Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 27-12-2023 by Guyana Chronicle

WEDNESDAY 27th December, 2023

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 107306

‘We must always be united’

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- President Ali says, points to consistent efforts to enhance Guyana’s national values Spreading Christmas cheer

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and other officials hosted events during the festive season to spread Christmas cheer (Office of the President

The perfect holiday gift: single mother of six gets house on Christmas Day

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First Lady celebrates birth of ‘Christmas babies,’ acknowledges efforts of health workers

President Ali commits $1.5M to support elderly, caregivers at Dharm Shala

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Guyana aims to acquire ‘fit-for-purpose’ vessels

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- to enhance local travel, Public Works Minister says

First Lady Arya Ali, in a post on her official Facebook page, said: “While we usually use this occasion to celebrate our ‘Christmas babies,’ I want to also celebrate our healthcare workers who provide selfless service year-round. As of 9:00hrs on Tuesday, seven Christmas babies were safely delivered at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) because of the hard work, commitment, and sacrifice of our healthcare workers. December 25 symbolises hope, and the beginning of new possibilities. The birth of these babies bring just that - hope of a life full of exciting possibilities. May their lives be filled with love, happiness and success.” (GPHC photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

‘We must always be united’

- President Ali says, points to consistent efforts to enhance Guyana’s national values

IN the face of ongoing challenges, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said that the country’s national unity and the surge of patriotism reflects a conscious effort by the government to address not only external challenges, but also to instill a strong sense of national values among citizens, especially the youths. President Ali, during his recent address at a Private Sector Commission (PSC) event, referenced the surge in unity and patriotism that was observed when the country faced aggressive threats from Venezuela, and again when the nation suffered a tremendous loss, when five of the country’s bravest soldiers died in a tragic helicopter accident. Brigadier Gary Beaton, Project Engineer, GOG; Colonel Michael Shahoud, Commander of First Infantry Battalion; Lt. Col Michael Charles, Pilot; Lt. Col Sean Welcome, Commanding Officer Reserve Battalion; and Warrant Officer Class II, Jason Khan of 31 Special Forces Squadron died tragically when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in the Mazaruni area. The Bell 412 army helicopter occupied by the men and piloted by Lt Col Charles, lost signal some 30 miles from Guyana’s border near Venezuela. Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Wayne Jackson, who were also on board, survived the tragic crash. The seven-man team was on a mission to visit troops stationed on the ground at the country’s western border. During the past month, military presence had been multiplied at that

location due to the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela. President Ali, in his recent address, began by acknowledging the remarkable resilience displayed by Guyanese citizens during times of hardship, sorrow, and national challenges. He noted the unwavering ability of the people to come together, highlighting that this spirit is essential not just in moments of pain, but as a continuous force that unites the nation. "It is the same spirit that moves us and our country needs most, [it] is this same spirit that is required continuously every day, every second, to move us together as One Guyana. “It cannot be the pain of the moment that drives us together. Pain of the moment teaches us that we have the ability to come together, that we have the ability to love each other, that we have the ability to lift each other up, and that is a valuable lesson,” President Ali said. The President drew attention to the current surge in nationalistic and patriotic sentiments within the country. He expressed pride in witnessing small children proudly wearing t-shirts featuring the Guyana map and young people rekindling their connection with the nation. President Ali sees this as an opportunity for a positive shift, pointing out the importance of retaining this newfound nationalistic fervour as a permanent part of the Guyanese identity. “In every challenge, there's an opportunity. Today, I see small children proudly wearing t-shirts

with the Guyana map, small children speaking glowingly about the Essequibo. I see young people realigning themselves with their country. Let this reminder remain a

united. Earlier this month, President Ali met with Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and

itated by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, and was observed by Brazil, CARICOM, and a UN Under-Secretary-General.

an 11-point agreement which addresses matters consequential to the border controversy, including the fact that Guyana holds firmly to its position that the sub-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali interacts with Region Two youths who participated in the Day of Public Awareness and Prayer that was recently observed across the country

permanent part of who we are as Guyanese,” he said. In response to Venezuela’s aggressive rhetoric, Guyana had launched a nationwide awareness campaign to ensure that all citizens are informed about the border controversy and to foster a collective sense of unity. The nationwide Circle of Unity event, part of this broader campaign, witnessed active participation from schools, businesses, and individuals from every race, contributing to a harmonious night of patriotic reflection at the National Stadium, Providence. President Ali sees this inclusive fight against external threats as a testament to the strength of the Guyanese people when

the Grenadines, where there was a commitment to peace. The meeting was facil-

This historic meeting culminated in what is now known as the “Argyle Declaration,”

stantive case is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Accountability: Journalism in Guyana today

FROM today through to December 31, I am going to continue in the vein of assessing people, places and events and wait until Sunday January 1, 2024 to assess the old year both in Guyana and the world. Beginning from the new year, I will also reflect on my columns of 2023 that I consider the most important. My wife is a trained chemical engineer. So my daughter went to UG to do chemistry but after graduation, switched interest. She did two Masters, one in International Journalism offering a thesis on the Guyana 2020 election and the role of the media and a related Masters in literature. The journalism thing appeared natural because she grew up with her father spending a lifetime in journalism. There have been countless hours spent with her in-

structing her on the priceless foundations on which rest the very nature of journalism. She grew up knowing Father Andrew Morrison more closely than any other non-family members. I took her quite often to the office of Father Morrison. When he wrote his book, “Justice: The Struggle for Democracy in Guyana, 1952-1992,” he autographed it for her. Journalism along with medicine and teaching are three immensely important functions in the life of the world. I hope my daughter embraces all the sacred principles of journalism and I have not a scintilla of doubt that she will. I had the best experience as a Guyanese in journalism working with valuable editors at all the major newspapers. My journalistic idol is Father Andrew Morison of the Catholic Standard. My lowest

moment has been with the editor of Kaieteur News, Adam Harris. I grew up in the ethereal era of golden journalism in the 1970s when the Catholic Standard and the Caribbean Contact were a breath-taking journey into the journalism of courage, fierce independence, manifest accountability and moral endurance. Today, global journalism, since the Israeli genocide in Gaza, has become an exercise in incredible moral shamelessness. Today, American journalism threatens the very fabric of American society. In Guyana, journalism has descended to a level where it could be argued that it has become saturated with anti-government hate and there are conspicuous shades of moral debauchery never before seen in this country except in the 1960s, when the CIA used the media as part of a Western conspiracy to topple the elected Cheddi Jagan government. The paper that exceeded

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

shameless anti-government frenzy in those days was The Argosy. In an atavistic return to the Argosy, the two private newspapers of Kaieteur News and the Stabroek News, have gone in anti-government directions that should shock to the core anyone who belongs to the journalism of the 1970s and 1980s. One of the rallying cries of the anti-government media is accountability from government. It is not a rallying cry only; it is an obsession. The anti-government media refuses to accept that society goes nowhere and will become brittle if accountability is not accepted as a priceless value that holds civilisation together. Accountability is a value that inheres in the social contract between citizens themselves and not only between governed and governor. The great philosopher, Immanuel Kant, Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, David Hume, and the superb 20th

century philosopher, John Rawles placed emphasis on the role of accountability in society, meaning among people not only among the state and its subjects. The brilliant Indian philosopher, Amartya Sen did a fantastic job taking Rawle’s philosophy to its logical conclusion in his fantastic book, THE IDEA OF JUSTICE, Harvard University Press, Boston, 2009. This is a book any one that is interested in saving modern civilisation should read. What is taking place in Guyana in journalism today is the journalism of The Argosy in the 1960s and the journalism of Fox News in the US and The Telegraph in London, UK. In my column of Thursday, July 27, 2023, titled, “Definition of accountability,” I wrote the following; “…the media has to be accountable to the people of Guyana just like any other institution including the government.” What we have in

