Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 30-05-2024

Grove residents welcome major community infrastructural development

RESIDENTS of Grove on the East Bank Demerara (EBD), applaud the recent transformation of 17 critical thoroughfares in their community following significant rehabilitation efforts by the Ministry of Public Works’ Special Project Unit (SPU).

The upgrades have brought immense relief, addressing the challenges posed by the previously dilapidated roads.

Expressing his satisfaction, resident Floyd Welcome praised the quality of the work executed by the ministry, stating “The road is very much thick, it’s like about four inches thick and you are not seeing any waves on it or so. So, I would say kudos.”

nice because the road [was done]. The road is smooth now you could walk well because when the road was bad and [it rains] …you can’t walk.”

The rehabilitation works, executed by the SPU, began on April 19th, 2024, and concluded on May 28th, 2024.

This initiative is part of the PPP/C Administration’s broader vision of enhancing community infrastructure while fostering economic development and accessibility.

Welcome further noted that the previous conditions deterred taxi drivers from operating in the area, emphasising the significant positive impact on the community.

Public Information (DPI), that the improvement was long-awaited and greatly needed.

Sharing similar sentiments, Ronald Fredericks told the Department of

“It has been a long time since the roads haven’t been like this yet. Now the road and the place are looking

really good. It’s been a long time…this place used to be in real bad condition and now you could see all overlooking really good. Now you could ride and children could go to school well,” he emphasised.

Another resident, Cheryle Welch, added “The road had a lot of potholes on this one side, and the rainy season in, you know what is going on. So now we ok.”

To realise this vision, the government allocated a total of $204.1 billion in budget 2024 for the enhancement and expansion of road and bridge networks nationwide.

Padmini Baldeo also noted the improved safety for pedestrians, saying, “I feel

Notably, a substantial portion of $73.2 billion was specifically earmarked for upgrading community roads. (DPI)

Third AfriCaribbean forum to strengthen CARICOM-Africa bonds

THE third iteration of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) is expected to forge significant pathways and strengthen the trade ties between Africa and the Caribbean Community.

This is according to media release from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) which disclosed that the ACTIF is being hosted from June 12 -14 in The Bahamas under the theme, “Owning Our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the platform of Global Africa.

The ACTIF is also expected to forge significant

President Dr Irfaan Ali (right) and President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Afreximbank, Professor Benedict Oramah during the 2023 ACTIF (Delano Williams photo)

Padmini Baldeo Cheryle Welch

Ronald Fredericks Floyd Welcome

Completed Road works in Grove, East Bank of Demerara

‘You are equally responsible’

–– AG denounces Kidackie for permitting hate speech, racist threats on show –– points to increased public awareness of race-baiting tactics

THE Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has expressed strong disapproval of the conduct exhibited by talk-show host, Kadackie Amsterdam, for permitting racial animosity on his programme, an offence that could result in criminal liability.

Amsterdam, an activist with the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), is under investigation for cybercrimes following a controversial episode of his social media program where a caller incited violence against high-ranking government officials.

Amsterdam’s program recently became the centre of a national uproar when a caller suggested that President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh should be beheaded, and their heads displayed publicly on the seawalls.

Nandlall, during his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday, warned that talk show hosts are equally responsible by law when viewers or listeners called to express their opinions, especially such hostile remarks.

“Kadackie has a programme in which he encourages people to call in. Now, when you have a programme and you encourage colleagues, you encourage listeners and viewers to call in and you give them a platform, you are responsible

equally with them for what they say once you offer them that platform. Because had it not been for your platform, they would not have been able to say what they are saying,” Nandlall said.

He explained that providing a platform for public discourse does not absolve the host of responsibility to intervene when statements verge on criminal conduct.

“From the moment you hear that the person is saying something that you know as an ordinary reasonable, sensible human being, something that a person should not be saying, something that can put you in trouble, something that can make you an accomplice or an accessory to a crime, you have a duty to shut that caller down,” he said.

According to him, Amsterdam’s failure to act, not only facilitated the spread of hate speech but also implicated him in the criminal conduct of the caller.

“If you entertain that caller, you are participating in the criminal conduct. And don’t tell me that you don’t know, because ignorance of the law is never a defence,” Nandlall stated firmly.

He pointed out that the gravity of the caller’s threats is compounded by the context in which they were made.

Nandlall explained that the caller targeted four prominent officials, all of Indo-Guyanese descent, raising alarms about the potential

for ethnically motivated violence.

“You are talking about the Vice President of a country, the president of a country, the Attorney General of a country, and the Minister of Finance of the country. And you will note that all four are of one ethnicity. So, this thing has several layers, and the context in which the man is speaking is one filled with racism,” Nandlall pointed out.

Amsterdam’s program is just one example of a broader issue of incendiary rhetoric in Guyana’s media landscape by the APNU+AFC.

Over recent months, other critics of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) such as Rickford Burke of the Caribbean-Guyana Institute for Democracy (C-GID) and activist Mark Benschop have also faced backlash for race-baiting on their social media platforms.

As such, Nandlall

stressed the need for national unity and the dangers posed by those who exploit racial tensions for political gain.

“More and more, it is losing its potency with them, because Guyanese are becoming more and more educated. We don’t do ethnic breakdown, I mean, we have to start to do it. When you’re dealing with a racist that we’re dealing with, more and more of our people are becoming empowered, they are becoming educated,” Nandlall noted.

He argued that as the public becomes more informed, the influence of those who prey on ignorance and incite division diminishes.

The Attorney General also took aim at the defence tactics employed by Amsterdam’s lawyer, who objected to the use of the term “Negro” in police reports, a term historically used by the Guyana Police Force.

Nandlall criticised this

focus as a diversion from the more pressing issue of the violent threats made on Amsterdam’s show.

“Suddenly this lawyer who Kadackie retains...finds the use of the term negro by the Guyana police force as objectionable. He doesn’t find objectionable the content of the video...He doesn’t have a problem with four East Indians being beheaded. He has a problem with the police using the term Negro to describe Kadackie—that’s his problem,” Nandlall said.

The Attorney General further critiqued the motivations behind the lawyer’s objections, suggesting they were politically calculated to attract the attention of international figures, such as U.S. Congressman Jonathan Jackson, a member of the Congressional Black Caucus.

“Because Congressman Jonathan Jackson, who’s a member of the Congressional Black Caucus of the US, is in Guyana, this lawyer now finds the use of the term negro by the Guyana Police Force as objectionable.

“The Guyana police force was formed 180 years ago, and they are using that term. This lawyer never found it objectionable. But because he wants to pitch to the congressman here, he finds that objectionable,” Nandlall stated.

Over the years, APNU has been facing numerous backlashes, with one being over comments made by an

executive member of the WPA, David Hinds, who disparaged a number of PNC/R Indo-Guyanese members for speaking out against racist and incendiary remarks made by the WPA. Hinds had also directed comments at PNC/R Parliamentarians Ganesh Mahipaul and Natasha Singh-Lewis; Regional Chairman Daniel Seeram, and Former Mayor Ubraj Narine, who had issued a joint statement condemning the remarks of another WPA member, Rhonda Layne.

Nandlall explained that a strong message must be sent since it come at a time when Guyana is grappling with issues of racial tension and political division being peddled by the PNC-led APNU+AFC.

He called on citizens to reject the race-baiting tactics of certain political leaders and media figures, urging them to focus instead on national unity and personal accountability.

“They want to blame race for every problem that they have in life. It is because of race. They don’t look at their own personal performance. They don’t look at the type of political leadership that they subscribe to.

“They don’t want to look at their own personal life or their personal environment in which they operate. No! Racism is a very good excuse for whatever plight they find themselves in,” Nandlall said.

Third AfriCaribbean forum to strengthen ...

pathways for economic prosperity between Africa and the Caribbean.

From page 2

President and Chairman of the Board of Di-

As part of the forum, speakers will include Heads of State from seven CARICOM countries, former Prime Ministers, Ministers of Trade, Economic Development and Finance, Dr Roger W. Ferguson, Former Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve, USA, Prof. Andreas Klasen, Professor of International Business and Director of the Institute for Trade and Innovation at Offenburg, among others.

rectors of the Afreximbank, Professor Benedict Oramah said, “We are witnessing shifts in the global economic landscape and the trade strategies of major economies, making it imperative for African and Caribbean nations to unite for mutual prosperity.”

He added that the forum will serve as a platform to enhance these bonds and also indicate an assertion of the shared destiny.

The second edition of the forum was hosted last year in Georgetown, Guyana and saw the participation of close to 1,500 attendees from 33 countries

and the participation of 30 businesses.

As part of the forum there were governmental engagements and business-to-business engagements with which a number of businesses visiting from Africa and elsewhere had opportunities to discover economic

opportunities in the Caribbean and Guyana.

Following the forum last year, President Ali had announced that the Afreximbank had signalled its intention to support the CARICOM region in its efforts to enhance transport infrastructure.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

Kidackie Amsterdam

Georgetown’s flood-management strategies shine amid persistent rainfall

–– 12 pumps operational in Georgetown; three engineers monitoring system on 24-hour basis

DESPITE the persistent rainy season in May and June, Georgetown demonstrates the effectiveness of its drainage and irrigation infrastructure through the use of 12 functioning pumps.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, assured the public of this during a press conference on Wednesday.

