Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19-11-2023.pdf

SATURDAY 25th November, 2023

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107275

‘Let no one distract us from building Guyana stronger together’ - President tells Guyanese

SEE PAGE

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Guyana stands tall

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, other officials and members of the Armed Forces hoisted the Golden Arrowhead more than 2,200 feet above sea level on Guyana’s side of the border with Venezuela

Maduro’s main electoral opponent calls for suspension of referendum SEE PAGE

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Schools’ curriculum Agriculture innovation, investment, tackling to include lessons food crises on Guyana-Venezuela border controversy SEE PAGE

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SEE PAGE

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- among priority areas to be discussed at 38th FAO Regional Conference of Latin America and the Caribbean set to be held in Guyana

Essequibo belongs to Guyana! This is part of a series of information on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy and forms part of the national education campaign on this topic: The boundary between Guyana and Venezuela was demarcated following an agreement signed in 1905 by the boundary commissioners of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Venezuela. Successive governments of Venezuela respected the 1899 Arbitral Award for 60 years (until 1962). From then, Venezuela tried to prevent Guyana’s independence, claiming that the award was null and void.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Maduro’s main electoral opponent calls for suspension of referendum

VENEZUELA’s opposition candidate for the 2024 presidential elections, María Corina Machado, has called for the suspension of the December 3 referendum aimed at annexing Guyana's Essequibo.

In a statement released on her official 'X' (Twitter) page, Machado asserted” “Sovereignty is exercised, not consulted,” expressing her opposition to the scheduled consultation.

“The referendum on Essequibo must be suspended,” Machado said.

She characterised the mechanism as a “distraction” amid the challenging Venezuelan political, economic, and social climate leading

up to the 2024 presidential elections.

“It is an error that not only does not contribute to the defence of our territory but can also harm us in our defence in the International Court of Justice (ICJ),” she maintained.

The long-standing territorial controversy predates Guyana's independence in 1966, with tensions escalating in 2015 following ExxonMobil's discovery of oil fields.

Machado, who was elected as an opposition candidate to contend against socialist President Nicolás Maduro in the 2024 presidential elections, emphasises the potential negative impact of the

Opposition candidate for the 2024 presidential elections, María Corina Machado referendum on Venezuela's Essequibo. defence in the ICJ. The genesis of the border Guyana is currently controversy goes back to the awaiting a ruling from the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landICJ regarding the application mark decision that delineated for provisional measures to the land boundary between prevent any action by Ven- British Guiana (now Guyana) ezuela to annex Guyana’s and Venezuela.

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

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

Venezuela, taking a defiant stance, initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the substantive case’s merits.

Recent developments have heightened the geopo-

litical situation, as Venezuela, through its National Electoral Council, unveiled plans for a “Consultative Referendum” on December 3.

Guyana contends that this move is a thinly veiled attempt by Venezuela to gather support for abandoning the ongoing ICJ proceedings, and unilaterally assert control over the Essequibo region.

Venezuela’s Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, has expressed her nation’s complete disregard for the ICJ’s authority in addressing the border controversy.

The substantive case which highlights the historical context and the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains before the World Court.

Schools’ curriculum to include lessons on Guyana-Venezuela border controversy

THE government, through the Ministry of Education, will be spearheading an unprecedented initiative to reform the curriculum to equip the nation's youth with the tools to comprehend, articulate, and actively support the nation's position on the border controversy.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, highlighted this approach during a Panel Discussion and Public Awareness Session held at the Bishops’ High School, on Friday.

The three distinguished panellists included Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, S.C.; Guyanese Academic, Dr. Mark Kirton, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Guyana’s agent in the ongoing border controversy case before the ICJ, Carl Greenidge.

Minister Manickchand, who was the moderator, revealed an extensive plan aimed at not just informing but actively engaging every facet of the nation's education system.

This initiative, she said, signals a pivotal moment in the nation's history, with the education sector taking the lead in navigating a geopolitical challenge that has lingered for over a century.

“This morning (Friday), the Ministry of Education sent out to every school public and private activities we expect the children, the learners, teachers, the entire school community, parents of those learners and guardians to undertake within the next week but particularly next Friday,” Minister Manickchand said.

The educational activities include a variety of creative expressions, such as poems, drawings, acrostics,

The government, through the Ministry of Education, will be spearheading an unprecedented initiative to reform the curriculum to equip the nation’s youth with the tools to comprehend, articulate, and actively support the nation’s position on the border controversy and stories related to the Guyana-Venezuela Border Controversy.

Additionally, maps for colouring have been distributed to engage the younger generation in understanding geographical aspects associated with the Essequibo region.

Minister Manickchand highlighted the historical significance of this initiative, noting: “After over 100 years, I think it's the first time the Guyanese education system is responding to a live issue on the Guyana/Venezuela controversy regarding Essequibo.”

However, the minister pointed out that this is just the beginning, revealing plans to reform the curriculum extensively.

The proposed changes will incorporate learnings about Guyana's position on the border controversy, spanning from nursery to secondary and even post-secondary education.

“That is the beginning.

Our curriculum will be reformed…very, very shortly,” Minister Manickchand affirmed.

COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY The minister urged collective responsibility, employing the “each one, teach one” philosophy.

She called on individuals to share their knowledge with at least five peers of their age and five individuals older, stressing the principle that “to whom much is given, much is required.”

“What is required of you going forward from today?

You will be required to sign resolutely and firmly declaring that Essequibo belongs to Guyana and taking every action that is necessary to make sure that is a reality,” Minister Manickchand declared.

Addressing the audience, she urged them to remain vigilant and united, noting: “We're going to have to ask you to be vigilant, to be alert, to be sensible and measured to resist any kind of action that would place you in the category of bullies.

“To resist any kind of action that would place you in the category of being a backward, xenophobic human

being. To resist any kind of action that would place you into the category of panicking unnecessarily.”

Manickchand acknowledged the prevalence of misinformation on social media and encouraged citizens to be responsible by dispelling such misinformation and fostering a sense of patriotism.

She reaffirmed that these educational initiatives aim to equip individuals with accurate information to counteract any unwarranted fear or hysteria.

The minister highlighted that the educational session covered a spectrum of topics related to the border controversy, delving into its historical, social, political, economic, and legal dimensions.

Minister Manickchand expressed confidence in the Guyanese people's ability to navigate this “challenging situation.”

She pointed out that Guyanese need to reinforce a collective commitment to national sovereignty and unity.

The Attorney General welcomed this move, adding that

it aligns with the imperative to equip future generations with comprehensive knowledge about the nation's historical and geopolitical context.

Amidst the approaching December 3 referendum in Venezuela, Nandlall said that Guyana must brace itself for an extended and potentially heightened phase in the ongoing Guyana-Venezuela border controversy.

“While the court deliberates, Venezuela's stance may evolve, but the core of this issue will likely persist. We must match their historical teaching efforts and educate our present and future generations,” Nandlall said.

He said that since the 60’s Venezuela has been actively promoting awareness of the territorial controversy with Guyana.

This is done particularly through educational materials and patriotic reggaeton and videos. Venezuelan textbooks contain maps that depict a larger Venezuela, including a substantial portion of Guyana, reflecting the country's claim to the Essequibo region.

This issue is also being incorporated into the schools’ curriculum, ensuring that students are aware of the dispute from a young age.

“We have to continue to educate ourselves. They have been teaching it in their schools since the 60s, perhaps we should address our minds by doing that.

“So, these are things that we have to do going forward so that you, our future generations, can become even more knowledgeable and educated than us dinosaurs,” Nandlall said.

He stressed the importance of sustained efforts to fortify the nation's position on the Essequibo region, reiterating, “Essequibo is ours, and we will stay the course resolutely.”

Nandlall pointed out that educational reform is necessary since it aligns with the imperative to equip future generations with comprehensive knowledge about the nation's historical and geopolitical context.

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‘Let no one distract us from building Guyana stronger together’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

- President tells Guyanese

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Friday, told residents of Port Kaituma, Region One, to not let the messages coming out of neighbouring Venezuela regarding the ongoing controversy distract from building Guyana stronger together.

