‘Our borders should not be used as tools’
–– President Ali tells CARICOM summit, lobbies for more international support to tackle drugs, gun smuggling –– highlights region’s commitment to strengthening border, port security
President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday joined other CARICOM leaders for the official unveiling of the CARICOM Roundabout in St. George’s, Grenada. The roundabout was described as a symbol of regional unity. The unveiling officially commenced the three-day 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM, which was rescheduled from July 3 to 5 due to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Beryl.
Minister Parag details brazen attempts to ‘add votes for APNU+AFC, deduct votes for PPP/C’
–– recalls Minister McCoy shouting, ‘They are rigging this election!’as she and other observers raised objections to the use of spreadsheets
–– President Ali says in wake of setback to CARICOM’s ‘25 by 2025’ food security objective caused by Hurricane Beryl More than US$100M needed to rebuild Region’s ‘agri’ sector
More than US$100M needed to rebuild Region's ‘agri’ sector
— President Ali says in wake of setback to CARICOM’s ‘25 by 2025’ food security objective caused by Hurricane Beryl
By Naomi Parris
THE Caribbean’s agricultural sector has been severely devastated by Hurricane Beryl, and more than US$100 million will be needed for the Region to rebuild this vital sector, Guyana’s President and the outgoing Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) Chairperson, Dr Irfaan Ali has said.
Dr. Ali, who is also the lead Head of Government with responsibility for agriculture, agricultural diversification and food security in the Region’s Quasi Cabinet, was at the time addressing the 47th Reg-
ular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government in St. Georges, Grenada, on Sunday.
“[The] damage to the agricultural sector alone is more than US$100 million. And I'm not counting opportunity
costs, because government now must reprioritise where they will spend the money,” President Ali said.
The reality now is that the sector will have to incur a budget cut, as funds will have to be redirected to rebuild in other sectors that have also been devastated by the category four storm.
Dr. Ali noted that prior to this natural di-
saster, the Region had been making progress in achieving both its regional and global food-security targets.
Referencing a recent regional report, Dr. Ali said that the Caribbean had reduced its food insecurity by 17 per cent since 2020.
Earlier this month, a category four Beryl made landfall on the islands of Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica and several others.
Devastating damage to infrastructure were reported in the Grenadines and Grenada, while the fishing industry in Barbados took a ‘beating’ as over 200 vessels were destroyed during the passage of the storm.
“These were all islands that were on track mostly in achieving the 25 by 25 targets set by themselves,” President Ali had said in a previous address.
CARICOM had out-
lined several initiatives over the past years to reduce its mammoth US$6 billion food-import bill.
The aim is to slash this expenditure by 25 per cent by the year 2025.
According to President Ali, there have been investments in the sectors — infrastructure, water systems, technology, crop variety, farm support and farm-tomarket infrastructure; however, many of the states have lost these investments.
“Outside of this, you have hundreds of acres of commodities that were lost and production that was taken out instantaneously,” he said.
President Ali had said that while the “quick fix” will be to get food immediately to the islands that have been severely affected, a major concern will be ensuring that nutritional values are met.
Fishermen pull a boat damaged by Hurricane Beryl back to the dock at the Bridgetown Fisheries in Barbados (Associated Press)
‘Our borders should not be used as tools’
— President Ali tells CARICOM summit, lobbies for more international support to tackle drugs, gun smuggling — highlights region’s commitment efforts to strengthening border, port security
By Naomi Parris
INTER-AGENCY collaboration and international support are crucial to combatting transnational crime in the Caribbean, and while regional leaders have made progress in enhancing their respective security systems, more will be required to tackle the smuggling of guns and drugs into the region.
This is according to Guyana’s President and outgoing Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Dr. Irfaan Ali during his address at the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community in St. George’s, Grenada, on Sunday.
He said that leaders in the region remain committed to strengthening border security.
“We have to ensure we build stronger systems so our borders are not used as tools to affect other borders and other countries. We have to fight the drug trade, we have to fight transnational crime and to do that we have to invest in security; we have to invest in border protection. We have to invest in port security, we have to meet all international standards and we are committed to doing
so,” the Guyanese Head of State said.
President Ali noted that while regional leaders have acknowledged these challenges, special assistance is required, along with significant investments.
“… we must also ask for some more to be done in ensuring the guns that are coming into our system are not coming into the system,” President Ali said.
US ASSISTANCE
Just last week, Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, at a news conference, told reporters that while joint operations here in Guyana have recorded successes, there is need for greater United States assistance to address the flow of weapons into the region.
“A lot of the weapons come in from the United States of America; they
come in through barrels and all sorts of things. And so, this is not a new position; it's been expressed overwhelmingly by CARICOM,” Dr. Jagdeo said while stressing the importance of a symmetrical relationship between Guyana and the US to tackle transnational threats together.
Meanwhile, Jagdeo has noted that the Guyana Police Force and other joint services have recorded tremendous successes. In recent weeks, several major crime circles were busted as a result of inter-agency operations here.
“The successes of the Police Force, and, by extension, the Joint Services, is because of the hard work of many people in these agencies; the inter-agency collaboration that's taking place between all the agencies that deal with Se-
curity and fighting crime and transnational crime in Guyana. And so, they have strengthened their intelligence,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
“They have targetted operations, and you're seeing success from this. The fact that you see a see a lot of seizures of weapons here is because of that collaboration with our partners. But also, we still need to get more support from our external partners,” he added. It was recently reported by this newspaper that joint operations among several key regional partners have recently led to the seizure of US$3 million worth of cocaine, and US$2.1 million worth of marijuana in the region.
President Ali, during a press conference, had disclosed that Guyana has ongoing collaborations with CARICOM IMPACS, the Brazilian Federal Police,
the Colombian task force, and the Regional Security System (RSS) and several other major partners. It was these collaborations, he said, that had led to the significant drug seizures, arrests and disruptions of major drug trafficking networks.
With the support of additional partners from the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, and CARICOM, Guyana has been strengthening its border security and surveillance system.
The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) has strengthened its operation at key border and port points through enhanced collaboration with the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and the Eugene F. Correia International Airport (OGL), and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) to combat drug trafficking.
CANU has also been keeping a close eye on the increased flights and destinations.
Recently, CANU disclosed that significant strides have been made in combatting illegal narcotics.
During the 2023 period, the Unit recorded five international seizures, a testament to the strategic measures being implemented at the various ports of entry countrywide.
In 2023 also, the Unit cleared approximately 1363.28 kilogrammes of narcotics, consisting of cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, and hashish totalling $461.5 million. Cannabis was the most confiscated drug, accounting for 94 per cent of the total narcotics seized for the year, with approximately 73 separate seizures amounting to 1,287.88 kilogrammes.
There were 18 seizures of cocaine amounting to 75.17 kilogrammes, three seizures of ecstasy totalling 0.124 kilogrammes, and one seizure of hashish to the tune of 0.102 kilogrammes.
The cannabis that was confiscated had an estimated value of $386.3 million, whereas the cocaine’s value reached $475.1 million.
Guyana launches International Human Rights Law Certificate Course
By Cindy Parkinson
IN a landmark move aimed at fostering greater awareness and sensitivity to human rights, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance (MPAG) of Guyana launched its first International Human Rights Law Certificate Course on Monday at the Pegasus Grand Savannah Suite. The initiative marks a significant step in educating practitioners from various sectors on international human rights and Guyana’s legal framework.
Gail Teixeira, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, underscored the comprehensive nature of the training, which is designed to benefit practitioners from Guyana's public, private, and civil sectors. She highlighted the importance of understanding the evolution of human rights issues and the difference between contemporary challenges and those that emerged post-World War II. Minister Teixeira noted the
ness, the number of participants was capped at 200-250. The minister expressed optimism about the programme’s future, which will be shaped by the outcomes of this initial course.
Set to begin on August 2nd, the 10-week programme will be conducted virtually on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with no cost to participants. In-person sessions will also be held in Georgetown, with travel assistance available for those coming from distant areas. Topics to be covered include climate change, climate justice, environmental issues, private business rights, and artificial intelligence.
absence of a genuine correlation between human rights and
Guyana's constitution and legal framework. She emphasised the need for a systematic approach to sensitisation and awareness following a series of workshops held last year. These workshops revealed the necessity for more structured and long-term action, leading to the conception of the International Human Rights
Law Certificate Programme.