Guyana, is a media landscape so arrogant, bombastic and unaccountable that Guyanese society interested in saving itself has a moral duty to confront. It once I have a pen and a voice, I will do so. The Demerara Waves gave prominent coverage to the WPA’s condemnation of President Ali’s performance in the St. Vincent talks. Who or what is the WPA? It is a two-man outfit that has no physiology. The Stabroek News gave prominence to the same view point by the WPA but refused to carry the letters of Guyana’s leading financial analyst – Joel Bhagwandin. The internal election of the Guyana Press Association in 2023 was one of the biggest disgraces in the history of Guyanese journalism. Mr. Anand Persaud, editor of the Stabroek News refused to name its board of directors. Is that accountability?

Development being briskly pursued by PPP/C Gov’t

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

- Dr Jagdeo says; reaffirms manifesto promises are sacred

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has maintained that his government, despite challenges, has kept their promises and Guyana has seen a new chapter of development under the current administration. During a press conference, he said: “We hold sacred those promises, notwithstanding the unnecessary distractions that sometimes come our way and the criticisms, many of which are unjustified that are levelled against us. We remain focused on what we promised the people of this country and we are committed to ensuring that we deliver on them.” Addressing the state of the nation under the previous coalition government, the PPP/C General Secretary said that APNU+AFC did not keep their promises to the people of Guyana and thus, the country saw a

“period of retrogression in national development.” In three years of PPP/C governance, the removal of taxes and implementation of numerous initiatives have put more disposal income into the pockets of every Guyanese, Dr Jagdeo said. President Dr. Irfaan Ali, earlier this year, highlighted that, in just under three years, the government has removed taxes on food items, electricity, water, fuel and medical supplies. Additionally, taxes were removed from the importation of vehicles, cellphones and data. “Since we came to office, our policy has been pursuing initiatives that put more money in people’s pockets that create and expand employment, and foster an environment for building prosperity for all, and ensuring that we build a strong resilient and sustainable economy,” the Head of State had said. Dr. Ali said that the gov-

ernment has almost completed the implementation of its manifesto promises that were made during the 2020 general elections campaign season. “The more than 200 taxes and fees that we removed, including D&I [drainage and irrigation] charges, vat on exports and building materials; all of those vats and taxes we removed completely, benefitted all of Guyana, putting tens of billions of dollars in the pockets of the ordinary people, the farmers, every household, ordinary workers, this is where these recourses go,” he said. The Head of State said too that the government has created thousands of jobs and the right conditions for the private sector to employ persons; restored and increased the Because We Care cash grant, increased old age pension, and offered other incentives to improve the lives of Guyanese. Further, the government

PPP/C General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has invested heavily into ensuring that all Guyanese can be proud homeowners. “More than 25,000 house lots have already been allocated, investing in people’s welfare; giving them the opportunity to own their own homes, not only giving them

the opportunity, but bringing down the interest rate,” Dr. Ali said. He further reminded of the cement and steel subsidy initiative that was implemented to accelerate home construction, and support home builders across the

country. Additionally, the government has facilitated pay increases for public servants and recorded a 25 per cent cumulative pay increase since assuming office.

Chief Investment Officer, and Head of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, highlighted, a few months ago, the level of priority that the government has been placing on investment in the Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) sector over the past few years. He also highlighted the initiatives by the government to create employment throughout the country and facilitate the rapid expansion of economic activities countrywide to boost the economy and support the diversification of the nonoil sector.

It was said that the government believes this sector is ripe for opportunities in Guyana given Guyana’s qualifications of near shore to the Americas, time zone, and supply of a young educated population. The government is targeting for the BPO industry to provide a minimum of 15,000 jobs across Guyana by 2025. E a r l i e r l a s t y e a r, Go-Invest conducted studies in Regions Two, Three, Five, Six and 10 to understand the workforce capacity and assess the regions’ potential for the expansion of BPO outlets

in those regions. Since then, work has already begun on construction of a number of buildings to house call centres across the country. The PPP/C government has taken steps to promote the development of the ICT sector in Guyana, including liberalisation of the telecommunication sector and investment in ICT education. The liberalisation of the sector has resulted in tangible benefits, including greater access to connectivity, with expansions in Linden, Essequibo and Berbice, and reduced prices.

Gov’t invites bids for construction of two call centres in Region Five

MORE jobs are on the cards for residents of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), as bids will be opened shortly for the construction of two call centres within the region. On January 3, 2024, the government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, Central Housing and Planning Authority will be seeking eligible bidders to undertake the construction of a call centre at Hope Town and Mahaicony in Region Five. Bids for the project are to be submitted on January 3, 2024, to the

Chairman of the office of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). Bidders must submit one hard copy and two electronic copies of the tenders. According to the Invitation for Bids (IFB),

bidding will be conducted through the National Committee Bidding (NCB) procedures, as specified in the Procurement Act 2003. Bidders are asked to adhere to all of the necessary requests for a bid security.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Give Peace A Chance

PRESIDENT, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali in his Christmas Day message to the Guyanese people urged everyone, including world leaders, to give peace a chance. This call could not have been timelier given the conflicts and tension in several regions of the world, most notably in the Middle East involving Israel and Palestine. The situation in Gaza is particularly distressing, given the large number of civilian casualties and the

dire humanitarian crisis. There is also the ongoing war in Ukraine as a consequence of the Russian invasion. There are also the calamities caused by climate change. But peace is much more than the absence of war. It is also about the agony of not having enough to eat; about not having enough medicine to treat the sick and children not having access to opportunities for education. Thankfully in Guy-

ana, we are spared such catastrophe. We live in a society in which opportunities abound and where Guyanese, regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation are provided with a chance to develop their talent to the full limit of their potential. This is not to suggest that we are without our challenges. We are faced with an existential threat to our sovereign territory by our western neighbour. If there is one

intriguing outcome from the Venezuelan threat, it is that our resolve and our determination to overcome have been strengthened. We have emerged stronger as a nation and much more united. We remain wedded to our multiculturalism. This was particularly evident during our Christmas celebrations. Guyanese from all walks of life participated in one way or another during the festivities. The mood was good and so was the