The Head of State made those remarks at an engagement with residents as part of his two-day outreach to communities along the Guyana-Venezuela border.

During his address, he assured residents of the community that officials are paying careful attention to everything that is going on and at the same time are doing everything to ensure that they are kept safe.

To this end, he affirmed that they have nothing to fear or worry about even as he indicated that the Essequibo has always been Guyana and will always be Guyana.

“The people of Essequibo are Guyanese, the development of Essequibo is completely done and up kept by

Guyana,” he avowed.

President Ali said that while nothing is being taken for granted, they should not let fear overcome them in this regard, as he reassured residents that the government is working on the issue and also working on the diplomatic front to come to a resolution.

“Let us concentrate on the building our community, the building of our region, the building of our children, the building of our men and women, the building of our education sector the building of our health sector. Let no one distract us from building Guyana stronger, Guyana stronger together,” Dr. Ali said.

He said that various officers from government agencies and even ministers will be on the ground, since the enhancement of Guyana, communities and businesses, among other things must continue.

Dr. Ali indicated that they cannot allow the false narrative coming out of Venezuela

to stop Guyana’s development or slow down the development.

Meanwhile, he told the residents that in the near future, they will see more activities of the armed forces in the region and this comes as he notes that the country must not be unprepared for anything.

Added to this, he disclosed that this will also be seen, since Guyana has been

in deep engagement with the United States Military and as such, they will be engaged in training opportunities here.

These trainings, he said, were planned some time ago and will continue so as to ensure that Guyana is always in a state of readiness and are given the best training possible.

“We have the deepest relationship with our allies when it comes to defence

and defence strategy, so I want you to be assured that we are with you 100 per cent and that is why I came here myself,” he said.

In addition to the men and women in uniform in the ground, President Ali told residents of Port Kaituma that there are a number of men and women in uniform working, making use of technology to ensure that intelligence is gathered and the

safety and security of these communities are kept.

President Ali asserted: “We remain a friend and a neighbour, we remain a peaceful zone and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this region remains a region of peace, remains a region of love, remains a region of hope; this is the ambition of Guyana,” the Head of State said.

Over 5,300 allottees to soon access lands at Great Diamond, Golden Grove - as a result of $17B in developmental works underway ALLOTTEES at six blocks in Great Diamond and Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, will begin accessing their lands by the end of the year.

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal inspected infrastructural works in the areas on Friday.

Minister Croal was accompanied by a team from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), including Deputy Director of Projects, Intakab Indarjeet, and other technical staff.

These works, amounting to close to $17 billion, include land clearing, the construction of access roads and culverts and installation of pipe networks, benefitting around 5,300 persons in various

Allottees at six blocks in Great Diamond and Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara will begin accessing their lands by the end of the year (Ministry of Housing and Water photos) as works are slated to be ised, requiring only a few income brackets.

The minister visited completed by the end of finishing touches on the road network.

Great Diamond Blocks the year.

F i n a l l y, G o l d e n While acknowledging One, Three and Five, where more than half of initial challenges such as Grove Block 13 is also the work in the areas is swamped lands and poor progressing so that alcompleted, paving the access, Minister Croal lottees can begin conway for the commence- emphasised that these struction soon. A numment of the lot identifi- obstacles were addressed ber of individuals who cation. The remaining al- and contractors behind were allocated Golden lottees can expect access the deadline will be held Grove Block 18 will also accountable. now occupy this area early in the new year.

Meanwhile at Golden due to challenges faced However, regarding Great Diamond Block Grove Block Nine, al- by the low-lying land Seven (five lots), the lottees are also poised to at Block 18. Lot idenminister expressed dis- gain access to their land tification across these satisfaction with the slug- by year-end, with most areas will be conducted gish work of contractors, preparatory works final- in tranches.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Seven-year-old undergoes groundbreaking, successful kidney transplant at GPHC

FOLLOWING the groundbreaking success of a kidney transplant performed on seven-year-old patient Angelica Soamnauth at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Guyana is poised to enhance its capability to perform pediatric transplant surgeries.

The medical feat marks a significant milestone, paving the way for expanded medical expertise in the realm of pediatric transplantation in Guyana.

During a media conference at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Resource Centre on Friday, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank

Patient Angelica Soamnauth and family with the medical team and Health Minister Frank Anthony Anthony said the medical team’s success has demonstrated the local capacity to carry out more of these surgeries.

“Over the years we have seen our transplant pro-

gramme grow, we have seen the results of the transplant programme improve drastically and in fact, I think we are one of the transplant centres in the Caribbean, where we have been get-

ting extremely good results.

We have moved from doing the adult transplant…Now branching off into pediatric transplant,” Minister Anthony underscored.

He highlighted that the government will be procuring equipment, and investing in local training programmes to overcome the challenges faced by doctors in carrying out diagnostic testing for kidney disease and the turnaround time for results.

To this end, Dr. Anthony noted that the government will be fostering more collaborations with expert institutions to elevate training programmes locally.

“We have a very strong

collaboration now through PAHO (Pan American Health Organisation) with the DTI (Donation Transplant Institute), which is based in Barcelona, and over the last several months we have had a lot of people from the transplant institute, the local agency, and the Georgetown Hospital getting exposure in Barcelona to some of the things we need to put in place.

“We don’t have the capability right now in the country to be able to do that. In fact, nobody in the Caribbean is able to do that type of testing…We are working now where we can train people in Guyana to do that, buy the equipment, and make sure

we have the capability of doing it because if we want to have a strong programme in transplant, we must be able to do matching,” the Health Minister underscored.

Vascular and Transplant Surgeon, Dr. Kishore Persaud said this is a historic achievement in Guyana’s medical field.

On October 30 last, the team accomplished what many thought was impossible by successfully transplanting an adult kidney from the donor, the patient’s father, into the child, even though the patient was three kilogrammes short of the required 20-kilogrammes weight.

GMSA applauds gov’t for peaceful stance in border controversy

The following is the full text of a statement from the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association on the subject of the Venezuela border controversy:

“THE Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) stands alongside all of Guyana against any attempt to violate the integrity of our borders and

stands with, and applauds the Government of Guyana in its steadfast pursuit of a peaceful and lasting resolution of the Venezuela controversy, in adherence to international law, and in accordance with the rulings of the International Court of Justice.

The GMSA joins with the

President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Leader of the Opposition in emphasising that it is imperative that each and every citizen remains calm, determined and vigilant.

We express our confidence in the ability of our government to confront with

competence and dedication the declared threats from the Government of Venezuela to the patrimony of our nation.

The GMSA reminds each and every Guyanese that in this time of unprecedented and unlawful threat against our nation, in unity we prevail, in division we succumb; and to take comfort in the fact that the democratic countries of the

world, the United States of America, Canada, CARICOM, the Commonwealth countries, the vast majority of the countries of Europe and member countries of the Organisation of American States, including our neighbouring Brazil, are unequivocally in support of Guyana, and will oppose any attempt to annex any part of our country.”

‘Every life is of equal value’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

- Minister Ramson says; affirms persons living with disabilities important stakeholders in Guyana’s development, will not be left behind as country advances

By Trina Williams AS Guyana continues along its rapid development trajectory, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, on Friday, said that persons living with disabilities (PWDs) will not be left behind in this plan but instead will serve as key stakeholders in this road to progress.

The minister made those remarks at the

launch of the National Youth with Disabilities Conference, which was held at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus.

“The government continues to view persons with disabilities as an integral part and an important partner in development, and will continue to consult with you in the development and implementation of programmes and policies

to improve the lives of persons with disabilities,” the minister said.

He then expounded on the numerous initiatives his government has rolled out since assuming office in 2020.

With special emphasis being placed on ensuring a better quality of life for all Guyanese, according to Ramson, in 2021, over $120 million was allocated for the training of PWDs and there were also the pro-

vision of aid in different forms.

Additionally, in June 2022, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali announced the special needs one-off grant of $100,000 for children with disabilities, which benefitted over 5,000 children.

Meanwhile, in 2023, a state-of-the art disability training centre, known as the Learning Lab, opened its doors and over 200 persons living with disabilities were

trained through the lab.