Furthermore, the ministry has deployed three engineers to monitor the systems around the clock in Georgetown, ensuring the timely operation of pumps and sluices. Regular servicing of these pumps is conducted to prevent mechanical failures.

“Although we have had some heavy rainfall in Georgetown over the last few weeks. We are working with citizens across Georgetown to see how we can help clean some of the internal drains,” Minister Mustapha emphasised, highlighting the shared responsibility with the local municipality and City Council.

Meanwhile, heightened

water levels have been observed on the Corentyne coast in Black Bush Polder and the Central Corentyne areas.

Efforts are underway to clear several outfalls in Eversham, Adventure, and No 43 to enhance drainage capacities, with pumps complementing these systems.

Minister Mustapha urged residents to refrain from dumping garbage in drainage systems, which can lead to blockages and subsequent flooding.

He also underscored the forecast indicating continued heavy rainfall over the next four weeks. In response, the ministry, through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), will continue collaborating with stakeholders to effectively manage the systems and mitigate flooding.

“In Regions Two, Three, Four, and Five and to an extent in Region Six, we have fairly good drainage systems that are working very well,” he added.

The Liliendaal pump station

Mayor, City Council to present budget next Monday

THE Georgetown Mayor and City Council are set to engage in budget talks for the fiscal year 2024, next Monday.

This was disclosed during the Mayor and City Council’s statutory meeting on Tuesday which was held at the Kitty Market.

The decision to have the budget dealt with on Monday arose following a heated debate between the council members, at Tuesday’s statutory meeting.

The Mayor and Council have faced criticism from Alfonso De Armas, a city councillor from the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), regarding the

delayed presentation of this year’s draft budget until April 24, 2024.

At that time, he said that neither the Mayor nor the finance committee chairperson could provide answers to questions from PPP/C councillors about the origins of the budget figures.

“It was blatantly clear that the budget was a copy and paste job from the previous year’s budget, which itself had been copied from the budget before that,” De Armas said in his letter.

The councillor noted the evident absence of trend analysis, cost adjustments, and inflation adjustments in relation to the draft budget.

In light of this situation, he stated that to his knowledge, no council member was consulted regarding the needs of their constituency.

Furthermore, he expressed concern over the lack of creativity and thorough examination, suggesting a disregard for responsible financial planning and governance.

De Armas added, “The draft budget presented weeks ago demonstrates a worrying absence of policy guidance and strategic vision. Financial decisions are made in an ad hoc manner with no regard for future financial implications.”

Further highlighting that

the implications of this are grave, it was noted that without a proper budget, the city risks operational inefficiency, financial mismanagement, and a further decline in public services.

“I am willing to bet that before year end, the PNCled council will again find itself severely cash-strapped and revert to its well-worn mantra of victimisation by the PPP Central Government,” the letter noted.

Accordingly, the city councillor demanded swift measures to rectify the situation, coupled with a budget that exemplifies meticulous planning and strategic guidance.

Emergency teams mobilized for Linden-Lethem corridor restoration

–– heavy rains disrupt key transportation corridor, repairs underway

Below is the statement issued by the Ministry of Public Works:

“THE Ministry of Public Works has activated emergency teams for the restoration of the Linden-Lethem Corridor. Contractors and materials are en route to the affected area.

There was significant disruption along the Kurupukari–Lethem Corridor at approximately 3:40 PM, Wednesday afternoon, when a truck traversing the Kurupukari–Lethem Corridor

attempted to cross an eroded section of the roadway within the Iwokrama Concession. This section of the road subsequently collapsed due to sustained pressure from a storm surge caused by heavy rains. It should be noted that the contractor responsible for the maintenance of the area, KP Thomas, was not on site.

In the last 48 hours, Ministry of Public Works engineers have alerted all contractors to monitor areas where they have active worksites. Presently, this section has completely washed away,

rendering it impassable. This will affect all traffic traversing between Georgetown and Annai/Lethem.

The Ministry wishes to reiterate that the affected area is currently inaccessible to all traffic, and all drivers and passengers traveling along this corridor should expect delays.

Additionally, there is a warning advisory in effect for traffic crossing the Pirara Bridge via the Timber Bypass. The water level has risen significantly within the last 24 hours, covering the

Pensioner killed in Hillfoot Public Road crash

A TRAGIC accident unfolded early Wednesday morning at the junction of Hillfoot Public Road and Hillfoot Access Road on Soesdyke Linden Highway, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

Dead is Rudolph Caines, 68, of Hillfoot village, Soesdyke/Linden highway.

The incident, which took place around 05:15 hours, involved a motor lorry bearing registration number GAG 6169, owned by Assaf Hoosein of Lot 14 North Road, Georgetown, and driven by Yogeshwar Ramnarine, aged 38, of Lot 298 Richmond Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast.

Also involved was a motor car with registration number PGG 6390, owned and driven by Rudolph Caines, aged 68, accompanied by

Maxine Caines, aged 66, both residents of Hillfoot Village, Soesdyke Linden Highway.

According to initial inquiries, the motor car was heading north along the eastern side of Hillfoot Access Road. As it approached the junction with Hillfoot Public Road, the driver allegedly failed to stop and swerved into the path of the oncoming motor lorry, which was traveling west along the southern side of the road.

The collision, which occurred on the right-side centre portion of the car, resulted in significant damage to both vehicles and caused serious injuries to the occupants of the car.

Both injured occupants were promptly transported to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre for medical attention.

However, Rudolph Caines was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival.

In the wake of the accident, authorities conducted a breathalyser test on the lorry driver, revealing no traces of alcohol in his system. Both vehicles were impounded for further examination by licensing and certifying officers.

The deceased’s body was conveyed to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, pending a postmortem examination.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are currently ongoing.

This unfortunate incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving, especially at intersections.

approach road and bridge. Light traffic is requested to exercise extreme caution if attempting to cross the bypass. We do not recommend the crossing of any heavy equipment over the bypass at this time.

Emergency teams have been mobilized, and efforts are underway to assess and repair the damage.

We ask that you stay tuned to official channels for further updates on road conditions and repair progress. We ask all drivers traversing the corridor to drive carefully, keeping an eye out for changes in road conditions

to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

The Ministry is also requesting that all commercial vehicles significantly reduce their load at this time.

The Ministry of Public Works thanks you for your cooperation and patience during this time and encourages you to stay safe on the roads.”

PPP/C City Councillor, Alfonso De Armas

All eyes on the GPA

A TROUBLING incident has recently cast a spotlight on a glaring inconsistency in the actions of the Guyana Press Association (GPA). On May 28, a reporter from the state-run Guyana Chronicle became the target of a severe attack in a full-page ‘column’ of the Kaieteur News, where she was disparaged as “annoying” for merely doing her job: questioning the Opposition Leader on matters of national concern.

One would expect the GPA, an organisation that prides itself on upholding journalistic integrity and press freedom in Guyana, to swiftly defend any reporter under such an assault. Yet, more than two days have passed, and the GPA has remained conspicuously silent. This silence is particularly striking given the association’s recent history of vocal activism

regarding the purported mistreatment of select media workers.

This selective activism raises serious questions about the GPA’s commitment to its stated principles. The organisation’s mandate is to protect and advocate for all journalists, irrespective of their employer. However, its current leadership seems to operate under a different, more partisan agenda. The GPA’s lack of response to the attack on the state media reporter starkly contrasts with its vigorous defence in other similar circumstances.

One might argue that the GPA’s silence could stem from an internal bias against state media journalists, who are often viewed through a politically tinted lens. However, journalism transcends such divides. When a journalist is undermined for fulfilling these duties, it is an attack on the very essence of press

freedom.

The recent incident, where the reporter was labeled “annoying,” is not merely an isolated insult but part of a broader trend aimed at delegitimising state media workers. By not addressing this issue, the GPA has failed the individual journalist. The association’s silence implies an unsettling acquiescence to the notion that state media journalists are less deserving of protection and respect.

This publication calls upon the GPA to reflect on its role and responsibilities. The credibility of the association hinges on its ability to impartially defend all journalists against attacks and injustices.

The GPA must unequivocally condemn the disparagement of the Guyana Chronicle reporter and demonstrate that it stands up for the rights of every journalist, regardless of their affiliation.

The principles of journalism and press freedom are not selectively applied values. They are the bedrock of a democratic society and must be defended with equal fervor across the board. The GPA’s selective activism undermines these principles and erodes the trust placed in the association by the journalistic community and the public.

By defending the Guyana Chronicle reporter, the GPA would not only uphold its fundamental mission but also convey a resolute message: that journalists, regardless of their affiliation with private or state media, deserve respect, safeguarding, and the unimpeded pursuit of truth without the threat of defamation.

The GPA must promptly reassert its dedication to these core principles and exhibit the neutrality that genuine advocacy necessitates.

President Dr Ali, PPP/C government focused on people’s welfare

Dear Editor,

WHEN will the PNC put aside petty politics, shake hands as Guyanese and put the people’s interest in front of personal biasness by serving their constituencies wholeheartedly?

