Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 27-11-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

MONDAY 27th November, 2023

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107277

More than 80 per cent of new hotels are Guyanese-owned - President Ali

SEE PAGE

‘History cannot be changed’

SEE PAGE

- Dr. Jagdeo says; emphasises that Venezuela will never succeed in changing Guyana’s boundaries

(DPI photo)

Border Controversy: Guyanese remain 6 unwavering in their unity and patriotism -says Minister Teixeira

SEE PAGE

Women’s empowerment Essequibians show should be genuine, successes up in numbers to must be celebrated reject Venezuela’s - President Ali declares; says enrolment rate territorial claim for men at university level disappointing SEE PAGE

SEE PAGE

Essequibo belongs to Guyana! This is part of a series of information on the GuyanaVenezuela border controversy and forms part of the national education campaign on this topic: Under the Geneva Agreement, the following were pursued by Guyana and Venezuela: Four (4) years (1966 -1970) of meetings through a Mixed Commission involving bilateral talks between Guyana and Venezuela, a twelve (12) year moratorium (with the purpose of allowing both governments to promote cooperation and understanding while the border claim was in abeyance) and twenty-eight (28) years (1989 – 2017) of the Good Offices Process, under the aegis of the United Nations Secretary General (a process that allowed for bilateral discussions on a resolution of the controversy in the presence of the Secretary General’spersonal representative).

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Women’s empowerment should be genuine, successes must be celebrated - President Ali declares; says enrolment rate for men at university level disappointing

By Clestine Juan PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has taken a bold stance against the shallow gestures of women's empowerment and has outlined a vision for a more equitable and prosperous Guyana, where both men and women are empowered to contribute fully to the nation's growth and development. In a fiery speech at a re-

cent oil and gas awards event, the Head of State expressed frustration with negative behaviours hindering women's progress in the country. He stressed the significance of providing genuine opportunities for women's empowerment rather than paying mere lip service. “I am sick of our behaviour sometimes in this country. We speak a lot about women empowerment and giving women

opportunities. We do it the real way,” President Ali declared. He cited the successful urban eco-resort just outside of Diamond, East Bank Demerara which is owned exclusively by women. He decried the tendency to assign derogatory names and characterisations to women who advance, urging society to move beyond such backward behaviours. The President particularly

noted the unfair criticisms faced by influential women, including his wife, First Lady, Arya Ali, and called for a united front among women to protect each other's successes. “An attack on one is an attack on all. Do not allow your successes to be ridiculed. Do not allow your accomplishments to be minimised. Stand up for your success and your accomplishments. You earned it. You work hard every single

day,” President Ali urged. Drawing on personal experiences, President Ali shared the inspiring story of his mother, who, despite facing numerous challenges, achieved academic success and a distinguished career in education. He singled out his intention to leverage the economic power of women in Guyana by providing opportunities for training and workforce inclusion. “For women at home, we will train them to get into the workforce so that they can add to the disposable income of their house,” President Ali affirmed while underlining the economic impact of women's contribution to household income. He also addressed the enrolment and graduation rates of men at the university and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), expressing

dissatisfaction with the current statistics. He called on men to take responsibility for their educational pursuits, participate in scholarship programmes, and encourage others to do the same. “Let us own our responsibility. And not because you're a successful businessman means you don't have a responsibility for others. You have a responsibility to everyone who is working under you so they can become better,” President Ali urged. Against this backdrop, he highlighted the need for collective responsibility, while stating, “When we take collective responsibility for each other as a people, as a country, we all rise together.” Among other things, he said that prosperity would be attainable only when individ-

TURN TO PAGE 5

President extends condolences on passing of Justice Persaud, Dr. Insanally

Justice (rt’d) Prem Persaud

Dr. Rudy Insanally

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has extended condolences to the relatives and friends of Justice (rt’d) Prem Persaud and Dr. Rudy Insanally. It is unclear when they died but that information was made public on Sunday. Up to press time, no further details were available. President Ali, on his Facebook page, paid tribute to both men who have made valuable contributions to Guyana in different areas. “On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and relatives of Justice (rt’d) Prem Persaud. Justice Prem Persaud had a long and fulfilling career as a judge.” “After retiring, he agreed to continue in public service as the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission and as a member of the Judicial Service Commission.” “Justice Persaud was a highly respected member of the Bench and his passing is a loss for the country’s legal profession,” he said.

Regarding Dr. Insanally, he said: “It is with a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Dr. Rudy Insanally, one of Guyana’s foremost diplomats and a distinguished international statesman.” “Dr. Insanally's diplomatic acumen and leadership have earned him deservedly the gratitude of our nation. As Guyana's Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2008, Dr. Insanally advanced Guyana’s national interest on the international stage. His was a life dedicated to diplomacy and particularly for advocating the cause of small states.” “The United Nations was his second home. He had the honour of serving as the President of the United Nations General Assembly and was for many years Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the world’s foremost multilateral institution. These and his tireless exertions in numerous other ambassadorial positions distinguish him as a diplomat par excellence.”

‘History cannot be changed’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

- Dr. Jagdeo says; emphasises that Venezuela will never succeed in changing Guyana’s boundaries By Trina Williams MAINTAINING that Venezuela’s false claims regarding Guyana’s Essequibo region will remain futile, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, said that history will not be changed and Venezuela will never succeed in changing our boundaries. He made these remarks during a public meeting at the Anna Regina car park in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Sunday. “We will overcome this. [It’s] just another hurdle on our way to prosperity,” the he told the massive crowd of Essequibians. “There is no division in our country. The government and the opposition, we have one position on this matter, that Essequibo has always been part of this country since the 1899 award was made,” the Vice-President underscored while adding: “Venezuela will never succeed in changing our boundaries.” Addressing the propaganda emerging from the Spanish-speaking country, Jagdeo said that their imperialist designs on Guyana will

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, speaking in Anna Regina on Sunday (DPI photos) not come to fruition. “For us, the sun of Guyana sets in Essequibo,” he said while maintaining that those living in that part of Guyana will continue to be Guyanese. Dr. Jagdeo also pointed out the misleading narratives being spread by the Venezuelan government and he urged Guyanese to not fall prey to these rumor mills. “We need to as a country, fight off all of these things,” he remarked while calling on Guyanese to make their voices heard and refute Venezuela’s false claims. ‘ESSEQUIBO IS WE OWN’ Dr. Jagdeo also spoke extensively on the contents

of Venezuela’s upcoming referendum and their intent to make Guyana’s Essequibo region, a Venezuelan state. “We don’t want their ID cards… It’s useless,” Dr. Jagdeo said while explaining that the actions of the Spanish-speaking country are not standing in unison with international law. He then firmly remarked: “We have the entire international community on our side on this matter.” The Vice-President also highlighted the support being echoed by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and stated that Venezuela’s referendum stems from their weak case that they have presented at the International

Court of Justice (ICJ). “They have no case to present before the ICJ because they cannot prove the 1899 award was nullified and so they are now resorting to unilateral actions,” he said while expressing belief that the referendum is a scapegoat for the Nicolas Maduro administration. “We have across the world condemnation. Venezuela stands alone in this and it will not succeed in annexing Guyana’s territory,” the Vice-President firmly told the crowd before him. Ripping off the mask that the Maduro administration has been parading around with, Dr. Jagdeo said that Venezuela is finding all external reasons to justify their false claims. He also said that the referendum is linked to the political agenda from the Venezuelan government. “They are using this referendum as a distraction from their internal problems,” he said before emphasising that the economic travesties facing that country are a result of poor management by the Maduro administration. DUPLICITOUS He also highlighted the

Scenes from the meeting at Anna Regina

duplicitous nature of the Venezuelan Vice-President, Delcy Rodríguez, and her sudden care for her people. Dr. Jagdeo said that the narrative being peddled by her that Guyana is mistreating Venezuelan refugees is untrue. “We have treated the migrants and refugees decently in this country. We have done [so] because there are international laws based on how you treat refugees,” he said while referencing that even the United Nations (UN) has proof that Guyana treats refugees well. Despite the top Venezuelan official saying that he has no intention to annex Guyana’s Essequibo region, Dr. Jagdeo said that a look at Rodríguez’s social media platforms and even listening to her paints a different picture. The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the land boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) 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 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 geopolitical 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. 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.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

More than 80 per cent of new hotels are Guyanese-owned - President Ali AS a result of the opportunities emerging from the oil and gas sector, the local private sector has reached new heights with Guyanese

owning more than 80 per cent of the new hotels that are being built across the country. President Dr Irfaan Ali

An artist’s impression of the Aiden Hotel which is expected to be completed by January 2024

made this revelation on Friday night during his address at the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber’s annual award ceremony. “Without the oil and gas sector would we be having those more than 11 hotels under construction?” he questioned before underscoring the strides being made within the local private sector. Some of the hotels that are expected to come on board are: Lakeside Hotel (Essequibo); Courtyard by Marriott (Timehri); Four Points Marriott (Houston); Aiden Hotel (Robb & Oronoque Streets); Pasha Global Hotel (Liliendaal); AC Hotels Marriott (Ogle); and the Sherriff Hotel (Palmyra, Berbice). Earlier this year, President Ali had visited the site of the US$15 million Aiden Hotel where works are ongoing. The building is expected to be completed by January 2024.