According to Minister Ramson, this figure is expected to double in 2024, noting: “As far as this government is concerned, every life is of equal value and that's something that's a philosophy that pervades all across the policies that we're looking to enact or that are already existing.”

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot, committed

her unwavering support to the conference and its objectives.

From left: Minister of Culture, Youth & Sport, Charles Ramson Jr; United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot; Senior Programme Officer of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, Danielle Anthony and Programme Manager of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, Ganesh Singh (Shaniece Bamfield Photos) “I’m personally really happy to be here because this event combines three of my and US government's favourite things, empowering you, empowering people with disabilities, and furthering and enhancing democratic values…,” the US Ambassador said.

The diplomat then shifted her focus to the manner in which democracy is being upheld in Guyana and how PWDs are making their voices heard when it comes to talks of development.

“You're showing that young people with disabilities like you must be

valued and respected as equal partners in development,” she said: adding “…we must create an inclusive society that recognises and supports each individual's equal reciprocation and to be honest, Guyana’s not the only case where we have work to do… the United States has some work to do on that as well and we are committed to doing that.”

Programme Manager of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, Ganesh Singh, said that the conference provided a platform for discussions on the current landscape.

Wi t h t h a t b e i n g said, they will be able to strategise ways moving forward in order to ensure that PWDs’ rights are upheld.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Fighting for peace

Once upon a time, this time would be the start of the usual end-of-year season of peace and good will to all everywhere, as people assess the year-todate and plan for a better next. But oh how times have changed, with the months of October and November shattering all notions of peace being sacred to all nations and people.

Leaders the world over are resorting to walking and talking about war more than peace these days, whether in Europe or the Middle East – and even the Caribbean.

Those who’ve long professed the Caribbean as a zone of peace are today

calling for war, marshalling people for battles not worth fighting for causes not worthy of pursuit – and all for politics instead of maintaining peace, with no apparent care about lives at hand.

The Ukraine war rages on relentlessly, never mind attention and resources having moved towards Israel and Palestine, but the latter has enraged the world into demanding that the current ceasefire be extended to permanent peace after seven weeks costing almost 15,000 Palestinian and 1,272 Israeli lives.

But while the world’s media has gone silent on Haiti, increasing attention is being paid in Latin Amer-

ica and the Caribbean, the USA and Europe, about the growing escalation of war talk and calls to arms and action that have followed Venezuela’s ultimate continuing rejection of findings of international arbitrators that don’t conform with its everlasting claim for twothirds of Guyana.

Just how Venezuela expects to carry out its threat to reclaim a territory it never owned or ruled continues to elude even the brightest of its own legal luminaries, who have refrained from joining the national chorus ahead of the December 3 effort to get an electoral fig leaf to justify words and actions that can only lead to war in a Zone of Peace.

Venezuela, which begs international support for its causes and claims with mutual neighbours, wants to have its cake and eat it: To decide when to hug and kiss its enemies, but not expecting Guyana to strengthen its ability to defend itself and maintain peace.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) remains friend to both Guyana and Venezuela, but support fellow member-state Guyana to the hilt in this simple case of one neighbour trying to swallow-up another like it’s bringing a wayward great-grandchild back home just to alter its surname.

The upcoming Venezuela referendum beats the drums of war in a land not

known to have a history of desiring and pursuing conquest simply for national expansion.

The results may or may not influence the results of the next Presidential elections, but long before that, those fanning the flames of war will have to account more for what they have failed to do at home than what they cannot deliver by way of changing how the Essequibo region is called and turning generations of Guyanese there into Venezuelan nationals.

Past preachers of peace are today preaching war, threatening to sink the world into yet another war that they simply cannot win, whether they win elec-

tions or not.

Caracas is showing no signs of watering-down its fiery political and elections rhetoric, but remains bent on sticking a certain finger to the International Criminal Court (ICC), only after it didn’t entertain its official pleas at The Hague.

Venezuela’s leaders continue to actively prepare for war while loudly calling for table talks.

In such circumstances, Guyana cannot but seek to shore its defences at all levels, including seeking solidarity and support from affected and interested neighbours willing to fight for peace instead of tearing it to pieces.

to the arrest and conviction of staff members or anyone who claims to have contacts in the ministry that can assist with land allocation in exchange for money, please report it to the police or come to my office and I will contact the police to facilitate a full investigation.

Responding to social media posts that are engineered

to create confusion and scandalise my reputation would be a colossal waste of my time. My only interest is in exposing the truth and ensuring people face consequences for corruption.

The resolve of the ministry to discharge its mandate of serving the needs of the Guyanese public remains unshaken.”

Several persons arrested over allegations of corrupt housing transactions The following is the full text of a statement from the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues: “OVER the last few days on social media, there has been an avalanche of allegations leveled against employees of the Ministry of Housing and Water in relation to corrupt transactions.

From the outset, the tenor of the posts immediately suggested that they would not end until the political heads of the ministry were linked in some way to the allegations.

On Thursday, a member of my secretariat, Naresh Sugrim, was implicated in these social media posts.

His photo was published, along with the allegation

that he has been receiving bribes in exchange for land.

Not a shred of evidence was provided, yet he was tried and convicted in the court of public opinion.

Unbeknown to the public, on my instruction, Mr. Sugrim has been assisting the Guyana Police Force in an investigation to uncover solid evidence against staff members or outsiders who were suspected of conducting illegal transactions.

Today, his efforts have led to the arrest of several persons. This will no doubt assist the police to further their investigations. Unfortunately, the reckless and vindictive postings on social media, which prove nothing, has compromised months of

tedious investigative work which could have potentially led to more arrests.

I have always maintained that I am committed to rooting out corruption. In this regard, strident steps were taken to work with the police to address this wherever it exists in the ministry. Regrettably, members of the public continue to encourage the practice of offering bribes and willingly participate in these illegal transactions.

When they lose their money without receiving the favours they expected, they take to social media to complain, instead of going to the police. There is little or nothing we can do with social media postings that bear no evidence.

Naresh Sugrim is a patriotic, hardworking, and diligent public servant who did not deserve to be defamed.

I have advised him to take private legal action in this regard. It is my hope that this embarrassment does not discourage him, and other honest public servants, who do not engage in such illegalities.

Eliminating corruption from a ministry that distributes land is a near impossible task, but we can reduce it significantly with help from law-abiding citizens. We cannot do it alone. I am, therefore, imploring the public to desist from participating in bribery.

If you have any information or evidence that can lead

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Venezuela: The theory of mini-imperialism

A TRINIDADIAN environmentalist, Dr. Wayne Kubalsingh has reproduced his pro-Maduro column in the Trinidadian newspaper, Newsday, in the Stabroek News yesterday.

In my piece yesterday, I referred to two instances of intellectual pretense right here in Guyana. One refers to the charlatans masquerading as oil experts since Guyana discovered petroleum assets.

Secondly, the sudden birth of “experts” on international relations (IR) since President Maduro announced a referendum to facilitate his imperialist claim on Guyana. Now in Trinidad, an environmentalist, Dr. Wayne Kubalsingh has become an expert on IR. Kubalsingh makes an IR academic laugh at his presentation because it is devoid of an elementary understanding of IR. His analysis on what Venezuela wants from Guyana is both comical and dangerous. I find Kubalsingh to be an irritating fellow because of the ignorance he writes.

In another column he wrote during the Caribbean Premier League, he described three Pakistani members of the Amazon Warriors celebrating their team winning the trophy and pointed to the tears of the Amazon captain, Imran Tahir after victory was clinched. He then questioned what Ta h i r k n o w s a b o u t Guyana’s history.

This is sheer ignorance that you should not read from an educated person. Tahir was overcome by his success in leading a team that never won the trophy. That is an emotion inherent in humans.

What is the relevance of asking what Tahir knows of Guyana’s history? Really man! This is ignorance!

It was when I read his take on Maduro and his reference to President Ali being Muslim and his derogatory innuendos about Arab countries that I understood his remarks about Pakistani players and Imran Tahir. I quote from his Stabroek News’ letter followed by my comments. Q is for quote and C is for comment.