“We wanted to ensure the course had structure, grounding participants in international treaty responsibilities and Guyana’s human rights framework,”
Minister Teixeira explained.
The course aims to be inclusive, accessible to individuals without formal degrees, and designed
to enhance understanding of human rights laws and their practical applications.
The response from the Guyanese public has been overwhelmingly positive. Minister Teixeira reported receiving over 1,000 applications, far exceeding the anticipated 40. To maintain the programme’s effective-
Minister Teixeira concluded by highlighting the broader impact of the course, aiming to foster respect and understanding in everyday interactions within society. This educational initiative is seen as a crucial tool for promoting human rights awareness and respectful conduct across various sectors in Guyana.
A section of the audience, including applicants from different regions, attended the launch on Monday at the Pegasus Savannah Suite in Georgetown.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Gail Teixeira, during her presentation at the first International Human Rights Law Certificate Course at the Pegasus Grand Savannah Suite, Georgetown, on Monday (Japheth Yohan photos)
Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (Photo courtesy of CARICOM)
Gov’t means business in its pursuit of worldclass education target
By Trina Williams
RECOGNISING that children and young people need to have “worldclass” education to meet the needs of tomorrow, the government is continuing along its ambitious journey to enhance the sector in order contribute to its future leaders’ successes.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a recent press conference, highlighted that the government was briskly pursuing new technologies and ideas that will continue to transform the education sector.
In its 2020 manifesto, the PPP/C promised to “deliver quality education for all.” This includes improving access to education at every level from nursery to university; raising the quality of education across all levels; and preparing students for the job market, especially at the technical and tertiary levels.
Notably, this promise is not lost, as within four years, the PPP/C administration has piloted a number
of initiatives which have not only contributed to the nation’s economic transformation, but also bettered the lives of its people. Some initiatives include building, expanding and bettering education facilities across Guyana, improving remuneration and conditions of service for the nation’s educators while also offering them incentives and opportunities to evolve their skills and qualifications.
Dr. Jagdeo was ques -
— Dr. Jagdeo says; highlights several initiatives geared at enhancing education sector, improving lives of teachers
tioned about the government’s pioneering initiative within the education sector which has led to the New St George’s School of Sciences being on track to opening its doors this September for the 2024-2025 academic year.
In this light, Dr. Jagdeo said that specialised schools are part of the overall plan for the nation.
He emphasised: “But let's not lose sight of what we are trying to achieve in education as a whole.”
The Vice-President then touched on several initiatives that the government was pursuing.
He said: “So, right at the beginning, we need more people and better trained people to work now before we even get to school. Now, today, the demand of the workforce, our country is changing. The demands for skills are different.”
Dr. Jagdeo said that there are a vast number of opportunities within the emerging sectors and thus, training of citizens needs to be done.
“So, we have embarked on this massive training programme, the 50,000 that I told you, with all the reform of curricula, the short-term skills training, the creation of new institutes, etc…, like the ones I mentioned in Berbice that's the force element,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
In February of this year, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, commissioned Guyana’s first state-of-the-art oil and gas training facility – The FacTor (Facility Simulator) – at Port Mourant, Berbice, Region Six.
The US$13 million (GY$2.6 billion) project is the first phase of the wider Guyana Technical Training College Inc.
in 2020 to $39 billion in 2023, representing a 61.4 per cent increase in salaries for teachers.
With these investments, Dr. Jagdeo said: “That would allow us to have better classrooms, more comfortable classrooms, equip them with the tools that we need to deliver modern education.”
The third element includes the training of teachers.
The project was constructed through an alliance with the Government of Guyana, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Hess and CNOOC.
The facility is designed to provide practical training for multiple programmes, enabling trainees to execute practice operations, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities in an environment that mirrors real-life plant conditions.
Also, Dr. Jagdeo related that the second element is increasing the budget for the school system. Some $135.2 billion has been allocated this year to realise the government’s vision of having a world-class education system.
Further, under the PPP/C administration, the wages and salaries have grown by 61 per cent. The wage bill increased from $24.4 billion
The Vice-President said: “So, of the 14,000 teachers, 6,000 are on the GOAL scholarship 4,000 there and 2,000 have finished Cyril Potter College in the last year.”
Additionally, he noted that the government was looking at an e-school model and apart from this, already the PPP/C government has removed the corporate tax on education.
“So, it's a combined set of things. And then looking at these specialised schools, maybe where you have an entire focus on a single subject area or a stream where, where children want to go into that particular stream, it would probably yield a better and a higher quality education,” the Vice-President further said.
He went on to say: “When we said a world class education to our people, we mean it and it would involve a ton of other things, including upgrade of teachers.”
PPP General Secretary and Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Guyana cementing status as regional investment hub
THE Caribbean Investment Forum 2024, held from July 10-12 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Guyana, has solidified the nation's reputation as a top investment hub. With over 400 delegates from more than 30 countries participating in over 200 business meetings and presentations, the forum showcased Guyana's vast investment opportunities and vibrant economic potential.
The event invigorated Guyana's local tourism and hospitality sectors, with city hotels experiencing high occupancy rates and catering services bustling with activity. The discussions centred on sustainable agriculture, green economy, and business digitisation, reflecting Guyana's commitment to modern, sustainable development.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali set the tone for the forum, declaring Guyana an "investor's paradise" and emphasising the
nation's attractive investment climate. Highlighting Guyana's status as the world's fastest-growing economy, President Ali pointed to the country's rich resources, generous fiscal incentives, and strategic location as key reasons for investors to consider Guyana.
“Guyana is open for investments in agriculture, energy, forestry, ICT, manufacturing, mining, services, and tourism sectors,” President Ali stated. He assured attendees of Guyana's commitment to democracy, transparency, and accountability, along with sig-
nificant investments in social development, food security, climate resilience, and energy security.
Guyana's infrastructure is undergoing rapid modernisation, creating numerous investment opportunities. The development of Silica City, the country's first smart city, construction of seven new hospitals, new housing schemes, and the Gas-to-Energy Project promise cheap and reliable electricity. The country's focus on environmental preservation, increased agricultural production, and promotion of tourism further highlight its comprehensive development strategy.
To support its burgeoning economy, Guyana has awarded over 20,000 scholarships for higher education and funded numerous technical training programmes, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to lead the country into the future.
Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, Chief
Investment Officer and Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, likened Guyana to the Asian Tigers, nations renowned for their rapid economic growth. He dubbed Guyana the "Jaguar Economy," highlighting its impressive economic trajectory and sustainable development efforts.
“Guyana's Jaguar Economy is roaring to life,” Dr. Ramsaroop declared, urging local businesses to partner with foreign companies and seize global market opportunities. He praised local investment projects in energy, hospitality, and agriculture as greenfield opportunities ripe for development.
The forum concluded with a celebratory cocktail event hosted by President Ali at State House, followed by a day of tourism activities. Delegates enjoyed local cuisine, visits to historical sites, the majestic Kaieteur Falls, thrilling boat rides, and an immersion in indigenous culture, leaving them with unforgettable memories of Guyana.
With the Caribbean Investment Forum 2024 successfully concluded, Guyana now looks forward to hosting the International Business Conference in October and the Energy Conference in February next year, continuing its trajectory as a leading investment destination.
Investors Simon Shaw, Ermath Harrington, and Sajjad Husain showcased innovative local projects, drawing significant interest. Shaw's HUBU Aquafarm plans to upgrade its organic shrimp production facilities, Harrington's HealthApp Solutions aims to make healthcare more accessible, and Husain's GUYIMEX International Inc. is building a state-of-the-art food production and storage facility to reduce food import dependency.
Minister Parag details brazen attempts to ‘add votes for APNU+AFC, deduct votes for PPP/C’
—
recalls Minister
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag was the first key witness to take the stand in the long-awaited trial concerning the alleged fraud during Guyana's 2020 General and Regional Elections.
The trial of those accused of conspiring to defraud the electorate of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes commenced Monday morning before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
McCoy shouting, ‘They are rigging this election!’ as she and other observers raised objections to the use of spreadsheets
Charged are People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) activist Carol Smith-Joseph; former Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Together, they are facing 19 conspiracy charges. All of them were present in court, except Miller, who appeared
virtually via Zoom from the USA, where she is caring for a sick family member.
It is alleged that between March 2, 2020 and August 2, 2020, Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, while in Georgetown, conspired with the other six defendants and others, to defraud the electorate of Guyana by declaring a false account of the votes cast at the highly contentious elections.