President Ali was given a tour of the hotel and said he plans on visiting again sometime this month when construction is nearing completion. Construction of the facility began in March 2021. It will feature 101 “smart rooms” and is a boutique-styled hotel under the Best Western Hotel and Resorts franchise. A smart-hotel room is one outfitted with electronic devices and household appliances which are powered by internet connectivity. Best Western is a hotel chain that originated in the USA, and subsequently spread around the world. The company has over 4,200 hotels worldwide, each one independently owned and run. The hotel will be developed by Arimu Investments Inc., which is a Guyanese company with investments in mining, real estate, and

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (Office of the President photo) business. The directors of Arimu Investments Inc. and developers of the Aiden Hotel are Geraldo and Lorenzo Alphonso. Geraldo, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, in March 2021, had said that Guyana will experience a demand for accommodation amid a rapidly growing economy. “The Arimu Investment Company is actually named after a tributary of the Mighty Cuyuni River in Region Seven; it is a gold-and-diamondrich area for a number of years. We know about the area through our gold-mining exploits, and that’s why we came up with the name,” Alphonso said, noting that the company is 100 per cent Guyanese-owned. Arimu Investments Inc. has acquired the franchises for both “Sure Stay Plus and Aiden”, two franchised hotels, all under Best Western. The Aiden Hotel, he said,

is a trendy collection of laidback boutique hotels that blends cool, casual charm with an eclectic neighbourly feel. He related that the Aiden being developed by Arimu Investments Inc. would be the 12th in existence worldwide; the first to be completed in South America, the only one in the Caribbean, and Guyana’s first franchised boutique hotel. The “Aiden Midtown Georgetown,” will be nine storeys high, with a 74,000 square-foot modern building. Amenities, Alphonso said, will include conference rooms, an English restaurant, and bar, coffee shop, gym and sauna area, executive boardrooms and a terrace bar. The main feature of the facility, he said, would be the rooftop bar and lounge that will be encased in glass to give patrons an exclusive dining experience. When completed and up and running, 50 Guyanese will be hired as hotel staff.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Essequibians show up in numbers to reject Venezuela’s territorial claim

Story and photos by Indrawattie Natram

PERSONS from various parts of Region Two showed up in their numbers on Sunday to voice their strong objection to Venezuela’s brazen claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region. Many wore t-shirts with the Guyana map boldly displayed on the front and proudly waved the Golden Arrowhead as they listen to addresses by Vice-President, Dr. Bharat Jagdeo, and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond. The two senior government officials

travelled to the region as part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing campaign to educate and update the populace about the situation and to assure them that the government is committed to preserving Guyana's territorial sovereignty and will not fall prey to Venezuela’s bullying tactics. A massive crowd congregated at the Anna Regina car park to listen to the two officials. The Guyana Chronicle spoke with several of the persons who attended and they felt at ease with the assurances that were given. “I feel much better. I was very worried with the annex-

ing, and the referendum but with the clear explaining, we are now more confident and I have a strong message for Venezuela and that is they will not get a blade of grass,” Angela Buddhoo, a young Essequibian said. Another resident, Vinod Persaud said that for the past few years, Venezuela nationals have flocked Essequibo and they were never treated inhumanely or as outcasts. Persaud said that the controversy can be settled with mutual understanding and he call on the officials from Venezuela to do so peacefully. Essequibians believe that any attempt at annex-

ation will be illegal. They said that the referendum is being held to drive fear into Guyanese. Meanwhile, Ashley Fredericks said that Essequibians will not succumb to fear and everyone will continue to stand tall. “We are more confident now and we are happy that the Vice-President came and explained in detail. We are not worried and we are here to stay, Essequibo has always been part of Guyana” Ameila Roberts said. Residents said that they have confidence that the Government of Guyana and the International community will represent Guyana.

Some of those who turned up to publicly reject Venezuela’s claim to Essequibo

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond holds up a copy of the 1899 Award as she spoke to the crowd at Anna Regina “We are praying and we Jagdeo said in his address. Guyana is currently behave support. We in Guyana are peaceful people and we fore the International Court don't [cause] trouble. That of Justice (ICJ) seeking a matter was settled and it’s final binding judgement retime for Venezuela to accept affirming the 1899 Arbitral the settlement that was made Award that was established in 1899,” Nikita Andrews the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. said. Guyana has issued Residents said that they are more equipped with the repeated statements deknowledge on the controver- nouncing Venezuela’s agsy and understood what the gressive stance to no avail.

Women’s empowerment should be genuine... FROM PAGE 2

uals, businesses, and the government work collaboratively to uplift the nation. “Make no mistake. We will do all that we can to ensure the wave of prosperity lifts all of us up together,” President Ali said. Statistical data revealed a number of ways in which women in Guyana are truly making use of the many opportunities available to them and are positively contributing to the improvement of the

local society. In the area of academics, women continue to lead in enrolment in higher education. In the GOAL, through which the government offers scholarships for university and other certificate programmes, 72.6 per cent of the students are women. Of the total scholarships given by the Ministry of Public Service, 57 per cent went to women, while in the public sector training, 69 per cent of all those who are trained are

women. At the University of Guyana, 70 per cent of the total student population are women, while the withdrawal rate among females is among the lowest in this region at 0.4 per cent. In the healthcare system, women also stand out, with 60 per cent of the doctors and 98 per cent of the nurses in this country being women. In housing, some 65 per cent of the total low-income core homes went to women, most of whom are

single women. In the Home Improvement Subsidy programme, 85 per cent of the persons who benefitted are also women. In law enforcement, 22 per cent of the total law enforcement personnel constitute the female population, with 26 per cent of those being senior officers. In the judiciary, 60 per cent are females. In terms of business support, 60 per cent of all investment from the Minis-

try of Tourism, Industry and Commerce went to women. Regarding the empowerment grant, more than 55 per cent went to women. But even as women celebrate a lot of benefits and opportunities in Guyana, the gender is not without its share of challenges and disadvantages. President Ali called for a united front among women and a rejection of negative stereotypes. “Some of these very

people jump on the wagon and say, ‘We stand up for women's rights. Absolute nonsense! You stand up for your selfish desires. Respecting women is not shouting from a mountain. It's about giving them a fair opportunity, treating them fairly and respecting them when they move ahead in life. It's not about tearing them down! Women it is time you band together and speak up together,” the Head of State said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Guyana Stands Tall AFTER weeks of tension as a result of Venezuela's campaign of propaganda and scare tactics, Guyanese have enjoyed a renewed sense of security and patriotism, as a result of our leader, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali's resolute stance, and words of affirmation during a recent visit to communities along the western border. What was most admirable and reassuring was the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead 2,200 feet above sea level, on Guyana's side of the border with Venezuela. This was done by our men in uniform, in the presence of the Commander-in-Chief