Q-“Guyana had used its seat at the OAS to join in actions, orchestrated against the sovereignty and the institutions of Venezuela.”

C- Guyana before and after Independence has not made any claim on the territorial sovereignty of its neighbour, Venezuela. It is our neighbour that has not recognised a settled, internationally recognised agreement that has delineated the borders between the two nations. It is pathetic nonsense to use words in such a way as Kubalsingh has done to make Venezuela a victim. Venezuela invaded Guyanese territory in 1966 and currently occupies it. It is an island named Ankoko.

Q-“Guyana has put

its institutions and its territory in the service of the major powers that have always aspired to destroy Venezuela in order to grab some of the largest world reserves of oil, gold and gas.”

C- Kubalsingh should stick to environmental studies because he knows nothing about international relations.

I put forward to him, the theory of mini-imperialism. It posits that small countries that were once victims of imperialism based on Peloponnesian realism become aggressive to their neighbours for reasons that include space expansion and resource-grabbing. These instincts in world politics are not confined to huge imperialist powers only.

It would take up a book length manuscript to offer Kubalsingh examples. And since the examples are in the dozens since World War 2 and in the post-colonial world, I will not go into an enumeration process, but confine myself to one example from our integration movement, CARICOM. Guatemala for decades had threatened our CARICOM sister country – Belize.

It is nonsense for Kubalsingh to quote Maduro as saying countries want to have the gold, oil and gas assets of nations when that is exactly what Venezuela wants from Guyana.

Since Independence we have not been able to develop those resources in Essequibo because of

the theory of mini-imperialism.

Q- “A point which begs to be added is that Irfaan Ali, Guyanese president is Moslem.

He has hedged this credential in Middle East visits and negotiations with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates….”

C- How can anyone write such nonsense?

What does the religious character of the leader of a developing nation have to do with post-colonial world

seeking trade and aid from better off Third World States? The Middle East, the Pacific Rim, South East Asia, South Asia, Africa, South America, have powerfully developed economies which struggling nations in the developing world need to seek friendships with.

Any leader that has not made such conclusion a part of his/her foreign policy is not fit to govern his/her nation.

Q “Maduro wants assurances. He wants

to talk directly to Ali. He wants to settle these m a t t e r s b i l a t e r a l l y, neighbour to neighbour.

The Bolivarian Republic is regarded as an outlier oil kingdom.”

C- That outlier oil kingdom wants our oil fields. Guyana will not talk to Venezuela about anything unless Venezuela renounces its embrace of mini-imperialism and recognises the 1899 award that settled the sovereignty of both countries.

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All Guyanese, foreign partners must condemn Venezuela’s actions

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

- Queensway Security Service Inc. says

The following is the full text of a statement from Queensway Security Service Inc. on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy: “WE have noted with great concern the communiques issued by the Government of Venezuela and more specifically, the planned referendum which seeks to legitimise the illegal process of appropriation and annexation of part of the sovereign territory of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

The posture adopted

by the Government of Venezuela has consequences that pose a severe threat to the peace and stability of our way of life, and must be soundly condemned by all Guyanese and our international partners.

F u r t h e r, w e c a l l upon the peace-loving people of Venezuela to reject the blatant attempts by the Government of Venezuela to incite hostility and ill will against a peaceful neighbour.

The world knows that in 2018, after over two decades of exten-

sive, exhaustive efforts utilising the ‘good offices’ process, the current Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, wrote to the Governments of both Venezuela and Guyana on 30 January 2018 as follows: “I have fulfilled the responsibility that has fallen on me within the framework set by my predecessor and, significant progress not having been made toward arriving at a full agreement for the solution of the contro-

versy, I have chosen the International Court of Justice as the means that is now to be used for its solution.”

Shortly thereafter, Guyana brought proceedings before the Court on March 29, 2018, that the Court on two occasions has affirmed its jurisdiction.

Venezuela and Guyana must participate, represent, and thereafter respect the judgment of the Court.

No choice by way of referendum is available to the People or Government of Venezuela

to legitimise a process of appropriation and annexation of part of the sovereign territory of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. The ruling of the International Court of Justice is the only legitimate way forward for both countries and their people.

Queensway Securi-

ty Service Inc. stands firmly and resolutely with the Government and people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in every effort to maintain the security and integrity of all 83,000 square miles of our beloved Republic.

God Bless Guyana!”

Farfan & Mendes diversifies into climate-smart agriculture

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

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- through partnership with Isratech Jamaica

FARFAN & Mendes Ltd, a leading provider of sustainable solutions, has announced the establishment of a strategic partnership with Isratech Jamaica Limited.

According to a press release from the company, this collaboration appoints Farfan & Mendes Ltd as the exclusive distributor of Isratech's distinctive and sustainable products and services in Guyana, further aligning with Farfan's sustainability strategy, emphasising diversification and ecosmart technologies.

Isratech Jamaica Limited is renowned for its engineering and design, manufacturing and supply of products and services for applications in the agricultural, water and energy sectors.

This strategic alliance empowers Farfan & Mendes Ltd to offer additional products that cater to the growing agricultural sector in Guyana.

The addition of stateof-the-art irrigation sys-

tems, shade houses and innovative hydroponics solutions helps to empower farmers with efficient and eco-friendly technology.

"Farfan & Mendes Ltd has long been committed to offering innovative and eco-friendly solutions that improve the livelihoods of our fellow Guyanese," Andrew Mendes, Managing Director at Farfan & Mendes Ltd, said.

He added: "Our partnership with Isratech Jamaica Limited underlines this dedication by bringing unique, sustainable, and cutting-edge agricultural solutions to our customers. This collaboration underscores our commitment to our sustainability strategy and its focus on diversification and green technologies."

"Isratech Jamaica Limited is excited to partner with Farfan & Mendes Ltd, a company that shares our passion for innovation and sustainability," Executive Director of Isratech Ja-

maica Limited, Benjamin Hodara said.

He added: "Our agriculture-centric products and services, when combined with Farfan & Mendes Ltd's local expertise and vast network, will unquestionably provide customers with the latest and most sustainable agricultural technologies."

As the authorised distributor of Isratech Jamaica Limited, Farfan & Mendes Ltd is eager to extend its mission of enriching the lives and businesses of Guyana, all while staying true to

its sustainability strategy.

By emphasising diversification and green technologies,

this partnership will deliver added value and sustainability to farmers and customers while ensuring access

to state-of-the-art agricultural advancements designed to reduce environmental impact, the company stated.

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US$4.9M UG College of Medical

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Sciences building to enhance health sector

- Ministers Manickchand, Anthony say, as sod is turned for construction of the facility MINISTER of Education, Priya Manickchand, along with the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, turned the sod for the construction of a new building for the University of Guyana’s College of Medical Sciences, on Friday.

The project, which is being funded by the World Bank, costs US$4.9 million and is being constructed by Shandong Hi-Speed Dejian Group Co. Ltd. The building is expected to be completed in 15 months.

The modern facility will be equipped with a lecture theatre which

will accommodate 200 students and several laboratories such as a skills laboratory, an anatomy laboratory, biochemistry laboratory, histopathology laboratory, hematology laboratory and research laboratory.

Minister Manickchand, in her remarks during the sod-turning ceremony, said that it is part of the ministry’s efforts to enhance the education sector.

She said that not only will medical students be accommodated more comfortably, but with the expansion of the college, more eligible students who are

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, along with the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, joined officials of the University of Guyana to turn the sod for the construction of a new building for university’s College of Medical Sciences

interested in pursuing a medical degree will be able to join the programme.

She said that this will provide an opportunity to enhance services within hinterland communities, as it will allow more doctors to be trained each year.

Similarly, Dr Anthony said that the

project is a significant initiative, as the Ministry of Health works towards transforming Guyana’s health sector.

He added that, with the admission of more students into the College of Medical Sciences, there will be more medically trained persons

entering the healthcare system.

