a New Zealand side that's had the wood over them in recent global-tournament meetings, and this New Zealand side put them under severe pressure on multiple occasions. But in the end, India continued to typify the 2023 World Cup equivalent of Gary Lineker's famous quote on a super-team from a different sport: "Football is a simple game. Twenty-two men chase a ball for 90 minutes, and in the end, the Germans always win." We're still only halfway through the league stage, and knockouts are knockouts, but India have looked so hard to beat that even this game,

Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja operated at full intensity (Associated Press) their most intense tussle yet in this tournament, ended with Virat Kohli trying to repeat what he did against

Bangladesh on Thursday, and refuse singles with India in sight of victory in order to try and reach his hundred.

It didn't quite happen this time, with the attempted winning six on 95 ending up as a catch on the midwicket

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09:55 hrs Spoof 10:25 hrs Bush Rose 10:55 hrs Roundabout Silver 11:25 hrs Expresso Freddo 12:00 hrs Tilt At Windmills 12:35 hrs Gamoosha WOLVERHAMPTON 10:35 hrs Gatesby 11:05 hrs Battle Queen 11:35 hrs Game Keeper 12:10 hrs He's An Angel 12:40 hrs Show Compassion 13:10 hrs Canaria Prince 13:40 hrs Yeoman

14:10 hrs Fast Affair SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE 08:30 hrs Diana The Huntress 09:05 hrs Buster Keaton 09:35 hrs Canadian Summer 10:10 hrs Mexican Pete 10:50 hrs Down By The River

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Ricky Ponting (AUST) (2) Adam Gilchrist (AUST) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who led India to the 2011 World Cup title? (2) Who was declared Man of the Final? Answers in tomorrow’s issue …………………………………………………………………………

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

Courts Optical Pee Wee Football…

Defending champions booted!

NEW Champions will be crowned in the 2023 edition of the Courts Optical Pee Wee Football Tournament following the booting of defending champions, Enterprise. Playing the opening game of the quarter-finals of the Petra organised event on Saturday,

Enterprise were beaten by the ever-improving Potaro. M i c h a e l Te l e maque’s sixth-minute strike was enough to settle the deal. Joining them in the next round will be Redeemer, who got past St. Stephen’s Primary, 3-2, in a see-saw contest.

- Potaro, Redeemer, West Ruimveldt and St Pius move on S t . S t e p h e n ’s , through Kareem Milton opened the scoring the 6th minute, with Redeemer’s Adiel Hamilton responding gamely one minute later. St. Stephens would take the lead again in the 10th thanks to Mil-

ton, before Jarel Richards brought things level again in the 29th. One minute later, however, David De Costa would put St. Stephens ahead, all the way to the whistle. We s t R u i m v e l d t needed a penalty

shootout to decide their game against Den Amstel Primary, after both teams were deadlocked at 1-1. Ossafo Abrams (23rd minute) and Teon Francies (31st minute) were the scorers for Den Amstel and West,

respectively, who won 3-2 on the penalties. St. Pius got by Marian Academy 2-0, thanks to Daniel Chesney (1st minute) and Aaron Vasconcellos (15th minute).

Dowrich century steers CCC to win against Volcanoes (CMC) - An impressive maiden List A hundred from their captain Shane Dowrich steered Combined Campuses & Colleges Marooners to a thrilling two-wicket win against Windward Islands Volcanoes off the last ball in the West Indies Super50 Cup on Sunday in Trinidad. The discarded West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman struck only three fours and three sixes in an undefeated 102 off 101 balls, and the Marooners successfully chased 268 at Frank Worrell Field to clinch their first win of this year’s tournament. Dowrich, who has played 35 Tests, but only a single One-day International for West Indies, anchored three vital half-centuries that kept the Marooners in the hunt for the win after he arrived with his side on 66 for two in the 16th over. He put on 74 with fellow Barbadian, opener Kadeem Alleyne for the third wicket, shared 63 for the fifth wicket with Jordan Johnson, and swung the match decisively in an eighth-wicket stand of 57 with another Barbadian,