political situation, as Venezuela, through its National Electoral Council, unveiled plans for a “Consultative Referendum” on December 3. The country's Vice-President, Delcy Rodriguez, has blatantly expressed Venezuela's disregard for the ICJ's authority to address the border controversy by determining the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which settled as full, complete and perfect, the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. She was even adamant that nothing could stop Venezuela from going ahead with the referendum, although Guyana has approached the ICJ

for provisional measures that would prevent any action by the Bolivarian Republic to annex Guyana's territory. This aggression, however, has not been successful in derailing Guyana's commitment to peace and the rule of Law, as the country's leaders have maintained this position and expressed full confidence in the ICJ. The country, despite its stance, is not naive, and has been preparing for any eventualities given Venezuela's aggression. “Now, we are not in any way, shape or form taking anything for granted, so everything that is required of us as a people,

as a government, as a military, we are in a state of preparedness,” President Ali told residents of Mabaruma during a recent visit there. The Commander-in-Chief said that all systems are being put in place, including monitoring systems, and there are a lot of partners working with Guyana on this front. Guyana is adding to its strength based on the situational analysis. A high-level team from the US Department of Defence will also be in Guyana this week to enhance military co-operation. To further allay any fear in the minds of Guyanese, the government and

its local partners have been leading sensitisation campaigns to ensure that persons possess the requisite knowledge of the border controversy, and completely comprehend the reality of the issue. Guyanese, by being more informed, would be better positioned to rally behind their country and stand united against Venezuela's propaganda and unfounded claims. It is already clear in everyone's minds that Essequibo belongs to Guyana, and there is no doubt that the country will always stand tall and together in its defence.

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira ber 30. So, the lawyers and Guyanese people are united everybody on standby ready and they're patriotic,” Minto jump on a plane to go and ister Teixeira affirmed. listen to the ruling. She highlighted the var“As Guyanese this is very ious events organised by important, it's our territory, citizens, including prayer it's our land, it's our future sessions led by the religious for our generations. And so, community, showcasing the whilst there has been this resilience and unity of the aggression by Venezuela, the people.

As a testament to this unity, Guyanese are gearing up for a day of prayer and fasting on December 3, coinciding with Venezuela's planned referendum. Religious leaders and groups will lead this spiritual initiative, kicking off with a symbolic human chain formation where citizens will join hands to exhibit the collective strength of the nation. Guyana is currently awaiting a ruling from the ICJ regarding the application for provisional measures to prevent any action by Venezuela to annex Guyana’s Essequibo. The genesis of the border controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the land boundary between British Guiana (now Guy-

ana) 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 geopolitical 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.

himself. Many would agree that this is a timely move that signals Guyana's strength and commitment to the preservation of its territorial sovereignty. It shows that the country, though small in size, is ready to stand tall and resist any threat to its population and peace. Venezuela, as part of its efforts to illegally lay claim to Guyana's Essequibo, has chosen the route of aggression in its communication, whether directly or indirectly, to Guyana, although the matter is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Recent developments have heightened the geo-

Border Controversy: Guyanese remain unwavering in their unity and patriotism - says Minister Teixeira

By Clestine Juan

IN the face of escalating tensions fuelled by Venezuela's aggressive stance, Guyanese remain unwavering in their unity and patriotism in safeguarding their land and future generations. This was highlighted by Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, during a recent television interview, where she addressed the significance of the impending ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the collective response of the Guyanese populace. “We expect that it [the ruling] will be before December 3. And we are hoping that it will be around Novem-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Part 5: 65 journalists and media workers killed in 48 days

JOURNALISM IS NOT A CRIME!

IN 2008, I watched Pakistan’s President, General Pervez Musharraf, dismiss a long march by lawyers and judges as “a mere irritant” that didn’t threaten his rule. But the all-powerful general soon learned – much too late – that he’d badly misread Pakistan’s political tea leaves, the march having started the end of his rule when he forcibly resigned under public pressure, soon after. I felt the same way when Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was shot and killed on May 11, 2022, while covering an operation by the Israel Defence Force (IDF) in the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. The popular Arab reporter was also a dual US citizen and was killed while wearing the internationally-recognised blue PRESS ID marks emblazoned across her chest and back. It was absolutely clear the Al Jazeera correspondent was targeted and killed by an IDF sniper, but Israel’s government was reported as having made it absolutely clear that “No Israeli soldier will be prosecuted…” That story gave me that same Musharraf feeling -- and I told myself Prime Minister Netanyahu would, like the Pakistani general with a similar disdain for public institutions, also live to regret that statement. Shireen’s internationally-broadcast funeral was attacked by IDF soldiers and the world saw how the coffin was almost pushed to the ground – and again I concluded it was just a matter of time before this case assumed desired international proportions. Indeed, much to Tel Aviv’s chagrin, the US undertook the usual investigation of an American citizen killed abroad; and the United Nations (UN) mandated an investigative body to do likewise.

On October 16, 2023, the UN body was reported as having found that “Israeli forces used lethal force without justification” against the Al Jazeera reporter and had also fatally “violated her right to life.” The UN investigators recommended too, that Israel cooperate with the Washington probe. Al Jazeera TV screened daily appeals for Israel to accept its responsibility for its reporter’s death and the UN team indicated it could take its findings to the International Criminal Court (ICC). But 18 months after Shireen’s killing came the latest Israel-Palestine conflict that followed Hamas’ deadly October 7, 2023 attack on Southern Israel on Yom Kippur -- the holiest day in the Jewish calendar -- killing 1,200 Israelis and taking 237 captives into Gaza. It was the worst loss of life Israel ever suffered in any single Palestinian armed attack; and it also coincided with the 50th anniversary of one -- on same holy day in 1973 -- when Arab states (led by Egypt and Syria) attacked Israel in what was then described as ‘The 4th Arab-Israeli War.’ Israel hit back with more-than-expected brute force in which no one was spared in Gaza -- including women and children, elderly and disabled people – and journalists. Six days after the Hamas attack initiated the sixth Israel-Palestine war after Hamas’ October 7, 2023 Al Aqsa Flood surprise attack -- and after 1,900 Palestinians were killed – journalists started dying on the job. On Friday, October 13, a Reuters journalist from France was killed and an Al Jazeera reporter was among many wounded after what all insist was a “targeted” attack on journalists in an area they’d been told was safe. I asked myself whether

this was the beginning of a new age in war reporting… The Netanyahu government had decided against giving journalists free access to Gaza, the IDF selecting and giving guided tours even to senior correspondents from international media houses it trusted. But while this was not clear in reports from the Western media, Arab journalists and media workers started dying from targeted attacks, killed like never before in coverage of any conflict anywhere since World War II ended in 1945. By October 24 – 17 days into the war on Gaza -- 23 journalists were killed in the line of duty. Al Jazeera journalist, Wael Dahdoua, lost his wife, daughter, son and grandchild at this time, after they moved from their home in Gaza’s City on IDF orders to their neighbourhood to evacuate before bombardment. By November I – one week later -- another Al Jazeera staffer lost 19 members of his family in an Israeli attack on the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. And two days later (November 3) some Arab journalists in Gaza removed their blue PRESS vests and helmets and waved their official ID cards in public and among international colleagues, arguing they were all useless and didn’t protect them from being targeted and killed on the job. Five days later (November 8), the number of journalists killed jumped to 39, the highest number in any conflict; and nine days later (November 17) the number of media personnel killed jumped to 47. Three days later (November 20), the number skyrocketed to 62, with 43 journalists dead; and the next day (November 21) three more journalists were killed, this time on the West Bank -- in another alleged targeted killing -- leading

to colleagues covering the war adopting the phrases: “Journalism is not a crime!” and “Killing journalists is a crime!” In an age when everyone with a cell phone can be an i-Reporter, journalists are dying in Palestine for simply working to keep the world informed of what they see and hear. On November 21, Jodie Ginsberg, President

of the US-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Anthiny Belanger, President of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), were both reported as saying their respective entities will file cases at the International Criminal Court (ICC). Over the weekend of November 25-27, Israel banned Palestinians from

celebrating the release of prisoners, while those released by Hamas were joyously welcomed home in the streets. And ahead of the resumption of fighting dearly promised by Israel, journalists covering the war were understandably quivering over their chances of surviving, or also dying on the job.