The University of Gu yan a’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohammed Martin, said that the project underwent a lengthy design process. She further expressed gratitude for the commencement of the project.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

‘Venezuela’s referendum seems designed to create tensions, threaten regional peace’ - Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana says; supports local efforts to preserve Guyana’s territorial integrity

Statement by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana on the Venezuela referendum of December 3, 2023: “THE Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana (ICAG) has noted the intentions stated in the various publications by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to conduct a Consultative Referendum on December 3, regarding the legal validity and binding effect of the Arbitral Award of October

3, 1899.

That country’s National Electoral Council has approved the inclusion of several questions in a December 3 referendum that undermine Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Specifically, question five of the referendum’s questions seeks agreement for the creation and development of a Guayana Esequiba state and a plan for present and future generations of the proposed state – effectively

an annexation in violation of international law and a threat to the security of all Guyanese and the stability of our country.

The timing of Venezuela’s referendum seems designed to create tensions, and threaten regional and international peace.

Our Institute is aware that this matter was resolved close to 125 years ago. Also, this is currently engaging the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

We recognise and accept the 1899 Arbitral Award as the “full, perfect and final” settlement of the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Our Institute joins with all Guyanese in rejecting Venezuela’s referendum as a provocation, and fully supports the actions of our government to defend and protect our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

GRA seizes firearms, ammunition found in barrel at city wharf ON November 17, 2023, utilising its sophisticated scanning equipment for incoming cargo, customs and law enforcement of-

ficers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), seized several firearms and over 5,000 assorted rounds of ammunition

of various caliber found concealed in a barrel containing food stuff and household items imported from the USA.

According to a press release from GRA, the consignee who presented himself for the upliftment of the barrel, at the time of the re-inspection, together with the ammunition and guns, was taken into custody and handed over to the Guyana Police Force.

The consignor was also identified by the law enforcement officers, and together with the consignee were charged and prosecuted by the Police.

“With this being the second such seizure in a few months, the GRA is alarmed at the current trend of increased efforts to smuggle firearms and other such restricted items through personal consignments (barrels, boxes, packages, suitcases and containers) at ports of entry into Guyana.

“Customs and other law enforcement officers are using technology and maintaining high levels of alertness to detect and prevent such attempts to smuggle items, including prohibited and restricted goods,” GRA said.

The authority advised all such persons dealing in or contemplating engaging in such illegal activities to cease and desist therefrom.

Lastly, the GRA again pleaded with the public to report any illicit, unlawful or smuggling activities on telephone number 2276060, extensions 3201, 3204, 3205, 3211, 3212, or 3408.

All information provided will be handled with strict confidentiality, and such persons may be rewarded in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

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President Ali spends night

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

t with troops on the border GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Agriculture innovation, investment, tackling food crises - among priority areas to be discussed at 38th FAO Regional Conference of Latin America and the Caribbean set to be held in Guyana

FAO Regional Conference of Latin America and the Caribbean set to be held in Guyana FOLLOWING a three-day mission this week by a planning team from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), it is clear that preparations for the highly anticipated 38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC 38) are well underway.

This is the first time Guyana will be hosting this high-level ministerial conference and the fifth time that it was held in an English Speaking Caribbean territory.

At the last conference, in March 2022, in Ecuador, Guyana received unanimous endorsement from all 33 FAO Member States in Latin America and the Caribbean, to host the 2024 Conference.

The visiting FAO team met with Guyana’s

Following a three-day mission this week by a planning team from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), it is clear that preparations for the highly anticipated 38th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC 38) are well underway

national planning committee, led by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, to discuss preparations for the upcoming conference which is scheduled for March 18-24, 2024.

This conference is the most important governing forum for FAO’s member states in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Member States identify and determine key priority areas of work that will drive the organisation’s work in the region, until 2031.

High on the agenda will be agriculture innovation, investment, tackling food crises, and transforming food production systems to make them more sustainable in the context of climate change and other development imperatives.

Team leader, Dr Eve Crowley, Deputy Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, said: “We are very pleased with the level of leadership that the government of Guyana has shown in offering to host this conference and in demonstrating leadership relating to agriculture and food security,

not just in the Caribbean but in Latin America and the World. We are optimistic that we are going to make progress on the four betters of FAO - better nutrition, better production, better environment, and better life, and all that is required for food system transformation.”

Dr. Renata Clarke, Sub-Regional Coordinator for the Caribbean, emphasised the pivotal opportunity for the Caribbean to assert influence on FAO's programme of work, elevating agriculture as a top priority for the region.

“We are very happy with the arrangements and the progress that has been made by the government to host the conference. There is superb attention to detail and the arrangements are advanced to ensure a successful and well organised conference,” Dr. Gillian Smith, FAO Representative in Guyana added.

The event will be hosted at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre and is expected to be formally launched In January 2024.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Record-breaking Kane sends Bayern top of Bundesliga table

England captain Harry Kane scored again as Bayern Munich won at Cologne to move top of the German Bundesliga table.

Kane's goal was his 18th in 12 league matches and he also became the first Englishman to score 18 times in a Bundesliga season.

He finished from close range in the 20th minute after Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting's shot was cleared off the line.

The victory takes Bayern one point ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, who play their game in hand on Saturday.

Leverkusen, the only other unbeaten side in the German top flight, will regain top spot if they win at Werder Bremen.

Bayern's match was their first against Cologne since beating them 2-1 in May when Jamal Musiala scored a last-minute winning goal to beat Borussia Dortmund to the title.

Dortmund would have become champions for the first time since 201112 if they had defeated Mainz, but instead drew 2-2.

Since then, Bayern have signed Kane from Tottenham in an £86.4m deal as they bid for a 12th consecutive Bundesliga title.

Against Cologne, Kane was at the heart of

Bayern's best moves and they almost went ahead when his pass found Leroy Sane, but the former Manchester City forward could not lift the ball over home goalkeeper Marvin Schwabe.

But Bayern did not have to wait long before going ahead.

man in one Bundesliga season, the 30-year-old became the first player in league history to have scored 18 times after the opening 12 matchdays.

England's record goalscorer has 22 goals in 17 appearances in all competitions for Thomas Tuchel's side.

beat Manuel Neuer with a header at the back post.

Coman hit the crossbar in the second half, and the hosts then offered little as an attacking threat as Bayern took the victory.

Most goals in one Bundesliga season from an Englishman 18 - Harry Kane

Harry Kane has scored 18 Bundesliga goals this season, double the entire total of the Cologne side

Sane played it to Choupo-Moting, he cut inside and had a shot cleared off the line by Julian Chabot, with Kane tapping home the rebound.

As well as becoming the top-scoring English-

AMERICAN RACING TIPS AQUEDUCT Race 1 Party Is Over Race 2 Ice Road Race 3 Afilada Race 4 Fancy Azteca Race 5 Hammerin Aamer Race 6 Queen's Masterpiece Race 7 Borletti Race 8 Amanda's Folly Race 9 Raging Sea Race 10 Chiara SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS TURFFONTEIN 08:30 hrs Sandringhamsummit 09:35 hrs Puerto Manzano 10:15 hrs Nebras 10:50 hrs Alula's Star

Choupo-Moting, Sane and Kingsley Coman missed chances to double Bayern's advantage.

Davie Selke had a rare chance for Cologne, who drop to the bottom of the table, but failed to

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(Bayern Munich, 202324) 17 - Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund, 2019-20) and Kevin Keegan (Hamburg, 1978-79) 15 - Tony Woodcock (Cologne, 1981-82).

WOLVERHAMPTON 12:15 hrs Word Play 12:45 hrs He's A Genius 13:15 hrs Doctor Khan Junior 13:45 hrs Majed 14:15 hrs Urban Sprawl 14:45 hrs Chase The Dollar 15:15 hrs Clipsham La Habana 15:45 hrs Looby 16:15 hrs Girl From Italy IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN 08:15 hrs Predators Gold 08:48 hrs Gaelic Warrior 09:23 hrs Flooring Porter 09:58 hrs Ha D'or 10:35 hrs State Man 11:08 hrs Yeats Star 11:43 hrs The Enabler

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

IPL 2024 auction scheduled for December 19 in Dubai Teams likely to have a purse of INR 100 crore to build their squads for next season

THE IPL player auction ahead of the 2024 season will be held on December 19 in Dubai; it is the first time the auction will be held overseas.