The heart of Guyana Dear Editor, UNDER the golden sun of Guyana, there is a leader named President Ali. He isn't just any leader; he has the heart of a lion, a heart that roared with love for his people. This story, it's about a man not content to sit high and mighty in his office. Nah, he is a man who walks among his people, who knows their laughter and their tears, a brother in every sense of the word. Now, let's take a journey back to a Christmas at

the One Guyana Kitchen -- picture this: a room alive with joy, lights twinkling like stars, and the air rich with the aroma of pepperpot and fresh bread. President Ali, he was right there, not just observing, but participating, giving out toys to the little ones. Every toy was a symbol, a little piece of hope and joy for the future. The people, they couldn't help but sing his praises on Facebook. They saw in him a leader who wasn't just passing through, but one who

genuinely understood them. But Ali, he is a man of many layers; more than just a figurehead of happiness. His life is a delicate balance -- sweet moments interwoven with the weight of leadership. Like that time he invited children from Tiger Bay, Kingston, and Alberttown for breakfast. It wasn't just a meal; it was a gathering of hearts, a tapestry of unity and affection, ensuring every child felt valued and heard. Beyond the smiles and

warm embraces, Ali is sharp as a cutlass when it comes to the big matters. With a strategic eye, he watches over Guyana, guarding against threats from places such as Venezuela. He stood firm, unyielding, a testament to strength and grace under pressure. He ensured Guyana was prepared, with allies such as the UK and US training on Guyanese soil, ready for any storm that might come. And then there were those moments away from the public eye, when

optimism. There is today a pervasive sense of optimism and hope never before experienced. And not without good reason. Our economic fortunes are changing in significant ways, due in part to our newly found riches but also to visionary leadership by President Ali and the PPP/C administration. We are ranked as the fastest-growing economy in the world. We are today a respected member in the commu-

nity of nations. We are no longer the laughing stock of the world as was the case during the PNC’s dictatorial rule. The prospects for Guyana look good. Guyanese are eagerly looking forward to the new year, 2024, which promises to be yet another productive year. Indeed, we have much to be thankful for during the past year, despite our adversities and challenges.

Ali delved deep into discussions about agriculture, the economy, and the nation's well-being. He knows the essence of a happy nation is in the well-being of its people – full bellies, stable jobs, and safe homes. He is more than a president; he is a guardian of his people's future, a visionary shaping a path as bright as the Kaieteur Falls under the midday sun. But here's the thing that truly set Ali apart – his unscripted moments with the people. Driving through the streets of Guyana, he would often stop the car, roll down his window, and engage with anyone he met. Market vendors, school kids,

elders sitting on their porches – they all knew him, and he knew them. These weren't just quick hellos; he listened, shared stories, and laughed with them, a true man of the people. So, as you reflect on this tale, remember, he is de real heart of Guyana, a solid rock of hope in hard times. He nah just lead from far, nah, he right deh in de mixup of we community, steady and full of care. Dat's President Ali fuh yuh – a man wid a lion heart, a loving protector, carrying he people towards a bright and rich future. Respectfully, Haimdat Sawh

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Happy holidays, dear countrymen and women

Dear Editor, “CHESTNUTS roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Yuletide carols being sung by a choir and folks dressed up like Eskimos…Although it’s been said, many times, many ways, Merry Christmas, to you.” So, another year has almost passed and Christmas is upon us once again. It is the time of year when Christians reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ whom they worship as their Lord and Saviour. While Christmas is a festive season that represents peace on earth and goodwill towards all mankind, our sympathy goes out to all those who are bedridden in hospitals and have lost loved ones during the year. This Yuletide season should serve as a period of reflection on our lives and how we must redouble our efforts in 2024 to uplift others, live in peace and

harmony and to make Guyana prosperous. If there is ever a time when politics should take a holiday, that time is at Christmas when families come together to celebrate. It would be very easy to dwell on the negative, but in this blessed and joyous season, let us choose happiness and embrace the special joy of a Guyanese Christmas. Those who are able to enjoy the warmth of the sunshine in Guyana and its fine dishes: pepperpot, curry, cook-up, ham, black cake and ginger beer, should think of their sisters and brothers in the diaspora who are overwhelmed with nostalgia at this time of the year. Christmas is a time of healing and goodwill to all mankind. What more appropriate time can there be for us Guyanese to forget the hurt, the animosity, the persecution, the frustration and the bitterness of the past? We call on each one

of you to renew your spirit and love towards one another, hold out the hand of friendship to neighbours and friends; to those from whom we have been estranged and have done you wrong. Let us recapture the spirit of the message that brought joy to the world 2,000 years ago by the Babe of Bethlehem. Let us celebrate and be happy and pledge to work together to free Guyana from the monsters of poverty, crime, and unemployment. We must spare no effort to understand the true meaning of peace, love and happiness. In this festive season, we join our brothers and sisters to pray for Guyana as one nation, to make sure all of our 83,000 square miles of our territory remain intact, the prosperity of all Guyanese and for commonsense and understanding to prevail in their actions at all times. We also pray for peace, happiness and goodwill towards

all and for love towards one another. Perhaps the holidays will give our leaders a chance to reflect on a plan that is inclusive of all in society, embrace the new year as one of healing, atonement and cooperation. There is no shortage of sharing and goodwill in Guyana, especially at this time of year. There are stories everywhere of people giving to the less fortunate, the elderly, and to children. There are many more acts of kindness being displayed throughout the holiday season but which are not reported. To those who have and continue to extend a kind and helping hand to others, we thank you for a job well done. For if that display of human compassion helps to change the life of just

one person for the better, it would have been worth the effort. We would be remiss if we did not express our deep concern and heartfelt love for the future of our beloved country and to the government, especially President Ali and Prime Minister, Brigadier Mark Phillips for their tireless and gallant efforts to dissuade any attempts to invade Guyana's Essequibo region by the Maduro regime of Venezuela. We commend and admire them as our true leaders and those who are helping the poor, who through no fault of their own are struggling to make ends meet. Our fervent wish in this season of goodwill is that all will put their shoulders to the wheel to help develop

and build Guyana so that all can share in the bounties of its prosperity. We love politics but more importantly, we love Guyana and the people who are fighting for change. God bless our beautiful and beloved Guyana and its resilient, loving and caring people. We remain proud of the people of Guyana and wish them a bright, successful and happy future and sincerely hope that they live to see and enjoy many more Christmases. Merry Christmas dear countrymen and women; we hope you enjoy the festive season in peace, love and happiness. May God bless all of you and keep you safe. Yours respectfully, Asquith Rose.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

A Guyanese Christmas Homecoming: Overseas engineer reflects on roots and celebrates joy - says ‘there is no country in the world that celebrates Christmas as Guyana’

By Cindy Parkinson SWINGING in a hammock beneath the familiar eaves of his mother's home, Johnny Nandkishun found himself enveloped in a wave of nostalgia as he sipped gingerbread and savored a slice of black cake. The seasoned auto electrical engineer, affectionately known as 'future man' in Jango Town, shared his heartwarming journey with the Guyana Chronicle, recounting the simplicity and joy of Christmases past. “Growing up as the only son amongst two girls was not always easy; the expectations of me were high, but I was the kid who always wanted to ensure that my mother and sisters were okay in life, especially after my father left us. Of course, like most Guyanese at that time, we had limited means,

but that did not prevent us from having a wonderful Christmas.” An emotional Johnny explained: “Like I said, we hadn’t much, but rest assured that we had some little gift wrapped and waiting on us—the gift that Santa brought, of course. It was probably the only day in the year that every child rises before the sun. The sounds of toy guns, trucks, and even the crying of dolls could have been heard throughout the villages and on our street. I remembered the scent of my mother’s and neighbour’s cooking, but we were too excited to feel hungry. The masquerade bands, the loud laughter all around, and the loud music coming from every household—listen, those days were indeed the best.” Reflecting on his humble beginnings and the determination to uplift his