Here is the reason the ICJ will rule in favour of Guyana

HAVE a quiet moment of reflection and think of what becomes of the world if the international society accepts the Severo Mallet-Prevost (SMP) document. There can no longer be a stable world. The SMP document is a letter penned by a delegation member of Venezuela of that name that settled the boundaries between Guyana and Venezuela in 1899. The correspondence was opened and made public after the gentleman had died. SMP alleged that the award of 1899 was tainted because there was collusion between the British and Russian jurists that decided the boundary. The SMP revelation was made public in 1949, 50 fifty years after the line between Venezuela and Guyana was settled. Here are the arguments against the SMP letter. It contains no one thread of proof. A man wrote a letter about what he believed. It begins and ends there. His-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

tory and law do not assign evidential status to such occurrences. The man who held that belief was not an objective participant from a neutral corner representing the global community. He was a delegate from the same country that accepted the settlement. Again, law and history come in here. What weight should law and history put on the personal reflection of SMP? The answer is none for two reasons. One is there is no evidence to substantiate his belief. Secondly, being Venezuelan, SMP could have penned the letter about perceptions that actually had no basis in reality. Think of how unstable the world will become if international jurists tasked with preserving international laws for the preservation of global peace accept the SMP document. The examples would run into the millions. Let’s look at some hypothetical cases. After 40 years, the letter of the

captain of the losing side in World Cup football, written to one of his girlfriends, was made public. The letter stated that one of the linesmen was heard saying that he hates Fiji so he will make sure his decisions go against Fiji. In the finals, Fiji lost to Barbados. Is the world supposed to take that correspondence as proof and so accept that Fiji once won the World Cup? Remember this was not the linesman or the referee that wrote that piece of paper but the losing captain. Let’s go to Alaska. Russia sold Alaska to the US in the 18th century. What happens if a document is found in the Russian archives in which one of the Russian negotiators reveled that a colleague of his was bribed in arranging the sale? Is Russia now to reclaim Alaska because the rightful sum was not paid? One final example. An Icelandic runner-up in a Miss Universe contest held 40 years ago wrote her

memoir and it contains the allegation that the winner, Miss Malta, had a boyfriend that was a judge on the panel. This statement did not come from one of the organisers or from one of the judges but the loser herself. Can we now say that Malta once won the Miss Universe contest? The answer is obvious. If international societies accept and act on the beliefs of people who had reasons to be resentful then the entire history of the world has to be re-written. My deeply held belief is that successive Venezuelan presidents knew that the UN, ICJ, OAS and powerful countries in the world would not accept Venezuela’s claim based on SMP’s so-called revelation and for that rea-

son Venezuela has engaged in military action against Essequibo except Ankoko. The ICJ would find the basis on Venezuela’s claim absurd and would not risk its credibility by changing the 1899 award. The consequences for global security will be horrendous and the world and the major countries on the globe will not accept Venezuela being awarded two-thirds of Guyana’s territory based on a letter written by a Venezuela delegate a hundred years ago. Countries that are remotely removed from the Guyana-Venezuela controversy would not accept boundary changes based on such a flimsy paper as the SMP missive. It will lead to a crescendo of territorial

claims and military incursions around the world. It is for this penetrating reason Guyanese should and must know that Venezuela knows it cannot invade Guyana. Guyanese should and must know that Venezuela cannot invade Guyana and no invasion is coming. Guyanese should not let a tin-cup dictator like Maduro invade their minds. I repeat what I wrote last week. The referendum is about the domestic survival of Maduro. He is going after the next general election. He cannot win. Maybe he will rig and if he rigs his life becomes more miserable. Guyanese should just go about their business and carry on their lives as usual.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Some thoughts on Afro-Guyanese support for PPP and the rapid decline of the AFC

AFC undoubtedly has a place in Guyana’s political history which no one can credibly dismiss as being insignificant. Being there from its inception, I saw firsthand the multiracial support which the party received and the general goodwill showered on the party even from people who would never vote for it. I remember while campaigning for the AFC in Region Five during the 2006 General and Regional Elections, we sought a temporary location for our central campaign office. A gentleman in the PPP stronghold of Cotton Tree, told us, point blank, “yall kan’t convince me fuh vote fuh ahyu, me ah PPP, but meh gon gee ahyu meh place fuh use.” His reasoning was that he supports political multiracialism and he did not see AFC doing anything to undermine racial unity so though he was a staunch PPP supporter, he displayed tremendous sympathy for the AFC.

As we moved around the rest of the country, we received similar sentiments in PNC strongholds also. Undoubtedly, as evident by the massive loss of seats by the PNC in 2006 and the minority PPP government following 2011, the AFC benefitted from traditional voters from both parties. These results led AFC to believe it can win government in a coalition with APNU. AFC used its seven seats and employed the “last mile” theory to bargain for a guaranteed 12 seats. For those who are not aware, let me digress a bit to explain the last mile concept. There are 10 miles to travel, for whatever reasons, all your best efforts and resources can only take you nine miles. You need some external help to complete the last mile. Essentially, the real value of the contribution is more than a mile. That said, we will never know how many seats AFC would have contributed to the coalition’s 2015 victory.

However, it is indubitably clear that AFC lost support to the PPP that is equivalent to at least 3 clear seats. How do I know this? In 2011 the AFC made massive inroads in PPP strongholds of Region Six, along with some modest gains in Region 2, together producing 3 seats. In 2015, the vote tally was back to 2006 levels in PPPs favour. Many theories abound about how the votes were rejigged to produce the exact 1 seat parliamentary majority which the coalition enjoyed in 2015 as did the combined opposition in 2011, that analysis for another time. Post 2020 AFC took a massive hit in activists/membership attrition and, along with it, the national goodwill, a trend which started while it was in government. It suffered so severely that the AFC was without competent party mobilisers to field slates for the 2023 Local Government Elections. As a cop-out and mortally afraid of humiliation, it claimed that the list was

unusable. Given the current trajectory of demonstration of lack of political imagination coupled with a new breed of political loafers and free riders, I believe the AFC lost its activists and voting support for good. With this massive loss of support, there is a cohort of voters and activists looking for a place to land. For today let us look at a narrow segment of this cohort that will be critical for the 2025 contest. Because of the impact of the AFC, there is a significant (or marginal, depending on how you look at it) number of Afro-Guyanese, especially in their 20s, 30s and early to mid-40s who have never voted for PNCR/APNU, (i.e voted for AFC at every election since 2006) and possibly feel no sense of race-based allegiance to the PNCR. This cohort is

less likely to be moved by nostalgia for 'the great founder leader' and will not be swayed by chants of "soup drinka," "sellout" and "house slaves" etc. They use a different matrix for evaluating, selecting and following a political party. They are more amenable to an appeal to their multiethnic instincts. There isn't an earth moving or major mass of such persons existing in any specific constituency, but smidges sprinkled all over the country, sizeable enough to make notable seating shifts when reckoned together via proportional representation. The PPP has already demonstrated that it is best positioned to appeal to this group. LGE 2023 has many telltale signs for GRE2025. We can debate all day

about whatever political methodology, schemes or budgetary allocations the PPPC utilised to tap into this cohort. The cumulative result created seat shifts in favour of the PPPC in areas where there should be no question that voters were Afro-Guyanese. Then there is another noteworthy and group of Afro-Guyanese who shifted to the PPPC; the traditional PNCR voter who decided to break the cycle for whatever reason. Having broken that cycle, those folks may have come closer than we think to shaking the remnants of the ethnic solidarity guilt trip of betraying their party and selling out their people. Will this settle into a national voting subculture? Can this become a contagion? 2025 beckons.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Construction of secondary school in Orealla to begin soon

- Minister Singh says; urges parents to let children complete school, take up opportunities created by government

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh and members of his team share a moment with residents of Siparuta

IN yet another first for the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led government, a secondary school will soon be built in the riverine community of Orealla in Region Six, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, has announced. Minister Singh made the announcement during an outreach to the community on Saturday. It was met with thunderous applause and beaming smiles from scores of residents who had congregated in the community’s benab. The school will accommodate students of Orealla and Siparuta, the only Amerindian communities located in the East Berbice-Corentyne region. According to Dr. Singh, the land has been identified and geo-technical work is being done for the preparation of construction. He told residents that the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Narendra Persaud has been tasked with ensuring that funding for the project is included in the region’s submission for the 2024 National Budget. The school is expected to be delivered to the people of Orealla and Siparuta in 2024. “Your children will be able to enjoy right here in Orealla and Siparuta, high school education and will be able to complete their high school education right here. We will construct this school in 2024. You already have the high school population in the dorms and primary tops

munities in 2022 and pledged the construction of the school in response to concerns expressed by residents. “The President has made ‘One Guyana’ his philosophical commitment of his presidency.

