Guyanese to make up 85 to 90 per cent of workforce at Royal International
–– luxury hotel on schedule to open early next year
By Faith Greene
LOCATED at Track JW, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, the Royal International Hotel is expected to offer luxury that is incomparable anywhere in Guyana.
One of the many misconceptions about this lavish establishment is that it is an Asian entity.
According to Chartered Accountant Terrence Jaskaran, just around 85 to 90 per cent of the persons that will be employed by the hotel will be Guyanese.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Royal International Jason Wang, Jaskaran explained to the Guyana Chronicle that contrary to what is being perceived, most of the businesses there are Guyanese-owned.
The 254-room hotel is slated for an early 2025 opening. Some of its offerings are
already in place and is being well received by the public. It will have four restaurants: the Royal Restaurant, the Royal Lounge Restaurant and poolside, the Love and Latte Cafe which is slated for opening soon, and a hot pot, along with the Space Gym and a Gaming Lounge.
Jaskaran mentioned that while the hotel is geared for this official opening, there have been some ‘staged’ openings as more stores and businesses open at the establishment.
He remarked that it is,
“An all-in-one experience. So, when people come into the country, it’s not just giving them a place to stay. It’s giving them a place to stay with options as well; things to do in an environment that is safe, and that they don’t have to travel far.
“They can come for entertainment. They can come for food. They can bring their kids. There is also a gaming
facility, a kid-friendly gaming facility, a kid zone as well.”
Jaskaran noted that the concept of the hotel was birthed by Wang, and he reminded that in a few interviews, the CEO had stated that on his arrival in Guyana, something he recognised that was missing was a worldclass hotel that encompassed an all-in-one experience (places to shop, eat and gym facility) under one roof.
Although construction for this hotel commenced in 2011, there were some setbacks in terms of workers and getting materials, among other difficulties. It was stated that the project kicked off just after COVID-19 emerged in 2020.
The Royal International Hotel, in addition to providing Guyanese with employment across all sectors, is focused on providing quality accommodation to all who pass through their doors.
With Guyana’s rising
A preview of what is to come when the Royal International Hotel opens its doors in early 2025 (Delano Williams photos)
tourism and hospitality sector, the need for facilities with adequate accommodation grows daily.
Jaskaran underscored that there is not just a need for accommodation, but rather it must be world-class accommodation.
Working hand in hand with accommodation, is the hotel’s location, to which he pointed out, “we’re in the heart of Georgetown -- Sheriff Street. We have access to the East Coast, the East
Bank, Georgetown. So, it’s one of the few places that is [sic] located centrally in Georgetown where you can access [the] East Bank, [the] East Coast, and Georgetown.”
Additionally, he said: “We don’t have this concept in Guyana. We don’t have a boutique hotel. We have places where you stay and sleep, and then generally you go out, you go somewhere. But the difference is it’s a new concept. You’re coming here
and you have an all-in-one experience.”
At the same time, he mentioned that the mall which will be known as the Royal Orchid Mall, is expected to be open completely by September 2025.
According to Jaskaran, the mall will have a food court, as well as two theatres that are in the process of being constructed.
He noted as well that a supermarket will also be opened there soon.
‘Time to move from ambition to action’
–– reforms required at UN level to address global crises, President Ali tells world leaders
By Naomi Parris
CRUCIAL reforms are required at the level of the United Nations (UN) to ensure global issues are addressed urgently and effectively, President, Dr Irfaan Ali said during his firm presentation at the “Summit of the Future”- sixth plenary session, on Monday.
Guyana’s Head of State urged world leaders to channel their efforts towards creating an ecosystem of harmony among the environment, people, and technology, and promoting human dignity.
“The task for us now is to move from ambition to action,” Dr Ali said, pointing to the key issues which include climate security, food security and energy security.
“Let us not rehash the climate story. We know it. We must act now. Climate finance commitments can no longer be postponed. Forests are an integral part of the climate solution, and it is time that a global market-based mechanism for carbon credit be put in place.
“Our global food security
continues to deteriorate, and the projections are alarming. It is estimated that $90 billion in annual Global Financing will be needed between now and 2030 to provide a basic social safety net; if you’re not able to meet the basic need of feeding our people the entire agenda 2030 is in peril,”
President Ali said.
He further pointed out that the digital divide must be bridged to ensure artificial intelligence (AI) benefits everyone.
The Head of State reiterated that reforms are needed in global institutions, including the Security Council, to ensure inclusivity and peace. He reasoned: “You must not be divided on addressing the digital divide. Too many, too many still lack the basic [ability] of connectivity. AI can be a positive game changer for humanity, but also has the potential to widen the gap between countries and people if we do not bridge the digital divide. Our global community has a responsibility to ensure that AI is, of course, for good that benefits everyone.”
President Ali further pointed out that leaders must define an implementation plan for the future to address the challenges in building a life of dignity for every global citizen.
He alluded to the deteriorating global food security and the alarming projections for the next decade.
“We must reform interna-
tional financial architecture and make it more inclusive and conducive to sustainable development for all, but sustainable development cannot flourish without peace and security. We must end and prevent wars. The Security Council must also be reformed to be more representative, responsive and democratic, if not, it will lose both
its credibility and relevance,” Dr Ali said.
The Head of State also highlighted the importance of addressing gender-based violence, poverty, and education for women and youth, aiming for a sustainable future that meets the needs of all global citizens.
He emphasised: “The future we envision must target, directly, the more than 340 million women and girls projected to live in poverty by 2030. It must also address the 110 million young women and girls projected to remain out of school by 2030; the 24 per cent of women and girls projected to be food insecure; and the 245 million women and girls that [sic] would experience sexual or gender-based violence by 2030.”
A sustainable future, Dr Ali said, must be built in mind of the aspirations of the 1.3 million additional youths the world will have by 2030.
The Head of State is currently leading a delegation in New York. On Wednesday, he will address the General Debate and participate in several bilateral meetings with
other
According to the UN, the General Debate is the annual meeting of Heads of State and Government of the 193 UN member states. It takes place at the beginning of the General Assembly session, often known as UNGA. It is usually the first debate of the session and, with the exception of the concurrent high-level meetings, the only one in which Heads of State and Heads of Government regularly participate.
From the UNGA, President Ali is expected to travel to the United Kingdom on the invitation of Concordia and Oxford University to address climate-studies students on the Guyana case study and its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) model.
While in the United Kingdom, President Ali is scheduled to meet with newly appointed Foreign Secretary David Lammy and receive the People’s Choice Award as the Caribbean’s Global Leader 2024.
US-commissioned consultants find gas-to-energy feasible
–– Jagdeo says
US-commissioned consultants have confirmed that Guyana’s landmark gas-to-energy project is technically and environmentally feasible, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said recently. The findings follow extensive due diligence carried out on the project by the U.S. Export-Import (EXIM) Bank, as it prepares to present Guyana’s loan request to its Board by October in support of the project. This loan will be instrumental in funding the development of the project’s onshore
component, which will consist of a 300-megawatt (MW) power plant, and natural gas liquids (NGL) processing plant. The technical and environmental assessments conducted by the consultants have validated the project’s ability to meet international standards. The positive outcome of the review comes after the EXIM Bank employed experts to evaluate various aspects of the project to ensure its viability. With this step completed, the loan application will soon face the Bank’s Board. Even as the loan awaits
approval from partners in the United States, project development activities are ongoing, thanks to injections from the Treasury. The gas-to-energy project will be delivered in 2025, in keeping with the government’s promise to the people.
formative Gas-to-Energy Project, which is set to significantly reduce the cost of electricity, and improve the quality of life for all Guyanese. The government has also invited proposals for Phase II of the project, which will expand Guyana’s power generation capacity, thereby allowing it to become an energy exporter. This monumental undertaking not only addresses the energy needs of the nation, but also allows the country to become an active contributor to regional energy security.
The Government of Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering the trans -
The onshore facility, located in Wales on the western bank of the Demerara River, is expected to cost around US$759 million, and is being developed by LNDCH4, a joint ventureship between CH4 and Lindsayca, and will produce both electricity and natural gas liquids (NGL). Though Guyana’s government has been funding the project from its treasury, the EXIM Bank loan will help offset a significant portion of the costs. With the technical groundwork laid and financing mechanisms nearing approval, the Gas-to-Energy project represents a critical step in Guyana’s transition to a more sustainable and cost-efficient energy future. (DPI)
Heads of State, such as Santiago Pen̵a, President of Paraguay and Daniel Noboa, President of Ecuador.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
Auditor General hands over 2023 report, two performance audits to Speaker
— expresses satisfaction with implementation of recommendations in previous reports
AUDITOR-General Deodat Sharma on Monday presented the Report of the Auditor General for the Year 2023 to Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir, in keeping with the statutory deadline.
The 2023 report on the public accounts of Guyana and on the accounts of ministries, departments and regions were presented in the Parliament Chambers at the Public Buildings, on Brickdam, along with two performance audits.