In an interview with the Financial Times, Kofi Annan, the famous Ghanaian UN Secretary-General summarised his vision in the following manner at the 2000 United Nations Millennium Summit: “I have made clear that the UN should put the human being at the centre of everything it does, and, indeed, the whole discussion – whether it is on issues of human right, issues of lifting people out of poverty, the issue of development – all focuses and centres on the people.”

President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government has risen, accepted and

progressively executed that core challenge since coming into office in August 2020 and has transformed the lives of the Guyanese people in such a short time successfully, soberly impartial and symmetrically financed. The rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Linden-Soesdyke highway will enhance the lives of Linden users and the smooth movement of people and merchandise.

In President Ali’s last Labour Day speech, H.E. emphasised that, “A better quality of life depends on the holistic development of one’s self, family and community…. the holistic standard of living that one is able to achieve in a society and a community.” Who knows it best than the distinguished gentleman from the rural area as a tertiary resident from humble ancestors, grown in the village of Leonora, who grew up from

the grassroots of a PPP/C Party that was constrained in the political abyss for 28 years due to the corroboration of colonialists, capitalists and corruptive conduct, controlling the selection and not election of power imbalance as government administrators? Choosing Linden to celebrate Guyana’s 58th Independence anniversary was a sign of inclusiveness and not selectiveness.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has shunned the pessimistic sooth and naysayers who blasphemed his inauguration in 2020 and has risen to be the leader of the fastest growing nation with the highest GDP per capita, and a welcoming figure in the international community, accepted at any forum.

He has entrenched his popularity and simplicity in his perpetual “meet the people tour” by regularly visiting all

Guyanese without any form of discrimination in almost all of the communities in the nearby and outlying 10 regions in Guyana and also, Guyana’s 11th region, the Diaspora, residing overseas, who have overwhelmingly embraced him as a President by the people and for the people. Dr. Ali had said before that he has no fear of travelling anywhere in Guyana. The sod was turned for the construction of a new Wismar bridge.

Under President Ali’s astute and influential leadership, Guyana has been in the limelight for several accomplished accolades and has catapulted to various distinguished international leadership roles.

With the recent election of the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony as

President Dr Ali, PPP/C government ...

the First Vice President for World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), Guyana has again soared its forefront way on the world map as a leading country, well respected in the field of health and medical treatment.

Dr. Leslie Ramsammy proudly boasted that Guyana has become “become the leading kidney transplant country in CARICOM and in 2024 we are expanding the programme and making it a centre of excellence.” Guyana currently chairs CARICOM and is an elected member to the United Nations Security Council for a two-year period.

The Linden Complex Hospital is being upgraded to a Level Four contingent.

In India’s President, H.E. Droupadi Murmu warm 58th Independence Anniversary message to Guyana, she has underlined the tranquil blissfulness and productive achievements enjoyed by

Guyanese and creatively forged by President Ali and the PPP/C Government: “I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for your good health and well-being, as well as for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the friendly people of Guyana.” India is one of the leading countries offering educational institutions for the GOAL scholarships and has further pledged to invest US$1.2 million in start-up businesses for the GOAL scholars. China donated some US$100,000 in flood response equipment to the CDC. China is also engaged in financing many projects undertaken by the Government. The Confucius Institute has strengthened the bond between China and Guyana with the introduction of a Mandarin programme. The Linden-Mabura Road will boast Guyana’s economy and the project has employed over 350 Lindeners.

Guyana is in the eyes of the international market for tourism. Over 700,000

visitors came to Guyana last year in comparison to some 500,000 in 2015. Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud has emphasised that Guyana is a global destination for investment. With the lucrative oil and gas industry gaining much traction with its production and reserve, President Ali and the PPP/C government is attracting world-wide bankers and investors who want to conduct business in Guyana, not mindful or fearful of its geopolitical location.

Guyana’s internal and external safety and security is guaranteed by multiple regional and international governments who have pledged their willingness to assist and defend in the preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty. Linden’s socioeconomic development is being boosted with the government investing some $1.8 billion in constructing 84 roads in the township.

Dr. Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government has undertaken in their election

manifesto to diligently serve all the people of Guyana and to upgrade their standard of living. Latoya Todd, a young mother and resident of the Independence Boulevard, sums it up beautifully: “The place is so nice that my kids can now come out every afternoon and enjoy the transformed atmosphere. So, they are safe and have fun when they come out.

I don’t have to worry about anything because the place is fixed now where people can be able to watch over them.” By boycotting the celebration in Linden, the PNC is building barriers and digging a bigger hole to sink in. President Ali and the PPP/C on the other hand, is building bridges because they are certainly people and family oriented.

Yours Respectfully,

Jai Lall

War crimes, genocide and the end of Western dominance

THE colonial world inculcated anti-Western instincts simply because the West controlled the lands that belonged to the Third World (TW).

These instincts were fuelled by the unspeakable transfer of wealth from the colonies and the violent brutalities meted out to colonial people. For example, Germany conceded that it committed genocide in Namibia.

After World War II, a weakened European hegemony saw the demand for sovereignty by TW countries, including two of the world’s largest countries – India and China. The United States, insulated from the ravishes of WW2 replaced Europe as the dominant power in the world.

But anti-Western sentiments born out of colonial subjugation remained neatly intact because the US simply replaced European hegemony with its own obsessive control of the world. The US brutally put down nationalist struggles in the TW, that it equated with communism. The examples are too many to mention, but Jane Sillery’s book on Cheddi Jagan and the Cold War is good for understanding the US role after WW2.

With the rise of the USSR as a world power, post-colonial Africa and Asia saw the USSR as a friend because the US and a resurgent Europe embraced unpopular TW

governments and showed the old intent of wanting to control the world. The West’s support for the apartheid regime is perhaps the second lowest point in the West’s relationship with the TW after WW2.

From the date of decolonisation to the collapse of the Non-Aligned Movement around 1980, the West, led by the US, dominated the post-colonial world through trade, control of multi-lateral institutions, and geopolitical subterfuge. The hegemony of the West became absolute with the fall of the USSR. There was no space for maneuverability for the Global South. It was if colonialism had returned but with the US in front and not Europe.

We are now seeing the decline of both the US and Europe and the catalyst for this evolution is the rise of China. It would be misleading to say that the emergence of China as a superpower is directly related to the fading glory of the US. What is happening to the US is a result of the laws of history. Simply put –empires rise and fall and then wither away.

The peoples of the world must understand that with the rise of China, the world has returned to the era in the relationship between the TW and the USSR. China has now taken on the role of friend of the Global South. This

is worrying to the West because China is not the emasculated, poor superpower that the USSR was in the 1970s.

China is literally the world’s giant and can match anything the West throws at it. For this reason, all, not many, of the think-tanks and international relations schools close to the American military and the American government have been advising the US armed forces and the American government that China poses a clear and present danger to American power in the world.

The influence of China is rising faster than the seed of light because China is using economic muscles and not military presence to win over the Global South. For example, the governments of Suriname and Guyana have approached China for assistance for a bridge linking the two countries. It is curious why the US, facing a ubiquitous China, should not build the bridge.

Parallel with the increasing global presence of China is the self-destructive directions of Europe and the US since Israel invaded Gaza last October and perpetuated genocide. There is no way since WW2 the West would have allowed another country to do what Israel is doing in Gaza. What Israel is doing in Gaza is because the West, in a holistic way,

has a philosophical embrace of Israel.

But the contradiction is avoidable. The West cannot support Israel yet preserve its role in the world; that role has been severely weakened by the genocide and war crimes of Israel that the West refuses to acknowledge. First, no Western country has admitted that genocide has taken place in Gaza. Secondly, a majority of Western countries, led by the US have rejected the ICC arrest warrant for the Israeli Prime Minister.

Thirdly, the authoritarian use of force to put down multi-racial protest in solidarity with Palestine has shown the Global South that these Western countries are not as democratic as they profess.

Fourthly, the image of Western journalism, with its crass, unprofessional reporting on Gaza, permanently damaged Western journalism in the world.

It is so tragic that it took the deaths of 35,000 Palestinians to open our eyes to what the West was like all these years.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

AG Nandlall sets record straight on Peter’s Hall properties acquisition

– Says consultations were conducted on several occasions with residents

– Compensation based on properties’ market value

ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, has refuted claims of unfair property acquisitions in Peter’s Hall, providing detailed information about the extensive consultation process and the compensation measures in place.

This comes after the government signed a $52 billion (US$260 million) contract in May 2022 with China Railway and Construction Corporation Limited to build a new four-lane bridge across the Demerara River, requiring the relocation of approximately 20 properties.

Minister Nandlall explained that the government conducted a series of consultations with the property owners, all of whom agreed to the acquisition in the interest of national development.

Public consultations were held in October 2022, January to October 2023, and in March and April 2024.

The government’s delegation included the Attorney General, Minister of Housing, Collin Croal; Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves among other officials.

“From October 2022, we have had several public engagements…And why I am going through this?

It’s because I continue to hear allegations that the government is acquiring these properties but is not consulting. That is simply an untruth,” Minister Nandlall.