An aerial view of Orealla with the Corentyne River in the background It is not only about the oneness of the three counties, about the oneness of the six peoples that make up Guyana, of our people, irrespective of our religion, unity and oneness across the 10 regions. It’s also about ensuring that every single Guyanese person enjoys improvement in their lives, livelihood, improved well-being and prosperity, irrespective of where you come from, live, [your] ethnicity or religion,” the minister said. Minister Singh further added: “One Guyana is also about participating in this transforma-

Residents listening attentively to Minister Singh at the Siparuta Primary School and some of them are already writing CSEC there. We want all of them to be able to go to a fullfledged high school, including those who previously had to go to the coast. We would like them to complete their high school education right here and I will be looking out from 2025 to see the CSEC results of the secondary school... I would like to see strong performances from the students of Orealla Secondary School,” he said. He added that such a school embodies the president’s philosophy of a ‘One Guyana.’ President Ali had visited both com-

ment’s role in making the opportunities available. “We will do our part as a government: build the school, recruit the teachers, purchase the books, equip the schools. I am appealing to you parents;

tion that is taking place in the country. According to President Ali and the PPP/C party, you must not only have to go to schools in Georgetown or New Amsterdam or Skeldon, Linden or Anna Regina to achieve top results, you must be able to go to school right here in Orealla/ Siparuta and also achieve top results comparable to anyone else anywhere in the country.” OPPORTUNITIES The finance minister charged the parents to ensure that their children make the most of the opportunities being offered, while committing the govern-

you also have the responsibility to discharge. The well-being of the community is in the hands of the young people of your village. You have to ensure they take up opportunities… available to them. We want every single child, and I am saying this to the parents to hear in this community, they must complete primary education successfully. We have built the school; teachers have been employed and you the parents have to ensure that the children attend. Once the children complete primary school, we want every secondary-aged schoolchild in Guyana to be able to complete secondary school education in Guyana, universal secondary education. Every child must have an opportunity to complete secondary education and write their CSEC exams.” Meanwhile, in addressing some issues identified regarding the primary school, he said that work will be undertaken to address these as well as the electricity issues and internet-connectivity issues that were raised by residents. He said that a team from the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) would be deployed in the new week to Sipiruta to ensure that the WIFI connection is restored to the community. Minister Singh also urged those gathered to utilise the opportunities that are available under the GOAL scholarship programme and other initiatives to empower themselves. Residents, in expressing gratitude, said that construction of the school is a ground-breaking development for Orealla and the fulfilling of a long-standing demand made by residents. They related that children will no longer have to journey to the coast to access an education.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Chinese President Xi Jinping: Mutual learning key for progress PRESIDENT Xi Jinping has underlined the importance of exchanges and mutual learning among various civilisations in the world, and said that only through mutual learning can different civilisations achieve common progress. Xi made the remarks on Friday in a congratulatory letter sent to the World Conference on China Studies — Shanghai Forum, which was held in Shanghai. Xi pointed out that China studies are not only the studies of historical China, but also the studies of contemporary China. Chinese civilisation has a long history and has been enriched and developed through exchanges and mutual learning with other civilisations in the world, endowing Chinese modernisation with profound cultural heritage, he said. “Only by tracing the origins of history can we understand the reality of the world, and only by following the cultural foundation can we identify present-day China,” he said. “It is through the mutual learning of civilisations that common progress can be achieved.” Xi expressed the hope that experts and scholars from various countries will act as messengers connecting Chinese and foreign civilisations, uphold inclusiveness and openness, continuously promote China studies worldwide, foster mutual exchange of civilisations, and inject intellectual and cultural strength into the flourishing garden of world civilisations. Themed “Chinese Civilisation and China’s Path — A Global Perspective”, the event brought together more than 400 well-known experts and scholars in China studies from nearly 60 countries and regions. While addressing the opening ceremony, Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the

CPC Central Committee, said the forum aimed to help the world understand ancient and modern China, and envision China’s future at a deeper level. It is also intended to help facilitate dialogue and mutual learning among civilisations and foster better understanding and closer ties between the Chinese people and those from other nations, he said. The establishment of the World Association for China Studies, a nongovernmental international social group comprising institutions and experts specialising in China studies, was announced at the forum. “Headquartered in Beijing, the association has 73 founding members from universities and think tanks from 29 countries, and will carry out research and deliver reports with an aim to strengthen communication and cooperation and promote the common prosperity of the world,” said Gao Xiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Timothy Brook, a professor emeritus from the Department of History at the University of British Columbia in Canada, who has published several best-sellers on studies of China’s Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), said he seeks to put research on Chinese history in a global context, and identify connections between China and the West. “Because there is only one world, and we all live in the same world, the important thing is to decrease the prejudicial views that people have of other places,” he said. He said the importance of getting foreigners to understand Chinese history is to make Chinese history not appear to be something that is far away. Many experts attending the forum said that deepening China studies can add wisdom to the construction of a more prosperous world.

Moeketsi Majoro, former prime minister of Lesotho, said that China’s strength in digital technology, artificial intelligence, solar energy and new energy vehicles further prove that the country is making key contributions to global innovation and transformation. He added that more than 150 countries and three-fourths of the global population are involved in the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, showing that the nation’s global role is being widely accepted.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

China releases document on vision, actions for Belt and Road cooperation in next decade China on Friday published a document titled, "Vision and Actions for High-Quality Belt and Road Cooperation: Brighter Prospects for the Next Decade." The document was formulated by the Office of the Leading Group for Promoting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It presents the vision and measures for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation in the next decade, on the basis of summarizing BRI achievements and experience over the past decade, Xu Jianping, an official of the National Development and Reform Commission, told a press conference on Friday. Over the past 10 years, the BRI has developed into a popular international public good and a cooperation platform that adds new growth drivers to the global economy, with more than 150 countries and over 30 international organisations participating in it, Xu said. Data shows that from 2013 to October 2023, total imports and exports between China and participating countries surpassed 21 trillion U.S. dollars, and China's direct investment in BRI partner countries topped 270 billion dollars, according to Xu. "The prospects of jointly building the BRI are tremendously bright," Xu said. According to the document, in the next decade, all parties will be encouraged to strive toward equal cooperation and mutual benefits, propelling Belt and Road cooperation into a new phase characterised by high-quality development. The document specified five objectives, namely building a smoother and more efficient connectivity network; ensuring comprehensive and practical cooperation to reach new levels; elevating the sense of gain and fulfilment for the peoples of all partic-

ipating countries; establishing a new system to support China's open economy at a more advanced stage and popularising the vision of a global community of shared future. Policy coordination, infrastructural connectivity, unimpeded trade, financial integration, people-to-people ties and cooperation in new fields are the key areas and directions for Belt and Road cooperation in the next decade, according to the document. Guo Xuejun, an official with the Ministry of

Foreign Affairs, said at the press conference that one of the major moves for the next stage would be building closer ties with BRI partners on infrastructural connectivity. Together with other parties, China will take part in the building of a new logistics corridor across the Eurasian continent linked by direct road transportation and the trans-Caspian international transport corridor, according to Guo.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Referendum is evidence of Venezuelan government’s ‘failure’ to their people