Sharma expressed pleasure at being able to present his 20th report as Auditor-General, and indicated that it marks the 13th consecutive occasion that the Audit Office has been submitting its reports by the statutory deadline of September 30 following the
close of the fiscal year. He said, “Mr. Speaker, it should be noted that this is the fourth time we are
issuing a report before the 30th September; the last three reports for 2020, 2021 and 2022 were issued on the 20th, 19th and 15th September, respectively.”
While noting that he would not be able to divulge specific details on the contents of the report, as it first has to be presented to the National Assembly before it
becomes a public document, Sharma told members of the media that recommendations made in previous reports are being addressed.
He noted that he believes that all agencies have been taking note of these recommendations.
“Those recommendations I made in the Auditor-General’s reports are
being addressed, and I think [in] every ministry they are being addressed. I am satisfied with that,” he said.
Noting that this presentation is one of significance, and one that should not be taken lightly, Minister of Public Works and Member of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, Bishop Juan Edghill indicated that the presentation of the reports are an important aspect of good governance, transparency and accountability.
The production of this report and further scrutinising of it at the level of the Public Accounts Committee keeps everyone in line, as a time will come when officers will have to account for their actions, and it also answers the rumour mill in relation to calls of corruption.
“The persons to tell us if the public monies have been properly spent or accounted for is the Auditor-General and his staff, and that report brings it to public notice. So, the process does not end with the handing over today,” Minister Edghill highlighted.
Additionally, the minister indicated that the media has an important role to play in scrutinising these reports and highlighting where there have been improve -
ments and where weaknesses exist.
Joining Minister Edghill in highlighting the process, Speaker Nadir indicated that the process starts with the allocation of monies in the budget, the execution of those programmes, the bookkeeping and accounting done by the accounting general and staff, followed by the opinion by the Auditor-General.
“The examination of that opinion by the Public Accounts Committee, recommendations by the Public Accounts committee and the issuing of the necessary memorandum by the minister of finance, so this is, as Minister Edghill said, a process,” he said.
Subsequently, Nadir indicated that the Report of the Auditor General on the Public Accounts of Guyana and on the Accounts of Ministries/ Departments/Regions for 2023 along with the performance audit reviewing the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme and the performance audit on the Management of the Maternal healthcare services at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation will be presented in the National Assembly at the earliest opportunity.
The 2023 report and two performance audits were presented to the Speaker of the National Assembly on Monday
Auditor-General Deodat Sharma and Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir pose for a photo with the reports that were handed over. Also pictured are Members of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, staff of the Audit Office and the Ministry of Finance (Delano Williams photos)
Soesdyke man remanded for 2012 murder of GEA employee
ALMOST 12 years after Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) employee, Levoy Taljit disappeared without a trace, a 46-year-old man was on Monday remanded to prison for his murder.
Appearing before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrates’ Court was Ryvan Francis of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
The accused was arrested by the police last week Tuesday. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that between December 23 and 27, 2012, he murdered Taljit, who was 25-years-old at the time.
The murder accused was remanded to prison. The matter will be called again on October 9, 2024 for the disclosure of statements.
Taljit, who was a field manager at the GEA, disappeared after leaving his Anira Street, Queenstown, Georgetown home on December 23, 2012. Although several persons of interest were detained and questioned about his disappearance over the years, they were subsequently released.
Since his disappearance, only Taljit’s motor vehicle, a Toyota Raum with number plate PNN 8315 was recovered vandalised along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway; his body has never been found. Meanwhile, a wanted bulletin was issued for Francis in 2022 in connection with the man’s murder.
Become a millionaire with this MMG promotion
MMG has announced its new promotion aimed at encouraging developers to integrate merchants using its newly introduced API for local e-commerce.
According to a press release, this initiative is designed to enhance the digital payment landscape, and provide developers with an opportunity to showcase their skills while earning substantial rewards.
With a total prize pool of G$1,750,000, MMG is offering developers the chance to win big. The developer who integrates the most merchants by December 31, 2024 will receive the grand prize of G$1,000,000. The first runner-up will be awarded G$500,000, and the second runner-up will receive G$250,000.
“Digital payments are an important aspect of the technological and economic transformation we are seeing in the country,” said Mark Singh, CEO of MMG.
Singh added: “As a company, we continue to see Guyanese adopting and even demanding digital payments, and we are responding to provide the environment for secure and immediate digital transactions.”
This promotion is open to all developers, whether individuals or companies.
Guyana, Serbia forge diplomatic ties
To qualify, merchants must actively accept online payments through MMG. By participating in this initiative, developers will not only contribute to the country's broader digital transformation but also enhance individual business success by providing cutting-edge e-commerce solutions.
MMG continues to lead in equipping Guyana's entrepreneurs with essential tools to succeed in the digital economy. The company's e-commerce payment gateway enables businesses to process payments securely, manage transactions in real-time, and provide an enhanced customer experience.
For more information about the promotion and how to participate, please visit https://qrco.de/promo4 or visit the website at www.mmg.gy.
MINISTER of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd recently signed a Joint Communique with Marko Đurić Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia establishing diplomatic relations between Guyana and Serbia.
According to information from the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, the foreign ministers also engaged in a bilateral discussion on areas of mutual interest to initiate a coop-
eration agenda between the two countries, among them food security and agriculture, ICT, and training and capacity building.
Minister Đurić conveyed his government’s support to Guyana on the border controversy case with Venezuela currently before the International Court of Justice.
Minister Todd is attending the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, which is being led by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia Marko Đurić recently signed a Joint Communique establishing diplomatic relations between Guyana and Serbia
MMG has announced its new promotion aimed at encouraging developers to integrate merchants using its newly introduced API for local e-commerce
Ryvan Francis Levoy Taljit
Political Bankruptcy
IN the realm of politics, ideas and policies are the bedrock on which parties either thrive or falter.
The Alliance for Change (AFC), once seen as a viable “third-force” in Guyanese politics, now appears to be faltering on the latter path, devoid of substance and originality.
The recent critique from Leonard Craig, a former AFC executive, reveals just how far the party has strayed from its founding principles. Craig’s scathing column, aptly titled “AFC’s New Latrine Activism”, accuses the party of abandoning real political discourse in favour of cheap, misleading rhetoric designed to prey on the vulnerable.
At the heart of Craig’s critique is the AFC’s focus
on pit latrines in schools, a policy issue that party leader Nigel Hughes has amplified in recent months. It’s a curious choice of subject, given the AFC’s previously grandiose promises and aspirations for national development. The notion that pit latrines could rise to the level of a “flagship” issue for the AFC underscores Craig’s central argument: The party has lost its way. What makes this descent even more troubling is the fact that the AFC is now seemingly relying on fabricated or exaggerated claims to manipulate public opinion. Craig points out that the party has turned to social media, Facebook in particular, as a platform for spreading baseless narratives. This shift from
policy-driven debate to sensationalism is a troubling sign of desperation, as the party struggles to maintain relevance in the face of dwindling public support.
The AFC’s focus on vulnerable segments of the population, feeding them misinformed rhetoric, is not only irresponsible but also dangerous. It plays into the very real frustrations that many citizens feel regarding the country’s development, particularly in relation to the anticipated benefits from Guyana’s burgeoning oil wealth.
Instead of offering solutions or meaningful critiques of the government’s handling of these funds, the AFC has resorted to creating divisive narratives. This is not the behaviour of
a party committed to constructive opposition, but of one that is more interested in stirring unrest than in offering alternatives. If the AFC was genuinely concerned about the state of sanitation in schools, it would have been more forthcoming about the legacy of its own time in government.
As Craig points out, many of these pit latrines existed under the AFC’s tenure in office, and some were even built or neglected by the very administration that Hughes now criticises.
This selective outrage highlights the hypocrisy that has come to define the AFC’s approach in recent years. While it is easy to point fingers at the current
administration, the AFC’s own track record is far from exemplary. The fact that many of the pit latrines still in existence are located in regions managed by APNU+AFC-controlled Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) is a stark reminder of the party’s own failures. Moreover, the funds to improve these facilities have already been allocated, as Craig notes, yet the AFC has done little to advocate for their timely execution.
Craig’s column is not just a critique of the AFC’s current leadership but a reflection of the broader disillusionment that many of its former supporters now feel. The AFC was once seen as a fresh voice in Guyanese politics; a party with bold
ideas and a commitment to change. Today, it has devolved into a political entity more focused on Facebook talking points than on real solutions. This shift, as Craig astutely observes, is emblematic of a party that is “completely barren of ideas”.
The tragedy of the AFC’s decline is not just the loss of a once-promising political force, but the impact it has on the broader political landscape. Instead of seizing the opportunity to offer constructive criticism and policy alternatives, the AFC has chosen to cling to sensationalism and misinformation, a strategy that will only serve to alienate the very people it seeks to engage.
Guyana is on the right track, we’re not going back!