During her lengthy testimony, Minister Parag, who’s also an attorney-at-law, detailed the actions and behaviours of former key GECOM officials, specifically highlighting the alleged misconduct she observed and protested against.
As a Candidate of Poll for the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) in the 2020 elections, she testified that she was sent to the GECOM Command
Centre at the Ashmins Building on High Street, Georgetown at 08:00 hours on March 3, 2020, along with other foreign and local observers to watch the tabulation of votes for Region/ District Four (Demerara-Mahaica), which is Guyana's largest voting district. She explained that she was tasked with “comparing numbers” on her party’s Statements
One of the more than 200 business-to-business meetings at Caribbean Investment Forum 2024
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag
Roxanne Myers
Paving the Path to Prosperity
GUYANA stands at a pivotal juncture in its development trajectory, with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali championing a housing and infrastructural initiative that promises to reshape the nation’s social and economic landscape. With over $240 billion allocated to making home-ownership more affordable, the administration's commitment to housing and infrastructure is both ambitious and comprehensive. However, while the strides made are commendable, they warrant a deeper examination of their long-term implications and sustainability.
Dr. Ali’s assertion that the government has distributed over 35,000 house lots and made significant investments in infrastructure
is a testament to the administration’s dedication to improving living conditions for many Guyanese. The impressive statistics—414 kilometres of new roads, 250 kilometres of water-transmission mains, and more than 2,200 kilometres of electricity lines—paint a picture of a government working diligently to create the physical and social frameworks necessary for modern living.
The focus on making home-ownership more accessible through subsidies and reduced interest rates is particularly notable. By lowering the financial barriers to home-ownership, the government is fostering a more inclusive society where more individuals can aspire to and achieve property ownership. The invest-
ment in 3,000 new homes, particularly for low- and moderate-income families, reflects a genuine effort to address housing inequalities and provide essential support to vulnerable populations.
The recent issuance of land titles in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) further exemplifies the government's commitment to providing not just housing, but also legal and financial security to its citizens. Land ownership is a critical asset for economic stability and growth, enabling individuals to secure loans, invest in their properties, and build wealth.
However, while these achievements are laudable, several considerations must be addressed to ensure the long-term success and equi-
ty of this initiative:
Sustainability of Infrastructural Development: the substantial investment in infrastructure is undoubtedly necessary, but the sustainability of these projects must be a priority. Ensuring that roads, water systems, and electricity networks are maintained and upgraded over time is crucial to prevent future challenges and ensure that the infrastructure can meet the needs of a growing population.
Equity and Inclusion: while the focus on low-income and moderate-income housing is a positive step, there is a need for continued vigilance to ensure that no segment of the population is left behind. The expansion of the housing programme must be inclusive, reaching remote and marginalised
communities that may otherwise be overlooked.
Long-term Economic Impact: the creation of new housing and infrastructure is likely to stimulate economic growth, but it is essential to monitor how these developments impact local economies and job creation. Ensuring that the benefits of these investments are widely distributed will be key to achieving sustainable development.
Environmental Considerations: with rapid development, environmental sustainability must not be sidelined. Integrating ‘green’ building practices and considering the environmental impact of infrastructural projects will be vital in preserving Guyana’s natural resources and ensuring longterm resilience.
The Guyana government’s ambitious housing and infrastructural programme marks a significant step towards improving the quality of life for many citizens.
President, Dr. Ali’s commitment to delivering on promises and providing a comprehensive support package is commendable. However, as the nation moves forward, it will be crucial to address the challenges and ensure that these investments lead to sustainable, equitable, and environmentally responsible growth. The path to prosperity is paved not just with roads and houses, but with a shared vision for a more inclusive and resilient future.
Minister Parag details brazen attempts to ‘add votes...
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of Poll (SOPs) to those that Mingo was calling out during the tabulation process. The tabulation process, according to her, was suspended at 21:00 hours after Mingo complained of being tired.
Minister Parag recounted seeing Miller and Ms. Bowman (only name given) of GECOM when she went back to the Command Centre the next day.
She testified that Myers, the Deputy Chief Election Officer at the time, told her that Miller and Ms. Bowman would continue with the tabulation process. She mentioned that Lawrence was present as well.
ADDING AND DEDUCTING VOTES
Providing evidence of a pattern of purported collaboration and fraudulent activities intended to rig the election results, Parag said: “I objected by saying that the numbers that you [GECOM staff] have, are not the numbers I have. I proceeded to call out loudly the numbers that I had on the Statements of Poll in my possession. But the GECOM staff (name disclosed) paused a bit and continued.”
Minister Parag described hearing whispers from those seated nearby as she continued
to voice her objections.
“As the process continued, numbers were being called by the GECOM staff. And again, I compared the numbers to the Statements of Poll I had in my possession and I objected… The numbers being called are adding votes for the APNU+AFC and deducting votes for the PPP/C,” Minister Parag said she shouted.
Parag said that as she was saying this, other people were speaking loudly.
‘THEY ARE RIGGING THIS ELECTION!’
“I said, ‘Why are we using a spreadsheet and not Statements of Poll?'" she went on.
According to her, there was absolutely no response to her query.
She testified having heard Minister of Public Affairs Kwame McCoy yelling, “They are rigging this election!” as she was voicing her concerns.
McCoy was there to observe the tally process as well.
A New and United Guyana (ANUG) delegate Jonathan Yearwood was among those who, according to her, were “shouting and calling for the Statements of Poll to be used” at this time in the “loud eruption of objections”. Parag said that then Chief Election Officer Lowenfield
entered the room, and once more she demanded that SoPs be utilised in the process.
Minister Parag told the court that she remembered Lowenfield saying that the spreadsheets had votes recorded from the SoPs.
As an election observer, she noted that Teni Housty, the then-President of the Bar Association of Guyana, read aloud Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) regarding the use of SoPs, and that she saw Lawrence using a spreadsheet.
Essentially, Section 84 mandates that the Returning Officer determine the total number of votes cast in support of each list, in accordance with the Statements of Poll.
PERSISTENT OBJECTIONS
Minister Parag said that a member of the GECOM staff had left the room and returned with what looked to be a SoP while she persisted in her protest against the use of spreadsheets in the tabulation process.
The witness said that when she was comparing the numbers on her SoPs with those being called by the GECOM workers, she loudly repeated the figures in Lowenfield's presence.
In her testimony, Parag stated that only 421 of the 879 ballot boxes in District Four were counted, indicating that the tabulation process eventually “slowed down.”
She added that as of March 4, 2020, into the evening, they had reached box 471. She stated that GECOM employees “claimed they were tired and the process was interrupt” at 21:00 hours.
Later on, she said the procedure was continued, but just two boxes were processed.
The minister stated that no tabulation was being done into the early hours of March 5, 2020, and that the process had been stopped altogether at roughly three in the morning.
Parag will continue will continue with his testimony when the court resumes for hearing on Tuesday morning, July 30, 2024 at 09:30 hours.
CRITICAL ROLE
The prosecution team is being led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, and includes King’s Counsel Thomas Astaphan, and Attorney-at-Law Latchmie Rahamat, among others.
The defendants’ lawyers include Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson, and Darren Wade.
The evidence for the prosecution includes certified copies
of SoPs and Statements of Recount (SoRs), witness statements from at least 80 persons, along with video interviews and other documentation.
Edgar Thomas, the former police commander of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), forensic investigator Rawle Nedd, and head of the Diaspora Unit Rosalinda Rasul are among those who are expected to testify.
Prosecutor Ramdhani stated, in his opening statement, that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the wilful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the PPP/C.
He submitted that in order to demonstrate the existence of a broad conspiracy, he will provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
According to Ramdhani's submission, he would present evidence demonstrating that Mingo made a fraudulent declaration that was even placed on GECOM's website, along with the part the other defendants played in assisting with the effort to rig the elections in the APNU+AFC's favour.
The SoPs will be produced before the court to have their legitimacy confirmed.
BACKGROUND
The APNU+AFC Coalition
received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to former CEO Lowenfield’s election report. 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 administration stay in power, Mingo and the other defendants, allegedly inflated the results in Region Four, 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 had been multiple delays in the start of the trial, primarily due to requests from the defence. Polls closed on March 2, 2020 at 18:00 hours, and five months after, on August 2, 2020, GECOM announced the official results of the elections.