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

- Tourism Minister says

MAINTAINING that Guyana will continue to be a zone of peace, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, recently said Venezuela’s December 3 referendum on Guyana’s Essequibo region, is proof of the Nicolas Maduro administration’s “failure” to their people. In an interview with Calistra Farrier on Grenada’s WPG10, the Minister stressed that Guyana will not succumb to the aggressiveness emanating from the Spanish-speaking country. The senior Guyanese government official firmly stated: “We also believe that this is a political move by the [Venezuelan] government who have shown that they’re a failure domestically and [they] are using this to galvanize their base and to bully a smaller nation.” With Guyana upholding international law, she stated that the nation is receiving massive support from its regional and international partners during this time. “We will use our international allies to protect our territorial integrity and we [have] gotten this assurance… Of course, we want a peaceful resolution and we are pursuing a peaceful resolution,” the minister said, while emphasising that Guyana will not sit by and allow Venezuela to act on their false claims. Moreover, she highlighted that there will be high-level meetings and presence from the ending of November and

throughout December from the United States’ Department of Defence. “Our position is that we are on the right side of the law,” Walrond said, while adding: “We are quite prepared along with our allies to protect our borders if the need so arises.” She then went on to speak about whether the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is throwing its full support towards Guyana, a topic that has been circulating recently. The minister stated that without any doubt, CARICOM has denounced Venezuela’s false claims on the Guyana’s Essequibo region and has supported Guyana during these times. She then firmly stated that her government is continuously reassuring the Guyanese people that they will fight for what is theirs. “We continue to fight and safeguard the interest of all our citizens, including those in Essequibo,” the minister stated. She also highlighted that the country is united on this matter, including the opposition and the government. The genesis of the controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the land boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela. However, despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award. The matter is currently engaging the attention of the Interna-

tional Court of Justice (ICJ).

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday November 27, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 102 ODI matches (2) WI: 44 Today’s Quiz: (1) Where did the WI & ENG first contest an ODI game? (2) Who were the captains involved? Answers in tomorrow’s issue …………………………………………………… …………………………………………………… …………………………………………

ENGLISH RACING TIPS KEMPTON 08:20 hrs Captain Marvellous 08:50 hrs Squirrel 10:00 hrs Destroytheevidence 10:35 hrs Kateira 11:05 hrs Our Jet 11:35 hrs Samuel Spade

Cover 09:40 hrs West Orchard 10:15 hrs Clondaw Pretender 10:50 hrs You Say Mothing 11:20 hrs Cooleeny More 11:50 hrs Metkayina

LUDLOW 08:35 hrs Kathanael Greene 09:05 hrs Breaking

AMERICAN RACING TIPS MAHONING VALLEY Race 1 Golden Buck Race 2 Gizmo's Mission Race 3 Dougs Morning Pick Race 4 Devin On Earth Race 5 Ciro The Noss Race 6 Beautiful Summer

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Terry Venables: Former England manager dies aged 80 after a long illness

FORMER England manager Terry Venables has died at the age of 80 after a long illness. Venables managed England from 1994 to 1996, most notably leading them to the semi-finals of Euro 96 on home soil. A former England player, he also managed Barcelona and Tottenham. "We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness," read a family statement. "We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad

time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives." Venables won La Liga and reached the European Cup final with Barcelona, and lifted the FA Cup with Tottenham. As a player, he won two England caps and made more than 500 club appearances between 1960 and 1975, largely for Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers and Tottenham. 'The best English coach we've had' - Venables tributes 'One of football's brightest minds' - Venables obituary

'The best, most innovative coach' Former England captain Gary Lineker, whom Venables signed for Barcelona and Spurs, told the BBC: "He was not a coach or just a manager but a friend. He was charming, charismatic, witty but he was also tough - and that's what you needed to be. 'The best, most innovative coach' "He understood football - he had an incredible football brain." Ex-England skipper Alan Shearer, a member of the Euro 96 side, said: "Extremely sad

New Zealand’s rising star Rachin Ravindra is gearing up for challenges ahead RAVINDRA caught the world’s eye with his scintillating show in the recently concluded ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. He scored 578 runs at an average of 64.22, with three tons and two half-centuries to his name. He also picked five wickets with his leftarm spin, with the best figures of 2/21. He has played in only three Tests with modest returns across his career so far, the last of which was a home fixture against Bangladesh in 2022. However, his prolific run at the World Cup has ensured that the all-rounder will be a top contender to make it into New Zealand’s playing XI for the upcoming Test series against the Tigers. In a video released by New Zealand Cricket, Ravindra discussed the upcoming Test series from the lens of his recent white-ball experience. He added that one needed to adjust to the conditions. “I enjoy going back to red-ball cricket after that [the recent white-ball experience in World Cup] because that means your intent [is positive], you are almost looking to score. So, I mean, [that] keeps you in a good position to score,” Ravindra said. “But probably here it depends on the conditions. What the pitch is doing,

Kiwi Rising Star Rachin Ravindra it's probably going to dial get used to facing slower that back a little bit, not as bowling instead of seam up many risks. You can still top. But the beauty of it [is play your natural game, by that] you contribute whatevunderstanding the surface er way you can for the team and the situation of the game no matter what role it is, and hopefully you contribute to dictates you.” Ravindra added that the a win.” Ravindra is also well team needed to adjust to the aware that he can contribute longevity of a Test. He also discussed about with his left-arm spin. Based the need to adapt to the dif- on his prior experience in ferent situations of playing Bangladesh, including a Test cricket in the sub-con- T20I tour in 2021, he had etched some plans in his tinent. “You've got a little tran- mind. “Bowl with a quicker sition period, and you probably don't have as much time pace rather than what we to get yourself in; but also are probably accustomed to it's Test cricket, so you ac- bowling back home; if you tually do have a lot of time. are putting it in the area and It's a different role for sure; dialing up the pace a little bit it's not a new ball [role in more, hopefully, have a little Bangladesh] - I might come bit of success.” New Zealand’s tour of in and straightaway face a Bangladesh will feature spinner... “So just wrapping your two Tests to be played in head around that and seeing Sylhet and Mirpur. (ICC what sort of way you can Media) adjust your game plan and

Terry Venables with Tottenham chairman Alan Sugar in 1991 news. The great Terry Venables has passed away. RIP Boss. I owe you so much. You were amazing." Current England manager Gareth Southgate, whose penalty in the semi-final shootout defeat by Germany was saved, described Venables as "a brilliant man who made people feel special". He said: "Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their oppor-

tunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager. "He was open-minded, forward-thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history." Paul Gascoigne, who played under Venables for England and

Tottenham, said: "Such a sad day, cheers boss." Tottenham held a minute's applause before Sunday's home Premier League match against Aston Villa and both sets of players wore black armbands. Spurs said they were "extremely saddened to learn of the passing of our former player and manager". Current manager Ange Postecoglou told Sky Sports: "If you are asking about a person who embodies everything this football club has always wanted to be, it is Terry. It wasn't just about the way he managed or coached; it was the person he was. "He influenced Australia as well. He was the manager for the national team and almost got us to the World Cup, but the biggest testament is that anyone who I have ever come across that has worked with him will say he is by far the best coach, manager and tactician they have come across."

Zimbabwe in danger of missing T20 World Cup as Uganda make history ..Zimbabwe have lost two of their first three games at the Africa Region Qualifier

A FIVE-wicket defeat to Uganda, their second loss in three games at the Africa Region Qualifier, has dealt a serious blow to Zimbabwe's hopes of reaching the 2024 men's T20 World Cup. Zimbabwe came into this game having lost their tournament-opener to hosts Namibia - a result their coach Dave Houghton had called "embarrassingly bad" - and won their second game against Tanzania by nine wickets. As things stand, Zimbabwe are fourth on the seven-team table with three games left to play. Namibia and Kenya top the table with perfect records, having won all three of their respective games so far. Zimbabwe's remaining games pit them against Rwanda, Nigeria both of whom are currently

below them on the standings - and Kenya. Uganda are in third place, having beaten Tanzania and lost to Namibia before Sunday's result. This was Uganda's first game against a Full Member team in a T20I, and they celebrated the occasion in style. The top two teams from the Africa Region Qualifier will qualify for the 20-team T20 World Cup, which will be hosted by the West Indies and the USA in June 2024. Uganda's win was set up by a three-wicket haul from the left-arm seamer Dinesh Nakrani, who played a central role in restricting Zimbabwe to 136 for 7 after they were sent in. Apart from captain Sikandar Raza, who scored 48 off 39 balls, no Zimbabwe batter really got going, with