Dear Editor,
AS another election year approaches, there is increased activity from all the political entities to convince the electorate that they are the best choice. The choice, in my humble opinion, is simple. I will present my case.
The current government, which continues to tirelessly trumpet its virtues and is not taking anything for granted, has very little to prove to the objective among us. It is as clear as day. There is unparalleled vision in its ranks. A higher percentage of us are existing in greater comfort than under the previous administration.
The accelerated pace of development at present is staggering, particularly when juxtaposed with the exasperating days of indecision, incompetence, instability and inertia under A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC).
A sense of purpose now pervades our society. There is positivity, because the promises
of hope are being presented in realistic fashion by the leaders of the incumbent administration. Unlike the fanciful thinking and inauthentic assurances of the David Granger-led coalition.
There aren’t the repeated cries of the unemployed these days. Opportunities are at literally at every corner. The pursuit of success is more spirited. Even the immigrants who are flocking our land have seamlessly fit into the plotted course and adopted the mindset that hope springs eternal in such environments.
Of course, I speak not of a Utopian existence, but the core of our society has gained a stability that needs not be unnecessarily tampered with, particularly by those whose only interests are selfish.
How else can one describe the shameless race-baiting that serves as the Opposition’s solitary method of attracting support? There is an absence of substance; no discernible effort to provide the upliftment vital to inculcating the fundamental values of a 21st century society
into our daily lives.
There is unconcealed opportunism among their leaders. The two main protagonists –Messrs. Aubrey Norton and Nigel Hughes – are blinded by dreams of unimaginable perquisites and unbridled power.
Neither will move aside, strategically, in order to present a formidable challenge to President Irfaan Ali. Thus, the road to a coalition is fraught with uncertainty. Guyana has no room for uncertainty anymore. That bus has left the station since August 2, 2020. And that date provides the perfect segue into the primary reason why the choice is simple.
It was five months prior that premature celebration had erupted in the streets after Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo (who has since flamed out in infamy) declared the results for Region Four, a tabulation that placed incumbent President David Granger as the winner of the March 2 general election. The use of a bedsheet in place of a spreadsheet left the country at
its lowest ebb.
This abomination was succinctly described by former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Mr. Bruce Golding, who at the time was Head of the OAS observer mission to the election. He told the OAS Permanent Mission that:
“Principal among these (issues that undermined the process) were the actions of the Returning Officer in abandoning the use of the statements of poll (SOPs) in the presence of the authorised party representatives, and to rely instead on a spreadsheet of unknown origin which provided results that were significantly different than on the SOPs…
“I have never seen a more transparent effort to alter the result of an election…You know it takes an extraordinarily courageous mind to present fictitious numbers when such a sturdy paper trail exists.”
The subsequent five-month humiliation will never be erased from the memories of the decent and law-abiding citizens. And
we have faced immeasurable irresponsibility in equal measure to Mingo’s folly hand-eye antics, with the utterances of the Opposition’s main representatives, in relation to statements of poll.
It isn’t rocket science for one to determine the victorious party if the SOPs are expertly scrutinized and the data tabulated. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic presented its 2,339 SOPs without an iota of drama. We are yet to lay eyes on any of APNU+AFC’s. Current Presidential aspirant, Mr. Norton, provided us with the precursor to this when he posited:
“My party has its Statements of Poll. It is for its use, and it has to decide strategically and tactically when it releases it. And if we made a decision that we don’t want to release it, that’s our strategic position, and we have no apologies for it.”
Well, Mr. Norton, you can keep your imaginary SOPs.
The international community oversaw a lawful transition and set the wheels of progress in motion for a future Guyana. The
and achieved unprecedented progress. The options before us are clear: New and improved highways, byways, and other infrastructure; affordable healthcare, housing, and state-of-the-art facilities; better-quality education for all, continued modernization of law enforcement and the disciplined services, freedom of speech and movement, among other tangible forms of progress…..or conversely, a return to 2a.m. curfews; immediate salary increases for government ministers; billion-dollar white elephants such as Durban Park and Presidents’ Park; renting of private properties for exorbitant amounts; empty promises of “the better life for all” and “better must come”.
There are stark differences between the two choices. Guyana is on the right track; we’re not going back! I rest my case.
Irfaan Ali-led administration has grabbed the steering wheel
Crandon
Infrastructural Developments: Minister Indar denounces Mahipaul for misleading Wakenaam residents
By Cindy Parkinson
MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, has strongly condemned parliamentary opposition Member Ganesh Mahipaul for allegedly spreading false information regarding infrastructural development on Wakenaam Island.
In a recent Facebook post, Mahipaul claimed that the walkways in predominantly Indian communities have been completed, while those in Afro-Guyanese areas remained unfinished—a statement Minister Indar labelled as “wilfully misleading.”
Responding to these allegations, Minister Indar emphasised that the government, under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), remains committed to serving all Guyanese, irrespective of race, gender, or social status.
“I am not surprised by Mahipaul’s actions,” the minister stated, adding that contrary to Mahipaul’s claims, work is currently ongoing in the Melville community, an Afro-Guyanese area, with both the contractor and workers also being Afro-Guyanese.
Indar further debunked Mahipaul’s assertions, stating that photos and video evidence prove that progress is being made on the walkways in Melville.
He noted that various communities such as Belle Plaine and San Souci are at
different stages of development, including excavation, sand filling, culvert construction, and concrete-base work, all part of the ongoing infrastructural projects-
The minister described Mahipaul’s comments as an attempt to stir division among the residents of Wakenaam, a peaceful community where significant development is ongoing.
“The government’s goal has always been to enhance every community across Guyana, and this progress takes place in stages,” he stated.
Minister Indar highlighted his 2023 visit to Wake-
naam, where he, alongside technical officials, engaged with local leaders and residents to address their concerns.
He explained that during a house-to-house visit, he listened to the issues residents faced, including drainage, agriculture, pension benefits, and public-assistance concerns.
“I revisited the communities to better understand the challenges at a household and community level, and work to address them,” said Indar.
The visit was part of President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s “taking-the-government-
to-the-people” initiative, designed to bring ministers and officials closer to citizens to assess their needs firsthand. According to Indar, this direct engagement allows ministers to better understand the issues on the ground and find ways to bring relief to citizens.
Indar also reiterated the government’s commitment to helping local contractors and individuals willing to work to improve their communities. He stressed that efforts are being made to ensure that people from within these communities are employed for ongoing projects, helping to create
jobs and foster local development.
Sheikh Ahmad, a councillor with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), praised Minister Indar’s visit, calling it “fruitful” and highlighted that the minister effectively addressed several concerns raised by residents. Ahmad pointed out that the PPP/C administration has invested approximately $800 million in infrastructural works, including the construction of streets, main roads, streetlights, a new Arthurville Primary School, and a health centre.
“We, the residents of
Wakenaam, cannot complain,” said Ahmad, expressing gratitude to President Ali and his government for the continuous development on the island. He noted that over 500 residents who once had to walk through mud to reach their destinations now benefit from proper roads and streetlights, transforming their daily lives.
As development continues on Wakenaam, Minister Indar reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for all citizens, ensuring that no community is left behind.
Where is the explanation of failed inclusivity?
MR. ERIC Phillips of ACDA held an important position in the APNU+AFC administration of 2015 to 2020.
Currently, Mr. Phillips is advocating shared governance. WPA stalwart, Dr. Maurice Odle has recently published his autobiography. His role in the APNU+AFC regime was even larger than Phillips’.
Dr. Odle, in his memoir, sees inclusive governance as a requirement for a futuristic Guyana. Both Phillips and Odle are cynical about what they see as the winner-take-all system in Guyana. A few days ago, Dr. Desmond Thomas, head of an organisation named Election Reform Group wrote a letter in the press in which he sees the need for the constitutional recognition of an inclusive governance model.
These three gentlemen belong to a long list of Guyanese personalities who either were part of the APNU+AFC administration or in their political perspectives supported either at the subliminal or overt level, the APNU+AFC government.
This school of inclusive governance advocates does not seem to understand that they are doing an enormous disservice to Guyana’s historiography, the intellectual climate of the country and the intellectual needs of young Guyanese by avoiding theorisation on why the leadership of all the political parties in the total coalition of APNU and AFC did not pursue inclusive governance.
As you turn the pages of Odle’s autobiography, your curiosity expands prodigiously when you see chapter entitled, “Coalition Blues: Guyana, 2015-2020.” Given his colossal academic credentials and his long political experience, you believe
at last that there would be available to the intellectual climate, a profound deliberation on why the APNU+AFC did not pursue power-sharing confabulations with the PPP after 2015.
You thought that chapter in Odle’s memoir would be the defining moment because no one connected with the APNU+AFC regime wants to touch the subject. Clive Thomas in his weekly column in the Stabroek News, completely blanks out from his mind any thoughts on the APNU+AFC administration of which he represented the WPA in the coalition government.
David Hinds has a weekly podcast in which he demands power-sharing but there hasn’t been a word from Hinds as to why there wasn’t power-sharing from 2015 to2020.