‘This is a ruse’ – prosecutor raises alarm over defence tactic to stall case again
THE much-anticipated trial over alleged electoral irregularities during the 2020 general and regional elections resumed on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, with King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani accusing the defence of using delay tactics to stall the proceedings.
The case, which involves high-profile defendants including former Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield and former Health Minister Volda Lawrence, had been stalled multiple times, due to objections raised by their attorneys.
Ramdhani, leading the prosecution, delivered his opening address on Monday morning, laying out the key evidence and the prosecution’s strategy.
However, the courtroom atmosphere quickly shifted when defence attorney Eusi Anderson made multiple applications requesting
original Statements of Poll (SoPs) and protection for the nine defendants. An -
derson also sought a site visit to the former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Command Centre, arguing that these measures were essential for a fair trial.
Ramdhani responded assertively, accusing Anderson of attempting to manipulate the trial’s timeline and suggesting that the defence’s motions were
more about gaining media attention than addressing substantive legal concerns.
“This attorney at law, my learned friend of the opposite side, waited until this morning, the 29th of July, 2024 to speak of an occasion that occurred in 2020. This is simply a ruse! This is simply something he wants to speak about to distract.
“Because if he had any genuine concern in the last four years, he would
have mentioned it to some court to say, ‘Please give me protection’. Where was the question and the request for protection in four years? Today, he stands up at the beginning of the trial, and he says, ‘Look, I want protection’ and an award from you to go to the press. That’s what he’s seeking! This is no genuine effort!,” Ramdhani said.
Senior Magistrate Leron Daly ruled that the original SoPs would only be presented when deemed appropriate and that any decision regarding a site visit would be contingent on the
evidence presented during the trial.
“I have to hear the evidence before I decide,” Magistrate Daly reaffirmed, nixing the defence’s attempts to delay the trial.
The court then proceeded with the testimony of Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag, who was a candidate for the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) in the 2020 elections.
The prosecution contends that the defendants manipulated the election results in Region Four, the
country’s largest voting district, to favour the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition.
The official recount, conducted under the supervision of a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team, confirmed that the PPP/C had indeed won the election by a significant margin.
The trial, originally set to begin in early 2024, had faced numerous delays, primarily due to objections and applications from the defence.
Attorney-at-Law Eusi Anderson
King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani
On this day in 2020, October 5, 1992 returned
HERE is what Jesuit priest, Andrew Morrison wrote in his book, “Justice: The struggle for democracy in Guyana, 1952-1992” about the 1992 election: “The time when the election came close to be scrapped was on election day itself (October 5, 1992). From early morning a crowd, mainly PNC supporters gathered outside the election centre in Croal Street claiming to be registered voters whose names had been omitted from the lists at the polling stations. It became evident that the PNC’s protest was orchestrated. Known PNC activists including two ministers, kept coming in mini-buses and cars brining persons who claimed to have been disenfranchised. Many of these appeared to be under the voting age of 18. By 2 in the afternoon, there was about 1,500 outside the centre shouting slogans and
chanting.”
I was outside the centre the entire day and one of the memories I have was as the crowds start to brick down the centre, I saw a German television crew facing the crowds filming them as they violently assaulted the building. All I can think of was the fear of the injury the cameraman would suffer. But miraculously no brick was directed at him.
The attempt to abort 1992 election is well captured in Father Morrison’s book (undoubtedly one of the best books ever written on Guyana) and I witnessed for myself how the first free and fair election since 1968 was almost lost through the machinations of the leadership of the then ruling PNC, including the barefaced instigations of the violent PNC supporters by a PNC minister who now refers to himself as an elder in the Guyanese society.
We had arrived at the moment of October 5, 1992 through the blood, sweat and tears of untold number of Guyanese including many who died in the struggle against authoritarian rule. I think I am intellectually equipped to understand the human psyche collapse but I am getting on in advanced age and will go to my grave without the comprehension of why people I struggled with from 1968 onwards for free and fair elections could have supported the colossal conspiracy to deny Guyanese the right to vote in
2020.
How do you explain that psychic collapse? When I think of the phenomenal participation of these folks in finally taking us to October 5, 1992, how could they have become what they became from March 2020 to July 2020? On March 2, 2020, I cast my ballot for the predominantly Amerindian Party led by Lenox Shuman. Then I saw brazen attempts to take us back to 1985 when the most degenerate election in Guyana took place.
I was in the Kaieteur Radio station with Leonard Gildarie reporting on the election. What I saw lacerated my psyche. I was not taking me and my family down the roads of permanent power again. I had to join the democratic chorus.
I lived through the era of permanent power and I saw the evil that was personified in Forbes Burnham and I was not going to let it happen once more without my participation. The PPP is not Guyana. The PNC is not Guyana. Guyana is bigger than both. Whether we like a party or hate a party, we must never equate them with the nation-state of Guyana. On March 3, 2020, when the rigging began, it was a sacred duty to save Guyana -those who chose not to, should not be forgiven.
On today’s date, July 30 in 2020, October 5, 1992 came alive once more. On this day, July 30 in 2020, Guyana was once again saved from permanent power.
The Court of Appeal (CoA) ruled on this very day in 2020 that the writ of Misenga Jones to have the declaration of the Chief Election Officer be declared the official results of the 2020 election and not the CARICOM-supervised recount was rejected because the Caribbean Court of Justice, Guyana’s apex court, had already decided on the recount as the basis of the election results.
The court comprised Justices Dawn Gregory Barnes, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry and Rishi Persaud. This was the end of the long road of deceit, deception, denial and disaster. On this day in 2020, Guyana regained the right to vote freely in national elections. Something strange happened on this day in the CoA. After the decision, Attorney Roysdale Forde asked the court for a stay. Justices Beharry and Persaud denied it. Justice Barnes agreed and said that Justice Beharry has agreed too. Justice Beharry in open court said that was not her position (source- “Democracy Prevails: The Chronicle of the Guyana 2020 elections”). This decision remains the only decision of the CoA in favour of the State since the no-confidence vote in 2018. The State has lost all CoA appeals since then.
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.
Jordan ‘deliberately ignores’ proactive, strategic measures to enhance poultry industry
—
Ministry of Agriculture says; reiterates commitment to investing more, exploring innovative initiatives
The following is the full text of a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture:
“THE Ministry of Agriculture categorically dismisses the falsehoods propagated by Vinceroy Jordan in the Stabroek News regarding the ongoing challenge of Inclusion Body Hepatitis (IBH) in Guyana's poultry industry.
“While Jordan highlights the critical economic and health impacts of this disease, which have been felt globally, he deliberately ignores the proactive and strategic measures taken by the PPP/C administration to mitigate its effects and protect our poultry sector.
“Since its first detection in 2005 and confirmation in 2006 at the DIDCO farm, IBH has posed a severe threat to our poultry industry, leading to substantial economic losses and the eventual closure of the DIDCO facility.
“The Ministry of Agriculture's swift response, including the recruitment of renowned regional poultry pathologists and the initiation of a national IBH control plan, has been pivotal in reducing the incidence of this disease over the years.
“The resurgence of IBH cases in 2015, particularly in the Berbice zone, underscored the persistent threat of this disease and its ability to cause significant damage despite containment efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the subsequent historic flooding further exacerbated the situation, creating ideal conditions for the virus to spread and challenging the existing vaccination programmes.
“In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Agriculture has implemented several critical interventions, including:-
1. Sourcing and Procurement of Vaccines: a total investment of 29 million GYD has been dedicated to securing vaccines to combat IBH.
2. Recruitment of International Experts: the ministry has contracted poultry pathologists, virologists, and nutritionists to provide expertise and enhance our disease-management capabilities.
3. Legislative Support: key legislation has been passed to support staff activities and ensure hatchery compliance, strengthening our regulatory framework.
4. Virus Isolation and Typing: efforts have been made to isolate and type the
virus, providing valuable insights for targeted interventions.
5. Development of an Autogenous Vaccine: for the first time in Guyana's history, an autogenous vaccine was developed in 2021, marking a significant milestone in our fight against IBH.
6. Sourcing of Hatching Eggs from Vaccinated Flocks: this strategy aims to improve the immunity of chicks from the outset, reducing the risk of disease transmission.
7. Broiler Breeder Programme: a 20 million GYD investment has been made to establish a broiler breeder programme, ensuring national self-sufficiency and enhancing the immunity of our poultry population.