Innocent Kaia (23 off 23) and Sean Williams (21 off 24) failing to kick on from slow starts. Uganda's chase got off to a rocky start as they slipped to 12 for 2, before Roger Mukasa and Alpesh Ramjani joined forces to steady their innings. Ramjani was by far the dominant partner, contributing 40 off 26 balls to the third-wicket stand of 49. When he fell, Uganda needed 76 off 56 balls, and Riazat Ali Shah kept them on track with a 28-ball 42. Nakrani, the hero with the ball, was present at the finish too, contributing an unbeaten 14 to the historic win. The winning moment came with four byes off Raza's bowling, from the first ball of the final over.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Top order fires India to 2-0 win over Australia

INDIA’s top three fired in unison as the hosts beat Australia again in the T20I series to take a 2-0 lead in Trivandrum. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan hit contrasting fifties to power India to a mammoth 235-4 before the bowlers completed a 44-run win. (Sores: India 235-4 from 20 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 58, Yashasvi Jaiswal 53, Ishan Kishan 52) beat Australia 191-9 from 20 overs (Marcus Stoinis 45; Ravi Bishnoi 3-32) by 44 runs More often than not, the Powerplay sets the tone in a T20 game and India’s performance with both bat and ball in this phase put them in command. Jaiswal went berserk after India

were asked to bat first. After getting to 12 off 12 after three overs, Jaiswal unleashed fury on Sean Abbott to rip him apart for 4,4,4,6,6 in one over. He also smashed Nathan Ellis for three successive fours in the final over of the powerplay to stun the visitors. But his entertaining cameo came to an end in the same over. However, his 25-ball 53 put India in a great position from which they could dominate. Did they? Not quite. At least for a brief period, Gaikwad and Ishan couldn’t score at a brisk pace like Jaiswal did. Having scored 77 in the Powerplay, India added only 29 off the next five overs despite

not losing a wicket. Ishan in particular found the going tough before a six off Marcus Stoinis helped him break the shackles. The left-hander then took on Glenn Maxwell and followed it up with two sixes off Tanveer Sangha to script a commendable turnaround as he brought up his fifty off just 29 balls. The final flourish Like Jaiswal, Ishan too perished immediately after bringing up his second consecutive fifty of the series. Suryakumar Yadav then thrilled the crowd by bringing out his trademark flick over fine leg to smash a six first ball and followed it up with another six off Adam Zampa. While he didn’t entertain

USA-based Guyanese contributes to Project Cricket Gear

Ken and Eno Verapen

NEW York Pioneer Cricket Club, influenced by USA based Guyanese Kennard Verapen, has contributed 10 boxes of white cricket balls to Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana, a joint initiative between Kishan Das of the USA and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Executive, Anil Beharry. Ken, as he is fondly known, formerly from Susannah Village along the No.19 straight road, Corentyne, Berbice, reached out to the initiative and voluntarily came on board. He is a former employee of Bank of Baroda, New Amsterdam Branch. Total cricket-related items received/purchased so far: $370,000 in cash, 13 coloured

cricket uniforms, two trophies, 18 pairs of cricket boots, 31 pairs of batting pads, 32 cricket bats, 29 pairs of batting gloves, 24 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, 10 cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, two chest guards, one softball cricket bat and 10 boxes of white balls. In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wicket-keeper/ batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time. To date, 69 young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from three junior gear bags, two trophies,

four arm guards, 27 bats, five helmets, 23 pairs of cricket shoes, 15 pairs of batting pads, two thigh pads, one bat rubber, 24 pairs of batting gloves and two pairs of wicket-keeping gloves. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area have benefitted from two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each; Cold Fusion Cricket Club 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC got three boxes of balls, 15 white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves and a set of stumps and bails. Other beneficiaries are the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem and youth coach, Travis Persaud, softball teams in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans and Just Try CC, National fast bowler Shemar Joseph and Nehemiah Hohenkirk. Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist in identifying talent. Progressive and well-managed cricket clubs with a youth programme will also benefit. Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.

beyond that, Gaikwad brought up a fifty at the other end and Rinku Singh took over from where he had left the other night in Vizag. Abbott, who had already taken a beating, was carted around mercilessly again as Rinku tonked two sixes and three fours before Ellis conceded 20 in the final over as India hammered 45 in the final two to post a daunting score. India boss the Powerplay… again! While the hosts took off with the bat in the Powerplay only after the first two overs, it took them two overs again to take charge with the ball. Australia were off to a flier as Matthew Short and Steve Smith targetted Prasidh Krishna for 20 in his opening over. But the move to bring Ravi Bishnoi immediately into the attack paid off as his googly sent Short packing. A terrific catch from Tilak Varma saw Josh Inglis, centurion from the last game, depart cheaply this time before

From left: Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad Axar Patel rounded off the Powerplay in India’s favour with the big wicket of Maxwell. Did the visitors recover? The poor start meant they had to play catch up. The wicket of Smith reduced them to 58/4 but ended up aiding their cause for a brief period. Stoinis came in with intent and started off with a four before smashing back-to-back sixes off Bishnoi straight over his head. The chase was well and truly revived when Tim David followed that with a hat-trick of boundaries off Mukesh Kumar before making the most of a freehit by fetching a six that took Australia’s run rate beyond 10. The carnage continued as three more sixes were fetched in

the space of five deliveries. From the final eight overs, Australia needed 105 runs with not only momentum on their side but dew as well. The collapse However, in what turned out to be an anti-climax, all it took was one wicket from Bishnoi in his final over to pull India back into the game. A miscue from David saw him depart for 37 and the well-set Stoinis followed him to the pavilion in the very next over. With the two dangerous batters gone, India were all over the visitors and picked wickets regularly to kill off any little hopes for good. Matthew Wade’s lusty blows at the death could only reduce the margin of defeat. (Cricbuzz)

Smith 50 in vain as Gayle’s Giants win

RAIPUR, India, (CMC) – Dwayne Smith’s half-century proved in vain as Rayad Emrit produced a tight penultimate over to help Gujarat Giants to a narrow one-run win over Urbanrisers Hyderabad in the Legends League here Sunday. Dwayne Smith. In pursuit of 194 at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Giants got a 39ball 50 from opener Smith, while Peter Trego struck a top score of 59 from 25 balls. However, with 19 runs required from the last two overs, medium pacer Emrit sent down an over which cost only six runs, leaving Trego and Jerome Taylor with the task of garnering 13 runs from the final six balls. Trego perished to the second ball from pacer Sreesanth (2-28) and Taylor could only manage a boundary off the final delivery with six runs needed. Smith had earlier punched three fours and four sixes, inspiring a 46-run second wicket stand with

Dwayne Smith Half-century proves in vain Choosing to bat first, Gurkeerat Singh Mann (22), to pull the chase around from Giants gathered 193 for five the loss of Martin Guptill (1) from their 20 overs, with with eight runs in the board. Richard Levi blasting a 19The former West Indies ball 49 and Rajat Bhatia batter then added a further 45 striking an unbeaten 39 off for the third wicket with cap- 20 balls. Veteran former West Intain Suresh Raina (13) before dies opener Chris Gayle falling in the 12th over. Trego, who belted seven chipped in with 29 from fours and four sixes, kept the 26 deliveries, posting 69 chase going first in a 46-run, for the second wicket with fifth wicket stand with Stuart Levi, who counted half-dozBinny (12) and then in a 33- en fours and three sixes. Bhatia, who struck five run stand for the sixth wicket fours and a six, then conwith Yogesh Nagar (10). Former Barbados and trolled the back end in West Indies left-arm spinner, an unbroken sixth wicket Sulieman Benn, finished partnership of 63 with Dhruv Raval who made 29. with two for 28.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Dominant Verstappen wins season finale in Abu Dhabi