Overseas-based Guyanese Johnny Nankishun family, Johnny emphasised that no country celebrates Christmas quite like Guyana. Despite facing challenges, his childhood memories were filled with the unique magic of Guyanese Christmas - wrapped gifts, the anticipation of Santa's surprises, and the infectious sounds of laughter and music echoing through the

villages. "Growing up as the only son among two girls was not always easy," Johnny recalled. "But I always wanted to ensure that my mother and sisters were okay in life, especially after my father left us. We may not have had much, but Christmas was always wonderful." Now an accomplished professional overseas, Johnny acknowledged that success hadn't dulled his connection to his roots. "I am grateful for the life I've worked hard for, but I haven't forgotten my roots," he stated. His return to Guyana after years away was prompted by the transformation of the country and a deep love for an authentic

Guyanese Christmas. Despite the passage of decades since his last Christmas at home, Johnny expressed pride in witnessing Guyana's resilience. He credited the people for standing strong in the face of challenges and commended President Ali for leading the nation. His surprise visit to his mother was not only a personal celebration but also a symbolic show of support for his homeland. Reflecting on his past, from attending Bladen Hall Secondary School to buying his first car in Guyana, Johnny extended heartfelt holiday wishes to his fellow Guyanese. In a message of unity, he acknowledged differences but emphasised the

shared warmth and hospitality that define Guyanese culture. "To my fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters, I want to wish you all-season greetings and a prosperous 2024," Johnny declared. "Let's take a moment to reflect on our lives and be grateful for the positives. Guyanese are known for our hospitality and love for each other. Season greetings!" As Johnny embraces the festive season with his family, his story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Guyana and its people, celebrating unity, resilience, and the magic of a Guyanese Christmas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Comprehensive health plan to be

implemented to tackle chronic diseases in 2024

A COMPREHENSIVE health plan to tackle various chronic diseases in the country is slated to roll out in 2024, Technical Officer for Diabetes, Dr Nandishaw Ramsingh has re-emphasised. Dr Ramsingh was at the time speaking on the Ministry of Health’s ‘Health Matters’ programme which was broadcast Friday last. According to the technical officer, the ministry remains committed to bridging the gap in the delivery of advanced healthcare services even in remote areas. The medical practitioner outlined exten-

Technical Officer for Diabetes at the Ministry of Health, Dr Nandishaw Ramsingh

sive plans for 2024, emphasising the commitment of the Ministry of Health, particularly the Chronic Disease Unit, to conducting numerous outreaches. Dr Ramsingh explained that the goal is

to engage with a broader audience and promote a healthier population. Along with these outreaches, more screening activities are to be done for diseases such as diabetes as well

as high and low blood pressure. Accordingly, she said new training programmes are also expected to be rolled out. Incorporating these advanced courses will ensure healthcare workers are on par with the new evidence-based medicine that the ministry has to offer. “We would also like the public to keep in tune with the ministry’s page so that they will know when we will be rolling out these programmes and strat-

egies. Because come January and February we just want to see fewer persons being ill,” the technical officer stated. Meanwhile, General Medical Officer at the ministry’s Diabetic Centre, Dr Davina Ramsingh, noted that like before, the health ministry will be targeting persons 25 years and older with these new strategies that are slated to be implemented. She explained that these persons are being

targeted because they are more at risk. According to her, in most cases, persons who go to the clinic are older than 25 and already have diabetes. Targeting persons at an earlier age will help the ministry to capture the disease at the right time or prevent it, which will also aid in the ministry’s goal of eliminating certain diseases by 2030. (DPI)

Guyana aims to acquire ‘fit-for-purpose’ vessels

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

- to enhance local travel, Public Works Minister says MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill had said that the Gov-

ernment of Guyana is looking to acquire fitfor-purpose vessels to

enhance local travel. The minister made this announcement re-

The M.V. Ma Lisha which arrived in Guyana earlier this year and set out on its maiden voyage in August

cently in a response to questions regarding various passenger vessels traversing Guyana’s waters and the procurement of other vessels. He said while some persons might question the age of vessels operating here, at this, time fit-for-purpose is what is required. “The issue here of age is something that all of us in this house must recognise. At this time, fit-for-purpose is what is required while you go to the next level,” he said during the recent sitting of the National Assembly. The next level, Edghill related, would entail ef-

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill forts to acquire new vessels. He mentioned that one of the challenges experienced in trying to acquire new vessels includes the time it takes to be able to procure them. He disclosed that at one of the most recent trade missions from the United States was engaged on the possibility of assisting with the procurement of vessels that might be available at auctions on the US market. Edghill indicated: “So while somebody might want to say you’re buying an old vessel, to get a new one takes two years or even more.”

However, he added that they were able to get the government of India through the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), to build the M.V. Ma Lisha in record time and deliver it to Guyana. “So you have to see what the market has to offer… but we are looking at acquiring fitfor-purpose vessels that will one, improve consumption, two, time in terms of travel and certainly as a number one priority and I should've said that first, safety,” Edghill said.

GDF executes successful Christmas Day medivac

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

ON Christmas Day, two teams of personnel from the Guyana Defence Force, who were going above and beyond their regular duties, successfully performed two separate medical evacuations from the hinterland villages of Imbaimadai and Kato to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The patients were an eight-month-old baby boy from Kurukubaru, Region Eight, and a fivemonth-old baby girl from Imbaimadai, Region Seven. The infants developed difficulty breathing. As a result, subsequent requests were made for them to be transferred to GPHC.

The crews were called at approximately 13:00 hours, and due to the time of day and possible weather challenges, two aircraft were launched to extract the patients. Colonel Aziz Nazamudeen and Lieutenant Bibi Hakh piloted the aircraft from Kato, while their colleagues, Lieutenant Shane Jones

The patients were an eight-month-old baby boy from Kurukubaru, Region Eight and a five-month-old baby girl from Imbaimadai, Region Seven

and Civilian Captain Gavin Harewood, piloted the aircraft from Imbaimadai. Additionally, the

medics that administered care to the infants were Lance Corporal Desmond Pompey and Private Shaffon France,

while the driver of the ambulance was Corporal Mark Bernard.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

The perfect holiday gift: Single mother of six gets house on Christmas Day

The Berbice mother cuts the symbolic red ribbon to enter her new, furnished home on Christmas Day A SINGLE mother and gifted a brand new fur- (MOM) initiative, and her six children, on nished home through public spirited persons. Christmas day, were the men on mission The Berbice family