The Attorney General noted that the property

owners were offered various compensation options, including land, land and house, monetary compen-

sation, and compensation for moving expenses.

The government’s Valuation Department pro -

vided Certificates of Valuation and a private valuation officer was retained to ensure the compensation reflected the market value of the properties.

“We wanted to ensure that the persons receive market value for their property because that is what the law says they are entitled to. So, we didn’t impose arbitrarily market value,” he further stated.

Minister Nandlall also addressed accusations from one resident, Vashti Fredericks, who he claimed is being unco-operative and spreading racial rhetoric.

“It is not the objective of the government to fight people. The government has a power in law and the government is exercising that power. Right now, those properties are owned by the government by an order published under the

Compulsory Acquisition for Public Purposes Act.

“…all of those persons living there and who are refusing to move because the government is not offering them the package that they want; they are now living there illegally. It may appear unfair, but that is what the law says,” the attorney general further pointed out.

Once completed, the modern bridge will significantly reduce traffic congestion for thousands of commuters and businesses using the current floating bridge daily.

The critical infrastructure will enhance connectivity to the East Bank Demerara, the Diamond to Ogle highway, and the West Bank Demerara (WBD), where the new Schoonord to Crane highway is being constructed. (DPI)

CJIA to have new fire service outpost

THE Guyana Fire Service is set to enhance its firefighting capabilities through the establishment of a new fire service outpost at Timehri’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The decision to construct the outpost came after a visit and inspection of the airport’s access routes by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, and Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham, on Monday.

In the coming weeks, engineers from the ministry will conduct another inspection to initiate the Bill of Quantities (BoQ) process. Following this, the project will proceed to the tendering stage.

The forthcoming outpost will be built on the

recently expanded runway, situated in a hangar to the south of the London Army Base. The objective of this endeavour is to reduce response time at the airport.

This facility will not only improve the agency’s services in the country, but also generate employment opportunities for firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). There will be a forthcoming recruitment drive for these positions, followed by subsequent training.

This new outpost underscores the government’s commitment to safety and emergency preparedness, ensuring robust fire and rescue services to support the expanded airport infrastructure.

It is also part of the Home Affairs Ministry’s plan to build fire systems near crucial areas such as airports, schools, markets, and other busy places.

The Home Affairs Ministry received a budget approval of $44.8 billion in this year’s National Budget, aimed at bolstering the nation’s security sector. Out of that total amount, an allocation of $4.3 billion was given to the Guyana Fire Service.

A total of 505 million will be allocated towards the refurbishment of existing fire stations and the construction of new ones. The fire stations situated in Leonora, Diamond, and Bartica have been earmarked for completion by the end of this year.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn and Fire Chief (ag), Gregory Wickham, inspecting facilities at the runway

‘Labour Advice’ ‘app’ launched, enhancing complaint management, advisory services

IN line with its commitment to decentralisation and modernisation of services, the Ministry of Labour unveiled its inaugural public mobile application on Google Play and App Stores on Wednesday.

Chief Labour Officer, Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine, noted that the ‘app’ serves as both a quick and easy mechanism to access the ministry’s advisory services and lodge disputes and complaints.

“This ‘app’ is designed to give workers and employers a convenient, ef-

The ‘app’, titled “Labour Advice”, will allow for the computerised management of complaints and inquiries being submitted to the ministry’s Labour Department.

ficient, and user-friendly tool to stay informed about their rights and seek assistance when necessary,” he expressed.

He further reinforced that the ‘app’ would not replace the ministry’s current walk-in services, but instead bolster the ministry’s capacity to ensure that Guyanese across the length and breadth of the

country can access these services.

In 2023, he noted that the ministry saw a 14 per cent decline in complaints received when compared to 2022. This year, there continues to be a decline in complaints received, by the Labour Department. Thus far the CLO stated that there has been a 27 per cent reduction in complaints.

The CLO said the ministry has attributed this decrease to its proactive measures, with several awareness sessions, working with several partners to ensure that workers’ rights are protected.

Meanwhile, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, who delivered feature remarks, stated that it is especially important to view the launch against the backdrop of the development that has been taking place in the labour sector since the re-establishment of the Labour Ministry in 2020.

“We are moving from a place where from 2015 to 2020, this country had no labour ministry, and that is important to note. Through the re-establishment of a labour ministry, and the expansion thereof, to today, the 29th of May, we are launching a user-friendly application to allow for workers to engage the Ministry of Labour,” he highlighted.

He further pointed out that when the ministry was re-established, it deliberately set out to ensure that offices were established in every region—except for Region Eight—for the convenience of workers countrywide.

This approach was to ensure that persons have direct access to officers of the Ministry of Labour.

“That was the first phase of this activity. We are now moving into the phase of technology and ready access to the labour ministry,” Minister Hamilton underscored.

He emphasised that the work of the Ministry is clear in several areas.

This includes the thousands of individuals graduating annually from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), persons gaining employment through the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA), the revitalisation of the Co-operatives sector through the Department of Co-operatives and Friendly Societies, the promotion of safety and health in workplaces through the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department, and the advocacy of the protection of workers’ rights through the Labour Department.

“There has never been a time in this country where the Ministry of Labour is visible like it is today. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. In the last, less than four years, through the work of the Chief Labour Officer and his officers, we have recouped over $160 million from employers, for employees.

“You cannot put a price to the work that the labour department does, free of cost, across this country to all and sundry. So, people [should] appreciate and

recognise the importance of this application, its launch, and the importance of engaging expeditiously with people who have complaints from day to day,” Minister Hamilton stressed.

Finally, he took the opportunity to urge those with industrial relations matters to contact the Ministry of Labour to have their disputes or queries sufficiently addressed, rather than airing grievances publicly.

“If you have a problem, the proper place to come is Lot 82 Brickdam to report your matter so that we can investigate,” he said

The launch of the “Labour Advice” mobile application ties into the ministry’s efforts to digitalise, and thereby improve its services through a shift towards more localised and innovative approaches.

This encompasses the Ministry’s National Job Bank, which was initiated via the Ministry’s Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA) in March 2022.

The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) played a significant role in the creation of both of these services.

From Left: CLO, Ministry of Labour, Dhaneshwar Deonarine and Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, during the launch of ‘Labour Advice’ application (Delano Williams photo)

Trial for 2020 election fraud case starts July 29

THE trial regarding the alleged election fraud during Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections is set to commence on July 29th, presided over by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly.

The long-standing high-profile case, which has remained stagnant before the Georgeotwn Magistrates’ Court for more than three years, has been authorised to proceed after a recent ruling by Chief Justice Roxane George.

In a recent ruling, Chief Justice George dismissed a major delay and concluded that the Representation of the People Act, which prohibits disclosure of GECOM meetings, does not infringe upon the constitutional rights of former Chief Election Officer, Keith Lowenfield and his Deputy, Roxanne Myers, to a fair trial.

As a result of this dismissal, Magistrate Daly will now oversee the 28 criminal charges concerning attempted election fraud.

The case was brought before Magistrate Daly, on Wednesday, for the purpose of providing an update. Trial hearings have been scheduled for July 29-31 and August 5-6, 2024.

Special Prosecutor, Darshan Ramdhani, KC, will be leading the State’s case.

The prosecution has already provided the defence with substantial evidence, including flash drives containing certified copies of Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs), witness statements from dozens of individuals, and video interviews. Additional documentary evidence has also been disclosed.

Among the 90-plus prosecution witnesses are notable figures such as communications consultant, Kit Nascimento; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag; Head of the Diaspora Unit, Rosalinda Rasul; Forensic Investigator, Rawle Nedd and former Region Four Police Commander, Edgar Thomas.

People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) activist, Carol Smith-Joseph; former Health Minister under the APNU+AFC government, Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; former

Deputy CEO, Roxanne Myers; former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; and Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller are accused of a number of offences.

These include misconduct in public office, uttering forged documents, and plotting to deceive the electors of

tration stay in power, Mingo allegedly inflated the results in Region Four, the largest voting region in Guyana, as the recount process also revealed. In August 2021, GECOM made the decision to sack Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo.

Following the filing of charges against the defendants in late 2020, there have been multiple postponements in their trial’s start date, primar-

well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election,” the commissioners said in their report.

The report found that Lowenfield blatantly made decisions and employed procedures in direct contradiction to the law and the will of the people. The findings revealed,

too, that GECOM staffers ignored specific instructions from the court, used materials that were illegal and/or manipulated, and sided with APNU+AFC agents to berate observers whenever objections were raised.

After careful scrutiny, the CoI commissioners concluded that there was a conscious and deliberate – even brazen – effort to violate the provisions of section 84(1) of the

Guyana by declaring a false account of votes.

Among other things, it is alleged that the defendants inflated or facilitated the inflation of results for Region Four, the country’s largest voting district, to give the APNU+AFC coalition a majority win at the March 2020 polls, when, in fact, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had won by over 15,000 votes.

They are out on cash bail pending the determination of their matters.

The APNU+AFC received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to former CEO Lowenfield’s election report.

However, it was evident from the official findings of the recount process, which was supervised by GECOM and a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team that the coalition had received 217,920 votes, while the PPP/C had received 233,336 votes, which was enough to win.