“It is important to note that while many countries continue to grapple with outbreaks of diseases like [sic] Newcastle and Bird Flu, Guyana has successfully kept these threats at bay through strategic interventions by the Ministry of Agriculture. This success is a testament to the beneficiary [sic] of our national disease control strategies and the dedication of our agricultural sector.
“Under the PPP/C government, the poultry sector is enjoying its best times, partly due to our support of the oil and gas sector and the extensive research conducted on hepatitis.
“Despite the challenges posed by IBH, particularly the marked increase in cases in 2015 limited to the Berbice zone, and the perfect environmental conditions for the disease to thrive in 2020 due to COVID-19 and historic flooding, our interventions have been effective in mitigating the spread of the disease.
“In contrast, during the
APNU+AFC administration from 2015-2020, poultry farmers were left to fend for themselves with no significant support or intervention to address these issues. It
was only when the PPP/C returned to office that substantial actions were taken to address these challenges and support our poultry sector.
“While IBH remains a
significant challenge, the Ministry of Agriculture's comprehensive and proactive approach has significantly mitigated its impact.
Continued vigilance, invest-
ment, and innovation will be crucial in safeguarding Guyana's poultry industry and ensuring its resilience in the face of ongoing and future threats.”
GTT makes contribution to summer vacation activities through youth development organisations
while two young cricketers were also rewarded with professional cricket bats and encouraged to continue persuing the sport.
NDC Representative and Coordinator at the Eddy Grant Learning and Research Centre, Rodwell Lewis, said that his community appreciates the effort by the company.
THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) continues its commitment to the development of young people through its involvement in community and youth organisations.
The company has extended its support to July/ August vacation activities organised by the President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana (PYARG), Malteenoes Sports Club, Georgetown and the Eddy Grant Learning and Research Centre, Plaisance, East Coast of Demerara.
Shaquelle Williams, GTT’s Communication Executive, said that the donations by the company are in keeping with GTT’s promise to strengthen communities.
“We believe in being involved in communities, not only because we provide critical service, but for development. For us it is important to contribute to the structures such as organised groups that mentor and guide our children”.
Executive Officer of PYARG, Ivan Bentham, received a laptop on behalf of his organisation. The PC
will be used in PYARG’s ICT vacation workshop to equip more than 20 young people ages 14-24, with necessary technical competencies. The programme lead said that he was pleased to receive the positive contribution.
“This is a diverse initiative, and we equip young people from all ten administrative regions with the
necessary skills in keeping with the Government’s development agenda. I am pleased to see GTT, a company that plays such a major role in the country’s ICT infrastructure, playing its part,” Bentham said.
Children at the Malteenoes Sports Club and the Eddy Grant Learning and Research Centre received back-to-school backpacks,
“As someone who has worked in this community with the children as an educator for more than three decades, I think an involvement in youth development from the perspective of education and the development of personal talent is critical and we in Plaisance want to thank GTT for its service and its contribution.”
Last year, during the country’s largest Fibre roll-out, GTT donated several smart classrooms to schools across Guyana.
Luxury Med Spa Body Haven opened at Vilvorden
— offers comprehensive skin care treatments
By Indrawattie Natram
ENTREPRENEUR
Falisha Hakh has launched "Body Haven," a luxury med spa at Vilvorden, Region Two.
As the first-of-itskind spa in the region, Body Haven offers a comprehensive range of premium services designed to enhance both
appearance and well-being.
Hakh, a licensed esthetician, employs three trained beauticians who, along with her, are committed to delivering ex-
ceptional care and personalised attention.
Hakh’s expertise includes M.A.D dermaceutical skincare, aesthetics training from
The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) continues its commitment to the development of young people through its involvement in community and youth organisations
Falisha Hakh
Inside Body Haven
Global Mangrove Day: Guyana invests over $1.9B in mangrove conservation
By Cindy Parkinson
IN a bid to raise awareness and advocate for mangrove conservation, the Ministry of Agriculture, through the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), hosted an exhibition and signboard unveiling ceremony at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade on Friday. This event marked the celebration of International Mangrove Day 2024 under the theme, “Mangroves Matter: Safeguarding Our Coastal Guardians for Tomorrow.”
Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, Jagnarine Singh, spoke on behalf of Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.
He emphasised the crucial role of mangroves in carbon sequestration, shoreline stabilisation, sediment absorption, and wave action mitigation—essential components of
Guyana's marine defence.
Delivering the Minister's speech, Mr. Singh highlighted Guyana’s commitment to the global celebration of International Mangroves Day 2024.
He lauded the country's progress in mangrove restoration, conservation, and management. “Mangroves are our coastal guardians, vital to Guyana’s environmental and economic health,” he read. “They act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and surges, protecting our communities and infrastructure. With over 23,000 hectares of mangroves, they support fisheries, livelihoods, food security, and provide habitats for diverse wildlife.”
Mr. Singh also underscored the importance of mangroves in sequestering carbon, enhancing efforts against climate change as outlined in Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. He stressed that
the resilience of coastal communities and the preservation of ecological balance hinge on the restoration and conservation of these coastal guardians.
Reflecting on Guyana's investments and achievements, the CEO noted that since 2010, the government has committed over 1.9 billion Guyana dollars to strengthen coastal district resilience through mangrove restoration.
He announced that more than 500 hectares of mangroves have been restored across 35 locations in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, and Six. This year alone, an additional 275 million
dollars have been allocated for rehabilitation initiatives in Regions Two and Five.
“Our achievements are the result of strategic planning and collaboration,” Mr. Singh said.
“We have established an inter-agency committee dedicated to promoting sustainable mangrove management and developed a 10-year National Mangrove Action Plan.
In 2023, we launched an integrated online Mangrove Information System (www.mangroves. gov.gy), providing data on the status of Guyana’s mangroves and our restoration projects. The Mangrove Centre, also established in 2023,
serves as a hub for education and research, fostering innovation in mangrove conservation.”
Mr. Singh emphasised the importance of supporting community livelihoods through mangrove conservation. He pointed out that mangrove ecosystems sustain the lifestyles of many coastal communities by providing vital services. Investing in livelihoods based on mangroves enhances economic resilience while promoting environmental sustainability.
The Ministry of Agriculture is committed to working with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) to promote ecotourism, leveraging the rich biodiversity of mangrove forests to attract tourists.
Additionally, Mr. Singh highlighted the potential of beekeeping as part of mangrove restoration initiatives.
“Currently, local apiculturists produce approximately 4,000 gallons of
honey annually, while the demand is estimated at 15,000 gallons. This gap presents an opportunity for expanding local production. By establishing more hives in mangrove areas, communities can leverage this ecological niche to boost honey production, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic resilience.”
Mr. Singh also noted that mangrove restoration initiatives significantly impact several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
“Our efforts enhance the resilience of coastal zones, biodiversity, livelihood support, and the fight against climate change,” he concluded.
Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, Mr. Jagnarine Singh, during his presentation at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade on International Mangroves Day 2024
During the unveiling ceremony of the mangrove structure at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade on International Mangroves Day 2024, Mr. Jagnarine Singh, the Chief Executive Officer of NAREI, can be seen second from the left in the photograph. Also present are international dignitaries, representatives from ExxonMobil, and NAREI (Delano Williams photos)
Informative structure erected at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade to commemorate International Mangrove Day 2024
Luxury Med Spa Body Haven opened at...
From page 12
Trinidad and Tobago, and specialised courses
from Hifu China and Lip Blush from M'spirium Studio.
As a mother of three, Hakh established Body Haven in January 2024, located at Plot C, Vilvorden (Hakh Rice Mill) compound, driven by her passion for wellness and aesthetics. At 30 years old, Hakh’s motivation stems from her interest in cosmetic treatments and her desire to provide high-quality, personalised care to the Essequibians.
“By offering various treatments, my spa can enhance residents' overall well-being and self-esteem. I aim to build a clientele from all over Guyana, positively contributing to the quality of life in the area,” Hakh said.
Body Haven offers an array of services including comprehensive skin care treatments, luxurious facials, body sculpting, personalised weight loss plans, professional hair care services, full body care, laser hair removal, HIFU facelifts, lip blush, lip fillers, medical-grade pedicures, chemical peels, micro-needling, and Botox, manicures and pedicures, and stateof-the-art laser treatments.
Since its opening, the spa has received positive reviews, especially from customers dealing with acne.