The family’s home was built through the Men on Mission initiative and the assistance of public-spirted persons had previously lived in a ed persons had made rec- distributing 50,000 house shanty hut, but regional ommendations on behalf lots as well as providing officials and public-spirit- of the family for a new homes to the populace house to be built. through numerous housP r e s i d e n t , D r. I r- ing programmes. faan Ali and other offiAlso delivering brief cials joined the family remarks, the Guyana Dein commissioning their fence Force (GDF) Chief new house at Belvedere, of Staff, Omar Khan, who Corentyne, Berbice. has been tasked with the “We are pleased this responsibility to lead the morning [Christmas day] MOM initiative, said to share this glorious mo- similar activities will be ment with you and your expected in the New Year. six children,” the Head of “I’m happy to be a State said while address- part of the Men on a ing the family. Mission initiative. We The woman has com- would have launch this mitted to finding mean- programme just over a ingful employment to year ago and what we are ensure that her children seeing here today is one will attend school. The of the benefits coming Men on Mission initiative out from this initiative,” financed the construc- he said, adding: “The tion of the house, while Men on Mission platform members of the business is an important aspect of the President’s vision for community furnished it. Additionally, the fam- Guyana and I am happy ily received a laptop and and we all are happy to be other support to contrib- a part of any benefit comute to the children’s ed- ing to the people and this ucation. is one demonstration.” Finance Minister, Dr. The MOM initiative Ashni Singh, who joined is the brainchild of Presthe Head of State, said: ident Ali, and is meant “The story of provid- to uplift the younger ing shelter to Guyanese generation of men who families is replicated a face many societal ills, thousand times over. In such as drug abuse, dofact, we have the good mestic violence, gang fortune of having a Pres- violence, and other viident who is a former olent crimes. The inMinister of Housing… tention is to provide we have someone who is men with guidance and more than acutely aware counselling, recreational of how important it is for and fitness activities, every single Guyanese and create economic family to have their own empowerment through home.” temporary employment The Finance Minister schemes. reminded of the government’s commitment to

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

President Ali commits $1.5M to support elderly, caregivers at Dharm Shala

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali on Christmas Day joined the elderly residents of the Dharm Shala for a luncheon, and pledged $1.5 million to support the organisation’s efforts (Office of the President photos)

By Naomi Parris PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali has pledged a donation of $1.5 million to support the elderly and those who

care for them at the Dharm Shala. The Head of State on Christmas Day joined the residents and caregivers of the local charity for a luncheon

at its’ Albouystown, Georgetown location. “We will contribute $1.5 million to support you and we are very pleased at the work that you do here.

Chief Executive of the board, Edward Boyer

“I want to thank all the caregivers who support you in ensuring that these wonderful folks are well taken care of in assuring that their needs are attended to,” he added. Dr. Ali said: “It is institutions like these that add to the humanness of living, and to humanity. It is institutions and families like these that keep us grounded to that humanness of our existence.” The President emphasised that organisations such as the Dharm Shala act as pillars that highlight the importance of compassion and care in the face of numerous global difficulties. He further commended the organisation, stating that it was important to recognise the senior population's contributions to the nation's progress. “We live in a world today where sometimes we question where has humanness gone; we look at the wars across

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addresses the gathering at the Dharm Shala

the world, the conflicts; we look at the way we treat each other and we have lost that ability to showcase our humanness; but this institution, this family, this gathering demonstrate how important that humanness is,” President Ali said. Meanwhile, Chief Executive of the institution’s board, Edward Boyer, thanked the President and his government for their continued support. “I’d like to thank our president for being here…he has made a fine gesture to the Dharm Shala…and that will go a long way… he has always been so kind and so helpful in every way,” Boyer highlighted.

Last year, the Head of State donated some $2 million to the institution and announced that its water charges would be waived. Upholding its mission of offering charitable assistance to the needy population, the Dharm Shala has served as a sanctuary for the elderly for more than a century. Pandit Ramsaroop Maharaj, who was adamant about the importance of assisting people, founded it in 1921. His grand-daughters Pamela and Kelly Ramsaroop are currently in charge of the organisation.

General Assembly approves $3.59B UN budget for 2024

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

THE General Assembly has approved a $3.59 billion budget for the United Nations for 2024, including the establishment of a special account to finance the Organisation’s peacebuilding fund. In actions taken late evening on Friday, the 193-member General Assembly also adopted nearly $50 million in additional funding for decisions taken by the Human Rights Council, the UN’s primary forum on human rights matters. It also decided to establish the multi-year Peacebuilding Account, as a means of financing the Peacebuilding Fund. Additionally, it approved $50 million of assessed contributions per annum to fund the Account, starting 1 January 2025. The Peacebuilding Fund is the UN’s leading instrument to invest in prevention and peacebuilding efforts and supports joint responses to address critical peacebuilding opportunities, connecting development, humanitarian, human

rights and peacebuilding pillars. SECRETARYGENERAL’S PROPOSAL Back in October, the Secretary-General had presented a $3.3 billion budget proposal to the General Assembly, stressing to delegates at the Assembly’s main budget committee that “the role of the United Nations has never been more vital.” In his presentation, the UN chief also voiced concern over the deteriorating liquidity situation of the organisation, urging countries to ensure timely and full payments. STRENGTHENING COMMUNICATIONS The Assembly further adopted a resolution that includes provisions to expand the coverage of UN official intergovernmental meetings in Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Spanish languages. The 20 positions, classified as general temporary assistance

(GTA), includes editors, press officers and assistants working in the four languages. UNRWA STAFF DEATHS CONDEMNED Also on Friday, the General Assembly adopted a resolution condemning the killing of relief agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) staff and the destruction of buildings under the UN flag, amidst the ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip. As of Saturday, 142 UNRWA staff members have been killed and 123 installations damaged. Other UN agencies, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) have also lost their personnel. On Friday, Issam Al Mughrabi, a UNDP staff member alongside his wife, children and members of his extended family were killed in an Israeli air strike. (UN News)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Two killed in accident at Le Destin

THE police are investigating a fatal accident which occurred around 06:00hrs on Monday, on the Le Destin public road, East Bank Essequibo, and which resulted in the death of two men, both of whom are residents of De Kinderen, West Coast Demerara. The accident involved motorcar # PXX 872, driven by Lechan Mangal (now deceased), a 25-yearold of Lot 5 De Kinderen 'Old Road,' West Coast Demerara; and occupant Stephon Anthony Basdeo (now deceased), a 26-yearold of Lot 1 De Kinderen 'Old Road', and Aubrey Hardy, a 27-year-old of De Kinderen. Investigations so far indicate that the car (#PXX 872) was

proceeding east along the northern side of the road at a fast rate, and the driver lost control and crashed into a container on the parapet. As a result of the collision, Mangal and Basdeo received injuries to their bodies and both men were picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where they were seen and examined by a doctor on duty who pronounced them dead on arrival. The bodies were escorted to the Ezekiel Funeral Home, where they are awaiting PMEs. Hardy, who received head injuries, is receiving treatment at the Leonora Cottage Hospital and his condition is regarded as stable.

60-year-old pedestrian dies in accident at Windsor Forest

POLICE are investigating a fatal accident which occurred around 17:25 hours on Sunday at Temple Street, Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, which resulted in the death of a 60-year-old resident/pedestrian. The accident involved motor lorry GAF 4320, driven by Reyad Mohamed, a 21-year-old driver of Temple Street, Windsor Forest, and pedestrian Shazad Mohamed (now deceased), a 60-year-old self-employed resident of Temple Street, Windsor Forest. Enquiries disclosed that the lorry (GAF 4320) was reversing from west going

east on the road when the vehicle collided with the pedestrian who was walking and pushing his pedal cycle behind the lorry. As a result of the collision, the pedestrian fell on the road surface and was “ran over” by the left-side front wheel of the lorry. The pedestrian was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty who pronounced him dead on arrival. The body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Jamaica out, Antigua in again for 2024 season KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – An Antigua-based franchise will replace the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League next year. According to media reports, Kris Persaud, a Guyanese business executive based in the United States, owned the Tallawahs, but he has sold it back to the CPL because ownership was unable to find a sustainable operating model. “The owners were left with no option but to sell the Tallawahs back to CPL as they could not find a way to operate the team sustainably,” a CPL spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo.