In order to help the APNU+AFC caretaker adminis-

ily due to requests from the defence.

In April 2023, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there was collusion and collaboration among senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.

Chairman, Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith -- made those findings based on evidence from the many witnesses who had testified, along with the reports of the international observers.

“…our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Chief Election Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Election Officer (DCEO), Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer (RO), Clairmont Mingo, to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as

Representation of the People Act (RoPA).

In so doing, certain “senior GECOM officials” abandoned all need for neutrality and impartiality, and demonstrated a bias for the APNU+AFC and, in the course of events over those days, showed an “open connection” with that party, and by their efforts sought a desired result for the coalition.

As such, the commissioners said that after consideration and analysis of the evidence, Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers “were principally responsible for clear and deliberate attempts to frustrate, obstruct and subvert the ascertainment of votes in electoral district

No. 4.”

Top row, from left: Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row, from left: Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph

Magistrate Leron Daly

Guyana pushes for data-driven approach to disaster-proof infrastructure in SIDS

MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill represented Guyana at a side event titled “Leveraging Risk Data and Analytics in Delivering Resilient Infrastructure” during the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), held from May 27-30 in Antigua.

The Minister emphasized the critical role of resilient infrastructure in safeguarding SIDS communities from natural disasters.

He highlighted Guyana’s vulnerability due to its low-lying coastal territory, which faces threats from both oceanic flooding and extreme rainfall. Traditional infrastructure systems, stressed Edghill, are inadequate in the face of climate-related risks.

Edghill underscored the unique challenges faced by SIDS in building resilient infrastructure, including limited resources, geographic constraints, and the ever-present threat of climate change. He argued that leveraging risk

data and analytics is crucial for SIDS, given their greater resource constraints compared to developed nations.

The Minister stressed the importance of data and analytics in overcoming disaster-related challenges. He explained how data can in-

form decision-making, while analytics provide the tools to extract valuable insights. By harnessing these tools, SIDS can better understand disaster risks and develop targeted interventions to mitigate them.

Minister Edghill emphasized that risk data and

analytics can inform decision-making processes for infrastructure development and disaster preparedness.

He highlighted the importance of establishing robust risk assessment frameworks that utilize historical data, scientific modelling, and

Edghill concluded by calling for collaboration among governments, international organisations, and the private sector. This collaboration should focus on investing in resilient infrastructure, supporting SIDS in addressing data gaps, and promoting the adoption of innovative technologies for leveraging risk data and analytics.

The SIDS4 conference aims to establish a new action programme for SIDS, with a focus on practical solutions, new partnerships, and co-operation at all levels.

The draft outcome document includes a commitment to “scale up the planning, development and management of sustainable and resilient infrastructure” across various sectors.

predictive analytics to assess potential hazards. He underscored the need to integrate risk data and analytics into policy frameworks and urban planning processes. He advocated for a holistic approach that considers social, economic, and environmental factors alongside technical expertise. Collaboration among stakeholders, including vulnerable communities, is essential to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill (at the head table) grabs everyone’s attention during his presentation at the conference in Antigua

New $65M DPP office opened in Essequibo

–– marks major advancement for regional justice system

THE Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has inaugurated a new $65 million facility in Onderneeming, Region Two, on Wednesday, significantly enhancing the administration of justice for the Essequibo population.

This two-storey building will serve multiple functions, with the upper floor dedicated to housing DPP lawyers and the lower floor designed for public and staff interactions. The opening ceremony was marked by remarks from several key officials, emphasizing the transformative impact of the new office.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, highlighted the historic importance of the new facility, describing it as a pivotal project that will greatly benefit the residents of Region Two. “We are committed to ensuring

Anil Nandlall, the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, stands alongside Shalimar Ali Hack, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Lorena Solorzano Salazar, the Country Representative to Guyana for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), as they join others in cutting the ribbon.

that you have access to these institutions, including the DPP office. We are also constructing new magistrates’ courts in the region,” Nandlall stated.

He underscored the government’s substantial investment in the justice system as a testament to its commitment to upholding the rule of law and providing equitable access to justice.

Lorena Solorzano Salazar, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Representative to Guyana, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between the IDB and the Ministry of Legal Affairs. She emphasized that the investment is a crucial step towards improving the justice system’s administration and experience in

the region, facilitating better co-operation among legal professionals.

Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms. Shalimar Ali Hack, conveyed her gratitude to the Government of Guyana and the IDB for their roles in the construction of the building. She noted the facility’s importance in bringing legal services closer to the people of Region Two, including the Islands, Bartica, and the Pomeroon River. “The office will bring services closer to you, eliminating the need to travel over the Essequibo River. A state counsel will be here, and we will have complaint forms available,” Ms Hack said.

Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva echoed the

sentiment of historic achievement, highlighting that the new office will alleviate the financial burden on residents who previously had to travel outside the region for legal services. This new facility is expected to streamline judicial processes by reducing the need for police officers to travel to Georgetown for criminal case advice, which often led to delays and adjournments in local magistrate’s courts.

The establishment of the DPP office is seen as a monumental step forward in making justice more accessible and efficient in the ancient county of Essequibo, with residents expressing optimism and relief at the completion of this crucial infrastructure.

MACORP enhances customer service with new online parts-ordering booth

MACORP has unveiled its latest customer service enhancement, the MACORP Parts Cat.Com (PCC) booth, as part of its ‘MORE in 2024’ campaign.

This initiative underscores MACORP’s commitment to improving the online shopping experience for its customers.

Located at MACORP’s Providence head office, the PCC booth operates from 08:00 hours to 16:30 hours, providing registration and extensive support for customers accessing its online parts store: https://parts.cat. com/en/catcorp.

Felix Rojas, Parts Manager, emphasised the company’s dedication to customer convenience and efficiency through technology. “We value our customers and aim

A Sales Representative assisting a customer at the PCC booth

to deliver convenience and efficiency using technology through our online shop, where they can buy parts online 24/7 from anywhere and also enjoy great savings,” Rojas said.

MACORP’s e-commerce site features a wide range of parts, and the company encourages customers to

use the digital platform to request replacement parts at discounted prices, offering a convenient shopping experience.

The company is optimistic that more customers will embrace the digital shopping experience as it continues to make the portal more user-friendly.

This new $65M two-storey facility aims at enhancing the justice system’s administration in Region Two

–– Says

‘Our neighbourhood is our responsibility’

Public Works Minister urges responsibility amid flooding

By Cindy Parkinson

CONCERNED

over the severe flooding in several communities across the country due to the high level of rainfall, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill has urged Guyanese to accept responsibility rather than shifting blame to authorities.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister Edghill emphasised that while the government,

noted that many drains had not been cleaned recently, allowing plants to grow and obstruct water flow, which contributed to the flooding. He criticised local authorities for not proactively addressing these issues in anticipation of the rainy season.

“The municipalities, the NDCs, and in the case of Region 10, the Linden Mayor and Town Council, should have anticipated the May/ June rains and ensured the drains were clear,” he said.

through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), is committed to ensuring effective drainage to prevent disruptions to daily life, the responsibility also lies with citizens to keep drains, trenches, and surroundings clean and litter-free.

“Our neighbourhood is our responsibility,” Minister Edghill stated. “We all see people dumping garbage in the drains and waterways around us. When the rain comes, where do we expect the water to go? How will it flow, and what do you expect will happen?”

He pointed out that construction activities often contribute to blockages, with sand and bricks ending up in drains, exacerbating the flooding issue. Instead of acknowledging these causes, many people tend to blame the government for the resulting floods, he said.

Specifically addressing the flooding in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), Minister Edghill

Two contractors have been engaged to clear blocked drains and facilitate quick runoff of floodwaters in Wismar and Mackenzie. Additionally, the Civil Defence Commission is preparing

to establish two shelters in Linden.

The statement highlighted the heavy overnight rainfall in the region, with 170 millimetres recorded in West Watooka, 160.6 millime -

tres in Wismar, and 123.4 millimetres in Coomacka.

Residents in low-lying areas are urged to take necessary precautions, and stakeholders are called upon to assist where possible.

“People need to understand that our neighbourhoods are our responsibility. If we see something wrong, we must speak up and act.”

In response to the rainy season, the Ministry of Public Works issued instructions for all contractors to remove previously erected dams to avoid interfering with drainage. Minister Edghill mentioned that engineers were sent to ensure compliance, and contractors who failed to remove their cofferdams will face penalties.

Regarding the flooding in Region 10, the government released a statement expressing concern and empathy for affected families. Technical teams have been dispatched to assess the situation and implement remedial interventions. Collaboration between the Ministry of Public Works, the NDIA, local administrations, and a technical team from BOSAI has commenced a rapid assessment in Linden, with similar efforts underway in the Rupununi and other hinterland communities.

“Leadership, maturity, and responsible behaviour should always prevail in all circumstances of disaster resulting from natural phenomena,” the statement concluded.