Romario Greaves. Alleyne hit four fours and three sixes in 68 off 75 balls, Johnson added a run-a-ball 34, and Greaves made 14 before he was run out off the penultimate ball of the match with the Marooners needing only four to win. J e d i a h B l a d e s f o rmalised the result when he glanced a delivery from imported Barbadian all-rounder Shamar Springer to the fine leg boundary for four to condemn the Volcanoes to their third consecutive loss. Pacer Darel Cyrus was the pick of the Volcanoes bowlers with four for 54 from 10 overs, triggering a Marooners middle-order collapse, and left-arm spinner Larry Edward supported with two for 65 from 10 overs. The Marooners got a bright start when Alleyne and fellow opener Johann Jeremiah carried them to 51 without loss at the end of the first Power Play. Jeremiah was caught at deep square leg off Springer for 30 in the 11th over, and Cyrus bowled Shaqkere Parris for nine in the 16th over to bring

Dowrich to the crease. The 31-year-old anchored the Marooners batting the rest of the way, defying the destructive spell from Cyrus, and the middle-order collapse in

Jordan came to the wicket and revived the chances of the Marooners with Dowrich before he was hit wicket to Edward in the 39th over, and when Abhijai Mansingh

Greaves held his nerve in the closing stages and got the Marooners close before he was dismissed trying to get a single to give Dowrich the strike and the responsibility of trying to

Combined Campuses & Colleges captain Shane Dowrich cuts loose during his maiden List A hundred of 102 not out against Windward Islands Volcanoes in the West Indies Super50 Cup on Sunday at Frank Worrell Field in Trinidad (CWI Media photo)

which his side lost Alleyne, Akshaya Persaud, and Shatrughan Rambaran for no runs – all in the 29th over – the seventh for Cyrus.

was caught at long-on off Edward for four in the 43rd over, the composite side still needed 58 to win from 45 balls.

hit the winning runs – but it all worked out. Earlier, half-centuries from Alick Athanaze, Trinidadian Jeremy Solozano,

and Sunil Ambris were the rocks upon which the Volcanoes built their total of 267 for eight after they were put in to bat. Athanaze hit four fours and three sixes in the top score of 65 from 68 balls, Solozano supported with a resolute 55 from 81 balls, and Ambris made a run-aball 52. Athanaze and Solozano added 87 for the second wicket after the early loss of Johnson Charles for four, and Ambris supported their captain Andre Fletcher in a fifth-wicket stand of 63. The Volcanoes laboured through the last 10 overs, gathering only 52 and lost four wickets to undermine their effort to post a more significant target. Mansingh, Guyanese pacer Isai Thorne, and leftarm pacer Blades all captured two wickets for the Marooners. The tournament continues on Monday with two matches starting at 9 a.m. when Guyana Harpy Eagles face Leeward Islands Hurricanes at Queen’s Park Oval, and Barbados Pride meet West Indies Academy at Frank Worrell Field.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, October 23, 2023

GCA’s Pepsi 50-over First Division Cricket…

Andrews, Wade, Zameer, Reddy shine with the bat

By Sean Devers

ON another beautiful day for cricket in the city as the GCA’s Pepsi 50-overs First Division C r i c k e t To u r n a m e n t continued, GCC beat Transport by 128 runs at Bourda, and Police beat GDF at DCC. At Bourda, the home team made full use of good track and a lightning-fast and parched outfield to score 266, before being dismissed in the final of their 50th over with all-rounder Joshua Wade scoring 71. Wade, whose 71 lasted 92 balls and included six fours and a six, shared in an opening stand of 71 in 15 overs, with Navindra Persaud, who reached the boundary six times in 31 before he was bowled by leg-spinner Riyad Latif. Movindra Dindyal (1), Renaldo Ali-Mohamed (15), and Zachary Jodah (7), fell cheaply, and when Wade was bowled by Adri-

Nazeem Zameer scored a century at DCC an Hinds at 126-4, and Carlos LaRose (8) departed a couple of runs later, the lower order rallied GCC to what turned out to be a winning total. Skipper Devon Lord was run out 28 with two fours and two sixes, after both batters ended in the

same crease, Thaddeus Lovell hit two fours and a six in 26, Aryan Persaud (32 not out), and an attacking 32 from Franchot Duncan-Charles with a six and two fours. Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Latif and Myhiem Khan had two wickets each for