The Antigua Hawksbills played in the first two seasons of the CPL, winning only three matches, before being replaced by St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, but no name has yet been proposed for the new franchise to be started in St John’s. Antigua & Barbuda minister of sport, Daryll Matthew said in the Senate earlier this week: “We can expect very easily and conservatively to generate approximately US$6 million per year by simply having a CPL franchise based in Antigua & Barbuda.” A CPL spokesman said the League is committed to having a team based in Jamaica, but this will be “in 2025 at the earliest”. “In 2024, there will be six teams taking part in the CPL with franchises based in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago,” the CPL spokesman said. Fresh from a 3-2 series win against England, West Indies T20I captain Rovman Powell said it was “disappointing” for his home island

not to have a franchise. Powell led the Tallawahs to their second CPL title last year, but Jamaica has not hosted any CPL games for the past four years, also owing to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) when health and safety issues led to the tournament being staged in a single territory. “Jamaica is the biggest island in the Caribbean, a proud nation, a proud cricketing nation,” he said. “For those things to be happening is a little bit disappointing.” Jamaica did not bid and so will not stage any matches in the T20I World Cup next year and previously staged an international match in August last year. “Obviously, I’m a Jamaican, and I want to play in front of my home crowd, but for the last few years, I haven’t,” Powell said. “(Cricket West Indies) and the Jamaican government really have to sit down and have a conversation about that.” The 2024 CPL season is expected to start in mid-August and extend into September.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Luka Doncic reaches 10,000 career points as Dallas Mavericks beat Phoenix Suns

LUKA Doncic reached a milestone of 10,000 career points as the Dallas Mavericks beat the Phoenix Suns 128-114 on Christmas Day. The Slovenian also recorded 50 points, 15 assists and six rebounds, plus eight three-point shots in Phoenix, Arizona. It was the sixth game in

the regular season that Doncic, 24, had scored 50 points. He told ESPN he was "feeling good" after scoring 10,000 points in 358 games. Doncic is the joint seventh-fastest player in NBA history to reach the 10,000 target along with Bob McAdoo, while Wilt Chamberlain holds the record of 236

games. The win for Dallas was the team's second in a row after losing their previous three games. Phoenix have now lost nine of their past 12 games. Mavericks' Derrick Jones Jr added 23 points, Dereck Lively II had 20 points and 10 rebounds and

Tim Hardaway Jr scored 18 points. Also on Monday, rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr recorded career highs with 31 points and 10 rebounds as the Miami Heat secured a 119-113 win against the Philadelphia 76ers. Bam Adebayo added 26 points and 15 rebounds

Luka Doncic (right) also made four steals and three blocked shots during a standout performance for the Dallas Mavericks in Phoenix, Arizona and Tyler Herro scored consecutive victory. (BBC 22 points in Miami's third Sport).

India register first women’s Test win over Australia

INDIA secured their first Test win over Australia with an eight-wicket victory in a one-off match in Mumbai. Australia began the final day with five second innings wickets in hand and a lead of 46 but India ruthlessly dismissed the tourists for 261. India then chased down a modest target of 75 shortly after lunch thanks to Smriti Mandhana's unbeaten 38. "It's the reward for all the hard work we have done for so many years," said India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. "It's reward for the hard work and patience. We just wanted to play positive cricket."

Cricket's artist who shone at the Women's Big Bash League India's win is their first in 11 women's Tests against Australia, who are ranked number one in the world in the format, since the sides first played in 1977. A first-innings lead of 187 had given India the upper hand in the contest after they posted a commanding 406 in response to Australia's 219. Richa Ghosh (52), Jemimah Rodrigues (73), Deepti Sharma (78) and Mandhana (74) all made patient half-centuries for India, while spinner Ash Gardner took 4-100.

Australia's batters struggled at the Wankhede Stadium with vice-captain Tahlia McGrath the only player to make a half-century in either innings for the tourists. India all-rounder Sneh Rana was named player of the match after her off-spin brought her match figures of 7-119 from 44.4 overs. "A Test match in India is happening after a long time, so this win is right at the top," Rana said. "For Indian fans also this win is huge. The players who are growing will see this win and want to play more Test cricket." It was a disappointing

start to Alyssa Healy's reign as captain having been named as Meg Lanning's permanent successor across all formats earlier this month. "Except for the first day, we showed a lot of fight," Healy said. "Full credit to the Indian team, they just put too many runs on us. If we would have batted the first full day, we could have been in the game." India's victory was their second in Tests this month having thrashed England by 347 runs in Mumbai. Australia and India play each other in three ODIs and three T20s starting on 28 December. (BBC Sport).

Smriti Mandhana hit the winning runs for India with a four off Australia's Jess Jonassen

Labuschagne leads Australia’s fight on rain-hit Day 1

MARNUS Labuschagne batted out 120 balls for his unbeaten 44 to give Australia the edge on the topsy-turvy, rain-hit opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. As the overheads decided to alternate between bright sunshine and gloom, Pakistan bowlers' inconsistency cost them as they could only manage three wickets by stumps, with 187 runs on the board for Australia. Shan Masood's success at the toss made way for Australia to bat first. But much to the chagrin of the visitors, sun shone brightly very soon after overcast conditions welcomed the two skippers at the toss. Pakistan still had an early window of opportunity

with the new ball moving around but they didn't make it count as they fluffed a straightforward chance that came their way as early as the third over. David Warner was expertly squared up by a Shaheen Afridi delivery, but Abdullah Shafique dropped a sitter at slips. The grey clouds cleared out and the two Aussie openers got rather comfortable and began to pick quick runs after the drinks break. They were all set to head to Lunch without any damage when, against the run of play, Agha Salman had Warner nicking to slip. This time there was no reprieve as Babar Azam completed the catch. When play resumed post Lunch, the gloomy conditions were

back and batting became a struggle. With Khawaja departing early in the second session, Australia had two of their best grafters in the face of such adversity - Labuschagne and Steve Smith - to navigate past a period where the ball swung consistently and brought a densely populated slip cordon into the game. Shaheen Afridi kept the two batters on their toes, but they too didn't budge and perish to the pressures of the passage of play that saw them score just six runs off 57 balls since Khawaja's exit. It looked like a reward for their tight bowling was round the corner for Pakistan, but what came instead was rain that ended the session early, with only 15.3 overs played in it.