One of the unkept drains in Region 10 being cleaned by one of the NDIA machines

The Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, joins residents to clear the waterways

Local bodies failed to maintain drainage systems in Linden –– Most inundated areas now ‘dry’

––

Agri. Minister says

FLOODWATERS accumulating across several communities in Linden, Region 10 directly resulted from the failure to maintain drainage systems by the local Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has said.

“We have mobilised a

number of machinery in Linden to help desilt some of the canals...some of those drainage systems were the responsibility of the RDC and municipality,” the Agriculture Minister told reporters during a media briefing at his Georgetown office on Wednesday. Mustapha revealed that

just about four and a half inches of rainfall was recorded in the region and, according to him this was ‘unusual rainfall’.

However, improper maintenance of the drainage systems in the region saw water accumulate.

“As a result of their failure to clean those drains on time, they had those excessive water accumulated and people were flooded out.”

“This brings us again to

the issue where the local authority, the local body failed to maintain the system,” he added.

According to the Minister, the main canals in the area that are maintained by the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) were cleaned.

He noted further that most of the areas that were inundated are now ‘dry’.

Meanwhile, the minister urged residents to refrain

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha

from disposing garbage in drainage and irrigation systems and charged all local authorities and municipalities to continue maintenance of major drainage systems in their respective areas.

Last evening, the ministry disclosed that multi-agency response was activated. This was an immediate response to flood reports in the region following heavy rainfall.

NDIA engaged private contractors to clean and clear the drains to facilitate better water flow and reduce flooding, the ministry said in a statement.

Additionally, Bosai Minerals Group (Guyana) provided crucial support with equipment to assist in the drainage and cleanup operations.

Meanwhile, in Georgetown, systems have been put in place to manage drainage systems to avoid severe flooding.

“We are working around the clock to work with every stakeholder to maintain a system in place to date. We have 12 pumps that are functional in Georgetown, I have assigned three engineers full time on a 24hr basis to monitor the system in Georgetown to ensure sluices are open on time and pumps are functioning. We are also servicing these pumps in terms of if they have a mechanical failure,” Mustapha explained.

Additionally, the ministry has collaborated with residents to ensure that internal drains are maintained and clean.

The ministry, he stressed, has been working around the clock to limit flooding during the country’s May/June rainy season.

EPA issues air quality advisory for Georgetown due to visible haze

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an advisory to the public regarding a noticeable haze over the Georgetown area. According to the EPA’s air quality sensors in Eccles and central Georgetown, the air quality has been classified as ‘moderate,’ which exceeds the World Health Organization’s guidelines for good air quality.

The agency attributes this decrease in air quality to an increase in particulate matter in the atmosphere combined with high humidity levels. Additionally, the presence of

Source: https://www.myfoxhurricane.com/ saharan_dust_car.html

Saharan dust, which can be monitored at myfoxhurricane. com, may be contributing to the current conditions. In light of these findings, the EPA advises residents to take precautionary measures to protect their health. These measures include limiting time spent outdoors and wearing dust masks when possible.

The EPA will provide updates to the public when air quality returns to normal and falls within acceptable parameters. For near real-time updates on the Air Quality Index in your area, visit the EPA’s website at epaguyana.org. Navigate to the ‘Your Environment’ tab and click on ‘Air Quality Data’ for the latest information.

Swiatek saves match point to beat Osaka in thriller

DEFENDING champion

Iga Swiatek avoided her earliest French Open exit by saving a match point before beating Naomi Osaka in a second-round thriller in Paris.

The 22-year-old Pole, who is bidding for a third successive title, fought back to win 7-6 (7-1) 1-6 7-5.

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

GULFSTREAM

Race 1 Palmetto Fury

Race 2 For The Chief

Race 3 Cymbal Court

Race 4 Ensign Parker

Race 5 Ajaayb

Race 6 Avilino

Race 7 Cosmic Speculation

Race 8 Bivol

SOUTH AFRICA

RACING TIPS

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08:25 hrs Kylie’s Angel

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09:35 hrs Ice Star

10:10 hrs The Brief

10:45 hrs Champion Warrior

IRISH RACING TIPS

FAIRYHOUSE

12:30 hrs Encosta

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13:30 hrs Signor Ferrari

14:00 hrs Madame Plaintiff

14:30 hrs National Lady

15:00 hrs Layoftheland

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ENGLISH RACING TIPS

LINGFIELD

09:20 hrs Wannabe Brave

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RIPON

09:40 hrs Substitute

10:15 hrs Chilled Out

10:50 hrs First Encounter

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12:25 hrs Protest Rally

WARWICK

13:10 hrs Thirtyfour Thirty

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14:40 hrs Time For A Pint

15:10 hrs Get Sky High

15:40 he’s Miltiades

Former world number one Osaka only returned to the sport four months ago after having daughter Shai and previously struggled on clay.

However, the 26-year-old from Japan pushed Swiatek all the way in an absorbing encounter under the Court Philippe Chatrier roof – but paid the price for not converting her chance.

“That was intense, more intense than I expected for a second-round match,” said Swiatek.

“We played some amaz-

ing tennis.”

Jabeur survives scare to reach third round

Eighth seed Ons Jabeur survived a scare against Colombian Camila Osorio to reach the third round.

The 29-year-old Tunisian, a quarter-finalist last year, struggled for consistency in

a match which saw 12 breaks of serve.

But, after Osorio had twice broken back in the deciding set, Jabeur held her nerve to serve out a 6-3 1-6 6-3 victory.

Jabeur, seeking her maiden Grand Slam title, will meet Canadian 31st seed

CRICKET

Leylah Fernandez or China’s Wang Xiyu next.

The three-time Grand Slam runner-up made the perfect start on Court Suzanne Lenglen, establishing a 3-0 lead with an early break.

Jabeur eventually took the first set following a run of four successive breaks - but 22-year-old Osorio mounted an impressive response in the second as her opponent faltered to swiftly level the match.

It was Jabeur who struck the first blow of the deciding set, yet twice the spirited Osorio responded to frustrate the world number nine.

However, Jabeur was able to refocus and after breaking Osorio again in the eighth game she served out the win at the first opportunity, the relief evident in her celebrations after coming through a testing encounter (BBC Sport).

(Thursday May 30, 2024)

Iga Swiatek has never lost before the fourth round at the French Open

Ons Jabeur has lost all three Grand Slam finals she has contested (Wimbledon 2022 and 2023, US Open 2022)

GSA, LTI and UG cruise to wins in YBG Tertiary Basketball League

THE Guyana School of Agriculture, Linden Technical Institute and University of Guyana Trojans edged their opponents on Sunday when action continued in the Youth Basketball Guyana Tertiary Basketball League.

The opening contest saw GSA taking a morale boosting win over Upper Corentyne Combined 4133.

GSA’s Avery white, Dennis Prince and Dexter Quintyn was in good touch for the agriculture school.

White dropped 19 buckets with 4 rebounds to lead the team’s scoring with 11 points and 9 rebounds from Prince and 11 points and 7 rebounds for Quintyn.

Fredrick Lashley played well for Corentyne in a losing cause with 16

points with support from his teammate Aldon Angel with 9 points and 11 rebounds.

Meanwhile, Linden Technical Institute pipped Government Technical Institute by six points 66-60.

Kimol Grimmond who has been the team’s leader in point’s column, again led the way with 16 points coupled with 10 rebounds and 4 steals in an all-round display. Grimmond was not a one man show however, with Neil Marks and Colin Philips playing fabulous minutes for the linden team. Marks came good with 14 points and 8 rebounds with 11 for Phillip. GTI despite the defeat had an awesome showing from Peter Langevine with 17 points and a game high 29 rebounds.

Martin Edwards 18

points and Delmar Grant 12 points 18 rebounds also did well but not good enough to stave off defeat at the hands of LTI.

Next University of Guyana Trojans whipped New Amsterdam Technical Institute 45-39.

UG saw a prolific performance from Jushawn Bailey with an incredible 25 points to go with his 9 rebounds and 4 steals.

Malachi Grimmond played the supporting role with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

New Amsterdam challenged in their encounter with Jerome Trim 13 points and Jared Dainty 11 points but to no avail as they could not overcome the UG side.

The tournament’s next playing day is Sunday June 2nd at the National Gymnasium.

Timberwolves hit back against Mavericks in play-offs

THE Minnesota Timberwolves claimed a crucial 105-100 win against the Dallas Mavericks to stay in contention for a place in the NBA Finals.

Trailing 3-0 in the best-of-seven series, the Timberwolves knew anything but a win would end their season in Dallas.

Anthony Edwards led the scoring with 29 points while Karl-Anthony Towns chipped in with 25 points.

“We just wanted to get one game and extend the series,” Edwards said.

“I’ve never been swept in my career. I didn’t want to get swept. Not on their home court, hearing their fans talk trash all day.”

Minnesota started strongly and boasted a 12-point advantage in the first quarter, but they were unable to maintain that lead as the fifth-seeded Mavericks fought back.

It became a back-and-forth encounter until Towns scored a three-pointer with just under six minutes left to play, giving the Timberwolves a 92-90 lead.

The visitors did not fall behind again.

“Give Minnesota credit,” Mavericks head coach, Jason Kidd, said.

“They fought and they found a way to extend the series, and now it goes back to Minnesota.”