“I moved from Georgetown and realised that Essequibo needed a place where people could enhance their well-being. We consult with our clients and provide affordable packages using high-end products,” Hakh said.
Looking ahead, Hakh plans to expand with a complete luxury hair salon and advanced treatments like Olaplex and K-18— also her very own skin care line.
Hakh envisions fu-
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Guyana Beverages Inc. are teaming up once again to host the Kool Kidz Summer Festival, a programme designed to introduce young boys and girls to the fundamentals of football.
After a year’s hiatus due to renovations at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the programme returns, this time at the
GFF’s National Training Centre in Providence.
The festival will run from August 3rd to 31st, with weekly sessions on Saturdays culminating in an Under-11 tournament to identify potential future stars.
GFF President, Wayne Forde, emphasisd the programme’s importance in identifying young talent, stating, “This is a key part of our early talent identification programme.”
Guyana Beverages Inc. General Manager, Samuel Arjoon, praised the GFF’s efforts in developing the sport and highlighted the company’s commitment to youth development through the Kool Kidz brand.
The festival aims to create a fun and safe environment for children to learn and enjoy the beautiful game.
Guyana Football Federation President, Wayne Forde (left) and General Manager for Guyana Beverages Inc., Samuel Arjoon, signify GBI’s support for the event
‘We
still believed we could win’ - Ireland’s Balbirnie
IRELAND captain, Andrew Balbirnie, was delighted after watching his side fight back to beat Zimbabwe by four wickets at Stormont.
Ireland started day four on 33-5 and well short of the 158 they needed to win the Test match.
But a super 96-run partnership between Lorcan Tucker (56) and Andy McBrine (55 not out) helped the them to back-to-back Test wins.
“We spoke in the dressing room last night about how we had two of the best Test batsmen at the crease and that we still believed we could win,” said opener Balbirnie.
“The beauty of Test cricket is the ebbs and flows.
Saturday night was a tough
watch but today we got our rewards for four days of hard work and we are delighted to win this Test here in front of our friends, family and fans.”
It was the first Test match
Fraser-Pryce
in Northern Ireland with Donemana man McBrine player of the match after also claiming seven wickets.
“I’m proud to be from the north-west, so to play a part
in this win is special,” said the 31-year-old.
“We all worked hard in the build-up to this and I worked with the bowling coaches, so to see it pay off with seven wickets is fantastic.”
There was disappointment for Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine after his side missed a great opportunity of a first Test win since 2021.
“We gave ourselves a good platform in both innings but our lower order let us down a little bit with some cheap wickets,” he said.
“The future looks bright with fast bowlers like Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava and Tanaka Chivanga.”(BBC Sport).
National Under-17 selectee benefits from ‘Project Cricket Gear’
PUGNACIOUS
opener and wicket-keeper, Vikash Wilkinson, is the latest young cricketer to benefit from “Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative between Kishan Das of the USA and Anil Beharry of Guyana.
Wilkinson was recently selected for the Guyana Underr-17 team to participate in the regional tournament which commences in Trinidad and Tobago from August 11. He is representing Guyana for the second year at that level. He is a member of Enmore Cricket Club and recently represented Demerara at the Under-19 and 17 levels in the GCB Inter County tournaments.
The right-hander was the recipient of one pair of batting gloves. He expressed gratitude for the token. The project is pleased to be part of his development and reminded him of the importance of the level of discipline required for success. The project will continue to support young people and is happy to be associated with the development of cricket especially through youths.
Total cricket-related items received/ purchased so far: $460,000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, two trophies, 25 pairs of cricket shoes, 30 pairs of batting pads, 35 cricket bats, 30 pairs of batting gloves, 25 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 12 cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one fibre-glass bat, 13 boxes of white cricket balls, three boxes of red balls and 28 footballs.
In addition to the above, gear worth more than $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wick-
et-keeper/batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.
To date, 78 young players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted directly from seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 32 bats, three boxes, six helmets, 30 pairs of cricket shoes, 19 pairs of batting pads, 24 thigh pads, one bat grip, 33 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and three pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.
Several others also benefitted in-
directly. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area received two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also collected one box of red cricket balls each; Cold Fusion Cricket Club 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC received four and a half boxes of balls, 15 white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, a set of stumps and bails.
Other beneficiaries include the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, Number 65 Young Titans with 30 t-shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple, Leguan Cricket Committee, Tucber Park Cricket Club and Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each).
Cricket related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify talent.
Progressive and well-managed cricket clubs with a youth programme will also benefit.
Distribution will continue.
Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.
FOUR-TIME Olympic 100m medallist, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, is embracing the experience as she prepares for what will be her last Olympic Games, though not necessarily her final season in track and field.
Speaking to Jamaican media in Paris on Monday, Fraser-Pryce expressed her enthusiasm to compete, despite the significant challenges posed by injuries that have limited her to just four races this season. Her latest setback forced her to withdraw from her last race prior to arriving in Paris.
The 37-year-old sprint legend has a storied Olympic career, having won gold in the 100m in Beijing 2008 and London 2012. She captured bronze while battling a toe injury in Rio 2016 and secured silver at the Tokyo 2020 Games, making her the only woman to medal in the 100m at four consecutive Olympics. Fraser-Pryce will aim to extend her record with a fifth 100m medal when competition begins on August 2.
“It’s the final Olympic Games; let me repeat that,”
Fraser-Pryce said hinting that Paris will not be her final season in the sport. “I think this time around I have been having a good experience with the Olympic spirit, just meeting people. Yesterday I went to a rugby match (to watch her new friend and massive fan, Michaela Blyde of New Zealand, play), the first time going to a rugby match. Considering that my competition is this week, that would probably be the last competition I go to before I get to compete but it has been a good experience.”
Fraser-Pryce, who finished third at the Jamaican national championships in late June, shared her positive outlook on her Olympic preparations.
“So far it has been good. Again, always excited to step on the track. That’s where you kind of unleash everything that you have been experiencing, how training has been going, how you really want to represent not just yourself but your country and I think ultimately for me being here at the fifth Olympic Games is such a blessing. When I look back, like five, it’s crazy to even think about and the fact that it has been five straight Olympic Games, it’s even more crazy but it’s just the blessings, about how God has been good to me and how He has kept me so I’m really looking forward to the experience, stepping on the track and always, once I get on the line I’m giving 100 per cent at all times and that’s what I’m looking forward to.”
Acknowledging the competitiveness of the field, Fraser-Pryce emphasiSed the importance of focus and determination.
“The field is always tough. It’s the Olympic Games, it’s every four years so whenever anybody lines up I think it’s really about doing their best because for some people this is one shot because the Olympics is every four years so for me I am always of the expectation that it is going to be competitive no matter where I am at; whether it’s an Olympic Games, a World Championships or a track meet, it’s going to be competitive so you have to have that in your head space, get on the line and make sure you’re focused on yourself and get the job done.”
(Sportsmax)
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
Joy for Andrew Balbirnie as he receives the trophy after Ireland’s victory.
Vikash Wilkinson poses with his pair of batting gloves.
Slingerz FC protest disallowed goal against Den Amstel FC
SLINGERZ Football Club has filed an official protest with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) after a Marcus Tudor goal was disallowed without explanation during their July 25 clash with Den Amstel in the KFC Elite League.
Currently second in the standings behind the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Slingerz FC and Den Amstel faced off in the ‘West Side Derby,’ which ended in a 1-1 draw.
As a result, Slingerz FC (39 points) remains one point behind rivals GDF FC (40 points), with 12 wins and three draws in 15 matches. The other draws came against Monedderlust FC (2-2) and GDF FC (0-0).
Immediately after the game, Slingerz FC informed Match Commissioner, Rawle Adams, of their intent to protest the results. They followed up the next day with a letter to GFF General Secretary, Ian Alves, in keeping with Article 14 of the Elite
League’s Rules and Regulations regarding protests.
Slingerz FC stated in the letter that during the second half of the match, with the score tied at 1-1, Marcus Tudor scored a goal that was subsequently disallowed by Referee Colin Abel. The decision remained unclear to the club’s players and staff.
After Tudor’s goal, Referee Abel initially pointed to the centre line to restart the game but then consulted with his assistant, Sofya Golden, and disallowed the goal. “It should be noted that Assistant Referee Golden’s flag was never raised to signal any infraction, leaving the players and spectators baffled by the decision to disallow the goal,” Slingerz FC said.