Lennox Andrews scored 94 for GDF at Malteenoes Transport, who fell for 128 in 34.5, with Khan following up his two wickets with 41 with three fours. Hohenkirk (20), Eworth Samuels (16), and Adrian Hinds (14), were the only other Transport batters to reach double. Alive Mohabir picked up

the ball after a wide hit the Keeper’s, and was given out obstructing the field. Persaud and LaRose picked up two wickets each for GCC. At DCC, GDF made 294-9 with Nazeem Zameer scoring 102 from 71 balls with nine fours

and eight sixes, Raqueal Reddy making 81 from 79 balls with 10 fours and two sixes, while Randy Lindore made 43 from 50 balls with three fours and two sixes. Kelvin Leitch had 4-76, and got support from Anthony Adams, who took 3-38 for Police, who had earlier made 333 all-out in 45 overs, as the Cops won by 39 runs. Lennox Andrews scored 94 from 82 balls with seven fours and six sixes, Chemroy Kendell scored 47 from 25 balls with six fours and two sixes, while Leitch contributed 39 from 21 balls with seven fours and a six for the Lawmen. This was after Troy Benn, who made 31 with four fours, and who made 35 from 19 balls with seven fours and a six, built a solid foundation at the top. D a m i o n Wa l d r o n took 3-56, while Leon Andrews and Randy Lindore had two with each.

BCB/Ivan Madray 20/20 Cricket Tournament 2023…

Sinclair leads RHT Namilco Thunderbolt to final

JUNIOR Sinclair continued to impress at the Berbice first-division level during the 2023 season. Sinclair, who was recently named the Best Emerging Player of the 2023 Caribbean Premier League, cracked a superb century to spearhead the Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour team to a massive ten- wicket victory over arch rivals Tucber Park at the Area H Gound. West Indies youth player Rampertab Ramnauth also scored a responsible 69 to lead Port Mourant to a 26-run victory over Upper Corentyne. Rose Hall Town, which

last weekend defeated Skeldon by 100 runs, have advanced to the finals, while Port Mourant have gone into the third round after a firstround bye. Tucber Park won the toss and elected to bat first in blistering heat, and were off to a flying start with openers Leon Swammy and Garfield Benjamin both taking the attack to the Rose Hall Namilco Thunderbolt team. They added 38 in five overs before national under-seventeen off-spinner Matthew Pottaya deceived Swammy and had him stumped for 30 in the fifth over. Former Berbice youth

player Martin Singh was also dismissed cheaply, but the talented Zeymul Ramsammy joined Benjamin, and they added a partnership of 120 runs before Ramsammy was dismissed for an attractive 45. Benjamin ended on a well-played 86 not-out as Tucber Park finished on a healthy 176 for 3 in their allotted 20 overs. Benjamin struck three sixes and four fours in his matured knock. Matthew Pottaya was the best bowler for Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt, with two wickets for 28 runs. Any idea for a Tuc-

ber Park victory was soon gone as Sinclair laid into the visitors bowling attack that included Leon Swammy, Rueben Latcha, Kwesi Mickle, Abdul Ramsammy and Devon Clements. The Amazon player struck 13 sixes and nine fours. Pottaya scored a solid 45 not-out as the pair added a record 180 for the first wicket in fifteen overs to complete a ten-wicket victory. The opening partnership of 180 is a Berbice record at the 20/20 level for the first wicket. At the Port Mourant Ground, Port Mourant batted first and reached a solid

169 for 9 in twenty overs, with Rampertab Rampersaud top-scoring with 69 as he continues to impress at the local level. He received solid support from the talented Madan Budhoo, who scored 50, and his younger brother Rampersaud Ramnauth with 29. Bowling for Upper Corentyne, Latchman Roopchand took 3 for 29, and Devannand Chatterpaul 3 for 23. In response, needing 170 runs from 120 balls Upper Corentyne were dismissed for 143 to lose by twenty-six runs. Rishi Persaud top-scored with an attractive 51, while

Steve Embrack supported with 25. The best bowlers for Port Mourant were Yugendra Harrinarine, with 3 for 3 for 24, Joshau Harrichand 3 for 28, and Joshua Rampersaud 2 for 30. The tournament is being sponsored by the nephew of Ivan Madray, Chandradat Chintamani. Madray played two test matches for the West Indies in 1956, before migrating to England. He died in 2009, and was the third of 20 Berbicians to play test cricket for the West Indies after John Trim, and the legendary Rohan Kanhai.

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| MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023