RED Bull’s Max Verstappen ended the most dominant season in Formula 1 history with victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, his 19th win in 22 races. The comfortable victory, after brushing off a brief challenge from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc on the opening lap, gives Verstappen an 86.4% win rate in 2023. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez took second on the road after Leclerc let him by on the penultimate lap in a vain attempt to secure second in the constructors’ championship for Ferrari against Mercedes, but was demoted to fourth on the road by a five-second penalty that promoted George Russell to third for Mercedes and, with Lewis Hamilton securing two points for ninth place, that was enough to keep Mercedes in second place by three points. Leclerc’s strategy had been to let Perez by in the hope that the Mexican, on fresher tyres, could build

Max Verstappen: “I am proud to win the last race. It was an incredible year. It will be hard to do something similar again.” (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) The scant consolation for enough of a lead to negate last lap and delay Russell his penalty, imposed for a further in the hope that could Leclerc was that he vaulted collision with McLaren’s make the difference, but con- both Norris and his teammate Carlos Sainz to take tinued to drive at his pace. Lando Norris. Mercedes team principal, fifth in the drivers’ champiBut Perez did not quite make it, and he dropped Toto Wolff, said: “At the onship behind Verstappen, down to be classified 1.1 end, he could have pulled Perez, Hamilton and Aston the handbrake on in the last Martin’s Fernando Alonso. seconds behind Russell. But Leclerc had said beLeclerc could have cho- sector and I think that shows fore the race that he did not sen to back right off on the the character of a driver.”

care about that – and his face betrayed as much whilst he waited for the post-race interviews, his disappointment at the constructors’ result plain to see. Norris was fifth ahead of team-mate Oscar Piastri, with Alonso seventh ahead of Alpha Tauri’s Yuki Tsunoda, Hamilton and the second Aston Martin of Lance Stroll. Verstappen’s incredible season Russell said he was delighted to secure the position for Mercedes. “It means a lot to everyone back at the factory after a difficult season,” he said. “I am really happy to sure second.” Leclerc said: “Checo had a five-second penalty so we had to help him to finish in front of George, so I tried to give him the DRS and slipstream but unfortunately it was not enough.” He said he was happy Ferrari had been the second fastest car in Abu Dhabi, disappointed to lose out on

second in the championship but proud of the team for recovering strongly after they started the season with a difficult car. Verstappen said: “An incredible season. I was a little emotional on the in-lap – it is the last time I am sitting in the car which has given me a lot. “I am proud to win the last race. It was an incredible year. It will be hard to do something similar again. “We are working hard again to have a very competitive car. The other teams will be trying to beat us but we are ready for the challenge.” It had been known since Brazil two races ago that Verstappen would finish the season with a better win percentage than the previous record of 75% set by Alberto Ascari in 1952. But to beat that by more than 10% underlines the scale of his achievement this year. (BBC Sport)

Bravo ‘stepping away’ but not ‘giving up’ after latest snub PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – An aggrieved Darren Bravo said late Saturday he planned to “step away just for a bit” following the latest snub by West Indies selectors, which saw him left out of the upcoming OneDay International squad to face England next month. In an emotional post on social media platform Instagram, the 34-year-old said he had “taken some time to ponder and wonder” about his future in West Indies cricket, and while he was not “giving up”, believed a break would be the best move for his career. He gave no clear indication of the length of the break, however, but said it was proving difficult to continue finding motivation amidst the ongoing selection disappointments. “At this point in my career it’s not easy or should I say it takes a lot to continue to find the energy, the pas-

sion, commitment and discipline to be able to perform to the best of my ability and put myself in a position to make my return to international cricket,” Bravo said. The Trinidadian, still one of the region’s best players, was overlooked in a 15-man squad for the three ODIs against England, despite gathering a tournament-leading 416 runs at an average of 83 in the just concluded Super50 Cup. Bravo, who last featured for West Indies 22 months ago, also averaged 48 in last year’s Super50 Cup but was also ignored by selectors. Conceding he was in a “very dark place”, Bravo said his non-selection to any of the three representative West Indies teams currently in action at home and away was an indication that “the writing is on the wall”. “Without any level communication I’ve been left in a very dark place,” said the player who averages 30 from

122 ODIs. “At the moment there’s three teams representing the region in multiple formats/ series. That’s approximately 40-45 players and if I can’t be in any of these teams after competing in our regional tournaments and scoring runs, therefore they are basically telling me that the writing is on the wall. “I’m not giving up but I believe it’s best to step away just for a bit and maybe make some room for a young and upcoming talent. I will end by wishing each and everyone all the very best. I’ve lived my dream.” Bravo concluded the statement with the hashtag “age is just a number”. In response to Bravo’s exclusion in spite of his form, chief selector the Most Honourable Desmond Haynes said last week younger players were being given preference, especially with West Indies rebuilding for the 2027 World Cup.

T&T and West Indies batter Darren Bravo “Darren has proven not only this year but last year in the Super50 tournament, to be somebody who performs well at this level,” Haynes said. “But we have invested in

players like Alick Athanaze and Keacy Carty, and we just figured that in selecting this team, we also had to take into consideration that the World Cup 2027 is something that we’ve got in mind.

“And we believe we’ve invested in these players and believe we should give them the opportunity of playing against a very strong England side.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, November 27, 2023

Blazing Leung and Hyles ‘cop’ Cycle Road Race titles at Nationals

Alexander Leung on District 11 easily won the 40km road race ALEXANDER Leung and Savannah Hyles made an impressive start to their campaign at the 61st edition of the National Schools’ Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships by blazing to the podium in their respective cycle Road Races on Sunday morning. Leung of District 11 (North Georgetown) dominated the Boys’ Open 40km from start to finish on the

outer circuit of the National Park. He crossed the finish line in a commanding time of 1:06.82s (one hour, six minutes, and eighty-two seconds), three minutes ahead of his closest competitor. Sebastian Nathan of District 7 (Cuyuni/Mazaruni) secured second place, while Ajani Cutting of District 14 (East Bank Demerara) rounded out the podium.

In the girls' race, Hyles of District 10 (Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani) displayed exceptional endurance for the top spot, with Suria Duncan of District 6 (Corentyne) following closely behind. Coreen Mandook claimed third place with an impressive ride for District 9 (Rupununi), which competed for the first time in cycling at Nationals this year. The Road Race Open

Savannah Hyles dominated the girls’ 25km road race Cycling Finals marks the first event for Nationals. The cycling championships conclude today with the various distance races on the inner circuit of the National Park, starting at 09:00h. Simultaneously, swimming occurs at the National Aquatic Centre, while Track and Field will take centre stage from Tuesday to Friday at the National Track and Field Centre, West Coast

Demerara. 40 KM Road Race Boys Open Cycling Final 1st - Alexander Leung, District 11 2nd - Sebastian Nathan, District 7 3rd - Ajani Cutting, District 14 4th - Nivonne Wilson, District 13 5th - Alex Newton, District 11 25 KM Road Race Girls

Open Cycling Final 1st - Savannah Hyles, District 10 2nd - Suria Duncan, District 6 3rd - Coreen Mandook, District 9 4th - Dasica Batson, District 15 5th - Tandeia Noel, District 7

Parkinson wins 10k title again at Nationals - District 9’s Vannytta Francis cops girls title

FOR the second consecutive year, Odida Parkinson won the Boys Open 10k race at the National Schools’ Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships. Parkinson, of District 3 ( West Demerara), clocked 36:52.56s in a virtually unchallenged run from the village of Mary/Harlem into the National Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara, on Sunday afternoon. In a distant second was District 5’s (West Coast

Berbice) David Bovell with a time of 37:25.90s and District 6 (Corentyne) Solomon Lowenfield (38.21.50s). Likewise, Vannytta Francis of District 9 (Rupununi) comfortably won the girls' race in a time of 46:51.96s, followed by District 10’s (Upper Demerara/Kwakwani) Royanna Hermanstyne (49:09.51s) and District 2’s (Essequibo Coast & Pomeroon) Sheleima Alberts (53:35.50s). To d a y, t h e a c t i o n

Vannytta Francis of District 9 (Rupununi) comfortably won the girls’ moves to the inner circuit of the National Park for cycling and the National

Odida Parkinson went back-to-back in the Boys’ Open 10k

Aquatic Centre for swimming. Both events commence

at 09:00h. Track and Field will take centre stage at the

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

National Track and Field Centre from Tuesday to Friday.

| MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2023