The Vergenoegen-based club would also provide video evidence to the GFF to substantiate its claims, pointing out to the GFF that “Video evidence submitted will show that the referee could not have called for
offside, as no player from Slingerz FC was in breach of Law 11 of FIFA’s Laws of the Game. The evidence will also demonstrate that no Slingerz FC players were infringing on the goalkeeper, nor was there a foul committed in the outfield.”
Given the evidence provided and the impact of the decision, Slingerz FC is asking the GFF to“respectfully request a thorough review of the incident.” “Given our respect for the GFF’s high val-
ue in protecting the integrity of the sport in Guyana, we believe that a fair reassessment will demonstrate that the goal was valid and that the original decision should be overturned,” Slingerz FC said.
The club further noted, “we understand that this is unprecedented but well within the confines of the beautiful game. We would greatly appreciate it if this matter could be reviewed at the earliest convenience.”
According to the club, they are so far pleased with the GFF’s professionalism in communicating the steps taken to address their protest. While we admit that this might be the first time a club in Guyana, especially at this level, has officially challenged the decision of an official, it is not new to football globally. The Laws of the Game and guidelines of the Elite League are there to guide us and protect the integrity of the game, the Slingerz FC stated.
Slingerz FC will face Santos, the Guyana Police Force FC, and GDF FC in their three remaining matches in the KFC Elite League.
Commissioner of Police gives support to Kares One Guyana T10
COMMISSIONER of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, has committed to participating yet again in the second season of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast and ensuring the venues are safe spaces for families.
The second installment of the pulsating tournament bowls off on August 3 at the Police Sports Club, Lusignan Community Centre Ground, and Queen’s College ground, where the best 32 Tapeball teams in Guyana will be on show in a straight knock-out contest.
In 2023, the Commissioner held the gloves behind the stumps during the Cricket for Charity Match, which President Dr. Irfaan Ali led at the National Stadium.
That match returns on August 25, along with the finals of the main draw at the Stadium.
In a Sunday press release, the organisers expressed immense gratitude for the support of the Commissioner and, by extension, the Guyana Police Force.
“Based on feedback, we had no security issues on the field or play. We certainly aim to replicate such again, and the support of the Guyana Police Force and private security firms is critical in that endeavour. There is no entrance fee attached to these venues, so we always encourage people to come out with their families and enjoy the festivities of this community sport,” FL Sport expressed.
Other match days will be the Round of 16 on August 4 at the Police Sports Club and Lusignan, while the quarter-finals return to the Enmore Community Centre Ground on August 11.
Matches on August 3:
MS-13 All-Stars v Team Corruption – QC Pitch 1 at 09:30h; Upsetters v GPL Inc – QC Pitch three at 09:30h; Montra Jaguars v Falcons XI – PSC at 09:30h; Street Ballerz v Village Rams – Lusignan at 09:30h; EC Express v Mahdia – Lusignan at 11:30h; Soesdyke XI v Airport XI
– QC pitch one at 11:30h; Renegades Cricket Club v Tarmac Titans – PSC at 11:30h; Eccles All-Stars v Eastsyde – QC pitch three at 11:30h; Titans All-Stars v Stripling Warriors – PSC at 13:30h; PREMIER Insurance v Min. Housing – QC pitch one at 13:30h; Moruca Super Giants v Lil Rams – QC pitch three at 13:30h; The Guards v Mahaica Super Strikers –13:30h at Lusignan; Green Scorpions v Avinash AllStars – QC pitch one at 15:30h; Brooklyn Youth Strikers v Cotton Tree Die Hard – PSC at 15:30h; Diamond Gunners v TG Titans – Lusignan at 15:30h; The United Crew v Bartica Bulls – QC pitch three at 15:30h.
The competition promises to be fierce, and a larger prize pool will entice the 32 participating teams. The champions will receive G$1.5 million, while the runners-up will receive G$500,000.
Players will vie for the titles of Most Runs, Most Wickets, and Player of the
Final. Each winner will receive a Smart TV and a $75,000 cash prize, all compliments of Regal Stationery.
Assuria Insurance is not holding back either, offering a motorbike and $85,000 to the Most Valuable Player.
The Kares One Guyana T10 Blast enjoys the support of Kares Engineering, Banks DIH Limited, Star Rentals, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, SuperBet, Demerara Mutual, ETS, Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Jacobs’ Jewellery, First Change Builders Inc, KFC Guyana, Building Expo 2024, Giftland OfficeMax, Sankar’s Auto Works, ENet, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Trophy Stall, ANSA McAL Distribution, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, General Marine, Samaroo Investments, and Coel’s Boutique.
The Slingerz FC football players
Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken (left) and Romario Samaroo of FL Sport.
GCC Summer Camp bowls off with 90 participants
… runs until August 9 at Bourda
By Sean Devers
PRESIDENT of the Georgetown Cricket Club’s (GCC), Jonathan Yearwood, gave the feature address at Monday’s opening of GCC Summer camp which was first held in 1991.
This year’s camp is scheduled to conclude on August 9 at Bourda, the oldest cricket club in the Caribbean.
The club which hosted its first Test match in 1930 when West Indies beat England to record its first Test win, is catering for 90 participants this year, an increase of 30 students from last year.
Yearwood informed that Queensway Security Services Inc. is the premier sponsor of the Camp.
“They were on board last year and the owner, Mohamed Arafat Qualander, challenged GCC to increase the number of participants
this year and if we did so he would provide a larger sponsorship.
So, this year Queensway Security Services has increased its sponsorship” revealed Yearwood. “I want you to be disciplined, punctual and listen to what your coaches say. Your coaches are all qualified cricket coaches and this is first time GCC will have a female coach.
It is not only cricket skills that you will be taught. There will be lectures on discipline, game awareness, team building and the opportunity to interact with Junior National players who are also participants.
The camp will run from 09:00 hrs to 13:00hrs each day and caters for boys and girls between the ages of seven and seventeen. Five females were present yesterday.
Leon Johnson who is Guyana’s most successful First-Class Captain with six titles was also present yester-
day and told the participants that at the age of 12 he was a part of a similar summer camp.
“I was right where you are when I was 12 years old and that camp inspired me to play cricket as a career. I made the Guyana senior team four years later. Orin Bailey was my coach when I played for Guyana’s U-15 and U-17, Peter Persaud encouraged me and
Brathwaite optimistic his side will be better in next assignment
BIRMINGHAM, England, (CMC) – West Indies captain, Kraigg Brathwaite, said he hoped his side’s chastening loss against hosts England in the Richards-Botham Trophy Series will spur them to better performances when they play South Africa next month.
The Caribbean side were condemned to a 3-0 sweep in the Richards-Botham Trophy Series after they lost the third and final Test against the English by 10 wickets on Sunday at Edgbaston.
They also lost the first Test that ended three Fridays ago – inside three days – by an innings and 114 runs at Lord’s, and the second Test that finished last Sunday –inside four days – by 241 runs at Trent Bridge.
West Indies will return this coming week to the Caribbean and will have little time to regroup and find a winning formula for a two-Test series against the South Africans – but Brathwaite said he believes that they can.
“I am very excited that we have [another] two
Tests, starting in a week’s time against South Africa,” he said during a post-play interview on TV. “We need more cricket, and I think being in this competitive and intense international game, and you are playing it more against good players, you will improve.
“Playing Tests six months apart, it’s kind of tough, so I’m excited for the series against South Africa, and we know where we have to improve. Once we’ve got the right attitude, you will see growth and consistency.”
The first Test against the Proteas starts on August 7 at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, and the second Test starts on August 15 at the Guyana National Stadium.
“I am looking forward to these two Tests because it is important to see growth,” he said. “I would have spoken about learning from the first Test and so on, and this is where it has to be shown. We have to see growth in this first Test against South Africa.
“It’s nothing hard. We have to get better at
bowling at the top of ‘offstump’, and we need to stay committed, as batters, a little longer – in both first and second innings – but I am excited, and I’m looking forward to the two Tests coming up because once learning takes place, you will see growth in this team and Test wins.”
Brathwaite said a general lack of consistency allround plagued West Indies throughout the series, but he said there were a few positive signs that his side could take forward to use for future high intensity battles.
“We never gave up,” he said. “We always came back and fought – that’s one thing I must recognise.
“In the batting, Kavem Hodge got his first Test hundred, we [this group] got one of our highest first innings totals.