Marnus Labuschagne went into stumps unbeaten on 44 When action finally re- resolve with an outside offsumed for the final session, stump line, inviting him to the Pakistan quicks were drive. The ball that brought in play again as they kept Smith's wicket was closer to beating the outside edge the off stump as the Aussie of Smith's bat. The former batter looked to defend captain struggled as Aamer it after shuffling across. Jamal constantly tested his There wasn't too much of

an appeal from the keeper, but Jamal was convinced and pushed Masood to take a review. That proved to be an excellent decision as replays showed a faint spike on the snickometer, sending Smith packing for a 75-ball 26. Travis Head copped a full toss on his shoulder from Afridi and a ball - the very next one - that cut him in half and nearly took out the top of off-stump but the lefthander survived. He kept Labuschagne company for the next 8.1 overs till stumps. It was a day of missed opportunities for Pakistan as inconsistency from their pacers meant they only had three wickets to show for at the end of it. (Cricbuzz)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Rabada and Rahul share honours in 59-over opening day

SOUTH Africa were poor. India were unlucky. Kagiso Rabada was sublime. KL Rahul was bullish. Thirty-one boundaries were hit. Eight wickets were taken. The stadium was full(ish). The vibe was great. This was Boxing Day with a point to prove. (India 208 for 8 (Rahul 70*, Kohli 38, Rabada 5-44) vs South Africa) After 59 action-packed overs in Centurion, the game feels evenly poised if not entirely easy to appraise. The headline, of course, is that South Africa have India at 208 for 8 and won’t feel too dissatisfied with their work before rain took everybody off the field. Well, almost everybody. A bunch of teenagers invaded the pitch and took turns diving onto the covers. SuperSport Park dished out must-see content. But it wasn’t all good. At the start of play, you had a better chance of seeing the ball skulk down leg than stay on target. The hosts were wasting a fresh, green pitch

that was offering substantial help along both the X and the Y axes. After lunch, however, Rabada found his rhythm, claimed his 14th Test match five-for and everything changed. That six over spell which began with Shreyas Iyer’s wicket and peaked with Virat Kohli’s met its match in Rahul and his pristine strokeplay. It is clear that at some point in the last few weeks he has raided Ricky

LIVERPOOL signalled their title ambitions by going top of the Premier League thanks to a hardfought victory at relegation-threatened Burnley. Jurgen Klopp’s side have only been beaten once so far this season and went two points clear of Arsenal at the summit despite some wastefulness in front of goal. The Reds got the perfect start by netting after just six minutes as Darwin Nunez guided in a lovely finish from the edge of the box to end a run of 12 club games without a goal. The impressive James Trafford was kept busy in the Burnley goal and had already smothered Harvey Elliott’s low drive before making a stunning fingertip stop to deny Mohamed Salah. The wave of attacks from the Reds was unrelenting and Cody Gakpo had a goal disallowed for Nunez’s foul on Charlie Taylor, while Salah rattled the crossbar - all before half-time.

Elliott also had an effort chalked off for Salah interfering with play in a offside position, but the visitors did finally get their second when Diogo Jota smacked home in the final minute. Burnley, meanwhile, failed to work Alisson into a single save and are in deep trouble in the bottom three, now fives points adrift of safety. Reds show resilience for top spot Liverpool are top of the pile approaching the end of the year, but what should have been a canter to victory turned out to be a triumph that had to be grinded out. Klopp’s men had a total of 19 shots and worked Trafford into eight saves, hitting the woodwork once and having two goals disallowed. But they have shown a formidable resilience so far this term and Nunez’s early strike with his eighth goal of the season and Jota’s well-taken finish late on secured maximum points.

Kagiso Rabada kept striking after lunch to rock India

Ponting’s locker because he was pulling and hooking like a god. The sixes he hit, both square on the off side, were show-stoppers too. India were put in to bat and they suffered early, forced into 17 false shots in the first 11.1 overs, which is to be expected in seamer-friendly conditions, but, it was enough to yield three big wickets. Rohit Sharma, caught by the only man on the boundary. Shubman Gill, strangled down the leg side. And Yashasvi Jaiswal, nicked off driving on the up. The remaining 14.5 overs to lunch were just as hard, but this time, India didn’t lose any wickets. Their 21 false shots actually secured 16 runs at 4.5 an over, not to mention a couple of lives, with both Iyer and Kohli dropped on 4. That’s a sign of how much luck plays a part in this game. India paid for every mistake early on. Then they caught a couple of big breaks and a score that should have been 38 for 5 in the 14th over was 91 for 3 in the 26th. Then Rabada

happened South Africa looked like they’d forgotten how to bowl a full length in a Test match. They tried it 31 times in the morning and gave up 49 runs at 9.4 an over, including nine of 13 boundaries. They were searching for the secret everywhere. It looked like they might never find it. Except all of a sudden, they did and where the rest of his teammates ended up on the pads almost every time they tried to pitch it up, Rabada aimed for the top of off stump. His discipline was so good it ended a 68-run partnership with Iyer’s wicket immediately after lunch, and messed with Kohli the way nobody else was able to. Kohli left 25 of the 64 balls he was out there. In other words, he wasn’t interested in putting himself in harm’s way. Here he had to. Rabada angled a full-length ball into off stump. Kohli came forward to meet it. It pitched and seamed away, just enough to beat the middle of the bat but not enough to beat the edge.

KL Rahul kept India’s hopes of getting to a decent total alive •AFP/ Getty Images Rahul was 5 off 9 at this point and India were 107 for 5. All they had left were a couple of bowling allround-

ers and then the tail. To revive the innings from there, while staying in control of almost 80% of his shots, is a special effort; a sign even of his problem-solving skills. You know, like Steven Smith. India seem to be in safe hands when Rahul is out there figuring out the best way forward. There was the 97 against Australia in ODI World Cup, the 39 in a low-scoring thriller at the Asia Cup and now this, an unbeaten 70, where he found the boundary roughly once every nine balls, on a pitch that was not at all conducive to strokeplay. Just ask Shardul Thakur. He got hit on the head and in the arm and he was only out there for an hour. Rahul made a hundred the last time he was in Centurion and those were tough conditions too. But at least then he was in a familiar position, opening the batting with plenty of support around him. Here it was him or bust. And he didn’t let it go bust. (Cricinfo)

Liverpool go top after hard-fought win at Burnley

Darwin Nunez scored his eighth goal of the season for Liverpool The Reds should have been out of sight in the first half but Trafford made a string of saves, including to keep out low efforts from Wataru Endo and Salah. The Egypt international came inches away from adding to his 12 league goals this term but smashed the

top of the bar when through on goal, and was also judged to be offside after referee Paul Tierney consulted the pitchside monitor after Elliott’s first-time finish. Liverpool may also feel aggrieved that VAR did not allow Gakpo’s thunderous effort to stand in the first

half, but it did not matter in a contest they dominated from start to finish. They have won their last seven games on 26 December and also continued their excellent form on the road, now scoring in their last 14 successive away games. Trafford keeps it to single

digits Burnley won the Championship last season with 101 points but have had little joy in the Premier League and are staring at an immediate return to the second tier. Above them, Luton and Nottingham Forest both won earlier on Tuesday, making Burnley’s daunting task against Liverpool even more important - but in truth they did not lay a glove on their opponents. This was their ninth loss at Turf Moor this season, having only lost more games (10) in 2018-19, and although they battled for much of the encounter they were unable to get a shot on target. Johann Berg Gudmundsson might have levelled the scores when he sent his free header over the bar in the second half and Sander Berge also dragged a shot wide to leave their side with only three wins at the halfway stage of the season.(BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Hamilton 'emotionally drained' from past season

LONDON, (CMC) – Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said he was left “emotionally drained” after a long and hectic Formula 1 racing season. The British race car driver, whose heritage is Grenadian, ended the season third in the drivers’ championship, though he endured a second consecutive winless season in the cockpit for the Mercedes racing team. “I’m not burnt out,” Hamilton said during a recent interview. “I’d rather not keep going into the season, but I think for me, I’m just more emotionally drained at the end of the year.” Hamilton was left frustrated after the W14 car delivered multiple problems throughout the season that were difficult for the team to sort out, and Mercedes went in

the wrong direction in the ground effect era from last year. On top of it all, Hamilton said the season-ending trip from the city of Las Vegas in the United States to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates for the final race was also very taxing. “It definitely has been so difficult for everybody here, all the teams moving from Las Vegas out to (Abu Dhabi),” he said. “I think it should be better next year. “It’s obviously a very long season. I think really with all the negativity in the world as well, it’s been quite draining just to maintain a positive mindset through the year.” High hopes have been set for Mercedes for next year as the team tries to iron out the problems and develop a W15 car to rival the Red Bull of reigning

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton world champion Max Verstappen.