David Granger has a television programme named “The Public Interest.” The title gets you angry because you want to believe that Granger hasn’t a clue what are the contents of the public interest. Granger has not mentioned even one word about the policies of his government in his series of programmes.
Why did the APNU+AFC not pursue power-sharing in a country where the wining party won an election by less than one per cent. If there was any logical argument for the pursuing of shared governance in this country it was in 2015 when it can be reasonably argued the PPP neither the PNC won the general election. In fact, using the standard of crude reality, the PPP won the 2015 election because in Region Eight, the PPP lost by a single ballot and GECOM refused to order a recount.
Why was there no board room conference between the PPP and PNC after 2015
to decide on inclusivity? Was there a single, powerful person who demanded that the subject be made non-existent? Or was it a school of leaders who were on the same wave-length about not talking to the PPP?
The failure of the PNC, AFC and WPA to pursue shared governance after 2015 is such a priceless topic for the inclusion into Guyana’s political history that it becomes a permanent insult to this nation if it is not explained.
It becomes morally obligatory on the part of those like Odle and Phillips to at least offer a few notes as to why it never happened because they are now putting it on the agenda.
St. Aquinas, the official philosopher of the Holy Roman Empire noted that there is an explanation for every action in life. There is an explanation as to why the APNU+AFC government did not walk the path of shared governance after 2015.
Granger, Odle, Thomas, Phillips, Ra-
phael Trotman, Nigel Hughes, Khemraj Ramjattan operated deep inside the corridors of power (Hughes held no government position but was second in charge of the AFC when the AFC was in power), and have knowledge as to the actor or the cabal who resisted the pursuit of shared governance after 2015.
The Guyanese people are not asking for denunciations and bad-mouthing among former APNU+AFC bigwigs.
The nation simply wants some explanation as to why such a golden opportunity for the PNC, the PPP and the WPA to talk about an all-party government was not made use of. Please gentlemen, you owe it to the nation to put pen to paper.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
AFC’s new ‘latrine activism’ shows it is completely out of ideas
–– former executive says party resorting to creating Facebook talking points to mislead the vulnerable
ALTHOUGH the people of Guyana have been eager to hear about the Alliance For Change (AFC)’s policy positions, the party has demonstrated that it has none and is more focused on feeding misinformed rhetoric to the vulnerable, former AFC Executive Leonard Craig has said.
Craig, in a scathing critique of the AFC, has accused the party of abandoning meaningful political discourse in favour of sensationalism and misleading the public, particularly targeting the vulnerable through social media.
In his regular opinion column titled “AFC’s new latrine activism”, published on September 23 in the Guyana Chronicle, Craig lambasted the AFC’s current leadership for what he calls “latrine activism,” implying that the party has degenerated into a politically bankrupt entity more focused on divisive rhetoric than serious policy-making.
He noted that a major area of vulnerability for a good section of the population is the irrational expectations about what the current income from oil can do and when. He then said that this very vulnerability that exists among the people is essentially a vulnerability of government
incumbency.
Craig said that it can become a contagion if not comprehensively addressed and managed, and as such, these expectations can easily be fed and run out of control with situations such as the latrine activism by the AFC.
According to Craig, the AFC is deliberately fabricating and amplifying baseless claims to generate talking points that circulate primarily on Facebook, where the party seeks to manipulate less-informed audiences.
He alleged that the leadership is “creating and spreading narratives” with the sole aim of discrediting the government and creating social unrest, instead of offering viable alternatives or constructive criticism.
Further, the former AFC Executive has questioned the AFC Leader’s, Nigel Hughes emphasis on the number of pit latrines still in existence at schools in Guyana.
Craig said: “For an issue to be escalated to the level of being addressed by the leader [Nigel Hughes] himself, on a panel with other presenters, indicates that it is a flagship policy issue of the party.”
He also highlighted that the AFC has strayed far from its original mandate, which was to offer a third-force
NWD man gets 15 years for manslaughter
CHRISTOPHER Van Nooten, a resident of Mabaruma in the North-West District (NWD), has been sentenced to a 15-year prison term for the crime of manslaughter.
The 50-year-old man had initially pleaded guilty to the charge that, on April 18, 2022, he murdered Sherwin Smith, of Kumaka Water Front, NWD, who was 44 years old.
As a result, his trial began in front of a 12-person jury and Justice Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus of the Demerara High Court. Midway through the trial, Van Nooten’s attorney did, however, announce that his client intended to enter a guilty plea to the lesser charge of manslaughter. Thus, after the court accepted Van Nooten’s guilty
alternative in Guyanese politics. He recalled a time when the party had bold ideas and broad public support, lamenting its decline into what he described as a party “devoid of ideas” and “grasping at straws to remain relevant.”
This shift, Craig argued, demonstrates the AFC’s desperation in the face of waning public support and internal discord.
Further, he had said: “Of recent, the AFC seems to be well funded by some person or entity and party principals are under pressure to demonstrate continuous activism; but the AFC remains an infecund party, vacuous and completely barren of ideas, so it latches on to minutiae that sounds noble and create Facebook talking points for those vulnerable to be misled.”
His harsh critique reflects growing discontent with the AFC, not just from its former leadership, but from a broader segment of the public that once looked to the party for a fresh approach in Guyanese politics.
Craig had also mentioned that Hughes did not reveal that there were almost 90 such latrine facilities when APNU+AFC left office in 2020.
“This means that under Minister Manickchand, over a dozen latrines were converted
to modern sanitary blocks. Come on Mr. Hughes, acknowledge that some progress was made.
“He also failed to reveal that during the tenure of the APNU+AFC, more than 25 of the said latrines were either built or renovated and at least a dozen were completely neglected and condemned. So, it seems ok for APNU+AFC to build some latrines and neglect others, yet those very same latrines form part of Hughes’ selective outrage a few years later,” the former AFC executive said.
Craig then disclosed that Hughes did not also tell the public that some of these facilities come under Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) managed by APNU+AFC, which received budgetary support from central government to construct sanitary blocks.
He said: “These RDCs have funds sitting on the books awaiting execution.
The public should note that cabinet has approved funds already passed in the 2024 budget to renovate and repaint all schools across the country, including those in inland communities. The budget catered for improvements to sanitation blocks, water facilities, flooring and roofing, etc.
“RDCs are frontline responders to the needs of schools in their region. I am told that there is no record of any RDC administered by APNU+AFC with an active request to convert latrines to water closets that has been denied by the central ministry.”
He added: “Part of the new-found latrine activism also highlights AFC’s own
failures and Mr Hughes should take several rows back until he can demonstrate, via certified RDC minutes, that AFC councillors raised this issue at any meeting over the last four years.”
plea, the judge gave the jury instructions to find him guilty of manslaughter but not guilty of murder.
The trial judge then imposed the custodial sentence last Friday.
According to reports, Van Nooten stabbed Smith at the Mabaruma Settlement Ground. A statement from the police had said that, on the day in question, a policeman at the eastern gate of the ground saw when Van Nooten walked towards Smith holding a knife. Van Nooten then walked up to Smith and dealt him several stabs about his body. The law enforcement officer promptly intervened and successfully disarmed Van Nooten. Smith, who was injured, made his way to a nearby car and subsequently
collapsed.
He was then urgently transported to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital, where medical attention was provided for injuries sustained to his left abdomen and neck.
He unfortunately succumbed to his injuries around 20:00 hours on the same date.
It is believed that an old grievance between the two led to the stabbing.
Former AFC Executive Leonard Craig
Christopher Van Nooten
Guyana prioritises green spaces in urban development
AS Guyana’s urban centres continue to expand, the need for additional green spaces in major cities and communities is becoming increasingly critical. Currently, Guyana has four main urban parks: the National Park, the Botanical Gardens, and the Zoological Park in Region Four, and the Joe Vieira Park in Region Three.
These spaces serve as vital recreational sites for a wide cross-section of Guya-
nese, but there is a growing demand for more parks to meet the needs of the expanding population.
Highlighting efforts to create more green spaces, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Councillor Steven Jacobs underscored the importance of these areas in enhancing the overall aesthetics of Georgetown and the country as a whole. He credited First Lady Arya Ali’s Urban Development Programme for spearheading
initiatives to establish new play parks and green spaces across Guyana.
One of the standout projects under the First Lady’s National Beautification Project is the Kingston Seawall Esplanade, which has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Jacobs emphasised that green spaces such as this contribute significantly to the attractiveness of Georgetown, adding, “There are quite a number of areas ripe for development.”
––councillors push for more parks, gardens
Councillor Jacobs also referenced President Irfaan Ali’s recent announcement of a partnership with the Kings Foundation, aimed at restoring Georgetown to its former glory as the “Garden City.” He expressed his hope for Georgetown to shed its reputation as the “garbage city” and instead become a vibrant, green urban space, particularly in areas where illegal dumping has tarnished the environment. “By creating beautiful gardens and lush, green spaces, we can beautify our environment and transform it into a true breath of fresh air,” Jacobs said. He further stressed the importance of community involvement, encouraging citizens to take responsibility for maintaining these green spaces. “Simply taking care of personal gardens and com-
munity grounds can make a significant difference. A more beautiful Guyana benefits us all,” he stated.