The Timberwolves, making their first trip to the Conference Finals in 20 years, and just the second in the franchise’s 35 seasons, will be at home for Game 5 at 01:30 BST on Friday.

The winner of this Western Conference Finals series will face the Boston Celtics in NBA Finals after the Latter completed a clean sweep against the Indiana Pacers.

LTI’s Neil Marks going for a 2-pointer

58th Independence anniversary celebrations

Guyana Consulate X1 cart off T20 feature versus TPCC

THE Toronto Police Cricket CLUB (TPCC) ground, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada was a hive of activity last Saturday, as hundreds brave the inclement weather for a grand flag-raising ceremony and cricket match to celebrate Guyana’s 58th Independence anniversary.

Organised by the Guyana Consulate in Toronto and the TPCC, the feature match saw the Guyana Consulate team defeating TPCC by 25 runs in the T-20 affair.

Led by a fine undefeated 43 by Abdool Samad 22 not out from Mu’adh Shariff, the Guyana Consulate X1 reached 128 for four in their allotted 20 overs, before limiting their opponents to 103 for eight when their innings expired.

The Guyana-born Samad, who represented Canada at the One-day level and who is the brother of the late former Guyana National player, Fazil Abdool “Terminator” Sattaur, blasted two fours and three sixes in his knock while

sharing an unbeaten 51-run partnership with Shariff. Former Canadian player, George Codrington, was TPCC’s best bowler with two for 20.

TPCC’s top scorer was Surendra Seeraj who’s 25 included three fours, while Ejaz contributed 23 (one four, one six). Shariff was also among the wickets, grabbing two for 28 while there was one wicket each for Samad and Ian Baldeo.

The day was described as very eventful and successful for the Guyana Consulate with

Honorary Consul, Mani Singh, pointing out that the Consulate was ecstatic its team was able to wrestle away the trophy from the very strong and competent Police Cricket Team.

The match was organised by the Consulate’s Sports Adviser, Shiv Persaud, who is also President of both the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) and the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) and President of the

Toronto Police Cricket Team, Raj Singh.

The Guyana Consulate side also included former National players Sunil Dhaniram, Azib Ali Hanif, Kenneth Wong and Eion Katchay.

The Honorary Consul was led into the cricket ground by a Police Motorcycle escort and welcomed by two Police Equestrian Officers on their horses. Consul Singh then walked past a 13-man

Police salute, and both the Canadian and Guyanese flags were hoisted as the respective National Anthems were sung to commemorate the special occasion of Guyana’s 58th Independence anniversary.

The cricket match was another one of several events planned by the Guyana Consulate in Toronto to celebrate the Independence anniversary. (Frederick Halley).

ICC announces broadcast partners for World T20

THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the details of its broadcast arrangements for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, the biggest ICC World Cup ever with 20 teams playing across nine host locations, that will bring fans closer to the game than ever before.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup fever kicks off on June 1 with the co-hosts, the USA taking on their neighbours Canada in Dallas with the final taking place in Barbados on June 29.

The ICC, through its direct broadcast partnerships with world-class broadcasters around the globe, aims to bring an out of this world coverage of all 55 matches for fans in what will be the biggest cricket carnival spectacle.

In India, Star Sports Network and Disney + Hotstar will be the place to watch for fans as India attempt to lift the Men’s T20 World Cup trophy for the first time since winning the inaugural title in 2007.

In addition to the English world feed, Star Sports will also broadcast the tournament in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and digital platform Disney+ Hotstar will host each match live.

The Star Network has pioneered another

innovation, increasing the accessibility of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup by announcing the Indian Sign Language Feed, which provides the first-of-its kind audio descriptive commentary for an ICC event.

We see the continuation of the hugely successfully vertical feed, which debuted for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup last year, produced by ICC TV and supported by Disney Star, to provide fans with an easier and more intuitive mobile phone viewing experience of all 55 matches allowing users worldwide to consume content on-the-go.

The vertical feed will now provide an enhanced user experience through AI-powered innovations designed to engage casual fans with an intuitive viewing experience optimised for mobile devices.

WillowTV will be the home of the first-ever T20 World Cup in the USA for fans in the US and Canada whilst coverage will also be available via the Willow by Cricbuzz app.

Fans and co-hosts in the Caribbean can watch all the action live via ESPN Caribbean on TV and stream through the ESPN Play Caribbean app.

Defending champions England are looking to retain their crown and cricket lovers

in the UK can catch the action live on Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Action and digitally via the SkyGO, NOW and Sky Sports App.

Amazon will be the new home of ICC Cricket in Australia, with coverage of all 55 matches on Prime Video. For fans in New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ continues to the go to broadcaster ICC Men’s T20 World Cup matches.

Fans supporting South Africa, Uganda and Namibia can watch all the action live via SuperSport and its app which will be available across South Africa and to the 52 Sub-Saharan Africa territories.

In the UAE and the entire MENA region, all matches will be streamed Live on STARZPLAY, with broadcast coverage made available on CricLife MAX and CricLife MAX2 in the UAE.

Fans in Pakistan can watch all matches via our linear partners PTV and Ten Sports, and digitally through the Myco and Tamasha apps. Nagorik TV will be the linear TV broadcasters in Bangladesh, with Toffee making the entire tournament available on their app and website.

Maharaja TV in Sri Lanka continue their coverage of ICC’s events through TV1, Sira-

sa, Shakti TV on linear and their website on digital. Fans will be able to enjoy coverage in Sinahlese commentary for the first time for Sri Lanka matches, via Maharaja TV. Fans can also watch coverage of the event in Sri Lanka through the ICC TV app.

In a strategic move to support the growth of the game, the ICC will be broadcasting the Men’s T20 World Cup free via the ICC.tv app live and free to over 80 territories including Continental Europe and South East Asia. This move will enable more fans in these markets to enjoy the sport whilst building icc.tv as a cricket destination. In addition to live matches there will also be ICC produced programming and highlights available to viewers.

Fans across multiple territories will now be able to enjoy the coverage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Hindi. Apart from India, the Hindi feed will be available in the UK via Sky Sports (India matches + semis and finals), Willow TV in the US and Canada (47 matches) and Prime Video in Australia (4 matches).

The event also marks the first time all official ICC Licensees will exploit clip rights through their owned and operated platforms and their social channels.

(ICC)

Former Police Services Board Chair, Dr Alok Mukherjee; TPS Superintendent, Andy Singh (31 Division); Honorary Consul, Mani Singh; current PSB member, Nadine Spencer; Retired Superintendent, Dave McLeod; Vice-president of TPCC and Master of Ceremonies.

Captain of the Guyana Consulate team, Abdool Samad receives his trophy for registering the most runs from Honorary Consul, Mani Singh.

Toucan-Kraft Mac and Cheese Junior Squash

tournament

Keen competition on opening night

THE Opening night of the Toucan-Kraft Mac and Cheese Junior skill-level squash tournament commenced Tuesday night at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts on Camp Street with the competition being played between six teams.

This tournament serves as match practice for the Caribbean Championships and intends to simulate a high-pres-

sure test to give the juniors the experience of playing against other players at their level.

The Junior Casa tournament is set for BVI this July. The players have been training for eight consecutive weeks with a five-day training regimen.

Among the games that stood out were the ‘David and Goliath’ match between 11-year-old Ethan Bulkan and 17-year-old Blake Edwards.

Although the burly Edwards won the match 3-nil the pint-size Bulkan demonstrated good Squash skills but could not maintain the intensity on his bigger opponent.

Last night

In the ‘must-win’ third game Bulkan, who looked fitter and faster than his opponent, got a 4-1 lead before Edwards scored six points while Bulkan only managed a single point as the score moved to 7-5.

Bulkan, who seemed frustrated after playing some loose backhand drives into the tin, levelled the score at 7-7 with well-executed drop shots but Edwards won the game and match 11-9.

Another entertaining match was the one between the cousin of Professional Squash player Mary Fung-a-Fat, Emily Fung-a-Fat and her male opponent Justin Goberdan who emerged victorious 12-10, 10-12, 11-8, 12-10.

Results of Tuesday Evening’s action:

E - White Cheddar

Zoey McDonald def. Ella Fernandes 11-0, 11-2, 11-5

E - White Cheddar

Tehani Munroe def. Rafael Brathwaite 11-2, 13-11, 11-0

E - White Cheddar

Kristian Viapree def. Maxwell Viapree 11-5, 11-8, 11-5

D - Thick and Creamy

Egan Bulkan def. Nijad Bacchus 11-2, 11-8, 11-5

C - Three Cheese

Justin Goberdhan def. Emily Fung A Fat 12-10, 10-12, 11-8, 12-10

D - Thick and Creamy

Hazlewood and Warner star for nine-man Australia as coaches pitch in as subs

NINE-MAN Australia made light work of Namibia in their opening T20 World Cup warm-up match, led by an impressive new-ball spell from Josh Hazlewood, during which four members of their backroom staff helped make up the numbers.

(Scores: Australia 123 for 3 (Warner 54*) beat Namibia 119 for 9 (Green 38, Zampa, 3-25, Hazlewood 2-5) by seven wickets)

There was also useful time in the middle for David Warner after his lean and injury-hit IPL season as he hammered a 20-ball half-century with Australia needing just half the overs to reach their target.