Kings reign supreme with Carmelo Man-Son Hing adjudged MVP

THE Kings basketball Club A team took honours when the inaugural 4 X 4 Mixed Under 18 Basketball Championship ended Christmas night at the Retrieve Hard Court in Mackenzie, Linden. Playing in the final against Amelia’s Ward Jets, Kings A rallied their way to a 7-2 win with the outstanding Carmelo Man-Son-Hung being adjudged as the Most Valuable Player of the final. Kings A had earlier defeated Retrieve Raiders in their quarterfinal match before eliminating Block 22 B to reach the final. Jets took care of Kings B and gained a walkover victory Kwakwani A to reach the final against Kings A. For this specially arranged tournament the organisers stated that a female player has to be on court at all times. There were also tokens of appreciation given by promoter U.S based former basketball coach Gary Ste-

Man-Son-Hing gets a pair of shakers from Linden Alphonso as another US baaed former coach Gary Stephens is at right. phens, to former Topp XX football coach James McLean and national athletics coach Johnny Gravesande on behalf of the Kings Basketball Club which organised the 4 X 4 Mixed Under-18

basketball championship where each team had to field a female player when competing. Clubs which participated in this tournament including D-Up from Tus-

chen, Kings, Victory Valley Royals, Amelia’s Ward Jets and Block 22 Flames on the final’s night all received a basketball for their participation. (Joe Chapman)

CPL, CWI in talks about secondary T20 tournament IF the thoughts and talks between Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) are to materialise, then the Caribbean could have another Twenty20 competition. This, as CPL’s CEO Pete Russell and CWI’s vice-president Azim Bassarath indicate that discussions regarding another competition, are on course. That competition, which would complement the CPL, would be geared towards unearthing and developing fresh talent for the regional game. Russell, while declaring CPL’s commitment to play its part in the process, pointed out that it is not their role to unearth the next generation of players for the Caribbean. “Yes, we’re going to be part of the solution, but I think that [unearthing players] is probably CWI’s remit, not ours,” Russell told Trinidad Express. “We feel that’s an Pete Russell important part of any cricket system, even CPL. So, we want to support that in as big a way as possible. I’m hoping we can get to a place where we can put that tournament on,” he added. Former West Indies white-ball skipper Kieron Pollard and a CWI independent review committee comprising Patrick Thompson, Brian Lara and Mickey Arthur called for the Azim Bassarath hosting of a secondary T20 tournament to properly develop the next generation of Caribbean T20 players. It is for that reason, why Russell and CWI have engaged in discussions. “A lot of planning has gone into it. It’s down, as it always is, to dollars and cents, so we’re just seeing how best to do it. We’ve got a lot of work to do before we get there but look, everyone is committed to doing it,” Russell declared. Meanwhile, Bassarath said CWI and CPL have recognised that the talent is not really coming through in any part of the Caribbean as was the case when the CPL first started. “There are discussions going on and I am quite sure that something has to be done to make sure that the talent we have in [the] Caribbean is exposed and developed; and it will serve CPL’s interest as well to make sure we continue to produce quality cricketers that are needed to ensure the tournament, which is the second best T20 franchise league in the world, continues to flourish,” Bassarath shared. “I think they [CPL] will have a part to play in getting involved in the development of the game and helping to produce quality players that is [sic] needed for the CPL and for West Indies cricket,” he noted. (Sportsmax)

Eight-time Olympic gold-medalist Usain Bolt THE fastest man to ever walk the earth, Usain Bolt, says he’s not worried about any of his world records being broken anytime soon. The eight-time Olympic gold-medalist currently holds both the 100m and 200m world records. Both marks, 9.58 in the 100m and 19.19 in the 200m, were set at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany. “I knew I was going to break the world record because I was in such good shape at the time and I was running great throughout the season,” Bolt said in an interview with

Bolt not worried about world records going

World Athletics. Athletes like Fred Kerley, Ferdinand Omanyala and Noah Lyles have both been vocal about trying to eclipse Bolt’s 100m world record but neither has come close up to this point. Kerley, the 2022 World 100m Champion, has a personal best of 9.76. Omanyala, the 2022 Commonwealth Champion, has a personal best of 9.77 while Lyles ran his personal best 9.83 to win 100m gold at the Budapest World Championships earlier this year. Lyles, however, who was named as

the World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year for 2023 after taking three gold medals in Budapest, is not that far off the 200m world record with a personal best of 19.31 done to win the 2022 World title in Eugene. “Not worried about any of them,” he said regarding the times. “I think the hundred is going to be harder because it’s quicker and if you make a mistake during the race you’re not going to get it. It’s a lot more technical so I think maybe the hundred is going to go last,” he added.

Bolt also commented on still being known as the fastest man ever as well as his relationship with the fans over the years. “It’s a great title to have. It’s something that I enjoy hearing and I enjoy knowing,” he said about the title. “It’s always been so beautiful for me. They give me so much energy. I remember even through the World Championships in the pandemic I was like I could not compete in this. By myself in the stadium, I could not because I live so much for the energy and the vibes,” he added.(Sportsmax)

Shallow, WI captains thank region for support

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies President, Dr Kishore Shallow, has joined the respective captains of the senior West Indies teams in thanking the region for its “unwavering support,” and urging unity for the coming year. CWI president Dr Kishore Shallow. In Christmas greetings posted on the social net-

working service, Instagram, Shallow said: “Greetings cricket enthusiasts from every corner of the world and to our beloved fans nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. “As we step into this enchanting holiday season, I extend heartfelt wishes to each of you. “From the entire Cricket West Indies family, warm wishes for a Merry Christ-

mas and a flourishing new year. Thank you for your unwavering support.” Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite, whose side managed only a single win in six outings this year, also thanked the region for its support. “We extend our sincere gratitude for your unwavering support this past year. It has been invaluable to us,” said the 31-year-old.

“Beyond the glittering festivities and sumptuous feasts, let us embrace the essence of unity, joy and treasured moments with our dear ones,” said Hope, who leads the One-Day International side. Powell, who oversees the Twenty20 International unit, added: “Here’s to a new year, brimming with exhilarating cricket moments and incredible mem-

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ories.” Sammy, a two-time former T20 World Cup-winning captain, said: “May this time bring you boundless joy, prosperity and the warmth of companionship.” Hayley Matthews, the West Indies Women’s captain, said: “Just as cricket by nature is on the field, may this season bind us with love, peace and harmony off the field.”

CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2023