Councillor Alfonso De Armas echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative power of integrating green spaces with cultural elements. He noted that this approach has greatly enhanced cities around the world, improving both their aesthetics and functionality. De Armas emphasised that the success of green-space initiatives depends on the collaboration of all stakeholders, including councillors from the opposition. “It is crucial that all stakeholders are on board to ensure the success of such initiatives,” he said.
Guyana has seen substantial infrastructural transformations in recent years, including the construction
of major hotels, the development of new communities, and significant upgrades to roads and bridges that link key areas such as the East Bank and East Coast. In 2023, President Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating more recreational parks, with plans to develop 15 to 20 parks across urban centres in Guyana. This ambitious project is not only intended to enhance the scenic beauty of the nation’s roadways and urban and rural areas, but also aims to foster a more environmentally conscious society.
As Guyana continues its rapid development, the integration of green spaces remains a key component of the country’s vision for a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing future.
A view of some of the green spaces and urban parks developed around Guyana (First Lady Arya Ali- Facebook photos)
Housing Ministry advances development in Experiment Village, WCB
By Faith Greene
THE Ministry of Housing and Water is making significant strides in the establishment of a housing development in Experiment Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region Five.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to provide affordable housing and improve living standards for citizens.
In 2023, the ministry allocated several house lots in the area and constructed 20 low-income homes. During a recent visit to the village, the story of 61-year-old Hansrane Salick highlighted the impact of the housing initiative. Salick, who now resides in one of the newly constructed homes with her two daughters, aged 24 and 18, shared that prior to moving into their new home in May, they had been living in a rented property. While her home still requires some improvements, she expressed a sense of pride in owning her own house, stating that it has brought stability and security to her family.
Salick’s story is just one
example of the transformative power of the housing programme, which is central to the ministry’s goal of distributing 50,000 house lots by the end of next year. The ministry’s housing development programme is designed to implement national housing and settlement policies through a well-planned, coordinated framework aimed at developing sustainable, affordable and modern communities.
Over the past four years, the Ministry of Housing and Water has launched several initiatives to meet these goals.
These include the Single Window System, an online permit application system for land use and development; the Home Construction Assistance programme; and the Home Subsidy Programme. As of this year, the ministry has distributed over 30,000 land titles and transports, allocated more than 30,468 residential and commercial lots, and constructed over 1,121 homes for citizens across the country.
One of the ministry’s latest projects, the Homestead
Programme, was recently launched on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. This ambitious initiative will see the construction of 500 houses for single mothers over the next six months.
Each house will come equipped with agricultural facilities and solar power, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem for residents. This innovative approach is aimed not only at addressing immediate housing needs, but also at providing long-term financial stability and self-sufficiency for single mothers.
During the International Building Expo in August, President, Dr Irfaan Ali spoke about the potential of this housing model, which integrates agriculture, solar energy, and economic activities within each household plot.
“We are creating an economic model that offers single mothers the opportunity to earn and repay their loans while improving their living conditions,” Dr Ali said. The inclusion of agricultural activities and solar energy is designed to reduce energy costs while providing residents with an opportunity to
generate incomes.
This holistic approach to housing and community development reflects the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Guyanese citizens.
By combining major sectors such as housing, agriculture, and renewable energy, the ministry is working to create a model of self-sufficiency that could be replicated across the country, ultimately contributing to the development of vibrant and economically sustainable communities.
Some of the completed homes in Experiment, WCB (Delano Williams photos)
Hansrane Salick
Retaining local ‘tech’ talent paramount to advancing industry — local expert says
By Feona Morrison
ELDON Marks, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of V75 Inc. and a well-known tech specialist, has made a strong appeal to policymakers to establish an atmosphere that will encourage and support local talent to stay in Guyana and support the development of the nation’s rapidly expanding tech sector.
Marks delivered this message during a recent episode of the Energy Perspectives Podcast, powered by the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.
“We have…talent that can be easily activated through a thriving tech eco-system. One of the impediments that I have seen is that there, unfortunately, aren’t many incentives for that natural talent to remain within the country and help grow the eco-system. That’s one of the impediments in terms of growing tech... We need the talented individuals but in order to retain them, there must be those environments,” he explained.
As the CEO of V75 Inc., a pioneering software development company, Marks is no stranger to innovation. His firm has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions for local businesses, government agencies, and international clients.
Most recently, V75 Inc. played a key role in developing a suite of innovative digital tools for the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo. These tools, designed to enhance the event’s user experience and logistical efficiency, have helped position the conference as a leader in tech innovation.
Marks shared his personal experience with building a tech company. He highlighted the idea that a tech company provides an ideal platform for developing, nurturing, and retaining talent within the technology sector, which is essential for strengthening the broader tech ecosystem.
However, he acknowledged the process has not been entirely smooth or without challenges.
He added: “So, that is one of the things I would recommend initially… is just to turn more of a focus on supporting the tech eco-system, the tech start-ups. The tech companies within the country, they are the answer. Find ways to incentivise more tech companies to come to the fold so that they could retain more of the talent so that we can elevate more in the country.”
Marks also addressed a key limitation he sees within the Guyanese tech community— what he called an “internal impediment.”
He pointed out that while many local talents have innovative ideas, they often restrict their
vision to within the borders of Guyana, rather than thinking on a global scale. Marks emphasised that in today’s globalised world, technology offers the tools to easily market products and ideas internationally. By focusing too narrowly on local markets, he explained that many entrepreneurs and innovators miss out on larger opportunities.
He, therefore, encouraged young minds to “think big” and expand their ideas beyond national borders, as the potential for success lies in adopting a global mindset.
Further, he advocated for an educational initiative aimed at helping to aspire tech entrepreneurs understand the essential steps to build a business that can compete for these opportunities. This includes teaching them how to establish a company or brand, ensuring they are compliant with tax regulations, and preparing them to successfully bid for projects.
By gaining this knowledge, he pointed out that young ‘techpreneurs’ can position themselves to grow their businesses and take advantage of opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach due to lack of preparation or understanding of formal processes.
He went on to explain the critical importance of nurturing and retaining local talent as a top priority for building a tech-driven future. He pointed out that the current era of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transformative, and every tech company either already understands or will soon realise that the new method of engineering is inextricably tied to generative AI.
As a result, he noted that it becomes even more crucial to invest in home-grown talent, ensuring that local professionals are well-equipped to navigate and capitalise on this AI-driven shift.
Retaining this talent “gives us a fighting chance with regards to innovating and digitalising and bridging that gap with regards to our technological needs,” he stressed.
Marks also acknowledged positive efforts by the government, specifically mentioning initiatives like the Hackathon organised by the Office of the Prime Minister. He sees such programmes as
valuable in nurturing and fostering local tech talent, helping to equip them with the experience and skills necessary for the country’s digital future.
“But we need to continue along that trail. We need to look at accelerator programmes; we need to look at tech conferences. Tech conferences are exceedingly powerful when it comes to helping techpreneurs find opportunities and get exposure…”
In addressing data security, Marks highlighted Guyana’s underdevelopment in terms of cybersecurity awareness. “Many engineering outfits often build software and they do their due diligence when it comes to securing that software. But a lot of folks don’t realise that software engineers are not cybersecurity experts and they are not meant to be cybersecurity experts.”
“In industry standard development, software engineers often have to collaborate with cybersecurity experts and that is a critical thing. They need to work in consort. Beyond that, the weakest link in terms of cybersecurity is the persons that actually use that software. They can haphazardly or just unknowingly open a malicious email and unleash the worse within their organisations,” the tech expert explained.
In closing, he expressed optimism about Guyana’s potential for growth and development, pointing out that the country has unique conditions such as its economic boom and emerging tech industry—that both create opportunities for progress. He said he is excited that these conditions are attracting top talent and innovation, setting the stage for future success.
However, he emphasised that in order to fully take advantage of these opportunities across different sectors, it is essential to invest in the country’s human resources.
Marks believes that nurturing this talent and providing the right incentives will be key to unlocking their potential. By investing in the development, support, and motivation of individuals in the tech industry, he anticipated that “mind-blowing” advancements will occur.
CEO of V75 Inc., Eldon Marks
President Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ reinforces country’s national motto
BLASTING the ‘anti-development machinations’ of the Peoples National Congress Reform, Jermaine Figueira recently called out the party’s leadership for its rhetoric and partisan politics.
Figueira, an opposition parliamentarian who is a prominent figure known for his strong support base in Region 10, recently told the Guyana Chronicle that he believes that “oneness” in Guyana through various attempts at building meaningful equity continua, need to go much deeper, wider,
and be more deliberately bipartisan to produce the desired national results.