The event will coincide with the second ODI of India's tour of South Africa, which is scheduled for December 19 in Gqeberha.

The ten IPL teams have

until November 15 to submit the lists of players they are retaining and releasing, after which the auction pool will be finalised by early December.

Each team will have a purse of INR 100 crore (USD 12.02 million approximately) to build their squad for the 2024 season, a INR 5 crore increase from last season's

purse of INR 95 crore. How much each team has to spend on auction day depends on the value of players they release, in addition to their unspent purse from the 2023 auction.

Punjab Kings have the largest purse at present - INR 12.20 crore (USD 1.47million) - while Mumbai Indians have the smallest at INR 0.05 crore (USD 0.006 million). Of the remaining teams Sunrisers Hyderabad have INR 6.55 crore (USD 0.79 million); Gujarat Titans and Delhi Capitals both have INR 4.45 crore (USD 0.54 million); Lucknow Super Giants have INR 3.55 crore (USD 0.43 million); Rajasthan Royals have USD 3.35 crore (USD 0.40 million); Royal Challengers Bangalore have INR 1.75 crore (USD 0.21 million); Kolkata Knight Riders have INR 1.65 crore (USD 0.2 million); and defending champions Chennai Super Kings have INR 1.5 crore (USD 0.18 million).

Despite being only a daylong event - compared to the two-day mega auction once every four years - mini auctions have produced some of the most expensive buys, especially in the overseas players category. Ahead of the 2023 season, Sam Curran became the most expensive player in IPL history when he was bought by Punjab for INR 18.5 crore in December last year.

Several prominent overseas players are likely to enter the upcoming auction, including Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc who recently said he was "definitely" heading back to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus.

Pat Cummins is also likely to put his name up for bidding, having skipped the IPL last year. Some of the other key players franchises expect to see at the auction are Travis Head, Chris Woakes, Alex Hales, Sam Billings, and Gerald Coetzee.

Junior Lady Jags to host Suriname for two friendlies today and tomorrow GUYANA Football Federation (GFF) Technical Director, Bryan Joseph, has confirmed that preparations for the highly awaited Under-17 Girls’ international friendly series between Guyana and Suriname are on track to kick off today.

Joseph said all arrangements are in place to host Suriname for two home games today and tomorrow (Sunday November 26) at venues in and around Georgetown, since the GFF National Training Centre pitch is still under maintenance.

“We are delighted to count down the days to the kickoff of this bilateral series with Suriname. This is part of a more significant initiative between the

countries to collaborate on several activities around youth football development. Over the coming years, we will have several male and female youth series to boost our youth players’ exposure to international football.

The girls of both countries would have missed out on the CONCACAF U-17 qualifiers earlier in the year so this series provides the opportunity for them to have four international games under their belt before the conclusion of the year.

The Guyanese fans rarely see the youth national teams play on home soil, so we are encouraging everyone to come out and support the players and staff over the two matches.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Oscar Pistorius to be freed on parole in South Africa after killing girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp

FORMER Paralympic champion, Oscar Pistorius, is to be freed from jail on parole, nearly 11 years after murdering his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

He shot her multiple times through a bathroom door on Valentine's Day in 2013, later claiming he mistook her for a burglar at their Pretoria home.

Pistorius, now 37, was sentenced by a South African court in 2016 to serve 13 years and five months in prison.

The parole board has set his release for January 5, 2024.

Once released, Pistorius will be monitored by the authorities until his sentence officially expires "just like all other parolees", the Department of Correctional Services said on Friday. If he wants to move house or get a job during that time he will have to notify his parole

Oscar Pistorius shot his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp at their home in Pretoria 10 years ago "concerned for the safety of officer.

Pistorius will also have any woman" who now comes to attend therapy sessions, into contact with him.

June Steenkamp chose according to the Steenkamp not to attend the parole hearfamily's spokesman.

In a letter read out to the ing at Atteridgeville prisparole board during Friday's on, near Pretoria, saying: "I hearing, Ms. Steenkamp's simply cannot muster the mother said she did not op- energy to face him again at pose his release but won- this stage."

Her husband and Reeva's dered whether Pistorius's "huge anger issues" were father, Barry, died earlier truly dealt with in prison. this year and she said the She added that she would be strain on them both had been

immense.

"My dear Barry left this world utterly devastated by the thought that he had failed to protect his daughter... I've no doubt that he died of a broken heart," Ms. Steenkamp's statement read.

Barry Steenkamp had met Oscar Pistorius face-toface last year as part of the rehabilitation process.

Ms. Steemkamp says that while she does not believe her daughter's killer has shown remorse, she had nonetheless decided to forgive him "long ago, as I knew most certainly that I would not be able to survive if I had to cling to my anger".

This was Pistorius's second parole hearing in under a year.

His first parole bid collapsed in March because he had not completed the minimum detention period. That was later ruled a mistake by South Africa's Constitutional

believe in themselves more,” Eve said.

Eve also commended captain Aubrey David, who took over the team captaincy, after Kevin Molino retired, for his leadership on and off the field.

"This is a fantastic result for us for where we are in our development,” the tactician noted.

David, 33, also expressed delight in the team’s progression.

"I think it is a step in the positive direction for us to get the win. This is the last FIFA window for the year, so I think we have ended the year on a good note, and the players have a lot of belief amongst themselves that we can play against the likes of the US and these teams,” said David.

"This was our goal when the year started. We wanted to get back into (Concacaf Nations) League A and try to stake a claim and put T&T football back where it was.

"It is a bittersweet feeling. It is amazing to get a victory against the US at home, but we did not get to qualify for the Copa America tournament this time around.

We have another game in March, and we have to go with everything we have. I think we can do the job in March,” he added.

Meanwhile, defender Alvin Jones, who was named in the window’s League A Best XI, stole the show against United States with a rasping right-footed free kick in the second half.

"Scoring the winner against the US at home is

Court, leading to the new parole hearing.

Under South African law, all offenders are entitled to be considered for parole once they have served half their total sentence.

Reeva Steenkamp, who was 29 when she died, was a law graduate and successful model who also worked as a TV presenter and appeared in a reality show called Tropika Island of Treasure.

"She was more than just a pretty face, she had a beautiful heart and ambition," her friend Kerry Smith told the BBC. The two women met at university and had planned to start a law firm to help abused women after graduating.

"She wanted to save everyone, wanted to protect everyone," her friend recalls.

Steenkamp was three months into her relationship with Pistorius when he

fired four shots with a pistol through the door of a toilet cubicle at his Pretoria home in the early hours of 14 February 2013.

She died almost instantly.

He was convicted of murder in 2015 at the Supreme Court of Appeal having initially been convicted of the lesser offence of culpable homicide.

Pistorius's lower legs were amputated when he was less than a year old. He subsequently relied on prosthetics and became a world-renowned athlete known as the "blade runner".

He won multiple gold medals at the Paralympics.

He also competed against non-disabled athletes at the London 2012 Olympics.

The murder of Reeva Steenkamp just six months later, and the subsequent trials, dominated headlines around the word.

T&T Head coach says Nations League win over US augurs well for Soca Warriors development

TRINIDAD and Tobago senior men's Head coach, Angus Eve, says the momentum from their recent Concacaf Nations League win over United States will serve his team well in its buildup for the Copa America playoff encounter against Canada next March.

Despite losing the overall quarterfinal tie against United States 4-2 on aggregate, Eve and his Soca Warriors took heart from the fact that they topped their more fancied rival 2-1 in the second leg at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo on Monday.

While United States secured a spot in the Concacaf Nations League semi-finals and Copa America, along with Jamaica, Mexico and

Panama, Trinidad and Tobago are set to face Canada, with Honduras to oppose Costa Rica, to decide the final two Concacaf representatives to contest the prestigious Copa America.

Though the upcoming contest against Canada is one which they will again be the proverbial underdogs, Eve and his players eagerly await the challenge that lies ahead, especially after the confidence boosting win.