At one stage there were four substitutes on the field for Australia comprising head coach Andrew McDonald , assistants Brad Hodge and Andre Borovec plus national selector George Bailey. Borovec, who is fielding coach, and Bailey were the firstchoice subs when play began. Australia are currently without six of their 15-player squad - Travis Head, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron

Green and Marcus Stoinisfollowing the IPL.

While Australia are shorthanded, they opted to have two warm-up matches given a number of the squad are coming from the off season and others had limited action in India.

One of those who has been at home is Hazlewood and he set an outstanding tone with a remarkable opening spell of 3-3-0-2. His second wicket of Nikolaas Davin came courtesy of a catch by Borovec. In his last over, Hazlewood got fingertips on a straight drive to run out Malan Kruger at the non-striker’s end

“Probably a few of us needed to [play] coming off a big lay off...was good to get out there, playing is always different to training,” Hazlewood said. “The ball felt like it was coming out pretty good. The wicket looked a little bit tough early, probably a little bit slow, probably what we are going to encounter here in the West Indies so it’s just about keeping it pretty simple, sticking to the top of the stumps, not trying too much and letting the wicket to its work.”

Ashton Agar, recalled for

this tournament, opened the attack with Hazlewood and ended as the most expensive of the specialist bowlers. Given the lack of players available, and captain Mitchell Marsh not yet fit to bowl, Tim David’s part-time offspin was used for a full allotment of four overs which helped Namibia scrambled to 119.

Adam Zampa took out the middle order and Nathan Ellis, who appeared just once for Punjab Kings in the IPL, was economical with 1 for 17 from his four overs.

Australia raced along in their chase with Warner and Marsh quickly out of the blocks in the powerplay before the captain was run-out in a mix-up.

Warner, who will retire from international cricket after the tournament, brought up his fifty with the third six of his innings against Tangeni Lungameni.

Josh Inglis missed out at No. 3 when he chopped on against Bernard Scholtz, who also removed David.

Australia play their second warm-up game against hosts West Indies today. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Jacob McDonald def. Nidal Bacchus 11-2, 11-5, 11-3

C - Three Cheese

Brenno Da Silva def. Tiana Gomes 11-5, 11-7, 11-7

B - Spiral Demetri Lowe def. Richard Rodrigues 13-11, 8-11, 8-11, 11-9, 12-10

B - Spiral Safirah Sumner def. Jeremy Ten Pow 8-11, 11-9, 7-11, 11-4, 11-5

F - Original Justin Ten Pow is def. Reagan Rodrigues 11-2, 11-4, 12-10

Blake Edwards def. Ethan Bulkan 11-8, 11-4, 11-9

The action was scheduled to continue yesterday from 17:00 hours at the G/Town Club. (Sean Devers)

Bayern Munich confirm shock appointment of Kompany

BAYERN Munich have confirmed the appointment of Vincent Kompany as their new head coach.

Kompany has joined Bayern on a three-year deal and comes in as Thomas Tuchel’s replacement.

The former Manchester City captain, who began his coaching career in Belgium with Anderlecht, could not keep Burnley in the Premier League in 2023-24.

Indeed, the Clarets were relegated following a 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Turf Moor in their penultimate match of the season.

Yet, less than two weeks after the campaign’s conclusion, Kompany has been installed as boss of one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

The 38-year-old joins Bayern after Tuchel confirmed talks over potentially reversing the decision for him and the club to part ways, which came in February, had ended.

Bayern lost their last game of the Bundesliga season to finish in third place, having failed to win any of the four trophies they were

in contention for, seeing their dominance of Germany’s top tier ended by Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen team.

Alonso had been Bayern’s primary target, but their former midfielder has elected to stay at Leverkusen for next season.

Bayern were also linked with Roberto De Zerbi, who has just left Brighton, and Brentford coach Thomas Frank, while they were turned down by Austria coach Ralf Rangnick. Mauricio Pochettino, who left Chelsea on Monday, was also rumoured as a potential option.

Kompany, then, is a surprise pick, but Bayern will be hoping he rediscovers the magic touch he had during his first season at Turf Moor in 2022-23, when he guided the Clarets to promotion from the Championship, earning 101 points in the process.

However, Kompany’s possession-based, front-foot approach was badly exposed in the Premier League, with Burnley winning just five

games on their way to taking 24 points as they finished 19th, going back down alongside Luton Town and Sheffield United.

He leaves Burnley having managed 96 games, winning 41 (42.7 per cent) of those matches.

In a statement, Burnley said they were “initially confident” of keeping Kompany at the club, but claimed “the changing dynamics of the situation made this impossible”.

“We understand the allure and prestige of a club like Bayern Munich and respect Vincent’s ambition to explore new opportunities,” the statement continued.

“We wish only the best for Vincent and would like to put on record our appreciation for his dedication every single day he was a part of this football club.

“Our priority remains the stability and success of Burnley, and we will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure that our ambition is realised, namely our return to the Premier League.”

Emily Fung-a-Fat plays a backhand shot (right) against Justin Goberdan

Ethan Bulkan (foreground) about to play off the glass against Blake Edwards on Tuesday Evening (Sean Devers photos)

West Indies start their campaign against Papua New Guinea in Guyana on Sunday.

Windies enter ICC Men’s

Twenty20 World Cup ranked N0 4

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC)

– Two-time world champions West Indies will enter the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, starting on Saturday in the Caribbean and the United States, ranked the fourth best team in the world in the format.

According to the International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport’s world organising body, the Caribbean side gained a huge boost in the rankings following their clean sweep of South Africa in their three-match series that ended on Sunday and was exclusively played in Jamaica – even without several regular players.

The World Cup co-hosts, the champions of the 2012 and 2016 editions of the global showpiece, moved up behind the trio of 2007 champions India, 2021 champions Australia and defending champions England.

Solid performances from a handful of West Indies players in the series also propelled them up the rankings for the format.

World Cup-bound Brandon King proved his leadership qualities on home soil when he led the side in the absence of appointed World Cup captain and fellow Jamaican Rovman Powell, and he finished the series with 159 runs that enabled him to jump five places in the batting rankings to eighth.

Johnson Charles, his World Cup-bound opening partner throughout the series, hit a blistering 69 from 26 balls in a Player-ofthe-Match performance in the third and final match, and the 35-year-old St Lucian gained 17 spots to reach 20th in the batting rankings.

Barbadian ambidextrous all-rounder Kyle Mayers, a World Cup reserve, is now 31st in the batting rankings, and World Cup-bound

Guyanese left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, the Player-of-the-Series against the Proteas, is now 27th place in the bowling rankings, and they were the other major beneficiaries for the Caribbean side from the recently concluded series.

West Indies are bidding to become the first team to win an unprecedented third T20 World Cup and will play in Group ‘C’ of the tournament with ICC full members, Afghanistan and New Zealand, and ICC associate teams, Papua New Guinea and Uganda.

Their first two matches in the tournament will be at the Guyana National Stadium, where they face the Papuans on June 2 and take on the Ugandans six days later.

The Caribbean side will complete the group stage against the Black Caps, as the New Zealanders are known, on June 12 at

Lucia.

Before the tournament, the co-hosts will face Australia on Thursday in an official warm-up match at the Queen’s Park Oval in the Trinidad capital of Port of Spain, starting at 7 p.m. East Caribbean Time.

West Indies won their two titles under the leadership of Sammy and guidance of coaches Ottis Gibson and Phil Simmons, respectively.

ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings

India -264 points

Australia - 257 points

England - 254 points

West Indies - 252 points

New Zealand - 250 points

New York increases security ahead of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match

SECURITY cover will be raised at the Eisenhower Park stadium in New York following reports of threats to the India vs Pakistan match on June 9 in T20 World Cup 2024. A statement released by the governor’s office said they are monitoring the situation and according to their intel “there is no credible public safety threat at this time.”

“I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes,” she said. “Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience.”

ESPNcricinfo has learned the authorities have not yet found any corroborative ev-

Eisenhower Park stadium, which is located about 25 miles east of Manhattan, will host eight matches from June 3 to June 12 including the high-profile India-Pakistan contest. Kathy Hochul, the governor of the state of New York, indicated that her administration has been working with law enforcement authorities for months to ensure the smooth conduct of these games.

idence to back the reported threat, but the ICC said the security would be “robust” across the tournament including at the New York venue.

An ICC spokesperson said: “The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place.

We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event.”

India play four games in New York - their first one against Canada (June 5), then

the highly-anticipated clash with Pakistan, followed by a meeting with USA on June 12. They are also scheduled to play a warm-up game against Bangladesh there. India arrived in the US on Tuesday and have begun training, although Virat Kohli is yet to link up with the squad after being given some time off.

Earlier this month, the ICC and Cricket West Indies, who will be co-hosting the World Cup along with the US, presented reassurance that they are taking every measure possible to ensure the safety of the fans and the players. (Espn Cricinfo)

the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad, and the Afghans five days later at the venue named after their head coach Daren Sammy in his homeland of St