“I do not accept that the ‘One Guyana’ mantra being espoused by President Ali infringes on our national motto and should therefore be dismissed altogether. If anything, it potentially reinforces our motto, which I welcome,” Figueira said.
He pointed out that this was once a concept coined by the PNCR as a part of its political campaign some years ago.
“I do not subscribe to anti-development machi -
nations and no one or party should. I firmly believe that the political disposition of all opposition parties towards any development that caters to the national construct and the people’s wellbeing should be one of constructive scrutiny that is currently done and the parliamentary and constitutional guard rails put in place must be respected, like the PAC [Public Accounts Committee], Figueira further noted.
The opposition member’s comments came after the PNCR leader, Aubrey
AS part of its efforts to gradually make tertiary education free, the government, through the Ministry of Finance, has written off approximately $203.7 million in student debt owed to the University of Guyana (UG).
This was highlighted by the Ministry of Finance’s 2024 mid-year report, which revealed that this latest development has benefitted around 346 persons to date. An additional, 2,900 persons, will benefit from this initiative in the second half of the year.
Free tertiary education by 2025 is an essential element of the PPP/C 20202025 manifesto plans. To achieve this, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said the government will implement a phased approach, first tar-
geting individuals who hold university loans.
In 2024, during the reading of the national 2024 budget, the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, announced phase one of the initiative, benefitting some 13,000 Guyanese.
A whopping $11 billion in loans are expected to be written off by the government in the initial phase.
Additionally, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, noted that a mechanism to assist students who would have already paid their dues to the university but are repaying loans to commercial banks will be examined.
Another major initiative implemented by the government includes the Guyana
Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), granting individuals an opportunity to earn a higher education free of cost.
A total of 1.6 billion, has been spent on scholarships through this programme to date.
According to the midyear report, over 4,000 persons graduated in May 2024 with bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and other certificate programmes.
Additionally, in the first half of the year, 8,023 GOAL scholarships were also awarded to persons expected to commence studies in September 2024.
These initiatives reinforce the government’s commitment to expanding tertiary education and lifting the heavy financial burdens off of Guyanese students. (DPI)
–– PNCR’s Figueira says, blasts opposition for ‘anti-development machinations’
Norton, replaced Figueira, a senior member of the party with an interim committee to lead the party’s Region 10 arm.
Earlier this year, Figueira was stripped of his portfolio as Shadow Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport and was replaced by Nima Flue-Bess.
This publication was previously informed that these decisions could have
been fuelled by Figueira’s decision to go against Norton’s famous “handshake policy” and shake the hand of President, Dr Irfaan Ali.
While Figueira did not confirm this directly in his responses, he stated: “I will not participate in infantile dictates such as not shaking someone’s hand, more so the hand of the President of my country.”
Back in 2021 President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced the establishment of a “One Guyana Commission”.
The Head of State said the creed of his Government is nation-building with the key word being “oneness.”
“An essential part of my Government is inclusion. Stop being defined by race; stop being defined by poli-
tics. Start being defined by our one nationality and by our common love for our one country, let us lift it up together and by doing so, let us lift each other and ourselves, one people, one nation, one destiny,” President Ali had said.
President Ali had said too that the work of the Commission will be undertaken countrywide to encapsulate the free expressions of all voices, respecting the diversity “from which our oneness springs.”
The initiative addresses education concerning Guyana’s history, religion, ensuring equal opportunity, employment, entrepreneurship, and institutional strengthening of the Ethnic Relations Commission.
‘Privacy will be protected’
–– strict penalties to be imposed for people who misuse information
–– Jagdeo says
WHILE significant strides are being made to enhance security, promote efficiency and improve comfort through digitisation, the government is concurrently working to establish policies that will prevent the misuse of information.
This is according the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secre-
tary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who at a news conference last week outlined massive plans to streamline the immigration process, enhance local security, digitise health records and implement blockchain technology at several public agencies.
“We have to strengthen the privacy laws too, because we don’t want this to be abused by law enforcement where people go and visit somebody and then suddenly there they get tracked,” Dr. Jagdeo said, adding:
“We don’t want to po-
lice society so; you can go to jail for giving out that sort of information.”
The government, Dr Jagdeo explained, is in the first phase of rolling out its ‘Safe Guyana’ project, which will see 24-hour monitoring through smart cameras. These are intended to provide the authorities with the relevant intelligence needed to track criminal activities.
It is expected that these cameras will have running predictive software to anticipate highcrime areas, so that security personnel can be deployed where necessary.
A digital database will also be established at the Ministry of Home Affairs, linking information such as births, deaths, marriage records and criminal data on the databases where authorities have fingerprints.
Dr. Jagdeo also noted that the government was also working to establish its electronic patient record system.
“Once you have your record in this system, even in the public hospital, you would be able to take that to a private hospital should you go there. The doctors from the private hospital, if you do an X-ray, your entire history will be here.”
While this is being done, the government’s aim is to ensure that strict penalties will be in place to ensure the protection of citizens’ confidential records.
“There would be severe penalties, too, for sharing people’s records. Severe penalties for doing that because you don’t want people’s medical history to be in the public domain or released; and so that also would help us to better administer health care.
“It requires a lot of policy time and a lot of decisions had to be made and a lot of work is taking place to modernise our society to mirror the physical changes that we are seeing in Guyana. These are the infrastructure changes in a modern world,” he added.
Meanwhile, the government will implement blockchain technology in some of its agencies, as part of efforts to enhance cyber security.
Blockchain technology is well known for its capacity to guard against unauthorised changes or tampering and to preserve data integrity. It makes it more difficult for someone to manipulate or fabricate data.
“We’ve also committed ourselves to put to use blockchain technology in two areas, particularly the land records in this country and also in GGMC [Guyana Geology and Mines Commission], because we have had complaints about people in those places. Leases or prospecting.
Licences are given out on a first-come-firstserved basis,” Dr Jagdeo said.
Three CID detectives complete specialist degree in Legal Support of National Security
THREE distinguished detectives from the Guyana Police Force’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have recently earned Specialist Degrees in Legal Support of National Security from the Rostov Law Institute, under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia.
The detectives—Deputy Superintendent Eon Alonzo, Woman Sergeant Purnima Seepaul, and Sergeant Leroy Carroll—successfully completed the demanding six-year programme, which spanned from 2018 to 2024. This advanced course of study, focusing on Criminal Law with a minor in Preliminary Investigation, was tailored to equip law enforcement officers with the tools to navigate the complex legal frameworks of national security.
During their tenure at the institute, Alonzo, Seepaul, and Carroll underwent comprehensive training in criminal law, forensic science, counter-terrorism, and crime prevention.
The programme also incorporated in-depth coursework on national security issues, administrative management, criminology, and investigative techniques. Additionally, the trio received specialised instruction in information security, IT systems, anti-corruption measures, as well as tactical and weapons training.
This extensive training has prepared the detectives for the multifaceted demands of modern law enforcement. The degree not only equips them to manage the legal aspects of national security but also provides them with the critical skills
necessary for crime prevention and law enforcement. As a result, these officers are now poised to take on more prominent roles within the Guyana Police Force.
Their accomplishments have been lauded by Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken, Crime Chief, Mr. Wendell Blanhum, and their colleagues in the force. These detectives now stand as future leaders in the realm of national security, exemplifying the Guyana Police Force’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety and upholding justice in an increasingly complex security environment.
Their achievement is a testament to the CID’s dedication to fostering professional growth and addressing the evolving challenges in law enforcement.
Sergeant Leroy Carroll (left), Woman Sergeant Purnima Seepaul (centre) and Deputy Superintendent Eon Alonzo (right)
GCOPD distributes laptops to teachers with disabilities, empowering inclusive education
By Faith Greene
THE Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) took a significant step toward promoting inclusive education by distributing six laptops on Friday last to teachers in training and recent graduates with hearing impairments and visual disabilities.
The laptops were distributed at the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Health Guyana Regional Special Education Needs (SEN)/Disabilities Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, located at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) in Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara.
This initiative was made possible through the generous support of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The distribution ceremony was led by GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh, who emphasised the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary tools to enhance classroom content delivery.
Singh noted, “Through this project conceptualised last year, we received a donation of laptops, tablets, and various mobility aids to support the independence of persons with disabilities.” He also highlighted that the first phase of the project involved distributing tablets to 150 school-age children, with training in assistive technology funded by UNICEF and supported by the office of the Assistant Chief Education Officer for SEN (ACEO-SEN), Keon Cheong.
Singh announced that the final phase of the project, which will conclude next week, includes the distribution of tablets to children with disabilities in Region Three.
The laptops distributed to the teachers are equipped with JAWS (Job Access With Speech) screen-reader software, enabling blind
and visually impaired users to interact efficiently with computers, both at CPCE and in their future classrooms.
Singh remarked that access to computers is transformative for individuals with visual impairments, enhancing opportunities in both education and employment.