"This (result) goes a long way in building team confidence. Every time the guys play, they get a little more confidence. When they play a game like this against an opposition like that – and come out with that type of performance and come out with that type of result – it only augurs well for them to

T&T Head coach, Angus Eve a big thing for me and this month is a very emotional month for all of us as a country," said Jones, referring to the 34th anniversary of the 1989 World Cup qualifier between the Strike Squad and the United States.

"We have a lot of young talent coming up, and it is just about coaching them and nurturing them. This win can build our confidence going forward to the next round to try and qualify for Copa 2024,” Jones reasoned.(Sportsmax)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Silly season has started

FIRST, congratulations go out to Guyana’s Golden Jaguars for their excellent performance in qualifying to League A in the CONCACAF Nations League.

The Jags ascendancy to League A is a shining light and much appreciated for the sport which has not enjoyed a great deal of positive news for quite some time.

It briefly managed to overshadow the recent “no comment” response attributed to Chairman of the Electoral Committee Marcel Bobb, whose remark signaled the start of what is commonly referred to as the silly season.

Bobb was responding to

a question posed by a section of the media inquiring whether the process to determine the eligibility of voters for the upcoming December 9 Electoral Congress has started.

One would think that to eliminate any assumption of distrust it would better serve the incumbent to disclose all criteria relating to eligibility procedures, in a timely manner.

As far back as can be remembered, the two major sports in Guyana (football and cricket) have traditionally provided onlookers with such comedy and ire it seems hard to believe that the re-

spective jobs are voluntary.

The volunteer ascription is what all the eventual winners say following victory, but the silliness that occurs before election day makes it difficult to understand helpfulness.

How could aspirants for the top job endure the level of resentment thrown at them, all in the name of volunteerism, at the expense of their family, friends, and even their careers?

The two individuals vying for the top post incumbent Wayne Forde and challenger Franklin Wilson have contrasting styles of management.

The former tends to be intractable in his decisions, not too keen on consensus, while the latter is more accommodating and open to compromise.

At a time when the sport is suffering from poor visibility, spectator absence, and lack of on-field competitions, it is easy to predict who right-thinking members of the electorate will elect.

Forde was afforded eight years to increase the fortunes of the sport, but instead, all witnessed a rapid decline in the game’s visibility, the struggle to pay players continued, the disappearance of structured competitions in

THE Indian spin maestro Ravi Ashwin dissected the smart tactics employed by the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup-winning captain to contain the opposition's batters.

In his latest YouTube video 'World Cup 2023: A Reflection', Ashwin dissected the genius of Pat Cummins in the final, referring to his spell as a 'game-breaking' phenomenon.

Australia's skipper, Pat Cummins, delivered an outstanding performance with figures of 3/34 in his 10-over

spell in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 Final against India.

After winning the toss, the Australian skipper sent India in to bat first, a decision that turned out to be a crucial move. Cummins bowled his complete 10-over quota and gave away just 34 runs. He also claimed two big wickets of Shreyas Iyer (4) and the in-form Virat Kohli (54).

Among all the bowlers who completed their 10 overs, Cummins bowled the most economical spell at

3.40, followed by Adam Zampa (4.40), Mitchell Starc (5.50) and Josh Hazlewood (6.00).

Ashwin delved deep into Cummins' mastermind, dissecting why the Indian batters found it challenging to face him.

"Pat Cummins as an ODI bowler was struggling for quite some time in the World Cup," observed Ashwin. "But in the last 4-5 games leading up to the final almost 50 per cent of the balls were cutters.

"And in the final, I don’t know how many people ex-

plained on TV, he has a 4:5 field, like an off-spinner – four on the off-side and five on the leg side," Ashwin explained.

The Indian spinner pointed out that Cummins bowled his entire 10 overs without a mid-off.

"He bowled only three balls in the 6-meter mark towards the stump line (basically didn’t bowl full enough to allow the batters to drive) in the entire 10-over spell," Ashwin emphasised.

"He knocked off crucial wickets in the final.

And there were five fielders on the stump line – square leg, midwicket, deep square leg, mid-on, and long leg.

He bowled his entire 10 overs without a mid-off. A game-breaking spell by Pat Cummins apart from calling the toss right," Ashwin

ment from international cricket," he said in his statement.

"I would like to thank the PCB for all their support over the years - it has truly been an honour to represent Pakistan."

Wasim appeared in 55 ODIs and 66 T20Is for Pakistan while scoring 1472 runs in total and picking 109 wickets.

"Each of my 121 appearances across the ODI and T20I formats was a

dream come true. It's an exciting time for Pakistan cricket going forward with new coaches and leadership incoming. I wish all involved every success and I look forward to watching the team excel.

"Thank you to the Pakistan fans for always supporting me with such passion. A final thank you to my family and friends who have been so important in helping me achieve at the highest level. I now

Ashwin decodes the brilliance of Pat Cummins in the World Cup Final

nearly all the member associations, and most disappointingly the lack of development at the grassroots level.

The failings in these critical components of the game are unpardonable and the electorate must agree that he was given ample time and resources to correct the flaws.

Instead, he became so absorbed in self-promotion that every other facet of the sport’s development finished a distant second.

On the other hand, Wilson, a former President of the GFF, has demonstrated the ability to administer for all, his tenure, which came suddenly and amid

one of the biggest scandals in world football history, was littered with positive results and a quick perusal of that period will testify to this.

He is more receptive to listening to stakeholders and governs by being inclusive and fair.

It is therefore pellucid, that any elector genuinely interested in garnering the respect of its leader and concerned with the state of the game and its participants here, should not hesitate to give Wilson the nod.

(Football Supporter)

Pat Cummins displays the winning World Cup added.

After bowling India out for 240, Australia chased down the target in 43 overs thanks to Travis Head's Player of the Match knock of 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's unbeaten 58.

Pakistan all-rounder announces retirement from international cricket

IMAD Wasim has decided to bring the curtain down on his international cricket career for Pakistan. After introspection, Wasim made the announcement on social media that he feels this is the right time to retire.

"In recent days I have been doing a lot of thinking about my international career and I have come to the conclusion that now is the right time for me to announce my retire-

Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim

look forward to focussing on the next stage of my playing career away from the international stage."

Wasim played his final international match against New Zealand earlier this year in a T20I where he made a quick-fire 31 off 14 balls and picked two wickets.

He was also part of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy-winning side in 2017.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Fifa launches investigation into Brazil-Argentina match disorder

(REUTERS)-Football's world governing body FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings after crowd trouble delayed Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Argentina.

The match was halted for 30 minutes after fighting broke out in a stand at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi later said there "could have been a tragedy" and criticised police, who had charged at fans with batons.

However the national federations of both teams now face possible sanctions.

The trouble began during the national anthems before Tuesday's game.

As police charged fans, some supporters ripped out seats and threw them at officers, while others spilled onto the pitch to escape the

trouble.

Players from both sides approached the stand to attempt to calm the situation - Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was seen trying to grab a baton out of a police officer's hand.

After players left the field the match was able to begin following a 30-minute delay.

Argentina won the game 1-0.

"Fifa can confirm that its Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) and the Argentinian Football Association (AFA)," Fifa confirmed on Friday.

It added Brazil was being investigated for "potential breaches of article 17" of Fifa's disciplinary code, which deals with order and security at matches.

Argentina is facing dis-

ficers, while others spilled onto the pitch to escape the trouble.

Players from both sides approached the stand to attempt to calm the situation - Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was seen trying to grab a baton out of a police officer's hand.

After players left the field the match was able to begin following a 30-minute delay.

A rg e n t i n a w o n t h e game 1-0.

"Fifa can confirm that its Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings

Argentina’s players noticed trouble had broken out shortly after the national anthems ciplinary action over the and criticised police, who "crowd disturbance" and the had charged at fans with "delayed kick off". batons.

Sanctions for breaking As police charged fans, the rules typically include some supporters ripped out fines or stadium closures in seats and threw them at offorthcoming games The match was halted for 30 minutes after fighting broke out in a stand at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi later said there "could have been a tragedy" ..Henry’s hamstring injury, which he suffered during the

Wagner replaces Henry in New Zealand Test squad for Bangladesh tour

Griffith sets higher standards for CWI Academy side COOLIDGE, Antigua, (CMC )– Head coach Rayon Griffith said he was looking forward to consistency and further improvements from the Cricket West Indies Academy side when they start their twomatch, first-class series against Emerging Ireland.