“Bowling wise, we were good in pieces –Jayden had a very good series with the ball, Motie when he played got some crucial wickets, so we had some positives, and it’s important that we learn from this experience.”
gave me cricket gear while Garvin Nedd was a coach with the Guyana senior team when I was captain. So… you are all in very good hands” informed the 36- year-old who played nine Tests and six ODIs.
Johnson who captained the West Indies in the 2006 U-19 World Cup is now a businessman after scoring seven centuries and 42 fifties from 127 First-Class games between 2004- 2013.
One of 18 players from GCC to play Test cricket, Jonhson promised the youngsters that despite his business commitments he would visit for an hour each day. Due to the wet ground the enthusiastic youngsters had their first session on the GCC Tarmac.
GCC players Mavindra Dindyal, Thaddeus Lovell, Krsna Singh and Shahid Viera are in St Vincent with the
national U-19 team which will play its final game today against the Windwards. Alvin Kallicharran, Carl Hooper, Shiv Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan were West Indies captains who played for GCC. Sponsors for the Camp are Queensway Security Services Inc, Sankar Auto Works, Sankar Auto Colours, Guyana Beverages Inc.
Seales optimistic Windies bowlers
will learn from mistakes in ‘tough’ series
BIRMINGHAM, England, (CMC)
– Fast bowler, Jayden Seales, said he and the rest of the West Indies bowling attack learnt a few hard lessons during their side’s chastening loss against hosts England in the Richards-Botham Trophy Series.
The Caribbean side was condemned to a 3-0 sweep in the series after they lost the third and final Test against the English by 10 wickets on Sunday at Edgbaston.
They also lost the first Test that ended three Fridays ago – inside three days – by an innings and 114 runs at Lord’s, and the second Test that finished last Sunday – inside four days – by 241 runs at Trent Bridge.
Seales ended the three-Test series with 13 wickets at 27.23 apiece and earned the vote from England head coach, Brendon McCullum, as the West Indies Player-ofthe-Series.
“It was tough at times because they [England] play freely,” the 22-year-old pacer from Trinidad & Tobago said at a post-play TV interview that followed the presentation of the award.
“They take opportunities to score if you give them a chance, so you have to be on it all the time, and once we were off, they just took every opportunity to score.”
The Caribbean side will have little time to absorb the lessons from the Tour of England before they start a two-Test series against South Africa next month on home soil.
The first Test against the Proteas starts on August 7 at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad, and the second Test starts on August 15 at the Guyana National Stadium.
Seales said he was optimistic that the bowlers could regroup, find a winning formula against the South Africans and set the foundation for a brighter future in the sport.
“I think once we all continue to grow and learn, and develop our games to become better bowlers, this is a team that we can grow together with and we can be a force to be reckoned with in the future,” he said.
Seales collected his 50th Test wicket during the third Test against Ben Stokes and company when he got Harry Brook caught behind for two.
He said he felt his decision to play for a brief spell with Sussex in Division 2 of the English County Championship had helped him to reap the success he did during the series.
“It was deliberate for me to come across and play with Sussex this season,” Seales said. “It allowed me to understand the English conditions, understand myself a lot more, and what I can do in these conditions, and how they can help me.”
The series marked a strong comeback for the pacer after he suffered a career-threatening knee injury two years ago.
The participants, coaches and GCC President, Jonathan Yearwood (far left) atBourda yesterday (Japheth Savory photo)
Sir Clive Lloyd being presented with the region’s highest award, the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC)
Sir Clive Lloyd bats for prostate cancer screening in the region
… proposes annual fund-raisers to respond to impact of hurricanes
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC) — The legendary former West Indies cricket captain, Sir Clive Lloyd, on Sunday, appealed to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders to focus on combating prostate cancer as they had done to non-communicable diseases in the past.
Lloyd, who was one of two persons to receive the region’s highest award, the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC) during the official ceremony of the opening of the 47th regional meeting, said he hoped that the same emphasis that was being placed on addressing non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes is given to prostate cancer.
International data shows that the Caribbean has one of the largest age-standardised prostate cancer incidences.
“Can I, therefore, make a plea to the community and relevant officials that this matter becomes the focus of urgent attention and action,” said Lloyd, who captained the West Indies between 1974 and 1985.
The 79 year-old Guya -
nese born said he hoped that CARICOM health ministers would pay attention to prostate cancer, adding that he could not recall “that much has been said about it in the region”.
He told the ceremony that there are now many other improved ways of testing men over the age of 40 for prostate cancer that are more precise than blood tests, including salivary tests.
Lloyd also, during his address, proposed that the region organises an annual Caribbean cricket fundraiser to garner much-needed cash to respond to the impact of hurricanes and other disasters.
“The Caribbean region can organise a major cricket event and the best players from all over the world should be able to take part in a game per year. I want it to be called the CARICOM Day of Cricket where we can generate quite a lot of funds so that even if we don’t have a hurricane or two for the year, the money that we have there can accrue some interest,” he said.
Lloyd said that even if there are no storm impacts,
the money could be spent on addressing other problems.
“I hope that we can get this going, get it off the ground because it will be a very important game because the money that we can accrue will be very, very important for the rest of the Caribbean,” he said.
In recent times, several Caribbean countries have been hit by hurricanes that are much more ferocious resulting in deaths and millions of dollars in destruction.
With the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane season, which ends in November, just four weeks old, Hurricane Beryl, a category five storm, had, on July 1, left a trail of death and destruction as it made its way through the Grenada’s dependencies of Carriacou and Petit Martinique, and those of St Vincent- Union Island, Bequia, Mayrou and Canoaun.
Jamaica was also heavily impacted by Beryl and regional leaders say the hurricanes are as a result of the impact of climate change and have been blaming the more developed countries for the situation.
Guyana finished second overall at OECS boxing championship
GUYANA finished an impressive second overall in the Invitational Category at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Boxing Championship, which concluded on Sunday at the Vigie Sports Complex in Castries, St. Lucia, with standouts Abiola Jackman and Ryan Rogers walking away with individual accolades.
Although Trinidad and Tobago won the Invitational Category with 33 points owing to a significantly larger delegation of approximately 16 pugilists, Guyana ended with 14 points, following an impressive haul of four golds and two silvers despite only fielding a fight roster of 6. Barbados rounded out the top three on 13 points.
Abiola Jackman (Elite), and Ryan Rogers, bantamweight (Schoolboys), walked away with the Best Female and Junior Boxers awards to cap off a fine performance from the Guyanese, whose travelling delegation, which was supervised by national coach Lennox Daniels, also featured: Alesha Jackman, middleweight (Elite - Gold); Shakquain James, lightweight (Junior - Gold); Angelina Rogers, bantamweight (Junior - Silver); and Junior Madray, 31–33 kg (Schoolboys - Silver).
Meanwhile, Lawrence Assanah and Germain Craig also accompanied the
team to serve as referees and judges, respectively while Elton Chase acted as the tournament’s Technical Delegate.
Terrence Poole, Technical Director of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), said, “It was a good outing because all six came back with medals; we went for the exposure, which was the primary goal, and I think the performance was good. I think it was good for boxing in Guyana
and the Caribbean. Trinidad had a very large contingent; they carried about 16 individuals, and we didn’t carry as much, and they would have been in all the different categories. We wanted to support the event, and it’s a developmental competition. We used the opportunity to expose some of our boxers.”
He further said, “This coming Saturday, we will be staging another U-16
Championship at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis gym, and from that we will select the team for the Caribbean Championship.”
Meanwhile, GBA President, Steve Ninvalle, said, “Once again, we have achieved our primary objective, which is the exposure of emerging talents to the rigours and intricacies of international competition. While our participation centred on supporting the St Lucia federation in their bid to improve the quality of the event, for us, a tournament of this nature falls into the developmental category, especially in light of the impending Caribbean Championships, which will feature most of the participants from the event.”
He further said, “We are proud of the team’s performance, as it highlights the continuous advancement and strides that are being made by the GBA, and we will continue to invest in our talents, fighters, and officials, for the foreseeable future, as we aim to maintain Guyana’s upward trajectory in the discipline within the English-speaking Caribbean. Congratulations are in order for a successful campaign.”
The OECS Championship featured participation from several nations, some of whom will participate at the impending Caribbean Schoolboys and Junior Championships in Guyana.
Guyanese boxers Abiola Jackman (Elite), and Ryan Rogers, bantamweight (Schoolboys), walked away with the Best Female and Junior Boxers awards.