ACEO-SEN Keon Cheong praised the initiative, noting that the collaboration between GCOPD, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and the MoE plays a crucial role in achieving the ministry’s mandate to ensure inclusivity in education.
“This project shows Guyana and the world that persons with disabilities can make valuable contributions to the economic development of both the nation and the world at large,” Cheong said.
Registrar of CPCE, Kevaun Sears, expressed her excitement at being able to train teachers with disabilities through the institution’s special needs education programme, piloted by Cheong. She highlighted that CPCE will soon present its first cohort of graduates with Associate Degrees in Special Needs Education.
Sears added that the college has supported persons with disabilities since 2014, when the first blind student from the Guyana Society for the Blind’s Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) programme enrolled. Since then, more than 80 blind or visually impaired individuals have taken CXC exams through this programme, which continues to receive support from the MoE.
The GCOPD’s ongoing efforts to support teachers and students with disabilities demonstrate a strong commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible educational landscape in Guyana.
Through partnerships, technological aids, and
comprehensive training, the council aims to empower individuals with disabilities to succeed and contribute to society on an equal footing.
ACEO- SEN, Keon Cheong presents a laptop to a teacher with visual impairment (Delano Williams photo)
Pooran rides luck to see TKR past Patriots
Nadal added to Spain’s Davis cup squad
(BBC) - RAFAEL Nadal has been included in Spain's squad for the Davis Cup Final Eight in November.
The former world number one, 38, has been added alongside world number three Carlos Alcaraz, Roberto Bautista Agut, Pablo Carreno Busta and Marcel Granollers.
Nadal has not competed since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where the 22-time Grand Slam champion was beaten in the singles by Novak Djokovic and lost in the quarter-finals of the doubles after partnering Alcaraz. He withdrew from the
US Open in August and last weekend's Laver Cup because of fitness concerns.
Six-time champions Spain, whose most recent success came in 2019, face Netherlands in the quarter-finals, starting on November 19.
Nadal missed the US Open because he said he would not "be able to give my 100% at this time".
He then pulled out of the Laver Cup earlier in September, saying he believed there are "other players who can help the team deliver the win".
Nadal also missed the Australian Open in January
through injury and decided not to play Wimbledon to focus on the Olympics. He previously hinted at retirement later this year, but said before the French Open he was not "100%" certain that would be the last time he played at Roland Garros.
The Davis Cup quarter-finals take place November 19-21, with the semi-finals following on consecutive days before the final on Sunday, November 24.
Reigning world number one, Jannik Sinner, is set to lead defending champions Italy, which will seek to become the first team to retain the title since 2013.
ICC ACU Chair to retire at the end of October
A HIGH-SCORING affair in the second match of the day in the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) saw Trinbago Knight Riders end the season for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots with a seven-wicket defeat.
After winning their first match of the competition the Patriots have lost every game since, but this defeat in Tarouba seemed particularly cruel after they posted a sizeable 193/4 with the bat after
being inserted at the toss.
Captain Andre Fletcher led from the front with a brilliant innings of 93 from 61 balls that included shots all around the ground and six sixes struck into the crowd. Fletcher was denied a deserved century, falling short by seven runs when Chris Jordan had him caught by the bucket hands of Kieron Pollard on the long off boundary.
Jordan was the pick of the Knight Riders bowlers
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, September 24, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Sohail Tanvir-17 wickets (GAW)
(2) Dwayne Bravo – 5/3 runs (GAW vs Tridents, Barbados)
Today’s Quiz: (1) Sohail Tanvir-17 wickets (GAW)
(2) Dwayne Bravo – 5/3 runs (GAW vs Tridents, Barbados)
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
and also gave a glimpse of his own velcro hands by pulling off an impressive diving catch off his own bowling when Kyle Mayers mis-timed a short ball and offered up a sharp return chance.
The Knight Riders were clinical in their chase, Jason Roy blitzing 64 runs from 34 deliveries at the top of the order before Nicholas Pooran finished the job in some style, striking a flat six down the ground - his seventh of the evening – to finish the match.
Pooran was Player of the Match, hitting thirteen boundaries to finish undefeated on 93* off just 43 deliveries, albeit he was aided by some sloppy catching that saw him put down on a handful of occasions in the field.
The Patriots will rue the dropped catches and the missed opportunity to finish a tough campaign with a victory over one of the favourite sides. The Knight Riders will benefit from a Net Run Rate boost having hauled down the sizeable target with nine balls remaining; they now sit on ten points alongside Barbados Royals and Guyana Amazon Warriors.
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Sir Ronnie Flanagan, who has served as the ICC anti-corruption unit (ACU) independent chair since 2010, has decided to retire end of October. The development comes on the heel of ACU head Alex Marshall deciding to retire in November.
A highly respected senior cop, Flanagan was the Home Office chief inspector of constabulary for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and was previously the chief constable of the police service of Northern Ireland. He had replaced Lord Paul Condon, who had stepped down in 2010 having served for 10 years as ACU's inaugural head.
It was Condon who had originally set up the ACU after he was appointed by ICC in 2000 with the primary task of cleaning up the growing incidents of match-fixing around the time - resulting in life bans for three international captains in Mohammad Azharuddin, Saleem Malik, and the late Hansie Cronjeand setting up guardrails to ensure the sport could ward off corrupt elements.
Sir Ronnie Flanagan has been ACU's independent chair since 2010 (Getty Images)
As he was nearing his exit, Condon had warned that T20 cricket, especially domestic franchise cricket, "represented the biggest challenge to the integrity of cricket". Right on cue, the IPL corruption scandal broke in 2013. Addressing the ICC annual conference that June, Flanagan told the heads of all the cricket boards to adopt stronger an-
ti-corruption laws to prosecute players, match-officials and franchise owners found guilty of corrupt practices in domestic T20 leagues to avoid a repeat.
On Monday the ICC said in a release they're aiming to put forward their "recommendation" for the next ACU chair by the quarterly round of meetings in October.
Nicholas Pooran of Trinbago Knight Riders bats during the Men's 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match between Trinbago Knight Riders and Saint Kitts & Nevis Patriots at Brian Lara Cricket Academy on September 22, 2024 in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago. (Photo by Ashley Allen - CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)
GFF corrects misinformation about partnerships and governance
(PRESS RELEASE) - WE acknowledge the September 15th editorial by Mr. Rawle Toney, published in the Kaieteur News, Sunday Edition, which emphasises the importance of transparency and integrity in football governance. These are values that the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has upheld consistently since President Wayne Forde took office in 2015. However, we wish to take this opportunity to not only address the concerns raised but also to counter certain incorrect claims made regarding the GFF’s partnerships and its governance.
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) takes pride in being a leader in good governance within the sporting fraternity of Guyana. We adhere strictly to our Statutes and maintain full compliance with the regulations set forth
by FIFA and CONCACAF. Our operations undergo yearly independent audits, and we transparently publish these audits alongside our annual report on our website. These reports are also provided to our General Council for review and approval at our Annual Congress each year. Furthermore, all major decisions within the GFF are made following thorough consultation with the General Council and key stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of all relevant parties are heard and considered in every process.
In response to Mr. Rawle Toney's editorial, the nub of it being a call for the GFF to be transparent about its stadium project, and its five-year kit deal, we have consulted with our partners and wish to clarify the following:
Large corporations have the right to determine what
information they wish to protect and often include confidentiality clauses in their agreements. This practice is standard in the business world and is essential for minimising risk, managing exposure, and safeguarding competitive advantage.
Specifically, kit suppliers may need to consider how sensitive financial details can impact existing contracts and ongoing negotiations.
The GFF is obligated to respecting and honouring the conditions of our contractual agreements. We assure our stakeholders and the general public that we remain steadfast in our dedication to upholding the principles of good governance.
We appreciate the ongoing support of our community as we continue to promote transparency, accountability and integrity in all our operations.
Shaun Massiah appointed Director of Cricket West Indies
EXECUTIVE member of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Shaun Massiah, has been appointed a Director of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and will represent Guyana at the CWI’s Board of Directors’ meeting on September 28, 2024 in Trinidad.
Massiah, who holds the key position of Chairman of the GCB Competitions Committee, is a former first-division cricketer and captained the Transport Club senior team for a number of years. He is a qualified cricket
coach having been accredited at Level 1 and Level II of the CWI Coaching Education Programme.
Massiah also served as Liaison Officer of the Guyana team for the Regional under-19 Tournament 2015, for the Sri Lanka under-19 team in the ICC Youth World Cup Tournament 2022 in Guyana and for St Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premiere League (CPL) T20 Tournament.
With his wealth of cricket knowledge and experience as both player and administrator, Massiah is expected to be of great value as he represents Guyana.
Guyanese chess ladies move up to 145th in world ranking
THE country’s National Women’s Hockey team, despite obvious disadvantages, showed their resolved and grit to make adjustments on the artificial surface in Pembroke Bermuda to stay undefeated heading into their fourth clash today in the Pan American Hockey Federation Challenge Series.