The first in the pair of first-class matches start on Saturday at the new headquarters of West Indies cricket, Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) on the outskirts of the Antigua capital of St John’s, and Griffith said he wanted to see his side better its performances from the preceding one-day series.

“We want to see big performances from the batsmen especially,” Griffith said in an interview with CWI Media. “We want to see players scoring big hundreds, batting through one session and

come back and bat a second session, and bat through a day, so we can win those little battles. I also want to see players maturing and changing when it comes to humanity.”

The CWI Academy side won the one-day series 2-1, after they rebounded from Emerging Ireland winning the first match by 26 runs this past Friday at the Vivian Richards Ground (VRCG) to win the second match by seven wickets this past Sunday at the CCG and third match by six wickets two days later at the VRCG. “It was a good series to come back and win after losing the first game,” Griffith said. “The first game we had them on the run, and we were dominating the game, but we allowed things to slip, and we lost that game.

against the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) and the Argentinian Football Association (AFA)," Fifa confirmed on Friday.

It added Brazil was being investigated for "potential breaches of article 17" of Fifa's disciplinary code, which deals with order and security at matches.

Argentina is facing disciplinary action over the "crowd disturbance" and the "delayed kick off".

Sanctions for breaking the rules typically include fines or stadium closures in forthcoming games

“It was good to see the young players had the courage and the mindset to fight back, and we won the last two games.”

Griffith also praised left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop for bowling with control throughout the series, and left-handed opener Matthew Nandu for the composure he showed batting at the top of the order, in conditions that were challenging for free-scoring.

The two sides are using the series to gain high-quality playing time and test themselves against each other.

Guyanese pace bowler, Isai Thorne, who bowled with hostility and penetration on the West Indies Under-19 tour in August to Sri Lanka, has come into the Academy squad for the two red-ball matches.

World Cup, was deemed to have not sufficiently healed

Left-arm fast bowler Neil Wagner has replaced the injured Matt Henry in New Zealand's squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh.

Henry had picked up a hamstring injury during the World Cup game against South Africa on November 1, and was thus ruled out of the rest of the competition. He was expected to get fit in time for the Tests in Bangladesh, but on further scans and assessments, it was deemed that the injury had not sufficiently healed.

"It'll be great to have Neil's skill and experience on the tour of Bangladesh," Sam Wells, New Zealand's selector, said. "His record speaks for itself, and we all know what a great competitor he is.

He's played plenty of cricket in the sub-continent, and I know he's really excited by the challenge ahead."

Wagner, 37, had missed two rounds of the ongoing Plunkett Shield due to a back injury before returning to action for Northern Districts earlier in the week. The last of his 63 Tests was also New

Neil Wagner returned to action in the Plunkett Shield earlier this week after a back injury • Getty Images.

Zealand's last in the format - ly recovering in Dubai beagainst Sri Lanka this March fore they relocate to Sylhet - even as he wasn't part of next week. As for the other the original spin-heavy squad Bangladesh-bound players, named by New Zealand for they depart on November 21 ahead of the opening Test the Bangladesh tour.

The first Test against from November 28 in Sylhet.

Updated squad: Tim Bangladesh will be New Zealand's first of the current Southee (capt), Tom BlunWorld Test Championship dell (wk), Devon Con(WTC) cycle from 2023-25. way, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Wagner had finished the Latham, Daryl Mitchell, previous WTC cycle with 18 Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin wickets.

The majority of the New Ravindra, Mitchell SantZealand squad, who had ner, Ish Sodhi, Kane Wilalso featured in the World liamson, Will Young, Neil Cup in India, are current- Wagner.(Cricinfo)

Sinclair half-century hands WI-A nerve-wracking win

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BENONI, South Africa, (CMC) – A gallant unbeaten half-century from Kevin Sinclair stunned South Africa-A and propelled West Indies-A to a comefrom-behind one-wicket victory, in a thrilling finish to the opening four-day “Test” here Friday.

In pursuit of 224 after resuming the final morning at Willowmoore Park on eight without loss, West Indies-A crashed to 119 for seven just before tea, to look in danger of losing the contest and falling behind in the series.

Kevin Sinclair pulls en route to his unbeaten half-century on the final day of the opening fourday “Test” against South Africa-A on Friday. (Photo courtesy CWI Media) The 24-year-old Sinclair entered at number seven to transform the run chase, however, carving out a su-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, November 25, 2023

Kevin Sinclair pulls en route to his unbeaten halfcentury on the final day of the opening four-day “Test” against South Africa-A on Friday (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

perb unbeaten 80 to put the visitors over the line.

Displaying excellent temperament, he calmly put on 29 for the eighth wicket with Jayden Seales (12), 23 for the ninth with Shermon Lewis (2) before inspiring a nerve-wracking 53-run, unbroken last wicket stand with Jair McAllister who spent 34 balls over a crucial seven not out.

Sinclair, a compact righthander with a first class average of 32, faced 150 deliveries in just over three hours at the crease and lashed eight fours and three sixes.

However, the 27-year-old sliced the next delivery to cover and sprinted a couple,

to spark celebratory scenes in the West Indies-A camp.

Earlier, West Indies-A lost Zachary McCaskie in the morning’s second over after he had added just one to his overnight five, caught at the wicket off seamer Mihlali Mpongwana (3-25) with nine runs on the board.

His dismissal brought together Test rookie lefthanders Kirk McKenzie (36) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (35), the pair posting 66 for the second wicket.

McKenzie faced 70 balls and struck half-dozen fours while Chanderpaul counted another half-dozen fours in his 99-ball knock.

McKenzie top-edged a

slog-sweep at off-spinner Dane Piedt (2-58) and was taken at short fine leg and Chanderpaul perished lbw to Mpongwana after adding a further 22 for the third wicket with Kavem Hodge (12), leading to a collapse which saw five wickets go down for 22 runs in quick time.

Tottering on 119 for seven when Akeem Jordan sparred at a wide delivery from Moreki and was taken behind, West Indies-A were then rescued by Sinclair’s heroics.

T h e s e c o n d “ Te s t ” bowls off next Tuesday at Buffalo Park in East London.

Regal. GSCL mourning loss of stalwart softball player Eric Thomas

PROMINENT softball player, Eric Thomas, who thrilled many with his robust hitting, passed away on Thursday morning at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, following a three-month battle with life-threatening injuries sustained in a road accident on August 22 on the East Bank Demerara road.

According to reports, Thomas was reportedly on the mend after he was removed from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but apparently suffered other complications and succumbed.

A permanent fixture on the Regal Over-50 team in and out of Guyana, the burly left-hander and efficient wicket-keeper

gained the sobriquet “Big Guy” because of his stature.

Thomas last represented Regal Over-50 at the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Independence Cup during the annual tournament, held over the Independence weekend in July.

He will also be remembered for hitting six sixes in an over in the 2022 South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL) final versus Toronto Blizzards, played in Fort Lauderdale.

Owner and captain of Regal Over-50 team, Mahendra “Anil” Hardyal told Chronicle Sports he was saddened by the passing of Thomas. An obviously shocked Hardyal pointed

out that, only recently, Thomas’ sister had related to him that her brother was on the mend since he was also removed from the ICU and placed in the open ward.

Hardyal further disclosed that plans were in train to hold a wake in Thomas’ honour with the venue likely to be Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO). The date will be finalised shortly after consultations with his sister and other relatives.

The Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc., in a Facebook post said “It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Eric Thomas, a stalwart of the Regal Family.

“Thomas passed away this morning, Thursday November 23 at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

“In August this year, the all-rounder sustained life threatening injuries after a speeding lorry hit a car that went on to hit Thomas' parked car from the back as he was about to exit.

“The powerfully built champion left-handed batsman, slow bowler and lightning wicketkeeper will be severely missed.

“The GSCL Inc. extends sincere condolences to teammates, relatives and friends of the 52-year- old.

“May his gentle soul find eternal peace. Walk well Big Guy.”

The late Eric Thomas

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| SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023