They will battle Bermuda which is ranked two places above them in the world at 68 in what is expected to be a scorcher and a must win for Guyana.
On Sunday, Guyana clashed with Paraguay and came out with a draw.
Starring for the 592 girls was their goal keeper, Alysa Xavier, who stood up to scrutiny to have a clean sheet and keep Guyana in the hunt for a top 2 finish.
Guyana going into the competition without any practice on a proper artificial surface was up against it but found an unlikely hero in 14-year-old Makaylah Poole who made her senior debut for Guyana as they downed
world number 54 Brazil 1-nil in their opener.
Following the Bermuda game, Guyana will play world number 37 and pre-tournament favourites Mexico on Friday.
Head coach, Phillip Fernandes, told Guyana Chronicle that the ladies’ adjustment to the speed of the artificial surface affected their ability to capture another win against Paraguay.
“The truth of the matter is that we in Guyana are robbed too much by not having an artificial pitch on which to train… The girls had to readjust their reception skills to balls coming onto their sticks at a much faster pace than it does on grass.”
He said this has caused them vital seconds which delay execution of passes at the pace of the game, adding “The passes run away from their target if it is not precisely into a stick. Anyone watching the matches can see how many simple passes, especially when we launched threatening
counterattack, missed their target.”
He noted the fact that they seldom played international was a huge humbug to the team’s growth.
“Even though some of these girls have been playing for years, if you count the actual competitive matches, it probably won't make up two years of solid hockey. The inexperience leads to them often being slightly out of position rather than knowing by experience where to be and causes them to take longer than they should to make decisions when in possession.”
Guyana is seeking to qualify for the Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) Cup scheduled for Uruguay in 2025 and the hockey World Cup next year.
Guyana last competed in the PAHF Challenge back in 2011, where they finished runners-up to Uruguay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The team is sponsored by One Communication, the challenge series runs until September 28.
GUYANA’S Olympiad
Women Chess team finished 145th in the world after three wins and two draws, while the men clinched three wins to finish 174th overall after the 11 rounds of Swiss competition in Budapest Hungary.
The biennial chess championship featured a record-breaking 193 teams in the Open section and 181 squads in the Women's competition playing on the back drop of the Hungarian capital in Budapest from September 10-23.
The women team made up of Jessica Callender, Sasha Shariff, Aditi Joshi, Ciel Clements and Treskole Archibald got their campaign off with a loss to Denmark 4-0 before also going down to Palestine 3-1.
They picked up their first victory against Grenada in a clean sweep 4-0, after which they drew against Guernsey.
They lost to Malta 3.5 to 0.5 and Bahamas by the same margin before drawing with Equatorial Guinea.
They next beat Vanuata before ending their campaign with losses to Mozambique, Liberia and Bermuda.
The men’s squad which featured the likes of Taffin Khan, Loris Nathoo, Fide Master Anthony Drayton, Sachin Pitamber and Keiron Sandiford also started with a loss to hosts Hungary and Jordan.
They then beat St Vincent and the Grenadines in round 3, after which they lost to Palestine and Jersey before picking up another win against Cayman Islands
and Cote D’ivore 2.5 to 1.5 and 3-1 respectively.
The men also clashed with Puerto Rico, losing 2.5 to 1.5 before ending their campaign with losses to Afghanistan, Brunei Darussalam and Sierra Leone.
In addition, 14-year-olds Sachin Pitamber and Aditi Joshi, Veteran player, Loris Nathoo ended on an impressive score of 3.5 out of 8, earning the Candidate Master title as well.
The team was captained by CM Ronuel Greenidge, Grand Master Georg Mohr, and Nathoo served as head of delegation.
India took the gold after winning the men and women titles, USA also picked up silver in the men and bronze in the women category.
Shaun Massiah
Left to right Sasha Shariff, Aditi Joshi, Ciel Clement, and Treskole Archibald
President Cup: Olympic Kremlin does it again
IT was simply Deja Vu at the Rising Sun Turf Club as Olympic Kremlin completed the double with a sensational win at the President Cup.
The Slingerz Racing Stables horse, which won the Guyana Cup last month in similar fashion, was piloted again by Jockey Acedenir Gulart. He ran another sensible race making the jump at the right time, to stop the clock at one minute, 47 seconds in the one-mile event.
Nova Sol came second again while Easy Time finished third. Mapa Do Brasil settled for third in a high-octane feature which was sponsored by Banks DIH. The feature ace began with the Master Z racing stables duo Easy Time and Stat setting an early tone but Olympic Kremlin took the outside and sealed the deal yet again.
The President Cup start-
ed in good heat with the Kris Jagdeo Construction L Class Non-Earners. Lion Heart took the top spot while Dr Switch finished second. Danstar and Legacy were the other finishers in that order.
Race two was the D Sawh Mechanical Workshop
J Class and Lower/ H3 Non Earners last start. Rachel dominated the race from the get-go to claim victory while Hayley fought well to finish second. Amazing Grace had to settle for third and whole Top Gun came fourth.
The third race of the day was the Kabisa H Class
Classic. Race 3: KABISA H Class Classic. Theory of Colors from the Jagdeo Racing Stables emerged as the winner while American Traveller finished second. Emotional Damage ran third and Stroke of Luck finished fourth.
Race four was the J’S
Supermarket two-yearold maidens. Storm Bird stormed to victory, finishing ahead of Miracle Star. Easy Bella ran third and Irish Eyes ran fourth.
The excitement was intense in race five which was the Peter Lewis Sprint Classic for horses threeyear-old and over. The newly imported Brazilian horse, Companheiro Leal out of Js Racing Stables impressed on Guyana debut. It was a gate to pole victory for Jockey Dylan Machado as Companheior Leal reigned supreme.
Ritorna Vincetori, another Brazilian imported horse from Slingerz Racing Stables, was good competition but had to settle for second while Creemore finished third. Stormy Entry ran in fourth. The familiar horses in Bossalina and Spankhurst were among the top four finishers.
The penultimate race of
the day was Anirud Ramcharitar Construction Firm K Non Earners 2024 / L Class Open and J3 first time starters.
It was a packed field and Money Time prevailed. Jockey Quinton Kellman who started the day with a win, came up trumps again as he piloted Money Time to a scintillating win. He finished ahead of Princess Samiyah, Kiss and Swinging Jet in that order.
The President Cup was presented by Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee; it was another well-organised and exciting race day at Rising Sun Turf Club.
Organisers have informed that races will return to the Bush Lot United Turf Club in West Coast Berbice. Js Racing Stables will host the Kabisa Stakes Horse race meet on Sunday October 20.
DC Budhram, NYPD team boost youth sports with donations to sports clubs
DEPUTY Commissioner (DC) Ravindradat Budhram, together with Mr. Sheryar Hussain of the NYPD Cricket Team, as well as Guyana/West Indies Cricketers, Shemar Joseph and Tevin Imlach, made a generous contribution of sports equipment and clothing to the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) under-15 and under-17 Cricket Teams.
The recent donation took place at the DDC Ground, located on Lance Gibbs Street, Queenstown, Georgetown.
Mr. Budhram and Mr. Hussain paid a visit to the Police Sports Club Ground, where they generously donated various football gears/ equipment to the Guyana
Police Force Football Club. The donation, which will contribute to the sport’s development, was received by Senior Superintendent Jermaine Johnson, President of the GPF Football Club, and Treasurer, Deputy Superintendent Ronald Ali.
The day’s events continued at Malteenoes Sports Club Ground, where members of the Under-17 Cricket team benefitted from the donation.
Soesdyke Falcons Football Club on the East Bank of Demerara also received sports equipment from the activity.
The youths were encouraged to stay in school, obey their parents, instructors, and elders, and avoid all forms of
narcotics.
This collaboration between the Guyana Police Force, stakeholders, and other police agencies not only demonstrates the Guyana Police Force’s dedication to cultivating sporting potential but also emphasises the necessity of community support in developing the next generation of athletes.
The senior administration of the Guyana Police Force consistently promotes modern policing methods, where officers engage with local communities to facilitate their growth. This aligns with the Force’s Social Crime Prevention initiative, leading to a notable decrease in crime nationwide.
Javid Ali and his Slingerz Racing Stables were jubilant after winning another major title in Guyana’s horse-racing
Deputy Commissioner, Ravindradat Budhram, together with Mr. Sheryar Hussain of the NYPD Cricket Team, delivered gears at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground, where members of the under-17 cricket team benefitted from the donation
DC Budhram, together with Mr. Sheryar Hussain of the NYPD cricket team paid a visit to the Police Sports Club ground, where they generously donated various football gears/equipment to the Guyana Police Force Football Club
DC Budhram, together with Mr. Sheryar Hussain as well as Guyana/West Indies Cricketers, Shemar Joseph and Tevin Imlach, with youths of the Soesdyke Falcons Football Club on the East Bank of Demerara that received sports equipment
Guyana women team after defeating Brazil